bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupled Resonance Mechanism of Interface Stratification of Thin Coating Structures Excited by Horizontal Shear Waves
Authors: Guo Feng , Liu Ling , Yang Senlin , Yin Zhifu , Wu Jiu Hui , Zhang Yong Yan
Published: October 2022

The coupled resonance mechanism of interface stratification of thin coating structures excited by horizontal shear waves is investigated by the forced vibration solution derived from the global matrix method, the integral transformation method, and the plane wave perturbation method. The interface shear stress reaches the peak at coupling resonance frequencies which are an inherent property of the structure, and decreases with the increase of coating thickness or the increase of shear wave velocity difference between the substrate and coating. At the coupling resonance frequency, the thin coating structure is more easily stratified at the interface. The result could provide a theoretical basis for the popularization and application of ultrasonic deicing/defrosting/de-accretion technology.
Charge Carrier Recombination Dynamics in MAPb(Br1−yIy)3 Single Crystals
Authors: Xiao Zijie , Tao Tingting , Shu Jingting , Dang Wei , Pan Shusheng , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2022

Studying the carrier recombination process in MAPb(Br1−yIy)3 single crystals (SCs) is important for its application in the optoelectronic field. In this work, a series of MAPb(Br1−yIy)3 SCs with varied Br/I compositions have been studied. Steady-state photoluminescence (PL) spectra, time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) spectra and time-resolved microwave photoconductivity (TRMC) were used to understand the radiative and non-radiative recombination processes of MAPb(Br1−yIy)3 SCs. By comparing the dynamics of TRPL and TRMC, we conclude that the dynamics of TRPL is dominated by the electron trapping process, which is in accordance with the fast decay component of TRMC kinetics, whereas the slower decay component in TRMC is dominated by the hole trapping process. Moreover, we find both the electron and hole trapping rates in mixed-halide perovskite MAPb(Br1−yIy)3 (0 < y < 1) SCs are higher than that of mono-halide perovskite MAPbBr3 SCs and MAPbI3 SCs. This suggests mixed-halide crystals could introduce additional electron and hole trapping densities, which could be related to the fluctuation of Br/I compositions in the crystals. This work is helpful for understanding carrier recombination process in mixed-halide perovskite SCs.
Recent Progress on Preparation Strategies of Liquid Crystal Smart Windows
Authors: Luo Linfeng , Liang Yinghui , Feng Yuting , Mo Dan , Zhang Yang , Chen Jiawen
Published: October 2022

Liquid crystal (LC) smart windows that are able to regulate natural light by changing the optical transmittance in response to external stimulus have become an effective way to reduce building energy consumption. The rapid development of technology has brought out a variety of responsive smart windows suitable for daily life, including electrical-, thermal-, and photo-responsive ones. In this review, the recent progress in LC smart windows that switch between transparent and opaque states by different stimuli is overviewed. The preparation strategies for single-/dual-responsive smart windows are outlined, exclusively concentrating on the functional design and working principle. Furthermore, the advantages and current drawbacks of smart windows for each response mode are briefly described. Finally, a perspective on the direction of future responsive LC smart windows is discussed.
Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma Spinal Metastases: Which Factors Matter to the Overall Survival? A 10-Year Experience of a High-Volume Tumor Spine Center
Authors: Terzi Silvia , Pipola Valerio , Griffoni Cristiana , Trentin Federica , Carretta Elisa , Monetta Annalisa , Vita Fabio , Bandiera Stefano , Barbanti-Bròdano Giovanni , Ghermandi Riccardo , Evangelisti Gisberto , Tedesco Giuseppe , Girolami Marco , Cavallari Carlotta , Gasbarrini Alessandro
Published: October 2022

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) usually spreads in the spinal region causing instability or spinal cord compression leading to neurological deficits. Therefore, surgical treatment is required for improving the outcome of patients. The aim of this study is to identify which prognostic factors could affect overall survival in patients affected by ccRCC. Methods: Retrospective cohort study of patients with ccRCC spinal metastases, surgically treated from November 2009 to April 2019. Demographic and clinical data were collected. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate overall survival, and the log-rank test was used to evaluate differences in survival among potentially prognostic factors. Results: A total of 69 patients were surgically treated and followed up for a median period of 65 months. The average age at the time of surgery was 62.6 years old. The median overall survival (OS) was 34.7 months (95% CI 20.8–51.9) and 5-year OS was 31.2% (95% CI 19.2–44.1). A high Tokuhashi score (p = 0.0217), the presence of visceral metastases (p < 0.001), other bone metastases (p = 0.02012) and the kind of surgical treatment (p = 0.0395) are the main prognostic factors that influence the OS. Moreover, 3-year progression-free survival (PFS) was analyzed: the median PFS was 53.1 months and the % 3-year PFS was 62.9% (45.2–76.3). In the multivariate analysis, only pre-operative radiation therapy had a significant impact on 3-year PFS (95% CI 0.929–12.994, p = 0.0643). Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that the absence of visceral metastases and an aggressive surgery as en-bloc, when feasible, could prolong the survival rate and improve quality of life for patients.
Microbial Diversity and Pathogenic Properties of Microbiota Associated with Aerobic Vaginitis in Women with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Ncib Karima , Bahia Wael , Leban Nadia , Mahdhi Abdelkarim , Trifa Fatma , Mzoughi Ridha , Haddad Anis , Jabeur Chédia , Donders Gilbert
Published: October 2022

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a major reproductive problem that affects approximately 5% of couples. The objective of this study was to assess vaginal flora dysbiosis in women suffering from unexplained RPL and to investigate the pathogenic properties of the microbiota associated with aerobic vaginitis (AV). The study included one hundred fifteen women, 65 with RPL and 50 controls. The diversity of vaginal microbiota isolated was evaluated by molecular sequencing. Then, pathogenic factors, such as acid-resistance, antibiotics susceptibility, and biofilm formation were evaluated. The prevalence of AV was five-fold higher in the RPL group than in the controls (64.6% vs. 12.0%). The most prevalent isolates in the case group were Enterococcus spp. (52%) and Staphylococcus spp. (26%). All bacterial strains tolerate low pH. The prevalence of multidrug resistance (MDR) among all bacteria was 47.7%. Of all strains, 91.0% were biofilm producers. The presence of MDR was found to be related to biofilm formation. The results provide evidence supporting an increased presence of dysbiosis of the vaginal flora, especially AV, in women with RPL in Tunisia. The viability of the AV-associated bacteria and their persistence in the genitals may be due to their ability to resist low pH and to produce a biofilm.
An Analysis of Different Techniques Used to Seal Post-Extractive Sites—A Preliminary Report
Authors: Pesce Paolo , Mijiritsky Eitan , Canullo Luigi , Menini Maria , Caponio Vito Carlo Alberto , Grassi Andrea , Gobbato Luca , Baldi Domenico
Published: October 2022

Background: Bone grafting in post-extractive site improves tissue regeneration. Soft tissue sealing of the grafted post-extractive alveolus is supposed to limit microbiological contamination from the oral cavity and to stabilize the coagulum. Several techniques are presented in the literature to reach this goal using different heterologous matrices or autogenous grafts. In addition, recently, a technique based on the use of granulation tissue in the post-extractive alveolus has been proposed. Aim: To compare the effect of different graft sealing approaches in post-extractive sites by qualitatively evaluating their healing process. Materials and Methods: This retrospective investigation included 30 patients requiring post-extractive site regeneration in the aesthetic area. Post-extractive sites were regenerated using a bovine bone matrix and patients were divided into three groups (10 patients in each group) according to the material used to seal the alveolar socket. In the UD group, the granulation tissue was used to seal the defect; in the PC group, epithelial-connective soft tissue graft was used, and in the COLL group, a collagen-based membrane was employed. Images of the post-extractive sites at different follow-up periods (2 and 12 weeks) were taken and the healing process was blindly evaluated by two independent practitioners. The Healing Index (HI) by Landry, Turnbull and Howley was used to assess the quality of the healing process. The combination of presence/absence of five clinical criteria defines an HI ranging from 1 (very poor) to 5 (excellent). Patients’ clinical-pathological variables were recorded. One-way ANOVA was used to explore the dependence of HI on the different socket preservation protocols. Results: Based on clinical-pathological characteristics of the included patients, there were no statistically significant differences among the different sealing techniques. At the 2-week follow-up appointment, HI did not differ among the socket preservation protocols evaluated. Moreover, smoking status and reason for extraction did not influence the HI among the three groups (two-way ANOVA p-value = 0.686, p-value = 0.248 respectively). At the 2-week follow-up appointment, HI was significantly different among the socket preservation protocols investigated. Specifically, the group undergoing collagen-based socket preservation procedure reported the highest HI, compared to the other two techniques (COLL mean 4.60 ± 0.5; PC mean 3.5 ± 1.2; UD mean 3.4 ± 0.5, one-way ANOVA p-value 0.006). Conclusions: The use of collagen porcine membranes may represent a suitable option to improve the patient healing process in grafted post-extractive sites together with reducing the surgical intervention time compared to alternative sealing techniques.
Assessing the Socio-Economic Consequences of Distance Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gaidelys Vaidas , Čiutienė Rūta , Cibulskas Gintautas , Miliauskas Skaidrius , Jukštaitė Jolita , Dumčiuvienė Daiva
Published: October 2022

The research analysis shows that children in mainstream schools suffered from psychological deterioration (aggressive behaviour, depressive moods, despair about academic underachievement, etc.) when governments implemented measures to manage the COVID-19 pandemic, and children’s education took place remotely for a significant period. This was caused by the lack of social contact, which in turn contributed to the lack of knowledge in individual subjects, a deterioration in physical condition (spinal problems, visual impairment, insufficient muscle development), and the development of specific illnesses related to low physical activity. The research aims to identify the factors of distance learning that may affect student learning achievements. The research methods included an analysis of the scientific literature, and document and content analysis. A summary of the research findings found that the COVID-19 school quarantine had adverse effects on the students’ knowledge, social skills, socialisation, and psychological and physical health. It also caused macro- and micro-economic problems. In summary, the research demonstrated that distance education resulted in a decline in the students’ achievements and knowledge, miscommunication with their peers and conflict situations. Because of that, there are health-related concerns and additional financial challenges for parents and educational institutions organising distance education. Households also experienced additional expenditure on the infrastructure necessary for distance learning and tutoring services.
Data Driven SVBRDF Estimation Using Deep Embedded Clustering
Authors: Kim Yong Hwi , Lee Kwan H.
Published: October 2022

Photo-realistic representation in user-specified view and lighting conditions is a challenging but high-demand technology in the digital transformation of cultural heritages. Despite recent advances in neural renderings, it is still necessary to capture high-quality surface reflectance from photography in a controlled environment for real-time applications such as VR/AR and digital arts. In this paper, we present a deep embedding clustering network for spatially-varying bidirectional reflectance distribution function (SVBRDF) estimation. Our network is designed to simultaneously update the reflectance basis and its linear manifold in the spatial domain of SVBRDF. We show that our dual update scheme excels in optimizing the rendering loss in terms of the convergence speed and visual quality compared to the current iterative SVBRDF update methods.
Short-Term Load Forecasting with an Ensemble Model Based on 1D-UCNN and Bi-LSTM
Authors: Chen Wenhao , Han Guangjie , Zhu Hongbo , Liao Lyuchao
Published: October 2022

Short-term load forecasting (STLF), especially for regional aggregate load forecasting, is essential in smart grid operation and control. However, the existing CNN-based methods cannot efficiently extract the essential features from the electricity load. The reason is that the basic requirement of using CNNs is space invariance, which is not satisfied by the actual electricity data. In addition, the existing models cannot extract the multi-scale input features by representing the tendency of the electricity load, resulting in a reduction in the forecasting performance. As a solution, this paper proposes a novel ensemble model, which is a four-stage framework composed of a feature extraction module, a densely connected residual block (DCRB), a bidirectional long short-term memory layer (Bi-LSTM), and ensemble thinking. The model first extracts the basic and derived features from raw data using the feature extraction module. The derived features comprise hourly average temperature and electricity load features, which can capture huge randomness and trend characteristics in electricity load. The DCRB can effectively extract the essential features from the above multi-scale input data compared with CNN-based models. The experiment results show that the proposed method can provide higher forecasting performance than the existing models, by almost 0.9–3.5%.
The Class D Audio Power Amplifier: A Review
Authors: Mei Shangming , Hu Yihua , Xu Hui , Wen Huiqing
Published: October 2022

Class D power amplifiers, one of the most critical devices for application in sound systems, face severe challenges due to the increasing requirement of smartphones, digital television, digital sound, and other terminals. The audio power amplifier has developed from a transistor amplifier to a field-effect tube amplifier, and digital amplifiers have made significant progress in circuit technology, components, and ideological understanding. The stumbling blocks for a successful power amplifier are low power efficiency and a high distortion rate. Therefore, Class D audio amplifiers are becoming necessary for smartphones and terminals due to their power efficiency. However, the switching nature and intrinsic worst linearity of Class D amplifiers compared to linear amplifiers make it hard to dominate the market for high-quality speakers. The breakthrough arrived with the GaN device, which is appropriate for fast-switching and high-power-density power electronics switching elements compared with traditional Si devices, thus, reducing power electronic systems’ weight, power consumption, and cost. GaN devices allow Class D audio amplifiers to have high fidelity and efficiency. This paper analyzes and discusses the topological structure and characteristics and makes a judgment that Class D amplifiers based on GaN amplifiers are the future development direction of audio amplifiers.
Compact 8 × 8 MIMO Antenna Design for 5G Terminals
Authors: Zhang Haifu , Guo Li-Xin , Wang Pengfei , Lu Hao
Published: October 2022

In this paper, a compact 8 × 8 MIMO antenna design for 5G terminals is proposed. The 8 × 8 MIMO antenna consists of two quad-element antenna pairs, each of which includes two symmetrical T-shaped monopole mode elements and two symmetrical edge-coupled fed dipole mode elements. The size of the quad-element antenna is 38 × 7 × 0.8 mm3. T-shaped monopoles are decoupled by parasitic elements, and dipoles are decoupled by grounding strips. Meanwhile, both T-shaped monopoles and dipoles are also decoupled by the orthogonal mode. The results show that the operating frequency band of each antenna element meets the requirement of 3.4–3.6 GHz, the reflection coefficient is less than −6 dB, and the isolation between any antenna element is more than 10 dB. The antenna radiation efficiency is over 50% in the entire operating frequency band for the 8 × 8 MIMO system.
Collaborative Accurate Vehicle Positioning Based on Global Navigation Satellite System and Vehicle Network Communication
Authors: Yang Haixu , Hong Jichao , Wei Lingjun , Gong Xun , Xu Xiaoming
Published: October 2022

Intelligence is a direction of development for vehicles and transportation. Accurate vehicle positioning plays a vital role in intelligent driving and transportation. In the case of obstruction or too few satellites, the positioning capability of the Global navigation satellite system (GNSS) will be significantly reduced. To eliminate the effect of unlocalization due to missing GNSS signals, a collaborative multi-vehicle localization scheme based on GNSS and vehicle networks is proposed. The vehicle first estimates the location based on GNSS positioning information and then shares this information with the environmental vehicles through vehicle network communication. The vehicle further integrates the relative position of the ambient vehicle observed by the radar with the ambient vehicle position information obtained by communication. A smaller error estimate of the position of self-vehicle and environmental vehicles is obtained by correcting the positioning of self-vehicle and environmental vehicles. The proposed method is validated by simulating multi-vehicle motion scenarios in both lane change and straight-ahead scenarios. The root-mean-square error of the co-location method is below 0.5 m. The results demonstrate that the combined vehicle network communication approach has higher accuracy than single GNSS positioning in both scenarios.
A Non-Local Tensor Completion Algorithm Based on Weighted Tensor Nuclear Norm
Authors: Wang Wenzhe , Zheng Jingjing , Zhao Li , Chen Huiling , Zhang Xiaoqin
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we proposed an image inpainting algorithm, including an interpolation step and a non-local tensor completion step based on a weighted tensor nuclear norm. Specifically, the proposed algorithm adopts the triangular based linear interpolation algorithm firstly to preform the observation image. Second, we extract the non-local similar patches in the image using the patch match algorithm and rearrange them to a similar tensor. Then, we use the tensor completion algorithm based on the weighted tensor nuclear norm to recover the similar tensors. Finally, we regroup all these recovered tensors to obtain the final recovered image. From the image inpainting experiments on color RGB images, we can see that the performance of the proposed algorithm on the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and the relative standard error (RSE) are significantly better than other image inpainting methods.
Imperative Role of Integrating Digitalization in the Firms Finance: A Technological Perspective
Authors: Bisht Deepa , Singh Rajesh , Gehlot Anita , Akram Shaik Vaseem , Singh Aman , Montero Elisabeth Caro , Priyadarshi Neeraj , Twala Bhekisipho
Published: October 2022

Financial management is a critical aspect of firms, and entails the strategic planning, direction, and control of financial endeavors. Risk assessment, fraud detection, wealth management, online transactions, customized bond scheme, customer retention, virtual assistant and so on, are a few of the critical areas where Industry 4.0 technologies intervention are highly required for managing firms' finance. It has been identified from the previous studies that they are limited studies that have addressed the significance and application of integrating of Industry 4.0 technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, big data, robotic process automation (RPA), artificial intelligence (AI), Blockchain, Digital twin, and Metaverse. With the motivation from the above aspects, this study aims to discuss the role of these technologies in the area of financial management of a firm. Based up on the analysis, it has been concluded that these technologies assist to credit risk management based on real-time data; financial data analytics of risk assessment, digital finance, digital auditing, fraud detection, and AI- and IoT- based virtual assistants. This study recommended that digital technologies be deeply integrated into the financial sector to improve service quality and accessibility, as well as the creation of innovative rules that allow for healthy competition among market participants.
Wireless Communication Channel Scenarios: Machine-Learning-Based Identification and Performance Enhancement
Authors: Zaki Amira , Métwalli Ahmed , Aly Moustafa H. , Badawi Waleed K.
Published: October 2022

Wireless communication channel scenario classification is crucial for new modern wireless technologies. Reducing the time consumed by the data preprocessing phase for such identification is also essential, especially for multiple-scenario transitions in 6G. Machine learning (ML) has been used for scenario identification tasks. In this paper, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) is used instead of ElasticNet in order to reduce the computational time of data preprocessing for ML. Moreover, the computational time and performance of different ML models are evaluated based on a regularization technique. The obtained results reveal that the LASSO operator achieves the same feature selection performance as ElasticNet; however, the LASSO operator consumes less computational time. The achieved run time of LASSO is 0.33 s, while the ElasticNet corresponding value is 0.67 s. The identification for each specific class for K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and k-Means and Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) is evaluated using Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curves and Area Under the Curve (AUC) scores. The KNN algorithm has the highest class-average AUC score at 0.998, compared to SVM, k-Means, and GMM with values of 0.994, 0.983, and 0.989, respectively. The GMM is the fastest algorithm among others, having the lowest classification time at 0.087 s, compared to SVM, k-Means, and GMM with values of 0.155, 0.26, and 0.087, respectively.
Comparison of the Prediction Accuracy of Total Viable Bacteria Counts in a Batch Balloon Digester Charged with Cow Manure: Multiple Linear Regression and Non-Linear Regression Models
Authors: Tangwe Stephen , Mukumba Patrick , Makaka Golden
Published: October 2022

Biogas technology is rapidly gaining market penetration, and the type of digesters employed in the harnessing of the biogas from biodegradable waste is crucial in enhancing the total viable bacteria counts. This study focused on the exploration of input parameter (number of days, daily slurry temperature, and pH) and target (total viable bacteria counts) datasets from anaerobic balloon digester charged with cow manure using data acquisition system and standard methods. The predictors were ranked according to their weights of importance to the desired targets using the reliefF test. The complete dataset was randomly partitioned into testing and validated samples at a ratio of 60% and 40%, respectively. The developed non-linear regression model applied on the testing samples was capable of predicting the yield of the total viable bacteria counts with better accuracy as the determination coefficient, mean absolute error, and p-value were 0.959, 0.180, and 0.602, respectively, as opposed to the prediction with the multiple linear regression model that yielded 0.920, 0.206, and 0.514, respectively. The 2D multi-contour surface plots derived from the developed models were used to simulate the variation in the desired targets to each predictor while the others were held constant.
Monitoring Offshore CO2 Sequestration Using Marine CSEM Methods; Constraints Inferred from Field- and Laboratory-Based Gas Hydrate Studies
Authors: Constable Steven , Stern Laura A.
Published: October 2022

Offshore geological sequestration of CO2 offers a viable approach for reducing greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere. Strategies include injection of CO2 into the deep-ocean or ocean-floor sediments, whereby depending on pressure–temperature conditions, CO2 can be trapped physically, gravitationally, or converted to CO2 hydrate. Energy-driven research continues to also advance CO2-for-CH4 replacement strategies in the gas hydrate stability zone (GHSZ), producing methane for natural gas needs while sequestering CO2. In all cases, safe storage of CO2 requires reliable monitoring of the targeted CO2 injection sites and the integrity of the repository over time, including possible leakage. Electromagnetic technologies used for oil and gas exploration, sensitive to electrical conductivity, have long been considered an optimal monitoring method, as CO2, similar to hydrocarbons, typically exhibits lower conductivity than the surrounding medium. We apply 3D controlled-source electromagnetic (CSEM) forward modeling code to simulate an evolving CO2 reservoir in deep-ocean sediments, demonstrating sufficient sensitivity and resolution of CSEM data to detect reservoir changes even before sophisticated inversion of data. Laboratory measurements place further constraints on evaluating certain systems within the GHSZ; notably, CO2 hydrate is measurably weaker than methane hydrate, and >1 order of magnitude more conductive, properties that may affect site selection, stability, and modeling considerations.
Drought Shapes Photosynthetic Production Traits and Water Use Traits along with Their Relationships with Leaves of Typical Desert Shrubs in Qaidam
Authors: Zhao Liping , Chen Hui , Chen Ben , Wang Yumeng , Sun Hongyan
Published: October 2022

Leaf functional traits in drylands are sensitive to environmental changes, which are closely related to plant growth strategies and resource utilization ability and can reflect the balance of substance synthesis and water loss. However, the influence of environmental factors on photosynthetic production traits and water use traits is still unclear in drylands. In this study, nine environmental factors (climatic characteristics and soil physical and chemical properties), leaf net photosynthetic rate (A), transpiration rate (E), and stomatal conductance (GSW) were measured via 60 plant samples and 45 soil samples, which were collected at five sampling sites according to rainfall gradient. Redundancy analysis (RDA), structural equation model (SEM), and regression analysis were used to analyze the influencing mechanism of drought on photosynthetic production traits and water use traits. The results provided the following conclusions: (i) The hydrothermal condition determined A, E, and GSW by affecting the spatial distribution of soil nutrients (SN) and soil salinity (SS); meanwhile, temperature was able to affect A, E, and GSW directly. (ii) The water content (WC) was the key driver of the strength of the synergistic relationship between photosynthetic production traits and water use traits; soil salinity (SS) was the main driver of the synergistic relationship between E and GSW.
The Triggering Effect of Gaps on Seedling Germination of the Soil Seed Bank in Tropical Rain Forests, Hainan Island, South China
Authors: Yang Lirong , Lv Xiaobo , Yang Xiaobo , Zhang Guofeng , Li Donghai
Published: October 2022

Light, soil temperature, and soil moisture likely change when a gap or clearing is formed in closed-canopy forests, triggering seed germination in the soil seed bank. However, which factors induce such seed germination remains elusive. In this study, we explored the triggering mechanism of gaps on seed germination in the soil seed bank without felling trees. Power sources were supplied in the forest, and three types of lamps were used to simulate the photo-thermal, light, and temperature environments of gaps (i.e., photo-thermal separation in the field), respectively. The photo-thermal separation experiment was carried out in the tropical rain forests of Bawangling in Hainan Island, South China. Three common pioneers and one late-successional species of the Bawangling area were selected for an indoor photo-thermal separation experiment. The field experiment results showed a significant difference in the average seedling number between groups exposed to light and the control group (13.2 ± 4.0 and 1.4 ± 1.7, respectively; p < 0.01), indicating that light in gaps can initiate seed germination of some species in the soil seed bank. Further indoor validation experiments supported this conclusion. No significant difference was observed in the average seedling number between the thermal group (2.1 ± 1.6) and the control group. The indoor validation experiment showed that changes in temperature alone could not trigger the seed germination of the three pioneer species in darkness. However, a higher average seedling number was observed in the photo-thermal group (15.7 ± 5.6) compared to the light group, indicating that the combined effect of light and temperature can initiate seed germination in the soil seed bank, which was also supported by the indoor verification experiment. We further showed that the ratio of species requiring only light for seed germination to those requiring both light and temperature was 2:3. More case studies are necessary to determine if such outcomes are common in forest soil seed banks.
Soil Organic Matter Fractions in Relation to Root Characteristics of Different Tree Species in Altitude Gradient of Temperate Forest in Carpathian Mountains
Authors: Staszel Karolina , Lasota Jarosław , Błońska Ewa
Published: October 2022

The roots are a key functional component of belowground systems and one of the main factors influencing the quality and quantity of soil organic matter. Our research aimed to determine the fractional composition of the soil organic matter (SOM) in soils under various tree species on an altitude gradient. In our research, we related the SOM fractions with the root characteristics. There is a lack of information on the relationship between the SOM fractions and the root properties. We assessed labile and heavy fractions of SOM content in forest mountain soils with a climosequence approach. The study plots were established at 600, 800, and 1000 m above sea level in a beech stand (Fagus sylvatica L.) and a fir stand (Abies alba Mill.). In this case, three research plots with beech and fir were designated in each altitude variant. Forest stands growing in the same soil conditions were selected for the study. The research used stands of similar age with the same tree canopy density. The basic physicochemical properties (pH, hydrolytic acidity, carbon and nitrogen content, base cations content) and the fractional composition of the SOM were determined from soil samples. In addition, we determined the basic characteristics of the roots (diameter, length, biomass, decomposition, production). The correlation between soil organic matter fractions and root characteristics was recorded. This study confirmed the importance of climatic conditions in shaping the fractional composition of forest soils. In the highest locations, characterized by lower temperatures, the light fraction of the SOM exhibited the highest C and N content, which is the effect of slower decomposition processes. Apart from climatic conditions, the stabilization of SOM is influenced by the tree species composition of a forest stand. Beech forest stands lead to a larger accumulation of a heavy fraction of SOM. This study indicates a positive correlation between the light fraction of SOM, root biomass, and decomposition rate of roots. Our research shows that avoiding single-species coniferous stands and introducing admixtures of deciduous species, which increase the heavy SOM fraction, is justified in forest management.
Carbon and Nitrogen Availability Drives Seasonal Variation in Soil Microbial Communities along an Elevation Gradient
Authors: Xiong Xiaoling , Lyu Maokui , Deng Cui , Li Xiaojie , Lu Yuming , Lin Weisheng , Jiang Yongmeng , Xie Jinsheng
Published: October 2022

Changes in soil abiotic and biotic properties can be powerful drivers of feedback between plants and soil microbial communities. However, the specific mechanisms by which seasonal changes in environmental factors shape soil microbial communities are not well understood. Here, we collected soil samples from three sites along an elevational gradient (200–1200 m) in subtropical forests with unvarying canopy vegetation. We used an elevation gradient with similar annual precipitation but a clear temperature gradient, and phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) were measured to determine the seasonal variations in the composition of soil microbial communities in response to rising temperatures. Our results showed that the abundance of Gram-negative bacteria and total PLFAs were the lowest at low elevations in winter, and the ratio of Gram-positive to Gram-negative bacteria decreased with increasing elevation. However, the biomass of other microbial groups was the highest at medium elevations in summer, with the exception of actinomycetes species and fungi. Regardless of seasonal changes, soil fungal biomass tended to increase with increasing elevation. Moreover, in summer, microbial carbon use efficiency (CUE) increased with increasing elevation, whereas an opposite trend was observed in winter. Redundancy analysis and structural equation modeling showed that the dissolved organic carbon in soil was the main factor affecting the microbial communities along the elevation gradient in winter, whereas in summer, the microbial community structure was driven by shifting nitrogen availability, with both being associated with changing microbial CUE. As such, this study demonstrates distinct seasonal changes in the soil microbial community composition across an elevation gradient that are driven by carbon and nitrogen resource availability and shifts in microbial CUE. Furthermore, our results suggest that the interaction of underground plant roots and microbes drives changes in resource availability, thereby resulting in seasonal variation in soil microbial community composition across an elevation gradient.
Spatial and Temporal Expression Characteristics of the HBB Gene Family in Six Different Pig Breeds
Authors: Guo Xin , Liu Zhiguo , Mu Yulian , Huang Lei , Li Kui , Zhang Jing
Published: October 2022

β-Thalassemia induces hemolytic anemia caused by mutations in the β-chain gene locus. As humans progress from embryo to adulthood, hemoglobin recombines twice. To test whether similar hemoglobin reassembly occurs in pigs, bioinformatics tools were used to predict the pig hemoglobin-encoding gene. We then systematically analyzed the expression patterns of the HBB gene family in three developmental stages (weaning, sexual maturity and physical maturity) of six different pig breeds (Landrace, Yorkshire, Wuzhishan, Songliao black, Meishan and Tibetan). The results showed that the new hemoglobin coding gene ‘HBB-like’ was found in pigs, while the HBG gene did not exist in pigs, indicating that human-like reassembly might not exist in pigs. The HBB and HBB-like genes shared highly similar amino acid sequences and gene sequences. The genes on the β-chain were highly similar between humans and pigs and the amino acid sequences of human and pig HBB genes at position 26 and positions 41–42 were identical. qPCR results showed that there were significant differences in the spatiotemporal expression patterns of the four genes (HBA, HBB, HBB-like and HBE) across breeds. Our results provide a foundation for follow-up studies assessing the relationship between the gene-encoding hemoglobin and β-thalassemia disease, as well as the construction of a gene-edited β-thalassemia miniature pig model to assess β-thalassemia treatments.
Current Analytical Methods and Research Trends Are Used to Identify Domestic Pig and Wild Boar DNA in Meat and Meat Products
Authors: Natonek-Wiśniewska Małgorzata , Piestrzynska-Kajtoch Agata , Koseniuk Anna , Krzyścin Piotr
Published: October 2022

The pig, one of the most important livestock species, is a meaningful source of global meat production. It is necessary, however, to prove whether a food product that a discerning customer selects in a store is actually made from pork or venison, or does not contain it at all. The problem of food authenticity is widespread worldwide, and cases of meat adulteration have accelerated the development of food and the identification methods of feed species. It is worth noting that several different molecular biology techniques can identify a porcine component. However, the precise differentiation between wild boar and a domestic pig in meat products is still challenging. This paper presents the current state of knowledge concerning the species identification of the domestic pig and wild boar DNA in meat and its products.
Deciphering the Key Regulatory Roles of KLF6 and Bta-miR-148a on Milk Fat Metabolism in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Iqbal Ambreen , Yu Haibin , Jiang Ping , Zhao Zhihui
Published: October 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs that regulate the expression of their target genes involved in many cellular functions at the post-transcriptional level. Previously, bta-miR-148a showed significantly high expression in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) of Chinese Holstein cows producing high milk fat compared to those with low milk fat content. Here, we investigated the role of bta-miR-148a through targeting Krüppel-like factor 6 (KLF6) and further analyzed the role of KLF6 in regulating fat metabolism through targeting PPARA, AMPK/mTOR/PPARG, and other fat marker genes in BMECs of Chinese Holstein. The bioinformatics analysis showed that the 3’ UTR of KLF6 mRNA possesses the binding sites for bta-miR-148a, which was further verified through dual-luciferase reporter assay. The BMECs were transfected with bta-miR-148a-mimic, inhibitor, and shNC, and the expression of KLF6 was found to be negatively regulated by bta-miR-148a. Moreover, the contents of triglyceride (TG), and cholesterol (CHO) in BMECs transfected with bta-miR-148a-mimic were significantly lower than the contents in BMECs transfected with bta-miR-148a-shNC. Meanwhile, the TG and CHO contents were significantly increased in BMECs transfected with bta-miR-148a-inhibitor than in BMECs transfected with bta-miR-148a-shNC. In addition, the TG and CHO contents were significantly decreased in BMECs upon the down-regulation of KLF6 through transfection with pb7sk-KLF6-siRNA1 compared to the control group. Contrarily, when KLF6 was overexpressed in BMECs through transfection with pBI-CMV3-KLF6, the TG and CHO contents were significantly increased compared to the control group. Whereas, the qPCR and Western blot evaluation of PPARA, AMPK/mTOR/PPARG, and other fat marker genes revealed that all of the genes were considerably down-regulated in the KLF6-KO-BMECs compared to the normal BMECs. Taking advantage of deploying new molecular markers and regulators for increasing the production of better-quality milk with tailored fat contents would be the hallmark in dairy sector. Hence, bta-miR-148a and KLF6 are potential candidates for increased milk synthesis and the production of valuable milk components in dairy cattle through marker-assisted selection in molecular breeding. Furthermore, this study hints at the extrapolation of a myriad of functions of other KLF family members in milk fat synthesis.
“Almost Like Family. Or Were They?” Vikings, Frisian Identity, and the Nordification of the Past
Authors: Halink Simon
Published: October 2022

In the course of the twentieth century, the glorified image of Viking Age Scandinavia exerted an increasing attraction on intellectuals and nation builders in remote parts of Europe, especially those which self-identified as peripheral, marginalized, and ‘northern’. In the Dutch province of Friesland, the cultivation of a Frisian national identity went hand in hand with an antagonizing process of self-contrastation vis-à-vis the urbanized heartland in the west of the country. Fueled by these anti-Holland sentiments, the adoption of Nordic identity models could serve to create alternative narrative molds in which to cast the Frisian past. In this article, I will chart this process of cultural “nordification” from its initial phase in the writings of Frisian Scandinavophiles to contemporary remediations of Frisian history in popular culture and public discourses. In this context, special attention will be paid to the reception history of the pagan King Redbad (d. 719) and his modern transformation from ‘God’s enemy’ to beloved national icon.
In Vitro Propagation of Cremastra appendiculata var. variabilis by Asymbiotic Seed Germination
Authors: Faisal Mohammad , Seob Park Kwang , Kang Kyung Won , Sivanesan Iyyakkannu
Published: October 2022

Cremastra appendiculata var. variabilis (Blume) I.D. Lund), also known as single-leaf cremastra (SLC), is a rare and threatened species native to Korea, and it has the potential to be grown as a beautiful flowering pot or garden plant. There is still no reliable strategy to multiply SLC. Thus, an effective method for propagating single-leaf cremastra was needed for its conservation and mass production. In the present study, we examined the effects of culture media, seed age, activated charcoal, and plant growth regulators on in vitro asymbiotic seed germination, secondary protocorm induction, and seedling formation. Asymbiotic seed germination of SLC was influenced by culture media, seed age, and their interaction. The addition of activated charcoal (500 mg/L) to the Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium increased the rate of germination. The seeds were best germinated (91.9%) by culturing on MS medium supplemented with activated charcoal (500 mg/L), α-naphthaleneacetic acid (3 µM), and kinetin (1 µM). The highest number (28.9) of secondary protocorms were produced when protocorms were cultured on MS medium containing 6-benzyladenine (4 µM) and kinetin (2 µM). When the protocorms were cultivated in a medium containing gibberellic acid (1 µM), they were able to transform into SLC with the highest success rate (78.7%). The propagation protocol described here may be helpful for SLC restoration programs and large-scale production.
Soil Quality Assessment in Farmland of a Rapidly Industrializing Area in the Yangtze Delta, China
Authors: Zhang Xiangling , Li Yan , Wang Genmei , Zhang Huanchao , Yu Ruisi , Li Ning , Zheng Jiexiang , Yu Ye
Published: October 2022

The comprehensive quality assessment of farmland soil is critical for agricultural production and soil ecological protection. Currently, there is no systematic method for conducting a comprehensive quality assessment of farmland soil; subsequently, as the most developed economic area in China, the comprehensive quality assessment of farmland soil in the Yangtze River Delta is lacking. We chose the farmland soil of Suzhou city as the research object. The soil fertility index (SFI) and soil environment index (SEI) were calculated with the membership function and Nemerow index. Finally, the comprehensive assessment of soil quality was achieved with the TOPSIS model. The results showed that the average values of soil pH, SOM, TN, AHN, AP, and AK were 6.44 (slightly acidic), 28.17 g/kg (medium), 1.63 g/kg (rich), 118.16 mg/kg (medium), 38.31 mg/kg (rich), and 160.63 mg/kg (rich), respectively. For the concentrations of heavy metals, including Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb, in 122 soil samples, the percentages exceeding the background values of Jiangsu province were 5.74%, 8.20%, 8.20%, 10.66%, 86.07%, and 84.43%, respectively. Cd and Pb were the main heavy metal pollutants on farmlands. The soil samples with SFI values below the medium level (SFI < 0.6) accounted for 44.26%, and samples with SEI values below the medium level (SEI < 0.6) accounted for 13.12%. The values of the soil quality index (SQI) ranged from 0.171 to 0.996, with an average SQI value of 0.586 (very poor—V), and approximately half of the farmland soil quality in Suzhou city needed to be further improved. In a word, this study provides a theoretical basis and scientific support for the quality assessment and rational utilization of farmland soil.
How Do Healthy Women Perceive the Risk of Breast Cancer? The Role of Illness Perceptions and Compared Risk between Portugal and the U.A.E
Authors: Figueiras Maria J. , Neto David Dias , Marôco Joao , Carmo Catarina
Published: October 2022

(1) Background: Breast cancer (BC) shows significant epidemiological differences between Eastern and Western countries. These may arise from socio-cultural factors influencing how healthy young women perceive this condition, their risk of getting cancer, and the implications for preventive screening behaviors. In this study, the illness perceptions, individual risk perception, compared risk, and beliefs about preventive behaviors for BC of female university students were compared using an anonymous online survey between a European country (Portugal) and the United Arab Emirates. (2) Method: A structural equation model (SEM) was developed to investigate the hypothetical relationship between illness perceptions and compared risk as predictors of perceived risk for BC. (3) Results: There were significant differences between the study variables. The SEM was invariant, but the differences between regression coefficients in both countries were highly statistically significant. Mediation analyses revealed a significant indirect effect of compared risk on individual risk and a significantly stronger direct effect for the Emirati sample. (4) Conclusions: These findings suggest that cultural research may help to explain factors that may shape social comparison of individual risk characteristics and influence perceived risk. Moreover, providing culturally appropriate strategies to be designed and implemented can promote early detection behaviors for BC.
Global Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Physical Activity Habits of Competitive Runners: An Analysis of Wearable Device Data
Authors: Romero Julia Lee , Lv Qin
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in government restrictions that altered the lifestyle of people worldwide. Studying the impact of these restrictions on exercise behaviors will improve our understanding of the environmental factors that influence individuals’ physical activity (PA). We conducted a retrospective analysis using an stringency index of government pandemic policies developed by Oxford University and digitally-logged PA data from more than 7000 runners collected using a wearable exercise-tracking device to compare the relationship between strictness of lockdowns and exercise habits on a global scale. Additionally, the time-of-day of PA globally, and activity-levels of PA in 14 countries, are compared between the pre-pandemic year of 2019 and the first pandemic year of 2020. We found that during the pandemic year there was a major shift in the time-of-day that runners exercised, with significantly more activity counts logged during standard working hours on workdays (p < 0.001) and fewer activities during the same time frame on weekends (p < 0.001). Of the countries examined, Italy and Spain had among the most strict lockdowns and suffered the largest decreases in activity counts, whereas France experienced a minimal decrease in activity counts despite enacting a strict lockdown with certain allowances. This study suggests that there are several factors affecting PA of dedicated runners, including government policy, workplace policy, and cultural norms.