bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinformatics analysis of the association between obesity and gastric cancer
Authors: Ma Xiaole , Cui Miao , Guo Yuntong
Published: July 2024

Background

Obesity and gastric cancer (GC) are prevalent diseases worldwide. In particular, the number of patients with obesity is increasing annually, while the incidence and mortality rates of GC are ranked high. Consequently, these conditions seriously affect the quality of life of individuals. While evidence suggests a strong association between these two conditions, the underlying mechanisms of this comorbidity remain unclear.

Methods

We obtained the gene expression profiles of GSE94752 and GSE54129 from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. To investigate the associated biological processes, pathway enrichment analyses were conducted using Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes for the shared differentially expressed genes in obesity and GC. A protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was subsequently established based on the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database, followed by the screening of the core modules and central genes in this network using Cytoscape plug-in MCODE. Furthermore, we scrutinized the co-expression network and the interplay network of transcription factors (TFs), miRNAs, and mRNAs linked to these central genes. Finally, we conducted further analyses using different datasets to validate the significance of the hub genes.

Results

A total of 246 shared differentially expressed genes (209 upregulated and 37 downregulated) were selected for ensuing analyses. Functional analysis emphasized the pivotal role of inflammation and immune-associated pathways in these two diseases. Using the Cytoscape plug-in CytoHubba, nine hub genes were identified, namely, CXCR4, CXCL8, CXCL10, IL6, TNF, CCL4, CXCL2, CD4, and CCL2. IL6 and CCL4 were confirmed as the final hub genes through validation using different datasets. The TF-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network showed that the TFs primarily associated with the hub genes included RELA and NFKB1, while the predominantly associated miRNAs included has-miR-195-5p and has-miR-106a-5p.

Conclusion

Using bioinformatics methods, we identified two hub genes from the Gene Expression Omnibus datasets for obesity and GC. In addition, we constructed a network of hub genes, TFs, and miRNAs, and identified the major related TFs and miRNAs. These factors may be involved in the common molecular mechanisms of obesity and GC.
A multiphysics coupling framework for exascale simulation of fracture evolution in subsurface energy applications
Authors: Trebotich David , Settgast Randolph R. , Ligocki Terry , Tobin William , Miller Gregory H. , Molins Sergi , Steefel Carl I.
Published: July 2024

Predicting the evolution of fractured media is challenging due to coupled thermal, hydrological, chemical and mechanical processes that occur over a broad range of spatial scales, from the microscopic pore scale to field scale. We present a software framework and scientific workflow that couples the pore scale flow and reactive transport simulator Chombo-Crunch with the field scale geomechanics solver in GEOS to simulate fracture evolution in subsurface fluid-rock systems. This new multiphysics coupling capability comprises several novel features. An HDF5 data schema for coupling fracture positions between the two codes is employed and leverages the coarse resolution of the GEOS mechanics solver which limits the size of data coupled, and is, thus, not taxed by data resulting from the high resolution pore scale Chombo-Crunch solver. The coupling framework requires tracking of both before and after coarse nodal positions in GEOS as well as the resolved embedded boundary in Chombo-Crunch. We accomplished this by developing an approach to geometry generation that tracks the fracture interface between the two different methodologies. The GEOS quadrilateral mesh is converted to triangles which are organized into bins and an accessible tree structure; the nodes are then mapped to the Chombo representation using a continuous signed distance function that determines locations inside, on and outside of the fracture boundary. The GEOS positions are retained in memory on the Chombo-Crunch side of the coupling. The time stepping cadence for coupled multiphysics processes of flow, transport, reactions and mechanics is stable and demonstrates temporal reach to experimental time scales. The approach is validated by demonstration of 9 days of simulated time of a core flood experiment with fracture aperture evolution due to invasion of carbonated brine in wellbore-cement and sandstone. We also demonstrate usage of exascale computing resources by simulating a high resolution version of the validation problem on OLCF Frontier.
Reconstruction of the marine carbonate system at the Western Tropical Atlantic: trends and variabilities from 20 years of the PIRATA program
Authors: Musetti de Assis Carlos Augusto , Pinho Luana Queiroz , Fernandes Alexandre Macedo , Araujo Moacyr , Cotrim da Cunha Leticia
Published: July 2024

The Western Tropical Atlantic Ocean (WTAO) is crucial for understanding CO2 dynamics due to inputs from major rivers (Amazon and Orinoco), substantial rainfall from the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), and CO2-rich waters from equatorial upwelling. This study, spanning 1998 to 2018, utilized sea surface temperature (SST) and sea surface salinity (SSS) data from the PIRATA buoy at 8°N 38°W to reconstruct the surface marine carbonate system. Empirical models derived total alkalinity (TA) and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) from SSS, with subsequent estimation of pH and fCO2 from TA, DIC, SSS, and SST data. Linear trend analysis showed statistically significant temporal trends: DIC and fCO2 increased at a rate of 0.7 µmol kg-1 year-1 and 1.539 µatm year-1, respectively, and pH decreased at a rate of -0.001 pH units year-1, although DIC did not show any trend after data was de-seasoned. Rainfall analysis revealed distinct dry (July to December) and wet (January to June) seasons, aligning with lower and higher freshwater influence on the ocean surface, respectively. TA, DIC, and pH correlated positively with SSS, exhibiting higher values during the dry season and lower values during the wet season. Conversely, fCO2 correlated positively with SST, showcasing higher values during the wet season and lower values during the dry season. This emphasizes the influential roles of SSS and SST variability in CO2 solubility within the region. Finally, we have analysed the difference between TA and DIC (TA-DIC) as an indicator for ocean acidification and found a decreasing trend of -0.93 ± 0.02 μmol kg-1 year-1, reinforcing the reduction in the surface ocean buffering capacity in this area. All trends found for the region agree with data from other stations in the tropical and subtropical Atlantic Ocean. In conclusion, the use of empirical models proposed in this study has proven to help filling the gaps in marine carbonate system data in the Western Tropical Atlantic.
Provenance of clay-sized detrital sediments in the North Sea and the Skagerrak region based on radiogenic Nd-Sr-Hf isotopes and clay mineral compositions: assessing the impact of coastal and seabed erosion
Authors: Lenz Nina , Spiegel Timo , Hathorne Ed , Wallmann Klaus , Eisenhauer Anton , Frank Martin
Published: July 2024

The Skagerrak basin represents the main sink area for fine-grained sediment in the North Sea region and constitutes a natural deposition center for sediments that are supplied from the Atlantic, the Baltic Sea and the surrounding continental margins and coasts. However, the exact sources and their proportional contributions to the North Sea sediments and to the Skagerrak deposits are not well understood. To trace the predominant sources of the sediment and to gain a better understanding of the sedimentary processes in the North Sea and the Skagerrak basin, radiogenic Sr, Nd, and Hf isotope signatures and clay mineral compositions of the detrital clay fraction of surface sediment samples from the North Sea, the Scandinavian margins and the Baltic Sea were measured. The results indicate that the major source for Skagerrak clay-size sediments is the northern North Sea but Scandinavia as well as the southern North Sea including the southern England coast also contribute material. Seabed and coastal erosion in the northern North Sea are enhanced by the inflowing Atlantic Currents, which provide the Skagerrak with high amounts of clay size sediments. In contrast, the southern North Sea, the Baltic Sea and mid-European rivers such as Weser, Elbe and Ems are only minor contributors. As Skagerrak deposits are dominated by clay sized material (up to 60%), the reconstructed sediment processes in this study deviate from findings in previous sediment budget studies, which were based on both clay and silt fraction and indicated predominant influences from the southern North Sea. These results highlight that coastal and seabed erosion in the North Sea is a previously underestimated source of fine-grained sediments for depocenters in the entire North Sea. With regard to climate change, the global sea-level rise will likely enhance erosional processes and can therefore significantly influence the sediment budget of the entire North Sea.
Improving stability and safety in concrete structures against high-energy projectiles: a machine learning perspective
Authors: Zhang Qianhui , Jin Yuzhen , Wang Guangzhi , Sun Qingmei , Ghorbani Hamzeh
Published: July 2024

Concrete structures are commonly used as secure settlements and strategic shelters due to their inherent strength, durability, and wide availability. Examining the robustness and integrity of strategic concrete structures in the face of super-energy projectiles is of utmost significance in safeguarding vital infrastructure sectors, ensuring the well-being of individuals, and advancing the course of worldwide sustainable progress. This research focuses on forecasting the penetration depth (BPD) through the application of robust models, such as Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM), and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) as ML models. The dataset used consists of 1,020 data points sourced from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), encompassing various parameters such as cement content (Cp), ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBFS), fly ash content (FA), water portion (Wp), superplasticizer content (Sp), coarse aggregate content (CA), fine aggregate content (FAA), concrete sample age (t), concrete compressive strength (CCS), gun type (G-type), bullet caliber (B-Cali), bullet weight (Wb), and bullet velocity (Vb). Feature selection techniques revealed that the MLP model, incorporating eight input variables (FA, CA, Sp, GGBFS, Cp, t, FAA, and CCS), provides the most accurate predictions for BPD across the entire dataset. Comparing the four models used in this study, KNN demonstrates distinct superiority over the other methods. KNN, a non-parametric ML model used for classification and regression, possesses several advantages, including simplicity, non-parametric nature, no training requirements, robustness to noisy data, suitability for large datasets, and interpretability. The results reveal that KNN outperforms the other models presented in this paper, exhibiting an R2 value of 0.9905 and an RMSE value of 0.1811 cm, signifying higher accuracy in its predictions compared to the other models. Finally, based on the error analysis across iterations, it is evident that the final accuracy error of the KNN model surpasses that of the SVM, MLP, and LightGBM models, respectively.
Effects of fucoidan and synbiotics supplementation during bismuth quadruple therapy of Helicobacter pylori infection on gut microbial homeostasis: an open-label, randomized clinical trial
Authors: Wang Huifen , Wei Wei , Liu Fang , Wang Miao , Zhang Yanli , Du Shiyu
Published: July 2024

Background

The eradication regimen for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection can induce gut dysbiosis. In this open-label, prospective, and randomized clinical trial, we aimed to assess the effects of fucoidan supplementation on the eradication rate and gut microbial homeostasis in the context of quadruple therapy, as well as to investigate the combined effects of fucoidan and synbiotics supplementations.

Methods

Eighty patients with H. pylori infection were enrolled and randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups: the QT (a 2-week quadruple therapy alone), QF (quadruple therapy plus a 6-week fucoidan supplementation), QS (quadruple therapy plus a 6-week synbiotics supplementation), and QFS (quadruple therapy with a 6-week fucoidan and synbiotics supplementation), with 20 patients in each group. The QT regimen included rabeprazole, minocycline, amoxicillin, and bismuth potassium citrate. The synbiotics supplementation contained three strains of Bifidobacterium, three strains of Lactobacillus, along with three types of dietary fiber. All of the patients underwent 13C-urea breath test (13C-UBT) at baseline and at the end of the 6th week after the initiation of the interventions. Fresh fecal samples were collected at baseline and at the end of the 6th week for gut microbiota analysis via 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

The eradication rates among the four groups showed no significant difference. In the QT group, a significant reduction in α-diversity of gut microbiota diversity and a substantial shift in microbial composition were observed, particularly an increase in Escherichia-Shigella and a decrease in the abundance of genera from the Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae families. The Simpson index was significantly higher in the QF group than in the QT group. Neither the QS nor QFS groups exhibited significant changes in α-diversity or β-diversity. The QFS group was the only one that did not show a significant increase in the relative abundance of Escherichia-Shigella, and the relative abundance of Klebsiella significantly decreased in this group.

Conclusion

The current study provided supporting evidence for the positive role of fucoidan and synbiotics supplementation in the gut microbiota. The combined use of fucoidan and synbioticss might be a promising adjuvant regimen to mitigate gut dysbiosis during H. pylori eradication therapy.
Comparison of Rps loci toward isolates, singly and combined inocula, of Phytophthora sojae in soybean PI 407985, PI 408029, PI 408097, and PI424477
Authors: Clevinger Elizabeth M. , Biyashev Ruslan , Schmidt Clarice , Song Qijian , Batnini Amine , Bolaños-Carriel Carlos , Robertson Alison E. , Dorrance Anne E. , Saghai Maroof M. A.
Published: July 2024

For soybean, novel single dominant Resistance to Phytophthora sojae (Rps) genes are sought to manage Phytophthora root and stem rot. In this study, resistance to P. sojae was mapped individually in four recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations derived from crosses of the susceptible cultivar Williams with PI 407985, PI 408029, PI 408097, and PI424477 previously identified as putative novel sources of disease resistance. Each population was screened for resistance with five to seven isolates of P. sojae separately over multiple F7–F10 generations. Additionally, three of the populations were screened with inoculum from the combination of three P. sojae isolates (PPR), which comprised virulence to 14 Rps genes. Over 2,300 single-nucleotide polymorphism markers were used to construct genetic maps in each population to identify chromosomal regions associated with resistance to P. sojae. Resistance segregated as one or two genes to the individual isolates and one gene toward PPR in each population and mapped to chromosomes 3, 13, or 18 in one or more of the four RIL populations. Resistance to five isolates mapped to the same chromosome 3 region are as follows: OH7 (PI 424477 and PI408029), OH12168, OH7/8, PPR (PI 407985), and 1.S.1.1 (PI408029). The resistance regions on chromosome 13 also overlapped for OH1, OH25, OH-MIA (PI424477), PPR (PI 424477, PI 407985, and PI 408097), PPR and OH0217 (PI 408097), and OH4 (PI 408029), but were distinct for each population suggesting multiple genes confer resistance. Two regions were identified on chromosome 18 but all appear to map to known loci; notably, resistance to the combined inoculum (PPR) did not map at this locus. However, there are putative new alleles in three of four populations, three on chromosome 3 and two on chromosome 13 based on mapping location but also known virulence in the isolate used. This characterization of all the Rps genes segregating in these populations to these isolates will be informative for breeding, but the combined inoculum was able to map a novel loci. Furthermore, within each of these P. sojae isolates, there was virulence to more than the described Rps genes, and the effectiveness of the novel genes requires testing in larger populations.
Functional and perceptive differences between conventional and advanced ankle foot orthoses in community ambulators post-limb trauma: the injuries managed with advanced bracing of the lower extremity (IM ABLE) study
Authors: Highsmith M. Jason , Miro Rebecca M. , Kartel Michael , Ramrattan Anita , Courtade Angela , Heckman Jeffrey T. , Phillips Samuel L. , Wurdeman Shane R. , DiBello Thomas V. , England Dwiesha L. , Stevens Phillip M. , Campbell James H. , Hyre Michael J. , Maikos Jason T. , Hill Owen T. , Carey Stephanie L.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Many military service members and civilians suffer from lower extremity trauma. Despite recent advancements in lower limb bracing technology, it remains unclear whether these newer advanced braces offer improved comfort and functionality compared to conventional options. The IDEO (Intrepid Dynamic Exoskeletal Orthosis), a type of “advanced” orthosis was developed to assist in maintaining high functional performance in patients who have experienced high-energy lower extremity trauma and underwent limb salvage surgeries.

Methods

A cross-sector multi-site initiative was completed to study the efficacy of advanced ankle foot orthoses (AFO) for lower limb trauma and injury compared to a conventional AFO. Following fitting, training, and accommodation, the subjects were assessed in each AFO system for mobility, self-reported function, safety and pain, and preference.

Results

They preferred the advanced over the conventional AFO and the mobility and exertion perception improved with the advanced AFO with no difference in pain or overall health status scores.

Discussion

Thus, an advanced AFO is an option for trauma affecting the lower limb. Long-term studies are required to better understand the accommodation and learning process of using an advanced AFO.
Toward an innovation radar for cultivated meat: exploring process technologies for cultivated meat and claims about their social impacts
Authors: Woelken Lisa , Weckowska Dagmara M. , Dreher Carsten , Rauh Cornelia
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Cultivated meat has received growing attention since claims were made that cultivated meat can be produced more ethically and sustainably than the current meat production. However, there are still major challenges in the development of cell lines, scaffolding, growth media, and bioprocess, which need to be overcome to reach industrial production levels. Numerous technological innovations have been proposed to overcome these challenges but they have rarely been evaluated with regard to their social sustainability. Consequently, it remains unclear if and how cultivated meat would contribute towards creating inclusive food systems.

Methods

To bring more clarity, the study identifies different technological solutions that are used or developed for production of cultivated meat and identifies the positive and negative claims about the expected contributions of these technological solutions to social inclusion in food systems, using evidence from the literature review and 11 expert interviews. An innovation radar for cultivated meat is proposed to visualise the variety of technological innovations and the claims about their expected contributions to social sustainability.

Results

The technologies in the areas cell line development, scaffolding, growth media, and bioprocess are expected to have an impact on inclusion in consumption of cultivated meat. Some cell innovations are expected to raise cognitive barriers due to complex technologies that might be difficult for the consumer to understand. Cultural barriers are expected to be raised by cell innovation entailing genetic engineering and medium innovation using FBS or animal components, which is considered to harm animals. Further, regulatory barriers are expected in the EU if genetic modification is used in the production process, which concerns the areas cells, media, and scaffolding. The innovations for scaffolds are expected to mainly lower cost and cultural barriers since most technologies are already used in the food industry. Bioprocess innovations promise to lower cost barriers, however it must be considered, that most of the collected data for innovations in the bioprocess domain are based on assumptions.

Discussion

The study concludes that at this point in time, the most socially sustainable approach to cultivated meat production is not obvious. Under the current technological state of the art, it is not thinkable that production and consumption of cultivated meat could be socially inclusive. As it remains poorly understood if technologies for cultivated meat production could raise or lower barriers to inclusive consumption and production, further research is needed.
Analyzing small RNA sequences from canine stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles primed with TNF-α and IFN-γ and exploring their potential in lung repair
Authors: Lee Ji-Sun , Jeong Yun-Ho , Kim Yo-Han , Yun Jang-Hyuk , Ahn Jin-Ok , Chung Jin-Young , An Ju-Hyun
Published: July 2024

Acute lung injury is an acute inflammation disorder that disrupts the lung endothelial and epithelial barriers. In this study, we investigated the extracellular vesicles (EVs) obtained via priming inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interferon (IFN)-γ on canine adipose mesenchymal stem cells in improving their anti-inflammatory and/or immunosuppressive potential, and/or their ability to alleviate lipopolysaccharide-induced lung injury in vitro. We also explored the correlation between epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and the inflammatory repressive effect of primed EVs. Using small RNA-Seq, we confirmed that miR-16 and miR-502 significantly increased in EVs from TNF-α and IFN-γ-primed canine adipose mesenchymal stem cells. The pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines were analyzed in a lipopolysaccharide-induced lung injury model and we found that the EV anti-inflammatory effect improved on priming with inflammatory cytokines. EVs obtained from primed stem cells effectively suppress endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in a lung injury model. Our results suggest a potential therapeutic approach utilizing EVs obtained from adipose mesenchymal stem cells primed with TNF-α and IFN-γ against lung inflammation and endothelial to mesenchymal transition.
A Steady-Pressure Control Method for Emulsion Pump Station Based on Online Updating of Optimal Flow Rate
Authors: Xu Peng , Kou Ziming , Wu Juan , Hou Tengyan , Peng Yanwei , Zhang Buwen
Published: July 2024

In order to solve the problem of unstable fluid supply pressure and serious impact caused by the complicated and changeable working condition of a fully mechanized mining face in coal mines and the sluggish response of the fluid supply system to the fluid demand for the hydraulic support, a control method based on online updating generalized regression neural network (GRNN) was proposed. Firstly, the simulated hydraulic support test platform and co-simulation model were built. Secondly, The optimal flow dataset of steady-pressure fluid supply under different working conditions is calculated by simulation. Furthermore, the GRNN prediction model was established by using dataset and online updating learning technology to predict the optimal fluid supply flow according to environmental parameters. Finally, the optimal flow control method of online updating GRNN was established, and numerical research and experimental verification were also carried out in different working conditions. The results indicated that the proposed control method could track the working conditions of the working face in real time and adjusted the fluid supply flow of the emulsion pump station adaptively, which effectively alleviated the pressure fluctuation and pressure shock, and the system pressure was more stable, meeting the demand of steady-pressure fluid supply on the working face.
Design of a Novel Three-Degree-of-Freedom Piezoelectric-Driven Micro-Positioning Platform with Compact Structure
Authors: Zhao Chuan , Li Zhenlong , Xu Fangchao , Zhang Hongkui , Sun Feng , Jin Junjie , Zhang Xiaoyou , Yang Lijian
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a novel three-degree-of-freedom piezoelectric-driven micro-positioning platform based on a lever combination compound bridge-type displacement amplification mechanism is proposed. The micro-positioning platform proposed in this paper aims to solve the current problem of the large size and small travel of the three-degree-of-freedom piezoelectric-driven micro-positioning platform. In this paper, a lever combination compound bridge-type displacement amplification mechanism combined with a new biaxial flexible hinge is proposed, the structural dimensions of the lever mechanism and the compound bridge mechanism are optimized, and the amplification multiplier is determined. The maximum output simulation analysis of the micro-positioning platform is carried out by using ANSYS, and the experimental test system is built for verification. The validation results show that the maximum errors between simulation and experiment in the z-direction, rotation direction around x, and rotation direction around y are 64 μm, 0.016°, and 0.038°, respectively, and the corresponding maximum relative errors are 5.6%, 2.4%, and 6.6%, respectively, which proves the feasibility of the theoretical design.
Research on Additive Manufacturing Path Planning of a Six-Degree-of-Freedom Manipulator
Authors: Han Xingguo , Liu Xuan , Wu Gaofei , Song Xiaohui , Cui Lixiu
Published: July 2024

The research on additive manufacturing (AM) path planning mainly focuses on the traditional three-axis AM path planning and five-degree-of-freedom (DOF) AM path planning, while there is less research on six-DOF AM path planning. In the traditional AM path planning algorithm, the filling path is discontinuous and there is long straight-line printing in a certain direction, which can easily lead to warpage deformation. Therefore, in this work, the six-DOF manipulator is taken as the main object to build an AM platform, and the mechanism of AM path planning of the manipulator is studied. The path planning algorithm combining the contour offset filling method and Hilbert curve filling is optimized by using a cubic uniform B-spline curve, and an AM path planning algorithm suitable for a six-DOF manipulator is obtained. A continuous printing path can be generated by this algorithm. It reduces the existence of long straight-line printing in a certain direction, thereby reducing the warpage deformation of the model and improving the molding quality of the model. The traditional three-axis AM device and the six-DOF AM platform were used to print two kinds of models. By comparing the printing time, the six-DOF AM platform was 43.70% and 37.94% shorter than the traditional three-axis AM device. The same model was printed on a six-DOF AM platform by using the parallel scanning filling method, the path planning algorithm combining contour offset and Hilbert curve, and the method proposed in this paper. Through experimental verification, the average warpage deformation of the model printed by the method proposed in this paper was reduced by 37.81% and 13.79%, respectively, compared with the other two methods.
A Semi-Global Finite-Time Decentralized Control Method for High-Order Large-Scale Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Jiang Ziwen , Zhang Hanwen , Xue Lingrong
Published: July 2024

This study focuses on the decentralized stabilization issue of high-order large-scale nonlinear systems with unknown disturbances. A novel decentralized semi-global finite-time control approach is suggested by constructing a Lyapunov function with both quadratic and higher-order components and employing the method of homogeneous domination. Based on the designed Lyapunov function, a state-feedback controller is constructed for the nominal system. Subsequently, the scaling gain is flexibly introduced to enable semi-globally finite-time stabilization of the nonlinear system. Besides, the approach is extended to the problem of decentralized tracking control of high-order large-scale nonlinear systems. Finally, numerical and practical examples validate the effectiveness of the presented control strategy.
Mining Delay Propagation Causality within an Airport Network from Historical Data
Authors: Zhu Dan , Wang Huawei , Tan Xianghua
Published: July 2024

Airport networks are interconnected through flight routes, with delays at upstream airports leading to delays at downstream airports, thus causing delay propagation. Exploring the mechanisms of delay propagation in airport networks provides scientific insights for managing and controlling delays in aviation systems. Existing methods, such as Granger causality tests and transfer entropy, must be revised to address the nonlinear causal relationships of delays in airport networks. So, this paper proposes a causality mining method for delay propagation in airport networks based on partial correlation-based multivariate conditional independence (PCMCI). This method comprehensively considers all airports and causality mining in two stages. The first stage uses conditional independence tests to obtain the parent node set of the target airport, which includes both true and false causal relationships. The second stage employs instantaneous conditional independence tests to eliminate false causal relationships and obtain test statistics representing the strength of causality. Based on historical delay data from US airports over a year, the experimental results show that multiple factors cause delay propagation in airport networks rather than a single causal relationship. The scope of delay propagation is limited, mainly affecting a few airports closely connected to it. Delays at airports with small flight volumes are more likely to propagate. Few airport pairs in the network mutually propagate delays and, often, delays at airports affected by a particular airport’s delay also exhibit causal relationships with each other. This method provides a new perspective for deepening the understanding of delay propagation mechanisms in airport networks.
Development and Testing of a Gas Turbine Test Rig Setup for Demonstrating New Aviation Propulsion Concepts
Authors: Kislat Oliver , Römgens Janos , Schuldt Simon , Zanger Jan , Jakobs Nils , Henke Martin , Kraus Cedric , Moosbrugger Anika , Asmi Mohamed Anes , Aigner Manfred
Published: July 2024

To further increase efficiency and to significantly reduce climate impact in the aviation sector, new propulsion concepts must be developed. As full electrification in mid- and long-range aviation is impractical due to the low gravimetric energy density of batteries, new approaches must be developed. Therefore, the so-called hybrid electric ground demonstrator (HeBo), equipped with a Rolls Royce M250-C20B gas turbine is set up. The test rig serves as a development platform for various new gas turbine-based propulsion concepts for aviation, such as hybrid electric concepts or a novel cycle concept with steam injection to the combustor, which are described in this paper. The main focus of the work is on the experimental setup and the commissioning of the baseline test rig. This will place the test rig in the context of current research activities and serve as reference for subsequent research results.
Chatter and Surface Waviness Analysis in Oerlikon Face Hobbing of Spiral Bevel Gears
Authors: Wang Jingchao , Qian Jun , Huang Kaifeng , Shang Zhentao , Yu Jianwu
Published: July 2024

A vectorized analytical model for the cutting dynamics in the spiral bevel gear face hobbing process has been developed, which is based on machine tool kinematics and vibration vectorization. The structural modal parameters of the cutter head spindle system are obtained through experimental modal analysis with hammer impact testing. The analytical model is utilized to simulate the generation of simulated vibration acceleration signals during spiral bevel gear hobbing. A wavelet threshold denoising method is applied to process the simulated vibration signals of the spiral bevel gear face hobbing with added white noise. Signal processing methods, including short-time Fourier transform are employed for time-domain analysis, frequency-domain analysis, and time–frequency-domain analysis of measured signals and simulated signals, thereby extracting the corresponding statistical features. In addition to the results of the experimental modal analysis, the causes of chatter in spiral bevel gear hobbing are discussed in detail, revealing that the main factor is cutter head vibration in the Y direction of the Hunan ZDCY CNC EQUIPMENT YKA2260 machine tool used in this research. The error in the time-domain characteristic parameters between simulated signals and measured vibration acceleration signals is within 15%, with a difference of 3.5% in spectral peak values. The predicted tooth surface morphology from simulation matches the actual morphology on the workpiece, comprehensively validating the reliability of the cutting dynamics model for the spiral bevel gear face hobbing process. Another conclusion drawn from numerical simulation experiments is that the amount of tooth surface waviness of the spiral bevel gears is the ratio of tool chatter frequency to cutting fundamental frequency.
A Lightweight Rice Pest Detection Algorithm Using Improved Attention Mechanism and YOLOv8
Authors: Yin Jianjun , Huang Pengfei , Xiao Deqin , Zhang Bin
Published: July 2024

Intelligent pest detection algorithms are capable of effectively detecting and recognizing agricultural pests, providing important recommendations for field pest control. However, existing recognition models have shortcomings such as poor accuracy or a large number of parameters. Therefore, this study proposes a lightweight and accurate rice pest detection algorithm based on improved YOLOv8. Firstly, a Multi-branch Convolutional Block Attention Module (M-CBAM) is constructed in the YOLOv8 network to enhance the feature extraction capability for pest targets, yielding better detection results. Secondly, the Minimum Points Distance Intersection over Union (MPDIoU) is introduced as a bounding box loss metric, enabling faster model convergence and improved detection results. Lastly, lightweight Ghost convolutional modules are utilized to significantly reduce model parameters while maintaining optimal detection performance. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms other detection models, with improvements observed in all evaluation metrics compared to the baseline model. On the test set, this method achieves a detection average precision of 95.8% and an F1-score of 94.6%, with a model parameter of 2.15 M, meeting the requirements of both accuracy and lightweightness. The efficacy of this approach is validated by the experimental findings, which provide specific solutions and technical references for intelligent pest detection.
Study on the Preventive Effect of Au/CeO2 on Lithium-Ion Battery Thermal Runaway Caused by Overcharging
Authors: Zhou Tian , Sun Jie , Li Jigang , Wei Shouping , Zhang Fan , Chen Jing
Published: July 2024

In this study, a flower-like Au/CeO2 supported catalyst composite anode was prepared to explore its impact on thermal runaway triggered by overcharging and flame. Through structural and performance characterization, it was found that the catalyst has a high specific surface area and good CO catalytic oxidation capability, with a CO removal rate higher than 99.97% at room temperature. Through electrical performance testing, it was discovered that, compared to batteries without the catalyst, batteries using the composite anode did not exhibit significant capacity degradation. In overcharge testing, the catalyst prolonged the voltage rise time and peak voltage occurrence time of the battery. In thermal runaway testing, the addition of the catalyst delayed the detection time of CO and significantly reduced the concentration of thermal runaway products, especially the peak concentration and integrated concentration of CO, demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing thermal runaway products. Therefore, this study provides a new approach for improving the safety of lithium-ion batteries. The catalyst exhibits good performance in reducing toxic gases generated after thermal runaway and delaying the occurrence of thermal runaway, providing strong support for the safe application of lithium-ion batteries.
Single-Use Vape Batteries: Investigating Their Potential as Ignition Sources in Waste and Recycling Streams
Authors: Gausden Andrew , Cerik Burak Can
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the potential link between the increasing prevalence of single-use vapes (SUVs) and the rising frequency of waste and recycling fires in the UK. Incorrectly discarded Li-ion cells from SUVs can suffer mechanical damage, potentially leading to thermal runaway (TR) depending on the cells’ state of charge (SOC). Industry-standard abuse tests (short-circuit and nail test) and novel impact and crush tests, simulating damage during waste management processes, were conducted on Li-ion cells from two market-leading SUVs. The novel tests created internal short circuits, generating higher temperatures than the short-circuit test required for product safety. The cells in used SUVs had an average SOC ≤ 50% and reached a maximum temperature of 131 °C, below the minimum ignition temperature of common waste materials. The high temperatures were short-lived and had limited heat transfer to adjacent materials. The study concludes that Li-ion cells in used SUVs at ≤50% SOC cannot generate sufficient heat and temperature to ignite common waste and recycling materials. These findings have implications for understanding the fire risk associated with discarded SUVs in waste management facilities.
Edible Gelatin and Cosmetic Activated Carbon Powder as Biodegradable and Replaceable Materials in the Production of Supercapacitors
Authors: Negroiu Rodica-Cristina , Marghescu Cristina-Ioana , Bacis Irina-Bristena , Burcea Madalina-Irina , Drumea Andrei , Dinca Laurentiu , Radulescu Ion Razvan
Published: July 2024

Environmental pollution is currently one of the most worrying factors that endangers human health. Therefore, attempts are being made to reduce it by various means. One of the most important sources of pollution in terms of the current RoHS and REACH directives is the pollution caused by the use of chemical products for the production of sources for the storage and generation of electricity. The aim of this article is therefore to develop supercapacitors made of biodegradable materials and to investigate their electrical performance. Among the materials used to make these electrodes, activated carbon was identified as the main material and different combinations of gelatin, calligraphy ink and glycerol were used as the binders. The electrolyte consists of a hydrogel based on gelatin, NaCl 20 wt% solution and glycerol. In the context of this research, the electrolyte, which has the consistency of a gel, fulfills the dual function of the separator in the structure of the manufactured cells. Due to its structure, the electrolyte has good mechanical properties and can easily block the contact between the two electrodes. Most of the materials used for the production of supercapacitor cells are interchangeable materials, which are mainly used in other application fields such as the food or cosmetics industries, but were also successfully used for the investigations carried out in this research. Thus, remarkable results were recorded regarding a specific capacitance between 101.46 F/g and 233.26 F/g and an energy density between 3.52 Wh/kg and 8.09 Wh/kg, with a slightly lower power density between 66.66 W/kg and 85.76 W/kg for the manufactured supercapacitors.
Avian Coronavirus Infectious Bronchitis Virus Activates Mitochondria-Mediated Apoptosis Pathway and Affects Viral Replication by Inducing Reactive Oxygen Species Production in Chicken HD11 Cells
Authors: Han Xiaoxiao , Huang Yuan , Hao Junli
Published: July 2024

Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), a coronavirus that causes severe respiratory and gastrointestinal illness in poultry, leads to substantial economic losses. According to earlier research, IBV infection causes chicken macrophage HD11 cells to undergo cell apoptosis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the IBV-activated intrinsic apoptotic signaling pathway were examined in this work. The findings demonstrate that IBV infection causes ROS to accumulate. Moreover, IBV infection decreased the mitochondrial transmembrane potential in HD11 cells, which could be blocked by ROS antioxidants (PDTC and NAC). The two antioxidants significantly affected the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax and further inhibited the activation of caspase-3 and apoptosis in HD11 cells. Additionally, IBV replication was decreased by blocking ROS accumulation. Pretreating HD11 cells with ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) prevented IBV from entering the cells and reduced the oxidative stress which IBV causes. The ability to accumulate ROS was also lost in UV-inactivated IBV. The IBV N protein induces cell apoptosis through the activation of ROS. These findings provide an explanation for the processes of IBV infection in immune cells by indicating that IBV-induced ROS generation triggers cell apoptosis in HD11 cells.
Hydrogen-Rich Water (HRW) Reduces Fatty Acid-Induced Lipid Accumulation and Oxidative Stress Damage through Activating AMP-Activated Protein Kinase in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Tsou Sing-Hua , Lin Sheng-Chieh , Chen Wei-Jen , Hung Hui-Chih , Liao Chun-Cheng , Kornelius Edy , Huang Chien-Ning , Lin Chih-Li , Yang Yi-Sun
Published: July 2024

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the liver. Intracellular oxidative stress induced by lipid accumulation leads to various hepatocellular injuries including fibrosis. However, no effective method for mitigating MASLD without substantial side effects currently exists. Molecular hydrogen (H2) has garnered attention due to its efficiency in neutralizing harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) and its ability to penetrate cell membranes. Some clinical evidence suggests that H2 may alleviate fatty liver disease, but the precise molecular mechanisms, particularly the regulation of lipid droplet (LD) metabolism, remain unclear. This study utilized an in vitro model of hepatocyte lipid accumulation induced by free fatty acids (FFAs) to replicate MASLD in HepG2 cells. The results demonstrated a significant increase in LD accumulation due to elevated FFA levels. However, the addition of hydrogen-rich water (HRW) effectively reduced LD accumulation. HRW decreased the diameter of LDs and reduced lipid peroxidation and FFA-induced oxidative stress by activating the AMPK/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Overall, our findings suggest that HRW has potential as an adjunctive supplement in managing fatty liver disease by reducing LD accumulation and enhancing antioxidant pathways, presenting a novel strategy for impeding MASLD progression.
The Strong Activation of p53 Tumor Suppressor Drives the Synthesis of the Enigmatic Isoform of DUSP13 Protein
Authors: Krześniak Małgorzata , Łasut-Szyszka Barbara , Będzińska Agnieszka , Gdowicz-Kłosok Agnieszka , Rusin Marek
Published: July 2024

The p53 tumor suppressor protein activates various sets of genes depending on its covalent modifications, which are controlled by the nature and intensity of cellular stress. We observed that actinomycin D and nutlin-3a (A + N) collaborate in inducing activating phosphorylation of p53. Our recent transcriptomic data demonstrated that these substances strongly synergize in the upregulation of DUSP13, a gene with an unusual pattern of expression, coding for obscure phosphatase having two isoforms, one expressed in the testes and the other in skeletal muscles. In cancer cells exposed to A + N, DUSP13 is expressed from an alternative promoter in the intron, resulting in the expression of an isoform named TMDP-L1. Luciferase reporter tests demonstrated that this promoter is activated by both endogenous and ectopically expressed p53. We demonstrated for the first time that mRNA expressed from this promoter actually produces the protein, which can be detected with Western blotting, in all examined cancer cell lines with wild-type p53 exposed to A + N. In some cell lines, it is also induced by clinically relevant camptothecin, by nutlin-3a acting alone, or by a combination of actinomycin D and other antagonists of p53-MDM2 interaction—idasanutlin or RG7112. This isoform, fused with green fluorescent protein, localizes in the perinuclear region of cells.
Resistant Starch-Encapsulated Probiotics Attenuate Colorectal Cancer Cachexia and 5-Fluorouracil-Induced Microbial Dysbiosis
Authors: Wang Jui-Ling , Chen Yu-Siang , Huang Kuo-Chin , Yeh Chin-Hsing , Chen Miles Chih-Ming , Wu Lawrence Shih-Hsin , Chiu Yi-Han
Published: July 2024

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is commonly used as the primary chemotherapy for colorectal cancer (CRC). However, it can lead to unwanted chemoresistance. Resistant starch (RS), which functions similarly to fermentable dietary fiber, has the potential to reduce the risk of CRC. The effects of RS on improving CRC-associated cachectic symptoms and 5-FU chemotherapy-induced microbial dysbiosis remain unknown. Female BALB/cByJNarl mice were randomly divided into four groups: one tumor group (with CT26 colonic carcinoma but no treatment) and three CT26 colonic carcinoma-bearing groups that were administered 20 mg/kg 5-FU (T+5-FU group), a probiotic cocktail (4 × 108 CFUs) plus chemotherapy (T+5-FU+Pro), or resistant-starch-encapsulated probiotics plus chemotherapy (T+5-FU+RS-Pro). T+5-FU and T+5-FU+RS-Pro administration significantly suppressed tumor growth and activated apoptotic cell death in CT26-bearing mice. 5-FU-induced increases in inflammatory cytokines and NF-κB signaling were mitigated by the Pro or RS-Pro supplementation. A gut microbial composition comparison indicated that the abundance of intestinal bacteria in the T and T+5-FU groups decreased significantly, while the groups receiving Pro or RS-Pro maintained a greater abundance and healthy gut microbiota composition, suggesting that RS can reduce the microbial dysbiosis that occurs during 5-FU chemotherapy. The use of RS-Pro before chemotherapy should be considered for the regulation of chemotherapy-associated cachectic symptoms, inflammation, and chemotherapy-induced microbial dysbiosis.
p53 Genetics and Biology in Lung Carcinomas: Insights, Implications and Clinical Applications
Authors: Benitez Dixan A. , Cumplido-Laso Guadalupe , Olivera-Gómez Marcos , Del Valle-Del Pino Nuria , Díaz-Pizarro Alba , Mulero-Navarro Sonia , Román-García Angel , Carvajal-Gonzalez Jose Maria
Published: July 2024

The TP53 gene is renowned as a tumor suppressor, playing a pivotal role in overseeing the cell cycle, apoptosis, and maintaining genomic stability. Dysregulation of p53 often contributes to the initiation and progression of various cancers, including lung cancer (LC) subtypes. The review explores the intricate relationship between p53 and its role in the development and progression of LC. p53, a crucial tumor suppressor protein, exists in various isoforms, and understanding their distinct functions in LC is essential for advancing our knowledge of this deadly disease. This review aims to provide a comprehensive literature overview of p53, its relevance to LC, and potential clinical applications.