bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leukoaraiosis as a Predictor of Depression and Cognitive Impairment among Stroke Survivors: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tziaka Eftychia , Christidi Foteini , Tsiptsios Dimitrios , Sousanidou Anastasia , Karatzetzou Stella , Tsiakiri Anna , Doskas Triantafyllos K. , Tsamakis Konstantinos , Retzepis Nikolaos , Konstantinidis Christos , Kokkotis Christos , Serdari Aspasia , Aggelousis Nikolaos , Vadikolias Konstantinos
Published: February 2023

Stroke survivors are at increased risk of developing depression and cognitive decline. Thus, it is crucial for both clinicians and stroke survivors to be provided with timely and accurate prognostication of post-stroke depression (PSD) and post-stroke dementia (PSDem). Several biomarkers regarding stroke patients’ propensity to develop PSD and PSDem have been implemented so far, leukoaraiosis (LA) being among them. The purpose of the present study was to review all available work published within the last decade dealing with pre-existing LA as a predictor of depression (PSD) and cognitive dysfunction (cognitive impairment or PSDem) in stroke patients. A literature search of two databases (MEDLINE and Scopus) was conducted to identify all relevant studies published between 1 January 2012 and 25 June 2022 that dealt with the clinical utility of preexisting LA as a prognostic indicator of PSD and PSDem/cognitive impairment. Only full-text articles published in the English language were included. Thirty-four articles were traced and are included in the present review. LA burden, serving as a surrogate marker of “brain frailty” among stroke patients, appears to be able to offer significant information about the possibility of developing PSD or cognitive dysfunction. Determining the extent of pre-existing white matter abnormalities can properly guide decision making in acute stroke settings, as a greater degree of such lesioning is usually coupled with neuropsychiatric aftermaths, such as PSD and PSDem.
Pilot Study to Estimate Dietary Fiber Intake in Adults Residing in Chile
Authors: Guzmán Carla , Espinoza Jonathan , Fuentealba Fabiola
Published: February 2023

Dietary fiber has been associated with health benefits; therefore, the availability of validated tools to assess food consumption associated with high-fiber foods would allow the quantification of the intake of this functional nutrient, the identification of risk groups and target populations, and the development of public policies and/or programs aimed at improving the health of the population. In this study, a fiber intake short food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was translated into Spanish, and its content validity was determined by a group of experts, to subsequently conduct a pilot test including 198 subjects aged 36 ± 12.5 years, residing in Chile (46 men and 150 women), with the purpose of quantifying dietary fiber intake. The global assessment of the FFQ revealed a validity coefficient of 0.98 ± 0.02; after the application of the pilot, the mean dietary fiber intake in adult Chilean residents was 12.3 g per day, with similar results to those found in the National Food Consumption Survey 2010 (12.5 g per day in men, and 11.5 g in women). The FFQ is a quick and valid tool to classify people on the basis of their habitual dietary fiber intake.
Dietary Supplementation of Caulerpa racemosa Ameliorates Cardiometabolic Syndrome via Regulation of PRMT-1/DDAH/ADMA Pathway and Gut Microbiome in Mice
Authors: Nurkolis Fahrul , Taslim Nurpudji Astuti , Subali Dionysius , Kurniawan Rudy , Hardinsyah Hardinsyah , Gunawan William Ben , Kusuma Rio Jati , Yusuf Vincentius Mario , Pramono Adriyan , Kang Sojin , Mayulu Nelly , Syauki Andi Yasmin , Tallei Trina Ekawati , Tsopmo Apollinaire , Kim Bonglee
Published: February 2023

This study evaluated the effects of an aqueous extract of Caulerpa racemosa (AEC) on cardiometabolic syndrome markers, and the modulation of the gut microbiome in mice administered a cholesterol- and fat-enriched diet (CFED). Four groups of mice received different treatments: normal diet, CFED, and CFED added with AEC extract at 65 and 130 mg/kg body weight (BW). The effective concentration (EC50) values of AEC for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and lipase inhibition were lower than those of the controls in vitro. In the mice model, the administration of high-dose AEC showed improved lipid and blood glucose profiles and a reduction in endothelial dysfunction markers (PRMT-1 and ADMA). Furthermore, a correlation between specific gut microbiomes and biomarkers associated with cardiometabolic diseases was also observed. In vitro studies highlighted the antioxidant properties of AEC, while in vivo data demonstrated that AEC plays a role in the management of cardiometabolic syndrome via regulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial function (PRMT-1/DDAH/ADMA pathway), and gut microbiota.
Purine Intake and All-Cause Mortality in Ovarian Cancer: Results from a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Du Zongda , Gong Tingting , Wei Yifan , Zheng Gang , Zhao Junqi , Zou Bingjie , Qin Xue , Yan Shi , Liu Fanghua , Xiao Qian , Wu Qijun , Gao Song , Zhao Yuhong
Published: February 2023

Background: Current biological evidence suggests that purine involvement in purine metabolism may contribute to the development and progression of ovarian cancer (OC), but the epidemiological association is currently unknown. Methods: A total of 703 newly diagnosed patients with OC aged 18–79 years were included in this prospective cohort study. Utilizing a verified food-frequency questionnaire, the participants’ dietary consumption was gathered. Using medical records and ongoing follow-up, the deaths up until 31 March 2021 were determined. To assess the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of purine intake with OC mortality, Cox proportional-hazard models were utilized. Results: During the median follow-up of 31 months (interquartile: 20–47 months), 130 deaths occurred. We observed an improved survival for the highest tercile of total purine intake compared with the lowest tercile (HR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.19–0.80; p trend < 0.05), and this protective association was mainly attributed to xanthine intake (HR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.29–0.94, p trend < 0.05). Additionally, we observed a curving relationship in which OC mortality decreased with total purine intake, and the magnitude of the decrease was negatively correlated with intake (p non-linear < 0.05). Significant inverse associations were also observed in subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses according to demographic and clinical characteristics. Moreover, we observed that xanthine intake and hypoxanthine intake had a multiplicative interaction with ER and PR expression (p < 0.05), respectively. Conclusion: A high total purine and xanthine intake was linked to a lower risk of OC mortality. Further clarification of these findings is warranted.
The Gut Microbiota–Brain Axis during Aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia: Role of Tau Protein, β-Amyloid and LPS in Serum and Curli Protein in Stool
Authors: Sánchez-Tapia Mónica , Mimenza-Alvarado Alberto , Granados-Domínguez Lizbeth , Flores-López Adriana , López-Barradas Adriana , Ortiz Victor , Pérez-Cruz Claudia , Sánchez-Vidal Hilda , Hernández-Acosta Julieta , Ávila-Funes José Alberto , Guevara-Cruz Martha , Tovar Armando R. , Torres Nimbe
Published: February 2023

Currently, there is an increasing number of people with mild cognitive (MCI) impairment and dementia (D). In the present work we studied the role of tau protein, β-amyloid, LPS (lipopolysaccharide), and curli protein of elderly adults with MCI or D and the contribution of gut microbiota. Four groups were studied: young subjects, healthy adults older than 60 years (A), elderly adults with MCI (MCI), and elderly adults with dementia (D). A preclinical study was conducted in old male Wistar rats to evaluate the impact of gut microbiota on curli protein abundance in feces and brain. The results showed that with increasing age, tau protein, β-amyloid, and LPS significantly increased in serum during MCI and D, and this was associated with an increase in the abundance of E. coli that synthesize the amyloid protein curli, that may promote the aggregation of amyloid proteins. Rats showed a clear increase in the abundance of curli protein in the brain during aging. Thus, cognitive impairment and dementia are in part due to an alteration in the gut microbiota–brain axis via increase in curli protein and LPS leading to an increase in tau and β-amyloid protein.
Unusual Observations in Leishmaniasis—An Overview
Authors: Yadav Priya , Azam Mudsser , Ramesh V , Singh Ruchi
Published: February 2023

Leishmaniasis significantly affects the population of the tropics and subtropics. Clinical features and infective species of Leishmania are the primary factors driving the direction of diagnosis. The rise in incidences of atypical presentations present a challenge in patient treatment. Knowledge of unusual/rare presentations can aid in having a broader perspective for including the different aspects during the examination and thus avoid misdiagnosis. A comprehensive literature survey was performed to present the array of atypical presentations confounding clinicians which have been seen in leishmaniasis. Case reports of unusual findings based on the localizations and morphology of lesions and infective species and the predominant geographical sites over almost five decades highlight such presentations in the population. Information regarding the clinical features recorded in the patient and the chosen treatment was extracted to put forward the preferred drug regimen in such cases. This comprehensive review presents various unusual observations seen in visceral leishmaniasis, post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis, cutaneous leishmaniasis, and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. It highlights the need to consider such features in association with differential diagnosis to facilitate proper treatment of the patient.
A Systematic Review of Apicomplexa Looking into Epigenetic Pathways and the Opportunity for Novel Therapies
Authors: Brandão Yara de Oliveira , Molento Marcelo Beltrão
Published: February 2023

Interest in host epigenetic changes during apicomplexan infections increased in the last decade, mainly due to the emergence of new therapies directed to these alterations. This review aims to carry out a bibliometric analysis of the publications related to host epigenetic changes during apicomplexan infections and to summarize the main studied pathways in this context, pointing out those that represent putative drug targets. We used four databases for the article search. After screening, 116 studies were included. The bibliometric analysis revealed that the USA and China had the highest number of relevant publications. The evaluation of the selected studies revealed that Toxoplasma gondii was considered in most of the studies, non-coding RNA was the most frequently reported epigenetic event, and host defense was the most explored pathway. These findings were reinforced by an analysis of the co-occurrence of keywords. Even though we present putative targets for repurposing epidrugs and ncRNA-based drugs in apicomplexan infections, we understand that more detailed knowledge of the hosts’ epigenetic pathways is still needed before establishing a definitive drug target.
Advances in Babesia Vaccine Development: An Overview
Authors: Jerzak Michał , Gandurski Albert , Tokaj Marta , Stachera Weronika , Szuba Magdalena , Dybicz Monika
Published: February 2023

Babesiosis is a tick-borne zoonotic disease, which is caused by various species of intracellular Babesia parasite. It is a problem not only for the livestock industry but also for global health. Significant global economic losses, in particular in cattle production, have been observed. Since the current preventive measures against babesiosis are insufficient, there is increasing pressure to develop a vaccine. In this review, we survey the achievements and recent advances in the creation of antibabesiosis vaccine. The scope of this review includes the development of a vaccine against B. microti, B. bovis, B. bigemina, B. orientalis and B. divergens. Here, we present different strategies in their progress and evaluation. Scientists worldwide are still trying to find new targets for a vaccine that would not only reduce symptoms among animals but also prevent the further spread of the disease. Molecular candidates for the production of a vaccine against various Babesia spp. are presented. Our study also describes the current prospects of vaccine evolution for successful Babesia parasites elimination.
Employing T-Cell Memory to Effectively Target SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Tun Zaw Htet , Htike Nang Thinn Thinn , Kyi-Tha-Thu Chaw , Lee Wing-Hin
Published: February 2023

Well-trained T-cell immunity is needed for early viral containment, especially with the help of an ideal vaccine. Although most severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-infected convalescent cases have recovered with the generation of virus-specific memory T cells, some cases have encountered T-cell abnormalities. The emergence of several mutant strains has even threatened the effectiveness of the T-cell immunity that was established with the first-generation vaccines. Currently, the development of next-generation vaccines involves trying several approaches to educate T-cell memory to trigger a broad and fast response that targets several viral proteins. As the shaping of T-cell immunity in its fast and efficient form becomes important, this review discusses several interesting vaccine approaches to effectively employ T-cell memory for efficient viral containment. In addition, some essential facts and future possible consequences of using current vaccines are also highlighted.
Mucorales/Fusarium Mixed Infection in Hematologic Patient with COVID-19 Complications: An Unfortunate Combination
Authors: Marino Andrea , Calvo Maddalena , Trovato Laura , Scalia Guido , Gussio Maria , Consoli Ugo , Ceccarelli Manuela , Nunnari Giuseppe , Cacopardo Bruno
Published: February 2023

Hematological diseases, especially those causing severe neutropenia, represent the main factor in the development of invasive fungal infections (IFIs). Furthermore, COVID-19 has been considerably associated with IFIs due to immunological dysregulation, prolonged hospitalization in intensive care units, and immunomodulatory therapies. Opportunistic molds are correlated with elevated morbidity and mortality rates in these patients, due to immune impairment, diagnostic complexity, and therapeutic challenges. Among opportunistic fungal infections, the Mucorales and Fusarium species are considered particularly aggressive, especially during severe neutropenia. A mixed Mucorales/Fusarium infection has been rarely described in scientific literature. Herein, we report a case of Mucorales and Fusarium co-infection in a patient with acute leukemia whose clinical history was also complicated by COVID-19. Herein, we report a challenging case in order to encourage the clinical suspicion of combined fungal infections in immunosuppressed patients, performing a punctual microbiological diagnosis, and promptly administering the correct empiric and targeted antifungal therapy.
Molecular Characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis of Outer membrane protein P2 (OmpP2) of Glaesserella (Haemophilus) parasuis Isolates in Central State of Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Lee Chee Yien , Ong Hui Xin , Tan Chew Yee , Low Suet Ee , Phang Lai Yee , Lai Jyhmirn , Ooi Peck Toung , Fong Michelle Wai Cheng
Published: February 2023

Glaesserella (Haemophilus) parasuis, the etiological agent of Glässer’s disease, is an economically significant pathogen commonly associated with serofibrinous polyserositis, arthritis, fibrinous bronchopneumonia and/or meningitis. This study is the first attempt to molecularly characterize and provide a detailed overview of the genetic variants of G. parasuis present in Malaysia, in reference to its serotype, virulence-associated trimeric autotransporters (vtaA) gene and outer membrane protein P2 (OmpP2) gene. The G. parasuis isolates (n = 11) from clinically sick field samples collected from two major pig producing states (Selangor and Perak) were selected for analysis. Upon multiplex PCR, the majority of the isolates (eight out of 11) were identified to be serotype 5 or 12, and interestingly, serotypes 3, 8 and 15 were also detected, which had never been reported in Malaysia prior to this. Generally, virulent vtaA was detected for all isolates, except for one, which displayed a nonvirulent vtaA. A phylogenetic analysis of the OmpP2 gene revealed that the majority of Malaysian isolates were clustered into genotype 1, which could be further divided into Ia and Ib, while only one isolate was clustered into genotype 2.
Practical Guide for Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Reversal in Clinical Practice
Authors: Aldhaeefi Mohammed , Badreldin Hisham A. , Alsuwayyid Faisal , Alqahtani Tariq , Alshaya Omar , Al Yami Majed S. , Bin Saleh Khalid , Al Harbi Shmeylan A. , Alshaya Abdulrahman I.
Published: February 2023

In recent years, anticoagulant and antiplatelet use have increased over the past years for the prevention and treatment of several cardiovascular conditions. Due to the rising use of antithrombotic medications and the complexity of specific clinical cases requiring such therapies, bleeding remains the primary concern among patients using antithrombotics. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) include rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban, and betrixaban. Direct thrombin inhibitors (DTIs) include argatroban, bivalirudin, and dabigatran. DOACs are associated with lower rates of fatal, life-threatening, and significant bleeding risks compared to those of warfarin. The immediate reversal of these agents can be indicated in an emergency setting. Antithrombotic reversal recommendations are still in development. Vitamin K and prothrombin complex concentrate (PCCs) can be used for warfarin reversal. Andexanet alfa and idarucizumab are specific reversal agents for DOACs and DTIs, respectively. Protamine sulfate is the solely approved reversal agent for unfractionated heparin (UFH) and low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). However, there are no specific reversal agents for antiplatelets. This article aims to provide a practical guide for clinicians regarding the reversal of anticoagulants and antiplatelets in clinical practice based on the most recent studies.
Accurate Modeling of Distributed Bragg Reflector Laser Power and Wavelength Using Gaussian Process Regression
Authors: Yue Ziqian , Cao Li , Wang Dawei , Yuan Ziqi , Li Jiajie , Chen Baodong , Zhai Yueyang
Published: February 2023

Distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) lasers are widely used in many physics experiments. However, regarding the power and frequency control of DBR lasers, obtaining complete and accurate output characteristics is challenging due to the need for general and accurate quantitative models. In this study, we propose and validate a method based on Gaussian process regression to quickly and accurately establish the DBR laser output power and wavelength model. Two models are developed to describe the output power, wavelength, input current, and temperature. The findings show that our power model explains the laser’s power change from the current threshold to the maximum value more precisely, with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.16921 mW, less than one-fifth of that of the classic power model. Moreover, our wavelength model is feasible for accurately describing the laser wavelength with a RMSE of 4 × 10−4 nm. This study can improve DBR laser power and frequency control efficiency and precision.
Simulation Study of Phase-Driven Multichannel Nano-Optical Conveyor Belt Using Rectangular Gratings
Authors: Bai Chunyan , Ma Xiangcai , Cao Qian , Kanwal Saima , Qiu Peizhen
Published: February 2023

A nano-optical conveyor belt is a unique type of near-field optical tweezer, capable not only of capturing nanoparticles, but also transporting them. In this study, we propose a multichannel nano-optical conveyer, based on a simple rectangular distributed grating array. The design was optimized by varying the number of slits in the gratings, and particle transport was achieved by adjusting the phase difference of the excitation beams. Simulation and calculation results indicate that multiple optical traps and parallel transport channels can be generated by exciting the gratings with four incident beams. The optical force and trapping potential were used to confirm that 20 nm metallic nanoparticles can be stably attracted to the traps and dynamically transported along channels by adjusting the phase of the excitation beams. Compared to existing nano-photon conveyors, this design boasts a straightforward structure and exceptional performance, offering a promising new approach to particle manipulation.
Near-Infrared Transitions from the Singlet Excited States to the Ground Triplet State of the S2 Molecule
Authors: Xiao Lidan , Yan Bing , Minaev Boris F.
Published: February 2023

Intensity of transitions from the b1∑g+  and a1Δg states to the ground state X3∑g−  in the near IR emission spectrum of the S2 molecule has been calculated by the multireference configuration interaction method taking into account spin-orbit coupling (SOC). The intensity of the b1∑g+ −  X3∑g,Ms=±1− transition is largely determined by the spin interaction with the electromagnetic wave, which comes from the zero-field splitting of the ground X multiplet and the SOC-induced mixing between b and X3∑g,0− states. The Einstein coefficients for the experimentally detected 0−0, 0−1, 1−1 bands of the b1∑g+−X3∑g,Ms=±1− emission system are calculated in good agreement with observations. The Einstein coefficient of the a1∆g−X3∑g,Ms=±1− magnetic dipole transition is very low, being equal to 0.0014 s−1. Nonetheless, the weakest of all experimentally observed bands (the 0−0 band of the a-XMs=±1 transition) qualitatively corresponds to this calculation. Most importantly, we provide many other IR bands for magnetic dipole b1∑g+ −  X3∑g,Ms=±1− and a1∆g−X3∑g,Ms=±1− transitions, which could be experimentally observable in the S2 transparency windows from a theoretical point of view. We hope that these results will contribute to the further experimental exploration of the magnetic infrared bands in the S2 dimer.
Surveillance of Landraces’ Seed Health in South Italy and New Evidence on Crop Diseases
Authors: Dell’Olmo Eliana , Zaccardelli Massimo , Onofaro Sanaja Vincenzo , Basile Boris , Sigillo Loredana
Published: February 2023

During the last three years, more than 300 landraces belonging to different plant species have been the main focus of an Italian valorization research project (AgroBiodiversità Campana, ABC) aiming at analyzing, recovering, preserving, and collecting local biodiversity. In this context, phytosanitary investigation plays a key role in identifying potential threats to the preservation of healthy seeds in gene banks and the successful cultivation of landraces. The surveillance carried out in this study, in addition to highlighting the expected presence of common species-specific pathogens such as Ascochyta pisi in peas, Ascochyta fabae in broad beans, and Macrophomina phaseolina, Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. phaseoli, and Xanthomonas fuscans subsp. fuscans in beans, pointed to the presence of novel microorganisms never detected before in the seeds of some hosts (Apiospora arundinis in common beans or Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Stemphylium vesicarium in broad beans). These novel seedborne pathogens were fully characterized by (i) studying their morphology, (ii) identifying them by molecular methods, and (iii) studying their impact on adult crop plants. For the first time, this study provides key information about three novel seedborne pathogens that can be used to correctly diagnose their presence in seed lots, helping prevent the outbreaks of new diseases in the field.
A Review of Sustainable Use of Biogenic Nanoscale Agro-Materials to Enhance Stress Tolerance and Nutritional Value of Plants
Authors: Giri Ved Prakash , Shukla Pallavi , Tripathi Ashutosh , Verma Priya , Kumar Navinit , Pandey Shipra , Dimkpa Christian O. , Mishra Aradhana
Published: February 2023

Climate change is more likely to have a detrimental effect on the world’s productive assets. Several undesirable conditions and practices, including extreme temperature, drought, and uncontrolled use of agrochemicals, result in stresses that strain agriculture. In addition, nutritional inadequacies in food crops are wreaking havoc on human health, especially in rural regions of less developed countries. This could be because plants are unable to absorb the nutrients in conventional fertilizers, or these fertilizers have an inappropriate or unbalanced nutrient composition. Chemical fertilizers have been used for centuries and have considerably increased crop yields. However, they also disrupt soil quality and structure, eventually impacting the entire ecosystem. To address the situation, it is necessary to develop advanced materials that can release nutrients to targeted points in the plant-soil environment or appropriate receptors on the leaf in the case of foliar applications. Recently, nanotechnology-based interventions have been strongly encouraged to meet the world’s growing food demand and to promote food security in an environmentally friendly manner. Biological approaches for the synthesis of nanoscale agro-materials have become a promising area of research, with a wide range of product types such as nanopesticides, nanoinsecticides, nanoherbicides, nanobactericides/fungicides, bio-conjugated nanocomplexes, and nanoemulsions emerging therefrom. These materials are more sustainable and target-oriented than conventional agrochemicals. In this paper, we reviewed the literature on major abiotic and biotic stresses that are detrimental to plant growth and productivity. We comprehensively discussed the different forms of nanoscale agro-materials and provided an overview of biological approaches in nano-enabled strategies that can efficiently alleviate plant biotic and abiotic stresses while potentially enhancing the nutritional values of plants.
The LHT Gene Family in Rice: Molecular Characterization, Transport Functions and Expression Analysis
Authors: Fan Tian , Wu Chunting , Yang Weiqi , Lv Tianxiao , Zhou Yuping , Tian Changen
Published: February 2023

Amino acid transporters (AATs) are integral membrane proteins and play important roles in plant growth and development as well as environmental responses. In contrast to the amino acid permease (AAP) subfamily, functional studies of the lysine and histidine transporter (LHT) subfamily have not been made in rice. In the current study, six LHT genes were found in the rice genome. To further investigate the functions of these genes, analyses were performed regarding gene and protein structures, chromosomal locations, evolutionary relationships, cis-acting elements of promoters, gene expression, and yeast complementation. We found that the six OsLHT genes are distributed on 4 out of the 12 chromosomes and that the six OsLHT genes were grouped into two clusters based on the phylogenetic analysis. Protein structure analyses showed that each OsLHT protein has 11 helical transmembrane domains. Yeast complementation assays showed that these OsLHT genes have conserved transport substrates within each cluster. The four members from cluster 1 showed broad amino acid selectivity, while OsLHT5 and OsLHT6 may transport other substrates besides amino acids. Additionally, quantitative real-time PCR analysis of the six OsLHT genes revealed that they have different expression patterns at different developmental stages and in different tissues. It also revealed that some OsLHT genes were responsive to PEG, NaCl and cold treatments, indicating their critical roles in abiotic stress response. Our results will be useful for further characterizing the crucial biological functions of rice LHT genes.
Responses of Aerial and Belowground Parts of Different Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Cultivars to Heat Stress
Authors: Zhou Jinhua , Li Kaifeng , Li Youhan , Li Maoxing , Guo Huachun
Published: February 2023

The mechanism of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) thermotolerance has been the focus of intensive research for many years because plant growth and tuber yield are highly sensitive to heat stress. However, the linkage between the aerial and belowground parts of potato plants in response to high temperatures is not clear. To disentangle this issue, the aerial and belowground parts of the heat-resistant cultivar Dian187 (D187) and the heat-sensitive cultivar Qingshu 9 (Qs9) were independently exposed to high-temperature (30 °C) conditions using a special incubator. The results indicated that when the belowground plant parts were maintained at a normal temperature, the growth of the aerial plant parts was maintained even when independently exposed to heat stress. In contrast, the treatment that independently exposed the belowground plant parts to heat stress promoted premature senescence in the plant’s leaves, even when the aerial plant parts were maintained at a normal temperature. When the aerial part of the plant was independently treated with heat stress, tuberization belowground was not delayed, and tuberization suppression was not as severe as when the belowground plant parts independently underwent heat stress. Heat stress on the belowground plant parts alone had virtually no damaging effects on the leaf photosynthetic system but caused distinct tuber deformation, secondary growth, and the loss of tuber skin colour. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the treatment of the belowground plant parts at 30 °C induced 3361 differentially expressed genes in the Qs9 cultivar’s expanding tubers, while the D187 cultivar had only 10,148 differentially expressed genes. Conversely, when only the aerial plant parts were treated at 30 °C, there were just 807 DEGs (differentially expressed genes) in the D187 cultivar’s expanding tubers compared with 6563 DEGs in the Qs9 cultivar, indicating that the two cultivars with different heat sensitivities have distinct regulatory mechanisms of tuberization when exposed to heat stress. The information provided in this study may be useful for further exploring the genes associated with high-temperature resistance in potato cultivars.
Antibacterial, Antifungal and Algicidal Activity of Phlorotannins, as Principal Biologically Active Components of Ten Species of Brown Algae
Authors: Lemesheva Valeriya , Islamova Renata , Stepchenkova Elena , Shenfeld Aleksandr , Birkemeyer Claudia , Tarakhovskaya Elena
Published: February 2023

Marine seaweeds synthesize a plethora of bioactive metabolites, of which phlorotannins of brown algae currently attract special attention due to their high antibiotic and cytotoxic capacities. Here we measured the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of several semi-purified phlorotannin preparations of different origins and molecular composition using a set of model unicellular organisms, such as Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, etc. For the first time, MIC values were evaluated for phlorotannin-enriched extracts of brown algae of the orders Ectocarpales and Desmarestiales. Phlorotannin extracts of Desmarestia aculeata, Fucus vesiculosus, and Ectocarpus siliculosus showed the lowest MIC values against most of the treated organisms (4–25 μg/mL for bacteria and yeast). Analysis of the survival curves of E. coli showed that massive loss of cells started after 3–4 h of exposure. Microalgae were less susceptible to activity of phlorotannin extracts, with the highest MIC values (≥200 µg/mL) measured for Chlorella vulgaris cells. D. aculeata, E. siliculosus, and three fucalean algae accumulate considerable amounts (4–16% of dry weight) of phlorotannins with MIC values similar to those widely used antibiotics. As these species grow abundantly in polar and temperate seas and have considerable biomass, they may be regarded as promising sources of phlorotannins.
Long-Term Alleviation of the Functional Phenotype in Chlorophyll-Deficient Wheat and Impact on Productivity: A Semi-Field Phenotyping Experiment
Authors: Colpo Andrea , Demaria Sara , Baldisserotto Costanza , Pancaldi Simonetta , Brestič Marian , Živčak Marek , Ferroni Lorenzo
Published: February 2023

Wheat mutants with a reduced chlorophyll synthesis are affected by a defective control of the photosynthetic electron flow, but tend to recover a wild-type phenotype. The sensitivity of some mutants to light fluctuations suggested that cultivation outdoors could significantly impact productivity. Six mutant lines of Triticum durum or Triticum aestivum with their respective wild-type cultivars were cultivated with a regular seasonal cycle (October–May) in a semi-field experiment. Leaf chlorophyll content and fluorescence parameters were analysed at the early (November) and late (May) developmental stages, and checked for correlation with morphometric and grain-production parameters. The alleviation of the phenotype severity concerned primarily the recovery of the photosynthetic-membrane functionality, but not the leaf chlorophyll content. Photosystem II (PSII) was less photoprotected in the mutants, but a moderate PSII photoinhibition could help control the electron flow into the chain. The accumulation of interchain electron carriers was a primary acclimative response towards the naturally fluctuating environment, maximally exploited by the mature durum-wheat mutants. The mutation itself and/or the energy-consuming compensatory mechanisms markedly influenced the plant morphogenesis, leading especially to reduced tillering, which in turn resulted in lower grain production per plant. Consistently with the interrelation between early photosynthetic phenotype and grain-yield per plant, chlorophyll-fluorescence indexes related to the level of photoprotective thermal dissipation (pNPQ), photosystem II antenna size (ABS/RC), and pool of electron carriers (Sm) are proposed as good candidates for the in-field phenotyping of chlorophyll-deficient wheat.
Exploring Thrips Preference and Resistance in Flowers, Leaves, and Whole Plants of Ten Capsicum Accessions
Authors: Visschers Isabella G. S. , Macel Mirka , Peters Janny L. , Sergeeva Lidiya , Bruin Jan , van Dam Nicole M.
Published: February 2023

Capsicum species grown for pepper production suffer severely from thrips damage, urging the identification of natural resistance. Resistance levels are commonly assessed on leaves. However, Capsicum plants are flower-bearing during most of the production season, and thrips also feed on pollen and flower tissues. In order to obtain a comprehensive estimate of elements contributing to thrips resistance, flower tissues should be considered as well. Therefore, we assessed resistance to Frankliniella occidentalis in flowers, leaves, and whole plants of ten Capsicum accessions. Using choice assays, we found that thrips prefer flowers of certain accessions over others. The preference of adult thrips for flowers was positively correlated to trehalose and fructose concentration in anthers as well as to pollen quantity. Resistance measured on leaf discs and thrips population development on whole plants was significantly and positively correlated. Leaf-based resistance thus translates to reduced thrips population development. Results of the flower assays were not significantly correlated with resistance in leaves or on whole plants. This suggests that both leaves and flowers represent a different part of the resistance spectrum and should both be considered for understanding whole plant resistance and the identification of resistant Capsicum varieties.
Ruta angustifolia Pers. (Narrow-Leaved Fringed Rue): Pharmacological Properties and Phytochemical Profile
Authors: Bailly Christian
Published: February 2023

The genus Ruta in the family Rutaceae includes about 40 species, such as the well-known plants R. graveolens L. (common rue) or R. chalepensis L. (fringed rue), but also much lesser-known species such as R. angustifolia Pers. (narrow-leaved fringed rue). This rue specie, originating from the Mediterranean region, is well-distributed in Southeast Asia, notably in the Indo-Chinese peninsula and other territories. In some countries, such as Malaysia, the plant is used to treat liver diseases and cancer. Extracts of R. angustifolia display antifungal, antiviral and antiparasitic effects. Diverse bioactive natural products have been isolated from the aerial parts of the plant, notably quinoline alkaloids and furocoumarins, which present noticeable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and/or antiproliferative properties. The present review discusses the main pharmacological properties of the plant and its phytoconstituents, with a focus on the anticancer activities evidenced with diverse alkaloids and terpenoids isolated from the aerial parts of the plant. Quinoline alkaloids such as graveoline, kokusaginine, and arborinine have been characterized and their mode of action defined. Arborinine stands as a remarkable inhibitor of histone demethylase LSD1, endowed with promising anticancer activities. Other anticancer compounds, such as the furocoumarins chalepin and rutamarin, have revealed antitumor effects. Their mechanism of action is discussed together with that of other bioactive natural products, including angustifolin and moskachans. Altogether, R. angustifolia Pers. presents a rich phytochemical profile, fully consistent with the traditional use of the plant to treat cancer. This rue species, somewhat neglected, warrant further investigations as a medicinal plant and a source of inspiration for drug discovery and design.
Dynamic Load Sharing Behavior for the Pitch Drive in MW Wind Turbines
Authors: Hu Congfang , Yuan Tao , Yang Shiping , Hu Yunbo , Liang Xiao
Published: February 2023

For a wind energy system, main speed-increasing gearboxes, pitch drives and yaw drives are composed of a multistage planetary gear system. However, inevitable errors in the manufacturing and assembling of the gears lead to uneven load of distribution in the planetary gear system; thus, its service life and reliability decrease greatly, which would eventually affect the normal operation of the whole wind power system. In this study, a dynamic load sharing model of pitch drive is established with a lumped-parameter method. Given the manufacturing and assembly errors and central floating gear, the dynamic equations for each component, the stiffness matrix and damping matrix, the dynamic load sharing coefficient and the floating displacement of the sun gear are obtained according to the dynamic meshing force and damping load. Furthermore, the load sharing coefficient for external and internal meshing of the pitch drive for a 2 MW wind turbine with a three-stage planetary gear are achieved. Then, the floating displacement of the sun gear and the displacement of other gears are also obtained. Moreover, the influence of both external and internal meshing stiffness, the eccentric error and tooth frequency error for all components on the load sharing coefficient of all stages are investigated. Lastly, the theoretical components displacement of this model is compared with experiment results of the pitch drive under 50%, 100% and 150% rated torque in a test rig; the correctness of the model is verified by the experiment results.
Oil Onshore Pipeline Quantitative Risk Assessment under Fire and Explosion Scenarios
Authors: Hernández-Báez Álvaro , Torres Esperanza Susana , Amaya-Gómez Rafael , Pradilla Diego
Published: February 2023

Pipeline is one of the safest and most cost-effective means of transportation for hydrocarbons. However, hydrocarbon releases and the subsequent fires and explosions, are presented as persistent events. Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) enables one to address the risk and to prevent these events. In this regard, different approaches have been proposed for pipelines, but few studies are focused on oil transportation. This paper presents a methodology for performing QRA for onshore oil pipelines, which is based on the calculation of individual and societal risk indicators. This methodology is illustrated using an authentic case study of a segment of 17.53 km of the length of an onshore oil pipeline located in the southwest of Colombia, considering jet and pool fire scenarios. The results show that the Individual Risk Per Annum (IRPA) for operation (and maintenance) and administrative workers are 6.14 × 10−4 and 8.52 × 10−5 yr−1, respectively. The IRPA for people close to the pipeline is between 2.31 × 10−4 and 2.60 × 10−4 yr−1. The IRPA for workers is tolerable, while for people may be classified as unacceptable. The societal risk was represented using the F–N curve, indicating that risk is unacceptable and nearby populations could be relocated.
Proteomics Provide Insight into the Interaction between Selenite and the Microalgae Dunaliella salina
Authors: Jiang Xiaoyu , Yang Liu , Wang Yinghui , Jiang Fajun , Lai Junxiang , Pan Kailin
Published: February 2023

Dunaliella salina is currently one of the most commercially valuable microalgae species in the world. In reponse to selenite, D. salina is a microalgae with a high selenium content, thereby increasing its value, which is crucial for increasing its economic value as a nutrional supplement. However, the effects of selenite on D. salina are still unclear, and its molecular mechanism of the response to selenite stress is also elusive. Here, in order to study the effects of selenite on D. salina and the corresponding regulatory mechanism, we characterized the physiological phenotypes of D. salina under different selenite concentrations and carried out a quantitative proteomic study. The results showed that the effective concentration for 50% growth inhibition (EC50) of the algae was 192.7 mg/L after 11 days of cultivation. When selenite concentration was lower than 100 mg/L, selenite did not hinder the growth of D. salina in the early stage, but shortened the cell growth cycle, although cell growth was significantly inhibited when the concentration of selenium was higher than 250 mg/L. Bioaccumulation experiments showed that the content of intracellular selenium in D. salina cells reached the highest level under the treatment with 50 mg/L selenite, and the contents of total selenium and organic selenium in D. salina cells were 499.77 μg/g and 303.01 μg/g (dry weight), respectively. Proteomic analysis revealed that a series of proteins related to stress responses, amino acid metabolism and energy production pathways were profoundly altered by the selenite treatment. Glutathione peroxidase (GPX7), a selenium-containing protein, was identified in the group given the selenium treatment. Moreover, proteins involved in photoreactions and oxidative phosphorylation were significantly upregulated, indicating that D. salina effectively balanced the energy demand and energy production under selenite stress. This study provides novel insights into the responses to selenite of D. salina, a microalgae candidate as a biological carrier of selenium and would be helpful for the development of industrial strains rich in selenium.
Anodic Behavior of Hafnium in Anhydrous Electrodissolution-Coupled Hafnium Alkoxide Synthesis
Authors: Li Shuai , Yang Shenghai , Zhao Pengfei , Chen Yongming , Tang Chaobo , Lai Yanqing , Deng Chaoyong , Wang Changhong
Published: February 2023

The electrodissolution-coupled hafnium alkoxide (Hf(OR)4, R is alkyl) synthesis (EHS) system, which has significant environmental and economic advantages over conventional thermal methods, serves as a promising system for green and efficient Hf(OR)4 electro-synthesis. The EHS system is operated based on the simultaneous heterogeneous reactions of hafnium dissolution and ethanol dehydrogenation, as well as the spontaneous solution-based reaction of Hf4+ and OR−. Employing green ethanol and Hf as feedstocks, the anodic hafnium corrosion/dissolution electrochemical behavior of the Et4NCl or Et4NHSO4 based anhydrous system was investigated through electrochemical measurements combined with SEM observations. The results demonstrated that the Et4NCl-based anhydrous ethanol system exhibited an efficient mechanism of passive film pitting corrosion breakdown and metal hafnium dissolution, while the Et4NHSO4-based anhydrous ethanol system reflected the weak corrosion mechanism of the anodic hafnium under the passive film. The polarization resistance of the Et4NCl system was dramatically lower than that of the Et4NHSO4 system, which indicated that the Et4NCl system had superior anodic hafnium corrosion performance compared to the Et4NHSO4 system. Overall, the investigation of the electrochemical behaviors of anodic hafnium corrosion/dissolution provides theoretical guidance for the efficient operation of EHS electrolysis.
Non-Specific Signal Peptidase Processing of Extracellular Proteins in Staphylococcus aureus N315
Authors: Misal Santosh A. , Ovhal Shital D. , Li Sujun , Karty Jonathan A. , Tang Haixu , Radivojac Predrag , Reilly James P.
Published: February 2023

Staphylococcus aureus is one of the major community-acquired human pathogens, with growing multidrug-resistance, leading to a major threat of more prevalent infections to humans. A variety of virulence factors and toxic proteins are secreted during infection via the general secretory (Sec) pathway, which requires an N-terminal signal peptide to be cleaved from the N-terminus of the protein. This N-terminal signal peptide is recognized and processed by a type I signal peptidase (SPase). SPase-mediated signal peptide processing is the crucial step in the pathogenicity of S. aureus. In the present study, the SPase-mediated N-terminal protein processing and their cleavage specificity were evaluated using a combination of N-terminal amidination bottom-up and top-down proteomics-based mass spectrometry approaches. Secretory proteins were found to be cleaved by SPase, specifically and non-specifically, on both sides of the normal SPase cleavage site. The non-specific cleavages occur at the relatively smaller residues that are present next to the −1, +1, and +2 locations from the original SPase cleavage site to a lesser extent. Additional random cleavages at the middle and near the C-terminus of some protein sequences were also observed. This additional processing could be a part of some stress conditions and unknown signal peptidase mechanisms.
Gender Conflicts in Contemporary Korean Buddhism
Authors: Cho Eun-su
Published: February 2023

Scholars have observed that Korean Buddhist nuns have a relatively high social status compared to nuns of other Asian countries, much like their sisters in Taiwan. It is a source of great pride for many Korean bhikṣuṇīs that their community operates with a high degree of autonomy, bringing them to an almost equal standing with their male counterparts. However, this claim of equal status is challenged once the nuns step outside their own communities and into the hierarchical system of the Order, an institution dominated by male monastics. This paper aims to report on the gender disparity between male monastics and Buddhist women, both nuns and laywomen alike. I will first explore Korean Buddhist nuns’ experiences of gender discrimination imposed by the current institutional and cultural practices of the Buddhist Order, and their battles to challenge the legitimacy of this power structure. Next, I will introduce various episodes, including the Buddhist administration’s conflict with progressive women’s groups, to showcase the gender dynamics and current status of women in Korean Buddhism. Ultimately, my argument is that the conservatism and misogynism of traditional religion continue to influence Korean Buddhism today, despite societal efforts to heighten gender awareness and sensitivity.