bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local Structural Modifications in Metallic Micropillars Induced by Plasma Focused Ion Beam Processing
Authors: Singh Kritika , Rout Surya Snata , Krywka Christina , Davydok Anton
Published: November 2023

A focused ion beam scanning electron microscope (FIB-SEM) is a powerful tool that is routinely used for scale imaging from the micro- to nanometer scales, micromachining, prototyping, and metrology. In spite of the significant capabilities of a FIB-SEM, there are inherent artefacts (e.g., structural defects, chemical interactions and phase changes, ion implantation, and material redeposition) that are produced due to the interaction of Ga+ or other types of ions (e.g., Xe+, Ar+, O+, etc.) with the sample. In this study, we analyzed lattice distortion and ion implantation and subsequent material redeposition in metallic micropillars which were prepared using plasma focus ion beam (PFIB) milling. We utilized non-destructive synchrotron techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray nanodiffraction to examine the micropillars prepared using Xe+ ion energies of 10 keV and 30 keV. Our results demonstrate that higher Xe ion energy leads to higher density of implanted ions within the redeposited and milled material. The mixing of ions in the redeposited material significantly influences the lattice structure, causing deformation in regions with higher ion concentrations. Through an X-ray nanodiffraction analysis, we obtained numerical measurements of the strain fields induced in the regions, which revealed up to 0.2% lattice distortion in the ion bombardment direction.
Tailoring Mechanical and Magnetic Properties in Dual-Phase FeCoNi(CuAl)0.8 High-Entropy Alloy
Authors: Tan Xiaohua , Chen Lingmiao , Lv Mengxin , Peng Wenfeng , Xu Hui
Published: November 2023

For tailoring the mechanical and magnetic properties of dual-phase high-entropy alloys (HEAs), it is crucial to understand the effect of each phase on the overall properties. In this paper, the effects of individual FCC and BCC phases on the mechanical and magnetic properties of the FeCoNi(CuAl)0.8 HEA are investigated by nanoindentation and first-principles calculations. The nano-hardness of the BCC phase is 8.73 GPa, which is nearly double the 4.60 GPa of the FCC phase, which ascribes to spherical nanoprecipitates that are only observed in the BCC phase leading to precipitation hardening. First-principles calculations on the electronic structure show that calculated saturation magnetization (Ms) of the BCC phase is 0.81 T, higher than 0.77 T of the FCC phase. An approximate yield strength and Ms can be estimated by summing the volume-fraction-weighted contributions from each phase, and are in good agreement with experimental values. It indicates that the overall mechanical and magnetic properties of the dual-phase HEAs can be tailored by tuning the volume fraction of the individual phase. Our findings are helpful to design prospective dual-phase HEAs with both good mechanical properties and soft magnetic performance by adjusting the content of each phase.
Power Transformer Fault Diagnosis Using Neural Network Optimization Techniques
Authors: Rokani Vasiliki , Kaminaris Stavros D. , Karaisas Petros , Kaminaris Dimitrios
Published: November 2023

Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques are considered the most advanced approaches for diagnosing faults in power transformers. Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA) is the conventional approach widely adopted for diagnosing incipient faults in power transformers. The IEC-599 standard Ratio Method is an accurate method that evaluates the DGA. All the classical approaches have limitations because they cannot diagnose all faults accurately. Precisely diagnosing defects in power transformers is a significant challenge due to their extensive quantity and dispersed placement within the power network. To deal with this concern and to improve the reliability and precision of fault diagnosis, different Artificial Intelligence techniques are presented. In this manuscript, an artificial neural network (ANN) is implemented to enhance the accuracy of the Rogers Ratio Method. On the other hand, it should be noted that the complexity of an ANN demands a large amount of storage and computing power. In order to address this issue, an optimization technique is implemented with the objective of maximizing the accuracy and minimizing the architectural complexity of an ANN. All the procedures are simulated using the MATLAB R2023a software. Firstly, the authors choose the most effective classification model by automatically training five classifiers in the Classification Learner app (CLA). After selecting the artificial neural network (ANN) as the sufficient classification model, we trained 30 ANNs with different parameters and determined the 5 models with the best accuracy. We then tested these five ANNs using the Experiment Manager app and ultimately selected the ANN with the best performance. The network structure is determined to consist of three layers, taking into consideration both diagnostic accuracy and computing efficiency. Ultimately, a (100-50-5) layered ANN was selected to optimize its hyperparameters. As a result, following the implementation of the optimization techniques, the suggested ANN exhibited a high level of accuracy, up to 90.7%. The conclusion of the proposed model indicates that the optimization of hyperparameters and the increase in the number of data samples enhance the accuracy while minimizing the complexity of the ANN. The optimized ANN is simulated and tested in MATLAB R2023a—Deep Network Designer, resulting in an accuracy of almost 90%. Moreover, compared to the Rogers Ratio Method, which exhibits an accuracy rate of just 63.3%, this approach successfully addresses the constraints associated with the conventional Rogers Ratio Method. So, the ANN has evolved a supremacy diagnostic method in the realm of power transformer fault diagnosis.
Terracini Loci: Dimension and Description of Its Components
Authors: Ballico Edoardo
Published: November 2023

We study the Terracini loci of an irreducible variety X embedded in a projective space: non-emptiness, dimensions and the geometry of their maximal dimension’s irreducible components. These loci were studied because they describe where the differential of an important geometric map drops rank. Our best results are if X is either a Veronese embedding of a projective space of arbitrary dimension (the set-up for the additive decomposition of homogeneous polynomials) or a Segre–Veronese embedding of a multiprojective space (the set-up for partially symmetric tensors). For an arbitrary X, we give several examples in which all Terracini loci are empty, several criteria for non-emptiness and examples with the maximal defect possible a priori of an element of a minimal Terracini locus. We raise a few open questions.
Scheduling of Software Test to Minimize the Total Completion Time
Authors: Chao Man-Ting , Lin Bertrand M. T.
Published: November 2023

This paper investigates a single-machine scheduling problem of a software test with shared common setup operations. Each job has a corresponding set of setup operations, and the job cannot be executed unless its setups are completed. If two jobs have the same supporting setups, the common setups are performed only once. No preemption of any processing is allowed. This problem is known to be computationally intractable. In this study, we propose sequence-based and position-based integer programming models and a branch-and-bound algorithm for finding optimal solutions. We also propose an ant colony optimization algorithm for finding approximate solutions, which will be used as the initial upper bound of the branch-and-bound algorithm. The computational experiments are designed and conducted to numerically appraise all of the proposed methods.
An Algorithm That Adjusts the Stepsize to Be Self-Adaptive with an Inertial Term Aimed for Solving Split Variational Inclusion and Common Fixed Point Problems
Authors: Ngwepe Matlhatsi Dorah , Jolaoso Lateef Olakunle , Aphane Maggie , Adenekan Ibrahim Oyeyemi
Published: November 2023

In this research paper, we present a new inertial method with a self-adaptive technique for solving the split variational inclusion and fixed point problems in real Hilbert spaces. The algorithm is designed to choose the optimal choice of the inertial term at every iteration, and the stepsize is defined self-adaptively without a prior estimate of the Lipschitz constant. A convergence theorem is demonstrated to be strong even under lenient conditions and to showcase the suggested method’s efficiency and precision. Some numerical tests are given. Moreover, the significance of the proposed method is demonstrated through its application to an image reconstruction issue.
Correlation of Energy Density and Manufacturing Variables of AA6061 through Laser Powder Bed Fusion and Its Effect on the Densification Mechanism
Authors: Jaramillo-Isaza Catalina , Higuera-Cobos Oscar-Fabian , Taborda-Ríos July-Andrea , Lopez-Botello Omar E. , Zambrano-Robledo Patricia
Published: November 2023

Aluminum alloy processing via additive manufacturing (AM) technologies has increased in usage during the last decade. AM now enables manufacturing complex geometries not previously achieved through traditional manufacturing. Aluminum is usually processed using laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technologies, which are used to manufacture metallic components of high geometrical complexity and dimensional accuracy and good mechanical, electrical, and chemical properties, which is why this technology is quite popular at industrial levels. To further develop quality control systems and new aluminum alloys using LPBF, there is a need to establish a predictive relationship between the parameters of the material. A study was carried out to investigate the relationship between energy density and process parameters such as laser power, scan speed, hatch spacing, scan pattern, and laser focus and its influence on the densification mechanism in additively manufactured components with aluminum alloys. AA6061 was selected due to its wide usage in different industries, given its low density and high mechanical performance. Relative density was analyzed using the Archimedes principle, and the quality and morphology of the AA6061 powder were analyzed through metallographic analysis. The process parameter selection was performed according to the best results obtained according to the laser power and energy density factors. The best manufactured samples had an energy density between 30 and 40 J/mm3, with relative densities above 99%.
Identification of Novel Biomarkers for Early Diagnosis of Atherosclerosis Using High-Resolution Metabolomics
Authors: Sardar Syed Wasim , Nam Jeonghun , Kim Tae Eun , Kim Hyunil , Park Youngja H.
Published: November 2023

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a metabolic disorder and the pre-stage of several cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction, stroke, and angina pectoris. Early detection of AS can provide the opportunity for effective management and better clinical results, along with the prevention of further progression of the disease. In the current study, an untargeted and targeted metabolomic approach was used to identify possible metabolic signatures that have altered levels in AS patients. A total of 200 serum samples from individuals with AS and normal were analyzed via liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry. Univariate and multivariate analysis approaches were used to identify differential metabolites. A group of metabolites associated with bile acids, amino acids, steroid hormones, and purine metabolism were identified that are capable of distinguishing AS-risk sera from normal. Further, the targeted metabolomics approach confirmed that six metabolites, namely taurocholic acid, cholic acid, cortisol, hypoxanthine, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), and isoleucine, were found to be significantly upregulated, while the concentrations of glycoursodeoxycholic acid, glycocholic acid, testosterone, leucine, methionine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and valine were found to be significantly downregulated in the AS-risk sera. The receiver operating characteristic curves of three metabolites, including cortisol, hypoxanthine, and isoleucine, showed high sensitivity and specificity. Taken together, these findings suggest cortisol, hypoxanthine, and isoleucine as novel biomarkers for the early and non-invasive detection of AS. Thus, this study provides new insights for further investigations into the prevention and management of AS.
Recent Advances in Flexible Multifunctional Sensors
Authors: Chang Ya , Qi Xiangyu , Wang Linglu , Li Chuanbo , Wang Yang
Published: November 2023

Wearable electronics have received extensive attention in human–machine interactions, robotics, and health monitoring. The use of multifunctional sensors that are capable of measuring a variety of mechanical or environmental stimuli can provide new functionalities for wearable electronics. Advancements in material science and system integration technologies have contributed to the development of high-performance flexible multifunctional sensors. This review presents the main approaches, based on functional materials and device structures, to improve sensing parameters, including linearity, detection range, and sensitivity to various stimuli. The details of electrical, biocompatible, and mechanical properties of self-powered sensors and wearable wireless systems are systematically elaborated. Finally, the current challenges and future developmental directions are discussed to offer a guide to fabricate advanced multifunctional sensors.
Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG Versus Placebo for Eradication of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium in Intestinal Carriers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rubin Ingrid Maria Cecilia , Knudsen Maja Johanne Søndergaard , Halkjær Sofie Ingdam , Ilsby Christian Schaadt , Pinholt Mette , Petersen Andreas Munk
Published: November 2023

The aim of this review was to assess the efficacy and safety of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) (previously known as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) for the eradication of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VREfm) in colonized carriers. We searched Cochrane Central, EMBASE, and the PubMed Library from inception to 21 August 2023, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effectiveness of LGG for the eradication of gastrointestinal carriage of VREfm. An initial screening was performed followed by a full-text evaluation of the papers. Out of 4076 articles in the original screening, six RCTs (167 participants) were included in the review. All were placebo-controlled RCTs. The meta-analysis was inconclusive with regard to the effect of LGG for clearing VREfm colonization. The overall quality of the evidence was low due to inconsistency and the small number of patients in the trials. We found insufficient evidence to support the use of LGG for the eradication of VREfm in colonized carriers. There is a need for larger RCTs with a standardized formulation and dosage of LGG in future trials.
Genomics of Yoonia sp. Isolates (Family Roseobacteraceae) from Lake Zhangnai on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Feng Xiaoyuan , Xing Peng
Published: November 2023

Understanding the genomic differentiation between marine and non-marine aquatic microbes remains a compelling question in ecology. While previous research has identified several lacustrine lineages within the predominantly marine Roseobacteraceae family, limited genomic data have constrained our understanding of their ecological adaptation mechanisms. In this study, we isolated four novel Yoonia strains from a brackish lake on the Tibetan Plateau. These strains have diverged from their marine counterparts within the same genus, indicating a recent habitat transition event from marine to non-marine environments. Metabolic comparisons and ancestral genomic reconstructions in a phylogenetic framework reveal metabolic shifts in salinity adaptation, compound transport, aromatics degradation, DNA repair, and restriction systems. These findings not only corroborate the metabolic changes commonly observed in other non-marine Roseobacters but also unveil unique adaptations, likely reflecting the localized metabolic changes in responses to Tibetan Plateau environments. Collectively, our study expands the known genomic diversity of non-marine Roseobacteraceae lineages and enhances our understanding of microbial adaptations to lacustrine ecosystems.
Diagenetic Evolution Sequence and Pore Evolution Characteristics: Study on Marine-Continental Transitional Facies Shale in Southeastern Sichuan Basin
Authors: Zhang Bing , Wen Siyu , Yang Kai , Ma Kai , Wang Pengwan , Xu Chuan , Cao Gaoquan
Published: November 2023

Diagenesis and pore structure are essential factors for reservoir evaluation. marine-continental transitional facies shale is a new shale gas reservoir of concern in the Sichuan Basin. The research on its diagenesis pore evolution model has important guiding significance in its later exploration and development. However, the current research on pore structure changes, diagenesis, and the evolution of marine-continental transitional facies shale is not sufficient and systematic. In order to reveal the internal relationship between pore structure changes and diagenesis, the evolution of marine-continental transitional facies shale was tested by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, low-pressure gas adsorption, nuclear magnetic resonance, and the diagenetic evolution sequence and nanopore system evolution of Longtan Formation shale was systematically studied. The results show that the Longtan Formation shale underwent short-term shallow after sedimentation, followed by long-term deep burial. The main diagenetic mechanisms of the Longtan Formation shale include compaction, dissolution, cementation, thermal maturation of organic matter, and transformation of clay minerals, which are generally in the middle-late diagenetic stage. The pore structure undergoes significant changes with increasing maturity, with the pore volumes of both micropores and mesopores reaching their minimum values at Ro = 1.43% and subsequently increasing. The change process of a specific surface area is similar to that of pore volumes. Finally, the diagenetic pore evolution model of Longtan Formation MCFS in Southeastern Sichuan was established.
Polymeric Membranes Doped with Halloysite Nanotubes Imaged using Proton Microbeam Microscopy
Authors: Vasco Giovanna , Arima Valentina , Boudjelida Soufiane , Carraro Mauro , Bianco Monica , Zizzari Alessandra , Perrone Elisabetta , Galiano Francesco , Figoli Alberto , Cesaria Maura
Published: November 2023

Polymeric membranes are useful tools for water filtration processes, with their performance strongly dependent on the presence of hydrophilic dopants. In this study, polyaniline (PANI)-capped aluminosilicate (halloysite) nanotubes (HNTs) are dispersed into polyether sulfone (PES), with concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 wt%, to modify the properties of the PES membrane. Both undoped and HNT-doped PES membranes are investigated in terms of wettability (static and time-dependent contact angle), permeance, mechanical resistance, and morphology (using scanning electron microscopy (SEM)). The higher water permeance observed for the PES membranes incorporating PANI-capped HNTs is, finally, assessed and discussed vis-à-vis the real distribution of HNTs. Indeed, the imaging and characterization in terms of composition, spatial arrangement, and counting of HNTs embedded within the polymeric matrix are demonstrated using non-destructive Micro Particle Induced X-ray Emission (µ-PIXE) and Scanning Transmission Ion Microscopy (STIM) techniques. This approach not only exhibits the unique ability to detect/highlight the distribution of HNTs incorporated throughout the whole thickness of polymer membranes and provide volumetric morphological information consistent with SEM imaging, but also overcomes the limits of the most common analytical techniques exploiting electron probes. These aspects are comprehensively discussed in terms of practical analysis advantages.
The Impact of Ambient Temperature on Electrothermal Characteristics in Stacked Nanosheet Transistors with Multiple Lateral Stacks
Authors: Zhao Peng , Cao Lei , Wang Guilei , Wu Zhenhua , Yin Huaxiang
Published: November 2023

With characteristic size scaling down to the nanoscale range, the confined geometry exacerbates the self-heating effect (SHE) in nanoscale devices. In this paper, the impact of ambient temperature (Tamb) on the SHE in stacked nanosheet transistors is investigated. As the number of lateral stacks (Nstack) increases, the nanoscale devices show more severe thermal crosstalk issues, and the current performance between n- and p-type nanoscale transistors exhibits different degradation trends. To compare the effect of different Tamb ranges, the temperature coefficients of current per stack and threshold voltage are analyzed. As the Nstack increases from 4 to 32, it is verified that the zero-temperature coefficient bias point (VZTC) decreases significantly in p-type nanoscale devices when Tamb is above room temperature. This can be explained by the enhanced thermal crosstalk. Then, the gate length-dependent electrothermal characteristics with different Nstacks are investigated at various Tambs. To explore the origin of drain current variation, the temperature-dependent backscattering model is utilized to explain the variation. At last, the simulation results verify the impact of Tamb on the SHE. The study provides an effective design guide for stacked nanosheet transistors when considering multiple stacks in circuit applications.
Enhanced Catalytic Performance of Ag NP/0.95AgNbO3-0.05LiTaO3 Heterojunction from the Combination of Surface Plasma Resonance Effect and Piezoelectric Effect Using Facile Mechanical Milling
Authors: Ren Tianxiang , He Tufeng , Cao Zhenzhu , Xing Pengyue , Teng Xinglong , Li Guorong
Published: November 2023

An internal built electric field can suppress the recombination of electron–hole pairs and distinctly enhance the catalytic activity of a photocatalyst. Novel t-Ag/0.95AgNbO3-0.05LiTaO3 heterojunction was prepared by reducing silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) on the surface of the piezoelectric powder 0.95AgNbO3-0.05LiTaO3 (0.05-ANLT) using a simple mechanical milling method. The effects of milling time and excitation source used for the degradation of organic dye by heterojunction catalysts were investigated. The results demonstrate that the optimized 1.5-Ag/0.05-ANLT heterojunction removes 97% RhB within 40 min, which is 7.8 times higher than that of single piezoelectric catalysis and 25.4 times higher than that of single photocatalysis. The significant enhancement of photocatalytic activity can be attributed to the synergistic coupling of the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect and the piezoelectric effect.
Implications of Flagellar Attachment Zone Proteins TcGP72 and TcFLA-1BP in Morphology, Proliferation, and Intracellular Dynamics in Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Souza-Melo Normanda , de Lima Alcantara Carolina , Vidal Juliana Cunha , Rocha Gustavo Miranda , de Souza Wanderley
Published: November 2023

The highly adaptable parasite Trypanosoma cruzi undergoes complex developmental stages to exploit host organisms effectively. Each stage involves the expression of specific proteins and precise intracellular structural organization. These morphological changes depend on key structures that control intracellular components’ growth and redistribution. In trypanosomatids, the flagellar attachment zone (FAZ) connects the flagellum to the cell body and plays a pivotal role in cell expansion and structural rearrangement. While FAZ proteins are well-studied in other trypanosomatids, there is limited knowledge about specific components, organization, and function in T. cruzi. This study employed the CRISPR/Cas9 system to label endogenous genes and conduct deletions to characterize FAZ-specific proteins during epimastigote cell division and metacyclogenesis. In T. cruzi, these proteins exhibited distinct organization compared to their counterparts in T. brucei. TcGP72 is anchored to the flagellar membrane, while TcFLA-1BP is anchored to the membrane lining the cell body. We identified unique features in the organization and function of the FAZ in T. cruzi compared to other trypanosomatids. Deleting these proteins had varying effects on intracellular structures, cytokinesis, and metacyclogenesis. This study reveals specific variations that directly impact the success of cell division and differentiation of this parasite.
Identifying Knowledge Gaps through the Systematic Review of Temperature-Driven Variability in the Competence of Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus for Chikungunya Virus
Authors: Christofferson Rebecca C. , Turner Erik A. , Peña-García Víctor Hugo
Published: November 2023

Temperature is a well-known effector of several transmission factors of mosquito-borne viruses, including within mosquito dynamics. These dynamics are often characterized by vector competence and the extrinsic incubation period (EIP). Vector competence is the intrinsic ability of a mosquito population to become infected with and transmit a virus, while EIP is the time it takes for the virus to reach the salivary glands and be expectorated following an infectious bloodmeal. Temperatures outside the optimal range act on life traits, decreasing transmission potential, while increasing temperature within the optimal range correlates to increasing vector competence and a decreased EIP. These relatively well-studied effects of other Aedes borne viruses (dengue and Zika) are used to make predictions about transmission efficiency, including the challenges presented by urban heat islands and climate change. However, the knowledge of temperature and chikungunya (CHIKV) dynamics within its two primary vectors—Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus—remains less characterized, even though CHIKV remains a virus of public-health importance. Here, we review the literature and summarize the state of the literature on CHIKV and temperature dependence of vector competence and EIP and use these data to demonstrate how the remaining knowledge gap might confound the ability to adequately predict and, thus, prepare for future outbreaks.
URB937 Prevents the Development of Mechanical Allodynia in Male Rats with Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Demartini Chiara , Greco Rosaria , Zanaboni Anna Maria , Francavilla Miriam , Facchetti Sara , Tassorelli Cristina
Published: November 2023

Cannabinoids are proposed for alleviating neuropathic pain, but their use is limited by cannabimimetic side effects. The inhibition of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the degrading enzyme of the endocannabinoid anandamide, has received attention as an alternative to cannabinoids in the treatment of neuropathic pain. Here, we investigated the effect of URB937, a blood–brain barrier impermeant FAAH inhibitor, on experimentally induced mechanical allodynia in an animal model of trigeminal neuralgia. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to chronic constriction injury of the infraorbital nerve (IoN-CCI); operated animals were treated sub-chronically with URB937 (1 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle before or after trigeminal mechanical allodynia establishment. We also assayed mRNA expression levels of the pain neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and cytokines in the medulla, cervical spinal cord, and trigeminal ganglion ipsilateral to IoN-CCI using rt-PCR. URB937 treatment prevented the development of mechanical allodynia and IoN-CCI-induced changes in mRNA expression levels of CGRP and cytokines in the evaluated areas. When administered after allodynia development, URB937 prevented IoN-CCI-induced changes in CGRP and cytokine gene expression; this was not associated with a significant abrogation of the mechanical allodynia. These findings suggest that URB937 may counteract, but not reverse, the development of allodynia in trigeminal neuralgia. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Time-Dependent Proteomic Signatures Associated with Embryogenic Callus Induction in Carica papaya L.
Authors: Xavier Lucas Rodrigues , Corrêa Caio Cezar Guedes , da Paschoa Roberta Pena , Vieira Karina da Silva , Pacheco Daniel Dastan Rezabala , Gomes Lucas do Espirito Santo , Duncan Bárbara Cardoso , da Conceição Laís dos Santos , Pinto Vitor Batista , Santa-Catarina Claudete , Silveira Vanildo
Published: November 2023

Sex segregation increases the cost of Carica papaya production through seed-based propagation. Therefore, in vitro techniques are an attractive option for clonal propagation, especially of hermaphroditic plants. Here, we performed a temporal analysis of the proteome of C. papaya calli aiming to identify the key players involved in embryogenic callus formation. Mature zygotic embryos used as explants were treated with 20 μM 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid to induce embryogenic callus. Total proteins were extracted from explants at 0 (zygotic embryo) and after 7, 14, and 21 days of induction. A total of 1407 proteins were identified using a bottom-up proteomic approach. The clustering analysis revealed four distinct patterns of protein accumulation throughout callus induction. Proteins related to seed maturation and storage are abundant in the explant before induction, decreasing as callus formation progresses. Carbohydrate and amino acid metabolisms, aerobic respiration, and protein catabolic processes were enriched throughout days of callus induction. Protein kinases associated with auxin responses, such as SKP1-like proteins 1B, accumulated in response to callus induction. Additionally, regulatory proteins, including histone deacetylase (HD2C) and argonaute 1 (AGO1), were more abundant at 7 days, suggesting their role in the acquisition of embryogenic competence. Predicted protein–protein networks revealed the regulatory role of proteins 14-3-3 accumulated during callus induction and the association of proteins involved in oxidative phosphorylation and hormone response. Our findings emphasize the modulation of the proteome during embryogenic callus initiation and identify regulatory proteins that might be involved in the activation of this process.
Vascular Tissues Distribution Affects Calcium and Calcium Oxalate Crystals in Fruits of Wild Tomato (Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium (L.) Mill.)
Authors: Paiva Élder Antônio Sousa , Figueredo Cleber Cunha , Martinez Hermínia Emília Prieto
Published: November 2023

Tomato fruit is an excellent model for evaluating calcium regulation in plants since it expresses symptoms of either calcium deficiency or calcium excess. Aiming to evaluate the structure of the vascular system and its interactions with calcium and calcium oxalate crystals (CaOx), fruits of Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium were studied. Calcium levels were evaluated in basal, median, and distal pericarp portions, which were also analyzed under a light microscope to describe the structure. The L. pimpinellifolium pericarp shows idioblasts with calcium oxalate crystals. Vascular bundles of the basal pericarp show large transverse sections and abundant xylem vessels. The vascular bundles were smaller in the distal pericarp, and the xylem showed fewer and narrower vessels. The terminal bundles often consisted exclusively of phloem. Despite the differences observed in vascular bundle composition, the density of the vascular system was uniform in the pericarp as a consequence of bundle ramifications that occur at distal portions. The calcium concentration and crystal idioblasts decrease towards the apex of the fruit. The reduction in the xylem:phloem ratio seems to determine the low calcium concentration in the distal fruit portion.
The Effects of Irrigation Water Salinity on the Synthesis of Photosynthetic Pigments, Gas Exchange, and Photochemical Efficiency of Sour Passion Fruit Genotypes
Authors: Paiva Francisco Jean da Silva , Lima Geovani Soares de , Lima Vera Lúcia Antunes de , Souza Weslley Bruno Belo de , Soares Lauriane Almeida dos Anjos , Torres Rafaela Aparecida Frazão , Gheyi Hans Raj , Silva Luderlândio de Andrade , Sá Francisco Vanies da Silva , Sá Valeska Karolini Nunes Oliveira de , Silva Smyth Trotsk de Araújo , Fátima Reynaldo Teodoro de , Fernandes Pedro Dantas , Almeida Alan Keis Chaves de
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the synthesis of photosynthetic pigments, gas exchange, and photochemical efficiency of sour passion fruit genotypes irrigated with saline water under the conditions of the semi-arid region of Paraíba state, Brazil. The experiment was conducted at the experimental farm in São Domingos, PB. A randomized block design was adopted, in a 5 × 3 factorial scheme, with five levels of electrical conductivity of irrigation water—ECw (0.3, 1.1, 1.9, 2.7, and 3.5 dS m−1)—and three genotypes of sour passion fruit (Gigante Amarelo—‘BRS GA1’; Sol do Cerrado—‘BRS SC1’; and Catarina—‘SCS 437’. The increase in the electrical conductivity of irrigation water negatively affected most of the physiological characteristics of the sour passion fruit at 154 days after transplanting. Significant differences were observed between sour passion fruit genotypes when its tolerance was subjected to the salinity of irrigation water. There was an increase in the percentage of damage to the cell membrane with the increase in the electrical conductivity of irrigation water, with maximum values of 70.63, 60.86, and 80.35% for the genotypes ‘BRS GA1’, ‘BRS SC1’, and SCS 437’, respectively, when irrigated with water of 3.5 dS m−1. The genotype ‘BRS Sol do Cerrado’ showed an increase in the synthesis of photosynthetic pigments when irrigated with water of 3.5 dS m−1, with maximum values estimated at 1439.23 μg mL−1 (Chl a); 290.96 μg mL−1 (Chl b); 1730.19 μg mL−1 (Chl t); and 365.84 μg mL−1 (carotenoids). An increase in photosynthetic efficiency parameters (F0, Fm, and Fv) of the genotype ‘BRS Gigante Amarelo’ was observed when cultivated with water with high electrical conductivity (3.5 dS m−1).
Nutritional Value, Volatile Components, Functional Metabolites, and Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Activities of Different Parts of Millettia speciosa Champ., a Medicinal and Edible Plant with Potential for Development
Authors: Wang Wei , Yan Yigang , Li Yitong , Huang Yinyin , Zhang Yirong , Yang Lan , Xu Xiaoli , Wu Fengqi , Du Bing , Mao Ziling , Shan Tijiang
Published: November 2023

Highly nutritious traditional plants which are rich in bioactive substances are attracting increasing attention. In this study, the nutritional value, chemical composition, biological activities, and feed indices of different parts of Millettia speciosa were comprehensively evaluated. In terms of its nutritional value, this study demonstrated that the leaves, flowers and seeds of M. speciosa were rich in elements and amino acids; the biological values (BVs) of these ingredients ranged from 85% to 100%, showing the extremely high nutritional value of this plant. GC-MS analysis suggested that the main chemical components of the flower volatile oil were n-hexadecanoic acid (21.73%), tetracosane (19.96%), and pentacosane (5.86%). The antibacterial activities of the flower and seed extracts were significantly stronger than those of the leaves and branches. The leaf extract displayed the strongest antifungal activities (EC50 values: 18.28 ± 0.54 μg/mL for Pseudocryphonectria elaeocarpicola and 568.21 ± 33.60 μg/mL for Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) and were the least toxic to mouse fibroblasts (L929) (IC50 value: 0.71 ± 0.04 mg/mL), while flowers were the most toxic (IC50 value: 0.27 ± 0.03 mg/mL). In addition, the abundance of fiber, protein, mineral elements, and functional metabolite contents indicated the potential applicability of M. speciosa as an animal feed. In conclusion, as a traditional herbal plant used for medicinal and food purposes, M. speciosa shows potential for safe and multifunctional development.
Detailed Seed Cone Morpho-Anatomy Provides New Insights into Seed Cone Origin and Evolution of Podocarpaceae; Podocarpoid and Dacrydioid Clades
Authors: Khan Raees , Hill Robert S. , Dörken Veit M. , Biffin Ed
Published: November 2023

The study of reproductive morphology and trait evolution provides a vital insight to understand the evolutionary history of plants. The conifer family Podocarpaceae has a remarkable diversity of seed cones, with distinct morphology among the genera and with conifers in general. However, we lack a good understanding of the seed cone morpho-anatomy and trait evolution of Podocarpaceae. We investigated detailed seed cone morpho-anatomy using staining and sectioning techniques to clarify the anatomical, morphological diversity and evolution of functional traits. The presence of a fleshy receptaculum is a characteristic feature of both clades. However, species of Retrophyllum, Afrocarpus and some species of Nageia and Podocarpus form a fleshy sarcotesta-like seed coat, lacking a fleshy receptaculum. The ancestral state reconstructions show a shift between and sometimes within the genus. Although both clades demonstrate fleshiness as an ancestral trait, the shift in fleshy structures provides evidence for complex multiple evolutions of fleshy morphologies. These seed cone traits (e.g., fleshiness and size), along with the broad, flattened and well-adapted (leaf dimorphism) foliage in both clades, are largely congruent with efficient light harvesting and bird dispersal. These traits make these two clades well adapted to their environment, when growing in communities including tall and broad-leaved angiosperms (closed-canopy angiosperm forests), compared to other podocarps, making them more successful in achieving a wider distribution and species richness.
Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of the EPF Gene Family in Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench
Authors: Jiao Zhiyin , Wang Jinping , Shi Yannan , Wang Zhifang , Zhang Jing , Du Qi , Liu Bocheng , Jia Xinyue , Niu Jingtian , Gu Chun , Lv Peng
Published: November 2023

The EPIDERMAL PATTERNING FACTOR (EPF) plays a crucial role in plant response to abiotic stress. While the EPF has been extensively studied in model plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana, there is a lack of research on identifying EPF genes in the whole sorghum genome and its response to drought stress. In this study, we employed bioinformatics tools to identify 12 EPF members in sorghum. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed that SbEPFs can be categorized into four branches. Further examination of the gene structure and protein conservation motifs of EPF family members demonstrated the high conservation of the SbEPF sequence. The promoter region of SbEPFs was found to encompass cis-elements responsive to stress and plant hormones. Moreover, real-time fluorescence quantitative results indicated that the SbEPFs have a tissue-specific expression. Under drought stress treatment, most SbEPF members were significantly up-regulated, indicating their potential role in drought response. Our research findings establish a foundation for investigating the function of SbEPFs and offer candidate genes for stress-resistant breeding and enhanced production in sorghum.
Effects of Ecological Restoration and Climate Change on Herbaceous and Arboreal Phenology
Authors: Yuan Zixuan , Cheng Yiben , Mi Lina , Xie Jin , Xi Jiaju , Mao Yiru , Xu Siqi , Wang Zhengze , Wang Saiqi
Published: November 2023

With global climate change, changes in vegetation phenology have become increasingly evident. Horqin Sandy Land is located near the eastern part of the West Liaohe River. It is the largest sandy land in China and its ecological environment is fragile. Investigating the changes in vegetation phenology in these sandy areas and determining the relationship between vegetation phenology and meteorological factors are of great importance for predicting the impacts of future climate change and understanding the response mechanisms of ecosystems. In this study, we used the time series of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) from 2000 to 2021 and extracted the vegetation phenology in the Horqin Sandy Land using high-order curve fitting methods, including the start date of the growing season (SOS), the end date of the growing season (EOS), and the length of the growing season (LOS). We analyzed their temporal variation and used partial correlation analysis to determine their relationship with meteorological factors (temperature and precipitation). In addition, we compared the phenology and microclimate of forest and grassland within the study area. In the Horqin Sandy Land, the vegetation SOS was concentrated between the 115th and 150th day, the EOS was concentrated between the 260th and 305th day, and the LOS ranged from 125 to 190 days. Over the past 22 years, the SOS, EOS, and LOS of vegetation in the Horqin Sandy Land showed trends of delay, shift, and extension, with rates of change of 0.82 d/10a, 5.82 d/10a, and 5.00 d/10a, respectively. The start date of the growing season in the Horqin Sandy Land was mainly influenced by precipitation in April of the current year, while the end date was mainly influenced by precipitation in August of the current year. Overall, the SOS in the forested areas of the Horqin Sandy Land was slightly later than in the grasslands, but the EOS in the forested areas was significantly later than in the grasslands, resulting in a longer LOS in the forests. In addition, annual precipitation and the rate of precipitation increase were higher in the forested areas than in the grasslands, but soil temperature was higher in the grasslands than in the forests. Vegetation phenology in the Horqin Sandy Land has undergone significant changes, mainly manifested in the delayed end date of the growing season, the extended length of the growing season, and the differences between forest and grassland. This indicates that climate change has indeed affected phenological changes and provides a theoretical basis for subsequent ecological restoration and desertification prevention efforts in the region.
Analysis of Estimation of Soundness and Deterioration Factors of Sewage Pipes Using Machine Learning
Authors: Suwa Taiki , Fujiu Makoto , Morisaki Yuma , Fukuoka Tomotaka
Published: November 2023

In Japan, there are a massive number of sewage pipes buried in the ground. In order to operate sustainable sewerage systems, it is necessary to estimate the soundness of sewage pipes accurately and to conduct repairs and other measures according to the soundness of the pipes. In previous studies, statistical and machine learning methods have been used to estimate the soundness of sewage pipes, but all of these studies formulated the soundness of sewage pipes as a binary classification problem (e.g., good or poor). In contrast, this study attempted to predict the soundness of sewage pipes in more detail by setting up four classes of pipe soundness. Inspection data of sewage pipes in City A were used as training data, and XGBoost was used as the machine learning model. Machine learning models have a high prediction performance, but the uncertainty of the prediction basis is an issue. In this study, SHAP (Shapley additive explanations), an Explainable AI method, was used to interpret the model to clarify the influence of sewer pipe specifications (e.g., pipe age) and topographical specifications (e.g., annual precipitation) on the prediction, and to extract deterioration factors. By interpreting the model using SHAP, it was possible to quantify whether factors such as pipe age and pipe length have a positive or negative impact on the deterioration of sewage pipes. Previous studies using machine learning methods have not clarified whether factors have a positive or negative effect on deterioration. The knowledge on deterioration factors obtained in this study may provide useful information for the sustainable operation of sewage systems.
Agriculture and the Bioeconomy: A Socioeconomic Analysis of Central and Eastern European Countries
Authors: Cismaș Laura Mariana , Bălan Emilia Mary , Zeldea Cristina Georgiana , Iordan Marioara , Cismaș Cristian Mihai
Published: November 2023

The bioeconomy is a complex and increasingly relevant field, and agriculture represents an essential sector for its development. The bioeconomy presents an opportunity for sustainable agriculture that is beneficial for the environment and public health, both globally and particularly for nations with centralized agricultural systems, such as the former socialist Central and Eastern European Countries (CEECs). This article takes a novel approach to investigate the bioeconomic indicators in CEECs’ agriculture. It combines the hierarchical grouping method with an index based on socioeconomic indicators specific to the bioeconomy. It aims to find how the selected countries performed in terms of agriculture indicators. The socioeconomic indicator analysis showed that some countries had more linear evolutions than others, while some of them clearly outperformed the average of the region. The cluster analysis divided the countries into three relevant groups. The findings revealed patterns of convergence, but also important differences in the region. These results strengthen the scientific basis for the creation of agricultural bioeconomy strategies and argue for the need of the active engagement of all BIOEAST members in the initiative. We argue that agricultural architectures in Central and Eastern European countries are not just determined by employment circumstances or the extent of agricultural areas, but also by the dynamics of the value of the indicators.
Highway Transportation, Health, and Social Equity: A Delphi-ANP Approach to Sustainable Transport Planning
Authors: Almashhour Raghad , AlQahtani Mohamed , Ndiaye Malick
Published: November 2023

It has become standard practice for governments and transportation engineers around the world to infuse sustainability principles into their plans as higher-level goals and priorities, with indicators to reflect the same. The transformation towards sustainable mobility should involve the three interconnected pillars of sustainable development: environment, social equity, and economy. These pillars, known in the business field as the ‘triple-bottom-line’, require specific indicators that can be used to measure the attainment of each pillar. There is evidence that the social equity impacts of construction projects, such as transport projects, and their distributional effects across various segments of society have traditionally been viewed as secondary or subsidiary concerns relative to their economic and environmental impacts. Recognizing the relative relegation in both academic and policy circles of social impacts and the ‘weak’ tools to identify such impacts, this research aims to employ a hybrid decision method based on the analytic network process and Delphi method to identify the major adverse impacts of highway automobiles on health and social equity in the UAE. In doing so, governments will be better positioned to mitigate adverse impacts through engineering, urban planning, technological, and other appropriate initiatives. Throughout the Delphi process, 15 health and social equity indicators have been validated by experts in the field of sustainability and transportation through an iterative process. Then, experts in the same field were chosen to develop and validate the ANP model based on the validated indicators through pairwise comparison questionnaires. The results and findings revealed that the experts’ judgment preferences are consistent (inconsistency value less than 0.1), wherein the highest priority is the ‘Safety’ indicator, and the lowest priority is the ‘Public participation in transport decision’ indicator.