bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression of Potato PYL16 Gene in Tobacco Enhances the Transgenic Plant Tolerance to Drought Stress
Authors: Yao Panfeng , Zhang Chunli , Bi Zhenzhen , Liu Yuhui , Liu Zhen , Wei Jia , Su Xinglong , Bai Jiangping , Cui Junmei , Sun Chao
Published: August 2024

PYR/PYL/RCAR proteins are abscisic acid (ABA) receptors that play a crucial role in plant responses to abiotic stresses. However, there have been no research reports on potato PYL so far. In this study, a potato PYL gene named StPYL16 was identified based on transcriptome data under drought stress. Molecular characteristics analysis revealed that the StPYL16 protein possesses an extremely conserved PYL family domain. The tissue expression results indicated that the StPYL16 is predominantly expressed at high levels in the underground parts, particularly in tubers. Abiotic stress response showed that StPYL16 has a significant response to drought treatment. Further research on the promoter showed that drought stress could enhance the activation activity of the StPYL16 promoter on the reporter gene. Then, transient and stable expression of StPYL16 in tobacco enhanced the drought resistance of transgenic plants, resulting in improved plant height, stem thickness, and root development. In addition, compared with wild-type plants, StPYL16 transgenic tobacco exhibited lower malondialdehyde (MDA) content, higher proline accumulation, and stronger superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) activities. Meanwhile, StPYL16 also up-regulated the expression levels of stress-related genes (NtSOD, NtCAT, NtPOD, NtRD29A, NtLEA5, and NtP5CS) in transgenic plants under drought treatment. These findings indicated that the StPYL16 gene plays a positive regulatory role in potato responses to drought stress.
Evaluation of 73 Enlisted Patients for Liver Transplant with Unknown Etiology Reveals a Late-Diagnosed Case of Lysosomal Acid Lipase Deficiency
Authors: Bastos Karina Lucio de Medeiros , Stephan Bruno de Oliveira , Linnenkamp Bianca Domit Werner , Costa Larissa Athayde , Lima Fabiana Roberto , Carvalho Laura Machado Lara , Honjo Rachel Sayuri , Tannuri Uenis , Tannuri Ana Cristina Aoun , Kim Chong Ae
Published: August 2024

Lysosomal acid lipase deficiency (LALD) varies from a severe infantile-onset form (Wolman disease) to a late-onset form known as cholesteryl ester storage disease (CESD), both of which are autosomal recessive disorders caused by biallelic LIPA pathogenic variants. We evaluated seventy-three patients enlisted for liver transplant (LT) at Instituto da Criança (HCFMUSP—Brazil) who were subjected to LAL activity measurement and LIPA Sanger sequencing analysis, resulting in a positive LALD diagnosis for only one of these individuals. This LALD patient presented recurrent diarrhea, failure to thrive, hepatomegaly, and dyslipidemia at the age of 4 months and liver failure by the age of 13 years. The LALD diagnosis confirmation was conducted at 24 years old due to low levels of LAL enzyme activity. The causal homozygous variant LIPA(NM_000235.4):c.266T>C(p.Leu89Pro) was identified, but the patient had already undergone his first LT at 18 years with several rejection episodes. Despite beginning treatment with sebelipase alfa at 26 years old (total of five infusions), this patient died at 28 years from complications after his second liver transplant. LALD is an important differential diagnosis in cases presenting with hepatomegaly, elevated liver enzymes, and dyslipidemia. Detecting low/absent LAL activity and identifying the LIPA causal variant are essential for diagnosis and specific treatment, as well as for appropriate genetic counseling. Early diagnosis, along with sebelipase alfa therapy, may improve the prognosis of affected patients.
Telomeres and SIRT1 as Biomarkers of Gamete Oxidative Stress, Fertility, and Potential IVF Outcome
Authors: Pańczyszyn Anna , Boniewska-Bernacka Ewa , Wertel Iwona , Sadakierska-Chudy Anna , Goc Anna
Published: August 2024

The number of infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) has increased significantly. The efficacy of this procedure is contingent upon a multitude of factors, including gamete quality. One factor influencing gamete quality is oxidative stress, which leads to telomere damage and accelerates cellular ageing. Identifying new biomarkers that can predict the success of assisted reproduction techniques is a current relevant area of research. In this review, we discuss the potential role of SIRT1, a protein known to protect against oxidative stress and telomeres, which are responsible for genome stability, as biomarkers of gamete quality and assisted reproduction technique outcomes.
Transcription-Associated Metabolomic Analysis Reveals the Mechanism of Fruit Ripening during the Development of Chinese Bayberry
Authors: Sun Li , Zhang Shuwen , Yu Zheping , Zheng Xiliang , Liang Senmiao , Ren Haiying , Qi Xingjiang
Published: August 2024

The ripening process of Chinese bayberries (Myrica rubra) is intricate, involving a multitude of molecular interactions. Here, we integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis across three developmental stages of the Myrica rubra (M. rubra) to elucidate these processes. A differential gene expression analysis categorized the genes into four distinct groups based on their expression patterns. Gene ontology and pathway analyses highlighted processes such as cellular and metabolic processes, including protein and sucrose metabolism. A metabolomic analysis revealed significant variations in metabolite profiles, underscoring the dynamic interplay between genes and metabolites during ripening. Flavonoid biosynthesis and starch and sucrose metabolism were identified as key pathways, with specific genes and metabolites playing crucial roles. Our findings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms governing fruit ripening in M. rubra and offer potential targets for breeding strategies aimed at enhancing fruit quality.
Effect of Synthetic Vitreous Fiber Exposure on TMEM16A Channels in a Xenopus laevis Oocyte Model
Authors: Zangari Martina , Zabucchi Giuliano , Conti Martina , Lorenzon Paola , Borelli Violetta , Constanti Andrew , Dellisanti Francesco , Leone Sara , Vaccari Lisa , Bernareggi Annalisa
Published: August 2024

Many years ago, asbestos fibers were banned and replaced by synthetic vitreous fibers because of their carcinogenicity. However, the toxicity of the latter fibers is still under debate, especially when it concerns the early fiber interactions with biological cell membranes. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of a synthetic vitreous fiber named FAV173 on the Xenopus laevis oocyte membrane, the cell model we have already used to characterize the effect of crocidolite asbestos fiber exposure. Using an electrophysiological approach, we found that, similarly to crocidolite asbestos, FAV173 was able to stimulate a chloride outward current evoked by step membrane depolarizations, that was blocked by the potent and specific TMEM16A channel antagonist Ani9. Exposure to FAV173 fibers also altered the oocyte cell membrane microvilli morphology similarly to crocidolite fibers, most likely as a consequence of the TMEM16A protein interaction with actin. However, FAV173 only partially mimicked the crocidolite fibers effects, even at higher fiber suspension concentrations. As expected, the crocidolite fibers’ effect was more similar to that induced by the co-treatment with (Fe3+ + H2O2), since the iron content of asbestos fibers is known to trigger reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Taken together, our findings suggest that FAV173 may be less harmful that crocidolite but not ineffective in altering cell membrane properties.
Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Bearing Herpes Virus Entry Mediator Co-Stimulatory Signal Domain Exhibits Exhaustion-Resistant Properties
Authors: Nunoya Jun-ichi , Imuta Nagisa , Masuda Michiaki
Published: August 2024

Improving chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapeutic outcomes and expanding its applicability to solid tumors requires further refinement of CAR-T cells. We previously reported that CAR-T cells bearing a herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM)-derived co-stimulatory signal domain (CSSD) (HVEM-CAR-T cells) exhibit superior functions and characteristics. Here, we conducted comparative analyses to evaluate the impact of different CSSDs on CAR-T cell exhaustion. The results indicated that HVEM-CAR-T cells had significantly lower frequencies of exhausted cells and exhibited the highest proliferation rates upon antigenic stimulation. Furthermore, proliferation inhibition by programmed cell death ligand 1 was stronger in CAR-T cells bearing CD28-derived CSSD (CD28-CAR-T cells) whereas it was weaker in HVEM-CAR-T. Additionally, HVEM-CAR-T cells maintained a low exhaustion level even after antigen-dependent proliferation and exhibited potent killing activities, suggesting that HVEM-CAR-T cells might be less prone to early exhaustion. Analysis of CAR localization on the cell surface revealed that CAR formed clusters in CD28-CAR-T cells whereas uniformly distributed in HVEM-CAR-T cells. Analysis of CD3ζ phosphorylation indicated that CAR-dependent tonic signals were strongly sustained in CD28-CAR-T cells whereas they were significantly weaker in HVEM-CAR-T cells. Collectively, these results suggest that the HVEM-derived CSSD is useful for generating CAR-T cells with exhaustion-resistant properties, which could be effective against solid tumors.
The Impact of Thermal Treatment Intensity on Proteins, Fatty Acids, Macro/Micro-Nutrients, Flavor, and Heating Markers of Milk—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Wang Yi , Xiao Ran , Liu Shiqi , Wang Pengjie , Zhu Yinhua , Niu Tianjiao , Chen Han
Published: August 2024

Milk thermal treatment, such as pasteurization, high-temperature short-time processing, and the emerging ultra-short-time processing (<0.5 s), are crucial for ensuring milk safety and extending its shelf life. Milk is a nutritive food matrix with various macro/micro-nutrients and other constituents that are possibly affected by thermal treatment for reasons associated with processing strength. Therefore, understanding the relationship between heating strength and milk quality is vital for the dairy industry. This review summarizes the impact of thermal treatment strength on milk’s nutritional and sensory properties, the synthesizing of the structural integrity and bioavailability of milk proteins, the profile and stability of fatty acids, the retention of macro/micro-nutrients, as well as the overall flavor profile. Additionally, it examines the formation of heat-induced markers, such as Maillard reaction products, lactulose, furosine, and alkaline phosphatase activity, which serve as indicators of heating intensity. Flavor and heating markers are commonly used to assess the quality of pasteurized milk. By examining former studies, we conclude that ultra-short-time-processing-treated milk is comparable to pasteurized milk in terms of specific parameters (such as whey protein behavior, furosine, and ALP contents). This review aims to better summarize how thermal treatments influence the milk matrix, guiding the dairy industry’s development and balancing milk products’ safety and nutritional value.
Tracking of Ubiquitin Signaling through 3.5 Billion Years of Combinatorial Conjugation
Authors: Kaminskaya Alena N. , Evpak Alena S. , Belogurov Alexey A. , Kudriaeva Anna A.
Published: August 2024

Ubiquitination is an evolutionary, ancient system of post-translational modification of proteins that occurs through a cascade involving ubiquitin activation, transfer, and conjugation. The maturation of this system has followed two main pathways. The first is the conservation of a universal structural fold of ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like proteins, which are present in both Archaea and Bacteria, as well as in multicellular Eukaryotes. The second is the rise of the complexity of the superfamily of ligases, which conjugate ubiquitin-like proteins to substrates, in terms of an increase in the number of enzyme variants, greater variation in structural organization, and the diversification of their catalytic domains. Here, we examine the diversity of the ubiquitination system among different organisms, assessing the variety and conservation of the key domains of the ubiquitination enzymes and ubiquitin itself. Our data show that E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes of metazoan phyla are highly conservative, whereas the homology of E3 ubiquitin ligases with human orthologues gradually decreases depending on “molecular clock” timing and evolutionary distance. Surprisingly, Chordata and Echinodermata, which diverged over 0.5 billion years ago during the Cambrian explosion, share almost the same homology with humans in the amino acid sequences of E3 ligases but not in their adaptor proteins. These observations may suggest that, firstly, the E2 superfamily already existed in its current form in the last common metazoan ancestor and was generally not affected by purifying selection in metazoans. Secondly, it may indicate convergent evolution of the ubiquitination system and highlight E3 adaptor proteins as the “upper deck” of the ubiquitination system, which plays a crucial role in chordate evolution.
Improving Charge Transport in Perovskite Solar Cells Using Solvent Additive Technique
Authors: Hayali Ahmed , Alkaisi Maan M.
Published: August 2024

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have demonstrated remarkable progress in performance in recent years, which has placed perovskite materials as the leading promising materials for future renewable energy applications. The solvent additive technique in perovskite composition is a simple but effective process used to improve the surface quality of the perovskite layers and to improve the performance and charge transport processes essential to the functions of PSCs. These additives can have a considerable effect on the topography, crystallinity, and surface properties of the perovskite active layer, ultimately influencing the stability of the PSCs. A “two-step spin coating” deposition method to make PSCs in ambient air laboratory conditions was employed. Acetonitrile (ACN) was conventionally utilized as a chemical additive to enhance the performance of PSCs. In this study, our film properties exhibited that the incorporation of ACN in the triple cation perovskite precursor led to the passivation of surface defects and a noticeable increase in the size of the crystal grains of the perovskite films, which led to enhanced stability of devices. The efficiency achieved for PSCs prepared with 10% ACN was 15.35%, which is 30% higher than devices prepared without ACN. In addition, devices prepared with ACN have shown a lower hysteresis index and more stable behavior compared to devices prepared without ACN. This work presents an easy, low-cost method for the fabrication of high performance PSCs prepared under ambient air laboratory conditions.
Identification of Diptera Puparia in Forensic and Archeo-Funerary Contexts
Authors: Vanin Stefano , Tuccia Fabiola , Pradelli Jennifer , Carta Giuseppina , Giordani Giorgia
Published: August 2024

Diptera identification is fundamental in forensic entomology as well as in funerary archeoentomology, where the challenge is exacerbated by the presence of immature stages such as larvae and puparia. In these two developmental stages, specimens possess a very limited number of diagnostic features, and for puparia, there is also a lack of identification tools such as descriptions and identification keys. Morphological analysis, DNA-based techniques, and cuticular chemical analyses all show good potential for species identification; however, they also have some limitations. DNA-based identification is primarily hindered by the incompleteness of genetic databases and the presence of PCR inhibitors often co-extracted from the puparial cuticle. Chemical analysis of the cuticle is showing promising results, but this approach is also limited by the insufficient profile database and requires specific, expensive equipment, as well as trained personnel. Additionally, to ensure the repeatability of the analysis—a critical aspect in forensic investigations—and to preserve precious and unique specimens from museum collections, non-invasive protocols and techniques must be prioritized for species identification.
Relationship between Oral Lichen Planus and Cardiovascular Disease of Atherosclerotic Origin: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gonzalez Navarro Beatriz , Egido Moreno Sonia , Omaña Cepeda Carlos , Estrugo Devesa Albert , Jane Salas Enric , Lopez Lopez Jose
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease of the oral mucosa that affects between 0.5% and 2% of the general population. In the last decade, several studies have associated cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) with some inflammatory skin diseases such as oral lichen planus, demonstrating the presence of dyslipidemia in these pathologies. The objective of this work is to review whether patients with OLP show higher dyslipidemia and CRP levels compared to a healthy control population without OLP. Methods: Searches were carried out in Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane. The studies had to perform a histopathological diagnosis for OLP and the patients could not take any medication to treat this disorder. Non-lichenoid reactions were included. Results: After an initial search that provided us with 254 papers, this number was reduced to 10 articles after a detailed evaluation. All of them were case–control studies that compared the presence of analytical cardiovascular risk factors in patients affected by OLP and in healthy subjects. Conclusions: There is no scientific evidence of the possible association between OLP and CVDs. The only association we can prove is the one between OPL and CVD risk factors, especially those related to the lipid profile. More studies are needed in order to evaluate this relationship in patients diagnosed with CVDs.
Patterns of ZMC and Le Fort Fractures under the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic—“A Changing Face?”
Authors: Dudde Florian , Schunk Johannes , Telschow Thomas , Barbarewicz Filip , Schuck Oliver , Giese Manfred , Bergmann Wilken
Published: August 2024

Background: The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on midfacial fracture patterns/distributions and circumstances in a German craniomaxillofacial trauma center. Methods: This retrospective study compared the midface fracture patterns (excluding nasal fractures) of patients in the pre-COVID (PC) era (February 2019–January 2020) with patients in the intra-COVID (IC) era (February 2020–January 2021). In addition to baseline characteristics, the type of midface fractures, the circumstances leading to midface fractures, and hospital admissions/treatments were analyzed. Results: During the COVID-19 pandemic, a reduction in the total number of midface fractures was observed (PC = 88 vs. IC = 57). No significant differences were found regarding the midfacial fracture localization between both periods. During the pandemic, there was a significant increase in falls, accidents at home, and virus/flu-associated syncopes. At the same time, a significant decrease in sports accidents, interpersonal violence, and alcohol-related accidents leading to midface fractures was recorded. Furthermore, there was a significant increase in accidents during the morning time with a simultaneous reduction in accidents during the nighttime. In addition to that, a significant delay in days from trauma leading to midface fracture until hospital admission and surgical treatment (ORIF) was revealed. Conclusions: Despite the limitations of a monocentric retrospective study, the current findings lead to the conclusion that the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the patterns and circumstances leading to midface fractures. Analyzing the specific characteristics of patients suffering from midfacial fractures under the influence of the COVID-19 period can represent added value in order to treat facial fractures in future pandemics.
Relationship between Dynamic Balance and Physical Characteristics and Functions in Elite Lifesaving Athletes
Authors: Ichikawa Shota , Kumai Tsukasa , Akiyama Yui , Okunuki Takumi , Maemichi Toshihiro , Matsumoto Masatomo , Liu Zijian , Yamaguchi Ryusei , Mitsui Hiroyuki , Suzuki Kai , Niki Hisateru
Published: August 2024

Balance is important in lifesaving competitions. We aimed to investigate the relationship between dynamic balance and physical characteristics and functions in elite lifesavers by measuring the foot muscle cross-sectional area, ankle joint muscle strength, toe grasp strength, plantar superficial sensation, and dynamic balance (Y-balance test). In this observational study, we measured the foot muscle cross-sectional area, ankle dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, external flexion, isometric muscle strength, toe grasp strength, and superficial foot sensation of 15 adult lifesavers (12 males). The results show that toe grasp strength and ankle plantar flexion isometric muscle strength are particularly important for the dynamic balance of elite lifesavers working on sandy surfaces. Sand training improves intrinsic muscle strength and dynamic balance function. However, high training intensity may reduce plantar surface sensation; this needs to be verified through sand training interventions in the future.
Vessel Trajectory Prediction for Enhanced Maritime Navigation Safety: A Novel Hybrid Methodology
Authors: Li Yuhao , Yu Qing , Yang Zhisen
Published: August 2024

The accurate prediction of vessel trajectory is of crucial importance in order to improve navigational efficiency, optimize routes, enhance the effectiveness of search and rescue operations at sea, and ensure maritime safety. However, the spatial interaction among vessels can have a certain impact on the prediction accuracy of the models. To overcome such a problem in predicting the vessel trajectory, this research proposes a novel hybrid methodology incorporating the graph attention network (GAT) and long short-term memory network (LSTM). The proposed GAT-LSTM model can comprehensively consider spatio-temporal features in the prediction process, which is expected to significantly improve the accuracy and robustness of the trajectory prediction. The Automatic Identification System (AIS) data from the surrounding waters of Xiamen Port is collected and utilized as the empirical case for model validation. The experimental results demonstrate that the GAT-LSTM model outperforms the best baseline model in terms of the reduction on the average displacement error and final displacement error, which are 44.52% and 56.20%, respectively. These improvements will translate into more accurate vessel trajectories, helping to minimize route deviations and improve the accuracy of collision avoidance systems, so that this research can effectively provide support for warning about potential collisions and reducing the risk of maritime accidents.
Impact of Vaginal Dilator Use and 68 Gy EQD2(α/β=3) Dose Constraint on Vaginal Complications in External Beam Irradiation Followed by Brachytherapy in Post-Operative Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Noorian Faegheh , Abellana Rosa , Zhang Yaowen , Herreros Antonio , Lancellotta Valentina , Tagliaferri Luca , Sabater Sebastià , Torne Aureli , Agusti-Camprubi Eduard , Rovirosa Angeles
Published: August 2024

Background: This study evaluated the clinical outcomes of applying a 68 Gy EQD2(α/β=3) dose constraint to the most exposed 2 cm3 area of the vagina in post-operative endometrial cancer patients treated with vaginal-cuff brachytherapy after external beam irradiation and the impact of vaginal dilator use on late vaginal complications. Material and methods: We analyzed 131 patients treated with vaginal-cuff brachytherapy after external beam irradiation. Group-1 (65 patients) received one fraction of 7 Gy, and Group-2 (66 patients) received one fraction of between 5.5 and 7.0 Gy after applying a 68 Gy EQD2(α/β=3) dose constraint. Vaginal-cuff relapse, late toxicity, clinical target volume, vaginal dilator use, D90, and EQD2(α/β=3) at 2 cm3 of the most exposed part of the clinical target volume were evaluated. Descriptive analysis, the chi-squared test, Student’s t-test, and the Cox proportional and Kaplan–Meier models were used for the statistical analysis. Results: With a median follow-up of 60 months, the vaginal-cuff relapse rate was 1/131 (0.8%). Late vaginal complications appeared in 36/65 (55.4%) Group-1 patients and 17/66 (25.8%) Group-2 patients (p = 0.003). Multivariate analysis showed that belonging to Group-1 and vaginal dilator use of <9 months were independent prognostic factors of late vaginal complications with hazard ratios of 1.99 (p = 0.021) and 3.07 (p = 0.010), respectively. Conclusions: A 68 Gy EQD2(α/β=3) constraint at 2 cm3 of clinical target volume and vaginal dilator use of ≥9 months were independent prognostic factors, having protective effects on late vaginal complications.
May 2024 Buy-Sell Guide for Dow Jones 30 Stocks and Modified Omega Criterion
Authors: Vinod H. D.
Published: August 2024

We study recent monthly data to help long-term investors buy or sell from the 30 Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) Index components. The recommendations are based on six stock-picking algorithms and their average ranks. We explain the reasons for ignoring the claim that the Sharpe ratio algorithm lacks monotonicity. Since the version of “omega” in the literature uses weights that distort the actual gain–pain ratio faced by investors, we propose new weights. We use data from 30 stocks using the past 474 months (39+ years) of monthly closing prices, ending in May 2024. Our buy-sell recommendations also use newer “pandemic-proof” out-of-sample portfolio performance comparisons from the R package ‘generalCorr’. We report twelve sets of ranks for both out-of- and in-sample versions of the six algorithms. Averaging the twelve sets yields the top and bottom k stocks. For example, k=2 suggests buying Visa Inc. and Johnson & Johnson while selling Coca-Cola and Procter & Gamble.
Construction of Ecological Security Patterns Incorporating Multiple Types of Ecological Service Functions for Developed Coastal Regions: A Case Study in Jinjiang Watershed, China
Authors: Zhu Yuchen , Liu Yaci , Xiao Yong , Liu Jiahuan , Zhao Zihui , Li Yasong , Hao Qichen , Liu Chunlei , Li Jianfeng
Published: August 2024

An ecological security pattern is an essential natural solution for promoting the coordinated and sustainable development of urban growth and the ecological environment within a given region. This study aims to develop a comprehensive ecological security pattern (ESP) for the Jinjiang watershed by integrating multiple ecological service functions: ecological regulation, eco-product provisions, and human settlement services. Using a well-established methodology of “source identification—resistance surface construction—ecological corridor extraction”, we identified 322 ecological source areas and delineated 321 ecological corridors spanning 1941.67 km, with key corridors connecting ecological regulation sources and ordinary corridors primarily linking eco-product provisions and human settlement sources. Our results show that the northern hilly regions are significant for ecological regulation, Anxi County is key for eco-product provisions, and human settlement services are scattered across urban areas and river valleys. This integration enhances regional ecological sustainability and provides a model for similar coastal regions globally. Our findings offer scientific guidance for balancing urban growth with ecological preservation, contributing to sustainable development worldwide.
Spatial and Temporal Change Characteristics and Climatic Drivers of Vegetation Productivity and Greenness during the 2001–2020 Growing Seasons on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Liang Jinghan , Marino Armando , Ji Yongjie
Published: August 2024

Exploring NDVI variation and what drives it on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau can strategically inform environmental protection efforts in light of global climate change. For this analysis, we obtained MODIS NDVI data collected during the vegetative growing season, vegetation types for the region, and meteorological data for the same period from 2001 to 2020. We performed Theil–Sen trend analysis, Mann–Kendall significance testing, spatial autocorrelation analysis, and Hurst index calculation to review the spatiotemporal changes in NDVI characteristics on the plateau for various vegetation types. We used the correlation coefficients from these analyses to investigate how the NDVI responds to temperature and precipitation. We found the following: (1) Overall, the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau NDVI increased throughout the multi-year growing season, with a much larger area of improvement (65.68%) than of degradation (8.83%). (2) The four main vegetation types were all characterized by improvement, with meadows (72.13%) comprising the largest portion of the improved area and shrubs (18.17%) comprising the largest portion of the degraded area. (3) The spatial distribution of the NDVI had a strong positive correlation and clustering effect and was stable overall. The local clustering patterns were primarily low–low and high–high clustering. (4) The Hurst index had an average value of 0.46, indicating that the sustainability of vegetation is poor; that is, the trend of vegetation change in the growing season in a large part of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau in the future is opposite to that in the past. (5) The plateau NDVI correlated positively with air temperature and precipitation. However, the correlations varied geographically: air temperature had a wide influence, whereas precipitation mainly influenced meadows and grassland in the northern arid zone. The overall temperature-driven effect was stronger than that of precipitation. This finding is consistent with the current research conclusion that global warming and humidification promote vegetation growth in high-altitude areas and further emphasizes the uniqueness of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau as a climate-change-sensitive area. This study also offers a technical foundation for understanding how climate change impacts high-altitude ecosystems, as well as for formulating ecological protection strategies for the plateau.
Land Use as a Crucial Resource for Smart Grids—The ‘Common Good’ of Renewables in Distributed Energy Systems
Authors: Wolsink Maarten
Published: August 2024

The energy transition involves transforming electricity supply systems. Smart grids are resilient, polycentric systems consisting of integrated, self-governed Microgrids including distributed energy systems (DES). Renewable energy requires high numbers and a huge variety of infrastructures, requiring large amounts of spaces, including land. Renewable energy flows and land are natural resources. This analysis applies Ostrom’s common pool resources (CPR) theory on the sustainable use of ecosystems and natural resources to explore DES as a “common good” with spaces and land as crucial scarce resources. Currently, electricity grids are monocultures with highly centralized and hierarchical governance structures, where the juxtaposition of electricity as public and private good is considered self-evident. The emergence of DES in smart Microgrids is disrupting these monocultures, which is one aspect of the full transformation from current centralized grids towards resilient, integrated Microgrids based on variety and adaptive capacity. The other component of the transformation concerns the essential resource of space. As land and other spaces, such as rooftops, are subject to diverse property regimes, CPR is also applicable for analyzing the required changes in property rights and land-use decision-making. Such changes are necessary to make sufficient space available for the infrastructures of community Microgrids.
Identification and Redevelopment of Inefficient Residential Landuse in Urban Areas: A Case Study of Ring Expressway Area in Harbin City of China
Authors: Wang Xin , Bao Xiwen , Ge Ziao , Xi Jiayao , Zhao Yinghui
Published: August 2024

The current efficiency of residential land utilization is witnessing a decline, attributable to accelerated urbanization and inefficient resource allocation, thereby presenting unprecedented threats and challenges to the quality of urban living and the pursuit of high-quality urban development. To enhance residents’ satisfaction and well-being, and to effectively activate existing land resources, it is imperative to accurately identify inefficient residential landuse and its driving factors. While the literature on identifying inefficient urban landuse is expanding, research specifically focusing on residential land, which is closely linked to residents’ lives, remains limited. Furthermore, the factors contributing to inefficient land use are relatively inadequate. Therefore, this study employs a “two-step identification method” to comprehensively identify inefficient residential landuse and utilizes standard deviation ellipses and kernel density assessment methods to analyze the spatial distribution characteristics of such land. Subsequently, the study employs the Random Forest (RF) model to quantitatively analyze factors such as building quality, economic, social, and ecological factors, aiming to provide a scientific basis for subsequent redevelopment initiatives. The findings reveal that inefficient residential landuse is primarily concentrated in city centers, particularly in districts such as Nangang and Xiangfang. In relative inefficient residential areas, aside from Nangang District and Xiangfang District, Songbei District also holds a significant proportion. The intensity of these associations with inefficient residential landuse formation varies depending on urban development history and regional development intensity. In areas other than Songbei District, factors such as aging residential neighborhoods and inadequate green spaces are major contributors to inefficient land use efficiency, whereas in Songbei District, insufficient medical and educational facilities are the primary factors. The RF algorithm, distinguished by its flexibility and accuracy, offers novel perspectives and methods for analyzing issues related to inefficient residential landuse. Moreover, it effectively manages nonlinear relationships between the data, avoiding overfitting and generating precise regression and classification results. Thus, the RF algorithm demonstrates significant promise for widespread application in urban land studies.
Effect of Triterpenoid Saponins as Foaming Agent on Mechanical Properties of Geopolymer Foam Concrete
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Wu Yangyang , Li Xiangguo , Li Yuheng , Tang Wen , Dan Jianming , Hong Chenglin , Wang Jinyu , Yang Xiaoqiang
Published: August 2024

Geopolymer foam concrete (GFC), an emerging thermal insulation material known for its environmentally friendly and low-carbon attributes, has gained prominence for its use in bolstering building energy efficiency. A critical challenge in GFC production is foam destabilization by the alkaline environment in which foam is supersaturated with salt. In this study, GFC was prepared by using triterpene saponin (TS), sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as blowing agents, with fly ash as the precursor and calcium carbide slag (CA) combined with Glauber’s salt (GS, Na2SO4 ≥ 99%) as the activator. The effect of GFC on mechanical properties was analyzed by examining its fluidity, pore structure, dry density, and compressive strength. The results show that TS has a stable liquid film capable of adapting to the adverse effects of salt supersaturation and alkaline environments. TS is highly stable in the GFC matrix, and so the corresponding pore size is small, and the connectivity is low in the hardened GFC. In addition, the hydration products of GFC exhibit different morphologies depending on the surfactant used. TS has better water retention due to hydrogen bonding, which facilitates the hydration process.
Solid Dispersions Obtained by Ball Milling as Delivery Platform of Etodolac, a Model Poorly Soluble Drug
Authors: Czajkowska-Kośnik Anna , Misztalewska-Turkowicz Iwona , Wilczewska Agnieszka Zofia , Basa Anna , Winnicka Katarzyna
Published: August 2024

Poor water solubility of drugs is a limiting factor for their bioavailability and pharmacological activity. Many approaches are known to improve drug solubility, and among them, the physical method, solid dispersions (SDs), is applied. SDs are physical mixtures of a drug and a carrier, sometimes with the addition of a surfactant, which can be obtained by milling, cryomilling, spray-drying, or lyophilization processes. In this study, solid dispersions with etodolac (ETD-SDs) were prepared by the milling method using different carriers, such as hypromellose, polyvinylpyrrolidone, copovidone, urea, and mannitol. Solubility studies, dissolution tests, morphological assessment, thermal analysis, and FTIR imaging were applied to evaluate the SD properties. It was shown that the ball-milling process can be applied to obtain SDs with ETD. All designed ETD-SDs were characterized by higher water solubility and a faster dissolution rate compared to unprocessed ETD. SDs with amorphous carriers (HPMC, PVP, and PVP/VA) provided greater ETD solubility than dispersions with crystalline features (urea and mannitol). FTIR spectra confirmed the compatibility of ETD with tested carriers.
Experimental Characterization of Anisotropic Mechanical Behaviour and Failure Mechanisms of Hardened Printed Concrete
Authors: Glotz Theresa , Petryna Yuri
Published: August 2024

Extrusion-based printing of cementitious materials represents an innovative technology in civil engineering. The additive manufacturing process significantly influences the material properties in the hardened state, leading to anisotropic behaviour in terms of stiffness and strength compared to conventionally cast concrete. This experimental study aims to deepen the understanding of the mechanical behaviour of hardened printed concrete. Beam-like specimens with varying printing patterns, loading orientations and lengths are investigated within three-point bending tests (3PBT) and uniaxial compression tests (UCT). Homogenized material parameters such as Young’s modulus, compressive and flexural tensile strength and density are statistically evaluated using optically measured displacement and strain fields on the specimen surface. The qualitative and quantitative results demonstrate a strong dependency of material properties and failure mechanisms on the printing pattern. The interfilamental and interlayer areas with weak adhesion are identified as the main reason for anisotropy.
Valley Spin–Polarization of MoS2 Monolayer Induced by Ferromagnetic Order in an Antiferromagnet
Authors: Chan Chun-Wen , Hsieh Chia-Yun , Chan Fang-Mei , Huang Pin-Jia , Yang Chao-Yao
Published: August 2024

Transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) monolayers exhibit unique valleytronics properties due to the dependency of the coupled valley and spin state at the hexagonal corner of the first Brillouin zone. Precisely controlling valley spin-polarization via manipulating the electron population enables its application in valley-based memory or quantum technologies. This study uncovered the uncompensated spins of the antiferromagnetic nickel oxide (NiO) serving as the ferromagnetic (FM) order to induce valley spin-polarization in molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) monolayers via the magnetic proximity effect (MPE). Spin-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy (SR-PL) was employed to observe MoS2, where the spin-polarized trions appear to be responsible for the MPE, leading to a valley magnetism. Results indicate that local FM order from the uncompensated surface of NiO could successfully induce significant valley spin-polarization in MoS2 with the depolarization temperature approximately at 100 K, which is relatively high compared to the related literature. This study reveals new perspectives in that the precise control over the surface orientation of AFMs serves as a crystallographic switch to activate the MPE and the magnetic sustainability of the trion state is responsible for the observed valley spin-polarization with the increasing temperature, which promotes the potential of AFM materials in the field of exchange-coupled Van der Waals heterostructures.
Experimental Study of Recycled Concrete under Freeze–Thaw Conditions
Authors: Jierula Alipujiang , Wu Cong , Fu Zhixuan , Niyazi Hushitaer , Li Haodong
Published: August 2024

Recycled concrete is a new and environmentally friendly material for future construction. When applying recycled concrete to cold and severe regions, it is necessary to consider the freeze–thaw resistance of recycled concrete. Using an indoor freeze–thaw cycle test system, the rapid freezing method was used to conduct rapid freeze–thaw tests on recycled concrete specimens under set freeze–thaw cycle conditions. Relevant parameters (such as compressive strength, quality loss rate, rebound value) were tested on recycled concrete specimens that completed the set number of freeze–thaw cycles. The influence of various factors (freeze–thaw cycle number, replacement rate of recycled aggregates) on the compressive strength, quality loss rate, and rebound value of recycled concrete was analyzed. The results indicate that with the increase of freeze–thaw cycles and recycled aggregate content, the workability, rebound value, and compressive strength of the specimens decrease, and the quality loss rate increases. The changes in workability of concrete are sharp, with a slump difference of 21 mm between concrete with 100% recycled coarse aggregate and concrete using natural coarse aggregate. The rebound value of the specimen shows a decreasing trend overall, but the rebound value varies for different measuring points on the same specimen. The attenuation of compressive strength is significant. When fully using recycled aggregates to prepare concrete, the compressive strength after 30 freeze–thaw cycles decreases by 49.42% compared to the compressive strength after 0 freeze–thaw cycles. The overall quality loss rate shows a decreasing trend, but the quality loss is not severe.
Design and Microwave Absorption Performance Study of SiC-Fe3O4 Emulsified Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Jiang Xiangyu , Xu Wen , Chen Yixing , Li Jiaqi
Published: August 2024

To address the challenges of slow curing speed and suboptimal microwave absorption during the paving of cold-mixed and cold-laid asphalt mixtures, this study introduces SiC-Fe3O4 composite material (SF) into emulsified asphalt mixtures to enhance microwave absorption and accelerate curing via microwave heating. Initially, based on the maximum density curve theory, an appropriate mineral aggregate gradation was designed, and the optimal ratio of emulsified asphalt mixture was determined through mixing tests, cohesion tests, wet wheel wear tests, and load wheel sand adhesion tests. Subsequently, the influence of SF content on the mixing performance of emulsified asphalt mixtures was analyzed through mixing and consistency tests. Finally, the microwave absorption performance of the mixture was evaluated by designing microwave heating tests under different conditions, using temperature indicators and quality indicators. The experimental results indicate that when SF content ranges from 0% to 4%, the mixing performance of the emulsified asphalt mixture meets specification requirements. The dosage of SF, SF composite ratio, and microwave power significantly impact microwave absorption performance, whereas environmental temperature has a relatively minor effect. The optimal mix ratio for the emulsified asphalt mixture is mineral aggregate:modified emulsified asphalt:water:cement = 100:12.8:6:1. The ideal SF dosage is 4%, with an optimal SiC to Fe3O4 composite ratio of 1:1, and a suitable microwave power range of 600–1000 W.
Antifungal Effect of Poly(methyl methacrylate) with Farnesol and Undecylenic Acid against Candida albicans Biofilm Formation
Authors: Išljamović Milica , Bonvin Debora , Milojević Milena , Stojanović Simona , Spasić Milan , Stojković Branislava , Janošević Predrag , Otašević Suzana , Ebersold Marijana Mionić
Published: August 2024

The control of Candida albicans biofilm formation on dentures made of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) is an important challenge due to the high resistance to antifungal drugs. Interestingly, the natural compounds undecylenic acid (UDA) and farnesol (FAR) both prevent C. albicans biofilm formation and could have a synergetic effect. We therefore modified PMMA with a combination of UDA and FAR (UDA+FAR), aiming to obtain the antifungal PMMA_UDA+FAR composites. Equal concentrations of FAR and UDA were added to PMMA to reach 3%, 6%, and 9% in total of both compounds in composites. The physico-chemical properties of the composites were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and water contact angle measurement. The antifungal activity of the composites was tested on both biofilm and planktonic cells with an XTT test 0 and 6 days after the composites’ preparation. The effect of the UDA+FAR combination on C. albicans filamentation was studied in agar containing 0.0125% and 0.4% UDA+FAR after 24 h and 48 h of incubation. The results showed the presence of UDA and FAR on the composite and decreases in the water contact angle and metabolic activity of both the biofilm and planktonic cells at both time points at non-toxic UDA+FAR concentrations. Thus, the modification of PMMA with a combination of UDA+FAR reduces C. albicans biofilm formation on dentures and could be a promising anti-Candida strategy.
Hot Deformation Characteristics and Dynamic Recrystallization Mechanisms of a Semi-Solid Forged AZ91D Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Yan Zehua , Zhang Guozheng , Yang Sheng , Zhang Wei , Ning Huiyan , Xu Bo
Published: August 2024

Magnesium alloys show great promise in high-speed transport, aerospace, and military technology; however, their widespread adoption encounters challenges attributed to limitations such as poor plasticity and strength. This study examines the high-temperature deformation of semi-solid forged AZ91D magnesium alloy through a combination of experiments and simulations, with a focus on comprehending the influence of deformation conditions on dynamic recrystallization (DRX). The findings disclose that conspicuous signs of DRX manifest in the yield stress curve as strain increases. Additionally, decreasing the strain rate and temperature correlates with a reduction in both yield stress and peak strain, and the activation energy is 156.814 kJ/mol, while the critical strain and peak strain remain relatively consistent (εc=0.66208εp). Microstructural changes during high-temperature deformation and the onset of DRX are thoroughly examined through experimental methods. Moreover, a critical strain model for DRX and a predictive model for the volume fraction of DRX were formulated. These equations and models, validated through a combination of experiments and simulations, serve as invaluable tools for predicting the mechanical behavior and microstructural evolution, which also establishes a foundation for accurately predicting the deformation behavior of this alloy. By analyzing the hot deformation characteristics and dynamic compression mechanism of the newly developed semi-solid forging AZ91D magnesium alloy, a numerical simulation model can be effectively established. This model objectively reflects the changes and distributions of stress, strain, and rheological velocity, providing a scientific basis for selecting subsequent plastic deformation process parameters and designing mold structures.