bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Co-Electrolysis Performance and Process Analyses for Synthetic Liquid Fuel Production
Authors: Tanaka Yohei , Yamaji Katsuhiko , Ishiyama Tomohiro
Published: May 2023

Synthetic liquid production with solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) are expected to enhance a system efficiency via the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) by 20% compared to conventional water electrolysis. Co-electrolysis performances were obtained using solid oxide cells, which were a single cell, a 6-cell-stack, and a 25-cell-stack optimized for fuel cell operation. Low partial pressure of the reactant H2O/CO2 resulted in larger concentration overvoltages. Gas composition and flowrate of the produced syngas with the 25-cell-stack agreed by 0.5% or less to calculated values in thermodynamic equilibrium at 800 ºC and 80% reactant utilization, leading to 99.8% current efficiency. Process simulations for an SOEC-FTS combined system clarified that fuel-electrode offgas recycle at 800 ºC will enhance a power-to-oil system efficiency by 8 percentage points. Flat profile of co-electrolysis and oil production efficiencies at 0.2-0.7 A/cm2 were observed. SOEC operative voltages should be optimized to avoid large temperature gradient in the stack.
Systematic Determination of Optimal Design-Points of Fully Integrated Power-to-SNG Process Chains Via Detailed Simulation of SOEC Stacks
Authors: Furst Oscar , Wehrle Lukas , Schmider Daniel , Dailly Julian , Deutschmann Olaf
Published: May 2023

The denomination Power-to-SNG covers technologies for the production of synthetic natural gas (SNG) through methanation of electrolytic hydrogen and captured carbon, enabling long-term storage of electrical energy from intermittent renewable sources. A methodology leveraging the pinch method for the optimization of the operating conditions of power-to-SNG plants is presented and applied to a system layout comprising a series of fixed-bed methanation reactors, a biomass gasification process and solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) stacks, which recover the heat produced by the exothermic methanation process. For the system optimization, a rapid SOEC stack model is built from an underlying detailed multi-physics 3D model whilst maintaining its accuracy. Simulations reveal a maximum system HHV efficiency of 85.2% while identifying optimal operating conditions for all plant components. Moreover, the necessity of integrated system optimization strategies is showcased, as the predicted ideal conditions in the system strongly differ from the optimal conditions of the isolated components.
Influence of Process Parameters on SOEC Performance
Authors: Lee John-In , Ghosh Emily , Mulligan Jillian Rix , Akter Ayesha , Pal Uday , Basu Soumendra , Gopalan Srikanth
Published: May 2023

Solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) are highlighted as promising power-to-gas (P2G) devices that can provide a reliable supply of hydrogen gas to store renewable energy. Despite the potential of SOECs, there are many challenges facing their commercialization. In this work, the influence of process parameters and fuel electrode optimization on initial SOEC performance (500 hours) is investigated. Electrolysis experiments were performed with both GDC (gadolinia doped ceria)-infiltrated and uninfiltrated Ni-YSZ (yttria stabilized zirconia) fuel electrodes under various hydrogen flow rates with different ratios of H2-H2O and current densities. All cells marginally improve in performance initially, then undergo a brief period of rapid performance degradation followed by stabilization. The observed three stages of cell performance, in terms of length of time and rate of change, are found to be dependent on the type of fuel electrode and experimental process parameters used.
Performance and Degradation of Electrolyte Supported SOECs with Advanced GDC Thin-film Layers in Long-term Stack Test
Authors: Han Feng , Lang Michael , Szabo Patric , Geipel Christian , Walter Christian , Costa Rémi
Published: May 2023

Electrolyte supported Solid Oxide Cells (ESCs) with advanced thin-film Gd-doped ceria layers deposited via EB-PVD method at 600 oC were assembled and electrochemically investigated in a so-called “rainbow” stack with 30 repeat units (RUs). At the initial stage of the SOEC operation, the stack reached a high performance with an electrical efficiency of 99.65 % at 75 % steam conversion and a total power input of 1.98 kW. A long-term stack test was performed in SOEC mode for over 5000 h and demonstrated a low voltage degradation of approx. +10.9 mV·kh–1 per RU (+0.9% kh–1). The RUs with EB-PVD GDC thin-films demonstrated similar initial performance and degradation rate to the state-of-the-art cells. In this paper, the investigation mainly focuses on the electrochemical characteristics of RUs containing the EB-PVD thin-film GDC layers.
Evaluation of Hydrogen Ions Flowing through Protonic Ceramic Fuel Cell Using Ytterbium-Doped Barium Zirconate as Electrolyte
Authors: Okuyama Yuji , Harada Yoshiaki , Mikami Yuichi , Yamauchi Kosuke , Kuroha Tomohiro , Shimada Hiroyuki , Yamaguchi Yuki , Mizutani Yasunobu
Published: May 2023

To measure the proton current in a PCFC (protonic ceramic fuel cell), the proton current detector was developed using a proton conducting oxide. The amount of proton current that flowed in the PCFC can be measured by an apparatus developed based on the electromotive force of an electrochemical cell using 10 mol% In-doped CaZrO3 (hydrogen sensor) and Y-stabilized zirconia (oxygen sensor). The water vapor pressure on the cathode changed when hydrogen ions pass through the PCFC. The hydrogen ion current can be determined by monitoring the water vapor pressure. The electronic leakage was then estimated from the hydrogen ion current and external current. We measured the current of hydrogen flowing through protonic ceramic fuel cell using ytterbium-doped barium zirconate as the electrolyte. Hydrogen ions and holes were found to leak under the OCV at 700°C. The electronic leakage was found to be suppressed with the increasing electrolyte film thickness. On the other hand, no leakage of hydrogen and holes was observed at 500°C.
Bipropellant Enabled Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Stack Power Supply: Energy Agility for Space Vehicles
Authors: Plumley John Bryan , Benavidez Angelica , Jemison Noah , Spears Andre , Elangovan S , Pike Jenna , Hollist Michele , Larsen Dennis , Garzon Fernando H. , Peng Thomas
Published: May 2023

A Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system capable of running on the same fuel and oxidizer as an onboard bipropellant thruster can create enhanced operational flexibility. If a spacecraft needs thrust, the bipropellant can be ignited to provide thrust. If a spacecraft needs electric power, the spacecraft can consume bipropellant to generate auxiliary power. In this work, the proven bipropellant pair ammonia (NH3) and nitrous oxide (N2O) are shown to be a viable fuel and oxidant for SOFCs, as in situ thermal NH3 cracking will generate H2 and N2O decomposition will generate O2. A 5 cell SOFC stack produced 89 W when fueled with NH3 and N2O. The results of this study demonstrate the potential for a bifunctional spacecraft system that can satisfy both operational power and on-orbit maneuverability requirements.
Ammonia as an SOFC Fuel
Authors: Hendriksen Peter Vang , Mondi Francesco , Sun Xiufu , Caldogno Riccardo , Frandsen Henrik Lund , Babaie Rizvandi Omid , Høgh Jens Valdemar Thorvald , Hansen John
Published: May 2023

SOEC operation using ammonia as a fuel was investigated. At high temperatures (T>800oC) cell performance closely resembles performance in equivalent gas mixtures of N2 and H2. Between 600 oC < T < 750 oC, however, a mild impeding effect of presence of ammonia on the hydrogen oxidation rate is observed. Further, the fuel cell durability when operating on ammonia was tracked over test periods between 2000 and 6000 hours at different temperatures. In general, degradation rates observed in ammonia were similar to degradation rates observed when operating in a 1:3 gas mixture of N2/H2. Some morphological changes in the fuel electrode support and auxiliary Ni-meshes were observed after test. These indicate Ni-nitride formation and whereas this is detrimental to the Ni-mesh, it did not affect overall cell performance. Experiments with ammonia operation at stack level were also conducted illustrating the potential to realize a stack cooling by internal ammonia cracking.
Accelerated Stress Testing of Standard Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells
Authors: Kane Nicholas , Hartvigsen Jeremy , Casteel Micah , Priest Cameron , Gomez Joshua , Wang Lucun , White Casey , Boardman Richard , Ding Dong
Published: May 2023

One limitation of the commercialization of solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOEC) is high degradation rates leading to increased costs. The degradation mechanisms are sophisticated and closely related to operating time, with some mechanisms not appearing for thousands of hours. To decrease degradation, a thorough understanding of the relevant mechanisms is required. Accelerated stress tests (AST) can help elucidate mechanisms by amplifying degradation on realistic time scales, allowing for faster analysis. Pulsed width modulation (PWM) excitation of SOECs can help investigate degradation mechanisms by testing electrochemical conditions typically not possible without thermal destruction of the cell. An initial demonstration of a PWM AST is shown to effectively cycle the cell between 1.3 and 1.7 V at 1 Hz, while the resulting current density and impedance track the degradation of the cell.
High-Temperature Co-Electrolysis and Degradation by Oxidized Trace Contaminants in Feed Gases
Authors: Schäfer Dominik , Kunz Felix , Schierholz Roland , Eichel Rudiger-A
Published: May 2023

For transforming our energy system, the indirect electrification of the sectors heating, mobility and chemical industry seems to be partially necessary. The high-temperature co-electrolysis for producing synthesis gas is very well suited as upstream process for power-to-fuel and power-to-chemicals processes. Besides the intrinsic degradation processes of the cells (e.g. nickel migration) and stacks (e.g. interconnect oxidation) any additional processes triggered by impurities in the feed gases are of relevance for any technical applications. The following manuscript summarizes the investigations performed to elucidate the impact of oxidized trace contaminants in feed gases, in particular of sulfur dioxide and silicon species.
Interface Design Development for High Durability of SOFC Interconnectors Using Electrodeposition Coating
Authors: Nakao Takayuki , Saito Tadashi , Nishimura Shigefumi , Tsukamoto Zenzo , Fujimoto Tetsuro , Inoue Shuichi
Published: May 2023

Solid Oxide fuel cell (SOFC) mounted in ENE-FARM type S has been commercialized since 2012. For further market expansion of ENE-FARM type, higher efficiency, higher durability, and lower cost of SOFC stacks are required. A key technology to advance its performance is a coating on SOFC metallic interconnector for the long-term durability of SOFC stacks. We achieved significant reduction in resistance and improved durability by improving the highly mass producible electrodeposition coating method. In this research, the coating technology of the SOFC interconnector has been developed. Long-term durability was confirmed through high-temperature acceleration evaluation, and the electrodeposition coating on the SOFC interconnector was installed in the ENE-FARM type S.
Inkjet Printing of PrBa0.5Sr0.5Co1.5Fe0.5O5+
δ Cathode for High-Performance Proton Ceramic Fuel Cells
Authors: Chang Wanhyuk , Kang Eun Heui , Jeong Heon Jun , Choi Wonjoon , Shim Joon Hyung
Published: May 2023

This study reports on the fabrication of the perovskite materials for anod-supported proton ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) using inkjet-printing (IJP) method. The ceramic ink source was synthesized by dissolving PrBa0.5Sr0.5Co1.5Fe0.5O5+d (PBSCF) as a cathode nanopowder as a pigment material in ethanol and propylene methyl ether based solvents with a variety of surfactants. We could optimized the precise cathode microstructure through grayscale control using commercial software. We achieved high performance in the low-temperature region. Moreover, it was stable even under long-term operation condition. A peak power density of 728 mWcm-2 at 600 C was achieved. This verified that the performance was maintained without significant degradation for 80 h at 500 C. We propose an efficient method for fabricating high-quality and precise PBSCF cathodes in PCFCs using IJP.
Direct-Fed Ethanol Metal-Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cell System with Regeneration Process by Air Pulsing
Authors: Dewa Martinus , Abdul Jabbar Mohammed Hussain , Miura Yohei , Song Dong , Fukuyama Yosuke , Furuya Yoshihisa , Dale Nilesh , Marin-Flores Oscar , Norton M. Grant , Ha Su
Published: May 2023

A Metal-Supported-SOFC (MS-SOFC) has been modified by infiltrating a non-noble metal ceria-zirconia supported cobalt (Co/CZ) internal reforming catalyst to improve its reforming activity and inhibit the carbon deposition or coking under ethanol steam reforming conditions. Non-noble metal catalysts can still be deactivated during long-term cell operation in a severe coking-inducing environment. Therefore, an in-situ regeneration procedure was performed by pulsing air into the anode surface to burn the deposited carbon on the anode and catalyst layer during the cell operation. Upon the cell regeneration steps, the cell voltage was recovered to its initial condition at ~0.8 V, while the peak power density of the cell showed up to 116% recovery under H2 and 111% recovery under ethanol. These data show that the air pulsing regeneration steps in the MS-SOFC can improve the lifetime by removing the coking deposit within the anode and further enhancing its electrochemical and catalytic activity.
Densification of Plasma-Sprayed YSZ Electrolyte by Suction Filtration Using Submicron/Nanoparticle Suspension for Metal-Supported SOFCs
Authors: Gu Xin , Jiang Yidong , Wu Zeyun , Wang Yuqing , Shi Yixiang , Li Shuiqing , Cai Ningsheng
Published: May 2023

Atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) is widely used for the fabrication of metal-supported solid oxide fuel cells (MS-SOFCs), while the low gas-tightness of the electrolyte layer prepared by APS hinders its implementation on MS-SOFCs. In this study, a simple two-step method was developed to achieve densification of the plasma-sprayed YSZ electrolyte layer through suction filtration in a YSZ submicron/nanoparticle suspension. After the two-step suction filtration, the gas permeability of the YSZ electrolyte decreased from 4.27×10-6 cm4·gf-1·s-1 to 2.75×10-6 cm4·gf-1·s-1. However, there was no obvious increase in the open circuit voltage (OCV) of the treated cell, which indicated that the gas-tightness of the plasma-sprayed electrolyte should be further improved by optimizing the suction filtration conditions.
Multi-Contaminant Getter for Trace Airborne Contaminant Capture in Elevated Temperature Electrochemical Systems
Authors: Belko Seraphim , Dubey Pawan , Lee Kevin X , Hong Junsung , Reisert Michael , Hu Boxun , Singh Prabhakar
Published: May 2023

Electrode poisoning in high temperature electrochemical systems from trace levels of airborne contaminants remains a critical issue, contributing to long-term irreversible performance degradation. The intrinsic and extrinsic presence of gas phase Cr, Si, B, and SOx, species in air have been reported to form detrimental secondary compounds and microstructural changes at the electrode/electrolyte interface, consuming electrochemically active sites. Herein, a novel contaminant capture method is reported that uses low-cost getter materials based on alkaline-earth metals. The getters, in benchtop transpiration tests, demonstrated the desired ability to form thermodynamically stable reaction products and reducing the gaseous contaminant partial pressures by several orders of magnitude. Consumption of the contaminants in the getter preserves the performance of solid oxide cells. The presented results have demonstrated the feasibility of the use of getter materials under operating conditions typical to elevated-temperature electrochemical systems.
Pt-Doped Lanthanum Ferrites as Versatile Electrode Material for Solid Oxide Cells
Authors: Duranti Leonardo , Panunzi Anna Paola , Draz Umer , D'Ottavi Cadia , Licoccia Silvia , Di Bartolomeo Elisabetta
Published: May 2023

The tailoring of multi-tasking perovskite oxide-based electrodes for solid oxide cells has shown growing interest. The development of flexible structures represents a crucial step towards the design of symmetric and possibly SOFC/SOEC reversible systems. In this work, low (0.5 mol%) B-site Pt-doping in a lanthanum strontium ferrite is presented as a successful approach to enhance the parent perovskite properties as both SOC air and fuel electrode. Structural, morphological and electrochemical characterizations of La0.6Sr0.4Fe0.995Pt0.005O3-δ (LSFPt005) are provided and compared to the undoped compound. LSFPt005-symmetric devices are tested as CO-SOFCs and CO2-SOECs at 850 °C, respectively, obtaining a maximum power density of 301 mW/cm2 and a current density of 0.82 A/cm2 at 1.5 V. Insights of cell operating mechanisms are provided through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.
Understanding Temperature Stability of Surface Cation Dopants on LSCF Electrodes
Authors: Coppieters 't Wallant Sophie , Grajkowski Filip , Liu Bill , Marina Olga A , Seymour Lorraine , Yildiz Bilge
Published: May 2023

State-of-the-art solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) oxygen electrode materials such as La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-δ (LSCF) continue to be plagued by degradation primarily through strontium (Sr) segregation to the electrode surface and subsequent passivating poisoning reactions with chromium- and sulfur-containing species. Surface infiltration of more oxidizable cations is of interest for LSCF electrodes in order to reduce the electrostatic driver of Sr segregation and due its reported success in reducing Sr segregation and electrochemical degradation on LSC electrodes. In this work, we investigate the thermal stability of Hf, Nd, and Pr infiltrated cations at porous LSCF electrode surfaces. These select cations are of interest as surface infiltrates due to their more oxidizable nature. We demonstrate that infiltrated Hf, Nd, and Pr cations are not thermally stable at the LSCF electrode surface at standard SOFC operating temperatures, diffusing substantially away from the surface above 800°C.
Techno-Economic Analysis of Reversible and Paired Solid Oxide Cell Systems for Hydrogen Production
Authors: Noring Alexander , Buchheit Kyle L. , Iyengar Arun , Hackett Gregory A.
Published: May 2023

The use of green hydrogen to decarbonize the U.S. economy has been steadily gaining commercial interest as the cost and availability of renewable electricity decreases. At present, technologies can only take advantage of low electricity prices at low capacity factor, due to its intermittent availability, negatively impacting the economics. Reversible solid-oxide cell (r-SOC) based energy conversion systems can potentially solve this problem by producing power when electricity prices are high and hydrogen when they are low. However, the long-term operation of r-SOC systems has not been fully investigated compared to paired SOFC and SOEC units. This paper presents techno-economic results for two SOC-based hydrogen and power co-generation concepts. These technologies primarily generate hydrogen through solid oxide electrolysis but have the capacity to switch to power if signaled by the market. This operational flexibility provides a significant benefit to an electric grid with a growing share of variable renewable energy generation.
Formation of Highly-Activated N-Type Shallow Junction in Germanium Using Nanosecond Laser Annealing and Fluorine Co-Doping
Authors: Liu Jinbiao , Xu Jing , Cui Hengwei , Sun Xianglie , Mao Shujuan , Miao Yuanhao , Yu Jiahan , Han Jianghao , Kong ZhenZhen , Yang Tao , Li Junfeng , Luo Jun
Published: May 2023

By employing a 355-nm nanosecond (ns) ultraviolet (UV) laser annealing, the impact of fluorine (F) co-doping on the formation of a highly activated N-type shallow junction in germanium (Ge) is investigated. Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) depth profiling of phosphorus (P) demonstrated that an ultra high P concentration of 9 × 1020 cm−3 at a shallow junction of 55 nm with less dopant diffusion can be obtained using ns laser annealing. F co-doping was confirmed to be an efficient way to improve the activation of the P dopants, but show less influence on the redistribution of P dopants within the NLA melted region. However, the activation level of the shallow junction could be increased to approximately 1 × 1020 cm−3 in the presence of F at an optimized concentration.
Characterization of a robust mouse model of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Matsiukevich Dzmitry , Kovacs Attila , Li Tiandao , Kokkonen-Simon Kristen , Matkovich Scot J. , Oladipupo Sunday S. , Ornitz David M.
Published: May 2023

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is an emerging epidemic affecting up to half of patients with heart failure. Here we used a chronic angiotensin II/phenylephrine (ANG II/PE) infusion model and instituted an updated algorithm for HFpEF assessment. Given the simplicity in generating this model, it may become a useful tool for investigating pathogenic mechanisms, identification of diagnostic markers, and for drug discovery aimed at both prevention and treatment of HFpEF.
Long-term circadian disruption shortens life span and dampens blood pressure diurnal rhythms in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Ramsey Anne M. , Stowie Adam , Hill Atlantis , Ellis Ivory , Rhodes Megan K. , Pollock David M. , Davidson Alec J.
Published: May 2023

This stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rat model significantly delayed stroke onset with the timed food restriction intervention. Blood pressure recordings in this same model were continuous through the 3 mo and showed dampened systolic rhythms after each shift in the lighting schedule.
Epidemiological and Genetic Analysis of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus O/ME-SA/Ind-2001 in China between 2017 and 2021
Authors: Zhang Xiangle , Ma Weimin , Yang Fan , Yang Yamin , Lv Lv , Wu Jinyan , Liu Baohong , Shen Chaochao , Liu Yongjie , Zhu Zixiang , Shang Youjun , Guo Jianhong , Liu Xiangtao , Zheng Haixue , He Jijun
Published: May 2023

The O/ME-SA/Ind-2001 lineage of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) was introduced into China in 2017, which subsequently caused 19 outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and emerged in 8 provinces in China between 2017 and 2021. It is the first time for WOAH/national reference laboratory for FMD (LVRI) to comprehensively summarize these 19 outbreaks of O/ME-SA/Ind-2001 for consecutive 5 years. Our study selected and conducted whole viral genome sequencing for 9 representative isolates and the VP1 sequences of the FMDV-positive samples collected between 2017 and 2021. Analyses of these gene sequences showed that all the field strains belonged to O/ME-SA/Ind-2001e. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that these viruses were closely related to those circulating in neighboring countries, and there were at least 3 different FMD viral clades (named cluster 1, cluster 2, and cluster 3) circulating during this period. Also, a gradually decreasing nucleotide identity was observed in newly emerging viruses year by year compared with the first isolate identified in 2017. These results suggest extensive movements and constant and rapid evolvement of the O/ME-SA/Ind-2001e sublineage. Besides, the neutralizing antigenic sites in the structural proteins for these O/ME-SA/Ind-2001e viruses were analyzed to predict the vaccine matching between these strains and the commercial vaccine strain O/BY/CHA/2010. The results showed that the VP1 epitope 135–144, highly associated with neutralizing antibody induction, was variable among these strains. The mutations in this region reflected a potential risk of challenging the current vaccine protection. Therefore, there is an urgent need to reinforce the importance of improved FMD surveillance and monitor the evolution of O/ME-SA/Ind-2001e, which will provide essential information for the FMD control program in China and Asia.
The Detection of Fosfomycin-Modifying Enzymes (fos) in Uropathogenic Enterobacterale, Azerbaijan, Iran
Authors: Lalezadeh Aidin , Ghotaslou Pardis , Ghotaslou Reza
Published: May 2023

Enterobacteriaceae is the most common agent of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Multidrug resistant (MDR) and XDR (extensively drug-resistant) Enterobacteriaceae in UTIs have increased in the world. The present study aimed to study the fosfomycin resistance frequency and the fosfomycin resistance genes among Enterobacteriaceae isolated from UTIs. The urine was collected and cultured in the standard protocol. To determine the susceptibility testing to fosfomycin in 211 isolates, agar dilution and disk agar diffusion methods were used. MDR was nonsusceptibility to at least one agent in three or more antimicrobial categories. The fosfomycin resistance genes were also evaluated by PCR. The frequency of resistance to fosfomycin was in 14 (6.6%) and 15 (7.1%) isolates by the disk agar diffusion and MIC assays, respectively. However, the MIC50 and MIC90 existed at 8 μg/mL and 16 μg/mL, respectively. The MDR was found in 80%. The frequencies of fosfomycin resistance genes were 5 (33.3%), 3 (20%), 2 (13.3%), 1 (6.6%), and 1 (6.6%) for fosC, fosX, fosA3, fosA, and fosB2, respectively. The fosB and fosC2 were not found. A low resistance rate to fosfomycin is observed. Fosfomycin is still one of the most effective and valuable alternative antibiotics against MDR Enterobacteriaceae isolated from UTIs in our region.
In Silico Method for the Screening of Phytochemicals against Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus
Authors: Tabassum Riaz , Kousar Sumaira , Mustafa Ghulam , Jamil Amer , Attique Syed Awais
Published: May 2023

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has evolved resistance even against the last resort β‐lactam antibiotics. This is because of the acquisition of an additional penicillin‐binding protein 2a (PBP2a) which is a resistance determinant in MRSA. Currently, available PBP2a inhibitors are ineffective against life‐threatening and fatal infections caused by microorganisms. Therefore, there is an urgent need to screen natural compounds that could overpass the resistance issue alone or in combination with antibacterial drugs. We studied the interactions of different phytochemicals with PBP2a so that crosslinking of peptidoglycans could be inhibited. In structure‐based drug designing, in silico approach plays a key role in determining phytochemical interactions with PBP2a. In this study, a total of 284 antimicrobial phytochemicals were screened using the molecular docking approach. The binding affinity of methicillin, ‐11.241 kcal/mol, was used as the threshold value. The phytochemicals having binding affinities with PBP2a stronger than methicillin were identified, and the drug‐likeness properties and toxicities of the screened phytochemicals were calculated. Out of the multiple phytochemicals screened, nine were found as good inhibitors to be PBP2a, among which cyanidin, tetrandrine, cyclomorusin, lipomycin, and morusin showed strong binding potential with the receptor protein. These best‐selected phytochemicals were also docked to the allosteric site of PBP2a, and most of the compounds revealed strong interactions with the allosteric site. These compounds were safe to be used as drugs because they did not show any toxicity and had good bioactivity scores. Cyanidin had the highest binding affinity (S‐score of ‐16.061 kcal/mol) with PBP2a and with high gastrointestinal (GI) absorption. Our findings suggest that cyanidin can be used as a drug against MRSA infection either in purified form or that its structure can lead to the development of more potent anti‐MRSA medicines. However, experimental studies are required to evaluate the inhibitory potential of these phytochemicals against MRSA.
Current Practice in Occupational Therapy for COVID-19 and Post-COVID-19 Conditions
Authors: von Zweck C. , Naidoo D. , Govender P. , Ledgerd R.
Published: May 2023

The onset of the pandemic highlighted the need for a review of rehabilitation practices to ensure coordinated, effective, and efficient services for people affected by COVID-19. This paper reports on a global survey highlighting the delivery of occupational therapy services to people with COVID-19/post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) and makes recommendations to facilitate quality service delivery for this population. An online cross-sectional descriptive survey was developed and distributed to the global occupational therapy community via member organisations and communication channels of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists to collect information for this study. The survey obtained qualitative and quantitative data from respondents who were occupational therapists or occupational therapy assistants regarding (i) demographic characteristics, (ii) work experience with persons with COVID-19 and PCC, (iii) modes of working, (iv) education and training, (iv) occupational therapy intervention provided to persons with COVID-19 and PCC, and (v) the perceived quality of the occupational therapy services provided. Findings indicate that respondents provided a range of occupational therapy interventions for people affected by COVID-19/PCC aligned with evidence-based practice guidelines. While respondents identified a strong role for occupational therapy and generally rated their services as effective, issues related to the accessibility of their services impacted quality and user satisfaction. The study highlighted the need to advocate for access to occupational therapy to facilitate engagement in desired and needed occupations for COVID-19 survivors. Other recommendations emerging from the findings include the need to develop, disseminate, and use research evidence for guiding services for people with COVID-19/PCC, create quality service standards, and ensure the availability of necessary resources and supports such as referral pathways and screening criteria, availability of staff, training, personal protective equipment, and assistive devices and technology.
E-Selectin/AAV Gene Therapy Promotes Myogenesis and Skeletal Muscle Recovery in a Mouse Hindlimb Ischemia Model
Authors: Ribieras Antoine J. , Ortiz Yulexi Y. , Li Yan , Le Nga T. , Huerta Carlos T. , Voza Francesca A. , Shao Hongwei , Vazquez-Padron Roberto I. , Liu Zhao-Jun , Velazquez Omaida C.
Published: May 2023

The response to ischemia in peripheral artery disease (PAD) depends on compensatory neovascularization and coordination of tissue regeneration. Identifying novel mechanisms regulating these processes is critical to the development of nonsurgical treatments for PAD. E-selectin is an adhesion molecule that mediates cell recruitment during neovascularization. Therapeutic priming of ischemic limb tissues with intramuscular E-selectin gene therapy promotes angiogenesis and reduces tissue loss in a murine hindlimb gangrene model. In this study, we evaluated the effects of E-selectin gene therapy on skeletal muscle recovery, specifically focusing on exercise performance and myofiber regeneration. C57BL/6J mice were treated with intramuscular E-selectin/adeno-associated virus serotype 2/2 gene therapy (E-sel/AAV) or LacZ/AAV2/2 (LacZ/AAV) as control and then subjected to femoral artery coagulation. Recovery of hindlimb perfusion was assessed by laser Doppler perfusion imaging and muscle function by treadmill exhaustion and grip strength testing. After three postoperative weeks, hindlimb muscle was harvested for immunofluorescence analysis. At all postoperative time points, mice treated with E-sel/AAV had improved hindlimb perfusion and exercise capacity. E-sel/AAV gene therapy also increased the coexpression of MyoD and Ki-67 in skeletal muscle progenitors and the proportion of Myh7+ myofibers. Altogether, our findings demonstrate that in addition to improving reperfusion, intramuscular E-sel/AAV gene therapy enhances the regeneration of ischemic skeletal muscle with a corresponding benefit on exercise performance. These results suggest a potential role for E-sel/AAV gene therapy as a nonsurgical adjunct in patients with life-limiting PAD.
Multidimensional Analysis of Precursor Information of Rockburst during Loading and Unloading of Deep Diorite
Authors: Liu Jian , Zhou Zonghong
Published: May 2023

At present, rockburst disasters cannot be predicted accurately, and the prevention and control of deep underground engineering disasters are significantly challenging. To explore the evolution law of precursory information of rockburst instability, the rockburst test of diorite was conducted with high confining pressure and different unloading rates (0.1 MPa/s, 0.3 MPa/s, 0.5 MPa/s, 0.7 MPa/s, and 0.9 MPa/s). Multidimensional analysis is carried out by evaluating deformation features, fast Fourier transform (FFT), energy entropy, singular spectrum entropy, and power spectrum entropy. The results show that Poisson’s ratio is hook-shaped before rockburst, the elastic modulus is in the shape of a step, ringing count and energy surge after a quiet period, three-dimensional law of

0.98
 

σ

c

~

σ

c

stress location space shows a large red ball distribution along the shear plane,

b

value fluctuates in the low-value range, and low-frequency high amplitude and high-frequency low amplitude fluctuate in a large range after 300 s, with frequent abnormal fluctuations of the energy spectrum entropy, the singular spectrum entropy, and the power spectrum entropy curve. The above research results can be considered the evolution law of rockburst precursor information, which enriches the theoretical method of explosion disaster prediction.
Two‐Layer Location‐Routing Problem Based on Heuristic Hybrid Algorithm
Authors: Ma Yinpei , Geng Liyan , Zhu Meihong
Published: May 2023

Location‐routing problem (LRP) thoroughly considers location allocation problem (LAP) and vehicle routing problem (VRP) which has been an integral part applied in modern logistics. A number of researchers at home and aboard have put forward their views by establishing fine models. On the basis of studying the previous research results by classification, summary, and comparative analysis, this study hence proposes a new solution‐fuzzy clustering model and algorithm to resolve two‐layer location‐routing problem based on a heuristic hybrid algorithm: Designing a hybrid genetic and simulated annealing algorithm (GASA) to optimize the initial value of the fuzzy C‐means clustering algorithm (FCM); considering the roving visit characteristics of vehicles to design the path by employing a special VRP problem—the multiple traveling salesman problem (MTSP). Theoretical analysis and experimental results show that the algorithm used in this study has the advantages of fast convergence speed and less iterations, which significantly improve the quality of the initial solution of FCM in LAP, shorten the vehicle patrol cycle in VRP to a great extent, improve the vehicle utilization, and save the vehicle patrol costs. A specific example is programmed by MATLAB to verify the feasibility of this method.
Equibiaxial Planar Tension Test Method and the Simulation Analysis for Hyperelastic EAP Membrane
Authors: Luo Huaan , Zhu Yinlong , Zhao Haifeng , Ma Luqiang , Zhang Jingjing
Published: May 2023

The equibiaxial planar tension test is an important method for determining the mechanical properties of hyperplastic membranes, and it is also critical to designing an effective equibiaxial tension test rig to meet experimental accuracy requirements. However, any analysis addressing the accuracy of this test is not reported in the literature. In this paper, an equibiaxial planar tension apparatus is proposed for conducting single-corner-point tension tests on hyperelastic electroactive polymer (EAP) membranes. The experimental data were compared with those obtained from two-corner-point-fixed tension tests and fitted with nonlinear material models, and the model’s parameters were also evaluated. Finally, the widely-used finite element software ABAQUS was employed to simulate equibiaxial planar tension methods and investigate the impact of clamping mode and point number on test accuracy as well as the uniformity of overall deformation. The test results indicate that the stress-strain curves for the two tensions remain consistent across small stretch ratios. However, as the stretch ratio increases (about

λ
>
2.25

) in two-corner-point-fixed tension, stress shielding may lead to a degradation of strain uniformity and result in greater stresses than single-corner-point tension. Additionally, both the three-parameter Yeoh model and the four-parameter Ogden model can provide an accurate description of the EAP membrane material. The simulation results indicate that the axial strain variation amplitudes remain below 5% within a region spanning approximately 80% of the specimen’s overall length from its center to edge and even below 1% within a region spanning 85% in the single-corner-point tension; stress inaccuracies increase with stretch ratio, while the calculated error is about 2.1% when

λ
=
4

in the single-corner-point tension test, which has the smallest stress error among the tests; when the number of tension points is increased, the overall deformation becomes more sufficient, and the test accuracy improves as well. The conclusions drawn from this paper will be beneficial in designing equibiaxial planar tension test rigs and analyzing their accuracy and uniformity of deformation.
Ferroptosis-Related lncRNAs Act as Novel Prognostic Biomarkers in the Gastric Adenocarcinoma Microenvironment, Immunotherapy, and Chemotherapy
Authors: Zheng Yushi , Wu Shanshan , Huang Xueshan , Luo Lianxiang
Published: May 2023

Ferroptosis, a form of programmed cell death akin to necrosis, is managed by iron and is distinguished by lipid peroxidation. Gastric cancer is a highly aggressive form of cancer, responsible for the third highest number of cancer-related deaths globally. Despite this, the potential of ferroptosis to predict the occurrence of this cancer is yet to be determined. In this research, a comprehensive examination was conducted to explore the link between long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and ferroptosis, in order to uncover an lncRNA signature that can predict drug susceptibility and tumor mutational burden (TMB) in gastric adenocarcinoma. We conducted an in-depth analysis of the GC immune microenvironment and immunotherapy, with a particular focus on ferroptosis-related lncRNA prognostic biomarkers, and further explored the correlation between these factors and prognosis, immune infiltration, single nucleotide variation (SNV), and drug sensitivity for gastric adenocarcinoma patients. Through our investigations, we have discovered five lncRNA signatures related to ferroptosis that can accurately forecast the prognosis of gastric adenocarcinoma patients and also regulate the proliferation, migration, and occurrence of ferroptosis in gastric adenocarcinoma cells. In conclusion, this lncRNA signature associated with ferroptosis may be employed as a prognostic indicator for gastric adenocarcinoma, thus presenting a potential solution.
Periostin+ Stromal Cells Guide Lymphovascular Invasion by Cancer Cells
Authors: Null Jamie L. , Kim Dae Joong , McCann James V. , Pramoonjago Patcharin , Fox Jay W. , Zeng Jianhao , Kumar Pankaj , Edatt Lincy , Pecot Chad V. , Dudley Andrew C.
Published: May 2023

Cancer cell dissemination to sentinel lymph nodes is associated with poor patient outcomes, particularly in breast cancer. The process by which cancer cells egress from the primary tumor upon interfacing with the lymphatic vasculature is complex and driven by dynamic interactions between cancer cells and stromal cells, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). The matricellular protein periostin can distinguish CAF subtypes in breast cancer and is associated with increased desmoplasia and disease recurrence in patients. However, as periostin is secreted, periostin-expressing CAFs are difficult to characterize in situ, limiting our understanding of their specific contribution to cancer progression. Here, we used in vivo genetic labeling and ablation to lineage trace periostin+ cells and characterize their functions during tumor growth and metastasis. Periostin-expressing CAFs were spatially found at periductal and perivascular margins, were enriched at lymphatic vessel peripheries, and were differentially activated by highly metastatic cancer cells versus poorly metastatic counterparts. Surprisingly, genetically depleting periostin+ CAFs slightly accelerated primary tumor growth but impaired intratumoral collagen organization and inhibited lymphatic, but not lung, metastases. Periostin ablation in CAFs impaired their ability to deposit aligned collagen matrices and inhibited cancer cell invasion through collagen and across lymphatic endothelial cell monolayers. Thus, highly metastatic cancer cells mobilize periostin-expressing CAFs in the primary tumor site that promote collagen remodeling and collective cell invasion within lymphatic vessels and ultimately to sentinel lymph nodes.

Significance:

Highly metastatic breast cancer cells activate a population of periostin-expressing CAFs that remodel the extracellular matrix to promote escape of cancer cells into lymphatic vessels and drive colonization of proximal lymph nodes.
Comparative analysis of recent metaheuristic algorithms for maximum power point tracking of solar photovoltaic systems under partial shading conditions
Authors: Ravi Suraj , Premkumar Manoharan , Abualigah Laith
Published: May 2023

The photovoltaic (PV) system comprises one or more solar panels, a converter/inverter, controllers, and other mechanical and electrical elements that utilize the generated electrical energy by the PV modules. The PV systems are ranged from small roofs or transportable units to massive electric utility plants. The maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controller has been used in PV systems to get the maximum power available. In addition, the MPPT controller is much essential for PV systems to protect the battery devices or direct loads from the power fluctuations received from solar PV panels. There are several MPPT control mechanisms available right now. The most common and commonly applied approaches under constant irradiance are perturb and observe (P&O) and incremental conductance (INC). But such methods show variations in the maximum power point. In this sense, this paper analyses and utilizes two recent metaheuristic algorithms called artificial rabbit optimization (ARO) and the most valuable player (MVP) algorithm for MPPT applications. The performance comparisons are made with the most preferred traditional algorithms, such as P&O and INC. Based on the result obtained, this study recommends that ARO perform better in standard testing conditions than all the other algorithms, but in partially shaded conditions, the MVP algorithm performs better in terms of efficiency and tracking speed.
Introdução - Dossiê História das Ciências
Authors: Motoyama Shozo
Published: May 2023

(1º parágrafo do texto)

Nada mais constrangedor ao cientista seja da área natural ou da humana, ouvir comentários desairosos às suas atividades. E estes começam a tornar-se frequentes nos dias de hoje. A balança oscila a favor ou contra, mas parece prender mais para lá do que para cá. Na raíz do desencontro das opiniões encontra-se a perplexidade do homem contemporâneo ante um mundo em rápida transformação. Talvez nunca, em tempo algum, o ritmo da História esteve tão acelerado. As verdades de ontem já não as são de hoje e muito me-nos as de amanhã. O supra-sumo do engenho tecnológico de uma década está irremediavelmente obsoleto na seguinte. Sob um panorama tão móvel, o homem comum, o leigo não especializado, sente-se desorientado e mesmo amedrontado. Mas ele sente, embora não compreenda, a contribuição da Ciência para esse processo. Daí as suas dúvidas e hesitações. Ou então, o seu entusiasmo e certezas.
O desenvolvimento histórico da Teoria da Relatividade
Authors: Yamamoto Yashiro
Published: May 2023

(1º parágrafo do artigo)
Devida à escassez das fontes de energia natural, mormente o petróleo, hoje, como nunca acontecera, a atenção dos povos desenvolvidos voltou-se violentamente para o aproveitamento da energia nuclear que pode ser transformada em energia elétrica (o esforço brasileiro nesse sentido pode ser traduzido pela construção do reator nuclear em Angra dos Reis). Mas, até o começo deste século a energia nuclear não era conhecida. Foi a teoria da relatividade apresentada por Einstein em 1905 que mostrou a conversibilidade da matéria em energia e vice-versa (na teoria da relatividade existe a dualidade massa-energia). Fato curioso é que essa teoria despertou muito interesse não só no meio científico e intelectual como também entre os leigos. Sobre ela e seu criador Einstein (talvez o cientista mais famoso de nosso século) foram escritos inúmeros artigos de divulgação. Mas, apesar de nenhuma teoria física ter dado tanta notoriedade e popularidade a um homem, no início ela foi recebida com frieza, desinteresse e descrédito. É nosso propósito procurar alinhar em poucas palavras o retrospecto histórico dessa teoria.
Nota sobre a historiografia contemporânea
Authors: Mota Carlos Guilherme
Published: May 2023

(1º parágrafo do artigo)

As anotações que se seguem tem por objetivo levantar alguns pontos de vista sobre os estudos históricos
Aggretriever: A Simple Approach to Aggregate Textual Representations for Robust Dense Passage Retrieval
Authors: Lin Sheng-Chieh , Li Minghan , Lin Jimmy
Published: May 2023

Pre-trained language models have been successful in many knowledge-intensive NLP tasks. However, recent work has shown that models such as BERT are not “structurally ready” to aggregate textual information into a [CLS] vector for dense passage retrieval (DPR). This “lack of readiness” results from the gap between language model pre-training and DPR fine-tuning. Previous solutions call for computationally expensive techniques such as hard negative mining, cross-encoder distillation, and further pre-training to learn a robust DPR model. In this work, we instead propose to fully exploit knowledge in a pre-trained language model for DPR by aggregating the contextualized token embeddings into a dense vector, which we call agg★. By concatenating vectors from the [CLS] token and agg★, our Aggretriever model substantially improves the effectiveness of dense retrieval models on both in-domain and zero-shot evaluations without introducing substantial training overhead. Code is available at https://github.com/castorini/dhr.