bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Risk Stratification in Early-Stage Endometrial Cancer: Integrating POLE through Droplet Digital PCR and L1CAM
Authors: Joe Seungyeon , Lee Miseon , Kang Jun , Kim Joori , Hong Sook-Hee , Lee Sung Jong , Lee Keun Ho , Lee Ahwon
Published: October 2023

Aim: In order to enhance risk stratification in early-stage endometrial cancer (EC), we conducted molecular classification using surrogate markers, including the POLE droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) and L1CAM immunohistochemistry (IHC). Method: We analyzed archival tumor tissue from 183 early-stage EC patients. POLE pathogenic mutations of P286R, V411L, S297F, A456P, and S459F within exons 9, 13, and 14 were detected using a ddPCR, while the mismatch repair (MMR) status was determined by MMR protein IHC and MSI tests. Additionally, we conducted IHC for p53 and L1CAM. Results: The 183 ECs were categorized into four subgroups: POLE-mutated (15.9%), MMR-deficient (29.0%), p53-abnormal (8.7%), and non-specific molecular profile (NSMP, 46.4%). We further subcategorized the NSMP subgroup into NSMP-L1CAMneg (41.5%) and NSMP-L1CAMpos (4.9%), which we refer to as the molecular L1CAM classification. The molecular L1CAM classification was an independent prognostic factor for recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) (p < 0.001, each). Conclusion: Integrating molecular L1CAM classification can enhance risk stratification in early-stage EC, providing valuable prognostic information to guide treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes. POLE ddPCR might be a cost-effective and easy-to-perform test as an alternative to POLE NGS.
Planning Strategy to Optimize the Dose-Averaged LET Distribution in Large Pelvic Sarcomas/Chordomas Treated with Carbon-Ion Radiotherapy
Authors: Nachankar Ankita , Schafasand Mansure , Carlino Antonio , Hug Eugen , Stock Markus , Góra Joanna , Fossati Piero
Published: October 2023

To improve outcomes in large sarcomas/chordomas treated with CIRT, there has been recent interest in LET optimization. We evaluated 22 pelvic sarcoma/chordoma patients treated with CIRT [large: HD-CTV ≥ 250 cm3 (n = 9), small: HD-CTV < 250 cm3 (n = 13)], DRBE|LEM-I = 73.6 (70.4–73.6) Gy (RBE)/16 fractions, using the local effect model-I (LEM-I) optimization and modified-microdosimetric kinetic model (mMKM) recomputation. We observed that to improve high-LETd distribution in large tumors, at least 27 cm3 (low-LETd region) of HD-CTV should receive LETd of ≥33 keV/µm (p < 0.05). Hence, LETd optimization using ‘distal patching’ was explored in a treatment planning setting (not implemented clinically yet). Distal-patching structures were created to stop beams 1–2 cm beyond the HD-PTV-midplane. These plans were reoptimized and DRBE|LEM-I, DRBE|mMKM, and LETd were recomputed. Distal patching increased (a) LETd50% in HD-CTV (from 38 ± 3.4 keV/µm to 47 ± 8.1 keV/µm), (b) LETdmin in low-LETd regions of the HD-CTV (from 32 ± 2.3 keV/µm to 36.2 ± 3.6 keV/µm), (c) the GTV fraction receiving LETd of ≥50 keV/µm, (from <10% to >50%) and (d) the high-LETd component in the central region of the GTV, without significant compromise in DRBE distribution. However, distal patching is sensitive to setup/range uncertainties, and efforts to ascertain robustness are underway, before routine clinical implementation.
Hikikomori (Severe Social Withdrawal) in Italian Adolescents: Clinical Features and Follow-Up
Authors: Tolomei Greta , Masi Gabriele , Milone Annarita , Fantozzi Pamela , Viglione Valentina , Narzisi Antonio , Berloffa Stefano
Published: October 2023

Severe social withdrawal, including staying alone in one’s bedroom, non-attendance at school or work, and minimal or absent social contacts, sometimes only through electronic devices, can be found in several psychiatric disorders, or in a ‘primary’ form, firstly defined in Japan as ‘Hikikomori’. The distinction between primary and secondary forms is questionable, as it prevalently depends on the quality of psychiatric assessment. To date, few studies specifically explored Hikikomori in an adolescent population outside Japan. The aim of the present study is to describe clinical features of a consecutive group of 80 referred youth (13 to 18 years, 57 males) with social isolation, of which 40 were followed up on for 4–6 months, to characterize clinical features and outcome. All the participants presented psychiatric comorbid disorders, prevalently anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and autism spectrum disorder. Suicidality (ideation and behavior) was reported in 32.5% of the participants, and 20% of the participants attempted suicide. More than half of the participants exceeded the cut-off of the Internet Addiction Test, and 42.4% met the criteria for the Internet Gaming Disorder. At the follow-up appointment, an improvement of social withdrawal was reported in 75% of the sample; 67.5% of the participants significantly improved according to the CGI-improvement scale; and 55% of the participants had an improvement of functioning according to the C-GAS. Our findings suggest that Hikikomori is a transnosographic entity, with high rates of suicidality and Internet addiction, and that can it improve when it is timely diagnosed and treated.
A Survey of Automotive Radar and Lidar Signal Processing and Architectures
Authors: Giuffrida Luigi , Masera Guido , Martina Maurizio
Published: October 2023

In recent years, the development of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADASs) is driving the need for more reliable and precise on-vehicle sensing. Radar and lidar are crucial in this framework, since they allow sensing of vehicle’s surroundings. In such a scenario, it is necessary to master these sensing systems, and knowing their similarities and differences is important. Due to ADAS’s intrinsic real-time performance requirements, it is almost mandatory to be aware of the processing algorithms required by radar and lidar to understand what can be optimized and what actions can be taken to approach the real-time requirement. This review aims to present state-of-the-art radar and lidar technology, mainly focusing on modulation schemes and imaging systems, highlighting their weaknesses and strengths. Then, an overview of the sensor data processing algorithms is provided, with some considerations on what type of algorithms can be accelerated in hardware, pointing to some implementations from the literature. In conclusion, the basic concepts of sensor fusion are presented, and a comparison between radar and lidar is performed.
Giant Pancreatic Pseudocyst after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft in a Hemodialysis Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Chan Ming-Jen , Hsieh Chun-Yih , Su Yi-Jiun , Huang Chien-Chang , Huang Wen-Hung , Weng Cheng-Hao , Yen Tzung-Hai , Hsu Ching-Wei
Published: October 2023

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients have a high prevalence of coronary artery disease, and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) is one of the essential treatments. ESRD patients undergoing CABG surgery have an increased risk of postoperative complications, including acute pancreatitis. Here, we present the unique case of an exceptionally large pancreatic pseudocyst caused by pancreatitis in an ESRD patient after CABG surgery. A 45-year-old male with ESRD under maintenance hemodialysis received CABG surgery for significant coronary artery disease. Two weeks later, he experienced worsening abdominal pain and a palpable mass was noticed in the epigastric region. Computer tomography revealed an unusually large pseudocyst measuring 21 × 17 cm in the retroperitoneum due to necrotizing pancreatitis. The patient underwent percutaneous cystic drainage, and the symptoms were significantly improved without surgical intervention. Factors such as prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass time, postoperative hypotension, and intradialytic hypotension appeared to have contributed to the development of severe pancreatitis in this case. This report highlights the rarity of a giant pancreatic pseudocyst in an ESRD patient after CABG surgery and emphasizes the importance of vigilant postoperative care.
Extreme Value Analysis of Ocean Still Water Levels along the USA East Coast—Case Study (Key West, Florida)
Authors: Watson Phil J.
Published: October 2023

This paper provides an Extreme Value Analysis (EVA) of the hourly still water level (SWL) record at Key West, Florida dating back to 1913 to understand the statistical likelihood of the combination of high predicted tides and the more dynamic influences (predominantly hurricane induced storm surges) that can drive ocean water levels higher at the coast. The impact of hurricane ‘Wilma’ in 2005 dominates the records, producing a super-elevation of the SWL above Mean Sea Level (MSL) of 1155 mm with an estimated return period of around 147 years. This paper explores the duality of increasing risks of oceanic inundation due to extreme events and increasing mean sea level over time, whilst also providing a range of recommendations for ensuring improved predictive model fitting and robustness of EVA for SWLs measured at tide gauges. When integrated with future IPCC AR6 sea level projections, the return level plots from the EVA provide decision makers with key guidance for design, strategic planning and climate change adaptation purposes at Key West, Florida.
Geochemical Characteristics of Nephrite from Chuncheon, South Korea: Implications for Geographic Origin Determination of Nephrite from Dolomite-Related Deposits
Authors: Li Nan , Bai Feng , Peng Qi , Liu Mengsong
Published: October 2023

The Chuncheon nephrite deposit in South Korea is one of the major nephrite deposits in the world, but its origin has been rarely studied. This study explores the mineralogical and geochemical characteristics of the Chuncheon nephrite using a polarizing microscope, an electron microprobe, laser ablation, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and hydrogen–oxygen isotope analyses and compares them with dolomite-related nephrite worldwide. The main mineral of Chuncheon nephrite is tremolite, which has a felted blastic texture, secondary filling texture, and metasomatic pseudomorphic texture that nephrites from other regions do not have. Chuncheon nephrite is dolomite-related; the total content of rare earth elements is generally low, with highly variable positive and negative Eu anomalies and weak positive Ce anomalies; and the light rare earth elements are enriched. The Chuncheon nephrite formed in an anaerobic alkaline environment with a low degree of mineralization, and the hydrothermal fluids are predominantly meteoric water. Nephrite from different regions has different geochemical characteristics as well as different abundances of rare earth element contents. According to the content and range of elements, such as δCe, δEu, ΣREE, (La/Sm)N, and other rare earth elements, dolomite-type nephrite from different origins can be roughly distinguished.
Fatigue and Fracture Behaviors of Short Carbon Fiber Reinforced Squeeze Cast AZ91 at 20 °C and 250 °C
Authors: Alrasheedi Nashmi H. , El-Sayed Seleman Mohamed M. , Ahmed Mohamed M. Z. , Ataya Sabbah
Published: October 2023

AZ91 is one of the most broadly used Mg alloys because of its good castability and reasonable mechanical properties. Strengthening AZ91 with carbon short fibers aims to increase tensile and fatigue strength, creep, and wear resistance. One of the proposed applications of reinforced AZ91 is the production of pistons for trucks. Such reciprocating parts are subjected to alternating fatigue loads which can lead to fatigue failure. In this respect, studying the tensile and fatigue behavior of materials subjected to such loading conditions is of great interest. The alternating low-cycle fatigue (LCF) and high-cycle fatigue (HCF) of unreinforced AZ91 and carbon fiber-reinforced AZ91 (AZ91-C) were investigated at 20 °C and 250 °C. Tensile tests were carried out at the same testing temperature to find the appropriate fatigue testing stress and strain for stress-controlled and strain-controlled tests, respectively. The fatigue curves of stress against the number of cycles (S–N) revealed that the composite AZ91-C’s fatigue strength was 55 MPa under HCF, while that of the matrix alloy AZ91 was only 37 MPa at 250 °C. Fracture investigations were conducted on the broken test samples. The fracture approach in the matrix material (AZ91) is mixed ductile/brittle containing fatigue serration, fiber fracture, and separation in the reinforced material (AZ91-C).
Integrating Species Distribution Models to Estimate the Population Size of Forest Musk Deer (Moschus berezovskii) in the Central Qinling Mountains of Shaanxi
Authors: Gao Xinyu , Bu Shuhai , Zheng Xueli
Published: October 2023

Understanding the population size of animals is crucial for formulating scientific management policies, especially for endangered species. The central area of the Qinling Mountains in Shaanxi is a vital area for forest musk deer, but research is insufficient and estimates of its population size are lacking. In this study, we constructed a species distribution model for the forest musk deer in the central Qinling Mountains in Shaanxi using topography, land-use, and bioclimatic variables alongside forest musk deer occurrence data. The Time-to-Event (TTE) model was employed to estimate the population density of forest musk deer in the selected survey area. By utilizing the suitable habitat area provided by the species distribution model, the population density in the central Qinling Mountains of Shaanxi was estimated by extrapolating from the survey area. Our estimate of the population size of forest musk deer in the central Qinling Mountains of Shaanxi is approximately 2722 ± 788. Similar population estimation methods could be more widely applied, especially in areas with limited survey resources.
European Beech Forests in Austria—Current Distribution and Possible Future Habitat
Authors: Jandl Robert , Foldal Cecilie Birgitte , Ledermann Thomas , Kindermann Georg
Published: October 2023

A change in tree species composition in Central Europe to increase the resilience of forests when coping with climate change effects is imminent. We evaluated the present and expected future role of the European beech, (Fagus sylvatica L.), with respect to the expansion of its habitat and its stem. We assessed the current relevance of beech from data of the Austrian Forest Inventory 2007/09, and analyzed forest policies promoting the establishment of beech forests. We simulated forest growth with the model CALDIS, linked with the timber-market model FOHOW2. We used a business-as-usual (BAU) forest management strategy under moderate (RCP 4.5 BAU) or extreme (RCP 8.5 BAU) climate change. We also simulated an extreme climate change scenario with a forced change in the tree species composition (RCP 8.5 Change Species). Beech occurs in Austrian forests over the elevational gradient of 250 to 1600 m a.s.l. In low elevation, it forms beech-dominated forests, often for the supply of the domestic fuelwood demand. In mountain regions, beech enriches the diversity of Norway spruce, (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst.)-dominated forests. In a BAU setting, the habitat of beech increases only slightly in both climate scenarios. The scenario ‘RCP 8.5 Change Species’ increases the habitat of beech in the next 60 years considerably. With progressing warming, other broadleaved tree species gain relevance. The vulnerability to drought and pathogens are limiting factors for Austrian beech forests. The future habitat depends on many factors such as the ability of forests to cope with climate change, the confidence to arising market opportunities of beech timber in the wake of technological progress, and financial and non-financial incentives for the implementation of adaptive forest management.
Assessment of Potential Prediction and Calibration Methods of Crown Width for Dahurian Larch (Larix gmelinii Rupr.) in Northeastern China
Authors: Liu Suoming , Wang Junjie , Jiang Lichun
Published: October 2023

Crown width (CW) is an important indicator for assessing tree health, vitality, and stability, as well as being used to predict forestry models and evaluate forest dynamics. However, acquiring CW data is laborious and time-consuming, making it crucial to establish a convenient and accurate CW prediction model for forest management. In this study, we developed three models capable of conducting calibration: generalized models (GM), quantile regression models (QR), and mixed-effects models (MIXED). The aim was to effectively improve the prediction accuracy of CW using data from Dahurian larch (Larix gmelinii Rupr.) in Northeastern China. Different sampling designs were applied, including selecting the thickest, thinnest, intermediate, and random trees, with 1 to 10 sample trees for each design. The results showed that all models achieved accurate CW predictions. MIXED displayed the most superior fitting statistics than GM and QR. In model validation, with the increase in the number of sample trees, the model prediction accuracy gradually improved and the model differences gradually reduced. MIXED produced the smallest RMSE, MAE, and MAPE across all sampling designs. The intermediate tree sampling design with the best validation statistics for the given sample size was selected as the final sampling design. Under intermediate tree sampling design, MIXED required a minimum of five sample trees, while GM and QR required at least five and six sample trees for calibration, respectively. Generally, we suggested selecting MIXED as the final CW prediction model and using the intermediate tree sampling design of five trees per plot. This study could provide ideas and support for forest managers to accurately and efficiently predict CW.
Leveraging Taxonomical Engineering for Security Baseline Compliance in International Regulatory Frameworks
Authors: Grigaliūnas Šarūnas , Schmidt Michael , Brūzgienė Rasa , Smyrli Panayiota , Bidikov Vladislav
Published: October 2023

A surge in successful Information Security (IS) breaches targeting Research and Education (R&E) institutions highlights a pressing need for enhanced protection. Addressing this, a consortium of European National Research and Education Network (NREN) organizations has developed a unified IS framework. This paper aims to introduce the Security Baseline for NRENs and a security maturity model tailored for R&E entities, derived from established security best practices to meet the specific needs of NRENs, universities, and various research institutions. The models currently in existence do not possess a system to smoothly correlate varying requirement tiers with distinct user groups or scenarios, baseline standards, and existing legislative actions. This segmentation poses a significant hurdle to the community’s capacity to guarantee consistency, congruency, and thorough compliance with a cohesive array of security standards and regulations. By employing taxonomical engineering principles, a mapping of baseline requirements to other security frameworks and regulations has been established. This reveals a correlation across most regulations impacting R&E institutions and uncovers an overlap in the high-level requirements, which is beneficial for the implementation of multiple standards. Consequently, organizations can systematically compare diverse security requirements, pinpoint gaps in their strategy, and formulate a roadmap to bolster their security initiatives.
A Personalized Ontology Recommendation System to Effectively Support Ontology Development by Reuse
Authors: Abdelreheim Marwa , Soliman Taysir Hassan A. , Klan Friederike
Published: October 2023

The profusion of existing ontologies in different domains has made reusing ontologies a best practice when developing new ontologies. The ontology reuse process reduces the expensive cost of developing a new ontology, in terms of time and effort, and supports semantic interoperability. Existing ontology development tools do not assist in the recommendation of ontologies or their concepts to be reused. Also, existing ontology recommendation tools could suggest whole ontologies covering a set of input keywords without referring to which parts of them (e.g., concepts) can be reused. In this paper, we propose an effective ontology recommendation system that helps the user in the iterative development and reuse of ontologies. The system allows the user to provide explicit preferences about the new ontology, and iteratively guides the user to parts from existing ontologies which match his preferences for reuse. Finally, we developed a prototype of our ontology recommendation system and conducted a user-based evaluation to assess the effectiveness of our approach.
Study on the Prediction Model of Coal Spontaneous Combustion Limit Parameters and Its Application
Authors: Wang Wei , Liang Ran , Qi Yun , Cui Xinchao , Liu Jiao , Xue Kailong
Published: October 2023

The limit parameters of coal spontaneous combustion are important indicators for determining the risk of spontaneous combustion in coal seams. By analyzing the limit parameters of coal spontaneous combustion, the dangerous areas of coal spontaneous combustion can be determined, and corresponding measures can be taken to avoid the occurrence of fires. In order to accurately predict the limit parameters of coal spontaneous combustion, the prediction model of coal spontaneous combustion limit parameters based on GA-SVM was constructed by coupling genetic algorithm (GA) and support vector machine (SVM). Meanwhile, the GA and particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO) were used to optimize the back propagation neural network (BPNN) to construct the GA-BPNN and PSO-BPNN prediction models, respectively. To predict the intensity of air leakage of the upper limit of coal spontaneous combustion in the goaf, the prediction results of the models were compared and analyzed using MAE, MAPE, RMSE, and R2 as the prediction performance evaluation indexes. The results show that the MAE of the GA-SVM model, the PSO-BPNN model, and the GA-BPNN model are 0.0960, 0.1086, and 0.1309, respectively; the MAPE is 2.46%, 3.11%, and 3.69%, respectively; the RMSE is 0.1180, 0.1789, and 0.2212, respectively; and the R2 is 0.9921, 0.9818, and 0.9722. The prediction results of the GA-SVM model are the most optimal in four evaluation indexes, followed by the PSO-BPNN and the GA-BPNN models. Applying each model to the prediction of minimum residual coal thickness in the goaf of a coal mine in Shanxi, the GA-SVM model has higher accuracy, which further verifies the universality and stability of the model and its suitability for the prediction of coal spontaneous combustion limit parameters.
Unsupervised Flame Segmentation Method Based on GK-RGB in Complex Background
Authors: Shen Xuejie , Liu Zhihuan , Xu Zhuonong
Published: October 2023

Fires are disastrous events with significant negative impacts on both people and the environment. Thus, timely and accurate fire detection and firefighting operations are crucial for social development and ecological protection. In order to segment the flame accurately, this paper proposes the GK-RGB unsupervised flame segmentation method. In this method, RGB segmentation is used as the central algorithm to extract flame features. Additionally, a Gaussian filtering method is applied to remove noise interference from the image. Moreover, K-means mean clustering is employed to address incomplete flame segmentation caused by flame colours falling outside the fixed threshold. The experimental results show that the proposed method achieves excellent results on four flame images with different backgrounds at different time periods: Accuracy: 97.71%, IOU: 81.34%, and F1-score: 89.61%. Compared with other methods, GK-RGB has higher segmentation accuracy and is more suitable for the detection of fire. Therefore, the method proposed in this paper helps the application of firefighting and provides a new reference value for the detection and identification of fires.
Research on the Fire Behaviors of Polymeric Separator Materials PI, PPESK, and PVDF
Authors: Huang Que , Li Xinxin , Han Peijie , Li Yang , Liu Changcheng , Chen Qinpei , Li Qiyue
Published: October 2023

Certain polymers, such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyimide (PI), and poly (phthalazinone ether sulfone ketone) (PPESK), are commonly used separator materials in batteries. However, during the thermal runaway (TR) processing of batteries, significant heat is released by the combustion of the polymer separator. Therefore, analysis of the fire behaviors of polymer separator materials will facilitate a more comprehensive quantitative evaluation of battery thermal risk. This paper investigated the combustion properties of three types of polymers, namely, PVDF, PI, and PPESK, as potential separator materials by cone calorimetry and thermogravimetry (TG). A series of characteristic parameters, including ignition time (TTI), heat release rate (HRR), smoke production rate (SPR), and total heat release (THR), were evaluated for three polymers and blends (PI/PVDF, PPESK/PVDF) under an external heat flux of 45 or 60 kW/m2, respectively. The combustion characteristics and fire hazards of the three polymers and corresponding mixtures were analyzed through the comparative analysis of experimental data and phenomena. Under 60 kW/m2, the HRR curves of all polymers presented two peaks, while PI/PVDF and PPESK/PVDF mixtures exhibited one obvious peak. Moreover, the peak HRR (pHRR) for the mixed polymers was higher, indicating a relatively higher fire risk. However, in the application scenario, the mixed state represents the main polymer form as the active separator materials in batteries. The results showed that the specific coupling behaviors were related primarily to the component type. This work will help evaluate the fire risk of polymeric separator materials based on the combustion characteristics to predict the safety of mixtures in batteries and develop new methods for fire suppression.
Synergistic Effects of 1-MCP Fumigation and ε-Poly-L-Lysine Treatments on Delaying Softening and Enhancing Disease Resistance of Flat Peach Fruit
Authors: Zheng Yanli , Jia Xiaoyu , Duan Lihua , Li Xihong , Zhao Zhiyong
Published: October 2023

Flat peach, a predominant fruit consumed in China, is highly susceptible to softening and perishable. The impact of 1-methylcycloproene (1-MCP) fumigation combined with ε-poly-L-lysine (ε-PL) on softening and postharvest reactive oxygen species (ROS) and phenylpropanoid pathway metabolisms in peaches and its relationship to disease resistance were investigated. Findings revealed that a combination of 1 µL L−1 1-MCP and 300 mg L−1 ε-PL effectively suppressed the activity of cell-wall-degrading enzymes and the disassembly of cell wall structure, thus maintaining higher firmness and lower decay incidence. Compared to the control group, the synergistic approach bolstered enzymatic responses linked to disease resistance and ROS-scavenge system, consistently preserving total phenolics, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, and glutathione levels. Concurrently, the accumulation of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde was significantly diminished post-treatment. These results show that there is good synergistic effect between 1-MCP and ε-PL, which could effectively maintain the quality of flat peach fruit by modulating cell wall metabolism and enhancing the resistance.
Streptococcus thermophilus JM905—Strain Carbon Source Utilization and Its Fermented Milk Metabolic Profile at Different Fermentation Stages
Authors: Li Yu , Wang Ye , Li Baolei , Hou Baochao , Hung Weilian , He Jian , Jiang Yujun , Zhang Yu , Man Chaoxin
Published: October 2023

The metabolic utilization of different carbon sources by Streptococcus thermophilus JM905(S. thermophilus JM905) was determined using a high-throughput microbial phenotyping system, and changes in fermentation characteristics of S. thermophilus JM905 fermented milk were investigated at different fermentation periods, with changes in pH, water-holding capacity, viscosity, nuisance odor, and viable bacteria count being used to define the fermentation characteristics of the strain. Changes in the key metabolites, 2-hydroxybutyric acid, folic acid, L-lactic acid, D-glycerol-D-galactose-heptanol, (R)-leucine, L-aspartic acid, L-proline, D-arginine, L-isoleucine, hydra starch, L-lysine, L-tryptophan, and D-galactose, were clarified. Correspondingly, the fermented milk protein, amino acid, and fermented milk fat quality nutrient contents were determined to be 3.78 ± 0.054 g per 100 g, 3.405 ± 0.0234 g per 100 mL, and 0.161 ± 0.0030 g per 100 g, respectively. This study addressed strain carbon source utilization, changes in fermentation characteristics and metabolites during fermentation, with the aim of investigating the link between fermentation characteristics and metabolite quality components of Streptococcus thermophilus JM905 and its fermented milk with fermentation potential and to provide a useful reference for the screening of superior fermentation strains.
Hermite Finite Element Method for Time Fractional Order Damping Beam Vibration Problem
Authors: Sun Xinxin , Zhu Ailing , Yin Zhe , Ji Pengfei
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the vibration problem of a beam with a time fractional damping term is studied by the Hermite finite element method, and its fully discrete scheme is obtained. The stability and error estimation of the scheme are analyzed, and it was proved that it is unconditionally stable and has a convergence order of O(τ+τ3−α+h4). The validity of the scheme is verified by numerical examples, the effects of fractional derivative order and damping coefficient on beam vibration are analyzed and the superiority of the fractional order model has been demonstrated by comparing with the traditional damping model.
Monolayer/Bilayer Equilibrium of Phospholipids in Gel or Liquid States: Interfacial Adsorption via Monomer or Liposome Diffusion?
Authors: Ullmann Kirsten , Fachet Lea , Nirschl Hermann , Leneweit Gero
Published: October 2023

Phospholipids (PLs) are widely used in the pharma industry and a better understanding of their behavior under different conditions is helpful for applications such as their use as medical transporters. The transition temperature Tm affects the lipid conformation and the interfacial tension between perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene (PFP) and an aqueous suspension of 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine (DPPC), 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine (DSPC), as well as a mixture of these PLs with cholesterol. Interfacial tensions were measured with the Du Noüy ring at quasi-equilibrium; the area per molecule was calculated according to the Gibbsian approach and a time-dependent tension gradient. Results show that the time tε to reach quasi-equilibrium was shorter when the temperature was above Tm, indicating a faster adsorption process (tε,DPPC,36 °C = 48 h, tε,DPPC,48 °C = 24 h) for PL in the liquid crystalline state than in the gel state (T < Tm). In addition, concentration-dependent results of the interfacial tension revealed that above the respective Tm and at all concentrations c > 0.1 mM, the average minimum interfacial tension for DPPC and DSPC (14.1 mN/m and 15.3 mN/m) does not differ significantly between those two lipids. Equilibrium between monolayers and bilayers shows that for T < Tm, surface pressures ∏ ≈ 31 mN/m are reached while for T > Tm, ∏ ≈ 41 mN/m. Mixtures with cholesterol only reach ∏ ≤ 31 mN/m Tm, with no significant difference between the two PLs. The higher interfacial tension of the mixture indicates stabilization of the liposomal conformation in the aqueous phase by the addition of cholesterol. The high diffusion coefficients show that adsorption is mainly based on liposomes.
Development of a Low-Molecular-Weight Filtrate Reducer with High-Temperature Resistance for Drilling Fluid Gel System
Authors: Liu Fengbao , Sun Jinsheng , Huang Xianbin , Geng Yuan
Published: October 2023

Currently, conventional polymeric filtrate reducers with high-temperature resistance for use in drilling fluids have high molecular weights, which greatly affects the rheological properties. Therefore, to address the challenges in regulating the rheology and filtration performance of high-density drilling fluids at high temperatures, it is essential to develop low-molecular-weight filtrate reducers with high-temperature resistance. In this study, a low-molecular-weight filtrate reducer with high-temperature resistance (LMF) was prepared via free radical polymerization from acrylamide and 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid as monomers, tertiary dodecyl mercaptan as a chain transfer agent, and ammonium persulfate as the initiator. LMF was then characterized by infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and gel permeation chromatography. The obtained filtrate reducer exhibits a weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of 3819 and an initial thermal decomposition temperature of 300.7 °C, indicating good thermal stability. The effects of LMF dosage, temperature, and NaCl dosage on the rheology and filtration performance of mud samples were also investigated, and the mechanism of action was revealed by zeta potential, particle size distribution, scanning electron microscopy, and adsorption measurements. The results reveal that LMF increases the mud sample viscosity and reduces its filtration. For example, the filtration of the mud sample with 2 wt% LMF was 7.2 mL, a reduction of 70% compared to that of a blank mud sample. Further, after aging at 210 °C for 16 h, the filtration of the same sample was 11.6 mL, and that of a mud sample with 2 wt% LMF and 35 wt% NaCl after aging at 180 °C for 16 h was 22 mL. Overall, we have reported a scheme to prepare a low-molecular-weight filtrate reducer with high-temperature resistance and superior filtrate-reducing effects, laying the foundation for the investigation and development of low-molecular-weight filtrate reducers.
Dissolving and Swelling Hydrogel-Based Microneedles: An Overview of Their Materials, Fabrication, Characterization Methods, and Challenges
Authors: Shriky Bana , Babenko Maksims , Whiteside Ben R.
Published: October 2023

Polymeric hydrogels are a complex class of materials with one common feature—the ability to form three-dimensional networks capable of imbibing large amounts of water or biological fluids without being dissolved, acting as self-sustained containers for various purposes, including pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. Transdermal pharmaceutical microneedles are a pain-free drug delivery system that continues on the path to widespread adoption—regulatory guidelines are on the horizon, and investments in the field continue to grow annually. Recently, hydrogels have generated interest in the field of transdermal microneedles due to their tunable properties, allowing them to be exploited as delivery systems and extraction tools. As hydrogel microneedles are a new emerging technology, their fabrication faces various challenges that must be resolved for them to redeem themselves as a viable pharmaceutical option. This article discusses hydrogel microneedles from a material perspective, regardless of their mechanism of action. It cites the recent advances in their formulation, presents relevant fabrication and characterization methods, and discusses manufacturing and regulatory challenges facing these emerging technologies before their approval.
Transcriptome Analysis and QTL Mapping Identify Candidate Genes and Regulatory Mechanisms Related to Low-Temperature Germination Ability in Maize
Authors: Du Lei , Peng Xin , Zhang Hao , Xin Wangsen , Ma Kejun , Liu Yongzhong , Hu Guangcan
Published: October 2023

Low-temperature germination ability (LTGA) is an important characteristic for spring sowing maize. However, few maize genes related to LTGA were confirmed, and the regulatory mechanism is less clear. Here, maize-inbred lines Ye478 and Q1 with different LTGA were used to perform transcriptome analysis at multiple low-temperature germination stages, and a co-expression network was constructed by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Data analysis showed that 7964 up- and 5010 down-regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of Ye478 were identified at low-temperature germination stages, while 6060 up- and 2653 down-regulated DEGs of Q1 were identified. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that ribosome synthesis and hydrogen peroxide metabolism were enhanced and mRNA metabolism was weakened under low-temperature stress for Ye478, while hydrogen peroxide metabolism was enhanced and mRNA metabolism was weakened for Q1. DEGs pairwise comparisons between the two genotypes found that Ye478 performed more ribosome synthesis at low temperatures compared with Q1. WGCNA analysis based on 24 transcriptomes identified 16 co-expressed modules. Of these, the MEbrown module was highly correlated with Ye478 at low-temperature stages and catalase and superoxide dismutase activity, and the MEred, MEgreen, and MEblack modules were highly correlated with Ye478 across low-temperature stages, which revealed a significant association between LTGA and these modules. GO enrichment analysis showed the MEbrown and MEred modules mainly functioned in ribosome synthesis and cell cycle, respectively. In addition, we conducted quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis based on a doubled haploid (DH) population constructed by Ye478 and Q1 and identified a major QTL explanting 20.6% of phenotype variance on chromosome 1. In this QTL interval, we found three, four, and three hub genes in the MEbrown, MEred, and MEgreen modules, of which two hub genes (Zm00001d031951, Zm00001d031953) related to glutathione metabolism and one hub gene (Zm00001d031617) related to oxidoreductase activity could be the candidate genes for LTGA. These biological functions and candidate genes will be helpful in understanding the regulatory mechanism of LTGA and the directional improvement of maize varieties for LTGA.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of bZIP Family Genes in Stevia rebaudiana
Authors: Wu Mengyang , Chen Jinsong , Tang Weilin , Jiang Yijie , Hu Zhaoyong , Xu Dongbei , Hou Kai , Chen Yinyin , Wu Wei
Published: October 2023

The basic (region) leucine zippers (bZIPs) are evolutionarily conserved transcription factors widely distributed in eukaryotic organisms. In plants, they are not only involved in growth and development, defense and stress responses and regulation of physiological processes but also play a pivotal role in regulating secondary metabolism. To explore the function related to the bZIP gene family in Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, we identified 105 SrbZIP genes at the genome-wide level and classified them into 12 subfamilies using bioinformation methods. Three main classes of cis-acting elements were found in the SrbZIP promoter regions, including development-related elements, defense and stress-responsive elements and phytohormone-responsive elements. Through protein–protein interaction network of 105 SrbZIP proteins, SrbZIP proteins were mainly classified into four major categories: ABF2/ABF4/ABI5 (SrbZIP51/SrbZIP38/SrbZIP7), involved in phytohormone signaling, GBF1/GBF3/GBF4 (SrbZIP29/SrbZIP63/SrbZIP60) involved in environmental signaling, AREB3 (SrbZIP88), PAN (SrbZIP12), TGA1 (SrbZIP69), TGA4 (SrbZIP82), TGA7 (SrbZIP31), TGA9 (SrbZIP95), TGA10 (SrbZIP79) and HY5 (SrbZIP96) involved in cryptochrome signaling, and FD (SrbZIP72) promoted flowering. The transcriptomic data showed that SrbZIP genes were differentially expressed in six S. rebaudiana cultivars (‘023’, ‘110’, ‘B1188’, ‘11-14’, ‘GP’ and ‘GX’). Moreover, the expression levels of selected 15 SrbZIP genes in response to light, abiotic stress (low temperature, salt and drought), phytohormones (methyl jasmonate, gibberellic acid and salicylic acid) treatment and in different tissues were analyzed utilizing qRT-PCR. Some SrbZIP genes were further identified to be highly induced by factors affecting glycoside synthesis. Among them, three SrbZIP genes (SrbZIP54, SrbZIP63 and SrbZIP32) were predicted to be related to stress-responsive terpenoid synthesis in S. rebaudiana. The protein–protein interaction network expanded the potential functions of SrbZIP genes. This study firstly provided the comprehensive genome-wide report of the SrbZIP gene family, laying a foundation for further research on the evolution, function and regulatory role of the bZIP gene family in terpenoid synthesis in S. rebaudiana.
Molecular Variation in Some Taxa of Genus Astragalus L. (Fabaceae) in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region
Authors: Khal Lanja Hewa , Tahir Nawroz Abdul-razzak , Abdul-Razaq Rupak Tofiq
Published: October 2023

Astragalus L. is one of the main genera of blossoming plants, and its diversity of species and forms is well known. The Astragalus L. taxa make a significant contribution to the mountainous and steppe ecosystems of the Kurdistan region of Iraq. Although the species within this genus have been the subject of several molecular studies, the evolutionary relationships among these species remain unidentified. Despite extensive research, little is known about the phylogenetic relationships among the various subgenera of Astragalus. This research is intended to investigate the molecular variation of 33 species of the genus Astragalus L. found in the Kurdistan area of Iraq. For molecular validations, three separate techniques (nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA), inter simple sequence repeats (ISSR), and conserved DNA-derived polymorphism (CDDP)) were used. With respect to Astragalus L. indentations, universal ITS1 and ITS4 gene sequencing was used, and the discovered sequences were subjected to BLAST searches in the NCBI database. A phylogenetic tree was generated with two main clades. Regarding detecting genetic diversity between the taxa, 24 molecular markers (14 ISSR and 10 CDDP) were used. High values of polymorphic materials and gene diversity were detected. ISSR markers had an average of 22.71 polymorphic bands per primer, while CDDP markers had the highest mean values for polymorphic information content (0.37), Shannon’s information index (0.27), expected heterozygosity (0.19), and unbiased expected heterozygosity (0.23). Cluster and principal coordinate analyses divided the Astragalus L. taxa into four main groups using the two molecular data sets. According to the results of the molecular variance analysis, the highest variation was detected within sections, with values of 92.01 and 89.48% for ISSR and CDDP markers, respectively. These outcomes suggest the effectiveness of molecular markers and the ITS region in determining and identifying genetic correlations between Astragalus species.
Improved Recovery of Antioxidant Compounds from Refined Pumpkin Peel Extract: A Mixture Design Method Approach
Authors: Mansour Rim Ben , Falleh Hanen , Nefzi Nermine , Dakhlaoui Sarra , Selmi Sawssen , Hammami Majdi , Barros Lillian , Petropoulos Spyridon A. , Tarchoun Neji , Ksouri Riadh
Published: October 2023

This study employed the mixture design method to determine optimal solvent combinations, aiming to obtain refined extracts from squash peels with enhanced antioxidant properties. We optimized extraction solvents, focusing on recovering the total phenolic compounds (TPC) and increased antioxidant properties using a second-order polynomial equation through the response surface methodology (RSM). Six solvents (MeOH, Hexane, DCM, EtOAc, BuOH, and water) were assessed for their effects on TPC and antioxidant activity in preliminary experiments. The refined extracts underwent a HPLC analysis for a phenolic composition determination and were further evaluated for their antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity. The results revealed a rich phenolic content in the refined extract from peels of Bejaoui landrace, primarily catechin (8.06 mg/g dry extract (DE)), followed by epicatechin and kaempferol (5 mg/g DE). Antibacterial tests against Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium, and Staphylococcus aureus showed significant antimicrobial activities, especially for Karkoubi and batati landraces, where the growth inhibitions were 99%, 96%, 97%, and 80% and 94%, 89%, 98%, and 96% for the respective bacteria. The peel extracts exhibited a negligible cytotoxicity on the RAW264.7 cell line, even at high concentrations. Our findings emphasize the potential antioxidant and antibacterial properties of peel extracts due to diverse phenolic compounds, suggesting the potential use of squash peels in the food and nutraceuticals industries as sources of natural antimicrobial agents.
Tomato Fruit Growth and Nutrient Accumulation in Response to Blue and Red Light Treatments during the Reproductive Growth Stage
Authors: Lee Su Hyeon , Won Hyo Jun , Ban Seunghyun , Choi Hyelim , Jung Je Hyeong
Published: October 2023

Tomatoes are an important fruit consumed worldwide. Within protected cultivation environments, artificial light using energy-efficient light-emitting diodes can be applied in tomato production as an effective way to improve productivity and nutritional value. Several studies have investigated the effects of supplementing artificial light on various aspects of tomato growth, encompassing flowering, fruit development, ripening, and nutritional composition. However, the outcomes of previous studies offer inconclusive insights into whether the observed impacts on tomato growth have resulted from the provision of additional photons or discrepancies in the spectral distribution of light during artificial light supplementation. Within this context, this study aimed to specifically explore the independent effects of monochromatic blue and red light, along with their dichromatic mixture (blue + red), on fruit growth and nutrient accumulation in comparison with multispectral white light. These four different light treatments were implemented after anthesis under the same photosynthetic photon flux density to mitigate possible variabilities arising from different light intensities and originating during the vegetative growth stage. As a result, under the same light intensity conditions, red and blue + red light irradiance during the reproductive growth stage delayed fruit ripening by up to 4.33 days compared to white light. Regarding fruit productivity, the fresh weight of fully ripe tomato fruit in the blue, red, or blue + red light treatment groups was not different from that in the white-light treatment group, whereas the blue light treatment significantly reduced the number of fruits in the plant. Finally, nutrient content, including soluble sugars, lycopene, and β-carotene, significantly increased by 10.0%, 27.1%, and 65.2%, respectively, in the blue compared to the white light-irradiated group. This study demonstrated that the application of distinct light spectra during the reproductive growth phase could have varying impacts on tomato fruit development and nutrient accumulation. By integrating our findings with results from prior studies, a more efficient light intervention strategy could be developed to effectively regulate traits of tomato fruit within an indoor production system.