Search Results (235)

Passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims), belonging to the Passifloraceae family, is an economically important plant in tropical and subtropical regions. The advances in functional genomics research of passion fruit have been significantly hindered by its recalcitrance to regeneration and stable transformation. This study establishes the first efficient Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated hairy root transformation system for passion fruit. Utilizing the eGFP marker gene, transformation efficiencies of 11.3% were initially achieved with strains K599, MSU440, and C58C1, with K599 proving most effective. Key transformation parameters were systematically optimized to achieve the following: OD₆₀₀ = 0.6, infection duration 30 min, acetosyringone concentration 100 μM, and a dark co-cultivation period of 2 days. The system’s utility was further enhanced by incorporating the red visual marker RUBY, enabling direct, instrument-free identification of transgenic roots via betaxanthin accumulation. Finally, this system was applied for functional analysis using PeMYB123, which may be involved in proanthocyanidin accumulation. Overexpression of PeMYB123 produced a higher content of proanthocyanidin in hairy roots. Additionally, the PeANR gene involved in the proanthocyanidin pathway was strongly activated in the transgenic hairy roots. This rapid and efficient visually simplified hairy root transformation system provides a powerful tool for functional gene studies in passion fruit. Full article

The establishment of a transient expression system in petals is significant for elucidating gene functions in flowering trees characterized by a prolonged juvenile phase. Genetic improvements in Camellia japonica have been hindered due to the absence of a functional validation platform. In this study, we explored an Agrobacterium-mediated and readily observable transient expression system in camellia petals to systematically optimize four critical factors affecting transformation efficiency. As a result, the bud stage, ‘Banliuxiang’ genotype, OD600 of 1.0, and 1-day co-cultivation achieved the highest intensity of transient expression, and overexpression of the Ruby1 reporter gene induced substantial anthocyanin synthesis, manifested as distinct red pigmentation. Furthermore, the optimized transient expression system revealed that the R2R3-MYB transcription factor CjMYB5, which interacted with CjGL3, promoted anthocyanin biosynthesis in camellia petals by transactivating key DFR structural genes. This transient expression platform not only advances functional genomics studies in ornamental woody species but also lays a foundation for molecular breeding programs in C. japonica. Full article

To support the growing global population, sustainable farming methods like vertical farming must complement traditional agriculture. This study evaluated the effects of various nitrogen fertilizer application rates (N_low (1055.3 ppm), N_rec (1640.9 ppm), N_high (2811.3 ppm), and N_0 (469.9 ppm)) on organic kale (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala ‘Lacinato’) and Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. Vulgaris ‘Ruby/Rhubarb Red’), grown in a vertical growing system installed in a high tunnel during the spring and fall season of 2023 at the organic farm of Tennessee State University. Growth parameters studied included fresh weight, Brix, chlorophyll, plant height, and leaf count. Most parameters did not exhibit statistically significant differences (alpha = 0.05). However, consistent numerical trends and deviations were observed. Although not statistically significant, kale achieved the highest mean fresh weight in N_rec (688.08 g), and Swiss chard in N_high by spring (649.62 g). Among the few parameters, significant differences were observed for Swiss chard plant height (48.07 cm) and leaf count (47.25), with N_high during fall. Findings suggest that while definitive conclusions were limited, recommended nitrogen rates (N_rec) may enhance crop performance and contribute sustainable yields in resource constrained vertical farming systems. Further controlled studies are warranted to validate trends and refine nutrient strategies in vertical growing system. Full article

A mutation affecting eye color was discovered in Macrolophus pygmaeus (Rambur) (Hemiptera: Miridae). This species is an important biological control agent used to manage whiteflies and other arthropod pests in greenhouse crops. Typically, these predators exhibit a dark eye coloration, ranging from garnet to black. However, individuals with bright red eyes have been identified within wild populations, making them easily distinguishable. The objective of this study was to study the mode of inheritance of the red eye color mutation observed. Additionally, a comparative analysis of key biological traits was conducted between individuals carrying the mutation and those from a wild-type population. From these specimens, a population carrying this eye color mutation, referred to as ruby, was established. Genetic analyses revealed that the red coloration is controlled by a single recessive allele located on an autosomal chromosome. Red-eyed individuals exhibited superior performance in biological traits, including greater body size in both males and females, as well as increased fecundity and longevity in females. The utilization of this red-eyed variant could be valuable as a visual marker in ecological and biological studies of population dynamics. Full article

Most vegetable crop production in Mississippi (MS) occurs during the summer, characterized by high temperature and relative humidity. Lettuce yield and harvest quality are significantly affected by heat stress. To avoid the heat stress of the summer months, lettuce production in MS is either produced in controlled environments or during the winter months with cooler temperatures. This period, however, coincides with months with low solar radiation and shorter day length, resulting in a longer growing season and poor harvest quality. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the optimum duration of light supplement on the growth, yield, and water use of greenhouse (GH) lettuce during the winter season in north Mississippi. In this study, three daily supplemental light duration regimes, 0 h, 4 h, and 8 h, starting at sunset, were evaluated across two lettuce cultivars, Green Forest (GF) and Ruby (RB). The study indicated that supplemental lighting significantly increased lettuce growth, yield, and water use. Although day length extension from 4 to 8 h of supplemental light had no yield benefits on the RB cultivar, extending day length from 4 to 8 h increased GF yield by 42%. It was also observed that the effects of light supplementation during low natural light quality at early or later growth stages differ between cultivars. Based on the results obtained from this study, a 4 h and 8 h post-sunset light supplementation is considered optimum for RB and GF lettuce cultivars, respectively, during the winter growing season in MS. Full article

This research aimed to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of neodymium (Nd: 0, 2.885, 5.770, and 8.655 mg L⁻¹, referred to as Nd0, Nd1, Nd2, and Nd3, respectively) and zinc (Zn: 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 mg L⁻¹, designated as Zn1, Zn2, and Zn3, respectively), as well as their combined interaction, on the nutritional content of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) cv. Ruby Sky. The seedlings were grown in a floating hydroponic system under greenhouse conditions. After 48 days of treatment, leaf samples were collected to determine their nutrient content. Leaf contents of N, P, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, B, and Nd were higher with the Nd1 (2.885 mg Nd L⁻¹ + Zn1 (0.1 mg Zn L⁻¹) treatment. The Nd3 (8.655 mg Nd L⁻¹) + Zn3 (0.3 mg Zn L⁻¹) treatment significantly increased the leaf contents of Cu and Zn. The K content was higher in leaves treated with Nd2 (5.770 mg Nd L⁻¹) + Zn3 (0.3 mg Zn L⁻¹). The joint application of Nd and Zn had positive effects on the nutrition of hydroponic lettuce, and Nd promoted the biofortification of lettuce by increasing leaf Zn content. Full article

The cryopreservation of boar sperm effectively extends its storage period but often leads to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, compromising sperm quality. Plant extracts, rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids, have been shown to reduce ROS. Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum), also known as the “ruby of cereals”, is nutritionally rich and holds potential as a cryoprotective additive. This study aimed to determine the optimal concentration of extracts from different parts of djulis, including unhulled seeds and stems, for effective boar semen cryopreservation. Fresh semen from Taiwan indigenous boars was diluted with a modified GLT-cryoprotectant extender containing glycerol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and trehalose. The experimental groups included DSS25, DSS50, DS25, and DS50—representing djulis unshelled seed at 25 mg/mL and 50 mg/mL, and djulis stem at 25 mg/mL and 50 mg/mL in distilled water, respectively—alongside a control group without additives. Post-thaw assessments included sperm motility, kinetic parameters, viability, acrosome integrity, and the antioxidant properties of djulis extracts, such as DPPH radical scavenging activity and total phenolic acid content. Results showed that total motility (TM) was significantly higher in the DSS25 (48.8 ± 3.9), DSS50 (49.0 ± 6.7), and DS50 (49.0 ± 2.4) groups compared to the control group (31.3 ± 4.8). Similarly, progressive motility (PM) was significantly improved in DSS25 (27.5 ± 2.7) and DSS50 (26.8 ± 4.1) versus the control (12.8 ± 3.2). However, for straightness (STR), the control group (87.8 ± 1.3) exhibited significantly higher values than the DS50 group (83.5 ± 1.3) (p < 0.05). Viability and acrosome integrity showed no significant differences across groups. In conclusion, djulis extracts positively influence sperm motility and forward movement, with 1% djulis extract confirmed to enhance the quality of cryopreserved semen. Future research will focus on determining the optimal dosage of djulis extract for improved cryopreservation outcomes. Full article

In 2023, the Polish Society of Gynecologic Oncology (PSGO) published clinical recommendations for the diagnosis, treatment, and care of women with endometrial cancer (EC), developed using the AGREE II (Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation) tool. A 2025 update was initiated in response to new evidence, particularly regarding systemic therapies for metastatic, advanced, or recurrent EC, and the introduction of an updated FIGO classification. A targeted literature review identified relevant phase III clinical trials and systematic reviews, including RUBY, GY-018, AtTend, and DUO-E. These trials were critically assessed by an Expert Panel in accordance with the AGREE II methodology. Updated recommendations were formulated based on this evidence, with a comparative analysis of the old and new FIGO staging systems and visual updates to treatment pathways. Key changes include the addition of immunotherapy (I/O) plus chemotherapy (CHTH) as first-line treatment for all molecular subtypes of high-grade endometrioid and non-endometrioid carcinomas, replacing chemotherapy alone. For MMRp-positive cases, the 2025 version introduces the use of Olaparib alongside Durvalumab and CHTH. HER2-positive MMRp serous carcinoma remains eligible for trastuzumab in combination with CHTH. Second-line treatment guidance remains unchanged for patients who did not receive I/O plus CHTH initially. However, options for those previously treated with this combination are still under evaluation. This update ensures alignment with the latest international standards and reinforces evidence-based, personalized care for EC patients. Full article

Lasers are widely employed in the treatment of melanocytic lesions. This scoping review evaluates 77 studies on the efficacy and safety of laser treatments for café-au-lait macules (CALMs), nevus of Ota (NOA), Becker’s nevus (BN), lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP), and other pigmented lesions. The Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG), particularly the 1064 nm, is the most frequently utilized laser, demonstrating strong efficacy for NOA and other dermal pigmentary disorders. Medium-wavelength lasers, including the Q-switched ruby and Alexandrite lasers, also show promise, though results vary based on lesion depth, skin type, and treatment protocols. Recurrence and adverse effects, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and hypopigmentation, are common, particularly in patients with darker skin tones. Future studies should standardize and optimize laser parameters across lesion types and skin tones, improve long-term efficacy, and prioritize inclusion of patients with diverse Fitzpatrick skin types to evaluate differential outcomes and promote equitable treatment efficacy. Full article

Clinical documentation, particularly the hospital discharge report (HDR), is essential for ensuring continuity of care, yet its preparation is time-consuming and places a considerable clinical and administrative burden on healthcare professionals. Recent advancements in Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and the use of prompt engineering in large language models (LLMs) offer opportunities to automate parts of this process, improving efficiency and documentation quality while reducing administrative workload. This study aims to design a digital system based on LLMs capable of automatically generating HDRs using information from clinical course notes and emergency care reports. The system was developed through iterative cycles, integrating various instruction flows and evaluating five different LLMs combined with prompt engineering strategies and agent-based architectures. Throughout the development, more than 60 discharge reports were generated and assessed, leading to continuous system refinement. In the production phase, 40 pneumology discharge reports were produced, receiving positive feedback from physicians, with an average score of 2.9 out of 4, indicating the system’s usefulness, with only minor edits needed in most cases. The ongoing expansion of the system to additional services and its integration within a hospital electronic system highlights the potential of LLMs, when combined with effective prompt engineering and agent-based architectures, to generate high-quality medical content and provide meaningful support to healthcare professionals. Hospital discharge reports (HDRs) are pivotal for continuity of care but consume substantial clinician time. Generative AI systems based on large language models (LLMs) could streamline this process, provided they deliver accurate, multilingual, and workflow-compatible outputs. We pursued a three-stage, design-science approach. Proof-of-concept: five state-of-the-art LLMs were benchmarked with multi-agent prompting to produce sample HDRs and define the optimal agent structure. Prototype: 60 HDRs spanning six specialties were generated and compared with clinician originals using ROUGE with average scores compatible with specialized news summarizing models in Spanish and Catalan (lower scores). A qualitative audit of 27 HDR pairs showed recurrent divergences in medication dose (56%) and social context (52%). Pilot deployment: The AI-HDR service was embedded in the hospital’s electronic health record. In the pilot, 47 HDRs were autogenerated in real-world settings and reviewed by attending physicians. Missing information and factual errors were flagged in 53% and 47% of drafts, respectively, while written assessments diminished the importance of these errors. An LLM-driven, agent-orchestrated pipeline can safely draft real-world HDRs, cutting administrative overhead while achieving clinician-acceptable quality, not without errors that require human supervision. Future work should refine specialty-specific prompts to curb omissions, add temporal consistency checks to prevent outdated data propagation, and validate time savings and clinical impact in multi-center trials. Full article

As one of the key processes of photosynthesis, carbon fixation and reduction is one of the most important biochemical reactions on planet Earth. Yet, reducing oxidized carbon elements through directly harnessing solar energy by using water-soluble, simple enzymes continues to be challenging. Here, CO₂ and bicarbonate were found to be transformed into methanol by fluorescent protein mRuby by using light as the single energy input. The binding of substrates to mRuby chromophore was supported by crystallography and light spectrometry. Gas chromatography showed the generation of methanol in mRuby-bicarbonate aqueous solution upon sunlight illumination. Atomic-resolution serial structures of mRuby showed snapshots of the step-by-step reduction of bicarbonate and CO₂. The amino, imino, or carboxylate group of residues near the chromophore was within hydrogen bonding distances of the substrates, respectively. A decrease in fluorescence was observed upon binding of bicarbonate, and the energy liberated from fluorescence was presumably utilized for methanol production. This research represents an exciting example of sunlight-driven photobiocatalysis by water-soluble small proteins. The new, green, and sustainable mechanisms uncovered here indicated great promises to harness solar energy straightforwardly, for, i.e., fuel production and green chemistry. Full article

Caragana intermedia is a perennial shrub species in the genus Caragana (Fabaceae), demonstrating remarkable stress resistance and adaptability. However, research on its somatic embryogenesis (SE) and genetic transformation techniques remains limited. In this study, we established an SE system by utilizing immature cotyledons isolated from young C. intermedia seeds. Our findings demonstrated that the immature cotyledons at 6–7 weeks after flowering (WAF) were the best explants for SE. The optimal embryo induction medium consisted of an MS basal medium supplemented with 5 mg/L α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), 3 mg/L 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA), 30 g/L sucrose, 7 g/L agar, and 500 mg/L hydrolyzed casein. Cotyledon-stage embryos germinated on a half-strength MS medium, exhibiting a 34.36% germination rate. Based on the SE system, we developed a preliminary genetic transformation system using the RUBY reporter gene, which successfully generated transgenic calli and cotyledon-stage embryos. The establishment of the SE system is expected to shorten breeding cycles, facilitate propagation of superior cultivars, and support large-scale industrial applications in C. intermedia. Furthermore, the stable transformation system provides a platform for molecular breeding and gene function verification. Full article

The Silvermines Pb-Zn-Ag-Ba orebodies comprise vein, replacement, cross-cutting and stratiform mineralization mostly hosted in Lower Carboniferous limestones in the vicinity of a major ENE and E-W trending normal fault array and represent a classic example of Irish-Type Zn-Pb mineralization. Historically the deposits have been exploited at various times, but the major limestone-hosted Zn-Pb-Ba mineralization was not discovered until the 1960s. Structurally controlled crosscutting vein and breccia mineralization represent pathways of hydrothermal fluids escaping from the Silvermines fault at depth that exhaled and replaced shallowly buried Waulsortian limestones creating the larger stratiform orebodies such as the Upper G and B-Zones. The B-Zone, comprising a pre-mining resource of 4.64 Mt of 4.53% Zn, 3.58% Pb, 30 g/t Ag has a locally highly variable host mineralogy dominated by pyrite, barite, siderite, within dolomitic and limestone breccias with local silica-haematite alteration. A small, highly unusual pod of very high-grade Ag-rich mineralization in the B-Zone, the 4611 Pod, discovered in 1978, has not been previously documented. Unpublished records, field notes, and mineralogical and chemical data from consultant reports have been assimilated to document this interesting and unusual occurrence. The pod, representing an irregular lens of mineralization ca 2 m thick and representing 500 t, occurs within the B-Zone orebody and comprises high grade Zn and Pb sulfides with significant patches of proustite-pyrargyrite (ruby silvers) and a host of associated Pb, Ag, Sb, As, Cu, Ge sulfide minerals, including significant argyrodite. Although evidence of any distinct feeder below the pod is lacking, the nature of the pod, its unusual mineralogy and its paragenesis suggests that it represents a small, possibly late source of exotic hydrothermal fluid where it entered the B-Zone stratiform mineralizing system. Full article

The spatial navigation of filamentous fungi was compared for three species, namely Pycnoporus cinnabarinus, Neurospora crassa wild type and ro-1 mutant, and Armillaria mellea, in microfluidic structures. The analysis of the navigation of these filamentous fungi in open and especially confining environments suggests that they perform space exploration using a hierarchical, three-layered system of information processing. The output of the space navigation of a single hypha is the result of coordination and competition between three programs with their corresponding subroutines: (i) the sensing of narrow passages (remote- or contact-based); (ii) directional memory; and (iii) branching (collision-induced or stochastic). One information-processing level up, the spatial distribution of multiple, closely collocated hyphae is the result of a combination of (i) negative autotropism and (ii) cytoplasm reallocation between closely related branches (with anastomosis as an alternative subroutine to increase robustness). Finally, the mycelium is the result of the sum of quasi-autonomous sub-populations of hyphae performing distribution in space in parallel based on the different spatial conditions and constraints found locally. The efficiency of space exploration by filamentous fungi appears to be the result of the synergy of various biological algorithms integrated into a hierarchical architecture of information processing, balancing complexity with specialization. Full article

Herein, the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs)/CRISPRs-associated protein 9 (Cas9) technology for genome editing was used to develop an efficient gene editing system for Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis and generate a new Eucalyptus germplasm with reduced lignin content in the pulp for environmental sustainability in papermaking. By targeting the cinnamate-4-hydroxylase (C4H) gene in E. urophylla × E. grandis, the recombinant plasmid pHEE401E-35S-RUBY-EuC4H was constructed through homologous recombination. This plasmid was then transformed into E. urophylla × E. grandis callus tissue. Using the RUBY gene as a marker, positive transformants were screened based on the callus tissue phenotype. Subsequent PCR and sequencing confirmed the successful creation of mutants with a significantly edited EuC4H gene. This method offers a valuable framework and guidance for genetically improving and establishing an efficient gene editing system in Eucalyptus. Full article