Search Results (181)

Powdery mildew (PM), caused by Sphaerotheca phaseoli, severely threatens mungbean (Vigna radiata) productivity and quality, yet the molecular basis of resistance remains poorly defined. This study employed transcriptome profiling to compare defense responses in a resistant genotype, SUPER5, and a susceptible variety, CN84-1, following pathogen infection. A total of 1755 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, with SUPER5 exhibiting strong upregulation of genes encoding pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins, disease resistance proteins, and key transcription factors. Notably, genes involved in phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis, pathways associated with antimicrobial compound and lignin production, were markedly induced in SUPER5. In contrast, CN84-1 showed limited activation of defense genes and downregulation of essential regulators such as MYB14. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses highlighted the involvement of plant–pathogen interaction pathways, MAPK signaling, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification in the resistant response. Quantitative real-time PCR validated 11 candidate genes, including PAL3, PR2, GSO1, MLO12, and P21, which function in pathogen recognition, signaling, the biosynthesis of antimicrobial metabolites, the production of defense proteins, defense regulation, and the reinforcement of the cell wall. Co-expression network analysis revealed three major gene modules linked to flavonoid metabolism, chitinase activity, and responses to both abiotic and biotic stresses. These findings offer valuable molecular insights for breeding PM-resistant mungbean varieties. Full article

Genetic resistance is a sustainable way to protect crops from diseases, and breeding resistant varieties is a key objective. However, diseases are caused by pathogens with different life cycles, and the importance of individual evolutionary forces plays a key role in the adaptation of their populations. Therefore, strategies for the use of genetic resistance resources can vary depending on the plant pathosystem. Numerous major genes confer hypersensitive resistance to powdery mildew—one of the most common diseases in barley—but these genes conform to the gene-for-gene system of an extremely diverse and adaptable pathogen. When such resistance genes are transferred into commercial varieties, their efficiency in the field is soon overcome and replacement with newly developed resistant varieties can be slow. Hence, specific resistance genes should not be used in barley breeding programs. Only one monogenic, non-hypersensitive, non-specific and durable major resistance Mlo is known. This predominates in Central and Western European spring varieties and should be widely adopted by barley breeders elsewhere and in other crops where such type of resistance is found. In this paper, the relevant aspects involved in breeding barley resistant to powdery mildew are discussed, with conclusions supported by practical examples. Additionally, future directions for barley improvement are proposed. Full article

Critical speed (CS), the respiratory compensation point (RCP), and the midpoint between gas exchange threshold and maxial oxygen uptake (VO_2max) (i.e., 50%Δ) have been considered indexes able to demarcate the boundary between the heavy and severe exercise domains. However, the agreement between these indexes—and therefore the validity of using them reciprocally—remains to be reported in running. The current study analyzed the agreement between RCP, 50%Δ, and CS. Twelve young runners performed an incremental test to assess VO_2max, RCP, and 50%Δ, with CS estimated by the linear model of time-limited trials at 90, 95, and 110% of the speed corresponding to VO₂max. One-way ANOVA showed no differences when comparing VO₂ and running speed at CS vs. 50%Δ vs. RCP (47.5 ± 4.4 vs. 46.6 ± 4.4 vs. 47.8 ± 4.5 mLO₂∙kg⁻¹∙min⁻¹; and 13.9 ± 1.3 vs. 13.7 ± 1.3 vs. 14.0 ± 1.4 km∙h⁻¹; p > 0.05 for all comparisons). The bias for 50%Δ vs. CS was −0.82 ± 1.55 mLO₂∙kg⁻¹∙min⁻¹ and −0.23 ± 0.55 km∙h⁻¹, and for RCP vs. CS, it was 0.36 ± 1.21 mLO₂∙kg⁻¹∙min⁻¹ and 0.05 ± 0.46 km∙h⁻¹. Therefore, the agreement between RCP, 50%Δ, and CS in estimating VO₂ responses and running speed did not preclude their reciprocal similarity in exercise intensity, although the observed individual variability in physiological variables is a constraint on considering these indexes interchangeable. Full article

The Mildew Resistance Locus (Mlo) gene family is reported in various species as regulators of powdery mildew (PM) resistance. However, the Mlo genes in cucurbit crops remain limited. In this study, a genome-wide investigation of Mlo genes was conducted in eight Cucurbitaceae species and in rice, maize, arabidopsis, and barley, and a total of 202 Mlo genes were identified. The phylogenetic analysis showed that 202 Mlo genes can be classified into six clades, and the Mlo genes from clades I and III are likely pivotal in regulating PM resistance in dicotyledonous and monocotyledonous plants, respectively. The Ka/Ks ratios for these homologous Mlo gene pairs ranged from 0 to 0.6, revealing that they underwent substantial purifying selection during evolution. Among 12 crops, there were the most Mlo genes (22 Cm-mlo) in melon. An expression analysis revealed that six Cm-mlo genes showed expression responses to PM infection in which Cm-mlo38 and Cm-mlo44 were phylogenetically close to Mlo genes that regulated PM resistance. Using the VIGS system for silencing, Cm-mlo38 and Cm-mlo44 enhanced resistance to PM in susceptible material. A protein interaction analysis indicated that Cm-mlo38 might regulate PM resistance through interactions with PR5 and CML proteins. These results provide a comprehensive understanding of the Mlo family in Cucurbitaceae and pave the way for future functional analysis and genetic improvement for improving PM resistance in Cucurbitaceae. Full article

Using the results from testing industrial batches of 23 mm steel heavy plates after thermomechanical rolling and subsequent post-weld heat treatment, the patterns of fatigue crack formation in the fracture specimens during CTOD (Crack Tip Opening Displacement) testing for fracture toughness are investigated. Visual, microstructural, and fractographic studies of the nature of fracture formation and the surface of the secondary separations have been conducted. The probable causes of the manifestation of the potential “pop-in” effect on the load–displacement diagrams of the notch opening displacement are described, as well as its potentially negative impact on the interpretation of test results. Full article

Powdery mildew, caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei (Bgh), severely impacts global barley Hordeum vulgare L. (Hv) production. This investigation evaluated Egyptian barley genotypes to identify novel resistance sources and molecular markers for breeding programs. Phenotypic assessments at the seedling (growth stage, GS 32) and adult plant (GS 55–59) stages under controlled and field conditions, combined with SSR marker analysis, revealed distinct resistance profiles. Genotypes Giza 123, Giza 125, and G8 exhibited strong resistance, with Giza 123 displaying Mlo-mediated immunity. Susceptible genotypes (Giza 126, G1, G2, and G4) showed rapid disease progression (IT4; up to 80% severity). Intermediate genotypes (G5, G6, and G9) suggested quantitative resistance. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) analysis linked the EBmac0603 primer 160 bp allele to resistance and the 149 bp allele to susceptibility. The EBmac0603 primer 185 bp allele correlated with partial resistance, highlighting its utility in marker-assisted selection (MAS). The integration of phenotypic and molecular data identified Giza 123 and G8 as prime candidates for breeding, emphasizing the need for strategies like gene pyramiding or quantitative resistance incorporation in susceptible lines. This study underscores the value of Egypt’s barley diversity in advancing durable disease resistance through targeted breeding and molecular tools. Full article

The venom of Macrovipera lebetinus obtusa (MLO) has remarkable properties that are hard to overlook. This venom’s described 38 protein components work synergistically, forming complexes that greatly enhance their combined effectiveness. Previous studies have shown that both crude venom and one of its components, obtustatin, can reduce sarcoma tumors by 50% and 30%, respectively. Obtustatin, a member of the short disintegrin family, inhibits the angiogenic activity of α1β1 integrin, the adhesive receptor of collagen IV. However, the mechanisms of the greater efficacy of the crude venom compared to its isolated components remain unclear. To investigate this, we propose an experimental work to explore the activity of certain low-molecular-weight components of MLO venom. Our in vitro tests on fibrosarcoma (HT-1080) cells using six venom fractions revealed cytotoxic fractions, which, through mass spectrometry, were identified as containing protein classes such as dimeric and short disintegrins, acidic phospholipase A2, and serine proteinases. Notably, these fractions exhibited minimal toxicity to human dermal microvascular endothelial (HDEC) cells, suggesting their potential as a promising candidate for oncotherapy in the future. Full article

Powdery mildew, a debilitating phytopathogen caused by biotrophic fungi within the order Erysiphales, endangers crop yields and global food security. Although traditional approaches have largely emphasized resistant cultivar development and chemical control, novel strategies are necessary to counter the advent of challenges, such as pathogen adaptation and climate change. This review fully discusses three principal areas of pathogen effector functions, e.g., the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-suppressive activity of CSEP087, and host susceptibility factors, like vesicle trafficking regulated by Mildew Locus O (MLO). It also briefly mentions the transcriptional regulation of resistance genes mediated by factors, like WRKY75 and NAC transcription factors, and post-transcriptional regulation via alternative splicing (As). In addition, this discussion discusses the intricate interactions among powdery mildew, host plants, and symbiotic microbiomes thereof, highlighting the mechanism through which powdery mildew infections disrupt the foliar microbiota balance. Lastly, we present a new biocontrol approach that entails synergistic microbial consortia, such as combinations of Bacillus and Trichoderma, to induce plant immunity while minimizing fungicide dependency. Through the study of combining knowledge of molecular pathogenesis with ecological resilience, this research offers useful insights towards climate-smart crop development and sustainable disease-management strategies in the context of microbiome engineering. Full article

European plum production is affected by mostly harm Monilinia spp., causing full pathogen brown-rot infections. The plums are the susceptible to the Monilinia fructigena pathogen, which is the most common in Europe. This study aims to analyze the gene expression profiles and signaling pathways of the European plum, cv. Victoria, inoculated with the M. fructigena pathogen at 24, 48, and 72 h post inoculation. By transcriptome sequencing, the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) increased over time, with the highest number at 72 hpi, showing the tendency to involve more genes in the response to prolonged exposure to the pathogen. Pathogenesis-related (PR) family and mildew resistance locus O (MLO-like) proteins were expressed the most during plum response to the pathogen. The plum initiates complex defense responses by significantly activating 23 pathways according to Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). In this study, expressed genes over the infection were in response to stress, defense, cell death, and disease resistance. The findings of this study could be used as the basis for further research of markers linked to resistance or susceptibility to disease in plum hybrids at an early age, which will improve the plum breeding process. Full article

Introduction: Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) in digital mammography were determined from 31,040 digital mammography images acquired from diagnostic and screening examination data from eight state-managed mammography centers/units in the Republic of North Macedonia (RM). The main objective is to establish a diagnostic reference level for mammography examinations at different ranges of breast thickness. Materials and methods: Approximately 30,000 mammography images were used to evaluate mean glandular dose (MGD) and compressed breast thickness (CBT) for each projection, craniocaudal (CC) and mediolateral oblique (MLO). The stratified DRL was derived by calculating the 75th percentile of the MGD across all the samples at various CBT ranges for both projections. Results and Discussion: The overall median MGDs, minimum, and maximum were calculated to be 1.15 mGy, 0.1 mGy, and 9.93 mGy, respectively. As the CBT increased from 7 to 120 mm, the 75th percentile of the MGD increased from 0.94 mGy to 3.67 mGy for CC, and from 0.44 mGy to 4.91 mGy for MLO projections. Conclusions: The study established local DRLs for the digital mammography systems at the 75th percentile, which compared well with the values reported for other countries/regions. The DRL defined per CC and MLO image view for a specific CBT indicated that at least one mammography facility needs optimization. Full article

The aim of this patient dose review is to establish a thorough diagnostic reference level (DRL) system. This entails calculating a DRL value for each possible image technique/view considered to perform a diagnostic mammogram in our practice. Diagnostic mammographies from a total of 1191 patients who underwent a diagnostic mammogram study in our designated diagnostic mammography center were collected and retrospectively analyzed. The DRL representing our health sector was set as the median of the mean glandular dose (MGD) for each possible image technique/view, including the 2D standard bilateral craniocaudal (LCC/RCC) and mediolateral oblique (LMLO/RMLO), the 2D bilateral spot compression CC and MLO (RSCC/LSCC and RSMLO/LSMLO), the 2D bilateral spot compression with magnification (RMSCC/LMSCC and RMSMLO/LMSMLO), the 3D digital breast tomosynthesis CC and MLO (RCC/LCC and RMLO/LMLO), the 2D bilateral implant CC and MLO (RIMCC/LIMCC and RIMMLO/LIMMLO), the 2D bilateral contrast enhanced CC and MLO (RCECC/LCECC and RCEMLO/LCEMLO) and the 2D bilateral stereotactic biopsy guided CC (SBRCC/SBLCC). This patient dose review revealed that the highest MGD was associated with the 2D bilateral spot compression with magnification (MSCC/MSMLO) image view. For the compressed breast thickness (CBT) group 60–69 mm, the median and 75th percentile of the MGD values obtained were MSCC: 3.35 and 3.96, MSMLO: 4.14 and 5.25 mGy respectively. Obvious MGD variations were witnessed across the different possible views even for the same CBT group. Our results are in line with the published DRLs when using same statistical quantity and CBT group. Full article

Background/Objective: Osteocytes are the most abundant cell type in the skeleton, with key endocrine functions, particularly in regulating osteoblast and osteoclast activity to maintain bone quality. Angiotensin II (Ang II), a critical component of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system, is well-known for its role in vasoconstriction during hypertension. Beyond its cardiovascular functions, Ang II participates in various biological processes, including bone metabolism. While its influence on osteoblast proliferation, differentiation, and osteoclastogenesis has been documented, its effects on osteocytes remain unexplored. This study hypothesized that Ang II enhances the osteoclastogenic activity of osteocytes. Methods: Mouse calvariae were cultured ex vivo in an Ang II-containing medium, analyzed via immunohistochemistry, and evaluated for osteoclastogenic gene expression through real-time PCR. Western blotting was employed to assess protein levels and signaling pathway activation in the MLO-Y4 osteocytic cell line in vitro. Results: Ang II significantly increased the expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF). These effects were abrogated by azilsartan, a blocker targeting Ang II type 1 receptors (AT1R). p38 and ERK1/2 in the MAPK pathway were also activated by Ang II. Conclusions: Ang II enhances osteocyte-mediated osteoclastogenesis via AT1R activation, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for bone diseases. Full article

Background: This study compares system-reported organ doses (ODs) to manually calculated mean glandular doses (MGDs) in mammography across multiple centers and manufacturers in Dubai. Methods: A retrospective study of 2754 anonymized mammograms from six clinics in Dubai were randomly retrieved from a central dose survey database. Organ doses were documented along with other dosimetry information like kVp, mAs, filter, target, compression force, and breast thickness. Mean glandular doses, MGDs, were calculated manually for all the patients using the Dance formula and inferential statistical analyses were run to compare the two figures and verify the factors affecting each. Results: Our study’s analysis revealed that manually calculated mean glandular doses (MGDs) provide a more reliable indicator of radiation exposure than organ doses (ODs) reported by DICOM, particularly in multi-vendor scenarios. Manually calculated MGD values were consistently lower than system-reported ODs (MLO view: 0.96 ± 0.37 mGy vs. 1.38 ± 0.45 mGy; CC view: 0.81 ± 0.33 mGy vs. 1.22 ± 0.38 mGy). Significant differences in both system-reported ODs and manually calculated MGDs were observed across centers (p < 0.001). Strong correlations between system-reported ODs and manually calculated MGDs were found for Siemens equipment (r = 0.923, p < 0.001) but only moderate correlations for GE systems (r = 0.638, p < 0.001). Calculated MGD values were significantly higher for GE equipment compared to Siemens (1.49 ± 0.77 mGy vs. 0.93 ± 0.33 mGy, p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study addresses concerns regarding mammography dosimetry accuracy by demonstrating the superiority of mean glandular doses over DICOM-generated organ doses. These findings empower practitioners to optimize dose levels, ensuring safer and more effective breast cancer screening protocols. Full article

Background/Objective: This study evaluates the mean glandular dose (MGD) in mammography screening for women aged 40–69 in Dubai, based on a retrospective analysis of a dose survey involving 2599 participants. Methods: MGD was calculated using the Dance formula. Results: The average MGD was 0.96 ± 0.39 mGy for mediolateral oblique (MLO) views and 0.81 ± 0.33 mGy for craniocaudal (CC) views. Weak inverse correlations were found between age and organ dose (OD) for both views, while a direct relationship was observed between breast thickness and entrance skin dose (ESD). In adjusted models, ESD was strongly associated with MGD (β = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.97, 1.09), while OD showed a moderate association (β = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.40, 0.49). Significant variations in ESD, OD, and MGD were noted across age groups and breast thicknesses. Conclusions: Lower MGD indicates reduced radiation exposure risk, while higher MGD in MLO views suggests improved imaging quality. Monitoring and optimizing MGD are essential for enhancing patient safety and screening efficacy. Full article

Breast cancer has been one of the main causes of death among women recently, and it has been the focus of attention of many specialists and researchers in the health field. Because of its seriousness and spread speed, breast cancer-resisting methods, early diagnosis, diagnosis, and treatment have been the points of research discussion. Many computers-aided diagnosis (CAD) systems have been proposed to reduce the load on physicians and increase the accuracy of breast tumor diagnosis. To the best of our knowledge, combining patient information, including medical history, breast density, age, and other factors, with mammogram features from both breasts in craniocaudal (CC) and mediolateral oblique (MLO) views has not been previously investigated for breast tumor classification. In this paper, we investigated the effectiveness of using those inputs by comparing two combination approaches. The soft voting approach, produced from statistical information-based models (decision tree, random forest, K-nearest neighbor, Gaussian naive Bayes, gradient boosting, and MLP) and an image-based model (CNN), achieved 90% accuracy. Additionally, concatenating statistical and image-based features in a deep learning model achieved 93% accuracy. We found that it produced promising results that would enhance the CAD systems. As a result, this study finds that using both sides of mammograms outperformed the result of using only the infected side. In addition, integrating the mammogram features with statistical information enhanced the accuracy of the tumor classification. Our findings, based on a novel dataset, incorporate both patient information and four-view mammogram images, covering multiple classes: normal, benign, and malignant. Full article