Family Function Research Articles

Family functions to increase breastfeeding self efficacy of adolescent primigravida

Primigravida in adolescence will experience changes in situations that require the ability to adapt to pregnancy, thereby affecting their confidence in breastfeeding their babies. The function of the family is to help prepare the pregnant mother's needs to face the changes of pregnancy, prepare for childbirth and overcome difficulties in breastfeeding. This research aims to determine the function of the family in increasing breastfeeding self-efficacy of adolescent primigravida. Correlational research design, population and sample of 124 teenage primigravida respondents using total sampling technique. The independent variable family function was measured using the family assessment device (FAD) questionnaire and the dependent variable breastfeeding self-efficacy using the breastfeeding self-efficacy scale short form (BSES-SF) questionnaire which was analyzed using the Rho Spearman rank test. The research results showed that almost all respondents (90.3%) had healthy family functions and almost all respondents (83.9%) had high self-confidence. The statistical test results showed a significant p-value of 0.000 (α<0.05) with r=0.746. The function of the family in providing a sense of security and comfort creates a positive attitude among adolescent primigravida towards breastfeeding self-efficacy. Breastfeeding self-efficacy needs to increase breastfeeding success and prevent stunting.

Identification and analysis of NAC genes related to S-alk(en)yl cysteine sulfoxides (CSOs) biosynthesis in Onion (Allium cepa L.)

The NAC family, a specific type of plant transcription factor, has been identified in various horticultural crops. Nevertheless, the comprehensive bioinformatics and biological function of the NAC family in onion remain unclear. S-alk(en)yl cysteine sulfoxides (CSOs) are crucial for onion flavor quality and health effects. There is a growing interest in studying the mechanism of CSOs synthesis regulation in onions due to the increased realization of their potential value. In this study, sixty members of the NAC family was identified based on transcriptomic data. These transcription factors were distributed on eight chromosomes of onion. Phylogenetic tree showed that AcNAC members were divided into three groups with similar conserved protein motifs. Cis-acting elements analysis showed that the promoter of AcNACs contained a large number of photoresponsive and hormone-responsive elements. The correlation analysis of the expression patterns of transcriptome data selected 18 AcNACs that might regulate the synthesis of CSOs. Two putative NAC transcription factors, AcNAC12 and AcNAC17, were speculated as potential regulators in the biosynthesis of CSOs in onions through the analysis of expression patterns of AcNAC genes across different growth stages and cultivars, as well as Y1H, dual luciferase, GUS staining, and gene suppression experiments. This study aims to provide suggestions and research directions for further investigation of the functions of AcNAC family members and regulatory pathways for CSO biosynthesis.

GhLCYε-3 characterized as a lycopene cyclase gene responding to drought stress in cotton

Drought stress significantly affects crop productivity. Carotenoids are essential photosynthetic pigment for plants, bacteria, and algae, with signaling and antioxidant functions. Lutein is a crucial branch product in the carotenoid synthesis pathway, which effectively improves the stress tolerance of higher plants. lycopene cyclase, a central enzyme for lutein synthesis, holds great significance in regulating lutein production. This research establishes a correlation between lutein content and stress resistance by measuring the drought resistance and lutein content of various cotton materials. To identify which crucial genes are associated with lutein, the lycopene cyclase family (LCYs) was analyzed. The research found that LCYs form a highly conserved family divided into two subfamilies, LCY-ε (lycopene ε-cyclase) and LCY-β (lycopene β-cyclase). Most members of the LCY family contain photoresponsive elements and abscisic acid elements. qRT-PCR demonstrates showed that most genes responded positively to drought stress, and GhLCYε-3 was expressed significantly differently under drought stress. Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) assay showed that the content of GhLCYε-3 was significantly increased with MDA and PRO, and the contents of chlorophyll and lutein were significantly decreased in pYL156 plants. The decrease in GhLCYε-3 expression is speculated to lead to reduced lutein content in vivo, resulting in the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased drought tolerance. This research enriched the understanding of LCY gene family and lutein function, and provided a new reference for cotton planting in arid areas. SynopsisLycopene cyclase plays an important role in enhancing the ability of scavenging ROS and drought resistance of plants.

Genome-wide identification, transcript profiling and functional analyses of PCP gene family in Wucai (Brassica campestris).

Pollen coat proteins (PCPs) are cysteine-rich small-molecule proteins, which exhibit high levels of polymorphism and are expressed in gametocytes. Previous investigations have revealed that PCP genes are involved in pollen wall synthesis, pollen-stigma recognition, and pollen development and germination. However, gene expression and function of PCP family in pollen development is not well understood in Wucai (Brassica campestris L.). In this study, genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the BcPCP gene family members were conducted, including their physical and chemical properties, chromosome localization, phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, and tertiary structure. A total of 20 BcPCP genes were identified and classified into three subfamilies showing high homology to Arabidopsis thaliana. Expression pattern analysis indicated that the BcPCP gene family exhibits higher expression levels in reproductive organs, suggesting their potential involvement in the reproductive development. Notably, BraA02g002400.3C, potentially associated with male sterility, was identified through multiple transcriptomic and proteomic datasets. Subsequently, sequence analysis revealed its homology with the Arabidopsis GRP20 gene, and thus it was named BcGRP20. Functional analysis of this gene showed that overexpression of BcGRP20 gene in the Arabidopsis grp20 mutant could restore anther fertility. Overall, our findings indicate that BcGRP20 plays a critical role in pollen development and may be the causative gene for male sterility in Wucai. This study provides candidate genes for further functional identification of BcPCP genes in Wucai, which are crucial for anther development.

Regulation and functions of the DLC family of RhoGAP proteins: Implications for development and cancer.

The DLC (Deleted in Liver Cancer) family of RhoGAP (Rho GTPase-activating) proteins has been extensively studied since the identification of the first family member nearly 30 years ago. Rho GTPase signaling is essential for various cellular processes, including cytoskeletal dynamics, cell migration, and proliferation. Members of the DLC family are key regulators of this signaling pathway, with well-established roles in development and carcinogenesis. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of research into DLC regulation and cellular functions over the last three decades. In particular, we summarize control mechanisms of DLC gene expression at both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional level. Additionally, recent advances in understanding the post-translational regulation of DLC proteins that allow for tuning of protein activity and localization are highlighted. This detailed overview will serve as resource for future studies aimed at further elucidating the complex regulatory mechanisms of DLC family proteins and exploring their potential as targets for therapeutic applications.

Comparative genomics of obligate predatory bacteria belonging to phylum Bdellovibrionota highlights distribution and predicted functions of lineage-specific protein families.

Comparative genomics of predatory bacteria is important to understand their ecology and evolution and explore their potential to treat drug-resistant infections. We compared chromosomes of 18 obligate predators from phylum Bdellovibrionota (16 intraperiplasmic, two epibiotic) and 15 non-predatory bacteria. Phylogenetics of conserved single-copy genes and analysis of genome-wide average amino acid identity provide evidence for at least five Bdellovibrio species and support recent reclassifications of predatory taxa. To define shared and differential genome content, we grouped predicted protein sequences into gene clusters based on sequence similarity. Few gene clusters are shared by all 33 bacteria or all 18 predatory bacteria; however, we identified gene clusters conserved within lineages, such as intraperiplasmic Bdellovibrio, and not found in other bacteria. Many of these are predicted to function in cell envelope biogenesis, signal transduction, and other roles important for predatory lifestyles. Among intraperiplasmic Bdellovibrio, we detected high abundance of gene clusters predicted to encode transglycosylases, endopeptidases, and lysozymes, and we identified six gene clusters (amidase, L,D-transpeptidase, four transglycosylases) with evidence of recent gene duplication and gene family expansion. Focusing on peptidoglycan metabolism, we defined a suite of gene clusters that include peptidoglycan-degrading and -modifying enzymes and occur only in predatory bacteria, suggesting these proteins may have evolved activities specific to predation. Our analyses highlight key genome content differences between obligate predatory bacteria and non-predatory relatives and identify gene clusters that may encode enzymes adapted to predatory lifestyles. These lineage-specific proteins are strong candidates for functional characterization to clarify their role in predation.IMPORTANCEEvolution of predation as a bacterial lifestyle involves selective pressure on and adaptation of enzymes that contribute to killing and digestion of prey bacteria, in some cases from within the prey itself. Such enzymes are a hallmark of obligate predatory bacteria belonging to phylum Bdellovibrionota, which includes the well-studied predator Bdellovibrio. By comparing protein sequences of obligate predatory bacteria and their non-predatory relatives, we define key genome content differences that distinguish bacterial predators and identify lineage-specific enzymes that may have evolved unique activities due to selective pressures related to a predatory lifestyle. In addition to providing insights into the ecology and evolution of predatory bacteria, comparative genomics studies, like this, can inform efforts to develop predatory bacteria and/or their enzymes as potential biocontrol agents to combat drug-resistant bacterial infections.

TRUTH OR DARE GAME MEDIA DEVELOPMENT TO PROVIDE AN UNDERSTANDING OF FAMILY FUNCTION

This research aims to develop the truth or dare game media to provide an understanding of family functions. The method used is Research and Development (R&D), using the Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation (ADDIE) development model. Data collection techniques by conducting expert feasibility tests on products that have been developed. The data processing technique uses a Likert scale in the form of quantitative and qualitative data. Feasibility test results with experts in the field, media experts 82.5%, material experts 93.3%, language experts 88.6%. The research subjects were 10 students from the Class of 2021 Department of which means it is very suitable for application and the truth or dare game media can increase students' understanding of family functions.

Multi-omics analysis of the biological function of the VEGF family in colon adenocarcinoma.

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family plays a crucial role in cancer progression, but the prognostic significance and biological functions of VEGF family members in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) remain unclear. Using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, Gene Expression Omnibus, Gene Set Cancer Analysis, cBioPortal, GeneMANIA, String, MethSurv and starBase database, we identified vascular endothelial growth factor B (VEGFB) as a key gene associated with COAD prognosis, with its abnormal expression linked to methylation dysregulation. In vitro experiments confirmed VEGFB expression was significantly higher in colon cancer tissues compared to normal tissues, as shown by Real-time quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry. Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony formation assay showed that decreased VEGFB expression in SW480 cells resulted in decreased cell viability and proliferation ability. Scratch assay showed that VEGFB downregulation impaired SW480 cell migration. In addition, our research suggests that VEGFB not only promotes angiogenesis but is also involved in the tumor microenvironment and immune regulation. The SHNG17-miR-375-VEGFB regulatory axis provides a potential therapeutic target for COAD, highlighting VEGFB's role in immune activation during anti-angiogenic therapy and potential reversal of drug resistance.

Effect of mental state on sleep quality in patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis: A multiple mediation model of hope and family function.

The objective of this study was to investigate the current situation of sleep quality in patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis (MHD), and whether hope and family function play a mediating role between negative emotions and sleep quality. The Athens Insomnia Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Herth Hope Index and Family Adaptation, Partnership, Growth, Affection and Resolve (APGAR) Index were used to investigate 227 MHD patients. The correlations among study variables were analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis. Structural equation model was used to construct and evaluate the mediation model. The sleep quality score of 227 patients receiving MHD was (7.57 ± 4.74), anxiety score was (4.36 ± 4.02), depression score was (5.91 ± 4.37), hope score was (34.64 ± 7.21), family function score was (6.21 ± 2.90). The negative emotions can directly predict sleep quality (β = 0.17, P = .046), positively predict sleep quality through hope (β = 0.12, P = .017), positively predict sleep quality through family function (β = 0.20, P < .001), and positively predict sleep quality through the chain mediating of hope and family function (β = 0.10, P < .001). The total effect size was 71.19%. It is concluded that negative emotions had a direct impact on the sleep quality of patients receiving MHD, and that improving the levels of family function and hope can help them sleep better.

Social Assistance and Family Functioning: A Study on the Family Functions of Individuals Benefiting from Social and Economic Support Services

Social assistance can be defined as programs, policies, or institutions aimed at preventing, reducing, or eliminating poverty. Through out history, various social assistance programs have been implemented to address poverty. In Turkey, the Ministry of Family and Social Services (MFSS) and various organizations provide social assistance. A notable service offered by ASHB is the Social and Economic Support (SES) program, which holds significant importance in supporting children in need of protection with in families. In a study evaluating the impact of the SES program on family functions, a socio-demographic information form and the Family Assessment Scale were administered to 194 families benefiting from the SES program through the Karadeniz Ereğli Social Services Center Directorate. The study aimed to determine if there were significant statistical relationships between the duration of receiving SES services (in months) and various subscales of the assessment tools. Statistical analyses, including t-tests to investigate differences between means of two data groups and ANOVA tests to explore differences among more than two data groups, were conducted. Post-hoc analyses were performed to identify specific group differences when significant differences emerged from the ANOVA analysis.The results indicated that an increase in the duration of SES service utilization led to improvements in problem-solving, communication, roles, behavior control, and over all family functions. Therefore, the duration of SES service utilization appears to positively influence family functions.

The relationships among family function, psychological resilience, and social network of patients with chronic disease in the community

This study aimed to examine the relationships among family function, psychological resilience, and social network of patients with chronic disease in the community and to further identify whether psychological resilience played a mediating role in the relationship between family function and social network. A cross-sectional survey including 460 convenient samples of patients with chronic disease in four Chinese communities was conducted using a general characteristics questionnaire, the Family APGAR Index, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and the Lubben Social Network Scale 6. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis, Student's t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson/Spearman correlation, hierarchical multiple regression analysis, and mediation analysis using the PROCESS macro. Family function, psychological resilience, and social network were significantly related. Psychological resilience partially mediated the relationship between family function and social network. Interventions designed to enhance family function and psychological resilience may improve social network among patients with chronic disease in the community.

Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of SpUGE gene family and heterologous expression-mediated Arabidopsis thaliana tolerance to Cd stress

The UDP-glucose 4-epimerase (UGE) enzyme plays a critical role in plant growth and responses to abiotic stressors, such as heavy metal exposure. However, UGE-mediated remodeling of cell wall polysaccharides in response to these stressors remains poorly understood in willow. This study investigated the structure, function, and expression patterns of the UGE gene family in willow, focusing on cadmium treatment to elucidate how SpUGE1 enhances Cd resistance. Six SpUGE genes were identified through whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, and they were mapped across five chromosomes. Quantitative PCR analysis revealed that, with the exception of SpUGE3, all genes showed their highest relative expression in the leaves. Under Cd treatment, members of the SpUGE gene family displayed varying levels of responsiveness, with SpUGE1 showing a marked increase in expression over time. In transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana overexpressing SpUGE1, the cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and pectin content significantly increased, with cellulose levels rising by >50 % and pectin by approximately 30 %. This overexpression conferred enhanced Cd resistance by increasing cell wall thickness through elevated cell wall polysaccharides, which reduced Cd uptake. Consequently, Cd content in the cell wall, chloroplasts, and mitochondria was significantly lower than that in wild-type plants, reducing cellular damage and improving Cd resistance. Overall, this study provides valuable theoretical and experimental insights into the role of the SpUGE1 gene family in willow.

Exploring the impact of family support and its function on high-risk behaviour among adolescents in Malang City, East Java, Indonesia: A cross sectional study

This study aims to investigate the impact of family support and family function on high-risk behavior among adolescents in Malang City, East Java, Indonesia using Cross-sectional study design. in Malang City, East Java, Indonesia using cross-sectional study design. The sample size consisted of 195 adolescents (aged 15 to 19) with various sociodemographic characteristics, as well as various types of risky behaviors, such as smoking, consuming alcohol, and so on. and so on. The results of the study indicate that perceptions of and family functions are significantly related to the level of adolescent involvement in high-risk behavior. Adolescents who perceive strong family support and cohesive family functioning are significantly less likely to engage in high-risk behavior. Significance test of the model, variable value of the Sig, which is 0.000, which means that the model has an independent variable that statistically significantly affects the dependent variable because the P-value &lt;α; (0.000 &lt;0.05). Family function is a variable that has a value of 0.000 so that it is related to the dependent variable and has a CI value of 95% (0.029-0.348) significantly less likely to engage in high-risk behavior. In addition, gender, age, and other sociodemographic factors also play a role in determining high-risk behavior. These findings underline the important role of the family in shaping adolescent behavior and emphasize the need for providing appropriate sexual information and education by parents. The implication of this research underscores the significance of parental involvement in providing emotional support, information, and supervision for their children. These parental roles can substantially reduce high-risk behaviors among adolescents.

Biology, function and structure of the calcium homeostasis modulator family.

Calcium homeostasis modulators (CALHMs) are the most recently discovered members of the large-pore channel family. They mediate the conductance of ions and larger molecules, such as ATP, and play critical roles in pathways related to Alzheimer's disease, neuroinflammation, neuromodulation, taste perception and innate immune responses. Since the inaugural report on CALHM1 in 2008, significant breakthroughs have revealed their biological roles, ion and ATP channel functions, and structures, positioning the field for further advancements. In this review, we discuss the overall progress and recent developments in understanding the biological roles, functions and molecular structures of CALHM proteins.

Family function, psychological distress and burden in informal caregivers of people with dementia

Abstract Background Dementia presents a public health priority due to its high global prevalence, mortality, economic cost, and caregiver burden (CB). Dementia care can be stressful and may negatively influence the health of informal caregivers. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify psychological and social factors associated with subjective CB in informal home care providers of people with dementia (PwD), controlling for sociodemographic, clinical, and care-related variables. Methods We included 115 informal caregivers of PwD from community settings (mean age: 54.0±12.4 years; 81.7% women). Participants fulfilled the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI-12), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), the Family APGAR, and the short IQCODE used to assess dementia severity. Multiple linear analyses were used to analyse the data. Results The mean caregiving duration was 4.8±4.8 years, and 55.7% of informal caregivers extend care for &amp;gt;40 hours/week. We found that a total of 52.5 % of informal caregivers experienced a high CB (ZBI-12 cut-off score: 17). Univariate analyses showed an association between depression (β = 0.36; p &amp;lt; 0.001), anxiety (β = 0.52; p &amp;lt; 0.001), family dysfunction (β = 0.36; p &amp;lt; 0.001), and CB. Regression analyses showed that CB was the most strongly associated with anxiety (β = 0.51; p &amp;lt; 0.001). This association weakened (0.47; p &amp;lt; 0.01) when family function was added to the final model (β=-0.22; p &amp;lt; 0.05). The final model explained 23.5% of the variance in CB. No associations between the caregiver's age, sex, caregiving duration, the extent of care per day, use of community care, dementia severity, and depression were identified. Conclusions Long-term care for people living with dementia can be very demanding. Thus, the implementation of tailored interventions to enhance family function and diminish psychological distress can mitigate level of caregiver burden. [Grant support: APVV-22-0587]. Key messages • Dementia caregiving is a global public health priority. • The caregiver’s burden and distress can be alleviated by the interventions focusing on family dysfunction.

Dampak Istri Sebagai Pencari Nafkah Utama Terhadap Penerapan Fungsi Keluarga di Kelurahan Cupak Tangah Kota Padang

This study aims to describe the impact of wives as the main breadwinners on the implementation of family functions in Cupak Tangah Village, Padang City. The theory used in this research is structural functionalism proposed by Robert K. Merton. This research uses a qualitative research approach with a descriptive type. Selection of informants in this study is using purposive sampling technique with a total of 24 informants. The types of data used are primary data and secondary data. Data collection methods are carried out in three events, namely observation, interviews, and document studies. The unit of analysis in this research is the individual. Data analysis used with the interactive analysis model proposed by Milles and Huberman, which consists of (1) data collection (2) data reduction (3) data presentation (4) conclusion drawing. The results of this study indicate that when the wife is the breadwinner in this family, it will have an impact on family functions, which can be seen in three aspects, namely: (1) the impact on the husband consists of a) economic function: work, income / income. b) affective function: providing affection, emotional bonds (communication). (2) the impact on children consists of a) affective function does not work: less attention given, lack of interaction with children b) educational socialization function: less time to guide learning c) recreational function: joint activities at home, activities outside the home d) educating children to be independent (3) the impact on the wife herself: domestic work becomes neglected, less time to rest.

Family: cornerstone for young people to be victims of violence in the university stage

Abstract Introduction Violence is a pervasive issue that wreaks havoc within communities, with the family serving as a cornerstone for the development of individuals, thereby influencing their behavior within society. Objectives To determine the association between a history of family violence and being a victim of violence among university students. Methodology This is a cross-sectional, prospective study that included university students of both sexes. Family function was measured using the Family APGAR test, while the dependent variable was experiencing any type of violence during the university stage. Results A total of 1148 participants were included, with an average age of 20.47 (±3.3) years, 63.9% were women, 94.9% were cisgender, and 77.3% were heterosexual; 45.3% of participants identified with family dysfunction, 45.3% had witnessed a violent act in their family, and 46% of participants experienced violence at university. When evaluating factors associated with experiencing violence, a positive association (OR/CI95%) was identified for attending a private school (1.4/1.1-1.9), alcohol consumption (2.4/1.7-3.5), having family disfunction (1.5/1.2-1.9) living in a family with violence (2.3/1.8-2.9), knowing friends who experienced partner violence (2.1/1.6-2.7) or family violence (1.9/1.4-2.5). Conversely, a negative association was found for being heterosexual (0.6/0.4-0.8), never witnessing sexual (0.3-0.2-2.5), physical (0.5/0.4-0.65), or psychological (0.3/0.2-0.4) violence in the family, nor experiencing violence during childhood (0.4/0.3-0.5), middle school (0.4/0.3-0.5), or high school (0.4/0.3-0.5) (p &amp;lt; 0.001), likewise, not exercising physical, psychological, sexual, digital or other types of violence during college presents OR = 0 (p &amp;lt; 0.001) in each of these items. Conclusions The social environment, alcohol consumption, a history of witnessing violence in family and friends, as well as the perpetration of violence are associated with receiving violence. Key messages • Evidence indicates the importance of the family for the development of its members, since, just by witnessing behaviors, they favor the development of social roles. • The first contact physician must return to his essence, focusing on the care of the patient in a comprehensive manner, including the environment in which he develops.

The Glutamine Synthetases Are Required for Sensory Hair Cell Formation and Auditory Function in Zebrafish.

The development of sensory hair cells (HCs) is closely linked to hearing loss. There are still many unidentified genes that may play a crucial role in HC development and function. Glutamine synthetase, Glul, is expressed in sensory hair cells and auditory organs. However, the role of the Glul gene family in the auditory system remains largely unexplored. This study aims to investigate the function of the Glul gene family in the auditory system. The expression patterns of the glul gene family were examined via in situ hybridization in zebrafish embryos. It was revealed that the expression of glula occurred in the otic vesicle, while glulb was expressed in the neuromast. In contrast, glulc did not exhibit any discernible signal. glula loss of function caused abnormal otolith formation and reduced hair cell number in otic vesicles, while glulb knockdown caused a decrease in HC number in both neuromasts and otic vesicles and impaired auditory function. Furthermore, we found that the knockdown of glulb induces apoptosis of hair cells. Transcriptomic analysis of zebrafish with glula and glulb knockdown revealed significant alterations in the expression of many genes associated with auditory organs. The current study sheds light on the requirement of glula and glulb in zebrafish hair cell formation and auditory function.

Pan-Genome-Wide Investigation and Co-Expression Network Analysis of HSP20 Gene Family in Maize.

Heat shock protein 20 (HSP20) is a diverse and functionally important protein family that plays a crucial role in plants' tolerance to various abiotic stresses. In this study, we systematically analyzed the structural and functional characteristics of the HSP20 gene family within the Zea pan-genome. By identifying 56 HSP20 pan-genes, we revealed the variation in the number of these genes across different maize inbreds or relatives. Among those 56 genes, only 31 are present in more than 52 inbreds or relatives. Further phylogenetic analysis classified these genes into four major groups (Class A, B, C, D) and explored their diversity in subcellular localization, physicochemical properties, and the terminal structures of those HSP20s. Through collinearity analysis and Ka/Ks ratio calculations, we found that most HSP20 genes underwent purifying selection during maize domestication, although a few genes showed signs of positive selection pressure. Additionally, expression analysis showed that several HSP20 genes were significantly upregulated under high temperatures, particularly in tassels and leaves. Co-expression network analysis revealed that HSP20 genes were significantly enriched in GO terms related to environmental stress responses, suggesting that HSP20 genes not only play key roles in heat stress but may also be involved in regulating various other biological processes, such as secondary metabolism and developmental processes. These findings expand our understanding of the functions of the maize HSP20 family and provide new insights for further research into maize's response mechanisms to environmental stresses.

Characterization of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) Gene Family and Their Responses to Salinity Stress and Fruit Development in Octoploid Strawberry

Superoxide dismutases (SODs), as the first line of defense against reactive oxygen species (ROS), play an essential role in protecting plants from adverse elicitors during plant growth and development. However, little is known about the SOD gene family and their response to salinity stress and fruit development in cultivated strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa). In this study, 32 SOD genes consisting of 16 Cu/ZnSODs, 11 FeSODs, and 5 MnSOD were identified, which presented three well-resolved clades in the phylogenetic tree. Each clade had similar motifs, and exon–intron structures, which in turn supported the evolutionary classification. Cis-acting element analysis suggested that FaSOD genes might be involved in the plant response to abiotic and biotic stresses, hormones, and light. The analysis of previously published transcriptome data revealed that FaSOD genes are expressed variably under salt stress. Among these SODs, FaMSD5 was expressed at relatively high levels in strawberry root and leaf, and its transcript abundance significantly increased after salt treatment. Some transcription factors related to photomorphogenesis, hormone signaling pathways, and hyperosmotic salinity response were predicted to bind to the FaMSD5 promoter. These outcomes implied that FaMSD5 might play an important role in protection against salt stress. In addition, the comprehensive transcriptome analysis of FaSOD genes in strawberry fruit showed that almost all FaCSDs and FaMSDs were more highly expressed than FaFSDs at different developmental stages, and the expression patterns of FaCSD1, FaCSD2, FaCSD7, FaCSD8, and FaCSD10 suggested that they were likely to be involved in fruit development and ripening. This study provides a basis for further exploration of the function of the FaSOD gene family in strawberry and provides candidate FaSOD genes for enhancing salinity tolerance and regulating fruit development and ripening.