bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tribological Behaviour of Hypereutectic Al-Si Composites: A Multi-Response Optimisation Approach with ANN and Taguchi Grey Method
Authors: Miladinović Slavica , Gajević Sandra , Savić Slobodan , Miletić Ivan , Stojanović Blaža , Vencl Aleksandar
Published: February 2024

An optimisation model for small datasets was applied to thixocasted/compocasted composites and hybrid composites with hypereutectic Al-18Si base alloys. Composites were produced with the addition of Al2O3 (36 µm/25 nm) or SiC (40 µm) particles. Based on the design of experiment, tribological tests were performed on the tribometer with block-on-disc contact geometry for normal loads of 100 and 200 N, a sliding speed of 0.5 m/s, and a sliding distance of 1000 m. For the prediction of the tribological behaviour of composites, artificial neural networks (ANNs) were used. Three inputs were considered for ANN training: type of reinforcement (base alloy, Al2O3 and SiC), amount of Al2O3 nano-reinforcement (0 and 0.5 wt.%), and load (100 and 200 N). Various ANNs were applied, and the best ANN for wear rate (WR), with an overall regression coefficient of 0.99484, was a network with architecture 3-15-1 and a logsig (logarithmic sigmoid) transfer function. For coefficient of friction (CoF), the best ANN was the one with architecture 3-6-1 and a tansig (hyperbolic tangent sigmoid) transfer function and had an overall regression coefficient of 0.93096. To investigate the potential of ANN for the prediction of two outputs simultaneously, an ANN was trained, and the best results were from network 3-5-2 with a logsig transfer function and overall regression coefficient of 0.99776, but the predicted values for CoF in this case did not show good correlation with experimental results. After the selection of the best ANNs, the Taguchi grey multi-response optimisation of WR and CoF was performed for the same combination of factors as the ANNs. For optimal WR and CoF, the combination of factors was as follows: composite with 3 wt.% Al2O3 micro-reinforcement, 0.5 wt.% Al2O3 nano-reinforcement, and a load of 100 N. The results show that developed ANN, the Taguchi method, and the Taguchi grey method can, with high reliability, be used for the optimisation of wear rate and coefficient of friction of hypereutectic Al-Si composites. Microstructural investigations of worn surfaces were performed, and the wear mechanism for all tested materials was light abrasion and adhesion. The findings from this research can contribute to the future development of hypereutectic Al-Si composites.
Evaluating Infinite Series Involving Harmonic Numbers by Integration
Authors: Li Chunli , Chu Wenchang
Published: February 2024

Eight infinite series involving harmonic-like numbers are coherently and systematically reviewed. They are evaluated in closed form exclusively by integration together with calculus and complex analysis. In particular, a mysterious series W is introduced and shown to be expressible in terms of the trilogarithm function. Several remarkable integral values and difficult infinite series identities are shown as consequences.
Revisiting the Dynamics of Two-Body Problem in the Framework of the Continued Fraction Potential
Authors: Ershkov Sergey , Mohamdien Ghada F. , Idrisi M. Javed , Abouelmagd Elbaz I.
Published: February 2024

In this analytical study, a novel solving method for determining the precise coordinates of a mass point in orbit around a significantly more massive primary body, operating within the confines of the restricted two-body problem (R2BP), has been introduced. Such an approach entails the utilization of a continued fraction potential diverging from the conventional potential function used in Kepler’s formulation of the R2BP. Furthermore, a system of equations of motion has been successfully explored to identify an analytical means of representing the solution in polar coordinates. An analytical approach for obtaining the function t = t(r), incorporating an elliptic integral, is developed. Additionally, by establishing the inverse function r = r(t), further solutions can be extrapolated through quasi-periodic cycles. Consequently, the previously elusive restricted two-body problem (R2BP) with a continued fraction potential stands fully and analytically solved.
An Improved Fault Diagnosis Algorithm for Highly Scalable Data Center Networks
Authors: Lin Wanling , Li Xiao-Yan , Chang Jou-Ming , Wang Xiangke
Published: February 2024

Fault detection and localization are vital for ensuring the stability of data center networks (DCNs). Specifically, adaptive fault diagnosis is deemed a fundamental technology in achieving the fault tolerance of systems. The highly scalable data center network (HSDC) is a promising structure of server-centric DCNs, as it exhibits the capacity for incremental scalability, coupled with the assurance of low cost and energy consumption, low diameter, and high bisection width. In this paper, we first determine that both the connectivity and diagnosability of the m-dimensional complete HSDC, denoted by HSDCm(m), are m. Further, we propose an efficient adaptive fault diagnosis algorithm to diagnose an HSDCm(m) within three test rounds, and at most N+4m(m−2) tests with m≥3 (resp. at most nine tests with m=2), where N=m·2m is the total number of nodes in HSDCm(m). Our experimental outcomes demonstrate that this diagnosis scheme of HSDC can achieve complete diagnosis and significantly reduce the number of required tests.
Local Second Order Sobolev Regularity for p-Laplacian Equation in Semi-Simple Lie Group
Authors: Yu Chengwei , Zeng Yue
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we establish a structural inequality of the ∞-subLaplacian ▵0,∞ in a class of the semi-simple Lie group endowed with the horizontal vector fields X1,…,X2n. When 1<p≤4 with n=1 and 1<p<3+1n−1 with n≥2, we apply the structural inequality to obtain the local horizontal W2,2-regularity of weak solutions to p-Laplacian equation in the semi-simple Lie group. Compared to Euclidean spaces R2n with n≥2, the range of this p obtained is already optimal.
Stochastic Arbitrage Opportunities: Set Estimation and Statistical Testing
Authors: Arvanitis Stelios , Post Thierry
Published: February 2024

We provide a formal statistical theory of consistent estimation of the set of all arbitrage portfolios that meet the description of being a stochastic arbitrage opportunity. Two empirical likelihood ratio tests are developed: one for the null that a given arbitrage portfolio is qualified, and another for the alternative that the portfolio is not qualified. Apart from considering generalized concepts and hypotheses based on multiple host portfolios, the statistical assumption framework is also more general than in earlier studies that focused on special cases with a single benchmark portfolio. Various extensions and generalizations of the theory are discussed. A Monte Carlo simulation study shows promising statistical size and power properties for testing the null, for representative data dimensions. The results of an empirical application illustrate the importance of selecting a proper blocking structure and moment estimation method.
A Convolutional Neural Network-Based Auto-Segmentation Pipeline for Breast Cancer Imaging
Authors: Leow Lucas Jian Hoong , Azam Abu Bakr , Tan Hong Qi , Nei Wen Long , Cao Qi , Huang Lihui , Xie Yuan , Cai Yiyu
Published: February 2024

Medical imaging is crucial for the detection and diagnosis of breast cancer. Artificial intelligence and computer vision have rapidly become popular in medical image analyses thanks to technological advancements. To improve the effectiveness and efficiency of medical diagnosis and treatment, significant efforts have been made in the literature on medical image processing, segmentation, volumetric analysis, and prediction. This paper is interested in the development of a prediction pipeline for breast cancer studies based on 3D computed tomography (CT) scans. Several algorithms were designed and integrated to classify the suitability of the CT slices. The selected slices from patients were then further processed in the pipeline. This was followed by data generalization and volume segmentation to reduce the computation complexity. The selected input data were fed into a 3D U-Net architecture in the pipeline for analysis and volumetric predictions of cancer tumors. Three types of U-Net models were designed and compared. The experimental results show that Model 1 of U-Net obtained the highest accuracy at 91.44% with the highest memory usage; Model 2 had the lowest memory usage with the lowest accuracy at 85.18%; and Model 3 achieved a balanced performance in accuracy and memory usage, which is a more suitable configuration for the developed pipeline.
An Algorithm Based on Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for Detecting Communities in Networks
Authors: Huang Chenze , Zhong Ying
Published: February 2024

Community structure is a significant characteristic of complex networks, and community detection has valuable applications in network structure analysis. Non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) is a key set of algorithms used to solve the community detection issue. Nevertheless, the localization of feature vectors in the adjacency matrix, which represents the characteristics of complex network structures, frequently leads to the failure of NMF-based approaches when the data matrix has a low density. This paper presents a novel algorithm for detecting sparse network communities using non-negative matrix factorization (NMF). The algorithm utilizes local feature vectors to represent the original network topological features and learns regularization matrices. The resulting feature matrices effectively reveal the global structure of the data matrix, demonstrating enhanced feature expression capabilities. The regularized data matrix resolves the issue of localized feature vectors caused by sparsity or noise, in contrast to the adjacency matrix. The approach has superior accuracy in detecting community structures compared to standard NMF-based community detection algorithms, as evidenced by experimental findings on both simulated and real-world networks.
BRAF V600E Mutation in Malignant Melanoma—A Romanian Research Experience
Authors: Avădănei Elena-Roxana , Căruntu Irina-Draga , Nucă Irina , Balan Raluca , Lozneanu Ludmila , Giusca Simona-Eliza , Amalinei Cornelia
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives: The most common mutation in malignant melanoma (MM) is the single-point mutation of v-raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 (BRAF) oncogene. Our study aims to evaluate BRAF V600E mutation, highlighting its frequency differences in primary versus metastatic MM. Materials and Methods: The study group comprised 133 patients diagnosed with MM in several county hospitals of the north-eastern region of Romania who have been assigned for investigation into BRAF V600E mutation in the private medical system. The material consisted of archived formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) blocks. BRAF V600E mutation was identified using the fully automated IdyllaTM BRAF mutation test system. Results: Out of the total of 133 cases, 78 cases were primary tumors, while 55 cases were metastatic MMs. Genetic analysis revealed the presence of BRAF V600E mutation in 66 cases (49.62%) and the wild-type genotype in 67 cases (50.37%). We found a statistically significant difference of the mutation frequency according to age (p = 0.0072). The mutated genotype was found in 45 cases out of 78 primary MMs (57.69%) and in 21 cases out of 55 secondary MMs (38.18%), with a statistically significant difference in favor of primary tumors (p = 0.0413). The correlations between the histopathological types, Clark’s level, Breslow index, ulceration, and lymphovascular invasion, respectively, and the mutated genotype were not statistically significant. BRAF V600E mutation was identified in 15 out of 40 secondary tumors with lymph node location (37.5%) and in 6 out of 15 secondary tumors with another location (40%) without statistically significant differences between the mutation frequency and the location of the secondary tumors. Conclusions: Our results support MM high genetic heterogeneity, pointing out the relationship between BRAF V600E mutation and several clinicopathological characteristics, in primary and metastatic MMs, stressing the importance of BRAF testing implementation in Romania.
The Effect of Microstructure on the Very High Cycle Fatigue Behavior of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy
Authors: Yuan Mingyang , Zhao Xinbao , Yue Quanzhao , Gu Yuefeng , Zhang Ze
Published: February 2024

Crack initiation plays a major role in very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) life, and the initiation of cracks is related to slip behavior. There is a need for improvement in the understanding of the influence of Ti-6Al-4V microstructures on VHCF performance and crack initiation modes. In this study, through an investigation of Ti-6Al-4V VHCF in equiaxed and bimodal microstructures, two different crack initiation modes were identified. The change in crack initiation mode is related to the variation in microtexture, for which a corresponding model is proposed. The VHCF performance of the bimodal microstructure is significantly improved compared to that of the equiaxed microstructure.
Disinfection of Bacteria in Aerosols by Applying High Voltage to Stranded Wire Electrodes
Authors: Ueno Takahisa , Takada Konosuke , Zaizen Shohei , Sakugawa Takashi , Ninomiya Junko , Furukawa Takashi
Published: February 2024

The inactivation of airborne pathogenic microorganisms is crucial to attenuate the dissemination of infectious diseases induced by airborne pathogens. Conventional air disinfection methodologies, such as ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and ozone treatment, have demonstrated limited efficacy. Consequently, we investigated the potential of employing pulsed voltages to effectively eradicate bacteria within aerosols. Our inquiry revealed that the bacterial disinfection rate increased proportionally with elevated applied voltage and frequency. For instance, when a pulsed voltage of 20 kV and a frequency of 500 Hz were applied, a substantial disinfection rate exceeding 6.0 logarithmic units was attained. Furthermore, with the utilization of the stranded wire anodes, the disinfection intensity could be augmented by up to 2.0 logarithmic units compared with the solid wire configuration. Through the utilization of a stranded wire electrode model, we scrutinized the electric field encompassing the electrode, revealing a non-uniform electric field with the stranded wire electrode. This observation indicated an amplified bacterial disinfection effect, aligning with our experimental outcomes. These findings significantly enhance our comprehension of efficacious approaches to electrically disinfecting airborne bacteria.
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens Probiotics Mix Supplementation in a Broiler Leaky Gut Model
Authors: Horyanto Darwin , Bajagai Yadav S. , Kayal Advait , von Hellens Juhani , Chen Xiaojing , Van Thi Thu Hao , Radovanović Anita , Stanley Dragana
Published: February 2024

The supplementation of antimicrobial growth promoters (AGPs) has been banned in many countries because of the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens in poultry products and the environment. Probiotics have been broadly studied and demonstrated as a promising AGP substitute. Our study is centred on the effects of a multi-strain Bacillus-based probiotic product on broiler production performance and gut microbial profile in a dexamethasone-induced leaky gut challenge. Two hundred and fifty-six broiler chicks were hatched and randomly assigned into four groups (wheat-soybean meal basal diet (BD) = non-supplemented control (C), BD supplemented with dexamethasone in week 4 (CD), BD containing a probiotic from day one (P), and BD containing a probiotic from day one and supplemented with dexamethasone during challenge week 4 (PD)). The production performance and caecal, gizzard, jejunal lumen and jejunal mucosa swab microbiota were studied by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The Bacillus probiotic product significantly improved production performance and altered caecal gut microbiota (p ≤ 0.05), but no significant impact on microbiota was observed in other gut sections.
Roles and Regulation of Quorum Sensing of Acidophiles in Bioleaching: A Review
Authors: Luo Wang , Li Yiran , Chen Shiqi , Liang Yili , Liu Xueduan
Published: February 2024

Bioleaching has gained significant attention as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach for extracting metals from low-grade ores and industrial byproducts. The application of acidophiles in bioleaching has been extensively studied. Among the various mechanisms leaching microorganisms utilize, quorum sensing (QS) is pivotal in regulating their life activities in response to population density. QS has been confirmed to regulate bioleaching, including cell morphology, community structure, biofilm formation, and cell metabolism. Potential applications of QS have also been proposed, such as increasing mineral leaching rates by adding signaling molecules. This review is helpful for comprehensively understanding the role of QS in bioleaching and promoting the practical application of QS-based strategies in bioleaching process optimization.
Establishment and Application of a Quadruplex Real-Time Reverse-Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay for Differentiation of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus, Porcine Circovirus Type 2, Porcine Circovirus Type 3, and Streptococcus suis
Authors: Wang Geng , Zhu Hechao , Zhan Cunlin , Chen Pin , Wu Bin , Peng Zhong , Qian Ping , Cheng Guofu
Published: February 2024

Respiratory illnesses present a significant threat to porcine health, with co-infections involving Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV), Streptococcus suis (SS), Porcine Circovirus Type 2 (PCV2), and Porcine Circovirus Type 3 (PCV3) acting as the primary causative agents. As a result, the precise diagnosis of PRRSV, PCV2, PCV3 and SS is of paramount importance in the prevention and control of respiratory diseases in swine. Therefore, we conducted a molecular bioinformatical analysis to concurrently detect and differentiate PRRSV, PCV2, PCV3 and SS. We selected the ORF6 gene of PRRSV, the ORF2 gene of PCV2 and PCV3, and the glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) gene of SS as targets. Specific primers and probes were designed for each pathogen, and following meticulous optimization of reaction conditions, we established a multiple TaqMan fluorescence quantitative PCR detection method. Subsequently, we subjected this method to a comprehensive assessment, evaluating its specificity, sensitivity, and repeatability. The research results demonstrated that the established multiple TaqMan fluorescence quantitative PCR detection method displays displayed exemplary specificity, with no instances of cross-reactivity with other pathogens. The method’s minimum detection concentrations for PRRSV, PCV2, PCV3, and SS were 2.80 × 101 copies/µL, 1.96 × 102 copies/µL, 2.30 × 102 copies/µL, and 1.75 × 103 copies/µL, respectively. When applied to the analysis of 30 clinical samples, the results closely mirrored those obtained through Chinese standard uniplex real-time qPCR detection method for PRRSV, as well as the general PCR methods for SS, PCV2, and PCV3. This study underscores the robust specificity, high sensitivity, and consistent stability of the multiple TaqMan fluorescence quantitative PCR detection method that we have developed. It is ideally suited to the clinical monitoring of PRRSV, PCV2, PCV3, and SS, and it carries significant importance in ongoing efforts to prevent and manage respiratory diseases in porcine populations.
Relationship between the Viral Load in Patients with Different COVID-19 Severities and SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Santos Coy-Arechavaleta Andrea , Alvarado-Yaah Julio Elias , Uribe-Noguez Luis Antonio , Guerra-Castillo Francisco Xavier , Santacruz-Tinoco Clara Esperanza , Ramón-Gallegos Eva , Muñoz-Medina José Esteban , Fernandes-Matano Larissa
Published: February 2024

SARS-CoV-2 has spread throughout the world since 2019, changing in its genome and leading to the appearance of new variants. This gave it different evolutionary advantages, such as greater infectivity and/or a greater ability to avoid the immune response, which could lead to an increased severity of COVID-19 cases. There is no consistent information about the viral load that occurs in infection with the different SARS-CoV-2 variants, hence, in this study we quantify the viral load of more than 16,800 samples taken from the Mexican population with confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 and we analyze the relation between different demographic and disease variables. We detected that the viral load caused by different variants differs only in the first two days after the onset of symptoms, being higher when infections are caused by the delta variant and lower when caused by omicron. Furthermore, the viral load appears to be higher in outpatients compared to hospitalized patients or in cases of death. On the other hand, no differences were found in the viral load produced in vaccinated and unvaccinated patients, nor did it differ between genders.
Next-Generation Probiotics as Novel Therapeutics for Improving Human Health: Current Trends and Future Perspectives
Authors: Abouelela Mohamed E. , Helmy Yosra A.
Published: February 2024

Next-generation probiotics (NGPs) represent an innovative group of beneficial bacteria that are currently undergoing research and development. NGPs are designed not only for conventional use as foods or dietary supplements but are also tailored for pharmaceutical applications. Research indicates that NGPs show therapeutic promise in addressing various chronic ailments. Offering multiple advantages over conventional probiotics, NGPs present opportunities for personalized probiotic therapies, involvement in synthetic biology and gene editing, participation in combination therapies, targeted delivery methods, and application in therapeutic settings. Our review discusses the potential therapeutic effect of the NGPs, covering diverse research trajectories for NGPs, including their identification, characterization, and targeted delivery. Furthermore, this review elucidates the influence of NGPs on critical aspects of human health, specifically, gut health, immune function, and broader health outcomes. Mechanistic insights encompass the production of bioactive compounds, competitive interactions with pathogenic bacteria, the modulation of immune cell activity, and the reinforcement of the gut barrier. What is noteworthy is that the current review points out the prevalent NGP strains and their diverse sources, providing a highlight for the comprehensive framework for understanding their potential applications and their future benefits in the domain of advanced therapeutics.
Microbial Ecology of Granular Biofilm Technologies for Wastewater Treatment: A Review
Authors: Rosa-Masegosa Aurora , Rodriguez-Sanchez Alejandro , Gorrasi Susanna , Fenice Massimiliano , Gonzalez-Martinez Alejandro , Gonzalez-Lopez Jesus , Muñoz-Palazon Barbara
Published: February 2024

Nowadays, the discharge of wastewater is a global concern due to the damage caused to human and environmental health. Wastewater treatment has progressed to provide environmentally and economically sustainable technologies. The biological treatment of wastewater is one of the fundamental bases of this field, and the employment of new technologies based on granular biofilm systems is demonstrating success in tackling the environmental issues derived from the discharge of wastewater. The granular-conforming microorganisms must be evaluated as functional entities because their activities and functions for removing pollutants are interconnected with the surrounding microbiota. The deep knowledge of microbial communities allows for the improvement in system operation, as the proliferation of microorganisms in charge of metabolic roles could be modified by adjustments to operational conditions. This is why engineering must consider the intrinsic microbiological aspects of biological wastewater treatment systems to obtain the most effective performance. This review provides an extensive view of the microbial ecology of biological wastewater treatment technologies based on granular biofilms for mitigating water pollution.
Determining Liquid Limit and Plastic Limit of Clay Soils by Electrical Surface Conduction and Diffuse Double Layer Thickness
Authors: Hasan Md Farhad , Abuel-Naga Hossam
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to propose a new approach to determine the liquid limit and plastic limit of clay soils by considering electrical conductivity (EC) measurements. The proposed method included incorporating a new parameter, F, which is the ratio of the volumetric water contents of diffuse double layer (DDL) water and free water. In addition, the EC parameter, σ, was considered as the ratio of electrical surface conductivity and electrical conductivity of water. The changes in the thickness of DDL (χ) were also assessed to obtain corresponding equations to establish a connection with clay mineralogy, water content, and specific gravity in the final prediction. Three-dimensional surface analyses were conducted to find a correlation among F, σ, and χ to identify an appropriate method to predict liquid limit and plastic limit. The study was conducted with 39 different types of samples, and the outcomes from the EC approach were validated against the conventional methods. Overall, the coefficient of determination, R2 = 0.90, and Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient, (LCCC) = 0.91, were obtained for liquid limit prediction, whereas R2 = 0.64 and LCCC = 0.80 were obtained for plastic limit determination.
Housing European Ground Squirrels (Spermophilus citellus) for an Ex Situ Conservation Program
Authors: Bárdos Boróka , Altbacker Vilmos , Török Henrietta Kinga , Nagy István
Published: February 2024

European ground squirrel (Spermophilus citellus) populations have declined precipitously over the last 70 years. Its protection cannot be ensured solely by protecting its habitat; it is also necessary to protect the animals ex situ. In our study, within a European ground squirrel species protection program, we examined two elements of indoor housing technology. Knowledge of the animals’ needs is essential for captive housing and breeding success, so in our tests, the animals could freely choose both nest-building materials and feed. In the nest material preference test, the animals could choose from three materials with different structures: paper, Lignocel and hay. In the feed preference test, the animals could also choose from three types of feed: commercial rabbit feed, complete rabbit feed and a natural feed mixture. The first two feeds were in granulated format, and the third was a grain feed mix. Among the nesting materials, they preferred hay, which allowed them to build better-quality nests. Among the feeds, they preferred the grain feed mix, the composition closest to their natural feed, and it was the only one that contained animal protein. Our results contribute to the successful maintenance and breeding the European ground squirrel in captivity.
Substitute Buttons: Exploring Tactile Perception of Physical Buttons for Use as Haptic Proxies
Authors: van Deurzen Bram , Rovelo Ruiz Gustavo Alberto , Bot Daniël M. , Vanacken Davy , Luyten Kris
Published: February 2024

Buttons are everywhere and are one of the most common interaction elements in both physical and digital interfaces. While virtual buttons offer versatility, enhancing them with realistic haptic feedback is challenging. Achieving this requires a comprehensive understanding of the tactile perception of physical buttons and their transferability to virtual counterparts. This research investigates tactile perception concerning button attributes such as shape, size, and roundness and their potential generalization across diverse button types. In our study, participants interacted with each of the 36 buttons in our search space and provided a response to which one they thought they were touching. The findings were used to establish six substitute buttons capable of effectively emulating tactile experiences across various buttons. In a second study, these substitute buttons were validated against virtual buttons in VR. Highlighting the potential use of the substitute buttons as haptic proxies for applications such as encountered-type haptics.
Solid Electrochemiluminescence Sensor by Immobilization of Emitter Ruthenium(II)tris(bipyridine) in Bipolar Silica Nanochannel Film for Sensitive Detection of Oxalate in Serum and Urine
Authors: Yu Ruliang , Zhao Yujiao , Liu Jiyang
Published: February 2024

Convenient and highly sensitive detection of oxalate ions in body fluids is of crucial significance for disease prevention, diagnosis, and monitoring of treatment effectiveness. Establishing a simple solid-state electrochemiluminescence (ECL) sensing system for highly sensitive detection of oxalate ions is highly desirable. In this work, a solid ECL sensor was fabricated by immobilizing the commonly used emitter ruthenium(II)tris(bipyridine) (Ru(bpy)32+) on a double-layered bipolar silica nanochannel array film (bp-SNA)-modified electrode, enabling sensitive detection of oxalate ions in serum or urine samples. Cost-effective and readily available indium tin oxide (ITO) was used as the supporting electrode. Convenient fabrication of multiple negatively charged SNA (n-SNA)-modified ITO electrodes was achieved through the one-step Stöber solution growth method. Subsequently, a positive outer layer film (p-SNA) was rapidly prepared using an electrochemical-assisted self-assembly method. The double-layered bipolar silica nanochannel array film achieved stable immobilization of Ru(bpy)32+ on the electrode surface, facilitated by the electrostatic adsorption of Ru(bpy)32+ by n-SNA and the electrostatic repulsion by p-SNA. Utilizing oxalate ions as a co-reactant for Ru(bpy)32+, combined with the electrostatic enrichment of oxalate ions by p-SNA, the constructed sensor enabled highly sensitive detection of oxalate ions ranging from 1 nM to 25 μM and from 25 μM to 1 mM, with a detection limit (LOD) of 0.8 nM. The fabricated ECL sensor exhibited high selectivity and good stability, making it suitable for ECL detection of oxalate ions in serum and urine samples.
Progress and Application of Halide Perovskite Materials for Solar Cells and Light Emitting Devices
Authors: Cheng Maoding , Jiang Jingtian , Yan Chao , Lin Yuankun , Mortazavi Mansour , Kaul Anupama B. , Jiang Qinglong
Published: February 2024

Halide perovskite materials have attracted worldwide attention in the photovoltaic area due to the rapid improvement in efficiency, from less than 4% in 2009 to 26.1% in 2023 with only a nanometer lever photo-active layer. Meanwhile, this nova star found applications in many other areas, such as light emitting, sensor, etc. This review started with the fundamentals of physics and chemistry behind the excellent performance of halide perovskite materials for photovoltaic/light emitting and the methods for preparing them. Then, it described the basic principles for solar cells and light emitting devices. It summarized the strategies including nanotechnology to improve the performance and the application of halide perovskite materials in these two areas: from structure–property relation to how each component in the devices affects the overall performance. Moreover, this review listed the challenges for the future applications of halide perovskite materials.
Population Immunity and Polio Eradication
Authors: Fine Paul E. M.
Published: February 2024

The Global Polio Eradication Initiative made immense progress after its establishment in 1988 as a consequence of high coverage with various poliovirus vaccines in all populations of the world. Problems have arisen in recent years, however, related to security issues in some countries, to the circulation of vaccine-derived polioviruses, and to the recognition that individuals with certain immune deficiencies can remain infected and infectious for many months or years. As natural infection and different vaccines have different effects on the immune system, the patterns of humoral and mucosal immunity to polioviruses in the world today are complex but are crucial to the ultimate success of the eradication initiative. This paper describes the background of the current situation and current immunological patterns and discusses their implications for managing population immunity to polioviruses in the years ahead.
The Intricate Interplay between APOBEC3 Proteins and DNA Tumour Viruses
Authors: Lovšin Nika , Gangupam Bhavani , Bergant Marušič Martina
Published: February 2024

APOBEC3 proteins are cytidine deaminases that play a crucial role in the innate immune response against viruses, including DNA viruses. Their main mechanism for restricting viral replication is the deamination of cytosine to uracil in viral DNA during replication. This process leads to hypermutation of the viral genome, resulting in loss of viral fitness and, in many cases, inactivation of the virus. APOBEC3 proteins inhibit the replication of a number of DNA tumour viruses, including herpesviruses, papillomaviruses and hepadnaviruses. Different APOBEC3s restrict the replication of different virus families in different ways and this restriction is not limited to one APOBEC3. Infection with DNA viruses often leads to the development and progression of cancer. APOBEC3 mutational signatures have been detected in various cancers, indicating the importance of APOBEC3s in carcinogenesis. Inhibition of DNA viruses by APOBEC3 proteins appears to play a dual role in this process. On the one hand, it is an essential component of the innate immune response to viral infections, and, on the other hand, it contributes to the pathogenesis of persistent viral infections and the progression of cancer. The current review examines the complex interplay between APOBEC3 proteins and DNA viruses and sheds light on the mechanisms of action, viral countermeasures and the impact on carcinogenesis. Deciphering the current issues in the interaction of APOBEC/DNA viruses should enable the development of new targeted cancer therapies.
New Frontier on Antimicrobial Therapy: Long-Acting Lipoglycopeptides
Authors: Siciliano Valentina , Sangiorgi Flavio , Del Vecchio Pierluigi , Vahedi Layla , Gross Maya Manuela , Saviano Angela , Ojetti Veronica
Published: February 2024

Long-acting lipoglycopeptides (LGPs), such as dalbavancin and oritavancin, are semisynthetic antibiotics known for their strong effectiveness against a wide array of Gram-positive bacteria. This includes Staphylococcus aureus, both methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant (MRSA) strains, coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CoNS), streptococci, and vancomycin-sensitive Enterococcus faecalis. A literature search was conducted on PubMed and on ClinicalTrials.gov to identify articles published until July 2023 investigating the use of oritavancin and dalbavancin in clinical practice. The review included case reports, case series, observational studies, and clinical studies. Although more consistent data are needed, LGPs seem to be a good alternative that may provide a quicker hospital discharge and reduce long-term intravenous access and therapy. This is attributed to their unique pharmacologic and pharmacokinetic characteristics. More quality data (i.e., number of patients treated with clinical success) are needed before clinicians may use these therapies more widely.
Topographic Complexity Is a Principal Driver of Plant Endemism in Mediterranean Islands
Authors: Camilleri Leanne , Debono Katya , Grech Francesca , Bellia Andrea Francesca , Pace Gyllain , Lanfranco Sandro
Published: February 2024

The frequency of endemism in the flora of Mediterranean Islands does not follow a straightforward species–area relationship, and the determinants of endemism are several and complex. The aim of this study was to estimate the explanatory power of a small number of variables on the species richness of vascular plants on selected Mediterranean islands and archipelagos, and on the proportion of narrow endemism in each. We used a novel approach whereby the topographic complexity and isolation of an island were estimated through more detailed methods than those utilised previously. These parameters, along with island area and human population density, were used in a number of regression models with the number of taxa or proportion of endemics as the dependent variables. The results demonstrated that ‘topography’, a factor that was not specifically included in previous models for Mediterranean islands, exerted a consistent, statistically significant effect on both the number of taxa as well as the proportion of endemic taxa, in all models tested. The ‘isolation’ factor was not a significant predictor of the number of taxa in any of the models but was a statistically significant predictor of the proportion of endemic taxa in two of the models. The results can be used to make broad predictions about the expected number of taxa and endemics on an island, enabling the categorisation of islands as ‘species-poor’ or ‘species-rich’, potentially aiding conservation efforts.
Stable Isotope Analyses Reveal Impact of Fe and Zn on Cd Uptake and Translocation by Theobroma cacao
Authors: Moore Rebekah E. T. , Ullah Ihsan , Dunwell Jim M. , Rehkämper Mark
Published: February 2024

High concentrations of toxic cadmium (Cd) in soils are problematic as the element accumulates in food crops such as rice and cacao. A mitigation strategy to minimise Cd accumulation is to enhance the competitive uptake of plant-essential metals. Theobroma cacao seedlings were grown hydroponically with added Cd. Eight different treatments were used, which included/excluded hydroponic or foliar zinc (Zn) and/or iron (Fe) for the final growth period. Analyses of Cd concentrations and natural stable isotope compositions by multiple collector ICP-MS were conducted. Cadmium uptake and translocation decreased when Fe was removed from the hydroponic solutions, while the application of foliar Zn-EDTA may enhance Cd translocation. No significant differences in isotope fractionation during uptake were found between treatments. Data from all treatments fit a single Cd isotope fractionation model associated with sequestration (seq) of isotopically light Cd in roots and unidirectional mobilisation (mob) of isotopically heavier Cd to the leaves (ε114Cdseq-mob = −0.13‰). This result is in excellent agreement with data from an investigation of 19 genetically diverse cacao clones. The different Cd dynamics exhibited by the clones and seen in response to different Fe availability may be linked to similar physiological processes, such as the regulation of specific transporter proteins.
The Impact of Harvesting Mechanization on Oolong Tea Quality
Authors: Zhou Junling , Gao Shuilian , Du Zhenghua , Xu Tongda , Zheng Chao , Liu Ying
Published: February 2024

Mechanization is the inevitable future of tea harvesting, but its impact on tea chemistry and quality remains uncertain. Our study examines untargeted metabolomic data from 185 oolong tea products (Tieguanyin) made from leaves harvested by hand or machine based on UPLC-QToF-MS analysis. The data revealed a minimum 50% loss for over half of the chemicals in the machine-harvested group, including catechins, theaflavin, gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, and kaempferol-3-gluocside. Integrating sensory evaluation, OPLS-DA identified the six most important metabolites as significant contributors to sensory decline caused by harvesting mechanization. Furthermore, our research validates the possibility of using DD-SIMCA modelling with untargeted metabolomic data for distinguishing handpicked from machine-harvested tea products. The model was able to achieve 93% accuracy. This study provides crucial insights into the chemical and sensory shifts during mechanization, along with tools to manage and monitor these changes.
Prefoldin Subunits and Its Associate Partners: Conservations and Specificities in Plants
Authors: Yang Yi , Zhang Gang , Su Mengyu , Shi Qingbiao , Chen Qingshuai
Published: February 2024

Prefoldins (PFDs) are ubiquitous co-chaperone proteins that originated in archaea during evolution and are present in all eukaryotes, including yeast, mammals, and plants. Typically, prefoldin subunits form hexameric PFD complex (PFDc) that, together with class II chaperonins, mediate the folding of nascent proteins, such as actin and tubulin. In addition to functioning as a co-chaperone in cytoplasm, prefoldin subunits are also localized in the nucleus, which is essential for transcription and post-transcription regulation. However, the specific and critical roles of prefoldins in plants have not been well summarized. In this review, we present an overview of plant prefoldin and its related proteins, summarize the structure of prefoldin/prefoldin-like complex (PFD/PFDLc), and analyze the versatile landscape by prefoldin subunits, from cytoplasm to nucleus regulation. We also focus the specific role of prefoldin-mediated phytohormone response and global plant development. Finally, we overview the emerging prefoldin-like (PFDL) subunits in plants and the novel roles in related processes, and discuss the next direction in further studies.
Genome-Wide Analysis of Aux/IAA Gene Family in Artemisia argyi: Identification, Phylogenetic Analysis, and Determination of Response to Various Phytohormones
Authors: Lian Conglong , Lan Jinxu , Ma Rui , Li Jingjing , Zhang Fei , Zhang Bao , Liu Xiuyu , Chen Suiqing
Published: February 2024

Artemisia argyi is a traditional herbal medicine plant, and its folium artemisia argyi is widely in demand due to moxibustion applications globally. The Auxin/indole-3-acetic acid (Aux/IAA, or IAA) gene family has critical roles in the primary auxin-response process, with extensive involvement in plant development and stresses, controlling various essential traits of plants. However, the systematic investigation of the Aux/IAA gene family in A. argyi remains limited. In this study, a total of 61 Aux/IAA genes were comprehensively identified and characterized. Gene structural analysis indicated that 46 Aux/IAA proteins contain the four typical domains, and 15 Aux/IAA proteins belong to non-canonical IAA proteins. Collinear prediction and phylogenetic relationship analyses suggested that Aux/IAA proteins were grouped into 13 distinct categories, and most Aux/IAA genes might experience gene loss during the tandem duplication process. Promoter cis-element investigation indicated that Aux/IAA promoters contain a variety of plant hormone response and stress response cis-elements. Protein interaction prediction analysis demonstrated that AaIAA26/29/7/34 proteins are possibly core members of the Aux/IAA family interaction. Expression analysis in roots and leaves via RNA-seq data indicated that the expression of some AaIAAs exhibited tissue-specific expression patterns, and some AaIAAs were involved in the regulation of salt and saline-alkali stresses. In addition, RT-qPCR results indicated that AaIAA genes have differential responses to auxin, with complex response patterns in response to other hormones, indicating that Aux/IAA may play a role in connecting auxin and other hormone signaling pathways. Overall, these findings shed more light on AaIAA genes and offer critical foundational knowledge toward the elucidation of their function during plant growth, stress response, and hormone networking of Aux/IAA family genes in A. argyi.
PvARL1 Increases Biomass Yield and Enhances Alkaline Tolerance in Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.)
Authors: Li Xue , Guan Cong , Liu Huayue , Wang Tingting , Lin Mengzhuo , Zhou Die , Zhang Yunwei , Bi Xiaojing
Published: February 2024

Switchgrass is an important bioenergy crop valued for its biomass yield and abiotic tolerance. Alkali stress is a major abiotic stress that significantly impedes plant growth and yield due to high salinity and pH; however, the response mechanism of switchgrass to alkali stress remains limited. Here, we characterized PvARL1, an ARF-like gene, which was up-regulated in both the shoot and root tissues under alkali stress conditions. Overexpression of PvARL1 not only improved alkali tolerance but also promoted biomass yield with more tiller and higher plant height in switchgrass. Moreover, PvARL1 overexpression lines displayed higher capacities in the maintenance of water content and photosynthetic stability compared with the controls under alkali treatments. A significant reduction in the ratio of electrolyte leakage, MDA content, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) showed that PvARL1 plays a positive role in protecting cell membrane integrity. In addition, PvARL1 also negatively affected the K+ efflux or uptake in roots to alleviate ion toxicity under alkali treatments. Overall, our results suggest that PvARL1 functions as a positive regulator in plant growth as well as in the plant response to alkali stress, which could be used to improve switchgrass biomass yield and alkali tolerance genetically.
Assessing Amounts of Genetic Variability in Key Horticultural Traits Underlying Core Korean Breeding Lines of Cut Chrysanthemums
Authors: Kim Seung-Young , Lee Haying-Youl , Park Chanrim , Kim Daegwan , Kim Jung-Bun , Kim So-Hyun , Jeong Kyeong-Jin , Pak Ha-Seung , Jung Jae-A , Kim Tae-Sung
Published: February 2024

The cut chrysanthemum holds one of the most substantial segments of the global floriculture market, particularly in Korea. We conducted a detailed assessment of the genetic structures across the cut chrysanthemum breeding lines in Korea. Using standard and spray chrysanthemum breeding lines from leading Korean research institutes, we first compared the variability of 12 horticultural traits, revealing a wide range of variation for most traits. We found that the overall flower diameter (OFD) and ray floret length (RFL) showed a solid positive relationship, regardless of the type. From a multivariate approach, OFD, RFL, and ray floret width (RFW) show consistently high association. Genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation analyses further indicated the significant genetic control over most traits. However, certain traits, like the volume of flowers (VF) in standard types, are more influenced by environments. Lastly, our analysis demonstrated substantial variability in broad-sense heritability (H); plant height (PH) consistently showed high H in both types. But the number of side branches (NOSB) and VF exhibited inconsistent H scores. These findings highlight the need for type-specific breeding strategies and modulating environmental management to optimize the trait expressions depending on the H scores, which offers significant implications for future breeding strategies.