bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Study of Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow Characteristics of a Hydrogen Pulsating Heat Pipe with Medium Filling Ratio
Authors: Yang Dongyu , Bu Zhicheng , Jiao Bo , Wang Bo , Gan Zhihua
Published: June 2024

Benefiting from its high thermal conductivity, simple structure, and light weight, the pulsating heat pipe (PHP) can meet the requirements for high efficiency, flexibility, and low cost in industrial heat transfer applications such as aerospace detector cooling and vehicle thermal management. Compared to a PHP working at room temperature, the mechanism of a PHP with hydrogen as the working fluid differs significantly due to the unique thermal properties of hydrogen. In this paper, a two-dimensional model of a hydrogen PHP with a filling ratio of 51% was established to study the flow characteristics and thermal performance. The volume of fluid (VOF) method was used to capture the phase distribution and interface dynamics, and the Lee model was employed to account for phase change. To validate the model, a comparison was conducted between the simulation results and experimental data obtained in our laboratory. The simulation results show that the pressure and temperature errors were within 25% and 5%, respectively. Throughout a pressure oscillation cycle, the occurrence of uniform flow velocity, acceleration, and flow reversal can be attributed to the changes in the vapor–liquid phase distribution resulting from the effect of condensation and evaporation. In addition, when the fluid velocity was greater than 0.6 m/s, dynamic contact angle hysteresis was observed in the condenser. The results contribute to a deeper understanding of the flow and heat transfer mechanism of the hydrogen PHPs, which have not been yet achieved through visualization experiments.
Linear, Nonlinear, and Distributed-Parameter Observers Used for (Renewable) Energy Processes and Systems—An Overview
Authors: Radisavljevic-Gajic Verica , Karagiannis Dimitri , Gajic Zoran
Published: June 2024

Full- and reduced-order observers have been used in many engineering applications, particularly for energy systems. Applications of observers to energy systems are twofold: (1) the use of observed variables of dynamic systems for the purpose of feedback control and (2) the use of observers in their own right to observe (estimate) state variables of particular energy processes and systems. In addition to the classical Luenberger-type observers, we will review some papers on functional, fractional, and disturbance observers, as well as sliding-mode observers used for energy systems. Observers have been applied to energy systems in both continuous and discrete time domains and in both deterministic and stochastic problem formulations to observe (estimate) state variables over either finite or infinite time (steady-state) intervals. This overview paper will provide a detailed overview of observers used for linear and linearized mathematical models of energy systems and review the most important and most recent papers on the use of observers for nonlinear lumped (concentrated)-parameter systems. The emphasis will be on applications of observers to renewable energy systems, such as fuel cells, batteries, solar cells, and wind turbines. In addition, we will present recent research results on the use of observers for distributed-parameter systems and comment on their actual and potential applications in energy processes and systems. Due to the large number of papers that have been published on this topic, we will concentrate our attention mostly on papers published in high-quality journals in recent years, mostly in the past decade.
Analyzing the Interactions among Barriers to the Use of Solar Energy for Heating in Residential Buildings in Van, Türkiye
Authors: Keser Ünsal , Kerestecioğlu Server Funda
Published: June 2024

In terms of environmental sustainability, the barriers—and interactions between these barriers—to the use of solar energy for active and passive heating in residential buildings stem from location-specific housing production patterns and the actors involved in these patterns. A clear definition of hierarchies and priorities between barriers helps managers set strategic priorities and action plans to find solutions. After the earthquake in Van in 2011, 6000 hectares of land were opened for new development, and research using the sampling method discovered that the most common type of housing production in the city is the build-to-sell housing production method. The actors involved in build-to-sell housing production are technical staff, local–central administrations, entrepreneurs, end users, landowners, financial companies, non-governmental organizations, and building inspection institutions. This article examines the barriers to the use of solar energy for active and passive heating purposes, the interactions between these barriers using ISM and MICMAC methods, and the build-to-sell housing production method and actors. Barriers were identified through a literature review and semi-structured interviews. The barriers were further categorized under eight main headings according to their subject matter. The hierarchies of barriers in creating problems and solutions were determined using ISM and MICMAC methods and the findings were interpreted. In the City of Van, with regard to the houses produced via the build-to-sell production method, the barriers against the use of solar energy for heating purposes in houses considering active and passive methods are ranked in order of priority in creating the problem and the solution. Barriers caused by political and administrative issues are ranked first; barriers caused by social awareness and end users are ranked second; barriers caused by social and sociological events are ranked third; barriers caused by laws and regulations are ranked fourth; barriers caused by the knowledge, skills, and awareness of designers are ranked fifth; barriers caused by deficiencies in technical issues are ranked sixth; and barriers caused by economic and financial issues are ranked seventh. Even though the barrier caused by the working mode of build-to-sell productions is the largest in creating the problem, it is the least effective barrier to solving the problem in the ISM hierarchical and MICMAC schemes. The research process is presented in the Methods section.
An Experimental Evaluation of the APR1000 Core Flow Distribution Using a 1/5 Scale Model
Authors: Kim Kihwan , Kim Woo-Shik , Choi Hae-Seob , Seol Hyosung , Lim Byung-Jun , Euh Dong-Jin
Published: June 2024

The experimental data of core flow distribution are indispensable for obtaining licensing and facilitating the design of fluid systems of nuclear reactors. In this study, an Advanced power reactor Core flow and Pressure (ACOP) test facility was established to experimentally simulate the internal flow of the Advanced Power Reactor 1000 (APR1000) on a reduced length scale of 1/5. The core region was simulated by using 177 core simulators representing the fuel assemblies of the APR1000. The APR1000 flow distributions were synthetically identified by accurately measured parameters: the core inlet flow rate and outlet pressure under the four-pump balanced and unbalanced flow conditions. The overall inlet flow rates ranged from 87.7% to 112.0% relative to the averaged flow rate. Here, we scrutinize the flow distributions considering the flow conditions and internal structures and briefly describe the applied scaling method and design concept of the test facility.
Preparation of Injectable Dicalcium Phosphate Bone Cement for Potential Orthopedic Applications
Authors: Wali Kholoud Jabar , Saleh Ali Taha , Huseien Ghasan Fahim
Published: June 2024

Various natural wastes can be promising for mining more valuable compounds if some specialized extraction techniques are adopted. Hydroxyapatite (HA) is a significant biomaterial that can be extracted from waste bovine bones by heating them at 700 °C and 900 °C. Based on this idea, we made a novel dicalcium phosphate (DCP) bone cement (BC) by extracting HA via the reaction with monocalcium phosphate monohydrate (MCPM) and trisodium citrate. The setting time, injectability, and compressive strength (CS) of this DCPBC were examined using various analytical techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) attached with energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, and Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The phase composition, surface morphology, and chemical compositions of HA and DCP were evaluated. A Gillmore needle apparatus was used to measure the initial and final setting times of the specimens. The CS values of the prepared specimens were determined using INSTRON Series IX. The in vitro dissolution behavior of all samples was evaluated by immersing them in simulated body fluid (SBF) over 7 days at 37 °C. The final setting times of samples 3, 4, and 5 were 20, 24, and 18 min, respectively. In addition, the CS value of sample 1 before immersion in SBF was much lower (1.23 MPa) compared to sample 5 (21.79 MPa) after 7 days of immersion. The CS of the DCP after 3 days of immersion was increased to 33.75 MPa. The in vitro results for the dissolution and bioactivity of HA showed the highest degradation rate after 1 day of immersion and then decreased with the increase in the immersion duration. The HA layer thickness was considerably improved with longer incubation times. The proposed injectable DCP bone cement may have potential in future orthopedic applications.
Assembly and Comparative Analyses of the Chloroplast Genomes of the Threatened Plant Rosa anemoniflora
Authors: Gao Wei , Zhou Xianzhen , Yu Qun , Lin Guojiang , Fu Chengjie , Kang Tianqi , Zeng Huahao
Published: June 2024

Due to insufficient molecular biology and genetic research on Rosa anemoniflora, this endangered plant has not yet received effective protection. Therefore, the complete chloroplast genome sequence of R. anemoniflora, along with comparative analysis of the chloroplast genomes of related species, is necessary and crucial for reconstructing phylogenetic relationships and developing genetic markers to conserve these species. A series of analyses, including genome structure, GC content, gene number, selection pressure, and nucleotide diversity, were performed by comparing the chloroplast genomes of R. anemoniflora and its relatives. The results indicate that the chloroplast genomes of R. anemoniflora and its close relatives are highly conserved in all genome characteristics, and all protein-coding genes in R. anemoniflora have not experienced significant positive or negative selection pressures. Comparative analysis revealed several variation hotspots, such as the atpH-atpI region, which can serve as a DNA barcode for distinguishing R. anemoniflora from its close relatives. Finally, the results confirmed that R. anemoniflora belongs to Rosa section Synstylae and that R. anemoniflora and its close relatives likely originated from the Fujian and Taiwan regions of China and diverged approximately 3.24 million years ago. This study provides crucial information for future biodiversity conservation and genetic resource management.
Determining Suitable Sampling Times for Soil CO2 and N2O Emissions Helps to Accurately Evaluate the Ability of Rubber-Based Agroforestry Systems to Cope with Climate Stress
Authors: Xian Yuanran , Li Junlin , Zhang Yan , Shen Yanyan , Wang Xiuquan , Huang Jianxiong , Sui Peng
Published: June 2024

Agroforestry is known to significantly improve long-term land productivity, potentially enhancing the ability to cope with climate stress. However, there is limited information regarding the accurate monitoring of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in rubber-based agroforestry systems. Before GHGs can be accurately estimated, the diurnal variations and suitable sampling times must be studied to reduce the uncertainty of the manual static chamber method. In this study, the soil GHGs emitted from conventional single-row (SR) and improved double-row (DR) rubber plantations were compared across the dry and wet seasons in Hainan, China. A total of 1728 GHG samples from a field trial were collected, analyzed, and related to environmental factors. The results demonstrated that the diurnal fluxes of CO2 in rubber plantations were likely to remain fluctuating, with the maximum typically occurring during the night-time and daytime hours of the dry and wet seasons, respectively. A clearer double-peak (around 2:00 and 14:00) during the dry season and a daytime peak (14:00) during the wet season of the N2O were recorded. In addition to the commonalities, different seasons and different types of GHGs and rubber plantations also differed in their detailed fluctuation times and ranges; therefore, the determination of suitable sampling times should not ignore these factors in certain cases. Based on this study, it was determined that the late afternoon (16:00–18:00) was the suitable sampling time of soil GHGs in rubber plantations, instead of the most common morning times (with an underestimation of 25% on average). In addition, the air humidity during the dry season and the soil temperature during the wet season were both positively correlated with GHGs (p < 0.05). This study highlights the significance of accurately monitoring soil GHGs in rubber-based agroforestry systems, providing a basic reference for the development and management of climate-smart land use practices in rubber plantations.
Effects of the Cultivation Substrate pH and Ammonium-to-Nitrate Nitrogen Ratio on the C:N:P Stoichiometry in Leaves of Cunninghamia lanceolata and Schima superba
Authors: Cheng Cong , Yu Jiaxiang , Wang Lidong , Liang Haiyan , Wang Yanru , Yan Xiaoli
Published: June 2024

We aimed to clarify the nutrient allocation strategies of Cunninghamia lanceolata (CL) and Schima superba (SS) and their differences in N uptake and utilization under acidic stress and heterogeneous allocation of N. One-year-old seedlings of CL and SS were cultured in sands with three pH levels (pH rate 4.5, 5.5, and 6.5) and five different N form ratios (NH4+-N to NO3−-N ratios 10:0, 7:3, 5:5, 3:7, and 0:10) in the greenhouse. The C, N, and P contents and C:N:P stoichiometry in leaves, total biomass, and NH4+-N and NO3−-N contents in the cultivation substrate were analyzed after 160 days. At the pH rate of 4.5, the N contents of CL and SS significantly decreased. However, the N contents of SS increased at the pH rate of 5.5. At the pH rate of 5.5, the N content of CL and SS increased under the cultivation substrate, with ratios of 10:0 and 7:3, and 3:7 and 0:10, respectively. The N content of CL was significantly positively correlated with its P content. The C:P ratios of CL and SS were significantly positively correlated with their C:N ratios and N:P ratios. Under the same treatment, the differences in C:N:P stoichiometry were more significant between CL and SS at the pH rate of 5.5. The NH4+-N content of the cultivation substrate in CL and SS was higher than the NO3−-N content. At the ratio of 7:3, the C:N stoichiometric ratio of CL and C:N:P stoichiometric ratio of SS were negatively correlated with total biomass. At the pH rate of 5.5, cultivation environments with high NH4+-N and NO3−-N amount respectively increased the N content of CL and SS. The CL is susceptible to N limitation, and SS is susceptible to N and P limitation.
Microbial Fertilizers and Shading Contribute to the Vegetation Assembly and Restoration of Steep-Slope after Soil Spray-Sowing in the Yuanjiang Dry-Hot Valley Region
Authors: Zhao Gaojuan , Li Jinrong , Li Xiong , Yang Yulin , Yang Jianbo , Wang Xinyu , Li Tianliang , Ayemele Aurele Gnetegha , Xu Jianchu , Yang Zijiang
Published: June 2024

Road construction and strip mining in mountainous regions inevitably causes the destruction of vegetation and soil, leading to large ranges of exposed slopes. Although soil spray-sowing has become a promising method to accelerate community assembly in humid regions, the application of microbial fertilizers and shading in slope recovery during soil spray-sowing are rarely reported in dry-hot valleys. This study compared the effectiveness among artificial seeding, arch column + planting bags, and soil spray-sowing by slope restoration trials in the Yuanjiang dry-hot valley, southwest China. Additionally, we explored the effect of slope degrees, shade, and microbial fertilizers on seedling survival and growth after soil spray-sowing. Results indicated that soil spray-sowing displayed better species survival and growth performance than artificial seeding and arch column + planting bags. The richness, density, and height of seedlings dropped dramatically with the increasing of slope degrees after soil spray-sowing, especially when the slope degree was greater than 1. Although shading observably improved the species density, it inhibited the growth of Albizia julibrissin and Crotalaria pallida. Moreover, microbial fertilizers Penicillium chrysogenum and Bacillus aryabhattai markedly enhanced the density and growth of species Azadirachta Indica, Cajanus cajan, Indigofera cassioides, and Sophora xanthanth. Soil spray-sowing, combined with shading and microbial fertilizers, contributes to species survival and growth when the slope degree is less than 1.73 and the soil spray-sowing process coincides with the rainy season, which provides the theoretical basis and technical support for ecological restoration in the dry-hot river valley.
Phosphorous Fractions in Soils of Natural Shrub-Grass Communities and Leucaena leucocephala Plantations in a Dry-Hot Valley
Authors: Jin Jun , Luo Yiyun , Liu Chengyu , Zhang Jiajia , Gao Mengxi , Yuan Lingchen , Hu Bin , Feng Defeng , Li Wei
Published: June 2024

Afforestation is an effective approach for restoring degraded ecological functions in the dry-hot valleys of southwest China. Afforestation can affect soil carbon and nitrogen storage; however, how it affects soil P fractions, and their driving factors. is poorly understood in this region. To address these questions, we conducted a field study of Leucaena leucocephala plantations at three different stand age sites (3, 10, and 20 years) and an adjacent natural shrub-grass community control site to investigate changes in soil total phosphorus (Pt), Pi (inorganic phosphorus), Po (organic phosphorus), and phosphorus (P) fractions and their driving factors. Soil Pt, Po, labile P, and moderately labile P significantly increased in the Leucaena leucocephala plantation compared with the natural shrub grass site, and the Leucaena leucocephala plantation increased soil Pt content by significantly increasing soil Po. Soil Pt, Po, Pi, labile P, moderately labile P and non-labile P were not significantly different among the different stages of the Leucaena leucocephala plantation, and soil Pt and its fractions were all significantly higher in the middle-age forest stage of the Leucaena leucocephala plantation. These results indicate that Leucaena leucocephala plantations increased the soil P transformation ability, and soil Po played a critical role in sustaining soil P availability. The middle-age forest stage of Leucaena leucocephala plantations had the best conditions for P stocks and P conversion capacity. The abundance of actinomycetes and fungi showed significant positive relationships with soil Pi fractions (NaHCO3-Pi, NaOH-Pi, and NaOHu.s.-Pi); soil Pt and moderately labile P were significantly and directly influenced by fungal abundance. Soil organic carbon (SOC), NH4+-N, and NO3−-N showed significant and positive relationships with the soil Pi fractions (NaHCO3-Pi, NaHCO3-Po, and HCl-Po). SOC and NO3−-N were the key drivers of soil Pt, labile P, moderately labile P and non-labile fractions. These results indicate that abiotic and biotic factors differently affected the soil P fractions and Pt in Leucaena leucocephala plantations in the dry-hot valley.
Innovative Treatment of Ancient Architectural Wood Using Polyvinyl Alcohol and Methyltrimethoxysilane for Improved Waterproofing, Dimensional Stability, and Self-Cleaning Properties
Authors: Zheng Shaojiang , Tang Wei , Tong Jihui , Cao Kehao , Yu Houjie , Xie Linkun
Published: June 2024

This study introduced a novel two-step treatment to enhance the waterproofing, dimensional stability, and self-cleaning capabilities of ancient architectural wood. The process was initiated with the immersion of wood in an organic hybrid sol, composed of an acidic methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS)-based silica sol and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), which effectively sealed the wood’s inherent pores and cracks to mitigate degradation effects caused by aging, fungi, and insects. Subsequently, the treated wood surface was modified with an alkaline MTMS-based silica sol to form a functional superhydrophobic protective layer. The modification effectiveness was meticulously analyzed using advanced characterization techniques, including scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results demonstrated substantial improvements: the modified wood’s water contact angle (WCA) reached 156.0°, and the sliding angle (SA) was 6.0°. Additionally, the modified wood showed a notable reduction in water uptake and moisture absorption, enhancing its dimensional stability. The superhydrophobic surface endowed the wood with excellent self-cleaning properties and robust resistance to pollution. Enhanced mechanical durability of superhydrophobic surface was observed under rigorous testing conditions, including sandpaper abrasion and tape peeling. Furthermore, the modification improved the thermal stability, compressive strength, and storage modulus of the wood. Collectively, these enhancements render this modification a potent methodology for the preservation and functional augmentation of historic architectural woodwork.
Improved Antioxidant Properties and Vitamin C and B12 Content from Enrichment of Kombucha with Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) Powder
Authors: La Torre Chiara , Plastina Pierluigi , Cione Erika , Bekatorou Argyro , Petsi Theano , Fazio Alessia
Published: June 2024

(1) Objectives: Traditional kombucha (K) is a fermented beverage obtained from black or green tea infusion. Besides traditional substrates, the possibility of using alternative ingredients resulted in changes in metabolic profile and biological activity. The aim of this work was to study an alternative kombucha (KJ) prepared by the addition of jujube powder to black tea. (2) Materials and Methods: Changes in pH, protein, sugars, phenolic (TPC), flavonoid (TFC), and vitamin C and B12 content were evaluated at different time points over a period of 45 days. The identification of polyphenols by HPLC DAD and the antioxidant capacity by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP tests of all samples was also carried out. (3) Results: The results showed higher protein, total phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity in KJ samples than in K ones. Vitamin C content increased during fermentation and reached its maximum concentration on day 45 (7.1 ± 0.3 mg/100 mL) for KJ. Caffeine in the supplemented samples was the main biocompound among those identified. Vitamin B12 formed on day 4 in K and after 24 h in KJ samples, remaining constant at the initial value of 2.30 ± 0.01 mg/100 mL up to day 45. (4) Conclusions: The results highlight that the fortification of kombucha with jujubes improved its biological activity and the content of bioactive compounds.
Influence of Mulberry Leaf Powder Additive on Chemical and Physical Characteristics of Wheat and Rice Flour Butter Cookies
Authors: Levickienė Dovilė , Kulaitienė Jurgita , Vaitkevičienė Nijolė , Rakauskaitė Laura
Published: June 2024

People of all age groups consume cookies every day. Consumers’ preferences for cookies supplemented with functional plant raw materials have recently increased. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the influence of a mulberry leaf additive on the proximate and mineral compositions, total phenolic and total chlorophyll content, antioxidant activity, and the hardness and color properties of butter cookies. Wheat and rice flour butter cookies were prepared by replacing the flour with mulberry leaf powder at 0, 4, 8, and 12% (w/w). The results revealed that the investigated chemical and physical characteristics of butter cookies depend on the flour used (rice or wheat) and the addition of mulberry leaf powder. Wheat and rice flour cookies with 12% mulberry leaf powder had the significantly highest contents of fiber (20.34 and 20.23%, respectively), ash (1.73 and 1.75%, respectively), K (170.22 and 160.22 mg 100 g−1, respectively), and Ca (170.45 and 160.68 mg 100 g−1, respectively). The rice flour cookies enriched with 12% leaf powder had the greatest amounts of total phenolics (1.48 mg 100 g−1), Zn (12.25 mg kg−1), Mn (6.28 mg kg−1), Cu (1.95 mg kg−1), and antioxidant activity (67.98%). However, the wheat cookies without mulberry leaf powder contained the most B (9.12 mg kg−1), while the no-added rice cookies contained the most Fe (14.30 mg kg−1). Replacing flour with leaf powder increased the cookies’ hardness and decreased their lightness. In conclusion, enriching butter cookies with freeze-dried mulberry leaves can improve their nutritional value and antioxidant activity.
Biochemical, Histological, and Transcriptomic Analyses Reveal Underlying Differences in Flesh Quality between Wild and Farmed Ricefield Eel (Monopterus albus)
Authors: Yang Hang , Yuan Quan , Rahman Mohammad Mizanur , Lv Weiwei , Huang Weiwei , Hu Wei , Zhou Wenzong
Published: June 2024

The present study aimed to systematically investigate the underlying differences in flesh quality between wild and farmed Monopterus albus. Fifteen healthy M. albus per group with an average body weight of 45 g were sampled to analyze muscle parameters by biochemical indicators, histomorphology, and molecular biology. Compared with the wild fish, the farmed M. albus in flesh had lower crude protein, collagen, lysine, histidine, total amino acids, SFA, n-3 PUFA contents, and n-3/n-6 ratio (p < 0.05), and higher moisture, crude lipid, crude ash, MUFA, n-6PUFA, and total PUFA contents (p < 0.05). The thawing loss, drip loss, steaming loss, and boiling loss in the farmed group were significantly higher, and hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, gumminess, chewiness, and resilience were significantly lower than those in the wild group (p < 0.05). In addition, higher muscle fiber density and lower muscle fiber diameter were observed in wild M. albus (p < 0.05). In muscle transcriptome profiling, differentially expressed genes and enriched pathways are primarily associated with muscle development, protein synthesis, catabolism, lipid metabolism, and immunity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first investigation that compares the flesh quality between wild and farmed M. albus in terms of biochemistry, histology, and molecular biology levels. Overall, wild M. albus had a higher nutritional value and texture quality than farmed M. albus.
Theory of Mind: A Brief Review of Candidate Genes
Authors: Silvestri Corrado , Scaini Simona , Giani Ludovica , Ferro Mattia , Nobile Maria , Caputi Marcella
Published: June 2024

Deficits in theory of mind (ToM), known as the ability to understand the other’s mind, have been associated with several psychopathological outcomes. The present systematic review aims to summarize the results of genetic studies that investigated gene polymorphisms associated with mentalization performance tasks in children and adults. The systematic review was carried out following PRISMA guidelines, and the literature search was conducted in PubMed and EBSCOhost using the following keywords: ‘theory of mind, mentalizing, mindreading’ and ‘gene, genetic basis’. Nineteen studies met the eligibility criteria for inclusion. Most of the literature focused on the role of DRD4, DAT1, OXTR, OXT, COMT, ZNF804A, AVP, AVPR, SCL6A4, EFHC2, MAO-A, and the family of GTF2I genes in influencing ToM. However, controversial results emerged in sustaining the link between specific genetic polymorphisms and mentalization abilities in children and adults. Available data show heterogeneous outcomes, with studies reporting an association between the same family genes in subjects of the same age and other studies reporting no correlation. This does not allow us to draw any solid conclusions but paves the way for exploring genes involved in ToM tasks.
Radiogenomics-Based Risk Prediction of Glioblastoma Multiforme with Clinical Relevance
Authors: Qian Xiaohua , Tan Hua , Liu Xiaona , Zhao Weiling , Chan Michael D. , Kim Pora , Zhou Xiaobo
Published: June 2024

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM)is the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor. Although temozolomide (TMZ)-based radiochemotherapy improves overall GBM patients’ survival, it also increases the frequency of false positive post-treatment magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessments for tumor progression. Pseudo-progression (PsP) is a treatment-related reaction with an increased contrast-enhancing lesion size at the tumor site or resection margins miming tumor recurrence on MRI. The accurate and reliable prognostication of GBM progression is urgently needed in the clinical management of GBM patients. Clinical data analysis indicates that the patients with PsP had superior overall and progression-free survival rates. In this study, we aimed to develop a prognostic model to evaluate the tumor progression potential of GBM patients following standard therapies. We applied a dictionary learning scheme to obtain imaging features of GBM patients with PsP or true tumor progression (TTP) from the Wake dataset. Based on these radiographic features, we conducted a radiogenomics analysis to identify the significantly associated genes. These significantly associated genes were used as features to construct a 2YS (2-year survival rate) logistic regression model. GBM patients were classified into low- and high-survival risk groups based on the individual 2YS scores derived from this model. We tested our model using an independent The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) dataset and found that 2YS scores were significantly associated with the patient’s overall survival. We used two cohorts of the TCGA data to train and test our model. Our results show that the 2YS scores-based classification results from the training and testing TCGA datasets were significantly associated with the overall survival of patients. We also analyzed the survival prediction ability of other clinical factors (gender, age, KPS (Karnofsky performance status), normal cell ratio) and found that these factors were unrelated or weakly correlated with patients’ survival. Overall, our studies have demonstrated the effectiveness and robustness of the 2YS model in predicting the clinical outcomes of GBM patients after standard therapies.
Phylogeny, Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Fritillaria cirrhosa and Its Relatives Based on Chloroplast Genome Data
Authors: Huang Jiao , Hu Xia , Zhou Yong , Peng Yan-Jie , Liu Zhong
Published: June 2024

Fritillaria cirrhosa and its relatives have been utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for many years and are under priority protection in China. Despite their medicinal and protective value, research on their phylogeny, genetic diversity, and divergence remains limited. Here, we investigate the chloroplast genome variation architecture of 46 samples of F. cirrhosa and its relatives collected from various regions, encompassing the majority of wild populations across diverse geographical areas. The results indicate abundant variations in 46 accessions including 1659 single-nucleotide polymorphisms and 440 indels. Six variable markers (psbJ, ndhD, ycf1, ndhG, trnT-trnL, and rpl32-trnL) were identified. Phylogenetic and network analysis, population structure analysis, and principal component analysis showed that the 46 accessions formed five clades with significant divergence, which were related to their geographical distribution. The regions spanning from the southern Hengduan Mountains to the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau exhibited the highest levels of genetic diversity. F. cirrhosa and its relatives may have suffered a genetic bottleneck and have a relatively low genetic diversity level. Moreover, geographical barriers and discrete patches may have accelerated population divergence. The study offers novel perspectives on the phylogeny, genetic diversity, and population structure of F. cirrhosa and its relatives, information that can inform conservation and utilization strategies in the future.
Extracellular Vesicles from NSC-34 MN-like Cells Transfected with Mutant SOD1 Modulate Inflammatory Status of Raw 264.7 Macrophages
Authors: Carata Elisabetta , Muci Marco , Mariano Stefania , Di Giulio Simona , Nigro Annamaria , Romano Alessandro , Panzarini Elisa
Published: June 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease targeting the brain and spinal cord. Non-neuronal cells, including macrophages, may contribute to the disruption of motor neurons (MNs), neuromuscular junction dismantling and clinical signs of ALS. Understanding the modality and the effect of MNs–macrophage communication is pivotal. Here, we focus on extracellular vesicle (EVS)-mediated communication and, in particular, we analyze the response of macrophages. NSC-34 cells transfected with mutant SOD1 (G93A, A4V, G85R, G37R) and differentiated towards MN-like cells, and Raw 264.7 macrophages are the cellular models of the study. mSOD1 NSC-34 cells release a high number of vesicles, both large-lEVs (300 nm diameter) and small-sEVs (90 nm diameter), containing inflammation-modulating molecules, and are efficiently taken up by macrophages. RT-PCR analysis of inflammation mediators demonstrated that the conditioned medium of mSOD1 NSC-34 cells polarizes Raw 264.7 macrophages towards both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory phenotypes. sEVs act on macrophages in a time-dependent manner: an anti-inflammatory response mediated by TGFβ firstly starts (12 h); successively, the response shifts towards a pro-inflammation IL-1β-mediated (48 h). The response of macrophages is strictly dependent on the SOD1 mutation type. The results suggest that EVs impact physiological and behavioral macrophage processes and are of potential relevance to MN degeneration.
Multiple Enrollment Policy: Clustering Dropout and Graduation Constellations in Psychology and Sociology Bachelor’s Programs
Authors: Loder Alexander Karl Ferdinand
Published: June 2024

In Austria, it is possible to enroll in an unlimited number of programs simultaneously and consecutively. Study duration and student performance are important performance indicators of the university system. The disciplines of psychology and sociology share similarities in their curriculum structures but are different in selectiveness due to their admission rules. They show differences in their motivations to enroll and their trajectories through higher education, leading to different constellations of “dropout” and “graduation.” The aim was to identify and compare groups of students’ outcomes in bachelor’s programs of psychology and sociology along the dimensions of workload and duration, incorporating the possibility of enrolling in multiple programs. The sample consisted of 6498 students between the academic years of 2010/11 and 2022/23 who either graduated or dropped out of one or more programs. Cluster analyses using four algorithms per individual outcome constellation, categorization, and aggregation of the results suggest a longer overall study duration for students with more than one program. In graduation–graduation and graduation–dropout clusters, groups with less overall workload could be identified. The transferability of passed exams may be an important component for students in multiple programs. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
Improving Water Use Efficiency, Yield, and Fruit Quality of Crimson Seedless Grapevines under Drought Stress
Authors: El-Sayed Mohamed E. A. , Hammam Amr A. , Fayed Ahmed S. K. , Rebouh Nazih Y. , Eldin Rasha M. Badr
Published: June 2024

Drought stress is a group of abiotic stresses that affects plant growth and yield production. A field experiment over two successive seasons (2021–2022 and 2022–2023) in sand soil was conducted to investigate the integration effect of deficit irrigation, soil amendment “hundzsoil”, and the spraying of proline on the water use efficiency (WUE), yield, and fruit quality of 8-year-old Crimson seedless table grapes. Four application rates of soil amendment (0, 2, 4, and 6 kg hundzsoil /vine) were added during the dormancy period, and four irrigation levels at 125, 100, 75, and 60% of the field capacity were applied just before flowering until harvest. Proline at two levels (0 and 500 ppm) was applied as a foliar spray. Parameters such as bud fertility, weight of 100 berries, juice volume, and cluster number were positively affected by irrigation at 75% FC along with applying hundzsoil at 2 and 4 kg/vine under proline spray in both seasons. Irrigation at the 125% FC level with a 6 kg hundzsoil application under proline spray resulted in the highest yield, berries number, cluster length, cluster weight, and total anthocyanin in both seasons. The TSS/acidity ratio was significantly and positively affected by deficit irrigation (60% FC level) under hundzsoil at a rate of 4 kg alongside proline spray. Reducing irrigation to 60% FC without hundzsoil and proline spray negatively affected numerous growth parameters and the yield. However, irrigation at 60% FC alongside 6 kg of hundzsoil and proline showed the highest IWUE in both seasons. Proline spray was a key factor in conserving water used for irrigation. This study recommends using deficit irrigation alongside hundzsoil application under proline spray as an adequate strategy for water use efficiency and improving the yield and fruit quality of Crimson seedless grapevines cultivated in sand soil.
Diverse Flowering Response to Blue Light Manipulation: Application of Electric Lighting in Controlled-Environment Plant Production
Authors: Kong Yun , Zheng Youbin
Published: June 2024

Blue light is an important light wavelength in regulating plant flowering. In a controlled environment (CE) plant production systems, blue light can be manipulated easily and even precisely through electric lighting, especially with the advancement of light-emitted diode (LED) technologies. However, the results of previous studies in the literature about blue-light-mediated flowering are inconsistent, which would limit its practical application in CE plant production while implying that an in-depth study of the relevant physiological mechanism is necessary in the future. This review consolidates and analyzes the diverse findings from previous studies on blue light-mediated plant flowering in varying high-value crops from ornamental plants to fruits, vegetables, and specialty crops. By synthesizing the contrasting results, we proposed the possible explanations and even the underlying mechanisms related to blue light intensity and exposure duration, its co-action with other light wavelengths, background environment conditions, and the involved photoreceptors. We have also identified the knowledge gaps based on these studies and outlined future directions for research and potential application in this promising field. This review provides valuable insights into the important and diverse role of blue light in plant flowering and offers a foundation for further investigations to optimize plant flowering through lighting technologies.
Identification and Characterization of a Virulent Meloidogyne incognita Population Breaking Tomato Mi-1-Mediated Resistance in Indiana
Authors: Kunwar Vijay , Guan Wenjing , Zhang Lei
Published: June 2024

High-tunnel production is increasing rapidly in the US due to its effectiveness in extending production seasons. Tomato is considered one of the most profitable crops grown in high tunnels. The elevated soil temperature and constant soil moisture in high tunnels lead to the buildup of root-knot nematodes (RKNs). Growing RKN-resistant tomato cultivars or grafting onto RKN-resistant tomato rootstocks is considered effective in managing RKNs. However, all of the RKN-resistant tomato cultivars or rootstocks carry the same resistance gene, Mi-1. This lack of diversity in resistance has led to the emergence of virulent RKN populations breaking tomato Mi-1 resistance. Here, we identified and characterized a virulent population of Meloidogyne incognita from a high tunnel in Indiana. The M. incognita population was confirmed as being able to infect and reproduce on two resistant tomato cultivars, Better Boy and Early Girl, carrying the Mi-1 gene, under a controlled environment at 24 °C. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a virulent M. incognita population breaking Mi-1 resistance in Indiana. Virulent M. incognita populations overcoming Mi-1 resistance were previously reported in California and Georgia in the US. This work emphasizes the importance of regularly monitoring RKN population virulence to sustainably manage the pest.
Hydrogeochemical Characterization of an Intermontane Aquifer Contaminated with Arsenic and Fluoride via Clustering Analysis
Authors: Irigoyen-Campuzano José Rafael , Barraza-Barraza Diana , Gutiérrez Mélida , Torres-Castañón Luis Arturo , Reynoso-Cuevas Liliana , Alarcón-Herrera María Teresa
Published: June 2024

The controlling hydrogeochemical processes of an intermontane aquifer in central Mexico were identified through multivariate statistical analysis. Hierarchical cluster (HCA) and k-means clustering analyses were applied to Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, F−, Cl−, SO42−, NO3−, HCO3−, As, pH and electrical conductivity in 40 groundwater samples collected from shallow and deep wells, where As and F− are contaminants of concern. The effectiveness of each hierarchical and k-means clustering method in explaining solute concentrations within the aquifer and the co-occurrence of arsenic and fluoride was tested by comparing two datasets containing samples from 40 and 36 wells, the former including ionic balance outliers (>10%). When tested without outliers, cluster quality improved by about 5.4% for k-means and 7.3% for HCA, suggesting that HCA is more sensitive to ionic balance outliers. Both algorithms yielded similar clustering solutions in the outlier-free dataset, aligning with the k-means solution for all 40 samples, indicating that k-means was the more robust of the two methods. k-means clustering resolved fluoride and arsenic concentrations into four clusters (K1 to K4) based on variations in Na+, Ca2+, As, and F−. Cluster K2 was a Na-HCO3 water type with high concentrations of As and F. Clusters K1, K3, and K4 exhibited a Ca-HCO3, Na-Ca-HCO3, and Ca-Na-HCO3 water types, respectively, with decreasing As and F concentrations following the order K2 > K3 > K1 > K4. The weathering of evaporites and silicates and Na-Ca ion exchange with clays were the main processes controlling groundwater geochemistry. The dissolution of felsic rocks present in the aquifer fill is a likely source of As and F−, with evaporation acting as an important concentration factor.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Hospitalizations in the Elderly in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Southern Italy as a Useful Proxy for Targeting Vaccine Preventive Strategies
Authors: Centrone Francesca , Loconsole Daniela , Marziani Alfredo , Orlando Valentina Annachiara , delle Fontane Arianna , Minelli Martina , Chironna Maria
Published: June 2024

RSV infection causes severe respiratory illness and mortality in the elderly, especially in the presence of comorbidities. Early identification of infection would result in appropriate clinical-therapeutic management, avoiding hospitalizations, the risk of healthcare-associated infections, and inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions, thus reducing healthcare costs and fighting antimicrobial resistance. The aim of this study was to assess RSV hospitalizations in subjects >64 years hospitalized in a large tertiary care hospital in Southern Italy, in order to assess their usefulness as a proxy for targeting a potential vaccination strategy. Fifty-two RSV-positive patients were identified from the 2014–2015 to the 2022–2023 seasons. RSV type B was found in 71.2% of cases. The median age was 78 years (IQR: 72–84) and 40.4% of the subjects had at least one comorbidity; 5.8% needed intensive care. The use of combined rapid tests for SARS-CoV-2/influenza/RSV identification in primary care settings may contribute to an improved definition of the burden of RSV in the elderly. The implementation of an anti-RSV vaccination strategy in the elderly population would reduce direct and indirect infection costs. More robust epidemiological data in Italy are needed for targeted preventive strategies.
Gastroenteritis Outbreaks after Contamination of Water Supply Systems: Public Health Response Gaps and Challenges, Greece, 2004–2023
Authors: Sideroglou Theologia , Chrysostomou Anthi , Politi Lida , Georgalis Leonidas , Mellou Kassiani
Published: June 2024

Background: waterborne disease outbreaks (WGDOs) following the contamination of drinking water remain a public health concern. Methods: The current study aims to assess the occurrence and identify gaps in the notification and investigation of WGDOs in Greece. Data for 2004–2023 were retrieved and summarized. Results: Thirty-five outbreaks with 6128 recorded cases were identified. The median time from the date of onset in the first cases to reporting was 7 days (range: 1–26 days). Authorities were informed by health care services in thirty (85.7%) outbreaks and by the media in five (14.3%). The investigation methods used varied. An analytical study was conducted in nine (25.7%) outbreaks and the testing of clinical samples in twenty-seven (77.1%). In three (11.1%) outbreaks, clinical samples were simultaneously tested for multiple bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Water samples were collected in nineteen (54.3%) outbreaks (in three after chlorination) with a mean time lag of 5 days (range: 1–20 days) from the first cases. A pathogen in clinical samples was identified in 20 (57.1%) outbreaks and, in 1 (6.25%), the same microorganism was isolated in both clinical and water samples. Conclusions: delays in reporting and the heterogeneity of investigations depict that the surveillance of WGDOs and response practices should be strengthened, and operational procedures should be standardised.
Implementing High-Flow Nasal Oxygen Therapy in Medical Wards: A Scoping Review to Understand Hospital Protocols and Procedures
Authors: Thomas Toby , Khor Yet Hong , Buchan Catherine , Smallwood Natasha
Published: June 2024

Acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (ARF) is a common cause for hospital admission. High-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) is increasingly used as a first-line treatment for patients with ARF, including in medical wards. Clinical guidance is crucial when providing HFNO, and health services use local health guidance documents (LHGDs) to achieve this. It is unknown what hospital LHGDs recommend regarding ward administration of HFNO. This study examined Australian hospitals’ LHGDs regarding ward-based HFNO administration to determine content that may affect safe delivery. A scoping review was undertaken on 2 May 2022 and updated on 29 January 2024 to identify public hospitals’ LHGDs regarding delivery of HFNO to adults with ARF in medical wards in two Australian states. Data were extracted and analysed regarding HFNO initiation, monitoring, maintenance and weaning, and management of clinical deterioration. Of the twenty-six included LHGDs, five documents referenced Australian Oxygen Guidelines. Twenty LHGDs did not define a threshold level of hypoxaemia where HFNO use was recommended over conventional oxygen therapy. Thirteen did not provide target oxygen saturation ranges whilst utilising HFNO. Recommendations varied regarding maximal levels of inspired oxygen and flow rates in the medical ward. Eight LHGDs did not specify any system to identify and manage deteriorating patients. Five LHGDs did not provide guidance for weaning patients from HFNO. There was substantial variation in the LHGDs regarding HFNO care for adult patients with ARF in Australian hospitals. These findings have implications for the delivery of high-quality, safe clinical care in hospitals.