bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Duoethnography of a Chinese Pre-Service Teacher’s Encounters with Young Learner Spelling Errors in the English Classroom
Authors: Jing Yimei , Reynolds Barry Lee
Published: November 2022

A large body of research has indicated that young second language (L2) learners often have problems with spelling, such as letter omission and mis-ordering. To give due attention to this issue, a duoethnographic study was undertaken by two researchers from different language education backgrounds. The data were collected by way of 18 conversations (86,213-word transcription). These transcribed conversations were then reconstructed in order to accurately present the dialogue that took place between the two researchers. The conversations centered around four themes related to young Chinese learners’ English spelling issues, namely: the roles of a practicum mentor and supervisor; factors resulting in young learners’ spelling issues; the relationship between spelling and reading; implications for future teaching. The findings of this study suggest that future English teachers of young learners should implement morphological instruction, encourage students to read more, instruct students on how to make and use word cards, and explain how delayed copying should be used for spelling practice. This duoethnograpy also suggests that mentors, supervisors, and pre-service teachers should engage in duoethnographic research in order to better understand mentoring, supervision, and teaching issues, whilst also promoting professional development.
Explaining the Diversity in Malay-English Code-Switching Patterns: The Contribution of Typological Similarity and Bilingual Optimization Strategies
Authors: Treffers-Daller Jeanine , Majid Sheikha , Thai Yap Ngee , Flynn Naomi
Published: November 2022

Bilingual speakers often engage in code-switching, that is the use of lexical items and grammatical features from two languages in one sentence. Malaysia is a particularly interesting context for the study of code-switching because Malay-English code-switching is widely practiced across formal and informal situations, and the available literature reveals that there is a great diversity in switch patterns in this language pair. One of the most remarkable characteristics of Malay-English code-switching is the high frequency of switches of function words (pronouns, modal verbs, demonstratives, etc.), which is very unusual in most code-switching corpora. Here, we analyse the structural properties of Malay-English code-switching, which have received less attention than functional analyses in the academic literature on code-switching in this language pair. We first summarize the literature on the different types of code-switching that are found in a range of sources, and then analyze the code-switching patterns in the speech of two teachers of English in Malaysia. We conclude with a discussion of the variables that can explain the diversity found, in particular structural factors (similarity between the word orders of both languages, and the limited number of inflections), and bilingual optimization strategies, as well as strategies of neutrality and efficiency.
Full and Hybrid Multiscale Lubrication Modeling
Authors: Francisco Arthur , Brunetière Noël
Published: November 2022

The numerical solution for the lubrication of parallel rough surfaces cannot be obtained using the well-known flow factors of Patir and Cheng. Nor can it be determined using homogenization techniques. Is there an alternative, besides a purely long-term deterministic way of solving the problem? The present paper aims at proposing a multiscale approach in order to reduce the computing time, specific to deterministic resolutions, while maintaining good accuracy. The configuration is a parallel rough surface slider, with imposed hydrodynamic operating conditions. The domain consists of independent macro-elements, on which the Reynolds equation is solved. Then, the macro-element boundaries are adjusted to ensure global mass conservation. In its hybrid version, the algorithm replaces some well-chosen macro-elements by simple linear finite elements. The results clearly show the potential of our method. Because the lubrication of each macro-element can be processed independently, the multicore architecture of the processor is exploited. Even if the performance depends on the ratio roughness/height, the computing time is half than for the classical deterministic method, with a few percent errors. The work concludes with some recommendations on the configurations for which the multiscale method is best suited, such as surfaces with short correlation lengths.
A Fully Coupled Tribocorrosion Simulation Method for Anchor Chain Considering Mechano-Electrochemical Interaction
Authors: Wang Huakun , Liu Tongmu , Zhang Yao , Zhu Yesen , Liu Fangzhou , Wang Tongyao
Published: November 2022

This study aims at proposing a fully coupled numerical simulation method of tribocorrosion development on anchor chains during service life, where the mechano-electrochemical interaction is considered in a simplified way. The damage evolution can be realized by a user-defined UMESHMOTION FORTRAN subroutine, where both stress-accelerated corrosion and corrosion-accelerated wear can be considered. Based on this numerical method, the time-variant damage morphology of mooring chain can be obtained. Simulation results obtained by different damage evolution models are shown and compared, and some discussions on the simplified simulation method of reciprocating tribocorrosion are also presented. A systematic parametric study is carried out, and the key factors affecting the tribocorrosion of chain link are revealed. Finally, a modified design method is proposed, and it can be used for optimization of the design of marine anchor chains.
Near Infrared Reflection and Hydrophobic Properties of Composite Coatings Prepared from Hollow Glass Microspheres Coated with Needle-Shaped Rutile Shell
Authors: Zheng Qianfang , Xiong Shanxia , Wu Xiaowei , Kuang Jianlei , Liu Wenxiu , Cao Wenbin
Published: November 2022

Infrared thermal reflective coating is an effective material to reduce building energy consumption and carbon emission. In this work, needle-shaped-rutile-shell-coated hollow glass microbeads (HGM) were prepared by surface modification of HGM and thermohydrolysis of TiCl4, and the possible shell formation mechanism was also proposed. The near infrared (NIR) reflectance of the coated HGM reached 93.3%, which could be further increased to 97.3% after the rutile shell crystallinity was improved by heat treatment. Furthermore, HGM/styrene–acrylic composite reflective coating was prepared on the surface of gypsum board by facile blending and coating methods, and the thermal insulation performance was measured by an indigenously designed experimental heat set-up. The results show that the composite coating prepared by HGM coated with rutile shell shows better NIR reflectance and thermal insulation performance than that prepared by pure organic coating and uncoated HGM. Meanwhile, it also shows better surface hydrophobicity, which is conducive to long-term and stable infrared reflection performance.
Smart Humidly Adaptive Yarns and Textiles from Twisted and Coiled Viscose Fiber Artificial Muscles
Authors: Guo Mingrui , Peng Yangyang , Chen Zihan , Sheng Nan , Sun Fengxin
Published: November 2022

The self-adaptive nature of smart textiles to the ambient environment has made them an indispensable part of emerging wearable technologies. However, current advances generally suffer from complex material preparation, uncomfortable fitting feeling, possible toxicity, and high cost in fabrication, which hinder the real-world application of smart materials in textiles. Herein, humidity-response torsional and tensile yarn actuators from twisted and coiled structures are developed using commercially available, cost-effective, and biodegradable viscose fibers based on yarn-spinning and weaving technologies. The twisted yarn shows a reversible torsional stroke of 1400° cm−1 in 5 s when stimulated by water fog with a spraying speed of 0.05 g s−1; the coiled yarn exhibits a peak tensile stroke of 900% upon enhancing the relative humidity. Further, textile manufacturing allows for the scalable fabrication to create fabric artificial muscles with high-dimensional actuation deformations and human-touch comfort, which can boost the potential applications of the humidly adaptive yarns in smart textile and advanced textile materials.
Effect of Degassing Parameters on Mechanical Properties of EN AC-46000 Gravity Die Castings
Authors: Gumienny Grzegorz , Pisarek Bogusław , Szymczak Tomasz , Gawroński Jakub , Just Paweł , Władysiak Ryszard , Rapiejko Cezary , Pacyniak Tadeusz
Published: November 2022

The article is devoted to the optimization of the degassing parameters of the AlSi9Cu3(Fe) alloy. The alloy was degassed with a solid degasser (Ecosal) and nitrogen or argon. The variable parameters were time and type of degasser. The test castings were made in permanent molds with an internal diameter of 25 mm and a length of 150 mm. The effect of the degassing time and the amount of degasser on the mechanical properties, as well as the hydrogen content and density index were investigated. The ALU SPEED TESTER developed by FMA was used to test the hydrogen content and the density index. Magmasoft software was used to design the geometry of the test castings. A significant effect of the solid degasser and degassing time on both the density index and the hydrogen content was demonstrated. Replacing nitrogen with argon did not bring any significant improvement in the above-mentioned parameters. The effect of degassing parameters on the mechanical properties of the EN AC-46000 alloy was much less significant, but was still visible. The optimal degassing parameters needed to obtain the highest strength parameters of the EN AC-46000 gravity die castings were determined.
Effect of the Binder during Ultra-Precision Polishing of Tungsten Carbide Using a Semirigid Bonnet Tool
Authors: Ke Xiaolong , Wu Wei , Li Kangsen , Yu Yongheng , Wang Tianyi , Zhong Bo , Wang Zhenzhong , Guo Jiang , Wang Chunjin
Published: November 2022

Tungsten carbide (WC) has the characteristics of high hardness, high strength, corrosion resistance, wear resistance and excellent fracture toughness. Accordingly, it has been commonly used as the material for cutting tools and molds in glass-forming techniques. To obtain ultra-smooth surfaces, fine polishing of WC is indispensable. However, the efficiency of WC polishing is low using the existing polishing methods, and the mechanism behind the polishing process requires further investigation. Specifically, the effect of the binder in WC polishing is not clear since there are different kinds of WC with various weight percentages of the binder. In this paper, we present the findings of a study on the polishing performance of two kinds of WC material, with and without the binder, using a semi-rigid (SR) bonnet polishing tool. A series of experiments were performed on a 6-DOF robotic polishing instrument to investigate the material-removal characteristics, surface integrity and sub-surface damage after polishing. The results demonstrate that the SR bonnet polishing tool successfully reduced the surface roughness of WC with and without the binder to the nanometric level, though the lowest surface roughness was obtained on binder-less WC. No obvious sub-surface damage was observed under SEM inspection, while the processing efficiency was greatly improved owing to the high material removal rate of the tool. Based on our analysis of key polishing parameters and corresponding surface integrities, the effect of the binder on the polishing performance is explained, which offers excellent guidance for WC polishing.
An Efficient Synthesis and Preliminary Investigation of Novel 1,3-Dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one Nitro and Nitramino Derivatives
Authors: Šarlauskas Jonas , Stankevičiūtė Jonita , Tamulienė Jelena
Published: November 2022

The preparation and properties of a series of novel 1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one nitro and nitramino derivatives are described. A detailed crystal structure of one of the obtained compounds, 4,5,6-trinitro-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one (TriNBO), was characterized using low temperature single crystal X-ray diffraction, namely an orthorhombic yellow prism, space group ‘P 2 21 21′, experimental crystal density 1.767 g/cm3 (at 173 K). Methyl analog, 5-Me-TriNBO-monoclinic red plates, space group, P 21/c, crystal density 1.82 g/cm3. TriNBO contains one activated nitro group at the fifth position, which was used for the nucleophilic substitution in the aminolysis reactions with three monoalkylamines (R=CH3, C2H5, (CH2)2CH3) and ethanolamine. The 5-R-aminoderivatives were further nitrated with N2O5/ HNO3 and resulted in a new group of appropriate nitramines: 1,3-dihydro-2H-5-R-N(NO2)-4,6-dinitrobenzimidazol-2-ones. Thermal analysis (TGA) of three selected representatives was performed. The new compounds possess a high melting point (200–315 °C) and thermal stability and can find a potential application as new thermostable energetic materials. Some calculated preliminary energetic characteristics show that TriNBO, 5-Me-TriNBO, 5-methylnitramino-1,3-dihydro-2H-4,6-dinitrobenzimidazol-2-one, and 5-nitratoethylnitramino-1,3-dihydro-2H-4,6-dinitrobenzimidazol-2-one possess increased energetic characteristics in comparison with TNT and tetryl. The proposed nitrocompounds may find potential applications as thermostable high-energy materials.
Heat Treatment of Metallic Materials in Modern Industry
Authors: Jurči Peter , Novák Pavel
Published: November 2022

The Heat Treatment of Metallic Materials in Modern Industry is a Special Issue of the journal Materials, which aims to publish original full-length articles and review papers on basic and applied research centered around the given topic, and thereby make the understanding of the metallurgical background of the contemporary state of heat treatment techniques used in the industrial branches in the 21st century [...]
Dust Monitors in JET with ITER-like Wall for Diagnosis of Mobilized Particles and Co-Deposited Layers
Authors: Fazinić Stjepko , Provatas Georgios , Božičević Mihalić Iva , Tadić Tonči , Rubel Marek , Grzonka Justyna , Petersson Per , Widdowson Anna , Moon Sunwoo , Fortuna-Zaleśna Elzbieta
Published: November 2022

Silicon plates were installed above the inner and outer divertor of the JET with the ITER-like wall (ILW) after the second and third ILW campaigns to monitor dust generation and deposition with the aim to determine the morphology and content of individual particles and co-deposits, including deuterium content. Particular interest was in metal-based particles: Be, W, steel, Cu. Ex-situ examination after two ILW campaigns was performed by a set of microscopy and ion beam methods including micro-beam nuclear reaction analysis and particle-induced X-ray emission. Different categories of Be-rich particles were found: co-deposits peeled-off from plasma-facing components (PFC), complex multi-element spherical objects, and solid metal splashes and regular spherical droplets. The fuel content on the two latter categories was at the level of 1 × 1016 at/cm−2 indicating that Be melting and splashing occurred in the very last phase of the second experimental campaign. The splashes adhere firmly to the substrate thus not posing risk of Be dust mobilisation. No tungsten droplets were detected. The only W-containing particles were fragments of tungsten coatings from the divertor tiles.
Seed Layer Optimisation for Ultra-Thin Sb2Se3 Solar Cells on TiO2 by Vapour Transport Deposition
Authors: Juškėnas Remigijus , Naujokaitis Arnas , Drabavičius Audrius , Pakštas Vidas , Vainauskas Deividas , Kondrotas Rokas
Published: November 2022

Antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) material has drawn considerable attention as an Earth-abundant and non-toxic photovoltaic absorber. The power conversion efficiency of Sb2Se3-based solar cells increased from less than 2% to over 10% in a decade. Different deposition methods were implemented to synthesize Sb2Se3 thin films, and various device structures were tested. In search of a more environmentally friendly device composition, the common CdS buffer layer is being replaced with oxides. It was identified that on oxide substrates such as TiO2 using vacuum-based close-space deposition methods, an intermediate deposition step was required to produce high-quality thin films. However, little or no investigation was carried out using another very successful vacuum deposition approach in Sb2Se3 technology called vapour transport deposition (VTD). In this work, we present optimized VTD process conditions to achieve compact, pinhole-free, ultra-thin (<400 nm) Sb2Se3 absorber layers. Three process steps were designed to first deposit the seed layer, then anneal it and, at the final stage, deposit a complete Sb2Se3 absorber. Fabricated solar cells using absorbers as thin as 400 nm generated a short-circuit current density over 30 mA/cm2, which demonstrates both the very high absorption capabilities of Sb2Se3 material and the prospects for ultra-thin solar cell application.
Thermal and Structural Characterization of a Titanium Carbide/Carbon Composite for Nuclear Applications
Authors: Ballan Michele , Corradetti Stefano , Manzolaro Mattia , Meneghetti Giovanni , Andrighetto Alberto
Published: November 2022

In the framework of ISOL (isotope separation on-line) facilities, porous carbides are among the most employed target materials for the production of radioactive ion beams for research. As foreseen by the ISOL technique, a production target is impinged by an energetic particle beam, inducing nuclear reactions from such an interaction. The resulting radionuclides are subsequently released, thanks to the high target working temperature (1600–2000 °C); ionized; and extracted into a beam. Since the target microstructure and porosity play a fundamental role in the radionuclide release efficiency, custom-made target materials are often specifically produced, resulting in unknown thermal and structural properties. Considering that such targets might undergo intense thermal stresses during operation, a thermal and structural characterization is necessary to avoid target failure under irradiation. In the presented work, a custom-made porous titanium carbide that was specifically designed for application as an ISOL target was produced and characterized. The thermal characterization was focused on the evaluation of the material emissivity and thermal conductivity in the 600–1400 °C temperature range. For the estimation of a reference material tensile stress limit, the virtual thermoelastic parameter approach was adopted. In particular, for the aforementioned temperature range, an emissivity between 0.7 and 0.8 was measured, whereas a thermal conductivity between 8 and 10 W/mK was estimated.
Phase Composition, Microstructure, Multiple Shape Memory Effect of TiNi50−xVx (x = 1; 2; 4 at.%) System Alloys
Authors: Marchenko Ekaterina , Monogenov Alexander , Klopotov Anatoly , Baigonakova Gulsharat , Chudinova Ekaterina , Vorozhtsov Alexander , Sokolov Sergei
Published: November 2022

The phase composition, microstructure, and multiple shape memory effect of TiNi50−xVx alloys were studied in this work. The phase composition of the TiNi50−xVx system is the TiNi matrix, spherical particles of TiNiV, the secondary phase Ti2Ni(V). Doping of TiNi alloys with vanadium atoms leads to an increase in the stability of high-temperature B2 and rhombohedral R-phases. An increase in the atomic volume with an increase in the concentration of the alloying element V from 1 to 4 at.% was established. Vanadium doping of the Ti–Ni–V system alloys leads to an increase in the temperature interval for the manifestation of the multiple shape memory effect. It has been established that the value of the reversible deformation of the multiple shape memory effect both during heating and during cooling increases linearly from 2 to 4% with an increase in the vanadium concentration.
Improved Fractional-Order Extended State Observer-Based Hypersonic Vehicle Active Disturbance Rejection Control
Authors: Zhao Mingfei , Hu Yunlong , Song Jia
Published: November 2022

In this work, a novel fractional-order extended state observer (FOESO)-based linear active disturbance rejection control (LADRC) method is firstly proposed for a hypersonic vehicle (HV) to address the measurement noise problem. The uncertainty and external disturbance of an HV was discussed and addressed by the active disturbance rejection control and many different control methods in recent decades. However, the research of an HV with measurement noise is insufficient. For the LADRC, the anti-noise ability is highly dependent on the bandwidth of the extended state observer (ESO). Meanwhile, the control performance of the LADRC is relevant to the bandwidth. The FOESO is presented, aiming to address the tradeoff of the control performance or noise suppression. The FOESO-based LADRC (FOESO-LADRC) introduces fractional calculus. It can enhance the anti-noise ability with little influence on the control performance. The simulation results show that the FOESO-LADRC has a significant improvement in the noise suppression. In addition, compared with the LADRC, it obtains a better solution to address the tradeoff between the bandwidth and noise impact.
Mathematical Chemistry Approaches for Computer-Aid Design of Free-Shaped Structures in Architecture and Construction Engineering
Authors: Chihaia Viorel , Ghinea Mihalache , Chihaia Stefan , Neacsu Andreea
Published: November 2022

The use of computers in architecture and construction engineering simplifies and automatize many manual operations, especially in the case of curved surfaces such as shell structures. Moreover, it allows fast screening and characterization of many technical solutions through computer-solving equations and the verification of buildings and metallic structures stabilities in different weather and seismic conditions. In parallel, significant efforts have been made to characterize and explore carbon-based nanosystems. Important mathematical concepts and methods were developed for the description of such structures in the frame of mathematical chemistry. Because the lattice topology of shell structures in architecture and nanosystems in chemistry are similar, it is possible to transfer well-established theoretical concepts and knowledge of using nanosystems to the design of shell structures. The topologies of the nanosystems are characterized by lower densities of edges per node offering better solutions for curved surfaces than the typical grids used in architecture. As far as we know, no such connections between the topologies of nanosystems and shell structures have been established before. This transfer would be helpful for increased accuracy and speed in finding the best technical solutions for the building’s design. In this paper, we identify and propose for the design of the shell structures several mathematical approaches developed for atomistic systems.
A Modified Inertial Parallel Viscosity-Type Algorithm for a Finite Family of Nonexpansive Mappings and Its Applications
Authors: Suantai Suthep , Kankam Kunrada , Yambangwai Damrongsak , Cholamjiak Watcharaporn
Published: November 2022

In this work, we aim to prove the strong convergence of the sequence generated by the modified inertial parallel viscosity-type algorithm for finding a common fixed point of a finite family of nonexpansive mappings under mild conditions in real Hilbert spaces. Moreover, we present the numerical experiments to solve linear systems and differential problems using Gauss–Seidel, weight Jacobi, and successive over relaxation methods. Furthermore, we provide our algorithm to show the efficiency and implementation of the LASSO problems in signal recovery. The novelty of our algorithm is that we show that the algorithm is efficient compared with the existing algorithms.
Numerical Solving Method for Jiles-Atherton Model and Influence Analysis of the Initial Magnetic Field on Hysteresis
Authors: Xue Guangming , Bai Hongbai , Li Tuo , Ren Zhiying , Liu Xingxing , Lu Chunhong
Published: November 2022

The Jiles-Atherton model was widely used in the description of the system with hysteresis, and the solution for the model was important for real-time and high-precision control. The secant method was used for solving anhysteretic magnetization and its initial values were optimized for faster convergence. Then, the Fourth Order Runge-Kutta method was employed to solve magnetization and the required computation cycles were supplied for stable results. Based on the solving method, the effect of the nonzero initial magnetic field on the magnetization was discussed, including the commonly used linear model of the square of magnetization under the medium initial value. From computations, the proposed secant iteration method, with supplied optimal initial values, greatly reduced the iterative steps compared to the fixed-point iteration. Combined with the Fourth Order Runge-Kutta method under more than three cycles of calculations, stable hysteresis results with controllable precisions were acquired. Adjusting the initial magnetic field changed the result of the magnetization, which was helpless to promote the amplitude or improve the symmetry of magnetization. Furthermore, the linear model of the square of magnetization was unacceptable for huge computational errors. The proposed numerical solving method can supply fast and high-precision solutions for the Jiles-Atherton model and provide a basis for the application scope of typical linear assumption.
RKHS Representations for Augmented Quaternion Random Signals: Application to Detection Problems
Authors: Oya Antonia
Published: November 2022

The reproducing kernel Hilbert space (RKHS) methodology has shown to be a suitable tool for the resolution of a wide range of problems in statistical signal processing both in the real and complex domains. It relies on the idea of transforming the original functional data into an infinite series representation by projection onto an specific RKHS, which usually simplifies the statistical treatment without any loss of efficiency. Moreover, the advantages of quaternion algebra over real-valued three and four-dimensional vector algebra in the modelling of multidimensional data have been proven useful in much relatively recent research. This paper accordingly proposes a generic RKHS framework for the statistical analysis of augmented quaternion random vectors, which provide a complete description of their second order characteristics. It will allow us to exploit the full advantages of the RKHS theory in widely linear processing applications, such as signal detection. In particular, we address the detection of a quaternion signal disturbed by additive Gaussian noise and the discrimination between two quaternion Gaussian signals in continuous time.
Potential Cosmetic Active Ingredients Derived from Marine By-Products
Authors: Siahaan Evi Amelia , Agusman  , Pangestuti Ratih , Shin Kyung-Hoon , Kim Se-Kwon
Published: November 2022

The market demand for marine-based cosmetics has shown a tremendous growth rate in the last decade. Marine resources represent a promising source of novel bioactive compounds for new cosmetic ingredient development. However, concern about sustainability also becomes an issue that should be considered in developing cosmetic ingredients. The fisheries industry (e.g., fishing, farming, and processing) generates large amounts of leftovers containing valuable substances, which are potent sources of cosmeceutical ingredients. Several bioactive substances could be extracted from the marine by-product that can be utilized as a potent ingredient to develop cosmetics products. Those bioactive substances (e.g., collagen from fish waste and chitin from crustacean waste) could be utilized as anti-photoaging, anti-wrinkle, skin barrier, and hair care products. From this perspective, this review aims to approach the potential active ingredients derived from marine by-products for cosmetics and discuss the possible activity of those active ingredients in promoting human beauty. In addition, this review also covers the prospect and challenge of using marine by-products toward the emerging concept of sustainable blue cosmetics.
Insights on Lipomatosis after Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Use in Pediatric Oncology: A Case Report
Authors: Boeriu Estera , Boc Alexandra Georgiana , Borda Alexandra , Negrean Rodica Anamaria , Feciche Bogdan , Boeriu Amalia Iulia , Horhat Florin George , Mot Ion Cristian , Horhat Ioana Delia , Ravulapalli Madhavi , Sabuni Omar , Adi Abduljabar , Anjary Adnan , Arghirescu Smaranda Teodora
Published: November 2022

Agents of platinum-based chemotherapy, such as cisplatin or carboplatin, are used in the treatment of a wide range of malignancies that affect children, such as brain tumors, osteosarcoma, neuroblastoma, hepatoblastoma, and germ cell tumors (GCTs). The Cyclophosphamide Equivalent Dose (CED) calculator for reproductive risk does not take platinum-based chemotherapy into account, despite the fact that it accounts for the majority of chemotherapy medications that are typically administered for pediatric GCTs. As a result, exposure to platinum-based drugs throughout infancy can have predictable long-term effects such as infertility, as well as other rare encounters such as lipoma formation and lipomatosis. Lipomas are the most prevalent benign soft tissue tumor subtype. They may be either solitary entities or engaged in multiple lipomatosis, which may have a familial origin or be an acquired disorder. Chemotherapy is a possible cause of lipomatosis. Chemotherapy based on cisplatin has been linked to a variety of long-term consequences, including kidney damage, neurotoxicity, and pulmonary toxicity, and may even create secondary cancers. However, lipoma development is known to occur in fewer than 1 in 100 individuals, and only a few examples of multiple cutaneous lipomatosis triggered by this therapy have been documented. Here we present a very rare case of lipomatosis in a pediatric patient with GCT under cisplatin therapy, which might be the third report of this kind affecting children.
Multiparametric MRI Features of Breast Cancer Molecular Subtypes
Authors: Szep Madalina , Pintican Roxana , Boca Bianca , Perja Andra , Duma Magdalena , Feier Diana , Fetica Bogdan , Eniu Dan , Dudea Sorin Marian , Chiorean Angelica
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Breast cancer (BC) molecular subtypes have unique incidence, survival and response to therapy. There are five BC subtypes described by immunohistochemistry: luminal A, luminal B HER2 positive and HER2 negative, triple negative (TNBC) and HER2-enriched. Multiparametric breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) provides morphological and functional characteristics of breast tumours and is nowadays recommended in the preoperative setting. Aim: To evaluate the multiparametric MRI features (T2-WI, ADC values and DCE) of breast tumours along with breast density and background parenchymal enhancement (BPE) features among different BC molecular subtypes. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study which included 344 patients. All underwent multiparametric breast MRI (T2WI, ADC and DCE sequences) and features were extracted according to the latest BIRADS lexicon. The inter-reader agreement was assessed using the intraclass coefficient (ICC) between the ROI of ADC obtained from the two breast imagers (experienced and moderately experienced). Results: The study population was divided as follows: 89 (26%) with luminal A, 39 (11.5%) luminal B HER2 positive, 168 (48.5%) luminal B HER2 negative, 41 (12%) triple negative (TNBC) and 7 (2%) with HER2 enriched. Luminal A tumours were associated with special histology type, smallest tumour size and persistent kinetic curve (all p-values < 0.05). Luminal B HER2 negative tumours were associated with lowest ADC value (0.77 × 10−3 mm2/s2), which predicts the BC molecular subtype with an accuracy of 0.583. TNBC were associated with asymmetric and moderate/marked BPE, round/oval masses with circumscribed margins and rim enhancement (all p-values < 0.05). HER2 enriched BC were associated with the largest tumour size (mean 37.28 mm, p-value = 0.02). Conclusions: BC molecular subtypes can be associated with T2WI, ADC and DCE MRI features. ADC can help predict the luminal B HER2 negative cases.
Feeding Rainbow Trout with Different Types of Non-Starch Polysaccharides: Impacts on Serum Metabolome and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Zhou Hang , Liu Yu , Fan Jiongting , Huang Huajing , Deng Junming , Tan Beiping
Published: November 2022

A 70-day feeding trial investigated the effects of dietary inclusion of different types of non-starch polysaccharides (NSPs) on gut microbiota and serum metabolome of rainbow trout. Four practical feeds (42% crude protein, 17% crude lipid) were prepared with 8% insoluble NSP (INSP, cellulose), 16.8% soluble NSP (SNSP, composed of 1.12% β-glucan, 1.28% mannan, 4.8% arabinoxylan, and 9.6% pectin), 24.8% NSPs (8% INSP + 16.8% SNSP), or no NSPs inclusion, respectively. Dietary NSPs inclusion had no significant influence on the Shannon, Simpson, ACE, and Chao1 indices of gut microbiota but induced a significant increase in the abundance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Photobacterium kishitanii, and a decrease in Firmicutes and Alistipes finegoldii. Besides, dietary SNSP upregulated the carnitine synthesis metabolic pathway. Our data suggest that dietary NSPs are detrimental to gut microbiota homeostasis and the health of rainbow trout, and dietary SNSP exhibit a stronger ability to interfere with physiological metabolism of rainbow trout than INSP. Therefore, the physiological effects of dietary NSPs, especially SNSP, should be carefully considered when designing the commercial feed formulations of rainbow trout.
Atypical Pathogens in Adult Community-Acquired Pneumonia and Implications for Empiric Antibiotic Treatment: A Narrative Review
Authors: Garin Nicolas , Marti Christophe , Skali Lami Aicha , Prendki Virginie
Published: November 2022

Atypical pathogens are intracellular bacteria causing community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in a significant minority of patients. Legionella spp., Chlamydia pneumoniae and psittaci, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Coxiella burnetii are commonly included in this category. M. pneumoniae is present in 5–8% of CAP, being the second most frequent pathogen after Streptococcus pneumoniae. Legionella pneumophila is found in 3–5% of inpatients. Chlamydia spp. and Coxiella burnetii are present in less than 1% of patients. Legionella longbeachae is relatively frequent in New Zealand and Australia and might also be present in other parts of the world. Uncertainty remains on the prevalence of atypical pathogens, due to limitations in diagnostic means and methodological issues in epidemiological studies. Despite differences between CAP caused by typical and atypical pathogens, the clinical presentation alone does not allow accurate discrimination. Hence, antibiotics active against atypical pathogens (macrolides, tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones) should be included in the empiric antibiotic treatment of all patients with severe CAP. For patients with milder disease, evidence is lacking and recommendations differ between guidelines. Use of clinical prediction rules to identify patients most likely to be infected with atypical pathogens, and strategies of narrowing the antibiotic spectrum according to initial microbiologic investigations, should be the focus of future investigations.
Step-By-Step Modeling and Demetallation Experimental Study on the Porous Structure in Zeolites
Authors: Kononov Pavel , Kononova Irina , Moshnikov Vyacheslav , Maraeva Evgeniya , Trubetskaya Olga
Published: November 2022

The organization of microporous space in zeolites is discussed. A new step-by-step model is proposed that explains the principles of organizing the hierarchy of microporous space at the stage of assembling zeolites from elements of minimal size: a primary building unit, secondary building units, tertiary building units or building polyhedra, a sodalite cage, and a supercage. To illustrate the stepwise hierarchical porous structure of nanomaterials, the following zeolites with small and large micropores have been selected as the model objects: sodalite (SOD, the maximum diameter of a sphere that can enter the pores is 0.3 nm) and zeolites of type A (LTA, the maximum diameter of a sphere that can enter the pores is 0.41 nm), type X, Y (FAU, the maximum diameter of a sphere that can enter the pores is 0.75 nm), and type BETA (the maximum diameter of a sphere that can enter the pores is 0.67 nm). Two-dimensional and three-dimensional modeling in 3Ds Max software was used. We believe that such an approach will be useful for developing ways to create complex zeolite compositions for specific applications, such as catalysis, where the geometry of the pores determines the size of the molecules entering the voids and computer modeling can play an important predictive role. This work takes a look at specific aspects of using the heat desorption method to study mesoporous materials with a BETA zeolite as an example and presents the results of experimental research into the characteristics of the porous structure of hierarchically structured zeolite materials (specific surface area 180–380 m2/g, external surface area 120–200 m2/g, micropore volume 0.001–0.1 mL/g).
Magnetic Core-Shell Nanoparticles Using Molecularly Imprinted Polymers for Zearalenone Determination
Authors: Calahorra-Rio Luis , Guadaño-Sánchez Miriam , Moya-Cavas Tamara , Urraca Javier Lucas
Published: November 2022

This paper describes the synthesis of novel molecularly imprinted magnetic nano-beads for the selective extraction (MISPE) of zearalenone mycotoxin in river and tap waters and further analysis by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection (FLD). A semi-covalent imprinting approach was achieved for the synthesis of the molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP). The nanoparticles were prepared by covering the starting Fe3O4 material with a first layer of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and then with a second layer using cyclododecyl 2-hydroxy-4-(3-triethoxysilylpropylcarbamoyloxy) benzoate. The last was used with a dual role, template and functional monomer after the extraction of the template molecule. The material was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopies (FT-IR). The solid phase extraction was optimized in all the steps: loading, washing and elution. The optimal conditions allowed the determination of zearalenone in trace levels of 12.5, 25 and 50 µg L−1 without significant differences between the fortified and found level concentrations.
Understanding the Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Analgesic Effect of Ginger
Authors: Andrei Corina , Zanfirescu Anca , Nițulescu George Mihai , Negreș Simona
Published: November 2022

Chronic pain has a high prevalence and a profound impact on patients and society, and its treatment is a real challenge in clinical practice. Ginger is emerging as a promising analgesic—effective against various types of pain and well-tolerated by patients. However, we are just beginning to understand its complex mechanism of action. A good understanding of its mechanism would allow us to fully utilize the therapeutical potential of this herbal medicine as well as to identify a better strategy for treating chronic pain. To provide this information, we searched PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science for in vitro studies or animal experiments investigating the analgesic effect of ginger extract or its components. The analysis of data was carried out in the form of a narrative review. Our research indicates that ginger extract, through its various active ingredients, suppresses the transmission of nociceptive signals while activating the descendent inhibitory pathways of pain.
Approaching Challenges Posed by SARS-CoV-2 Genetic Variants
Authors: de la Fuente José
Published: November 2022

In this new collection of the most viewed and cited papers, one of the Editor’s chosen articles, published in Pathogens in 2021, addressed the impact and the concerns relating to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its variants [...]
Charge Photogeneration and Recombination Dynamics in PTQ10:Y6 Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Chuan , Wen Guanzhao , Xiao Zijie , Peng Jun , Hu Rong , Chen Zhifeng , Zhang Chengyun , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2022

In this work, charge photogeneration dynamics in PTQ10:Y6 solar cells were studied by steady-state and time-resolved spectroscopies. For neat donor and acceptor films, we determined the exciton diffusion coefficients of PTQ10 and Y6 as 1.3 × 10−3 cm2·s−1 and 6.8 × 10−3 cm2·s−1, respectively. Furthermore, we find the LUMO and HOMO level offsets of 0.14 eV and 0.11 eV are sufficient for the dissociation of donor and acceptor excitons, respectively. For PTQ10:Y6 blend films, we find DIO additive could increase the scales of acceptor and donor phases. The acceptor phase increased slightly from 17.2 nm to 20.0 nm, while the donor phase increased from 2.3 nm to 5.8 nm. In addition, we find bimolecular recombination is a critical form for carrier recombination and DIO additive can significantly suppress the carrier recombination rate of PTQ10:Y6 active layer in an ultrafast time scale. This work is helpful for understanding the charge photogeneration processes in non-fullerene polymer solar cells.
Design of Hybrid Fractal Integrated Half Mode SIW Band Pass Filter with CSRR and Minkowski Defected Ground Structure for Sub-6 GHz 5G Applications
Authors: Muchhal Nitin , Elkhouly Mostafa , Vintimilla Renato Zea , Chakraborty Arnab , Srivastava Shweta
Published: November 2022

A compact and wide-stop band half mode substrate integrated waveguide (HMSIW) filter, incorporated with a hybrid fractal on the upper plane and a complementary split ring resonator (CSRR), along with a defected ground structure (DGS) etched on the bottom plane, is proposed for 5G sub-6 GHz application. A CSRR reduces the resonant frequency causing size miniaturisation by approximately 40% by augmenting the equivalent inductance and capacitance of the CSRR. Further, the low-pass characteristics of the DGS aid in suppressing out-of-band spurious harmonics. A two-pole band pass filter (BPF) is fabricated using FR4 (flame retardant) to validate the design. The results confirm that the proposed filter has a pass band from 3.75 GHz–5.12 GHz with spurious response below −20 dB > 4f0.
Ethnobotanical Survey of Plants Used by Subsistence Farmers in Mitigating Cabbage and Spinach Diseases in OR Tambo Municipality, South Africa
Authors: Mwinga James Lwambi , Otang-Mbeng Wilfred , Kubheka Bongani Petros , Aremu Adeyemi Oladapo
Published: November 2022

Annually, significant crop losses are reported due to diseases caused by phytopathogens. Most subsistence farmers cannot afford the high cost of chemical treatments thereby resulting in the increasing dependence on plant extracts to manage crop diseases. In this study, we documented plants used for the management of cabbage and spinach diseases in OR Tambo Municipality, Eastern Cape Province. An ethnobotanical survey using semi-structured questionnaires was used to document plants and plant parts used by the subsistence farmers in managing cabbage and spinach diseases. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered to 41 consenting subsistence farmers from November to December in 2021, using snowball sampling. The collected data were subjected to descriptive statistical and ethnobotanical analyses. A total of 17 plants belonging to 10 families were identified by the participants as being used in mitigating cabbage and spinach diseases. Tulbaghia violacea, Aloe ferox, and Capsicum annuum had the highest use value of 0.32 each, whereas Tulbaghia violacea had the highest relative frequency of citation of 0.39. This current study revealed the importance of plants in managing crop diseases in local communities. It provides baseline data for future pharmacological evaluations in authenticating the efficacies of the identified plants in managing crop diseases.
Response Mechanisms of Adventitious Root Architectural Characteristics of Nitraria tangutorum Shrubs to Soil Nutrients in Nabkha
Authors: Li Xiaole , Dang Xiaohong , Gao Yong , Meng Zhongju , Chen Xue , Wang Yanyi
Published: November 2022

The adventitious roots of desert shrubs respond to a nabkhas soil environment by adjusting their configuration characteristics, but the mechanism of this response and the main influencing factors are still unclear. To illustrate this response pattern, Nitraria tangutorum Bobrov, Sovetsk. in West Ordos National Nature Reserve was studied, and the shrub was divided into three growth stages: the rudimental stage, developing stage, and stabilizing stage. A combination of total root excavation and root tracing was used to investigate their adventitious root morphology. The results show the following: (1) As the shrub grows, the ability to accumulate sand into nabkhas increases. (2) The soil nutrient accumulation capacity increased with shrub growth. The “fertilizer island effect” was formed in the nutrient developing stage and stabilizing stage of nabkhas soil, but the rudimental stage was not formed. (3) The adventitious root architecture of N. tangutorum at different growth stages was all herringbone with a simple branch structure. With the growth in N. tangutorum, the root diameter of each level gradually increased, the branches of the shrub grew gradually complicated, and the range of resource utilization gradually expanded. (4) Redundancy analysis (RDA) results show that soil organic carbon (SOC) was the main factor affecting the adventitious root architecture. The results of this study reveal the adjustments the adventitious root architecture of N. tangutorum make in order to adapt to the stress environment and provide data support for the protection of natural vegetation in West Ordos.
Pricing and Return Strategy Selection of Online Retailers Considering Consumer Purchasing Behavior
Authors: Shu Xinggang , Hu Zhenhua
Published: November 2022

This article mainly considers the coexistence of physical sales channels and online sales channels. Online retailers with online sales channels consider whether to provide return policies and whether to provide consumers with return insurance. The research established four return strategy models that: do not provide returns; provide returns but do not provide return insurance; provide return insurance, but the cost is borne by online retailers; and provide return insurance, but the cost is borne by consumers. The authors then studied the online retailers’ optimal return and shipping insurance selection strategies. The results show that when the proportion of residual return value after the value reduction of unit returned products was large, online retailers set higher sales prices and provided return policies, while offline retailers needed to reduce sales prices in order to attract more consumers. When the consumer unit product return compensation was relatively large, online retailers chose to provide consumers with free return insurance; otherwise, it was more beneficial for online retailers not to provide return insurance. Further research found that although the cost of online retailers increased when freight insurance was taken, it could better attract consumers, which was more beneficial to online retailers.