bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease Show Fewer Sex-Related Differences in Their Dietary Behavior Than the General Population: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Pueschel Lea , Kockelmann Fabian , Kueck Momme , Tegtbur Uwe , Attaran-Bandarabadi Masoumeh , Bachmann Oliver , Wedemeyer Heiner , Lenzen Henrike , Wiestler Miriam
Published: September 2024

Background: Since diet is generally recognized as an important factor directly modulating the gut microbiome, it is also considered a potential environmental triggering factor for the pathogenesis and onset of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While the habitual and sex-related dietary behavior of the general population has been the subject of extensive study and reporting, data on IBD patients’ dietary behavior and especially its sex-related differences are underrepresented. However, as diet is an important factor in the course of IBD, we hypothesized that men and women with IBD have a different dietary profile than the general population. Methods: We performed a cohort analysis of a monocentric, cross-sectional study and compared the sex-related dietary behavior of 82 IBD patients (n = 40 women) to a sex- and age-matched cohort of the general German population [n = 328 (n = 160 women)]. Further on, disease-related quality of life and fecal calprotectin were correlated to the IBD patients’ dietary behavior. Results: While sex-related dietary behavior was frequently of statistical difference in the general population within the IBD cohort, only minor numerical differences were observed between the sexes, which were rarely statistically significant. However, correlation analyses of disease-related quality of life (IBDQ) and diet revealed significant differences in male IBD patients but not in female IBD patients (p = 0.007; r = 0.409 for energy intake (kJ/d); p = 0.003, r = 0.449 for adherence to Mediterranean diet). Conclusion: The dietary behavior of IBD patients showed more similarity between the sexes than the general German population. Distinct sex-related trends and differences in correlation with disease parameters demonstrated a significant difference for an adaptive dietary behavior, especially in IBD men.
Nutritional Management of Pediatric Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders
Authors: Jackman Lucy , Arpe Lauren , Thapar Nikhil , Rybak Anna , Borrelli Osvaldo
Published: September 2024

Normal and optimal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract is paramount to ensure optimal nutrition through digestion, absorption and motility function. Disruptions in these functions can lead to adverse physiological symptoms, reduced quality of life and increased nutritional risk. When disruption or dysfunction of neuromuscular function occurs, motility disorders can be classified depending on whether coordination or strength/velocity of peristalsis are predominantly impacted. However, due to their nonspecific presenting symptoms and overlap with sensory disruption, they are frequently misdiagnosed as disorders of the gut–brain interaction. Motility disorders are a prevalent issue in the pediatric population, with management varying from medical therapy to psychological therapy, dietary manipulation, surgical intervention or a multimodal approach. This narrative review aims to discuss the dietary management of common pediatric motility disorders including gastroesophageal reflux, esophageal atresia, achalasia, gastroparesis, constipation, and the less common but most severe motility disorder, pediatric intestinal pseudo-obstruction.
Mechanistic Models of Influenza Transmission in Commercial Swine Populations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pittman Ratterree Dana C. , Dass Sapna Chitlapilly , Ndeffo-Mbah Martial L.
Published: September 2024

Influenza in commercial swine populations leads to reduced gain in fattening pigs and reproductive issues in sows. This literature review aims to analyze the contributions of mathematical modeling in understanding influenza transmission and control among domestic swine. Twenty-two full-text research articles from seven databases were reviewed, categorized into swine-only (n = 13), swine–avian (n = 3), and swine–human models (n = 6). Strains of influenza models were limited to H1N1 (n = 7) and H3N2 (n = 1), with many studies generalizing the disease as influenza A. Half of the studies (n = 14) considered at least one control strategy, with vaccination being the primary investigated strategy. Vaccination was shown to reduce disease prevalence in single animal cohorts. With a continuous flow of new susceptible animals, such as in farrow-to-finish farms, it was shown that influenza became endemic despite vaccination strategies such as mass or batch-to-batch vaccination. Human vaccination was shown to be effective at mitigating human-to-human influenza transmission and to reduce spillover events from pigs. Current control strategies cannot stop influenza in livestock or prevent viral reassortment in swine, so mechanistic models are crucial for developing and testing new biosecurity measures to prevent future swine pandemics.
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome Outbreak Anticipation by a Rapid Synchronous Increase in Rodent Abundance in the Northwestern Argentina Endemic Region: Towards an Early Warning System for Disease Based on Climate and Rodent Surveillance Data
Authors: Ferro Ignacio , Lopez Walter , Cassinelli Flavia , Aguirre Sara , Cuyckens Griet A. E. , Kehl Sebastián , Abán-Moreyra Daira , Castillo Paola , Bellomo Carla , Gil José , Martinez Valeria P.
Published: September 2024

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is an American emerging disease caused by the rodent-borne virus genus Orthohantavirus (Family: Hantaviridae: Order: Elliovirales Class: Bunyaviricetes). In Argentina, almost half of the HPS infections occur in the northwestern endemic region. In this study, we monitored rodent abundance during 2022 and 2023 in three sites with different sampling methods (removal trapping, live trapping and hunted rodents by domestic cats) to evaluate their relationship with human infections. We found a similar pattern of variation in rodent abundance across time, and particularly a synchronous rise of rodent abundance that anticipated an HPS outbreak in 2023. Our dynamic regression models revealed a positive relationship between HPS cases and rodent abundance with a three-month lag, as well as rainfall with an eight-month lag. Our results provide a framework for the planning and implementation of public health prevention campaigns based on climatology and rodent monitoring. Domestic cats bringing rodents into houses can be an overlooked risk factor, particularly if viral shedding of infected rodents is magnified by stress. HPS is a disease of public health concern due to its high mortality rate, the lack of a specific therapeutic treatment and no vaccine. Thus, prevention of infections is of the utmost importance.
Knockdown and Overexpression Experiments to Investigate the Inhibitory Mechanism of Fuzheng Xiaozheng Prescription, an Effective Chinese Herbal Formula for the Clinical Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Li Xia , Chen Xiaofeng , Yu Han , Huang Renwei , Wu Peijie , Gong Yanju , Chen Xiping , Liu Chao
Published: September 2024

Fuzheng Xiaozheng prescription (FZXZP) is an effective formula for the treatment of different kinds of chronic liver diseases. However, its potential molecular mechanisms in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have not been investigated thoroughly. The aim of this study is to elucidate the targets and intrinsic mechanisms of FZXZP and their active components for the treatment of HCC. The efficacy of FZXZP against HCC was clarified through a rat HCC model and HCC cell culture. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were utilized to predict the mechanism of action and effector components of FZXZP. The key mechanism and targets were verified by the construction of overexpression and knockout cell models. The results showed that FZXZP greatly delayed the development of HCC in vivo experiments, as evidenced by biochemical evaluations, H&E analyses and growth inhibition of HCC. FZXZP dramatically inhibited cell viability and proliferative capacity and induced the apoptosis of hepatoma cells in vitro. Moreover, network pharmacology analyses demonstrated that the EGFR family and apoptosis-related targets were found to be the most significant in bioinformatics analysis. Furthermore, the EGFR/STAT3 signal axis might be the most likely target of FZXZP in anti-HCC due to the fact that it could be down-regulated by FZXZP with an upward trend of Bax, Caspase-3, Caspase-8, Caspase-9 and an inverse trend of Bcl2. Importantly, the above targeted signal axis was finally validated by our knockdown and overexpression analyses. Meanwhile, flow cytometry and TUNEL staining also revealed that FZXZP significantly induced apoptosis in the EGFR-overexpressing HCC cell line. The molecular docking results revealed that the key effector components of FZXZP that exerted the above regulatory roles were wogonin and glycitein. All of these results suggest that FZXZP could significantly delay HCC development by inhibiting proliferation and promoting apoptosis of HCC cells, and the EGFR/STAT3 signal axis might be a critical signal axis of FZXZP in suppressing HCC progression.
Development and Validation of a Simple UV–HPLC Method to Quantify the Memantine Drug Used in Alzheimer’s Treatment
Authors: Nunes Débora , Tavares Tânia G. , Malcata Frenacisco Xavier , Loureiro Joana A. , Pereira Maria Carmo
Published: September 2024

Memantine, a non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist, is used to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, loading memantine in nanoparticles (NPs) could be an essential tool to improve the treatment effectiveness while reducing drug toxicity. Even though some approaches have been described to quantify memantine, none reported optimized methods using high-performance liquid chromatography resorting to ultraviolet detection (UV–HPLC) to determine encapsulation in NPs. The present research developed a HPLC method using pre-column derivatization for quantitatively analyzing memantine hydrochloride in NPs. Memantine was derivatized using 9-fluorenylmethyl chloroformate (FMOC). The developed method was fully validated regarding suitability, specificity, linearity, sensitivity, precision, accuracy, and robustness according to the International Conference on Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use guidelines. The retention time of memantine was 11.393 ± 0.003 min, with a mean recovery of 92.9 ± 3.7%. The new chromatographic method was validated and found to respond linearly over 5–140 μg/mL, with a high coefficient of determination. Intraday precision lay between 3.6% and 4.6%, and interday precision between 4.2% and 9.3%. The stability of memantine was also tested at 4 °C and −20 °C, and no signs of decay were found for up to 6 months. The new method was properly validated and proved simple, sensitive, specific, accurate, and precise for determining memantine encapsulation efficiency in lipid NPs. Greenness was evaluated, presenting a final score of 0.45. In the future, this methodology could also be applied to quantify memantine in different nanoformulations.
Development of a Formulation and In Vitro Evaluation of a Pulmonary Drug Delivery System for a Novel Janus Kinase (JAK) Inhibitor, CPL409116
Authors: Rzewińska Aleksandra , Szlęk Jakub , Dąbrowski Damian , Juszczyk Ewelina , Mróz Katarzyna , Räikkönen Heikki , Siven Mia , Wieczorek Maciej , Dorożyński Przemysław
Published: September 2024

The pursuit of targeted therapies for cytokine-dependent diseases has led to the discovery of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, a promising class of drugs. Among them, CPL409116, a selective dual JAK and rho-associated protein kinase inhibitor (ROCK), has demonstrated potential for treating conditions such as pulmonary fibrosis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study investigated the feasibility of delivering CPL409116 via inhalation, with the aim of minimizing the systemic adverse effects associated with oral administration. Two micronization methods, jet milling and spray drying, were assessed for CPL409116, with spray drying chosen for its ability to produce an amorphous form of the compound. Moreover, parameters such as the mixing energy, drug load, and force control agent significantly influenced the fine particle fraction (FPF), a critical parameter for pulmonary drug delivery. This study provides insights into optimizing the formulation parameters to enhance the delivery efficiency of CPL409116 to the lungs, offering potential for improved therapeutic outcomes in cytokine-dependent pulmonary diseases.
Species-Specific Responses of Bloom-Forming Algae to the Ocean Warming and Acidification
Authors: Wu Hailong , Cheng Fangsheng , Chen Jiang , Li He , Xu Juntian , He Peimin , Li Sufang
Published: September 2024

Macroalgal biomass blooms, including those causing the green and golden tides, have been rising along Chinese coasts, resulting in considerable social impacts and economic losses. To understand the links between the ongoing climate changes (ocean warming and acidification) and algal tide formation, the effects of temperature (20 and 24 °C), pCO2 concentration (Partial Pressure of Carbon Dioxide, 410 ppm and 1000 ppm) and their interaction on the growth of Ulva prolifera and Ulva lactuca (green tide forming species), as well as Sargassum horneri (golden tide forming species) were investigated. The results indicate that the concurrent rises in temperature and pCO2 level significantly boosted the growth and nutrient uptake rates of U. lactuca. For U. prolifera, the heightened growth and photosynthetic efficiency under higher CO2 conditions are likely due to the increased availability of inorganic carbon. In contrast, S. horneri exhibited negligible responsiveness to the individual and combined effects of the increased temperature and CO2 concentration. These outcomes indicate that the progressive climate changes, characterized by ocean warming and acidification, are likely to escalate the incidence of green tides caused by Ulva species, whereas they are not anticipated to precipitate golden tides.
Integration of Diffusion Transformer and Knowledge Graph for Efficient Cucumber Disease Detection in Agriculture
Authors: Li Ruiheng , Su Xiaotong , Zhang Hang , Zhang Xiyan , Yao Yifan , Zhou Shutian , Zhang Bohan , Ye Muyang , Lv Chunli
Published: September 2024

In this study, a deep learning method combining knowledge graph and diffusion Transformer has been proposed for cucumber disease detection. By incorporating the diffusion attention mechanism and diffusion loss function, the research aims to enhance the model’s ability to recognize complex agricultural disease features and to address the issue of sample imbalance efficiently. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms existing deep learning models in cucumber disease detection tasks. Specifically, the method achieved a precision of 93%, a recall of 89%, an accuracy of 92%, and a mean average precision (mAP) of 91%, with a frame rate of 57 frames per second (FPS). Additionally, the study successfully implemented model lightweighting, enabling effective operation on mobile devices, which supports rapid on-site diagnosis of cucumber diseases. The research not only optimizes the performance of cucumber disease detection, but also opens new possibilities for the application of deep learning in the field of agricultural disease detection.
The Migration, Diversity, and Evolution of Puccinia triticina in China
Authors: Zhang Lin , Zhao Panpan , Meng Qingfang , Yan Hongfei , Liu Daqun
Published: September 2024

Wheat leaf rust, caused by Puccinia triticina, is one of the most common fungal diseases of wheat in China and occurs widely in various wheat-growing regions. To clarify the epidemic, spread rules, and population structure of P. triticina among different regions, 217 isolates of P. triticina collected from Hebei, Shandong, Sichuan, and Xinjiang in China were tested by 34 Thatcher near-isogenic lines and 21 pairs of EST-SSR primers. A total of 83 races were identified, and THTT, PHTT, THTS, and PHJT were the most predominant races in the four provinces in 2009. We found enriched virulence and genetic diversity in the four P. triticina populations and a significant correlation between genetic polymorphism and geographic regions. However, no significant correlation was found between virulence phenotypes and molecular genotypes. Moreover, a notable high level of gene flow (Nm = 2.82 > 1) among four P. triticina populations was detected. The genetic relationship among Hebei, Shandong, and Sichuan populations was close, possibly due to the spread of P. triticina from Sichuan to Shandong and then to Hebei. In contrast, the Xinjiang population was relatively independent. Genetic differentiation analysis showed some level of differentiation among or within populations of P. triticina in the four provinces, and the genetic variation within populations (74.97%) was higher than across populations (25.03%). Our study provides a basis for a better understanding of the regional migration, epidemic, and population structure of P. triticina in China.
Aquatic Plants in Ponds at the Brdo Estate (Slovenia) Show Changes in 20 Years
Authors: Germ Mateja , Bajc Tomšič Monika , Zelnik Igor , Ojdanič Nik , Golob Aleksandra
Published: September 2024

Ponds are important habitats for aquatic plants and other biota, particularly in regions where the quality of aquatic ecosystems is deteriorating or even disappearing. Ponds provide refuge for many species and serve as foraging places for others. The ponds studied are located in the Brdo Estate and are under special protection to maintain their educational and other ecosystem services. This study examined the temporal differences (20 years) of the plant communities in eleven ponds concerning eutrophication and/or other human pressures. Various measurements were taken between the two surveys to improve the quality of inflowing water. The selected ponds’ physical and chemical parameters, water depth, and transparency were measured. According to our results, water transparency and temperature significantly shaped the structure of the plant community and significantly influenced the presence and abundance of aquatic plants. The changes were reflected in the disappearance of four species of the genus Potamogeton, namely P. filiformis, P. lucens, P. pectinatus, and P. trichoides, which were recorded in 2001 but not in 2021. Secondly, the average number of plant species in the ponds has slightly increased in 20 years, mainly due to emergent plants. The construction of wastewater treatment plants in the catchment area prevented the eutrophication processes.
Potentially Toxic Elements Uptake and Distribution in Betula middendorffii T. and Duschekia fruticosa R. Growing on Diamond Mining Area (Yakutia, Russia)
Authors: Gololobova Anna , Legostaeva Yana
Published: September 2024

This study was conducted in the territory of the industrial site of the Udachny Mining and Processing Division (Yakutia, Russia). The objects of study were permafrost soils and two species of shrubs (Betula middendorffii T. and Duschekia fruticose R.). Soil and plant samples were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry for the presence of potentially toxic elements (Pb, Ni, Mn, Cd, Co, Co, Cr, Zn, Cu, and As). The bioaccumulation factor for each element was also calculated. In the studied plants, the investigated elements were arranged in the following descending row in terms of their content: Mn > Zn > Cr > Ni > Cu > Pb > As > Co > Cd, but in terms of bioaccumulation degree, they decrease in the following row: Cr > Zn > Ni > Mn > Pb > Cu > Cd > Co—for Betula middendorffii, Cr > Zn > Ni > Pb > Cu > Mn > Mn > Cd > Co—for Duschekia fruticose. The bioaccumulation factor results confirmed that Betula middendorffiii and Duschekia fruticosa are resistant to high concentrations of Cr, Ni, Co, Cu, Mn, and Zn elements coherent to kimberlites.
Taxonomic Revision of Genus Ephedra Tourn. ex L. in Egypt with Intra-Gender Diversity in Morphometric Traits and Fatty Acid Composition
Authors: Khalaf Maha H. , Amer Wafaa M. , Shaye Najla A. Al , Hassan Mahmoud O. , Gomaa Nasr H.
Published: September 2024

The genus Ephedra Tourn. ex L. (Ephedraceae) still exhibits taxonomic complexity that has not yet been resolved. This study aimed to determine the taxonomic identity of the Ephedra species in Egypt and identify the fatty acid profile and its diversity at the gender level as a taxonomic tool for specimens lacking reproductive cones. The current study provides a pioneering approach that distinguishes Ephedra species at the gender level. A total of 120 fresh individuals were collected from 20 locations representing different habitats where Ephedra plants grow in Egypt. In addition, herbarium specimens were deposited in Egyptian herbaria. The studied morphological traits included 30 vegetative characteristics and 72 traits of the reproductive organs of both genders. The fatty acid content was measured using gas–mass chromatography (GC-Mass). The taxonomic revision revealed that the Genus Ephedra was represented in the Egyptian flora by five species, Ephedra alata in section Alatae and E. aphylla, E. ciliata, E. foemina, and E. pachyclada in section Ephedra. South Sinai hosts these five species and represents the center of diversity for this genus in Egypt. The vegetative characteristics were subjected to principal component analysis (PCA), which revealed a distinct separation of the five studied species. Similarly, the cone traits treated by hierarchical clustering revealed intra-gender variations. The taxonomic key was developed based on the morphological traits to distinguish the studied species at the gender level. In total, 51 fatty acids were identified from the studied species and grouped as 18 saturated, 16 monounsaturated, and 17 polyunsaturated fatty acids. In the absence of reproductive cones, the lipid content and fatty acid composition of the vegetative parts displayed significant interspecific and intra-gender variations. Therefore, fatty acids can be used to efficiently identify the studied species when they lack reproductive cones. This study proved the efficacy of a multidisciplinary approach to identify Ephedra species at the gender level and recommends this trend for future studies of this genus.
Bioassessment of Cd and Pb at Multiple Growth Stages of Wheat Grown in Texturally Different Soils Using Diffusive Gradients in Thin Films and Traditional Extractants: A Comparative Study
Authors: Shaghaleh Hiba , Rana Sana , Zia-ur-Rehman Muhammad , Usman Muhammad , Ali Mujahid , Alharby Hesham F. , Majrashi Ali , Alamri Amnah M. , Abu Zeid Isam M. , Alhaj Hamoud Yousef
Published: September 2024

The bioavailability of heavy metals in soil is a crucial factor in determining their potential uptake by plants and their subsequent entry into the food chain. Various methods, including traditional chemical extractants and the diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) technique, are employed to assess this bioavailability. The bioavailability of heavy metals, particularly cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb), is also influenced by soil texture and their concentrations in the soil solution. The primary objectives of this experiment were to compare and correlate the assessment of the Cd and Pb bioavailability using the DGT technique and traditional extractants across two soil textural classes: sandy clay loam (SCL) and clay loam (CL) at two contamination levels: aged contaminated (NC) and artificially contaminated (AC). The specific objectives included assessing the bioavailability of Cd and Pb at different growth stages of the wheat plant and correlating the DGT-based bioassessments of Cd and Pb with their concentrations in various plant parts at different growth stages. This study also compared the effectiveness of the DGT method and traditional extraction techniques in assessing the bioavailable fractions of Cd and Pb in soil. The regression analysis demonstrated strong positive correlations between the DGT method and various extraction methods. The results showed that the wheat plants grown in the AC soils exhibited lower root, shoot, and grain weights compared to those grown in the NC soils, indicating that metal contamination negatively impacts plant performance. The concentrations of Cd and Pb in the wheat tissues varied across different growth stages, with the highest levels observed during the grain filling (S3) and maturity (S4) stages. It is concluded that the in situ assessment of Cd and Pb though DGT was strongly and positively correlated with the Cd and Pb concentration in wheat plant parts at the maturity stage. A correlation and regression analysis of the DGT assessment and traditional extractants showed that the DGT method provides a reliable tool for assessing the bioavailability of Cd and Pb in soils and helped in developing sustainable soil management strategies to ensure the safety of agricultural products for human consumption.
Successive Years of Rice Straw Return Increased the Rice Yield and Soil Nutrients While Decreasing the Greenhouse Gas Intensity
Authors: Wu Meikang , Nuo Min , Jiang Zixian , Xu Ruiyao , Zhang Hongcheng , Lu Xiao , Yao Liqun , Dou Man , Xing Xu , Meng Xin , Wang Dongchao , Wei Xiaoshuang , Tian Ping , Wang Guan , Wu Zhihai , Yang Meiying
Published: September 2024

Straw return has important impacts on black soil protection, food security, and environmental protection. One year of straw return (S1) reduces rice yield and increases greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, the effects of successive years of straw return on rice yield, soil nutrients, and GHG emissions in the northeast rice region are still unclear. Therefore, we conducted four successive years of straw return (S4) in a positional experiment to investigate the effects of different years of straw return on rice yield, soil nutrients, and GHG emissions in the northeast rice region. The experimental treatments included the following: no straw return (S0), a year of straw return (S1), two successive years of straw return (S2), three successive years of straw return (S3), and four successive years of straw return (S4). Compared with S1, the rice yields of S2, S3, and S4 increased by 10.89%, 15.46%, and 16.98%, respectively. But only S4 increased by 4.64% compared to S0, while other treatments were lower than S0. S4 increased panicles per m2 and spikelets per panicle by 9.34% and 8.93%, respectively, compared to S1. Panicles per m2 decreased by 8.06% at S4 compared to S0, while spikelets per panicle increased by 13.23%. Compared with S0, the soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, NH4+-N, NO3−-N, available phosphorus, and available potassium of S4 increased by 11.68%, 10.15%, 24.62%, 21.38%, 12.33%, and 13.35%, respectively. Successive years of rice straw return decreased GHG intensity (GHGI). Compared with S1, the GHGI of S4, S3, and S2 decreased by 16.2%, 11.84%, and 9.36%, respectively. Thus, S4 increased rice yield and soil nutrients, reducing GHGI.
Investigation of Residue Dissipation of Fluxapyroxad and Its Metabolites in Chinese Cabbage and Spring Scallion Using Different Application Methods
Authors: Lee Ji Won , Kim Jin-Seong , Park Ji Hyun , Noh Hyun Ho , Oh Min Seok , Kim Jin-Hyo , Son Kyeong-Ae
Published: September 2024

Fluxapyroxad, a persistent fungicide in soil, was investigated for differences in residue dissipation in Chinese cabbage and spring scallion through the application methods of soil, foliar, and systemic treatment. Soil application of 0.4% granule fluxapyroxad resulted in residues up to 0.09 mg kg−1 in the scallion, while it did not contribute to the residues in the harvested cabbage. The 50% dissipation time (DT50) of fluxapyroxad in the scallion was 6.8 days. The residues from systemic treatment were highly correlated with foliar application in both the cabbage and the scallion, and the initial residue and DT50 values were similar for foliar and systemic treatments. In comparing the residues from the systemic treatments between the two crops, the initial residue was 3.11 and 0.22 mg kg−1 in the cabbage and the scallion after the systemic treatment, respectively. The DT50 values were 2.6 and 12.2 days in the cabbage and the scallion, respectively. The theoretical dilution effect due to crop growth was higher for the cabbage (4-fold) than for the scallion (1.2-fold), and the half-lives of fluxapyroxad without considering the dilution effect were 6.4 days in the cabbage and 17.8 days in the scallion. Thus, the residue difference was drastically reduced after 14 days from the last treatment.
Selection of Reference Genes in Siraitia siamensis and Expression Patterns of Genes Involved in Mogrosides Biosynthesis
Authors: Chen Wenqiang , Lin Xiaodong , Wang Yan , Mu Detian , Mo Changming , Huang Huaxue , Zhao Huan , Luo Zuliang , Liu Dai , Wilson Iain W. , Qiu Deyou , Tang Qi
Published: September 2024

Siraitia siamensis is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. In this study, using S. siamensis cultivated in vitro, twelve candidate reference genes under various treatments were analyzed for their expression stability by using algorithms such as GeNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, Delta CT, and RefFinder. The selected reference genes were then used to characterize the gene expression of cucurbitadienol synthase, which is a rate-limiting enzyme for mogroside biosynthesis. The results showed that CDC6 and NCBP2 expression was the most stable across all treatments and are the best reference genes under the tested conditions. Utilizing the validated reference genes, we analyzed the expression profiles of genes related to the synthesis pathway of mogroside in S. siamensis in response to a range of abiotic stresses. The findings of this study provide clear standards for gene expression normalization in Siraitia plants and exploring the rationale behind differential gene expression related to mogroside synthesis pathways.
Application of Silica Nanoparticles Improved the Growth, Yield, and Grain Quality of Two Salt-Tolerant Rice Varieties under Saline Irrigation
Authors: Jin Wenyu , Li Lin , He Wenli , Wei Zhongwei
Published: September 2024

Salt stress significantly reduces rice yield and quality and is a global challenge, especially in arid and semi-arid regions with limited freshwater resources. The present study was therefore conducted to examine the potential of silica nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) in mitigating the adverse effects of saline irrigation water in salt-tolerant rice. Two salt-tolerant rice varieties, i.e., Y liangyou 957 (YLY957) and Jingliangyou 534 (JLY534), were irrigated with 0.6% salt solution to simulate high-salt stress and two SiO2 NPs were applied, i.e., control (CK) and SiO2 NPs (15 kg hm−2). The results demonstrated that the application of SiO2 NPs increased, by 33.3% and 23.3%, the yield of YLY957 and JLY534, respectively, compared with CK, which was primarily attributed to an increase in the number of grains per panicle and the grain-filling rate. Furthermore, the application of SiO2 NPs resulted in a notable enhancement in the chlorophyll content, leaf area index, and dry matter accumulation, accompanied by a pronounced stimulation of root system growth and development. Additionally, the SiO2 NPs also improved the antioxidant enzyme activities, i.e., superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase activity and reduced the malondialdehyde content. The SiO2 NPs treatment effectively improved the processing quality, appearance quality, and taste quality of the rice. Furthermore, the SiO2 NPs resulted in improvements to the rapid viscosity analyzer (RVA) pasting profile, including an increase in peak viscosity and breakdown values and a reduction in setback viscosity. The application of SiO2 NPs also resulted in a reduction in crystallinity and pasting temperature owing to a reduction in the proportion of B2 + B3 amylopectin chains. Overall, the application of silica nanoparticles improved the quality of rice yield under high-salt stress.
Variations in Root Characteristics and Cadmium Accumulation of Different Rice Varieties under Dry Cultivation Conditions
Authors: Shan Chaoping , Shi Can , Liang Xinran , Zu Yanqun , Wang Jixiu , Li Bo , Chen Jianjun
Published: September 2024

Variations in the cadmium (Cd) accumulation and root characteristics of different genotypes of rice during three developmental periods of dry cultivation were investigated in pot experiments in which two levels of Cd were added to the soil (0 and 10 mg kg−1). The results show that the Cd concentration in each organ of the different rice genotypes decreased in both the order of roots > shoots > grains and during the three developmental periods in the order of the maturity stage > booting stage > tillering stage. The lowest bioaccumulation factor (BCF) and translocation factor (TF) were found in Yunjing37 (YJ37) under Cd stress. At maturity, Cd stress inhibited the root length of Dianheyou34 (DHY34) the most and that of Dianheyou 918 (DHY918) the least, also affecting the root volume of DHY34 and Dianheyou615 (DHY615) the most and that of YJ37 and Yiyou 673 (YY673) the least; the inhibition rates were 41.80, 5.09, 40.95, and 10.51%, respectively. The exodermis showed the greatest thickening in YY673 and the lowest thickening in DHY615, while the endodermis showed the opposite result. The rates of change were 16.48, 2.45, 5.10, and 8.49%, respectively. The stele diameter of DHY615 decreased the most, and that of YY673 decreased the least, while the secondary xylem area showed the opposite result; the rates of change were −21.50, −14.29, −5.86, and −26.35%, respectively. Under Cd stress treatment at maturity, iron plaque was extracted using the dithionite–citrate–bicarbonate (DCB) method. The concentration of iron (DCB-Fe) was highest in YJ37, and the concentration of cadmium (DCB-Cd) was lowest in DHY34. YJ37 was screened as a low Cd-accumulating variety. The concentration of available Cd in the rhizosphere soil, iron plaque, root morphology, and anatomy affect Cd accumulation in rice with genotypic differences. Our screening of Cd-accumulating rice varieties provides a basis for the dry cultivation of rice in areas with high background values of Cd in order to avoid the health risks of Cd intake.
Investigation of Dynamic Viscoelastic Asymmetric Response of PA6 Film Based on Fractional Rheological Model
Authors: Li Bowen , Liao Guangkai , Li Yuankang , Xie Zhenyan , Cui Lingna , Cao Kaikai , Liu Yuejun
Published: September 2024

Polyamide 6 (PA6) film as a typical viscoelastic material, satisfies the time–temperature superposition (TTS), and demonstrates obvious dynamic strain amplitude and frequency correlation under dynamic load. The investigation of the dynamic mechanical behavior of PA6 film is essential to ensure the safety of these materials in practical applications. In addition, dynamic mechanical property testing under conventional experimental conditions generally focuses on the short-term mechanical performance of materials. Therefore, the dynamic viscoelasticity of PA6 film was tested using a dynamic thermo-mechanical analyzer (DMA) in this study, and the complex modulus master curve was constructed based on time–temperature superposition (TTS) to realize the accelerated characterization of long-term mechanical properties. Furthermore, according to experimentally obtained asymmetric characteristics of the Cole–Cole diagram and the loss modulus master curve of the PA6 film, the parameter distribution of the fractional Zener model and the modified fractional Zener model were compared, and the asymmetric dynamic viscoelastic response of PA6 film under different conditions was systematically investigated using these models. The results indicate that the modified fractional Zener model can truly describe the dynamic asymmetric characteristics of PA6 film, verify the feasibility and advantages of the modified fractional rheological model, and provide some theoretical guidance for exploring the tensile rheological mechanism of PA6 film.
Experimental Investigation into the Mechanical and Piezoresistive Sensing Properties of Recycled Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites for Self-Sensing Applications
Authors: Kim Bum-Jun , Nam Il-Woo
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the mechanical and piezoresistive sensing properties of recycled carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer composites (rCFRPs) for self-sensing applications, which were prepared from recycled carbon fibers (rCFs) with fiber lengths of 6, 12, 18, and 24 mm using a vacuum infusion method. Mechanical properties of the rCFRPs were examined using uniaxial tensile tests, while sensing characteristics were examined by monitoring the in situ electrical resistance under cyclic and low fatigue loads. Longer fibers (24 mm) showed the superior tensile strength (92.6 MPa) and modulus (8.4 GPa), with improvements of 962.1% and 1061.1%, respectively. Shorter fibers (6 mm) demonstrated enhanced sensing capabilities with the highest sensitivity under low fatigue testing (1000 cycles at 10 MPa), showing an average maximum electrical resistance change rate of 0.7315% and a gauge factor of 4.5876. All the composites displayed a stable electrical response under cyclic and low fatigue loadings. These results provide insights into optimizing rCF incorporation, balancing structural integrity with self-sensing capabilities and contributing to the development of sustainable multifunctional materials.
Effect of Wood Species on Lignin-Retaining High-Transmittance Transparent Wood Biocomposites
Authors: Bradai Hamza , Koubaa Ahmed , Zhang Jingfa , Demarquette Nicole R.
Published: September 2024

This study explores lignin-retaining transparent wood biocomposite production through a lignin-modification process coupled with epoxy resin. The wood’s biopolymer structure, which includes cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, is reinforced with the resin through impregnation. This impregnation process involves filling the voids and pores within the wood structure with resin. Once the resin cures, it forms a strong bond with the wood fibers, effectively reinforcing the biopolymer matrix and enhancing the mechanical properties of the resulting biocomposite material. This synergy between the natural biopolymer structure of wood and the synthetic resin impregnation is crucial for achieving the desired optical transparency and mechanical performance in transparent wood. Investigating three distinct wood species allows a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between natural and transparent wood biocomposite properties. The findings unveil promising results, such as remarkable light transmittance (up to 95%) for Aspen transparent wood. Moreover, transparent wood sourced from White Spruce demonstrates excellent stiffness (E = 2450 MPa), surpassing the resin’s Young’s modulus. Also, the resin impregnation enhanced the thermal stability of natural wood. Conversely, transparent wood originating from Larch showcases superior impact resistance. These results reveal a clear correlation between wood characteristics such as density, anatomy, and mechanical properties, and the resulting properties of the transparent wood.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis of Erosion in Active Components of Abrasive Water Jet Machine
Authors: Pătîrnac Iulian , Ripeanu Razvan George , Tănase Maria
Published: September 2024

This study presents a comprehensive three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis of abrasive fluid flow and its erosive effects on the active components of the WUXI YCWJ-380-1520 water jet cutting machine. The research investigates the behavior and impact of abrasive particles within the fluid, determining the erosion rates for particles with diameters of 0.19 mm, 0.285 mm, and 0.38 mm (dimensions resulting from the granulometry of the experimentally established sand), considering various abrasive flow rates. The methodology includes a detailed granulometric analysis of the abrasive material, identifying critical particle sizes and distributions, with a focus on M50 granulation (average particle size of 0.285 mm). Additionally, the study employs the Wadell method to determine the shape factor (Ψi = 0.622) of the abrasive particles, which plays a significant role in the erosion process. Experimental determination of the abrasive flow rate is conducted, leading to the development of a second-order parabolic model that accurately predicts flow variations based on the control settings of the AWJ machine. The maximum erosion occurs at the entry surface of the mixing tube’s truncated zone, with a higher intensity as the particle size increases. For the 0.19 mm particles, the erosion rates range from 1.090 × 10−6 kg/m2·s to 2.022 × 10−6 kg/m2·s and follow a parabolic distribution. The particles of 0.285 mm show erosion rates ranging from 2.450 × 10−6 kg/m2·s to 6.119 × 10−6 kg/m2·s, also fitting the second-order parabolic model. The largest particles (0.38 mm) exhibit erosion rates ranging from 3.646 × 10−6 kg/m2·s to 7.123 × 10−6 kg/m2·s, described by a third-order polynomial. The study concludes that larger particle sizes result in higher erosion rates due to their increased mass and kinetic energy. Therefore, the present investigation demonstrates a significant relationship between particle size, abrasive flow rate, and erosion rate, highlighting critical wear points in the machine’s components. The findings contribute to optimizing the design and operational parameters of water jet cutting machines, thereby enhancing their efficiency and lifespan.
Influence of Fault Dip Angle and Strength on Fault Slip Characteristics of Gas Storage
Authors: Cheng Songlin , Ding Guosheng , Wu Zhide , Qiu Xiaosong , Xu Haitao , Liu Bingbing
Published: September 2024

The alternating stress caused by periodic high-pressure injection and extraction in gas storage can potentially induce fault slippage, compromising the sealing integrity of faults within these storages sites. Understanding the mechanical behavior of faults under alternating stress is crucial for ensuring the long-term stability and safety of gas storage operations. To explore the impact of fault dip angle and fault gouge strength on fault slip characteristics, fault samples were prepared with uniaxial compressive strengths of 20.1, 30.2, 42.4, and 51.4 MPa at two distinct dip angles. Triaxial compression experiments were conducted under alternating stress conditions corresponding to operational pressures at a specific gas storage site in China. The results indicate that faults with dip angles of 30° and 45° tend to fail at their weakest points. The increasing strength of fault gouges shifts failure mechanisms from interfacial failure between gouges and the surrounding rock towards internal gouge failure, often accompanied by shear failure across sections, resulting in characteristic “X”-shaped conjugate shear failures. The decrease in the ratio of bedrock strength to fault gouge strength elucidates the observed phenomena of an initial reduction followed by increased fault deformation. Transition points for faults with 30° and 45° dips occur around the strength ratios of 1.7/1 and 1.2/1, respectively. Fault damage exhibits a negative correlation with fault gouge strength and a positive correlation with fault dip angle. Samples with a higher-strength fault gouge at a 30° dip angle generally incur less damage compared to those with a lower-strength fault gouge at a 45° dip angle. Moreover, higher maximum static friction coefficients denote greater fault resistance to slipping, with 30° faults consistently demonstrating superior resistance compared to 45° faults. Additionally, a higher-strength fault gouge consistently enhances slip resistance under identical dip angles.
Multi-Technique Characterization of Cartonnage and Linen Samples of an Egyptian Mummy from the Roman Period
Authors: Sanches Francis , Franzi Isis , Cavalcante Josiane , Borges Roberta , de Paula Anderson , Machado Alessandra , Nardes Raysa , Santos Ramon , Gama Filho Hamilton , Freitas Renato , Assis Joaquim , Anjos Marcelino , Lopes Ricardo , Oliveira Davi
Published: September 2024

The historical and cultural significance of artistic works and archaeological artifacts underscores the imperative use of non-destructive testing methods in cultural heritage objects. Analyzing pigments in artwork poses a specific analytical challenge that demands a combination of various techniques to accurately determine chemical compositions. In this context, our work focused on the multi-analytical characterization of samples derived from fragments of a Roman-era Egyptian mummy named Kherima, dating back to around 200 AD. To identify the layers and elemental composition of the pigments used in the decoration, various techniques were employed: X-ray microfluorescence (µXRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), high-resolution optical microscopy (OM), and X-ray computed microtomography (microCT). This multi-analytical approach facilitated the identification of the original pigments in the analyzed mummy fragments, along with insights into the materials used in the ground layer and the techniques applied in artifact manufacturing, indicating their accordance with the historical period and region to which they originally belonged.
The Impact of Pastoral Care on Students’ Religious and Psychological Well-Being in a Christian Tradition-Based Residential Hall in Hong Kong
Authors: Liu Xunqian , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the impact of pastoral care on the religious and psychological well-being of students residing in St. John’s College, a Christian tradition-based residential hall in Hong Kong. The research employs a mixed-methods approach and comprises two complementary studies: a quantitative analysis (Study 1) involving 98 participants and a qualitative investigation (Study 2) with 26 participants. Study 1 utilised the Religious Commitment Inventory-10 (RCI-10) and the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS) to measure religious commitment and psychological well-being, respectively. Initial findings revealed significant correlations suggesting that higher levels of religious commitment engender improved psychological well-being. Study 2 explored these relationships further through semi-structured interviews, providing deeper insights into how pastoral care influences students’ religious practices and mental health. The qualitative data underscored the nuanced role of pastoral activities in fostering a supportive community atmosphere, enhancing both personal and communal religious experiences.
Neither Cursed nor Punished: Natural Law in Genesis 2–3 and J
Authors: Kelly Joseph Ryan
Published: September 2024

Gendered criticism of Eve and general criticism of Eve and Adam are rooted in the idea of their moral failing when they disobey Yahweh. Two lenses bring a more ancient understanding of the text into focus. The first lens is reading the story in the context of the J source of the Pentateuch. The second lens is that of natural law as understood by Greco-Roman philosophers. These lenses provide new clarity, showing how Eve and Adam’s decision to eat from the tree of knowledge violates a non-moral norm: they transgress the boundary between humanity and divinity. It is this ontological transgression to which Yahweh responds. Mortality, many labors, and many pregnancies reflect the natural consequences of this ontological violation, not an arbitrary punishment for a moral failing. This alternative understanding of Genesis 2–3 allows us to understand that Eve and Adam are neither cursed nor punished.