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It is imperative to explore the contribution of the Indian state to the country's impressive long-term growth performance during the free-market era, given the looming demand deficiency problem arising from this iniquitous growth process. Drawing on Marx's idea of circuit of capital, this article investigates the various ways in which the state contributes to the process of accumulation and economic growth, especially in the context of India during the period of market-oriented reforms. Additionally, this study aims to trace the changing nature of interventions of the Indian state to ascertain the domain and extent of its withdrawal and continued presence. Furthermore, it investigates the interventions undertaken by the Indian state to sustain or cushion the growth momentum at times of economic downturn during the free-market era. JEL Classification : B51, E62, O11, P16 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this article is to assess the macroeconomic consequences of some specific aspects of financialization (i.e. share buy-back) using a hybrid post-Keynesian model of growth and distribution based on Kaldorian and Kaleckian characteristics. Design/methodology/approach: The study follows a post-Keynesian approach and deals with financialization issues by implementing several numerical simulations. Findings: The numerical simulations reveal the negative real impacts of massive share repurchases on the rate of accumulation because they immediately siphon off revenues directly intended for investment projects. Moreover, the negative effect of share buy-backs is reinforced especially when firms' investment decisions are more sensitive to a variation in retained earnings. Next, this macro-model also reproduces several well-known figures of the Kaleckian tradition and the paradox of costs. Research limitations/implications: The present article can be considered as a starting point for further theoretical extensions and requires empirical validation. Originality/value: The Kaldor-Kalecki macro-model could be useful for policymakers who are interested in containing some of the negative excesses of financialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A three-year pot experiment was designed to investigate cadmium (Cd) accumulation in the various parts of poplar (Populus deltoides Bartr. cv. ‘Lux’ I-69/55) by setting up 5 Cd application treatments (0, 5, 20, 50, and 100 mg/kg dry soil). The results showed that poplar exhibited a high tolerance to Cd stress, with Cd uptake significantly increasing across all plant parts as soil Cd levels rose. In general, leaves exhibited the highest Cd concentration while stems had the lowest. An upward increase trend of the accumulation of Cd in the aboveground parts from the base wood, along the stem to the branch, until the leaves, as well as a radially outward increase of Cd from the wood near the pith, to the wood near the bark, and finally to the bark, were observed. Over the three successive years, poplar trees exhibited a generally increasing extraction ability in terms of Cd concentration and the bioconcentration factor (BCF) in their aboveground parts, attributed to the enhanced leaf transpiration and conducting tissue development. The BCFs of various parts of poplar ranged from 0.09 to 6.30, following the trend of leaf > bark > branch > root > stem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)‐derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a promising treatment for myocardial infarction (MI), but their therapeutic efficacy is limited by inefficient accumulation at the target site. A minimally invasive MSC EV therapy that enhances EV accumulation at the disease site and extends EV retention could significantly improve post‐infarct cardiac regeneration. Here, we show that EVs decorated with the next‐generation of high‐affinity (HiA) heterodimerizing leucine zippers, termed HiA Zippersomes, amplify targetable surface areas through in situ crosslinking and exhibited ~7‐fold enhanced accumulation within the infarcted myocardium in mice after 3 days and continued to be retained up to Day 21, surpassing the performance of unmodified EVs. After MI in mice, HiA Zippersomes increase the ejection fraction by 53% and 100% compared with unmodified EVs and phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS), respectively. This notable improvement in cardiac function played a crucial role in restoring healthy heart performance. HiA Zippersomes also robustly decrease infarct size by 52% and 60% compared with unmodified EVs and PBS, respectively, thus representing a promising platform for minimally invasive vesicle delivery to the infarcted heart compared to intramyocardial injections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the remediation potential of peanut plants to phthalate esters (PAEs) contamination, the absorption and accumulation patterns of dibutyl phthalate (DBP), bis (2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), and diisononyl ortho‐phthalate (DINP), as well as their metabolites—monoalkyl phthalate esters (MPEs), monobutyl phthalate (MBP), monoethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), and monoisononyl phthalate (MINP), were examined in peanut plant during the entire growth period. It was found that the amounts of DBP and MBP in peanut plants correlated positively, when the DBP content is high, the MBP content is also high, as well as DEHP and MEHP. Additionally, the root contained the highest overall concentrations of DBP, DEHP, DINP, MBP, and MEHP over the course of the growth cycle. To evaluate PAEs contamination and dietary risk of peanuts in China, 18 PAEs and seven MPEs in 490 peanut samples collected from 17 provinces of China were detected by UPLC‐MS/MS, the detection rate of 18 selected PAE in peanut was 100%. The dietary risk assessment suggested that the general population and high consuming population are not at risk of non‐carcinogenic from the PAEs and MPEs found in peanuts of China. There is no need for the general consumption group to take any precautions against the carcinogenic risk of DEHP, and the high consumption group's carcinogenic risk is also within an acceptable range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPhytoextraction is an attractive method to extract excess soil phosphorus (P) builds up from the soils. The crops potential to extract an enriched P in soil is still lacking. Therefore, four crops were grown in three different soils with variable P levels (0 to 200 mg P/kg soil) and screened for P acquisition potentials. Total P accumulation in roots and shoot was high with enriched P levels in all soils, for example in soil A at 200 mg P/kg soil, the values were 0.44% for cucumber (Cucumis sativus), 0.40% for sunflower (Helianthus annus), and ∼0.30% for cabbage (Brassica oleracea) and 0.20% for Indian mustard (Brassica juncea). The cucumber and sunflower showed a greater biomass production (>6.0 g/pot) with enriched P levels and exhibited more prominent root characteristics, suggests more favorable for P acquisition from the P enriched soils. More prominent enhanced phosphomonoesterase and phytase activities in these crops possibly contributing to their P accumulation ability under high soil P conditions. This study shows that, cucumber and sunflower can generate high dry matter content and can accumulate greater quantity of P from the soils through different mechanisms and they can be potential candidates for phytoextraction of P from the soil P enriched areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subsurface natural hydrogen accumulations that can be economically and safely recovered are a major target of the present roadmap towards the use of hydrogen as an alternative and C-free energy resource. The existence of H 2 -rich reservoirs in ophiolites, where H 2 is produced via serpentinization, was theoretically predicted based on the intensity of gas seeps in Turkey and Albania. Here, we examine the geological bases supporting the potential existence of H 2 reservoirs within ophiolites in general, also considering available data on ophiolitic petroleum reservoirs, and we document a direct observation of a H 2 -rich accumulation within an ophiolite. We studied the case of a borehole, drilled in the 1970s for metal mining exploration purposes within the Tișovița–Iuți ophiolite, in Romania, which accidentally encountered pressurized gas with ∼29 vol% H 2 at a depth of about 800 m. We reconstructed the geometry of the ophiolite sequence in correspondence with the well and suggested that the reservoir is within cataclastic dunite near the tectonic contact between layered dunite and the harzburgite-dunite peridotites; the upper, non deformed portion of serpentinized layered dunite, likely with the contribution of tonalite veins, acted as a fluid trap. Although plugged, we detected H 2 leakage from this well and from a second well in the same area, with H 2 concentrations exceeding 100 ppmv in the air and 0.1 mg H 2 /L in the water within the wellhead open casing. We propose a broad conceptual model in which deformed, fractured, and non-deformed, impermeable sections of serpentinized peridotites can determine ophiolitic H 2 -rich reservoirs and traps, respectively, as factors that shall be considered in the guidelines for H 2 reservoir exploration. • Direct observation of pressurized H 2 -rich reservoir in ophiolite (Romania). • Potential reservoirs and cap rocks in ophiolites. • H 2 leakage observed in the abandoned wells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study we investigated challenges associated with comprehension of graphical patterns of accumulation (Experiment 1) and how to improve accumulation-based reasoning via nudging (Experiment 2). On each trial participants were presented with two separate graphs, each depicting a linear, saturating, or exponential data trajectory. They were then asked to make a binary decision based on their forecasts of how these trends would evolve. Correct responses were associated with a focus on the rate of increase in graphs; incorrect responses were driven by prior knowledge and beliefs regarding the context and/or selective attention towards the early phases of the line trajectories. To encourage participants to think more critically and accurately about the presented data, in Experiment 2, participants completed a nudge phase: they either made a forecast about a near horizon or read particular values on the studied trajectories prior to making their decisions. Forecasting about how the studied trajectories would progress led to improvements in determining expected accumulation growth. Merely reading values on the existing trajectory did not lead to improvements in decision accuracy. We demonstrate that actively asking participants to make specific forecasts prior to making decisions based on the accumulation trajectories improves decision accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper explores how beneficiaries of South Africa's land reform programme attempt to navigate the contradictory dynamics of production and social reproduction in collectively owned agricultural enterprises. The Mphuzanyoni Communal Property Association in KwaZulu‐Natal province farms with commercial beef herds and the Mayime Cooperative in the Eastern Cape province is engaged in a joint venture dairy farming scheme in partnership with an agribusiness firm. Severe tensions are evident between the social reproduction of households and the requirements of simple or expanded reproduction of agricultural enterprises. Bernstein's concept of competing 'funds' is used to examine struggles over production and reproduction on the farms, in which members of socially differentiated households contest divergent visions for the collective enterprises. Conflicts centre on how labour and capital should be mobilised, how income and other benefits in kind should be distributed to households and whether or not income should be invested for purposes of simple or expanded reproduction of the enterprise. Challenges of governance are rooted in these conflicts rather than in group ownership as a form of property right. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants play a crucial role as a removal pathway in constructed wetlands, demonstrating the ability to absorb and tolerate antibiotics from wastewater. However, the specific contribution of plants in this regard has not yet to be sufficiently established. To gain a more comprehensive insight into the associated processes, we selected three common wetland plant species, Canna indica L. (C. indica), Cyperus alternifolius L. (C. alternifolius), and Thalia dealbata Fraser (T. dealbata), to evaluate their capacity for uptake, accumulation, and physiological response in the removal of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) at varying initial concentrations (10, 30, 100, and 300 µg/L) under hydroponic conditions. The results showed that SMX removal was more efficient at lower concentrations (10 and 30 µg/L) than at higher concentrations (100 and 300 µg/L). Moreover, plant systems were found to consistently outperform unplanted systems in SMX removal. Among the assessed species, C. indica was identified as being relatively effective in the removal of SMX, whereas the performance of C. alternifolius was notably less pronounced. A positive correlation was observed between the concentration of SMX in the plant tissues and that in the external aqueous medium. However, plant tissue residues contributed only a minor fraction to the overall removal of SMX. Wetland plants absorb SMX through their roots, and we accordingly detected significantly higher concentrations in submerged plant tissues. Furthermore, we also detected reductions in net photosynthetic rates indicative of potential phytotoxicity, which is associated with the accumulation of antibiotic in the shoot tissues. Accumulation of SMX in the roots and rhizomes was also found to be associated with the development of shorter roots, with this effect becoming more pronounced with an increase in the concentration of exogenous SMX. However, despite these adverse effects, plants can detoxify antibiotics via the glutathione pathway. Of the assessed plant species, C. indica was identified as the most SMX tolerant, as indicated by Km and Vmax values, with C. alternifolius being the least tolerant. Our findings in this study reveal the potential value of wetland plants in the sequestration of antibiotics and provide evidence for the underlying mechanisms of action. These findings could make an important contribution to the implementation of phytoremediation in antibiotic-contaminated water. Three wetland plants with fibrous root systems, namely Canna indica, Cyperus alterniflius, and Thalia dealbata, were selected to investigate the removal efficiencies of sulfamethoxazole in the hydroponic system by different emergent plants, quantify the contribution of uptake and accumulation for sulfamethoxazole in plant tissues, and assess the physiological responses of plants and their effect on the removal of sulfamethoxazole. The knowledge obtained from this study shows the potential use of wetland plants for removing antibiotics and the inherent mechanisms, which will be useful for the application of phytoremediation in antibiotic contaminated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimizing the delivery and penetration of nano-sized drugs within liver cancer sites, along with remodeling the tumor microenvironment, is crucial for enhancing the efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents. For this study, a platelet (PLT)-mediated nanodrug delivery system (DASA+ATO@PLT) was developed to improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy. This system delivers nano-sized dasatinib and atovaquone specifically to liver tumor sites and facilitates intra-tumoral permeation upon release. Through JC-1, immunohistochemistry, and DNA damage analyses, the therapeutic effect of DASA+ATO@PLT was assessed. In vitro simulation and intravital imaging were carried out to determine the accumulation of dasatinib and atovaquone in liver tumor sites. The experiment demonstrated the accumulation of dasatinib and atovaquone in tumor sites, followed by deep permeation in the tumor microenvironment with the assistance of PLTs, while simultaneously revealing the ability of DASA+ATO@PLT to remodel the liver cancer microenvironment (overcoming hypoxia) and enhance chemotherapeutic efficacy. This system utilizes the natural tumor recognition ability of PLTs and enhances the chemo-immunotherapeutic effect through targeted delivery of nano-chemotherapeutic drugs to the tumor, resulting in effective accumulation and infiltration. The PLT-mediated nanodrug delivery system serves as a "Trojan horse" to carry therapeutic drugs as cargo and deliver them to target cells, leading to favorable outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, geographical scholarship has paid an increasing amount of attention to the accumulation strategies of energy and public utility companies. This article contributes to these debates by emphasizing the multiscalar nature of profit extraction by transnational energy companies through financialization, dependent power relations, and state regulation regarding transnational energy companies. Empirically, this article analyzes German energy companies' activities in Hungary. These energy giants bought Hungarian gas and electricity providers, networks, and power plants during the privatization waves of the 1990s, and largely left the Hungarian market after the 2010s re-nationalization process. Previous literature emphasized nation-state agency in the Hungarian energy sector's development. This study—based on an analysis of companies' annual reports, media coverage, and financial statements—draws attention to firm-level strategies in understanding techniques and strategies of accumulation by German energy companies in Hungary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endorheic river basins and their terminal lakes are highly sensitive to climate change and human activities. Based on chemical and pollen indicators, lake level, and erosion/accumulation rates of rivers, we explore the phasing of the evolution of the river system in the Hexi Corridor during the Holocene. The results suggest that climate change dominated the evolution of the river system during the early-Mid-Holocene. Entering the historical period, humans began to have an impact on runoff, water resources, and lake evolution, and since 1000 BP, anthropogenic perturbations recorded by regional proxies increased and humans dominated the migrations of river. In addition, we discuss the widespread erosion of rivers in the global endorheic zone and the impact of human activities in this context and found the timing of human influence on river evolution is not the same in different regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Phenolic acid exhibits a variety of well‐known physiological functions. In this study, optimal germination conditions to ensure total phenolic acid enrichment in barley sprouts induced by salicylic acid treatment and its effects on sprout physiology and activity, as well as the gene expression of key enzymes for phenolic acid biosynthesis, were investigated. RESULTS: When sprouts were treated with 1 mmol L−1 salicylic acid during germination and germinated at 25 °C for 4 days, the phenolic acid content was 1.82 times that of the control, reaching 1221.54 μg g−1 fresh weight. Salicylic acid significantly increased the activity of phenylalanine aminolase and cinnamic acid‐4‐hydroxylase and the gene expression of phenylalanine aminolase, cinnamic acid‐3‐hydroxylase, cinnamic acid‐4‐hydroxylase, 4‐coumaric acid‐coenzyme A, caffeic acid O‐methyltransferase, and ferulate‐5‐hydroxylase in barley sprouts. However, salicylic acid treatment significantly increased malondialdehyde and H2O2 content, H2O2 and O2− fluorescence intensity, as well as significantly decreasing sprout length and fresh weight. Salicylic acid treatment markedly increased the activity of peroxidase and catalase and the gene expression of peroxidase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase in barley sprouts. CONCLUSION: Salicylic acid treatment during barley germination significantly promoted the enrichment of total phenolic acid by increasing the activities and gene expression levels of enzymes involved in the phenolic acid biosynthesis pathway. Salicylic acid induced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, inhibited sprout growth, and activated the antioxidant system. This study provides a basis for the future development of functional foods using phenol acid‐rich plants as raw materials. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stochastic computing is a non‐traditional computing approach that utilizes stochastic bitstreams to represent numerical values. This representation enables the implementation of circuits using basic logic gates, named stochastic circuits. This work proposes a versatile architecture with correlated input bitstreams for biased accumulation. The design offers a notable reduction in the reliance on random number generators, resulting in lower hardware costs and higher computing accuracy when compared with the existing designs. Experimental results show that the application of Gaussian smoothing has a reduction in area by at least 45% and an improvement in peak signal‐to‐noise ratio of at least 30%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peganum harmala L., commonly known as Harmal, is an aromatic and medicinal plant that grows in North Africa. P harmala is a pseudometallophyte that occur both in heavy metals contaminated and non contaminated soils. In order to identify the best adapted and suitable populations within P. harmala species, a comprehensive analysis and evaluation of the morphological, physiological, and biochemical responses to lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) were performed in three metallicolous populations (MP) and a non-metallicolous one (NMP). In Zaida, Mibladen, and Aouli Morrocan sites, P. harmala growing soils show a low organic matter content, high Pb and Zn concentrations, and a pollution index higher than 1, indicating a significant contamination level. The effects of Pb and Zn on growth, physiological, antioxidant enzyme activities, and Pb/Zn accumulation capacity were compared between a NMP and three MP of P. harmala. Plants were grown in hydroponic culture with 100 µM of ZnSO4 or 100 µM of Pb(NO3)2 for 15 days. Our results show that Pb and Zn significantly decreased the aboveground biomass in the NMP, MP-Mibladen, and MP-Aouli compared to MP-Zaida. Pb and Zn decreased significantly the root biomass in the NMP compared to the MP. There is no significant difference in chlorophyll a and b contents between NMP and MP. Under Pb exposure, anthocyanin content is shown to be significantly higher in MP-Zaida than in other populations. In contrast, there is no difference between NMP and MP under Zn stress. Proline content as well as the catalase, peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase activities was significantly higher in NMP than in MP under Pb and Zn exposure. In particular, lower proline content, and antioxidant activities were observed in MP-Zaida under the Pb and Zn exposure. Pb and Zn accumulations were significantly higher in the NMP than in the MP, both in roots and aboveground parts, showing that the NMP plants accumulated highly but tolerated less compared to the MP. In the present study, the MP-Zaida accumulated less Pb and Zn in their tissues and tolerated more than the other populations, suggesting this population as a good candidate for a phytostabilization strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructed wetlands (CWs) have emerged as effective biotechnological solutions for wastewater treatment in recent decades. While plants are recognized components of these systems, their specific role in nutrient and heavy metal (HM) uptake warrants further investigation. This study assesses the efficacy of a vertical flow constructed wetland (VFCW) unit planted with Phragmites australis in treating HM-laden wastewater. Through standard methods, wastewater samples from inlet and outlet were analyzed for HMs (Cd, Zn, Pb, Cu), alongside plant and sediment samples. Planted CWs demonstrated remarkable removal efficiencies: 89.34% for Cd, 76.27% for Zn, 68.14% for Cu, and 66.42% for Pb, surpassing unplanted systems (18.27% to 33.16% removal). Notably, P. australis exhibited strategic pollutant absorption, with highest HM concentrations below-ground. Though above-ground HM accumulation was relatively minor, it exceeded soil concentrations. Analysis of accumulation factors confirmed roots and rhizomes as primary bio-accumulators, with transfer factor values (Cd > Pb > Zn > Cu) indicating efficient uptake. These findings underscore the pivotal role of P. australis in enhancing HM removal within VFCW systems, emphasizing the importance of plant-based strategies in HM remediation. Recommendations include further exploration of plant-assisted methods to optimize HM treatment in CWs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A specific feature of mushrooms (including those of the genus Pleurotus) is their natural ability to absorb and accumulate many chemical substances present in their immediate environment, which makes them an excellent natural sorption material. Hence, fruiting bodies of mushrooms have been recognized for years as excellent indicators of the environment, reflecting its current state. Nevertheless, mushrooms can accumulate both health-promoting substances, such as bioelements, and toxic substances, such as heavy metals and organic compounds, including bisphenol A® (BPA). This organic chemical compound in the phenol group, although it has been withdrawn in the EU since 2010, is widely present in the environment around us. In the present experiment, we aimed to determine the effect of adding BPA to liquid media for in vitro cultures of Pleurotus spp. The biomass increases were determined. Moreover, the degrees of adsorption and desorption of BPA from the obtained freeze-dried biomass in two different environments (neutral and acidic) were determined as a function of time. This is the first study to determine the bioavailability of adsorbed BPA in obtained biomass by extracting the mycelium into artificial digestive juices in a model digestive system. BPA was added to the liquid Oddoux medium in the following amounts: 0.01, 0.5, and 0.5 g/250 mL of medium. The amounts of adsorbed and desorbed BPA were determined by flow injection analysis (FIA) with amperometric detection. The addition of BPA to the substrate reduced the biomass growth in each of the discussed cases. BPA adsorption by the mycelium occurred at over 90% and depended on the morphology of the mushroom (structure, surface development, and pore size). BPA desorption depended on the pH of the environment and the desorption time. Mushrooms are an excellent natural remedial material, but BPA is extracted into artificial digestive juices; therefore, consuming mushrooms from industrialized areas may have health consequences for our bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The land application of sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants has been recognized as a major source of microplastic contamination in soil. Nevertheless, the fate and behavior of microplastics in soil remain uncertain, particularly their distribution and transport, which are poorly understood. This study does a bibliometric analysis and visualization of relevant research publications using the CiteSpace software. It explores the limited research available on the topic, highlighting the potential for it to emerge as a research hotspot in the future. Chinese researchers and institutions are paying great attention to this field and are promoting close academic cooperation among international organizations. Current research hot topics mainly involve microplastic pollution caused by the land application of sewage sludge, as well as the detection, environmental fate, and removal of microplastics in soil. The presence of microplastics in sludge, typically ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of particles (p)/kg, inevitably leads to their introduction into soil upon land application. In China, the estimated annual accumulation of microplastics in the soil due to sludge use is approximately 1.7 × 1013 p. In European countries, the accumulation ranges from 8.6 to 71 × 1013 p. Sludge application has significantly elevated soil microplastic concentrations, with higher application rates and frequencies resulting in up to several‐fold increases. The primary forms of microplastics found in soils treated with sludge are fragments and fibers, primarily in white color. These microplastics consist primarily of components such as polyamide, polyethylene, and polypropylene. The vertical transport behavior of microplastics is influenced by factors such as tillage, wind, rainfall, bioturbation, microplastic characteristics (e.g., fraction, particle size, and shape), and soil physicochemical properties (e.g., organic matter, porosity, electrical conductivity, and pH). Research indicates that microplastics can penetrate up to 90 cm into the soil profile and persist for decades. Microplastics in sewage sludge‐amended soils pose potential long‐term threats to soil ecosystems and even human health. Future research should focus on expanding the theoretical understanding of microplastic behavior in these soils, enabling the development of comprehensive risk assessments and informed decision‐making for sludge management practices. Practitioner Points: Microplastics in sewage sludge range from tens to hundreds of thousands per kilogram.Sludge land application contributes significantly to soil microplastic pollution.The main forms of microplastics in sludge‐amended soils are fragments and fibers.Microplastics are mainly composed of polyamide, polyethylene, and polypropylene.Microplastics can penetrate up to 90 cm into the soil profile and persist for decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mass balance modelling often shows that leaching is the main loss pathway for cadmium (Cd) from agricultural soils. There is however a scarcity of Cd leaching data measured under field conditions to support these modelled losses. This study used passive-wick fluxmeters installed at a depth of one metre at six commercial cropping sites to measure Cd in drainage over one year of monitoring. Cadmium concentrations were generally below the method detection limit (0.05 µg Cd L−1) for all sites, with only the occasional detection from two sites and no detection from three other sites. The exception was site A where average Cd concentrations ranged from 0.06 to 0.18 µg L−1 and the mean annual loss (± SE) was 0.33 ± 0.08 g Cd ha−1. This was similar to the amount estimated using the drainage flux multiplied by a modelled estimate of soil solution Cd concentrations for the site, 0.41 g Cd ha−1. Cadmium balance models typically assess the rate of Cd accumulation in the 0–7.5 or 0–30 cm soil depth. Further studies are still required to obtain Cd leaching data collected under field conditions at these soil depths to allow modelled Cd leaching to be validated against measured data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the first archival case study of the drivers of UK climate policy and the creation of the UNFCCC. I contribute to the literature on the green state and green capitalism, firstly by arguing that existing approaches do not fully capture the state’s and most importantly policymakers’ position in capitalism. Secondly, there remains scope for more refined empirical examination of policymakers and how they navigate the contradictions of environmental policy. I address these weaknesses by analysing newly declassified British governmental documents through form-analytic Marxism, demonstrating the drivers behind the Thatcher government’s climate policies and push for an international convention. I argue that policymakers occupy the site of the state’s contradictory pressures, and thus find themselves ‘beneath the insuperable barrier’ as their commitment to accumulation and capitalist logics supersedes their drive to design ambitious environmental measures. This reveals fundamental tensions with policymakers’ ability to address the climate crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dendrobium nobile is an important orchid plant that has been used as a traditional herb for many years. For the further pharmaceutical development of this resource, a combined transcriptome and metabolome analysis was performed in different parts of D. nobile. First, saccharides, organic acids, amino acids and their derivatives, and alkaloids were the main substances identified in D. nobile. Amino acids and their derivatives and flavonoids accumulated strongly in flowers; saccharides and phenols accumulated strongly in flowers and fruits; alkaloids accumulated strongly in leaves and flowers; and a nucleotide and its derivatives and organic acids accumulated strongly in leaves, flowers, and fruits. Simultaneously, genes for lipid metabolism, terpenoid biosynthesis, and alkaloid biosynthesis were highly expressed in the flowers; genes for phenylpropanoids biosynthesis and flavonoid biosynthesis were highly expressed in the roots; and genes for other metabolisms were highly expressed in the leaves. Furthermore, different members of metabolic enzyme families like cytochrome P450 and 4-coumarate-coA ligase showed differential effects on tissue-specific metabolic accumulation. Members of transcription factor families like AP2-EREBP, bHLH, NAC, MADS, and MYB participated widely in differential accumulation. ATP-binding cassette transporters and some other transporters also showed positive effects on tissue-specific metabolic accumulation. These results systematically elucidated the molecular mechanism of differential accumulation in different parts of D. nobile and enriched the library of specialized metabolic products and promising candidate genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollution from microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) has gained significant public attention and has become a serious environmental problem worldwide. This review critically investigates MPs/NPs' ability to pass through biological barriers in vertebrate models and accumulate in various organs, including the brain. After accumulation, these particles can alter individuals' behaviour and exhibit toxic effects by inducing oxidative stress or eliciting an inflammatory response. One major concern is the possibility of transgenerational harm, in which toxic consequences are displayed in offspring who are not directly exposed to MPs/NPs. Due to their large and marked surface hydrophobicity, these particles can easily absorb and concentrate various environmental pollutants, which may increase their toxicity to individuals and subsequent generations. This review systematically provides an analysis of recent studies related to the toxic effects of MPs/NPs, highlighting the intricate interplay between co-contaminants in vitro and in vivo. We further delve into mechanisms of MPs/NPs-induced toxicity and provide an overview of potential therapeutic approaches to lessen the negative effects of these MPs/NPs. The review also emphasizes the urgency of future studies to examine the long-term effects of chronic exposure to MPs/NPs and their size- and type-specific hazardous dynamics, and devising approaches to safeguard the affected organisms. • Vertebrate organ response and degree of internalisation of MPs/NPs depends on the surface charge and size of particles • MPs/NPs can cross blood-brain barrier and induce behavioural alterations in fish and rodent model after accumulation • Presence of different polymers of MPs/NPs has been reported in human samples mainly blood, urine, and placenta • These particles may exhibit physiological and molecular changes by inducing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses • It may show antagonistic or synergistic effects with other co-contaminants or underlying biological conditions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In my paper I consider the movement of objects in „space", taking into account the idea of preserving and accumulation of change with time. I compare this view with Newton, Leibniz and Einstein's ideas of movement, space and time. To illustrate this, I represent the movement of two objects along a straight line, as well as some dependences connected to it. I also pose questions as "Why and how the things exist?" in relation to characteristics like discernibility, equality, and change. I also address faith as an integral part of science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the effects of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium on the physiology of Pyrrosia petiolosa as well as the synthesis and accumulation of chlorogenic acid (CGA), tissue culture seedlings of P. petiolosa were used as materials, and three concentration gradients of low nutrient (no fertilization: N0, P0, K0), normal fertilization (N: 0.20g·kg-1, P: 0.15 g·kg-1, K: 0.15 g·kg-1) and high nutrient (N1: 0.40 g·kg-1, P1: 0.30 g·kg-1, K1: 0.30 g·kg-1) were set up. Seven treatments were set up to NPK, N0PK, N1PK, NP0K, NP1K, NPK0 and NPK1, and the resistance physiological indexes, CGA contents and key enzyme activities of P. petiolosa under different treatments were determined. The results were as follows: (1) Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers had significant effects on the resistance physiology of P. petiolosa. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased significantly under high nitrogen and low potassium treatments, but catalase (CAT) activities rose significantly under low and high treatments of three nutrients. (2) The contents of CGA in P. petiolosa was significantly affected by different nutrient levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The CGA level in normal fertilization was the highest, reaching 12.92 mg·g-1, while the CGA content in high potassium fertilization was the lowest, 7.79 mg·g-1. Potassium fertilizer had the most significant effect on CGA content. (3) The key enzyme activities of CGA synthesis were significantly different in different fertilization treatments. The content of CGA was positively correlated with the activities of quinate o-hydroxycinnamoyl transferase (HQT) and 4-coumaroyl coenzyme ligase (4CL), and negatively correlated with the activity of quinic acid shikimate o-hydroxycinnamoyl transferase (HCT). HQT, 4CL and HCT were the key factors leading to the difference of CGA content. The results of this study provide a theoretical reference for the artificial cultivation of P. petiolosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the fruits of four different mature strains of the Eurasian red wine grape "Cabernet Sauvignon" (transgenic line E1 9 days in advance, transgenic line E2 7 days in advance, transgenic line E3 5 days in advance, and normal transgenic line CK) as materials, the UPLC method was used to determine the content of 22 monomeric phenols such as epigallocatechin gallate, syringic acid and naringin in fruits, and to explore the differences of monomer phenol accumulation in grape fruits among different mature strains. The results showed that compared with normal mature lines (CK), the contents of total tannins and total anthocyanins in mature lines (E3) changed 5 days earlier were the highest, which were 1.20 and 3.27 mg/g, respectively. The content of 2, 5-dihydroxybenzoic acid in 9 phenolic acids was the highest in the three early maturing lines, and accounted for more than 40% in E2 and E3. The content of epigallocatechin gallate among the six flavanols was the highest in the three early maturity strains (E1, E2, E3), accounting for 46%, 57% and 67% of the total flavanols, respectively. The content of myricetin in the seven flavonols was the highest in the early maturing (E1, E2, E3) and normal mature strains (CK), accounting for 87%, 93%, 92% and 89% of the total flavonols, respectively. As the ripening time continued to delay, the three phenolic substances all showed a trend of increasing first and then decreasing. In the early maturing strains, the flavonols content was higher than that of phenolic acids and flavanols, and the accumulation of flavanols in "Cabernet Sauvignon" grapes was low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyanobacteria are harmful algae that are monitored worldwide to prevent the effects of the toxins that they can produce. Most research efforts have focused on direct or indirect effects on human populations, with a view to gain easy accurate detection and quantification methods, mainly in planktic communities, but with increasing interest shown in benthos. However, cyanobacteria have played a fundamental role from the very beginning in both the development of our planet's biodiversity and the construction of new habitats. These organisms have colonized almost every possible planktic or benthic environment on earth, including the most extreme ones, and display a vast number of adaptations. All this explains why they are the most important or the only phototrophs in some habitats. The negative effects of cyanotoxins on macroinvertebrates have been demonstrated, but usually under conditions that are far from natural, and on forms of exposure, toxin concentration, or composition. The cohabitation of cyanobacteria with most invertebrate groups is long-standing and has probably contributed to the development of detoxification means, which would explain the survival of some species inside cyanobacteria colonies. This review focuses on benthic cyanobacteria, their capacity to produce several types of toxins, and their relationships with benthic macroinvertebrates beyond toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pharmacokinetic properties of dihydroquercetin (DHQ) were studied after single and repeated (for 3 days) administration to rats in the form of a starch suspension at a dose of 25 mg/kg. Blood samples were collected using a permanent catheter in the jugular vein in 2, 5, 10, 20, and 30 min and in 1, 2, 4, and 6 h after administration. Before the repeated administration (5 min), blood sample was collected to assess the concentration of DHQ at the zero time point. Quantitative analysis was carried out by HPLC-tandem mass spectrometry. DHQ was very quickly absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract and quickly eliminated from the body. Repeated administration of DHQ did not lead to its accumulation in the body but had an effect on the enzymatic system with a subsequent increase in DHQ exposure (accumulation factor >1 by AUC after repeated administration). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: β-Propeller protein-associated neurodegeneration (BPAN) is a genetic neurodegenerative disease caused by mutations in WDR45. The impairment of autophagy caused by WDR45 deficiency contributes to the pathogenesis of BPAN; however, the pathomechanism of this disease is largely unknown. Lipid dyshomeostasis is involved in neurogenerative diseases, but whether lipid metabolism is affected by Wdr45 deficiency and whether lipid dyshomeostasis contributes to the progression of BPAN are unclear. Methods: We generated Wdr45 knockout SN4741 cell lines using CRISPR‒Cas9-mediated genome editing, then lipid droplets (LDs) were stained using BODIPY 493/503. Chaperone-mediated autophagy was determined by RT-qPCR and western blotting. The expression of fatty acid synthase (Fasn) was detected by western blot in the presence or absence of the lysosomal inhibitor NH4Cl and the CMA activator AR7. The interaction between Fasn and HSC70 was analyzed using coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assay. Cell viability was measured by a CCK-8 kit after treatment with the Fasn inhibitor C75 or the CMA activator AR7. Results: Deletion of Wdr45 impaired chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA), thus leading to lipid droplet (LD) accumulation. Moreover, Fasn can be degraded via CMA, and that defective CMA leads to elevated Fasn, which promotes LD formation. LD accumulation is toxic to cells; however, cell viability was not rescued by Fasn inhibition or CMA activation. Inhibition of Fasn with a low concentration of C75 did not affect cell viability but decreases LD density. Conclusions: These results suggested that Fasn is essential for cell survival but that excessive Fasn leads to LD accumulation in Wdr45 knockout cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The endosperm is an essential part of wheat grains, and the accumulation of amyloplasts in endosperm determines the quality of wheat. Because waxy wheat has a special starch quality, there is a need to understand differences in endosperm and starch morphologies among waxy wheat cultivars. This study investigated differences in the endosperm and amyloplasts of two near-isogenic lines (Shimai19-P and Shimai19-N) and the wheat cultivar Shimai19 during various growth stages using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. At 8 days after pollination (DAP), with endosperm development, the amyloplast distributions in the different endosperm regions of the three wheat varieties were in the following order: center of ventral endosperm > subaleurone of ventral endosperm > center of dorsal endosperm > modified aleurone > subaleurone of dorsal endosperm. At 16 DAP, small amyloplasts appeared in the endosperm cells in all three wheat cultivars; subsequently, endosperm cell development until maturity was more rapid in Shimai19-N than in the other varieties. This study revealed variations in amyloplast accumulation among endosperm regions and waxy wheat varieties during wheat grain development, which improved the understanding of nutrient accumulation and nutrient transfer of wheat grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Livestock and poultry manure are commonly used as bio-fertilizer. However, they contain organic matter and unstable heavy metals, which may adversely affect the environment if they are not appropriately treated. Anaerobic digestion is a method of treatment used to achieve a stable and innocuous state of manure, by bioconversion of organics to methane. This study investigated the effect of thermal hydrolysis on the biodegradability of livestock and poultry manure and the risk of heavy metal migration. In this study, a mesophilic condition (40 ℃) was used and the substrates were chicken and cow manure. Thermolysis technology was applied in the study. Furthermore, existing models were used to evaluate the effect of continuous application of chicken manure for 15 years on the accumulation of heavy metals in soil. Thermal hydrolysis was used to enhance organic matter hydrolysis and improve anaerobic digestion efficiency by increasing the solubility of carbohydrates, proteins and biogas production. The results show that the total content of lignocellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin in chicken manure accounted for 25.0% of the total solid (TS), while it was 57.7% in cow manure. After thermal hydrolysis treatment, the lignocellulose degradation rate in chicken manure was about 5.3%, with minimal change in the cellulose content before and after thermal hydrolysis, estimated at 10.4% before and 10.6% after thermal hydrolysis. The degradation rate of hemicellulose was 9.7%, and that of lignin was 16.4%. The degradation rate of lignocellulose in cow manure was approximated at 19.2%, with a higher degradation rate of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin than in chicken manure (21.7%, 15.9%, and 20.5%, respectively). In addition, the results showed chicken manure specific biogas yield from volatile solid (VS) increased from 482 to 542 L/kg (12.4%) after thermal hydrolysis treatment while, for cow manure, the specific biogas yield increased from 321 to 421 L/kg (31.2%) after thermal hydrolysis treatment. In addition, Methane (CH4 ) content in biogas decreased after thermal hydrolysis treatment. Methane content in chicken manure decreased from 60.2% to 57.6%, and cow manure decreased from 58.7% to 56.6%. The highest to lowest content of heavy metals in both manure was Zn, Cu, Cr, respectively. The Zn, Cu and Cr contents in raw chicken manure were 321.36, 52.04, and 14.23 mg/kg, while the Zn, Cu and Cr contents in cow manure were 135.79, 40.23, and 15.38 mg/kg, respectively. The total amount of heavy metals in both manures were complying with the guidance of "Control standards of pollutants in sludge for agricultural use (GB 4284-2018)". Meanwhile, these heavy metals can also meet the relevant requirements for heavy metals in organic fertilizers in Regulation (EU) 2019/1 009 of the European Parliament and of the Council. The translocation risk of heavy metals in chicken manure could not be reduced solely through thermal hydrolysis. Thermal hydrolysis cannot reduce the translocation risk of heavy metals in soil. However, after anaerobic digestion, heavy metals will transform into more stable residue states. After 15 years of applying chicken manure and cow manure, there was no significant accumulation of heavy metals in the soil. If the loss of heavy metals was not considered, the content of Zn increased from 23.25 to 31.02 mg/kg after 15 years of continuous application, but the concentration was within the standard requirements, while the content of other heavy metals did not increase significantly. It could be concluded that during these 15 years, potential ecological risk index was at a low risk level. Conclusively, thermal hydrolysis and anaerobic digestion could improve the biodegradability of livestock and poultry manure and reduce the risk of heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of our study is to estimate the prevalence of endometrial cavity fluid (ECF) in Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART) cycles and analyze its effects on pregnancy outcome in such cycles. Data sources: PubMed, Cochrane Central, Scopus, and clinicaltrials.gov were searched for articles. The reference lists of relevant publications were explored for other studies. Study eligibility criteria: Studies that had assessed the pregnancy outcome in ART cycles and had commented on ECF accumulation were included. Pregnancy outcomes were assessed in all ART cycles where ECF was observed and were compared to the non-ECF cycles. Results: A total of nine studies were included in the meta-analysis for a total of 28,210 cycles. Pooled analysis of the prevalence of ECF cycles out of total cycles in females undergoing ART using a fixed effect model showed that it was 14% (95% CI is 13% to 14%; I2 = 99%, p = < 0.01). The random effect model prevalence of ECF cycles was around 7% (95% CI: 4% to 10%). There was a statistically significant (25%) decrease in pregnancy rates per cycle transfer in the ECF cycle versus the non-ECF cycle group during ART [OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.67–0.84), p < 0.001; moderate quality evidence]. When ECF size was compared, there was a statistically significant increase in pregnancy rates if ECF size was less than 3.5 mm versus greater than or equal to 3.5 mm [OR = 13.67, 95% CI = 1.43–130.40), p = 0.02; high quality evidence]. Sub-group analysis revealed that the ECF present at the time of embryo transfer significantly decreased the pregnancy rates by 26% as compared to the group where the ECF was not present at the time of embryo transfer [OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.65–0.85), p < 0.001]. Conclusions: This meta-analysis proposes that the presence of ECF significantly decreases the implantation and pregnancy rates of ART cycles, and even more so if its size is greater than 3.5 mm. Interventions to decrease ECF formation or treat it have enhanced the pregnancy outcome in ART cycles. Prospero registration: Date: 17th September 2020; Number: CRD42020182262. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was focused on effects of increased zinc concentrations on growth, mineral composition, chlorophyll and carotenoid content in Sisymbrium lipskyi N. Busch from North Caucasus. Plants were cultivated in sand in presence of 80, 160 and 320 mg Zn per kg of substrate. S. lipskyi demonstrated relatively high resistance to zinc toxicity at doses of 80 and 160 mg/kg – plants showed no significant decrease in dry biomass accumulation, no significant changes in chlorophyll a/b ratio, and water status was consistent. A significant inhibitory effect of zinc was observed only at its concentration of 320 mg/kg and resulted in significant decrease in biomass and chlorophyll b content. The balance of mineral elements was disturbed, mainly due to decrease in mineral elements translocation from roots to above-ground organs of plants. The predominant accumulation of zinc in roots (except for the 320 mg/kg treatment) defines S. lipskyi as a species capable of restricting zinc supply to above-ground organs, as evidenced by low values of translocation factor. This feature of mineral metabolism, along with relatively high tolerance to zinc, suggests to consider S. lipskyi as a promising species for phytostabilization of relatively polluted soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal accumulation in soil can seriously harm human health, and it is necessary to identify the accumulation status and access the potential risks for local pollution control and sustainable economic development. This study evaluated the pollution level, spatial distribution, potential risk and sources of soil heavy metals along the Zhengzhou-Kaifeng intercity railway and compared pollution characteristics in north side soils with south side soils of the railway. A total of 260 soil samples were collected from a section along the railway. In practice, only the average Zn and Pb contents in soils were slightly higher than their corresponding risk screening values. The heavy metal enrichment in the north side soils was marginally lower than that in the south side soils. The spatial distribution of soil heavy metals except Pb could be mainly influenced by the different land use types. The geoaccumulation index and potential ecological risk of a single heavy metal indicated that Cd was the major contaminant with moderate pollution and high ecological risks in the south side soils and none to moderate pollution and moderate ecological risks in the north side soils. However, the mean multimetal potential ecological risk values suggested that the north side soils were at low ecological risks and the south side soils were at moderate ecological risks. The comprehensive non-carcinogenic risks and total carcinogenic risks for adults were low and acceptable, respectively. Pearson correlation analysis, PCA, and APCS-MLR analyses identified that the contributions of natural sources, mixed sources of industrial and traffic activities, agricultural activities, and other sources were 57.49%, 21.44%, 12.67% and 8.40%, respectively, and the major soil pollution Cd was mainly related to mixed sources of industrial and traffic activities. Therefore, continuous soil heavy metal monitoring is essential to elucidate the long-term railway operation effect on soil heavy metal accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the effect of primary productivity, organic matter dilution, and preservation on the accumulation of organic matter, geochemical data, and proxies of primary productivity, clastic influx, and redox conditions were obtained for organic-rich shales in the Cambrian Niutitang Formation. The primary productivity (total organic carbon [TOC], Mo, P, Ba, and Babio) and redox (Ni/Co, V/Cr, U/Al, and Th/U) proxies suggest the organic-rich shales were deposited in anoxic-euxinic conditions during periods of high primary productivity. Pyrite in the Niutitang Formation comprises spherical framboids, which also indicate that anoxic bottom waters were present during organic matter deposition. High primary productivity enhanced the organic C flux into the thermocline layer and bottom waters, which lead to the development of anoxic bottom waters owing to O2 consumption by microorganisms and organic matter degradation. The anoxic bottom waters were beneficial for the preservation of organic matter. In addition, Ti/Al ratios correlate well with TOC contents throughout the Niutitang Formation, indicating that clastic input increased the burial rate and prevented organic matter degradation during deposition. Therefore, the accumulation of organic matter in the Niutitang Formation was controlled mainly by primary productivity rather than bottom-water redox conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The aims are to analyze the problems of tert-amyl alcohol accumulation in the methanol recovery column and oil entrainment in the bottom discharge of the methanol extraction column during the operation of the catalytic light gasoline etherification units, and to propose solutions. Methods For the problem of tert-amyl alcohol accumulation in the methanol recovery tower, the following measures were mainly taken to deal with: Reduced the temperature difference between the feed tray and the top of the methanol recovery column. The tert-amyl alcohol was extracted from the side stream of the methanol recovery column. Reduced the mass fraction of tert-amyl alcohol in the feed of the methanol recovery column. The following measures were mainly taken to solve the problem of oil in the bottom discharge of methanol extraction tower: Reduced the content of harmful substances in the feed of alcohol containing light gasoline. Reduced the content of harmful substances in the methanol extraction column. Optimized the structure of the light gasoline feed distributor. Results After taking the above measures, the occurrence of methanol recovery column flooding and flushing accidents caused by the accumulation of tert-amyl alcohol in the column were significantly reduced, the generation of by-products was reduced, and the product quality was improved. The amount of oil in the bottom discharge of the methanol extraction column was effectively reduced, and product loss and environmental pollution caused by a large amount of light gasoline being discharged into the flare through the methanol recovery column reflux drum were avoided. Conclusions After optimizing the process flow and operating conditions, accidents such as the accumulation of tert-amyl alcohol in the column and oil entrainment in the bottom discharge of the methanol extraction column can be effectively reduced, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice is a staple food for half of the world's population, but it is a poor dietary source of calcium (Ca) due to the low concentration. It is an important issue to boost Ca concentration in this grain to improve Ca deficiency risk, but the mechanisms underlying Ca accumulation are poorly understood. Here, we obtained a rice (Oryza sativa) mutant with high shoot Ca accumulation. The mutant exhibited 26%–53% higher Ca in shoots than did wild‐type rice (WT) at different Ca supplies. Ca concentration in the xylem sap was 36% higher in the mutant than in the WT. There was no difference in agronomic traits between the WT and mutant, but the mutant showed 25% higher Ca in the polished grain compared with the WT. Map‐based cloning combined with a complementation test revealed that the mutant phenotype was caused by an 18‐bp deletion of a gene, OsK5.2, belonging to the Shaker‐like K+ channel family. OsK5.2 was highly expressed in the mature region of the roots and its expression in the roots was not affected by Ca levels, but upregulated by low K. Immunostaining showed that OsK5.2 was mainly expressed in the pericycle of the roots. Taken together, our results revealed a novel role for OsK5.2 in Ca translocation in rice, and will be a good target for Ca biofortification in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2011, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) extended its mandate beyond Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) to the Middle East. Since then, it has supported financial institutions, private sector involvement, energy production and, most recently, infrastructure and public service reforms. While the EBRD presents itself as supporting the region's economies in light of the refugee 'crisis', I question the power relations driving its recent public investments there. I situate them within the context of global capitalism's crises since the Great Recession and MDBs' development agendas in the Middle East, specifically increased aid since 2011. I argue that, jointly advanced by the EBRD and Jordanian state, the EBRD's public loans in Jordan offer fixes for capitalism's crises to the benefit of donors, the state as well as private investors. More specifically, the EBRD's projects and emphasis on the refugee "crisis" entrench and justify market-based neoliberal reforms in Jordan's infrastructure and public services, opening them up to investment and expanding accumulation at the expense of public interest. The Jordanian state is an active partner and beneficiary of these projects, not only establishing the necessary regulatory frameworks for them, but also aligning them with its own development agendas and interests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the accumulation and localization of metals in the foliose lichens Lobaria pulmonaria, Hypogymnia physodes, and Peltigera aphthosa, living in the impact zone of the Sredne-Timansky bauxite mine. A significant accumulation of Al (16–19 g/kg), Fe (16–20 g/kg), and Ti (0.3–0.7 g/kg) by thalli was revealed. From 29 to 82% of the total content of these metals is localized in dust particles weakly attached to the surface of the thalli. The total proportion of intra- and extracellularly bound Al, Fe, and Ti did not exceed 11%, 15–56% of these metals were found in the residual fraction. An increase in the content of Cu, Pb, Co, and Ni was detected in thalli collected in the impact area. It has been shown that the localization of metals in thalli depends both on the studied element and on the morphological and anatomical characteristics of the thalli: in L. pulmonaria, fine mineral particles were localized on the surface of the thalli; in the thalli of P. aphthosa, which do not have a lower cortex, mineral inclusions were found throughout the entire thickness of the thalli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vitro systems are widely employed to assess the impact of dietary compounds on the gut microbiota and their conversion into beneficial bacterial metabolites. However, the complex fluid dynamics and multi‐segmented nature of these systems can complicate the comprehensive analysis of dietary compound fate, potentially confounding physical dilution or washout with microbial catabolism. In this study, we developed fluid dynamics models based on sets of ordinary differential equations to simulate the behavior of an inert compound within two commonly used in vitro systems: the continuous two‐stage PolyFermS system and the semi‐continuous multi‐segmented SHIME® system as well as into various declinations of those systems. The models were validated by investigating the fate of blue dextran, demonstrating excellent agreement between experimental and modeling data (with r2 values ranging from 0.996 to 0.86 for different approaches). As a proof of concept for the utility of fluid dynamics models in in vitro system, we applied generated models to interpret metabolomic data of procyanidin A2 (ProA2) generated from the addition of proanthocyanidin (PAC)‐rich cranberry extract to both the PolyFermS and SHIME® systems. The results suggested ProA2 degradation by the gut microbiota when compared to the modeling of an inert compound. Models of fluid dynamics developed in this study provide a foundation for comprehensive analysis of gut metabolic data in commonly utilized in vitro PolyFermS and SHIME® bioreactor systems and can enable a more accurate understanding of the contribution of bacterial metabolism to the variability in the concentration of target metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper is devoted to anthropogenic and biogeochemical processes that effect the formation of the water and bottom sediment (BS) of subarctic Imandra Lake. The data of long-term observations are presented that show changes in the chemical composition of the water during the period of maximum pollution and after the reduction in the anthropogenic load over the past 30 years. The concentrations of toxic metals in the water has decreased, but climate warming has increased the inflow of organic matter and nutrients, and this intensified the production processes. The enrichment of the water in heavy metals during the period of intense pollution resulted in the accumulation of these metals in the bottom sediments, with the highest concentrations of the metals found in the uppermost layers accumulated during the modern sedimentation period. The development of anoxic conditions in the bottom water horizons due to sedimentation and oxidation of organic matter leads to the circulation of metals and hampers their burial. Physicochemical and biogeochemical processes are considered as explaining the diffusion of metals to the surface of the bottom sediments and the accumulation of anomalously high concentrations of metals in the surface layers of BS despite the significant decrease in the concentrations of metals in water. A hypothesis is suggested for the beginning of initial diagenesis stage in bottom sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accumulation by adaptation names the phenomenon by which political and economic elites profit from climate adaptation efforts. As with the notion of 'accumulation by dispossession' from which it derives, the term speaks to the injustice of capital accumulation—in this case, accumulation associated with configuring some groups' vulnerability to climate change as business opportunities. However, unlike accumulation by dispossession, the mechanisms by which accumulation by adaptation proceeds have not been adequately conceptualized. This review synthesizes critiques of Marx's formulation of primitive accumulation, recent scholarship on colonial racial capitalism, and critical adaptation studies to locate how capital circulates through and reproduces the violence of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The aims are to analyze the problems of tert-amyl alcohol accumulation in the methanol recovery column and oil entrainment in the bottom discharge of the methanol extraction column during the operation of the catalytic light gasoline etherification units, and to propose solutions. Methods For the problem of tert-amyl alcohol accumulation in the methanol recovery tower, the following measures were mainly taken to deal with: (1) Reduced the temperature difference between the feed tray and the top of the methanol recovery column. (2) The tert-amyl alcohol was extracted from the side stream of the methanol recovery column. (3) Reduced the mass fraction of tert-amyl alcohol in the feed of the methanol recovery column. The following measures were mainly taken to solve the problem of oil in the bottom discharge of methanol extraction tower: (1) Reduced the content of harmful substances in the feed of alcohol containing light gasoline. (2) Reduced the content of harmful substances in the methanol extraction column. (3) Optimized the structure of the light gasoline feed distributor. Results After taking the above measures, the occurrence of methanol recovery column flooding and flushing accidents caused by the accumulation of tert-amyl alcohol in the column were significantly reduced, the generation of by-products was reduced, and the product quality was improved. The amount of oil in the bottom discharge of the methanol extraction column was effectively reduced, and product loss and environmental pollution caused by a large amount of light gasoline being discharged into the flare through the methanol recovery column reflux drum were avoided. Conclusions After optimizing the process flow and operating conditions, accidents such as the accumulation of tert-amyl alcohol in the column and oil entrainment in the bottom discharge of the methanol extraction column can be effectively reduced, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) is a valuable platform chemical with high demand in the global market. Owing to its sustainability and environmental affability, the biosynthesis of 3-HP has gained a great deal of attention. The major challenges in biological production of 3-HP is by-product accumulation which significantly affects the titre and yield of 3-HP. In this work, efforts have been made to investigate the metabolic engineering of Escherichia coli to circumvent these constraints. From the mRNA expression studies, it was found that yqhD, poxB, and pta-ackA were the primary targets. The deletion of genes showed significant changes in the synthesis of 3-HP and other major metabolites such as propanediol and acetate. The deletion of yqhD significantly decreased the synthesis of propanediol and diverted the carbon flux towards 3-HP. Furthermore, the combined deletion of poxB and pta-ackA significantly showed the reduction of acetate concentration. The enhancement of 3-HP production has been attained by the combinatorial deletion of yqhD, poxB, and pta-ackA resulted the titre (440 mM vs. 556 mM) and yield (0.31 vs. 0.40). The present work could be an effective tool for the enhanced production of 3-HP with the reduced level of by-product accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phylogenetic metrics are essential tools used in the study of ecology, evolution and conservation. Phylogenetic diversity (PD) in particular is one of the most prominent measures of biodiversity and is based on the idea that biological features accumulate along the edges of phylogenetic trees that are summed. We argue that PD and many other phylogenetic biodiversity metrics fail to capture an essential process that we term attrition. Attrition is the gradual loss of features through causes other than extinction. Here we introduce "EvoHeritage", a generalization of PD that is founded on the joint processes of accumulation and attrition of features. We argue that while PD measures evolutionary history, EvoHeritage is required to capture a more pertinent subset of evolutionary history including only components that have survived attrition. We show that EvoHeritage is not the same as PD on a tree with scaled edges; instead, accumulation and attrition interact in a more complex non-monophyletic way that cannot be captured by edge lengths alone. This leads us to speculate that the one-dimensional edge lengths of classic trees may be insufficiently flexible to capture the nuances of evolutionary processes. We derive a measure of EvoHeritage and show that it elegantly reproduces species richness and PD at opposite ends of a continuum based on the intensity of attrition. We demonstrate the utility of EvoHeritage in ecology as a predictor of community productivity compared with species richness and PD. We also show how EvoHeritage can quantify living fossils and resolve their associated controversy. We suggest how the existing calculus of PD-based metrics and other phylogenetic biodiversity metrics can and should be recast in terms of EvoHeritage accumulation and attrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquatic animals are very precious to humans because they provide food sources. In order to satisfy the growing demand for food over the past few decades, there has been a significant rise in the widespread application of pesticides. Surface runoff transports pesticide residues into the aquatic environment, where they pose a threat to the plants and animals that live there. The rise in the human population is accompanied by an accompanying rise in the toxicity of pesticides. The toxicity of pesticides causes damage to the aquatic food chain by decreasing the amount of oxygen that is dissolved in water bodies and contaminating the water. The contaminated water causes harm to the algal component, plankton, and benthos, which in turn causes harm to the water quality and fish diversity. Additionally, the polluted water reduces the abundance of aquatic species. This assessment places particular emphasis on the influence that pesticides have on the quality of water and the biodiversity of aquatic environments. All aquatic organisms, and fish species in particular, are extremely vulnerable to the toxicity of pesticides. Organs such as the liver, kidneys, and gills, as well as the nervous system, are the primary targets of the toxic effects that pesticides have on fish. Because humans use fish species for food, exposure to pesticides can cause a variety of health problems. The primary objective of this study is to draw conclusions regarding the effect that the application of pesticides had on the aquatic ecosystem as well as biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper challenges mainstream theories of Latin American development, showing their theoretical weaknesses and pointing to their role in ideologically mediating the region's 'truncated' capitalism. To that end, the paper presents an alternative view of Latin American development that starts by considering capitalist social reproduction as a worldwide process and regional/national politico-economic development as mediations in the structuring of global capital accumulation. Latin America's specific variety of capitalism is understood to have emerged from its original transformation by expanding European capital into a place to produce raw materials under favourable natural conditions. On the one hand, this has reduced their price and that of the labour-power directly or indirectly consuming them; on the other, it has resulted in a flow of surplus-value towards the owners of those natural conditions of production. The historical development of Latin American societies has expressed the partial overcoming of that antagonistic relationship between rent-paying capital and rent-appropriating landed property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the urgent need for charities to expend their 'rainy day funds' now, rather than hoarding for the future. For charities lucky enough to have endowments or material investments, such as universities, philanthropic foundations and some schools and hospitals, the collapse in many investment markets and in current income may nevertheless generate reluctance to realise and utilise investments. This article examines the role of activity-based regulation in encouraging charities to spend now, when it is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Covid-19 pandemic has had unprecedented global impact, creating multiple crises that have gone beyond the epidemiological, extending to the socio-economic and political. It has exposed structural flaws in global capitalism and intensified inequalities that have traditionally been imbedded in relations of production and social reproduction. In emerging Covid-19 literature, blind spots exist on its impact on peasant households. It is this knowledge gap that this article fills. Focusing on an agrarian context in rural Zimbabwe, the article employs a classical agrarian perspective and the political economy approach as conceptual and heuristic tools to explore the impact which this novel virus has had on rural livelihoods. It shows that the pandemic has impacted agricultural production, social reproduction, labour relations and asset accumulation. While its impact has been largely negative, opportunities were created with peasant agency being critical in dealing with shocks and vulnerabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to study the accumulation of heavy metals Cadmium, Lead, Chromium, and Nickel in different aquatic plants along the Tigris River. The research focused on the seasonal variations in heavy metal uptake by Phragmites australis, Typha domingensis, Persicaria salicifolia, Azolla filiculoides, and Ceratophyllum demersum. Samples were collected from three distinct locations along the river, each characterized by varied environmental conditions. Using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry, the quantified metal concentrations were measured, revealing significant differences across seasons and locations. The study provides crucial insights into the dynamics of heavy metal accumulation in riverine ecosystems, underscoring the role of environmental factors and plant species in metal uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]