bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biochar Applied in Places Where Its Feedstock Was Produced Mitigated More CO2 Emissions from Acidic Red Soils
Authors: Lai Meng , Yi Min , Xie Haiping , Chen Tingxuan , Xie Wenlei , He Lei , Wang Xiaodong , Liu Liangying , Zhang Ling
Published: September 2024

Agricultural soil is the main source of greenhouse gas emissions, among which carbon dioxide (CO2) is an important greenhouse gas, impacting the global climate. In China, as a large rice-producing country, carbon sequestration and CO2 mitigation in paddy soil are crucial for the mitigation of global climate change. While biochar has been widely used in the mitigation of soil greenhouse gas emissions, the application site of biochar, i.e., whether or not it is the same as its feedstocks, may generate different effects on soil CO2 emissions due to the differences in the element and nutrient concentrations in its feedstocks, especially when applied in fertilized soil. In order to explore the effects of biochar application with different feedstocks on the mitigation of CO2 emissions from paddy soil, this experiment took paddy soil in a red soil area as the research object, using rice straw and Camellia oleifera fruit shell as raw materials to produce biochar (adding an amount of 40 g kg−1 soil) and urea as an external nitrogen source (adding an amount of 200 mg kg−1 soil). The effects of two different types of biochar derived from feedstocks with different producing origins on the CO2 emissions from paddy soil were studied via laboratory control incubation studies. The results showed that (1) the effects of rice straw biochar addition on the soil pH, NO3−-N and total available nitrogen (AN) content were significantly higher than those of Camellia oleifera fruit shell biochar (the scale of the increase was higher by 6.40%, 579.7% and 180.1%, respectively). (2) The CO2 emission rate and cumulative emissions of soil supplemented with rice straw biochar were significantly lower than in that supplemented with Camellia oleifera fruit shell biochar (decreases of 28.0% and 27.5%, respectively). Our findings suggest that the efficiency of emission mitigation of rice straw biochar is better than that of Camellia oleifera fruit shell applied to paddy soil. While future studies considering more types of greenhouse gases will be necessary to expand these findings, this study indicates that biochar prepared from in situ feedstock can be used to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in rice fields, so as to ensure sustainable development and achieve energy conservation and emission reduction goals. This study will benefit future agricultural practices when choosing biochar as a greenhouse gas mitigation strategy in the context of global warming, as well as other global changes following global warming, caused by elevated atmospheric greenhouse gases.
Agreement of Doppler Ultrasound and Visual Sphygmomanometer Needle Oscillation with Invasive Blood Pressure in Anaesthetised Dogs
Authors: Armour Marc , Michou Joanne , Schofield Imogen , Borland Karla
Published: September 2024

Visual sphygmomanometer needle oscillation (SNO) can occur before audible return of pulsatile flow (ARPF) when measuring blood pressure by Doppler ultrasound. The aim was to assess the agreement of SNO and ARPF with invasive blood pressure (iABP) in a clinical population of anaesthetised dogs. A total of 35 dogs undergoing surgery in dorsal recumbency necessitating arterial cannulation were included. Paired measurements of iABP and SNO, and iABP and ARPF, were collected. The agreement of non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP) and iABP measurements was analysed with concordance correlation coefficients (CCCs) and Bland–Altman plots. The proportions of SNO and ARPF measurements between 10 and 20 mmHg of iABP were compared. Both SNO and ARPF demonstrated greater agreement with invasive systolic (iSAP) than invasive mean (iMAP) pressures, and SNO demonstrated greater agreement with iSAP than ARPF measurements. The mean differences (95% limits of agreement) for SNO and APRF were −9.7 mmHg (−51.3–31.9) and −13.1 mmHg (−62.2–35.9), respectively. The CCC (95% CI) for SNO was 0.5 (0.36–0.64) and ARPF was 0.4 (0.26–0.54). A significantly greater proportion of SNO measurements were within 20 mmHg of iSAP compared to ARPF. Both NIBP techniques performed more poorly than veterinary consensus recommendations for device validation. Caution should be used clinically when interpreting values obtained by Doppler ultrasound in anaesthetised dogs.
Effect of Guanidinoacetic Acid Supplementation on the Performance of Calves Fed Milk Replacer
Authors: Hazlewood Kathryn J. , Zumbaugh Charles A. , Jones Cassandra K. , Atkinson Emily M. , Tingler Hannah L. R. , Inhuber Vivienne K. , Brouk Micheal J. , Antony Reshma M. , Titgemeyer Evan C.
Published: September 2024

Guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) is the direct precursor to creatine, which serves as an energy reserve mechanism in the body. We evaluated the effects of GAA supplementation on the growth performance of calves fed milk replacer. Forty-five Holstein–Angus steer calves (40.9 kg, approximately 1 week old) were assigned to 1 of 3 treatments to assess growth performance and data from 41 calves were analyzed. Treatments were provided in the milk replacer for 42 d and included 0, 1, or 2 g GAA/d. Calves were fed 2.84 L milk replacer twice daily with ad libitum access to starter feed and water. Treatments ended on day 42 prior to a 17-day weaning period. Supplementation of GAA increased (p < 0.01) plasma concentrations of GAA (0.42, 0.51, and 0.67 mg/L for 0, 1, and 2 g GAA/d, respectively) and creatine (18.7, 22.1, and 24.4 mg/L for 0, 1, and 2 g GAA/d, respectively). Bodyweight tended to linearly increase (p = 0.09) with increasing GAA on d 59 (91.2, 98.3, and 98.6 kg for 0, 1, and 2 g GAA/d, respectively). Daily gains from day 0 to 59 tended to increase with GAA provision (p = 0.09; 0.86, 0.97, and 0.98 kg/d for 0, 1, and 2 g GAA/d, respectively). Starter feed dry matter intake tended to linearly increase (p = 0.06) with GAA supplementation (0.201, 0.278, and 0.286 kg/d for 0, 1, and 2 g GAA/d, respectively). Treatments providing 1 and 2 g GAA/d affected performance similarly. No differences among treatments were observed for health (respiratory and fecal) scores during the application of treatments or during the subsequent weaning period. The inclusion of GAA in milk replacer tended to increase the gain of calves, and this was associated with elevated starter feed intake.
Unveiling the Wing Shape Variation in Northern Altiplano Ecosystems: The Example of the Butterfly Phulia nymphula Using Geometric Morphometrics
Authors: Acuña-Valenzuela Thania , Hernández-Martelo Jordan , Suazo Manuel J. , Lobos Isabel A. , Piñeiro-González Alejandro , Villalobos-Leiva Amado , Cruz-Jofré Franco , Hernández-P Raquel , Correa Margarita , Benítez Hugo A.
Published: September 2024

The Andean Altiplano, characterized by its extreme climatic conditions and high levels of biodiversity, provides a unique environment for studying ecological and evolutionary adaptations in insect morphology. Butterflies, due their large wing surface compared to body surface, and wide distribution among a geographical area given the flight capabilities provided by their wings, constitute a good biological model to study morphological adaptations following extreme weathers. This study focuses on Phulia nymphula, a butterfly species widely distributed in the Andes, to evaluate wing shape variation across six localities in the Northern Chilean Altiplano. The geometric morphometrics analysis of 77 specimens from six locations from the Chilean Altiplano (Caquena, Sorapata Lake, Chungará, Casiri Macho Lake, Surire Salt Flat, and Visviri) revealed significant differences in wing shape among populations. According to the presented results, variations are likely influenced by local environmental conditions and selective pressures, suggesting specific adaptations to the microhabitats of the Altiplano. The first three principal components represented 60.92% of the total wing shape variation. The detected morphological differences indicate adaptive divergence among populations, reflecting evolutionary responses to the extreme and fragmented conditions of the Altiplano. This study gives insights into the understanding of how high-altitude species can diversify and adapt through morphological variation, providing evidence of ecological and evolutionary processes shaping biodiversity in extreme environments.
SARS-CoV-2 Infection Enhances Humoral Immune Response in Vaccinated Liver Transplant Recipients
Authors: Adiprasito Jan Basri , Nowacki Tobias , Vollenberg Richard , Meier Jörn Arne , Rennebaum Florian , Schomacher Tina , Trebicka Jonel , Fischer Julia , Lorentzen Eva U. , Tepasse Phil-Robin
Published: September 2024

In the spring of 2020, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic presented a formidable challenge to national and global healthcare systems. Immunocompromised individuals or those with relevant pre-existing conditions were particularly at risk of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Thus, understanding the immunological processes in these patient groups is crucial for current research. This study aimed to investigate humoral immunity following vaccination and infection in liver transplant recipients. Humoral immunity analysis involved measuring IgG against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (anti-S IgG) and employing a surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT) for assessing the hACE2 receptor-binding inhibitory capacity of antibodies. The study revealed that humoral immunity post-vaccination is well established, with positive results for anti-S IgG in 92.9% of the total study cohort. Vaccinated and SARS-CoV-2-infected patients exhibited significantly higher anti-S IgG levels compared to vaccinated, non-infected patients (18,590 AU/mL vs. 2320 AU/mL, p < 0.001). Additionally, a significantly elevated receptor-binding inhibitory capacity was observed in the cPassTMTM sVNT (96.4% vs. 91.8%, p = 0.004). Furthermore, a substantial enhancement of anti-S IgG levels (p = 0.034) and receptor-binding inhibition capacity (p < 0.001) was observed with an increasing interval post-transplantation (up to 30 years), calculated by generalized linear model analysis. In summary, fully vaccinated liver transplant recipients exhibit robust humoral immunity against SARS-CoV-2, which significantly intensifies following infection and with increasing time after transplantation. These findings should be considered for booster vaccination schemes for liver transplant recipients.
Two-Matchings with Respect to the General Sum-Connectivity Index of Trees
Authors: Cruz Roberto , Lopez Mateo , Rada Juan
Published: September 2024

A vertex-degree-based topological index φ associates a real number to a graph G which is invariant under graph isomorphism. It is defined in terms of the degrees of the vertices of G and plays an important role in chemical graph theory, especially in QSPR/QSAR investigations. A subset of k edges in G with no common vertices is called a k-matching of G, and the number of such subsets is denoted by mG,k. Recently, this number was naturally extended to weighted graphs, where the weight function is induced by the topological index φ. This number was denoted by mkG,φ and called the k-matchings of G with respect to the topological index φ. It turns out that m1G,φ=φG, and so for k≥2, the k-matching numbers mkG,φ can be viewed as kth order topological indices which involve both the topological index φ and the k-matching numbers. In this work, we solve the extremal value problem for the number of 2-matchings with respect to general sum-connectivity indices SCα, over the set Tn of trees with n vertices, when α is a real number in the interval −1,0.
Recycling of Lithium-Ion Batteries via Electrochemical Recovery: A Mini-Review
Authors: Yu Lu , Bai Yaocai , Belharouak Ilias
Published: September 2024

With the rising demand for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), it is crucial to develop recycling methods that minimize environmental impacts and ensure resource sustainability. The focus of this short review is on the electrochemical techniques used in LIB recycling, particularly electrochemical leaching and electrodeposition. Our summary covers the latest research, highlighting the principles, progress, and challenges tied to these methods. By examining the current state of electrochemical recovery, this review intends to provide guidance for future advancements and enhance LIB recycling efficiency.
Improvement and Innovation of Cryopreservation and In Vitro Methods in Plant Resource Protection
Authors: Kim Haeng-Hoon , Popova Elena
Published: September 2024

Plant genetic resources (PGRs) are perhaps the most precious gift of nature to humanity: they provide food, shelter, medicines, and many goods of high economic value, not to mention their key importance for healthy ecosystems and their aesthetic value [...]
MiRNAs in Extracellular Vesicles as Biomarkers in Plasma of Papillary Thyroid Cancer Patients: A Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: D’Amico Giuseppa , Santonocito Radha , Grech Godfrey , Graceffa Giuseppa , Cipolla Calogero , Scalia Federica , Raccosta Samuele , Manno Mauro , Conway de Macario Everly , Macario Alberto J. L. , Cappello Francesco , Rappa Francesca , Caruso Bavisotto Celeste , Campanella Claudia
Published: September 2024

Background: The incidence of various types of cancer, for example, papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), is on the rise. Since therapeutic success depends greatly on early diagnosis, reliable diagnostic biomarkers must be identified, and easy-to-apply tools for detecting them must urgently be standardized. Here, we contribute to solving this medical challenge by assessing miRNAs suspected of promoting carcinogenesis in extracellular vesicles (EVs) that can be routinely obtained via liquid biopsy. We profit from current progress in cancerology that provides innovations in liquid biopsy and EVs analysis, along with the identification of miRNAs and chaperone system (CS) components implicated in carcinogenesis. Methods: We measured in EVs obtained from circulating blood plasma from PTC patients the levels of three miRNAs implicated in thyroid cancer, hsa-miR-1-3p, hsa-miR-206, and hsa-miR-221-3p, and most likely involved in the regulation of two members of the CS, Hsp60 and CCT. EVs were isolated from the plasma of patients with PTC and controls with benign goiter (BG) and from the culture medium of a PTC cell line (MDAT32) and were appropriately characterized. Results: The levels of miRNAs determined by RT-qPCR were consistently higher in PTC patients and decreased down to control levels after thyroidectomy. Bioinformatics showed that the miRNAs target genes are associated with the molecular pathogenesis of PTC. Conclusions: Our exploratory study reaffirms the potential in clinics of the selected miRNAs in EVs as useful biomarkers of PTC easily accessible via liquid biopsy, which is minimally invasive and amenable to periodic repetition, an improvement compared to the established fine-needle aspirate biopsy.
Peronema canescens as a Source of Immunomodulatory Agents: A New Opportunity and Perspective
Authors: Ahkam Ahmad Hafidul , Susilawati Yasmiwar , Sumiwi Sri Adi
Published: September 2024

Immunomodulators are pivotal in managing various health conditions by regulating the immune response by either enhancing or suppressing it to maintain homeostasis. The growing interest in natural sources of immunomodulatory agents has spurred the investigation of numerous medicinal plants, including Peronema canescens, commonly known in Asia as sungkai. Traditionally used for its medicinal properties in Southeast Asia, Peronema canescens belongs to the Verbenaceae family and has garnered significant attention. This review discusses the immunomodulatory activity of the active compounds in Peronema canescens and explores the potential directions for future research.
MaxEnt Modeling for Predicting the Potential Geographical Distribution of Hydrocera triflora since the Last Interglacial and under Future Climate Scenarios
Authors: Su Qitao , Du Zhixuan , Luo Yi , Zhou Bing , Xiao Yi’an , Zou Zhengrong
Published: September 2024

Hydrocera triflora is a perennial herb found in southeastern and southern Asia. In China, it is only found in Hainan Province. With global climate change, studying the impact of climate change on the distribution of H. triflora can provide a theoretical basis for the scientific protection of this species. In this study, the MaxEnt model was used to predict the potential distribution area of H. triflora in China under historical, current, and future periods based on 66 distribution points and 12 environmental variables. The results were as follows: (i) The main environmental variables affecting the distribution of H. triflora were precipitation in the coldest month and in the wettest quarter, with elevation also being a significant factor. (ii) Over the past three periods, the last interglacial, last glacial maximum, and mid-Holocene, the suitable area for H. triflora initially decreased and then increased. The suitable area reached the lowest value in the last glacial maximum period, at only 27.03 × 104 km2. (iii) The current potential distribution area is 67.81 × 104 km2, and the optimal area is mainly distributed in the Guangxi, Guangdong, and Hainan provinces. (iv) Under future climate scenarios, the potential distribution area of H. triflora is projected to increase by 11.27~90.83 × 104 km2. It is expected to reach a maximum value (158.64 × 104 km2) in 2081~2100 under the SSP-585 climate scenario, with the distribution centroid shifting to higher latitudes. The newly gained optimal habitats will provide potential areas for introduction and ex situ conservation of this species.
Mitochondrial Dynamics and mRNA Translation: A Local Synaptic Tale
Authors: Zaninello Marta , Baptista Pedro , Duarte Filipe V.
Published: September 2024

Mitochondria are dynamic organelles that can adjust and respond to different stimuli within a cell. This plastic ability allows them to effectively coordinate several cellular functions in cells and becomes particularly relevant in highly complex cells such as neurons. An imbalance in mitochondrial dynamics can disrupt mitochondrial function, leading to abnormal cellular function and ultimately to a range of diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders. Regulation of mRNA transport and local translation inside neurons is crucial for maintaining the proteome of distal mitochondria, which is vital for energy production and synaptic function. A significant portion of the axonal transcriptome is dedicated to mRNAs for mitochondrial proteins, emphasizing the importance of local translation in sustaining mitochondrial function in areas far from the cell body. In neurons, local translation and the regulation of mRNAs encoding mitochondrial-shaping proteins could be essential for synaptic plasticity and neuronal health. The dynamics of these mRNAs, including their transport and local translation, may influence the morphology and function of mitochondria, thereby affecting the overall energy status and responsiveness of synapses. Comprehending the mitochondria-related mRNA regulation and local translation, as well as its influence on mitochondrial morphology near the synapses will help to better understand neuronal physiology and neurological diseases where mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired synaptic plasticity play a central role.
Right Ventricular Hypertrophy in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats (SHR/NHsd) Is Associated with Inter-Individual Variations of the Pulmonary Endothelin System
Authors: Langer Alicia , Schreckenberg Rolf , Schlüter Klaus-Dieter
Published: September 2024

Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) develop severe hypertension and subsequently left ventricular hypertrophy. Whether they also develop right ventricular hypertrophy is not clear. We analyzed 76 female SHRs (strain SHR/NHsd) and observed severe right ventricular hypertrophy in 7% of these rats (SHR-RVH). Right ventricular hypertrophy did not correlate with the age of the rats and was already seen in one rat at the pre-hypertensive state. The current study investigated the molecular fingerprint of the lung and right ventricle from SHR-RVH and compared this first to SHRs that did develop left but not right ventricular hypertrophy, and second to normotensive rats without hypertrophy. Rats with right ventricular hypertrophy had a decreased expression of the endothelin-B receptor (EDNRB) in the lung, together with an increased protein content of endothelin-1 and an increased expression of ACTA2A. Furthermore, in the right ventricle, a down-regulation of the endothelin-A receptor (EDNRA) was found, consistent with a mild phenotype. The data suggest that in a sub-group of SHR/NHsd rats, low expression of the endothelin clearance receptor (endothelin-B receptor) in the lung triggers an increase in vascular resistance to the right ventricle that then triggers hypertrophy. Our study is the first description of a genetic variant in a defined SHR strain.
Cell Migration–Proliferation Dichotomy in Cancer: Biological Fact or Experimental Artefact?
Authors: Alfahed Abdulaziz
Published: September 2024

The migration–proliferation dichotomy (MPD) has long been observed in cultured cancer cells. This phenomenon is not only relevant to tumour progression but may also have therapeutic significance in clinical cancer. However, MPD has rarely been investigated in primary cancer. This study aimed to either confirm or disprove the existence of MPD in primary cancer. Using primary gastric, colorectal and prostate cancer (GC, CRC and PCa) cohorts from the Cancer Genome Atlas and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, this study interrogated the MPD phenomenon by utilising RNA–Seq-based proliferation (CIN70 signature) and migration (epithelial-mesenchymal transition) indices, as well as gene set enrichment analyses (GSEA). Alternative hypothetical migration–proliferation models—The simultaneous migration–proliferation (SMP) and phenotype–refractory (PR) models—were compared to the MPD model by probing the migration–proliferation relationships within cancer stages and between early- and late-stage diseases using chi-square and independent T tests, z-score statistics and GSEA. The results revealed an inverse relationship between migration and proliferation signatures overall in the GC, CRC and PCa cohorts, as well as in early- and late-stage diseases. Additionally, a shift in proliferation- to migration dominance was observed from early- to late-stage diseases in the GC and CRC cohorts but not in the PCa cohorts, which showed enhanced proliferation dominance in metastatic tumours compared to primary cancers. The above features exhibited by the cancer cohorts are in keeping with the MPD model of the migration–proliferation relationship at the cellular level and exclude the SMP and PR migration–proliferation models.
Deep into Cognition: The Neuropsychological Identikit of Younger and Older Individuals after COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Devita Maria , Ravelli Adele , Panzeri Anna , Di Rosa Elisa , Iannizzi Pamela , Bottesi Gioia , Ceolin Chiara , De Rui Marina , Cattelan Annamaria , Cavinato Silvia , Begliomini Chiara , Volpe Biancarosa , Schiavo Rossana , Ghisi Marta , Mapelli Daniela
Published: September 2024

The literature on COVID-19 continues to increase daily. Cognitive sequelae associated with COVID-19 infection still draw the attention of the scientific community given the lack of consensus about their existence, etiology, characterization and reversibility. The aim of this study is to provide a neuropsychological identikit for younger (<65 years) and older (≥65 years) individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 infection, at baseline and after 3 and 6 months. In total, 226 individuals took part in a retrospective observational study and their cognitive performance was compared across groups (younger adults vs. older adults) and time (T0, T1, T2). The results highlighted differences between younger and older adults in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) global score, as expected in consideration of the different physiological conditions of the two populations. However, memory performance highlighted the two groups as characterized by a difference in patterns of recall that may move beyond a physiological explanation and provide information about COVID-19 cognitive sequelae. This study suggests that cognitive deficits observed in COVID-19 survivors may reflect a difficulty in attention and concentration that interferes mainly with retrieval processes. This result fits well with the concept of “brain fog” typical of post-COVID-19 syndrome and may also reflect the stress experienced while facing the pandemic.
Correction: Santos et al. Early Peri-Implant Bone Healing on Laser-Modified Surfaces with and without Hydroxyapatite Coating: An In Vivo Study. Biology 2024, 13, 533
Authors: Santos Ana Flávia Piquera , da Silva Rodrigo Capalbo , Hadad Henrique , de Jesus Laís Kawamata , Pereira-Silva Maísa , Nímia Heloisa Helena , Oliveira Sandra Helena Penha , Guastaldi Antônio Carlos , Queiroz Thallita Pereira , Poli Pier Paolo , Barbosa Debora de Barros , da Silva Fabris André Luis , Garcia Júnior Idelmo Rangel , Gruber Reinhard , Souza Francisley Ávila
Published: September 2024

There were two errors in the original publication [...]
Oxygen-Plasma-Treated Al/TaOX/Al Resistive Memory for Enhanced Synaptic Characteristics
Authors: Kim Gyeongpyo , Park Seoyoung , Koo Minsuk , Kim Sungjun
Published: September 2024

In this study, we investigate the impact of O2 plasma treatment on the performance of Al/TaOX/Al-based resistive random-access memory (RRAM) devices, focusing on applications in neuromorphic systems. Comparative analysis using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the differences in chemical composition between O2-plasma-treated and untreated RRAM cells. Direct-current measurements showed that O2-plasma-treated RRAM cells exhibited significant improvements over untreated RRAM cells, including higher on/off ratios, improved uniformity and distribution, longer retention times, and enhanced durability. The conduction mechanism is investigated by current–voltage (I–V) curve fitting. In addition, paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) is observed using partial short-term memory. Furthermore, 3- and 4-bit weight tuning with auto-pulse-tuning algorithms was achieved to improve the controllability of the synapse weight for the neuromorphic system, maintaining retention times exceeding 103 s in the multiple states. Neuromorphic simulation with an MNIST dataset is conducted to evaluate the synaptic device.
Development of a Modular miRNA-Responsive Biosensor for Organ-Specific Evaluation of Liver Injury
Authors: Zhang Xinxin , Wang Tingting , Fan Xiangqing , Wang Meixia , Duan Zhixi , He Fang , Wang Hong-Hui , Li Zhihong
Published: September 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are increasingly being considered essential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for multiple diseases. In recent years, researchers have emphasized the need to develop probes that can harness extracellular miRNAs as input signals for disease diagnostics. In this study, we introduce a novel miRNA-responsive biosensor (miR-RBS) designed to achieve highly sensitive and specific detection of miRNAs, with a particular focus on targeted organ-specific visualization. The miR-RBS employs a Y-structured triple-stranded DNA probe (Y-TSDP) that exhibits a fluorescence-quenched state under normal physiological conditions. The probe switches to an activated state with fluorescence signals in the presence of high miRNA concentrations, enabling rapid and accurate disease reporting. Moreover, the miR-RBS probe had a modular design, with a fluorescence-labeled strand equipped with a functional module that facilitates specific binding to organs that express high levels of the target receptors. This allowed the customization of miRNA detection and cell targeting using aptameric anchors. In a drug-induced liver injury model, the results demonstrate that the miR-RBS probe effectively visualized miR-122 levels, suggesting it has good potential for disease diagnosis and organ-specific imaging. Together, this innovative biosensor provides a versatile tool for the early detection and monitoring of diseases through miRNA-based biomarkers.
Factors Influencing Green Construction Practices in Context of COVID-19 Pandemic: Empirical Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Chaofan , Xie Xiaojun , Chen Xinyi , Shuai Chuanmin , Shuai Jing , Strezov Vladimir
Published: September 2024

Green construction practices (GCPs) are essential for the construction industry to achieve carbon neutral and sustainable development. However, the promotion of GCPs faces multifaceted challenges, particularly within the context of recent global uncertainties. The COVID-19 pandemic has wrought substantial disruption upon the construction sector, which makes it a good candidate as a case study for enhancing future risk management strategies. Currently, there is limited research on the factors influencing GCPs in the global uncertainty context. To bridge this research gap, this study first identifies 26 factors affecting GCPs in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic through a comprehensive literature review. Subsequently, based on feedback from 22 experts, Interpretative Structural Modeling (ISM) and Matrice d’Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliquée à un Classement (MICMAC) methodologies are adopted to illustrate the intricate relationships among influencing factors and further classify their relative importance. The results underscore the pivotal role of factors such as technology development, the difficulty of construction, materials, and equipment performance, as well as identify 13 factors that have a fundamental impact. This research provides insights for decision-makers to enhance risk management strategies for GCPs in the global uncertainty context, prioritize the determinants, and facilitate the optimal allocation of resources to advance GCPs.
Performance Evaluation of Low Thermal Bridging Drywall System with Separating Clips for C-Studs
Authors: Song Jin-Hee , Kim Hye-Won
Published: September 2024

Drywall systems comprising gypsum boards and steel C-studs are widely used due to their lightweight structure, rapid construction, and ease of installation. These systems must meet the required thermal insulation performance for their specific applications. However, metal C-studs penetrate the insulation layer at intervals, leading to additional heat loss, reduced thermal insulation performance, and lower indoor surface temperatures, which can result in condensation and mold growth. To address these issues, this study proposes a drywall system with low thermal bridging studs made up of two small-sized studs and four or five separating clips made of reinforced plastic. These clips separate the studs to minimize heat transfer through metal elements, maintain structural stability despite the spacing between them, and facilitate easy assembly. The results from mock-up tests showed that the proposed system’s thermal transmittance was 0.370 W/m2K, which is 28.8% lower than the 0.52 W/m2K observed with conventional C-studs. The proposed drywall system also met Korean regulations for acoustic insulation level 3 and the 2 h fire resistance criteria, similar to existing drywall systems with conventional C-studs. Moreover, the maximum and residual displacements were within an acceptable range for a horizontal load of 3000 N applied vertically to the non-load-bearing wall. Building energy analysis indicated that using the proposed drywall adjacent to unconditioned spaces could reduce the annual heating and cooling load by 2.5–3.0%, despite a 1.5–1.9% increase in the annual cooling load. The annual heating load decreased by 4.8–5.9% under infiltration rates of 0.5 to 1.5 air changes per hour for adjacent unconditioned spaces, making this drywall system’s improved insulation quality crucial for achieving heating-dominant zero-energy buildings.
The Influence of Vegetation Environment on Thermal Experience in Hot Summer: A Case Study from Perspectives of Fitting Scale and Gender Disparity
Authors: Zhang Chenming , Li Wei , Fan Qindong , Hu Jian , Wang Dongmeng , Ping Xiaoying , Li Wenjie
Published: September 2024

Vegetation exerts a significant cooling effect, particularly during the hot summer; however, the spatial scale effects and gender difference among occupants’ subjective thermal comfort remain elusive. Developing a comprehensive model to elucidate the multidimensional relationship between green spaces and thermal experience holds paramount importance. Taking Longzi River Park in Zhengzhou city as a case study, this research examined the influence of vegetation on thermal experience by using structural equation modeling (SEM) from perspectives of fitting scale and gender disparities. It was found that (1) The vegetation environment not only influences thermal sensation, comfort and demand independently, but also influences the pathway between them. These influence paths constitute a complex causal network, functioning as a framework of “sensation → comfort → demand” and its influencing factors. (2) There exists a scaling effect in the pathway framework, which conforms to a threshold of 10 m for the inner radius and 30 m for the outer radius. The goodness of SEM model fit declines with the increase in either the inner radius or the outer radius, or both. (3) Differences in genders are exhibited for the pathway framework, with the vegetation exerting a stronger influence on female sensation and comfort, as well as male demand. The pathway from sensation to comfort to demand is more pronounced in male populations. The research findings contribute to the development of improved and sustainable vegetation distribution in urban parks.
Time-Varying Stability Analysis of the Trenching Construction Process of Diaphragm Wall
Authors: Liu Zhicheng , Liu Jianmei , Li Muyu , Mao Wufeng , Wang Ran , Mei Yuan , Liu Wenzhan , Zhou Dongbo
Published: September 2024

The stability of underground diaphragm walls is crucial for ensuring the safety and integrity of trench excavations in geotechnical engineering. This study addresses this critical issue by proposing a novel destabilization mechanism based on a sliding body model specifically designed for diaphragm wall trenching operations. The research employs an analytical framework rooted in soil mechanics and plasticity theory, utilizing limit equilibrium analysis to develop a method for calculating the minimum required slurry density and corresponding safety factor for trench stability. The study compares two distinct approaches to slurry density computation, analyzing their sensitivity to various influencing factors. Theoretical findings are validated through multiple real-world engineering case studies. Comparative analysis demonstrates the superiority of the proposed method, particularly in assessing trench stability within clay layers. Key variables influencing the safety factor are identified, including trench length, slurry density, soil friction angle, and the relative height difference between slurry and groundwater levels. Results indicate that actual slurry densities observed in practice consistently fall within the bounds predicted by the theoretical calculations. This research contributes a valuable theoretical framework to the field of diaphragm wall construction, offering improved accuracy in stability assessments and potentially enhancing safety in geotechnical engineering projects.
PageRank Algorithm-Based Recommendation System for Construction Safety Guidelines
Authors: Lee Jungwon , Ahn Seungjun
Published: September 2024

The construction industry faces significant challenges with frequent accidents, largely due to the inefficient use of safety guidelines. These guidelines, which are often text and figure heavy, demand substantial human effort to identify the most relevant items for specific tasks and conditions. Additionally, the guidelines contain both central and peripheral elements, and central items are critical yet difficult to identify without extensive domain knowledge. This study proposes a novel recommendation framework to enhance the usability of these safety guidelines. By leveraging natural language processing (NLP) and knowledge graph (KG) modeling techniques, unstructured safety texts are transformed into a structured, interconnected KG. The PageRank and Louvain Clustering algorithm is then employed to rank guidelines by their relevance and importance. A case study on “High-rise Building Construction (General) Safety and Health Guidelines”, using ‘scaffolding’ as the keyword, demonstrates the framework’s effectiveness in improving retrieval efficiency and practical application. The analysis highlighted key clusters such as ‘fall’, ‘drop’, and ‘scaffolding’, with critical safety measures identified through their interconnections. This research not only overcomes the fragmentation of safety management documents but also contributes to advancing hazard analysis and risk prevention practices in construction management.
Seismic Performance Evaluation of Pipelines Buried in Sandy Soils Reinforced with FRP Micropiles: A Numerical Study
Authors: Al-Jeznawi Duaa , Al-Janabi Musab Aied Qissab , Shafiqu Qassun S. Mohammed , Jasim Tiba N. , Güler Erol , Bernardo Luís Filipe Almeida , Andrade Jorge Miguel de Almeida
Published: September 2024

Unstable sandy soil poses significant challenges for buried pipelines, particularly due to the increased risk of displacement and stress-induced fractures resulting from soil settlement and earthquake-induced ground deformation. These concerns are especially critical in seismically active regions where underground infrastructure is at higher risk. Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites present a promising and sustainable alternative for deep foundations, offering durability and reduced maintenance costs compared to conventional materials. This study introduces a novel approach to enhancing the seismic performance of pipelines buried in sandy soils by numerically investigating a three-dimensional (3D) multipipe grouting micro anti-slide pile system, utilizing a polyurethane polymer slurry as the grouting material. Key parameters such as pile spacing, diameter, and length, along with the effects of soil wetting and various earthquake intensities, were examined under the influence of surface loads exerted by a fully loaded truck. The results demonstrate that using polymer micropiles significantly reduces soil and pipeline settlement by 15% to 50%, with larger pile diameters and lengths further decreasing settlement and strain on pipelines. While seismic excitation increases settlement, polymer grouting effectively mitigates this impact, leading to substantial reductions in settlement.
Experimental and Transformer-Based Study on Seismic Behavior and Plastic Hinge Length of RC Columns Reinforced with End-Fixed Ultra-High Strength Rebars
Authors: Wen Yue , Cai Gaochuang , Malla Prafulla
Published: September 2024

The application of machine learning (ML) in structural engineering is receiving increasing attention recently. This paper experimentally studies three self-restoring reinforced concrete (SRRC) columns reinforced with low-bond ultra-high strength rebars, to first discuss the reliability and evaluation of the SRRC columns under multiple reversed cyclic (MRC) loads induced by strong earthquakes, and to also first introduce the Transformer method into the analysis and discussion of structural tests. The tests confirmed the superior seismic behavior and high self-centering performance of the columns and presented how MRC loads affect the seismic performance of SRRC columns in terms of the lateral load-carrying capacity and energy dissipation capacity. Superior to conventional methods, a high-accuracy Transformer-based model is proposed to evaluate the plastic hinge height (PHL) of the tested SRRC columns compared with the other three algorithms (MLP, KNN, and XGBoost). Furthermore, the Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) approach is adopted to explain the insight relationship between the structural parameters and PHL of the columns.
Unique Gene Expression Profiles within South Africa Are Associated with Varied Chemotherapeutic Responses in Conventional Osteosarcoma
Authors: Mthethwa Phakamani G. , Arumugam Thilona , Ramsuran Veron , Gokul Anmol , Rodseth Reitze , Marais Leonard
Published: September 2024

Background: We determined the predictive gene expression profiles associated with chemo-response in conventional osteosarcomas (COS) within South Africa. Materials and methods: In 28 patients, we performed an RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, and quantitative analysis using the RT-PCR 2−∆∆CT method to determine the fold change in gene expression alongside GAPDH (housekeeping gene). Results: We observed a significant downregulation in the mRNA expression profiles of ABCB1-p-glycoprotein (p = 0.0007), ABCC3 (p = 0.002), ERCC1 (p = 0.007), p-53 (p = 0.007), and RFC1 (p = 0.003) in the COS patients compared to the healthy donors. Furthermore, ABCB1-p-glycoprotein (p = 0.008) and ABCC3 (p = 0.020) exhibited a significant downregulation in the COS tumour tissues when compared to the healthy donors. In our univariate logistic regression, the predictors of chemotherapeutic response comprised ERCC1 [restricted cubic spline (RCS) knot: OR −0.27; CI −0.504 to −0.032; p = 0.036]; osteoblastic subtype [OR −0.36; CI −0.652 to −0.092; p = 0.026); fibroblastic subtype [OR 0.91; CI 0.569 to 1.248; p < 0.001]; and mixed subtype [OR 0.53; CI 0.232 to 0.032; p = 0.032]. In our multivariable logistic regression, the significant predictors of chemotherapeutic response comprised age [RCS knot: OR −2.5; CI −3.616 to −1.378; p = 0.022]; ABCC3 [RCS knot: OR 0.67; CI 0.407 to 0.936, p = 0.016]; ERCC1 [RCS knot: OR 0.57; CI 0.235 to 0.901; p = 0.044]; RFC1 [RCS knot: OR −1.04; CI −1.592 to −0.487; p = 0.035]; chondroblastic subtype [OR −0.83; CI −1.106 to −0.520; p = 0.012]; and osteoblastic subtype [OR −1.28; CI −1.664 to −0.901; p = 0.007]. Conclusions: In this South African cohort, we observed the unique gene expression profiles of osteosarcoma tumourigenesis and chemotherapeutic responses. These may serve as prognostication and therapeutic targets. Larger-scale research is needed on the African continent.
CD103+ cDC1 Dendritic Cell Vaccine Therapy for Osteosarcoma Lung Metastases
Authors: Yang Yuanzheng , Zhou Yifan , Wang Jian , Zhou You , Watowich Stephanie S. , Kleinerman Eugenie S.
Published: September 2024

Background: We generated a CD103+DC vaccine using K7M3 OS cell lysates (cDCV) and investigated its ability to induce regression of primary tumors, established lung metastases, and a systemic immune response. Methods: A bilateral tumor model was used to assess cDCV therapy efficacy and systemic immunity induction. K7M3 cells were injected into mice bilaterally. Right-sided tumors received PBS (control) or cDCV. Left-sided tumors were untreated. Tumor growth was compared between the vaccine-treated and untreated tumor on the contralateral side and compared to the control group. The immune cell profiles of the tumors, and tumor-draining lymph nodes (TdLNs) and spleen were evaluated. To determine the efficacy of systemic cDCV therapy against established lung metastases, K7M3 cells were injected intratibially. Leg amputation was performed 5 weeks later. Mice were treated intravenously with PBS or cDCV and euthanized 6 weeks later. Lungs, TdLNs and spleen were collected. The number and size of the lung nodules were quantified. The immune cell profile of tumor, and lymph nodes and spleen were also evaluated. Using this same model, we evaluated the effect of cDCV + anti-CTLA-4. Results: cDCV therapy inhibited the treated and untreated tumors and increased the number of T-cells in these tumors and the lymph nodes compared to control-treated mice. Systemic cDCV therapy administered following amputation decreased the size and number of lung metastases, and increased T-cell numbers in the tumor and lymph nodes. Combining anti-CTLA-4 with cDCV therapy increased cDCV efficacy against lung metastases. Conclusions: Intratumor cDCV generated a systemic immune response inhibiting the growth of both the treated and untreated tumors, with increased T-cells in the tumor and lymph nodes. Systemic cDCV was effective against established lung metastases. Efficacy was increased by anti-CTLA4. cDCVs may provide a novel therapeutic approach for relapsed/metastatic OS patients.
Short Peptides as Powerful Arsenal for Smart Fighting Cancer
Authors: Bojarska Joanna , Wolf Wojciech M.
Published: September 2024

Short peptides have been coming around as a strong weapon in the fight against cancer on all fronts—in immuno-, chemo-, and radiotherapy, and also in combinatorial approaches. Moreover, short peptides have relevance in cancer imaging or 3D culture. Thanks to the natural ‘smart’ nature of short peptides, their unique structural features, as well as recent progress in biotechnological and bioinformatics development, short peptides are playing an enormous role in evolving cutting-edge strategies. Self-assembling short peptides may create excellent structures to stimulate cytotoxic immune responses, which is essential for cancer immunotherapy. Short peptides can help establish versatile strategies with high biosafety and effectiveness. Supramolecular short peptide-based cancer vaccines entered clinical trials. Peptide assemblies can be platforms for the delivery of antigens, adjuvants, immune cells, and/or drugs. Short peptides have been unappreciated, especially in the vaccine aspect. Meanwhile, they still hide the undiscovered unlimited potential. Here, we provide a timely update on this highly active and fast-evolving field.
Synthesis, Performance Measurement of Dy2EuSbO7/ZnBiDyO4 Heterojunction Composite Catalyst and Photocatalytic Degradation of Chlorpyrifos within Pesticide Wastewater under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Luan Jingfei , Xiao Yang , Hao Liang , Yao Ye , Niu Bowen , Yang Guangmin , Wang Yichun
Published: September 2024

For the first time, a novel catalyst named Dy2EuSbO7 was successfully synthesized via the high-temperature solid-state sintering method (HTSSM). Dy2EuSbO7/ZnBiDyO4 heterojunction photocatalyst (DZHP) was fabricated through the HTSSM for degrading chlorpyrifos (CPS) in the pesticide wastewater under visible light irradiation (VSLID). Under VSLID, DZHP could effectively degrade CPS in pesticide wastewater. The experimental outcomes suggested that the kinetic curve with the Dy2EuSbO7/ZnBiDyO4 heterojunction (DZH) as a photocatalyst for the reduction of CPS under VSLID conformed to the first-order kinetics (FOKT). After VSLID of 156 min, the photocatalytic degradation (PTD) removal rate of CPS using DZH as photocatalyst was 1.12 times, 1.21 times, or 2.96 times that using Dy2EuSbO7 as a photocatalyst, ZnBiDyO4 as a photocatalyst, or nitrogen-doped titanium dioxide as a photocatalyst. After VSLID of 156 min for four cycle degradation tests (FCDTS) with DZH as a photocatalyst, the removal rate of CPS reached 98.78%, 97.66%, 96.59%, and 95.69%, respectively. Above results indicated that the DZHP possessed high stability. Experiments with the addition of trapping agents showed that hydroxyl radicals (•OH) owned the strongest oxidative removal ability for degrading CPS compared with superoxide anions (•O2−) or holes (h+). The oxidation capacity of three oxidation radicals for eliminating CPS was ranked in the ascending order as follows: h+ < •OH < •O2−. Lastly, the possible degradation pathway and degradation mechanism of CPS were discussed in detail. A visible light responsive heterojunction catalyst with high catalytic activity and a photocatalytic reaction system which were capable of efficiently removing toxic organic pollutants from pesticide wastewater were obtained.