bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the hidden potential of deashed biochar in mitigating salinity stress for cultivation of fenugreek
Authors: Huang Shoucheng , Huang Ping , Hareem Misbah , Tahzeeb-ul-Hassan Muhammad , Younis Uzma , Dawar Khadim , Fahad Shah , Salmen Saleh H. , Ansari Mohammad Javed , Danish Subhan
Published: January 2024

Soil salinity, the second most prominent cause of land degradation after soil erosion, has posed a persistent challenge to agriculture. Currently, approximately 1 billion hectares of Earth's land surface, equivalent to 7%, are affected by salinity. While biochar has proven effective in mitigating salinity stress, the specific role of deashed biochar in salinity mitigation has not been thoroughly explored. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the impact of four levels of deashed biochar (0%, 0.4%, 0.8%, and 1.2%) on the growth and physiological attributes of Fenugreek under both non-saline conditions (2.54 dS/m EC) and salinity stress conditions (5.46 dS/m EC). The results revealed a notable enhancement in various parameters under salinity stress. Compared to the control, the application of 1.20% deashed biochar led to a significant increase in shoot fresh weight (30.82%), root fresh weight (13.06%), shoot dry weight (17.43%), root dry weight (33.44%), shoot length (23.09%), and root length (52.39%) under salinity stress. Furthermore, improvements in internal CO2 concentration (9.91%), stomatal conductance (15.49%), photosynthetic rate (25.50%), and transpiration rate (10.46%) were observed, validating the efficacy of 1.20% deashed biochar in alleviating salinity stress. The study also demonstrated a significant decrease in the activities of oxidative stress markers such as peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), electrolyte leakage, and malondialdehyde (MDA). Simultaneously, there was an increase in the concentrations of essential nutrients, namely nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), in both shoot and root tissues. These findings collectively suggest that deashed biochar, particularly at a concentration of 1.20%, is recommended for achieving enhanced crop production under conditions of salinity stress.
Association study between genetic polymorphisms in MTHFR and stroke susceptibility in Egyptian population: a case–control study
Authors: El-khawaga Omali Y. , Al-azzawy Mohammed F. , El-Dawa Aliaa N. , ElSaid Afaf M. , Mustafa Wessam , Saad Mariam
Published: January 2024

Stroke is a major global disability cause, and genetic variables for multifactorial illnesses like stroke are crucial for precision medicine. The purpose of this study is to see if genetic variants in the MTHFR gene are associated with a higher risk of ischemic stroke among the Egyptian population. A case–control study was conducted at Mansoura University Hospital, involving 100 stroke patients and 150 healthy volunteers as the control group. Peripheral blood genomic DNA was isolated and single-nucleotide polymorphisms were genotyped using ARMS-PCR. The CT and TT genotypes of the C677T gene polymorphism exhibited substantial risks for having stroke disease [(OR 3.856; P ≤ 0.001); (OR 4.026; P ≤ 0.001), respectively]. The T allele was significantly more prevalent among patients compared to controls. (OR 2.517; (P = 0.001)). The over-dominant and dominant models demonstrated a substantial relationship between stroke groups at risk of developing stroke but not the Recessive model. An extensive connection was found between the MTHFR A1298C and stroke danger in three different inheritance models: dominant (CC + CA vs. AA), over-dominant (AA + CC vs AC), and allelic (C allele) (P < 0.001). A highly significant difference in blood pressure, total cholesterol, and triglycerides levels was found between patients and control. While there was no meaningful link discovered between genetic polymorphism with SBP, DBP, TG, LDL, VLDL among stroke group (P > 0.05 for each) except the CC genotype that was significantly associated with lower levels of TC and HDL when compared to CT + TT genotypes. The study evaluates a strong link among MTHFR mutations in genes and the probability to get stroke. The research significantly supports the use of MTHFR ((rs1801133) and (rs1801131) variations in stroke prediction.
Evaluating the impact of a short bout of stair-climbing on creative thinking in a between-subjects pretest posttest comparison study
Authors: Kawashima Chihiro , Chen Chong , Hagiwara Kosuke , Mizumoto Tomohiro , Watarai Mino , Koga Takaya , Higuchi Fumihiro , Fujii Yuko , Okabe Emi , Nakagawa Shin
Published: January 2024

Recent studies have indicated potential links between short bouts of physical activity like stair-climbing and enhanced creative thinking. However, previous research featured limitations, such as using an uncommon 3 flights round-trip design and lacking baseline creative thinking evaluations. To rectify these limitations and build a more comprehensive understanding, the present study adopts a between-subjects pretest posttest comparison design to scrutinize the effects of ascending stair-climbing on both divergent and convergent thinking. 52 subjects underwent a pretest, followed by random assignment to one of four interventions: ascending stair-climbing for 2, 5, or 8 flights, or taking an elevator for 8 flights, before progressing to a posttest. The results revealed a notable improvement in convergent thinking, measured by the increased number of solved matchstick arithmetic problems (d = 1.165), for participants who climbed 2 flights of stairs compared to those who took the elevator. However, climbing 5 or 8 flights showed no such impact on convergent thinking, and stair-climbing, regardless of the number of flights, did not influence divergent thinking. These findings underscore the utility of brief stair-climbing as an accessible means to enhance convergent thinking in everyday settings, providing a nuanced insight into the relationship between physical activity and creative thinking processes.
Optimal water resource allocation considering virtual water trade in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Wang Hao , Ma Tao
Published: January 2024

Water can be redistributed physically and virtually. We explored water allocation optimization to mitigate water stresses by constructing a physical–virtual dual water system and optimizing the 1987 Yellow River water allocation scheme. We calculated the virtual water volume, identified the virtual in-basin, out-of-basin, and export water volumes, and compared the total regional water demand (i.e., combined physical and virtual water volumes) with regional water planetary boundaries to optimize basin water allocation schemes. Virtual water accounted for > 90% of the total regional demands, whereas physical flows did not significantly impact them. Moreover, allocation quotas for Qinghai and Inner Mongolia should be reduced by 0.113 and 1.005 billion m3, respectively, for sustainability. Furthermore, improving the efficiency of water-intensive sectors and limiting virtual water outflows from heavy industry to out-of-basin sectors are vital to water intensification. Increased attention should be directed toward physical–virtual water demands than the current focus on supply-oriented water allocation.
Polarization properties and Umov effect of human hair
Authors: Hamdoh Alaa , Miller Sawyer , Gao Yufei , Zou Yang , Smith Matthew , Jiang Linan , Pau Stanley
Published: January 2024

This study delves into the polarization properties of various hair colors using several techniques, including polarization ray tracing, full Stokes, and Mueller matrix imaging. Our analysis involved studying hair in both indoor and outdoor settings under varying lighting conditions. Our results demonstrate a strong correlation between hair color and the degree of linear polarization. Specifically, light-colored hair, such as white and blond, exhibits high albedo and low DoLP. In contrast, dark hair, like black and brown hair, has low albedo and high DoLP. Our research also revealed that a single hair strand displays high diattenuation near specular reflections but high depolarization in areas with diffuse reflections. Additionally, we investigated the wavelength dependency of the polarization properties by comparing the Mueller matrix under illumination at 450 nm and 589 nm. Our investigation demonstrates the impact of hair shade and color on polarization properties and the Umov effect.
Circulating cell-free DNA correlate to disease activity and treatment response of patients with radiographic axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: Peng Yun , Wu Yuanhui , Chen Shiju , Liu Yuan , Qian Hongyan , He Yan , Huang Heqing , Cai Meimei , Liu Wen , Shi Guixiu
Published: January 2024

Microdamage and its related inflammation contribute to the development of radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (r-axSpA). Inflammation and cell death in damaged tissues are associated with cell-free DNA (cfDNA) release. Here we investigated whether circulating cfDNA could be a potential biomarker for evaluating disease activity and treatment response in r-axSpA. Circulating cfDNA was detected in the discovery and validation cohort with 79 and 60 newly diagnosed r-axSpA patients respectively and 42 healthy controls using the Quant-iT PicoGreen dsDNA reagent and kit. As a result, cfDNA levels were significantly higher in r-axSpA patients compared with healthy controls in the discovery and validation cohort. Moreover, cfDNA levels were positively correlated with CRP, ASDAS-CRP and neutrophil counts. Additionally, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) combined with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs or tumor necrosis factor inhibitors but not NSAIDs alone could reduce cfDNA levels. Moreover, a decrease of cfDNA levels after treatment was associated with an effective therapeutic response. Intriguingly, patients with higher levels of cfDNA at diagnosis responded better to combination therapy rather than NSAIDs. However, patients with lower levels of cfDNA displayed similar responses to combination or mono-NSAID treatment. In conclusion, circulating cfDNA levels showed a significant correlation with disease activity as well as treatment efficacy in patients with r-axSpA. Moreover, cfDNA at diagnosis might predict the response to different therapy. Consequently, cfDNA may serve as a useful biomarker of inflammation in r-axSpA.
Factors influencing sex ratio at birth in Krosno, Poland
Authors: Nieczuja-Dwojacka Joanna , Marchewka-Długońska Justyna , Budnik Alicja , Wojtowicz Patryk , Giemza Bogdan , Skrzypczyk Bożena , Zvarik Aneta
Published: January 2024

The secondary sex ratio (SSR) is a widely used descriptor that reflects the living conditions and health status during pregnancy. The aim of study was to assess the impact of maternal factors, season of birth, and air pollution with the heating season on the sex ratio at birth in the Subcarpathian population from the Krosno district, Poland. A retrospective study involving 11,587 births was occurred at the John Paul II Podkarpackie Province Hospital in Krosno between 2016 and 2020. Sex of the newborn, the season of their birth, as well as the maternal age, birth order, the interval between births, and the season of birth were analysed. Furthermore, the relationship between the SSR and the level of air pollution during the heating season was investigated. To determine the significance of differences in sex ratios, chi-square analysis and multifactorial regression were used, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. At the chi-square level, all the studied factors indicated a statistically significant relationship with the SSR. However, the regression model used shows that maternal age and birth order were the most important factors in shaping the SSR in the study group.
Renewable and high-purity hydrogen from lignocellulosic biomass in a biorefinery approach
Authors: Elsaddik Majd , Nzihou Ange , Delmas Guo-Hua , Delmas Michel
Published: January 2024

Unprecedented efforts are being deployed to develop hydrogen production from bioresources in a circular economy approach, yet their implementation remains scarce. Today’s Challenges are associated with the shortage in the value chain, lack of large-scale production infrastructure, high costs, and low efficiency of current solutions. Herein, we report a hydrogen production route from cellulose pulp, integrating biomass fractionation and gasification in a biorefinery approach. Softwood sawdust undergoes formic acid organosolv treatment to extract cellulose, followed by steam gasification. High-purity hydrogen-rich syngas at a concentration of 56.3 vol% and a yield of 40 gH2/kgcellulose was produced. Char gasification offers the advantage of producing free-tar syngas reducing cleaning costs and mitigating downstream issues. A comprehensive assessment of mass and energy balance along the hydrogen value chain revealed an efficiency of 26.5% for hydrogen production, with an energy requirement of 111.1 kWh/kgH2. Optimizing solvent recovery and valorization of other constituents as added-value products in a biorefinery approach would further improve the process and entice its industrial takeoff.
Deep learning system for true- and pseudo-invasion in colorectal polyps
Authors: Yang Joe , Chen Lina , Liu Eric , Wang Boyu , Driman David K. , Zhang Qi , Ling Charles
Published: January 2024

Over 15 million colonoscopies were performed yearly in North America, during which biopsies were taken for pathological examination to identify abnormalities. Distinguishing between true- and pseudo-invasion in colon polyps is critical in treatment planning. Surgical resection of the colon is often the treatment option for true invasion, whereas observation is recommended for pseudo-invasion. The task of identifying true- vs pseudo-invasion, however, could be highly challenging. There is no specialized software tool for this task, and no well-annotated dataset is available. In our work, we obtained (only) 150 whole-slide images (WSIs) from the London Health Science Centre. We built three deep neural networks representing different magnifications in WSIs, mimicking the workflow of pathologists. We also built an online tool for pathologists to annotate WSIs to train our deep neural networks. Results showed that our novel system classifies tissue types with 95.3% accuracy and differentiates true- and pseudo-invasions with 83.9% accuracy. The system’s efficiency is comparable to an expert pathologist. Our system can also be easily adjusted to serve as a confirmatory or screening tool. Our system (available at http://ai4path.ca) will lead to better, faster patient care and reduced healthcare costs.
Variability in proximate composition, phytochemical traits and antioxidant properties of Iranian agro-ecotypic populations of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.)
Authors: Bakhtiar Ziba , Hassandokht Mohammadreza , Naghavi Mohammad Reza , Mirjalili Mohammad Hossein
Published: January 2024

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) is a multi-use annual forage legume crop that is widely used in food products such as syrup, bitter run, curries, stew, and flavoring. In the present study, morphological traits, proximate composition (moisture, crude fibre, protein, fat, carbohydrate, and energy value), total phenol and total flavonoid contents, and antioxidant properties of 31 Iranian agro-ecotypic populations of the plant was investigated. Among the leaf and seed samples studied, the seeds exhibited the high ash (3.94 ± 0.12%), fat (7.94 ± 0.78%), crude fibre (10.3 ± 0.25%), protein (35.41 ± 1.86%), and carbohydrate (50.5 ± 1.90%) content. In general, more energy value (kcal/100 g) was also obtained from the seed (318.88 ± 1.78–350.44 ± 1.27) than leaf samples (45.50 ± 1.32–89.28 ± 0.85). Antioxidant activity and power of leaf samples were ranged from 67.95 ± 0.05‒157.52 ± 0.20 μg/ml and from 45.17 ± 0.01‒361.92 ± 0.78 μmol Fe+2 per g dry weigh, respectively. Positive linear correlations between antioxidant activity and total phenolic compounds were observed. A significant correlation between proximate composition (dependent variable) and some morphological features (independent variable) was observed. Considerable variability in the studied traits among the plant samples can be interestingly used in further food and production systems.
QTL epistasis plays a role of homeostasis on heading date in rice
Authors: Huang Lilong , Tang Jichun , Zhu Bihuang , Chen Guodong , Chen Leyi , Bu Suhong , Zhu Haitao , Liu Zupei , Li Zhan , Meng Lijun , Liu Guifu , Wang Shaokui
Published: January 2024

If there was no gene interaction, the gene aggregation effect would increase infinitely with the increase of gene number. Epistasis avoids the endless accumulation of gene effects, playing a role of homeostasis. To confirm the role, QTL epistases were analyzed by four single-segment substitution lines with heading date QTLs in this paper. We found that QTLs of three positive effects and one negative effect generated 62.5% negative dual QTL epistatic effects and 57.7% positive triple QTL epistatic effects, forming the relationship “positive QTLs-negative one order interactions-positive two order interactions”. In this way, the aggregation effect of QTLs was partially neutralized by the opposite epistatic effect sum. There also were two exceptions, QTL OsMADS50 and gene Hd3a-2 were always with consistent effect directions with their epistases, implying they could be employed in pyramiding breeding with different objectives. This study elucidated the mechanism of epistatic interactions among four QTLs and provided valuable genetic resources for improving heading date in rice.
Exploratory analysis of the effectiveness of virtual reality in cardiovascular rehabilitation
Authors: Wrzeciono Adam , Cieślik Błażej , Kiper Paweł , Szczepańska-Gieracha Joanna , Gajda Robert
Published: January 2024

Virtual reality therapy has been shown to be effective in coping with psychological disorders accompanied by cardiovascular disease. Age appears to be a factor that can affect the effectiveness of psychological therapy in a virtual environment. Therefore, the aim of the study was to explore whether there are age-related differences in the effectiveness of reducing levels of depression and anxiety during a virtual reality psychological intervention implemented for rehabilitation. The study included 25 younger (< 65 years) and 25 older (65 +) patients with cardiovascular disease who participated in virtual reality therapy to cope with anxiety and depression. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale was used to assess anxiety and depressive disorders before and after intervention. Significant reductions in anxiety and depression scores after intervention were observed in both age-matched groups, and no significant differences were found between the younger and older participants. Further evaluation of patient age as a predictor of the effectiveness of psychological intervention in virtual reality did not show a significant effect of age on effectiveness in reducing anxiety and depressive disorders. The results obtained suggest that older patients benefit similarly to younger patients from psychological intervention in a virtual environment. Furthermore, age does not appear to be considered a predictor of effectiveness in reducing the level of anxiety and depression in patients with cardiovascular disease using virtual reality therapy.
Association between polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure with red cell width distribution and ischemic heart disease: insights from a population-based study
Authors: Wu Pin
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the association between polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure, red blood cell distribution width (RDW), and ischemic heart disease (IHD) in a sample of 3003 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). We hypothesize that RDW may mediate the effect of hydroxylated PAHs (OH-PAH) on IHD. Logistic regression models reveal significant associations between increased urinary PAH metabolite concentrations and IHD, as well as positive associations between PAH metabolites and RDW. Weighted Quantile Sum (WQS) regression and Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) analyses confirm the significant associations of the OH-PAH mixture with IHD and RDW. Mediation analysis demonstrates that RDW partially mediates the relationship between PAH exposure and IHD, accounting for 2–4.6% of the total effects. Our findings highlight the potential underlying mechanisms linking PAH exposure, RDW, and IHD and emphasize the importance of addressing environmental pollutants like PAHs in maintaining cardiovascular health and informing public health policies.
Water can trigger nuclear reaction to produce energy and isotope gases
Authors: Huang Bin-Juine , Pan Yu-Hsiang , Wu Po-Hsien , Yeh Jong-Fu , Tso Ming-Li , Liu Ying-Hung , Wu Litu , Huang Ching-Kang , Chen I-Fee , Lin Che-Hao , Tseng T. R. , Kang Fang-Wei , Tsai Tan-Feng , Lan Kuan-Che , Chen Yi-Tung , Liao Mou-Yung , Xu Li , Chen Sih-Li , Greenyer Robert William
Published: January 2024

This paper reports the discovery that water can trigger a peculiar nuclear reaction and produce energy. Cavitation may induce unusual reactions through implosion of water vapor bubbles. Many of this research has been published formally or informally. We have conducted experiments using two reactor types made from multiple-pipe heat exchanger and found that the heat exchange process of water produces peculiar excess heat and abnormally high pressure leading to rupture of the reactor. Recently, we have tested another eight reactors. Interestingly, these reactors produce non-condensable gas. We suspected that they include 22Ne and CO2. We used a mass spectrometer (MS) to analyze 14 gas samples collected from 8 reactors, including ten samples showing a coefficient of performance COPx > 1.05 (with excess heat) and four having COPx < 1.05 (without excess heat). Several methods were adopted to identify the gas content. For CO2 identification, two methods are employed. For 22Ne identification, three methods are employed. All the results confirm that isotope 22Ne and regular CO2 really exist in the output gas from reactors determined to have excess heat. We conjecture a possible mechanism to produce 22Ne and CO2 and find out that 12C and isotope 17O are the intermediate. They finally form isotope gases containing 17O, including H2O-17 (heavy-oxygen water), isotope O2 (16O–17O), and isotope CO2 (12C–16O–17O). In the excess heat producing reactors, all these gasses were detected by MS in the absence of 20Ne and 21Ne. The observed isotope gases produced from reactors having excess heat verifies that water can trigger a peculiar nuclear reaction and produce energy.
Effects of climate factors and Demodex infestation on meibomian gland dysfunction-associated dry eye diseases
Authors: Deng Xinran , Qi Wenjie , Zhao Shaozhen , Yang Ruibo , Zhang Chen , Huang Yue
Published: January 2024

We examined the effects of climatic factors and Demodex infestations on meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)-associated dry eye disease (DED) in a cross-sectional study. This study included 123 patients from Tianjin and Chengdu regions, and climate factors and the Air Quality Index (AQI) were recorded for one year. Ocular surface parameters and Demodex infestations were evaluated using various tests. Significant differences in all climatic factors and AQI were observed between Tianjin and Chengdu (P < 0.01), and ocular surface parameters also differed significantly between the two regions (P < 0.05). Temperature, relative humidity, and precipitation positively correlated with tear break-up time (BUT), meibum gland expressibility, and lid margin irregularity but negatively correlated with lissamine green staining scores (P < 0.05). Wind speed and atmospheric pressure positively correlated with corneal fluorescein staining and lissamine green staining but negatively correlated with BUT and lid margin irregularity (P < 0.05). AQI positively correlated with DED symptoms and corneal findings but negatively correlated with tear film stability and meibomian gland characteristics (P < 0.05). Demodex infestation was only positively correlated with meibum quality scores (P < 0.05). Our findings suggest that geographic climates influence ocular surface characteristics in MGD-associated DED, with daily precipitation potentially playing a significant role, and Demodex infestation contributes to meibum gland degeneration.
Dark personality traits and deception, and the short dark tetrad (SD4) as integrity screening instrument
Authors: Rassin Eric , de Roos Melissa , van Dongen Josanne
Published: January 2024

Dark personality traits (Machiavellianism, Narcissism, Psychopathy, and Sadism) have been associated with aversive, unethical, and criminal conduct. Concise measurement tools such as the Short Dark Tetrad (SD4) are popular, because they lend themselves as screening instruments. As such, the scores on these scales are used in various decision-making contexts, and they can have considerable effects on the lives of people who display an unfortunate scoring pattern. The present study explored to what extent high SD4 scores are actually predictive of deceptive behaviour in a matrix puzzle task, in a general community sample (N = 751). Results indicated that 9.9% of participants lied, that is, exaggerated their performance on the matrix task, hoping to increase their likelihood of financial reward. These cheating participants scored higher on all four dark traits. Nonetheless, the overlap between SD4 distributions made it impossible to determine cut-off scores in an attempt to consider scores as actual predictors of deception proneness. When framed in likelihoods, some scores can be diagnostic of deception proneness. Particularly in the context of statement validity assessment, characterized by tools with modest to poor accuracy, SD4 scores may add to diagnostic accuracy.
Phosphorylation regulates viral biomolecular condensates to promote infectious progeny production
Authors: Grams Nicholas , Charman Matthew , Halko Edwin , Lauman Richard , Garcia Benjamin A , Weitzman Matthew D
Published: January 2024

Biomolecular condensates (BMCs) play important roles in diverse biological processes. Many viruses form BMCs which have been implicated in various functions critical for the productive infection of host cells. The adenovirus L1-52/55 kilodalton protein (52K) was recently shown to form viral BMCs that coordinate viral genome packaging and capsid assembly. Although critical for packaging, we do not know how viral condensates are regulated during adenovirus infection. Here we show that phosphorylation of serine residues 28 and 75 within the N-terminal intrinsically disordered region of 52K modulates viral condensates in vitro and in cells, promoting liquid-like properties. Furthermore, we demonstrate that phosphorylation of 52K promotes viral genome packaging and the production of infectious progeny particles. Collectively, our findings provide insights into how viral condensate properties are regulated and maintained in a state conducive to their function in viral progeny production. In addition, our findings have implications for antiviral strategies aimed at targeting the regulation of viral BMCs to limit viral multiplication.
S-acylation of a non-secreted peptide controls plant immunity via secreted-peptide signal activation
Authors: Li Wenliang , Ye Tushu , Ye Weixian , Liang Jieyi , Wang Wen , Han Danlu , Liu Xiaoshi , Huang Liting , Ouyang Youwei , Liao Jianwei , Chen Tongsheng , Yang Chengwei , Lai Jianbin
Published: January 2024

Small peptides modulate multiple processes in plant cells, but their regulation by post-translational modification remains unclear. ROT4 (ROTUNDIFOLIA4) belongs to a family of Arabidopsis non-secreted small peptides, but knowledge on its molecular function and how it is regulated is limited. Here, we find that ROT4 is S-acylated in plant cells. S-acylation is an important form of protein lipidation, yet so far it has not been reported to regulate small peptides in plants. We show that this modification is essential for the plasma membrane association of ROT4. Overexpression of S-acylated ROT4 results in a dramatic increase in immune gene expression. S-acylation of ROT4 enhances its interaction with BSK5 (BRASSINOSTEROID-SIGNALING KINASE 5) to block the association between BSK5 and PEPR1 (PEP RECEPTOR1), a receptor kinase for secreted plant elicitor peptides (PEPs), thereby activating immune signaling. Phenotype analysis indicates that S-acylation is necessary for ROT4 functions in pathogen resistance, PEP response, and the regulation of development. Collectively, our work reveals an important role for S-acylation in the cross-talk of non-secreted and secreted peptide signaling in plant immunity.
A label-free aptamer-based colorimetric biosensor for rapid gliadin detection in foods: a focus on pasta, bread and cookies
Authors: Ham Seung Hwan , Kim Eunghee , Han Hyebin , Lee Min Gyu , Choi Young Jin , Hahn Jungwoo
Published: January 2024

A novel, in situ, and label-free aptamer-based colorimetric biosensor for gliadin identification is presented. This assay consists of a simple gliadin extraction method (pretreatment process) and a AuNP/aptamer-based colorimetric biosensor.
A long-wavelength mitochondria-targeted CO fluorescent probe for living cells and zebrafish imaging
Authors: Rong Xiaodi , Liu Caiyun , Li Mingzhu , Shi Jiafan , Yu Miaohui , Sheng Wenlong , Zhu Baocun , Wang Zhongpeng
Published: January 2024

A mitochondria-targeted CO fluorescent probe for CO detection in cells and zebrafish.
Effects of electric field and light on resistivity switching of Eu0.7Sr0.3MnO3 thin films
Authors: Zheng Ming , Zhang Yixiao , Wang Shengnan , Yang Jian , Guan Pengfei , Zhang Baojing , Fan Heliang , Yan Shiguang , Ni Hao , Yang Chang
Published: January 2024

Based on the excellent piezoelectric properties of 0.7Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.3PbTiO3 (PMN–PT) single crystals, a hole-doped manganite film/PMN–PT heterostructure has been constructed to achieve electric-field and light co-control of physical properties.
Bulky olefin epoxidation under mild conditions over Mo-based oxide catalysts
Authors: Gomes Diana M. , Yao Xingyu , Neves Patrícia , Pinna Nicola , Russo Patrícia A. , Valente Anabela A.
Published: January 2024

Epoxidation of bulky olefins, such as biobased fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs), with tert-butylhydroperoxide (TBHP), under mild conditions, was promoted by nanocatalysts possessing Mo and M = Ta, Nb or W, prepared via simple, versatile methodology.
[Ag4Br6] cluster-based 3D bromoargentate hybrid: crystal structure, optical/photoelectrical performance and theoretical study
Authors: Liu Ming-Hui , Wen Wei-Yang , Shen Hong-Yao , Yang Yan , Li Jun , Zhang Bo
Published: January 2024

A [Ag4Br6] cluster-based 3D bromoargentate hybrid, namely K[NH4][Ag4Br6(Hmta)], is presented and its structure and optical/photoelectric performance are investigated and a theoretical study performed.
Induced fac–mer rearrangements in {M(CO)3}+ complexes (M = Re, 99(m)Tc) by a PNP ligand
Authors: Besmer Manuel Luca , Schwitter Flurina , Battistin Federica , Braband Henrik , Fox Thomas , Spingler Bernhard , Alberto Roger
Published: January 2024

The fac–mer isomerisation in [MX3(CO)3]2− (M = Re, 99Tc) is induced by a PNP pincer-type ligand in the presence of a halide scavenger. The adaptation to the aqueous and saline chemistry of 99mTc yields mer-[99mTc(PNP)(CO)3]+.
Luminescent lanthanide-based molecular materials: applications in photodynamic therapy
Authors: Reddy M. L. P. , Bejoymohandas K. S.
Published: January 2024

This review focuses on the latest developments in luminescent lanthanide-based molecular materials as photosensitizers and their applications in photodynamic therapy.
Relationship of dietary intake of food folate and synthetic folic acid intake from fortified foods with all-cause mortality in individuals with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Liu Mengyi , Ye Ziliang , Yang Sisi , Zhang Yanjun , Zhang Yuanyuan , He Panpan , Zhou Chun , Hou Fan Fan , Qin Xianhui
Published: January 2024

The current study found that higher intake of dietary natural folate, but not synthetic folic acid intake from fortified foods, was associated with lower risks of all-cause mortality among chronic kidney disease (CKD) participants.
Optical and chemical properties of As–Se and As–S–Se solution processed thin films prepared via As50Se50 source solution modification
Authors: Jemelka Jiri , Kurka Michal , Slang Stanislav , Jancalek Jiri , Palka Karel , Vlcek Miroslav
Published: January 2024

This work presents the prospect of As–S–Se and As–Se thin film preparation from a modified solution of As50Se50 chalcogenide glass in ethylenediamine.
Predicting rare earth elements concentration in coal ashes with multi-task neural networks
Authors: Song Yu , Zhao Yifan , Ginella Alex , Gallagher Benjamin , Sant Gaurav , Bauchy Mathieu
Published: January 2024

Our multi-task neural network approach simultaneously predicts the concentration of all types of rare earth elements (REEs) in coal ashes, with an improved accuracy and robustness as compared to conventional single-task neural networks.
Cocktail of lipophilic and hydrophilic chemotherapeutics in high-load core@shell nanocarriers to treat pancreatic tumours
Authors: Rudolph David , Ischyropoulou Myrto , Pfeifer Juliana , Napp Joanna , Schepers Ute , Alves Frauke , Feldmann Claus
Published: January 2024

ITC/Toc@Gd2(FLP)3 core@shell chemotherapeutic nanocarriers carry a lipophilic irinotecan (ITC) core and a hydrophilic fludarabine phosphate (FLP) shell. Demonstrating potent cytostatic efficacy, especially in pancreatic tumor cells, they hold therapeutic promise across various cancer types.
Janus mesoporous organosilica/platinum nanomotors for active treatment of suppurative otitis media
Authors: Luo Zhizhou , Wang Ruonan , Deng Xiaoxia , Chen Tianxiang , Ma Xuehua , Zhang Yujie , Gao Changyong , Wu Aiguo
Published: January 2024

We report a Janus mesoporous organosilica/platinum (MOS/Pt) nanomotor for active targeted treatment of suppurative otitis media, as a new type of multi-functional ear drop.
Inducing preferential growth of the Zn (002) plane by using a multifunctional chelator for achieving highly reversible Zn anodes
Authors: Li Xi , Chen Zhenjie , Ruan Pengchao , Hu Xueting , Lu Bingan , Yuan Xiaoming , Tian Siyu , Zhou Jiang
Published: January 2024

We propose a multifunctional electrolyte additive, sodium gluconate (SG), which induces the growth of Zn (002) crystal plane by preferentially adsorbing on other crystal planes and thus inhibiting the growth of Zn dendrite.
The multivariate interaction between Au and TiO2 colloids: the role of surface potential, concentration, and defects
Authors: Lau Kinran , Giera Brian , Barcikowski Stephan , Reichenberger Sven
Published: January 2024

The interaction between a Au particle and a defective TiO2 surface was simulated over 6000 unique conditions, and the relative importance of the parameters was determined by logistic regression.
Hydrogenation of functionalised pyridines with a rhodium oxide catalyst under mild conditions
Authors: Williams Sydney , Qi Leiming , Cox Robert J. , Kumar Prashant , Xiao Jianliang
Published: January 2024

The commercially available, easy-to-handle Rh2O3 catalyses the hydrogenation of functionalised pyridines under mild conditions.
Non-enzymatic synthesis of C-methylated fluostatins: discovery and reaction mechanism
Authors: De Bidhan Chandra , Yang Chunfang , Huang Chunshuai , Zhang Changsheng , Zhang Wenjun
Published: January 2024

A non-enzymatic method to synthesize C-methylated Fluostatins by using DMSO to methylate C(sp2)–H bonds under mild conditions without any catalysts is described here. A mechanism for this reaction was proposed.
Photoiniferter-RAFT polymerization mediated by bis(trithiocarbonate) disulfides
Authors: Beres Magdalena A. , Rho Julia Y. , Kerr Andrew , Smith Timothy , Perrier Sébastien
Published: January 2024

Photoiniferter reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (PI-RAFT) polymerization has gained significant attention; however, scalable methodologies are still lacking.
Heronamides with unreported skeletons from deep-sea Streptomyces: discovery and biosynthesis
Authors: Zhao Yi , Chen Hu , Yue Liangguang , Dong Yun , Su Di , Lyu Jingyi , Li Wenli , Li Huayue
Published: January 2024

Five new heronamides (1–5) with two unreported 6/6/6/5/5-pentacyclic and 6/9/6/5-tetracyclic skeletons were isolated from deep-sea-derived Streptomyces.
Selective recognition and discrimination of single isomeric changes in peptide strands with a host : guest sensing array
Authors: Chen Junyi , Fasihianifard Parisa , Raz Alexie Andrea P. , Hickey Briana L. , Moreno Jose L. , Chang Chia-En A. , Hooley Richard J. , Zhong Wenwan
Published: January 2024

A host : indicator array comprising cationic fluorophores and water-soluble receptors can selectively discriminate peptides containing a single isomeric residue in the backbone.
A green solvent engineering process for synthesizing perovskite films in high humidity atmospheres for efficient solar cells
Authors: Cao Xiaobing , Su Gengyang , Hao Lei , Zhou Jian , Zeng Qingguang , He Xin , Wei Jinquan
Published: January 2024

High quality perovskite films processed using only green solvents in a high humidity atmosphere.
Flexible smart surface coating for GIS/GIL epoxy insulators
Authors: Wang Yu‐Huai , Chen Zhuo , Li Jin , Liu Zhi‐Xiang , Chen Rong , Aung Hein Htet , Liang Hu‐Cheng , Du Bo‐Xue
Published: January 2024

A flexible smart coating with electroluminescence effect was designed and fabricated on the surface of gas insulated switch gear (GIS)/gas insulated transmission line (GIL) epoxy insulators based on two‐step curing process. As the AC voltage increases, the luminous area on the insulator surface expands from the centre to the periphery, and the light intensity shows a linear relationship with the applied voltage. Besides, the flexible smart coating can effectively identify the location of metal particle defects and the degree of electric field distortion. The flexible smart coating enhances the surface flashover voltage due to its higher dielectric constant. Simultaneously, metal particle contamination can substantially reduce the insulation performance of epoxy insulators, particularly when they are located near the high‐voltage side. It is hoped that this study can provide a reference for the smart detection of surface defects GIS/GIL basin insulators.
Chlorella as the source of biologically active compounds for in vitro plant propagation
Authors: Dudina Iuliia A. , Kalashnikova Elena A. , Kirakosyan Rima N.
Published: January 2024

The use of nutrient media with an organic composition is a potentially commercially effective way to avoid the use of expensive components of nutrient media while maintaining and increasing the biosynthetic potential of cell cultures of higher plants in vitro. A method has been developed for the in vitro propagating of various taxonomic groups plants. It has been shown that the medium after cultivating chlorella at ¼ MS is optimal for the in vitro plant propagation. The method is intended for in vitro cultivation of seeds, microcuttings and microshoots of plants of different taxonomic groups and can be used for accelerated propagation of valuable plant varieties and hybrids.
The effect of nitrogen fertilizer on the yield, structure and quality of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa)
Authors: Kukharenkova O.V. , Shitikova A.V. , Vorsheva A.V.
Published: January 2024

Field experiments were conducted in 2021-2022 at the Russian State Agricultural Academy named after K.A. Timiryazev (Moscow). The reaction of quinoa varieties (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) to the use of various doses of nitrogen fertilizers was studied. The effect of nitrogen doses N60, N120, as well as the timing and frequency of their application on yield, crop structure, payback of nitrogen fertilizers when applied to culture and protein content in grain in agroecological conditions of the Central region of Russia has been established. Studies have shown that quinoa forms a higher yield and accumulates more protein in the grain when using nitrogen fertilizers. The use of fertilizers in a dose of N120 for fertilizing plants provides an average of 2.32 t, 2.50 t and 3.02 t/ha of Regalon, Vanilla Cherry and Titicaca grain varieties, respectively, for two years.
Study of industrial enzyme improvers of the rheological properties of baking flour and the quality of finished products
Authors: Lensky Nikita , Saidov Anzor , Kalitka Dmitriy , Eseeva Gainiya , Balguzhinova Zhuldyzai
Published: January 2024

In today’s discerning consumer market, flour milling has evolved beyond merely meeting established standards; it demands an understanding of evolving consumer needs and the ability to tailor products accordingly. A prominent global challenge lies in ensuring consistent wheat quality, particularly in addressing the prevalence of sprouted grains that compromise gluten quality. This necessitates a more rigorous scientific approach, encompassing novel methodologies and dedicated research initiatives. To address these hurdles, this article proposes a comprehensive strategy that leverages enzyme improvers and rheological studies of elastic properties, exemplified by the Alveolab Alveograph. Through a series of test bakings of tin bread, the impact of various enzyme additives, including Kazenzym 26007, Kazelco, AlphamaltVC 5000 Sn, and Alphamalt HCC, will be evaluated at varying dosages.
The effect of oral administration of tauroside Sx1 on the accumulation of influenza virus and histological changes in the lungs of mice
Authors: Sataieva Tatiana , Malygina Veronika , Kriventsov Maxim , Davydova Alexandra , Logadyr Tatiana , Belopukhov Sergey
Published: January 2024

The constant threat of a new viral pandemic gives special urgency to the search for new effective means of preventing and treating influenza infection. The article examines the effect of oral administration of saponin tauroside Sx1, obtained from the leaves of Crimean ivy, on the development of infection caused by influenza virus A/WSN/1/33(H1N1), and histological changes in the lungs of infected mice. It was revealed that oral administration of saponin tauroside Sx1 at a dose of 200 mcg/mouse day or 11.8 mg/kg/day for three days after infection led to an almost twofold statistically significant increase in the average life expectancy of infected animals from 6.50±0.67 to 11.10±2.19 days. The protective activity of tauroside Sx1 was established when administered orally in the early stages of influenza infection in mice. The protective effect of saponin is manifested in a significant increase in the average life expectancy and normalization of the structure of lung tissue in infected animals. The results obtained indicate the prospects for further study of saponin tauroside Sx1 as a potential component of anti-influenza drugs.
Maximizing irrigation water use and crop productivity under mulching with geotextile for lettuce plants (Lactuca sativa L. var. capitata)
Authors: Dewedar Osama M. , Abdelaal H.K. , El-Shafie Ahmed F. , Belopukhov S.L. , Youssef Ebtessam A. , Abdelbaset Marwa M. , Molina-Martinez José Miguel
Published: January 2024

One of the fields that will be negatively impacted by climate change is agriculture, particularly in developing countries. Most crops are affected when grown under limited water supplies as it produces low productivity, especially during the late growing stage. For this reason, it is important to improve irrigation efficiency and crop yield. Two successive seasons were conducted during 2021 and 2022 to test the action of mulching types on iceberg lettuce plants (Lactuca sativa L. var. capitata) with irrigation stress. In the sandy loam soil conditions of the El Sharkia Governorate in Belbeis, Egypt, iceberg lettuce plants were grown with different types of mulching (no mulching, white geotextile sheet, and black plastic sheet) under varying levels of water (100, 80, and 60% of ETc, or evapotranspiration). Results showed that mulching the soil surface with plastic and geotextile produced the highest data of soil moisture content inside the root zoon. In conclusion, compared to the control (no mulching), all mulching types treatments result in a significant increase in yield parameters. In this study, however, mulching with white geotextile sheets and requiring 100% ETc irrigation proved to be the statistically most effective treatment, while 80% ETc combined with white geotextile sheet get values were statistically equal to the results with the control (100% ETc without mulching). It is possible to achieve results similar yield to the control or better, while saving an amount of irrigation water of up to 20% by using ETo 80 % combined with mulching with white geotextile sheet without any negative effect on the plant. However, it can be recommended to use geotextile compared to black plastic, as plastic requires more time to degrade, which will be harmful to the environment.
Management of Biogate-Fert Technique Based on a Simulation Model
Authors: Ragab S.A. , Gaballah M.S. , Abdelbaset M.M. , El-Shafie A.F. , El-Gindy A.M. , Arafa Y.E. , Belopukhov S.L.
Published: January 2024

Biogate-fert technique ensures to optimization of fertilizer and water units yield of the potato crop. There were two field tests conducted in the growing seasons. 2019-2020 and 2020-2021, at the research farm of the National Research Centre in Nubaria region, Egypt to study the management of biogate-fert technique based on a developed SALTMED model on potato crop under drip irrigation system in sandy soil conditions. According to the findings, the SALTMED model demonstrated its capacity to forecast soil moisture availability, yield, total dry matter, and nitrogen (ppm) for two growing seasons when using mineral and biogte- fert approaches., In order to maximize crop production and nitrogen levels, the model can calculate how much irrigation supply will be needed to move the soil moisture profile from a given soil moisture to a target soil moisture. Furthermore, accurate estimation of the solute and nutrient status and uptake at the same time is contingent upon accurate simulation of nitrogen and soil moisture.
The effect of pipeline parameters of machines for applying liquid complex fertilizers on the drip-air mixture quality
Authors: Galchak I.P. , Aleksandrov V.A. , Salikhova M.N. , Kukhar V.S. , Kolga A.D.
Published: January 2024

The article is devoted to the study of a drip-air mixture flow through pipelines, namely, the determination of total pressure losses based on known values of the flow rates of the constituent phases or the loss coefficients of the constituent phases. The authors conclude that the conditions for introducing the drip-air mixture into the pipes do not affect the size of the flow structure stabilization area. It has been found that for small values of the air and liquid flow rates, the diameter and length of the pipeline, as well as its position, have a very significant effect on the flow structure of the two-phase mixture and on the average diameter of the droplets. For each pipeline length and diameter, there is a pulsation flow mode only at certain values of the air and liquid flow rates (Gv/Gl), moreover, the larger the diameter and length of the pipeline, the later the pulsation flow mode occurs. At high values Gv/Gl, the position, length, and diameter of the pipeline do not have a noticeable effect on the flow shape, the flow has a finely dispersed structure, pressure pulsation is practically absent.