bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAICS AND AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS
Authors:   School of Engineering Technology  Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States, Schreiber Zach , Lucietto Anne ,   School of Engineering Technology  Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
Published: March 2024

Photovoltaic (P.V.) solar cells convert sunlight into electricity. The conversion of available sunlight to electricity leads to investigations focused on technologies that reduce reliance on fossil fuels and reduce carbon emissions. Investigative work in this area leads to several improvements, increasing efficiencies, cleaner processes, new materials, and reduces cost. With increasing awareness and growing need for sustainable development, P.V.'s have made their way into various applications in the Energy, Industrial, Commercial, Residential, and Transportation sectors of the world. The migration of P.V.’s is reducing reliance on fossil fuels for energy while combating carbon emissions and climate change. The oil embargo of the 1970s led many governments and researchers to investigate alternative and cleaner technologies of vehicle propulsion in the transportation industry, including hydrogen, ethanol, natural gas, methane, and various forms of electric vehicles (E.V.'s). Of these technologies, electric vehicles have gained popularity in the market with improvements continuing to advance the field in energy efficiency, storage, and management with a potential of energy generation using P.V.'s mounted to vehicles. The utilization of vehicle integrated P.V. solar cells presents possibilities for improving the range of electric vehicles demonstrated throughout various solar race challenges worldwide. Many of these solar electric vehicles (S.E.V.'s) were on the individual, research-based scale, and little use of this technology has made it to market vehicles. Further improvements and investigations in P.V. and E.V. technology continue to improve consumer level adoption to address their challenges and limitations. As a result of examining these facts, the researchers present a summary systemic review of existing research on the use of solar energy to power an automobile. It will lightly cover solar energy collectors and then provide a more in-depth examination of existing literature.
Free Cognitive Capacity Assessed by the P300 Method During Manual Docking Training in Space
Authors: Bubeev Juri Akardevic , Johannes Bernd , Kotrovska Tatyana I. , Schastlivtseva Darya , Bronnikov Sergey , Hoermann Hans-Juergen , Gaillard Anthony W. K.
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION: The classical P300 brain potential method was used to assess the cognitive capacity during training of manual docking in space. The aim of the study was to enhance the safety of this operation during a mission.

METHODS: To examine this, N = 8 cosmonauts had to perform the manually controlled docking task simultaneously with an acoustic monitoring task. The P300 component was evoked by the acoustic stimuli of the secondary task. The docking task had to be executed at three difficulty levels: low (station not turning); medium (station turning around one axis); and difficult (station turning around three axes). In the secondary task, subjects had to discriminate between a low and a high tone, which occurred with a probability of 90% and 10%, respectively. Subjects had to count the high tones. After the 10th high tone, they had to inspect the power supply by giving an oral command.

RESULTS: A methodology for event-related potentials was successfully demonstrated under space conditions. The P300 amplitude was largest and the latency shortest during the medium difficult task.

DISCUSSION: The results suggest that P300 can be recorded during the complex manual docking task in space and could be used to assess individual available cognitive capacity of cosmonauts during a space mission.

Bubeev JA, Johannes B, Kotrovska TI, Schastlivtseva D, Bronnikov S, Hoermann H-J, Gaillard AWK. Free cognitive capacity assessed by the P300 method during manual docking training in space. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2024; 95(4):187–193.
Screening for Coronary Artery Disease in Asymptomatic Pilots with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Zerrik Meryem , Moumen Amal , El Ghazi Mouna , Smiress Fahd Bennani , Iloughmane Zakaria , El M’hadi Choukri , Chemsi Mohamed
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a cause of death in 75% of patients with diabetes. Its often asymptomatic nature delays diagnosis. In aeronautics, it can cause in-flight incapacitation, beyond which it represents a major fear for the medical expert. Screening for CAD is still a topical subject with the advent of new cardiovascular (CV) risk biomarkers and more effective screening tests. We report the experience of the Aeromedical Expertise Center of Rabat in this screening of diabetic pilots, with a recommendations review.

METHODS: A prospective study over 1 yr included diabetic pilots who benefited from systematic screening for CAD after a CV risk stratification. Coronary angiography is performed if a screening test is positive. Subsequent follow-up is carried out in consultation with the attending physician with regular evaluation in our center.

RESULTS: There were 38 pilots included in our study. The average age was 55 ± 4.19 yr and about 73% had a high CV risk. CAD was detected in 4 cases (10.52%) who had abnormal resting electrocardiograms and required revascularization with the placement of active stents. Approximately 75% of pilots with CAD returned to fly through a waiver with restrictions.

DISCUSSION: Screening for coronary disease in diabetics is controversial, and current recommendations are not unanimous. In our study, the screening did not identify coronary diabetic pilots who could benefit from bypass surgery. Nevertheless, coronary disease was diagnosed, justifying grounding to preserve flight safety, which is an absolute priority in aviation medicine.

Zerrik M, Moumen A, El Ghazi M, Smiress FB, Iloughmane Z, El M’hadi C, Chemsi M. Screening for coronary artery disease in asymptomatic pilot with diabetes mellitus. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2024; 95(4):200–205.
Sleep Inertia in Aviation
Authors: Sauvet Fabien , Beauchamps Vincent , Cabon Philippe
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION: Sleep inertia is the transition state during which alertness and cognitive performance are temporarily impaired after awakening. Magnitude and time course of sleep inertia are characterized by high individual variability with large differences between the cognitive functions affected. This period of impairment is of concern to pilots, who take sleep or nap periods during on-call work hours or in-flight rest, then need to perform safety-critical tasks soon after waking. This review analyzes literature related to sleep inertia and countermeasures applicable for aviation.

METHODS: The large part of scientific literature that focuses on sleep inertia is based on studies in patients with chronic sleep inertia. We analyzed 8 narrative reviews and 64 papers related to acute sleep inertia in healthy subjects.

DISCUSSION: Sleep inertia is a multifactorial, complex process, and many different protocols have been conducted, with a low number of subjects, in noncontrolled laboratory designs, with questionnaires or cognitive tests that have not been replicated. Evidence suggests that waking after sleep loss, or from deeper stages of sleep, can exacerbate sleep inertia through complex interactions between awakening and sleep-promoting brain structures. Nevertheless, no meta-analyses are possible and extrapolation to pilots’ performances is hypothetical. Studies in real life or simulated operational situations must be conducted to improve the description of the impact of sleep inertia and kinetics on pilots’ performances. Taking rest or sleep time remains the main method for pilots to fight against fatigue and related decreases in performance. We propose proactive strategies to mitigate sleep inertia and improve alertness.

Sauvet F, Beauchamps V, Cabon P. Sleep inertia in aviation. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2024; 95(4):206–213.
Leveraging Space-Flown Technologies to Deliver Healthcare with Holographic Physical Examinations
Authors: Levschuk Adam , Whittal Jocelyn , Trejos Ana Luisa , Sirek Adam
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION: Musculoskeletal injuries are one of the more common injuries in spaceflight. Physical assessment of an injury is essential for diagnosis and treatment. Unfortunately, when musculoskeletal injuries occur in space, the flight surgeon is limited to two-dimensional videoconferencing and, potentially, observations made by the crew medical officer. To address these limitations, we investigated the feasibility of performing physical examinations on a three-dimensional augmented reality projection using a mixed-reality headset, specifically evaluating a standard shoulder examination.

METHODS: A simulated patient interaction was set up between Western University in London, Ontario, Canada, and Huntsville, AL, United States. The exam was performed by a medical student, and a healthy adult man volunteered to enable the physical exam.

RESULTS: All parts of the standard shoulder physical examination according to the Bates Guide to the Physical Exam were performed with holoportation. Adaptation was required for the palpation and some special tests.

DISCUSSION: All parts of the physical exam were able to be completed. The true to anatomical size of the holograms permitted improved inspection of the anatomy compared to traditional videoconferencing. Palpation was completed by instructing the patient to palpate themselves and comment on relevant findings asked by the examiner. Range of motion and special tests for specific pathologies were also able to be completed with some modifications due to the examiner not being present to provide resistance. Future work should aim to improve the graphics, physician communication, and haptic feedback during holoportation.

Levschuk A, Whittal J, Trejos AL, Sirek A. Leveraging space-flown technologies to deliver healthcare with holographic physical examinations. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2024; 95(4):214–218.
Transitioning Patients From Second- to First-Line Prophylaxis in Hereditary Angioedema
Authors: Cross Caroline E
Published: March 2024

Modern targeted prophylaxis is recommended for patients with hereditary angioedema (HAE), but many remain on attenuated androgens. EMJ spoke to two HAE experts who explain how they help patients to make the switch.
Renal Replacement Therapy During Liver Transplant Surgery
Authors: Sekar Arjun , Reddy Aswanth , Gandhi Pulkit , Raj Vijay
Published: March 2024

Liver transplant is the treatment available for eligible patients with end-stage liver cirrhosis. Acute kidney injury and electrolyte abnormalities are associated with liver disease and can be exacerbated by surgery. Intraoperative renal replacement therapy has been tried in some large centres. The authors discuss the physiological changes and complications during liver transplant surgery, and review literature on the safety, feasibility, benefits, and drawbacks of intraoperative renal replacement therapy during liver transplant surgery.
Some Notes on Linear Programming Problems
Authors: Yakubova U. , Mirkhodjaeva N. , Parpieva N.
Published: March 2024

The paper considers such problems of linear programming as the problem of using raw materials, the problem of composing a diet. The basic definitions, theorems, algorithm and solution of the linear programming problem by the graphical method are given.
Development Features of Eurygaster integriceps Puton, 1881 - a Pest of Gardens in the Kazakh-Tovuz Economic Region of Azerbaijan
Authors: Abbasova A.
Published: March 2024

The results of studies conducted in 2022-2023 are reflected. Periods of activity of Eurygaster integriceps, a serious pest of grain farming in the Shamkir district, have been identified. This is one of the main grain regions of Azerbaijan. The studied species, when present in high numbers, causes serious damage to grain farms. It has been established that the pest under these conditions produces one full generation and is more active in the agrocenosis from May to June. A phenological calendar is presented, which can be used in the development of planned measures for protection against this pest.
Limits of Normal Indicators of the Amount of Formal Elements in the Blood of 3-month-old Rabbits
Authors: Bayramova N.
Published: March 2024

In our scientific research, several physiologically and biochemically important parameters were studied in the blood of 3-month-old rabbits: glucose hemostasis, pH-indicator and the amount of immune hemoglobin. In this experiment, we obtained interesting facts about hypoxia and physical loads, the initial changes in blood and their dynamics during the joint application of these factors. We considered that in the experimental work carried out in this direction, it is also important to study the quantitative changes of the main morphological (cellular) structures-shaped elements in the blood of 3-month-old rabbits in the above-mentioned experimental models. From the obtained results, it became clear that the physiological necessity of neither leukocytes, nor lymphocytes, nor monocytes to strengthen the body’s immune defense system during such physical loads is almost too weak, this was confirmed in a number of experiments. This is also shown by our research work. However, a number of experimental evidence show that very high motor activity can lead to a more or less increase in the number of platelets in the animal body. Due to the increase of erythrocytes and platelets, hematological parameters such as hematocrit and thrombocrit can also increase. In the latter version of this study, we induced 3-month-old rabbits to perform a 10-min act of treadmill running immediately after 20 min of severe hypoxic exposure. It is very interesting that in the first hours of the experiment, the shape elements of the blood and other morphometric indicators (hemotocrit and thrombocrit levels) were manifested in 3-month-old rabbits only within the limits of changes that occurred when severe hypoxia was applied. Therefore, it can be concluded that hypoxia is the factor affecting blood and its composition in a complex experimental model such as hypoxia + physical load.
Soils Morphogenetic Characteristic Taking Into Account Modern Technologies in the Ganja Physiographic Region
Authors: Babaeva A. , Adygozelova S. , Azimova A. , Mehtieva S. , Mikailova S. , Mamedova A.
Published: March 2024

A preliminary analysis of the work performed was made. At the desk stage, information was obtained about landscape complexes distributed on the territory of the Ganja physiographic region. 334 soil samples were collected for laboratory research. Soil sections were made along the route indicated in the figure.
Current State of Soil Fertility in Mountain Shirvan, Azerbaijan
Authors: Novruzova S.
Published: March 2024

In the presented article, a morphogenetic description of the soil profile of characteristic soil types and an analysis of diagnostic indicators of the current state of mountain-brown steppe formed on the south-eastern slope of the Greater Caucasus, irrigated mountain gray-brown, light mountain gray-brown, ordinary gray-brown soil types according to the International WRB system and analysis of nutrients according to soil profile. The physical and geographical location of the region is considered and described, the geomorphological, geological conditions of formation, climatic and hydrological conditions are described.
Ketogenic Diet Interventions in Inborn Errors of Metabolism: A Review Article
Authors: Kök Şan Cansu , Muslu Mücahit , Gökçay Gülden Fatma
Published: March 2024

Objective: The ketogenic diet, which has been used in the treatment of epilepsy since the 1920s, is a diet containing high fat, sufficient protein, and low carbohydrate. The ketogenic diet mimics the metabolic effects of fasting by shifting metabolism towards fat utilization. The ketogenic diet, which has different variants, such as the classical ketogenic diet, modified Atkins diet, and medium-chain triglyceride diet, is used in inborn errors of metabolism to target the underlying metabolic state by bypassing the damaged metabolic pathway or to treat the clinical symptoms of inborn errors of metabolism, such as epileptic seizures. In this review, we assessed the evidence for ketogenic diet interventions in the treatment of inborn errors of metabolism. Methods: The Google Scholar search engine, PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct databases were used to find studies on the use of ketogenic diet interventions in the treatment of inborn errors of metabolism. Results: The beneficial effects of different variants of the ketogenic diet on glucose transport type 1 deficiency syndrome and pyruvate dehydrogenase complex deficiency have long been recognized. There are also favorable data on its use in myopathic glycogen storage diseases, mitochondrial diseases, and nonketotic hyperglycinemia accompanied by epilepsy. Conclusion: The evidence is mostly based on individual case reports, case series, and clinical trials with small sample sizes and is insufficient to make recommendations.
One-step in vivo gene knock-out in porcine embryos using recombinant adeno-associated viruses
Authors: Gao Mengyu , He YuTing , Zhu XingLong , Peng WanLiu , Zhou YanYan , Deng Yang , Liao Guangneng , Ni Wei , Li Yi , Gao Jun , Bu Hong , Yang Jiayin , Yang Guang , Yang Yang , Bao Ji
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Gene-edited pigs have become prominent models for studying human disease mechanisms, gene therapy, and xenotransplantation. CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)/CRISPR-associated 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) technology is a widely employed tool for generating gene-edited pigs. Nevertheless, delivering CRISPR/Cas9 to pre-implantation embryos has traditionally posed challenges due to its reliance on intricate micromanipulation equipment and specialized techniques, resulting in high costs and time-consuming procedures. This study aims to introduce a novel one-step approach for generating genetically modified pigs by transducing CRISPR/Cas9 components into pre-implantation porcine embryos through oviductal injection of recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAV).

Methods: We first used rAAV-1, rAAV-6, rAAV-8, rAAV-9 expressing EGFP to screen for rAAV serotypes that efficiently target porcine embryos, and then, to achieve efficient expression of CRISPR/Cas9 in vivo for a short period, we packaged sgRNAs targeting the GHR genes to self-complementary adeno-associated virus (scAAV), and Cas9 proteins to single-stranded adeno-associated virus (ssAAV). The efficiency of porcine embryos -based editing was then validated in vitro. The feasibility of this one-step method to produce gene-edited pigs using rAAV-CRISPR/Cas9 oviductal injection into sows within 24 h of conception was then validated.

Results: Our research firstly establishes the efficient delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 to pig zygotes, both in vivo and in vitro, using rAAV6. Successful gene editing in pigs was achieved through oviductal injection of rAAV-CRISPR/Cas9.

Conclusion: This method circumvents the intricate procedures involved in in vitro embryo manipulation and embryo transfers, providing a straightforward and cost-effective approach for the production of gene-edited pigs.
Assessing immediate emotions in the theory of planned behavior can substantially contribute to increases in pro-environmental behavior
Authors: Ho Vanessa C. , Berman Anne H. , Andrade Jackie , Kavanagh David J. , Branche Stéphane La , May Jon , Philson Conner S. , Blumstein Daniel T.
Published: March 2024

The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) is a highly influential and powerful behavior change model that offers promising guidance on promoting urgently needed, pro-environmental action. Recent pro-environmental research has successfully augmented TPB using anticipated emotions—the emotions an individual consciously predicts they will experience in relation to possible outcomes of their decision. However, immediate emotions—the emotions an individual actually experiences during decision-making—have received far less attention. Given that immediate emotions are relevant to pro-environmental decision-making and can address the theoretical and empirical limitations of TPB, we contend that pro-environmental studies should explicitly examine immediate emotions within the TPB framework. This article aims to stimulate rigorous research that enhances pro-environmental communication and policymaking by providing integrative insights into immediate emotions along with recommendations for evaluating immediate emotions in a pro-environmental TPB context.
A paleoecological context for forest distribution and restoration in Grootbos Nature Reserve, Agulhas Plain, South Africa
Authors: Prader Sabine , Gillson Lindsey , Strauss Paula , Privett Sean D. J. , Hoffman M. Timm
Published: March 2024

Grootbos Nature Reserve falls within the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa and comprises fynbos and forest vegetation elements, which exist as alternate stable states and are naturally maintained by feedbacks between vegetation, fire, topography and climate. The objective of this study was to investigate changes in forest extent in the Baviaansfontein valley in Grootbos Nature Reserve in order to understand whether current forest coverage was greater or lesser prior to colonial settlement. Incorporating paleoecology has the potential to define historical ranges of landscape variability that can guide forest restoration programs that are aligned to historical forest occurrence. Not all landscapes are suited for tree planting initiatives as they harbor indigenous open vegetation, which is of conservation value. Historical and palaeoecological information is especially valuable as tree planting initiatives and reforestation programs are becoming more popular. Here we present a combined palynological (pollen, spores, charcoal) and geochemical approach (X-ray fluorescence elemental ratios, Loss-on-ignition), to evaluate the historic extent and distribution of forest and fynbos vegetation for the past ~250 years at Baviaansfontein in the Grootbos Nature Reserve. The start of the record was dominated by pollen typical of asteraceous fynbos, with evidence of forest elements also present, though in low abundance. After 200 years (c.1750 CE–1950 CE) of increased input of micro- and macrocharcoal, the subsequent decline in charcoal indicates a decrease in fire occurrence. This decline coincides with increased input of forest pollen taxa, suggesting that fire suppression most likely triggered forest expansion and perhaps initiated the beginning of a biome boundary shift. The continued decline in fire promoted the development of the present-day proteoid fynbos type around ~1980 CE and was responsible for the replacement of the previously more asteraceous-dominated fynbos type. The results show that changes in fire occurrence have driven compositional changes over time within fynbos but also contributed to the expansion of forest at the expense of fynbos. Considering the palaeoecological record and the expected warmer climate with more fires, forest expansion at Baviaansfontein is not recommended. The proteoid-dominated fynbos biome might be similarly negatively affected by warmer climate and a shift to an asteraceous fynbos community could occur in the future.
Quantitative scenarios for cascading risks in AI, climate, synthetic bio, and financial markets by 2075
Authors: Undheim Trond Arne , Ahmad Taimur
Published: March 2024

Humanity faces a myriad of existential technology, geopolitical, and ecological risks. The paper analyzes the possibility that negative shocks superimpose and multiply their effects, leading to catastrophic macro-dynamics. Methodologically, this paper presents a rare, quantitative scenario model superimposed upon narrative scenarios where the cascading economic effects of 19 quantitative indicators of growth or decline are projected into 2075. These indicators map onto five narrative scenarios, and are subsequently re-combined to study effects of plausible cascading risk events coming to pass in the 50 years period between 2025 and 2075. Results indicate that even in the case of deeply catastrophic singular events, the world would eventually recover within 25 years, as has historically been the case. The exception is that in the event of several catastrophic events in short order around the midpoint of the 50-year scenario timeline, the cascading risk escalation would create formidable negative cascades. The possibility of a protracted depression and no visible recovery within 25 years is the result. However, if we assume a modest interaction effect, even with just 3-5 co-occurring catastrophes, the result becomes a path towards humanity’s extinction based on economic decline alone. The implications are that humanity either needs to avoid significant cascading effects at all costs or needs to identify novel ways to recover compared to previous depressions. Given the amount of model assumptions they rely upon, these projections carry a degree of uncertainty. Further study should therefore be conducted with a larger set of indicators and impacts, including mortality modeling, to assess how much worse plausible real-world outcomes might be compared to the simplified economic model deployed here.
Demand-side response power control strategy considering load production sequence requirements
Authors: Wang Xi , Chen Zhen , Xie Haocong , Liao Siyang , Ye Xi , Chen Gang
Published: March 2024

With the introduction of a high proportion of new energy sources, the power system needs new means to enhance its regulating flexibility. High-energy-consuming industrial loads on the demand side have significant potential to improve the grid’s regulating flexibility. Unplanned power adjustments can affect normal load production. This paper proposes a power control strategy that considers the normal production order of loads, aiming to balance load response capacity requirements and safe production order. Taking copper electrolysis load as an example, based on the load process flow and the power characteristics of production equipment, factors affecting load production order and methods for calculating impact weights are analyzed, and a strategy to reduce the demand response to production order caused by power control is proposed. The effectiveness of the power control strategy is verified through simulation examples, providing a feasible solution for industrial loads to participate in demand-side response.
Soil carbon dynamics in drained prairie pothole wetlands
Authors: Chizen Chantel J. , Helgason Bobbi L. , Weiseth Blake , Dhillon Gurbir Singh , Baulch Helen M. , Schoenau Jeff J. , Bedard-Haughn Angela K.
Published: March 2024

Drainage leads to trade-offs between crop production efficiency and wetland conservation, with complex impacts on ecosystem services. In North America’s Prairie Pothole Region, wetland drainage is widespread, often to increase the available land for cultivation, prevent crop loss due to flooding, and manage soil salinity. Wetlands are known for providing key ecosystem services such as improved water quality, flood mitigation, and carbon storage. There is limited research on how changes to soil hydrology and soil redistribution through wetland drainage can impact soil carbon storage and persistence in this region. This research evaluates factors that contribute to soil carbon storage in drained prairie pothole wetland based on 33 drained wetlands in Saskatchewan, Canada. These analyses showed regional differences in the response of soil carbon storage to drainage that are driven by environmental factors such as annual precipitation, temperature, and wetland permanence. We observed increasing soil carbon storage from the Dark Brown to Black soil zones, as well as with longer wetland pond permanence. The sampling depth used for calculating soil carbon storage was especially important when comparing geographically across the soil zones as the Black soil zone had greater soil carbon stored at depth. Soil carbon was also intensively monitored over 2 years following installation of surface drainage across a wetland complex (8 drained wetlands) where water was partially directed to a consolidation wetland. We further assessed changes in soil carbon dynamics and protection from microbial decomposition based on three soil organic matter fractions, ATR-FTIR for organic matter functional groups, and phospholipid fatty acid analysis to understand the microbial community abundance and structure. After 2 years following drainage, ephemeral wetlands with short pond permanence were found to be most sensitive to drainage and the only wetland class with decreases in soil carbon. The temporary and seasonal wetland classes showed no significant differences in soil carbon content but there were changes in the organic matter with depth due to soil redistribution during drainage implementation. Jointly, this research provides region-specific estimates of soil carbon storage in drained prairie pothole wetlands that can be used to inform wetland soil carbon management in cultivated fields.
Driving factors analysis and scenario prediction of CO2 emissions in power industries of key provinces along the Yellow River based on LMDI and BP neural network
Authors: Wu Chuanbao , Sun Shuang , Cui Yingying , Xing Shuangyin
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Power industry is one of the largest sources of CO2 emissions in China. The Yellow River Basin plays a supportive role in guaranteeing the effective supply of electricity nationwide, with numerous power generation bases. Understanding the drivers and peak of CO2 emissions of power industry in the Yellow River Basin is vital for China to fulfill its commitment to reach carbon emissions peak by 2030.

Methods

The Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) model was employed to explore the drivers to the change of CO2 emissions in power industries of three study areas, including Inner Mongolia Autonomous Regions, Shanxi Province, and Shandong Province in the Yellow River Basin. And Back Propagation (BP) neural network was combined with scenario analysis to empirically predict the trend of the amount of CO2 emitted by power industry (CEPI) from provincial perspective.

Results

CEPI in Inner Mongolia under the scenarios of a low degree of CO2 emissions promotion with a medium degree of CO2 emissions inhibition (LM) and a low degree of CO2 emissions promotion with a high degree of CO2 emissions inhibition (LH) scenario can reach a peak as early as 2030, with the peak value of 628.32 and 638.12 million tonnes, respectively. Moreover, in Shanxi, only CEPI under a low degree of CO2 emissions promotion scenarios (LL, LM, LH) can achieve the peak in 2025 ahead of schedule, with amounts of 319.32, 308.07, and 292.45 million tonnes. Regarding Shandong, CEPI under scenarios of a low degree of CO2 emissions promotion with a high degree of CO2 emissions inhibition (LH) and a medium degree of CO2 emissions promotion with a high degree of CO2 emissions inhibition (MH) could achieve the earliest peak time in 2025, with a peak of 434.6 and 439.36 million tonnes, respectively.

Discussion

The earliest peak time of CEPI in Shandong Province and Shanxi Province is 2025, but the peak of CEPI in Shanxi is smaller than that of Shandong. The peak time of CEPI in Inner Mongolia is relatively late, in 2030, and the peak is larger than that of the other two provinces. The per capita GDP is the most positive driving factor that contributes to the CEPI. Shandong has a strong economy, and its per capita GDP is much higher than Shanxi’s. Therefore, even under the same peak time, the CEPI in Shandong is much higher than that of Shanxi. Inner Mongolia is extensive and sparsely populated, which makes its per capita GDP rank among the top in China. In addition, Inner Mongolia’s coal-based power generation structure and high power generation also contribute to its late CO2 peak time and large CO2 peak.
Complete genome sequence of a novel Prescottella sp. R16 isolate from deep-sea sediments in the western Pacific
Authors: Ma Lingqi , Bai Yuqi , Wang Weili , Pei Shengxiang , Zhang Gaiyun
Published: March 2024

Prescottella, a distinct genus separate from Rhodococcus, has garnered attention for its adaptability and ecological versatility. In this study, a Gram-stain positive and ovoid-rod shaped the actinobacterium strain R16 was isolated from deep-sea sediment (with a depth of 6,310 m) in the Western Pacific. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, average nucleotide identity and phylogenomic analysis, strain R16 clearly represents a novel species within the genus Prescottella. Genomic analyses indicate Prescottella sp. R16 contains a circular chromosome of 4,531,251 bp with an average GC content of 68.9%, 4,208 protein-coding genes, 51 tRNA genes, and 12 rRNA operons. Additionally, four CRISPRs and 24 genomic islands are also identified. The presence of rich categories related to catalytic activity, membrane part and metabolic process highlights their involvement in cellular component, biological process, and molecular function. The genome sequence of strain R16 also revealed the presence of 13 putative biosynthetic gene clusters for secondary metabolites, including those for ε-Poly-L-lysine, ectoine, heterobactin, isorenieratene and corynecin, suggesting its potential for antibiotic production and warranting further exploration.
Nanoparticle vaccines based on the receptor binding domain of porcine deltacoronavirus elicit robust protective immune responses in mice
Authors: Wang Yuanhong , Song Junhan , Deng Xiaoying , Wang Junna , Zhang Miao , Liu Yun , Tang Pan , Liu Huili , Zhou Yanjun , Tong Guangzhi , Li Guoxin , Yu Lingxue
Published: March 2024

Background

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV), a novel swine enteropathogenic coronavirus, challenges the global swine industry. Currently, there are no approaches preventing swine from PDCoV infection.

Methods

A new PDCoV strain named JS2211 was isolated. Next, the dimer receptor binding domain of PDCoV spike protein (RBD-dimer) was expressed using the prokaryotic expression system, and a novel nanoparticle containing RBD-dimer and ferritin (SC-Fe) was constructed using the SpyTag/SpyCatcher system. Finally, the immunoprotection of RBD-Fe nanoparticles was evaluated in mice.

Results

The novel PDCoV strain was located in the clade of the late Chinese isolate strains and close to the United States strains. The RBD-Fe nanoparticles were successfully established. Immune responses of the homologous prime-boost regime showed that RBD-Fe nanoparticles efficiently elicited specific humoral and cellular immune responses in mice. Notably, high level PDCoV RBD-specific IgG and neutralizing antibody (NA) could be detected, and the histopathological results showed that PDCoV infection was dramatically reduced in mice immunized with RBD-Fe nanoparticles.

Conclusion

This study effectively developed a candidate nanoparticle with receptor binding domain of PDCoV spike protein that offers protection against PDCoV infection in mice.
Rapid identification of inflammatory arthritis and associated adverse events following immune checkpoint therapy: a machine learning approach
Authors: Tran Steven D. , Lin Jean , Galvez Carlos , Rasmussen Luke V. , Pacheco Jennifer , Perottino Giovanni M. , Rahbari Kian J. , Miller Charles D. , John Jordan D. , Theros Jonathan , Vogel Kelly , Dinh Patrick V. , Malik Sara , Ramzan Umar , Tegtmeyer Kyle , Mohindra Nisha , Johnson Jodi L. , Luo Yuan , Kho Abel , Sosman Jeffrey , Walunas Theresa L.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced inflammatory arthritis (ICI-IA) poses a major clinical challenge to ICI therapy for cancer, with 13% of cases halting ICI therapy and ICI-IA being difficult to identify for timely referral to a rheumatologist. The objective of this study was to rapidly identify ICI-IA patients in clinical data and assess associated immune-related adverse events (irAEs) and risk factors.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of the electronic health records (EHRs) of 89 patients who developed ICI-IA out of 2451 cancer patients who received ICI therapy at Northwestern University between March 2011 to January 2021. Logistic regression and random forest machine learning models were trained on all EHR diagnoses, labs, medications, and procedures to identify ICI-IA patients and EHR codes indicating ICI-IA. Multivariate logistic regression was then used to test associations between ICI-IA and cancer type, ICI regimen, and comorbid irAEs.

Results

Logistic regression and random forest models identified ICI-IA patients with accuracies of 0.79 and 0.80, respectively. Key EHR features from the random forest model included ICI-IA relevant features (joint pain, steroid prescription, rheumatoid factor tests) and features suggesting comorbid irAEs (thyroid function tests, pruritus, triamcinolone prescription). Compared to 871 adjudicated ICI patients who did not develop arthritis, ICI-IA patients had higher odds of developing cutaneous (odds ratio [OR]=2.66; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.63-4.35), endocrine (OR=2.09; 95% CI 1.15-3.80), or gastrointestinal (OR=2.88; 95% CI 1.76-4.72) irAEs adjusting for demographics, cancer type, and ICI regimen. Melanoma (OR=1.99; 95% CI 1.08-3.65) and renal cell carcinoma (OR=2.03; 95% CI 1.06-3.84) patients were more likely to develop ICI-IA compared to lung cancer patients. Patients on nivolumab+ipilimumab were more likely to develop ICI-IA compared to patients on pembrolizumab (OR=1.86; 95% CI 1.01-3.43).

Discussion

Our machine learning models rapidly identified patients with ICI-IA in EHR data and elucidated clinical features indicative of comorbid irAEs. Patients with ICI-IA were significantly more likely to also develop cutaneous, endocrine, and gastrointestinal irAEs during their clinical course compared to ICI therapy patients without ICI-IA.
Aging-related biomarker discovery in the era of immune checkpoint inhibitors for cancer patients
Authors: Al-Danakh Abdullah , Safi Mohammed , Jian Yuli , Yang Linlin , Zhu Xinqing , Chen Qiwei , Yang Kangkang , Wang Shujing , Zhang Jianjun , Yang Deyong
Published: March 2024

Older patients with cancer, particularly those over 75 years of age, often experience poorer clinical outcomes compared to younger patients. This can be attributed to age-related comorbidities, weakened immune function, and reduced tolerance to treatment-related adverse effects. In the immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) era, age has emerged as an influential factor impacting the discovery of predictive biomarkers for ICI treatment. These age-linked changes in the immune system can influence the composition and functionality of tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) that play a crucial role in the cancer response. Older patients may have lower levels of TIICs infiltration due to age-related immune senescence particularly T cell function, which can limit the effectivity of cancer immunotherapies. Furthermore, age-related immune dysregulation increases the exhaustion of immune cells, characterized by the dysregulation of ICI-related biomarkers and a dampened response to ICI. Our review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms that contribute to the impact of age on ICI-related biomarkers and ICI response. Understanding these mechanisms will facilitate the development of treatment approaches tailored to elderly individuals with cancer.
Revisiting the immunopathology of congenital disorders of glycosylation: an updated review
Authors: Pascoal Carlota , Francisco Rita , Mexia Patrícia , Pereira Beatriz Luís , Granjo Pedro , Coelho Helena , Barbosa Mariana , dos Reis Ferreira Vanessa , Videira Paula Alexandra
Published: March 2024

Glycosylation is a critical post-translational modification that plays a pivotal role in several biological processes, such as the immune response. Alterations in glycosylation can modulate the course of various pathologies, such as the case of congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG), a group of more than 160 rare and complex genetic diseases. Although the link between glycosylation and immune dysfunction has already been recognized, the immune involvement in most CDG remains largely unexplored and poorly understood. In this study, we provide an update on the immune dysfunction and clinical manifestations of the 12 CDG with major immune involvement, organized into 6 categories of inborn errors of immunity according to the International Union of Immunological Societies (IUIS). The immune involvement in phosphomannomutase 2 (PMM2)-CDG - the most frequent CDG - was comprehensively reviewed, highlighting a higher prevalence of immune issues during infancy and childhood and in R141H-bearing genotypes. Finally, using PMM2-CDG as a model, we point to links between abnormal glycosylation patterns in host cells and possibly favored interactions with microorganisms that may explain the higher susceptibility to infection. Further characterizing immunopathology and unusual host-pathogen adhesion in CDG can not only improve immunological standards of care but also pave the way for innovative preventive measures and targeted glycan-based therapies that may improve quality of life for people living with CDG.
Aerodynamic design of a double slotted morphed flap airfoil– a numerical study
Authors: Shahrokhi S. S. , Taeibi Rahni M. , Akbari P.
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

The objective of this study is to develop and simulate a double slotted morphed flap with the intention of reducing drag and enhancing lift, thereby leading to a smaller flap size and reduced weight.

Methods:

A flap was meticulously designed to accommodate conditions at Mach 0.2 and Reynolds numbers of 4.7×106. To conduct the simulation, ANSYS FLUENT flow solver and POINTWISE grid generator were utilized. The morphing technique employed involved adjusting both flap mean camber and flap slots, ensuring minimal flow interferences. By discretizing the flap mean camber line, various flap geometries were achieved.

Results and Discussions:

The findings reveal a significant enhancement in the airfoil’s aerodynamic efficiency attributed to the implementation of the new flap design. The study shows that utilizing double-slotted morphing in the NACA 4412 airfoil at a 30° flap deflection angle increased the lift coefficient by 82% compared to the un-morphed state. A comparison of lift coefficients between this research and the NACA 4412 split flap at a 60° deflection angle indicates that the double-slotted morphing in the NACA 4412 airfoil at a smaller deflection angle of 30° results in a 14% higher maximum lift coefficient.
Development and validation of a prognostic nomogram for 3-year all-cause mortality risk among elderly patients undergoing surgery for osteoporotic fractures
Authors: Li Chong , Shi Qin , Gong Ya-qin , Zhang Ting , Lu Ke
Published: March 2024

Introduction

To develop and validate a comprehensive prognostic model for the mid-to-long term mortality risk among ≥50-year-old osteoporotic fracture (OPF) surgical patients.

Methods

Our retrospective investigation included data from the Osteoporotic Fracture Registration System established by the Affiliated Kunshan Hospital of Jiangsu University, and involved 1,656 patients in the development set and 675 patients in the validation set. Subsequently, we employed a multivariable Cox regression model to establish a 3-year mortality predicting nomogram, and the model performance was further evaluated using C-index and calibration plots. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was employed to assess feasibility of the clinical application of this model.

Results

Using six prognostic indexes, namely, patient age, gender, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), fracture site, and fracture liaison service (FLS), we generated a simple nomogram. The nomogram demonstrated satisfactory discrimination within the development (C-index = 0.8416) and validation (C-index = 0.8084) sets. Using calibration plots, we also revealed good calibration. The model successfully classified patients into different risk categories and the results were comparable in both the development and validation sets. Finally, a 1–70% probability threshold, according to DCA, suggested that the model has promise in clinical settings.

Conclusion

Herein, we offer a robust tool to estimating the 3-year all-cause mortality risk among elderly OPF surgical patients. However, we recommend further assessments of the proposed model prior to widespread clinical implementation.
Differential stability of bacterial photosynthetic apparatus of Rhodobacter alkalitolerans strain JA916T under alkaline and light environment
Authors: Zamal Mohammad Yusuf , Madireddi Saikiran , Mekala Nageswara Rao , Chintalapati Venkata Ramana , Subramanyam Rajagopal
Published: March 2024

In purple bacteria, photosynthesis is performed by densely packed pigment-protein complexes, including the light-harvesting complexes known as RC-LH1 and LH2, with carotenoids to assist in the functioning of photosynthesis. Most photosynthetic bacteria are exposed to various abiotic stresses such as light, temperature, alkalinity–acidity, and salinity. Rhodobacter (R.) alkalitolerans was discovered from the alkaline pond; here, we report the comparative study of the photosynthetic apparatus of R. alkalitolerans in various light intensities in relation to its high pH tolerance ability. With increased light intensity, the stability of photosystem complexes decreased in normal pH (npH pH 6.80 ± 0.05) conditions, whereas in high pH (hpH pH 8.60 ± 0.05), acclimation was observed to high light. The content of bacteriochlorophyll a, absorbance spectra, and circular dichroism data shows that the integrity of photosystem complexes is less affected in hpH compared with npH conditions. Large pore blue native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of photosystem protein complexes and sucrose density gradient of n-dodecyl β-D-maltoside solubilized intracytoplasmic membranes show that LH2 is more affected in npH than in hpH, whereas RC-LH1 monomer or dimer has shown interplay between monomer and dimer in hpH, although the dimer and monomer both increased in npH. Increased content and expression level of ATPase protein complex and subunit—“c” of ATPase, fast relaxation kinetics of p515, and relatively higher membrane lipid content in hpH along with less photooxidative stress and subsequently lesser superoxide dismutase activity exemplify photoprotection in hpH. Furthermore, the increased expression levels of antiporter NhaD in hpH signify its role in the maintenance of homeostatic balance in hpH.
Kinesin-7 CENP-E in tumorigenesis: Chromosome instability, spindle assembly checkpoint, and applications
Authors: Yang Yu-Hao , Wei Ya-Lan , She Zhen-Yu
Published: March 2024

Kinesin motors are a large family of molecular motors that walk along microtubules to fulfill many roles in intracellular transport, microtubule organization, and chromosome alignment. Kinesin-7 CENP-E (Centromere protein E) is a chromosome scaffold-associated protein that is located in the corona layer of centromeres, which participates in kinetochore-microtubule attachment, chromosome alignment, and spindle assembly checkpoint. Over the past 3 decades, CENP-E has attracted great interest as a promising new mitotic target for cancer therapy and drug development. In this review, we describe expression patterns of CENP-E in multiple tumors and highlight the functions of CENP-E in cancer cell proliferation. We summarize recent advances in structural domains, roles, and functions of CENP-E in cell division. Notably, we describe the dual functions of CENP-E in inhibiting and promoting tumorigenesis. We summarize the mechanisms by which CENP-E affects tumorigenesis through chromosome instability and spindle assembly checkpoints. Finally, we overview and summarize the CENP-E-specific inhibitors, mechanisms of drug resistances and their applications.