Search Results (17,888)

Heat shock transcription factors (HSFs) play a central role in mediating plant responses to abiotic stress. Anthocyanins, one of the most important secondary metabolites in plants, contribute to both stress tolerance and the enhancement in crop nutritional quality. However, the possible role of HSFs in regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) remains unknown. This study conducted a genome-wide analysis of the sweet potato HSF gene family to explore their functions related to anthocyanin metabolism and salinity stress. Multiple stress-inducible promoter elements were identified within IbHSF22, including those induced by drought, salt, heat, ABA, and light. For functional characterization of this gene, a 35S-driven overexpression construct was prepared and then transformed into Nicotiana benthamiana. Overexpression of IbHSF22 led to a nearly two-fold increase in anthocyanin content, concurrently with the elevated expression of key structural genes such as NtCHS, NtF3H, NtDFR, and NtANS. Under salt stress, the transgenic plants also exhibited enhanced tolerance, which was associated with maintained antioxidant enzyme activity and concerted induction of stress-responsive genes, events that collectively resulted in decreased oxidative damage. Therefore, the present work identifies IbHSF22 as an integrator of anthocyanin biosynthesis and salt defense mechanisms. These findings provide a conceptual basis and candidate gene strategy for dual improvement in stress resilience and nutritional quality in sweet potato breeding. Full article

The study of the relationship between testicular morphology and sperm quality is a pressing issue, for which molecular genetic approaches, including quantitative analysis of gene expression, are being implemented. The aim of this study was to identify correlations between the histomorphological structure of the testes, fresh sperm parameters, and the expression level of key spermatogenesis genes—TGFB2 and DMRT1—in roosters. The experiment was conducted on 10 Russian Snow White roosters aged 28–32 weeks. Sperm quality was assessed by volume, sperm concentration, total and progressive motility, and viability; histological analysis of the rooster testes was performed. The relative expression of the TGFB2 and DMRT1 genes in sperm was analyzed. Multiple correlation analysis of the data was conducted. A positive correlation was found between ejaculate volume and the number of spermatogonia (p = +0.651), a negative correlation between ejaculate volume and the number of second-order spermatocytes (p = −0.704), a negative correlation between the total cross-sectional area of the seminiferous tubules of the testes and sperm viability (p = −0.782), a negative correlation between the number of seminiferous tubules and the average diameter of their cross-section (p = −0.685), and a positive correlation between total and progressive sperm motility (p = +0.794). Analysis of TGFB2 and DMRT1 gene expression in sperm demonstrated a certain relationship between molecular genetic mechanisms and histomorphometric parameters. The expression level of the DMRT1 gene, which plays a key role in sex determination in birds during embryogenesis, had a number of negative correlations with such parameters as testicle weight (r = −0.782), total/progressive sperm motility (r = −0.552; r = −0.612), and viability (r = −0.552). Expression of the TGFB2 gene had no significant relationship with the studied parameters, but correlation analysis revealed a moderate positive relationship (r = +0.321) with DMRT1 gene expression. The data obtained indicate the expediency of integrating morphometric, cellular, and molecular analysis for an objective assessment of rooster reproductive function. Full article

Breast cancer is a complex and highly heterogeneous disease, and its management is increasingly moving towards the principles of precision medicine. In this context, the androgen receptor (AR) has emerged as a promising therapeutic target, particularly within the challenging subgroup of triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) that express it. This scoping review provides a comprehensive and detailed analysis of the multifaceted role of AR in breast cancer. We delve into its intricate molecular structure, its differential function in ER-positive vs. TNBC subtypes, and the detailed molecular mechanisms that govern its activity. We provide a thorough examination of the landmark clinical trials with antiandrogen agents, including not only enzalutamide but also other first- and second-generation compounds, and discuss the emerging data on their efficacy. Furthermore, we will explore the critical challenges that hinder their widespread clinical adoption, such as primary and acquired resistance mechanisms, the need for robust predictive biomarkers, and the heterogeneity of AR expression. Finally, we outline future research directions, focusing on novel combination therapies and the development of next-generation agents and predictive tools to optimize patient selection and improve clinical outcomes. Full article

To elucidate the potential of integrated multi-omics approaches for studying systemic mechanisms of mycorrhizal fungi in mediating plant-microbe interactions, this study employed the Tuber-inoculated Corylus system as a model to demonstrate how high-throughput profiling can investigate how fungal inoculation reshapes the rhizosphere microbial community and correlates with host metabolism. A pot experiment was conducted comparing inoculated (CTG) and non-inoculated (CK) plants, followed by integrated multi-omics analysis involving high-throughput sequencing (16S/ITS), functional prediction (PICRUSt2/FUNGuild), and metabolomics (UPLC-MS/MS). The results demonstrated that inoculation significantly restructured the fungal community, establishing Tuber as a dominant symbiotic guild and effectively suppressing pathogenic fungi. Although bacterial alpha diversity remained stable, the functional profile shifted markedly toward symbiotic support, including antibiotic biosynthesis and environmental adaptation. Concurrently, root metabolic reprogramming occurred, characterized by upregulation of strigolactones and downregulation of gibberellin A5, suggesting a potential “symbiosis-priority” strategy wherein carbon allocation shifted from structural growth to energy storage, and plant defense transitioned from broad-spectrum resistance to targeted regulation. Multi-omics correlation analysis further revealed notable associations between microbial communities and root metabolites, proposing a model in which Tuber acts as a core regulator that collaborates with the host to assemble a complementary micro-ecosystem. In summary, the integrated approach successfully captured multi-level changes, suggesting that Tuber-Corylus symbiosis constitutes a fungus-driven process that transforms the rhizosphere from a competitive state into a mutualistic state, thereby illustrating the role of mycorrhizal fungi as “ecosystem engineers” and providing a methodological framework for green agriculture research. Full article

While extant literature has thoroughly investigated carbon mitigation in grain production and agricultural infrastructure’s yield effects, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding their synergistic pathways for emission reduction. This empirical study examines how agricultural infrastructure contributes to carbon emission reduction in grain production across 30 Chinese provinces from 2009 to 2023. Using two-way fixed-effects and mediation-effect models, we demonstrate that agricultural infrastructure significantly inhibits carbon emissions intensity, with effects varying by type of infrastructure: agricultural water infrastructure, digital infrastructure, agricultural power infrastructure and rural transportation infrastructure, in descending order. We identify three key mechanisms: planting structure optimization, technological progress, and disaster incidence reduction. Specifically, agricultural water infrastructure and digital infrastructure operate through structural improvement and technological advancement, while agricultural water infrastructure and rural transportation infrastructure function through disaster mitigation. Heterogeneity analysis reveals distinct regional patterns: northern regions benefit more from agricultural water infrastructure and rural transportation infrastructure, while southern regions show stronger effects from agricultural water infrastructure and digital infrastructure. In major grain-producing areas, agricultural water infrastructure and agricultural power infrastructure demonstrate significant emissions reduction, whereas non-core production regions rely more on agricultural water infrastructure and digital infrastructure. Additionally, infrastructure generates greater yield-enhancing effects for rice and wheat versus corn. Policy implications include strengthening investments in agricultural water infrastructure, promoting digital agriculture, and developing region-specific infrastructure strategies. Full article

White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) remains one of the most devastating pathogens in global shrimp aquaculture, causing massive economic losses annually. This study employed comparative transcriptomics to elucidate the molecular basis of the differential resistance to WSSV between the highly susceptible Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) and the remarkably resistant oriental river prawn (Macrobrachium nipponense). Our analysis of gill, hepatopancreas, and muscle tissues at 24 h post-infection revealed fundamentally distinct defense strategies. The resistant M. nipponense employs a unique “proactive homeostatic reinforcement” strategy, characterized by significant enrichment of pathways central to cellular homeostasis, including signal transduction, cellular processes, and transport/catabolism. This approach, supported by coordinated up-regulation of heat shock proteins and structural genes, enables effective viral control without triggering excessive immune activation. In contrast, susceptible L. vannamei displays either widespread metabolic dysregulation leading to systemic collapse in moribund individuals or dependency on specific immune pathways (Toll-like receptor signaling and apoptosis) in survivors. Through comparative KEGG analysis, we identified heat shock protein 70 kDa (HSP70, K03283) as a key conserved gene and functionally validated its critical role in antiviral defense using RNA interference. Knockdown of HSP70 in M. nipponense significantly increased cumulative mortality and viral load, confirming its essential protective function. These findings provide novel insights into crustacean antiviral immunity and identify promising genetic targets for breeding WSSV-resistant shrimp strains, offering sustainable solutions for disease management in aquaculture. Full article

Background: Recalcitrant plantar fasciitis (RPF) is a common cause of chronic heel pain, resistant to conservative treatment in up to 10% of cases. A biomechanical association exists between isolated gastrocnemius contracture and increased tension on the plantar fascia. In this context, gastrocnemius recession (GR) has emerged as a surgical intervention aimed at reducing fascial strain and improving functional outcomes. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251028862). Randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of GR in patients with RPF were included. Searches were performed in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2 tool, and the certainty of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach. Primary outcomes included foot function (AOFAS), pain (VAS), and ankle dorsiflexion range (FDTPA). Results: Five studies encompassing 150 patients were included. Meta-analysis revealed statistically significant improvements in foot function (AOFAS, standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.81; 95% CI: 0.26–1.36), pain reduction (VAS, SMD = −1.17; 95% CI: −1.99 to −0.36), and ankle dorsiflexion (FDTPA, SMD = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.26–1.22). GR demonstrated advantages over plantar fasciotomy in terms of postoperative recovery and preservation of fascial structure. No major complications were reported, and some studies documented sustained benefits up to six years postoperatively. Moderate to high heterogeneity was observed, largely due to variations in surgical technique and follow-up durations. Conclusions: Gastrocnemius recession is a safe and effective surgical option for treating RPF, particularly in patients with isolated gastrocnemius contracture and failure of conservative therapies. It significantly improves foot function, reduces pain, and enhances ankle mobility, with durable long-term outcomes. Trial Registration: This systematic review is registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251028862). Full article

Background: Durative exercise-induced fatigue influences muscle structure and exercise performance. Dietary supplements combining bioavailable proteins with essential vitamins and minerals may help reduce fatigue. Compared with proteins, whey peptides, as easily absorbed energy sources, are regarded as better promoting the utilization of vitamins and minerals. This study investigated whether the combination of whey peptides and micronutrients could synergistically improve exercise-induced fatigue and exercise performance. Methods: Four-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were forced to exercise using a treadmill for four weeks to evaluate the supplemental effects of whey peptides and/or micronutrients on exercise performance. Results: Compared with mice receiving whey peptides or micronutrients alone, mice receiving a combination of whey peptides and micronutrients displayed increased muscle mass, muscle fiber cross-sectional area, muscle strength, and exercise performance, including running exhausting time and swimming exhausting time. Consistent results were obtained in detecting fatigue-associated serum metabolites and markers reflecting muscle injury. To elucidate the anti-fatigue mechanisms of whey peptides and micronutrients, RNA transcriptome in the muscle tissues were analyzed. Enrichment analysis results suggest that micronutrients and/or whey protein alleviate exercise-induced fatigue, not only via reducing oxidative stress but also repressing excessive immune activation in muscle tissue, thereby decreasing the tissue injury caused by strenuous exercise. Conclusions: Overall, the current study indicates that the combination of whey peptides and micronutrients produces a synergistic effect on promoting exercise performance. Our findings provide scientific evidence for the development of novel and efficient anti-fatigue functional foods using whey peptides and micronutrients. Full article

In this study, using global liner shipping schedules, UNCTAD’s Port Liner Shipping Connectivity Index and Liner Shipping Bilateral Connectivity Index, together with bilateral trade-value data for 2022–2024, we construct a multilayer weighted port-to-port network that explicitly embeds port-level cargo-handling and service organisation capabilities, as well as demand-side routing pressure, into node and edge weights. Building on this network, we apply CONCOR-based structural-equivalence analysis to delineate functionally homogeneous port clusters, and adopt a structural role identification framework that combines multi-indicator connectivity metrics with Rank-Sum Ratio–entropy weighting and Probit-based binning to classify ports into high-efficiency core, bridge-control, and free-form bridge roles, thereby tracing the reconfiguration of cluster-level functional structures before and after the Red Sea crisis. Empirically, the clustering identifies four persistent communities—the Intertropical Maritime Hub Corridor (IMHC), Pacific Rim Mega-Port Agglomeration (PRMPA), Southern Commodity Export Gateway (SCEG), and Euro-Asian Intermodal Chokepoints (EAIC)—and reveals a marked spatial and functional reorganisation between 2022 and 2024. IMHC expands from 96 to 113 ports and SCEG from 33 to 56, whereas EAIC contracts from 27 to 10 nodes as gateway functions are reallocated across clusters, and the combined share of bridge-control and free-form bridge ports increases from 9.6% to 15.5% of all nodes, demonstrating a thicker functional backbone under rerouting pressures. Spatially, IMHC extends from a Mediterranean-centred configuration into tropical, trans-equatorial routes; PRMPA consolidates its role as the densest trans-Pacific belt; SCEG evolves from a commodity-based export gateway into a cross-regional Southern Hemisphere hub; and EAIC reorients from an Atlantic-dominated structure towards Eurasian corridors and emerging bypass routes. Functionally, Singapore, Rotterdam, and Shanghai remain dominant high-efficiency cores, while several Mediterranean and Red Sea ports (e.g., Jeddah, Alexandria) lose centrality as East and Southeast Asian nodes gain prominence; bridge-control functions are increasingly taken up by European and East Asian hubs (e.g., Antwerp, Hamburg, Busan, Kobe), acting as secondary transshipment buffers; and free-form bridge ports such as Manila, Haiphong, and Genoa strengthen their roles as elastic connectors that enhance intra-cluster cohesion and provide redundancy for inter-cluster rerouting. Overall, these patterns show that resilience under the Red Sea crisis is expressed through the cluster-level rebalancing of core–control–bridge roles, suggesting that port managers should prioritise parallel gateways, short-sea and coastal buffers, and sea–land intermodality within clusters when designing capacity expansion, hinterland access, and rerouting strategies. Full article

Gloriosa superba ‘Passion Flame’ (flame lily) is a distinctive ornamental plant characterized by its striking floral structure and vivid coloration. During flower development, flame lily tepals undergo a pronounced color transition from green at the bud stage to bright red with a yellow base at maturity, providing an excellent system for studying flower pigmentation in monocots. Here, we applied a multi-omics approach to examine metabolite accumulation and gene expression dynamics across four stages of flower development. Metabolomic profiling identified 240 flavonoids and four anthocyanins, among which pelargonidin-3-O-glucoside showed the highest relative abundance among red pigmentation. Transcriptome analysis revealed that seven key anthocyanin structural genes showed strong correlations with anthocyanin accumulation. In parallel, several chlorophyll degradation genes, including GsSGR and GsPPH, were upregulated during tepal maturation, suggesting transcriptional activation of chlorophyll degradation pathways concurrent with pigment accumulation. Co-expression network analysis further identified GsMYB75 and GsMYB114 as temporally distinct regulators associated with anthocyanin biosynthesis, acting together with bHLH, NAC, and AP2/ERF transcription factors. This study provides new insights into the pigment regulation in G. superba ‘Passion Flame’ and offers candidate regulatory components for future functional studies and the improvement of ornamental traits in monocotyledonous plants. Full article

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive degenerative joint disease that fundamentally alters the mechanical environment of the knee. This study utilizes a finite element framework to evaluate the biomechanical response of the distal femur in healthy and osteoarthritic conditions across critical functional postures. To isolate the bone’s inherent structural stiffness and avoid numerical artifacts, a free-body computational approach was implemented, omitting external surface fixations. The distal femur was modeled as a linearly elastic domain with material properties representing healthy tissue and OA-induced degradation. Simulations were performed under passive gravitational loading at knee flexion angles of $0^{\circ },{60}^{\circ },$ and ${90}^{\circ }$. The results demonstrate that the mechanical response is highly sensitive to postural orientation, with peak von Mises stress consistently occurring at ${60}^{\circ }$ of flexion for both models. Quantitative analysis revealed that the stiffer Normal bone attracted significantly higher internal stress, with a reduction of over 30% in peak stress magnitude observed in the OA model at the most critical flexion angle. Total displacement magnitudes remained relatively stable across conditions, suggesting that OA-induced material softening primarily influences internal stress redistribution rather than global structural sag under passive loads. These findings provide a quantitative index of skeletal vulnerability, supporting the development of patient-specific orthopedic treatments and rehabilitation strategies. Full article

Introduction: Low vision affects more than visual acuity; it substantially disrupts daily functioning and may contribute to long-term cognitive, emotional, and social consequences. When medical or surgical treatment options are no longer effective, structured low-vision rehabilitation becomes essential, providing strategies and tools that support functional adaptation and promote independence. This review aims to map the current outcomes of rehabilitation services, identify gaps in existing research, and highlight opportunities for further study. Methods: An article search was conducted via PubMed, Scopus, PsycInfo, and Google Scholar. Then, title, abstract, and full-text screenings for inclusion were performed by all the authors independently, and disagreements were resolved through discussion. The relevant outcomes from the eligible publications were extracted by four authors and then cross-checked by the other authors. The results are presented via the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. Results: A total of 13 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most were randomized controlled trials (n = 10,77%), with the majority conducted in the United States and the United Kingdom. Study populations consisted of adults aged 18 years and older. Across the included studies, low-vision rehabilitation interventions particularly visual training, magnification-based programs, and multidisciplinary approaches, were associated with significant improvements in visual function, activities of daily living, and vision-related quality of life. Conclusions: Low vision rehabilitation interventions demonstrate clear benefits for visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, reading speed, and functional independence. However, substantial gaps remain, including limited evidence on long-term outcomes, inconsistent assessment of psychosocial influences, and underrepresentation of diverse populations. Standardized outcome measures and long-term, inclusive research designs are needed to better understand the sustained and equitable impact of low-vision rehabilitation. Full article

To address the pronounced issue of noise and vibration within the combine harvester cab, this study proposes a hybrid simulation and experimental validation approach that integrates the pivot noise transfer function (NTF) with a finite element method (FEM)-based vibroacoustic coupling analysis. A coupled finite element model combining the cab structure and its internal acoustic cavity was developed, with the excitation path characteristics explicitly defined. The coupled interaction between structural and acoustic modes, along with its influence on noise transmission, was systematically examined. The analysis revealed a significant transmission peak near 18 Hz at critical pivot Point D under specific excitation directions, indicating strong directional sensitivity in the excitation–response relationship. Experimental validation showed that the discrepancy between simulated and measured responses, including the NTFs, remained within 15%, confirming the accuracy and applicability of the proposed method. This research offers a reliable analytical framework and practical reference for noise and vibration reduction in agricultural machinery cab design. Full article

This study focuses on the development of antibacterial polymer nanocomposites based on biologically synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the polymer matrix. Silver nanoparticles were produced using an aqueous extract from dried Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) leaves, which proved to be highly effective in reducing silver ions and stabilizing the resulting nanoparticles. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized by FTIR, UV-Vis, TEM, SEM, and DLS analyses. The nanoparticles were predominantly spherical, with more than 70% having diameters below 20 nm. Subsequently, AgNPs were incorporated into the PVA matrix via an ex situ approach to fabricate nanocomposite fibers and thin films. SEM analysis confirmed successful incorporation and uniform distribution of AgNPs within the polymer structures. The nanocomposites exhibited pronounced antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Streptococcus uberis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria, with nanofibers demonstrating superior performance compared to thin films. These findings highlight the potential of lavender-extract-mediated AgNPs as sustainable functional fillers for the fabrication of eco-friendly antibacterial materials applicable in biomedical and food packaging fields. Full article

Two-dimensional carbide crystals (MXenes) are emerging as a promising platform for the development of novel gas sensors, offering advantages in energy efficiency and tunable analyte selectivity. One of the most effective strategies to enhance and tailor their functional performance involves forming hetero-structured composites with metal oxides. In this work, we explore a chemiresistive effect in double-metal MXene of Ti_0.2V_1.8C and its composites with 2 mol. % SnO₂ and Co₃O₄ nanocrystalline oxides toward feasibility tests with alcohol and ammonia vapor probes. The materials were characterized by simultaneous thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis, Raman spectroscopy, and scanning/transmission electron microscopy. Gas-sensing experiments were carried out on composite layers deposited on multi-electrode substrates to be exposed to the test gases, 200–2000 ppm concentrations, at an operating temperature of 370 °C. The developed sensor array demonstrated clear analyte discrimination. The distinct sensor responses enabled a selective identification of vapors through linear discriminant analysis, demonstrating the further potential of MXene-based materials for integrated electronic nose applications. Full article