Search Results (158)

Efficient traffic signal control plays a critical role in promoting sustainable mobility by reducing congestion and minimizing vehicle emissions. This paper proposes an enhanced max-pressure (MP) signal control strategy that explicitly accounts for phase switching time losses in grid road networks. While the traditional MP control strategy is recognized for its decentralized architecture and simplicity, it often neglects the delays introduced by frequent phase changes, limiting its real-world effectiveness. To address this issue, three key improvements are introduced in this study. First, a redefined phase pressure formulation is presented, which incorporates imbalances in traffic demand across multiple inlet roads within a single phase. Second, a dynamic green phase extension mechanism is developed, which adjusts phase durations in real time based on queue lengths to improve traffic flow responsiveness. Third, a current-phase protection mechanism is implemented by applying an amplification factor to the current-phase pressure calculations, thereby mitigating unnecessary phase switching. Simulation results using SUMO on a grid network demonstrate that the proposed strategy significantly reduces average vehicle delays and queue lengths compared with traditional MP, travel-time based MP, and fixed-time control strategies, leading to improved overall traffic efficiency. Specifically, the proposed method reduces total delay by 24.83%, 26.67%, and 47.11%, and average delay by approximately 16.18%, 18.91%, and 36.22%, respectively, while improving traffic throughput by 2.25%, 2.76%, and 5.84%. These improvements directly contribute to reducing traffic congestion, fuel consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions, thereby reinforcing the role of adaptive signal control in achieving smart and sustainable cities. The proposed approach can serve as a practical reference for improving real-world traffic signal control systems, particularly in regions seeking to improve sustainability and operational efficiency. Full article

The Arctic is undergoing unprecedented transformations with implications for regional ecosystems, Indigenous communities, and global climate systems. Ocean heat transport, permafrost thawing, and ice–albedo interactions are some of the feedback mechanisms that contribute to the increase in average temperatures in the Arctic. These processes increase the risks associated with climate change globally by speeding up the loss of sea ice, changes in biodiversity, and greenhouse gas emissions. This review synthesises recent advances in Arctic climate science, focusing on the drivers and feedback mechanisms of Arctic amplification, its cascading impacts on ecosystems and socioeconomic systems, and emerging governance challenges. It highlights critical knowledge gaps, specifically regarding the importance of Indigenous knowledge and interdisciplinary approaches in climate adaptation strategies. This study emphasises the need for inclusive, transformative, and collaborative approaches by analysing governance frameworks, climate policies, and community resilience initiatives. Innovative adaptation strategies are suggested, such as ecosystem-based adaptations, climate-resilient infrastructure, and the switch to renewable energy to address these issues. Arctic-specific governance recommendations are proposed to develop sustainable solutions that preserve its ecology while reducing its global effects by filling research gaps and promoting international collaboration. The future of the Arctic is not merely a regional issue but also a global one, requiring swift and coordinated action to address climate challenges. Full article

In spite of the increasing industrial cultivation of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.), no genetic linkage map and mapping of QTLs (quantitative trait locus) has been reported for Lavandula species. We present the development of a set of SSR (simple sequence repeat) markers and the first genetic linkage map of lavender following the genotyping of a segregating population obtained by the self-pollination of the industrial lavender variety Hemus. The resulting genetic map comprises 25 linkage groups (LGs) corresponding to the chromosome number of the lavender reference genome. The map includes 375 loci covering a total of 2631.57 centimorgan (cM). The average marker distance in the established map is 7.01 cM. The comparison of the map and reference genome sequence shows that LG maps cover an average of 82.6% of the chromosome sequences. The PCR amplification tests suggest that the developed SSR marker set possesses high intra-species (>93%) and inter-species (>78%) transferability. The QTL analysis employing the constructed map and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) dataset of flower extracted volatiles resulted in the mapping of a total of 43 QTLs for the accumulation of 25 different floral volatiles. The comparison of the genome location of the QTLs and known biosynthetic genes suggests candidate genes for some QTLs. Full article

Background: Rice bacterial leaf blight, caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Xanthomonas oryzae pv. Oryzae (Xoo), significantly impacts rice production. To address this disease, research efforts have focused on discovering and utilizing novel disease-resistant genes and examining their functional mechanisms. Methods and Results: In this study, a variety of bacterial strains were utilized. CX28-3, AX-11, JC12-2, and X10 were isolated from the high-altitude japonica rice-growing region on the Yunnan Plateau. Additionally, PXO61, PXO86, PXO99, and PXO339, sourced from the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), were included in the analysis. To evaluate the resistance characteristics of Haonuoyang, artificial leaf cutting and inoculation methods were applied. Results indicated that Haonuoyang exhibited broad-spectrum resistance. Additionally, to explore the genetic mechanisms of resistance, the TFAIII-type transcription factor OsZFPH was cloned from Haonuoyang using PCR amplification. The subcellular localization method identified the precise location of the OsZFPH gene within the cell. The expression of OsZFPH was induced by Xoo stress. The overexpression of OsZFPH resulted in increased activities of enzymes, including SOD, CAT, and POD, while silencing the gene led to reduced enzyme activities. Furthermore, the hormones SA (salicylic acid), JA (jasmonic acid), and GA (gibberellin) were shown to positively regulate the gene expression. Protein interactions with OsZFPH were verified through a yeast two-hybrid system and BiFC technology. Hap5, which aligned with the sequence of Haonuoyang, was found to belong to a haplotype consisting of Jingang 30, 40 resequenced rice varieties, 18 Oryza rufipogon, and 29 Oryza granulata. Conclusions: The findings of this study emphasize the vital role of OsZFPH in rice resistance to bacterial leaf blight. The identification of broad-spectrum resistance in Haonuoyang and the understanding of OsZFPH gene functions provide valuable insights for the future development of rice varieties with improved resistance to this destructive disease. Full article

Organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) are an ideal platform for intrinsically stretchable sensors due to their diverse mechanisms and unique electrical signal amplification characteristics. The remarkable advantages of intrinsically stretchable sensors lie in their molecular tunability, lightweight design, mechanical robustness, solution processability, and low Young’s modulus, which enable them to seamlessly conform to three-dimensional curved surfaces while maintaining electrical performance under significant deformations. Intrinsically stretchable sensors have been widely applied in smart wearables, electronic skin, biological detection, and environmental protection. In this review, we summarize the recent progress in intrinsically stretchable sensors based on OFETs, including advancements in functional layer materials, sensing mechanisms, and applications such as gas sensors, strain sensors, stress sensors, proximity sensors, and temperature sensors. The conclusions and future outlook discuss the challenges and future outlook for stretchable OFET-based sensors. Full article

In situ X-ray reciprocal space mapping was performed during the interval heating and cooling of InGaN/GaN quantum wells (QWs) grown via metal–organic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE). Our detailed in situ X-ray analysis enabled us to track changes in the peak intensities and radial and angular broadenings of the reflection. By simulating the radial diffraction profiles recorded during the thermal cycle treatment, we demonstrate the presence of indium concentration distributions (ICDs) in the different QWs of the heterostructure (1. QW, bottom, 2. QW, middle, and 3. QW, upper). During the heating process, we found that the homogenization of the QWs occurred in the temperature range of 850 °C to 920 °C, manifesting in a reduction in ICDs in the QWs. Furthermore, there is a critical temperature (T = 940 °C) at which the mean value of the indium concentration starts to decrease below 15% in 1. QW, indicating the initiation of decomposition in 1. QW. Moreover, further heating up to 1000 °C results in extended diffuse scattering along the angular direction of the diffraction spot, confirming the propagation of the decomposition and the formation of trapezoidal objects, which contain voids and amorphous materials (In-Ga). Heating InGaN QWs up to T = 1000 °C led to a simultaneous decrease in the indium content and ICDs. During the cooling phase, there was no significant variation in the indium concentrations in the different QWs but rather an increase in the defect area, which contributes to the amplification of diffuse scattering. A comparison of ex situ complementary high-resolution transmission microscopy (Ex-HRTEM) measurements performed at room temperature before and after the thermal cycle treatment provides proof of the formation of four different types of defects in the QWs, which result from the decomposition of 1. QW during the heating phase. This, in turn, has strongly influenced the intensity of the photoluminescence emission spectra without any detectable shift in the emission wavelength λ_MQWs. Full article

Zanthoxylum armatum (Z. armatum) is a significant economic tree species known for its medicinal and edible properties. However, the presence of prickles on Z. armatum poses a considerable challenge to the advancement of its industry. Numerous studies have indicated that the C2H2 zinc finger protein (C2H2-ZFPs) families are crucial in the development of plant trichomes or prickles. This study identified 78 ZaC2H2 genes from the Z. armatum genome, categorizing them into three groups and analyzing their protein physicochemical properties, chromosomal locations, conserved domains, and gene structures. The evolutionary analysis indicates that the amplification of ZaC2H2 genes primarily results from whole-genome duplication or segmental duplication, and these genes have undergone strong purifying selection pressure throughout their evolutionary history. The analysis of cis-acting elements revealed that they contain various hormone response elements, such as ABRE, AuxRR, the CGTCA motif, GARE motifs, and TCA elements, which are responsive to ABA, IAA, MeJA, GA, and SA signals. RT-qPCR was employed to assess the expression levels of the candidate genes ZaC2H2-45, ZaC2H2-46, ZaC2H2-49, and ZaC2H2-55 under the treatment of five hormones. The results indicated that the expression levels of the ZaC2H2-46 and ZaC2H2-55 genes were significantly up-regulated under NAA, SA, and MeJA treatments. These results will help to further understand the characteristics of the ZaC2H2 gene family and provide a theoretical basis for studying the development of prickles. Full article

Atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease are associated with high morbidity and mortality in industrialized nations. The Tyro3, Axl, and Mer (TAM) family of receptor tyrosine kinases is involved in the amplification or resolution of atherosclerosis pathology and other cardiovascular pathology. The ligands of these receptors, Protein S (PS) and growth arrest specific protein 6 (Gas6), are essential for TAM receptor functions in the amplification and resolution of atherosclerosis. The Axl-Gas6 interaction has various effects on cardiovascular disease. Mer and PS dampen inflammation, thereby protecting against atherosclerosis progression. Tyro3, the least studied TAM receptor in cardiovascular disease, appears to protect against fibrosis in post-myocardial infarction injury. Ultimately, PS, Gas6, and TAM receptors present an exciting avenue of potential therapeutic targets against inflammation associated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Full article

The characteristics of the plateau curve, specifically its length and slope, in boron-coated proportional counters are key performance indicators that impact the detector’s overall performance. Currently, the lack of research on the plateau curve of boron-coated proportional counters is holding back progress in engineering design and scientific research. This study harnesses the Diethorn formula, a calculation method for gas gain, to explore the relationship between gas amplification and the plateau curve in a boron-coated proportional counter. Based on the analysis of experimental data, this study proposes methods for improving the characteristics of the plateau curve in a proportional counter, including modifications to the counter structure and gas pressure, along with an evaluation method for assessing the effectiveness of these improvements. First, the causes of the plateau curve in a boron-coated proportional counter are analyzed through a physical process perspective, identifying factors that influence gas amplification and subsequently affect the plateau curve. Building upon this foundation, the Diethorn formula is utilized to explore the effects of structural parameters and gas pressure on gas multiplication. Finally, experimental validation is conducted, resulting in the proposal of three methods for improving the characteristics of the plateau curve and an evaluation method for assessing the effectiveness of improvements. Full article

Background/Objectives: Hearing loss (HL) is a significant global health concern, affecting approximately 1 in every 1000 newborns, with over half of these cases attributed to genetic factors. This study focuses on identifying the genetic basis of autosomal recessive non-syndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) in a consanguineous Emirati family. Methods: Clinical exome sequencing (CES) was performed on affected members of the family, followed by Sanger sequencing to validate the findings. Specific primers were used for PCR amplification of target CDH23 exons. Mutations were analyzed using various computational tools to assess their pathogenicity. Results: We identified two heterozygous mutations in the CDH23 gene: a novel nonsense variant (c.264G>A, p.Trp88Ter) and a missense variant (c.5168G>A, p.Arg1723His). Both mutations were found in trans configuration, suggesting a compound heterozygous state contributing to the phenotype. In silico analysis predicted a significant impact on protein function, potentially leading to the observed ARNSHL. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the complexity of genetic factors in hearing loss, particularly in highly consanguineous populations. The identification of both nonsense and missense mutations in the CDH23 gene enhances understanding of its role in hearing loss and provides essential insights for genetic counseling and future therapeutic strategies. Full article

(1) Background: Group A Streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis is common, resulting in numerous ambulatory visits. Accurate diagnosis is challenging. This study evaluated the clinical utility, cost, and performance of a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for GAS detection, comparing it to a rapid antigen detection test (RADT) and throat culture. Additionally, we assessed the diagnostic stewardship related to these testing methods to ensure appropriate antibiotic use in clinical practice. Methods: Between November 2022 and February 2023, 82 throat swabs were analyzed, with McIsaac clinical scores calculated for each. The Abbott ID NOW STREP A 2 NAAT and Sekisui Diagnostics’ OSOM^® STREP A RADT were performed, followed by bacterial culture. Diagnostic performance was compared using culture as the gold standard. Results: Of the 82 samples, 28 (34.14%) tested positive for pathogenic germs, primarily Streptococcus pyogenes (92.85%). RADTs showed a sensitivity of 80.76% and a specificity of 100%, while NAATs demonstrated a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 96.42%. Cost analysis indicated the need for reimbursement adjustments to optimize NAAT’s economic benefits. Clinical data indicated that symptoms alone were insufficient for reliable diagnosis. Conclusions: This study confirmed the superior sensitivity of Abbott’s Strep A2 NAAT over RADT. Given the Belgian guidelines against routine antibiotic treatment for pharyngitis and considering local treatment recommendations and cost, implementing NAAT for GAS detection in Belgian laboratories is less beneficial. However, the role of NAAT in supporting antimicrobial stewardship by ensuring appropriate antibiotic use remains significant. Full article

This paper presents a comprehensive study on the design and performance of a high-power amplifier (PA) covering a broad frequency band from 0.1 to 4.8 GHz. Leveraging a 10 W GaN device, the amplifier achieves output power levels surpassing 10 W across the entire frequency band. Furthermore, the power-added efficiency (PAE) of the amplifier ranges from 47% to 59%, indicating its energy-efficient operation. With consistent gain characteristics varying between 7 and 15 dB, the design ensures reliable signal amplification for diverse applications. Notably, the approach introduces a simplified output matching network based on an LC network, prioritizing practicality without sacrificing performance. Additionally, comprehensive guidance is provided on utilizing the Smith chart for streamlined amplifier design, enabling engineers with an accessible methodology. Through a meticulous analysis, this work contributes to advancing the field of high-power amplification, offering enhanced performance and usability for next-generation wireless communication systems. Full article

Benzene, as a typical toxic gas and carcinogen, is an important detection object in the field of environmental monitoring. However, it remains challenging for the conventional resistance-type gas sensor to effectively detect low-concentration (ppb-level) benzene gas molecules, owing to their insufficient reaction activation energy, especially when operating at room temperature. Herein, a field-effect transistor (FET)-type gas sensor using carbon nanotubes as a channel material is proposed for the efficient detection of trace benzene, where carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with high semiconductor purity act as the main channel material, and ZnO/WS₂ nanocomposites serve as the gate sensitive material. On the basis of the remarkable amplification effect in CNTs-based FET, the proposed gas sensor manifests desirable sensitive ability with the detection limit as low as 500 ppb for benzene even working at room temperature, and the sensor also exhibits fast response speed (90 s), high consistency with a response deviation of less than 5%, and long-term stability of up to 30 days. Furthermore, utilizing Tenax TA as the screening unit, the as-proposed gas sensor can achieve the feasible selective detection of benzene. These experimental results demonstrate that the strategy proposed here can provide significant guidance for the development of high-performance gas sensors to detect trace benzene gas at room temperature. Full article

Human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) is a tyrosine kinase receptor that interacts with multiple signaling pathways related to cellular growth and proliferation. Overexpression or amplification of HER2 is linked to various malignancies, and there have been decades of research dedicated to targeting HER2. Despite the landmark ToGA trial, progress in HER2-positive gastrointestinal malignancies has been hampered by drug resistance. This review examines current HER2 expression patterns and therapies for gastroesophageal, colorectal, biliary tract, and small bowel cancers, while dissecting potential resistance mechanisms that limit treatment effectiveness. Full article

Optimization of drilling processes for oil and gas and geothermal wells requires the effective use of mechanical energy for the destruction of rocks. When constructing a well, an important indicator of the drilling stage is the mechanical speed. Therefore, when performing drilling operations, operators usually use blade bits of an aggressive design and often use forced drilling modes. Drill bits under forced operation modes generate a wide range of vibrations in the drilling tools; in turn, a drill string, being a long-dimensional deformable body, causes the development, amplification, and interconnection of vibrations of different types. Vibration loads reduce the technical and economic indicators of drilling, with destructive effects on drill string elements, and cause complications and emergencies. The authors initiated the creation of an informational and analytical database on emergency situations that occurred as a result of excessive vibrations of the drill string during the construction of deep wells in the deposits of the Dnipro–Donetsk Basin. For the first time, the suitability and effectiveness of using the Smart 4 controller (“Innova Power Solutions”, Calgary, Canada) for monitoring the vibration load of the drilling tool was tested in industrial conditions, while the controller was used as a separate element in the drill string. A special module was developed for the reliable installation of the Smart 4 controller, with a power battery in the layout of the lower part of the drill string. During the testing of the proposed device for measuring vibrations in the process of drilling an inclined well, verification of the registered data was carried out with the help of a high-cost telemetry system. The implementation of the proposed innovation will allow each operator to assess the significance of the impact of vibrations and shocks on the production process and, if necessary, adjust the drilling modes or apply vibration protection devices. In addition, service departments that operate and repair drilling equipment will be able to obtain an evidence base for resolving warranty disputes or claims. Full article