Search Results (5,391)

Improving charge transport in the aggregated state of nanocomposites is challenging due to the large number of defects present at grain boundaries. To enhance the charge transfer and photogenerated carrier extraction of MnO_x nanofibers, a MnO_x/GO (graphene oxide) nanocomposite was prepared. The effects of GO content and bias on the optoelectronic properties were studied. Representative light sources at 405, 650, 780, 808, 980, and 1064 nm were used to examine the photoelectric signals. The results indicate that the MnO_x/GO nanocomposites have photocurrent switching behaviours from the visible region to the NIR (near-infrared) when the amount of GO added is optimised. It was also found that even with zero bias and storage of the nanocomposite sample at room temperature for over 8 years, a good photoelectric signal could still be extracted. This demonstrates that the MnO_x/GO nanocomposites present a strong built-in electric field that drives the directional motion of photogenerated carriers, avoids the photogenerated carrier recombination, and reflect a good photophysical stability. The strength of the built-in electric field is strongly affected by the component ratios of the resulting nanocomposite. The formation of the built-in electric field results from interfacial charge transfer in the nanocomposite. Modulating the charge behaviour of nanocomposites can significantly improve the physicochemical properties of materials when excited by light with different wavelengths and can be used in multidisciplinary applications. Since the recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs is the key bottleneck in multidisciplinary fields, this study provides a simple, low-cost method of tailoring defects at grain boundaries in the aggregated state of nanocomposites. These results can be used as a reference for multidisciplinary fields with low energy consumption. Full article

Immunoglobulin light chains are essential components of intact immunoglobulins, traditionally believed to be produced exclusively by B cells. Physiologically, excess light chains not assembled into intact antibodies exist as free light chains (FLCs). Increasingly recognized as important biomarkers for diseases such as multiple myeloma, systemic amyloidosis, and light chain-related renal injuries, FLCs have also been shown in recent decades to originate from non-B cell sources, including epithelial and carcinoma cells. This review primarily focuses on novel non-B cell-derived FLCs, which challenge the conventional paradigms. It systematically compares B cell-derived and non-B cell-derived FLCs, analyzing differences in genetic features, physicochemical properties, and functional roles in both health and disease. By elucidating the distinctions and similarities in their nature as immune regulators and disease mediators, we highlight the significant clinical potential of FLCs, particularly non-B cell-derived FLCs, for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Full article

Proteomic profiling using ultrafast chromatography–mass spectrometry provides valuable insights into plant responses to abiotic factors by linking molecular changes with physiological outcomes. Nanopriming, a novel approach involving the treatment of seeds with nanoparticles, has demonstrated potential for enhancing plant metabolism and productivity. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying nanoparticle-induced effects remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the impact of gold nanoparticle (Au-NP) seed priming on the proteome of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seedlings. Differentially regulated proteins (DRPs) were identified, revealing a pronounced reorganization of the photosynthetic apparatus (PSA). Both the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle were affected, with significant upregulation of chloroplast-associated protein complexes, including PsbC (CP43), chlorophyll a/b-binding proteins, Photosystem I subunits (PsaA and PsaB), and the γ-subunit of ATP synthase. The large subunit of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBisCo) exhibited over a threefold increase in expression in Au-NP-treated seedlings. The proteomic changes in the large subunit RuBisCo L were corroborated by transcriptomic data. Importantly, the proteomic changes were supported by physiological and biochemical analyses, ultrastructural modifications in chloroplasts, and increased photosynthetic activity. Our findings suggest that Au-NP nanopriming triggers coordinated molecular responses, enhancing the functional activity of the PSA. Identified DRPs may serve as potential biomarkers for further elucidation of nanopriming mechanisms and for the development of precision strategies to improve crop productivity. Full article

This study investigates the viability of a native Scenedesmus sp. strain for use in a 50 L bubble column photobioreactor designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions under simulated spring, extreme summer, and winter conditions. The experiments were conducted by placing the reactor in a controlled climatic chamber, which allowed us to regulate the temperature, light intensity, and day–night cycles throughout the entire experiment. The results showed that under simulated spring conditions (a maximum temperature of 22 °C), the algal culture grew continuously for 61 days. Under extreme summer conditions (a maximum temperature of 39 °C), an initial drop in cell density was followed by recovery and continued growth over 75 days, although biomass production was 35% lower. Under winter conditions (a maximum temperature of 10 °C), the culture failed, indicating the need to prevent temperatures below 10 °C. In terms of biomass production, the culture densities achieved were 1.04 g L⁻¹ and 0.68 g L⁻¹ in the spring and summer trials, respectively. The Scenedesmus sp. strain demonstrated high carbon capture efficiency, tolerance to extreme heat, and sustained growth without the need for fresh medium or pH adjustments for over 60 days during spring and extreme summer conditions, confirming its potential for outdoor applications. Full article

Sulfur fumigation (SF), acid dipping (HCl treatment, HAT), and their combination (SF+HAT) are common methods for long-term preservation and color protection of litchi. However, their effects on the metabolic profile of the litchi pericarp have not been investigated. SF resulted in a yellowish-green pericarp by up-regulating lightness (L*), b*, C*, and h° but down-regulating total anthocyanin content (TAC) and a*, while HAT resulted in a reddish coloration by up-regulating a*, b*, and C* but down-regulating L*, h°, and TAC. SF+HAT recovered reddish color with similar L*, C* to SF but a*, b*, h°, and TAC between SF and HAT. Differential accumulated metabolites (DAMs) detected in HAT (vs. control) were more than those in SF (vs. control), but similar to those in SF+HAT (vs. control). SF specifically down-regulated the content of cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside, sinapinaldehyde, salicylic acid, and tyrosol, but up-regulated 6 flavonoids (luteolin, kaempferol-3-O-(6″-malonyl)galactoside, hesperetin-7-O-glucoside, etc.). Five pathways (biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids, flavonoid biosynthesis, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, glutathione metabolism, and cysteine and methionine metabolism) were commonly enriched among the three treatments, which significantly up-regulated sulfur-containing metabolites (mainly glutathione, methionine, and homocystine) and down-regulated substrates for browning (mainly procyanidin B2, C1, and coniferyl alcohol). These results provide metabolic evidence for the effect of three treatments on coloration and storability of litchi. Full article

This paper presents the design and implementation of a high-precision vehicle detection and classification system for toll stations on national highways in Colombia, leveraging LiDAR-based 3D point cloud processing and supervised machine learning. The system integrates a multi-sensor architecture, including a LiDAR scanner, high-resolution cameras, and Doppler radars, with an embedded computing platform for real-time processing and on-site inference. The methodology covers data preprocessing, feature extraction, descriptor encoding, and classification using Support Vector Machines. The system supports eight vehicular categories established by national regulations, which present significant challenges due to the need to differentiate categories by axle count, the presence of lifted axles, and vehicle usage. These distinctions affect toll fees and require a classification strategy beyond geometric profiling. The system achieves $89.9\%$ overall classification accuracy, including $96.2\%$ for light vehicles and $99.0\%$ for vehicles with three or more axles. It also incorporates license plate recognition for complete vehicle traceability. The system was deployed at an operational toll station and has run continuously under real traffic and environmental conditions for over eighteen months. This framework represents a robust, scalable, and strategic technological component within Intelligent Transportation Systems and contributes to data-driven decision-making for road management and toll operations. Full article

The plant-specific TCP transcription factor family originated before the emergence of land plants. However, the timing of the appearance of their specific transcriptional repressor family, the TCP Interactor containing EAR motif protein (TIE), remains unknown. Here, through phylogenetic analyses, we traced the origin of the TIE family to the early evolution of the embryophyte, while an earlier diversification in algae cannot be ruled out. Strikingly, we found that the number of TIE members is highly constrained compared to the expansion of TCPs in angiosperms. We used co-expression data to identify potential TIE-TCP regulatory targets across Arabidopsis thaliana and rice. Notably, the expression pattern between these species is remarkably similar. TCP Class I and Class II genes formed two distinct clusters, and TIE genes cluster within the TCP Class I group. This study provides a comprehensive evolutionary analysis of the TIE family, shedding light on its conserved role in the regulation of gene transcription in flowering plant development. Full article

Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus are opportunistic pathogens that cause life-threatening infections. This study focused on using photodynamic inactivation (PDI) to eliminate mixed biofilms of C. albicans–S. aureus formed on poly (urethane) (PU) discs functionalized with a nanocomposite layer containing phloxine B (PhB). Additionally, the effect of PDI on the ALS3 and HWP1 genes of C. albicans was examined in mixed biofilms. Spectral analysis showed a continuous release of PhB from the nanocomposite in Mueller–Hinton broth within 48 h, with a released amount of PhB < 5% of the total amount. The anti-biofilm effectiveness of the light-activated nanocomposite with PhB showed a reduction in the survival rate of biofilm cells to 0.35% and 31.79% for S. aureus and C. albicans, respectively, compared to the control biofilm on PU alone. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the nanocomposite effectively reduced the colonization and growth of the mixed biofilm. While PDI reduced the regulation of the ALS3 gene, the HWP1 gene was upregulated. Nevertheless, the cell survival of the C. albicans–S. aureus biofilm was significantly reduced, showing great potential for the elimination of mixed biofilms. Full article

With the promotion of national fitness, the requirements for regulating indoor environments during non-competition periods are low and relatively flexible under the trend of composite sports buildings. To maximize the use of natural ventilation and lighting for energy savings, passive optimization design based on building ontology has emerged as an effective strategy. This paper focuses on the spatial prototype of large- and medium-sized gymnasiums, optimizing key geometric design parameters and envelope structure parameters that influence energy consumption. This optimization employs a combination of orthogonal experiments and performance simulations. This study identifies the degree to which each factor affects energy consumption in the competition hall and determines the optimal low-energy consumption gymnasium prototype. The results reveal that the skylight area ratio is the most significant factor impacting the energy consumption of large- and medium-sized gymnasiums. The optimized gymnasium prototype reduced energy consumption by 5.3%~50.9% compared to all experimental combinations. This study provides valuable references and insights for architects during the initial stages of designing sports buildings to achieve low energy consumption. Full article

Soil organic carbon (SOC) pool plays an extremely important role in regulating the global carbon (C) cycle and climate change. Atmospheric nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) deposition caused by human activities has significant impacts on soil C sequestration potential of terrestrial ecosystem. To investigate the effects of N and P deposition on soil C sequestration and C-N coupling relationship in broad-leaved evergreen forests, a 6-year field nutrient regulation experiment was implemented in subtropical Castanopsis sclerophylla forests with four different N and P additions: N addition (100 kg N·hm⁻²·year⁻¹), N + P (100 kg N·hm⁻²·year⁻¹ + 50 kg P·hm⁻²·year⁻¹), P addition (50 kg P·hm⁻²·year⁻¹), and CK (0 kg N·hm⁻²·year⁻¹). The changes in the C and N contents and stable isotope distributions (δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N) of different soil organic fractions were examined. The results showed that the SOC and total nitrogen (STN) (p > 0.05) increased with N addition, while SOC significantly decreased with P addition (p < 0.05), and N + P treatment has low effect on SOC, STN (p > 0.05). By density grouping, it was found that N addition significantly increased light fraction C and N (LFOC, LFN), significantly decreased the light fraction C to N ratio (LFOC/N) (p < 0.05), and increased heavy fraction C and N (HFOC, HFN) accumulation and light fraction to total organic C ratio (LFOC/SOC, p > 0.05). Contrary to N addition, P addition was detrimental to the accumulation of LFOC, LFN and reduced LFOC/SOC. It was found that different reactive oxidized carbon (ROC) increased under N addition but ROC/SOC did not change, while N + P and P treatments increased ROC/SOC, resulting in a decrease in SOC chemical stability. Stable isotope analysis showed that N addition promoted the accumulation of new soil organic matter, whereas P addition enhanced the transformation and utilization of C and N from pre-existing organic matter. Additionally, N addition indirectly increased LFOC by significantly decreasing pH; significantly contributed to LFOC and ROC by increasing STN accumulation promoted by NO₃⁻-N and NH₄⁺-N; and decreased light fraction δ¹³C by significantly increasing dissolved organic C (p < 0.05). P addition had directly significant negative effect on LFOC and SOC (p < 0.05). In conclusion, six-year N deposition enhances soil C and N sequestration while the P enrichment reduces the content of soil C, N fractions and stability in Castanopsis sclerophylla forests. The results provide a scientific basis for predicting the soil C sink function of evergreen broad-leaved forest ecosystem under the background of future climate change. Full article

DNA methylation, mediated by DNA methyltransferases (DMTs) and demethylases (DMLs), is an important epigenetic modification that maintains genomic stability and regulates gene expression in plant growth, development, and stress responses. However, a comprehensive characterization of these gene families in Populus sect. Turanga remains lacking. In this study, eight PeDMT and two PeDML genes were identified in Populus euphratica, and six PpDMT and three PpDML genes in Populus pruinosa. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that DMTs and DMLs could be classified into four and three subfamilies, respectively. The analysis of cis-acting elements indicated that the promoter regions of both DMTs and DMLs were enriched with elements responsive to growth and development, light, phytohormones, and stress. Collinearity analysis detected three segmentally duplicated gene pairs (PeDMT5/8, PeDML1/2, and PpDML2/3), suggesting potential functional diversification. Transcriptome profiling showed that several PeDMTs and PeDMLs exhibited leaf shape- and developmental stage-specific expression patterns, with PeDML1 highly expressed during early stages and in broad-ovate leaves. Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing revealed corresponding decreases in DNA methylation levels, suggesting that active demethylation may contribute to heteromorphic leaf formation. Overall, this study provides significant insights for exploring the functions and expression regulation of plant DMTs and DMLs and will contribute to future research unraveling the molecular mechanisms of epigenetic regulation in P. euphratica. Full article

The red plant phenotype of R1 cotton is a genetic marker produced by light-induced anthocyanin accumulation. GhPAP1D controls this trait. There are two 228 bp tandem repeats upstream of GhPAP1D in R1 cotton. In this study, GUS staining assays in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. demonstrated that tandem repeats in the GhPAP1D promoter-enhanced transcriptional activity. GhPAP1D is a homolog of A. thaliana AtPAP1. AtPAP1’s expression is regulated by photomorphogenesis-related transcription factors such as AtHY5 and AtBBXs. We identified the homologs of A. thaliana AtHY5, AtBBX21, and AtBBX24 in R1 cotton, designated as GhHY5, GhBBX21, and GhBBX24, respectively. Y1H assays confirmed that GhHY5, GhBBX21, and GhBBX24 each bound to the GhPAP1D promoter. Dual-luciferase reporter assays revealed that GhHY5 weakly activated the promoter activity of GhPAP1D. Heterologous expression assays in A. thaliana indicated that GhBBX21 promoted anthocyanin accumulation, whereas GhBBX24 had the opposite effect. Dual-luciferase assays showed GhBBX21 activated GhPAP1D transcription, while GhBBX24 repressed it. Further study indicated that GhHY5 did not enhance GhBBX21-mediated transcriptional activation of GhPAP1D but alleviates GhBBX24-induced repression. Together, our results demonstrate that GhBBX21 and GhBBX24 antagonistically regulate anthocyanin accumulation in R1 cotton under GhHY5 mediation, providing insights into light-responsive anthocyanin biosynthesis in cotton. Full article

Fungi, from saprophytes to pathogens, face predictable daily fluctuations in light, temperature, humidity, and nutrient availability. To cope, they have evolved an internal circadian clock that confers a major adaptive advantage. This review critically synthesizes current knowledge on the molecular architecture and physiological relevance of fungal circadian systems, moving beyond the canonical Neurospora crassa model to explore the broader phylogenetic diversity of timekeeping mechanisms. We examine the core transcription-translation feedback loop (TTFL) centered on the FREQUENCY/WHITE COLLAR (FRQ/WCC) system and contrast it with divergent and non-canonical oscillators, including the metabolic rhythms of yeasts and the universally conserved peroxiredoxin (PRX) oxidation cycles. A central theme is the clock’s role in gating cellular defenses against oxidative, osmotic, and nutritional stress, enabling fungi to anticipate and withstand environmental insults through proactive regulation. We provide a detailed analysis of chrono-pathogenesis, where the circadian control of virulence factors aligns fungal attacks with windows of host vulnerability, with a focus on experimental evidence from pathogens like Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum, and Magnaporthe oryzae. The review explores the downstream pathways—including transcriptional cascades, post-translational modifications, and epigenetic regulation—that translate temporal signals into physiological outputs such as developmental rhythms in conidiation and hyphal branching. Finally, we highlight critical knowledge gaps, particularly in understudied phyla like Basidiomycota, and discuss future research directions. This includes the exploration of novel clock architectures and the emerging, though speculative, hypothesis of “chrono-therapeutics”—interventions designed to disrupt fungal clocks—as a forward-looking concept for managing fungal infections. Full article

Maize–soybean intercropping is widely practised to improve land use efficiency, but shading from maize often limits soybean growth and productivity. Melatonin, a plant signaling molecule with antioxidant and growth-regulating properties, has shown potential in mitigating various abiotic stresses, including low light. This study investigated the efficacy of applying foliar melatonin (MT) to enhance shade tolerance and yield performance of soybean under intercropping. Four melatonin concentrations (0, 50, 100, and 150 µM) were applied to soybean grown under mono- and intercropping systems. The results showed that intercropping significantly reduced growth, photosynthetic activity, and yield-related traits. However, the MT application, particularly at 100 µM (MT₁₀₀), effectively mitigated these declines. MT₁₀₀ improved plant height (by up to 32%), leaf area (8%), internode length (up to 41%), grain yield (32%), and biomass dry matter (30%) compared to untreated intercropped plants. It also enhanced SPAD chlorophyll values, photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters such as Photosystem II efficiency (ɸPSII), maximum PSII quantum yield (Fv/Fm), photochemical quenching (qp), electron transport rate (ETR), Rubisco activity, and soluble protein content. These findings suggest that foliar application of melatonin, especially at 100 µM, can improve shade resilience in soybean by enhancing physiological and biochemical performance, offering a practical strategy for optimizing productivity in intercropping systems. Full article

The growing popularity of Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs), such as e-scooters, has revolutionized urban mobility by offering compact, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly transportation solutions. However, safety concerns, including inadequate infrastructure, poor protective measures, and high accident rates, remain critical challenges. This paper presents the design and development of an innovative self-balancing microvehicle under the H2020 LEONARDO project, which aims to address these challenges through advanced engineering and user-centric design. The vehicle combines features of monowheels and e-scooters, integrating cutting-edge technologies to enhance safety, stability, and usability. The design adheres to European regulations, including Germany’s eKFV standards, and incorporates user preferences identified through representative online surveys of 1500 PLEV users. These preferences include improved handling on uneven surfaces, enhanced signaling capabilities, and reduced instability during maneuvers. The prototype features a lightweight composite structure reinforced with carbon fibers, a high-torque motorized front wheel, and multiple speed modes tailored to different conditions, such as travel in pedestrian areas, use by novice riders, and advanced users. Braking tests demonstrate deceleration values of up to 3.5 m/s², comparable to PLEV market standards and exceeding regulatory minimums, while smooth acceleration ramps ensure rider stability and safety. Additional features, such as identification plates and weight-dependent motor control, enhance compliance with local traffic rules and prevent misuse. The vehicle’s design also addresses common safety concerns, such as curb navigation and signaling, by incorporating large-diameter wheels, increased ground clearance, and electrically operated direction indicators. Future upgrades include the addition of a second rear wheel for enhanced stability, skateboard-like rear axle modifications for improved maneuverability, and hybrid supercapacitors to minimize fire risks and extend battery life. With its focus on safety, regulatory compliance, and rider-friendly innovations, this microvehicle represents a significant advancement in promoting safe and sustainable urban mobility. Full article