bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Voltage Stability and Power Sharing Control of Distributed Generation Units in DC Microgrids
Authors: Ahmed Kafeel , Hussain Irfan , Seyedmahmoudian Mehdi , Stojcevski Alex , Mekhilef Saad
Published: October 2023

Advancements in power conversion efficiency and the growing prevalence of DC loads worldwide have underscored the importance of DC microgrids in modern energy systems. Addressing the challenges of power-sharing and voltage stability in these DC microgrids has been a prominent research focus. Sliding mode control (SMC) has demonstrated remarkable performance in various power electronic converter applications. This paper proposes the integration of universal droop control (UDC) with SMC to facilitate distributed energy resource interfacing and power-sharing control in DC microgrids. Compared to traditional Proportional-Integral (PI) control, the proposed control approach exhibits superior dynamic response characteristics. The UDC is strategically incorporated prior to the SMC and establishes limits on voltage variation and maximum power drawn from the DC–DC converters within the microgrid. A dynamic model of the DC–DC converter is developed as the initial stage, focusing on voltage regulation at the DC link through nonlinear control laws tailored for Distributed Generation (DG)-based converters. The UDC ensures voltage stability in the DC microgrid by imposing predetermined power constraints on the DGs. Comparative evaluations, involving different load scenarios, have been conducted to assess the performance of the proposed UDC-based SMC control in comparison to the PI control-based system. The results demonstrate the superior efficiency of the UDC-based SMC control in handling dynamic load changes. Furthermore, a practical test of the proposed controller has been conducted using a hardware prototype of a DC microgrid.
The Technical and Economic Assessment of a Solar Rooftop Grid-Connected Photovoltaic System for a Dairy Farm
Authors: Caglayan Nuri
Published: October 2023

This study covers the technical and economic analysis of a grid-connected rooftop 216 kWp photovoltaic (PV) system to meet the average annual energy demand of 45,327 kWh of a dairy farm. According to the results of the analysis, an average of 326,819 kWh/year is received at the output of the panel arrays, while 294,838 kWh/year is supplied to the grid. The amount of energy to be received from the grid was found to be 25,013 kWh/year, and the performance ratio of the system was 0.808. The net present value (NPV) of the system was calculated as $36,463.39, and the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) was calculated as 0.065 $/kWh. Considering that the annual electricity generation amount of the rooftop PV system evaluated within the scope of the study is 315,152 kWh, it is estimated that 127.419 tCO2 per year of emission release will be prevented annually with the installation of the system.
The IGF-Independent Role of IRS-2 in the Secretion of MMP-9 Enhances the Growth of Prostate Carcinoma Cell Line PC3
Authors: Furuta Haruka , Sheng Yina , Takahashi Ayaka , Nagano Raku , Kataoka Naoyuki , Perks Claire Marie , Barker Rachel , Hakuno Fumihiko , Takahashi Shin-Ichiro
Published: October 2023

Insulin receptor substrate-2 (IRS-2), a substrate of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I receptor, is highly expressed in the prostate cancer cell line, PC3. We recently demonstrated that extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk1/2), a kinase downstream of IGF signaling, is activated in PC3 cells under serum starvation, and this activation can be inhibited by IRS-2 knockdown. Here, we observed that adding an IGF-I-neutralizing antibody to the culture medium inhibited the activation of Erk1/2. Suppression of Erk1/2 in IRS-2 knockdown cells was restored by the addition of a PC3 serum-free conditioned medium. In contrast, the IRS-2-silenced PC3 conditioned medium could not restore Erk1/2 activation, suggesting that IRS-2 promotes the secretion of proteins that activate the IGF signaling pathway. Furthermore, gelatin zymography analysis of the conditioned medium showed that matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) was secreted extracellularly in an IRS-2 dependent manner when PC3 was cultured under serum starvation conditions. Moreover, MMP-9 knockdown suppressed Erk1/2 activation, DNA synthesis, and migratory activity. The IRS-2 levels were positively correlated with Gleason grade in human prostate cancer tissues. These data suggest that highly expressed IRS-2 activates IGF signaling by enabling the secretion of MMP-9, which is associated with hyperproliferation and malignancy of prostate cancer cell line, PC3.
Trace Elements Levels in Major Depressive Disorder—Evaluation of Potential Threats and Possible Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Baj Jacek , Bargieł Julia , Cabaj Justyna , Skierkowski Bartosz , Hunek Gabriela , Portincasa Piero , Flieger Jolanta , Smoleń Agata
Published: October 2023

The multifactorial etiology of major depressive disorder (MDD) includes biological, environmental, genetic, and psychological aspects. Recently, there has been an increasing interest in metallomic studies in psychiatry, aiming to evaluate the role of chosen trace elements in the MDD etiology as well as the progression of symptoms. This narrative review aims to summarize the available literature on the relationship between the concentration of chosen elements in the serum of patients with MDD and the onset and progression of this psychiatric condition. The authors reviewed PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases searching for elements that had been investigated so far and further evaluated them in this paper. Ultimately, 15 elements were evaluated, namely, zinc, magnesium, selenium, iron, copper, aluminium, cadmium, lead, mercury, arsenic, calcium, manganese, chromium, nickel, and phosphorus. The association between metallomic studies and psychiatry has been developing dynamically recently. According to the results of current research, metallomics might act as a potential screening tool for patients with MDD while at the same time providing an assessment of the severity of symptoms. Either deficiencies or excessive amounts of chosen elements might be associated with the progression of depressive symptoms or even the onset of the disease among people predisposed to MDD.
Emerging Immune Checkpoint Molecules on Cancer Cells: CD24 and CD200
Authors: Moon Sun Young , Han Minjoo , Ryu Gyoungah , Shin Seong-Ah , Lee Jun Hyuck , Lee Chang Sup
Published: October 2023

Cancer immunotherapy strategies are based on the utilization of immune checkpoint inhibitors to instigate an antitumor immune response. The efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade, directed at adaptive immune checkpoints, has been demonstrated in select cancer types. However, only a limited subset of patients has exhibited definitive outcomes characterized by a sustained response after discontinuation of therapy. Recent investigations have highlighted the significance of immune checkpoint molecules that are overexpressed in cancer cells and inhibit myeloid lineage immune cells within a tumor microenvironment. These checkpoints are identified as potential targets for anticancer immune responses. Notably, the immune checkpoint molecules CD24 and CD200 have garnered attention owing to their involvement in tumor immune evasion. CD24 and CD200 are overexpressed across diverse cancer types and serve as signaling checkpoints by engaging their respective receptors, Siglec-10 and CD200 receptor, which are expressed on tumor-associated myeloid cells. In this review, we summarized and discussed the latest advancements and insights into CD24 and CD200 as emergent immune checkpoint moieties, further delving into their therapeutic potentials for cancer treatment.
Overview of Tumor Heterogeneity in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancers
Authors: Azzalini Eros , Stanta Giorgio , Canzonieri Vincenzo , Bonin Serena
Published: October 2023

Ovarian cancers encompass a group of neoplasms originating from germinal tissues and exhibiting distinct clinical, pathological, and molecular features. Among these, epithelial ovarian cancers (EOCs) are the most prevalent, comprising five distinct tumor histotypes. Notably, high-grade serous ovarian cancers (HGSOCs) represent the majority, accounting for over 70% of EOC cases. Due to their silent and asymptomatic behavior, HGSOCs are generally diagnosed in advanced stages with an evolved and complex genomic state, characterized by high intratumor heterogeneity (ITH) due to chromosomal instability that distinguishes HGSOCs. Histologically, these cancers exhibit significant morphological diversity both within and between tumors. The histologic patterns associated with solid, endometrioid, and transitional (SET) and classic subtypes of HGSOCs offer prognostic insights and may indicate specific molecular profiles. The evolution of HGSOC from primary to metastasis is typically characterized by clonal ITH, involving shared or divergent mutations in neoplastic sub-clones within primary and metastatic sites. Disease progression and therapy resistance are also influenced by non-clonal ITH, related to interactions with the tumor microenvironment and further genomic changes. Notably, significant alterations occur in nonmalignant cells, including cancer-associated fibroblast and immune cells, during tumor progression. This review provides an overview of the complex nature of HGSOC, encompassing its various aspects of intratumor heterogeneity, histological patterns, and its dynamic evolution during progression and therapy resistance.
Gas Sensing and Half-Metallic Materials Design Using Metal Embedded into S Vacancies in WS2 Monolayers: Adsorption of NO, CO, and O2 Molecules
Authors: Rangel-Cortes Eduardo , Garcia-Islas José Pablo , Gutierrez-Rodriguez Josue , Montes de Oca Saul , Garcia-Gonzalez José Andres , Nieto-Jalil José Manuel , Miralrio Alan
Published: October 2023

The adsorption of CO, NO, and O2 molecules onto Cu, Ag, and Au atoms placed in the S vacancies of a WS2 monolayer was elucidated within dispersion-corrected density functional theory. The binding energies computed for embedded defects into S vacancies were 2.99 (AuS), 2.44 (AgS), 3.32 eV (CuS), 3.23 (Au2S2), 2.55 (Ag2S2), and 3.48 eV/atom (Cu2S2), respectively. The calculated diffusion energy barriers from an S vacancy to a nearby site for Cu, Ag, and Au were 2.29, 2.18, and 2.16 eV, respectively. Thus, the substitutional atoms remained firmly fixed at temperatures above 700 K. Similarly, the adsorption energies showed that nitric oxide and carbon oxide molecules exhibited stronger chemisorption than O2 molecules on any of the metal atoms (Au, Cu, or Ag) placed in the S vacancies of the WS2 monolayer. Therefore, the adsorption of O2 did not compete with NO or CO adsorption and did not displace them. The density of states showed that a WS2 monolayer modified with a Cu, Au, or Ag atom could be used to design sensing devices, based on electronic or magnetic properties, for atmospheric pollutants. More interestingly, the adsorption of CO changed only the electronic properties of the MoS2-AuS monolayer, which could be used for sensing applications. In contrast, the O2 molecule was chemisorbed more strongly than CO or NO on Au2S2, Cu2S2, or Ag2S2 placed into di-S vacancies. Thus, if the experimental system is exposed to air, the low quantities of O2 molecules present should result in the oxidation of the metallic atoms. Furthermore, the O2 molecules adsorbed on WS2-Au2S2 and WS2-CuS introduced a half-metallic behavior, making the system suitable for applications in spintronics.
DNA Metabarcoding Reveals the Fungal Community on the Surface of Lonicerae Japonicae Flos, an Edible and Medicinal Herb
Authors: Dao Yujie , Yu Jingsheng , Yang Meihua , Han Jianping , Fan Chune , Pang Xiaohui
Published: October 2023

Lonicerae Japonicae Flos (LJF) has been globally applied as an herbal medicine and tea. A number of reports recently revealed fungal and mycotoxin contamination in medicinal herbs. It is essential to analyze the fungal community in LJF to provide an early warning for supervision. In this study, the fungal community in LJF samples was identified through DNA metabarcoding. A total of 18 LJF samples were collected and divided based on the collection areas and processing methods. The results indicated that Ascomycota was the dominant phylum. At the genus level, Rhizopus was the most abundant, followed by Erysiphe and Fusarium. Ten pathogenic fungi were detected among the 41 identified species. Moreover, Rhizopus, Fusarium, and Aspergillus had lower relative abundances in LJF samples under oven drying than under other processing methods. This work is expected to provide comprehensive knowledge of the fungal community in LJF and a theoretical reference for enhanced processing methods in practical manufacturing.
Analysis of the Prognostic Potential of Schlafen 11, Programmed Death Ligand 1, and Redox Status in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Miladinov Marko , Rosic Jovana , Eric Katarina , Guzonjic Azra , Jelenkovic Jelenko , Bogavac-Stanojevic Natasa , Dimitrijevic Ivan , Kotur-Stevuljevic Jelena , Barisic Goran
Published: October 2023

The Schlafen 11 (SLFN11) protein has recently emerged as pivotal in DNA damage conditions, with predictive potential for tumor response to cytotoxic chemotherapies. Recent discoveries also showed that the programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) protein can be found on malignant cells, providing an immune evasion mechanism exploited by different tumors. Additionally, excessive generation of free radicals, redox imbalance, and consequential DNA damage can affect intestinal cell homeostasis and lead to neoplastic transformation. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the significance of SLFN11 and PD-L1 proteins and redox status parameters as prognostic biomarkers in CRC patients. This study included a total of 155 CRC patients. SLFN11 and PD-L1 serum levels were measured with ELISA and evaluated based on redox status parameters, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and survival. The following redox status parameters were investigated: spectrophotometrically measured superoxide dismutase (SOD), sulfhydryl (SH) groups, advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), malondialdehyde (MDA), pro-oxidant–antioxidant balance (PAB), and superoxide anion (O2•–). The prooxidative score, antioxidative score, and OXY-SCORE were also calculated. The results showed significantly shorter survival in patients with higher OXY-SCOREs and higher levels of serum SLFN11, while only histopathology-analysis-related factors showed significant prognostic value. OXY-SCORE and SLFN11 levels may harbor prognostic potential in CRC patients.
Screening and Validation of Appropriate Reference Genes for Real-Time Quantitative PCR under PEG, NaCl and ZnSO4 Treatments in Broussonetia papyrifera
Authors: Chen Mengdi , Wang Zhengbo , Hao Ziyuan , Li Hongying , Feng Qi , Yang Xue , Han Xiaojiao , Zhao Xiping
Published: October 2023

Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) has a high sensitivity and strong specificity, and is widely used in the analysis of gene expression. Selecting appropriate internal reference genes is the key to accurately analyzing the expression changes of target genes by RT-qPCR. To find out the most suitable internal reference genes for studying the gene expression in Broussonetia papyrifera under abiotic stresses (including drought, salt, and ZnSO4 treatments), seven different tissues of B. papyrifera, as well as the roots, stems, and leaves of B. papyrifera under the abiotic stresses were used as test materials, and 15 candidate internal reference genes were screened based on the transcriptome data via RT-qPCR. Then, the expression stability of the candidate genes was comprehensively evaluated through the software geNorm (v3.5), NormFinder (v0.953), BestKeeper (v1.0), and RefFinder. The best internal reference genes and their combinations were screened out according to the analysis results. rRNA and Actin were the best reference genes under drought stress. Under salt stress, DOUB, HSP, NADH, and rRNA were the most stable reference genes. Under heavy metal stress, HSP and NADH were the most suitable reference genes. EIF3 and Actin were the most suitable internal reference genes in the different tissues of B. papyrifera. In addition, HSP, rRNA, NADH, and UBC were the most suitable internal reference genes for the abiotic stresses and the different tissues of B. papyrifera. The expression patterns of DREB and POD were analyzed by using the selected stable and unstable reference genes. This further verified the reliability of the screened internal reference genes. This study lays the foundation for the functional analysis and regulatory mechanism research of genes in B. papyrifera.
Diaphragmatic Endometriosis—A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis of the Patients’ Demographics, Symptomatology, and Long-Term Treatment Outcomes
Authors: Naem Antoine , Andrikos Argyrios , Constantin Alin , Khamou Michael , Andrikos Dimitrios , Laganà Antonio , De Wilde Rudy , Krentel Harald
Published: October 2023

Diaphragmatic endometriosis is rare and forms 0.67–4.7% of all endometriosis cases. Evidence regarding its optimal management is lacking. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the patient characteristics and long-term treatment outcomes of diaphragmatic endometriosis patients. Over a 4-year period, 23 patients were diagnosed with diaphragmatic endometriosis. The majority of patients had coexisting deep pelvic endometriosis. Cyclic upper abdominal pain was reported by 60.9% of patients, while cyclic chest and shoulder pain were reported by 43.5% and 34.8% of patients, respectively. Most patients were treated with laparoscopic lesion ablation, while 21.1% were treated with minimally invasive excision. The mean follow-up time was 23.7 months. Long-lasting resolution of the chest, abdominal, and shoulder pain occurred in 50%, 35.7%, and 25% of patients, respectively. Nonetheless, 78.9% of patients reported major improvement in their symptoms postoperatively. Significantly higher rates of postoperative shoulder, abdominal, and chest pain were observed in patients who received postoperative hormonal therapy compared with those who did not. All patients treated expectantly remained stable. Therefore, we recommend treating diaphragmatic endometriosis only in symptomatic patients. The risk of incomplete surgery should be minimized by a multidisciplinary diagnostic and therapeutic approach with a careful assessment of the diaphragm and the thoracic cavity.
Currently Debated Topics on Surgical Treatment of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Narrative Review on Surgical Treatment of Borderline Resectable, Locally Advanced, and Synchronous or Metachronous Oligometastatic Tumor
Authors: Pedrazzoli Sergio
Published: October 2023

Background: Previously considered inoperable patients (borderline resectable, locally advanced, synchronous oligometastatic or metachronous pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC)) are starting to become resectable thanks to advances in chemo/radiotherapy and the reduction in operative mortality. Methods: This narrative review presents a chosen literature selection, giving a picture of the current state of treatment of these patients. Results: Neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) is generally recognized as the treatment of choice before surgery. However, despite the increased efficacy, the best pathological response is still limited to 10.9–27.9% of patients. There are still limited data on the selection of possible NAT responders and how to diagnose non-responders early. Multidetector computed tomography has high sensitivity and low specificity in evaluating resectability after NAT, limiting the resection rate of resectable patients. Ca 19-9 and Positron emission tomography are giving promising results. The prediction of early recurrence after a radical resection of synchronous or metachronous metastatic PDAC, thus identifying patients with poor prognosis and saving them from a resection of little benefit, is still ongoing, although some promising data are available. Conclusion: In conclusion, high-level evidence demonstrating the benefit of the surgical treatment of such patients is still lacking and should not be performed outside of high-volume centers with interdisciplinary teams of surgeons and oncologists.
The Renal Composite Benefit of Sodium Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitors Should Ideally Be Assessed Based on a Standardised Definition: A Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Ghosal Samit , Ghosal Shamita , Ghosal Anuradha
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is extremely common against the backdrop of type 2 diabetes (T2D), accounting for nearly 30–40% of cases. The conventional management strategy relie predominantly on metabolic control and the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) blockage. In the last decade, sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2is) have emerged as the leading molecules preventing the development of, as well as retarding, the progression to CKD. Although the evidence in support of SGLT-2is is overwhelming, the definition of renal composite outcome in the trials varied considerably. The aim of the present meta-analysis was to explore the robustness of the renal composite benefits using a uniform definition. (2) Methods: A web-based search was conducted using the Cochrane Library to identify the relevant articles for meta-analysis. RStudio (1 July 2022, Build 554) software was used to conduct the meta-analysis. Hazard ratio (HR) was the effect size used to estimate the renal composite benefit, and prediction interval was used to detect heterogeneity. In view of the differing baseline characteristic of the trials as well as different molecules used, a random effects model was used. (3) Results: There were 12 trials including 78,781 patients, identified using the search strategy, and a five-point Cochrane risk-of-bias was used to assess quality of the publications. In the overall estimation (irrespective of the definition used for the renal composite) the HR was 0.68 (95% CI 0.60–0.76, prediction interval: 0.48–0.95) in favour of SGLT-2is, devoid of heterogeneity. While using a uniform definition of eGFR ≥ 40%decline, ESKD, or renal death, the HR was 0.64 (95% CI 0.53–0.78); using eGFR ≥ 50%decline, ESKD, or renal death the HR was 0.75 (95% CI 0.59–0.97); and with doubling of serum creatinine, renal replacement therapy, or renal death, the HR was 0.67 (95% CI 0.55–0.83) in favour of SGLT-2is. However, significant heterogeneity was encountered with all these three definitions. (4) Conclusion: There is a need to analyse the renal outcomes using a uniform definition in future trials. The presence of heterogeneity might disappear with the pooling of larger number of trials. However, if heterogeneity persists, we need to identify other clinical or laboratory attributes (in addition to SGLT-2is) responsible for the positive renal outcomes.
Incidence and Risk Factors for Surgical Site Infection in Ankle Fractures: An Observational Study of 480 Patients in Sweden
Authors: Bergström Johanna , Möller Rydberg Emilia , Wennergren David , Svensson Malchau Karin
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Surgical site infection (SSI) is a frequently reported complication after ankle fracture surgery. To our knowledge, no study has been conducted on its incidence in Sweden. The present study aimed to determine the incidence of, risk factors for, and most common causative pathogen of SSI. Methods: Patients who underwent primary surgery for an ankle fracture between 1 September 2017 and 31 August 2019 at the Sahlgrenska University Hospital were identified. Data on potential SSI risk factors and clinical outcome (infected/non-infected) were retrieved from medical records. Cox regression analysis and descriptive statistics were used. Results: Of the 480 reviewed patients, 49 developed SSI (10.2%), of which 35 (7.3%) were superficial and 14 (2.9%) were deep. Open fractures (p < 0.001) and age (p = 0.016) were statistically significant risk factors for SSI in the univariate analysis. In the multivariable analysis, only open fracture was statistically significant (HR = 3.0; 95% C.I. = 1.3–6.9, p = 0.013). Cases of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) were most common (n = 12, 24.5%). Methicillin resistance was uncommon (n = 2, 4.1%). Conclusions: An incidence of 10.2% was established, which is comparable to international findings. Infection monitoring is an important part of tackling the global challenge of antibiotic resistance. Future prospective studies to further establish risk factors are warranted to decrease the incidence of SSI.
Non-Pharmacological Strategies and Interventions for Effective COVID-19 Control: A Narrative Review
Authors: Aho Glele Ludwig Serge , de Rougemont Alexis
Published: October 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on the world, causing widespread illness and death. Focusing on prevention strategies to limit the spread of the disease remains essential. Despite the advent of vaccines, maintaining a vigilant approach to prevention remains paramount. We reviewed effective strategies to prevent COVID-19 transmission, including various prevention measures and interventions and both established practices and unresolved issues that have been addressed in meta-analyses, literature reviews, or in the health care context. Standard precautions are the cornerstone of infection control, with hand hygiene and mask use as key components. The use of surgical masks is recommended to prevent droplet transmission, while eye protection is recommended in combination with masks. In terms of room occupancy, ventilation is critical in reducing the risk of transmission in poorly ventilated environments. Chemical disinfection of indoor air with Triethylene glycol-based products can provide safe additional protection. Since viral RNA detection on surfaces does not necessarily indicate infectivity, the risk of transmission by surface contact remains low if surfaces are properly maintained and hand hygiene is practiced regularly. Thus, prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission requires a multifaceted approach, including reducing particle emissions from infected persons by wearing masks, eliminating aerosols by ventilation and air treatment, ensuring physical separation, and protecting exposed persons with masks and eye protection.
Biocontrol Potential of Serratia Marcescens (B8) and Bacillus sp. (B13) Isolated from Urban Mangroves in Raposa, Brazil
Authors: Pereira Érima Jôyssielly Mendonça Castro , Amorim Érika Alves da Fonsêca , Aragão Felicia Maria Melo , Câmara Wallison de Souza , Araújo Maria Carvalho , Pereira Carlos Drielson da Silva , Dias Leo Ruben Lopes , Gomes Wolia Costa , Aliança Amanda Silva dos Santos , Souza Joicy Cortez de Sá , da Silva Luís Cláudio Nascimento , Miranda Rita de Cássia Mendonça de
Published: October 2023

This study analyzed the antifungal potential of 16 bacterial strains isolated from mangrove sediment. Bacterial selection was conducted in a solid medium. This was followed by the production and extraction of metabolites using ethyl acetate to evaluate chitinase production, antifungal activity, and toxicity toward Allium cepa and Tenebrio molitor. Bacterial strains B8, B11, and B13 produced the largest inhibition halos (>30 mm) toward Fusarium solani, Fusarium oxysporum, and Rhizoctonia solani fungi. Strains B1, B3, B6, B8, B11, B13, B14, and B16 produced chitinases. In assays using liquid media, B8 and B13 produced the largest inhibition halos. Exposing the fungal inocula to metabolic extracts of strains B6, B8, B11, B13, B14, B15, and B16 caused micromorphological alterations in the inocula, culminating in the inhibition of R. solani sporulation and spore germination. Toxicity tests using Allium cepa and Tenebrio molitor revealed that the metabolites showed low toxicity. Six of the bacterial strains were molecularly identified to species levels, and a further two to genus level. These included Serratia marcescens (B8), which exhibited activity in all tests. Mangroves provide a useful resource for the isolation of microorganisms for biocontrol. Among the isolates, Serratia marcescens and Bacillus spp. showed the greatest potential to produce metabolites for use as biocontrol agents in agriculture.
The Efficacy of Yeast Supplementation on Monogastric Animal Performance—A Short Review
Authors: Sampath Vetriselvi , Sureshkumar Shanmugam , Kim In Ho
Published: October 2023

Due to a continual growth in the world’s population and the prohibition of antibiotics in animal production, the livestock industry faces significant challenges in the global demand for meat, eggs, and dairy products. The growing demand for organic products and the prohibition on antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) have compelled animal nutrition experts to search for natural substitutes that include medical plants and beneficial microorganisms. Natural feed additives like probiotics are found to be more effective than AGPs in reducing the load of harmful intestinal pathogens. One of the probiotics that has generated considerable interest since ancient times is yeast. Yeast is used as a supplement in animal feeds due to its relatively high protein, amino acid, energy, and micronutrient content. Yeast byproducts such as yeast cells and cell walls contain nutraceutical compounds (i.e., β-glucans, mannooligosaccharides, and nucleotides) and have been shown to improve animal growth performance and health. Though the application of yeast supplements has been reviewed to date, only a scarce amount of information exists on the yeast-derived products in non-ruminant nutrition. Additionally, it is difficult for nutritionists to differentiate the characteristics, composition, and optimal feeding among the diverse number of yeast-containing products. Due to the increasing popularity of using yeast-based products in animal feeds, the development of analytical approaches to estimate yeast and its components in these products is greatly needed. Thus, in this review, we intend to provide current knowledge of different categories of commercially available yeast and yeast-derived additives, along with their role in improving animal growth performance and health, their proposed mechanisms of action, and the challenges of quantifying yeast content and biologically active components.
Meso–Cenozoic Exhumation in the South Qinling Shan (Central China) Recorded by Detrital Apatite Fission-Track Dating of Modern River Sediments
Authors: Lin Xu , Liu-Zeng Jing , Wu Lin , Cleber Soares Jose , Liu Dongliang , Dai Jingen , Hu Chengwei , Chen Xiaokang , Li Lingling , Zhang Liyu
Published: October 2023

The Qinling Shan is located between the North China Craton and the South China Block. Not only is investigating the exhumation process of the Qinling Shan beneficial for comprehending the tectonic collision history of mainland China but also for enhancing our understanding of the development of the Yellow and Yangtze Rivers. Previous studies have predominantly focused on bedrock analysis in the Qinling Shan. However, modern fluvial detrital samples offer a more extensive range of thermal history information. Therefore, we gathered modern fluvial debris samples from the Hanjiang River, which is the largest river in the South Qinling Shan. Subsequently, we conducted apatite fission-track analysis using the laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) method. A total of 214 valid track ages were obtained, with an age distribution ranging from 9.5 to 334.0 Ma. The Density Plotter software was employed to decompose the data and generate four prominent age peaks: 185, 103, 69, 35, and 12 Ma. The exhumation events of the Early Jurassic (185 Ma) and Cretaceous (103–69 Ma) in the Southern Qinling Shan were strongly influenced by the collision between the South China Block and the North China Craton, as well as the subduction of the West Pacific Plate, respectively. The far-field effect of the collision between the Indian Plate and the southern Asian continent influenced the exhumation of the South Qinling Shan during the Late Eocene (35 Ma) and Middle Miocene (12 Ma), respectively. In conjunction with the reported findings, we comprehensively analyzed the geological implications of the Mesozoic and Cenozoic exhumations of the Qinling Shan. The Qinling Shan emerged as a watershed between the Ordos and Sichuan Basins in the early Mesozoic and Cenozoic, respectively. However, the exhumation and expansion of the Tibetan Plateau has forced the Yangtze River to flow eastward, resulting in its encounter with the South Qinling Shan in the late Cenozoic. The exhumation of the Qinling Shan has resulted in fault depression in the southern Ordos Basin. This geological process has also contributed to the widespread arid climatic conditions in the basin. During the Miocene, the Yellow River experienced limited connectivity due to a combination of structural and climatic factors. As a result, the Qinling Shan served as an obstacle, dividing the connected southern Yangtze River from the northern segment of the Yellow River during the late Cenozoic era.
GBSOT4 Enhances the Resistance of Gossypium barbadense to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum (FOV) by Regulating the Content of Flavonoid
Authors: Su Zhanlian , Jiao Yang , Jiang Zhengwen , Liu Pengfei , Chen Quanjia , Qu Yanying , Deng Xiaojuan
Published: October 2023

Sulfotransferases (SOTs) (EC 2.8.2.-) are sulfate regulatory proteins in a variety of organisms that have been previously shown to be involved in regulating a variety of physiological and biological processes, such as growth, development, adaptation to land, stomatal closure, drought tolerance, and response to pathogen infection. However, there is a lack of comprehensive identification and systematic analysis of SOT in cotton, especially in G. barbadense. In this study, we used bioinformatics methods to analyze the structural characteristics, phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, expression patterns, evolutionary relationships, selection pressure and stress response of SOT gene family members in G. barbadense. In this study, a total of 241 SOT genes were identified in four cotton species, among which 74 SOT gene members were found in G. barbadense. According to the phylogenetic tree, 241 SOT protein sequences were divided into five distinct subfamilies. We also mapped the physical locations of these genes on chromosomes and visualized the structural information of SOT genes in G. barbadense. We also predicted the cis-acting elements of the SOT gene in G. barbadense, and we identified the repetitive types and collinearity analysis of SOT genes in four cotton species. We calculated the Ka/Ks ratio between homologous gene pairs to elucidate the selective pressure between SOT genes. Transcriptome data were used to explore the expression patterns of SOT genes, and then qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression patterns of GBSOT4, GBSOT17 and GBSOT33 under FOV stress. WGCNA (weighted gene co-expression network analysis) showed that GB_A01G0479 (GBSOT4) belonged to the MEblue module, which may regulate the resistance mechanism of G. barbadense to FOV through plant hormones, signal transduction and glutathione metabolism. In addition, we conducted a VIGS (virus-induced gene silencing) experiment on GBSOT4, and the results showed that after FOV inoculation, the plants with a silenced target gene had more serious leaf wilting, drying and cracking than the control group, and the disease index of the plants with the silenced target gene was significantly higher than that of the control group. This suggests that GBSOT4 may be involved in protecting the production of G. barbadense from FOV infection. Subsequent metabolomics analysis showed that some flavonoid metabolites, such as Eupatorin-5-methylether (3′-hydroxy-5,6,7,4′-tetramethoxyflavone, were accumulated in cotton plants in response to FOV infection.
Small RNAs: Promising Molecules to Tackle Climate Change Impacts in Coffee Production
Authors: de Oliveira Kellen Kauanne Pimenta , de Oliveira Raphael Ricon , Chalfun-Junior Antonio
Published: October 2023

Over the centuries, human society has evolved based on the ability to select and use more adapted species for food supply, which means making plant species tastier and more productive in particular environmental conditions. However, nowadays, this scenario is highly threatened by climate change, especially by the changes in temperature and greenhouse gasses that directly affect photosynthesis, which highlights the need for strategic studies aiming at crop breeding and guaranteeing food security. This is especially worrying for crops with complex phenology, genomes with low variability, and the ones that support a large production chain, such as Coffea sp. L. In this context, recent advances shed some light on the genome function and transcriptional control, revealing small RNAs (sRNAs) that are responsible for environmental cues and could provide variability through gene expression regulation. Basically, sRNAs are responsive to environmental changes and act on the transcriptional and post-transcriptional gene silencing pathways that regulate gene expression and, consequently, biological processes. Here, we first discuss the predicted impact of climate changes on coffee plants and coffee chain production and then the role of sRNAs in response to environmental changes, especially temperature, in different species, together with their potential as tools for genetic improvement. Very few studies in coffee explored the relationship between sRNAs and environmental cues; thus, this review contributes to understanding coffee development in the face of climate change and towards new strategies of crop breeding.
Arnica montana L.: Doesn’t Origin Matter?
Authors: Schmidt Thomas J.
Published: October 2023

Arnica montana L. (Asteraceae) has a long and successful tradition in Europe as herbal medicine. Arnica flowers (i.e., the flowerheads of Arnica montana) are monographed in the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.), and a European Union herbal monograph exists, in which its use as traditional herbal medicine is recommended. According to this monograph, Arnica flowers (Arnicae flos Ph. Eur.) and preparations thereof may be used topically to treat blunt injuries and traumas, inflammations and rheumatic muscle and joint complaints. The main bioactive constituents are sesquiterpene lactones (STLs) of the helenanolide type. Among these, a variety of esters of helenalin and 11α,13-dihydrohelenalin with low-molecular-weight carboxylic acids, namely, acetic, isobutyric, methacrylic, methylbutyric as well as tiglic acid, represent the main constituents, in addition to small amounts of the unesterified parent STLs. A plethora of reports exist on the pharmacological activities of these STLs, and it appears unquestioned that they represent the main active principles responsible for the herbal drug’s efficacy. It has been known for a long time, however, that considerable differences in the STL pattern occur between A. montana flowers from plants growing in middle or Eastern Europe with some originating from the Iberic peninsula. In the former, Helenalin esters usually predominate, whereas the latter contains almost exclusively 11α,13-Dihydrohelenalin derivatives. Differences in pharmacological potency, on the other hand, have been reported for the two subtypes of Arnica-STLs in various instances. At the same time, it has been previously proposed that one should distinguish between two subspecies of A. montana, subsp. montana occurring mainly in Central and Eastern Europe and subsp. atlantica in the southwestern range of the species distribution, i.e., on the Iberian Peninsula. The question hence arises whether or not the geographic origin of Arnica montana flowers is of any relevance for the medicinal use of the herbal drug and the pharmaceutical quality, efficacy and safety of its products and whether the chemical/pharmacological differences should not be recognized in pharmacopoeia monographs. The present review attempts to answer these questions based on a summary of the current state of botanical, phytochemical and pharmacological evidence.
System Design and Echo Preprocessing of Spaceborne Squinted Two-Dimensional Beam Scanning Synthetic Aperture Radar
Authors: Xu Wei , Lu Xuhang , Huang Pingping , Tan Weixian , Gao Zhiqi , Qi Yaolong
Published: October 2023

Conventional squinted sliding spotlight synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imaging suffers from substantial swath width reduction and complex processing requirements due to the continuous variation in the squint angle and the large range cell migration (RCM) throughout the data acquisition interval. A novel two-dimensional (2D) beam scanning mode for high-resolution wide swath (HRWS) imaging is proposed. The key to the novel imaging mode lies in the synchronous scanning of azimuth and range beams, allowing for a broader and more flexible imaging swath with a high geometric resolution. Azimuth beam scanning from fore to aft was used to improve the azimuth resolution, while range beam scanning was adopted to illuminate the oblique wide swath to avoid the large RCM and the serious swath width reduction. Compared with the conventional sliding spotlight mode, both the swath width and swath length could be extended. According to the echo model of this imaging mode, an echo signal preprocessing approach is proposed. The key points of this approach are range data extension and azimuth data upsampling. A designed system example with a resolution of 0.5 m, swath width of 60 km, and azimuth coverage length of 134 km is presented. Furthermore, a simulation experiment on point targets was carried out. Both the presented system example and imaging results of point targets validated the proposed imaging mode.
A Microlens Array Grating for Miniature Multi-Channel Spectrometers
Authors: Shan Shuonan , Li Jingwen , Liu Peiyuan , Li Qiaolin , Wang Xiaohao , Li Xinghui
Published: October 2023

Most existing multi-channel spectrometers are constructed by physically stacking single-channel spectrometers, resulting in their large size, high weight, and limited number of channels. Therefore, their miniaturization is urgently needed. In this paper, a microlens array grating is designed for miniature multi-channel spectrometers. A transmissive element integrating microlens arrays and gratings, the MLAG, enables simultaneous focusing and dispersion. Using soft lithography, the MLAG was fabricated with a deviation of less than 2.2%. The dimensions are 10 mm × 10 mm × 4 mm with over 2000 available units. The MLAG spectrometer operates in the 400–700 nm wavelength range with a resolution of 6 nm. Additionally, the designed MLAG multi-channel spectrometer is experimentally verified to have independently valid cells that can be used in multichannel spectrometers. The wavelength position repeatability deviation of each cell is about 0.5 nm, and the repeatability of displacement measurements by the chromatic confocal sensor with the designed MLAG multi-channel spectrometer is less than 0.5 μm.
A Neuroergonomic Approach Fostered by Wearable EEG for the Multimodal Assessment of Drivers Trainees
Authors: Di Flumeri Gianluca , Giorgi Andrea , Germano Daniele , Ronca Vincenzo , Vozzi Alessia , Borghini Gianluca , Tamborra Luca , Simonetti Ilaria , Capotorto Rossella , Ferrara Silvia , Sciaraffa Nicolina , Babiloni Fabio , Aricò Pietro
Published: October 2023

When assessing trainees’ progresses during a driving training program, instructors can only rely on the evaluation of a trainee’s explicit behavior and their performance, without having any insight about the training effects at a cognitive level. However, being able to drive does not imply knowing how to drive safely in a complex scenario such as the road traffic. Indeed, the latter point involves mental aspects, such as the ability to manage and allocate one’s mental effort appropriately, which are difficult to assess objectively. In this scenario, this study investigates the validity of deploying an electroencephalographic neurometric of mental effort, obtained through a wearable electroencephalographic device, to improve the assessment of the trainee. The study engaged 22 young people, without or with limited driving experience. They were asked to drive along five different but similar urban routes, while their brain activity was recorded through electroencephalography. Moreover, driving performance, subjective and reaction times measures were collected for a multimodal analysis. In terms of subjective and performance measures, no driving improvement could be detected either through the driver’s subjective measures or through their driving performance. On the other side, through the electroencephalographic neurometric of mental effort, it was possible to catch their improvement in terms of mental performance, with a decrease in experienced mental demand after three repetitions of the driving training tasks. These results were confirmed by the analysis of reaction times, that significantly improved from the third repetition as well. Therefore, being able to measure when a task is less mentally demanding, and so more automatic, allows to deduce the degree of users training, becoming capable of handling additional tasks and reacting to unexpected events.
Fast Trajectory Tracking Control Algorithm for Autonomous Vehicles Based on the Alternating Direction Multiplier Method (ADMM) to the Receding Optimization of Model Predictive Control (MPC)
Authors: Dong Ding , Ye Hongtao , Luo Wenguang , Wen Jiayan , Huang Dan
Published: October 2023

In order to improve the real-time performance of the trajectory tracking of autonomous vehicles, this paper applies the alternating direction multiplier method (ADMM) to the receding optimization of model predictive control (MPC), which improves the computational speed of the algorithm. Based on the vehicle dynamics model, the output equation of the autonomous vehicle trajectory tracking control system is constructed, and the auxiliary variable and the dual variable are introduced. The quadratic programming problem transformed from the MPC and the vehicle dynamics constraints are rewritten into the solution of the ADMM form, and a decreasing penalty factor is used during the solution process. The simulation verification is carried out through the joint simulation platform of Simulink and Carsim. The results show that, compared with the active set method (ASM) and the interior point method (IPM), the algorithm proposed in this paper can not only improve the accuracy of trajectory tracking, but also exhibits good real-time performance in different prediction time domains and control time domains. When the prediction time domain increases, the calculation time shows no significant difference. This verifies the effectiveness of the ADMM in improving the real-time performance of MPC.
Forecasting Construction Cost Index through Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Aslam Bilal , Maqsoom Ahsen , Inam Hina , Basharat Mubeen ul , Ullah Fahim
Published: October 2023

This study presents a novel approach for forecasting the construction cost index (CCI) of building materials in developing countries. Such estimations are challenging due to the need for a longer time, the influence of inflation, and fluctuating project prices in developing countries. This study used three techniques—a modified Artificial Neural Network (ANN), time series, and linear regression—to predict and forecast the local building material CCI in Pakistan. The predicted CCI is based on materials, including bricks, steel, cement, sand, and gravel. In addition, the swish activation function was introduced to increase the accuracy of the associated algorithms. The results suggest that the ANN model has superior prediction results, with the lowest Mean Error (ME), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), and Theil’s U statistic (U-Stat) values of 0.04, 28.3, and 0.62, respectively. The time series and regression models have ME values of 0.22 and 0.3, MAE values of 30.07 and 28.3, and U-Stat values of 0.65 and 0.64, respectively. The proposed models can assist contractors, project managers, and owners through an accurately estimated cost index. Such accurate CCIs help correctly estimate project budgets based on building material prices to mitigate project risks, delays, and failures.