bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation, Identification and Chemical Modification of Bufadienolides from Bufo melanostictus Schneider and Their Cytotoxic Activities against Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Ye Qingmei , Lin Rong , Chen Zeping , Li Juan , Zheng Caijuan
Published: March 2024

The traditional Chinese medicine toad venom (Venenum bufonis) has been extensively used to treat various diseases, including cancers, in China and other Southeast Asian countries. The major constituents of toad venom, e.g., bufadienolides and alkaloids, exhibit broad-spectrum pharmacological effects in cancers. Herein, two new bufadienolides (1 and 2), along with eleven known compounds (3–13) were successfully isolated from Bufo melanostictus Schneider. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic data and X-ray diffraction analysis. Furthermore, four lactam derivatives were synthesized through the transformation of bufadienolides lactones. The inhibitory effects of these compounds against human prostate cancer cell lines PC-3 and DU145 were evaluated. The outcomes indicated a notable trend, with a substantial subset displaying nanomolar range IC50 values against PC-3 and DU145 cells, underscoring their pronounced cytotoxicity. Moreover, a noteworthy distinction surfaces, wherein lactones consistently outperformed their lactam counterparts, further validating their heightened potency for the treatment of prostate cancer. This study contributes significant preclinical evidence substantiating the therapeutic viability of bufadienolides and toad venom as intervention strategies for prostate cancer.
Study on the Effect of Dalbergia pinnata (Lour.) Prain Essential Oil on Electroencephalography upon Stimulation with Different Auditory Effects
Authors: He Xin , Qin Sheng , Yu Genfa , Zhang Songxing , Yi Fengping
Published: April 2024

Dalbergia pinnata (Lour.) Prain (D. pinnata) is a valuable medicinal plant, and its volatile parts have a pleasant aroma. In recent years, there have been a large number of studies investigating the effect of aroma on human performance. However, the effect of the aroma of D. pinnata on human psychophysiological activity has not been reported. Few reports have been made about the effects of aroma and sound on human electroencephalographic (EEG) activity. This study aimed to investigate the effects of D. pinnata essential oil in EEG activity response to various auditory stimuli. In the EEG study, 30 healthy volunteers (15 men and 15 women) participated. The electroencephalogram changes of participants during the essential oil (EO) of D. pinnata inhalation under white noise, pink noise and traffic noise stimulations were recorded. EEG data from 30 electrodes placed on the scalp were analyzed according to the international 10–20 system. The EO of D. pinnata had various effects on the brain when subjected to different auditory stimuli. In EEG studies, delta waves increased by 20% in noiseless and white noise environments, a change that may aid sleep and relaxation. In the presence of pink noise and traffic noise, alpha and delta wave activity (frontal pole and frontal lobe) increased markedly when inhaling the EO of D. pinnata, a change that may help reduce anxiety. When inhaling the EO of D. pinnata with different auditory stimuli, women are more likely to relax and get sleepy compared to men.
A Study on the Field Emission Characteristics of High-Quality Wrinkled Multilayer Graphene Cathodes
Authors: Lv Wenmei , Wang Lian , Lu Yiwei , Wang Dong , Wang Hui , Hao Yuxin , Zhang Yuanpeng , Sun Zeqi , Tang Yongliang
Published: March 2024

Field emission (FE) necessitates cathode materials with low work function and high thermal and electrical conductivity and stability. To meet these requirements, we developed FE cathodes based on high-quality wrinkled multilayer graphene (MLG) prepared using the bubble-assisted chemical vapor deposition (B-CVD) method and investigated their emission characteristics. The result showed that MLG cathodes prepared using the spin-coating method exhibited a high field emission current density (~7.9 mA/cm2), indicating the excellent intrinsic emission performance of the MLG. However, the weak adhesion between the MLG and the substrate led to the poor stability of the cathode. Screen printing was employed to prepare the cathode to improve stability, and the influence of a silver buffer layer was explored on the cathode’s performance. The results demonstrated that these cathodes exhibited better emission stability, and the silver buffer layer further enhanced the comprehensive field emission performance. The optimized cathode possesses low turn-on field strength (~1.5 V/μm), low threshold field strength (~2.65 V/μm), high current density (~10.5 mA/cm2), and good emission uniformity. Moreover, the cathode also exhibits excellent emission stability, with a current fluctuation of only 6.28% during a 4-h test at 1530 V.
MXene as Promising Anode Material for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Chy Mohammad Nezam Uddin , Rahman Md. Arafat , Kim Jin-Hyuk , Barua Nirjhor , Dujana Wasif Abu
Published: March 2024

Broad adoption has already been started of MXene materials in various energy storage technologies, such as super-capacitors and batteries, due to the increasing versatility of the preparation methods, as well as the ongoing discovery of new members. The essential requirements for an excellent anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are high safety, minimal volume expansion during the lithiation/de-lithiation process, high cyclic stability, and high Li+ storage capability. However, most of the anode materials for LIBs, such as graphite, SnO2, Si, Al, and Li4Ti5O12, have at least one issue. Hence, creating novel anode materials continues to be difficult. To date, a few MXenes have been investigated experimentally as anodes of LIBs due to their distinct active voltage windows, large power capabilities, and longer cyclic life. The objective of this review paper is to provide an overview of the synthesis and characterization characteristics of the MXenes as anode materials of LIBs, including their discharge/charge capacity, rate performance, and cycle ability. In addition, a summary of the potential outlook for developments of these materials as anodes is provided.
Factors That Most Influence the Choice for Fast Food in a Sample of Higher Education Students in Portugal
Authors: Oliveira Leandro , Raposo António
Published: March 2024

The frequency of fast food consumption among higher education students is high, causing worrying implications for public health. This study aims to relate the factors that influence the choice for fast food with social factors, nutritional status, and fast food consumption in a sample of higher education students in Portugal. An online questionnaire was developed and disseminated by social networks among students during the first half of 2023. Two hundred and thirty-seven students participated, mainly female (65.4%), who were attending public higher education institutions (59.1%), with a median of age of 20.0 (19.0; 22.0) years, and about 20% of the sample had overweight. Approximately 80% consumed fast food, and almost 40% consumed it more than once or twice a week. Predominantly (78.0%), they chose hamburger meals, spending EUR 8.0 per meal. The factors that most influenced the choice of fast food were ease or convenience of preparation (59.9%), price (48.5%), and flavor (28.3%). There were also differences between sexes and between those attending public and private higher education institutions regarding whether they usually consume fast food or not. The body mass index was positively associated with age (r: 0.142; p = 0.029) and with fast food spending (r: 0.146; p = 0.024). The results have implications for public health and clinical nutrition, and can support more effective strategies to improve food choices in higher education students.
Glycoprotein Matrix Zinc Exhibits Improved Absorption: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Jäger Ralf , Purpura Martin , Davis Jaci , Keratsopoulos Nikolas , Parra Mandy E. , Secrest Ariane H. , Tinsley Grant M. , Taylor Lem
Published: March 2024

Biotransformation of minerals via glycosylation by microorganisms such as yeast and/or probiotics yields nutrients bound to a food matrix, resulting in increased bioavailability. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of glycoprotein matrix-bound zinc (GPM) on absorption compared to inorganic zinc oxide. Sixteen participants ingested 11 mg of zinc as either GPM™ Soy-Free Zinc (GPM, Ashland, Kearny, NJ, USA) or zinc oxide (USP). Blood samples were taken at 0 (i.e., baseline), 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240, 300, 360, 420, and 480 min post-ingestion. GPM zinc concentrations were significantly higher at 120 min (p = 0.02; 12.4 ± 5.1 mcg/dL), 180 min (p = 0.002; 16.8 ± 5.1 mcg/dL), and 240 min (p = 0.007; 14.6 ± 5.1 mcg/dL) in comparison to USP zinc oxide. In addition, GPM zinc significantly increased iAUC by 40% (5840 ± 2684 vs. 4183 ± 1132 mcg/dL * 480 min, p = 0.02), and Cmax values were 10% higher in GPM compared to USP (148 ± 21 mcg/dL vs. 135 ± 17.5 mcg/dL, p = 0.08). Tmax was 12% slower in GPM compared to USP (112.5 ± 38.7 min vs. 127.5 ± 43.1 min); however, differences in Tmax failed to reach statistical significance (p = 0.28). Zinc bound to a glycoprotein matrix significantly increased absorption compared to zinc oxide.
Ultra-Processed Foods—Dietary Foe or Potential Ally?
Authors: Nees Sabrina , Lutsiv Tymofiy , Thompson Henry J.
Published: March 2024

The prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has steadily increased in the United States. Health experts attribute the increasing prevalence of NCDs, in part, to the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) based on epidemiological observations. However, no definitive evidence of causality has been established. Consequently, there is an ongoing debate over whether adverse health outcomes may be due to the low nutrient density per kilocalorie, the processing techniques used during the production of UPFs, taste preference-driven overconsumption of calories, or unidentified factors. Recognizing that “the science is not settled,” we propose an investigative process in this narrative review to move the field beyond current controversies and potentially identify the basis of causality. Since many consumers depend on UPFs due to their shelf stability, affordability, availability, ease of use, and safety from pathogens, we also suggest a paradigm for guiding both the formulation of UPFs by food designers and the selection of UPFs by consumers.
Visceral Adipose Tissue: The Hidden Culprit for Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Dhokte Sneha , Czaja Krzysztof
Published: March 2024

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance in various tissues. Though conventionally associated with obesity, current research indicates that visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is the leading determining factor, wielding more influence regardless of individual body mass. The heightened metabolic activity of VAT encourages the circulation of free fatty acid (FFA) molecules, which induce insulin resistance in surrounding tissues. Individuals most vulnerable to this preferential fat deposition are older males with ancestral ties to Asian countries because genetics and sex hormones are pivotal factors for VAT accumulation. However, interventions in one’s diet and lifestyle have the potential to strategically discourage the growth of VAT. This illuminates the possibility that the expansion of VAT and, subsequently, the risk of T2D development are preventable. Therefore, by reducing the amount of VAT accumulated in an individual and preventing it from building up, one can effectively control and prevent the development of T2D.
Terminalia arjuna Bark Powder as a Potential Immunomodulator in Labeo rohita: Enhanced Hematological, Adaptive, and Humoral Responses against Bacterial Pathogens and Concordant Liver Histomorphology
Authors: Meena Dharmendra Kumar , Das Basanta Kumar , Sahoo Amiya Kumar , Sahu Narottam Prasad , Srivastava Prem Prakash , Borah Simanku
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the dietary immunomodulatory effects of Terminalia arjuna bark powder (TABP) in Labeo rohita, a freshwater fish model. Four iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric diets containing graded levels of TABP (0, 1, 10, and 15 g/kg were fed to fish for 90 days, followed by a 10 day challenge with pathogenic bacteria Aeromonas hydrophila and Edwardsiella tarda. An integrated biomarker response (IBR) approach assessed the impact of TABP on hematological, adaptive, and humoral immune parameters, along with liver histomorphology. Dietary TABP at 10 g/kg significantly enhanced (p < 0.05) hematological indices (hemoglobin, red blood cell count, hematocrit), specific immune parameters (lysosomal enzyme activity, phagocytosis, respiratory burst), and non-specific immune parameters (serum lysozyme, alternative complement activity), and exhibited improvements in liver architecture consistent with the enhanced immune response. Broken line regression analysis showed 11.5 g/kg to be an optimum dose. However, at 15 g/kg, a compromised trend was observed in some parameters. These findings suggest an optimal dosage range for TABP’s immunomodulatory effects. The study highlights the potential of TABP as a natural immunomodulator in fish aquaculture. The improved immune response and concomitant liver health observed in Labeo rohita opens avenues for further research on TABP’s applicability in animal health, using fish as a model organism. Additionally, the IBR approach proved effective in evaluating TABP’s immunomodulatory properties, paving the way for similar studies on other natural products in aquaculture.
Investigating Potential Cancer Therapeutics: Insight into Histone Deacetylases (HDACs) Inhibitions
Authors: Ahmad Basharat , Saeed Aamir , Al-Amery Ahmed , Celik Ismail , Ahmed Iraj , Yaseen Muhammad , Khan Imran Ahmad , Al-Fahad Dhurgham , Bhat Mashooq Ahmad
Published: March 2024

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are enzymes that remove acetyl groups from ɛ-amino of histone, and their involvement in the development and progression of cancer disorders makes them an interesting therapeutic target. This study seeks to discover new inhibitors that selectively inhibit HDAC enzymes which are linked to deadly disorders like T-cell lymphoma, childhood neuroblastoma, and colon cancer. MOE was used to dock libraries of ZINC database molecules within the catalytic active pocket of target HDACs. The top three hits were submitted to MD simulations ranked on binding affinities and well-occupied interaction mechanisms determined from molecular docking studies. Inside the catalytic active site of HDACs, the two stable inhibitors LIG1 and LIG2 affect the protein flexibility, as evidenced by RMSD, RMSF, Rg, and PCA. MD simulations of HDACs complexes revealed an alteration from extended to bent motional changes within loop regions. The structural deviation following superimposition shows flexibility via a visual inspection of movable loops at different timeframes. According to PCA, the activity of HDACs inhibitors induces structural dynamics that might potentially be utilized to define the nature of protein inhibition. The findings suggest that this study offers solid proof to investigate LIG1 and LIG2 as potential HDAC inhibitors.
Butterfly Effect in Cytarabine: Combined NMR-NQR Experiment, Solid-State Computational Modeling, Quantitative Structure-Property Relationships and Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Latosińska Jolanta Natalia , Latosińska Magdalena , Seliger Janez , Žagar Veselko , Apih Tomaž
Published: March 2024

Cytarabine (Ara-C) is a synthetic isomer of cytidine that differs from cytidine and deoxycytidine only in the sugar. The use of arabinose instead of deoxyribose hinders the formation of phosphodiester linkages between pentoses, preventing the DNA chain from elongation and interrupting the DNA synthesis. The minor structural alteration (the inversion of hydroxyl at the 2′ positions of the sugar) leads to change of the biological activity from anti-depressant and DNA/RNA block builder to powerful anti-cancer. Our study aimed to determine the molecular nature of this phenomenon. Three 1H-14N NMR-NQR experimental techniques, followed by solid-state computational modelling (Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules, Reduced Density Gradient and 3D Hirshfeld surfaces), Quantitative Structure–Property Relationships, Spackman’s Hirshfeld surfaces and Molecular Docking were used. Multifaceted analysis—combining experiments, computational modeling and molecular docking—provides deep insight into three-dimensional packing at the atomic and molecular levels, but is challenging. A spectrum with nine lines indicating the existence of three chemically inequivalent nitrogen sites in the Ara-C molecule was recorded, and the lines were assigned to them. The influence of the structural alteration on the NQR parameters was modeled in the solid (GGA/RPBE). For the comprehensive description of the nature of these interactions several factors were considered, including relative reactivity and the involvement of heavy atoms in various non-covalent interactions. The binding modes in the solid state and complex with dCK were investigated using the novel approaches: radial plots, heatmaps and root-mean-square deviation of the binding mode. We identified the intramolecular OH···O hydrogen bond as the key factor responsible for forcing the glycone conformation and strengthening NH···O bonds with Gln97, Asp133 and Ara128, and stacking with Phe137. The titular butterfly effect is associated with both the inversion and the presence of this intramolecular hydrogen bond. Our study elucidates the differences in the binding modes of Ara-C and cytidine, which should guide the design of more potent anti-cancer and anti-viral analogues.
Development of Analytical Method for the Quantitation of Monoclonal Antibodies Solutions via Raman Spectroscopy: The Case of Bevacizumab
Authors: Lykouras Michail , Papaspyridakou Panagiota , Makri Olga E. , Georgakopoulos Constantine D. , Orkoula Malvina G.
Published: March 2024

Personalized dosages of monoclonal antibodies are being used more regularly to treat various diseases, rendering their quantitation more essential than ever for the right dose administration to the patients. A promising alternative, which overcomes the obstacles of the well-established chromatographic techniques regarding the quantification of biopharmaceuticals, is Raman spectroscopy. This study aimed to develop and validate a novel analytical method for the quantitation of bevacizumab in solutions via Raman spectroscopy. For this purpose, a droplet of the solution was left to dry on a highly reflective carrier and a home-made apparatus was employed for rotation of the sample. Hence, each recorded Raman spectrum was the average of the signal acquired simultaneously from multiple points on a circular circumference. The method was validated, and the detection limit of the antibody was found to be 1.06 mg/mL. Bevacizumab was found to be highly distributed at the formed coffee ring of the dried droplet, though this was a function of solution concentration. Finally, Raman spectra at different distances on the coffee ring were obtained from the four quarters. The lowest bevacizumab detection limit was found at a distance of 75 μm from the external side of the coffee ring and it was determined to be equal to 0.53 mg/mL.
An LC-MS/MS Method for Quantification of Lamotrigine and Its Main Metabolite in Dried Blood Spots
Authors: Milosheska Daniela , Roškar Robert , Vovk Tomaž , Lorber Bogdan , Grabnar Iztok , Trontelj Jurij
Published: March 2024

Background: The antiepileptic drug lamotrigine (LTG) shows high pharmacokinetic variability due to genotype influence and concomitant use of glucuronidation inducers and inhibitors, both of which may be frequently taken by elderly patients. Our goal was to develop a reliable quantification method for lamotrigine and its main glucuronide metabolite lamotrigine-N2-glucuronide (LTG-N2-GLU) in dried blood spots (DBS) to enable routine therapeutic drug monitoring and to identify altered metabolic activity for early detection of drug interactions possibly leading to suboptimal drug response. Results: The analytical method was validated in terms of selectivity, accuracy, precision, matrix effects, haematocrit, blood spot volume influence, and stability. It was applied to a clinical study, and the DBS results were compared to the concentrations determined in plasma samples. A good correlation was established for both analytes in DBS and plasma samples, taking into account the haematocrit and blood cell-to-plasma partition coefficients. It was demonstrated that the method is suitable for the determination of the metabolite-to-parent ratio to reveal the metabolic status of individual patients. Conclusions: The clinical validation performed confirmed that the DBS technique is a reliable alternative for plasma lamotrigine and its glucuronide determination.
Neurogenesis-Associated Protein, a Potential Prognostic Biomarker in Anti-PD-1 Based Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma Patient Therapeutics
Authors: Gao Rui , Liu Zixue , Meng Mei , Song Xuefei , He Jian
Published: March 2024

The transketolase 1 gene (TKTL1) is an essential factor that contributes to brain development. Some studies have shown the influence of TKTL1 in cancers, but it has been rarely reported in kidney cancer. Furthermore, the role of TKTL1 in the prognosis and tumor infiltration of immune cells in various cancers, particularly kidney cancer, remains unknown. In this study, TKTL1 expression and its clinical characteristics were investigated using a variety of databases. TIMER was used to investigate the relationship between TKTL1 and immune infiltrates in various types of cancer. We also studied the relationship between TKTL1 expression and response to PD-1 blocker immunotherapy in renal cancer. We conducted TKTL1 agonists virtual screening from 13,633 natural compounds (L6020), implemented secondary library construction according to the types of top results, and then conducted secondary virtual screening for 367 alkaloids. Finally, in vitro assays of cell viability assays and colony formation assays were performed to demonstrate the pharmacological potency of the screening of TKTL1 agonists. Using these methods, we determined that TKTL1 significantly affects the prognostic potential in different types of kidney cancer patients. The underlying mechanism might be that the TKTL1 expression level was positively associated with devious immunocytes in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) rather than in kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma (KIRP) and kidney chromophobe (KICH). This recruitment may result from the up-regulation of the mTOR signaling pathway affecting T cell metabolism. We also found that TKTL1 may act as an immunomodulator in KIRC patients’ response to anti-PD-1 therapy. Moreover, we also found that piperine and glibenclamide are potent agonists of TKTL1. We have demonstrated, in vitro, that piperine and glibenclamide can inhibit the proliferation and clone formation of Caki-2 cell lines by agonizing the expression of TKTL1. In summary, our discovery implies that TKTL1 may be a promising prognostic biomarker for KIRC patients who respond to anti-PD-1 therapy. Piperine and glibenclamide may be effective therapeutic TKTL1 agonists, providing a theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of kidney cancer.
3-Methoxy-Phencyclidine Induced Psychotic Disorder: A Literature Review and an 18F-FDG PET/CT Case Report
Authors: Pepe Maria , Di Nicola Marco , Cocciolillo Fabrizio , Chiappini Stefania , Martinotti Giovanni , Calcagni Maria Lucia , Sani Gabriele
Published: March 2024

New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) are modifying the drug scenario worldwide and have become a public health concern because of their toxicological profiles and their harmful physical/psychological effects. 3-Methoxy-Phencyclidine (3-MeO-PCP), a non-competitive antagonist of glutamate N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, belongs to the phencyclidine-like subfamily of arylcyclohexylamines and has gained attention for its toxic, sometimes fatal, effects. Despite several cases of intoxication and death reported in the literature, little is known about substance-induced psychotic disorders (SIP) and potential cognitive impairment following 3-MeO-PCP intake. This literature review aimed to summarize available evidence about 3-MeO-PCP mechanisms of action and physical and psychotropic effects and to spread preliminary findings about persistent psychotic symptoms and impaired cognitive functioning. Additionally, the case of an SIP is reported in a 29-year-old man with small oral intakes of 3-MeO-PCP over two weeks until a high dose ingestion. Psychometric and neuropsychological assessment and brain [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography integrated with computed tomography were used to support clinical description. Identifying and addressing the characteristic clinical features and neural substrates of NPS-induced psychoses might help clinicians with a more precise differentiation from other psychotic disorders. Although further studies are required, phenotyping the cognitive profile of NPS users might provide targets for tailored therapeutic approaches.
Transcriptomics- and Genomics-Guided Drug Repurposing for the Treatment of Vesicular Hand Eczema
Authors: Rosenberg Fieke M. , Kamali Zoha , Voorberg Angelique N. , Oude Munnink Thijs H. , van der Most Peter J. , Snieder Harold , Vaez Ahmad , Schuttelaar Marie L. A.
Published: March 2024

Vesicular hand eczema (VHE), a clinical subtype of hand eczema (HE), showed limited responsiveness to alitretinoin, the only approved systemic treatment for severe chronic HE. This emphasizes the need for alternative treatment approaches. Therefore, our study aimed to identify drug repurposing opportunities for VHE using transcriptomics and genomics data. We constructed a gene network by combining 52 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from a VHE transcriptomics study with 3 quantitative trait locus (QTL) genes associated with HE. Through network analysis, clustering, and functional enrichment analyses, we investigated the underlying biological mechanisms of this network. Next, we leveraged drug–gene interactions and retrieved pharmaco-transcriptomics data from the DrugBank database to identify drug repurposing opportunities for (V)HE. We developed a drug ranking system, primarily based on efficacy, safety, and practical and pricing factors, to select the most promising drug repurposing candidates. Our results revealed that the (V)HE network comprised 78 genes that yielded several biological pathways underlying the disease. The drug–gene interaction search together with pharmaco-transcriptomics lookups revealed 123 unique drug repurposing opportunities. Based on our drug ranking system, our study identified the most promising drug repurposing opportunities (e.g., vitamin D analogues, retinoids, and immunomodulating drugs) that might be effective in treating (V)HE.
Tunable Near and Mid-Infrared (1.3–5 µm) Picosecond Pulsed Optical Vortex Parametric Oscillator
Authors: Aihemaiti Mailikeguli , Sulaiman Dulikun , Jashaner Dana , Zhou Yuxia , Yang Xining , Li Zhaoxue , Muhutijiang Bilali , Yusufu Taximaiti
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we present a picosecond pulsed, synchronously pumped optical parametric oscillator producing vortex beam output with tunable wavelengths in the near- to mid-infrared range. The system utilizes a Nd:YVO4 picosecond pulsed solid-state laser emitting at a wavelength of 1.064 µm to pump a Z-shaped, singly resonant OPO which contains a MgO:PPLN crystal with a fan-shaped grating. The wavelength tuning characteristics of the OPO output are examined both as a function of the MgO:PPLN grating period and crystal temperature. The orbital angular momentum of the pump field can be selectively transferred to either the signal or idler fields by appropriately adjusting the location of the MgO:PPLN crystal within the OPO cavity. The maximum output power of the signal and idler vortex fields are 5.12 W and 3.46 W, respectively, for an incident pump power of 19 W.
All-in-One BPSK/QPSK Switchable Transmission and Reception for Adaptive Free-Space Optical Communication Links
Authors: Chen Yaling , Ming Chengze , Xie Ke , Gao Shiming , Jiang Qingfang , Liu Zhi , Yao Haifeng , Dong Keyan
Published: March 2024

Adaptive free-space optical (FSO) communication links have been extensively studied in order to adapt to variable atmospheric channel environments due to factors such as atmospheric turbulence. As a supporting technology, an all-in-one BPSK/QPSK switchable transmission and reception method is proposed and experimentally demonstrated for adaptive modulation format switching in FSO links. The transmission and reception of both modulation formats are realized based on the same IQ modulator and single-photodetector coherent receiver. Simulation and experimental results show that the QPSK signal has a power penalty of about 3–4 dB compared to the BPSK signal with a BER of about 1 × 10−3. The basis for format switching is given according to the various atmospheric channel conditions. The proposed method provides a flexible and efficient solution for variable FSO communication environments to improve their performance.
Mode Shift of a Thin-Film F-P Cavity Grown with ICPCVD
Authors: Zhang Yuheng , Gao Zhuo , Duan Jian , Li Wenbing , Liu Bo , Chen Chang
Published: April 2024

Industrial-grade optical semiconductor films have attracted considerable research interest because of their potential for wafer-scale mass deposition and direct integration with other optoelectronic wafers. The development of optical thin-film processes that are compatible with complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) processes will be beneficial for the improvement of chip integration. In this study, a multilayer periodically structured optical film containing Fabry–Perot cavity was designed, utilizing nine pairs of SiN/SiO2 dielectrics. Subsequently, the multilayer films were deposited on Si substrates through the inductively coupled plasma chemical vapor deposition (ICPCVD) technique, maintaining a low temperature of 80 °C. The prepared films exhibit narrow bandpass characteristics with a maximum peak transmittance of 76% at 690 nm. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows that the film structure has good periodicity. In addition, when the optical films are exposed to p/s polarized light at different angles of incidence, the cavity mode of the film undergoes a blueshift, which greatly affects the color appearance of the film. As the temperature rises, the cavity mode undergoes a gradual redshift, while the full width at half maximum (FWHM) and quality factor remain relatively constant.
Spatial Distribution and Ecological Determinants of Coexisting Hybrid Oak Species: A Study in Yushan’s Mixed Forest
Authors: Li Xuan , Li Yongfu , El-Kassaby Yousry A. , Fang Yanming
Published: March 2024

Ecological niche partitioning is crucial in reducing interspecific competition, fostering species coexistence, and preserving biodiversity. Our research, conducted in a hybrid mixed oak forest in Yushan, Jiangsu, China, focuses on Quercus acutissima, Q. variabilis, Q. fabri, and Q. serrata var. brevipetiolata. Using Point Pattern Analysis, we investigated the spatial relationships and ecological trait autocorrelation, including total carbon (TC), nitrogen (TN), phosphorus (TP), potassium (TK), and breast height diameter (DBH). Our findings show aggregated distribution patterns within the oak populations. The Inhomogeneous Poisson Point model highlights the impact of environmental heterogeneity on Q. variabilis, leading to distinct distribution patterns, while other species showed wider dispersion. This study reveals aggregated interspecific interactions, with a notable dispersal pattern between Q. acutissima and Q. variabilis. We observed significant variability in nutrient elements, indicating distinct nutrient dynamics and uptake processes. The variations in total carbon (TC), nitrogen (TN), phosphorus (TP), and potassium (TK) suggest distinct nutrient dynamics, with TK showing the highest variability. Despite variations in TC, TK, and TP, the species did not form distinct classes, suggesting overlapping nutritional strategies and environmental adaptations. Furthermore, spatial autocorrelation analysis indicates strong positive correlations for DBH, TC, and TP, whereas TK and TN correlations are non-significant. The results suggest habitat filtering as a key driver in intraspecific relationships, with a finer spatial scale of ecological niche division through TC and TP, which is crucial for maintaining coexistence among these oak species.
The N-Terminal Region of Cucumber Mosaic Virus 2a Protein Is Involved in the Systemic Infection in Brassica juncea
Authors: Park Tae-Seon , Min Dong-Joo , Park Ji-Soo , Hong Jin-Sung
Published: March 2024

Brassica juncea belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is used as both an oilseed and vegetable crop. As only a few studies have reported on the cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) in B. juncea, we conducted this study to provide a basic understanding of the B. juncea and CMV interactions. B. juncea-infecting CMV (CMV-Co6) and non-infecting CMV (CMV-Rs1) were used. To identify the determinants of systemic infection in B. juncea, we first constructed infectious clones of CMV-Co6 and CMV-Rs1 and used them as pseudo-recombinants. RNA2 of CMV was identified as an important determinant in B. juncea because B. juncea were systemically infected with RNA2-containing pseudo-recombinants; CMV-Co6, R/6/R, and R/6/6 were systemically infected B. juncea. Subsequently, the amino acids of the 2a and 2b proteins were compared, and a chimeric clone was constructed. The chimeric virus R/6Rns/R6cp, containing the C-terminal region of the 2a protein of CMV-Rs1, still infects B. juncea. It is the 2a protein that determines the systemic CMV infection in B. juncea, suggesting that conserved 160G and 214A may play a role in systemic CMV infection in B. juncea.
Elevated ROS Levels Caused by Reductions in GSH and AsA Contents Lead to Grain Yield Reduction in Qingke under Continuous Cropping
Authors: Gao Xue , Tan Jianxin , Yi Kaige , Lin Baogang , Hao Pengfei , Jin Tao , Hua Shuijin
Published: March 2024

Continuous spring cropping of Qingke (Hordeum viilgare L. var. nudum Hook. f.) results in a reduction in grain yield in the Xizang autonomous region. However, knowledge on the influence of continuous cropping on grain yield caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced stress remains scarce. A systematic comparison of the antioxidant defensive profile at seedling, tillering, jointing, flowering, and filling stages (T1 to T5) of Qingke was conducted based on a field experiment including 23-year continuous cropping (23y-CC) and control (the first year planted) treatments. The results reveal that the grain yield and superoxide anion (SOA) level under 23y-CC were significantly decreased (by 38.67% and 36.47%), when compared to the control. The hydrogen peroxide content under 23y-CC was 8.69% higher on average than under the control in the early growth stages. The higher ROS level under 23y-CC resulted in membrane lipid peroxidation (LPO) and accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA) at later stages, with an average increment of 29.67% and 3.77 times higher than that in control plants. Qingke plants accumulated more hydrogen peroxide at early developmental stages due to the partial conversion of SOA by glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and other production pathways, such as the glucose oxidase (GOD) and polyamine oxidase (PAO) pathways. The reduced regeneration ability due to the high oxidized glutathione (GSSG) to GSH ratio resulted in GSH deficiency while the reduction in L-galactono-1,4-lactone dehydrogenase (GalLDH) activity in the AsA biosynthesis pathway, higher enzymatic activities (including ascorbate peroxidase, APX; and ascorbate oxidase, AAO), and lower activities of monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDHAR) all led to a lower AsA content under continuous cropping. The lower antioxidant capacity due to lower contents of antioxidants such as flavonoids and tannins, detected through both physiological measurement and metabolomics analysis, further deteriorated the growth of Qingke through ROS stress under continuous cropping. Our results provide new insights into the manner in which ROS stress regulates grain yield in the context of continuous Qingke cropping.
Functional Analysis of the GhIQD1 Gene in Cotton Resistance to Verticillium Wilt
Authors: Xu Jianglin , Zhou Ting , Wang Yongqiang , Yang Yejun , Pu Yuanchun , Chen Quanjia , Zheng Kai , Sun Guoqing
Published: March 2024

Cotton is a critical crop with massive economic implications worldwide. Verticillium wilt is a soil-borne ailment caused by Verticillium dahliae, which harms the growth and development of cotton. Therefore, investigating the genes associated with resistance to verticillium wilt is of particular significance. In this study, we identified the GhIQD1 gene through transcriptome analysis and experimentally characterized the role of the GhIQD1 gene in cotton against V. dahliae. The findings indicated that GhIQD1 acts as a calmodulin-binding protein. The expression of GhIQD1 was the highest in stems, and the expression level increased significantly following infection with V. dahliae. The expression in resistant cotton varieties was higher than in susceptible cotton varieties. Through overexpression of the GhIQD1 gene in tobacco, these transgenic plants exhibited improved resistance to V. dahliae. In contrast, by silencing the GhIQD1 gene in cotton through VIGS, the resistance to V. dahliae was reduced. Following inoculation, the leaves yellowed, and the disease index was higher. Transcriptome analysis of transgenic tobacco 72 h after inoculation indicated that overexpression of GhIQD1 increased the enrichment of the calmodulin pathway and stimulated the production of plant hormones alongside secondary metabolites. Consequently, we investigated the relationship between the GhIQD1 gene and plant disease-resistant hormones SA, JA, and ABA. In summary, this study uncovered the mechanism by which GhIQD1 conferred resistance to V. dahliae in cotton through positive regulation of JA and ABA, providing crucial information for further research on the adaptation of plants to pathogen invasion.
UAV and Satellite Synergies for Mapping Grassland Aboveground Biomass in Hulunbuir Meadow Steppe
Authors: Zhu Xiaohua , Chen Xinyu , Ma Lingling , Liu Wei
Published: March 2024

Aboveground biomass (AGB) is an important indicator of the grassland ecosystem. It can be used to evaluate the grassland productivity and carbon stock. Satellite remote sensing technology is useful for monitoring the dynamic changes in AGB across a wide range of grasslands. However, due to the scale mismatch between satellite observations and ground surveys, significant uncertainties and biases exist in mapping grassland AGB from satellite data. This is also a common problem in low- and medium-resolution satellite remote sensing modeling that has not been effectively solved. The rapid development of uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) technology offers a way to solve this problem. In this study, we developed a method with UAV and satellite synergies for estimating grassland AGB that filled the gap between satellite observation and ground surveys and successfully mapped the grassland AGB in the Hulunbuir meadow steppe in the northeast of Inner Mongolia, China. First, based on the UAV hyperspectral data and ground survey data, the UAV-based AGB was estimated using a combination of typical vegetation indices (VIs) and the leaf area index (LAI), a structural parameter. Then, the UAV-based AGB was aggregated as a satellite-scale sample set and used to model satellite-based AGB estimation. At the same time, spatial information was incorporated into the LAI inversion process to minimize the scale bias between UAV and satellite data. Finally, the grassland AGB of the entire experimental area was mapped and analyzed. The results show the following: (1) random forest (RF) had the best performance compared with simple regression (SR), partial least squares regression (PLSR) and back-propagation neural network (BPNN) for UAV-based AGB estimation, with an R2 of 0.80 and an RMSE of 76.03 g/m2. (2) Grassland AGB estimation through introducing LAI achieved higher accuracy. For UAV-based AGB estimation, the R2 was improved by an average of 10% and the RMSE was reduced by an average of 9%. For satellite-based AGB estimation, the R2 was increased from 0.70 to 0.75 and the RMSE was decreased from 78.24 g/m2 to 72.36 g/m2. (3) Based on sample aggregated UAV-based AGB and an LAI map, the accuracy of satellite-based AGB estimation was significantly improved. The R2 was increased from 0.57 to 0.75, and the RMSE was decreased from 99.38 g/m2 to 72.36 g/m2. This suggests that UAVs can bridge the gap between satellite observations and field measurements by providing a sufficient training dataset for model development and AGB estimation from satellite data.
Transcription Factors behind MYB98 Regulation: What Does the Discovery of SaeM Suggest?
Authors: Adhikari Prakash B. , Liu Xiaoyan , Huang Chen , Mitsuda Nobutaka , Notaguchi Michitaka , Kasahara Ryushiro Dora
Published: March 2024

MYB98 is master regulator of the molecular network involved in pollen tube attraction. Until recently, it was unclear how this gene exhibits exclusively synergid cell-specific expression in ovule. Our recent study has established that a 16-bp-long SaeM element is crucial for its synergid cell-specific expression in ovule, and an 84-bp-long fragment harboring SaeM is sufficient to drive the process. In this study, we have developed a workflow to predict functional roles of potential transcription factors (TFs) putatively binding to the promoter region, taking MYB98 promoter as a test subject. After sequential assessment of co-expression pattern, network analysis, and potential master regulator identification, we have proposed a multi-TF model for MYB98 regulation. Our study suggests that ANL2, GT-1, and their respective homologs could be direct regulators of MYB98 and indicates that TCP15, TCP16, FRS9, and HB34 are likely master regulators of the majority of the TFs involved in its regulation. Comprehensive studies in the future are expected to offer more insights into such propositions. Developed workflow can be used while designing similar regulome-related studies for any other species and genes.
Origin and Early Evolution of Hydrocharitaceae and the Ancestral Role of Stratiotes
Authors: Ulrich Silvia , Vieira Manuel , Coiro Mario , Bouchal Johannes M. , Geier Christian , Jacobs Bonnie F. , Currano Ellen D. , Lenz Olaf K. , Wilde Volker , Zetter Reinhard , Grímsson Friðgeir
Published: March 2024

The combined morphological features of Stratiotes (Hydrocharitaceae) pollen, observed with light and electron microscopy, make it unique among all angiosperm pollen types and easy to identify. Unfortunately, the plant is (and most likely was) insect-pollinated and produces relatively few pollen grains per flower, contributing to its apparent absence in the paleopalynological record. Here, we present fossil Stratiotes pollen from the Eocene of Germany (Europe) and Kenya (Africa), representing the first reliable pre-Pleistocene pollen records of this genus worldwide and the only fossils of this family discovered so far in Africa. The fossil Stratiotes pollen grains are described and compared to pollen from a single modern species, Stratiotes aloides L. The paleophytogeographic significance and paleoecological aspects of these findings are discussed in relation to the Hydrocharitaceae fossil records and molecular phylogeny, as well as the present-day distribution patterns of its modern genera.
Chitosan-Based Films Blended with Tannic Acid and Moringa Oleifera for Application in Food Packaging: The Preservation of Strawberries (Fragaria ananassa)
Authors: Venkatesan Raja , Vetcher Alexandre A. , Al-Asbahi Bandar Ali , Kim Seong-Cheol
Published: March 2024

Biobased plastics provide a sustainable alternative to conventional food packaging materials, thereby reducing the environmental impact. The present study investigated the effectiveness of chitosan with varying levels of Moringa oleifera seed powder (MOSP) and tannic acid (TA). Chitosan (CS) biocomposite films with tannic acid acted as a cross-linker, and Moringa oleifera seed powder served as reinforcement. To enhance food packaging and film performance, Moringa oleifera seed powder was introduced at various loadings of 1.0, 3.0, 5.0, and 10.0 wt.%. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy analyses were performed to study the structure and morphology of the CS/TA/MOSP films. The scanning electron microscopy results confirmed that chitosan/TA with 10.0 wt.% of MOSP produced a lightly miscible droplet/matrix structure. Furthermore, mechanical properties, swelling, water solubility, optical barrier, and water contact angle properties of the film were also calculated. With increasing Moringa oleifera seed powder contents, the biocomposite films’ antimicrobial and antifungal activity increased at the 10.0 wt.% MOSP level; all of the observed bacteria [Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), Aspergillus niger (A. niger), and Candida albicans (C. albicans)] had a notably increased percentage of growth. The film, with 10.0 wt.% MOSP content, effectively preserves strawberries’ freshness, making it an ideal food packaging material.
Effect of Plasma Treatment on Bamboo Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites
Authors: Rachtanapun Pornchai , Sawangrat Choncharoen , Kanthiya Thidarat , Thipchai Parichat , Kaewapai Kannikar , Suhr Jonghwan , Worajittiphon Patnarin , Tanadchangsaeng Nuttapol , Wattanachai Pitiwat , Jantanasakulwong Kittisak
Published: March 2024

Bamboo cellulose fiber (BF)-reinforced epoxy (EP) composites were fabricated with BF subjected to plasma treatment using argon (Ar), oxygen (O2), and nitrogen (N2) gases. Optimal mechanical properties of the EP/BF composites were achieved with BFs subjected to 30 min of plasma treatment using Ar. This is because Ar gas improved the plasma electron density, surface polarity, and BF roughness. Flexural strength and flexural modulus increased with O2 plasma treatment. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the etching of the fiber surface with Ar gas improved interfacial adhesion. The water contact angle and surface tension of the EP/BF composite improved after 10 min of Ar treatment, owing to the compatibility between the BFs and the EP matrix. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results confirmed a reduction in lignin after treatment and the formation of new peaks at 1736 cm−1, which indicated a reaction between epoxy groups of the EP and carbon in the BF backbone. This reaction improved the compatibility, mechanical properties, and water resistance of the composites.