Research Foundation Research Articles

Revealing the Complete Bispecific Phosphatase Genes (DUSPs) across the Genome and Investigating the Expression Patterns of GH_A11G3500 Resistance against Verticillium wilt.

DUSPs, a diverse group of protein phosphatases, play a pivotal role in orchestrating cellular growth and development through intricate signaling pathways. Notably, they actively participate in the MAPK pathway, which governs crucial aspects of plant physiology, including growth regulation, disease resistance, pest resistance, and stress response. DUSP is a key enzyme, and it is the enzyme that limits the rate of cell metabolism. At present, complete understanding of the DUSP gene family in cotton and its specific roles in resistance to Verticillium wilt (VW) remains elusive. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a comprehensive identification and analysis of four key cotton species: Gossypium arboreum, Gossypium barbadense, Gossypium hirsutum, and Gossypium raimondii. The results revealed the identification of a total of 120 DUSP genes in the four cotton varieties, which were categorized into six subgroups and randomly distributed at both ends of 26 chromosomes, predominantly localized within the nucleus. Our analysis demonstrated that closely related DUSP genes exhibited similarities in terms of the conserved motif composition and gene structure. A promoter analysis performed on the GhDUSP gene promoter revealed the presence of several cis-acting elements, which are associated with abiotic and biotic stress responses, as well as hormone signaling. A tissue expression pattern analysis demonstrated significant variations in GhDUSP gene expression under different stress conditions, with roots exhibiting the highest levels, followed by stems and leaves. In terms of tissue-specific detection, petals, leaves, stems, stamens, and receptacles exhibited higher expression levels of the GhDUSP gene. The gene expression analysis results for GhDUSPs under stress suggest that DUSP genes may have a crucial role in the cotton response to stress in cotton. Through Virus-Induced Gene Silencing (VIGS) experiments, the silencing of the target gene significantly reduced the resistance efficiency of disease-resistant varieties against Verticillium wilt (VW). Consequently, we conclude that GH_A11G3500-mediated bispecific phosphorylated genes may serve as key regulators in the resistance of G. hirsutum to Verticillium wilt (VW). This study presents a comprehensive structure designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the potential biological functions of cotton, providing a strong foundation for further research into molecular breeding and resistance to plant pathogens.

RADReef: A global Holocene Reef Rate of Accretion Dataset

Reef cores are a powerful tool for investigating temporal changes in reef communities. Radiometric dating facilitates the determination of vertical accretion rates, which has allowed for examination of local-regional controlling factors, such as subsidence and sea level changes. Coral reefs must grow at sufficient rates to keep up with sea level rise, or risk ‘drowning.’ As sea level is expected to rise significantly in the next 100 years and beyond, it is important to understand whether reefs will be able to survive. Historical records of reef accretion rates extracted from cores provide valuable insights into extrinsic controlling factors of reef growth and are instrumental in helping predict if future reefs can accrete at rates needed to overcome predicted sea level changes. While extensive research exists at local and regional scales, limited attention has been given to identifying global patterns and drivers. To address this, we present “RADReef”: A global dataset of dated Holocene reef cores. RADReef serves as a foundation for further research on past, present and future reef accretion.

Mechanisms of Ferroptosis-Related Genes in Gallbladder Cancer Based on Bioinformatics Analysis.

Gallbladder Cancer (GBC) is a lethal malignancy with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Recent studies have emphasized the role of ferroptosis, a regulated form of cell death, in various cancers, including GBC. We applied bioinformatics methodologies on four GBC datasets to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). An intersection of DEGs from the four datasets with ferroptosis and GBC-associated genes was done to identify key ferroptosis-related genes in GBC. GSVA pathway enrichment analysis and immune cell infiltration assessment were conducted to explore their functional roles and interactions. Seven ferroptosis-related genes, EZH2, MUC1, PVT1, GOT1, CDO1, LIFR, and TFAP2A, were identified to be related to GBC. These genes were associated with vital signaling pathways like the G2/M checkpoint and DNA repair and showed significant correlations with immune cell infiltration in GBC. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed their high diagnostic potential, with Area Under the Curve (AUC) values ranging from 0.796 to 0.953. Our findings underscore the pivotal role of ferroptosis in GBC and the potential of ferroptosis-related genes as diagnostic biomarkers. This study lays a foundation for further research into ferroptosis-based therapeutic strategies for GBC.

Unveiling a Novel Decomposition Pathway in Propylene Carbonate-Based Supercapacitors: Insights from a Jelly Roll Configuration Study.

This research elucidates novel insights into the electrochemical properties and degradation phenomena of propylene carbonate (PC)-based supercapacitors at a large-scale 18650 cylindrical jelly-roll cell level. Central to our findings is the identification of 2-ethyl-4-methyl-1,3-dioxolane (EMD) as a hitherto undocumented decomposition by-product, highlighting the nuanced complexity of PC electrolyte stability. We further demonstrate that elevated operational voltages precipitate accelerated electrolyte degradation, underscoring the criticality of defining the operational voltage window for maximizing device longevity. Employing advanced analytical techniques, including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), this study meticulously analyzes electrolyte decomposition mechanisms. The outcomes offer pivotal insights into the operational constraints and chemical resilience of PC-based supercapacitors, contributing significantly to the optimization of supercapacitor design and application. By delineating a specific decomposition pathway, this investigation enriches the understanding of electrochemical dynamics in supercapacitor systems, providing a foundation for future research and technological advancement in energy storage devices.

GATA transcription factor in common bean: A comprehensive genome-wide functional characterization, identification, and abiotic stress response evaluation

The GATA transcription factors (TFs) have been extensively studied for its regulatory role in various biological processes in many plant species. The functional and molecular mechanism of GATA TFs in regulating tolerance to abiotic stress has not yet been studied in the common bean. This study analyzed the functional identity of the GATA gene family in the P. vulgaris genome under different abiotic and phytohormonal stress. The GATA gene family was systematically investigated in the P. vulgaris genome, and 31 PvGATA TFs were identified. The study found that 18 out of 31 PvGATA genes had undergone duplication events, emphasizing the role of gene duplication in GATA gene expansion. All the PvGATA genes were classified into four significant subfamilies, with 8, 3, 6, and 13 members in each subfamily (subfamilies I, II, III, and IV), respectively. All PvGATA protein sequences contained a single GATA domain, but subfamily II members had additional domains such as CCT and tify. A total of 799 promoter cis-regulatory elements (CREs) were predicted in the PvGATAs. Additionally, we used qRT-PCR to investigate the expression profiles of five PvGATA genes in the common bean roots under abiotic conditions. The results suggest that PvGATA01/10/25/28 may play crucial roles in regulating plant resistance against salt and drought stress and may be involved in phytohormone-mediated stress signaling pathways. PvGATA28 was selected for overexpression and cloned into N. benthamiana using Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Transgenic lines were subjected to abiotic stress, and results showed a significant tolerance of transgenic lines to stress conditions compared to wild-type counterparts. The seed germination assay suggested an extended dormancy of transgenic lines compared to wild-type lines. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the PvGATA gene family, which can serve as a foundation for future research on the function of GATA TFs in abiotic stress tolerance in common bean plants.

Revealing Molecular Mechanisms of the Bioactive Saponins from Edible Root of Platycodon grandiflorum in Combating Obesity.

Obesity has emerged as a significant health concern, as it is a disease linked to metabolic disorders in the body and is characterized by the excessive accumulation of lipids. As a plant-derived food, Platycodon grandiflorum (PG) was reported by many studies, indicating that the saponins from PG can improve obesity effectively. However, the anti-obesity saponins from PG and its anti-obesity mechanisms have not been fully identified. This study identified the active saponins and their molecular targets for treating obesity. The TCMSP database was used to obtain information on 18 saponins in PG. The anti-obesity target of the PG saponins was 115 targets and 44 core targets. GO and KEGG analyses using 44 core anti-obesity genes and targets of PG-active saponins screened from GeneCards, OMIM, Drugbank, and DisGeNet showed that the PI3K-Akt pathway, the JAK-STAT pathway, and the MAPK pathway were the major pathways involved in the anti-obesity effects of PG saponins. BIOVIA Discovery Studio Visualizer and AutoDock Vina were used to perform molecular docking and process the molecular docking results. The molecular docking results showed that the active saponins of PG could bind to the major therapeutic obesity targets to play an obesity-inhibitory role. The results of this study laid the foundation for further research on the anti-obesity saponins in PG and their anti-obesity mechanism and provided a new direction for the development of functional plant-derived food. This research studied the molecular mechanism of PG saponins combating obesity through various signaling pathways, and prosapogenin D can be used to develop as a new potential anti-obesity drug.

A Conceptual Stakeholder-Based Model of Malaysia Halal Food Control System

The halal food control system is one of the critical aspects that need attention in sustaining the Malaysian halal industry. In practice, the existing halal food control system involves the roles of several stakeholders and is implemented independently according to their respective jurisdictions. No integrated control mechanism coordinates the roles of all stakeholders, thus resulting in fraud cases to easily happen in the industry. To effectively coordinate these roles, an integrated halal food control system must be developed. Therefore, this concept paper aims to discuss the roles of stakeholders involved in the halal food control system and to propose a conceptual halal food stakeholder control system model based on the objectives of the Islamic law framework. Information for this paper is gathered based on a literature review of previous studies related to the halal food control system. The conceptual model is expected to be a reference and guideline for all stakeholders involved and will serve as a theoretical foundation for future research in this area. Additionally, it can enhance consumer trust in Malaysia’s halal certification and support the country’s goal of becoming a leader in the global halal food industry.

Retail Platform Analytics: Practice, Literature, and Future Research

The explosive growth of retail platforms over the past decade has resulted in a significant amount of customer and seller data that can be leveraged for advanced business analytics. As a result, the management of retail platforms with business analytics capabilities has garnered increased attention in the field of operations management. Despite the recognition of the importance of business analytics techniques for retail platforms, a systematic study of their operations is lacking in the literature. Based on our observations of the industrial practice and understanding of the academic literature, we attempt to address this gap by proposing a framework that broadly categorizes retail platform management into three key themes: demand-side management, supply-side management, and matching. For each theme, we identify critical topics, discuss the current practices of platforms, and review relevant literature. We also propose future research questions with directions for the initial modeling and solution strategy, together with applicable data sources and potential insights. At last, to facilitate future research, we provide a roadmap and datasets for further exploration of business analytics applications of retail platforms. Overall, this paper lays a strong foundation for researchers to delve deeper into the exciting and constantly evolving field of retail platform analytics.

The 2024 British Skin Foundation Research Awards are now available.

The 2024 British Skin Foundation Research Awards are now available.

Raising root zone temperature improves plant productivity and metabolites in hydroponic lettuce production.

While it is commonly understood that air temperature can greatly affect the process of photosynthesis and the growth of higher plants, the impact of root zone temperature (RZT) on plant growth, metabolism, essential elements, as well as key metabolites like chlorophyll and carotenoids, remains an area that necessitates extensive research. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impact of raising the RZT on the growth, metabolites, elements, and proteins of red leaf lettuce. Lettuce was hydroponically grown in a plant factory with artificial light at four different air temperatures (17, 22, 27, and 30°C) and two treatments with different RZTs. The RZT was raised 3°C above the air temperature in one group, while it was not in the other group. Increasing the RZT 3°C above the air temperature improved plant growth and metabolites, including carotenoids, ascorbic acids, and chlorophyll, in all four air temperature treatments. Moreover, raising the RZT increased Mg, K, Fe, Cu, Se, Rb, amino acids, and total soluble proteins in the leaf tissue at all four air temperatures. These results showed that raising the RZT by 3°C improved plant productivity and the metabolites of the hydroponic lettuce by enhancing nutrient uptake and activating the metabolism in the roots at all four air temperatures. Overall, this research demonstrates that plant growth and metabolites can be improved simultaneously with an increased RZT relative to air temperature. This study serves as a foundation for future research on optimizing RZT in relation to air temperature. Further recommended studies include investigating the differential effects of multiple RZT variations relative to air temperature for increased optimization, examining the effects of RZT during nighttime versus daytime, and exploring the impact of stem heating. This research has the potential to make a valuable contribution to the ongoing growth and progress of the plant factory industry and fundamental advancements in root zone physiology. Overall, this research demonstrates that plant growth and metabolites can be improved simultaneously with an increased RZT relative to air temperature. This study serves as a foundation for future research on optimizing RZT in relation to air temperature. Further recommended studies include investigating the differential effects of multiple RZT variations relative to air temperature for increased optimization, examining the effects of RZT during nighttime versus daytime, and exploring the impact of stem heating. This research has the potential to make a valuable contribution to the ongoing growth and progress of the plant factory industry and fundamental advancements in root zone physiology.

One-year outcomes of traumatic injuries among survivors in Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study on the employment outcomes and functioning state

BackgroundTraumatic injury is one of the top public health challenges globally. Injury survivors often experience poor health and functioning and restricted participation in employment. In Ethiopia, there is a paucity...

Foundations of the wald space for phylogenetic trees

AbstractEvolutionary relationships between species are represented by phylogenetic trees, but these relationships are subject to uncertainty due to the random nature of evolution. A geometry for the space of phylogenetic trees is necessary in order to properly quantify this uncertainty during the statistical analysis of collections of possible evolutionary trees inferred from biological data. Recently, the wald space has been introduced: a length space for trees which is a certain subset of the manifold of symmetric positive definite matrices. In this work, the wald space is introduced formally and its topology and structure is studied in detail. In particular, we show that wald space has the topology of a disjoint union of open cubes, it is contractible, and by careful characterisation of cube boundaries, we demonstrate that wald space is a Whitney stratified space of type (A). Imposing the metric induced by the affine invariant metric on symmetric positive definite matrices, we prove that wald space is a geodesic Riemann stratified space. A new numerical method is proposed and investigated for construction of geodesics, computation of Fréchet means and calculation of curvature in wald space. This work is intended to serve as a mathematical foundation for further geometric and statistical research on this space.

Evaluation of Structural, Electronic, Optical and Mechanical Properties of Na-based Oxide‐Perovskites NaXO3 (X = Co, Be, Ba): A DFT study

Here, we employed density functional theory-based first-principles computations to examine the structural, electrical, optical, and mechanical properties of NaXO3 (X = Co, Be, Ba) materials. The ideal lattice constants for each of the three materials were fitted using the Birch-Murnaghan method. These compounds have cubic structures with Pm3m-221 space group. According to investigations of the energy band distributions, all of these compounds have indirect band gaps. Calculations also show that NaCoO3 and NaBaO3 compounds have wide bandgap semiconductor properties, while NaBeO3 shows an insulator performance. The degree of electron localization in particular bands is confirmed by TDOS and PDOS. These compounds absorb light more strongly in the ultraviolet region. We discovered that all of these compounds have a mixture of ionic and covalent bonding behavior. We also discovered that the mechanical stability of each of the compounds is simplified by their cubic shapes. These findings not only advance our knowledge of NaxO3 compounds but also create new opportunities for the materials' possible use in a variety of technological contexts. Additionally, these results offer a theoretical foundation for additional experimental research on these materials.

Theoretical Modeling and Methods Devoted to Parametric Architecture Based on Cultural Heritage Identity Codes

This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the theoretical modeling and methods on the concept of Architectural/Urban Identity. The author establishes a theoretical framework based on Parametric Design Theory, particularly focusing on fractal analysis and space syntax methodologies to examine the role of Parametric Architecture in preserving and expressing cultural heritage identity codes. Through a thorough review of existing literature on Parametric Design Theory in the context of cultural heritage identity codes, the author delves into the diverse applications, critiques, and theoretical interpretations of Parametric Architecture as it intersects with cultural heritage identity codes. By elucidating the essence of Parametric Design Theory, its operationalization, the predictions it generates, and the empirical evidence supporting its validity, the author lays the foundation for future research and open discussions regarding the potential of Parametric Architecture in preserving and expressing the unique cultural heritage identities of diverse communities around the world. Parametric design is a cutting-edge approach to architecture and building design that utilizes computer algorithms and mathematical equations to control the form and function of the design. This approach empowers designers to create intricate and organic structures that would be difficult or impossible to achieve using conventional methods. Parametric architecture has found its way into the design of a diverse range of buildings and structures, encompassing museums, concert halls, and office buildings. This new design methodology has garnered considerable attention in recent years.

Genome-wide identification of polyamine metabolism and ethylene synthesis genes in Chenopodium quinoa Willd. and their responses to low-temperature stress

BackgroundQuinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is valued for its nutritional richness. However, pre-harvest sprouting poses a significant threat to yield and grain quality. This study aims to enhance our understanding of pre-harvest sprouting mitigation strategies, specifically through delayed sowing and avoiding rainy seasons during quinoa maturation. The overarching goal is to identify cold-resistant varieties and unravel the molecular mechanisms behind the low-temperature response of quinoa. We employed bioinformatics and genomics tools for a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of polyamines (PAs) and ethylene synthesis gene families in quinoa under low-temperature stress.ResultsThis involved the identification of 37 PA biosynthesis and 30 PA catabolism genes, alongside 227 ethylene synthesis. Structural and phylogenetic analyses showcased conserved patterns, and subcellular localization predictions indicated diverse cellular distributions. The results indicate that the PA metabolism of quinoa is closely linked to ethylene synthesis, with multiple genes showing an upregulation in response to cold stress. However, differential expression within gene families suggests a nuanced regulatory network.ConclusionsOverall, this study contributes valuable insights for the functional characterization of the PA metabolism and ethylene synthesis of quinoa, which emphasize their roles in plant low-temperature tolerance and providing a foundation for future research in this domain.

Corruption Disclosure and Electoral Accountability System: Reducing Political Corruption

This literature review explores how corruption exposure affects voter behavior, political dynamics, and the fate of current political parties and politicians. This demonstrates the importance of strengthening electoral accountability in maintaining democracy, combating corruption, and improving political systems. Research has found that the disclosure of corrupt practices significantly impacts voter behavior, as it may lead to a decrease in support for current political parties and politicians affected by corruption. In addition, exposing dereliction of duty is an important tool in combating political corruption, making the election process more transparent and accountable. Therefore, this review emphasizes the crucial role of exposing corrupt behavior in shaping voter behavior, holding politicians accountable, and maintaining the integrity of democratic systems under electoral accountability systems. This proves that strengthening electoral accountability plays an important role in maintaining democratic integrity and promoting responsive political models and provides an important foundation for future research in this field. Promote transparency in the election process and strengthen the implementation of accountability policies.

Novel results for separate families of fuzzy-dominated mappings satisfying advanced locally contractions in b-multiplicative metric spaces with applications

The objective of this research is to present new fixed point theorems for two separate families of fuzzy-dominated mappings. These mappings must satisfy a unique locally contraction in a complete b-multiplicative metric space. Also, we have obtained novel results for families of fuzzy-dominated mappings on a closed ball that meet the requirements of a generalized locally contraction. This research introduces new and challenging fixed-point problems for families of ordered fuzzy-dominated mappings in ordered complete b-multiplicative metric spaces. Moreover, we demonstrate a new concept for families of fuzzy graph-dominated mappings on a closed ball in these spaces. Additionally, we present novel findings for graphic contraction endowed with graphic structure. These findings are groundbreaking and provide a strong foundation for future research in this field. To demonstrate the uniqueness of our novel findings, we provide evidence of their applicability in obtaining the common solution of integral and fractional differential equations. Our findings have resulted in modifications to several contemporary and classical results in the research literature. This provides further evidence of the originality and impact of our work.

Computer-Aided Optimisation in Additive Manufacturing Processes: A State of the Art Survey

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a field with both industrial and academic significance. Computer-aided optimisation has brought advances to this field over the years, but challenges and areas of improvement still remain. Design to execution inaccuracies, void formation, material anisotropy, and surface quality are examples of remaining challenges. These challenges can be improved via some of the trending optimisation topics, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML); STL correction, replacement, or removal; slicing algorithms; and simulations. This paper reviews AM and its history with a special focus on the printing process and how it can be optimised using computer software. The most important new contribution is a survey of the present challenges connected with the prevailing optimisation topics. This can be seen as a foundation for future research. In addition, we suggest how certain challenges can be improved and show how such changes affect the printing process.

Analysis of the importance of business model and business plan in the process of entrepreneurship: Taking college students entrepreneurship as an example

This article explores in depth entrepreneurship focusing on business models and business plans. Taking the difficulties and challenges faced by college students as an example, it analyzes the importance of business model innovation to entrepreneurial enterprises and its key role in market competition. The article first summarizes the concept of entrepreneurship and the problems it faces, and second introduces the business model and its application in entrepreneurship, the definition and components of the business plan, and how to make an effective business plan according to the market demand, technology trends and competitive environment. This paper points out that a successful business model needs to be closely combined with market positioning, product strategy, marketing means, profit model and other elements, and the formulation of a business plan requires rigorous steps. The study has concluded that: the business model is the core of the business plan, and the plan is the specific implementation of the model. The two need to adjust each other and jointly determine the success of the enterprise. The future development trend of business model and business plan is the trend of digitalization and intelligence, personalization and customization, flexibility and adaptability. This paper puts forward suggestions for entrepreneurs represented by college students: in-depth understanding of market and customer needs, the need to maintain innovative thinking, the feasibility of socialist plan, etc. Thus improving the success rate of entrepreneurship. This paper enriches the relevant theories of entrepreneurship, lays the foundation for in-depth research, and has certain theoretical significance.

Two missense STK11 gene variations impaired LKB1/adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase signaling in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome.

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is a rare hereditary neoplastic disorder mainly associated with serine/threonine kinase 11 (STK11/LKB1) gene mutations. Preimplantation genetic testing can protect a patient's offspring from mutated genes; however, some variations in this gene have been interpreted as variants of uncertain significance (VUS), which complicate reproductive decision-making in genetic counseling. To identify the pathogenicity of two missense variants and provide clinical guidance. Whole exome gene sequencing and Sanger sequencing were performed on the peripheral blood of patients with PJS treated at the Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of Citic-Xiangya. Software was employed to predict the protein structure, conservation, and pathogenicity of the two missense variation sites in patients with PJS. Additionally, plasmids were constructed and transfected into HeLa cells to observe cell growth. The differences in signal pathway expression between the variant group and the wild-type group were compared using western blot and immunohistochemistry. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. We identified two missense STK11 gene VUS [c.889A>G (p.Arg297Gly) and c.733C>T (p.Leu245Phe)] in 9 unrelated PJS families who were seeking reproductive assistance. The two missense VUS were located in the catalytic domain of serine/threonine kinase, which is a key structure of the liver kinase B1 (LKB1) protein. In vitro experiments showed that the phosphorylation levels of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) at Thr172 and LKB1 at Ser428 were significantly higher in transfected variation-type cells than in wild-type cells. In addition, the two missense STK11 variants promoted the proliferation of HeLa cells. Subsequent immunohistochemical analysis showed that phosphorylated-AMPK (Thr172) expression was significantly lower in gastric, colonic, and uterine polyps from PJS patients with missense variations than in non-PJS patients. Our findings indicate that these two missense STK11 variants are likely pathogenic and inactivate the STK11 gene, causing it to lose its function of regulating downstream phosphorylated-AMPK (Thr172), which may lead to the development of PJS. The identification of the pathogenic mutations in these two clinically characterized PJS patients has been helpful in guiding them toward the most appropriate mode of pregnancy assistance. These two missense variants can be interpreted as likely pathogenic variants that mediated the onset of PJS in the two patients. These findings not only offer insights for clinical decision-making, but also serve as a foundation for further research and reanalysis of missense VUS in rare diseases.