bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecule characterization of chemosensory and metabolism-related genes in the proboscis of Athetis lepigone
Authors: Tian Cai-Hong , Liu Xiao-Guang , Xu Cun-Yi , Huang Jian-Rong , Fu Jun-Feng , Wang Gen-Song , Zhang Jun-Yi , Li Guo-Ping , Yin Xin-Ming , Feng Hong-Qiang
Published: December 2023

Introduction: The moth species Athetis lepigone (Möschler) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), which has recently been identified as a pest of summer maize (Zea mays L.) in China, has demonstrated a rapid proliferation with in the Huang-Huai-Hai Plain region since its initial discovery in Hebei Province in 2005. It has become a prevalent pest of corn crops, and its ability to adapt quickly to its surroundings is currently being investigated. One of the key characteristics of its siphoning mouthparts is not only the feeding apparatus itself but also the chemosensory organs that enable the detection of chemical signals from the surrounding environment. However, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the genes responsible for chemosensory and metabolic mechanisms in the proboscises of male and female A. lepigone adults.

Methods: In this study, we utilized transcriptome analysis to identify a total of fifty chemosensory genes from six distinct families, including 19 odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), 22 chemosensory proteins (CSPs), one co-receptor (Orco), six odorant receptors (ORs), four ionotropic receptors (IRs), and two sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs) in the proboscis. Notably, seven OBPs, two CSPs, and one OR were discovered for the first time. Additionally, fourteen genes related to metabolism, including cytochrome P450 (CYPs) and carboxylesterases (CXEs), were also identified. Furthermore, a qualitative analysis was conducted on the relative transcript levels of eight related genes. The expression of 21 annotated chemosensory and metabolic genes was compared between A. lepigone adults and larvae using qRT-PCR, revealing tissue specificity. The majority of genes exhibited predominant expression in the antennae and proboscis during the adult stage, while showing slight expression in the combination of sixth-instar larval head oral appendages (maxilla, labium, and antenna) and pheromone gland-ovipositors of female adults.

Results/discussion: Our study points to a new pest control strategies that these newly discovered genes have the potential to serve as targets for enhancing future pest control, including mating disruption and the use of food attractants. And it would be advantageous to ascertain the distribution of chemosensory gene expression and gain insights into the functionalities of these genes, thereby establishing a novel theoretical framework for the advancement of eco-friendly pesticides and efficient pest management strategies in the future.
Methodological procedure based on quantitizing/liquefying: a case study to assess work climate in an emergency department
Authors: Chacón-Moscoso Salvador , Anguera M. Teresa , Sanduvete-Chaves Susana , Lozano-Lozano José A.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

In the assessment of health organizations, results-based indicators are mainly used, with no consideration of internal work dynamics. This type of assessment forfeits much of the rich, useful information needed to make decisions on improving the organization. In order to address this, a rigorous procedure based on mixed methods is laid out here on gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data associated with the implementation process.

Methods

A 55-year-old doctor was selected at random from among the staff who volunteered to be interviewed at the emergency department at a public hospital located in southern Spain for an interview. Qualitative data obtained from the in-depth interview (indirect observation) were progressively systematized (liquefied and quantitized) based on a theoretical framework until a code matrix was obtained, without losing or distorting any information. Afterwards, data quality was controlled using Cohen’s kappa (κ) coefficient. A quantitative polar coordinate analysis was then carried out using the free software HOISAN (v. 1.6.3.3) to obtain robust results, vectorizing the relationships between codes and specifying whenever such relationships were statistically significant (and if they resulted in behavior activation or inhibition). Finally, a supplementary quantitative and qualitative assessment was carried out.

Results and discussion

The proposed method was applied to the needs assessment of teams in order to evaluate that work climate in the hospital’s emergency department Health Services of a hospital. Data quality control yielded an adequate result (κ = 0.82). Significant activation and inhibition of behaviors occurred, both prospectively and retrospectively. For instance, We seek to understand the needs of our clients and We readily adapt to new circumstances showed a significant activation (vector length = 3.43, p < 0.01) both prospectively (Zsum = 0.48) and retrospectively (Zsum = 3.4).

An adequate method to obtain detailed information about group dynamics in a work environment is presented, based on an in-depth interview. Practical applications for implementations to improve the functioning of organizations are presented.
Being sensitive in their own way: parental ethnotheories of caregiver sensitivity and child emotion regulation across five countries
Authors: Song Ju-Hyun , Cho Sook In , Trommsdorff Gisela , Cole Pamela , Niraula Shanta , Mishra Ramesh
Published: December 2023

Caregiver sensitivity builds a basis for children’s sense of security and effective emotion regulation during their development. Applying a cross-cultural lens, caregiver sensitivity can be divided into two subtypes, reactive and proactive, and its prevalence and meaning may differ across cultures. Guided by the theoretical frameworks of developmental niche and parental ethnotheories, the current study examines culture-specific meanings of caregiver sensitivity across five countries: India, Nepal, Korea, the United States of America (USA), and Germany. We examine the prevalence of maternal reactive and proactive sensitivity, children’s emotional lability and regulation, and how mothers’ sensitivity types are related to children’s emotional characteristics. Participants included 472 mothers from the five countries with children aged between 6 and 7 years. Mothers reported their sensitivity preference in multiple vignettes and completed an emotion regulation checklist to report their children’s emotional lability and regulation. A set of analyses of covariance (ANCOVAs) found cultural differences in mothers’ preference for proactive and reactive sensitivity. Mothers in India and Nepal reported the highest preference for proactive sensitivity followed by Korea and the USA, while German mothers reported the lowest preference for proactive sensitivity. Consequent regression analyses revealed varying associations between proactive sensitivity and child emotional characteristics in all five countries either directly or as moderated by child sex. These results evidence that parental ethnotheories are part of the developmental niche embedded in a larger cultural context. Findings on the differential links between the types of sensitivity and child emotion regulation provide cultural models of parental emotion socialization and children’s emotional functioning.
The impact of context cues on college students’ purchase behavior for low-carbon products in CBEC
Authors: Wang Chen , Zhou Xiaolong , Zhang Ran , Liu Yexin
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of online shopping context cues (price discount, carbon label, and social commentary) on college students’ trust/perceived risk and cross-border purchase intention (CBPI) for low-carbon products and compare the study between South Korean and Chinese college students. The theoretical framework is established by integrating the S-O-R model and valence framework. The variable of stimuli (S) is the driving force in the purchase behavior that influences the individual organism (O) and its subsequent response (R). Based on this logic, this study draws on the valence framework to hypothesize the effects of online shopping context cues (price discount, carbon label, and social commentary) on college students’ trust/perceived risk and cross-border purchase intention (CBPI) for low-carbon products.

Methods

This study conducted two online experiment-questionnaire studies and one between-subject lab experiment to test the hypotheses.

Results

We found that all three context cues have significant positive effects on trust and negative effects on perceived risk. College students’ trust positively and perceived risk negatively impact college students’ CBPI for low-carbon products. In addition, based on different cultures, languages, and education, this study investigates the moderating effect of college students’ nationality on their significantly different cue processing modes for low-carbon products.

Discussion

The findings provide new insights into better understanding the factors affecting college students’ low-carbon consumption behavior in a CBEC setting and have some practical implications.
Sympathetic nerve blocks for posttraumatic stress disorder: an evidentiary review for future clinical trials
Authors: Prasad Sakshi , Jain Nityanand , Umar Tungki Pratama , Radenkov Igor , Ahmed Sirwan Khalid , Sakagianni Virginia , Kollia Sofia , Hingora Mohmed Junaid , Kumari Nikita , Akbari Amir Reza , Renemane Lubova , Bachu Anil
Published: December 2023

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a chronic disorder resulting from exposure to traumatic events. In recent years, sympathetic nerve blocks have gained interest as an emerging treatment modality for PTSD. They have been shown to reduce autonomic dysfunction associated with PTSD symptoms, particularly in refractory and treatment-resistant patients. However, there is limited evidence regarding the technique’s effectiveness in PTSD patients. Therefore, this scoping review was designed to update and summarize the current literature on this topic to inform the design of future clinical trials and studies. Our review of 22 studies (mostly case reports and series) included 1,293 PTSD patients who received sympathetic nerve blocks, primarily military service members and veterans, with a median age of 42.2 years. 0.5% Ropivacaine was the preferred anesthetic, and the right sided stellate ganglion block was the most commonly used technique. Relapse of symptoms was reported commonly, resulting in additional nerve block sessions. Most reported side effects were mild and transient. Despite the encouraging results, we remain cautious in interpreting the benefit of the technique due to the lack of sufficient standardized clinical trial data, heterogeneity in reported results, and the potential for bias in reporting. Future studies should focus on evaluating and addressing the technique’s effectiveness, safety, tolerability, and indications.
How do individual-level factors influence the adoption of low-carbon technology? Proposing and validating the bioeconomy technology acceptance model in the context of Africa
Authors: Oguntuase Oluwaseun J. , Adu Oluwatosin B. , Obayori Oluwafemi S.
Published: December 2023

The bioeconomy seeks to efficiently transform biomaterials into value-added products to achieve circularity. A circular bioeconomy is a circular carbon economy based on bio-based resources. There is a dearth of information in the literature about how psychological factors affect public acceptance of the bioeconomy, especially in Africa, where the adoption of bioeconomy is scant. Addressing this gap, this study characterized bioeconomy as a low-carbon bio-based technological innovation to combat climate change and developed the Bioeconomy Technology Acceptance Model (BTAM) to explain the effects of individual-level factors on public acceptance of bioeconomy and investigated it in a survey (N = 465) using questionnaires that were carried out in Lagos, Nigeria, in 2022. The respondents were chosen by proportional stratified random sampling, and descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the data obtained. The strong influence of perceived usefulness from bioeconomy and intention to accept bioeconomy in BTAM suggests that the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) is suitable for predicting public acceptance of bioeconomy. Considering the strong influence of belief about climate change on the perceived usefulness of bioeconomy and intention to accept it in this study, it is imperative to promote climate change education among Africans to accelerate acceptance of bioeconomy on the continent. The identified psychological factors provide a reference for scholars, policymakers, and manufacturers to effectively develop individual-oriented intervention strategies and promotion schemes to enhance acceptance of bioeconomy in Africa in particular and other climes where there is not yet widespread acceptance of circular bioeconomy.
Analysis of the correlation between clinical and imaging features of malignant lung nodules and pathological types
Authors: Zhang Liwen , Wan Rong , Chen Jixiang , Xin Fan , Han He
Published: December 2023

Introduction

To explore the correlation between clinical and imaging features of malignant lung nodules and pathology types.

Methods

Patients with lung nodules admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020 were collected as study subjects, and all of them underwent surgical treatment and were clearly diagnosed by pathology. The correlation between clinical and imaging features and pathological types of lung cancer patients was analyzed.

Results

Among them, The pathological types of malignant pulmonary nodules are correlated with age, gender, smoking history, ground glass sign, nodule size, solid to solid ratio, lobulation sign, pleural indentation sign, hair prick sign, CEA, SCCA. The imaging features of ground glass sign and nodule size are most significantly correlated with the pathological type.

Conclusion

It was found that, the clinical and imaging characteristics of patients with malignant lung nodules have a certain correlation with the pathological type, and gender, age, smoking history, nodule size, nodule nature, burr sign, pleural depression sign, and tumor markers are of great value for pathological typing.
Enhancing Resistance to Salinity in Wheat by Using Streptomyces sp. HU2014
Authors: Zhu Hongxia , Hu Linfeng , Rozhkova Tetiana , Li Chengwei
Published: December 2023

Salt stress affects the growth and global production of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Plant growth-promoting microbes can enhance plant resistance to abiotic stresses. In this study, we aimed to assess the inoculation of soil with Streptomyces sp. HU2014 to improve wheat tolerance to salt stress from multiple perspectives, including the interaction of the strain, the addition of NaCl, the condition of the wheat, and rhizosphere microbial communities. The results showed that the strain promoted wheat growth under NaCl stress by increasing biomass by 19.8%, total chlorophyll content by 72.1%, proline content by 152.0%, and malondialdehyde content by 106.9%, and by decreasing catalase by 39.0%, peroxidase by 1.4%, and soluble sugar by 61.6% when compared to the control. With HU2014 soil inoculation, total nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, total phosphorus, and Olsen phosphorus increased, whereas ammonium nitrogen and pH decreased. HU2014 inoculation and/or the addition of NaCl affected the diversity of rhizosphere bacteria, but not fungi. The structure of the microbial community differed after HU2014 inoculation, with Proteobacteria, Acidobacteriota, Bacteroidota, and unclassified fungi being the dominant phyla, and these taxa correlated with the above-mentioned soil parameters. Thus, this study provided a promising way to enhance wheat tolerance to salt stress and improve the agricultural ecological environment by using plant growth-promoting microbes.
Agronomic and Physiological Performance of the Indica Rice Varieties Differing in Tolerance to Low Phosphorus
Authors: Sun Zhiwei , Qiao Shengfeng , Xu Yuemei , Ji Dongling , Zhang Weiyang , Gu Junfei , Zhu Kuanyu , Wang Zhiqin , Zhang Jianhua , Yang Jianchang
Published: December 2023

Phosphorus (P) deficiency and low P use efficiency (PUE) are limiting factors in rice (Oryza sativa L.) production. Understanding the agronomic and physiological traits of P-tolerant rice varieties is crucial for improving PUE. However, the agronomic and physiological traits of rice varieties differing in tolerance to low P have not been fully studied or comprehensively explored. Two varieties with strong tolerance to low P (STVs, low P tolerance index > 0.9) and two with weak tolerance to Low P (WTVs, low P tolerance index < 0.5) were grown hydroponically with normal P level (NP, 8.02 mg L−1) and low P level (LP, 0.401 mg L−1) in year 2020 and 2021. Results showed that, compared with NP, the LP significantly decreased grain yield, but enhanced P translocation efficiency (PTE), internal P use efficiency (IPE), and P harvest index (PHI) in all the varieties. The STVs showed better performance than the WTVs. Specifically, the STVs exhibited a 131.33% higher grain yield, 15.95% higher PTE, 41.6% higher IPE, and 8.84% higher PHI compared to the WTVs. The STVs also exhibited superior shoot traits, including increased productive tillers, leaf area index (LAI), leaf photosynthetic rate, shoot biomass, contents of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and zeatin (Z) and zeatin riboside (ZR) in leaves, non-structural carbohydrates (NSC) remobilization during grain filling, and content of NSC per spikelet, when compared to the WTVs under the LP treatment. Additionally, the STVs demonstrated better root traits, such as higher root biomass, root oxidative activity (ROA), root acid phosphatase (RAP) activity, and greater root IAA and Z + ZR contents. These shoot and root traits exhibited highly positive correlations with grain yield, PTE, and IPE. In conclusion, the STVs maintain higher grain yield and PUE under the LP treatment, due mainly to their improved root and shoot agronomic and physiological traits, which provide valuable references for selecting for P-efficient rice varieties.
A Retrospective Analysis of Admission Trends and Outcomes in a Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Costa Rica
Authors: Costa Maria Miguel , Pinto da Cunha Nazaré , Hagnauer Isabel , Venegas Marta
Published: December 2023

The evaluation of data regarding rehabilitation practices provides reference values for comparison purposes among different rehabilitation centers to critically review protocols and efficiently improve each center. The aim of the present work was to present the main causes of admission to Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center for each taxonomic group, to determine the admission factors that influenced the release and mortality, and to determine the predictive factors of release and mortality of wildlife. To this end, a retrospective study was carried out based on 5785 admissions registered in the database of Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center in Costa Rica in 2020 and 2021. Statistical analysis consisted of sample characterization via the analysis of several categorical variables: species, order, class, age group, cause of admission, outcome, clinical classification and days in the hospital, and respective association with the mortality or release rate. Most of the rescue animals were birds (59.3%), then mammals (20.7%), reptiles (17.4%), and finally ‘others’ (2.6%). The main causes of admission were ‘captivity’ (34.9%), ‘found’ (23.3%), and ‘trauma’ (19.3%). Animals rescued due to ‘captivity’ and the classes ‘birds’ and ‘reptiles’ had the highest release rates. The causes of admission ‘trauma’ and ‘orphanhood’ and the class ‘birds’ had the highest mortality rates. In general, a greater number of days spent in the hospital and membership in the classes ‘reptiles’, ‘juveniles’, in need of ‘basic care’, or ‘clinically healthy’ were predictors of survival. In contrast, the age groups ‘infant’ and ‘nestling’ were predictors of mortality. These results demonstrate the value of maintaining, improving, and studying databases from wildlife rehabilitation centers, as they can provide useful information that can be used to enhance the allocation of economic resources, treatment methods, disease surveillance, public education, and regulatory decision-making, leading to a better understanding of threats to wildlife and subsequent implementation of conservation actions.
Recent Progress of Electrochemical Aptasensors toward AFB1 Detection (2018–2023)
Authors: Ciobanu Despina , Hosu-Stancioiu Oana , Melinte Gheorghe , Ognean Flavia , Simon Ioan , Cristea Cecilia
Published: December 2023

Food contaminants represent possible threats to humans and animals as severe food safety hazards. Prolonged exposure to contaminated food often leads to chronic diseases such as cancer, kidney or liver failure, immunosuppression, or genotoxicity. Aflatoxins are naturally produced by strains of the fungi species Aspergillus, which is one of the most critical and poisonous food contaminants worldwide. Given the high percentage of contaminated food products, traditional detection methods often prove inadequate. Thus, it becomes imperative to develop fast, accurate, and easy-to-use analytical methods to enable safe food products and good practices policies. Focusing on the recent progress (2018–2023) of electrochemical aptasensors for aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) detection in food and beverage samples, without pretending to be exhaustive, we present an overview of the most important label-free and labeled sensing strategies. Simultaneous and competitive aptamer-based strategies are also discussed. The aptasensors are summarized in tabular format according to the detection mode. Sample treatments performed prior analysis are discussed. Emphasis was placed on the nanomaterials used in the aptasensors’ design for aptamer-tailored immobilization and/or signal amplification. The advantages and limitations of AFB1 electrochemical aptasensors for field detection are presented.
The Use of Waste Tyre Rubber Recycled Products in Lightweight Timber Frame Systems as Acoustic Insulation: A Comparative Analysis of Acoustic Performance
Authors: Balmori José-Antonio , Casado-Sanz Milagros , Machimbarrena María , Quirós-Alpera Susana , Mostaza Roberto , Acuña Luis
Published: December 2023

The current European standards demand more energy-efficient, comfortable, and sustainable buildings and encourage the incorporation of recycled materials in building construction. Timber buildings are successfully competing with traditional building materials in addressing these challenges; however, one of the weaknesses of timber systems is their limited sound insulation capacity. One material that can fit into the sustainability aims of timber construction and improve its acoustic performance is recycled ground tyre rubber (GTR), which, on top of this, is a serious environmental problem. This paper presents research on the use of GTR materials combined with timber systems in order to improve their acoustic performance. Three different types of GTR products (granulate, rolls, and sheets) of different thicknesses and densities are selected and are combined with different sound-absorbing materials (mineral wool, cellulose, and wood fibre) inside a lightweight timber sandwich system. In this study, the first qualitative approach, the acoustic performance of the different resulting systems is compared based on the sound pressure level difference measured in a custom-made reduced-size transmission chamber. Secondly, the sound reduction index of four selected specimens is measured in an accredited sound transmission laboratory. The results show that, for all the lightweight timber systems included in this research, introducing a GTR layer improves the acoustic performance of the system.
Bond Performance between Fiber-Wrapped Ribbed Basalt Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Bars and Seawater Sea-Sand Concrete
Authors: Lin Min , Weng Chenyue , Xiao Hesheng , Zeng Dong , Zhang Baifa , Chen Xiaopan , He Shaohua , Li Lijuan
Published: December 2023

The high corrosion resistance of fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) and related concrete structures means that they are suitable for application in the marine environment. Therefore, the replacement of steel bars with fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) bars enhances corrosion resistance in seawater sea-sand concrete (SSC) structures. Geometric parameters significantly influence the performance of the bond between ribbed FRP bars and SSC, thereby affecting the mechanical properties of the concrete structures. In this study, the performance of the bond between ribbed (i.e., with fiber wrapping) basalt-fiber-reinforced polymer (BFRP) bars and SSC was investigated through pull-out tests that considered rib geometry and SSC strength. The results demonstrated that an increase in rib and dent widths reduced the bond stiffness, while an increase in rib height and SSC strength gradually increased the bond stiffness and strength. Additionally, the bond stiffness and bond strength were relatively low because the surface fiber bundles buffered the mechanical interlocking force between the BFRP ribs and the concrete, resulting in plastic bond failure during the loading process. Furthermore, the adhesion of the fiber bundles to the surface of the BFRP bars also influenced bond performance, with higher adhesion leading to greater bond stiffness and strength.
Analysis of the Main Architectural and Structural Design Considerations in Tall Timber Buildings
Authors: Ilgın Hüseyin Emre
Published: December 2023

Tall timber buildings represent an emerging and highly promising sector due to their potential to yield significant environmental and economic advantages throughout their entire life cycles. Nonetheless, the existing body of literature lacks a comprehensive exploration of the primary architectural and structural design considerations for such sustainable towers. To address this gap and to enhance our understanding of emerging global trends, this study scrutinized data from 49 tall timber building case studies from around the world. The key findings revealed the following: (1) Europe stood out as the region boasting the highest number of tall timber buildings, with North America and Australia following behind; (2) residential applications were the most preferred function for tall timber buildings; (3) central cores were the predominant choice for core configuration; (4) prismatic forms were the most prevalent design preferences; (5) composite materials were notably widespread, with timber and concrete combinations being the most prominent; (6) structural systems primarily featured shear–frame systems, especially shear-walled frames. By unveiling these contemporary characteristics of tall timber buildings, this research is expected to provide valuable insights to architects, aiding and guiding them in the design and execution of future sustainable projects in this field.
A Compatible Estimation Method for Biomass Factors Based on Allometric Relationship: A Case Study on Pinus densata Natural Forest in Yunnan Province of Southwest China
Authors: Li Wenfang , Xu Hui , Wu Yong , Zhang Xiaoli , Liu Chunxiao , Lu Chi , Yu Zhibo , Ou Guanglong
Published: December 2023

Using various biomass factors, such as biomass expansion factor (BEF) and biomass conversion and expansion factor (BCEF), yields different results for estimating forest biomass. Therefore, ensuring compatibility between total biomass and its components when employing different biomass factors is crucial for developing a set of rapid and efficient models for large-scale biomass calculation. In this study, allometric equations were utilized to construct independent models and the proportional values (root-to-shoot ratio (Rra), crown-to-stem ratio (Rcs), bark-to-wood ratio (Rbw), foliage-to-bark ratio (Rfb), and wood biomass-to-wood volume (ρ)) by using the mean height (Hm) and the mean diameter at breast height (Dg) of 98 Pinus densata plots in Shangri-La, Yunnan province, China. The compatible methods were applied to reveal the compatibility between the total biomass and each component’s biomass. The results showed the following: (1) Both the independent model and compatible model had a higher accuracy. The values were greater than 0.7 overall, but the foliage biomass accuracy was only 0.2. The total biomass and the component biomass showed compatibility. (2) The accuracy of BEF and BCEF exceeded 0.87 and the total error was less than 0.1 for most components. (3) The mean BEF (1.6) was greater than that of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) (M = 1.3), and the mean BCEF was smaller than that of the IPCC; the values were 0.6 and 0.7, respectively. The range of BEF (1.4–2.1) and BCEF (0.44–0.89) were all within the range of the IPCC (1.15–3.2, 0.4–1.0). This study provides a more convenient and accurate method for calculating conversion coefficients (BEF and BCEF), especially when only Rcs data is available.
Detecting the Short-Term Effects of Water Stress on Radiata Pine Physiology Using Thermal Imagery
Authors: Watt Michael S. , de Silva Dilshan , Estarija Honey Jane C. , Yorston Warren , Massam Peter
Published: December 2023

Despite the utility of thermal imagery for characterising the impacts of water stress on plant physiology, few studies have been undertaken on plantation-grown conifers, including the most widely planted exotic species, radiata pine. Using data collected from a pot trial, where water was withheld from radiata pine over a nine-day period, the objectives of this study were to (i) determine how rapidly key physiological traits change in response to water stress and (ii) assess the utility of normalised canopy temperature, defined as canopy temperature–air temperature (Tc–Ta), for detecting these physiological changes. Volumetric water content remained high in the well-watered control treatment over the course of the experiment (0.47–0.48 m3 m−3) but declined rapidly in the water stress treatment from 0.47 m3 m−3 at 0 days after treatment (DAT) to 0.04 m3 m−3 at 9 DAT. There were no significant treatment differences in measurements taken at 0 DAT for Tc–Ta, stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration rate (E) or assimilation rate (A). However, by 1 DAT, differences between treatments in tree physiological traits were highly significant, and these differences continued diverging with values in the control treatment exceeding those of trees in the water stress treatment at 9 DAT by 42, 43 and 61%, respectively, for gs, E and A. The relationships between Tc–Ta and the three physiological traits were not significant at 0 DAT, but all three relationships were highly significant from as early as 1 DAT onwards. The strength of the relationships between Tc–Ta and the three physiological traits increased markedly over the duration of the water stress treatment, reaching a maximum coefficient of determination (R2) at 7 DAT when values were, respectively, 0.87, 0.86 and 0.67 for gs, E and A. The early detection of changes in tree physiology from 1 DAT onwards suggests that thermal imagery may be useful for a range of applications in field-grown radiata pine.
The Genome-Wide Profiling of Alternative Splicing in Willow under Salt Stress
Authors: Wang Xue , Gong Longfeng , Zhang Junkang , Wang Lei , Wu Di , Xu Jichen
Published: December 2023

Alternative splicing (AS) is an important post-transcriptional regulatory model that can change the normal transcript expression level and possibly result in protein diversity. In this study, we conducted the full-length transcript sequencing of Salix matsudana Koidz 9901 leaves under salt treatment using the PromethION platform. A total of 4786 AS genes (9307 AS events) were determined, accounting for 7.45% of all the transcribed genes. Of them, intron retention (IR) events accounted for the most AS events (46.05%), followed by alternative 3′ splice sites (A3SS). During salt stress, the percentage of IR events decreased, and the percentage of the others increased. Statistical results showed that 5′GG was the most common motif at the 5′ end of the intron in the AS events, and GG3′ was the most common motif at the 3′ end. 5′GG-AG3′ was the most common splice mode in the AS events. The occurrence of AS events was significantly related to the exon number, exon length, intron length, GC content, and expression abundance of the genes. During salt stress, the number of AS genes gradually increased, and they mainly participated in purine and chlorophyll metabolism, RNA transport, and autophagy. Meanwhile, the AS sites of the gene increased during salt treatment, indicating the complexity of the AS events by salt stress. A comparison of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially alternative splicing (DAS) genes during salt stress revealed that they had a different mechanism of gene expression regulation when subjected to salt stress. These results expand our knowledge of AS events and shed light on and improve our understanding of plant resistance to salt tolerance in willow.
Insights from Finnish Experts on the Construction Practices and Future Prospects of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)
Authors: Ilgın Hüseyin Emre , Karjalainen Markku
Published: December 2023

Given that CLT is a relatively recent innovation, there is a notable scarcity of market research in Finland. Presently, there is a limited body of literature that provides a thorough comprehension of the present state, varied applications, and anticipated future developments concerning the use of CLT within the Finnish construction sector. The limited availability of research data underscores the need for more extensive studies to fill this knowledge gap and provide a more nuanced insight into the evolving landscape of CLT adoption within the Finnish construction industry. This article aims to fill this gap through semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 15 Finnish experts. Key findings highlighted that (1) the hierarchical order of familiarity with CLT among construction professionals in Finland, ranging from highest to lowest, was identified as follows: architects, engineers, developers, builders, and contractors; (2) a pronounced necessity exists for heightened expertise and training within the realm of CLT; (3) CLT was considered a promising option in endeavors aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate crises; (4) CLT showcased adaptability to environments marked by highly fluctuating climatic conditions, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach, including proactive maintenance strategies; (5) Finland adopted commendable and forward-looking sustainable practices in forest management; (6) the adaptability of CLT across a wide range of building categories; (7) the perceived vulnerabilities in CLT construction primarily included a lack of cost-competitiveness, insufficient sound insulation, and inadequate production volume; and (8) key future market prospects encompassed the versatility of CLT, increasing demand propelled by environmental considerations, and collaborative advancements in hybrid construction techniques. This article will contribute to the greater usage of CLT in the building industry in Finland by revealing the challenges, potential, and future outlook of CLT use.
The Impact of Positive Inotropic Therapy on Hemodynamics and Organ Function in Acute Heart Failure: A Differentiated View
Authors: Cheko Juan , Patsalis Nikolaos , Kreutz Julian , Divchev Dimitar , Chatzis Georgios , Schieffer Bernhard , Markus Birgit
Published: December 2023

Background: Little is known about the impact of treatment with inotropic drugs on the interaction of hemodynamics, biomarkers, and end-organ function in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (HF) of different origins and heart rhythms. Methods: Fifty patients with different causes of acute decompensated HF (dilated cardiomyopathy DCM, ischemic cardiomyopathy ICM, atrial fibrillation AF, sinus rhythm/pacemaker lead rhythm SR/PM) were treated with dobutamine or levosimendan. Non-invasive hemodynamics, biomarkers, and parameters of renal organ function were evaluated at hospital admission and after myocardial recompensation (day 5 to 7). Results: Twenty-seven patients with ICM and twenty-three patients with DCM were included. Thirty-nine patients were treated with dobutamine and eleven with levosimendan. Sixteen were accompanied by persistent AF and thirty-four presented either with SR or PM. In the overall cohort, body weight and biomarkers (NT-proBNP/ST2) significantly decreased. GFR significantly increased during therapy with either dobutamine or levosimendan. However, hemodynamic parameters seem to be only improved in patients with DCM, in the levosimendan sub-group, and in patients with SR/PM. Conclusion: Patients with acute decompensated HF benefit from positive inotropic therapy during short-term follow-ups. In particular, patients with DCM, those after levosimendan therapy and those with SR/PM, seem to benefit most from inotropic therapy.
Numerical, Theoretical, and Experimental Analysis of LVL-CFRP Sandwich Structure
Authors: Bakalarz Michał Marcin , Kossakowski Paweł Grzegorz
Published: December 2023

Optimization of structural elements via composition of different components is a significant scientific and practical point-of-view problem aimed at obtaining more economical and environmentally friendly solutions. This paper presents the results of a static work analysis of small-size laminated veneer lumber (LVL) beams reinforced by a Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) sheet. The nominal dimensions of LVL beams were 45 × 45 × 850 mm, and 0.333- and 0.666-mm thick reinforcement layers were used. The reinforcement was applied on opposite sides of the cross section obtaining a sandwich-type structure. An epoxy resin was used as a bonding layer. The bending tests were conducted in the so-called four-point bending static scheme in edgewise and flatwise conditions. The results of experimental tests confirmed the validity of this combination of materials. The highest load-bearing capacity was obtained for configuration, where CFRP sheets with a thickness of 0.666 mm were placed on the sides of the core, parallel to the direction of loading and the veneer’s grain in the core. The increase in this case was up to a maximum of 57% compared to the core alone. The highest bending stiffness increase, 182% compared to the core alone, involves placing two layers of sheets perpendicular to the direction of loading, i.e., on the upper and lower surfaces. The presented novel sandwich structure can be competitive against traditional steel and reinforced concrete elements in civil engineering and can be utilized as beams or slabs.
Sulphated TiO2 Reduced by Ammonia and Hydrogen as an Excellent Photocatalyst for Bacteria Inactivation
Authors: Rychtowski Piotr , Paszkiewicz Oliwia , Markowska-Szczupak Agata , Leniec Grzegorz , Tryba Beata
Published: December 2023

This study presents a relatively low-cost method for modifying TiO2-based materials for photocatalytic bacterial inactivation. The photocatalytic inactivation of Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus epidermidis) bacteria using modified sulphated TiO2 was studied. The modification focused on the reduction of TiO2 by ammonia agents and hydrogen at 400–450 °C. The results showed a high impact of sulphate species on the inactivation of E. coli. The presence of these species generated acid sites on TiO2, which shifted the pH of the reacted titania slurry solution to lower values, around 4.6. At such a low pH, TiO2 was positively charged. The ammonia solution caused the removal of sulphate species from TiO2. On the other hand, hydrogen and ammonia molecules accelerated the removal of sulphur species from TiO2, as did heating it to 450 °C. Total inactivation of E. coli was obtained within 30 min of simulated solar light irradiation on TiO2 heat-treated at 400 °C in an atmosphere of Ar or NH3. The S. epidermidis strain was more resistant to photocatalytic oxidation. The contact of these bacteria with the active titania surface is important, but a higher oxidation force is necessary to destroy their cell membrane walls because of their thicker cell wall than E. coli. Therefore, the ability of a photocatalyst to produce ROS (reactive oxidative species) will determine its ability to inactivate S. epidermidis. An additional advantage of the studies presented is the inactivation of bacteria after a relatively short irradiation time (30 min), which does not often happen with photocatalysts not modified with noble metals. The modification methods presented represent a robust and inexpensive alternative to photocatalytic inactivation of bacteria.
Superplastic Forming of Zr-Based Bulk Metallic Glasses
Authors: Zhang Xiangyun , Zhao Chenkai , Xiao Caiyun , Yuan Zizhou , Huang Jiankang
Published: December 2023

In this paper, the partially crystallized Zr70Cu13.5Ni8.5Al8 bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) were prepared, and their superplastic deformation ability in the supercooled liquid region was studied via compression over a wide range of strain rates from 5 × 10−4 s−1 to 1 × 10−2 s−1. It has been found that the superplastic deformation behavior of the BMGs is strongly dependent on the strain rate and temperature. The flow behavior of the BMGs transformed from Newtonian fluid to non-Newtonian fluid with the increase in the strain rate and the decrease in temperature. Based on the high-temperature compression results, a thermalplastic forming map was constructed, and the optimal superplastic forming parameters were obtained. Then, gears were successfully extruded using part of the optimal thermal processing parameters. Further studies showed that high-temperature extrusion induced the crystallization of the BMGs, which increased the microhardness of the gears.
Micro-Raman for Local Strain Evaluation of GaN LEDs and Si Chips Assembled on Cu Substrates
Authors: Brugnolotto Enrico , Mezzalira Claudia , Conti Fosca , Pedron Danilo , Signorini Raffaella
Published: December 2023

Integrated circuits are created by interfacing different materials, semiconductors, and metals, which are appropriately deposited or grown on substrates and layers soldered together. Therefore, the characteristics of starting materials and process temperatures are of great importance, as they can induce residual strains in the final assembly. Identifying and quantifying strain becomes strategically important in optimizing processes to enhance the performance, duration, and reliability of final devices. This work analyzes the thermomechanical local strain of semiconductor materials used to realize LED modules for lighting applications. Gallium Nitride active layers grown on sapphire substrates and Si chips are assembled by soldering with eutectic AuSn on copper substrates and investigated by Raman spectroscopy in a temperature range of −50 to 180 °C. From the Raman mapping of many different samples, it is concluded that one of the leading causes of strain in the GaN layer can be attributed to the differences in the thermal expansion coefficient among the various materials and, above all, among the chip, interconnection material, and substrate. These differences are responsible for forces that slightly bend the chip, causing strain in the GaN layer, which is most compressed in the central region of the chip and slightly stretched in the outer areas.
A Multianalytical Approach to Identifying the White Marbles Used in Roman Imperial Sculptures from Tarraco (Hispania)
Authors: Lapuente Mercadal M. Pilar , Clavería Montserrat , Rodà Isabel
Published: December 2023

A selection of the most outstanding white marble sculptures from Tarraco has been archaeometrically studied to know more about the marble sources and their respective artistic workshops. All are imperial portraits of the 2nd century AD (Trajan, Hadrian, Lucius Verus and Marcus Aurelius) and a thoracata bust assigned to Hadrian, found on display at the National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona (MNAT). The well-established multimethod approach, combining petrography, cathodoluminescence, C and O isotopes and Sr and Mn trace element composition, has revealed the use of different very fine- to fine-grained marbles of the highest quality exploited in classical times. In contrast to what was thought until now, in which all the pieces had been assigned to Luni-Carrara, this present study identifies the use of two varieties of the recently discovered site of Göktepe near Aphrodisias and Paros-lychnites marbles, being Carrara, in minority. This study confirms the importance of strontium concentration and the contribution of cathodoluminescence to distinguish Göktepe from Carrara marble, while carbon and oxygen isotopes were crucial for the identification of Cycladic marble. Finally, in line with recent published interdisciplinary studies, the marble provenance forces us to rethink the discourse on the use of marble, its sculptural workshops and its distribution in this temporal context.
Removal of Diclofenac and Heavy Metal Ions from Aqueous Media Using Composite Sorbents in Dynamic Conditions
Authors: Fighir Daniela , Paduraru Carmen , Ciobanu Ramona , Bucatariu Florin , Plavan Oana , Gherghel Andreea , Barjoveanu George , Mihai Marcela , Teodosiu Carmen
Published: December 2023

Pharmaceuticals and heavy metals pose significant risks to human health and aquatic ecosystems, necessitating their removal from water and wastewater. A promising alternative for this purpose involves their removal by adsorption on composite sorbents prepared using a conventional layer-by-layer (LbL) method or an innovative coacervate direct deposition approach. In this study, four novel composite materials based on a silica core (IS) and a polyelectrolyte coacervate shell were used for the investigation of dynamic adsorption of three heavy metals (lead, nickel and cadmium) and an organic drug model (diclofenac sodium salt, DCF-Na). The four types of composite sorbents were tested for the first time in dynamic conditions (columns with continuous flow), and the column conditions were similar to those used in wastewater treatment plants. The influence of the polyanion nature (poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) vs. poly(sodium methacrylate) (PMAA)), maintaining a constant poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI), and the cross-linking degree (r = 0.1 and r = 1.0) of PEI chains on the immobilization of these pollutants (inorganic vs. organic) on the same type of composite was also studied. The experiments involved both single- and multi-component aqueous solutions. The kinetics of the dynamic adsorption process were examined using two non-linear models: the Thomas and Yoon–Nelson models. The tested sorbents demonstrated good adsorption capacities with affinities for the metal ions in the following order: Pb2+ > Cd2+ > Ni2+. An increase in the initial diclofenac sodium concentration led to an enhanced adsorption capacity of the IS/(PEI-PAA)c-r1 sorbent. The calculated sorption capacities were in good agreement with the adsorption capacity predicted by the Thomas and Yoon–Nelson models. The substantial affinity observed between DCF-Na and a column containing composite microparticles saturated with heavy metal ions was explained.