bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wildlife Emergency Response Services Data Provide Insights into Human and Non-Human Threats to Wildlife and the Response to Those Threats
Authors: Camprasse Elodie C. M. , Klapperstueck Matthias , Cardilini Adam P. A.
Published: May 2023

Our transformation of global environments into human-dominated landscapes has important consequences for wildlife. Globally, wildlife is interacting with humans or impacted by human activities, which often results in negative outcomes such as population declines, disruption of social bonds, biodiversity loss, imperilment of threatened species, and harm to individual animals. Human and non-human threats to wildlife can be challenging to quantify and tend to be poorly understood especially over large spatial scales and in urban environments. The extent to which such damage is mitigated by reactive approaches (e.g., wildlife rescue) is also not well understood. We used data from the main state-based Wildlife Emergency Response Services (WERS) in Victoria, Australia to address these issues. The data, which describe tens of thousands of cases of threats to wildlife annually over a ten-year period, allowed a detailed characterisation of the type and extent of threats in the state. We identified the main common and threatened species impacted by various threats and showed that the vast majority of them were anthropogenic (e.g., vehicle collisions, cat attacks, and entanglements). The extent to which different taxonomic groups and species were impacted by various threats differed and threats were dependent on locations. The Greater Melbourne area was identified as a hotspot for threats to wildlife. The WERS was able to source service providers for thousands of animals annually, facilitating their assessment, release into the wild and rehabilitation. However, every year, thousands of animals died or were euthanased and thousands more were left unattended. WERS case reports are increasing and there is a growing service–demand gap. Whilst studies reporting on the demand and response of WERS are rare, situations in other parts of Australia and the world might be similar. This highlights the urgent need to understand and mitigate human and non-human threats to wildlife, particularly in urban environments, where the rate of biodiversity loss is high. We discuss opportunities and barriers to doing so.
Modeling Exact Frequency-Energy Distribution for Quakes by a Probabilistic Cellular Automaton
Authors: Białecki Mariusz , Gałka Mateusz , Bagchi Arpan , Gulgowski Jacek
Published: May 2023

We develop the notion of Random Domino Automaton, a simple probabilistic cellular automaton model for earthquake statistics, in order to provide a mechanistic basis for the interrelation of Gutenberg–Richter law and Omori law with the waiting time distribution for earthquakes. In this work, we provide a general algebraic solution to the inverse problem for the model and apply the proposed procedure to seismic data recorded in the Legnica-Głogów Copper District in Poland, which demonstrate the adequacy of the method. The solution of the inverse problem enables adjustment of the model to localization-dependent seismic properties manifested by deviations from Gutenberg–Richter law.
TTANAD: Test-Time Augmentation for Network Anomaly Detection
Authors: Cohen Seffi , Goldshlager Niv , Shapira Bracha , Rokach Lior
Published: May 2023

Machine learning-based Network Intrusion Detection Systems (NIDS) are designed to protect networks by identifying anomalous behaviors or improper uses. In recent years, advanced attacks, such as those mimicking legitimate traffic, have been developed to avoid alerting such systems. Previous works mainly focused on improving the anomaly detector itself, whereas in this paper, we introduce a novel method, Test-Time Augmentation for Network Anomaly Detection (TTANAD), which utilizes test-time augmentation to enhance anomaly detection from the data side. TTANAD leverages the temporal characteristics of traffic data and produces temporal test-time augmentations on the monitored traffic data. This method aims to create additional points of view when examining network traffic during inference, making it suitable for a variety of anomaly detector algorithms. Our experimental results demonstrate that TTANAD outperforms the baseline in all benchmark datasets and with all examined anomaly detection algorithms, according to the Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (AUC) metric.
Implementation Strategy of Test Facility Based on Auto-Transformer for LVRT/HVRT Evaluation of Large-Scale Wind Turbine
Authors: Kim Byungki , Nam Yang-Hyun , Ryu Kyung-Sang , Kim Dae-Jin
Published: May 2023

In accordance with South Korea’s recent 2030 Carbon Neutral Plan, an 8GW offshore wind farm is planned for construction in the South-west Sea. Therefore, it is expected that large-scale wind turbines will be installed, and these turbines must operate stably, even when there are instantaneous voltage fluctuations in the power system. The grid code is described for the low-voltage-ride-through (LVRT) and high-voltage-ride-through (HVRT) functions, and a test facility that can perform both LVRT and HVRT tests is essential. In the case of LVRT/HVRT test facilities developed by the existing RLC (impedance component) method, it may be difficult to test large-scale wind turbines due to problems such as power quality, frequent failures and narrow short-circuit capacity ranges. Therefore, to solve such problems, this paper proposes an LVRT/HVRT test facility of the autotransformer type, which is capable of outputting the desired voltage range by changing the wiring method and tap position. Specifically, in order to implement the test facility of the autotransformer type, which is able to output the desired voltage range by changing the wiring method and tap according to the LVRT/HVRT test status, this paper presents an impedance determination algorithm (two-step layer impedance determination algorithm) of auto-transformer based on the fault-current analysis and operation strategy at a real LVRT/HVRT testing evaluation facility.
An Overall Linearized Modeling Method and Associated Delay Time Model for the PV System
Authors: Zhu Xianping , Li Shaowu , Fan Jingxun
Published: May 2023

There are some significant nonlinearity and delay issues in photovoltaic (PV) system circuits. Therefore, it is very difficult for the existing classic linear control theories to be used in PV systems; this hinders the design of the optimal energy dispatch by considering real-time generation power forecasting methods. To solve this problem, an overall linearized model with variable weather parameters (OLM-VWP) of the PV system is proposed on the basis of small-signal modeling. Meanwhile, a corresponding simplified overall linearized model with variable weather parameters (SOLM-VWP) is presented. The SOLM-VWP avoids analyzing delay characteristics of the complex high-order PV system. Moreover, it can reduce hardware cost and computation time, which makes analysis of the transient performance index of the PV system more convenient. In addition, on the basis of the OLM-VWP and SOLM-VWP, a delay-time model with variable weather parameters (DTM-VWP) of the PV system is also proposed. The delay time of the system can be accurately calculated using the DTM-VWP, and it provides a preliminary theoretical basis for carrying out real-time energy scheduling of the PV system. Finally, simulations are implemented using the MATLAB tool, and experiments are conducted. The results verify that the proposed linearization model of the PV system is accurate and reasonable under varying irradiance and temperature conditions. Meanwhile, the results also verify that the proposed SOLM-VWP and DTM-VWP of the PV system are feasible. Additionally, the results show that some transient performance indexes (delay time, rise time, settling time, and peak time) can be solved by means of equations when the circuit parameters and real-time weather parameters are given.
Enhancing Savonius Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Performance: A Comprehensive Approach with Numerical Analysis and Experimental Investigations
Authors: Al-Gburi Kumail Abdulkareem Hadi , Alnaimi Firas Basim Ismail , Al-quraishi Balasem Abdulameer Jabbar , Tan Ee Sann , Kareem Ali Kamil
Published: May 2023

Small-scale vertical-axis wind power generation technologies such as Savonius wind turbines are gaining popularity in suburban and urban settings. Although vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs) may not be as efficient as their horizontal-axis counterparts, they often present better opportunities for integration within building structures. The main issue stems from the suboptimal aerodynamic design of Savonius turbine blades, resulting in lower efficiency and power output. To address this, modern turbine designs focus on optimizing various geometric aspects of the turbine to improve aerodynamic performance, efficiency, and overall effectiveness. This study developed a unique optimization method, incorporating a new blade geometry with guide gap flow for Savonius wind turbine blade design. The aerodynamic characteristics of the Savonius wind turbine blade were extensively analyzed using 3D ANSYS CFX software. The optimization process emphasized the power coefficient as the objective function while considering blade profiles, overlap ratio, and blade number as crucial design parameters. This objective was accomplished using the design of experiments (DOE) method with the Minitab statistical software. The research findings revealed that the novel turbine design “OR0.109BS2BN2” outperformed the reference turbine with a 22.8% higher power coefficient. Furthermore, the results indicated a trade-off between the flow (swirling flow) through the gap guide flow and the impact blockage ratio, which resulted from the reduced channel width caused by the extended blade tip length.
The Cretaceous Sedimentary Environments and Tectonic Setting of the Southern East China Sea Shelf Basin
Authors: Yang Yepeng , Jiang Zaixing , Jiang Xiaolong
Published: May 2023

Although the amount of oil and gas reserves and the reservoir properties in the East China Sea Shelf Basin (ECSSB) indicate good prospects for oil and gas exploration in the Mesozoic strata, there has not yet been a significant breakthrough in oil and gas production. An important reason is that there are few detailed studies on the sedimentary paleogeography of the ECSSB which make it difficult to predict the distribution of sand bodies. In this paper, well-core observations, thin-section identifications, electron probe microanalysis, trace elements analysis and seismic interpretations were synthetically applied to study the sedimentary environments and the tectonic setting of the Upper Cretaceous in the southern ECSSB. In the Oujiang Sag, red mudstones and pyroclastic rocks were deposited, accompanied by wedged, chaotic pro-grading reflections in the seismic profile, indicating a volcano-alluvial fan sedimentary system. Abundant sedimentary structures including double-mud drapes, asymmetric herringbone cross-beddings and burrows, such as Planolites and Skolithos, were developed in the Minjiang Sag, typically indicating a high-energy tidal environment. The autogenetic glauconites in situ and the fossil Tintinnid also indicate a shallow marine environment. The resulting sedimentary characteristics are in accordance with the littoral facies revealed by the seismic reflections in the Minjiang Sag. Moreover, volcanic conduit facies, effusive facies, and pyroclastic facies were also recognized in the seismic profile in the Minjiang Sag. Therefore, it was presumed that subaqueous volcanic eruptions occurred in the Minjiang Sag. In the Keelung Sag, the littoral facies were dominant. The tectonic setting of the Upper Cretaceous in the southern ECSSB is the transitional arc accompanied by large-scale volcanic activities. In conclusion, the volcano-alluvial fan sedimentary system was developed in the Oujiang Sag and volcano-littoral sedimentary system was developed from the Minjiang Sag to the Keelung Sag. This study is intended to promote the understanding of the sedimentary paleogeography of the Upper Cretaceous in the southern ECSSB and to provide help in oil and gas exploration.
Bi-Functional Non-Superconducting Saturated-Core Inductor for Single-Stage Grid-Tied PV Systems: Filter and Fault Current Limiter
Authors: Ibrahim Rania A. , Zakzouk Nahla E.
Published: May 2023

Single-stage grid-interfaced PV topologies have challenges with high grid fault currents, despite being more efficient, simpler to implement, and less expensive than two-stage ones. In such systems, a single inverter is required to perform all grid-interface tasks. i.e., maximum power point tracking (MPPT), DC voltage stabilization, and grid current control. This necessitates a hardware-based fault current limitation solution rather than a software-based one to avoid adding to the inverter’s control complexity and to mitigate the implications of PV system tripping. Therefore, in this study, a dual-functional non-superconducting saturated-core inductor-based (SCI) reactor is proposed to be applied at the output of a single-stage PV inverter. It involves two operation modes: a grid pre-fault mode where it filters the line current, hence minimizing its THD, and a grid-fault mode where it acts as a fault current limiter (FCL). Controlling the DC saturation current flowing into its control winding terminals alters the core magnetization of the SCI to vary its impedance between a low value during normal utility operation and a maximal value during faults. Consequently, the system is protected against inverter failures or unnecessary circuit-breaker tripping, which preserves service continuity and reduces system losses. Moreover, compared to existing FCLs, the proposed topology is an appealing candidate in terms of cost, size, reliability, and harmonic filtering ability. The bi-functionality and usefulness of the proposed reactor are confirmed using simulation and experimental results.
How Climate Change Impacts the Distribution of Lithocarpus hancei (Fagaceae), a Dominant Tree in East Asian Montane Cloud Forests
Authors: Yang Yongjingwen , Lin Lin , Tan Yunhong , Deng Min
Published: May 2023

Subtropical montane moist evergreen broadleaf forests (MMEBFs) have a unique environmental envelope harboring a high percentage of endemic biota. This ecosystem is highly vulnerable, and little is known about its possible response to future climate change. In this study, we used Lithocarpus hancei (Fagaceae), a dominant tree in East Asian subtropical MMEBFs, as a proxy to investigate MMEBF distribution dynamics and key distribution restriction factors. In total, 607 L. hancei occurrence points were obtained after being gathered and filtered. The random forest model was selected as the best model. Eight environmental variables were selected to simulate the potential suitable areas of L. hancei under the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), present, and future (2041–2060, 2061–2080, 2081–2100) climate change scenarios, including four shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, SSP5-8.5). Our results showed that precipitation of the warmest quarter, the precipitation of the driest month, the mean diurnal range, and temperature seasonality are the key factors affecting the spatial range of L. hancei with 11.2%, 10.9%, 8.1%, and 7.6% contributions, respectively. The current distribution of L. hancei is mainly within East and South China, with a scattered distribution in North Indo-China and the Southeast Himalayas. The highly suitable area only accounts for 9.7% of the total distribution area. The distribution area of the current suitability area is the smallest compared to that under LGM and future scenarios. In all the future climatic scenarios, the highly suitable areas of L. hancei would decrease or even disappear, whereas the medium- and low-suitability areas might increase with the centroid of the total suitable area northern. Its distribution in Central China, the Southern Himalayas, and Northern Indo-China will be lost in the future. Overall, our study predicted a prominent degradation of East Asian MMEBFs in the future. In situ and ex situ conservation on East Asian MMEBFs should be prioritized and enforced.
Design of an SoC Based on 32-Bit RISC-V Processor with Low-Latency Lightweight Cryptographic Cores in FPGA
Authors: Ma Khai-Minh , Le Duc-Hung , Pham Cong-Kha , Hoang Trong-Thuc
Published: May 2023

The security of Internet of Things (IoTs) devices in recent years has created interest in developing implementations of lightweight cryptographic algorithms for such systems. Additionally, open-source hardware and field-programable gate arrays (FPGAs) are gaining traction via newly developed tools, frameworks, and HDLs. This enables new methods of creating hardware and systems faster, more simply, and more efficiently. In this paper, the implementation of a system-on-chip (SoC) based on a 32-bit RISC-V processor with lightweight cryptographic accelerator cores in FPGA and an open-source integrating framework is presented. The system consists of a 32-bit VexRiscv processor, written in SpinalHDL, and lightweight cryptographic accelerator cores for the PRINCE block cipher, the PRESENT-80 block cipher, the ChaCha stream cipher, and the SHA3-512 hash function, written in Verilog HDL and optimized for low latency with fewer clock cycles. The primary aim of this work was to develop a customized SoC platform with a register-controlled bus suitable for integrating lightweight cryptographic cores to become compact embedded systems that require encryption functionalities. Additionally, custom firmware was developed to verify the functionality of the SoC with all integrated accelerator cores, and to evaluate the speed of cryptographic processing. The proposed system was successfully implemented in a Xilinx Nexys4 DDR FPGA development board. The resources of the system in the FPGA were low with 11,830 LUTs and 9552 FFs. The proposed system can be applicable to enhancing the security of Internet of Things systems.
Numerical Assessment of Safe Separation Distance in the Wildland–Urban Interfaces
Authors: Fayad Jacky , Accary Gilbert , Morandini Frédéric , Chatelon François-Joseph , Rossi Lucile , Marcelli Thierry , Cancellieri Dominique , Cancellieri Valérie , Rahib Yassine , Morvan Dominique , Meradji Sofiane , Pieri Antoine , Duret Jean-Yves , Rossi Jean-Louis
Published: May 2023

A safe separation distance (SSD) needs to be considered during firefighting activities (fire suppression or people evacuation) against wildfires. The SSD is of critical interest for both humans and assets located in the wildland–urban interfaces (WUI). In most cases, the safety zone models and guidelines assume a flat terrain and only radiant heating. Nevertheless, injuries or damage do not result exclusively from radiant heating. Indeed, convection must be also considered as a significant contribution of heat transfer, particularly in the presence of the combined effects of sloping terrain and a high wind velocity. In this work, a critical case study is considered for the village of Sari-Solenzara in Corsica (France). This site location was selected by the operational staff since high-intensity fire spread is likely to occur in the WUI during wind-blown conditions. This study was carried out for 4 m high shrubland, a sloping terrain of 12° and a wind speed of 16.6 m/s. The numerical simulations were performed using a fully physical fire model, namely, FireStar2D, to investigate a case of fire spreading, which is thought to be representative of most high wildfire risk situations in Corsica. This study is based on the evaluation of the total (radiative and convective) heat flux received by two types of targets (human bodies and buildings) located ahead of the fire front. The results obtained revealed that the radiation was the dominant heat transfer mode in the evaluation of the SSD. In addition, the predictions were consistent with the criterion established by the operational experts, which assumes that in Corsica, a minimum SSD of 50 m is required to keep an equipped firefighter without injury in a fuelbreak named ZAL. This numerical work also provides correlations relating the total heat flux to the SSD.
Pastoral Burning and Its Contribution to the Fire Regime of Alto Minho, Portugal
Authors: Oliveira Emanuel , Fernandes Paulo M.
Published: May 2023

Alto Minho (in northwestern Iberia) is one of the European regions most affected by fires. Many of these fires originate from rangeland management of Atlantic heathlands, and, while being illegal, often are not actively suppressed. In this study, pastoral fires (autumn-to-spring fires unrecorded by authorities), spring wildfires, and summer wildfires were independently mapped and dated from remote sensing. Alto Minho burned at a mean annual rate of 5.0% of the territory between 2001 and 2020. Pastoral burning totalled 40,788 hectares during the period, accounting for 20% of the total burnt area. Rangeland burning occurs mostly from December to April, the rainiest months that guarantee the conditions for pasture renewal and fire self-extinction. The mean fire return interval of pastoral burning is slightly higher than that of wildfires (13 years vs. 11 years), except in part of the inner mountains where it dominates fire activity. Pastoral fires are more frequent and largely prevail over wildfires in the parishes with higher livestock quantities. Conversely, the largest wildfires and higher summer burnt areas correspond with very low livestock and nearly non-existing pastoral fires. Traditional fire knowledge should not be overlooked by fire management, as it contributes to more sustainable fire regimes and ecosystems.
Effects of the Exopolysaccharide from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HMX2 on the Growth Performance, Immune Response, and Intestinal Microbiota of Juvenile Turbot, Scophthalmus maximus
Authors: Hu Gege , Wang Yihui , Xue Rui , Liu Tongji , Zhou Zengjia , Yang Zhennai
Published: May 2023

In this study, the exopolysaccharide (EPS) from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (HMX2) was isolated from Chinese Northeast Sauerkraut. Its effects on juvenile turbot were investigated by adding different concentrations of HMX2-EPS (C: 0 mg/kg, H1: 100 mg/kg, H2: 500 mg/kg) to the feed. Compared with the control group, HMX2-EPS significantly improved the growth performance of juvenile turbot. The activities of antioxidant enzymes, digestive enzymes, and immune-related enzymes were significantly increased. HMX2-EPS could also increase the secretion of inflammatory factors and enhance the immune response of turbot by regulating the IFN signal transduction pathway and exhibit stronger survival rates after the A. hydrophila challenge. Moreover, HMX2-EPS could improve the diversity of intestinal microbiota in juvenile fish, increase the abundance of potential probiotics, and reduce the abundance of pathogenic bacteria. The function of gut microbes in metabolism and the immune system could also be improved. All results showed better effects with high concentrations of HMX2-EPS. These results indicated that HMX2-EPS supplementation in the diet could promote growth, improve antioxidant activity, digestive capacity, and immunity capacity, and actively regulate the intestinal microbiota of juvenile turbot. In conclusion, this study might provide basic technical and scientific support for the application of L. plantarum in aquatic feed.
What Is the Value of a “Mountain Product” Claim? A Ranking Conjoint Experiment on Goat’s Milk Yoghurt
Authors: Zanchini Raffaele , Di Vita Giuseppe , Panzone Luca , Brun Filippo
Published: May 2023

Rural development is complex in marginal and disadvantaged areas, such as mountains, which impose high labour costs and restrict farmers in their choices of crop and livestock. To recognise this problem, the European Union regulates the use of the optional quality term “Mountain product” on the label. Consumers may recognise this label and be more willing to pay for it, resulting in higher revenues for producers using it. This study estimates the willingness to pay (WTP) for a mountain quality label. This WTP is then compared to that of functional and nutrition claims. For this purpose, we used a ranking conjoint experiment, using goat’s milk yoghurt—a typical mountain product—as a case study. Using a rank-ordered logit, we show that mountain quality labels generate a significant WTP, higher than that of functional claims. WTP differs by the demographic profile of the consumer. The study provided useful insights about the combination of the mountain quality label with different attributes. However, future studies are needed to adequately understand the potential of mountain certification as a supporting tool for farmers in marginal areas and for rural development.
Some New Applications of the q-Analogous of Differential and Integral Operators for New Subclasses of q-Starlike and q-Convex Functions
Authors: Al-Shaikh Suha B. , Abubaker Ahmad A. , Matarneh Khaled , Khan Mohammad Faisal
Published: May 2023

In the geometric function theory of complex analysis, the investigation of the geometric properties of analytic functions using q-analogues of differential and integral operators is an important area of study, offering powerful tools for applications in numerical analysis and the solution of differential equations. Many topics, including complex analysis, hypergeometric series, and particle physics, have been generalized in q-calculus. In this study, first of all, we define the q-analogues of a differential operator (DRλ,qm,n) by using the basic idea of q-calculus and the definition of convolution. Additionally, using the newly constructed operator (DRλ,qm,n), we establish the q-analogues of two new integral operators (Fλ,γ1,γ2,…γlm,n,q and Gλ,γ1,γ2,…γlm,n,q), and by employing these operators, new subclasses of the q-starlike and q-convex functions are defined. Sufficient conditions for the functions (f) that belong to the newly defined classes are investigated. Additionally, certain subordination findings for the differential operator (DRλ,qm,n) and novel geometric characteristics of the q-analogues of the integral operators in these classes are also obtained. Our results are generalizations of results that were previously proven in the literature.
Generation of an Open-Access Patient-Derived iPSC Biobank for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Disease Modelling
Authors: Hedges Erin C. , Cocks Graham , Shaw Christopher E. , Nishimura Agnes L.
Published: May 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting the upper and lower motor neurons, causing patients to lose control over voluntary movement, and leading to gradual paralysis and death. There is no cure for ALS, and the development of viable therapeutics has proved challenging, demonstrated by a lack of positive results from clinical trials. One strategy to address this is to improve the tool kit available for pre-clinical research. Here, we describe the creation of an open-access ALS iPSC biobank generated from patients carrying mutations in the TARDBP, FUS, ANXA11, ARPP21, and C9ORF72 genes, alongside healthy controls. To demonstrate the utilisation of these lines for ALS disease modelling, a subset of FUS-ALS iPSCs were differentiated into functionally active motor neurons. Further characterisation revealed an increase in cytoplasmic FUS protein and reduced neurite outgrowth in FUS-ALS motor neurons compared to the control. This proof-of-principle study demonstrates that these novel patient-derived iPSC lines can recapitulate specific and early disease-related ALS phenotypes. This biobank provides a disease-relevant platform for discovery of ALS-associated cellular phenotypes to aid the development of novel treatment strategies.
Forensic Implications of the Discrepancies Caused between NGS and CE Results by New Microvariant Allele at Penta E Microsatellite
Authors: Kocsis Balázs , Mátrai Norbert , Egyed Balázs
Published: May 2023

Examination of STR markers using the MPS technology is becoming more common in forensic genetics, but scientists still have insufficient experience in dealing with ambiguous results. However, it is always essential to resolve discordant data if we want to use the technology as an accredited method in routine forensic casework. During the internal laboratory validation of the Precision ID GlobalFiler NGS STR Panel v2 kit, we observed two discrepant genotypes at Penta E locus compared to the previous capillary electrophoresis results. Each NGS software that we applied (i.e., Converge, STRaitRazor and IGV) returned the same 12,14 and 12,16 genotypes in the two samples, respectively, instead of the 11.3,14 and 11.3,16 genotypes previously observed with CE (Capillary electrophoresis) typing. In the case of the length variant 11.3 alleles, traditional Sanger sequencing confirmed a complete twelve repeat unit structure in both samples. However, after sequencing was extended to the flanking regions of the variant alleles, sequence data revealed a two-bases GG deletion downstream of the last TCTTT repeat motif in the forward strand. The determined allele variant has not been previously reported in the scientific literature and highlights the need for a careful evaluation and thorough concordance studies before using NGS STR data in forensic cases.
Screening and Validation of Internal Reference Genes for Quantitative Real-Time PCR Analysis of Leaf Color Mutants in Dendrobium officinale
Authors: Cao Hua , Li Han , Lu Lin , Ji Yulu , Ma Lulin , Li Shenchong
Published: May 2023

Leaf color mutants (LCMs) are important resources for studying diverse metabolic processes such as chloroplast biogenesis and differentiation, pigments’ biosynthesis and accumulation, and photosynthesis. However, in Dendrobium officinale, LCMs are yet to be fully studied and exploited due to the unavailability of reliable RGs (reference genes) for qRT-PCR (quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR) normalization. Hence, this study took advantage of previously released transcriptome data to select and evaluate the suitability of ten candidate RGs, including Actin (Actin), polyubiquitin (UBQ), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), elongation factor 1-α (EF1α), β-tubulin (β-TUB), α-tubulin (α-TUB), 60S ribosomal protein L13-1 (RPL13AD), aquaporin PIP1-2 (PIP1-2), Intima protein (ALB3) and Cyclin (CYCB1-2) for normalizing leaf color-related genes’ expression levels via qRT-PCR. Stability rankings analysis via common software Best-Keeper, GeNorm, and NormFinder disclosed that all ten genes met the requirements of RGs. Of them, EF1α exhibited the highest stability and was selected as the most reliable. The reliability and accuracy of EF1α were confirmed through qRT-PCR analysis of fifteen chlorophyll pathway-related genes. The expression patterns of these genes via EF1α normalization were consistent with the results by RNA-Seq. Our results offer key genetic resources for the functional characterization of leaf color-related genes and will pave the way for molecular dissection of leaf color mutations in D. officinale.
Small RNA Profiling of Aster Yellows Phytoplasma-Infected Catharanthus roseus Plants Showing Different Symptoms
Authors: Contaldo Nicoletta , Zambon Yuri , Galbacs Zsuszanna Nagyne , Miloro Fabio , Havelda Zoltan , Bertaccini Assunta , Varallyay Eva
Published: May 2023

Micropropagated Catharantus roseus plants infected with ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris’ showed virescence symptoms, witches’ broom symptoms, or became asymptomatic after their planting in pots. Nine plants were grouped into three categories according to these symptoms, which were then employed for investigation. The phytoplasma concentration, as determined by qPCR, correlated well with the severity of symptoms. To reveal the changes in the small RNA profiles in these plants, small RNA high-throughput sequencing (HTS) was carried out. The bioinformatics comparison of the micro (mi) RNA and small interfering (si) RNA profiles of the symptomatic and asymptomatic plants showed changes, which could be correlated to some of the observed symptoms. These results complement previous studies on phytoplasmas and serve as a starting point for small RNA-omic studies in phytoplasma research.
Effect of Antithrombin III Administration on the Prognosis of Severe Trauma Patients with Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation
Authors: Chung Jae Sik , Kim Myoung Jun , Choi Young Un , Kim Jun Gi , Bae Keum Seok
Published: May 2023

Background: We aimed to investigate the effects of antithrombin III administration on the prognosis of severe trauma patients with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Methods: Medical records of a total of 4023 patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) at the single regional trauma center from January 2016 to December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. After the exclusion of young patients (<15 years old), mild trauma (ISS < 16), non DIC, etc., a total of 140 patients were included in the study. These patients were classified into antithrombin III-administered and non-antithrombin III-administered groups. Clinical data, including laboratory findings, trauma- and ICU-related severity scores, prognosis (including length of hospital stay), and need for organ support, were retrospectively collected. We evaluated the characteristics of the two groups, and compared and analyzed the vital signs, laboratory findings, prognosis, and clinical outcomes of each group. With this, we analyzed the effect of antithrombin III administration in severe trauma patients with DIC. Results: Of the 140 patients, 61 were treated with antithrombin III. No significant difference was observed in the baseline characteristics between the two groups for initial laboratory results, initial vital signs, or trauma-related severity scores. The improvement of the sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, a prognostic marker, was significantly greater in the administered group (p = 0.009). Additionally, the antithrombin-administered group showed a larger improvement in the SOFA score than the non-administered group (p = 0.002). However, there was no statistical difference between the two groups for the frequency or duration of organ support treatments (renal replacement therapy, mechanical ventilation), mortality, or length of hospital stay. Conclusion: Antithrombin III administration in severe trauma patients with DIC improved SOFA scores and aided in multi-organ dysfunction recovery. Appropriate indications should be studied to maximize the drug’s improvement effect in patients with severe trauma in the future.
Severe Gastrointestinal Toxicity Following the Use of Gilteritinib: A Case Series and Analysis of Postmarketing Surveillance Data
Authors: Gozzo Lucia , Nardo Antonella , Brancati Serena , Judica Antongiulio , Duminuco Andrea , Maugeri Cinzia , Parisi Marina , Longo Laura , Vitale Daniela Cristina , Ruscica Rosy , Romano Giovanni Luca , Mauro Elisa , Fiumara Paolo Fabio , Palumbo Giuseppe Alberto Maria , Di Raimondo Francesco , Vetro Calogero , Drago Filippo
Published: May 2023

Gilteritinib has been approved as monotherapy in adults with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) FLT3 mutated with relapsed or refractory disease, in light of its advantages in terms of survival and the favorable safety profile. Hepatobiliary disorders and musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders represent the most frequent adverse reactions associated with gilteritinib, whereas the most frequent serious adverse reaction is acute kidney injury. In the summary of product characteristics, gastrointestinal (GI) events are indicated as very common, in particular diarrhea, nausea and stypsis. Furthermore, serious GI disorders have been observed with gilteritinib in clinical trials, including GI hemorrhage, GI perforation and GI obstruction. However, the association with the FLT3 inhibitor has not been confirmed. Nevertheless, serious GI AEs have been recognized as an important potential risk to be monitored in postmarketing surveillance. We present three cases of serious self-limiting GI events observed in patients on gilteritinib treatment for AML, and an analysis of relevant available postmarketing surveillance data.
Clarifying the Differences between Patients with Organic Tics and Functional Tic-Like Behaviors
Authors: Andersen Kaja , Jensen Ida , Okkels Kirstine Birkebæk , Skov Liselotte , Debes Nanette Mol
Published: May 2023

Due to the global increase in the number of patients with Functional Tic-Like Behaviors (FTLB), it has become increasingly important to find reliable differences between this patient group and patients with organic tics (OTs), which can be used in differential diagnosis. The purpose of this retrospective study was to critically examine both established and suggested differences between the patient groups. A total of 53 FTLB patients and 200 OT patients were included. Several findings from the current literature were replicated in this study: Compared to patients with OTs, patients with FTLB had significantly more complex tics, were older at symptom onset, were more likely to be female, and were less likely to have family members with tics. Furthermore, the study also revealed new differences between the groups: Patients with FTLB had significantly more family members with a psychiatric disorder, were more likely to have experienced an adverse psychosocial event immediately before symptom onset, and had significantly fewer simple tics. Finally, this study was unable to replicate the previously found differences in comorbidities between patients with OTs and FTLB. These findings could contribute significantly to the understanding of FTLB’s etiology and to improve diagnosis, as including the presence of simple tics and comorbidities in the diagnostic criteria might be discussed in future studies.
A Comparative Analysis of the Grafting Efficiency of Watermelon with a Grafting Machine
Authors: Liang Huan , Zhu Juhong , Ge Mihong , Wang Dehuan , Liu Ke , Zhou Mobing , Sun Yuhong , Zhang Qian , Jiang Kai , Shi Xianfeng
Published: May 2023

The rising age of the population in rural China and the labor intensity of grafting have resulted in a decrease in the number of grafters and a subsequent increase in their wages. Manual grafting can no longer satisfy the increasing demand for watermelon-grafted transplanting; thus, machine grafting will be an effective alternative. In order to accelerate the implementation of machine grafting in China, a comparative analysis between the automatic grafting machine (model 2TJGQ-800) and traditional hand grafting was conducted. The reliability and feasibility of machine grafting were evaluated through a comprehensive evaluation of the production capacity and grafting seedling quality. This study focuses on the grafting application of watermelon plug-tray seedlings. The scion and rootstock seeds were sown on 9 November 2022. Grafting experiments using an automatic grafting machine, skilled workers, and ordinary workers were conducted with the root-pruned one-cotyledon grafting method on 24 November 2022. The results showed that the machine grafting had a high uniformity and grafting speed. The grafting speed of the grafting machine was 774 plant·h−1 and 1.65–2.55-fold higher than the hand grafting. With training, workers can improve their grafting speed, but it will still be slower than machine grafting. In addition, there was no significant difference in the grafting survival rate between the machine grafting and hand grafting. However, using machine grafting, the success rate decreased from 100% to 90.07% and the rootstock regrowth rate increased from 18.44% to 72.69%. Incomplete rootstock cutting, clip supply failure, and grafting drop failure are the three main factors that result in machine grafting failure. In conclusion, the grafting machine has advantages in terms of grafting speed and uniformity. Upon improving the accuracy of the cutting mechanism and grafting success rate, it will be adopted by commercial nurseries.
Research on Chilling Requirements and Physiological Mechanisms of Prunus mume
Authors: Zhang Yuhan , Ma Kaifeng , Li Qingwei
Published: May 2023

Low temperature plays a vital role in the growth and development of woody plants. In this research, based on the ability of artificial low temperatures to break dormancy, the Utah model was used to determine the chilling requirements (CR) of four early flowering Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc. (Rosaceae) cultivars, which are widely found in the Henan area of China. In addition, changes in the carbohydrates, antioxidant enzyme activities, and endogenous hormone contents of the flower buds (FBs) of the above-mentioned P. mume cultivars were measured during the low-temperature storage process, and the physiological changes of the four cultivars during the low-temperature induction period were explored. The main research conclusions are as follows: (1) the CRs of ‘Gulihong’, ‘Nanjing gongfen’, ‘Zaoyudie’, and ‘Zaohualve’ were 408CU, 396CU, 372CU, and 348CU, respectively. All the P. mume cultivars belonged to cultivars with a low chilling demand. They also bloomed 4 months earlier, and (2) during the process of releasing dormancy at low temperatures, the contents of soluble sugar (SS) in the osmoregulation system of the four Prunus mume cultivars showed an upward trend, while the content of starch (ST) basically showed an opposite trend to the increase in chilling. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in the FBs of each cultivar gradually decreased with the increase in cold and remained at a low level, while the peroxidase (POD) activity showed an opposite trend, and the dynamic changes of the catalase (CAT) activity generally showed a trend of first increasing and then decreasing. The content of abscisic acid (ABA) showed a trend of increasing first and then decreasing as a whole. The changing trend of gibberellin (GA3) content was similar to that of ABA. In addition, it was found that before dormancy was released, the SS and Pro contents of cultivars with lower CRs and early FB germination were significantly higher than those of other cultivars with higher CRs and the contents of ST and SP were lower. The cultivars with higher CRs and late FB germination had higher ABA content, lower GA3 contents, and their enzyme activities were significantly higher than those of the cultivars with lower CR. Therefore, the changes in the content of various substances in FBs are related to the amount of cooling required by the cultivar and at what point the FBs germinate, and the changes in their contents can be used as one of the indicators for judging the dormancy process of FBs.
Infiltrated Pits: Using Regional Groundwater Data to Estimate Methane Emissions from Pit Latrines
Authors: Reddy Olivia , Rahman Mostaquimur , Nijhawan Anisha , Pregnolato Maria , Howard Guy
Published: May 2023

On-site sanitation systems (OSS), such as pit latrines, are an important source of methane (CH4), with emissions increasing when they are wet, and this occurs when anaerobic conditions dominate. This paper presents the development of a model, which uses seasonal changes in groundwater to account for the fluctuating inundation of pit latrines, and, therefore, the associated CH4 emissions from varying degrees of anerobic conditions are examined. Given that observed timeseries of groundwater table depth at high enough spatial and temporal resolutions are often difficult to obtain in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), inverse distance weighted (IDW) interpolation is used to generate values for a whole region, which is then used, alongside average pit latrine depth, to determine areas of pit latrine inundation. Outcomes are further informed with open-source contextual data, covering population, urban/rural split, and sanitation facility data, before using methodologies from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to generate CH4 emissions data. As a case study, we use data from Senegal to illustrate how this model works. Results show total CH4 emissions for the month of January to be ~1.69 kt CH4. We have also discussed the potential use of satellite remote sensing data in regions where access to historical groundwater data is limited. Understanding when the pit conditions are most likely to change could lead to incentives for better management strategies, as well as a reduction in CH4 production.
COVID-19 and Clostridioides difficile Coinfection Outcomes among Hospitalized Patients in the United States: An Insight from National Inpatient Database
Authors: Awan Rehmat Ullah , Gangu Karthik , Nguyen Anthony , Chourasia Prabal , Borja Montes Oscar F. , Butt Muhammad Ali , Muzammil Taimur Sohail , Afzal Rao Mujtaba , Nabeel Ambreen , Shekhar Rahul , Sheikh Abu Baker
Published: May 2023

The incidence of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) has been increasing compared to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels. The COVID-19 infection and CDI relationship can be affected by gut dysbiosis and poor antibiotic stewardship. As the COVID-19 pandemic transitions into an endemic stage, it has become increasingly important to further characterize how concurrent infection with both conditions can impact patient outcomes. We performed a retrospective cohort study utilizing the 2020 NIS Healthcare Cost Utilization Project (HCUP) database with a total of 1,659,040 patients, with 10,710 (0.6%) of those patients with concurrent CDI. We found that patients with concurrent COVID-19 and CDI had worse outcomes compared to patients without CDI including higher in-hospital mortality (23% vs. 13.4%, aOR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.12–1.5, p = 0.01), rates of in-hospital complications such as ileus (2.7% vs. 0.8%, p < 0.001), septic shock (21.0% vs. 7.2%, aOR: 2.3, 95% CI: 2.1–2.6, p < 0.001), length of stay (15.1 days vs. 8 days, p < 0.001) and overall cost of hospitalization (USD 196,012 vs. USD 91,162, p < 0.001). Patients with concurrent COVID-19 and CDI had increased morbidity and mortality, and added significant preventable burden on the healthcare system. Optimizing hand hygiene and antibiotic stewardship during in-hospital admissions can help to reduce worse outcomes in this population, and more efforts should be directly made to reduce CDI in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 infection.
Long-Term Changes in the Pollution of Warta River Bottom Sediments with Heavy Metals, Poland—Case Study
Authors: Fiedler Michał
Published: May 2023

Variability in the heavy metal concentrations in aquatic environments may be influenced by a number of factors that may occur naturally or due to anthropopressure. This article presents the risk of contaminating Warta River bottom sediments with heavy metals such as As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn. Samples collected from 35 sites located along the river course were analysed over the period of 2010–2021. The calculated pollution indices are characterised by significant spatial variability that was additionally subject to changes in subsequent years. The analysis may have also been influenced by individual measurement results that, in extreme cases, may strongly deviate from the concentration values determined in the same site during the remaining years. The highest median concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, and Pb were in samples collected from sites that are surrounded by areas of anthropogenic land use. Samples from adjacent sites to agricultural areas showed the highest median concentrations of Co, Mn, and Ni, and Zn for those adjacent to forest areas. The research results indicate that, when analysing the degree of the risk of contaminating river bottom sediments with heavy metals, it is necessary to take into account long-term variability in metal concentrations. Taking into consideration data from only one year may lead to inappropriate conclusions and hinder planning protective measures.