bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Double Resonance of Electromagnetically Induced Transparency of Rydberg Atom in Counter-Propagating Configuration
Authors: Li Chao , Ma Guo , Lei Mingwei , Shi Meng
Published: November 2024

The double resonance phenomenon of EIT is studied through the ladder three-level Rydberg system. A probe laser with the wavelength λp=852.35 nm is used to coupling the ground state 6S1/2 to the middle state 6P3/2, and a coupling laser with the wavelength λc=509.08 nm is implemented to couple the state 6P3/2 to the Rydberg state 62D5/2. A special optical scheme is designed, in which the co-propagating and counter-propagating configurations are both used. As a result, the double resonance of electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) with the Rydberg atom is observed. By comparing the distance between the double peaks, it is found that the double resonance phenomenon comes from the Doppler effect, and the distance between the two resonance peaks in the absorption spectrum is related to the detuning of the resonant lasers.
Precise Orientation Estimation for Rotated Object Detection Based on a Unit Vector Coding Approach
Authors: Tsai Chi-Yi , Lin Wei-Chuan
Published: November 2024

Existing rotated object detection methods usually use angular parameters to represent the object orientation. However, due to the symmetry and periodicity of these angular parameters, a well-known boundary discontinuity problem often results. More specifically, when the object orientation angle approaches the periodic boundary, the predicted angle may change rapidly and adversely affect model training. To address this problem, this paper introduces a new method that can effectively solve the boundary discontinuity problem related to angle parameters in rotated object detection. Our approach involves a novel vector-based encoding and decoding technique for angular parameters, and a cosine distance loss function for angular accuracy evaluation. By utilizing the characteristics of unit vectors and cosine similarity functions, our method parameterizes the orientation angle as components of the unit vector during the encoding process and redefines the orientation angle prediction task as a vector prediction problem, effectively avoiding the boundary discontinuity problem. The proposed method achieved a mean average precision (mAP) of 87.48% and an average cosine similarity (CS) of 0.997 on the MVTec test set. It also achieved an mAP score of 90.54% on the HRSC2016 test set, which is better than several existing state-of-the-art methods and proves its accuracy and effectiveness.
Wind Turbine Operation Status Monitoring and Fault Prediction Methods Based on Sensing Data and Big Bang–Big Crunch Algorithm
Authors: Li Peng , Tian Bing , Liu Zhong , Lin Yuehuan , Wang Zhiming , Yin Xu , Zhang Jiaming , Luo Baifeng , Zhang Zhaoyi
Published: November 2024

As wind power generation technology rapidly advances, the threat of wind turbine failures to the secure and stable operation of the power grid is gaining increasing attention. Real-time monitoring of operation status and predicting potential failures in wind turbines are indispensable requirements for the safe integration of wind power. In this paper, a model based on the least squares support vector machine (LSSVM), whose parameters are optimized by the Big Bang–Big Crunch algorithm, is constructed to improve the monitoring of wind turbine operation status and fault prediction accuracy. The research methodology consists of several key stages. Firstly, the initial wind turbine sensing data are preprocessed, utilizing factor analysis to reduce dimensionality and obtain the main influencing factors of wind turbine operation. Then, an improved failure prediction model for wind turbines, based on the least squares support vector machine, is developed using the preprocessed data. The model parameters are optimized by utilizing the Big Bang–Big Crunch optimization algorithm to enhance the prediction accuracy of wind turbine failures. Finally, the feasibility and accuracy of the proposed method are validated through a case study conducted on a regional power grid with wind farm integration.
Design and Implementation of a Modular Multilevel Series-Parallel Converter for Second-Life Battery Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Concha Esteban , Lizana F. Ricardo , Rivera Sebastian , Alcaide Abraham M.
Published: November 2024

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) offer scalable energy storage solutions, especially valuable for remote, off-grid applications. However, traditional battery packs with fixed series-parallel configurations lack reconfigurability and are limited by the weakest cell, hindering their application for second-life batteries. The Modular Multilevel Series-Parallel Converter (MMSPC) addresses these limitations by enabling dynamic reconfiguration, optimizing cell balancing, and enhancing energy control. This paper experimentally evaluates a single-phase BESS based on the MMSPC with an output power equivalent to 2 kW and two battery units (155V), demonstrating stable output and reduced internal losses across varied battery parameters.
Review of Physical Layer Security in Integrated Satellite–Terrestrial Networks
Authors: Kumar Rajnish , Arnon Shlomi
Published: November 2024

With the success and commercialization of 5G, 3GPP has started working toward the sixth generation of communication systems. While 5G explored the concept of non-terrestrial networks like satellites and unmanned aerial vehicles working alongside terrestrial networks, 6G is expected to take this integration a step further, aiming to achieve a more coherent network where satellites and terrestrial infrastructure work together seamlessly. However, the complexity and uniqueness of such networks create numerous attack surfaces that make them vulnerable to cyberattacks. The solution to such cyberattacks can be addressed by encryption and other upper-layer authentication methods. However, with the move to higher-frequency bands, such encryption techniques are difficult to scale for low-latency networks. In addition, the recent progress in quantum computing will make networks more vulnerable. To address such challenges, physical layer security (PLS) is proposed as a secure and quantum-resistant way to implement security by taking advantage of the physics of the channel and transceiver. This article reviews the latest trends and progress in PLS in integrated satellite–terrestrial networks (ISTNs) from a signal processing perspective. This work provides a comprehensive survey of the state-of-the-art research conducted, challenges, and future directions in the PLS of ISTNs.
I-DINO: High-Quality Object Detection for Indoor Scenes
Authors: Fan Zhipeng , Mei Wanglong , Liu Wei , Chen Ming , Qiu Zeguo
Published: November 2024

Object Detection in Complex Indoor Scenes is designed to identify and categorize objects in indoor settings, with applications in areas such as smart homes, security surveillance, and home service robots. It forms the basis for advanced visual tasks including visual question answering, video description generation, and instance segmentation. Nonetheless, the task faces substantial hurdles due to background clutter, overlapping objects, and significant size differences. To tackle these challenges, this study introduces an indoor object detection approach utilizing an enhanced DINO framework. To cater to the needs of indoor object detection, an Indoor-COCO dataset was developed from the COCO object detection dataset. The model incorporates an advanced Res2net as the backbone feature extraction network, complemented by a deformable attention mechanism to better capture detailed object features. An upgraded Bi-FPN module is employed to replace the conventional feature fusion module, and SIoU loss is utilized to expedite convergence. The experimental outcomes indicate that the refined model attains an mAP of 62.3%, marking a 5.2% improvement over the baseline model. These findings illustrate that the DINO-based indoor object detection model exhibits robust generalization abilities and practical utility for multi-scale object detection in complex environments.
Intelligent Carbon Metering and Settlement Method of New Power System Based on Blockchain Technology
Authors: Wen Ruxin , Tian Wen , Liu Huiying , Lin Wenjuan , Zhou Xizhong , Li Xuerong
Published: November 2024

Blockchain technology is an important technical basis for ensuring carbon trading and plays a fundamental role in maintaining fairness in the carbon trading market. This paper proposes a carbon emission metering and settlement method and a system based on blockchain technology which creates the digital identity of electric meters and stores it in the blockchain. Verifiable credentials are generated based on the digital identity, energy data, and time stamp. The system records the energy data read by the verified meter to the blockchain cloud platform for carbon emission statistics. In the payment and settlement stage, through application of the blockchain and its combination with a digital payment wallet, the regional energy network consumption settlement value is generated according to the regional power supply and electricity consumption, and the settlement value is used as the benchmark to measure the carbon emissions in the region. Through the data analysis of practical application cases in an industrial park in China, this study concludes that the carbon emission statistical settlement method based on blockchain technology solves the problems of untrustworthiness, unreliability, and inconsistency in the statistical and settlement methods during the statistical settlement of electric energy statistics and energy consumption carbon emissions.
An Optimized Strategy for the Integration of Photovoltaic Systems and Electric Vehicles into the Real Distribution Grid
Authors: Kljajić Ružica , Marić Predrag , Mišljenović Nemanja , Dubravac Marina
Published: November 2024

The increasing spread of photovoltaic systems for private households (PVs) and electric vehicles (EVs) in order to reduce carbon emissions significantly impacts operation conditions in existing distribution networks. Variable and unpredictable PVs can stress distribution network operation, mainly manifested in voltage violations during the day. On the other hand, variable loads such as EV chargers which have battery storage in their configuration have the ability of storying a surplus energy and, if it is necessary, support a distribution network with energy, commonly known as vehicle-to-grid concept (V2G), to help voltage stability network enhancement. This paper proposes an optimal power flow (OPF)-based model for EV charging to minimize power exchange between the superior-10 kV grid and the observed distribution feeder. The optimization procedure is realized using the co-simulation approach that connects power flow analysis software and optimization method. Three different scenarios are observed and analysed. The first scenario is referred to as a base case without optimization. The second and third scenarios include optimal EV charging and discharging patterns under different constraints. To test the optimization model, a 90-bus unbalanced distribution feeder modelled based on real-life examples is used. The obtained results suggest that this optimization model does not only significantly reduce the power exchange between an external network and the distribution feeder but also improves voltage stability and demand curve in the distribution feeder.
Reliability Analysis of Transmission Tower Based on Unscented Transformation Under Ice and Wind Loads
Authors: Chen Jianghong , Zhao Xiaohan , Shi Kanghao , Ao Zhiqiang , Zheng Xinchao
Published: November 2024

Due to the complexity of the transmission tower structure and the correlation between wind and ice loads in the actual project, it is difficult to analyze the reliability of transmission towers with traditional methods. To solve this problem, the unscented transformation (UT) principle is presented concisely and used in the reliability analysis of transmission towers in this paper. Moreover, the finite element model of the target transmission tower is created. The reliability indices of the transmission tower under various loading cases are evaluated using UT and analyzed relative to the outcomes of the Monte Carlo method (MCS). Lastly, by analyzing and validating a wine-cup shape tangent tower, the simulation results show that the UT yields reliability indices with less than 6% relative error compared with MCS results for the transmission towers with lower reliability, which are more important in engineering. Variations in error caused by the change in correlation coefficients among variables are small. Consequently, the efficiency of calculations is improved by the UT-based reliability calculations for transmission towers in the case of correlated variables, which better meet engineering application requirements. It is proved that the method of reliability analysis for transmission towers based on the UT is applicable.
Characteristics of Supercritical CO2 Non-Mixed Phase Replacement in Intraformational Inhomogeneous Low-Permeability Reservoirs
Authors: Liu Mingxi , Song Kaoping , Wang Longxin , Fu Hong , Wang Tianhao
Published: November 2024

Under the influence of the sedimentation process, the phenomenon of intraformational non-homogeneity is widely observed in low-permeability reservoirs. In the development process of water and gas replacement (WAG), the transport law of water and gas and the distribution of residual oil are seriously affected by the non-homogeneity of reservoir properties. In this paper, a study on two types of reservoirs with certain lengths and thicknesses is carried out, and a reasonable development method is proposed according to the characteristics of each reservoir. Firstly, through indoor physical simulation experiments combined with low-field nuclear magnetic resonance scanning (NMR), this study investigates the influence of injection rate and core length on the double-layer low-permeability inhomogeneous core replacement and pore throat mobilization characteristics. Then, a two-layer inhomogeneous low-permeability microscopic model is designed to investigate the model’s replacement and pore throat mobilization characteristics under the combined influence of rhythmites, gravity, the injection rate, etc. Finally, based on the results of the core replacement and numerical simulation, a more reasonable development method is proposed for each type of reservoir. The results show that for inhomogeneous cores of a certain length, the WAG process can significantly increase the injection pressure and effectively seal the high-permeability layer through the Jamin effect to improve the degree of recovery. Moreover, for positive and reverse rhythm reservoirs of a certain thickness, the injection rate can be reduced according to the physical properties of the reservoir, and the gravity overburden phenomenon of the gas is used to achieve the effective development of the upper layers. The effect of the development of a positive rhythm reservoir therefore improved significantly. These findings provide data support for improving the development effectiveness of CO2 in low-permeability inhomogeneous reservoirs and emphasize the importance of the influence of multiple factors, such as injection flow rate, gravity, and rhythm, in CO2 replacement.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Insulation Thickness with Respect to On-Site RES Generation in Residential Buildings
Authors: Papadopoulos Agis M. , Polychronakis Konstantinos , Kyriaki Elli , Giama Effrosyni
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the optimization of insulation thickness with respect to the integration of renewable energy systems in residential buildings in order to improve energy efficiency, maximize the contribution of renewables and reduce life cycle costs. Using the DesignBuilder and EnergyPlus software, this study models a representative two-story residential building located in Athens, Greece. The building envelope features extruded polystyrene thermal insulation and windows with unplasticized polyvinyl chloride frames and low-e glazing. Six scenarios with hybrid renewable energy systems are analyzed, including air- and ground-source heat pumps, solar thermal systems and a biomass fired boiler, so as to assess energy consumption, economic feasibility and internal air temperature conditions. A Pareto-fronts-based optimization algorithm is applied to determine the optimal combination of insulation thicknesses for the walls, the roof and the floor, focusing on minimizing the life cycle cost and maximizing the percentage of renewable energy utilized. The results demonstrate that scenarios involving biomass boilers and solar thermal systems, both for heating and cooling, when combined with reasonable thermal protection, can effectively meet the recent European Union’s directive’s goal, with renewable energy systems contributing more than 50% of the total energy requirements, whilst maintaining acceptable internal air temperature conditions and having a life cycle cost lower than contemporary conventional buildings.
Energy Challenges and Smart Applications in Production Systems
Authors: Ejsmont Krzysztof , Gladysz Bartlomiej , Haber Rodolfo
Published: November 2024

A key challenge of the modern world is addressing energy issues, especially in the context of growing public awareness of limited resources and the catastrophic effects of climate change, which are mainly caused by human activity and cumbersome industry [...]
A Study on the Licensing Process for the Floating Nuclear Power Plant in Indonesia: A Suggestion for the Revision of Government Regulation Regarding Nuclear Power Plant Licensing
Authors: Cusmanri Fery Putrawan , Lim Hak-kyu
Published: November 2024

Indonesia is currently revising some Government Regulations regarding the licensing process of the nuclear power plant. In the current revision process, the latest technology such as small modular reactors and floating nuclear power plants are also considered to be regulated specifically. In current regulations, regardless of the type and technology, the licensing for nuclear power plants is regulated generally. Considering its unique nature and character, the floating nuclear power plant should have more specific requirements for the licensing process. This paper is carried out to analyze the specific requirements that should be considered for the licensing process of the floating nuclear power plant in Indonesia. The results of this study are expected to be a suggestion for the Government Regulations revision.
Modified and Improved TID Controller for Automatic Voltage Regulator Systems
Authors: Tabak Abdulsamed
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a fractional order integral-derivative plus second-order derivative with low-pass filters and a tilt controller called IλDND2N2-T to improve the control performance of an automatic voltage regulator (AVR). In this study, equilibrium optimisation (EO), multiverse optimisation (MVO), and particle swarm optimisation (PSO) algorithms are used to optimise the parameters of the proposed controller and statistical tests are performed with the data obtained from the application of these three algorithms to the AVR problem. Afterwards, the performance of the IλDND2N2-T controller is demonstrated by comparing the transient responses with the results obtained in recently published papers. In addition, extra disturbances such as frequency deviation, load variation, and short circuit faults in the generator are applied to the AVR system. The proposed controller has outperformed the compared controller against these disturbances. Finally, a robustness test is performed in terms of deterioration in the system parameters. The results show that the IλDND2N2-T controller outperforms the compared controllers under all conditions and exhibits a robust effect on the perturbed system parameters.
Novel Fractional Order Differential and Integral Models for Wind Turbine Power–Velocity Characteristics
Authors: Mahmoud Ahmed G. , El-Beltagy Mohamed A. , Zobaa Ahmed M.
Published: November 2024

This work presents an improved modelling approach for wind turbine power curves (WTPCs) using fractional differential equations (FDE). Nine novel FDE-based models are presented for mathematically modelling commercial wind turbine modules’ power–velocity (P-V) characteristics. These models utilize Weibull and Gamma probability density functions to estimate the capacity factor (CF), where accuracy is measured using relative error (RE). Comparative analysis is performed for the WTPC mathematical models with a varying order of differentiation (α) from 0.5 to 1.5, utilizing the manufacturer data for 36 wind turbines with capacities ranging from 150 to 3400 kW. The shortcomings of conventional mathematical models in various meteorological scenarios can be overcome by applying the Riemann–Liouville fractional integral instead of the classical integer-order integrals. By altering the sequence of differentiation and comparing accuracy, the suggested model uses fractional derivatives to increase flexibility. By contrasting the model output with actual data obtained from the wind turbine datasheet and the historical data of a specific location, the models are validated. Their accuracy is assessed using the correlation coefficient (R) and the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE). The results demonstrate that the exponential model at α=0.9 gives the best accuracy of WTPCs, while the original linear model was the least accurate.
Assessment of Complete Plastid Genome Sequences of Tulipa alberti Regel and Tulipa greigii Regel Species from Kazakhstan
Authors: Almerekova Shyryn , Yermagambetova Moldir , Ivashchenko Anna , Abugalieva Saule , Turuspekov Yerlan
Published: November 2024

Background. Tulipa species are economically, culturally, scientifically, and ecologically important. Tulips present taxonomic complexities that cannot be adequately resolved by examining their morphological characteristics alone or by relying on a limited selection of genetic markers. Methods. In the present study, we assessed the complete plastid sequences of Tulipa alberti Regel and Tulipa greigii Regel collected from Kazakhstan. Additionally, 14 previously published plastomes were obtained from GenBank for comparison and phylogenetic analysis. Results. The plastid genome sizes of T. alberti and T. greigii were 152,359 bp and 152,242 bp, respectively. In the plastid genomes of T. alberti and T. greigii, 136 genes were annotated, 114 of which were unique. These unique genes comprised eighty protein-coding, thirty transfer RNA, and four ribosomal RNA genes. Additionally, 415 simple sequence repeats were identified, comprising 107 tandem, 40 forward, 49 palindromic, 8 reverse, and 1 complementary repeat. Notably, the region containing ycf1 exhibited high variability and may serve as an informative DNA barcode for this genus. Conclusion. Phylogenetic analysis showed strong support for the relationships among Tulipa species, indicating the utility of plastid genome data for further taxonomic studies within the genus.
MYH6 Variants Are Associated with Atrial Dysfunction in Neonates with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Authors: Quintanilla Anfinson Melissa , Creighton Sara , Simpson Pippa M. , James Jeanne M. , Lim Phoebe , Frommelt Peter C. , Tomita-Mitchell Aoy , Mitchell Michael E.
Published: November 2024

Background: MYH6 variants are the most well-known genetic risk factor (10%) for hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and are associated with decreased cardiac transplant-free survival. MYH6 encodes for α-myosin heavy chain (α-MHC), a contractile protein expressed in the neonatal atria. We therefore assessed atrial function in HLHS patients with MYH6 variants. Methods: We performed a retrospective, blinded assessment of pre-stage I atrial function using 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography (2D-STE). Variant carriers were control-matched based on AV valve anatomy, sex, and birth year. Studies were obtained postnatally from awake patients prior to surgical intervention. Right atrial (RA) and right ventricular (RV) strain and strain rate (SR) were measured from the apical four-chamber view. Results: A total of 19 HLHS patients with MYH6 variants had echocardiograms available; 18 were matched to two controls each, and one had a single control. RA active strain (ASct) was decreased in variant carriers (−1.41%, IQR −2.13, −0.25) vs. controls (−3.53%, IQR −5.53, −1.28; p = 0.008). No significant differences were identified in RV strain between the groups. RA reservoir strain (ASr) and conduit strain (AScd) positively correlated with heart rate (HR) in MYH6 variant carriers only (ASr R = 0.499, p = 0.029; AScd R = 0.469, p = 0.043). RV global longitudinal strain (GLS) as well as RV systolic strain (VSs) and strain rate (VSRs) correlated with HR in controls only (GLS R = 0.325, p = 0.050; VSs R = 0.419, p = 0.010; VSRs R = 0.410, p = 0.012). Conclusions: We identified functional consequences associated with MYH6 variants, a known risk factor for poor outcomes in HLHS. MYH6 variant carriers exhibit impaired RA contractility despite there being no differences in RV function between variant carriers and controls. MYH6 variants are also associated with an ineffective RA reservoir and conduit function at high heart rates, despite preserved RV diastolic function. RA dysfunction and reduced atrial “kick” may therefore be a significant contributor to RV failure and worse clinical outcomes in HLHS patients with MYH6 variants.
Segregation of Trans Mutations in the CDH23 Gene in an Emirati Family with Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Alsebeyi Mariam , Mutery Abdullah Al , Tehsil Gul Mohammad , Tlili Abdelaziz
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Hearing loss (HL) is a significant global health concern, affecting approximately 1 in every 1000 newborns, with over half of these cases attributed to genetic factors. This study focuses on identifying the genetic basis of autosomal recessive non-syndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) in a consanguineous Emirati family. Methods: Clinical exome sequencing (CES) was performed on affected members of the family, followed by Sanger sequencing to validate the findings. Specific primers were used for PCR amplification of target CDH23 exons. Mutations were analyzed using various computational tools to assess their pathogenicity. Results: We identified two heterozygous mutations in the CDH23 gene: a novel nonsense variant (c.264G>A, p.Trp88Ter) and a missense variant (c.5168G>A, p.Arg1723His). Both mutations were found in trans configuration, suggesting a compound heterozygous state contributing to the phenotype. In silico analysis predicted a significant impact on protein function, potentially leading to the observed ARNSHL. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the complexity of genetic factors in hearing loss, particularly in highly consanguineous populations. The identification of both nonsense and missense mutations in the CDH23 gene enhances understanding of its role in hearing loss and provides essential insights for genetic counseling and future therapeutic strategies.
Gene Expression Modulation of Markers Involved in Bone Formation and Resorption by Bisphenol A, Bisphenol F, Bisphenol S, and Bisphenol AF
Authors: García-Recio Enrique , González-Acedo Anabel , Manzano-Moreno Francisco Javier , De Luna-Bertos Elvira , Ruiz Concepción
Published: November 2024

Background: Bisphenol A (BPA) and its analogs (BPF, BPS, and BPAF) are recognized for inducing detrimental effects on various tissues, including bone. Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate their impact on information and repair processes, specifically focusing on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), and the receptors for transforming growth factor β (TGFR1, TGFR2, and TGFR3). Methods: Human osteoblasts isolated through primary culture from bone samples of healthy volunteers were subjected to cultivation in the presence of various dosage levels (10−5, 10−6, or 10−7 M) of BPA, BPF, BPS, or BPAF for 24 h. Gene expressions of RANKL, OPG, TGF-β1, TGFR1, TGFR2, TGFR3, and VEGF were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). All experiments included untreated cells as controls. Results: Expressions of RANKL and OPG were dose-dependently downregulated by the presence of all tested bisphenols (BPs) except for BPAF, whose presence upregulated OPG expression at all three doses. TGF-β1 expression was downregulated by all BP treatments, and TGF-β1 receptor expression was also downregulated as a function of the BP and dose. VEGF expression was downregulated in the presence of BPF and BPAF at all three doses and in the presence of BPA at the two higher doses (10−5, and 10−6 M), but it was not changed by the presence of BPS at any dose. Conclusions: The inhibition of both RANKL and OPG by the BPs, with a higher %inhibition of RANKL than of OPG, appears to rule out BP-induced activation of osteoclastogenesis via RANKL/RANK/OPG. Nevertheless, the effect of the BPs on the expression by osteoblasts of TGF-β1, TGF-β receptors, and VEGF indicates that these compounds can be responsible for major molecular changes in this cell population, contributing to their adverse effects on bone tissue.
Potential Involvement of miR-144 in the Regulation of Hair Follicle Development and Cycle Through Interaction with Lhx2
Authors: Zhou Guangxian , Wang Xiaolong , Chen Yulin , Kang Danju
Published: November 2024

Background: Cashmere, known as “soft gold”, is a highly prized fiber from Cashmere goats, produced by secondary hair follicles. Dermal papilla cells, located at the base of these follicles, regulate the proliferation and differentiation of hair matrix cells, which are essential for hair growth and cashmere formation. Recent studies emphasize the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in controlling gene expression within these processes. Methods: This study centered on exploring the targeted regulatory interaction between miR-144 and the Lhx2 gene. Utilizing methodologies like miRNA target prediction, luciferase reporter assays, and quantitative PCR, they assessed the interplay between miR-144 and Lhx2. Dermal papilla cells derived from Cashmere goats were cultured and transfected with either miR-144 mimics or inhibitors to observe the subsequent effects on Lhx2 expression. Results: The results demonstrated that miR-144 directly targets the Lhx2 gene by binding to its mRNA, leading to a decrease in Lhx2 expression. This modulation of Lhx2 levels influenced the behavior of dermal papilla cells, affecting their ability to regulate hair matrix cell proliferation and differentiation. Consequently, the manipulation of miR-144 levels had a significant impact on the growth cycle of cashmere wool. Conclusions: The findings suggest miR-144 regulates hair follicle dynamics by targeting Lhx2, offering insights into hair growth mechanisms. This could lead to innovations in enhancing cashmere production, fleece quality, and addressing hair growth disorders. Future research may focus on adjusting miR-144 levels to optimize Lhx2 expression and promote hair follicle activity.
Quantitative Assessment of Human Health Risks Associated with Heavy Metal and Bacterial Pollution in Groundwater from Mankweng in Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Maliehe Tsolanku Sidney , Mavingo Nelisiwe , Selepe Tlou Nelson , Masoko Peter , Mashao Frederick Mokibelo , Nyamutswa Neville
Published: November 2024

Heavy metal and microbial pollution in groundwater raises health concerns due to its adverse effects. This study aimed to assess the health risks associated with heavy metal and bacterial pollution in groundwater in Mankweng. Heavy metals and Escherichia coli were detected using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrophotometry and a Colilert system, respectively. The heavy metal pollution index (HPI) and non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks were computed. The β-Poisson dose–response model was employed to predict the probability of E. coli infection. The metals’ concentrations were all within the permissible limits of the South African National Standard (SANS). However, Pb levels at sites E and G exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline (≤0.01 mg/L). HPI values were all less than 100, indicative of low contamination. The hazard quotient values were all less than 1, except for vanadium. The cumulative cancer risk ranged between 3.06 × 10−5 and 1.81 × 10−4 and between 3.55 × 10−5 and 2.20 × 10−4 for adults and children, respectively. E. coli was only detected at site L. The annual risk of E. coli infection exceeded the WHO risk limit of 10−4. The results underscore the need for the regular monitoring of groundwater.
Is Greener Better? Quantifying the Impact of a Nature Walk on Stress Reduction Using HRV and Saliva Cortisol Biomarkers
Authors: Aras Shravan G. , Runyon J. Ray , Kazman Josh B. , Thayer Julian F. , Sternberg Esther M. , Deuster Patricia A.
Published: November 2024

The physiological impact of walking in nature was quantified via continuous heart rate variability (HRV), pre- and post-walk saliva cortisol measures, and self-reported mood and mindfulness scores for N = 17 participants who walked “The Green Road” at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. For N = 15 of the participants, HRV analysis revealed two main groups: group one individuals had a 104% increase (mean) in the root mean square standard deviation (RMSSD) and a 47% increase (mean) in the standard deviation of NN values (SDNN), indicating an overall reduction in physiological stress from walking the Green Road, and group two individuals had a decrease (mean) of 42% and 31% in these respective HRV metrics, signaling an increase in physiological stresses. Post-walk self-reported scores for vigor and mood disturbance were more robust for the Green Road than for a comparable urban road corridor and showed that a higher HRV during the walk was associated with improved overall mood. Saliva cortisol was lower after taking a walk for all participants, and it showed that walking the Green Road elicited a significantly larger reduction in cortisol of 53%, on average, when compared with 37% of walking along an urban road. It was also observed that the order in which individuals walked the Green Road and urban road also impacted their cortisol responses, with those walking the urban road before the Green Road showing a substantial reduction in cortisol, suggesting a possible attenuation effect of walking the Green Road first. These findings provide quantitative data demonstrating the stress-reducing effects of being in nature, thus supporting the health benefit value of providing access to nature more broadly in many settings.
The Role of Formal Schooling, Literacy, and Health Knowledge in Addressing Domestic Violence Against Women in West Africa
Authors: Van Komen Amelia , Pierce Hayley
Published: November 2024

When “education” is cited as a solution for domestic violence, different aspects of knowledge acquisition are often omitted. This study uses 2019 Demographic and Health Surveys from four West African countries (The Gambia, Liberia, Senegal, Sierra Leone) with a combined sample size of 12,480 women and generalized ordered logit regression to examine the effects of types of knowledge (years of schooling, literacy, and health knowledge) on domestic violence (physical abuse, emotional abuse, and control issues). The results suggest that literacy has the most reliable beneficial impact on domestic violence and was consistently associated with decreased odds of abuse. However, greater findings suggest that schooling, literacy, and health knowledge function as separate types of education and that their relationships are complex and context-specific. By neglecting to see these types of knowledge as separate entities that can operate together, it is possible that mitigation strategies for domestic violence are going undiscovered.
Community-Engaged Development of Strengths-Based Nutrition Measures: The Indigenous Nourishment Scales
Authors: Maudrie Tara L. , Caulfield Laura E. , Nguyen Cassandra J. , Walls Melissa L. , Haroz Emily E. , Moore Laura R. , Dionne-Thunder Rachel G. , Vital Joe , LaFloe Brook , Norris Alanna , Dionne Vincent , Pain On Hip Virgil , Dickerson Jessica , Hawk Lessard Kerry , Stately Antony L. , Blue Bird Jernigan Valarie , O’Keefe Victoria M.
Published: November 2024

Mainstream approaches to nutrition typically focus on diet consumption, overlooking multi-dimensional aspects of nutrition that are important to American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities. To address health challenges faced by AI/AN communities, strengths-based measures of nutrition grounded in community worldviews are needed. In collaboration with AI/AN communities in Baltimore and Minneapolis, we developed the Indigenous Nourishment Scales through three phases. Phase 1 involved focus group discussions with nine community-research council (CRC) members (n = 2) and four in-depth interviews (n = 4) to gather perspectives on existing models of nutrition. Phase 2 refined scales through two additional focus group discussions (n = 2) with a total of nine participants and two in-depth interviews (n = 2). Finally, in Phase 3, we held ten (n = 10) cognitive interviews with AI/AN community members to refine the scales. Participants appreciated the measures’ ability to provoke reflection on their relationship with nutrition and suggested adjustments to better capture cultural nuances, such as incorporating concepts like “being a good relative” to land. The Indigenous Nourishment Scales represent a departure from conventional approaches by encompassing multiple dimensions of nourishment, offering a framework that addresses epistemic injustices in nutrition measurement and grounds health measurement efforts directly in community perspectives and worldviews.
Analysis of Rfo-Mediated Network in Regulating Fertility Restoration in Brassica oleracea
Authors: Xing Miaomiao , Xu Yuanyuan , Lu Yuyu , Yan Jiyong , Zeng Aisong
Published: November 2024

Ogura cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) lines play a crucial role in the utilization of heterosis. However, valuable traits, such as disease resistance genes from Ogura CMS hybrids, are challenging to incorporate for germplasm innovation, particularly in cabbage and broccoli. To date, the Rfo-mediated network regulating fertility restoration remains largely unexplored. In this study, we conducted a transcriptomic analysis of broccoli flower buds from Ogura CMS SFB45 and its Rfo-transgenic fertility restoration line, pRfo, at different stages of pollen development. Gene Ontology (GO) terms such as “pollen exine formation”, “flavonoid metabolic and biosynthetic processes”, and “pollen wall assembly”, along with Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways including “flavonoid biosynthesis”, “MAPK signaling pathway-plant”, and “ABC transporters”, were significantly enriched. We identified five differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in tapetum-mediated callose metabolism, thirty-four DEGs related to tapetum-mediated pollen wall formation, three DEGs regulating tapetum programmed cell death (PCD), five MPKs encoding DEGs, and twelve DEGs associated with oxidative phosphorylation. Additionally, yeast two-hybrid and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assays demonstrated that RFO directly interacts with ORF138 at the protein level. These findings provide valuable insights into the fertility recovery mechanisms regulated by Rfo in broccoli and offer important clues for breeders aiming to enhance Ogura CMS hybrids in Brassica oleracea.
Effect of Mild Conditions on PVA-Based Theta Gel Preparation: Thermal and Rheological Characterization
Authors: Pepi Simone , Talarico Luigi , Leone Gemma , Bonechi Claudia , Consumi Marco , Boldrini Amedeo , Lauro Alessia , Magnani Agnese , Rossi Claudio
Published: November 2024

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), possessing a strong ability to form hydrogels, has been widely used for various pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. In particular, the use of PVA-PEG in the form of theta gels for altered cartilage treatment has attracted an enormous amount of attention in the last 20 years. In this paper, we prepared 42 PVA-PEG in the form of theta gels at room temperature in an aqueous environment, testing the crystallization occurrence at basic pH (10 or 12). Using a statistical approach, the effect of PEG molecular weight, PVA molecular weight and alkaline pH values on water content and mechanical performance was evaluated. The used procedure permitted the theta gels to maintain swelling properties comparable to those of human cartilage, from 60% to 85%, with both polymers having the same influence. PEG MW mainly affected the hydrophilic properties, whereas the thermal properties were mostly influenced by the PVA. The shear and compression mechanical behavior of the produced materials were affected by both the polymers’ MWs. The sample obtained using PVA 125 kDa with PEG 20 kDa as a porogen appeared to be the most suitable one for cartilage disease treatment, as it had an equilibrium shear modulus in the range of 50–250 kPa, close to that of native articular cartilage, as well as optimal mechanical response under compression along the entire analyzed frequency range with a mean value of 0.12 MPa and a coefficient of friction (COF) which remained under 0.10 for all the tested sliding speeds (mm/s).
Phosphorus-Mediated Transition from Vegetative to Reproductive Growth in Dwarf Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.)
Authors: Liu Xiaomei , Wu Yi , Zhang Mengluo , Gao Ping , Li Jing , Ding Hao , Sun Xiwei , Lu Lilan , Iqbal Amjad , Yang Yaodong
Published: November 2024

Reducing the time before the flowering stage in coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) trees greatly influences yield, yet the mechanisms driving the switch from vegetative to reproductive growth are not well understood, especially the role of phosphorus in this transition. In this study, dwarf coconut plants of the same cultivation age were selected and categorized into the vegetative phase (VP) or the reproductive phase (RP). By examining the phenotypic traits, nutrient variations in the roots and soil, and the transcriptional expression of relevant genes in the roots across both phases, we investigated the potential mechanisms driving the transition from the VP to the RP in coconuts. The shoots of coconuts in the RP were significantly taller compared to those in the VP. Moreover, the phosphorus concentration in the roots of coconuts during the RP was 1.31 times higher than in the VP, which may be linked to the significant upregulation of the PT1 genes AZ11G0219160 and AZ02G0034860 in the roots of coconuts in the RP. In addition, all phosphorus-containing metabolites in the roots during the RP showed a significant increase, particularly those related to long-chain fatty acids and ribonucleotide metabolites. This suggests that coconut roots may facilitate the progression from vegetative to reproductive growth by enhancing phosphorus uptake via PT1s and promoting the synthesis and accumulation of phosphorus-containing metabolites.
Prioritizing Computational Cocrystal Prediction Methods for Experimental Researchers: A Review to Find Efficient, Cost-Effective, and User-Friendly Approaches
Authors: Lemli Beáta , Pál Szilárd , Salem Ala’ , Széchenyi Aleksandar
Published: November 2024

Pharmaceutical cocrystals offer a versatile approach to enhancing the properties of drug compounds, making them an important tool in drug formulation and development by improving the therapeutic performance and patient experience of pharmaceutical products. The prediction of cocrystals involves using computational and theoretical methods to identify potential cocrystal formers and understand the interactions between the active pharmaceutical ingredient and coformers. This process aims to predict whether two or more molecules can form a stable cocrystal structure before performing experimental synthesis, thus saving time and resources. In this review, the commonly used cocrystal prediction methods are first overviewed and then evaluated based on three criteria: efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and user-friendliness. Based on these considerations, we suggest to experimental researchers without strong computational experiences which methods and tools should be tested as a first step in the workflow of rational design of cocrystals. However, the optimal choice depends on specific needs and resources, and combining methods from different categories can be a more powerful approach.
Novel SNPs Linked to Blast Resistance Genes Identified in Pearl Millet Through Genome-Wide Association Models
Authors: Singh Swati , Prakash Ganesan , Nanjundappa Sandeep , Malipatil Renuka , Kalita Prerana , Satyavathi Tara C. , Thirunavukkarasu Nepolean
Published: November 2024

Foliar blast, caused by Pyricularia grisea, poses a major challenge to pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br) production, leading to severe yield losses, particularly in rainfed ecologies. This study aimed to elucidate the genetic basis of blast resistance through a genome-wide association study (GWAS) involving 281 diverse pearl millet inbreds. GWAS panel was phenotyped for blast resistance against three distinct isolates of P. grisea collected from Delhi, Gujarat, and Rajasthan locations, revealing a significant variability with 16.7% of the inbreds showing high resistance. Bayesian information and linkage disequilibrium iteratively nested keyway (BLINK) and Multi-Locus Mixed Model (MLMM) models using transformed means identified 68 significant SNPs linked to resistance, with hotspots for resistance-related genes on chromosomes 1, 2, and 6. These regions harbor genes involved in defense mechanisms, including immune response, stress tolerance, signal transduction, transcription regulation, and pathogen defense. Genes, namely 14-3-3-like proteins RGA2, RGA4, hypersensitive-induced response proteins, NHL3, NBS-LRR, LRR-RLK, LRRNT_2, and various transcription factors such as AP2/ERF and WRKY, played a crucial role in the stress-responsive pathways. Analyses of transporter proteins, redox processes, and structural proteins revealed additional mechanisms contributing to blast resistance. This study offers valuable insights into the complex genetic architecture of blast resistance in pearl millet, offering a solid foundation for marker-assisted breeding programs and gene-editing experiments.