bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a Medical Interview-Assistance System Using Artificial Intelligence for Resident Physicians Interviewing Simulated Patients: A Crossover, Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Kanazawa Akio , Fujibayashi Kazutoshi , Watanabe Yu , Kushiro Seiko , Yanagisawa Naotake , Fukataki Yasuko , Kitamura Sakiko , Hayashi Wakako , Nagao Masashi , Nishizaki Yuji , Inomata Takenori , Arikawa-Hirasawa Eri , Naito Toshio
Published: June 2023

Medical interviews are expected to undergo a major transformation through the use of artificial intelligence. However, artificial intelligence-based systems that support medical interviews are not yet widespread in Japan, and their usefulness is unclear. A randomized, controlled trial to determine the usefulness of a commercial medical interview support system using a question flow chart-type application based on a Bayesian model was conducted. Ten resident physicians were allocated to two groups with or without information from an artificial intelligence-based support system. The rate of correct diagnoses, amount of time to complete the interviews, and number of questions they asked were compared between the two groups. Two trials were conducted on different dates, with a total of 20 resident physicians participating. Data for 192 differential diagnoses were obtained. There was a significant difference in the rate of correct diagnosis between the two groups for two cases and for overall cases (0.561 vs. 0.393; p = 0.02). There was a significant difference in the time required between the two groups for overall cases (370 s (352–387) vs. 390 s (373–406), p = 0.04). Artificial intelligence-assisted medical interviews helped resident physicians make more accurate diagnoses and reduced consultation time. The widespread use of artificial intelligence systems in clinical settings could contribute to improving the quality of medical care.
Public Knowledge and Attitude towards Vitiligo: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Jordan
Authors: Murshidi Rand , Shewaikani Nour , Al Refaei Assem , Alfreijat Balqis , Al-Sabri Buthaina , Abdallat Mahmoud , Murshidi Muayyad , Khamis Tala , Al-Dawoud Yasmin , Alattar Zahraa
Published: June 2023

Background: Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease affecting approximately 2% of the world’s population. Besides vitiligo cosmetic issues, patients suffer from psychological comorbidities. This results from the stigmatization they encounter from surrounding individuals. Accordingly, the current study was the first to assess Jordanians’ knowledge and attitude toward vitiligo. Methods: Data collection was completed by an online questionnaire consisting of four sections to capture participants’ sociodemographic characteristics, previous exposure, and knowledge and attitude toward vitiligo. The analysis took place through R and RStudio. Results: Of our 994 surveyed participants, only 8.45% and 12.47% had a low level of vitiligo knowledge and negative total attitude score, respectively. Moreover, independent predictors of positive attitudes included younger age (18–30), high school education or lower, hearing about or living with a vitiligo patient, and higher knowledge scores. The highest prevalence of positive attitudes was observed when physicians were the source of knowledge. Conclusion: Some critical misconceptions were identified despite the Jordanian public having sufficient overall knowledge. Furthermore, higher knowledge reflected a higher prevalence of positive attitudes toward the patients. We recommend that future efforts target the public understanding of the nature of the disease and its being non-communicable. Moreover, we emphasize that medical knowledge should be communicated through qualified healthcare providers.
Evaluation of Groundwater Vulnerability in the Upper Kelkit Valley (Northeastern Turkey) Using DRASTIC and AHP-DRASTICLu Models
Authors: Yıldırım Ümit
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to investigate groundwater vulnerability to pollution in the Upper Kelkit Valley (NE Turkey). For this purpose, vulnerability index maps were created using the generic DRASTIC and AHP-DRASTICLu models. The latter model was suggested by adding a parameter to the DRASTIC model and weighting its parameters with the analytical hierarchy process with the GIS technique. The results showed that areas with high and very high vulnerabilities are concentrated around the Kelkit Stream, which flows from east to west in the central part of the study area. In contrast, areas with low and very low vulnerability classes are located in the northern and southern parts of the study area. To validate the model results, a physicochemical characterization of groundwater samples and their corresponding vulnerability index values were statistically compared using the Spearman correlation method. In addition, the single-parameter sensitivity method was applied to analyze the models’ sensitivities. Results revealed a stronger correlation between the vulnerability index values of the AHP-DRASTICLu model (compared to the DRASTIC model) in terms of sulfate (R2 = 0.75) and chloride (R2 = 0.76), while there was a slightly weaker correlation for the electrical conductivity (R2 = 0.65) values of the groundwater samples. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the vadose zone, aquifer media, and land use are the most influential parameters responsible for the highest variation in the vulnerability index. Generally speaking, the results indicated that the AHP-DRASTICLu model performs better than the DRASTIC model for investigating groundwater vulnerability to pollution in the Upper Kelkit Valley.
Low-Field Magnetic Stimulation Alleviates MPTP-Induced Alterations in Motor Function and Dopaminergic Neurons in Male Mice
Authors: Sekar Sathiya , Zhang Yanbo , Miranzadeh Mahabadi Hajar , Buettner Benson , Taghibiglou Changiz
Published: June 2023

Recent studies show that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) improves cognitive and motor functions in patients with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Gamma rhythm low-field magnetic stimulation (LFMS) is a new non-invasive rTMS technique that generates diffused and low-intensity magnetic stimulation to the deep cortical and subcortical areas. To investigate the potential therapeutic effects of LFMS in PD, we subjected an experimental mouse model to LFMS (as an early treatment). We examined the LFMS effect on motor functions as well as neuronal and glial activities in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-treated male C57BL/6J mice. Mice received MPTP injection (30 mg/kg, i.p., once daily for 5 days) followed by LFMS treatment, 20 min each day for 7 days. LFMS treatment improved motor functions compared with the sham-treated MPTP mice. Further, LFMS significantly improved tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and decreased glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels in substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and non-significantly in striatal (ST) regions. LFMS treatment improved neuronal nuclei (NeuN) levels in SNpc. Our findings suggest that early LFMS treatment improves neuronal survival and, in turn, motor functions in MPTP-treated mice. Further investigation is required to clearly define the molecular mechanisms by which LFMS improves motor and cognitive function in PD patients.
Synthetic Study of Natural Metabolites Containing a Benzo[c]oxepine Skeleton: Heterocornol C and D
Authors: Gettler Ján , Čarný Tomáš , Markovič Martin , Koóš Peter , Samoľová Erika , Moncoľ Ján , Gracza Tibor
Published: June 2023

A versatile strategy for the enantioselective synthesis of a benzo[c]oxepine structural core containing natural secondary metabolites was developed. The key steps of the synthetic approach include ring-closing alkene metathesis for seven-member ring construction, the Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reaction for the installation of the double bond and Katsuki–Sharpless asymmetric epoxidation for the introduction of chiral centers. The first total synthesis and absolute configuration assignment of heterocornol D (3a) were achieved. Four stereoisomers, 3a, ent-3a, 3b and ent-3b, of this natural polyketide were prepared, starting with 2,6-dihydroxy benzoic acid and divinyl carbinol. The absolute and relative configuration of heterocornol D was assigned via single-crystal X-ray analysis. The extension of the described synthetic approach is further presented with the synthesis of heterocornol C by applying the ether group reduction method to the lactone.
Insights into Cellular Localization and Environmental Influences on the Toxicity of Marine Fish-Killing Flagellate, Heterosigma akashiwo
Authors: Mehdizadeh Allaf Malihe , Trick Charles G.
Published: June 2023

Heterosigma akashiwo is a unicellular microalga which can cause massive mortality in both wild and cultivated fish worldwide, resulting in substantial economic losses. Environmental parameters such as salinity, light, and temperature showed a significant effect on bloom initiation and the toxicity of H. akashiwo. While in previous studies a one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) approach was utilized, which only changes one variable at a time while keeping others constant, in the current study a more precise and effective design of experiment (DOE) approach, was used to investigate the simultaneous effect of three factors and their interactions. The study employed a central composite design (CCD) to investigate the effect of salinity, light intensity, and temperature on the toxicity, lipid, and protein production of H. akashiwo. A yeast cell assay was developed to assess toxicity, which offers rapid and convenient cytotoxicity measurements using a lower volume of samples compared to conventional methods using the whole organism. The obtained results showed that the optimum condition for toxicity of H. akashiwo was 25 °C, a salinity of 17.5, and a light intensity of 250 μmol photons m−2 s−1. The highest amount of lipid and protein was found at 25 °C, a salinity of 30, and a light intensity of 250 μmol photons m−2 s−1. Consequently, the combination of warm water mixing with lower salinity river input has the potential to enhance H. akashiwo toxicity, which aligns with environmental reports that establish a correlation between warm summers and extensive runoff conditions that indicate the greatest concern for aquaculture facilities.
Molecular Mechanisms of Plant Defense against Abiotic Stress
Authors: Apostolova Emilia L.
Published: June 2023

The climatic changes and anthropogenic factors in recent decades (global warming, drought, salinity, extreme temperature, environmental pollution) have led to an increase in the negative impact of environmental factors on plants. Abiotic stress strongly influences the important processes of plants and thus affects their growth and development. The effects of stressors on the plants depend on the intensity, frequency, and duration of stress, plant species as well as a combination of various stressors. Plants have developed different mechanisms to limit adverse environmental conditions. In the publications in this Special Issue, Molecular Mechanisms of Plant Defense against Abiotic Stress, new information on plant defense mechanisms against abiotic and biotic stress is presented. The studies help us better understand plants' protection mechanisms again global climate change.
Functionalized Ordered Mesoporous MCM-48 Silica: Synthesis, Characterization and Adsorbent for CO2 Capture
Authors: Borcănescu Silvana , Popa Alexandru , Verdeș Orsina , Suba Mariana
Published: June 2023

The ordered mesoporous silica MCM-48 with cubic Ia3d structure was synthesized using the cationic surfactant hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as a template agent and tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) as a silica source. The obtained material was first functionalized with (3-glycidyloxypropyl)trimethoxysilane (KH560); further, two types of amination reagents were used: ethylene diamine (N2) and diethylene triamine (N3). The modified amino-functionalized materials were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) at low angles, infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and nitrogen adsorption–desorption experiments at 77 K. Characterization from a structural point of view reveals that the ordered MCM-48 mesoporous silica has a highly ordered structure and a large surface area (1466.059 m2/g) and pore volume (0.802 cm3/g). The amino-functionalized MCM-48 molecular sieves were tested for CO2 adsorption–desorption properties at different temperatures using thermal program desorption (TPD). Promising results for CO2 adsorption capacities were achieved for MCM-48 sil KH560-N3 at 30 °C. At 30 °C, the MCM-48 sil KH560-N3 sample has an adsorption capacity of 3.17 mmol CO2/g SiO2, and an efficiency of amino groups of 0.58 mmol CO2/mmolNH2. After nine adsorption–desorption cycles, the results suggest that the performance of the MCM-48 sil KH N2 and MCM-48 sil KH N3 adsorbents is relatively stable, presenting a low decrease in the adsorption capacity. The results reported in this paper for the investigated amino-functionalized molecular sieves as absorbents for CO2 can be considered as promising.
StackTHPred: Identifying Tumor-Homing Peptides through GBDT-Based Feature Selection with Stacking Ensemble Architecture
Authors: Guan Jiahui , Yao Lantian , Chung Chia-Ru , Chiang Ying-Chih , Lee Tzong-Yi
Published: June 2023

One of the major challenges in cancer therapy lies in the limited targeting specificity exhibited by existing anti-cancer drugs. Tumor-homing peptides (THPs) have emerged as a promising solution to this issue, due to their capability to specifically bind to and accumulate in tumor tissues while minimally impacting healthy tissues. THPs are short oligopeptides that offer a superior biological safety profile, with minimal antigenicity, and faster incorporation rates into target cells/tissues. However, identifying THPs experimentally, using methods such as phage display or in vivo screening, is a complex, time-consuming task, hence the need for computational methods. In this study, we proposed StackTHPred, a novel machine learning-based framework that predicts THPs using optimal features and a stacking architecture. With an effective feature selection algorithm and three tree-based machine learning algorithms, StackTHPred has demonstrated advanced performance, surpassing existing THP prediction methods. It achieved an accuracy of 0.915 and a 0.831 Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC) score on the main dataset, and an accuracy of 0.883 and a 0.767 MCC score on the small dataset. StackTHPred also offers favorable interpretability, enabling researchers to better understand the intrinsic characteristics of THPs. Overall, StackTHPred is beneficial for both the exploration and identification of THPs and facilitates the development of innovative cancer therapies.
Cytomembrane Trafficking Pathways of Connexin 26, 30, and 43
Authors: Zong Yan-Jun , Liu Xiao-Zhou , Tu Lei , Sun Yu
Published: June 2023

The connexin gene family is the most prevalent gene that contributes to hearing loss. Connexins 26 and 30, encoded by GJB2 and GJB6, respectively, are the most abundantly expressed connexins in the inner ear. Connexin 43, which is encoded by GJA1, appears to be widely expressed in various organs, including the heart, skin, the brain, and the inner ear. The mutations that arise in GJB2, GJB6, and GJA1 can all result in comprehensive or non-comprehensive genetic deafness in newborns. As it is predicted that connexins include at least 20 isoforms in humans, the biosynthesis, structural composition, and degradation of connexins must be precisely regulated so that the gap junctions can properly operate. Certain mutations result in connexins possessing a faulty subcellular localization, failing to transport to the cell membrane and preventing gap junction formation, ultimately leading to connexin dysfunction and hearing loss. In this review, we provide a discussion of the transport models for connexin 43, connexins 30 and 26, mutations affecting trafficking pathways of these connexins, the existing controversies in the trafficking pathways of connexins, and the molecules involved in connexin trafficking and their functions. This review can contribute to a new way of understanding the etiological principles of connexin mutations and finding therapeutic strategies for hereditary deafness.
Differential Lipidomics, Metabolomics and Immunological Analysis of Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis in Mice
Authors: Dorochow Erika , Kraus Nico , Chenaux-Repond Nicolas , Pierre Sandra , Kolbinger Anja , Geisslinger Gerd , Ortiz Cristina , Welsch Christoph , Trebicka Jonel , Gurke Robert , Hahnefeld Lisa , Klein Sabine , Scholich Klaus
Published: June 2023

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH) are the leading causes of liver disease worldwide. To identify disease-specific pathomechanisms, we analyzed the lipidome, metabolome and immune cell recruitment in livers in both diseases. Mice harboring ASH or NASH had comparable disease severities regarding mortality rate, neurological behavior, expression of fibrosis marker and albumin levels. Lipid droplet size was higher in NASH than ASH and qualitative differences in the lipidome were mainly based on incorporation of diet-specific fatty acids into triglycerides, phosphatidylcholines and lysophosphatidylcholines. Metabolomic analysis showed downregulated nucleoside levels in both models. Here, the corresponding uremic metabolites were only upregulated in NASH suggesting stronger cellular senescence, which was supported by lower antioxidant levels in NASH as compared to ASH. While altered urea cycle metabolites suggest increased nitric oxide synthesis in both models, in ASH, this depended on increased L-homoarginine levels indicating a cardiovascular response mechanism. Interestingly, only in NASH were the levels of tryptophan and its anti-inflammatory metabolite kynurenine upregulated. Fittingly, high-content immunohistochemistry showed a decreased macrophage recruitment and an increased polarization towards M2-like macrophages in NASH. In conclusion, with comparable disease severity in both models, higher lipid storage, oxidative stress and tryptophan/kynurenine levels were seen in NASH, leading to distinct immune responses.
The Impact of Gold Nanoparticles on Somatic Embryogenesis Using the Example of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Godel-Jędrychowska Kamila , Milewska-Hendel Anna , Sala Katarzyna , Barański Rafał , Kurczyńska Ewa
Published: June 2023

Although the influence of nanoparticles (NPs) on developmental processes is better understood, little is known about their impact on somatic embryogenesis (SE). This process involves changes in the direction of cell differentiation. Thus, studying the effect of NPs on SE is essential to reveal their impact on cell fate. This study aimed to examine the influence of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) with different surface charges on the SE of 35S:BBM Arabidopsis thaliana, with particular emphasis on the spatiotemporal localization of pectic arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) and extensin epitopes in cells changing the direction of their differentiation. The results show that under the influence of nanoparticles, the explant cells of 35S:BBM Arabidopsis thaliana seedling origin did not enter the path of SE. Bulges and the formation of organ-like structures were observed in these explants, in contrast to the control, where somatic embryos developed. Additionally, spatiotemporal changes in the chemical composition of the cell walls during the culture were observed. Under the influence of Au NPs, the following effects were observed: (1) explant cells did not enter the SE pathway, (2) the impacts of Au NPs with different surface charges on the explants were variable, and (3) the compositions of the analyzed pectic AGPs and extensin epitopes were diverse in the cells with different developmental programs: SE (control) and non-SE (treated with Au NPs).
The Effect of CacyBP/SIP on the Phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38 Kinases in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Smereczańska Magdalena , Domian Natalia , Młynarczyk Grzegorz , Kasacka Irena
Published: June 2023

The prognosis for patients with RCC is very poor because this cancer is diagnosed mainly in the metastatic stage and is resistant to radio- and chemotherapy. According to recent research, CacyBP/SIP exhibits phosphatase activity against MAPK and may be involved in many cellular processes. This function has not been studied in RCC so far, so we decided to test whether CacyBP/SIP has phosphatase function against ERK1/2 and p38 in high-grade clear cell RCC. The research material consisted of fragments of clear cell RCC, whereas the comparative material consisted of the adjacent normal tissues. Immunohistochemistry and qRT-PCR were used to identify the expression of CacyBP/SIP, ERK1/2, and p38. The studies showed an increase in immunoreactivity and gene expression of the parameters examined in clear cell RCC compared with normal tissues. Only in the case of ERK1/2 was it shown that the expression of the MAPK3 gene was downregulated and the MAPK1 gene was higher in clear cell RCC. These studies demonstrated that CacyBP/SIP lacked phosphatase function against ERK1/2 and p38 in high-grade clear cell RCC. Further research is needed because a better understanding of the role of CacyBP/SIP and MAPK offers hope for the treatment of urological cancer.
Versatile and Accessible Magnetic Diagnosis Platform with Different Types of Magnetic Particles for Liquid and Solid Biopsies
Authors: Liu Ju-Fang , Chen Jean-Hong , Liao Shu-Hsien , Chen Kuen-Lin , Wei Wen-Chun , Chen Ting-Yuan , Chieh Jen-Jie , Huang Kai-Wen
Published: June 2023

The diagnosis of liquid and solid biopsies by different instruments makes the clinic loading difficult in many aspects. Given the compositions of magnetic particles (MPs) with diverse characterizations and the innovative acoustic type of vibration sample magnetometer (VSM), the versatile, accessible magnetic diagnosis platform was proposed to meet clinical demands, such as low loading for multiple biopsies. In liquid biopsies of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) standard solutions and subject serums, molecular concentration was analyzed from saturation magnetization by the soft type of Fe3O4 MPs with AFP bioprobe coating. In the phantom mixture simulated as bounded MPs in tissue, the bounded MPs was evaluated from the area of the hysteresis loop by hard type of cobalt MPs without bio-probes coating. Not only a calibration curve was founded for many hepatic cell carcinoma stages, but also microscale images verified the Ms increase due to magnetic protein clusters, etc. Hence, its wide populations in clinics could be expected.
Clinical Characteristics and Management of Snake Bite Injuries in the Jerusalem Area
Authors: Gross Itai , Maree Aus , Rekhtman David , Mujahed Waseem , Hashavya Saar , Assaf Jacob
Published: June 2023

Venomous snake bites can constitute medical emergencies, and without immediate care may be life-threatening. This study describes the characteristics and management of patients suffering from snake bite injuries (SNIs) in the Jerusalem area. A retrospective analysis of all patients who were admitted to the Hadassah Medical Center emergency departments (EDs) due to SNIs between 1 January 2004 and 31 March 2018 was conducted. During this period, 104 patients were diagnosed with SNIs, of whom 32 (30.7%) were children. Overall, 74 (71.1%) patients were treated with antivenom, 43 (41.3%) were admitted to intensive care units, and 9 (8.6%) required treatment with vasopressors. No mortality was recorded. On ED admission, none of the adult patients presented with an altered mental state compared to 15.6% of the children (p < 0.00001). Cardiovascular symptoms were observed in 18.8% and 5.5% of the children and adults, respectively. Fang marks appeared in all of the children. These findings underscore the severity of SNIs and the differences in clinical presentation between children and adults in the Jerusalem region.
Determinants of Renal Micro-Perfusion as Assessed with Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in Healthy Males and Females
Authors: Ulpiano Trillig Antonio , Damianaki Aikaterini , Hendriks-Balk Mariëlle , Brito Wendy , Garessus Jonas , Burnier Michel , Wuerzner Grégoire , Pruijm Menno
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: The renal microcirculation is essential to maintain the renal function, but its determinants in humans have been poorly studied. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) allows the non-invasive quantification of the cortical micro-perfusion at the bedside using the perfusion index (PI). The aims of this study were to assess whether differences exist in PI between healthy males and females and to identify clinical determinants associated with cortical micro-perfusion. (2) Methods: Healthy, normotensive volunteers (eGFR > 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, no albuminuria) underwent CEUS under standardized conditions with the destruction–reperfusion (DR) technique. The mean PI of four DR sequences was reported as the primary outcome measure (3) Results: A total of 115 subjects (77 females and 38 males) completed the study; the mean ± SD age was, respectively, 37.1 ± 12.2 and 37.1 ± 12.7 years in females and males, and the mean eGFR was 105.9 ± 15.1 and 91.0 ± 17.4 mL/min/1.73 m2. The PI (median) was higher in females than in males, i.e., 2705 (IQR 1641–3777) vs. 1965 (IQR 1294–3346) arbitrary units (a.u), p = 0.02). A correlation analysis showed positive associations between PI and eGFR, female sex, heart rate, plasma renin activity (PRA) and plasma aldosterone concentrations (PAC), negative associations with potassium, bicarbonate and systolic blood pressure, and no associations with age, body mass index and renal resistive index (RRI). In a multivariate linear regression analysis, only PRA remained significantly associated with PI. (4) Conclusions: Although the PI was higher among females, this association was no longer significant after adjustment for covariates. There was no difference in females tested during the follicular or the luteal phases. In conclusion, the PI was only weakly influenced by classic clinical variables, but was positively associated with PRA, suggesting that the renin–angiotensin system plays a role in the regulation of the cortical micro-perfusion in humans. Identifying which other factors contribute to the large variations in micro-perfusion across individuals needs further study.
Reversibility of Swelling, pH Sensitivity, Electroconductivity, and Mechanical Properties of Composites Based on Polyacrylic Acid Hydrogels and Conducting Polymers
Authors: Elyashevich Galina , Rosova Elena , Zoolshoev Zoolsho , Saprykina Natalia , Kuryndin Ivan
Published: June 2023

Composites based on polyacrylic acid gels as matrices and conducting polymers (polyaniline and polypyrrole) as functional components have been obtained. It has been shown that the dependence of the equilibrium degree of swelling on the pH medium for the matrices demonstrates its pronounced maximum at pH = 11. The reversibility of the processes of swelling/contraction for the matrices and composites over a wide variation of swelling medium acidities was studied and analyzed. The effect of the crosslinking degree of the matrix on the content of the conducting components in the composites was determined. The electric conductivity of the composites depended on the degree of crosslinking of the matrices, and the content of the conducting component was measured. Deformational characteristics at compression were measured for the matrices and composites prepared in block-shaped cylinders. It was proven that the formation of a rigid-chain conducting polymer phase in the composites led to an increase in the elastic modulus as compared with the one for the matrix gel, but it did not cause a noticeable decrease in elasticity. It was observed that the new composites were characterized by a combination of swelling capacity, pH sensitivity, and electroconductivity.
On Welding of High-Strength Steels Using Laser Beam Welding and Resistance Spot Weld Bonding with Emphasis on Seam Leak Tightness
Authors: Schmolke Tobias , Brunner-Schwer Christian , Biegler Max , Rethmeier Michael , Meschut Gerson
Published: June 2023

The design of most electric vehicles provides for the positioning of the heavy energy storage units in the underbody of the cars. In addition to crash safety, the battery housing has to meet high requirements for gas tightness. In order to test the use of high-strength steels for this sub-assembly, this paper examines welded joints utilizing resistance spot weld bonding and laser remote welding, with special regard to the gas tightness of the welds. For this purpose, the pressure difference test and helium sniffer leak detection are presented and applied. The combination of both leak test methods has proven ideal in experimental investigations. For laser remote welding, gas-tight seams can be achieved with an inter-sheet gap of 0.1 mm, even if occasionally leaking samples cannot be prevented. Resistance spot welding suits gas-tight joining with both one- and two-component adhesives. Against the background of leak tightness, process fluctuations that lead to weld spatter and defects in the adhesive layer must be prevented with high priority.
Migration of Leaked Oil Vapor in Underground Water-Sealed Oil Storage Cavern Considering the Influence of Fractures
Authors: Tang Dong , Jian Huixiang , Song Min , Jiang Zhongming
Published: June 2023

During the operation of underground water-sealed oil storage caverns, a large amount of oil vapor is generated due to volatilization. Oil vapor can easily leak into the surrounding rock, and fractures in the surrounding rock are usually the dominant channels for oil vapor leakage. To study the influence of fractures on oil vapor leakage and migration in underground water-sealed oil storage caverns during the oil storage period, a gas–liquid two-phase flow model of the fracture–pore dual medium in fractured rock mass was established. The program was implemented on the COMSOL platform by using weak-form PDE (partial differential equation). Then, taking an underground water-sealed cavern of an oil reserve as an example, the influence of the characteristic parameters of a single fracture on the evolution process of oil vapor leakage and migration during the oil storage period of the underground water-sealed oil storage cavern was studied. The results were further applied to the Huangdao underground oil depot project. The results show that the spatial distribution of oil vapor leakage is mainly affected by fractures. Through parameter sensitivity analysis, it was found that the geometric characteristic parameters of fractures will have a certain impact on the migration field of oil vapor leakage in underground caverns. Specifically, fracture permeability (kf), fracture width (df), and fracture inclination (θ) are positively correlated with oil vapor leakage parameters (oil vapor leakage range and leakage volume), while the distance between the fracture and the middle cavern (s) is negatively correlated with oil vapor leakage parameters (oil vapor leakage range and leakage volume). The relative influence of fracture geometry parameters on the migration process of oil vapor leakage during the oil storage period of the underground water-sealed oil storage cavern is in the following order: kf> df> s > θ. Engineering application shows that the existence of fractures affects the spatial distribution of oil vapor leakage and migration, and the relationship between oil vapor leakage parameters and oil storage operation time is a positive power function. The gas–liquid two-phase flow model of the fracture–pore dual medium in fractured rock mass developed in this study could offer a numerical simulation tool to assess and mitigate the risk of oil vapor leakage. The research conclusions can provide some references for related problems encountered in similar projects.
Evidence of Biparental Mitochondrial Inheritance from Self-Fertile Crosses between Closely Related Species of Ceratocystis
Authors: van der Walt Daniella , Steenkamp Emma T. , Wingfield Brenda D. , Wilken P. Markus
Published: June 2023

Hybridization is recognized as a notable driver of evolution and adaptation, which closely related species may exploit in the form of incomplete reproductive barriers. Three closely related species of Ceratocystis (i.e., C. fimbriata, C. manginecans and C. eucalypticola) have previously been shown to hybridize. In such studies, naturally occurring self-sterile strains were mated with an unusual laboratory-generated sterile isolate type, which could have impacted conclusions regarding the prevalence of hybridization and inheritance of mitochondria. In the current study, we investigated whether interspecific crosses between fertile isolates of these three species are possible and, if so, how mitochondria are inherited by the progeny. For this purpose, a PCR-RFLP method and a mitochondrial DNA-specific PCR technique were custom-made. These were applied in a novel approach of typing complete ascospore drops collected from the fruiting bodies in each cross to distinguish between self-fertilizations and potential hybridization. These markers showed hybridization between C. fimbriata and C. eucalypticola and between C. fimbriata and C. manginecans, while no hybridization was detected in the crosses involving C. manginecans and C. eucalypticola. In both sets of hybrid progeny, we detected biparental inheritance of mitochondria. This study was the first to successfully produce hybrids from a cross involving self-fertile isolates of Ceratocystis and also provided the first direct evidence of biparental mitochondrial inheritance in the Ceratocystidaceae. This work lays the foundation for further research focused on investigating the role of hybridization in the speciation of Ceratocystis species and if mitochondrial conflict could have influenced the process.
OMICS and Other Advanced Technologies in Mycological Applications
Authors: Wijayawardene Nalin , Boonyuen Nattawut , Ranaweera Chathuranga , de Zoysa Heethaka , Padmathilake Rasanie , Nifla Faarah , Dai Dong-Qin , Liu Yanxia , Suwannarach Nakarin , Kumla Jaturong , Bamunuarachchige Thushara , Chen Huan-Huan
Published: June 2023

Fungi play many roles in different ecosystems. The precise identification of fungi is important in different aspects. Historically, they were identified based on morphological characteristics, but technological advancements such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing now enable more accurate identification and taxonomy, and higher-level classifications. However, some species, referred to as “dark taxa”, lack distinct physical features that makes their identification challenging. High-throughput sequencing and metagenomics of environmental samples provide a solution to identifying new lineages of fungi. This paper discusses different approaches to taxonomy, including PCR amplification and sequencing of rDNA, multi-loci phylogenetic analyses, and the importance of various omics (large-scale molecular) techniques for understanding fungal applications. The use of proteomics, transcriptomics, metatranscriptomics, metabolomics, and interactomics provides a comprehensive understanding of fungi. These advanced technologies are critical for expanding the knowledge of the Kingdom of Fungi, including its impact on food safety and security, edible mushrooms foodomics, fungal secondary metabolites, mycotoxin-producing fungi, and biomedical and therapeutic applications, including antifungal drugs and drug resistance, and fungal omics data for novel drug development. The paper also highlights the importance of exploring fungi from extreme environments and understudied areas to identify novel lineages in the fungal dark taxa.
Cross Sectional Analysis of Eurasian Skull Anatomy for 3D Cephalometry—Normative Data Reveal Four Different Skull Types
Authors: Ludwigs Leon , Pape Christian , Visse Helena Sophie , Runte Christoph , Meyer Ulrich , Dirksen Dieter
Published: June 2023

The unsolved problem in three-dimensional surgical planning for patients with facial deformity, dysgnathia, or asymmetry is the lack of a normative database of “norm skulls” that can be used as treatment objectives. A study was conducted on 90 Eurasian persons (46 male and 44 female adults) for whom cone beam-computed tomography images were available. Inclusion criteria were adult patients with a skeletal Class I pattern, proper interincisal relationship with normal occlusion, the absence of an open bite both in the anterior and posterior region, and a normal and balanced facial appearance; patients with dysgnathia and malformations were excluded. A total of 18 landmarks were digitized and 3D cephalometric measurements were performed and analyzed by means of proportions calculated from the landmarks. Male and female skulls were analyzed, as well as subdivisions revealed by cluster analysis. The data showed that four subtypes of skulls were distinguishable with statistical significance (p < 0.05). A male and a female type subdivided in a brachiocephalic and dolichocephalic phenotype could be identified. For each type, a mean shape was calculated by a Procrustes transformation, which, in turn, was used to create four template skulls from a male and a female skull. This was accomplished by fitting the polygon models of the two skulls to each of the two subtypes based on the landmarks marked on them using a thin plate spline transformation. The normative data of the subtypes can individually serve as a guide for orthodontic surgery in the Eurasian population, which is especially helpful in 3D planning and the execution of craniofacial operations.
The Filtering Effect of Oil Palm Plantations on Potential Insect Pollinator Assemblages from Remnant Forest Patches
Authors: Mohd-Azlan J. , Conway S. , Travers T. J. P. , Lawes M. J.
Published: June 2023

Extensive oil palm plantations worldwide are dependent on insect pollination, specifically by introduced African weevils (Elaidobius spp.). The effectiveness of these weevils has been questioned following poor pollination and yield loss in Malaysia. Indigenous thrip (Thysanoptera) species, and moths (Lepidoptera) in the genus Pyroderces, may also be pollinators of oil palm, while the role of bees (Hymenoptera) and flies (Diptera) is unknown. The potential of native pollinators remains uncertain because of the almost total clearing of forest habitat from oil palm landscapes. In this study, we investigate the value of small high conservation value (HCV) forests as sources of potential native insect pollinators of oil palm in northern Sarawak. We further examine the filtering effect of oil palm-dominated landscapes on the species assemblages of six potential pollinator insect orders: Blattodea, Coleoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera. Orders differed in both species composition and abundance between forest and oil palm plantations, with an average of 28.1% of species unique to oil palm. Oil palm presented a soft permeable boundary to Coleoptera, Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera. Their species richness and abundance differed little between habitats with distance, despite species turnover. In contrast, oil palm presented a harder boundary to Diptera with a decline in both species richness and abundance with distance into oil palm. The abundance of the oil palm weevil (Elaedobius kamerunicus) was low compared to the native dominants, but similar to levels displayed by native thrips that may be pollinators of oil palm. The functional diversity of well-known pollinator guilds—bees and flies—was similar in forest and oil palm, suggesting that potential pollinators may yet exist among native orders of insects. Contrary to the prevailing opinion, even small forest patches in oil palm landscapes may provide native pollinator pressure.
Research on Rural Typology Based on the Symbiotic Model of Rural Revitalization and Basic Public Services
Authors: Li Yujiao , Ma Rong , Jin Bei
Published: June 2023

The basic unit of rural revitalization is the village. Rural revitalization can be comprehensively promoted by using rural typology as an instrument for rural zoning planning, which is a significant factor. This study clarified the relationship between rural revitalization and basic public services, constructed evaluation index systems, and analyzed the symbiotic mode. The comprehensive development level and the symbiotic mode were incorporated to determine the type of village. The results showed the following: (1) The thriving industry and affluent life of Tangfang Town obviously contributed to its rural revitalization; the achievement of basic environmental improvement was eminent. (2) There are differences in the comprehensive development level of rural revitalization and basic public services among administrative villages, with an overall trend of “high in the north and low in the south”, corresponding to the industrial layout of “north industry and south agriculture” in Tangfang Town. (3) The symbiosis coefficients of all the administrative villages in Tangfang Town were between 0 and 0.5, and there was a positive symmetric mutualism relationship overall, indicating that basic public services have a significant impact and can effectively promote the process of rural revitalization. (4) Villages in Tangfang Town are divided into five functional areas—the comprehensive coordination area, potential improvement area, restricted development area, unbalanced allocation area, and backward guarantee area—and various types of optimization development strategies are proposed. As one of the top 100 demonstration towns for rural revitalization in Shaanxi Province, Tangfang Town plays a leading and exemplary role. Within the context of rural revitalization strategies, solving the problem of how to realize differentiated development in the next five years has become urgent. This study aimed to effectively promote the process of rural revitalization, provide theoretical guidance for scientific development in Tangfang Town, and promote research ideas for other towns in China.
Lodgepole Pine and White Spruce Thinning in Alberta―A Review of North American and European Best Practices
Authors: Baah-Acheamfour Mark , Schoonmaker Amanda , Dewey Mark , Roth Brian
Published: June 2023

A significant portion of the harvested land base in western Canada is becoming old enough or entering a phase where thinning is a legitimate forest management option. A comprehensive review of the existing knowledge of commercial thinning (CT) treatments applied to pine and spruce-dominated stands in Alberta was conducted, with particular regard to the intensity, timing of interventions, method, and impacts on crop tree growth responses. Although the geographical focus of this review is Alberta, information on this topic is more complete in other areas of North America and Europe, where there is a long history of density management. In areas of eastern North America, our review revealed that CT from below, with tree removal levels from 27 to 43% of the basal area, could increase total merchantable wood produced from 11 to 60 m3 ha−1 over a rotation, depending on stand age and intensity of thinning. For Alberta conditions, and considering the risks, we conclude that commercial thinning basal area removal should be in the range of 25 to 40%, depending on a variety of factors such as species, wind firmness, and insect or disease incidence and risk. Thinning too aggressively and/or too late will increase the blowdown risk but the literature is fairly consistent in suggesting that live crown ratios should be >40% to maximize the chance of growth response and minimize the blowdown risk. In cases where stands are also threatened by stressors such as drought, wind, and insect or disease outbreaks, CT treatments likely offer the potential at limiting the overall risk, but localized knowledge and experience are critical. It is intended that the information presented may support ongoing and future research trials and growth and yield (G&Y) model development about potential CT treatments to apply and the likely results of practical application to commercial forestry.
Numeral Incorporation as Grammaticalization? A Corpus Study on German Sign Language (DGS)
Authors: Otte Felicitas , Müller Anke , Wähl Sabrina , Langer Gabriele
Published: June 2023

Numeral incorporation describes the merging of a numeral sign with a lexical sign to create a single sign with a compositional meaning, e.g., “three weeks.” As a phenomenon of simultaneous morphology, numeral incorporation is unique to sign languages. While researchers disagree on the exact morphological structure of the construction, it has, thus far, mainly been described as a synchronic, phonological phenomenon. Using the DGS corpus, a language resource on German Sign Language, we explore the possibility of numeral incorporation resulting from a language change process, specifically a grammaticalization process. Our dataset comprises tokens belonging to nine different signs that may occur in numeral incorporations. We find a cline of three constructions in the corpus, which shows a progression from free morpheme to cliticized morpheme to bound morpheme (affix). A comparison of the usage frequency of the three constructions in different age groups reveals that signers use more incorporations the younger they are. Following the apparent time approach, these observations are taken as indicators of diachronic language change. We describe to what extent the properties of numeral incorporation fit with the grammaticalization hypothesis and conclude that while the emergence of numeral incorporation is an instance of language change and shows some aspects seen in grammaticalization, the gradual change fails to exhibit some crucial aspects of grammaticalization and, thus, should not be regarded as an example thereof.
Effects of β-Si3N4 Seeds on Microstructure and Performance of Si3N4 Ceramics in Semiconductor Package
Authors: Shen Qiang , Lin Zhijie , Deng Junjie , Chen Hongxiang , Chen Xuan , Tian Jun , Bao Biliang , Dai Pinqiang , Sun Xudong
Published: June 2023

Among the various ceramic substrate materials, Si3N4 ceramics have demonstrated high thermal conductivity, good thermal shock resistance, and excellent corrosion resistance. As a result, they are well-suited for semiconductor substrates in high-power and harsh conditions encountered in automobiles, high-speed rail, aerospace, and wind power. In this work, Si3N4 ceramics with various ratios of α-Si3N4 and β-Si3N4 in raw powder form were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 1650 °C for 30 min under 30 MPa. When the content of β-Si3N4 was lower than 20%, with the increase in β-Si3N4 content, the ceramic grain size changed gradually from 1.5 μm to 1 μm and finally resulted in 2 μm mixed grains. However, As the content of β-Si3N4 seed crystal increased from 20% to 50%, with the increase in β-Si3N4 content, the ceramic grain size changed gradually from 1 μm and 2 μm to 1.5 μm. Therefore, when the content of β-Si3N4 in the raw powder is 20%, the sintered ceramics exhibited a double-peak structure distribution and the best overall performance with a density of 97.5%, fracture toughness of 12.1 MPa·m1/2, and a Vickers hardness of 14.5 GPa. The results of this study are expected to provide a new way of studying the fracture toughness of silicon nitride ceramic substrates.