bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular and molecular determinants mediating the dysregulated germinal center immune dynamics in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Georgakis Spiros , Ioannidou Kalliopi , Mora Bernat Bramon , Orfanakis Michail , Brenna Cloe , Muller Yannick D. , Del Rio Estrada Perla M. , Sharma Ashish A. , Pantaleo Giuseppe , de Leval Laurence , Comte Denis , Gottardo Raphael , Petrovas Constantinos
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by dysregulated humoral immunity, leading to the generation of autoreactive B cells that can differentiate both within and outside of lymph node (LN) follicles.

Methods

Here, we employed spatial transcriptomics and multiplex imaging to investigate the follicular immune landscaping and the in situ transcriptomic profile in LNs from SLE individuals.

Results

Our spatial transcriptomic analysis revealed robust type I IFN and plasma cell signatures in SLE compared to reactive, control follicles. Cell deconvolution revealed that follicular T cell subsets are mainly affected by the type I IFN fingerprint of SLE follicles. Dysregulation of TFH differentiation was documented by i) the significant reduction of Bcl6hi TFH cells, ii) the reduced cell density of potential IL-4 producing TFH cell subsets associated with the impaired transcriptomic signature of follicular IL-4 signaling and iii) the loss of their correlation with GC-B cells. This profile was accompanied by a marked reduction of Bcl6hi B cells and an enrichment of extrafollicular CD19hiCD11chiTbethi, age-associated B cells (ABCs), known for their autoreactive potential. The increased prevalence of follicular IL-21hi cells further reveals a hyperactive microenvironment in SLE compared to control.

Discussion

Taken together, our findings highlight the altered immunological landscape of SLE follicles, likely fueled by potent inflammatory signals such as sustained type I IFN and/or IL-21 signaling. Our work provides novel insights into the spatial molecular and cellular signatures of SLE follicular B and TFH cell dynamics, and points to druggable targets to restore immune tolerance and enhance vaccine responses in SLE patients.
HIV-1 Tat-induced disruption of epithelial junctions and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of oral and genital epithelial cells lead to increased invasiveness of neoplastic cells and the spread of herpes simplex virus and cytomegalovirus
Authors: Tugizov Sharof
Published: February 2025

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) transactivator Tat is a unique multi-functional viral protein secreted by infected cells. Although its primary function is to promote HIV-1 transcription, secreted Tat interacts with neighboring cells and induces numerous disease-associated pathological changes. Despite the substantial reduction of viral load and disease burden, Tat expression and secretion persist in people living with HIV who are undergoing treatment with highly effective combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). Tat interacts with both oral and genital epithelial cells and impairs their mucosal barrier functions, which facilitates the entry of other pathogenic viruses. Tat-mediated interactions with both human papillomavirus (HPV) -infected and HPV-negative neoplastic epithelial cells lead to epithelial-mesenchymal transition and increased invasiveness of malignant cells. Likewise, Tat-induced disruption of oral epithelial cell junctions leads to herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) infection and spread via exposure of its receptor, nectin-1. HIV-1 Tat facilitates infection and spread of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) by activating mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) and promoting NF-κB signaling, both critical for the replication and production of progeny virions. HIV extracellular Tat also plays a critical role in human herpesvirus 8 (HHV8) -caused Kaposi sarcoma (KS) pathogenesis by synergizing with HHV-8 lytic proteins and promoting the proliferation, angiogenesis, and migration of endothelial cells. Collectively, these findings emphasize the critical impact of HIV-1 Tat on HIV/AIDS pathogenesis during the cART era and highlight the need for further research on the molecular mechanisms underlying Tat-mediated interactions with oral and genital mucosal epithelial cells.
A review of soil waterlogging impacts, mechanisms, and adaptive strategies
Authors: Zhang Yusen , Chen Xiaojuan , Geng Shiying , Zhang Xiujuan
Published: February 2025

Waterlogging is a major abiotic stress affecting plant growth and productivity. Regardless of rainfall or irrigated environments, plants frequently face waterlogging, which may range from short-term to prolonged durations. Excessive precipitation and soil moisture disrupt crop growth, not because of the water itself but due to oxygen deficiency caused by water saturation. This lack of oxygen triggers a cascade of detrimental effects. Once the soil becomes saturated, oxygen depletion leads to anaerobic respiration in plant roots, weakening their respiratory processes. Waterlogging impacts plant morphology, growth, and metabolism, often increasing ethylene production and impairing vital physiological functions. Plants respond to waterlogging stress by altering their morphological structures, energy metabolism, hormone synthesis, and signal transduction pathways. This paper synthesizes findings from previous studies to systematically analyze the effects of waterlogging on plant yield, hormone regulation, signal transduction, and adaptive responses while exploring the mechanisms underlying plant tolerance to waterlogging. For instance, waterlogging reduces crop yield and disrupts key physiological and biochemical processes, such as hormone synthesis and nutrient absorption, leading to deficiencies of essential nutrients like potassium and calcium. Under waterlogged conditions, plants exhibit morphological changes, including the formation of adventitious roots and the development of aeration tissues to enhance oxygen transport. This review also highlighted effective strategies to improve plant tolerance to waterlogging. Examples include strengthening field management practices, applying exogenous hormones such as 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), overexpressing specific genes (e.g., ZmEREB180, HvERF2.11, and RAP2.6L), and modifying root architecture. Lastly, we discuss future challenges and propose directions for advancing research in this field.
Social media use and job choices: the mediating roles of work values and self-efficacy
Authors: Li Fei , Shi MinXuan , Feng Ran
Published: February 2025

This study examines the association between social media use and college students’ employment choices, focusing on the roles of work values and self-efficacy as mediating factors. A survey of 254 college students in Anhui Province showed that social media users tended to have more flexible and diverse employment options than non-users. Regression analyses demonstrated a positive association between social media use and employment decisions, with work values and self-efficacy identified as mediating factors in this relationship. Notably, self-efficacy was found to enhance the association between work values and students’ employment choices. These findings suggest that fostering students’ self-efficacy enhances the positive impact of work values, emphasizing the need for career guidance to encourage appropriate use of social media while avoiding over-reliance. This study provides valuable insights into promoting full employment among college students by considering the role of social media in shaping their career decisions.
Examining the comorbidity network of Internet addiction and depression: the role of effortful control on their bridge symptoms in adolescents
Authors: Hirota Tomoya , Adachi Masaki , Monden Rei , Mori Hiroyuki , Takahashi Michio , Nakamura Kazuhiko
Published: February 2025

Background and aims

Internet addiction (IA) and depression commonly co-occur in adolescents, yet the mechanisms underlying their comorbidity remain unclear. This study aims to elucidate the comorbidity mechanism through network analysis, identifying bridge symptoms linking IA and depression, and exploring sex differences. Additionally, the study examines the association between effortful control (EC) and bridge symptoms, providing insights for interventions.

Methods

A school-based survey was conducted among 7th to 9th-grade students in Japan. Participants completed questionnaires assessing IA (measured by the Young Diagnostic Questionnaire), depression (measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents), and EC (measured by the Early Adolescent Temperament Questionnaire). Network analysis was employed to identify bridge symptoms and examine their association with EC. Bootstrapping for network analysis was conducted to assess network accuracy and stability as well as sex differences in the network structures.

Results

Among the 4,111 students approached, 3,909 (1,904 male and 2,005 female) students filled out the survey. Bridge symptoms such as “Escape” (from the IA cluster) and “Concentration” (from the depression cluster) were found important in both male and female students. Our analysis also revealed differences in the importance of the bridge symptoms across males and females with “Psychomotor” symptoms (from the depression cluster) predominantly in males and “Feeling Guilty” (from the depression cluster) and “Functional impairment” (from the IA cluster) predominantly in females. EC showed a notable negative association with “Concentration”, suggesting important relationships between the transdiagnostic factor and bridge symptoms in understanding the comorbid conditions. The network comparison test did not reveal significant differences in the network structures across sexes.

Discussion and conclusions

The study revealed differences in bridge symptoms linking IA and depression between male and female students. Our findings provide valuable insights for understanding the comorbidity mechanisms of IA and depression in adolescents. Further research using a longitudinal study design is warranted to identify the directionality between EC and bridge symptoms.
Indices to Identify Historical and Future Periods of Drought for the Maize Crop (Zea mays L.) in Central Mexico
Authors: Cruz-González Alejandro , Arteaga-Ramírez Ramón , Sánchez-Cohen Ignacio , Monterroso-Rivas Alejandro Ismael , Soria-Ruiz Jesús
Published: February 2025

Agricultural drought is a condition that threatens natural ecosystems, water security, and food security. The timely identification of an agricultural drought event is essential to mitigating its effects. However, achieving a reliable and accurate assessment is challenging due to the interannual variability of precipitation in a region. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify the months with drought during the agricultural cycle of the maize crop (Zea mays L.) in the Atlacomulco Rural Development District (ARDD) as a study area using the SPI and SPEI indices and their impact on each phenological stage. The results show that when analyzing the historical period (1985–2017), the ARDD is a region prone to agricultural droughts with a duration of one month. The stages of grain filling and ripening were the most vulnerable, since SPI and SPEI-1 quantify that 25% and 31% of the total months with drought occur during those stages, respectively. Towards the 2041–2080 horizon, the MCG ACCESS-ESM1-5 with the SSP2-4.5 scenario identified an occurrence of dry periods with 17% and 20% by SPI and SPEI, respectively, while for SSP5-8.5, 17% and 22% of the total number of periods corresponded to dry months with SPI and SPEI, respectively. Greater recurrence will be observed in the future, specifically after the year 2061, meaning an increase in the frequency of agricultural drought events in the region, causing difficult and erratic productive conditions for each agricultural cycle and threatening sustainable development. Therefore, it is necessary to take action to mitigate the effects of climate change in this sector.
Integration Between Serious Games and EEG Signals: A Systematic Review
Authors: Patiño Julian , Vega Isabel , Becerra Miguel A. , Duque-Grisales Eduardo , Jimenez Lina
Published: February 2025

A serious game combines concepts, principles, and methods of game design with information and communication technologies for the achievement of a given goal beyond entertainment. Serious game studies have been reported under a brain–computer interface (BCI) approach, with the specific use of electroencephalographic (EEG) signals. This study presents a review of the technological solutions from existing works related to serious games and EEG signals. A taxonomy is proposed for the classification of the research literature in three different categories according to the experimental strategy for the integration of the game and EEG: (1) evoked signals, (2) spontaneous signals, and (3) hybrid signals. Some details and additional aspects of the studies are also reviewed. The analysis involves factors such as platforms and development languages (serious game), software tools (integration between serious game and EEG signals), and the number of test subjects. The findings indicate that 50% of the identified studies use spontaneous signals as the experimental strategy. Based on the definition, categorization, and state of the art, the main research challenges and future directions for this class of technological solutions are discussed.
Failure Mechanism of Sandy Soil Slopes Under High-Angle Normal Bedrock-Fault Dislocation: Physical Model Tests
Authors: Ma Jianke , Zhang Jianyi , Song Yijie , Feng Ziyi , Tian Jing , Gu Jun , Li Xiaobo
Published: February 2025

Bedrock fault dislocation is a crucial structural factor influencing landslide movement. Accurately predicting the location and scale of rupture zones within a slope body is essential for effective slope construction design and risk mitigation. Based on an analysis of seismic damage in slope cross-bedrock faults, this article creatively realizes the physical model test of the slope and its covering layer site with soil rupture zones at the top and toe of the slope caused by the dislocation of the bedrock normal fault. Through the model test, macroscopic phenomena were observed, and microscopic analysis was obtained by deploying sensors. The main results were as follows: (i) The evolutionary process of the instability mechanism could be divided into three stages: crack damage stage (Stage I), crack expansion and penetration stage (Stage II), and slope instability stage (Stage III). (ii) Two rupture modes of the soil body in the slope under bedrock dislocation were identified, with the rupture mode at the slope crest having a greater impact on the soil slope. (iii) Inferring the position of bedrock faults through the location of the main rupture zones on the slope surface represents a feasible supplementary method for identifying seismogenic structures during field surveys. These research results provide a scientific basis for the stability assessment of cross-fault slopes and the reinforcement design of landslide disasters.
Feasibility of Hybrid Telerehabilitation and Its Impact on Quality of Life in Patients with Heart Failure and Implanted Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)
Authors: Piotrowicz Ewa , Mierzyńska Anna , Chwyczko Tomasz , Jaworska Izabela , Kowalik Ilona , Kuśmierczyk Mariusz , Piotrowicz Ryszard
Published: February 2025

(1) Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation is increasingly used as a treatment option for patients with advanced heart failure (HF). There is a need to provide patients with LVAD with long-term care, preferably at home. The implementation of home-based telerehabilitation (HTR) and telecare offers new opportunities in this field. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of HTR and telecare in HF patients with implanted LVAD and evaluate patients’ acceptance of and adherence to HTR. (2) The study enrolled 30 HF patients with recently implanted LVAD (21 Heart Mate III, 9 Heart Ware) (29 males, mean 59 years) who underwent a 12-week telecare and HTR program based on walking, respiratory, and resistance training, five times weekly. HTR was telemonitored with a device adjusted to register electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings and to transmit data via a mobile phone network to the monitoring center. The moments of automatic ECG registration were pre-set and coordinated with exercise. The influence on physical capacity was assessed by comparing changes in peak oxygen consumption (pVO2; [mL/kg/min]) and workload duration (t; [s]) during the cardiopulmonary exercise test. (3) HTR resulted in a significant physical capacity improvement in pVO2 12.5 ± 2.9 vs. 15.1 ± 3.0 (p < 0.001), and workload duration t 628 ± 204 vs. 728 ± 222 (p < 0.001) during the cardiopulmonary exercise test. There were neither deaths nor adverse events during HTR. Patients accepted HTR, including the need for interactive everyday collaboration with the medical team. All patients completed HTR. (4) HTR is a feasible and safe form of rehabilitation that is well-accepted by patients. The adherence to HTCR was high.
Shallow Subsurface Wavefield Data Interpolation Method Based on Transfer Learning
Authors: Zang Danfeng , Li Jian , Li Chuankun , Zhang Hengran , Pei Zhipeng , Ma Yixiang
Published: February 2025

The deployment density of surface sensors can significantly impact the accuracy of subsurface shallow seismic field energy inversion. With finite budget constraints, it is often not feasible to deploy a large number of sensors, resulting in limited seismic signal acquisition that hinders accurate inversion of the shallow subsurface explosions. To address the challenge of insufficient sensor signals needed for inversion, we conducted a study on a subsurface shallow wavefield data interpolation method based on transfer learning. This method is designed to increase the overall signal acquisition by interpolating signals at target locations from limited measurement points. Our research employs neural networks to interpolate real seismic data, supplementing the sampled signals. Given the lack of extensive samples from actual data collection, we devised a training approach that combines numerically simulated signals with real collected signals. Initially, we performed conventional interpolation training using a deep interpolation network with complete synthetic gather images obtained from numerical simulations. Subsequently, the feature extraction part was frozen, and the interpolation network was transferred to real datasets, where it was trained using incomplete gather images. Finally, these incomplete gather images were re-input into the trained network to obtain interpolated results at the target locations. Our study demonstrates the superiority of our method by comparing it with two other interpolation networks and validating the effectiveness of transfer learning through four sets of ablation experiments in the actual test. This method can also be applied to other shallow geological structures to generate a large number of seismic signals for energy inversion.
Multiple Mechanisms to Regulate Actin Functions: “Fundamental” Versus Lineage-Specific Mechanisms and Hierarchical Relationships
Authors: Uyeda Taro Q. P. , Yamazaki Yosuke , Kijima Saku T. , Noguchi Taro Q. P. , Ngo Kien Xuan
Published: February 2025

Eukaryotic actin filaments play a central role in numerous cellular functions, with each function relying on the interaction of actin filaments with specific actin-binding proteins. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate these interactions is key to uncovering how actin filaments perform diverse roles at different cellular locations. Several distinct classes of actin regulatory mechanisms have been proposed and experimentally supported. However, these mechanisms vary in their nature and hierarchy. For instance, some operate under the control of others, highlighting hierarchical relationships. Additionally, while certain mechanisms are fundamental and ubiquitous across eukaryotes, others are lineage-specific. Here, we emphasize the fundamental importance and functional significance of the following actin regulatory mechanisms: the biochemical regulation of actin nucleators, the ATP hydrolysis-dependent aging of actin filaments, thermal fluctuation- and mechanical strain-dependent conformational changes of actin filaments, and cooperative conformational changes induced by actin-binding proteins.
Genetic Diversity and Population Differentiation of Farmed Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linnaeus, 1758) to Advance Selective Breeding in Uganda
Authors: Kwikiriza Gerald , Abaho Ivan , Tibihika Papius Dias , Izaara Andrew A. , Atukwatse Faith , Omara Timothy , Nattabi Juliet K. , Kasozi Nasser , Curto Manuel , Melcher Andreas , Meimberg Harald
Published: February 2025

Despite the importance of Nile tilapia as a main aquaculture species in Uganda, limited research has been conducted concerning its genetic diversity, particularly in farmed populations. This gap has hindered the development of a systematic breeding program for this species. Successful aquaculture development, especially for genetic improvement, relies on the diversity and purity of wild and farmed populations as germplasm sources for selective breeding. Using microsatellite markers, the current study evaluated the genetic diversity of 480 samples collected from 20 populations of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in Uganda. All the populations exhibited a higher expected heterozygosity (0.50 ± 0.01) than observed heterozygosity (0.42 ± 0.01), although this was not significantly different. Populations from ponds showed lower FST values (<0.001), an indication of lower genetic differentiation. The populations formed four main clusters; the first comprising of mainly cages (Pal and Busana), the second with cages: Katosi and SON in addition to Rocks hatchery, the third comprised of Bawe cage fish farm and Tendo hatchery, and the fourth were populations from ponds and beaches on Lake Victoria. Given the higher genetic diversity and genetic differentiation of Tendo and Rocks populations, these farms would provide potential candidates for the development of local strains in Uganda. These results provide more insights into the management of local Nile tilapia strains towards reduction of inbreeding levels.
Propensity Score in the Tails and Returns to Education in Italy
Authors: Furno Marilena , Caracciolo Francesco
Published: February 2025

The propensity score defining the probability of completing a given degree of education—to balance covariates—and the Mincer equation is here estimated at various degrees of higher education. The novelty is in implementing propensity score and regression estimators together in a double-robust approach in order to ensure against misspecification. The model is analyzed not only at the average but also in the tails of both components to gain a detailed analysis of the tail behavior and robustness. Analyzing survey data from the 2010 and 2020 waves, we find a negative impact of southern regions and gender on education. This impact becomes milder at the mean and is not significant in the right tail. The mixing of propensity score and quantile regression shows the irrelevance of education at low wages and, in a few cases, decreasing premia as school years increase. The private sector rewards lower premiums to young workers, and these distributions are more dispersed, i.e., show higher inequality. In the women’s subset, there is a marked pay gap, even wider for those working in the private sector.
Tongue Image Segmentation and Constitution Identification with Deep Learning
Authors: Lin Chien-Ho , Yang Sien-Hung , Lee Jiann-Der
Published: February 2025

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) gathers patient information through inspection, olfaction, inquiry, and palpation, analyzing and interpreting the data to make a diagnosis and offer appropriate treatment. Traditionally, the interpretation of this information relies heavily on the physician’s personal knowledge and experience. However, diagnostic outcomes can vary depending on the physician’s clinical experience and subjective judgment. This study employs AI methods to focus on localized tongue assessment, developing an automatic tongue body segmentation using the deep learning network “U-Net” through a series of optimization processes applied to tongue surface images. Furthermore, “ResNet34” is utilized for the identification of “cold”, “neutral”, and “hot” constitutions, creating a system that enhances the consistency and reliability of diagnostic results related to the tongue. The final results demonstrate that the AI interpretation accuracy of this system reaches the diagnostic level of junior TCM practitioners (those who have passed the TCM practitioner assessment with ≤5 years of experience). The framework and findings of this study can serve as (1) a foundational step for the future integration of pulse information and electronic medical records, (2) a tool for personalized preventive medicine, and (3) a training resource for TCM students learning to diagnose tongue constitutions such as “cold”, “neutral”, and “hot”.
Construction of a Prediction Model for Energy Consumption in Urban Rail Transit Operations Using a Bottom–Up Approach
Authors: Chen Boyu , Lin Ye
Published: February 2025

Global climate change necessitates an immediate reduction in carbon emissions. This study aimed to categorize rail transit energy consumption factors into “traction energy consumption” and “non-traction comprehensive energy consumption” by employing a bottom–up approach and using a sample of urban rail transit operations in 122 Chinese cities from 2018 to 2022. The factors were grouped based on the scale of the urban rail transit network, and planned indicators were screened using stepwise regression and machine learning eigenvalue methods. Predictive models were then constructed using these planned indicators through multiple linear regression and random forest regression. This process yielded five traction energy consumption prediction models corresponding to different network scales as well as one non-traction comprehensive energy consumption prediction model. The applicability of these models was determined through comparison. Additionally, a direct linear relationship between the planned indicators and urban rail transit energy consumption was established using multiple linear regression. This study provides solid support for accurately predicting the energy consumption of urban rail transit operations and optimizing resource allocation. It offers valuable insights for carbon accounting and related research endeavors.
An Efficient Numerical Model for the Evaluation of the Productivity Considering Depletion-Induced Plastic Behaviors in Weakly Consolidated Reservoirs
Authors: Luo Feifei , Zhong Lei , Wang Zhizhong , Li Zixuan , Zhu Bolong , Zhao Xiangyun , Guo Xuyang , Lin Jiaying
Published: February 2025

Efficient and accurate modeling of rock deformation and well production in weakly consolidated reservoirs requires reliable and accurate reservoir modeling techniques. During hydrocarbon production, the reservoir pressure is dropped, and rock compaction is induced. In such depletion-induced reservoir rock deformation, both elastic and plastic deformation can be generated. The numerical investigation of depletion-induced plasticity in shale oil reservoirs and its impact on coupled reservoir modeling helps provide insights into the optimization of horizontal well productivity. This study introduces a coupled flow and geomechanical model that considers porous media flow, elastoplastic deformation, horizontal well production, and the coupling between the flow and geomechanical processes. Simulation results are then provided along with numerical modeling parameters. Effects of relevant parameters, including depletion magnitude, rock mechanical properties, and hydraulic fracture parameters, jointly affect rock deformation, rock skeleton damage, and horizontal well productivity. Depletion-induced plasticity, stress, pressure, and subsidence are all characterized by the solution strategy. In addition, the implementation of direct and iterative solvers and the usage of full coupling and sequential coupling strategies are investigated, and the associated solver performance is quantified. It helps evaluate the numerical efficiency in the highly nonlinear numerical system. This study provides an efficient coupled flow and elastoplastic model for the simulation of depletion in weakly consolidated reservoirs.
Renewable Portfolio Standards, Carbon Emissions Trading and China Certified Emission Reduction: The Role of Market Mechanisms in Optimizing China’s Power Generation Structure
Authors: Yang Shining , Mi Feng
Published: February 2025

To promote the low-carbon energy transition, China is implementing renewable energy (RE) development policies such as renewable portfolio standards (RPSs), carbon emissions trading (CET) and China certified emission reduction (CCER) trading. However, using China’s current CET price to accurately reflect market information is difficult, which is not conducive to guiding low-carbon investment. Additionally, as RE power enters the era of grid parity, more revenues are needed to maintain generator operations. Therefore, in this study, we construct a system dynamics model to explore whether and how market mechanisms can optimize the power generation structure, and sensitivity analyses of CCER policy parameters are carried out to identify the impact and scope for improvement. The results show that (1) the market mechanism, especially the RPS mechanism, adjusts the profits of power generators, eliciting a surge in RE generation and optimizing the power generation structure; (2) CET and CCER prices change in the opposite direction of tradable green certificates (TGCs) and show a significant improvement effect on the on-grid electricity price; (3) successful implementation of the CCER mechanism can effectively energize the CET market. A lower CCER benchmark price, higher CCER offset ratio and CET fines can accelerate the growth of CCER and CET prices. Therefore, the government should promote TGC separation from power trading and rationally design CCER policies by lowering the CCER credit ratio, increasing CET fines, and expanding CCER market capacity to ensure that the guiding role of the market mechanism is better utilized.
Numerical Investigations of Inlet Recirculation in a Turbocharger Centrifugal Compressor
Authors: Ullah Tariq , Sobczak Krzysztof , Liskiewicz Grzegorz , Mucha Mariusz
Published: February 2025

Turbocharged internal combustion engines offer efficient power-to-weight ratios, aiding in fuel-saving efforts within the automotive industry. However, when the flow is low, compressors show various instabilities, i.e., stall and inlet recirculation, which have a negative influence on their performance. This paper uses transient numerical simulations to explore the inlet recirculation phenomenon in a turbocharger compressor. The Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes equations and k-ω SST turbulence model were solved using ANSYS CFX. The numerical model was verified using the experimental data for the design speed line. Analysis of mesh independence was performed to assess the discretization uncertainty near the design and surge line points. The results indicate that the inlet recirculation appears for moderate flows lower than design conditions. It shows significant radial and streamwise growth as the flow decreases. The reversed flow area increases more intensely in the radial direction at medium mass flow rates, whereas the streamwise growth is more substantial at low mass flow rates. The reversed flow reached 27% of the total inlet area at the point on the surge line. It was accompanied by a 15.7% drop in efficiency between the points with weak and strong inlet recirculation. The presented research indicates significant changes in the size of the inlet recirculation zone in the circumferential direction. It reaches its highest intensity close to the angular position of the volute tongue.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Siamese Rosewood (Dalbergia cochinchinensis Pierre) in Thailand Using matK and Internal Transcribed Spacer Markers
Authors: Prompen Benjarat , Saijuntha Weerachai , Pilap Warayutt , Thanonkeo Sudarat
Published: February 2025

Siamese rosewood (Dalbergia cochinchinensis Pierre) is a highly valuable economic tree species in Thailand. This study investigated genetic diversity across 72 tree samples from 17 Thai locations using two genetic markers: the chloroplast maturase K (matK) gene and the nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. Analysis of 48 matK and 65 ITS sequences revealed 34 (DcM1–DcM34) and 31 (DcI1–DcI31) haplotypes, respectively. The Saraburi province haplotype DcM10 exhibited the highest genetic divergence, differing by 25 mutational steps from other haplotypes. Phylogenetic analysis incorporating GenBank sequences from other Dalbergia species showed that matK sequences separated D. cochinchinensis into two distinct clades: Clade A, comprising most Thai samples, and Clade B, containing Saraburi samples grouped with sequences from Laos and Cambodia. In contrast, ITS analysis revealed a single monophyletic group. These findings have important applications for conservation strategies, particularly in prioritizing the genetically distinct Saraburi population for protection, and can inform breeding programs to maintain genetic diversity. Additionally, the identified genetic markers could be developed into tools for timber authentication to combat illegal logging, while the revealed population structure can guide reforestation efforts and international conservation collaboration with Laos and Cambodia.
The Phenolic Acid Content in Wheat Depending on the Intensification of Cultivation Technology
Authors: Rachoń Leszek , Cebulak Tomasz , Krochmal-Marczak Barbara , Kapusta Ireneusz , Betlej Izabela , Kiełtyka-Dadasiewicz Anna
Published: February 2025

Phenolic acids were identified, and their content was determined in the grain of four species of wheat: common wheat (Triticum aestivum ssp. vulgare), spelt (T. aestivum ssp. spelta), durum (T. turgidum ssp. durum), and einkorn (T. monococcum) grown at two different levels of cultivation technology: medium and high. Thirteen acids were identified for each species. Einkorn cultivar PL 5003 had the highest content of phenolic acids, reaching up to 2106 mg 100 g−1 DM. The response of various species to the levels of technology applied was varied, but ferulic acid was always predominant (465–868 mg 100 g−1 DM). Common wheat and spelt responded with a decrease in the content of the acids when tested using the higher level of technology (on average by 265 and 62 mg), while their content increased in durum wheat and einkorn (282 and 352 mg). A clear response to weather conditions was also observed; most of the genotypes had a higher content of phenolic acids when there was more rainfall. The present study provides the basis for using these genotypes to produce food with increased nutritional content using appropriate agricultural procedures.
Copy Number Variations of the NSMF Gene and Their Associations with Growth Traits in Three Chinese Sheep Breeds
Authors: Cao Xiukai , Liu Yongqi , Cheng Jie , Ling Chen , Huang Jinlin , Sun Wei
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Copy number variations (CNVs) are a significant source of genetic variation and have been shown to influence growth traits in livestock. This study aimed to validate previous CNV candidates within the NSMF gene (XM_015093798.1) and identify novel CNV markers for molecular breeding in sheep. Methods: Using quantitative PCR (qPCR), we genotyped NSMF CNVs (chr3: 586,001–601,000) and assessed their associations with growth traits in three Chinese sheep breeds: Chaka sheep (CKS, n = 312), Hu sheep (HS, n = 67), and Small-tailed Han sheep (STHS, n = 70). Results: Our results revealed significant differences in NSMF CNV genotype frequencies across the three breeds, with the highest proportion of deletions observed in STHS (98.44%) and CKS (90.57%), while HS exhibited a higher frequency of duplications (14.06%). No significant associations were observed between NSMF CNV genotype and CKS growth traits (p-value > 0.05). However, the CNV could markedly affected cannon circumference in HS (p-value = 0.021), with individuals carrying the normal genotype showing a larger cannon circumference. Additionally, a marginally significant association was found between the CNV and body diagonal length in HS (p-value = 0.050). Conclusions: Future investigations employing larger cohorts of Hu sheep are warranted to definitively establish the utility of NSMF CNVs as genetic markers for growth traits in Hu sheep breeding programs.
One Health Approach to the Computational Design of a Lipoprotein-Based Multi-Epitope Vaccine Against Human and Livestock Tuberculosis
Authors: Shey Robert Adamu , Nchanji Gordon Takop , Stong Tangan Yanick Aqua , Yaah Ntang Emmaculate , Shintouo Cabirou Mounchili , Yengo Bernis Neneyoh , Nebangwa Derrick Neba , Efeti Mary Teke , Chick Joan Amban , Ayuk Abey Blessings , Gwei Ketura Yaje , Lemoge Arnaud Azonpi , Vanhamme Luc , Ghogomu Stephen Mbigha , Souopgui Jacob
Published: February 2025

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major cause of ill health and one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with about 1.25 million deaths estimated in 2023. Control measures have focused principally on early diagnosis, the treatment of active TB, and vaccination. However, the widespread emergence of anti-tuberculosis drug resistance remains the major public health threat to progress made in global TB care and control. Moreover, the Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine, the only licensed vaccine against TB in children, has been in use for over a century, and there have been considerable debates concerning its effectiveness in TB control. A multi-epitope vaccine against TB would be an invaluable tool to attain the Global Plan to End TB 2023–2030 target. A rational approach that combines several B-cell and T-cell epitopes from key lipoproteins was adopted to design a novel multi-epitope vaccine candidate. In addition, interactions with TLR4 were implemented to assess its ability to elicit an innate immune response. The conservation of the selected proteins suggests the possibility of cross-protection in line with the One Health approach to disease control. The vaccine candidate was predicted to be both antigenic and immunogenic, and immune simulation analyses demonstrated its ability to elicit both humoral and cellular immune responses. Protein–protein docking and normal-mode analyses of the vaccine candidate with TLR4 predicted efficient binding and stable interaction. This study provides a promising One Health approach for the design of multi-epitope vaccines against human and livestock tuberculosis. Overall, the designed vaccine candidate demonstrated immunogenicity and safety features that warrant further experimental validation in vitro and in vivo.
Biofunctionalization of Collagen Barrier Membranes with Bone-Conditioned Medium, as a Natural Source of Growth Factors, Enhances Osteoblastic Cell Behavior
Authors: Ashoka Sreeja Harshitha , Couso-Queiruga Emilio , Raabe Clemens , Chappuis Vivianne , Asparuhova Maria B.
Published: February 2025

A key principle of guided bone regeneration (GBR) is the use of a barrier membrane to prevent cells from non-osteogenic tissues from interfering with bone regeneration in patients with hard tissue deficiencies. The aim of the study was to investigate whether the osteoinductive properties of bone-conditioned medium (BCM) obtained from cortical bone chips harvested at the surgical site can be transferred to a native bilayer collagen membrane (nbCM). BCM extracted within 20 or 40 min, which corresponds to a typical implant surgical procedure, and BCM extracted within 24 h, which corresponds to BCM released from the autologous bone chips in situ, contained significant and comparable amounts of TGF-β1, IGF-1, FGF-2, VEGF-A, and IL-11. Significant (p < 0.001) quantities of BMP-2 were only detected in the 24-h BCM preparation. The bioactive substances contained in the BCM were adsorbed to the nbCMs with almost 100% efficiency. A fast but sequential release of all investigated proteins occurred within 6–72 h, reflecting their stepwise involvement in the natural regeneration process. BCM-coated nbCM significantly (p < 0.05) increased the migratory, adhesive, and proliferative capacity of primary human bone-derived cells (hBC), primary human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLC), and an osteosarcoma-derived osteoblastic cell line (MG-63) compared to cells cultured on BCM-free nbCM. The high proliferative rates of MG-63 cells cultured on BCM-free nbCM were not further potentiated by BCM, indicating that BCM-coated nbCM has no detrimental effects on cancer cell growth. BCM-coated nbCM caused significant (p < 0.05) induction of early osteogenic marker gene expression and alkaline phosphatase activity, suggesting an important role of BCM-functionalized nbCM in the initiation of osteogenesis. The 24-h BCM loaded on the nbCM was the only BCM preparation that caused significant induction of late osteogenic marker gene expression. Altogether, our data define the pre-activation of collagen membranes with short-term-extracted BCM as a potential superior modality for treating hard tissue deficiencies via GBR.
An Evaluation of Prognostic Factors in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Single-Center Study of 237 Japanese Cases
Authors: Yamazaki Emi , Fujimura Taku , Takahashi-Watanabe Manami , Amagai Ryo , Tamabuchi Erika , Oka Kenta , Kambayashi Yumi , Hashimoto Akira , Omori Ryoko , Takahashi Takehiro , Asano Yoshihide
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a common cutaneous malignancy with diverse etiologies, including actinic keratosis, burns, and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Methods: We reviewed 237 cases diagnosed as cSCC in our department between 2013 and 2023. In addition, we focused on HS as an aggravating factor for cSCC. The mechanism of cSCC progression was investigated with a focus on LL-37, a peptide implicated in the pathogenesis of HS. Relevant gene expression was analyzed comprehensively via RNA sequencing in vitro. Results: The median age of the patients was 82 years (range: 33–101), with 139 males and 98 females. The primary sites were as follows: head and neck (125 cases), trunk (10 cases), vulva (11 cases), extremities (81 cases), and buttocks (10 cases). Among the five cases (2.1%) of buttocks cSSc associated with HS, all cases (100%) had local recurrence or lymph node metastasis at the time of diagnosis, and one case (20%) developed multi-organ metastasis. The incidence of disease progression in cSCC originating from HS-affected buttocks was significantly higher than in other sites (p < 0.05). RNA sequencing revealed the significant amplification of ACTA1, which was confirmed by Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining. Conclusions: These results suggest that HS is a prognostic factor in cSCC and that LL-37 stimulation contributes to tumor progression, partly by enhancing multiple tumor growth factors.
Seasonal Dynamics of Soil Respiration in an Alpine Meadow: In Situ Monitoring of Freeze–Thaw Cycle Responses on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Wang Pei , Li Chunqiu
Published: February 2025

Understanding the dynamics of soil respiration (Rs) in response to freeze–thaw cycles is crucial due to permafrost degradation on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP). We conducted continuous in situ observations of Rs using an Li-8150 automated soil CO2 flux system, categorizing the freeze–thaw cycle into four stages: completely thawed (CT), autumn freeze–thaw (AFT), completely frozen (CF), and spring freeze–thaw (SFT). Our results revealed distinct differences in Rs magnitudes, diurnal patterns, and controlling factors across these stages, attributed to varying thermal regimes. The mean Rs values were as follows: 2.51 (1.10) μmol·m−2·s−1 (CT), 0.37 (0.04) μmol·m−2·s−1 (AFT), 0.19 (0.06) μmol·m−2·s−1 (CF), and 0.68 (0.19) μmol·m−2·s−1 (SFT). Cumulatively, the Rs contributions to annual totals were 89.32% (CT), 0.79% (AFT), 5.01% (CF), and 4.88% (SFT). Notably, the temperature sensitivity (Q10) value during SFT was 2.79 times greater than that in CT (4.63), underscoring the significance of CO2 emissions during spring warming. Soil temperature was the primary driver of Rs in the CT stage, while soil moisture at 5 cm depth and solar radiation significantly influenced Rs during SFT. Our findings suggest that global warming will alter seasonal Rs patterns as freeze–thaw phases evolve, emphasizing the need to monitor CO2 emissions from alpine meadow ecosystems during spring.
Effect of Gear Body Temperature on the Dynamic Characteristics of Spiral Bevel Gears
Authors: Zheng Xi-Qing , Hui Jun-Hong , Lan Hui-Qing
Published: February 2025

Thermal effect is an important cause of gear system engineering failure. Spiral bevel gears are widely used in helicopter transmissions, but scuffing often occurs during operation. Tooth surface body temperature is an important factor influencing scuffing in scuffing standards. A thermal dynamic model of spiral bevel gear transmission was developed based on varying tooth body temperatures under different oil spray conditions. Vibration acceleration experiments were conducted using a dedicated scuffing test rig. The results indicate that higher oil spray temperatures intensify vibrations, with a 24.3% increase in the maximum variance of vibration acceleration. Mesh frequency and stiffness decrease, increasing the likelihood of tooth surface failures such as scuffing. Accurate monitoring of tooth body temperature is critical to ensuring the reliable operation of spiral bevel gears in helicopter transmissions.
Advanced Machine Learning Approaches for Predicting Machining Performance in Orthogonal Cutting Process
Authors: Al Bukhari Sabrina , Pervaiz Salman
Published: February 2025

We investigated the orthogonal cutting process by using machine learning models to predict its performance. This study used the AZ91 magnesium alloy as the workpiece material, and machining was performed under the Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL) technique. The input parameters were the feed, cutting speed and MQL flow rate. Additionally, the outputs were flank tool wear, the chip contact length, peak distance, valley distance, pitch distance, chip segmentation ratio, compression ratio and shear angle. Studies on machine learning (ML) models being employed to evaluate the performance of the MQL-assisted orthogonal machining of AZ91 are very rarely found in the literature. This study explored machine learning (ML) as a data-driven alternative, evaluating decision tree regression, Bayesian Optimization, Random Forest Regression and XGBoost for predicting machinability. A comprehensive dataset of the cutting parameters and outcomes was utilized to train and validate these models, aiming to enhance the accuracy of the predictive analysis. The performance of each model was evaluated based on error metrics such as the mean squared error (MSE) and R-squared values. Among these models, XGBoost demonstrated a superior predictive accuracy, outperforming the other methods in terms of its precision and generalizability. These findings suggest that XGBoost provides a more robust solution for modeling the complexities of the orthogonal cutting process, offering valuable insights into process optimization. The analysis supports that the XGBoost model is the most accurate, with a 34.1% reduction in the mean squared error and a 17.1% reduction in the mean absolute error over these values for the Decision Tree. It also outperforms the Random Forest Regression model, achieving a 19.8% decrease in the mean squared error and a 7.1% decrease in the mean absolute error.