bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The extent to which soil hydraulics can explain ecohydrological separation
Authors: Finkenbiner Catherine E. , Good Stephen P. , Renée Brooks J. , Allen Scott T. , Sasidharan Salini
Published: October 2022

Field measurements of hydrologic tracers indicate varying magnitudes of geochemical separation between subsurface pore waters. The potential for conventional soil physics alone to explain isotopic differences between preferential flow and tightly-bound water remains unclear. Here, we explore physical drivers of isotopic separations using 650 different model configurations of soil, climate, and mobile/immobile soil-water domain characteristics, without confounding fractionation or plant uptake effects. We find simulations with coarser soils and less precipitation led to reduced separation between pore spaces and drainage. Amplified separations are found with larger immobile domains and, to a lesser extent, higher mobile-immobile transfer rates. Nonetheless, isotopic separations remained small (<4‰ for δ2H) across simulations, indicating that contrasting transport dynamics generate limited geochemical differences. Therefore, conventional soil physics alone are unlikely to explain large ecohydrological separations observed elsewhere, and further efforts aimed at reducing methodological artifacts, refining understanding of fractionation processes, and investigating new physiochemical mechanisms are needed.
De novo analysis of bulk RNA-seq data at spatially resolved single-cell resolution
Authors: Liao Jie , Qian Jingyang , Fang Yin , Chen Zhuo , Zhuang Xiang , Zhang Ningyu , Shao Xin , Hu Yining , Yang Penghui , Cheng Junyun , Hu Yang , Yu Lingqi , Yang Haihong , Zhang Jinlu , Lu Xiaoyan , Shao Li , Wu Dan , Gao Yue , Chen Huajun , Fan Xiaohui
Published: October 2022

Uncovering the tissue molecular architecture at single-cell resolution could help better understand organisms’ biological and pathological processes. However, bulk RNA-seq can only measure gene expression in cell mixtures, without revealing the transcriptional heterogeneity and spatial patterns of single cells. Herein, we introduce Bulk2Space (https://github.com/ZJUFanLab/bulk2space), a deep learning framework-based spatial deconvolution algorithm that can simultaneously disclose the spatial and cellular heterogeneity of bulk RNA-seq data using existing single-cell and spatial transcriptomics references. The use of bulk transcriptomics to validate Bulk2Space unveils, in particular, the spatial variance of immune cells in different tumor regions, the molecular and spatial heterogeneity of tissues during inflammation-induced tumorigenesis, and spatial patterns of novel genes in different cell types. Moreover, Bulk2Space is utilized to perform spatial deconvolution analysis on bulk transcriptome data from two different mouse brain regions derived from our in-house developed sequencing approach termed Spatial-seq. We have not only reconstructed the hierarchical structure of the mouse isocortex but also further annotated cell types that were not identified by original methods in the mouse hypothalamus.
Photodimerization induced hierarchical and asymmetric iontronic micropatterns
Authors: Wang Zehong , Li Tiantian , Chen Yixiang , Li Jin , Ma Xiaodong , Yin Jie , Jiang Xuesong
Published: October 2022

Micropatterning various ion-based modality materials offers compelling advantages for functionality enhancement in iontronic pressure sensing, piezoionic mechanoreception, and skin-interfaced electrode adhesion. However, most existing patterning techniques for iontronic materials suffer from low flexibility and limited modulation capability. Herein, we propose a facile and robust method to fabricate hierarchical and asymmetrical iontronic micropatterns (denoted as HAIMs) through programmed regulation of the internal stress distribution and the local ionic migration among an iontronic host. The resultant HAIMs with arbitrarily regulated morphologies and region-dependent ionic electrical performance can be readily made via localized photodimerization of an anthracene-functionalized ionic liquid copolymer (denoted as An-PIL) and subsequent vapor oxidative polymerization of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT). Based on the piezoionic effect within the resultant distinct doped PEDOT, HAIMs can serve as a scalable iontronic potential generator. Successful syntheses of these fascinating micropatterns may accelerate the development of patterned iontronic materials in a flexible, programmable, and functionally adaptive form.
Development of long lifespan high-energy aqueous organic||iodine rechargeable batteries
Authors: Zhang Zishuai , Zhu Yilong , Yu Miao , Jiao Yan , Huang Yan
Published: October 2022

Rechargeable aqueous metal||I2electrochemical energy storage systems are a cost-effective alternative to conventional transition-metal-based batteries for grid energy storage. However, the growth of unfavorable metallic deposition and the irreversible formation of electrochemically inactive by-products at the negative electrode during cycling hinder their development. To circumvent these drawbacks, herein we propose 3,4,9,10-perylenetetracarboxylic diimide (PTCDI) as negative electrode active material and a saturated mixed KCl/I2aqueous electrolyte solution. The use of these components allows for exploiting two sequential reversible electrochemical reactions in a single cell. Indeed, when they are tested in combination with an active carbon-enveloped I2electrode in a glass cell configuration, we report an initial specific discharge capacity of 900 mAh g−1(electrode mass of iodine only) and an average cell discharge voltage of 1.25 V at 40 A g−1and 25$$\pm$$±1 °C. Finally, we also report the assembly and testing of a PTCDI|KCl-I2|carbon paper multilayer pouch cell prototype with a discharge capacity retention of about 70% after 900 cycles at 80 mA and 25$$\pm$$±1 °C.
Topological polarization singular lasing with highly efficient radiation channel
Authors: Sang Yun-Gang , Lu Jing-Yu , Ouyang Yun-Hao , Luan Hong-Yi , Wu Jia-Hao , Li Jia-Yong , Ma Ren-Min
Published: October 2022

Bound states in the continuum (BICs) in photonic crystals describe the originally leaky Bloch modes that can become bounded when their radiation fields carry topological polarization singularities. However, topological polarization singularities do not carry energy to far field, which limits radiation efficiencies of BICs for light emitting applications. Here, we demonstrate a topological polarization singular laser which has a topological polarization singular channel in the second Brillouin zone and a paired linearly polarized radiation channel in the first Brillouin zone. The presence of the singular channel enables the lasing mode with a higher quality factor than other modes for single mode lasing. In the meanwhile, the presence of the radiation channel secures the lasing mode with high radiation efficiency. The demonstrated topological polarization singular laser operates at room temperature with an external quantum efficiency exceeding 24%. Our work presents a new paradigm in eigenmode engineering for mode selection, exotic field manipulation and lasing.
Recent progress in solution-processed flexible organic photovoltaics
Authors: Sun Lulu , Fukuda Kenjiro , Someya Takao
Published: October 2022

The certified power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic photovoltaics (OPV) fabricated in laboratories has improved dramatically to over 19% owing to the rapid development of narrow-bandgap small-molecule acceptors and wide bandgap polymer donor materials. The next pivotal question is how to translate small-area laboratory devices into large-scale commercial applications. This requires the OPV to be solution-processed and flexible to satisfy the requirements of high-throughput and large-scale production such as roll-to-roll printing. This review summarizes and analyzes recent progress in solution-processed flexible OPV. After a detailed discussion from the perspective of the behavior of the narrow bandgap small-molecule acceptor and wide bandgap polymer donor active layer in solution-processed flexible devices, the existing challenges and future directions are discussed.
A comparison study of crevice corrosion on typical stainless steels under biofouling and artificial configurations
Authors: Zhang Zhan , Li Zongxin , Wu Fei , Xia Jiuyang , Huang Kang , Zhang Bowei , Wu Junsheng
Published: October 2022

In this work, the crevice corrosion behavior and biofouling coverage of 316L stainless steel (316L SS), 2205 duplex stainless steel (2205 DSS), and 2507 super duplex stainless steel (2507 SDSS) in natural seawater were investigated through long-term field exposure tests. The results revealed that both artificial crevice corrosion and biofouling-induced crevice corrosion occurred on the surface of three stainless steels. The corrosion rate was ranked as 316L SS » 2205 DSS＞2507 SDSS. The deepest area of the artificial corrosion pit was at the edge of the crevice, which was related to the IR drop and acidification of the localized solution. The highest biofouling coverage and the most severe biofouling-induced corrosion occurred on the surface of 316L SS. The attachment of large organisms to the metal surface formed a fouling barrier layer, further blocking the flow of material over the crevices, and the artificial crevice corrosion was accelerated. The initiation of barnacle-induced corrosion was due to the formation of a crevice between the barnacle and the substrate, resulting in the entry of seawater. The acidification of the solution caused by catalytic-occluded cells was responsible for the continuous development of barnacle-induced corrosion, which was similar to the propagation of the artificial crevice corrosion.
Sustainable and green polylactic acid-based membrane embedded with self-assembled positively charged f-MWCNTs/GO nanohybrids for the removal of nutrients from wastewater
Authors: Nassar Lobna , Wadi Vijay S. , Hegab Hanaa M. , Khalil Hiyam , Banat Fawzi , Naddeo Vincenzo , Hasan Shadi W.
Published: October 2022

In this study, the synthesis, and chemical-physical characterization of self-assembled positively charged multi-walled carbon nanotubes/graphene oxide (f-MWCNTs)/(GO)-nanohybrids into adsorptive PLA-based membranes were investigated. The application of the innovative PLA/f-MWCNTs/GO membrane was investigated for the removal of nutrients such as nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) from both synthetic and real wastewater by performing various characterization and performance tests. The positively charged nanohybrid was prepared by electrostatic self-assembly of positively charged f-MWCNTs and negatively charged GO. The amount of nanohybrid loading in the nanocomposite membranes varied from 0 to 6 wt%, and its effects on nutrient removal and water flux were investigated. It is demonstrated that with the addition of only 1.5 wt% f-MWCNT/GO nanohybrid into the PLA matrix, the water flux increased by 74% when compared to the unmodified membrane. Also, up to 90.1 ± 3.4% and 71.3 ± 3.1% removal rates of ammonium-nitrogen (NH4+-N) and phosphate (PO43−-P) ions were achieved using raw wastewater, respectively. The obtained results confirm the practical usability of the proposed innovative material for membrane fabrication in real wastewater treatment applications and can open doors to efficient and sustainable methods for nutrient removal.
Multiscale imaging on Saxifraga paniculata provides new insights into yttrium uptake by plants
Authors: Fehlauer Till , Collin Blanche , Angeletti Bernard , Negahi Mohammad Mustafa , Dentant Cédric , Chaurand Perrine , Lallemand Claire , Levard Clement , Rose Jérôme
Published: October 2022

Yttrium (Y) has gained importance in high tech applications and, together with the other rare earth elements (REEs), is also considered to be an emerging environmental pollutant. The alpine plant Saxifraga paniculata was previously shown to display high metal tolerance and an intriguing REE accumulation potential. In this study, we analysed soil grown commercial and wild specimens of Saxifraga paniculata to assess Y accumulation and shed light on the uptake pathway. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and synchrotron-based micro X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy was used to localise Y within the plant tissues and identify colocalized elements. Y was distributed similarly in commercial and wild specimens. Within the roots, Y was mostly located in the epidermis region. Translocation was low, but wild individuals accumulated significantly more Y than commercial ones. In plants of both origins, we observed consistent colocalization of Al, Fe, Y and Ce in all plant parts except for the hydathodes. This indicates a shared pathway during translocation and could explained by the formation of a stable organic complex with citrate, for example. Our study provides important insights into the uptake pathway of Y in S. paniculata, which can be generalised to other plants.
Structure of the human heterodimeric transporter 4F2hc-LAT2 in complex with Anticalin, an alternative binding protein for applications in single-particle cryo-EM
Authors: Jeckelmann Jean-Marc , Lemmin Thomas , Schlapschy Martin , Skerra Arne , Fotiadis Dimitrios
Published: October 2022

Cryo-EM structure determination of relatively small and flexible membrane proteins at high resolution is challenging. Increasing the size and structural features by binding of high affinity proteins to the biomolecular target allows for better particle alignment and may result in structural models of higher resolution and quality. Anticalins are alternative binding proteins to antibodies, which are based on the lipocalin scaffold and show potential for theranostic applications. The human heterodimeric amino acid transporter 4F2hc-LAT2 is a membrane protein complex that mediates transport of certain amino acids and derivatives thereof across the plasma membrane. Here, we present and discuss the cryo-EM structure of human 4F2hc-LAT2 in complex with the anticalin D11vs at 3.2 Å resolution. Relative high local map resolution (2.8–3.0 Å) in the LAT2 substrate binding site together with molecular dynamics simulations indicated the presence of fixed water molecules potentially involved in shaping and stabilizing this region. Finally, the presented work expands the application portfolio of anticalins and widens the toolset of binding proteins to promote high-resolution structure solution by single-particle cryo-EM.
Origin, structure and functional transition of sex pheromone components in a false widow spider
Authors: Fischer Andreas , Gries Regine , Alamsetti Santosh K. , Hung Emmanuel , Roman Torres Andrea C. , Fernando Yasasi , Meraj Sanam , Ren Weiwu , Britton Robert , Gries Gerhard
Published: October 2022

Female web-building spiders disseminate pheromone from their webs that attracts mate-seeking males and deposit contact pheromone on their webs that induces courtship by males upon arrival. The source of contact and mate attractant pheromone components, and the potential ability of females to adjust their web’s attractiveness, have remained elusive. Here, we report three new contact pheromone components produced by female false black widow spiders, Steatoda grossa: N-4-methylvaleroyl-O-butyroyl-L-serine, N-4-methylvaleroyl-O-isobutyroyl-L-serine and N-4-methylvaleroyl-O-hexanoyl-L-serine. The compounds originate from the posterior aggregate silk gland, induce courtship by males, and web pH-dependently hydrolyse at the carboxylic-ester bond, giving rise to three corresponding carboxylic acids that attract males. A carboxyl ester hydrolase (CEH) is present on webs and likely mediates the functional transition of contact sex pheromone components to the carboxylic acid mate attractant pheromone components. As CEH activity is pH-dependent, and female spiders can manipulate their silk’s pH, they might also actively adjust their webs’ attractiveness.
Tracking matricellular protein SPARC in extracellular vesicles as a non-destructive method to evaluate lipid-based antifibrotic treatments
Authors: Zivko Cristina , Fuhrmann Kathrin , Fuhrmann Gregor , Luciani Paola
Published: October 2022

Uncovering the complex cellular mechanisms underlying hepatic fibrogenesis could expedite the development of effective treatments and noninvasive diagnosis for liver fibrosis. The biochemical complexity of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their role in intercellular communication make them an attractive tool to look for biomarkers as potential alternative to liver biopsies. We developed a solid set of methods to isolate and characterize EVs from differently treated human hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line LX-2, and we investigated their biological effect onto naïve LX-2, proving that EVs do play an active role in fibrogenesis. We mined our proteomic data for EV-associated proteins whose expression correlated with HSC treatment, choosing the matricellular protein SPARC as proof-of-concept for the feasibility of fluorescence nanoparticle-tracking analysis to determine an EV-based HSCs’ fibrogenic phenotype. We thus used EVs to directly evaluate the efficacy of treatment with S80, a polyenylphosphatidylcholines-rich lipid, finding that S80 reduces the relative presence of SPARC-positive EVs. Here we correlated the cellular response to lipid-based antifibrotic treatment to the relative presence of a candidate protein marker associated with the released EVs. Along with providing insights into polyenylphosphatidylcholines treatments, our findings pave the way for precise and less invasive diagnostic analyses of hepatic fibrogenesis.
Contributions of distemper control and habitat expansion to the Amur leopard viability
Authors: Wang Dawei , Accatino Francesco , Smith James L. D. , Wang Tianming
Published: October 2022

The Amur leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis) is a critically endangered top predator that struggles on the brink of extinction due to threats such as canine distemper virus (CDV), habitat loss, and inbreeding depression. Here we develop a viability analysis metamodel that combines a traditional individual-based demographic model with an epidemiological model to assess the benefits of alternative population management actions in response to multiple distinct threats. Our results showed an extinction risk of 10.3%-99.9% if no management actions were taken over 100 years under different levels of inbreeding depression. Reducing the risk of CDV infection in Amur leopards through the low-coverage vaccination of leopards and the management of sympatric domestic dogs could effectively improve the survival probability of the leopard population, and with habitat expansion added to these management measures, the population expanded further. Our findings highlight that protecting the Amur leopard necessitates a multifaceted synergistic effort, and controlling multiple threats together may significantly escalate overall viability of a species, especially for small-isolated threatened population. More broadly, our modeling framework could offer critical perspectives and scientific support for conservation planning, as well as specific adaptive management actions for endangered species around the world.
Paraquat is an agonist of STIM1 and increases intracellular calcium levels
Authors: Yang Wenyu , Tian Rui , Zhu Yong , Huang Peijie , Ma Xinrun , Meng Xiaoxiao , Dai Wentao , Tao Yiming , Chen Daonan , Zhang Jiaxiang , Lu Jian , Xie Hui , Jian Xiangdong , Yang Zhengfeng , Wang Ruilan
Published: October 2022

Paraquat (PQ) is an efficient herbicide but leads to high mortality with no antidote in mammals. PQ produces reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) for pulmonary fibrosis in type II alveolar (AT II) cells. Intriguingly, strategies reducing ROS exhibit limited therapeutic effects, indicating other targets existing for PQ toxicity. Herein we report that PQ is also an agonist for STIM1 that increases intracellular calcium levels. Particularly, PQ promotes STIM1 puncta formation and association with TRPC1 or ORAI for extracellular calcium entry and thus intracellular calcium influx. Further studies reveal the importance of P584&Y586 residues in STIM1 for PQ association that facilitates STIM1 binding to TRPC1. Consequently, the STIM1-TRPC1 route facilitates PQ-induced EMT for pulmonary fibrosis as well as cell death. Our results demonstrate that PQ is an agonist of STIM1 that induces extracellular calcium entry, increases intracellular calcium levels, and thus promotes EMT in AT II cells.
South African Lagerstätte reveals middle Permian Gondwanan lakeshore ecosystem in exquisite detail
Authors: Prevec Rosemary , Nel André , Day Michael O. , Muir Robert A. , Matiwane Aviwe , Kirkaldy Abigail P. , Moyo Sydney , Staniczek Arnold , Cariglino Bárbara , Maseko Zolile , Kom Nokuthula , Rubidge Bruce S. , Garrouste Romain , Holland Alexandra , Barber-James Helen M.
Published: October 2022

Continental ecosystems of the middle Permian Period (273–259 million years ago) are poorly understood. In South Africa, the vertebrate fossil record is well documented for this time interval, but the plants and insects are virtually unknown, and are rare globally. This scarcity of data has hampered studies of the evolution and diversification of life, and has precluded detailed reconstructions and analyses of ecosystems of this critical period in Earth’s history. Here we introduce a new locality in the southern Karoo Basin that is producing exceptionally well-preserved and abundant fossils of novel freshwater and terrestrial insects, arachnids, and plants. Within a robust regional geochronological, geological and biostratigraphic context, this Konservat- and Konzentrat-Lagerstätte offers a unique opportunity for the study and reconstruction of a southern Gondwanan deltaic ecosystem that thrived 266–268 million years ago, and will serve as a high-resolution ecological baseline towards a better understanding of Permian extinction events.
Cortical gradient of a human functional similarity network captured by the geometry of cytoarchitectonic organization
Authors: Meng Yao , Yang Siqi , Xiao Jinming , Lu Yaxin , Li Jiao , Chen Huafu , Liao Wei
Published: October 2022

Mapping the functional topology from a multifaceted perspective and relating it to underlying cross-scale structural principles is crucial for understanding the structural-functional relationships of the cerebral cortex. Previous works have described a sensory-association gradient axis in terms of coupling relationships between structure and function, but largely based on single specific feature, and the mesoscopic underpinnings are rarely determined. Here we show a gradient pattern encoded in a functional similarity network based on data from Human Connectome Project and further link it to cytoarchitectonic organizing principles. The spatial distribution of the primary gradient follows an inferior-anterior to superior-posterior axis. The primary gradient demonstrates converging relationships with layer-specific microscopic gene expression and mesoscopic cortical layer thickness, and is captured by the geometric representation of a myelo- and cyto-architecture based laminar differentiation theorem, involving a dual origin theory. Together, these findings provide a gradient, which describes the functional topology, and more importantly, linking the macroscale functional landscape with mesoscale laminar differentiation principles.
Effect of dilute impurities on short graphene Josephson junctions
Authors: Pellegrino Francesco M. D. , Falci Giuseppe , Paladino Elisabetta
Published: October 2022

Despite the structural simplicity of graphene, its mechanical and electronic remarkable properties make this material a credible starting point for new technologies across a wide range of fields. The recent realizations of graphene-based hybrid systems, such as Josephson junctions, make graphene a promising a platform for new generations of devices for topological quantum computing and quantum sensing. To this aim, accurate control of the electronic properties of graphene Josephson junctions in the presence of disorder is essential. Here, we study the effect of a dilute homogeneous spatial distribution of non-magnetic impurities on the equilibrium supercurrent sustained by a ballistic graphene Josephson junction in the short junction limit. Within the Dirac-Bogoliubov-de Gennes approach and modeling impurities by the Anderson model we derive the supercurrent and its equilibrium power spectrum. We find a modification of the current-phase relation with a reduction of the skewness induced by disorder, and a nonmonotonic temperature dependence of the critical current. The potentialities of the supercurrent power spectrum for accurate spectroscopy of the hybridized Andreev bound states-impurities spectrum are highlighted. In the low temperature limit, the supercurrent zero frequency thermal noise directly probes the spectral function at the Fermi energy.
Reversal of anomalous Hall conductivity by perpendicular electric field in 2D WSe2/VSe2 heterostructure
Authors: Marfoua Brahim , Hong Jisang
Published: October 2022

Anomalous Hall conductivity (AHC) and valley polarization are attracting tremendous interest in spintronics and valleytronics technologies. Here, we investigate the possibility of the electric field induced switching of the AHC and magnetic proximity effect induced valley polarization in the two-dimensional (2D) WSe2/1T-VSe2 heterostructure. Due to the small total energy difference, two stackings could happen (C-I and C-II). The WSe2 layer has a valley polarization of -19 meV in the C-II stacking, and it is further increased up to -28 meV under electric fields. Also, we obtain an AHC of 75 (80) S/cm in the C-I (II) stacking. We find a sign change from positive AHC to negative value under the electric field in hole doping of the C-II stacking. We attribute this reversal of the AHC to the electric field dependent Berry curvature variation. Our finding suggests that the electric field induced AHC switching can be possible in the 2D heterostructure.
Extracellular matrix-inspired hydrogel of hyaluronan and gelatin crosslinked via a Link module with a transglutaminase reactive sequence
Authors: Okawa Masashi , Tanabe Aki , Ohta Seiichi , Nagatoishi Satoru , Tsumoto Kouhei , Ito Taichi
Published: October 2022

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a natural scaffold of cells in the body. It has a complex structure comprising various proteins, such as collagen and hyaladherins, and polysaccharides such as hyaluronan (HA). Here, inspired by the crosslinked ECM structure, we design a genetically engineered Link module—LinkCFQ—by fusing a microbial transglutaminase (MTG)-reactive tag to the Link module, an HA-binding domain of tumor necrosis factor-stimulated gene-6. Although the HA-specific binding property of the Link module is preserved, LinkCFQ demonstrates excellent MTG reactivity with various proteins. Furthermore, an ECM-inspired hydrogel is fabricated from an HA–gelatin mixture crosslinked via HA/Link module interaction and MTG-catalyzed isopeptide bond formation in LinkCFQ. Cell culture and mouse experiments confirm the hydrogel’s biocompatibility and degradability. Our findings provide insights into the design of biomaterials and proteins for tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, drug discovery and delivery, disease models, biofabrication, and medical devices.
The impact of faulting complexity and type on earthquake rupture dynamics
Authors: Zaccagnino Davide , Doglioni Carlo
Published: October 2022

The statistical properties of seismicity are known to be affected by several factors such as the rheological parameters of rocks. We analysed the earthquake double-couple as a function of the faulting type. Here we show that it impacts the moment tensors of earthquakes: thrust-faulting events are characterized by higher double-couple components with respect to strike-slip- and normal-faulting earthquakes. Our results are coherent with the stress dependence of the scaling exponent of the Gutenberg-Richter law, which is anticorrelated to the double-couple. We suggest that the structural and tectonic control of seismicity may have its origin in the complexity of the seismogenic source marked by the width of the cataclastic damage zone and by the slip of different fault planes during the same seismic event; the sharper and concentrated the slip as along faults, the higher the double-couple. This phenomenon may introduce bias in magnitude estimation, with possible impact on seismic forecasting.
Single-cell Raman-activated sorting and cultivation (scRACS-Culture) for assessing and mining in situ phosphate-solubilizing microbes from nature
Authors: Jing Xiaoyan , Gong Yanhai , Pan Huihui , Meng Yu , Ren Yishang , Diao Zhidian , Mu Runzhi , Xu Teng , Zhang Jia , Ji Yuetong , Li Yuandong , Wang Chen , Qu Lingyun , Cui Li , Ma Bo , Xu Jian
Published: October 2022

Due to the challenges in detecting in situ activity and cultivating the not-yet-cultured, functional assessment and mining of living microbes from nature has typically followed a ‘culture-first’ paradigm. Here, employing phosphate-solubilizing microbes (PSM) as model, we introduce a ‘screen-first’ strategy that is underpinned by a precisely one-cell-resolution, complete workflow of single-cell Raman-activated Sorting and Cultivation (scRACS-Culture). Directly from domestic sewage, individual cells were screened for in-situ organic-phosphate-solubilizing activity via D2O intake rate, sorted by the function via Raman-activated Gravity-driven Encapsulation (RAGE), and then cultivated from precisely one cell. By scRACS-Culture, pure cultures of strong organic PSM including Comamonas spp., Acinetobacter spp., Enterobacter spp. and Citrobacter spp., were derived, whose phosphate-solubilizing activities in situ are 90–200% higher than in pure culture, underscoring the importance of ‘screen-first’ strategy. Moreover, employing scRACS-Seq for post-RACS cells that remain uncultured, we discovered a previously unknown, low-abundance, strong organic-PSM of Cutibacterium spp. that employs secretary metallophosphoesterase (MPP), cell-wall-anchored 5′-nucleotidase (encoded by ushA) and periplasmic-membrane located PstSCAB-PhoU transporter system for efficient solubilization and scavenging of extracellular phosphate in sewage. Therefore, scRACS-Culture and scRACS-Seq provide an in situ function-based, ‘screen-first’ approach for assessing and mining microbes directly from the environment.
Analyzing bronchoalveolar fluid derived small extracellular vesicles using single-vesicle SERS for non-small cell lung cancer detection
Authors: Jonak Sumita T. , Liu Zirui , Liu Jun , Li Tieyi , D'Souza Brian V. , Schiaffino J. Alan , Oh Scott , Xie Ya-Hong
Published: October 2022

An emerging body of research by biologists and clinicians has demonstrated the clinical application of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs, also commonly referred to as exosomes) as biomarkers for cancer detections.
Bi‐level planning of distributed energy resources into existing transmission grids: Pathway to sustainable energy systems
Authors: Ranjbar Hossein , Saber Hossein , Sharifzadeh Mahdi
Published: October 2022

This paper presents a novel stochastic planning framework for the integration of renewable distributed energy resources (DERs) into existing power systems without relying on new investments in the transmission networks. The upper‐level problem of the proposed model aims at minimizing the total expected social cost of supplying demand that includes the expected cost of getting energy from conventional generating units and DERs, the congestion cost of transmission networks, and the greenhouse gas (GHG) emission cost, while each of the privately invested DER satisfies a specified rate of return. The lower‐level problem clears the electricity market to find locational marginal prices (LMPs) and operation status of the system. The proposed framework is formulated as a bi‐level optimization problem that is recast as a single‐level problem using the duality technique. The non‐linear terms are then linearized using the “bigM” method and the complementary slackness conditions. The uncertainties in the power production of renewable resources and the future electric loads are captured using the scenario technique in which the copula method is employed for considering the correlation between uncertainties. Finally, the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed method are validated on a 3‐bus test system and the modified IEEE RTS 24‐bus system.
Optimal demand response programs selection using CNN‐LSTM algorithm with big data analysis of load curves
Authors: Alikhani Majid , Moghaddam Mohsen Parsa , Moazzen Farid
Published: October 2022

One of the problems in implementing DRPs is the lack of sufficient understanding of consumers’ behaviour when implementing DRPs. This paper compares consumers’ load patterns annually by the improved Weighted Fuzzy Average (WFA) K‐means clustering method. According to the collected data, DRPs are discussed annually using a combined Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and Long Short‐Term Memory (LSTM). To make CNN‐LSTM a practical algorithm for executing DRPs, Time Series Prediction (TSP) operations must be performed, and input data must be memorized. Finally, according to the TSP done for the obtained data, the implementation of DRPs in practice is facilitated. Then, the DRPs executed with the Deep Learning (DL) model and the power model will be prioritized by Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method, and decision indicators will be determined and weighted using the Shannon entropy method. The numerical studies section shows that the CNN‐LSTM algorithm is able to simulate DRPs with the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) almost below 1% in the residential cluster and the highest MAPE in the commercial cluster of 15%. Nevertheless, this algorithm could easily give the same answer as the DRPs power model in the optimal selection of programs.
Open‐circuit submodule fault diagnosis in MMCs using support vector machines
Authors: Mohammadhassani Ardavan , Mehrizi‐Sani Ali
Published: October 2022

Series connection of semiconductor submodules (SM) in a modular multilevel converter (MMC) makes the MMC prone to open‐circuit (OC) IGBT failures inside SMs. If left undetected, these faults degrade the operation of the MMC and lead to its instability. This article proposes a method to detect, localise, and classify single OC SM faults in an MMC using support vector machines (SVM) trained with data obtained from the capacitor voltage balancing block of the MMC control system. The proposed method relies on data extracted from the sorted capacitor voltage arrays of the upper and lower phase arms. Therefore, it does not require extra measurements and hardware. Additionally, it offers a fixed time for detecting and localising OC SM faults. This method is easy to implement as SVM has a simple decision function. Time‐domain simulation case studies are performed on a three‐phase nine‐level MMC to evaluate the performance of the proposed method.
Investigation on gas generation characteristics in transformer oil under vibration
Authors: Guo Chong , Zhang Qiaogen , Zhang Rui , He Xiaohui , Wu Zhicheng , Wen Tao
Published: October 2022

Operating experience has shown that characteristic gases can be found in oil‐immersed power transformers and high‐voltage reactors under strong vibration without discharge or thermal faults occurring. This will cause misdiagnosis of Dissolved Gases Analysis (DGA). In this study, generation characteristics and mechanism of characteristic gases in transformer oil dependent on vibration are investigated. The results show that there is a vibration pressure threshold that makes characteristic gases such as hydrogen (H2), methane (CH4), ethylene (C2H4), ethane (C2H6), and acetylene (C2H2) appear in transformer oil. The concentration of each characteristic gas increases with the increase of vibration pressure. Furthermore, misdiagnosis of insulation status which may be caused by vibration is illustrated based on Duval triangles method. Besides, vibration bubbling phenomenon in the experiment is observed. The generation mechanism of characteristic gases is analyzed with bubble dynamics under vibration. Higher vibration pressure induces cavitation processes and creates local thermal effects, which is the main reason for the generation of characteristic gases. A method based on combination of Duval triangle 1 and assistant triangle is proposed to distinguish characteristic gases generated by vibration from those generated by discharge and thermal faults. The results may provide theoretical support for fault identification and insulation state assessment of oil‐immersed power transformers and high‐voltage reactors.
Short‐term passenger flow prediction for rail transit based on improved particle swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Lai Yuan‐wen , Wang Yang
Published: October 2022

The subjectivity of selecting training parameters is an important factor affecting the accuracy of short‐term passenger flow prediction of rail transit by long short‐term memory (LSTM) neural network. In order to improve the prediction accuracy, an improved particle swarm optimization (IPSO) algorithm is proposed to optimize the LSTM. The size of the learning factor of the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is controlled by dynamic adjustment method to improve the global optimization and convergence ability of the algorithm. The number of hidden layer nodes, learning rate and iteration times of the LSTM are optimized by IPSO. The passenger flow data of Dongjiekou station of Fuzhou Metro Line 1 are selected for verification, and the proposed model is compared with the traditional prediction model. The results show that the LSTM optimized by the improved particle swarm optimization algorithm can effectively predict the short‐term passenger flow of rail transit. Compared with the PSO‐LSTM model, the root mean square error predicted by the IPSO‐LSTM model decreases by 10.87% in the peak period and by 26% in the off‐peak period. The results can provide theoretical and technical support for the optimization of rail transit operation scheme.
Metaphors and Cultural Values Part of Plants in Japanese Proverbs
Authors: Nur Fitri Aulia , Ihan Rini Elizabeth
Published: October 2022

This study examines Japanese proverbs using the metaphor of the names of plant parts. The name of the plant part is one element that forms Japanese proverbs. The research aims to find several things, namely: 1) the use of plant parts names in Japanese proverbs; 2) finding the lexical and idiomatic meaning of plant parts names in Japanese proverbs; 3) finding the metaphor of plant parts in Japanese proverbs, and 4) finding the cultural values contained in Japanese proverbs that use the concept of the name of plant parts. The data collection was carried out by the author by taking data on Japanese proverbs from the internet and books. The results showed that there are names of plant parts used in Japanese proverbs, namely: 1) there are six groups of names of plant parts, including fruit, seed, root, leaf, flower, and stem; 2) there are lexical and idiomatic meanings of the names of plant parts in Japanese proverbs; 3) metaphors contained in proverbs that use the names of plant parts, namely, effort and self-protection; 4) cultural values contained in proverbs that use the names of plant parts, namely, respect for life, hard work, and vigilance for life.
Ergodic Behaviour of a Multi-Type Growth-Fragmentation Process Modelling the Mycelial Network of a Filamentous Fungus
Authors: Tomašević Milica , Bansaye Vincent , Véber Amandine
Published: October 2022

In this work, we introduce a stochastic growth-fragmentation model for the expansion of the network of filaments, or mycelium, of a filamentous fungus. In this model, each individual is described by a discrete type 𝔢 ∈ {0,1} indicating whether the individual corresponds to an internal or terminal segment of filament, and a continuous trait x ≥ 0 corresponding to the length of this segment. The length of internal segments cannot grow, while the length of terminal segments increases at a deterministic speed v. Both types of individuals/segments branch according to a type-dependent mechanism. After constructing the stochastic bi-type growth-fragmentation process of interest, we analyse the corresponding mean measure (or first moment semigroup). We show that its ergodic behaviour is, as expected, governed by the maximal eigenelements. In the long run, the total mass of the mean measure increases exponentially fast while the type-dependent density in trait converges to an explicit distribution N, independent of the initial condition, at some exponential speed. We then obtain a law of large numbers that relates the long term behaviour of the stochastic process to the limiting distribution N. In the particular model we consider, which depends on only 3 parameters, all the quantities needed to describe this asymptotic behaviour are explicit, which paves the way for parameter inference based on data collected in lab experiments.
Recent Progress towards the Transition-Metal-Catalyzed Dearomatizing Spirocyclization Reactions of Indolyl Ynones
Authors: Shen Wen-Bo , Wei Kua-Fei , Jiang Xiao-Lei , Ru Guang-Xin , Zhu Xiu-Hong
Published: October 2022

Dearomatizing spirocyclization reactions are very appealing synthetic strategies to generate functionalized three-dimensional scaffolds from simple two-dimensional precursors. Recently, the field of transition-metal-catalyzed dearomatizing spirocyclization reactions of indolyl ynones has burgeoned, as the construction of synthetically challenging quaternary spirocyclic carbons is easily achieved. In this review, we introduce an overview of advances in the transition-metal-catalyzed dearomatizing spirocyclization reactions of indolyl ynones, with the reactions being categorized according to type of catalyst.
International business research: The real challenges are data and theory
Authors: Hennart Jean-François , Sutherland Dylan
Published: October 2022

We agree with Aguinis and Gabriel that, contrary to Eden and Nielsen, international business (IB) is not uniquely complex, but argue that it faces two unique challenges. First, because it deals with cross-country phenomena, IB data are less plentiful and reliable. Second, because IB uses many imported theories, and they tend to be influenced by the national environment of their authors, they often have, taken as is, limited applicability in many of the contexts IB studies. We illustrate our twin points by examining the secondary data used in IB to measure the economic activities of multinational enterprises outside their home country, both at the country level, using foreign direct investment (FDI) data from balance of payments statistics, and at the firm level, using firm-level databases such as Orbis. We document the serious shortcomings of FDI data and the problems encountered in using firm-level data. We then highlight some of the cultural biases inherent in Williamson’s version of transaction cost theory (TCT) but show how they can be overcome to arrive at a richer and more general theory that is applicable to a wider variety of contexts.
Hybrid narrative in Yoshimoto Banana’s Kitchen
Authors: Hang Dao Thi Thu , Bac Le Huy , Phuong Le Nguyen , Ha Pham Thi
Published: October 2022

The quality of impermanence between traditionalism and postmodernism gave birth to Banana’s unique “hybrid narrative”. There, people are caught between traditional values and the attraction of the postmodern lifestyle. Banana’s character loves the kitchen and has a traditional belief in ghosts but is also openly LGBT-identifying—a challenge to modern binarism that is ready to confront random postmodern disasters. The character tries to escape but still seems to be stuck in the same place. This is similar to the situation that young Japanese have to face. In the eternal struggle of life, they need to be honest, live according to their own personal values and, more importantly, always show a willingness to help others with the most practical actions. Observing the world as a whole, Banana’s novels and short stories are simultaneously new and old, and readers today are eager for her stories.
Nanoextraction based on surface nanodroplets for chemical preconcentration and determination
Authors: Wu Hongyan , Kanike Chiranjeevi , Atta Arnab , Zhang Xuehua
Published: October 2022

Liquid-liquid extraction based on surface nanodroplets, namely nanoextraction, can continuously extract and enrich target analytes from the flow of a sample solution. This sample preconcentration technique is easy to operate in a continuous flow system with a low consumption of organic solvent and a high enrichment factor. In this review, the evolution from single drop microextraction to advanced nanoextraction will be briefly introduced. Moreover, the formation principle and key features of surface nanodroplets will be summarized. Further, the major findings of nanoextraction combined with in-droplet chemistry toward sensitive and quantitative detection will be discussed. Finally, we will give our perspectives for the future trend of nanoextraction.
Direct action of leptin, obestatin and ginkgo on hormone release by luteinised human ovarian granulosa cells
Authors: Sirotkin Alexander V. , Tarko Adam , Fabova Zuzana , Mlynček Miloš , Kotwica Jan , Alwasel Saleh , Harrath Abdel Halim
Published: October 2022

Context The role of metabolic hormones, medicinal plants and their interrelationships in the control of human reproductive processes are poorly understood. Aims To examine how leptin, obestatin and ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.) affect human ovarian hormone release. Methods We analysed the influence of leptin and obestatin alone and in combination with ginkgo extract on cultured human ovarian granulosa cells. The release of progesterone (P), insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), oxytocin (OT) and prostaglandin F (PGF) were analysed by enzyme immunoassay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Key results Leptin addition promoted the release of all the measured hormones. Obestatin stimulated the release of P, IGF-I and OT and inhibited PGF output. Ginkgo suppressed P, IGF-I and OT and promoted PGF release. Furthermore, ginkgo changed the stimulatory action of leptin on PGF to an inhibitory one. Conclusions Leptin and obestatin are involved in the control of human ovarian hormone release and ginkgo influences their function. Implications Leptin and obestatin could be useful as stimulators of human ovarian cell functions. The suppressive influence of ginkgo on ovarian function should lead to the development of ginkgo-containing drugs.
Programming effects of late gestation heat stress in dairy cattle
Authors: Cattaneo L. , Laporta J. , Dahl G. E.
Published: October 2022

The final weeks of gestation represent a critical period for dairy cows that can determine the success of the subsequent lactation. Many physiological changes take place and additional exogenous stressors can alter the success of the transition into lactation. Moreover, this phase is pivotal for the final stage of intrauterine development of the fetus, which can have negative long-lasting postnatal effects. Heat stress is widely recognised as a threat to dairy cattle welfare, health, and productivity. Specifically, late gestation heat stress impairs the dam’s productivity by undermining mammary gland remodelling during the dry period and altering metabolic and immune responses in early lactation. Heat stress also affects placental development and function, with relevant consequences on fetal development and programming. In utero heat stressed newborns have reduced birth weight, growth, and compromised passive immune transfer. Moreover, the liver and mammary DNA of in utero heat stressed calves show a clear divergence in the pattern of methylation relative to that of in utero cooled calves. These alterations in gene regulation might result in depressed immune function, as well as altered thermoregulation, hepatic metabolism, and mammary development jeopardising their survival in the herd and productivity. Furthermore, late gestation heat stress appears to exert multigenerational effects, influencing milk yield and survival up to the third generation.