bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
All the World’s a Stage: Examining the Actors That Influence the Development of Primary Pre-Service Teacher Digital Competence in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Moynihan Denis , Gorman Alan , Leahy Margaret , Scully Darina
Published: October 2023

In accordance with contemporary educational policy, changes have been made to the requirements of initial teacher education (ITE) with the aim of promoting the development of digital competence among pre-service teachers (PSTs). This paper explores what it means for a primary PST to develop digital competence and posits that programmes of ITE should develop the digital teaching competence of PSTs, alongside positive attitudes toward digital technology use. This is a complex and under-researched process involving multiple actors, including higher education institution tutors, school placement tutors, and cooperating teachers. This research gap is addressed within this paper by examining these actors and unpacking the key issues which may prevent PSTs from developing and enacting digital teaching competence. It appears there is a lack of alignment across these actors, which may negatively impact the digital competence of PSTs. Consequently, we propose that the conceptualization of digital competence across programmes of ITE needs to be brought into alignment. Actions including the establishment of a shared vision of pedagogical use of digital technology, formal induction, and ongoing transformative professional learning for all actors across a programme of ITE are proposed if PSTs are to be enabled to develop the digital competence required by policy.
A z-Axis-Tolerant Inductive Power Transfer System Using a Bipolar Double D Receiver Coil Structure
Authors: Domajnko Jure , Prosen Nataša
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a solution to a limitation of wireless power transfer that arises when using two D-shaped transmitter and receiver coils. Double D, or DD, coils are well known to have a polar, directional magnetic field, which increases the misalignment tolerance in one of the directions. The misalignment tolerance is nonsymmetric, and it is significantly better in one of the directions, which can also be considered a shortcoming. An additional shortcoming of the DD coil is that it is dependent on the rotation around the z-axis, due to the directional magnetic field. This is not a problem when using classic planar spiral coils, which do not generate a directional magnetic field. Therefore, DD coils are not suitable for applications in which the z-axis orientation is not determined and fixed to specific angle and direction. This paper presents a unique design of a transmitter coil, based on a double DD coil. The transmitter coil consists of two DD coils which are perpendicular to each other. The proposed transmitter structure can excite the receiver DD coil in a way that the efficiency of the power transfer is the highest, regardless of the orientation. The proposed transmitter structure can, therefore, solve the problem with rotation of a single DD coil. The proposed system structure was tested on the small-scale experimental setup.
Temperature Reliability Investigation for a 400 W Solid-State Power Amplifier under High and Cold Conditions
Authors: Lin Qian , You Fei , Wu Jihua , Lv Yingchun
Published: October 2023

In order to study the temperature reliability of high-power amplifiers under high cand cold conditions, a 400 W solid-state power amplifier was taken as an example to explore the variation in its performance. The test results showed that its output power, gain, and power-added efficiency increased with the increase in temperature at a fixed frequency. Under a fixed input power, Pout and gain both showed different trends with the rising temperature. Within the frequency band of 2–10 MHz, the higher the temperature, the better the output power and gain. However, within the frequency range of 10–30 MHz, the higher the temperature, the worse the performance. Moreover, with the increasing temperature, its power-added efficiency, the second harmonic and the third harmonic also showed a decreasing trend. Detailed analysis showed that the degradation and inversion of performance parameters are closely related to the zero temperature coefficient and self-heating effect of the lateral double-diffused metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistor. Meanwhile, it is also affected by the circuit structure and thermal design of the PA. In order to ensure stable performance in different environments, performance degradation can be improved by hardware compensation. Therefore, analyzing the working parameters at different temperatures for high-power PAs is the key to achieving temperature control and ensuring their long-term stability and reliability. This can provide relatively accurate reference data for subsequent heat dissipation optimization, greatly improve design efficiency, and even shorten the development cycle and reduce costs.
Firmware and Software Implementation Status of the ICBLM and nBLM Systems for the ESS Facility
Authors: Jałmużna Wojciech , Jabłoński Grzegorz , Kiełbik Rafał , Cichalewski Wojciech , Dos Santos Alves Fabio , Kittelmann Irena Dolenc , Rosengren Kaj , Derrez Clement , Grishin Viatcheslav , Shea Thomas , Mariette Yannick , Nadot Victor , Segui Laura , Papaevangelou Thomas
Published: October 2023

The European Spallation Source (ESS) is a neutron source powered by a 5 MW, 2 GeV superconducting proton linac which is currently being constructed in Lund. Due to high beam current, just a few microseconds of operation with a misaligned beam can melt the accelerating cavity wall. Therefore, a Beam Loss Monitor (BLM) system is necessary to protect hardware and personnel from the consequences of beam loss. The BLM’s main function is to inhibit beam production when excessively high beam losses are detected. Besides protection functionality, the system is anticipated to provide the means to monitor the beam losses during all modes of operation with the objective of preventing excessive machine activation. This paper concentrates on implementation for ionization chamber Beam Loss Monitor (ICBLM) and Neutron Sensitive Beam Loss Monitor (nBLM) systems. The required microsecond reaction time has been achieved due to the application of an FPGA. A single detector module was installed and successfully tested at LINAC4 at CERN, in the section where conditions are similar to the ones expected in the ESS linac. The summary of these tests is also included.
Performance Analysis of Endorsement in Hyperledger Fabric Concerning Endorsement Policies
Authors: Piao Xuefeng , Ding Hao , Song Huihui
Published: October 2023

As a typical representative of a permissioned blockchain system, Hyperledger Fabric has garnered substantial attention in recent years. Despite the application and promotion of Hyperledger Fabric in fields such as smart grid and smart healthcare, challenges persist with respect to its performance, especially its transaction latency. High latency always discourages Hyperledger Fabric from latency-sensitive applications. In this paper, we focus on the execution phase of the unique Execute-Order-Validate architecture of Hyperledger Fabric and conduct a comprehensive analysis of its endorsement policies. We summarize three theorems and give corresponding mathematical proofs based on the definition of the endorsement policy. To better analyze the generation of latency during the endorsement process, we further developed a theoretical model using queuing theory. Subsequently, we conducted multiple experiments on Hyperledger Fabric v2.0 for performance evaluation. With the experiment results, we discuss the reasons for the performance differences between different endorsement strategies and between equivalent logical expressions. Eventually, this paper offers some suggestions for endorsement policy selection which can provide a reference for the application of Hyperledger Fabric in the actual production environment.
A Comprehensive Review on Multiple Instance Learning
Authors: Fatima Samman , Ali Sikandar , Kim Hee-Cheol
Published: October 2023

Multiple-instance learning has become popular over recent years due to its use in some special scenarios. It is basically a type of weakly supervised learning where the learning dataset contains bags of instances instead of a single feature vector. Each bag is associated with a single label. This type of learning is flexible and a natural fit for multiple real-world problems. MIL has been employed to deal with a number of challenges, including object detection and identification tasks, content-based image retrieval, and computer-aided diagnosis. Medical image analysis and drug activity prediction have been the main uses of MIL in biomedical research. Many Algorithms based on MIL have been put forth over the years. In this paper, we will discuss MIL, the background of MIL and its application in multiple domains, some MIL-based methods, challenges, and lastly, the conclusions and prospects.
The Impact of Vibrating Screen Startup Time on Vibration Amplitude and Energy Consumption in Transient State
Authors: Feliks Jacek , Tomach Paweł
Published: October 2023

The article presents the results of research on the trajectory and amplitude values during the startup of a vibrating screen, depending on the set startup time. The research was conducted using a suspended vibrating screen with a segmental vibration trajectory, where vibration excitation was achieved through two vibratory motors directly attached to the screen frame. The vibratory motors were powered with three-phase voltage and connected to the grid through frequency converters, allowing for current control in steady-state and startup conditions. The analysis focused on the vibration trajectory and the resulting amplitude values for nine selected startup times (ranging from 0 s to 8 s). Two measurement methods were employed: using piezoelectric acceleration sensors and optical recording. Additionally, the momentary power consumption by the screen drive was recorded, and the maximum current flowing in the power supply circuit was determined. These studies enabled the determination of the most favourable startup parameters that reduce the power demand of the drive without significantly affecting the kinematic parameters of the screen during its startup. The results of experimental research presented in the article regarding the startup time of the screening machine and its influence on vibration parameters have shown that the startup time significantly impacts the amplitude values that occur during startup. In the analysed case, the most favourable startup time was 3 s. Power consumption studies during startup revealed that startup time has a notable influence on momentary power consumption. The conducted research demonstrated that for startup times below 0.2 s, the maximum momentary power was the highest (reaching 5 kW, with a current consumption of 4.5 times the rated current). Regarding energy efficiency, the most favourable startup times exceed 2.0 s. Extending these startup times can significantly reduce the power demand of the drive, even up to threefold, thereby enabling the selection of motors with much lower power ratings.
Analysis of the Effects of Fluctuating Wind on the Aerodynamic Performance of a Vertical-Axis Wind Turbine with Variable Pitch
Authors: Zhang Wei , Yang Sifan , Chen Cheng , Li Lang
Published: October 2023

The wind turbine with a variable-pitch vertical axis is a novel type of small wind turbine with great development potential in the field of wind power generation. This study assessed the aerodynamic performance of a two-dimensional variable-pitch vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) under fluctuating wind conditions (sinusoidal-type fluctuations with an average velocity of 6 m/s) using the finite-volume method and the RNG k−ε turbulence model. The effects of the fluctuating inflow amplitude (Uamp), frequency (fc), and mean tip speed ratio (λmean) on the power coefficient of the wind turbine are analyzed. The results show that a maximum power coefficient of 0.33 is obtained when the inflow amplitude reaches 50% of the average velocity. The power coefficient initially increases and then decreases with the increase in the fluctuating inflow frequency, reaching a maximum value of 0.32 at fc=0.45 Hz. Furthermore, the power coefficient reaches its maximum value of 0.372 at λmean = 0.5. Proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) is used to decompose and reconstruct the flow field under both fluctuating and uniform inflow conditions. A comparison of the POD analysis between the two conditions shows that the energy distribution is more dispersed under the fluctuating inflow condition and reconstructing the flow field under fluctuating inflow conditions requires more POD modes than that under uniform inflow conditions.
Quantitative Risk Assessment of Hydrogen Refueling Station in Cheonan City of South Korea
Authors: Jeon Bo-il , Kim Shinji , Yoon Yeo Song , Jung Seungho
Published: October 2023

The average temperature of the Earth has risen due to the accumulation of greenhouse gases emitted from the usage of fossil fuels. The consequential climate changes have caused various problems, fueling the growing demand for environmentally friendly energy sources that can replace fossil fuels. Batteries and hydrogen have thus been utilized as substitute energy sources for automobiles to reduce fossil fuel consumption. Consequently, the number of hydrogen refueling stations is increasing due to an increase in the number of hydrogen-powered vehicles. However, several incidents have been reported in the United States of America and Japan where hydrogen refueling stations have been operating for a long time. A risk assessment of hydrogen refueling stations operating in urban areas was performed in this study by calculating the risk effect range using a process hazard analysis tool (PHAST) v8.7 from DNV-GL and a hydrogen risk assessment model (HyRAM) from Sandia National Laboratories (SNL). The societal risk was assessed through a probit model based on the calculation results. The assessment results showed that the risk caused by jet fire and overpressure in an incident is lower than the ‘as low as reasonably practicable’ (ALARP) level.
A LiDAR-Driven Effective Leaf Area Index Inversion Method of Urban Forests in Northeast China
Authors: Zhai Chang , Ding Mingming , Ren Zhibin , Bao Guangdao , Liu Ting , Zhang Zhonghui , Jiang Xuefei , Ma Hongbo , Lin Haisen
Published: October 2023

Leaf area index (LAI) stands as a pivotal parameter for the quantitative assessment of vegetation growth dynamics, and the rapid acquisition of the effective leaf area index (LAIe) in different scales is crucial for forest ecological monitoring. In this study, forest structure parameters were derived from fusion point cloud data obtained through Airborne Laser Scanning and Terrestrial Laser Scanning in three coniferous forests. The influence of point diameter on the extraction of different forest structure parameters was examined, and an in-depth analysis of the correlations between these parameters and measured LAIe was undertaken. The LAIe inversion model was constructed, and its performance for different forest types was studied. The results show that the precision of the extracted forest structure parameters was highest when the point diameter was set to 0.1 cm. Among the 10 forest structure parameters, internal canopy structures such as canopy openness (CO), gap fraction (GF) and canopy closure (CC) were significantly correlated with measured LAIe (p < 0.01), and the correlations between different forest types were significantly different. In addition, the multiparameter LAIe inversion model was able to distinguish forest type and thus better stimulate measured LAIe; also, it appeared closer to the 1:1 relationship line than the voxel model. This study made up for the inefficiency of LAIe measurement with optical instruments and the inaccuracy of passive remote sensing measurement and proved the possibility of LAIe extraction at a large scale via LiDAR in the future.
Tree Ring Width Responses of Pinus densiflora and Robinia pseudoacacia to Climate Variation in the Mount Tai Area of Northern China
Authors: He Yuan , Yu Qinghui , Wang Guifang , Hao Ming , Fan Simin , Hu Dingmeng , Li Zongtai , Gao Peng
Published: October 2023

To effectively combat climate change and put plans in place to enhance the health and quality of forests, research on the connections between long-term climate change and tree ring width is essential. Here, Pinus densiflora Siebold & Zucc. and Robinia pseudoacacia L. in the Mount Tai area were studied. Specifically, their tree ring width characteristics were investigated according to the principles of dendrochronology, based on the analysis of multiyear climate data (1972–2022). The results showed that (1) the variation in tree ring width of Pinus densiflora Siebold & Zucc. generally decreased. Its basal area increment sequence presented a “growth-decline” change process. The trend for Robinia pseudoacacia L. was stability at first and then a reduction. Its basal area increment sequence presented a “growth-stabilization” change process. (2) The standard chronologies of both tree species contained more environmental information than the residual chronologies, rendering the former more appropriate for analysis. (3) The tree ring width of Pinus densiflora Siebold & Zucc. was positively correlated with the mean maximum temperature in February, March, and July, the mean temperature in May, and the mean precipitation in December of the previous year and June of the current year. The tree ring width of Robinia pseudoacacia L. was positively correlated with the mean and maximum temperatures in October of the previous year, the mean maximum temperature in May of the current year, and the mean temperature in July of the current year. This variable was positively correlated with the mean precipitation in November of the previous year and July of the current year but negatively correlated with the mean minimum temperature in November of the previous year and the mean temperature in December of the current year. (4) During 1987–1988, 1994–1995, 2005–2006, and 2018–2019, the tree ring width was restricted by rising temperatures and low precipitation, with variations in tree ring width observed in various hydrological periods. (5) The moisture index, followed by the warmth index, precipitation and temperature, was the primary climate factor determining the tree ring width in both tree species.
The Multi-Scale Spatial Heterogeneity of Ecosystem Services’ Supply–Demand Matching and Its Influencing Factors on Urban Green Space in China
Authors: Zhao Wudong , Li Xupu , Zhang Liwei , Peng Lixian , Liu Yu , Wang Zhuangzhuang , Jiao Lei , Wang Hao
Published: October 2023

As population growth and urbanization continue to accelerate, city dwellers are increasingly conscious of the demand for urban green space (UGS) and the ecosystem services (ESs) it provides. Great efforts are made for the supply of certain ESs in UGS. However, less is known about the residents’ preferences and the supply–demand matching of UGS types, as well as the various ESs it provides at different spatial scales. Given this, our research establishes a research framework to reveal the heterogeneity of USG types and the supply–demand matching degree (SDM) of ESs from municipal, provincial, and national spatial scales, and examines the correlation between the influencing factors and demands of residents for UGS. This study mainly used the Gini coefficient, the Lorenz curve, Z-scores, the Jenks natural breaks classification method, Pearson correlation analysis, and spatial analysis. The main findings are that (1) the Gini coefficients are 0.433 and 0.137 at the municipal and provincial scales, respectively, indicating that the supply of UGS is more unequal at the municipal scale than provincial scale; (2) the multi-scale demand for ESs between residents has no significant difference. At the provincial scale, the area with low demand is larger than that of high demand, while at the municipal scale, the contrary is the case; (3) the SDM was in a deficit at both the provincial and municipal scales. And as the scaling-up occurred, the spatial heterogeneity of the SDM decreased; (4) the number of influencing factors that significantly affected the UGS type and ESs grew as the scale increased. Among them, the impact of age and COVID-19 on three scales deserves attention. These results identify regions with deficits and surpluses in ESs provided by UGS in China at different scales. This research also advises that attention should be paid to the distribution of UGS between cities within provinces, and future UGS planning should focus on building regional green spaces to promote the well-being of an aging society. The findings in this study would offer insights for managers to improve UGS construction and urban forestry planning in the future.
A Planning Model for Fire-Resilient Landscapes in Portugal Is Riddled with Fallacies: A Critical Review of “FIRELAN” by Magalhães et al., 2021
Authors: Guiomar Nuno G. , Pereira José M. C. , Fernandes Paulo M.
Published: October 2023

FIRELAN was developed as a model expected to foster the resilience to fire and sustainability of a landscape that is based on a number of premises about fire behaviour. We critically review FIRELAN and find that flawed ecological concepts and terminology are used, and that six fallacies are pervasive throughout the paper, namely begging the question regarding the effectiveness of land cover changes; the appeal to nature on the preference of native species over non-native species; confirmation bias on the flammability of native vs. non-native species; the oversimplification of fire behaviour drivers; questionable causation regarding the effect of land cover on fire hazard; and non-sequitur in respect to the flammability–resilience relationship. We conclude that FIRELAN overall lacks supporting scientific evidence, both theoretical and empirical, and would be unable to deliver adequate wildfire mitigation. Recommendations are given to guide the landscape-level process of planning and implementing wildfire impacts mitigation.
The Effect of Water Spinach on the Water Quality, Antioxidant System, Non-Specific Immune Response, Growth Performance, and Carbon Balance in Red Tilapia Production
Authors: Luo Yuan-Yuan , Chen Xian-Can , Xie Rui-Lin , Ruan Zhuo-Hao , Lu Zhi-Qiang , Jiang Liang-Sen , Li Yi-Fu , Liu Wen-Sheng
Published: October 2023

In this study, the compound aquaculture model of red tilapia (O. mossambicus albina × O. urolepis hornorum) and water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) was used to investigate the effect of water spinach rafts on the water quality, antioxidant system, non-specific immune response, and growth performance of red tilapia and the carbon balance of payments. Red tilapia is characterized by its high adaptability to different production environments and food sources, as one of the most productive fish in aquaculture, and is well accepted in the market due to its nutritional and organoleptic characteristics. The experiment lasted for nine weeks and included two systems: the red tilapia-water spinach raft aquaponics (AP) system with 10% cover ratio with water spinach floating beds, and the aquatic monoculture (AM) system with only red tilapia. The total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN), and nitrate nitrogen (NO−3-N) in the AM were higher than those in AP from the fifth to ninth week. On the second, third, fifth, and sixth weeks, the ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N), in the AM was higher than those in the AP. From the seventh week, the pH of the AM was significantly lower than the AP, while the nitrite nitrogen (NO−2-N) was significantly higher than the AP. The water quality index of the AP was better than that of the AM, indicating that water spinach can remove the nutrients from aquaculture water bodies. The average daily gain and specific growth rate (SGR) of fish in AP were higher than those in the AM. The acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), and catalase (CAT) activities in the hepatopancreas of red tilapia in the AP were also significantly higher than those in the AM, while the malondialdehyde (MDA) in the AP was lower than the AM. The serum ACP and CAT of red tilapia in the AP were also higher than those in the AM, while the MDA of fish in the AP was lower than the AM. The results showed that both the experimental group and the control group were carbon sources and released greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, but the total carbon emissions of the red tilapia and the water spinach symbiotic system in the experimental group was significantly lower than that of the control group (p < 0.05). These results demonstrated that the application of water spinach rafts in aquaponics can not only improve the water quality, but also improve the growth performance, antioxidant system and non-specific immune responses of red tilapia, while promoting the utilization of organic matter in the aquaculture system, improving the ecological benefits in terms of the carbon income and expenditure.
Evaluation of Quality Parameters and Functional Activity of Ottobratica Extra Virgin Olive Oil Enriched with Zingiber officinale (Ginger) by Two Different Enrichment Processes during One-Year Storage
Authors: Custureri Irene Maria Grazia , Sicari Vincenzo , Loizzo Monica Rosa , Tundis Rosa , Soria Ana Cristina , Giuffrè Angelo Maria
Published: October 2023

The aim of this work was to evaluate the impact of two enrichment processes on the quality parameters and bioactivity of Ottobratica extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) with ginger during storage. The first procedure was conducted by including ginger powder with olive fruits in the malaxer, and the second by infusion into the EVOO. The obtained oils were stored at room temperature for one year in the dark and periodically analysed. To evaluate the effect on the shelf-life of flavoured olive oils (FVOOs), physical, chemical and sensory parameters were evaluated. The FVOOs were investigated for antioxidant activity through a multi-target approach. The inhibition of lipase and carbohydrate hydrolysing enzymes was analysed. The addition of ginger in the malaxer generated a product that preserved the lowest values of peroxide after storage (10.57 mEq O2 kg−1) and maintained the highest α-tocopherol level (101.16 mg kg−1). The FVOOs, regardless of the enrichment technique used, showed a higher antioxidant activity than EVOO. Generally, a reduction in the inhibitory activity of the carbohydrate inhibitory enzymes was observed, especially after 60 days of storage. The addition of ginger improved the lipase inhibitory effect, especially if added during malaxation, and helped the FVOOs maintain this activity during storage.
Disturbance Rejection-Based Optimal PID Controllers for New 6ISO AVR Systems
Authors: Rawa Muhyaddin , Alghamdi Sultan , Calasan Martin , Aldosari Obaid , Ali Ziad M. , Alkhalaf Salem , Micev Mihailo , Abdel Aleem Shady H. E.
Published: October 2023

In the literature, different approaches that are employed in designing automatic voltage regulators (AVRs) usually model the AVR as a single-input-single-output system, where the input is the generator reference voltage, and the output is the generator voltage. Alternately, it could be thought of as a double-input, single-output system, with the excitation voltage change serving as the additional input. In this paper, unlike in the existing literature, we designed the AVR system as a sextuple-input single-output (6ISO) system. The inputs in the model include the generator reference voltage, regulator signal change, exciter signal change, amplifier signal change, generator output signal change, and the sensor signal change. We also compared the generator voltage responses for various structural configurations and regulator parameter choices reported in the literature. The effectiveness of numerous controllers is investigated; the proportional, integral and differential (PID) controller, the PID with second-order derivative (PIDD2) controller, and the fractional order PID (FOPID) controller are the most prevalent types of controllers. The findings reveal that the regulator signal change and the generator output signal change significantly impact the generator voltage. Based on these findings, we propose a new approach to design the regulator parameter to enhance the response to generator reference voltage changes. This approach takes into consideration changes in the generator reference voltage as well as the regulator signal. We calculate the regulator settings using a cutting-edge hybrid technique called the Particle Swarm Optimization African Vultures Optimization algorithm (PSO–AVOA). The effectiveness of the regulator design technique and the proposed optimization algorithm are demonstrated.
Sequencing and Phylogenetic Analysis of the Chloroplast Genome of Three Apricot Species
Authors: Yi Ru , Bao Wenquan , Ao Dun , Bai Yu-e , Wang Lin , Wuyun Ta-na
Published: October 2023

The production and quality of apricots in China is currently limited by the availability of germplasm resource characterizations, including identification at the species and cultivar level. To help address this issue, the complete chloroplast genomes of Prunus armeniaca L., P. sibirica L. and kernel consumption apricot were sequenced, characterized, and phylogenetically analyzed. The three chloroplast (cp) genomes ranged from 157,951 to 158,224 bp, and 131 genes were identified, including 86 protein-coding genes, 37 rRNAs, and 8 tRNAs. The GC content ranged from 36.70% to 36.75%. Of the 170 repetitive sequences detected, 42 were shared by all three species, and 53–57 simple sequence repeats were detected with AT base preferences. Comparative genomic analysis revealed high similarity in overall structure and gene content as well as seven variation hotspot regions, including psbA-trnK-UUU, rpoC1-rpoB, rpl32-trnL-UAG, trnK-rps16, ndhG-ndhI, ccsA-ndhD, and ndhF-trnL. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the three apricot species clustered into one group, and the genetic relationship between P. armeniaca and kernel consumption apricot was the closest. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for further research on the genetic diversity of apricots and the development and utilization of molecular markers for the genetic engineering and breeding of apricots.
Framing Slogans for Responsible Gambling Campaigns: A Tale of Two Models
Authors: Lim Lily , Wang Vincent Xian
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the persuasive mechanism of slogans employed in responsible gambling campaigns. We analyse slogans from official posters in the U.S., Singapore, and Macau, focusing on two domains. First, the Theory of Planned Behaviour is applied to examine the intention to gamble expressed in the slogans to reveal how gambling is positioned in social contexts. Second, two framing devices—i.e., conceptual metaphors and the frame of gains/losses—are examined to understand how these framing devices reinforce the persuasive message while interacting with each other. Two models of persuasion emerge from our data—one encouraged ‘grounded games’ for enjoyment, while the other discouraged gambling due to its potentially ‘harmful’ consequences. We advocate for a gestalt view on the theoretical constructs that contribute to the overall effectiveness of persuasive messaging. These constructs should be integrated into an analytical framework, with particular attention given to the framing effect of conceptual metaphors and the gain/loss frame, and their interplay.
Adolescents’ Perceptions of Sexuality: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ventura-Miranda María Isabel , Alcaraz-Córdoba Andrea , Alcaraz-Córdoba Tania , Molina-Torres Guadalupe , Fernandez-Medina Isabel María , Ruíz-Fernández María Dolores
Published: October 2023

Adolescents have a greater risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which is a serious public health problem. Education is an effective strategy to improve adolescent sexual health outcomes. However, Spanish adolescents have a lack of sex education. The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions and opinions of a sample of adolescents regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Photovoice is a research method that uses the search for images of everyday events with the intention of bringing about social change. An exploratory, descriptive design was used with a qualitative approach based on the Photovoice methodology. The sample consisted of 26 high school and baccalaureate students of Almería (Spain) selected through a convenience sample. The age of the participants ranged from 14 to 17 years, with a mean age of 15.31 years. Two main categories were extracted from the data analysis: ‘Towards a culture of preventing STIs and promoting healthy sexual practices’ and ‘Adolescents’ needs from their perspective’. In conclusion, numerous changes take place at the biopsychosocial level during adolescence that imply a need to explore their sexuality in depth. A lack of knowledge and a carefree attitude during sexual initiation can increase the risk of developing STIs. The study’s adolescents stated that they do not have adequate sex education to acquire sufficient knowledge about sexuality and sexual health, and therefore, request that the traditional format be modified in order to achieve better results.
Application of Artificial Intelligence in Orthodontics: Current State and Future Perspectives
Authors: Liu Junqi , Zhang Chengfei , Shan Zhiyi
Published: October 2023

In recent years, there has been the notable emergency of artificial intelligence (AI) as a transformative force in multiple domains, including orthodontics. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the present state of AI applications in orthodontics, which can be categorized into the following domains: (1) diagnosis, including cephalometric analysis, dental analysis, facial analysis, skeletal-maturation-stage determination and upper-airway obstruction assessment; (2) treatment planning, including decision making for extractions and orthognathic surgery, and treatment outcome prediction; and (3) clinical practice, including practice guidance, remote care, and clinical documentation. We have witnessed a broadening of the application of AI in orthodontics, accompanied by advancements in its performance. Additionally, this review outlines the existing limitations within the field and offers future perspectives.
Effects of Irrigation Patterns Combining Severe Wilting with Complete or Incomplete Recovery by an Irrigation Control System Based on Photographs of Plants on High-Brix Tomatoes
Authors: Zhao Fei , Yoshida Hideo , Goto Eiji , Hikosaka Shoko
Published: October 2023

We investigated the effects of irrigation patterns combining severe wilting with complete (S_R) or incomplete recovery (S_IR) on the growth, photosynthesis, fruit quality, and yield using a photograph-based irrigation control system. The study was performed in winter with a single sufficient irrigation treatment as Control, S_R, and S_IR. The daily mean maximum of the wilting ratios (W) in the S_R and S_IR was 15.1% and 15.3%, respectively, when W was set at 14%. S_R had the lowest total irrigation frequency of the three treatments. The accumulated cumulative wilting ratio in S_IR was 1.6 times that in S_R. Under water stress, the net photosynthetic rate decreased (S_IR < S_R), rapidly recovering to 73% and 80% of the maximum values following irrigation, respectively. The total amount of irrigation, the plant growth, and the yield were the highest in the Control and those of S_R and S_IR were comparable. S_IR produced the highest-quality fruit. The recovery level affected the fruit quality when the threshold values were similar; therefore, S_IR is appropriate to produce high-Brix tomatoes in winter. Conclusively, the image-based irrigation system could precisely and reproducibly control the irrigation (the most important parameter affecting the growth, yield, and fruit quality of tomatoes) to improve the fruit quality.
Foliar Mn and Zn Treatments Improve Apple Tree Nutrition and Help to Maintain Favorable Soil pH
Authors: Kuzin Andrei I. , Kashirskaya Natalia Ya. , Solovchenko Alexei E. , Kushner Alexei V. , Kochkina Anna M. , Stepantzova Ludmila V. , Krasin Vyacheslav N.
Published: October 2023

The foliar application of micronutrients can improve primary nutrient uptake. As a result, foliar treatments can reduce fertilizer application rates and help to maintain the natural health of soil. Here, we report on the tentative implementation of this approach in an apple orchard located in a temperate climate (JSC “Dubovoye” 52°36′57.1″ N 40°17′04.1″ E; planted in 2002 according to the 6 × 4 m or 417 trees ha–1 cultivar (cv.) Bogatyr grafted on B118 (Budagovskii 118). Manganese treatments augmented foliar nitrogen content and, in certain seasons, foliar phosphorus, whereas zinc treatments enhanced foliar potassium. Low-rate chemical fertilizers application (once in 5 years) on the background of initial high-rate organic fertilization (60 t ha–1 manure) allowed us to retain the optimal soil pH in the experimental orchard.
Describing the Urban Jungle: A Multicriteria Urbanization Index for the Amazon
Authors: Cabrera-Barona Pablo , Albán Denise , Durán Gustavo
Published: October 2023

The Amazon has a population that is largely urban. However, research is limited regarding representations and analysis of the urban Amazon. This article represents and describes Amazonian urban areas by applying a multicriteria urbanization index. Using the Ecuadorian Amazon as a case study, we constructed this index considering spatial indicators of fractal dimension, number of paved streets, urban luminosity, population density, and Euclidean distances from each urban patch to the closest deforested area, to the closest oil pollution point, and to the closest mining pollution point. The multicriteria urbanization index was classified in five classes (degrees) of urbanization: very low, low, medium, high, and very high levels of urbanization. Most of the urban areas have a low degree of urbanization; notwithstanding, there are areas with a medium degree of urbanization encompassing consolidated cities and suburbs, with a high potential for extension in the future. There are also areas of high and very high urbanization related to the oil industry, including cities which have a high impact on the territorial system of the Amazon. This investigation serves as an introduction to multidimensional spatial and quantitative analyses of the urban Amazon. We suggest monitoring the urban advance in the Amazon using the index developed in this investigation, to support better territorial planning in this region of the world having high strategical importance.
Overexpression of Lolium multiflorum LmMYB1 Enhances Drought Tolerance in Transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Liu Qiuxu , Wang Fangyan , Li Peng , Yu Guohui , Zhang Xinquan
Published: October 2023

Lolium multiflorum is one of the world-famous forage grasses with rich biomass, fast growth rate and good nutritional quality. However, its growth and forage yield are often affected by drought, which is a major natural disaster all over the world. MYB transcription factors have some specific roles in response to drought stress, such as regulation of stomatal development and density, control of cell wall and root development. However, the biological function of MYB in L. multiflorum remains unclear. Previously, we elucidated the role of LmMYB1 in enhancing osmotic stress resistance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Here, this study elucidates the biological function of LmMYB1 in enhancing plant drought tolerance through an ABA-dependent pathway involving the regulation of cell wall development and stomatal density. After drought stress and ABA stress, the expression of LmMYB1 in L. multiflorum was significantly increased. Overexpression of LmMYB1 increased the survival rate of Arabidopsis thaliana under drought stress. Under drought conditions, expression levels of drought-responsive genes such as AtRD22, AtRAB and AtAREB were up-regulated in OE compared with those in WT. Further observation showed that the stomatal density of OE was reduced, which was associated with the up-regulated expression of cell wall-related pathway genes in the RNA-Seq results. In conclusion, this study confirmed the biological function of LmMYB1 in improving drought tolerance by mediating cell wall development through the ABA-dependent pathway and thereby affecting stomatal density.
Novel Mouse Cell Lines and In Vivo Models for Human High-Grade Neuroendocrine Lung Carcinoma, Small Cell Lung Carcinoma (SCLC), and Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma (LCNEC)
Authors: Recuero Enrique , Lázaro Sara , Lorz Corina , Enguita Ana Belén , Garcia-Escudero Ramón , Santos Mirentxu
Published: October 2023

There is a clear need to expand the toolkit of adequate mouse models and cell lines available for preclinical studies of high-grade neuroendocrine lung carcinoma (small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) and large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC)). SCLC and LCNEC are two highly aggressive tumor types with dismal prognoses and few therapeutic options. Currently, there is an extreme paucity of material, particularly in the case of LCNEC. Given the lack of murine cell lines and transplant models of LCNEC, the need is imperative. In this study, we generated and examined new models of LCNEC and SCLC transplantable cell lines derived from our previously developed primary mouse LCNEC and SCLC tumors. RNA-seq analysis demonstrated that our cell lines and syngeneic tumors maintained the transcriptome program from the original transgenic primary tumor and displayed strong similarities to human SCLC or LCNEC. Importantly, the SCLC transplanted cell lines showed the ability to metastasize and mimic this characteristic of the human condition. In summary, we generated mouse cell line tools that allow further basic and translational research as well as preclinical testing of new treatment strategies for SCLC and LCNEC. These tools retain important features of their human counterparts and address the lack of LCNEC disease models.
Dopamine D4 Receptor Agonist Drastically Increases Delta Activity in the Thalamic Nucleus Reuniens: Potential Role in Communication between Prefrontal Cortex and Hippocampus
Authors: Kuang J. , Kafetzopoulos V. , Deth Richard , Kocsis B.
Published: October 2023

Network oscillations are essential for all cognitive functions. Oscillatory deficits are well established in psychiatric diseases and are recapitulated in animal models. They are significantly and specifically affected by pharmacological interventions using psychoactive compounds. Dopamine D4 receptor (D4R) activation was shown to enhance gamma rhythm in freely moving rats and to specifically affect slow delta and theta oscillations in the urethane-anesthetized rat model. The goal of this study was to test the effect of D4R activation on slow network oscillations at delta and theta frequencies during wake states, potentially supporting enhanced functional connectivity during dopamine-induced attention and cognitive processing. Network activity was recorded in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), hippocampus (HC) and nucleus reuniens (RE) in control conditions and after injecting the D4R agonist A-412997 (3 and 5 mg/kg; systemic administration). We found that A-412997 elicited a lasting (~40 min) wake state and drastically enhanced narrow-band delta oscillations in the PFC and RE in a dose-dependent manner. It also preferentially enhanced delta synchrony over theta coupling within the PFC-RE-HC circuit, strongly strengthening PFC-RE coupling. Thus, our findings indicate that the D4R may contribute to cognitive processes, at least in part, through acting on wake delta oscillations and that the RE, providing an essential link between the PFC and HC, plays a prominent role in this mechanism.
Identifying Serum Metabolomic Markers Associated with Skin Disease Activity in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Choksi Hani , Li Shenghan , Looby Nikita , Kotlyar Max , Jurisica Igor , Kulasingam Vathany , Chandran Vinod
Published: October 2023

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic, systemic, immune-mediated inflammatory disease causing cutaneous and musculoskeletal inflammation that affects 25% of patients with psoriasis. Current methods for evaluating PsA disease activity are not accurate enough for precision medicine. A metabolomics-based approach can elucidate psoriatic disease pathogenesis, providing potential objective biomarkers. With the hypothesis that serum metabolites are associated with skin disease activity, we aimed to identify serum metabolites associated with skin activity in PsA patients. We obtained serum samples from patients with PsA (n = 150) who were classified into mild, moderate and high disease activity groups based on the Psoriasis Area Severity Index. We used solid-phase microextraction (SPME) for sample preparation, followed by data acquisition via an untargeted liquid chromatography—mass spectrometry (LC-MS) approach. Disease activity levels were predicted using identified metabolites and machine learning algorithms. Some metabolites tentatively identified include eicosanoids with anti- or pro-inflammatory properties, like 12-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid, which was previously implicated in joint disease activity in PsA. Other metabolites of interest were associated with dysregulation of fatty acid metabolism and belonged to classes such as bile acids, oxidized phospholipids, and long-chain fatty acids. We have identified potential metabolites associated with skin disease activity in PsA patients.
Calcium Signaling Consequences of RyR2-S4938F Mutation Expressed in Human iPSC-Derived Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Toth Noemi , Zhang Xiao-Hua , Zamaro Alexandra , Morad Martin
Published: October 2023

Type-2 ryanodine receptor (RyR2) is the major Ca2+ release channel of the cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) that controls the rhythm and strength of the heartbeat, but its malfunction may generate severe arrhythmia leading to sudden cardiac death or heart failure. S4938F-RyR2 mutation in the carboxyl-terminal was expressed in human induced pluripotent stem cells derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) using CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technique. Ca2+ signaling and electrophysiological properties of beating cardiomyocytes carrying the mutation were studied using total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRF) and patch clamp technique. In mutant cells, L-type Ca2+ currents (ICa), measured either by depolarizations to zero mV or repolarizations from +100 mV to –50 mV, and their activated Ca2+ transients were significantly smaller, despite their larger caffeine-triggered Ca2+ release signals compared to wild type (WT) cells, suggesting ICa-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) was compromised. The larger SR Ca2+ content of S4938F-RyR2 cells may underlie the higher frequency of spontaneously occurring Ca2+ sparks and Ca2+ transients and their arrhythmogenic phenotype.