bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Recent Review of Electrospun Porous Carbon Nanofiber Mats for Energy Storage and Generation Applications
Authors: Mamun Al , Kiari Mohamed , Sabantina Lilia
Published: October 2023

Electrospun porous carbon nanofiber mats have excellent properties, such as a large surface area, tunable porosity, and excellent electrical conductivity, and have attracted great attention in energy storage and power generation applications. Moreover, due to their exceptional properties, they can be used in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), membrane electrodes for fuel cells, catalytic applications such as oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs), hydrogen evolution reactions (HERs), and oxygen evolution reactions (OERs), and sensing applications such as biosensors, electrochemical sensors, and chemical sensors, providing a comprehensive insight into energy storage development and applications. This study focuses on the role of electrospun porous carbon nanofiber mats in improving energy storage and generation and contributes to a better understanding of the fabrication process of electrospun porous carbon nanofiber mats. In addition, a comprehensive review of various alternative preparation methods covering a wide range from natural polymers to synthetic carbon-rich materials is provided, along with insights into the current literature.
Achieving High Plasticity and High Toughness of Low-Carbon Low-Alloy Steel through Intercritical Heat Treatment
Authors: Huang Long , Liu Jia , Deng Xiangtao , Wang Zhaodong
Published: October 2023

Medium manganese steel has excellent comprehensive properties due to the TRIP effect of retained austenite, but its welding performance is unsatisfactory for its high alloy content. This study obtained retained austenite in low-carbon low-alloy steel with low contents of silicon and manganese elements through intercritical heat treatment. The influence of intercritical quenching temperature on the content and characteristics of the retained austenite, as well as the functional mechanism of the retained austenite during low-temperature impact, was studied. The results showed that the content of the retained austenite increased from 12% to 17%, and its distribution extended from grain boundaries to martensite lath boundaries, with increasing intercritical quenching temperature. The retained austenite on the grain boundaries was in blocks, and that on the martensitic lath boundaries formed slender domains. The stability of the retained austenite was achieved through the enrichment of C and Mn during intercritical heat treatment. The contribution of retained austenite to low-temperature mechanical properties was closely related to its stability. The retained austenite with poor stability underwent martensite transformation at low temperatures, and the high-carbon martensite was a brittle phase that became the nucleation site of cracks or the path of crack growth during impact. Stable retained austenite passivated crack tips and hindered crack propagation during impacts, which improved the impact performance of the steel.
Surface Morphology and Human MG-63 Osteoblasic Cell Line Response of 316L Stainless Steel after Various Surface Treatments
Authors: Hsiao Vincent K. S. , Lin Yan-Cheng , Wu Hsi-Chin , Wu Tair-I
Published: October 2023

In this study, the effects of three distinct surface treatment techniques on 316L stainless steel were investigated: low-temperature immersion corrosion, shot peening followed by immersion corrosion, and electrochemical corrosion. These techniques were selected with a focus on their potential implications for biomedical implant applications, as research gaps persist in understanding the influence of these treatments. A comprehensive examination of surface alterations was conducted using scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and α-step thin-film thickness profiling. Furthermore, human MG-63 osteoblastic cell line adhesion was evaluated using Liu’s stain and metallographic optical microscopy. Notable differences in cell-adhesion behavior based on the chosen surface treatment methods were observed. Specifically, weak cell adhesion was observed after low-temperature immersion and shot peening followed by immersion corrosion. In contrast, electrochemical corrosion, especially when conducted with a high current density and low corrosive-solution concentration, resulted in a uniformly corroded surface, which, in turn, promoted dense cell adhesion. Porous oxide layers were generated using all three techniques, but the efficacy of shot peening (applied at 1 kg/cm2 for 20 s) and electrochemical corrosion (using 0.5 M HCl) as promising processes were highlighted by our experimental results. Uniformly dense corrosion pits were produced through electrochemical corrosion, while semicircular grooves with small corrosion pits were the result of shot peening, both of which were found to be favorable for cell adhesion. The superior cell adhesion observed with electrochemical corrosion further emphasizes its suitability for biomedical applications.
Effect of Plastic Deformation and Acidic Solution on the Corrosion Behavior of Ti-6Al-4V ELI Titanium Alloy
Authors: Zheng Xuyong , Xu Chen , Cai Yi , Zhang Binbin
Published: October 2023

This study investigated the tensile deformation of Ti-6Al-4V ELI titanium alloy and its effect on corrosion performance. The results showed that the structural morphology of the samples’ strain levels of 0%, 5%, and 10% had minimal changes under an optical microscope. Further investigation of grain orientation information was conducted using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), revealing that tensile deformation induced grain rotation, resulting in the diversity of originally preferred orientation grains and a decrease in texture strength. A small amount of {10–12}<−1011> extension twinning formed during the tensile deformation process. The electrochemical properties of Ti-6Al-4V ELI samples with different strain levels were evaluated in 3.5% NaCl solution with pH values of 7 and 1.5. The results indicated that both plastic deformation and acidic environments were detrimental to the passivation film on the titanium alloy surface, leading to reduced corrosion resistance.
Opening the Random Forest Black Box of 1H NMR Metabolomics Data by the Exploitation of Surrogate Variables
Authors: Wenck Soeren , Mix Thorsten , Fischer Markus , Hackl Thomas , Seifert Stephan
Published: October 2023

The untargeted metabolomics analysis of biological samples with nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) provides highly complex data containing various signals from different molecules. To use these data for classification, e.g., in the context of food authentication, machine learning methods are used. These methods are usually applied as a black box, which means that no information about the complex relationships between the variables and the outcome is obtained. In this study, we show that the random forest-based approach surrogate minimal depth (SMD) can be applied for a comprehensive analysis of class-specific differences by selecting relevant variables and analyzing their mutual impact on the classification model of different truffle species. SMD allows the assignment of variables from the same metabolites as well as the detection of interactions between different metabolites that can be attributed to known biological relationships.
Strategies to Develop Aptamer Probes to Detect MRSA and Study of Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Kasturiarachchi Jagath C.
Published: October 2023

This study investigated the development of aptamer-based molecular probes to detect Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and evaluated the antibacterial activity. Early detection of MRSA infection will improve patients’ recovery and reduce the cost for treating patients. S. aureus can become resistant to methicillin and other β-lactam antibiotics through the expression of PBP2A protein, which is resistant to the action of methicillin. We have developed two aptamer molecular probes against PBP2A protein and whole bacterial cell (MRSA) under optimized in vitro conditions using SELEX approach. Target aptamer sequences were identified, and chemically synthesized aptamer probes were evaluated using fluorescently-labelled aptamer probes using flow cytometry and confocal imaging. Antibacterial activities of those aptamers were also evaluated using a bacterial killing assay. The results showed that high specific aptamers were developed against purified PBP2A protein. However, these aptamers showed less specificity to detect MRSA under in vitro condition. These aptamers showed no cytotoxic effect on 3T3 cells and no antibacterial activity against MRSA. The results suggested that the specific aptamer development and the in vitro selection methodology require further refinement to improve the diagnostic and therapeutic utility of these aptamers.
Grass Meal Acts as a Probiotic in Chicken
Authors: Bogdanova Elena S. , Danilova Maria A. , Smirnova Maria S. , Trubnikova Elena V. , Nguyen Hoa T. , Petrova Svetlana N. , Apanasenok Sergey V. , Shevelev Alexei B.
Published: October 2023

Probiotics can act as an alternative to antibiotics in animal feeding, but their use is minimal due to their expensive production. Dry grass is rich with bacteria beneficial for animal feeding and can be used as a probiotic. However, data about the quantitative dependence of the grass microbiome on environmental factors and seasons remain insufficient for preparing “grass-meal-based probiotics”. Four grass samples were collected in two geographically remote regions of Russia; their microbiome was characterized by metagenomic sequencing of 16S rDNA libraries and microbiological seeding, and biological testing of the grass meal was carried out on 6 groups of birds containing 20 Ross 308 cross broilers each for a period of 42 days. The positive control group (PC) obtained 16–25 mg/mL toltrazuril (coccidiostatic agent) and 0.5 mL/L liquid antibiotic enrostin (100 mg/mL ciprofloxacin and 106 MU/mL colistin sulfate in the commercial preparation) within the drinking water, while the negative control group (NC) obtained no medicines. Four experimental groups were fed the diet supplemented with 1% grass meal over the period of 7–42 days of life; no commercial medicines were used here. A spontaneous infection with Eimeria was registered in the NC control groups, which caused the loss of 7 chickens. No losses were registered in the PC group or the two experimental groups. In two other experimental groups, losses of coccidiosis amounted to 10% and 15%, respectively. All specimens of the grass meal demonstrated a significant effect on the average body weight gain compared to NC. Taken together, these observations support the hypothesis that the grass meal may substitute toltrazuril for protecting the chickens from parasitic invasion and increase average daily weight gain (ADG) as effectively as the antibiotic enrostin.
Control of Biofilm and Virulence in Pseudomonas aeruginosa by Green-Synthesized Titanium–Cerium Nanocomposites
Authors: Altaf Mohammad , Parveen Nagma , Qais Faizan Abul , Abdullah K. M. , Ahmad Iqbal
Published: October 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a critical global health challenge. Infections, particularly those caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, rank among the top causes of human mortality worldwide. Pseudomonas aeruginosa occupies a prominent position among pathogens responsible for opportunistic infections in humans. P. aeruginosa stands as a primary cause of chronic respiratory infections, significantly contributing to the burden of these chronic diseases. In the medical domain, nanotechnologies offer significant potential, spanning various applications, including advanced imaging, diagnostic devices, drug delivery systems, implants, tissue-engineered structures, and pharmaceutical treatments. Given the challenges associated with AMR and the limited discovery of new drugs to combat MDR microbes, there is a critical need for alternative strategies to address the problem of AMR. In this study, we synthesized titanium–cerium nanocomposites (Ti–Ce–NCs) using an eco-friendly green synthesis approach. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the crystalline nature of the Ti–Ce–NCs and determined the particle size to be 17.07 nm. Electron microscopy revealed the size range of the particles to be 13 to 54 nm, where the majority of the particles were in the 20 to 25 nm range. Upon examining the composition, the Ti–Ce–NCs were determined to be composed of cerium, oxygen, and titanium, whose relative abundance were 36.86, 36.6, and 24.77% by weight, respectively. These nanocomposites were then evaluated for their effectiveness against various virulent traits and biofilms in P. aeruginosa. Out of six tested virulence factors, more than 50% inhibition of five virulence factors of P. aeruginosa was found. Roughly 60% inhibition of biofilm was also found in the presence of 400 µg/mL Ti–Ce–NCs. The nanocomposites also altered the biofilm architecture of the test bacterium. The success of this research opens doors for the potential use of such nanomaterials in the discovery of new antibacterial agents to combat drug-resistant bacteria.
Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS): Myth or Reality? The State of the Art on a Controversial Disease
Authors: La Bella Saverio , Scorrano Giovanna , Rinaldi Marta , Di Ludovico Armando , Mainieri Francesca , Attanasi Marina , Spalice Alberto , Chiarelli Francesco , Breda Luciana
Published: October 2023

Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) syndrome is one of the most controversial diseases in pediatric rheumatology. Despite first being described more than 25 years ago as the sudden and rapid onset of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) and/or tic disorder symptoms as complications of a Group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus (GAS) infection, precise epidemiological data are still lacking, and there are no strong recommendations for its treatment. Recent advances in the comprehension of PANDAS pathophysiology are largely attributable to animal model studies and the understanding of the roles of Ca++/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaM kinase) II, disrupted dopamine release in the basal ganglia, and striatal cholinergic interneurons. The diagnosis of PANDAS should be made after an exclusion process and should include prepubescent children with a sudden onset of OCD and/or a tic disorder, with a relapsing/remitting disease course, a clear temporal association between GAS infection and onset or exacerbation of symptoms, and the association with other neurological abnormalities such as motoric hyperactivity and choreiform movements. Antibiotic medications are the primary therapeutic modality. Nonetheless, there is a paucity of randomized studies and validated data, resulting in a scarcity of solid recommendations.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Native Gold as a Specific Indicator Mineral for Gold Deposits”
Authors: Palyanova Galina A.
Published: October 2023

Native gold is the most common and significant industrial gold mineral [...]
Microstructural Deformation and the Age of Monazite-(Ce) from Diatectite Granite in the Jarva-Varaka Structure (Kola Region, Russia)
Authors: Kaulina Tatiana , Shilovskih Vladimir , Nerovich Lyudmila , Savchenko Yevgeny , Bocharov Vladimir , Lialina Lyudmila , Il’chenko Vadim
Published: October 2023

Microstructural deformation and the age of monazite (Ce) from diatectite granite of the presumably impact Jarva-Varaka structure in the Kola Region (northeastern Fennoscandian Shield) are presented. Biotite diatectite granite forms lenses in the aluminous gneisses of the Kola group hosting the 2.5-Ga-layered Jarva-Varaka Massif (JVM). A sample of biotite granite was collected northeast of the Jarva-Varaka Massif near the earlier described pseudotachylitic breccias. BSE images revealed primary domains in monazite grains with rhythmic euhedral zoning and secondary altered domains. Backscattered electron diffraction maps of monazite grains document the development of deformation twins along {100} and {001} and plastically deformed domains with a maximum misorientation of up to 10°. Newly formed areas of recrystallization (neoblasts) cut the twins and plastically deformed domains. Monazite yielded a U-Pb age of 2706 ± 10 Ma (ID-TIMS method), which defines the crystallization age of the host diatectite granite coeval to the 2.76–2.70 Ga metamorphism of the Kola gneisses. A similar age of 2734 ± 139 Ma (ThO2*–PbO isochron) was obtained for primary monazite domains by the chemical U-Th-total Pb isochron method (CHIME). Domains altered under late hydrothermal processes yield CHIME ages of 1796–1723 Ma. Monazite neoblastic domains are close to primary domains in chemical composition and yielded CHIME ages of 2550–2519 Ma, reflecting probably an influence of the JVM formation. The data obtained are insufficient to confirm the impact origin of the Jarva-Varaka structure, which requires further investigation.
Fabrication of β-Ga2O3 Nanotubes via Sacrificial GaSb-Nanowire Templates
Authors: Shangguan Lei , He Long-Bing , Dong Sheng-Pan , Gao Yu-Tian , Sun Qian , Zhu Jiong-Hao , Hong Hua , Zhu Chao , Yang Zai-Xing , Sun Li-Tao
Published: October 2023

β-Ga2O3 nanostructures are attractive wide-band-gap semiconductor materials as they exhibit promising photoelectric properties and potential applications. Despite the extensive efforts on β-Ga2O3 nanowires, investigations into β-Ga2O3 nanotubes are rare since the tubular structures are hard to synthesize. In this paper, we report a facile method for fabricating β-Ga2O3 nanotubes using pre-synthesized GaSb nanowires as sacrificial templates. Through a two-step heating-treatment strategy, the GaSb nanowires are partially oxidized to form β-Ga2O3 shells, and then, the residual inner parts are removed subsequently in vacuum conditions, yielding delicate hollow β-Ga2O3 nanotubes. The length, diameter, and thickness of the nanotubes can be customized by using different GaSb nanowires and heating parameters. In situ transmission electron microscopic heating experiments are performed to reveal the transformation dynamics of the β-Ga2O3 nanotubes, while the Kirkendall effect and the sublimation process are found to be critical. Moreover, photoelectric tests are carried out on the obtained β-Ga2O3 nanotubes. A photoresponsivity of ~25.9 A/W and a detectivity of ~5.6 × 1011 Jones have been achieved with a single-β-Ga2O3-nanotube device under an excitation wavelength of 254 nm.
Naturally Occurring Yeasts Associated with Thaumatotibia leucotreta Can Enhance the Efficacy of the Cryptophlebia Leucotreta Granulovirus
Authors: van der Merwe Marcel , Jukes Michael D. , Knox Caroline , Moore Sean D. , Hill Martin P.
Published: October 2023

Yeasts associated with lepidopteran pests have been shown to play a role in their survival, development, and oviposition preference. It has been demonstrated that combining these yeasts with existing biological control agents can enhance their efficacy. The tortricid Thaumatotibia leucotreta is a phytosanitary pest in the South African citrus industry, with the baculovirus Cryptophlebia leucotreta granulovirus (CrleGV) being one of the components that can control this pest. Several yeast species were shown to be associated with T. leucotreta larvae, which affected their behaviour and development. A series of detached fruit bioassays were performed to determine whether the combination of yeast with CrleGV enhances its efficacy. These assays included determining the optimal yeast/virus ratio, testing all isolated yeast species in combination with CrleGV, and further improving yeast/virus formulation by adding an adjuvant. The optimal yeast concentration to use alongside CrleGV was determined to be 106 cells·mL−1. Pichia kluyveri, P. kudriavzevii, Kluyveromyces marxianus, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae in combination with CrleGV reduced larval survival compared to CrleGV alone. The addition of molasses and BREAK-THRU® S 240 to P. kudriavzevii and S. cerevisiae in combination with CrleGV did not notably improve their effectiveness; however, there was an observed decrease in larval survival. In future studies, field trials will be conducted with combinations of CrleGV and P. kudriavzevii or S. cerevisiae to investigate whether these laboratory findings can be replicated in orchard conditions.
Differential Resistance of Borrelia burgdorferi Clones to Human Serum-Mediated Killing Does Not Correspond to Their Predicted Invasiveness
Authors: Pearson Patrick , Rich Connor , Siegel Eric L. , Brisson Dustin , Rich Stephen M.
Published: October 2023

Reservoir host associations have been observed among and within Borrelia genospecies, and host complement-mediated killing is a major determinant in these interactions. In North America, only a subset of Borrelia burgdorferi lineages cause the majority of disseminated infections in humans. We hypothesize that differential resistance to human complement-mediated killing may be a major phenotypic determinant of whether a lineage can establish systemic infection. As a corollary, we hypothesize that borreliacidal action may differ among human subjects. To test these hypotheses, we isolated primary B. burgdorferi clones from field-collected ticks and determined whether the killing effects of human serum differed among those clones in vitro and/or whether these effects were consistent among human sera. Clones associated with human invasiveness did not show higher survival in human serum compared to noninvasive clones. These results indicate that differential complement-mediated killing of B. burgdorferi lineages is not a determinant of invasiveness in humans. Only one significant difference in the survivorship of individual clones incubated in different human sera was detected, suggesting that complement-mediated killing of B. burgdorferi is usually similar among humans. Mechanisms other than differential human complement-mediated killing of B. burgdorferi lineages likely explain why only certain lineages cause the majority of disseminated human infections.
Factors Associated with Toxoplasma gondii Seroprevalence in Pregnant Women: A Cross-Sectional Study in Belgrade, Serbia
Authors: Marković-Denić Ljiljana , Stopić Milena , Bobić Branko , Nikolić Vladimir , Djilas Iva , Srzentić Snežana Jovanović , Štajner Tijana
Published: October 2023

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the cosmopolitan protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, has particular implications during pregnancy due to the possible transmission of infection to the fetus. Very few studies have assessed seroprevalence and the risk factors for toxoplasmosis in healthy pregnant women. The aim of this study was to examine the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in healthy pregnant women and to identify the associated risk factors for toxoplasmosis. The cross-sectional study involved 300 healthy pregnant women who came to the Institute for Blood Transfusion in Belgrade between November 2018 and February 2019 for routine blood group and Rh factor testing before delivery, who were also tested using serological screening for the presence of specific antibodies. Positives were further examined using enzyme immunoassay. Of the total sera of participants analyzed, 38 were positive for specific IgG, resulting in a seroprevalence rate of 12.7% (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 9.1–17.0%). All pregnant women presented negative anti-T. gondii IgM antibodies. The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that living in a house with a garden was independently associated with the risk of T. gondii infections, while eating chicken meat was connected with a lower risk compared to eating other types of meat with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.5 (95% CI 1.21–5.02) and an OR of 0.3 (95% CI 0.09–0.83), respectively. Although the prevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies is relatively low, it is essential to maintain and adapt evidence-based preventive measures for toxoplasmosis continually.
Natural Killer Repertoire Restoration in TB/HIV Co-Infected Individuals Experienced an Immune Reconstitution Syndrome (CAMELIA Trial, ANRS 12153)
Authors: Pean Polidy , Madec Yoann , Nerrienet Eric , Borand Laurence , Laureillard Didier , Fernandez Marcelo , Marcy Olivier , Scott-Algara Daniel
Published: October 2023

IRIS is a common complication in HIV-infected patients treated for tuberculosis (TB) and cART. Our aim was to evaluate NK cell reconstitution in HIV-infected patients with TB-IRIS compared to those without IRIS. 147 HIV-infected patients with TB from the CAMELIA trial were enrolled. HIV+TB+ patients were followed for 32 weeks. The NK cell repertoire was assessed in whole blood at different time points. As CAMELIA has two arms (early and late cART initiation), we analysed them separately. At enrolment, individuals had low CD4 cell counts (27 cells/mm3) and high plasma viral loads (5.76 and 5.50 log/mL for IRIS and non-IRIS individuals, respectively). Thirty-seven people developed IRIS (in the early and late arms). In the early and late arms, we observed similar proportions of total NK and NK cell subsets in TB-IRIS and non-IRIS individuals during follow-up, except for the CD56dimCD16pos (both arms) and CD56dimCD16neg (late arm only) subsets, which were higher in TB-IRIS and non-IRIS individuals, respectively, after cART. Regarding the repertoire and markers of NK cells, significant differences (lower expression of NKp30, NKG2A (CD159a), NKG2D (CD314) were observed in TB-IRIS compared to non-IRIS individuals after the start of cART. In the late arm, some changes (increased expression of CD69, NKG2C, CD158i) were observed in TB-IRIS compared to non-IRIS individuals, but only before cART initiation (during TB treatment). KIR expression by NK cells (CD158a and CD158i) was similar in both groups. CD69 expression by NK cells decreased in all groups. Expression of the NCR repertoire (NKp30, NKp44, NKp46) has similar kinetics in TB-IRIS subjects compared to non-IRIS subjects regardless of the arm analysed. NK cell reconstitution appeared to be better in TB-IRIS subjects. Although NK cell reconstitution is impaired in HIV infection after cART, as previously reported, it does not appear to be affected by the development of IRIS in HIV and TB-infected individuals.
Evaluation of the Insecticidal Potential of Heterotheca inuloides Acetonic and Methanolic Extracts against Spodoptera frugiperda and Their Ecotoxicological Effect on Poecilia reticulata
Authors: Hernández-Caracheo Karla , Guerrero-López Lina , Rodríguez-Sánchez Benjamín , Rodríguez-Núñez Enrique , Rodríguez-Chávez José Luis , Delgado-Lamas Guillermo , Campos-Guillén Juan , Amaro-Reyes Aldo , Monroy-Dosta María del Carmen , Zavala-Gómez Carlos Eduardo , Chaparro-Sánchez Ricardo , Rodríguez-Morales José Alberto , Pérez-Moreno Víctor , Ramos-López Miguel Angel
Published: October 2023

For the management of Spodoptera frugiperda, botanical extracts have been used to reduce the environmental impacts of synthetic chemical pesticides. In the present investigation, the insecticidal activity of the acetonic and methanolic extracts of Heterotheca inuloides (Asteraceae) and of the main compound 7-hydroxy-3,4-dihydrocadalene on this pest as well as its ecotoxicological effect on Poecilia reticulata were evaluated. A greater insecticidal response was obtained from the acetonic extracts than from the methanolic extracts, with LC50 values of 730.4 ppm and 711.7 ppm for samples 1 and 2, respectively. Similarly, there was a lethal effect on 50% of the P. reticulata population at low concentrations in the acetonic extract compared to the methanolic extract. The sesquiterpene 7-hydroxy-3,4-dihydrocadalene has greater insecticidal activity by presenting an LC50 of 44.36 ppm; however, it is classified as moderately toxic for guppy fish.
Rain Cover and Netting Materials Differentially Affect Fruit Yield and Quality Traits in Two Highbush Blueberry Cultivars via Changes in Sunlight and Temperature Conditions
Authors: Matamala María F. , Bastías Richard M. , Urra Ignacio , Calderón-Orellana Arturo , Campos Jorge , Albornoz Karin
Published: October 2023

The use of covers to protect blueberry orchards from adverse weather events has increased due to the variability in climate patterns, but the effects of rain covers and netting materials on yield and fruit quality have not been studied yet. This research evaluated the simultaneous effect of an LDPE plastic cover, a woven cover, and netting material on environmental components (UV light, PAR, NIR, and growing degree days (GDDs)), plant performance (light interception, leaf area index, LAI, yield, and flower development), and fruit quality traits (firmness, total soluble solids, and acidity) in two blueberry cultivars. On average, UV transmission under the netting was 11% and 43% higher compared to that under woven and LDPE plastic covers, while NIR transmission was 8–13% higher with both types of rain covers, with an increase in fruit air temperature and GDDs. Yield was 27% higher under the woven cover with respect to netting, but fruit firmness values under the netting were 12% higher than those of the LDPE plastic cover. Light interception, LAI, and flower development explained 64% (p = 0.0052) of the yield variation due to the cover material’s effect. The obtained results suggest that the type of cover differentially affects yield and fruit quality in blueberries due to the specific light and temperature conditions generated under these materials.
OsMDH12: A Peroxisomal Malate Dehydrogenase Regulating Tiller Number and Salt Tolerance in Rice
Authors: Shi Yuheng , Feng Jiahui , Wang Liping , Liu Yanchen , He Dujun , Sun Yangyang , Luo Yuehua , Jin Cheng , Zhang Yuanyuan
Published: October 2023

Salinity is an important environmental factor influencing crop growth and yield. Malate dehydrogenase (MDH) catalyses the reversible conversion of oxaloacetate (OAA) to malate. While many MDHs have been identified in various plants, the biochemical function of MDH in rice remains uncharacterised, and its role in growth and salt stress response is largely unexplored. In this study, the biochemical function of OsMDH12 was determined, revealing its involvement in regulating tiller number and salt tolerance in rice. OsMDH12 localises in the peroxisome and is expressed across various organs. In vitro analysis confirmed that OsMDH12 converts OAA to malate. Seedlings of OsMDH12-overexpressing (OE) plants had shorter shoot lengths and lower fresh weights than wild-type (WT) plants, while osmdh12 mutants displayed the opposite. At maturity, OsMDH12-OE plants had fewer tillers than WT, whereas osmdh12 mutants had more, suggesting OsMDH12’s role in tiller number regulation. Moreover, OsMDH12-OE plants were sensitive to salt stress, but osmdh12 mutants showed enhanced salt tolerance. The Na+/K+ content ratio increased in OsMDH12-OE plants and decreased in osmdh12 mutants, suggesting that OsMDH12 might negatively affect salt tolerance through influencing the Na+/K+ balance. These findings hint at OsMDH12’s potential as a genetic tool to enhance rice growth and salt tolerance.
Morphological Characteristics, Ultrastructure, and Chemical Constituents of the Endotesta in Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.)
Authors: Li Fangdi , Liu Ganping , Zhao Linying , Gao Xiaoge , Shen Zhuolong , Cao Fuliang , Guo Qirong
Published: October 2023

Ginkgo biloba L. is a tree species of significant economic and ecological importance. Prior studies of the Ginkgo biloba seed coat have predominantly focused on the sarcotesta and sclerotesta, with less attention paid to the endotesta. In this study, the development and formation of Ginkgo endotesta were examined using light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The structural properties of the mature endotesta were analyzed using micro-CT imaging and scanning electron microscopy. The results indicate that the endotesta possess a membranous structure primarily originating from the inner bead peridium, a segment of bead core tissue, and the macrospore membrane. The endotesta from the middle constriction line to the chalazal end comprises a single layer with a greyish-white papery structure. In contrast, the endotesta was divided into two inner and two outer layers, from the middle constriction line to the micropylar end. The outer endosperm adheres closely to the sclerotesta, while the inner endosperm adheres to the seed kernel. The surface of the endotesta was irregularly raised, with thicker wax at the chalazal end, whereas the micropylar end demonstrated similar characteristics with thinner wax and tumor layers. The endotesta contained 17 amino acids, 18 fatty acids, 10 trace elements, and 7 vitamins. Overall, its nutritional value was relatively well balanced.
Effects of Cadmium, Thallium, and Vanadium on Photosynthetic Parameters of Three Chili Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Varieties
Authors: Buendía-Valverde María de la Luz , Gómez-Merino Fernando C. , Corona-Torres Tarsicio , Mateos-Nava Rodrigo Aníbal , Trejo-Téllez Libia I.
Published: October 2023

Photosynthesis is a crucial process supporting life on Earth. However, unfavorable environmental conditions including toxic metals may limit the photosynthetic efficiency of plants, and the responses to those challenges may vary among genotypes. In this study, we evaluated photosynthetic parameters of the chili pepper varieties Jalapeño, Poblano, and Serrano exposed to Cd (0, 5, 10 µM), Tl (0, 6, 12 nM), and V (0, 0.75, 1.5 µM). Metals were added to the nutrient solution for 60 days. Stomatal conductance (Gs), transpiration rate (Tr), net photosynthetic rate (Pn), intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci), instantaneous carboxylation efficiency (Pn/Ci), instantaneous water use efficiency (instWUE), and intrinsic water use efficiency (iWUE) were recorded. Mean Pn increased with 12 nM Tl in Serrano and with 0.75 µM V in Poblano. Tl and V increased mean Tr in all three cultivars, while Cd reduced it in Jalapeño and Serrano. Gs was reduced in Jalapeño and Poblano with 5 µM Cd, and 0.75 µM V increased it in Serrano. Ci increased in Poblano with 6 nM Tl, while 12 nM Tl reduced it in Serrano. Mean instWUE increased in Poblano with 10 µM Cd and 0.75 µM V, and in Serrano with 12 nM Tl, while 6 nM Tl reduced it in Poblano and Serrano. Mean iWUE increased in Jalapeño and Poblano with 5 µM Cd, in Serrano with 12 nM Tl, and in Jalapeño with 1.5 µM V; it was reduced with 6 nM Tl in Poblano and Serrano. Pn/Ci increased in Serrano with 5 µM Cd, in Jalapeño with 6 nM Tl, and in Poblano with 0.75 µM V. Interestingly, Tl stimulated six and inhibited five of the seven photosynthetic variables measured, while Cd enhanced three and decreased two variables, and V stimulated five variables, with none inhibited, all as compared to the respective controls. We conclude that Cd, Tl, and V may inhibit or stimulate photosynthetic parameters depending on the genotype and the doses applied.
Guidelines for Performing CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Editing for Gene Validation and Trait Improvement in Crops
Authors: Tsakirpaloglou Nikolaos , Septiningsih Endang M. , Thomson Michael J.
Published: October 2023

With the rapid advances in plant genome editing techniques over the past 10 years, more efficient and powerful crop genome editing applications are now possible. Candidate genes for key traits can be validated using CRISPR/Cas9-based knockouts and through the up- and down-regulation of gene expression. Likewise, new trait improvement approaches can take advantage of targeted editing to improve stress tolerance, disease resistance, and nutritional traits. However, several key steps in the process can prove tricky for researchers who might be new to plant genome editing. Here, we present step-by-step guidelines and best practices for a crop genome editing pipeline that should help to improve the rate of success. Important factors in the process include proper target sequence analysis and single guide RNA (sgRNA) design, sequencing of the target site in the genotypes of interest, performing an in vitro CRISPR/Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) assay to validate the designed sgRNAs, preparing the transformation constructs, considering a protoplast editing step as further validation, and, finally, stable plant transformation and mutation detection by Sanger and/or next-generation sequencing. With these detailed guidelines, a new user should be able to quickly set up a genome editing pipeline in their crop of interest and start making progress with the different CRISPR/Cas-based editing variants for gene validation and trait improvement purposes.
Unraveling the Guardians of Growth: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Aux/IAA and ARF Gene Families in Populus simonii
Authors: Cai Kewei , Zhao Qiushuang , Zhang Jinwang , Yuan Hongtao , Li Hanxi , Han Lu , Li Xuebo , Li Kailong , Jiang Tingbo , Zhao Xiyang
Published: October 2023

The auxin/indole-3-acetic acid (Aux/IAA) and auxin response factor (ARF) genes are two crucial gene families in the plant auxin signaling pathway. Nonetheless, there is limited knowledge regarding the Aux/IAA and ARF gene families in Populus simonii. In this study, we first identified 33 putative PsIAAs and 35 PsARFs in the Populus simonii genome. Analysis of chromosomal location showed that the PsIAAs and PsARFs were distributed unevenly across 17 chromosomes, with the greatest abundance observed on chromosomes 2. Furthermore, based on the homology of PsIAAs and PsARFs, two phylogenetic trees were constructed, classifying 33 PsIAAs and 35 PsARFs into three subgroups each. Five pairs of PsIAA genes were identified as the outcome of tandem duplication, but no tandem repeat gene pairs were found in the PsARF family. The expression profiling of PsIAAs and PsARFs revealed that several genes exhibited upregulation in different tissues and under various stress conditions, indicating their potential key roles in plant development and stress responses. The variance in expression patterns of specific PsIAAs and PsARFs was corroborated through RT-qPCR analysis. Most importantly, we instituted that the PsIAA7 gene, functioning as a central hub, exhibits interactions with numerous Aux/IAA and ARF proteins. Furthermore, subcellular localization findings indicate that PsIAA7 functions as a protein localized within the nucleus. To conclude, the in-depth analysis provided in this study will contribute significantly to advancing our knowledge of the roles played by PsIAA and PsARF families in both the development of P. simonii tissue and its responses to stress. The insights gained will serve as a valuable asset for further inquiries into the biological functions of these gene families.
Rotary Friction Welding of Polyetheretherketone Biopolymer Rods Using Variable Rotational Speed
Authors: Kuo Chil-Chyuan , Liang Hua-Xhin , Huang Song-Hua , Tseng Shih-Feng
Published: October 2023

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a promising biomaterial due to its excellent mechanical properties. Most PPEK manufacturing methods include additive manufacturing, injection molding, grinding, pulse laser drilling, or incremental sheet forming. Rotary friction welding (RFW) is a promising bonding technique in many industries. However, very few studies have focused on the RFW of PEEK. Conventionally, the number of revolutions is fixed during the welding process. Remarkably, the rotary friction welding of PEEK polymer rods using an innovative variable rotational speed is investigated in this study. The average bending strength of the welded part using a three-stage transformation rotational speed was enhanced by about 140% compared with a rotational speed of 1000 rpm. The advantage of computer numerical controlled RFW of PEEK using variable rotational speed is a reduced cycle time of RFW. A reduction in cycle time of about 6% can be obtained using the proposed RFW with a three-stage transformation rotational speed. The innovative approach provides low environmental pollution and high energy efficiency and complies with sustainable development goals.
Special Issue: Exploring the Religious Phenomenon from the Secularism Perspective
Authors: Sepúlveda Ignacio , Uriarte Luzio , Basterretxea Iziar
Published: October 2023

When considering and accounting for social reality, the relationship between an observer (explorer) and the observed object (explored) is a complex circle, especially in the humanities [...]
An Energy-Efficient Routing Protocol with Reinforcement Learning in Software-Defined Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Godfrey Daniel , Suh BeomKyu , Lim Byung Hyun , Lee Kyu-Chul , Kim Ki-Il
Published: October 2023

The enormous increase in heterogeneous wireless devices operating in real-time applications for Internet of Things (IoT) applications presents new challenges, including heterogeneity, reliability, and scalability. To address these issues effectively, a novel architecture has been introduced, combining Software-Defined Wireless Sensor Networks (SDWSN) with the IoT, known as the SDWSN-IoT. However, wireless IoT devices deployed in such systems face limitations in the energy supply, unpredicted network changes, and the quality of service requirements. Such challenges necessitate the careful design of the underlying routing protocol, as failure to address them often results in constantly disconnected networks with poor network performance. In this paper, we present an intelligent, energy-efficient multi-objective routing protocol based on the Reinforcement Learning (RL) algorithm with Dynamic Objective Selection (DOS-RL). The primary goal of applying the proposed DOS-RL routing scheme is to optimize energy consumption in IoT networks, a paramount concern given the limited energy reserves of wireless IoT devices and the adaptability to network changes to facilitate a seamless adaption to sudden network changes, mitigating disruptions and optimizing the overall network performance. The algorithm considers correlated objectives with informative-shaped rewards to accelerate the learning process. Through the diverse simulations, we demonstrated improved energy efficiency and fast adaptation to unexpected network changes by enhancing the packet delivery ratio and reducing data delivery latency when compared to traditional routing protocols such as the Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) and the multi-objective Q-routing for Software-Defined Networks (SDN-Q).
Quantifying the Effects of Network Latency for a Teleoperated Robot
Authors: Noguera Cundar Adriana , Fotouhi Reza , Ochitwa Zachary , Obaid Haron
Published: October 2023

The development of teleoperated devices is a growing area of study since it can improve cost effectiveness, safety, and healthcare accessibility. However, due to the large distances involved in using teleoperated devices, these systems suffer from communication degradation, such as latency or signal loss. Understanding degradation is important to develop and improve the effectiveness of future systems. The objective of this research is to identify how a teleoperated system’s behavior is affected by latency and to investigate possible methods to mitigate its effects. In this research, the end-effector position error of a 4-degree-of-freedom (4-DOF) teleultrasound robot was measured and correlated with measured time delay. The tests were conducted on a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) and a Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) to monitor noticeable changes in position error with different network configurations. In this study, it was verified that the communication channel between master and slave stations was a significant source of delay. In addition, position error had a strong positive correlation with delay time. The WLAN configuration achieved an average of 300 ms of delay and a maximum displacement error of 7.8 mm. The VLAN configuration showed a noticeable improvement with a 40% decrease in average delay time and a 70% decrease in maximum displacement error. The contribution of this work includes quantifying the effects of delay on end-effector position error and the relative performance between different network configurations.
Multi-Object Pedestrian Tracking Using Improved YOLOv8 and OC-SORT
Authors: Xiao Xin , Feng Xinlong
Published: October 2023

Multi-object pedestrian tracking plays a crucial role in autonomous driving systems, enabling accurate perception of the surrounding environment. In this paper, we propose a comprehensive approach for pedestrian tracking, combining the improved YOLOv8 object detection algorithm with the OC-SORT tracking algorithm. First, we train the improved YOLOv8 model on the Crowdhuman dataset for accurate pedestrian detection. The integration of advanced techniques such as softNMS, GhostConv, and C3Ghost Modules results in a remarkable precision increase of 3.38% and an mAP@0.5:0.95 increase of 3.07%. Furthermore, we achieve a significant reduction of 39.98% in parameters, leading to a 37.1% reduction in model size. These improvements contribute to more efficient and lightweight pedestrian detection. Next, we apply our enhanced YOLOv8 model for pedestrian tracking on the MOT17 and MOT20 datasets. On the MOT17 dataset, we achieve outstanding results with the highest HOTA score reaching 49.92% and the highest MOTA score reaching 56.55%. Similarly, on the MOT20 dataset, our approach demonstrates exceptional performance, achieving a peak HOTA score of 48.326% and a peak MOTA score of 61.077%. These results validate the effectiveness of our approach in challenging real-world tracking scenarios.
Dynamic Focusing (DF) Cone-Based Omnidirectional Fingertip Pressure Sensor with High Sensitivity in a Wide Pressure Range
Authors: Seo Moo-Jung , Yoo Jae-Chern
Published: October 2023

It is essential to detect pressure from a robot’s fingertip in every direction to ensure efficient and secure grasping of objects with diverse shapes. Nevertheless, creating a simple-designed sensor that offers cost-effective and omnidirectional pressure sensing poses substantial difficulties. This is because it often requires more intricate mechanical solutions than when designing non-omnidirectional pressure sensors of robot fingertips. This paper introduces an innovative pressure sensor for fingertips. It utilizes a uniquely designed dynamic focusing cone to visually detect pressure with omnidirectional sensitivity. This approach enables cost-effective measurement of pressure from all sides of the fingertip. The experimental findings demonstrate the great potential of the newly introduced sensor. Its implementation is both straightforward and uncomplicated, offering high sensitivity (0.07 mm/N) in all directions and a broad pressure sensing range (up to 40 N) for robot fingertips.
A Pattern Reconfigurable Antenna Using Eight-Dipole Configuration for Energy Harvesting Applications
Authors: Aboualalaa Mohamed , Mohamed Hesham A. , Alghamdi Thamer A. H. , Alathbah Moath
Published: October 2023

A pattern reconfigurable antenna, composed of eight elements, is proposed for energy harvesting applications. Pattern reconfigurable antennas are a promising technique for harvesting from different wireless sources. The radiation pattern of the proposed antenna can be steered electronically using an RF switch matrix, covering an angle range from 0 to 360 degrees with a step size of 45 degrees. The proposed antenna primarily consists of an eight-dipole configuration that shares the same excitation. Each dipole is excited using a balun comprising a quarter-wavelength grounded stub and a quarter-wavelength open-circuit stub. The proposed antenna operates in the frequency range of 4.17 to 4.5 GHz, with an impedance bandwidth of 7.6%. By switching between the different switches, the antenna can be steered with a narrower rotational angle. In addition, the antenna can work in an omnidirectional mode when all switches are in the ON state simultaneously. The results demonstrate a good agreement between the numerical and experimental findings for the reflection coefficient and radiation characteristics of the proposed reconfigurable antenna.