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About 30% of all bacterial proteins execute their function outside of the cytosol and must be inserted into or translocated across the cytoplasmic membrane. This requires efficient targeting systems that recognize N‐terminal signal sequences in client proteins and deliver them to protein transport complexes in the membrane. While the importance of these protein transport machineries for the spatial organization of the bacterial cell is well documented in multiple studies, the contribution of mRNA targeting and localized translation to protein transport is only beginning to emerge. mRNAs can exhibit diverse subcellular localizations in the bacterial cell and can accumulate at sites where new protein is required. This is frequently observed for mRNAs encoding membrane proteins, but the physiological importance of membrane enrichment of mRNAs and the consequences it has for the insertion of the encoded protein have not been explored in detail. Here, we briefly highlight some basic concepts of signal sequence‐based protein targeting and describe in more detail strategies that enable the monitoring of mRNA localization in bacterial cells and potential mechanisms that route mRNAs to particular positions within the cell. Finally, we summarize some recent developments that demonstrate that mRNA targeting and localized translation can sustain membrane protein insertion under stress conditions when the protein‐targeting machinery is compromised. Thus, mRNA targeting likely acts as a back‐up strategy and complements the canonical signal sequence‐based protein targeting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research in seaweed cultivation technologies aims to increase production and reduce costs, leading to more efficient and sustainable processes. In this study, we analyzed the outdoor production of Ulva compressa cultured in summertime at different stocking densities of 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0 kg Fresh weight (FW) m−2 in a raceway photobioreactor with 30 m2 surface (3000 L), and its relation to photosynthetic activity. Under the experimental conditions of high temperature (>28–30 °C) and pH > 9 in culture water, higher seaweed density resulted in lower specific growth rate. The biomass production has been related to photosynthetic activity by using in vivo chlorophyll a fluorescence. Dynamic photoinhibition was observed at noon, which was less severe in cultures with higher algal densities. However, photosynthesis recovered in the afternoon. Seaweeds that were acclimatized for a week to the conditions of 1.0 kg FW m−2 stocking density showed an increase in biomass growth and absence of photoinhibition compared to non-acclimatized thalli. In conclusion, the cultivation of U. compressa in a mid-scale raceway photobiorreactor under conditions of high irradiance and temperature and low nutrient input, exhibited the best photosynthetic performance and hence the highest growth rates for the highest culture density assayed (1.0 kg FW m−2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an amino acid whose numerous regulatory functions have been identified in animal organisms. More and more research indicate that in plants, this molecule is also involved in controlling basic growth and development processes. As recent studies have shown, GABA plays an essential role in triggering plant resistance to unfavorable environmental factors, which is particularly important in the era of changing climate. The main sources of GABA in plant cells are glutamic acid, converted in the GABA shunt pathway, and polyamines subjected to oxidative degradation. The action of GABA is often related to the activity of other messengers, including phytohormones, polyamines, NO, H2O2, or melatonin. GABA can function as an upstream or downstream element in the signaling pathways of other regulators, acting synergistically or antagonistically with them to control cellular processes. Understanding the role of GABA and its interactions with other signaling molecules may be important for developing crop varieties with characteristics that enable adaptation to a changing environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuclear messenger RNA (mRNA) export is vital for cell survival under both physiological and stress conditions. To cope with stress, cells block bulk mRNA export while selectively exporting stress-specific mRNAs. Under physiological conditions, nuclear adaptor proteins recruit the mRNA exporter to the mRNA for export. By contrast, during stress conditions, the mRNA exporter is likely directly recruited to stress-specific mRNAs at their transcription sites to facilitate selective mRNA export. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of nuclear mRNA export. Importantly, we explore insights into the mechanisms that block bulk mRNA export and facilitate transcript-specific mRNA export under stress, highlighting the gaps that still need to be filled. Selective mRNA export is crucial for cell survival, especially under stress. Seidler and Sträßer outline how cells block bulk mRNA export while selectively exporting stress-specific mRNAs, shedding light on the mechanisms at play during normal and stress conditions and highlighting key gaps in our understanding of these vital processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternative splicing is the process of generating different mRNAs from the same primary transcript, which contributes to increase the transcriptome and proteome diversity. Abnormal splicing has been associated with the development of several diseases including cancer. Given that mutations and abnormal levels of the RIPK2 transcript and RIP-2 protein are frequent in tumors, and that RIP-2 modulates immune and inflammatory responses, we investigated alternative splicing events that result in partial deletions of the kinase domain at the N-terminus of RIP-2. We also investigated the structure and expression of the RIPK2 truncated variants and isoforms in different environments. In addition, we searched data throughout Supraprimates evolution that could support the biological importance of RIPK2 alternatively spliced products. We observed that human variants and isoforms were differentially regulated following temperature stress, and that the truncated transcript was more expressed than the long transcript in tumor samples. The inverse was found for the longer protein isoform. The truncated variant was also detected in chimpanzee, gorilla, hare, pika, mouse, rat, and tree shrew. The fact that the same variant has been preserved in mammals with divergence times up to 70 million years raises the hypothesis that it may have a functional significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphite (Phi) has gained attention in agriculture due to its biostimulant effect on crops. This molecule has been found to benefit plant performance by providing protection against pathogens, improving yield and fruit quality as well as nutrient and water use efficiency. It is still unclear how Phi enhances plant growth and protects against multiple stresses. It has been hypothesized that Phi acts by directly affecting the pathogens and interacting with the plant cellular components and molecular machinery to elicit defense responses. This study elucidates the mechanisms underlying Phi's beneficial effects on plants, revealing their complex interplay with fundamental signaling pathways. An RNA-seq study of Arabidopsis seedlings under optimal and limiting phosphate conditions helped us unveil Phi's role in promoting plant growth by activating the expression of the genes involved in the biosynthesis and signaling pathways associated with abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA), and jasmonic acid (JA). The expression of ABA-related genes, known for their involvement in stress response and development regulation, is triggered by Phi treatment, contributing to enhanced resilience and growth. Simultaneously, the activation of the SA pathway, associated with defense responses, suggests Phi's potential in bolstering plant immunity. Moreover, Phi influences JA biosynthesis and signaling, which are crucial for defense against herbivores and pathogens, thereby strengthening plants' defenses. Our findings reveal a multifaceted mechanism through which Phi benefits Arabidopsis development. Understanding its intricate interplay with key signaling pathways opens avenues for leveraging Phi as a strategic tool to enhance plant resilience, immunity, and growth in agricultural and ecological contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The cuticular wax serves as a primary barrier that protects plants from environmental stresses. The Eceriferum (CER) gene family is associated with wax production and stress resistance. Results In a genome-wide identification study, a total of 52 members of the CER family were discovered in four Gossypium species: G. arboreum, G. barbadense, G. raimondii, and G. hirsutum. There were variations in the physicochemical characteristics of the Gossypium CER (GCER) proteins. Evolutionary analysis classified the identified GCERs into five groups, with purifying selection emerging as the primary evolutionary force. Gene structure analysis revealed that the number of conserved motifs ranged from 1 to 15, and the number of exons varied from 3 to 13. Closely related GCERs exhibited similar conserved motifs and gene structures. Analyses of chromosomal positions, selection pressure, and collinearity revealed numerous fragment duplications in the GCER genes. Additionally, nine putative ghr-miRNAs targeting seven G. hirsutum CER (GhCER) genes were identified. Among them, three miRNAs, including ghr-miR394, ghr-miR414d, and ghr-miR414f, targeted GhCER09A, representing the most targeted gene. The prediction of transcription factors (TFs) and the visualization of the regulatory TF network revealed interactions with GhCER genes involving ERF, MYB, Dof, bHLH, and bZIP. Analysis of cis-regulatory elements suggests potential associations between the CER gene family of cotton and responses to abiotic stress, light, and other biological processes. Enrichment analysis demonstrated a robust correlation between GhCER genes and pathways associated with cutin biosynthesis, fatty acid biosynthesis, wax production, and stress response. Localization analysis showed that most GCER proteins are localized in the plasma membrane. Transcriptome and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) expression assessments demonstrated that several GhCER genes, including GhCER15D, GhCER04A, GhCER06A, and GhCER12D, exhibited elevated expression levels in response to water deficiency stress compared to control conditions. The functional identification through virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) highlighted the pivotal role of the GhCER04A gene in enhancing drought resistance by promoting increased tissue water retention. Conclusions This investigation not only provides valuable evidence but also offers novel insights that contribute to a deeper understanding of the roles of GhCER genes in cotton, their role in adaptation to drought and other abiotic stress and their potential applications for cotton improvement.

Background: The cuticular wax serves as a primary barrier that protects plants from environmental stresses. The Eceriferum (CER) gene family is associated with wax production and stress resistance. Results: In a genome-wide identification study, a total of 52 members of the CER family were discovered in four Gossypium species: G. arboreum, G. barbadense, G. raimondii, and G. hirsutum. There were variations in the physicochemical characteristics of the Gossypium CER (GCER) proteins. Evolutionary analysis classified the identified GCERs into five groups, with purifying selection emerging as the primary evolutionary force. Gene structure analysis revealed that the number of conserved motifs ranged from 1 to 15, and the number of exons varied from 3 to 13. Closely related GCERs exhibited similar conserved motifs and gene structures. Analyses of chromosomal positions, selection pressure, and collinearity revealed numerous fragment duplications in the GCER genes. Additionally, nine putative ghr-miRNAs targeting seven G. hirsutum CER (GhCER) genes were identified. Among them, three miRNAs, including ghr-miR394, ghr-miR414d, and ghr-miR414f, targeted GhCER09A, representing the most targeted gene. The prediction of transcription factors (TFs) and the visualization of the regulatory TF network revealed interactions with GhCER genes involving ERF, MYB, Dof, bHLH, and bZIP. Analysis of cis-regulatory elements suggests potential associations between the CER gene family of cotton and responses to abiotic stress, light, and other biological processes. Enrichment analysis demonstrated a robust correlation between GhCER genes and pathways associated with cutin biosynthesis, fatty acid biosynthesis, wax production, and stress response. Localization analysis showed that most GCER proteins are localized in the plasma membrane. Transcriptome and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) expression assessments demonstrated that several GhCER genes, including GhCER15D, GhCER04A, GhCER06A, and GhCER12D, exhibited elevated expression levels in response to water deficiency stress compared to control conditions. The functional identification through virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) highlighted the pivotal role of the GhCER04A gene in enhancing drought resistance by promoting increased tissue water retention. Conclusions: This investigation not only provides valuable evidence but also offers novel insights that contribute to a deeper understanding of the roles of GhCER genes in cotton, their role in adaptation to drought and other abiotic stress and their potential applications for cotton improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2-Phenylethanol (2-PE) and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) are important secondary metabolites produced by microorganisms, and their production are closely linked to the growth state of microorganisms and environmental factors. Enterobacter CGMCC 5087 can produce both 2-PE and IAA depending on α-ketoacid decarboxylase KDC4427. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different environment factors including osmotic pressure, temperature, and pH on the synthesis of 2-PE and IAA in Enterobacter sp. CGMCC 5087. The bacteria exhibited an enhanced capacity for 2-PE synthesis while not affecting IAA synthesis under 5% NaCl and pH 4.5 stress conditions. In an environment with pH 9.5, the synthesis capacity of 2-PE remained unchanged while the synthesis capacity of IAA decreased. The synthesis ability of 2-PE was enhanced with an increase in temperature within the range of 25 °C to 37 °C, while the synthesis capacity of IAA was not affected significantly. Additionally, the expression of KDC4427 varied under stress conditions. Under 5% NaCl stress and decreased temperature, expression of the KDC4427 gene was increased. However, altering pH did not result in significant differences in gene expression levels, while elevated temperature caused a decrease in gene expression. Furthermore, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations suggested that these conditions may induce fluctuation in the geometry shape of binding cavity, binding energy, and especially the dαC-C- value, which played key roles in affecting the enzyme activity. These results provide insights and strategies for the synthesis of metabolic products 2-PE and IAA in bacterial fermentation, even under unfavorable conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Azospirillum brasilense Sp7 produces PHB, which is covered by granule-associated proteins (GAPs). Phasins are the main GAPs. Previous studies have shown phasins can regulate PHB synthesis. When A. brasilense grows under stress conditions, it uses sigma factors to transcribe genes for survival. One of these factors is the σ24 factor. This study determined the possible interaction between phasins and the σ24 factor or phasin-σ24 factor complex and DNA. Three-dimensional structures of phasins and σ24 factor structures were predicted using the I-TASSER and SWISS-Model servers, respectively. Subsequently, a molecular docking between phasins and the σ24 factor was performed using the ClusPro 2.0 server, followed by molecular docking between protein complexes and DNA using the HDOCK server. Evaluation of the types of ligand–receptor interactions was performed using the BIOVIA Discovery Visualizer for three-dimensional diagrams, as well as the LigPlot server to obtain bi-dimensional diagrams. The results showed the phasins (Pha4Abs7 or Pha5Abs7)-σ24 factor complex was bound near the −35 box of the promoter region of the phaC gene. However, in the individual interaction of PhaP5Abs7 and the σ24 factor, with DNA, both proteins were bound to the −35 box. This did not occur with PhaP4Abs7, which was bound to the −10 box. This change could affect the transcription level of the phaC gene and possibly affect PHB synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research in seaweed cultivation technologies aims to increase production and reduce costs, leading to more efficient and sustainable processes. In this study, we analyzed the outdoor production of Ulva compressa cultured in summertime at different stocking densities of 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0 kg Fresh weight (FW) m−2 in a raceway photobioreactor with 30 m2 surface (3000 L), and its relation to photosynthetic activity. Under the experimental conditions of high temperature (>28–30 °C) and pH > 9 in culture water, higher seaweed density resulted in lower specific growth rate. The biomass production has been related to photosynthetic activity by using in vivo chlorophyll a fluorescence. Dynamic photoinhibition was observed at noon, which was less severe in cultures with higher algal densities. However, photosynthesis recovered in the afternoon. Seaweeds that were acclimatized for a week to the conditions of 1.0 kg FW m−2 stocking density showed an increase in biomass growth and absence of photoinhibition compared to non-acclimatized thalli. In conclusion, the cultivation of U. compressa in a mid-scale raceway photobiorreactor under conditions of high irradiance and temperature and low nutrient input, exhibited the best photosynthetic performance and hence the highest growth rates for the highest culture density assayed (1.0 kg FW m−2).

Transcription is carried out in most eukaryotes by three multimeric complexes (RNA polymerases I, II and III). However, plants contain two additional RNA polymerases (IV and V), which have evolved from RNA polymerase II. RNA polymerases II, IV and V contain both common and specific subunits that may specialise some of their functions. In this study, we conducted a search for the genes that putatively code for the specific subunits of RNA polymerases IV and V, as well as those corresponding to RNA polymerase II in olive trees. Based on the homology with the genes of Arabidopsis thaliana, we identified 13 genes that putatively code for the specific subunits of polymerases IV and V, and 16 genes that code for the corresponding specific subunits of polymerase II in olives. The transcriptomic analysis by RNA-Seq revealed that the expression of the RNA polymerases IV and V genes was induced during the initial stages of fruit development. Given that RNA polymerases IV and V are involved in the transcription of long non-coding RNAs, we investigated their expression and observed relevant changes in the expression of this type of RNAs. Particularly, the expression of the intergenic and intronic long non-coding RNAs tended to increase in the early steps of fruit development, suggesting their potential role in this process. The positive correlation between the expression of RNA polymerases IV and V subunits and the expression of non-coding RNAs supports the hypothesis that RNA polymerases IV and V may play a role in fruit development through the synthesis of this type of RNAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two recent moderate earthquakes in South Korea, the 2016 MW 5.5 Gyeongju earthquake and 2017 MW 5.4 Pohang earthquake, caused damages to modern residential buildings. These events occurred with almost the same magnitude and duration in the same seismotectonic environment but exhibited remarkably different focal depths, faulting types, surface deformation, and especially structural damage features, but the reasons for these contrasts remain unknown. Furthermore, the building damage patterns are different from the natural damages, which have typical patterns depending on the fault types. It is important to understand the key reasons of these different phenomena to prevent destructive hazards from future earthquakes, particularly in densely populated intraplate regions. Here, we reveal the relationships between the geological-seismic parameters and earthquake damage features based on the patterns of building damage associated with these two events. During post-event urgent field surveys, we systematically observed en-echelon (or Riedel-type) sub-horizontal fractures in building walls associated with strike-slip motion and high-angle conjugate X-shaped fractures in building walls associated with predominantly reverse oblique-slip motion. We attribute the different patterns of earthquake damage to variations in faulting types and associated ground motions; strike-slip faulting resulting in horizontal shear and oblique-slip faulting yielding vertical ground motion. We argue that these interesting characteristics of building damage are mainly caused by stress conditions depending on the environmental change from the underground crust to the ground surface of free face. Our study highlights the importance of post-event investigations of earthquake damage to improve the level of seismic hazard assessment. Our findings from this study could serve as a reference for establishing proper anti-earthquake design and reinforcement for seismic protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study, conducted in the geological context of the Yixin coalfield, systematically performed indoor mechanical tests to analyze the impact of different stress conditions on the permeability of weakly cemented sandstone. The results were used to establish numerical simulations of permeability curves, revealing the following key findings. (1) After saturation, weakly cemented sandstone transitions from brittle to plastic failure. Numerical simulations closely matched experimental results, ensuring the accuracy of subsequent permeability simulations using the Hoek–Brown method. (2) Indoor permeability experiments identified a unique "√" shaped permeability curve for weakly cemented sandstone, differing from traditional sandstone. Numerical simulations confirmed this pattern and provided a basis for modeling weakly cemented strata under varying confining pressures. (3) The mesoscopic analysis of numerical simulation shows that that confining pressure limits the expansion of microcracks, while pore pressure causes cracks to develop from high- to low-pressure areas. Increasing pore pressure gradually raises permeability, and elevated confining pressure initially reduces, then increases permeability. (4) A damage parameter "D" was introduced to monitor fractures during compression simulations, showing that with increasing confining pressure, the damage parameter decreases and then sharply increases. Hydraulic pressure differentials directly correlated with the damage. This comprehensive study enhances our understanding of weakly cemented sandstone's hydrological behavior under varying stress conditions and parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the fact that most of the bacterial genome encodes certain protein molecules, with the development of transcriptomic technologies, many genes have been discovered that transcribe RNA which is not translated into proteins. Such RNAs are called non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). The study of only a small number of them shows that ncRNAs often act as regulatory molecules in various cellular processes: maintenance of cell wall homeostasis, protection against pathogens, virulence, etc. A special place among them is occupied by the so-called small ncRNAs with a length of ~50–300 nucleotide residues. In most cases, they form duplexes with the mRNA of certain genes, which affects the expression of the latter, however, some ncRNAs are able to directly bind to the target protein. Similar mechanisms of action of small ncRNAs give them some advantages in regulating various cellular processes compared to protein regulatory molecules. For example, when responding to an external or internal signal through small ncRNAs, the cell will need to spend less time and resources due to the absence of the translation stage. Moreover, some ncRNAs have no complete complementarity to their target RNAs, which makes the regulation more flexible, as it allows ncRNAs to participate in the response simultaneously to various cellular signals. In this review, we considered the general mechanisms by which various small ncRNAs allow bacteria to adapt to certain stressful conditions, as well as specific examples of their action in various prokaryotic organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current task for both pomiculture and ornamental horticulture is the formation of plant cultivars resistant to different environmental stress and maintaining their high productivity. Drought is one of the most significant environmental factors that inhibit plant growth and development and cause a set of morphological, physiological, and biochemical changes in plant organisms. The aim of our research was to discover the relationship between the development of the reproductive organs of ornamental crabapples and the physiological indicators determined by drought stress factors. The four species and three cultivars of the ornamental crabapples (Malus spp.) from the collection of the National Dendrological Park “Sofiyivka” of NAS of Ukraine were involved in the study: M. × floribunda Siebold ex Van Houtte, M. halliana Koehne, M. niedzwetzkyana Dieck, M. × purpurea (A. Barbier) Rehder, M. × purpurea ‘Ola’, M. × purpurea ‘Royalty’, and M. × purpurea ‘Selkirk’. Drought resistance was determined by the following quantitative indicators: leaf water content, relative turgidity, leaf water deficit, and excised leaf water retention capacity. The leaf water content ranged from 60.0% (M. × floribunda) to 67.2% (M. × purpurea), the relative turgidity ranged from 81.7% (M. × purpurea ‘Ola’) to 98.9% (M. halliana), and the leaf water deficit ranged from 6.8% (M. halliana) to 24.4% (of M. niedzwetzkyana). As a result, the leaves of M. halliana lost the smallest amount of water in 24 hours (50.2%), whereas M. × purpurea 'Ola' leaves lost the largest amount (77.4%). The development of the reproductive organs was estimated based on the fertility and viability of pollen grains, percentage of fruit and seed set. Pollen fertility ranged from 79.8% (of M. niedzwetzkyana) to 95.0% (M. × purpurea 'Ola'); its viability varied from 5.1% (M. niedzwetzkyana) to 51.5% (M. × floribunda). The highest fruit set percentages were recorded in M. floribunda (80.5%), while the lowest was in M. × purpurea 'Royalty' (16.4%). The average percentage of seed sets was 48.5%. The development of the reproductive organs of Malus specimens depended on their drought resistance. The fruit and seed set percentages had a strong negative correlation with the water deficit in leaves determined during the period of drought stress. The percentage of fruit set was also strongly correlated with relative turgidity. The leaf water deficit and relative turgidity were the most important physiological indicators in the drought resistance study, taking into account the need to maintain crop yield and the decorative effect of Malus plants.

The polyphyletic group of black fungi within the Ascomycota (Arthoniomycetes, Dothideomycetes, and Eurotiomycetes) is ubiquitous in natural and anthropogenic habitats. Partly because of their dark, melanin-based pigmentation, black fungi are resistant to stresses including UV- and ionizing-radiation, heat and desiccation, toxic metals, and organic pollutants. Consequently, they are amongst the most stunning extremophiles and poly-extreme-tolerant organisms on Earth. Even though ca. 60 black fungal genomes have been sequenced to date, [mostly in the family Herpotrichiellaceae (Eurotiomycetes)], the class Dothideomycetes that hosts the largest majority of extremophiles has only been sparsely sampled. By sequencing up to 92 species that will become reference genomes, the "Shed light in The daRk lineagES of the fungal tree of life" (STRES) project will cover a broad collection of black fungal diversity spread throughout the Fungal Tree of Life. Interestingly, the STRES project will focus on mostly unsampled genera that display different ecologies and life-styles (e.g., ant- and lichen-associated fungi, rock-inhabiting fungi, etc.). With a resequencing strategy of 10- to 15-fold depth coverage of up to ~550 strains, numerous new reference genomes will be established. To identify metabolites and functional processes, these new genomic resources will be enriched with metabolomics analyses coupled with transcriptomics experiments on selected species under various stress conditions (salinity, dryness, UV radiation, oligotrophy). The data acquired will serve as a reference and foundation for establishing an encyclopedic database for fungal metagenomics as well as the biology, evolution, and ecology of the fungi in extreme environments.

2-Phenylethanol (2-PE) and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) are important secondary metabolites produced by microorganisms, and their production are closely linked to the growth state of microorganisms and environmental factors. Enterobacter CGMCC 5087 can produce both 2-PE and IAA depending on α-ketoacid decarboxylase KDC4427. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different environment factors including osmotic pressure, temperature, and pH on the synthesis of 2-PE and IAA in Enterobacter sp. CGMCC 5087. The bacteria exhibited an enhanced capacity for 2-PE synthesis while not affecting IAA synthesis under 5% NaCl and pH 4.5 stress conditions. In an environment with pH 9.5, the synthesis capacity of 2-PE remained unchanged while the synthesis capacity of IAA decreased. The synthesis ability of 2-PE was enhanced with an increase in temperature within the range of 25 °C to 37 °C, while the synthesis capacity of IAA was not affected significantly. Additionally, the expression of KDC4427 varied under stress conditions. Under 5% NaCl stress and decreased temperature, expression of the KDC4427 gene was increased. However, altering pH did not result in significant differences in gene expression levels, while elevated temperature caused a decrease in gene expression. Furthermore, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations suggested that these conditions may induce fluctuation in the geometry shape of binding cavity, binding energy, and especially the dαC-C- value, which played key roles in affecting the enzyme activity. These results provide insights and strategies for the synthesis of metabolic products 2-PE and IAA in bacterial fermentation, even under unfavorable conditions.

In sport such as darts, athletes are particularly challenged by demands for concentration, skills underpinned by implicit learning, and fine motor skill control. Several techniques have been proposed to improve the implicit learning of such skills, including quiet eye training (QET) and quiet mind training (QMT). Here, the authors tested whether and to what extent QET or QMT, compared with a control condition, might improve skills among novice dart players. In total, 30 novice dart players were randomly assigned either to the QET, QMT, or a control condition. Dart playing skills were assessed four times: at the baseline, 7 days later, under stress conditions, and at the study's end. Over time, errors reduced, but more so in the QET and QMT conditions than in the control condition. The pattern of the results indicates that, among novice dart players and compared with a control condition, both QET and QMT provide significant improvements in implicit learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we introduce the tampered random variable (TRV) modeling in multiple step-stress life testing experiments. Here τ 1 < τ 2 < ... < τ k − 1 be (k − 1) prespecified time points and s 1 , s 2 , ... , s k be k prefixed stress levels with si being the stress level in force during the time interval [ τ i − 1 , τ i) for i = 1 , ... , k with τ 0 = 0 and τ k = ∞. We define the tampered random variable T TRV (k) in multiple step-stress scenario and calculate the PDF, CDF, and Hazard rate for the proposed tampered variable T TRV (k) . We derive a general expression for the expectation of T TRV (k) under different number k of stress levels and also obtain some results on stochastic ordering for different k. All these results are obtained under arbitrary baseline (under normal stress condition with stress level s1) life distribution. In particular, we consider exponential distribution with mean θ and Weibull distribution with scale parameter λ and shape parameter α for specific expressions. We also prove some results on equivalence of the TRV modeling with the two other existing models for step-stress life testing, namely, cumulative exposure and tampered failure rate. Finally, we consider some variations of the modeling approach for T TRV (k) to include incorporation of the stress levels, discrete life time, bivariate or multivariate life times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stability studies of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) remain an essential quality requirement of the pharmaceutical industry. Stability data of an API could guide in the choice of its processing technique, packaging method and storage conditions. Here, we sought to determine the stability or otherwise of xylopic acid (XA) under various stress conditions as stipulated by the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH). XA is a diterpene kaurene isolate of the African spice, Xylopia aethiopica (Annonaceae) that is credited with diverse biological activities. XA was subjected to various stress conditions (hydrolytic, oxidative, photolytic and thermal) and its degradation products characterized. Seven degradation products were identified and tentatively characterized by LC-MS/MS analysis. The probable degradation pathways for the seven degradation products were then predicted. Using a simple and validated UHPLC-DAD method, the degradation kinetics of XA under the different stress conditions were comprehensively assessed. The degradation of XA under all the stress conditions followed the first order reaction kinetics. XA was found to be less stable in strongly acidic or strongly basic solutions as well as in an oxidizing agent (hydrogen peroxide). The stability of XA was also found to be pH- and temperature-dependent. Its stability was however not affected by UV-light irradiation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Post-translational modification as protein sumoylation, alters the target protein function. • Ubiquitin-like modifiers system as Small Ubiquitin-like Modifiers (SUMO) are present in plants whose conjugation with the intracellular proteins play a vital role in various processes. • SUMOylation is one of the dynamic mechanisms employed by plants in normal and against environmental constraints. • The present work offers insights of concept of the SUMO conjugation machinery, its isoforms, their putative roles in plants. Post-translational modification is one of the main reasons behind various cellular signaling events. These modifications alter the target protein's function instantly and add additional complexity by modifying proteins at cellular or sub-cellular location. The ubiquitin-like modifier system is very much conserved in eukaryotic organisms. One of such modifiers, i.e., small ubiquitin-like modifiers (SUMOs) is present in plants whose conjugation with the intracellular proteins plays a vital role in various processes. SUMOylation is one of the dynamic mechanisms employed by plants under normal condition as well as in response to various environmental stresses like heat, drought, cold, phosphate, and biotic stress. It has a key role in regulating plant growth and development and plant defense against pathogens. A large number of protein isoforms have been identified that help in SUMOylation and de-SUMOylation reactions and play vital roles in post-translation modifications. This review is aimed at shedding light on the SUMO conjugation machinery, its isoforms, and their putative roles in cellular growth, developmental processes, and different environmental stress conditions in plants. This work could also be used to understand the stress tolerance mechanism and further draft resistant mechanisms through manipulations of SUMOylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Readiness and ability of a person to overcome stressful situations in any professional activity is particularly relevant for sports. The dynamics of negative states (anxiety, aggression) and hardiness in athletes in different periods of athletic activity (between competitions, 2–3 days before the competition, during the competition, and 2–3 days after them) was studied. The sample involved 56 athletes of both sexes aged 18–30 years (engaged in boxing, judo and combat sambo), and qualified as Master of Sports and Master of Sports of International Class. It is shown that before the competition there is an increase in aggressiveness, anxiety, and hardiness. Hardiness correlates directly with the negative emotional states. The highest indicators of aggressiveness, anxiety and hardiness are reached during the competition, when destructive and constructive aggression and constructive anxiety become dominant. After the competition, aggressiveness, anxiety and hardiness decrease, and the correlation between negative emotional states and hardiness is reversed. Thus, psychic tension during the competition is supported by negative states (aggressiveness, anger, anxiety), which are considered by Authors as the factors that activate the release of reserve energy and participation in mobilization of efficiency. After the competition, on the contrary, the decrease in negative states results in the decrease in hardiness intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that a complex of nervous and hormonal signals during stress stimulates adrenal glands to secrete adrenaline, norepinephrine and cortisol. Much less attention has been paid to the roles of intermediate signaling proteins mediating the effects of “stress hormones”, neurotransmitters, and other signaling molecules. This paper presents the results of a systematization of studies of glycogen synthase kinases GSK-3α and GSK-3β, whose excessive activity aggravates the course of chronic stress, has a negative effect on neuronal survival and adaptation processes. Lithium ions are a natural inhibitor of the excessive activity of both GSK-3, which partly determines the normothymic and antidepressant effects of lithium drugs. Taking lithium salts based on organic anions is the safest and most effective way to replenish lithium deficiency in the body. The prospects for the use of lithium ascorbate to increase the body's adaptive reserves are considered.

Introduction: M. aviumsubsp. hominissuis (M. avium) is an intracellular, facultative bacterium known to colonize and infect the human host through ingestion or respiratory inhalation. The majority of pulmonary infections occur in association with pre-existing lung diseases, such as bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. M. avium is also acquired by the gastrointestinal route in immunocompromised individuals such as human immunodeficiency virus HIV-1 patients leading to disseminated disease. A hallmark of M. avium pulmonary infections is the ability of pathogen to form biofilms. In addition, M. avium can reside within granulomas of low oxygen and limited nutrient conditions while establishing a persistent niche through metabolic adaptations. Methods: Bacterial metabolic pathways used by M. avium within the host environment, however, are poorly understood. In this study, we analyzed M. avium proteome with a focus on core metabolic pathways expressed in the anaerobic, biofilm and aerobic conditions and that can be used by the pathogen to transition from one environment to another. Results: Overall, 3,715 common proteins were identified between all studied conditions and proteins with increased synthesis over the of the level of expression in aerobic condition were selected for analysis of in specific metabolic pathways. The data obtained from the M. avium proteome of biofilm phenotype demonstrates in enrichment of metabolic pathways involved in the fatty acid metabolism and biosynthesis of aromatic amino acid and cofactors. Here, we also highlight the importance of chloroalkene degradation pathway and anaerobic fermentationthat enhance during the transition of M. avium from aerobic to anaerobic condition. It was also found that the production of fumarate and succinate by MAV_0927, a conserved hypothetical protein, is essential for M. avium survival and for withstanding the stress condition in biofilm. In addition, the participation of regulatory genes/proteins such as the TetR family MAV_5151 appear to be necessary for M. avium survival under biofilm and anaerobic conditions. Conclusion: Collectively, our data reveal important core metabolic pathways that M. avium utilize under different stress conditions that allow the pathogen to survive in diverse host environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current task for both pomiculture and ornamental horticulture is the formation of plant cultivars resistant to different environmental stress and maintaining their high productivity. Drought is one of the most significant environmental factors that inhibit plant growth and development and cause a set of morphological, physiological, and biochemical changes in plant organisms. The aim of our research was to discover the relationship between the development of the reproductive organs of ornamental crabapples and the physiological indicators determined by drought stress factors. The four species and three cultivars of the ornamental crabapples (Malusspp.) from the collection of the National Dendrological Park “Sofiyivka” of NAS of Ukraine were involved in the study: M. × floribunda Siebold ex Van Houtte, M. halliana Koehne, M. niedzwetzkyana Dieck, M. × purpurea (A. Barbier) Rehder, M. × purpurea ‘Ola’, M. × purpurea ‘Royalty’, and M. × purpurea ‘Selkirk’. Drought resistance was determined by the following quantitative indicators: leaf water content, relative turgidity, leaf water deficit, and excised leaf water retention capacity. The leaf water content ranged from 60.0% (M. ×floribunda) to 67.2% (M. × purpurea), the relative turgidity ranged from 81.7% (M. × purpurea ‘Ola’) to 98.9% (M. halliana), and the leaf water deficit ranged from 6.8% (M. halliana) to 24.4% (of M. niedzwetzkyana). As a result, the leaves of M. halliana lost the smallest amount of water in 24 hours (50.2%), whereas M. × purpurea 'Ola' leaves lost the largest amount (77.4%). The development of the reproductive organs was estimated based on the fertility and viability of pollen grains, percentage of fruit and seed set. Pollen fertility ranged from 79.8% (of M. niedzwetzkyana) to 95.0% (M. ×purpurea 'Ola'); its viability varied from 5.1% (M. niedzwetzkyana) to 51.5% (M. ×floribunda). The highest fruit set percentages were recorded in M. floribunda (80.5%), while the lowest was in M. × purpurea 'Royalty' (16.4%). The average percentage of seed sets was 48.5%. The development of the reproductive organs of Malusspecimens depended on their drought resistance. The fruit and seed set percentages had a strong negative correlation with the water deficit in leaves determined during the period of drought stress. The percentage of fruit set was also strongly correlated with relative turgidity. The leaf water deficit and relative turgidity were the most important physiological indicators in the drought resistance study, taking into account the need to maintain crop yield and the decorative effect of Malus plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are released by all cell types and are involved in intercellular communication. We evaluated if neural stem cells-derived EVs (NSCEVs) regulate NSCs proliferation and differentiation under control and stress conditions. We found that NSC-EVs treatment increases cell proliferation and promotes neuronal differentiation and plasticity. The fact that nervous tissue poorly recovers after cellular damage, prump us to evaluate the effect of EVs supplementation under oxidative stress and inflammation. We demonstrate that NSC-EVs restore the proliferative potential of the NSCs affected by oxidative stress. In addition, we provide evidence that oxidative stress and inflammation induce neuronal differentiation. Interestingly, the aberrant cell phenotype induced by inflammation is restored by NSC-EVs treatment, suggesting that these vesicles ameliorate the damage burden in neurons and modulate neuronal plasticity. These results contribute to understand the role of the NSCs-derived EVs as key players for brain tissue generation and regeneration and open new pathways to the development of therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peptides are small polymers composed of 40 or fewer amino acids and are an increasingly important class of drugs. Therapeutic peptides are less immunogenic and more economical than biologics while offering greater safety, selectivity, efficacy, and specificity than small molecule drugs. Despite this, they are challenging to mold in a stable formulation due to their susceptibility to degradation. By understanding the degradation behavior of such peptide drugs, researchers and pharmaceutical manufacturers can design safe, effective, and stable peptide formulations. From a scientific standpoint, forced degradation studies are an indispensable tool to forecast the stability of any molecule during its development phase. Being structurally diverse, the degradation of peptide drugs is different from the small molecules. This review provides a practical summary of strategies adopted to perform the stress stability testing for different peptide therapeutics including a selection of stress conditions, degradation products formed, and an analytical methodology used for the characterization of degradation products. Hence, it will help in developing a protocol for performing forced degradation studies on peptide therapeutics of interest. In-depth discussions of the different peptide degradation mechanisms are also included, along with preventive measures. The information presented here in the form of case studies on the degradation profile of existing peptide drugs will help in designing more resistant peptide drugs by chemical modifications, as well as aid in the advancement of generic peptide drug product development. In brief, this review presents the way of controlling peptide degradation from synthesis to formulation development based on their constituted amino acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Azospirillum brasilense Sp7 produces PHB, which is covered by granule-associated proteins (GAPs). Phasins are the main GAPs. Previous studies have shown phasins can regulate PHB synthesis. When A. brasilense grows under stress conditions, it uses sigma factors to transcribe genes for survival. One of these factors is the σ24 factor. This study determined the possible interaction between phasins and the σ24 factor or phasin-σ24 factor complex and DNA. Three-dimensional structures of phasins and σ24 factor structures were predicted using the I-TASSER and SWISS-Model servers, respectively. Subsequently, a molecular docking between phasins and the σ24 factor was performed using the ClusPro 2.0 server, followed by molecular docking between protein complexes and DNA using the HDOCK server. Evaluation of the types of ligand–receptor interactions was performed using the BIOVIA Discovery Visualizer for three-dimensional diagrams, as well as the LigPlot server to obtain bi-dimensional diagrams. The results showed the phasins (Pha4Abs7 or Pha5Abs7)-σ24 factor complex was bound near the −35 box of the promoter region of the phaC gene. However, in the individual interaction of PhaP5Abs7 and the σ24 factor, with DNA, both proteins were bound to the −35 box. This did not occur with PhaP4Abs7, which was bound to the −10 box. This change could affect the transcription level of the phaC gene and possibly affect PHB synthesis.

The review summarizes current literature data on the main structures and components of the tularemia microbe responsible for adaptation to the warm-blooded host macroorganism (susceptible animals, humans). According to scientific data, the successful survival of Francisella tularensis under stress conditions requires the interaction of all cellular structures of the microbe. Despite active research carried out in the field of studying the determinants and mechanisms of F. tularensis resistance, the reason for the high adaptive capacity with low variability of the tularemia pathogen has not been established. These studies are important for understanding the mechanisms of persistence and virulence of F. tularensis, as well as for further development of vaccines and diagnostic tests.

IntroductionM. avium subsp. hominissuis (M. avium) is an intracellular, facultative bacterium known to colonize and infect the human host through ingestion or respiratory inhalation. The majority of pulmonary infections occur in association with pre- existing lung diseases, such as bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. M. avium is also acquired by the gastrointestinal route in immunocompromised individuals such as human immunodeficiency virus HIV-1 patients leading to disseminated disease. A hallmark of M. avium pulmonary infections is the ability of pathogen to form biofilms. In addition, M. avium can reside within granulomas of low oxygen and limited nutrient conditions while establishing a persistent niche through metabolic adaptations.MethodsBacterial metabolic pathways used by M. avium within the host environment, however, are poorly understood. In this study, we analyzed M. avium proteome with a focus on core metabolic pathways expressed in the anaerobic, biofilm and aerobic conditions and that can be used by the pathogen to transition from one environment to another.ResultsOverall, 3,715 common proteins were identified between all studied conditions and proteins with increased synthesis over the of the level of expression in aerobic condition were selected for analysis of in specific metabolic pathways. The data obtained from the M. avium proteome of biofilm phenotype demonstrates in enrichment of metabolic pathways involved in the fatty acid metabolism and biosynthesis of aromatic amino acid and cofactors. Here, we also highlight the importance of chloroalkene degradation pathway and anaerobic fermentationthat enhance during the transition of M. avium from aerobic to anaerobic condition. It was also found that the production of fumarate and succinate by MAV_0927, a conserved hypothetical protein, is essential for M. avium survival and for withstanding the stress condition in biofilm. In addition, the participation of regulatory genes/proteins such as the TetR family MAV_5151 appear to be necessary for M. avium survival under biofilm and anaerobic conditions.ConclusionCollectively, our data reveal important core metabolic pathways that M. avium utilize under different stress conditions that allow the pathogen to survive in diverse host environments.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are released by all cell types and are involved in intercellular communication. We evaluated if neural stem cells-derived EVs (NSC-EVs) regulate NSCs proliferation and differentiation under control and stress conditions. We found that NSC-EVs treatment increases cell proliferation and promotes neuronal differentiation and plasticity. The fact that nervous tissue poorly recovers after cellular damage, prump us to evaluate the effect of EVs supplementation under oxidative stress and inflammation. We demonstrate that NSC-EVs restore the proliferative potential of the NSCs affected by oxidative stress. In addition, we provide evidence that oxidative stress and inflammation induce neuronal differentiation. Interestingly, the aberrant cell phenotype induced by inflammation is restored by NSC-EVs treatment, suggesting that these vesicles ameliorate the damage burden in neurons and modulate neuronal plasticity. These results contribute to understand the role of the NSCs-derived EVs as key players for brain tissue generation and regeneration and open new pathways to the development of therapies.

Monilinia is the causal agent of brown rot in stone fruit. The three main species that cause this disease are Monilinia laxa, M. fructicola, and M. fructigena, and their infection capacity is influenced by environmental factors (i.e., light, temperature, and humidity). To tolerate stressful environmental conditions, fungi can produce secondary metabolites. Particularly, melanin-like pigments can contribute to survival in unfavorable conditions. In many fungi, this pigment is due to the accumulation of 1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene melanin (DHN). In this study, we have identified for the first time the genes involved in the DHN pathway in the three main Monilinia spp. and we have proved their capacity to synthetize melanin-like pigments, both in synthetic medium and in nectarines at three stages of brown rot development. The expression of all the biosynthetic and regulatory genes of the DHN-melanin pathway has also been determined under both in vitro and in vivo conditions. Finally, we have analyzed the role of three genes involved in fungi survival and detoxification, and we have proved that there exists a close relationship between the synthesis of these pigments and the activation of the SSP1 gene. Overall, these results deeply describe the importance of DHN-melanin in the three main species of Monilinia: M. laxa, M. fructicola, and M. fructigena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Wine yeast research offers the possibility of isolating new strains with distinct metabolic properties due to the geographical location of the vineyard and the processes used in winemaking. Our study deals with the isolation and identification of six yeasts from spontaneously fermented wine wort from Romania and their characterization as new potential starter culture for traditional beverages, for food industry or biomedicine. (2) Materials and methods: The isolates were identified using conventional taxonomy tests, phenotypic phylogeny analysis (Biolog YT), MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, PCR-RFLP, and sequencing of the ITS1-5,8S-ITS2 rDNA region. The capacity of the yeasts to grow under thermal, ionic, and osmotic stress was determined. The safe status was confirmed by testing virulence and pathogenicity factors. Assays were performed in order to evaluate the growth inhibition of Candida strains and determine the antimicrobial mechanism of action. (3) Results and discussions: The yeast isolates were identified as belonging to the Metschinikowia, Hanseniaspora, Torulaspora, Pichia, and Saccharomyces genera. All the isolates were able to develop under the tested stress conditions and were confirmed as safe. With the exception of S. cerevisiae CMGB-MS1-1, all the isolates showed good antimicrobial activity based on competition for iron ions or production of killer toxins. (4) Conclusions: The results revealed the resistance of our yeasts to environmental conditions related to industrial and biomedical applications and their high potential as starter cultures and biocontrol agents, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In plants, the plasma membrane proton pump (PM H+-ATPase) regulates numerous transport-dependent processes such as growth, development, basic physiology, and adaptation to environmental conditions. This review explores the multifunctionality of this enzyme in plant cells. The abundance of several PM H+-ATPase isogenes and their pivotal role in energizing transport in plants have been connected to the phenomena of pleiotropy. The multifunctionality of PM H+-ATPase is a focal point of numerous studies unraveling the molecular mechanisms of plant adaptation to adverse environmental conditions. Furthermore, PM H+-ATPase is a key element in plant defense mechanisms against pathogen attack; however, it also functions as a target for pathogens that enable plant tissue invasion. Here, we provide an extensive review of the PM H+-ATPase as a multitasking protein in plants. We focus on the results of recent studies concerning PM H+-ATPase and its role in plant growth, physiology, and pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The ability of anhydrobiotic to survive long periods of stress conditions is associated with high trehalose levels found in these organisms as a responsive mechanism against stress and adverse conditions. Many methods and factors function as determinant agents of trehalose production and preservation in yeasts. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of three parameters on trehalose synthesis, including temperature, rate of feed, and time of aeration. Methods: To induce trehalose production in baker's yeast, we used an experimental design method in an industrial fermenter at the Khuzestan Yeast Company. The investigation of temperature, rate of feed, and time of aeration parameters in our recipe design were also performed after the cessation of feeding molasses. Results: The findings showed that temperature had the greatest effect on the synthesis of trehalose. Moreover, the interaction of three parameters was significantly effective for the stimulation of trehalose synthesis. We could also make a gas production surge in the dough by increasing the level of trehalose. Conclusions:We conclude that controlling the temperature and taking advantage of the interaction between temperature, rate of feed, and aeration time can help achieve the most effective trehalose synthesis and ensuing gas production in the dough. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study developed a stability‐indicating reversed‐phase‐HPLC method for the determination of related substances of the novel antituberculosis drug pretomanid. Critical quality attributes were evaluated and established for the robust method conditions by using quality‐by‐design based design of experiments. Forced degradation studies were carried out under acidic, basic, thermal, oxidative, and photolytic stress conditions. Pretomanid degraded when treated under basic conditions, whereas no significant degradation was observed under other stress conditions. The impurities were separated using a Bakerbond C18 column (150 × 4.6 mm, 3 μm) with the mobile phases 0.1% of orthophosphoric acid and acetonitrile in a time gradient mode. The HPLC method was validated according to the ICH (International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use) tripartite guidelines. Limit of detection and limit of quantitation of pretomanid and all its impurities were 0.1 and 0.4 μg/mL, respectively. The method was found to be linear with a correlation coefficient >0.99, precision (% relative standard deviation < 5.0), robustness, and accuracy (% recovery: 85–115%). Stability studies were evaluated according to the ICH‐Q1A, and the drug was were found to be stable in all storage conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiment was conducted during the Winter season of 2020-2021 at Al-Hartha Research Station of the College of Agriculture, University of Basrah (10 km north of Basrah center), in soil with a silty clay loam texture, to study the effect of three potassium levels (0, 80 and 160 kg K h-1) and four concentrations of silicon (0, 3, 6 and 9 mM l-1) on growth and yield of broad bean in soil affected by salinity (11.40 ds m-1). A factorial experiment was used in randomized complete block design, with three replications. The results showed that 80 kg K h-1 gave the highest value for plant height, number of pods per plant, seed yield and biological yield, with an increase by 27.7%, 83.2%, 85.8% and 67.1%, respectively compared to the control treatment, while the 160 kg K h-1 recorded the highest leaf area. The concentration of silicon 9 mM L-1 gave the highest values for plant height, number of pods, weight of 100 seeds, seed yield and biological yield per plant, with an increase by 6.5%, 32.5%, 4.2%, 47.1% and 41.0%, respectively compared to the control treatment. The interaction between potassium and silicon had a significant effect on some characteristics studied, the combination of 80 kg K h-1 * 9 mM L-1 gave the highest mean for plant height (67.20 cm), number of pods per plant (13.63), seed yield (2900 kg h-1) and biological yield (6883.3 kg h-1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil microbial communities are vital for maintaining soil health and function. Besides studying the composition and interactions of soil microbial communities, the focus has shifted towards using sequencing technologies to explore the diversity and functional potential of microbial communities in soil samples. Biodiversity tends to decrease slightly, and other microorganisms replace the lost microbial populations to maintain necessary functions. The microbial community oscillates within a stable ecological state, maintaining a dynamic equilibrium. However, it is not clear whether the loss of rhizosphere microbial communities diversity affects the stability of community functions under abiotic stress. In this study, we established microbial diversity using the gradient dilution method and investigated microbial community functions by introducing the exogenous phenolic acid autotoxic PHBA. The results of the study showed that reduced diversity of bacterial communities and increased plant autotoxicity led to poor plant growth, especially the aboveground of plants. We employed the natural connectivity topology parameter to reflect the bacterial community stability at different diversity levels. The results showed that dilution treatment and the addition of PHBA reduced the stability of the network. We described the resilience of microbial communities with bacterial diversity loss and PHBA addition using Bray-Curtis dissimilarity. Regardless of whether PHBA was added, the bacterial communities varied greatly in the initial stage. As PHBA was gradually degraded, the differences gradually decreased and eventually returned to the initial value. The dilution treatment groups were unable to fully recover, and the greater the dilution factor, the poorer the bacterial community's resilience. In the study of community function, we observed rapid degradation of PHBA at high diversity levels in the bacterial community. The initial concentration of PHBA is 200 mg/kg, and PHBA is almost completely degraded on the second day. As diversity decreased, the degradation rate of PHBA slowed down significantly, PHBA degradation was almost complete on the 4th day. However, under drought and salt stress, even in highly diverse communities, 33.84 % and 77.25 % of the PHBA were not completely degraded on the 6th day. The function of degrading PHBA can be disrupted due to the loss of community stability under stress conditions, especially drought stress. Even a slight decrease in microbial diversity has a significant impact on the ecological function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Discussion on the advanced local protection against the stressed conditions and applied variables. • Discussion on the benefits and application of wide-area measurement systems in the protection systems. • Discussion on balancing the security and dependability of the wide-area protection systems and comparison of some proposed methods. • Discussion on the out-of-step protection methods and comparison of the proposed schemes for the out-of-step prediction. • Investigation of the impact of integrating RESs and FACTs in power systems on the performance of protection systems, and discussion on the new trends regarding the renewable energy resources penetration and artificial intelligent tools emerging. The reliable operation of modern power systems faces numerous challenges, including wide-area disturbances, protection system misoperation, complex interconnected configurations, limited stability margins, variable renewable energy resources, and increasing energy demands. However, advancements in measurement devices, computation, and communication technologies present opportunities for constructing smart grids and implementing effective wide-area monitoring, protection, and control systems. To address these challenges, extensive research has been conducted on utilizing wide-area information to enhance protection and monitoring systems and provide a comprehensive understanding of the power system status for control centers to prevent undesirable conditions. This paper provides a comprehensive review of existing work in the areas of wide-area monitoring and protection, with a particular focus on balancing security and reliability in protection systems, supervising distance protection systems, wide-area protection against out-of-step conditions, voltage profile monitoring, and addressing issues related to integrating renewable energy resources. By examining the benefits and challenges of wide-area monitoring and protection systems in modern power systems, this review aims to identify opportunities for future research and development in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of Gellan gum has been increasing gradually and its unique characteristics are suitable for various advanced food technologies. This review outlines recent developments in gellan gum production, modification, and newer applications focusing on food printing and bioactive delivery applications, in the last three years. The yield and production condition of gellan gum is a major factor that affects the cost and its applications. Moreover, modified Gellan gum has been shown to have superior characteristics and functionality as compared to native one. The viscosifying, thermosensitive, gelling etc. characteristics of gellan gum makes it an crucial ingredient in case of preparation of 3D printing ink. Further, gellan gum is also found to be important wall material in case of bioactive delivery application through encapsulation. Optimized methods of production, sustainable feedstock, and stress conditions are critical for the desired functionality and yield of the Gellan gum. [Display omitted] • Modified gellan gum is suitable for food printing application. • Gellan gum as potential wall material in bioactive delivery applications. • Yield and production condition of gellan gum is a major factor that affects the cost. • Chemical modification post synthesis stage are crucial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study, conducted in the geological context of the Yixin coalfield, systematically performed indoor mechanical tests to analyze the impact of different stress conditions on the permeability of weakly cemented sandstone. The results were used to establish numerical simulations of permeability curves, revealing the following key findings. (1) After saturation, weakly cemented sandstone transitions from brittle to plastic failure. Numerical simulations closely matched experimental results, ensuring the accuracy of subsequent permeability simulations using the Hoek–Brown method. (2) Indoor permeability experiments identified a unique “√” shaped permeability curve for weakly cemented sandstone, differing from traditional sandstone. Numerical simulations confirmed this pattern and provided a basis for modeling weakly cemented strata under varying confining pressures. (3) The mesoscopic analysis of numerical simulation shows that that confining pressure limits the expansion of microcracks, while pore pressure causes cracks to develop from high- to low-pressure areas. Increasing pore pressure gradually raises permeability, and elevated confining pressure initially reduces, then increases permeability. (4) A damage parameter “D” was introduced to monitor fractures during compression simulations, showing that with increasing confining pressure, the damage parameter decreases and then sharply increases. Hydraulic pressure differentials directly correlated with the damage. This comprehensive study enhances our understanding of weakly cemented sandstone’s hydrological behavior under varying stress conditions and parameters.