bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation Mediates Hepatitis E Virus‐Induced Neuroinflammation
Authors: Wei Bingyan , Li Huopeng , Cheng Minheng , Yang Yifei , Liu Bo , Tian Yuewei , Sun Yaxin , Liu Tianlong , She Ruiping , Tian Jijing
Published: August 2024

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a foodborne zoonotic pathogen that is supposed to be one of the most common causes of acute viral hepatitis. However, HEV infection has been recently associated with a wide spectrum of extrahepatic manifestations, particularly neurological disorders. Previous studies have shown that HEV is able to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and induce inflammatory response of the central nervous system. However, the pathogenesis of HEV‐induced neuroinflammation and tissue injury of the central nervous system have yet to be fully elucidated. In this study, activation of NLRP3 inflammasome following HEV infection were investigated. In a gerbil model infected by HEV, brain histopathological changes including gliosis, neuronophagia and neuron injury were observed and expression of NLRP3, caspase‐1, IL‐1β and IL‐18 were elevated. Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) are key components of the BBB that protects the brain from various challenges. Following HEV infection, virus‐like particles range from 30 to 40 nm in diameter were observed in human BMECs (hBMECs). Enhanced expression levels of NLRP3 and subsequent ASC, caspase‐1, IL‐1β and IL‐18 were detected in infected cells. Treatment with MCC950 alleviated HEV infection induced activation of NLRP3 inflammasome, mitochondrial damage and VE‐cadherin degradation. The findings provide new insights into HEV‐associated neuroinflammation. Moreover, targeting NLRP3 inflammasome signalling is a promising therapeutic in HEV‐induced neurological disorder.
The pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics integration of tilmicosin against Mycoplasma synoviae in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Yan Xiu , Liu Jinxin , Li Weihuo , Song Shuti , Yao Zhaofeng , Jia Yixin , Yuan Sheng , Yang Hong , Zhang Nan
Published: August 2024

Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) infection is a serious threat to poultry industry in China. Tilmicosin is a semisynthetic macrolide antibiotic used only in animals and has shown potential efficacy against MS, but there were no reported articles concerning the pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) interactions of tilmicosin against MS in vitro and vivo. This study aimed to assess the antibacterial activity of tilmicosin against MS in vitro and in vivo using PK/PD model to provide maximal efficacy. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and killing rates of different drug concentrations were measured using the microdilution method in vitro. Then, tilmicosin was administered orally to the MS‐infected chickens at doses of 7.5 and 60 mg/kg, and the PK parameters of tilmicosin in joint dialysates were determined using high‐pressure liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS/MS) combined with the microdialysis technique. The antibacterial effect (△E) was calculated when the infected chickens were administered a single oral dose of tilmicosin at 4, 7.5, 15, 30, and 60 mg/kg b.w. The PK and PD data were fitted using the Sigmoid Emax model to evaluate the PK/PD interactions of tilmicosin against MS. The bactericidal activity of tilmicosin against MS was concentration dependent. Furthermore, the PK/PD index of AUC0–72h/MIC exhibited the most optimal fitting results (R2 = .98). The MS load decreased by 1, 2, and 3 Log10 CFU/mL, then AUC/MIC was determined as 13.99, 20.53, and 28.23 h, respectively, and the bactericidal effect can be achieved when the dose of MS‐infected chickens is at 31.64 mg/kg b.w. The findings of this study hold significant implications for optimizing the treatment regimen for MS infection.
How inquilinism shaped breeding systems in a termite host‐inquiline relationship
Authors: Timmermans Johanne , Hellemans Simon , Křivánek Jan , Kaymak Esra , Fontaine Nicolas , Bourguignon Thomas , Hanus Robert , Roisin Yves
Published: August 2024

Social insects have developed a broad diversity of nesting and foraging strategies. One of these, inquilinism, occurs when one species (the inquiline) inhabits the nest built and occupied by another species (the host). Obligatory inquilines must overcome strong constraints upon colony foundation and development, due to limited availability of host colonies. To reveal how inquilinism shapes reproductive strategies in a termite host‐inquiline dyad, we carried out a microsatellite marker study on Inquilinitermes inquilinus and its host Constrictotermes cavifrons. The proportion of simple, extended and mixed families was recorded in both species, as well as the presence of neotenics, parthenogenesis and multiple foundations. Most host colonies (95%) were simple families and all were monodomous. By contrast, the inquiline showed a higher proportion of extended (30%) and mixed (5%) families, and frequent neotenics (in 25% of the nests). This results from the simultaneous foundation in host nests of numerous incipient colonies, which, as they grow, may compete, fight, or merge. We also documented the use of parthenogenesis by female–female pairs. In conclusion, the classical monogamous colony pattern of the host species suggests uneventful development of simple foundations dispersed in the environment, in accordance with the wide distribution of their resources. By contrast, the multiple reproductive patterns displayed by the inquiline species reveal strong constraints on foundation sites: founders first concentrate into host nests, then must attempt to outcompete or absorb the neighbouring foundations to gain full control of the resources provided by the host nest.
First description of immature stages and notes on the biology of the blow fly, Calliphora lopesi Mello, 1962
Authors: Grella Maicon D. , Savino André G. , Prado Aline M. , Thyssen Patricia J.
Published: August 2024

Several species of the worldwide distributed genus Calliphora Robineau‐Desvoidy (Insecta, Diptera, Calliphoridae) are medically important vectors and agents of myiasis. Furthermore, these flies are relevant in forensics because they are found in corpses. Information regarding the taxonomy, bionomics and distribution of Calliphora species endemic to South America, including Calliphora lopesi Mello, is scarce. To expand knowledge on C. lopesi, this study presents descriptions of eggs, larvae, puparia and developmental data at 14, 17, 20, 23 and 26 ± 1°C for the first time. Adult flies were collected from the field and kept in the laboratory to obtain samples for morphological and biological studies. Immatures were examined using light and scanning electron microscopy. To assess the growth rate, 10 specimens from each temperature group were randomly removed from the diet and weighed every 24 h from larval hatching until pupation. The minimum developmental threshold, thermal constant and linear development‐rate equations were calculated for each stage. Considering weight gain records and survival rates, the optimum temperature for the development of C. lopesi ranges from 23 to 26°C. A key to third‐instar larvae of known Neotropical species of Calliphora was also provided to assist in identification. The information provided in this study should be useful in expanding knowledge about Neotropical Calliphoridae species of forensic importance.
A primer for the gastroenterology provider on psychosocial assessment of patients with disorders of gut‐brain interaction
Authors: Ballou Sarah , Vasant Dipesh H. , Guadagnoli Livia , Reed Bonney , Chiarioni Giuseppe , ten Cate Liesbeth , Keefer Laurie , Kinsinger Sarah W.
Published: August 2024

Background

GI‐specific psychological factors are important contributors to patients' symptom experience and quality of life across all disorders of gut‐brain interaction (DGBI). Clinicians' ability to recognize the role of these psychological factors is essential for formulating a biopsychosocial case conceptualization and informing treatment decisions.

Purpose

This article will familiarize gastroenterology providers with conceptualizing the role of GI‐specific psychological factors in DGBI and provides stepwise, practical guidance for how to assess these during clinical encounters in a time‐efficient manner.
Primate hibernation: The past, present, and promise of captive dwarf lemurs
Authors: Blanco Marina B. , Greene Lydia K. , Welser Kay H. , Ehmke Erin E. , Yoder Anne D. , Klopfer Peter H.
Published: August 2024

The dwarf lemurs (Cheirogaleus spp.) of Madagascar are the only obligate hibernators among primates. Despite century‐old field accounts of seasonal lethargy, and more recent evidence of hibernation in the western fat‐tailed dwarf lemur (Cheirogaleus medius), inducing hibernation in captivity remained elusive for decades. This included the Duke Lemur Center (DLC), which maintains fat‐tailed dwarf lemurs and has produced sporadic research on reproduction and metabolism. With cumulative knowledge from the field, a newly robust colony, and better infrastructure, we recently induced hibernation in DLC dwarf lemurs. We describe two follow‐up experiments in subsequent years. First, we show that dwarf lemurs under stable cold conditions (13°C) with available food continued to eat daily, expressed shallower and shorter torpor bouts, and had a modified gut microbiome compared to peers without food. Second, we demonstrate that dwarf lemurs under fluctuating temperatures (12–30°C) can passively rewarm daily, which was associated with altered patterns of fat depletion and reduced oxidative stress. Despite the limitations of working with endangered primates, we highlight the promise of studying hibernation in captive dwarf lemurs. Follow‐up studies on genomics and epigenetics, metabolism, and endocrinology could have relevance across multidisciplinary fields, from biomedicine to evolutionary biology, and conservation.
Gβγ dimers mediate low K+ stress‐inhibited root growth via modulating auxin redistribution in Arabidopsis
Authors: Mulati Nuerkaimaier , Li Zhong‐Qi , Zhang Yan‐Ru , Yang Ya‐Lan , Li Li , Li Xue , Guo Jiang‐Fan , He Jun‐Min , Zheng Bo‐Wen
Published: August 2024

In the investigation of heterotrimeric G protein‐mediated signal transduction in planta, their roles in the transmittance of low K+ stimuli remain to be elucidated. Here, we found that the primary root growth of wild‐type Arabidopsis was gradually inhibited with the decrease of external K+ concentrations, while the primary root of the mutants for G protein β subunit AGB1 and γ subunits AGG1, AGG2 and AGG3 could still grow under low K+ conditions (LK). Exogenous NAA application attenuated primary root elongation in agb1 and agg1/2/3 but promoted the growth in wild‐type seedlings under LK stress. Using ProDR5:GFP, ProPIN1:PIN1‐GFP and ProPIN2:PIN2‐GFP reporter lines, a diminishment in auxin concentration at the radicle apex and a reduction in PIN1and PIN2 efflux carrier abundance were observed in wild‐type roots under LK, a phenomenon not recorded in the agb1 and agg1/2/3. Further proteolytic and transcriptional assessments revealed an enhanced degradation of PIN1 and a suppressed expression of PIN2 in the wild‐type background under LK, contrasting with the stability observed in the agb1 and agg1/2/3 mutants. Our results indicate that the G protein β and γ subunits play pivotal roles in suppressing of Arabidopsis root growth under LK by modulating auxin redistribution via alterations in PIN1 degradation and PIN2 biosynthesis.
Institutional fit and policy design in water governance: Nebraska's Natural Resources Districts
Authors: Olivier Tomás , Vallury Sechindra
Published: August 2024

The extent to which rules in a governing arrangement addresses its local conditions is usually defined in the environmental governance literature as the problem of fit. Actors in governing arrangements with decision‐making authority are capable of choosing and designing specific policy tools in order to address specific policy problems. In this manuscript, we combine insights from the literature on policy design and the literature on common‐pool resource governance to assess the extent to which Nebraska's Natural Resources Districts (NRDs), which were created to provide context‐specific solutions to local water problems, design plans, and programs that fit their social‐ecological contexts. Using semi‐automated text analysis approaches and Qualitative Comparative Analysis, we assess how the design of plans and programs created by NRDs vary, to fit their social‐ecological contexts. Results indicate that the biophysical context plays a role in shaping the content of plans and programs, but that broader top‐down institutional mandates may play an even stronger role in shaping the outputs produced by NRDs.
The new generationalism: Generational antagonism and partisan polarization
Authors: Lindner Andrew M.
Published: August 2024

Despite the prevalence of generational labels like Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z in popular discourse, most studies of generationalism have been restricted to content analyses of generational rhetoric. This study investigates the prevalence of negative generationalism, or negative affective sentiment towards perceived generational out‐groups within the US public and considers how it may be linked with partisan political identities. Using a nationally representative survey of 1232 Americans, this research examines the association between generational self‐identity and partisan identity using feeling thermometer scores for four generational groups (Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Z) and the two major political parties (Democrats and Republicans). I also report the findings of an experimental manipulation testing the extent to which generational priming exacerbates affective partisan polarization. The results reveal strong evidence of positive affect towards one's generational in‐group, but a less consistent pattern of negative generationalism. Neither the correlational nor the experimental outcomes support a strong and consistent link between generationalism and partisanship, though Republicans feel significantly warmer towards Baby Boomers and colder towards Gen Z than independents. Despite the largely null findings concerning partisanship, this study reveals that these generational labels do appear to bear some degree of social meaning as social identities for people, pointing to new directions for future sociological research on generationalism.
AT‐hook motif nuclear localized transcription factors function redundantly in promoting root growth through modulation of redox homeostasis
Authors: Shi Xiaowen , Yang Ting , Ren Mengfei , Fu Jing , Bai Juan , Cui Hongchang
Published: August 2024

Maintaining an optimal redox status is essential for plant growth and development, particularly when the plants are under stress. AT‐hook motif nuclear localized (AHL) proteins are evolutionarily conserved transcription factors in plants. Much of our understanding about this gene family has been derived from studies on clade A members. To elucidate the functions of clade B genes, we first analyzed their spatial expression patterns using transgenic plants expressing a nuclear localized GFP under the control of their promoter sequences. AHL1, 2, 6, 7, and 10 were further functionally characterized owing to their high expression in the root apical meristem. Through mutant analyses and transgenic studies, we showed that these genes have the ability to promote root growth. Using yeast one‐hybrid and dual luciferase assays, we demonstrated that AHL1, 2, 6, 7, and 10 are transcription regulators and this activity is required for their roles in root growth. Although mutants for these genes did not showed obvious defects in root growth, transgenic plants expressing their fusion proteins with the SRDX repressor motif exhibited a short‐root phenotype. Through transcriptome analysis, histochemical staining and molecular genetics experiments, we found that AHL10 maintains redox homeostasis via direct regulation of glutathione transferase (GST) genes. When the transcript level of GSTF2, a top‐ranked target of AHL10, was reduced by RNAi, the short‐root phenotype in the AHL10‐SRDX expressing plant was largely rescued. These results together suggest that AHL genes function redundantly in promoting root growth through direct regulation of redox homeostasis.
Polyp Segmentation From Colonoscopy Image Using DeepLabV3+
Authors: Sufri Nur Anis Jasmin , Babu Biragathis , As'ari Muhammad Amir
Published: August 2024

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world, and it is also one of the leading causes of mortality from cancer. Over time, polyp development on the inner lining of the colon or rectum may progress to cancer.  Due to the differences in size, shape, and color, this is a difficult undertaking polyp texture and differences between several forms of hard polyps mimics. Colonoscopy is the most effective way to detect polyps. Screening and detection are possible, but they are operator-dependent, time-consuming, and prone to errors.  Polyp segmentation method based on the convolutional neural network is developed and to enhance the performance of the method. In this study, polyp segmentation algorithm was developed using Python as the main programming language which was applied with TensorFlow and OpenCV on Kvasir-SEG datasets. DeepLabv3+ model was used to train the filters and pooling operations were applied to images to segment the polyps. The data obtained was further analysed and evaluated the performance analysis. As a result, the developed algorithm was tested and shows an average accuracy 0.7215 and average IoU score 0.7240 for 20 epochs. As a conclusion, the algorithm developed is able to segment the polyps and it can be further developed with large number of data to improve the accuracy.
Anti-diabetic Benefits from Morus alba Fruits
Authors: Foong Yin Ling , Mohd Jusoh Yanti Maslina , Ya'akob Harisun , Hashim Zanariah , Dayang Norulfairuz Abang Zaidel  , Dailin Daniel Joe , Zainan Nur Hidayah
Published: August 2024

The aim of this review was to highlight the therapeutic potential of Morus alba fruits in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This review examining studies sourced from databases including Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Key search terms such as Morus alba, mulberry, hypoglycemic, antioxidant and antidiabetic guided the literature search. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies involving the administration of Morus alba fruit extracts on HepG2 cells and the related bioassays; studies that included antidiabetic enzymatic assays; studies that included fasting glucose, postprandial glucose, and insulin resistance; and also studies involving comparison of Morus alba and other Morus sp. in terms of their antioxidant contents and properties. Overall, Morus alba fruit extracts exhibit promising effects at the phytochemical level, specifically enhancing glucose uptake. Significant components found in Morus alba fruits, such as anthocyanins, demonstrate hypoglycemic properties and contribute to mitigating diabetic nephropathy. The pharmacological profile of Morus alba is multifaceted, encompassing attributes like improved glucose absorption, enhanced insulin secretion, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as activities against hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and obesity. In conclusion, Morus alba fruits exhibit various pharmacological effects in managing T2DM, encompassing improvements in glucose absorption, insulin secretion, antioxidative properties, and activities against high blood sugar and high lipid levels, as well as potential benefits in obesity control. Despite these positive outcomes, the current existed research falls short in exploring the full potential and synergistic effects of Morus alba fruit components. This gap limits the exploration of more potent therapeutic strategies utilizing the comprehensive properties of the plant's fruits.
LIFE CYCLE ANALYSIS OF BEVERAGE PACKAGING
Authors: Maidin Shajahan , Ismail Shafinaz , Azman Azmiza Idayu
Published: August 2024

Plastic is the leading food and item packaging material due to its lightweight characteristics. However, there have been alarming concerns over the past years since the large-scale introduction of plastic after the Second World War, and a total of 8.3 billion metric tons have been produced. This research aims to compare the environmental impact of the packaging design of several consumer products using life cycle analysis (LCA). Based on the openLCA open-source software, three beverage packaging types were compared: plastic bottles, glass bottles, and aluminium cans. The life cycle inventory (LCI) must be identified based on case studies, literature reviews and relevant assumptions to obtain the result. Then, each beverage packagings flows, process and product system was also required to be identified to run the openLCA software. The three types of packaging was compared within each CML category in terms of impact. The CML stands for "Centrum voor Milieukunde Leiden". It is a research institute of the Centre for Environmental Studies at Leiden University located in the Netherlands and a procedure used to estimate the measure of environmental impact caused by the product. Based on the CML eleven impact categories, the plastic bottle was ranked as the most impactful towards the environment, followed by glass bottles and aluminium cans as the least impactful. Other than that, it may be due to the quantity of material being used, the effect of the material during processing, and the recyclable ability.
COMPARISON OF CORONA DISCHARGE IDENTIFICATION IN 20 kV CUBICLES BASED ON VOLTAGE AND NOISE USING ED, HMM, AND FCM
Authors: Fikri Miftahul , - Christiono , Mulyana K. Iwa Garniwa , Abdul-Malek Zulkurnain , Romadhoni Muhammad Luthfiansyah , Mohd Esa Mona Riza , Supriyanto Eko
Published: August 2024

Phenomena such as corona discharge (CD) still occurs in many electrical systems in Indonesia. As a first step for early detection of insulation failure. Identification of CD acoustic in this study namely clustering based on voltage and based on noise. So that the CD acoustic classification is set into 3 clusters. In addition, this study also classifies CD acoustic based on noise with three clusters, namely pure CD, CD with noise, and pure noise. Clustering was performed using the linear predictive coding (LPC) method as feature extraction, then a comparison of pattern matching results of feature extraction was performed using Euclidean distance (ED), hidden Markov model (HMM) and fuzzy cluster mean (FCM). The temperature in the cubical is between 27.5 ℃ - 35.3 ℃ and humidity ranges from 70% - 95%. The results of clustering accuracy on the average base voltage using the ED, HMM and FCM methods were obtained respectively 100%, 100% 93.93% for training data and 80.74%, 84.44%, 80.55% for testing data. While the results of the average base noise clustering accuracy using the ED, HMM and FCM methods were obtained respectively 100%, 100%, 94.69% for training data and 100%, 100%, 100% for testing data.
PARAMETRIC ANALYSIS OF CFRP STRIPS INTERNALLY CONFINED RC COLUMNS
Authors: Abdul Halim Nur Hajarul Falahi , C. Alih Sophia , Vafaei Mohammadreza
Published: August 2024

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets has been widely used as external confinement for retrofitting and strengthening structural elements as they increase axial, shear, and bending capacity. Despite many advantages, FRPs suffer from some drawbacks such as have weak durability against thermal and harsh environment. Thus, the use of FRP strips as internal confinement was proposed so that the concrete cover can protect the FRP strips. In this study, a three-dimensional (3D) nonlinear finite element (FE) model is developed using ABAQUS software to study the cyclic behavior of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) strips internally confined reinforced concrete (RC) columns. A validated model was used to conduct the parametric study to investigate the effect of FE model under different intensities of axial load (i.e. 70kN, 100kN, 200kN, 300kN, and 400kN) and distances between the CFRP spirals (100mm, 150mm, 200mm, and 250mm). Results indicate that an increase in the axial force has significantly increased the stress on the surface of concrete and can lead to the rupture of CFRP strips in the column. Meanwhile, increasing the distance between CFRP strips has increased the stress at the plastic hinge area and experienced buckling of longitudinal reinforcements at 250 mm of CFRP strips.
MODELING HYPERPLASTIC ELASTOMER MATERIALS USED IN TIRE COMPOUNDS: NUMERICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL STUDY
Authors: Jebur Q. H. , Hamzah Mohsin N. , Jweeg Muhsin J. , Njim Emad Kadum , Al-Waily Muhannad , Resan Kadhim K.
Published: August 2024

Analyzing the rubber components of a tire, including the tread and sidewall, is crucial for assessing tire performance attributes. This evaluation enhances vehicle dynamics control and safety levels. Both finite element analysis and experimental tests are employed in this study to achieve accurate estimations. This study centers on Iraqi-manufactured tread and sidewall tires while delving into specific Dunlop components like tread and sidewalls. A highly effective methodology has been developed to ascertain material properties through experimental analysis of hyperelastic rubber models in tires. This approach is executed using ABAQUS, a widely employed commercial finite element software. Addressing rubber's intricate and diverse interactions through a straightforward yet precise phenomenological model holds immense industrial significance. Creating universally applicable design principles for these components remains a persistent challenge in modern industry. This study utilizes simulations to analyze stress-strain responses and compute material parameters for hyperelastic rubber models under tensile loading, employing computer-aided engineering (CAE) to represent stress-strain behavior, especially with varying strain amplitudes comprehensively. Focusing on elastomers, the study assesses the Ogden, Mooney-Rivlin, and reduced polynomial models by extracting coefficients from laboratory tests. It combines experimental and numerical methods to establish validated material constants. Most models yield reasonable results with acceptable deviations. The Neo-Hookean model is the simplest, fitting data up to 30% strain. The moderately complex Mooney-Rivlin and reduced polynomial models accommodate strains up to 100%. While accurate, the Ogden model exhibits higher nonlinearity and increased computational demands based on the material parameters.
REVIEW OF SILVER NANOPARTICLE SYNTHESIS USING LASER ABLATION; ITS CHARACTERIZATION, ANTIOXIDANT AND ANTIBACTERIAL FOR SKIN WOUNDS
Authors: Yaqubi Ahmad Khalil , Zaidan Andi Hamim , Astuti Suryani Dyah
Published: August 2024

This comprehensive review paper thoroughly investigates the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) through laser ablation and biosynthesis methods, exploring their potential applications in nanotechnology. The paper highlights the distinctive properties of AgNPs, including their notable antibacterial and anticancer attributes, wound healing capabilities, and therapeutic potential. The focus is specifically on the synthesis of small, spherical particles ranging from 2 to 5 nm. This investigation centers on key parameters crucial to the synthesis process, such as laser beam spot size, strength, ablation duration, and green synthesis factors like time, temperature, and concentration. In the realm of laser ablation optimization, the study scrutinizes the impact of various spot sizes on particle size distribution, variations in laser strength, and the intricate relationship between ablation duration and particle size. These analyses are strategically aligned to achieve the desired properties for the efficient production of AgNPs. Simultaneously, green synthesis techniques are employed to ensure an environmentally friendly approach, with careful consideration for factors like time, temperature, and concentration to attain targeted characteristics. The paper employs sophisticated characterization techniques, including dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV-Vis spectral analysis, for a comprehensive analysis of the synthesized AgNPs. DLS offers insights into size distribution and stability, SEM facilitates morphology visualization, and UV-Vis spectral analysis definitively confirms the presence of silver nanoparticles through characteristic absorption peaks.
ADJUSTABLE RESISTANCE FEEDBACK PIECEWISE LINEAR INTERPOLATION PHOTOVOLTAIC EMULATOR
Authors: Ayop Razman , Tan Chee Wei , Mat Saman Norhafezaidi , Sahid Mohd Rodhi , Ahmad Noorden Zulkarnain
Published: August 2024

Photovoltaic (PV) emulator (PVE) is a power converter that follows the voltage and current characteristic of a PV module. The direct referencing method (DRM) is the prevailing control strategy for the PVE because of its straightforward nature. Nonetheless, stability is an issue for this control strategy. The resistance feedback method (RFM) provides an alternative solution without encountering stability issues. The RFM requires a specialize current-resistance (I-R) PV model to operate. Currently, the adjustable piecewise linear interpolation (PLI) for this specialize PV model is unavailable for the RFM PVE. This paper proposed an adjustable I-R PLI (IRPLI) PV model for the PVE that uses the RFM control strategy. The performance of this PV model and its corresponding RFM PVE is compared with the current-voltage PLI (IVPLI) PV model together with the DRM PVE. The output of the IRPLI is similar to the IVPLI at various irradiance. The discrepancy in error for both PV models is a maximum of 6% when compared to the standard single diode model (SDM) PV model. The IRPLI is 3.2 times faster compared to the SDM and 1.07 times slower compared to the IVPLI. The IRPLI also able to properly integrated with the RFM PVM without any stability issues.
ANATOMICAL VARIATIONS IN A FINITE ELEMENT NERVE MODEL OF THE HUMAN FOOT
Authors: Ul Haque Muhammad Zeeshan , Shamim Muhammad Fahad , Du Peng , Cheng Leo K.
Published: August 2024

The nerves in the foot offer a significant role in controlling the movement and correct loading of the foot by providing continuous feedback to the central nervous system. The health importance in the anatomical variations of nerves, such as the locations, the lengths, the communicating branches, and the distance between the adjacent nerve terminals between individuals have given prominence to anatomists as well as physiologists. A previously developed one-dimensional (1D) model of the nerve was extended to determine different anatomical variations in the nerves of the foot, as a realistic anatomical-based variant nerve model of the human foot is not available. The model was verified against experimental data from the literature for communicating branches and distances of various area of the human foot. For instance, the simulated distances of the communicating branches of the plantar nerves and medial dorsal cutaneous nerve (MDCN) division proximal to the first digital space were found to be 43.3 mm and 112.3 mm, respectively, which was in general agreement with the experimental distances of 8-56 mm and 96-116.74 mm, respectively. The developed nerve variant model provides a platform for future studies of the various geometrical and efficient concerns of neurovascular diseases such as diabetic neuropathies by determining the parameters of nerve conduction studies.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of NH3/H2/N2 Combustion in a Premixed/Stratified Swirl Burner
Authors: Davies Jordan , Mazzotta Luca , Sato Daisuke , Mashruk Syed , Pugh Daniel , Borello Domenico , Valera-Medina Agustin
Published: August 2024

Interest in using renewably produced, partially cracked ammonia in gas turbines is gaining traction, but challenges relating to emissions of NOx and unburned ammonia remain. This work progresses existing research on using hydrogen stratification to reduce NOx from ammonia/hydrogen flames by experimentally and numerically investigating the effects of also injecting nitrogen from the cracking process. It additionally assesses the NOx reduction capability of a recently developed novel swirl burner by adding hydrogen to the stratified flow to maintain the diffusive equivalence ratio at two high NO production conditions, slightly lean and stoichiometric. At slightly globally rich conditions, maintaining the diffusive equivalence ratio at 0.9 resulted in an order of magnitude reduction in NO emissions with only a 33% increase in unburned NH3, compared to a fully premixed flame with the same fuel and air flow rates. This stratified configuration was found to increase consumption of NO by NH2, likely due to flame morphology effects, while NO production from OH and HNO pathways was reduced. The reduced OH intensity was posited as the cause for increased NH3 emission. A strong emissions sensitivity to diffusive equivalence ratio was found, as the case with a stoichiometric diffusive equivalence ratio did not show such marked improvements over its corresponding premixed condition. Both stratified and premixed flames were found to be stable; however, stratification has potential to trigger instabilities at different frequencies to premixed.
Interface chemistry, band alignment, and thermal stability study of Sn metal contact on bulk and monolayer MoS2
Authors: Roy Joy , Kim Seong Yeoul , Wallace Robert M.
Published: August 2024

Two-dimensional semiconductors such as transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are making impressive strides in a short duration compared to other candidates. However, to unlock their full potential for advanced logic transistors, attention must be given to improving the contacts or interfaces they form. One approach is to interface with a suitable low work function metal contact to allow the surface Fermi level (EF) movement toward intended directions, thereby augmenting the overall electrical performance. In this work, we implement physical characterization to understand the tin (Sn) contact interface on monolayer and bulk molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) via in situ x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and ex situ atomic force microscopy. A Sn contact exhibited a van der Waals type weak interaction with the MoS2 bulk surface where no reaction between Sn and MoS2 is detected. In contrast, reaction products with Sn—S bonding are detected with a monolayer surface consistent with a covalentlike interface. Band alignment at the interface indicates that Sn deposition induces n-type properties in the bulk substrate, while EF of the monolayer remains pinned. In addition, the thermal stability of Sn on the same substrates is investigated in a sequential ultrahigh vacuum annealing treatment at 100, 200, 300, and 400 °C. Sn sublimated/desorbed from both substrates with increasing temperature, which is more prominent on the bulk substrate after annealing at 400 °C. Additionally, Sn significantly reduced the monolayer substrate and produced detectable interface reaction products at higher annealing temperatures. The findings can be strategized to resolve challenges with contact resistance that the device community is having with TMDs.
Modeling and characterization of gas coupled ultrasonic transducers at low pressures and temperatures and implications for sonic anemometry on Mars
Authors: White Robert D. , Chaudhary Rishabh , Zhao Zijia , Chiesa Luisa , Neeson Ian , Banfield Don
Published: August 2024

A sonic anemometer targeted at wind speed measurements on the surface of Mars is described. This environment requires transducer operation in 4–10 mbar CO2 at temperatures between 143 and 293 K (–130 °C and 20 °C, respectively). Over these ranges, transducer pressure and temperature sensitivity could be a source of measurement error. To investigate this, four candidate transducers were tested using transmission mode ultrasonic testing and impedance measurements: two narrowband piezoelectric transducers, a broadband capacitive transducer, and a micromachined capacitive ultrasound transducer. A system model was used for comparison and interpretation, and implications for a sonic anemometer were examined. Variation of transducer characteristics, including diffraction effects, across 2–10 mbar in CO2 and 190–293 K (–83 °C–20 °C) result in ±2.3% error in wind speed measurement and ±1.1% error in speed of sound measurement for the worst case but only ±0.14% error in wind and ±0.07% error in speed of sound for the best transducer operated off resonance. The acoustic conditions on Mars are similar to those in Earth's stratosphere at 30–42 km of altitude. Hence, testing was also conducted in dry air over the same range of pressures and temperatures with relevance to a secondary application of the instrument as a stratospheric anemometer for high altitude balloon missions on Earth.
Short-time coherence between repeated room impulse response measurements
Authors: Prawda Karolina , Schlecht Sebastian J. , Välimäki Vesa
Published: August 2024

Room impulse responses (RIRs) vary over time due to fluctuations in atmospheric temperature, humidity, and pressure. This can introduce uncertainties in room transfer-function measurements, which are challenging to account for. Previous methods of identification and compensation of time variance focus on systematic atmospheric changes and do not apply to subtle discrepancies in RIRs. In this work, we address this problem by proposing a model of short-time coherence between repeated RIR measurements as an indicator of time-frequency similarity and as a measure of time-variance-induced changes in RIRs. Atmospheric changes cause fluctuation in sound speed, which, in turn, results in variation in the time-of-arrival of sound reflections following a Generalized Wiener process. We show that the short-time coherence decreases exponentially with the reflection-path length and propose volatility as a single model parameter determining the coherence decay rate. The proposed model is validated on simulations and measurements, showing applicability in indoor scenarios. The method reliably estimates volatility of 10−6 s/s as measured under laboratory conditions. We exemplify the utility of short-time coherence loss by predicting the high-frequency energy loss stemming from RIR averaging. The proposed method is useful in assessing the uncertainty of RIR measurements, especially when repeated measurements are compared or averaged.
A broadband active sound absorber with adjustable absorption coefficient and bandwidth
Authors: Wang Kangkang , Shi Li , Zou Haishan , Zhao Sipei , Shen Chen , Lu Jing
Published: August 2024

Broadband adjustable sound absorbers are desired for controlling the acoustic conditions within enclosed spaces. Existing studies on acoustic absorbers, either passive or active, aim to maximize the sound absorption coefficients over an extended frequency band. By contrast, this paper introduces a tunable acoustic absorber, whose working frequency band and sound absorption characteristics can be defined by users for different applications. The approach leverages an error signal that can be synthesized using a standing wave separation technique. The error signal encodes different target reflection coefficients, leading to arbitrary absorption coefficients between 0 and 1. Experimental validation is conducted in a one-dimensional standing wave tube, demonstrating that the proposed active absorber achieves near-perfect absorption within the 150–1600 Hz frequency range, boasting an average absorption coefficient of 0.98. Adjustable absorption is demonstrated across three octave bands, aligning closely with theoretical predictions. Furthermore, when coupled with a shaping filter, the absorber exhibits spectrally tunable broadband absorption capabilities, selectively reflecting specific frequency bands while effectively absorbing others. These outcomes underscore the versatile tunability of the proposed active acoustic absorber, which is expected to pave the way for personalized regulating of the indoor acoustic environment.
A modified sidelobe blanking beamforming method for ultrasound plane wave imaging
Authors: Tong Lin , Wang Ping , Shen Yue , Shi Xinwang , Chen Jinghan , Zhao Fenglong , Zhou Xiaowei
Published: August 2024

In this paper, an ultrasound beamforming method for plane wave (PW) imaging based on modified sidelobe blanking (MSLB) is proposed to improve image resolution and contrast ratio (CR). In this framework, PWs from various angles were designed to create main and auxiliary beamformer signals. Specifically, the PW signals from all angles were first coherently combined to serve as the main beamformer output signals. To prevent excessive clutter and noise, output signals in the main beamformer were weighted by the generalized coherence factor. Subsequently, the PW signals were split into positive and negative angles to perform a subtraction, creating the auxiliary beamformer. Finally, signals in the main beamformer were compared with the signals in the auxiliary beamformer point by point to further eliminate the noises and clutters. Compared with the delay and sum, full width at half maximum of the MSLB for point targets was reduced by an average of 54.17% and 51.65% in simulations and experiments, respectively; and the corresponding CR was improved by 55.38% and 18.40% on average. The MSLB method provided better imaging quality in human carotid arteries. In conclusion, the proposed method can effectively improve image resolution and CR with low computational complexity.
Phosphorylation patterns in the AT1R C-terminal tail specify distinct downstream signaling pathways
Authors: Gareri Clarice , Pfeiffer Conrad T. , Jiang Xue , Paulo Joao A. , Gygi Steven P. , Pham Uyen , Chundi Anand , Wingler Laura M. , Staus Dean P. , Stepniewski Tomasz Maciej , Selent Jana , Lucero Emilio Y. , Grogan Alyssa , Rajagopal Sudarshan , Rockman Howard A.
Published: August 2024

Different ligands stabilize specific conformations of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) that direct distinct signaling cascades mediated by heterotrimeric G proteins or β-arrestin. These different active conformations are thought to engage distinct intracellular transducers because of differential phosphorylation patterns in the receptor C-terminal tail (the “barcode” hypothesis). Here, we identified the AT1R barcodes for the endogenous agonist AngII, which stimulates both G protein activation and β-arrestin recruitment, and for a synthetic biased agonist that only stimulates β-arrestin recruitment. The endogenous and β-arrestin–biased agonists induced two different ensembles of phosphorylation sites along the C-terminal tail. The phosphorylation of eight serine and threonine residues in the proximal and middle portions of the tail was required for full β-arrestin functionality, whereas phosphorylation of the serine and threonine residues in the distal portion of the tail had little influence on β-arrestin function. Similarly, molecular dynamics simulations showed that the proximal and middle clusters of phosphorylated residues were critical for stable β-arrestin–receptor interactions. These findings demonstrate that ligands that stabilize different receptor conformations induce different phosphorylation clusters in the C-terminal tail as barcodes to evoke distinct receptor-transducer engagement, receptor trafficking, and signaling.
Development of non-sedating benzodiazepines with
in vivo
antischistosomal activity
Authors: Mian Md Yeunus , Sharmin Dishary , Mondal Prithu , Belayet Jawad Bin , Hossain M. Mahmun , McCusker Paul , Ryan Kaetlyn T. , Fedorov Alexander Y. , Green Heather A. , Ericksen Spencer S. , Zamanian Mostafa , Tiruveedhula V. V. N. Phani Babu , Cook James M. , Chan John D.
Published: August 2024

The neglected tropical disease schistosomiasis infects over 200 million people worldwide and is treated with just one broad-spectrum antiparasitic drug (praziquantel). Alternative drugs are needed in the event of emerging praziquantel resistance or treatment failure. One promising lead that has shown efficacy in animal models and a human clinical trial is the benzodiazepine meclonazepam, discovered by Roche in the 1970s. Meclonazepam was not brought to market because of dose-limiting sedative side effects. However, the human target of meclonazepam that causes sedation (GABA
A
Rs) is not orthologous to the parasite targets that cause worm death. Therefore, we were interested in whether the structure of meclonazepam could be modified to produce antiparasitic benzodiazepines that do not cause host sedation. We synthesized 18 meclonazepam derivatives with modifications at different positions on the benzodiazepine ring system and tested them for
in vitro
antiparasitic activity. This identified five compounds that progressed to
in vivo
screening in a murine model, two of which cured parasite infections with comparable potency to meclonazepam. When these two compounds were administered to mice that were run on the rotarod test, both were less sedating than meclonazepam. These findings demonstrate the proof of concept that meclonazepam analogs can be designed with an improved therapeutic index and point to the C3 position of the benzodiazepine ring system as a logical site for further structure–activity exploration to further optimize this chemical series.
Functional and practical insights into three lactococcal antiphage systems
Authors: Grafakou Andriana , Mosterd Cas , de Waal Paul P. , van Rijswijck Irma M. H. , van Peij Noël N. M. E. , Mahony Jennifer , van Sinderen Douwe
Published: August 2024

The persistent challenge of phages in dairy fermentations requires the development of starter cultures with enhanced phage resistance. Recently, three plasmid-encoded lactococcal antiphage systems, named Rhea, Aristaios, and Kamadhenu, were discovered. These systems were found to confer high levels of resistance against various
Skunavirus
members. In the present study, their effectiveness against phage infection was confirmed in milk-based medium, thus validating their potential to ensure reliable dairy fermentations. We furthermore demonstrated that Rhea and Kamadhenu do not directly hinder phage genome replication, transcription, or associated translation. Conversely, Aristaios was found to interfere with phage transcription. Two of the antiphage systems are encoded on pMRC01-like conjugative plasmids, and the Kamadhenu-encoding plasmid was successfully transferred by conjugation to three lactococcal strains, each of which acquired substantially enhanced phage resistance against
Skunavirus
members. Such advances in our knowledge of the lactococcal phage resistome and the possibility of mobilizing these protective functions to bolster phage protection in sensitive strains provide practical solutions to the ongoing phage problem in industrial food fermentations.

IMPORTANCE

In the current study, we characterized and evaluated the mechanistic diversity of three recently described, plasmid-encoded lactococcal antiphage systems. These systems were found to confer high resistance against many members of the most prevalent and problematic lactococcal phage genus, rendering them of particular interest to the dairy industry, where persistent phage challenge requires the development of starter cultures with enhanced phage resistance characteristics. Our acquired knowledge highlights that enhanced understanding of lactococcal phage resistance systems and their encoding plasmids can provide rational and effective solutions to the enduring issue of phage infections in dairy fermentation facilities.