bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Abiotic Environmental Stressors on Fluorescence and Chlorophyll Content in Glycine max (L.) Merrill
Authors: Tomaškinová Judita , Tomaškin Ján , Drimal Marek , Bellido Jesus
Published: January 2025

In this study, we present the results of the impact of abiotic environmental (chemical) stressors in the soil environment (salinity, acidification, inorganic elements from industry—red mud waste containing Al) on the content and fluorescence of chlorophyll in the assimilating tissues of Glycine max (L.) Merrill, cv. ES Mentor. Under controlled conditions of a pot experiment during the 2023 growing season, we applied graded doses of these stressors (salinity—doses of 20, 30, and 60 g NaCl per 2 dm3 of water used for plant irrigation; acidity—pH 6, pH 5, and pH 4; red mud—200 g, 400 g, and 600 g per pot) and assessed their impact on the effective and maximum quantum yield of photosystem II (PSII), yield Y(II), or the ratio of variable to maximum fluorescence—the Fv/Fm test. These tests are used to detect plant stress. The Y(II) test yielded values in the range of 0.627–0.800. Significant differences (variance analysis, 95% Least Significant Difference—LSD, post hoc test of analysis of variance—ANOVA) in reducing PSII chlorophyll fluorescence (Y(II)) were found between the medium and high doses of all three stressors compared to the control, indicating plant stress response. The Fv/Fm test yielded values between 0.668 and 0.805 and similarly detected stress responses in plants to all medium and high doses of stressors. The evaluated cultivar showed tolerance to moderately increased salt (NaCl) content and red mud levels. This was also confirmed by the chlorophyll content expressed as the Chlorophyll Content Index (CCI). The highest (significantly confirmed) chlorophyll content was found in the control variant and the variants with lower salt content and a soil pH of 6, with values of 35.633–37.467 CCI, compared to variants with higher red mud content (15.533–18.133 CCI) and higher soil acidity with pH 4 (22.833 CCI). Based on the results obtained, we conclude that the ES Mentor cultivar is tolerant to lower doses of the assessed stressors and can be cultivated in agricultural practice. However, medium to high doses of stressors trigger a strong stress response in plants and, therefore, we do not recommend cultivating this variety in contaminated environments.
Cover Crops Can Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions from No-Till Maize in Southern Brazil: Insights from a Long-Term Field Experiment
Authors: Silva Guilherme Rosa da , Liska Adam J. , Bayer Cimélio
Published: January 2025

Brazil is one of the countries that has the most agricultural area under no-till (NT) management. This research study aims to evaluate life-cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from maize (M) grain production in agroecosystems that used different cover crops under NT management in southern Brazil. The data for this study were from a long-term 41-year field experiment in southern Brazil. The long-term experiment evaluated the effects of fallow (F) and cover crops (oat (O), vetch (V), cowpea (B), pigeon pea (P), and lablab (L)) on nitrous oxide and methane emissions and soil carbon (C) sequestration in maize agroecosystems. Five cropping systems, FM, OV/M, OV/MB, PM, and LM, were evaluated. Our results show that cover crops can reduce life-cycle GHG emissions by ~40 to >100% through increased soil C sequestration. The agroecosystems with winter cover crops (OV/M and OV/MB) had higher life-cycle GHG emissions (0.5 kg CO2e kg−1 of M or 2.6 Mg CO2e ha−1) than the agroecosystem with winter F (0.06 kg CO2e kg−1 of M or 0.2 Mg CO2e ha−1). Summer cover crops (P and L) resulted in negative life-cycle GHG emissions (an average of −0.2 kg CO2e kg M−1 or −1.2 Mg CO2e ha−1) and increased the M grain yield. This study shows that cover crops can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from NT M in southern Brazil.
Model of the Venous System for Training Endovascular Treatment in Interventional Neuroradiology
Authors: Sobirey Eve , Schmiech Jonte , Wegner Marie , Flottmann Fabian , Bechstein Matthias , Jungnitz Maximilian , Oertel Martin , Fiehler Jens , Krause Dieter
Published: January 2025

Background: Endovascular treatment of venous disease is introducing new therapeutic options in neuroradiology. These procedures are technically challenging and require extensive physician training. Currently, training is mainly conducted on animal models, which presents drawbacks such as ethical concerns and anatomical differences from human vascular architecture. There is no training model that simulates treating intracranial venous disease using original instruments in a real angiography suite. Methods: This work presents the development of a venous system model for endovascular training simulations for integration into the existing Hamburg ANatomical NEurointerventional Simulator (HANNES) for arterial interventions. Results: The manufacturing process established at HANNES and the material used for the arterial vascular models were successfully transferred to the larger 3D-printed vein models. The application test was conducted in a real angiography suite with original instruments by an experienced neurointerventional physician to evaluate the system in terms of geometric mapping, flow, haptics and probing. Conclusion: This newly developed model provides a first approach to simulate an endovascular intervention in the venous system within the HANNES environment. Future expansions might include specific treatment simulations for conditions such as arteriovenous malformations, dural arteriovenous fistulas, sinus vein thrombosis and hydrocephalus.
Molecular Assessment of Plasma Concentrations of Selected Adipokines and IL-8 in Horses with Back Pain and Comorbid Asthma—Based on Clinical Cases
Authors: Nowicka Beata , Polkowska Izabela , Zeliszewska-Duk Paulina , Torres Anna , Duk Mariusz
Published: January 2025

Similarly, in humans and horses, thoracic and lumbosacral back pain cause more disability and work interruptions worldwide than any other disease. Given that there are few effective treatments for back pain in humans and animals, primary prevention strategies and a reduction in pain factors may be crucial. In the analysed data obtained for the horses studied, the pattern of changes in adipocytokine concentrations, including resistin, visfatin and leptin, was noted for those with back pain compared to the control animals. Concentrations of selected adipocytokines in horses from the back pain group were different in animals with a coexisting diagnosis of asthma and back dysfunction. Very few studies are available on adipokine concentrations in horses. No information was found in relation to back pain and asthma in these animals. In humans, correlations of back pain and asthma with concentrations of selected adipokines have been described.
Contextual Background Estimation for Explainable AI in Temperature Prediction
Authors: Szostak Bartosz , Doroz Rafal , Marker Magdalena
Published: January 2025

Accurate weather prediction and electrical load modeling are critical for optimizing energy systems and mitigating environmental impacts. This study explores the integration of the novel Mean Background Method and Background Estimation Method with Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) with the aim to enhance the evaluation and understanding of time-series models in these domains. The electrical load or temperature predictions are regression-based problems. Some XAI methods, such as SHAP, require using the base value of the model as the background to provide an explanation. However, in contextualized situations, the default base value is not always the best choice. The selection of the background can significantly affect the corresponding Shapley values. This paper presents two innovative XAI methods designed to provide robust context-aware explanations for regression and time-series problems, addressing critical gaps in model interpretability. They can be used to improve background selection to make more conscious decisions and improve the understanding of predictions made by models that use time-series data.
Automated Quantification of Rebar Mesh Inspection in Hidden Engineering Structures via Deep Learning
Authors: Xie Yalong , Nie Xianhui , Liu Hongliang , Shen Yifan , Liu Yuming
Published: January 2025

This paper presents an in-depth study of the automated recognition and geometric information quantification of rebar meshes, proposing a deep learning-based method for rebar mesh detection and segmentation. By constructing a diverse rebar mesh image dataset, an improved Unet-based model was developed, incorporating residual modules to enhance the network’s feature extraction capabilities and training efficiency. The study found that the improved model maintains high segmentation accuracy and robustness even in the presence of complex backgrounds and noise. To achieve the precise measurement of rebar spacing, a rebar intersection detection algorithm based on convolution operations was designed, and the IQR (Interquartile Range) algorithm was applied to remove outliers, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of spacing calculations. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model and methods effectively and efficiently accomplish the automated recognition and geometric information extraction of rebar meshes, providing reliable technical support for the automated detection and geometric data analysis of rebar meshes in practical engineering applications.
Comprehensive Reservoir Architecture Dissection and Microfacies Analysis of the Chang 8 Oil Group in the Luo 1 Well Area, Jiyuan Oilfield
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Lixin , Yin Yanshu , Xie Pengfei , Xiong Ge
Published: January 2025

The Chang 8 oil group within the Luo 1 well area of Jiyuan Oilfield, situated in the Ordos Basin, exemplifies an ultra-low-permeability reservoir with an average permeability of 0.84 mD. Despite primary development efforts through acid fracturing, suboptimal recovery efficiency has been observed due to inadequate injection–production matching. To mitigate this issue and enhance reservoir utilization, a comprehensive understanding of sand body architecture is imperative. This study employs a detailed reservoir architecture element analysis approach, integrating core samples, thin-section petrography, and geophysical logging data. The objective is to elucidate the internal structure and heterogeneity of sand bodies, which significantly influence hydrocarbon recovery. Key findings reveal that the study area is characterized by a shallow-water deltaic depositional system, featuring three principal sedimentary microfacies: subaqueous distributary channels, sheet sands, and lacustrine muds. Notably, subaqueous distributary channel sand bodies dominate, forming composite units via lateral accretion or vertical stacking of 2–5 individual channels, with widths exceeding 2000 m. Individual distributary channels range from 83 to 535 m in width, exhibiting both isolated and stacked contact styles. Importantly, only 25.97% of channels demonstrate connectivity, underscoring the critical role of channel scale and continuity in ultra-low-permeability reservoir development. By addressing the previously identified gap in architectural configuration knowledge, this study contributes foundational data for future development improvements. In conclusion, the detailed characterization of reservoir architecture offers pivotal insights into tailoring development strategies that align with the specific characteristics of ultra-low-permeability reservoirs, thereby improving overall recovery rates.
Sugar Maple and Red Maple Face-Off: Which Produces More and Sweeter Sap?
Authors: Garfa Aya , Silvestro Roberto , Sassamoto Kurokawa Sara Yumi , Rossi Sergio , Deslauriers Annie , Lavoie Serge
Published: January 2025

Among the species used for syrup production, sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh.) is preferred by producers, while red maple (Acer rubrum L.) is considered less productive in terms of sap yield and sugar content. This study aims to measure the volume and physicochemical characteristics of the sap produced from two red maples and two sugar maples during the 2023 sugar season in a commercial sugarbush in Laterrière (QC, Canada). Sap exudation was measured continuously with the gravity method using automatic rain gauges. Sap production was discontinuous and heterogeneous, reaching 2.6 L during the most productive day. No significant difference was found in the daily production between species, but we observed a difference in the cumulative sap production (7 L in red maple vs. 13.5 L in sugar maple) due to a longer period of sap exudation in the latter. Despite daily variations in pH, Brix values, sucrose concentration, osmolality, and conductivity, no differences in physicochemical characteristics were detected between species.
AI- and Deep Learning-Powered Driver Drowsiness Detection Method Using Facial Analysis
Authors: Delwar Tahesin Samira , Singh Mangal , Mukhopadhyay Sayak , Kumar Akshay , Parashar Deepak , Lee Yangwon , Rahman Md Habibur , Sejan Mohammad Abrar Shakil , Ryu Jee Youl
Published: January 2025

The significant number of road traffic accidents caused by fatigued drivers presents substantial risks to the public’s overall safety. In recent years, there has been a notable convergence of intelligent cameras and artificial intelligence (AI), leading to significant advancements in identifying driver drowsiness. Advances in computer vision technology allow for the identification of driver drowsiness by monitoring facial expressions such as yawning, eye movements, and head movements. These physical indications, together with assessments of the driver’s physiological condition and behavior, aid in assessing fatigue and lowering the likelihood of drowsy driving-related incidents. This study presents an extensive variety of meticulously designed algorithms that were thoroughly analyzed to assess their effectiveness in detecting drowsiness. At the core of this attempt lay the essential concept of feature extraction, an efficient technique for isolating facial and ocular regions from a particular set of input images. Following this, various deep learning models, such as a traditional CNN, VGG16, and MobileNet, facilitated detecting drowsiness. Among these approaches, the MobileNet model was a valuable choice for drowsiness detection in drivers due to its real-time processing capability and suitability for deployment in resource-constrained environments, with the highest achieved accuracy of 92.75%.
Microbiological Quality and Safety of Raw Sheep Milks from Native Epirus Breeds: Selective Effects of Thermization on the Microbiota Surviving in Resultant Thermized Milks Intended for Traditional Greek Hard Cheese Production
Authors: Samelis John , Bosnea Loulouda , Kakouri Athanasia
Published: January 2025

Thermization is a sub-pasteurization heat treatment widely applied in traditional Greek hard cheese technologies. In this study, five bulk milk batches from two native Epirus sheep breeds were analyzed microbiologically before (raw milk; RM) and after thermization at 65 °C for 30 s (TM) followed by characterization of 125 presumptive LAB isolates from each of the counterpart RM and TM samples. Psychrotrophic Pseudomonas-like spoilage bacteria and mesophilic LAB, primarily of the genera Leuconostoc (48.4%) and Lactococcus/Streptococcus (32.8%), co-dominated in RM at mean levels 5.7–6.3 log CFU/mL, whereas thermophilic LAB, Enterococcus, Staphylococcus, coliforms, and yeasts were subdominant at mean levels 4.1 to 5.2 log CFU/mL. Coagulase-positive staphylococci were abundant (3–4 log CFU/mL) in all RM batches. Listeria monocytogenes was found in one batch. Both pathogens were diminished by thermization, which reduced all non-LAB contaminants below 100 CFU/mL. Enterococci (68.6%) were highly selected in all TM batches, followed by thermophilic streptococci (8.6%). Only 7.4% of the total RM microbiota survived in the resultant five TM batches. Leuconostoc showed the lowest (1.3%) survival. Thus, thermization improved the quality and safety of raw sheep milk, but reduced mesophilic LAB by ca. 2 log units in favor of enterococci in TM.
Open Microfluidic Cell Culture in Hydrogels Enabled by 3D-Printed Molds
Authors: O’Brien Madison , Spirrison Ashley N. , Abdul Halim Melati S. , Li Yulai , Neild Adrian , Gemrich Catherine , Nosrati Reza , Solorio Luis , Gong Max M.
Published: January 2025

Cell culture models with tissue-mimicking architecture enable thein vitro investigation of cellular behavior and cell–cell interactions. These models can recapitulate the structure and function of physiological systems and can be leveraged to elucidate mechanisms of disease. In this work, we developed a method to create open microfluidic cell cultures in vitro using 3D-printed molds. The method improves sample accessibility, is simpler to manufacture than traditional closed microfluidic cell culture systems and requires minimal specialized equipment, making it an attractive method for cell culture applications. Further, these molds can generate multiple tissue-mimicking structures in various hydrogels, including blood vessel mimics using endothelial cells (HUVECs). Various geometries were patterned into agarose, gelatin, and collagen type I hydrogels, including star-shaped wells, square wells, round wells, and open channels, to demonstrate the versatility of the approach. Open channels were created in collagen with diameters ranging from 400 µm to 4 mm and in multiple collagen densities ranging from 2 mg/mL to 4 mg/mL. To demonstrate the applicability of our approach for tissue modeling, blood vessel mimics were generated in open channels with diameters of 800 µm and 2 mm, with high cell viability (>89%) for both dimensions. The vessel mimics were used to study the effects of hypoxia on cell viability and CD31 expression by subjecting them to a reduced-O2 environment (∼16% O2). As compared to normoxia conditions, vessel mimics under hypoxia had a reduction in cell viability by 8.3% and CD31 surface expression by 7.4%. Overall, our method enables the generation of different geometries in hydrogels and the development of in vitro tissue mimics for biological applications.
Mechanobiological Approach for Intestinal Mucosal Immunology
Authors: Kim Hyeyun , Lee Se-Hui , Yang Jin-Young
Published: January 2025

The intestinal area is composed of diverse cell types that harmonize gut homeostasis, which is influenced by both endogenous and exogenous factors. Notably, the environment of the intestine is exposed to several types of mechanical forces, including shear stress generated by fluid flow, compression and stretch generated by luminal contents and peristaltic waves of the intestine, and stiffness attributed to the extracellular matrix. These forces play critical roles in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. Many efforts have been made to simulate the actual intestinal environment in vitro. The three-dimensional organoid culture system has emerged as a powerful tool for studying the mechanism of the intestinal epithelial barrier, mimicking rapidly renewing epithelium from intestinal stem cells (ISCs) in vivo. However, many aspects of how mechanical forces, such as shear stress, stiffness, compression, and stretch forces, influence the intestinal area remain unresolved. Here, we review the recent studies elucidating the impact of mechanical forces on intestinal immunity, interaction with the gut microbiome, and intestinal diseases.
Interaction Between Lipoprotein(a) and Other Lipid Molecules: A Review of the Current Literature
Authors: Sheashaa Hesham , Mousa Hana , Abbas Mohammed Tiseer , Farina Juan M. , Awad Kamal , Pereyra Milagros , Scalia Isabel G. , Ali Nima Baba , Javadi Niloofar , Bismee Nadera N. , Esfahani Sogol Attaripour , Ibrahim Omar , Abdelfattah Fatmaelzahraa , Ibrahim Ramzi , Abdelnabi Mahmoud , Ayoub Chadi , Arsanjani Reza
Published: January 2025

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a well-established causal risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), as reported by multiple Mendelian randomization studies and large epidemiological studies. When elevated Lp(a) is combined with other risk factors, most notably elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), a synergistic atherogenic effect has been reported. However, the current literature is conflicting regarding how Lp(a) interacts in the context of controlled LDL-C levels (e.g., <70 mg/dL) and whether reducing LDL-C can modify the atherogenic effect of Lp(a). In some studies, elevated Lp(a) was still significantly associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events, despite controlled levels of LDL-C. In contrast, multiple studies have reported attenuation of the cardiovascular risk mediated by elevated Lp(a) with lower LDL-C levels. Moreover, the relationship between Lp(a) and triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein, and very low-density lipoprotein remains unclear. In this literature review, we summarize and discuss the current evidence regarding the interactions between Lp(a) and other lipid molecules, how they contribute to the pathogenesis of CVD, and future perspectives, particularly in the current era where promising targeted Lp(a)-lowering therapies are under development.
Long-Term Efficacy of Carboxymethyl-Chitosan in Advanced Knee Osteoarthritis: A Twelve-Month Follow-Up Study on Non-Responders to Hyaluronic Acid
Authors: Manocchio Nicola , Pirri Carmelo , Ljoka Concetta , Sorbino Andrea , Piacentini Nicolò , Monello Cristiano , Vita Giulia , Foti Calogero
Published: January 2025

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease characterized by the degeneration of joint cartilage. Knee OA leads to pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased mobility, significantly impacting the quality of life of affected people. Advanced-stage osteoarthritis often necessitates surgical intervention due to poor response to conventional treatments, such as intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA). Carboxymethyl-chitosan (CM-C), an emerging therapeutic agent, has shown potential in reducing inflammation, improving lubrication, and enhancing joint function. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term efficacy of CM-C injections in patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis, non-responders to HA. Methods: This retrospective study included 16 patients (mean age: 79.56 years) with Kellgren–Lawrence grade 3–4 knee OA treated with a single intra-articular injection of CM-C. Pain and functional outcomes were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) at baseline (T0), one month (T1), three months (T2), six months (T3), and twelve months (T4). Results: Significant pain reduction was observed at early follow up, (VAS: T1 p = 0.0002, T2 p = 0.0265; KOOS Pain: T1 p = 0.0014). However, pain partially returned by T3 and T4. KOOS activities of daily living (p = 0.0005), QoL (p = 0.0396), and Sport and Free Time (p = 0.0367) subscales showed significant improvement at T1, though worsening trends were observed in subsequent follow up with raw values suggesting persistent benefits. Strong negative correlations were found between VAS and KOOS subscales at various follow ups. Conclusions: A single CM-C injection demonstrated early pain relief and functional improvement in advanced knee OA for non-responders to HA. However, the long-term effects may diminish over time, necessitating a careful consideration of re-treatment strategies or combined therapies.
Mantises Jump from Smooth Surfaces by Pushing with “Heel” Pads of Their Hind Legs
Authors: Goetzke Hanns Hagen , Burrows Malcolm , Federle Walter
Published: January 2025

Juvenile mantises can jump towards targets by rapidly extending their middle and hind legs. Here, we investigate how mantises can perform jumps from smooth surfaces such as those found on many plants. Stagmomantis theophila mantises possess two distinct types of attachment pads on each foot: three small proximal euplantulae (“heel pads”) with microscopic cuticular ridges and one smooth large distal pair of euplantulae (“toe pad”). Microscopy showed that the surface contact of heel pads is strongly load-dependent; at low normal forces, they make only partial surface contact due to the ridges, but at higher loads they switch to larger areas in full contact. By analysing the kinematics of 64 jumps of 23 third-instar nymphs from glass surfaces and the foot contact areas of their accelerating legs, we show that heel and toe pads fulfil distinct roles. During the acceleration phase of jumps, the contact area of the hind legs’ heel pads tripled, while that of the toe pad decreased strongly, and the toe pad sometimes detached completely before take-off. Although the middle legs also contribute to the jump, they showed a less consistent pattern; the contact areas of their heel and toe pads remained largely unchanged during acceleration. Our findings show that jumping mantises accelerate mainly by pushing with their hind legs and produce grip on smooth surfaces primarily with the heel pads on their proximal tarsus.
How Does Supportive Leadership Impact the Safety Behaviors of the New Generation of Construction Workers?
Authors: Cui Libing , Mo Junwen
Published: January 2025

Numerous other scholars have, from an organizational perspective, underscored that leadership styles, such as transformational and transactional leadership, are pivotal antecedents to the safety behaviors of construction workers. However, there is a lack of research exploring the relationship between leadership styles and the safety behaviors of this specific group of new-generation construction workers at the individual level. Relying upon social exchange theory, social cognitive theory, and contingency theory, this research explores the impact of supportive leadership—characterized by care and support—on the safety behaviors (safety compliance and safety participation) of new-generation construction workers. A comprehensive approach combining questionnaire surveys, confirmatory factor analysis, correlation tests, and linear regression was adopted. The results demonstrate that supportive leadership has a significant positive influence on the safety behaviors of new-generation construction workers. Moreover, safety self-efficacy partially mediates this relationship. Additionally, a positive team safety climate enhances the effect of supportive leadership on safety participation. This study provides a theoretical foundation for optimizing leadership styles to improve safety behaviors among new-generation construction workers and offers new insights into the nuanced application of leadership styles in construction safety management.
The Application and Optimization of a New Tunnel Ventilation Method for the Control Room of Electric Submersible Pump Systems on Jack-Up Offshore Platforms
Authors: Gao Tenghua , Li Menglin , Zhang Shunxin , Wu Yuwei , Zhang Yu , Wang Xiaoyu , Zeng Xiangfeng , Huang Shengxiang , Yang Wenyu
Published: January 2025

This study focused on the novel ventilation solution used in the control room of an electric submersible pump on a jack-up offshore platform, with the core objective of exploring the advantages of tunnel ventilation over the traditional ceiling-mounted ventilation system. At the beginning of the research, a three-dimensional physical model of the room’s air conditioning and ventilation system was constructed using Rhino 7 software. Subsequently, the computational fluid dynamics software Airpak 3.0 was employed to conduct detailed thermodynamic calculations on the model. Based on this, the study meticulously compared the performance of the two ventilation systems from multiple perspectives: one aspect examined the airflow and temperature distribution through temperature contour maps, velocity vector maps, and airflow streamlines; another focused on the comfort level of personnel, as reflected in the key indicators of the predicted mean vote and predicted percentage dissatisfied. The results demonstrated that tunnel ventilation is highly effective in reducing the indoor temperature and significantly improving personnel comfort. Further optimization analysis revealed that, under specific inlet conditions, namely when the inlet velocity reaches 1.16 m/s and the inlet temperature is 17 °C, the most ideal ventilation effect can be achieved, thereby fully and effectively meeting human thermal comfort requirements. Overall, the findings of this study not only provide a novel solution for the environmental control system design of offshore platforms but also lay a solid scientific foundation for continued exploration in related fields, offering a reliable reference for future research.
Energy Performance Study of a Data Center Combined Cooling System Integrated with Heat Storage and Waste Heat Recovery System
Authors: Zhou Chaohui , Hu Yue , Liu Rujie , Liu Yuce , Wang Meng , Luo Huiheng , Tian Zhiyong
Published: January 2025

The energy efficiency of data centers has become an urgent problem as it is enjoying rapid development. This study proposes an integrated energy system involving a data center with different renewable energy sources and waste heat recovery, which can consider the partial and unsteady working load of data center. A dynamic and sophisticated system simulation model is established, which can provide both reliable and fast evaluations but also allow flexible extension of additional components. It is found that the free natural resource cooling system can cover about 28% of cooling demand. Compared to the reference condition, the proposed energy system achieves significant energy-saving benefits, with an energy-saving rate of 16.4%. The system COP increases from 3.88 to 4.64, and the PUE decreases from 1.36 to 1.30, resulting in a 23.45% reduction in electricity expenses. By integrating a waste heat recovery system, the heat pump can absorb approximately 3.57 million kWh of heat from the data center, providing approximately 4.587 million kWh of heating energy for users. The rooftop PV system generates approximately 370,000 kWh of electricity annually, covering approximately 8% of the total electricity consumption of the data center. This study can offer a new channel for the energy efficiency enhancement of data centers.
Parametric Optimization of Concentrated Photovoltaic-Phase Change Material as a Thermal Energy Source for Buildings
Authors: Shah Ali Hasan , Hassan Ahmed , Abdelbaqi Shaimaa , Alnoman Hamza , Fardoun Abbas , Haggag Mahmoud , Noor Mutassim , Laghari Mohammad Shakeel
Published: January 2025

A concentrated photovoltaic system is evaluated as a thermal energy source employing phase change material to meet the domestic water heating demand. A paraffin wax-based phase change material is selected with a 58 °C melting point to store enough thermal energy to match the hot water demand in the buildings. The energy performance of the concentrated photovoltaics containing phase change materials is compared to that of the reference to determine the increased energy outputs due to the heat removal by the material. The concentrated photovoltaics-phase change material achieved 30% higher energy output compared to the reference concentrated photovoltaic, thus providing a strong justification for the improved thermal management design. An enthalpy-based thermal model is developed to compare the experimental results with model predictions, confirming a reasonable agreement between the results. The model is used determine the optimum melting point and container size for different phase change materials under different radiation concentrations for the hot climate of the United Arab Emirates.
Peak Assessment and Driving Factor Analysis of Residential Building Carbon Emissions in China’s Urban Agglomerations
Authors: Huang Haiyan , Liao Fanhao , Liu Zhihui , Cao Shuangping , Zhang Congguang , Yao Ping
Published: January 2025

Urban agglomerations, as hubs of population, economic activity, and energy consumption, significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The interconnected infrastructure, energy networks, and shared economic systems of these regions create complex emission dynamics that cannot be effectively managed through isolated city-level strategies. However, these regions also present unique opportunities for innovation, policy implementation, and resource optimization, making them crucial focal points in efforts to reduce carbon emissions. This study examines China’s three major urban agglomerations: the Yangtze River Delta, the Pearl River Delta, and the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region. Utilizing data from 2005 to 2020 and a comprehensive evaluation model (BCPCAM), the research offers more profound insights into the socio-economic factors and collaborative mechanisms influencing emission trends, facilitating the development of targeted strategies for sustainable development and carbon neutrality. The findings indicate that (1) economic development and carbon control can progress synergistically to some extent, as economically advanced cities like Beijing and Shanghai have achieved their carbon peaks earlier; (2) natural resource endowment significantly affects urban carbon emissions, with resource-rich cities such as Tangshan and Handan, where fossil fuels dominate the energy mix, facing considerable challenges in reducing emissions; and (3) notable differences exist in the growth patterns of carbon emissions between urban and rural buildings, underscoring the need for tailored carbon reduction policies.
YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA Binding Protein 1 Inhibits Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotypic Modulation and Neointimal Hyperplasia
Authors: Tian Kai , Cai Dunpeng , Yang Shuang , Zhao Wen , Mei Xiaohan , Chen Shi-You
Published: January 2025

Smooth muscle cell (SMC) phenotypic transition contributes to several major vascular diseases such as intimal hyperplasia and restenosis, atherosclerosis, and aneurysm. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this process are not fully understood. The objectives of this study are to determine the role of mRNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in SMC phenotypic modulation and injury-induced neointima formation. By using an m6A quantification kit, we found that m6A levels are altered during the early stage of SMC phenotypic modulation. RNA sequencing revealed that m6A modifications in the mRNAs of 708 genes are elevated while modifications in the mRNAs of 300 genes are decreased. These modifications occur in genes widely distributed in most chromosomes and involved in many cellular processes and signaling/gene regulations. Meanwhile, the regulators for m6A modifications are altered by PDGF-BB, a known factor inducing SMC phenotypic modulation. Although m6A writers and erasers are not altered during SMC phenotypic modulation, m6A reader YTHDF1 is dramatically reduced as early as 12 h following PDGF-BB treatment, a time much earlier than the downregulation of SMC contractile proteins. Importantly, the overexpression of YTHDF1 reverses the expression of SMC contractile proteins, suggesting a restoration of contractile SMC phenotype. By using a rat carotid artery balloon-injury model, we found that injury significantly decreases YTHDF1 levels in the medial SMCs while inducing neointima formation. Of significance, restoring YTHDF1 expression through lentiviral transduction blocks injury-induced neointima formation. Moreover, YTHDF1 delivery restores the expression of SMC contractile proteins that is diminished in arterial media layers due to the injury. These data demonstrate that YTHDF1 plays a protective role in maintaining the contractile SMC phenotype and vascular homeostasis during injury-induced pathological vascular remodeling.
Altered ATP13A2/PARK9 Levels Influence α-Synuclein Accumulation in Neurons via Phagocytosis and Secretion in Glial Cells
Authors: Tsunemi Taiji , Ishiguro Yuta , Yoroisaka Asako , Feng Dou , Hattori Nobutaka
Published: January 2025

(1) Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by the pathological accumulation of α-synuclein (α-syn) containing Lewy bodies (LBs) and Lewy neurites (LNs) within neurons. Growing evidence indicates that α-syn may propagate throughout the nervous system in a manner similar to prion-like transmission. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) may contribute to this pathway. We and others have reported that ATP13A2/PARK9 deficiency results in decreased EVs while its overexpression leads to increased EV generation. For analyzing EV-mediated α-syn secretion in neighboring neurons, we planned to alter Atp13a2 levels in vivo. (2) Methods: Three months after inoculating mouse α-syn fibrils into the striatum of Atp13a2-null and wild-type mice, we stained brain sections with anti-phosphorylated α-syn antibodies and then quantified LBs/LNs. We also examined the effect of increased levels of ATP13A2 by injecting lentivirus carrying human ATP13A2. Finally, we used cultured astrocytes and microglia for α-syn uptake and release, which were mediated by EVs. (3) Results: While LBs/LNs were formed in the entire brains, no significant difference was observed in LB/LN formation between Atp13a2-deficient and wild-type mice. Interestingly, the overexpression of ATP13A2 led to decreased LB/LN formation in the entire brains. Microglia and astrocytes released EVs more than neurons. EVs released from microglia and astrocytes contained more α-syn PFFs than those from neurons. (4) Conclusions: These results suggest that enhanced EV secretion by increased ATP13A2 levels attenuate the spreading of α-syn in brains, suggesting a protective role of ATP13A2 in α-synucleinopathies
Phosphodiesterase 4 Inhibition in Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Chen Jiming , Zhu Zhengyao , Xu Fu , Dou Baomin , Sheng Zhutao , Xu Ying
Published: January 2025

Cognitive disorders and psychiatric pathologies, particularly Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Major depressive disorder (MDD), represent a considerable health burden, impacting millions of people in the United States and worldwide. Notably, comorbidities of MDD and anxiety are prevalent in the early stages of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which is the preceding phase of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD). The symptoms of MDD and anxiety affect up to 80% of individuals in the advanced stages of the neurodegenerative conditions. Despite overlapping clinical manifestations, the pathogenesis of AD/ADRD and MDD remains inadequately elucidated. Until now, dozens of drugs for treating AD/ADRD have failed in clinical trials because they have not proven beneficial in reversing or preventing the progression of these neuropsychiatric indications. This underscores the need to identify new drug targets that could reverse neuropsychiatric symptoms and delay the progress of AD/ADRD. In this context, phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) arises as a primary enzyme in the modulation of cognition and mood disorders, particularly through its enzymatic action on cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and its downstream anti-inflammatory pathways. Despite the considerable cognitive and antidepressant potential of PDE4 inhibitors, their translation into clinical practice is hampered by profound side effects. Recent studies have focused on the effects of PDE4 and its subtype-selective isoform inhibitors, aiming to delineate their precise mechanistic contributions to neuropsychiatric symptoms with greater specificity. This review aims to analyze the current advances regarding PDE4 inhibition—specifically the selective targeting of its isoforms and elucidate the therapeutic implications of enhanced cAMP signaling and the consequent anti-inflammatory responses in ameliorating the symptomatology associated with AD and ADRD.
Promising Cellular Immunotherapy for Colorectal Cancer Using Classical Dendritic Cells and Natural Killer T Cells
Authors: Singer Mahmoud , Valerin Jennifer , Zhang Zhuoli , Zhang Zigeng , Dayyani Farshid , Yaghmai Vahid , Choi April , Imagawa David , Abi-Jaoudeh Nadine
Published: January 2025

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality around the world. Despite advances in surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies, the prognosis for patients with metastatic or advanced CRC remains poor. Immunotherapies comprising immune checkpoint inhibitors showed disappointing responses in metastatic CRC (mCRC). However, cellular immunotherapy, specifically using classical dendritic cells (cDCs), may hold unique promise in immune recognition for CRC antigens. cDCs are substantial players in immune recognition and are instrumental in orchestrating innate and adaptive immune responses by processing and presenting tumor antigens to effector cells. Natural killer T (NKT) cells are insufficiently studied but unique effector cells because of their ability to bridge innate and adaptive immune reactions and the crosstalk with dendritic cells in cancer. This review explores the therapeutic potential of using both cDCs and NKT cells as a synergistic therapy in CRC, focusing on their biological roles, strategies for harnessing their capabilities, clinical applications, and the challenges within the tumor microenvironment. Both cDCs and NKT cells can be used as a new effective approach for cell-based therapies in cancers to provide a new hope for CRC patients that are challenging to treat.
Role of GPCR Signaling in Anthracycline-Induced Cardiotoxicity
Authors: Biswal Nimish , Harish Ritika , Roshan Minahil , Samudrala Sathvik , Jiao Xuanmao , Pestell Richard G. , Ashton Anthony W.
Published: January 2025

Anthracyclines are a class of chemotherapeutics commonly used to treat a range of cancers. Despite success in improving cancer survival rates, anthracyclines have dose-limiting cardiotoxicity that prevents more widespread clinical utility. Currently, the therapeutic options for these patients are limited to the iron-chelating agent dexrazoxane, the only FDA-approved drug for anthracycline cardiotoxicity. However, the clinical use of dexrazoxane has failed to replicate expectations from preclinical studies. A limited list of GPCRs have been identified as pathogenic in anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity, including receptors (frizzled, adrenoreceptors, angiotensin II receptors) previously implicated in cardiac remodeling in other pathologies. The RNA sequencing of iPSC-derived cardiac myocytes from patients has increased our understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms driving cardiotoxicity. These data identified changes in the expression of novel GPCRs, heterotrimeric G proteins, and the regulatory pathways that govern downstream signaling. This review will capitalize on insights from these experiments to explain aspects of disease pathogenesis and cardiac remodeling. These data provide a cornucopia of possible unexplored potential pathways by which we can reduce the cardiotoxic side effects, without compromising the anti-cancer effects, of doxorubicin and provide new therapeutic options to improve the recovery and quality of life for patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Low-Temperature, Highly Sensitive Ammonia Sensors Based on Nanostructured Copper Iodide Layers
Authors: Petrushenko Sergey I. , Fijalkowski Mateusz , Adach Kinga , Fedonenko Denis , Shepotko Yevhenii M. , Dukarov Sergei V. , Sukhov Volodymyr M. , Khrypunova Alina L. , Klochko Natalja P.
Published: January 2025

Chemiresistive ammonia gas sensors with a low limit of detection of 0.15 ppm and moisture-independent characteristics based on p-type copper iodide (CuI) semiconductor films have been developed. CuI films were deposited on glass and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates using a Successive Ionic Layer Adsorption and Reaction method to fabricate CuI/glass and CuI/PET gas sensors, respectively. They have a nanoscale morphology, an excess iodine and sulfur impurity content, a zinc blende γ-CuI crystal structure with a grain size of ~34 nm and an optical band gap of about 2.95 eV. The high selective sensitivity of both sensors to NH3 is explained by the formation of the [Cu(NH3)2]+ complex. At 5 °C, the responses to 3 ppm ammonia in air in terms of the relative resistance change were 24.5 for the CuI/glass gas sensor and 28 for the CuI/PET gas sensor, with short response times of 50 s to 210 s and recovery times of 10–70 s. The sensors have a fast response–recovery and their performance was well maintained after long-term stability testing for 45 days. After 1000 repeated bends of the flexible CuI/PET gas sensor in different directions, with bending angles up to 180° and curvature radii up to 0.25 cm, the response changes were only 3%.
Mother–Infant Dyadic Neural Synchrony Measured Using EEG Hyperscanning and Validated Using Behavioral Measures
Authors: Neel Mary Lauren , Jeanvoine Arnaud , Kjeldsen Caitlin P. , Maitre Nathalie L.
Published: January 2025

Background/objective: Greater parent–infant synchrony is associated with improved child outcomes. Behavioral measures of synchrony are still developing in young infants; thus, researchers need tools to quantify synchrony between parents and their young infants. We examined parent–infant neural synchrony measured using dual EEG hyperscanning and associations between neural synchrony, infant behavioral measures of synchrony, and maternal bondedness and depression. Methods: Our prospective cohort study included mother–infant dyads at 2–4 months of age. We collected time-locked dual EEG recordings of mother and infant and simultaneous video-recordings during a scaffolded interaction where the mother sequentially layered sensory modalities to the interaction. Neural synchrony measured using EEG hyperscanning was analyzed using the circular correlation coefficient (CCorr), infant behavioral synchrony was measured using the validated Welch Emotional Connection Screen (WECS) scores, and maternal bondedness and depression were measured using standardized questionnaires. Results: Our study included n = 47 dyads. Dyadic CCorr increased across the interaction as the mother added tactile stimulation to visual stimulation. We also found associations between behavioral and neural measures of dyadic synchrony such that infants with higher scores on behavioral measures of emotional connection on the WECS showed greater increases in CCorr indicative of dyadic synchrony with their mother across this interaction. We found no associations between neural synchrony and maternal bondedness or depression. Conclusion: These findings support the construct validity of mother–infant dyadic neural synchrony measured using EEG hyperscanning and analyzed using CCorr. Opportunities for future research on quantification of neural synchrony between parents and young infants abound.