bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A-Asterisk Algorithm as an Alternative to Evaluate the Geometric Tortuosity in Digitally Created SOFC Anodes
Authors: Espinoza Andaluz Mayken , Ávila Joseph , Pagalo Javier , Li Tingshuai , Qi Yuanxin , Li Shian , Zhang Xiaoqiang , Andersson Martin
Published: July 2021

A solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) contains complex materials that facilitate the energy conversion process. The diffusion media play an important role in facilitating the reactant gases to reach the electrochemical active regions. Porosity and tortuosity are crucial parameters describing the diffusion to be analyzed in a SOFC anode. This paper aims to evaluate the feasibility of using the A-asterisk algorithm to compute the geometric tortuosity within SOFC anodes. A three-dimensional structure, which is digitally created, represents the SOFC anode, in which the possible paths that follow the fluid flow are analyzed. A-asterisk algorithm is used to generate possible paths, and therefore the geometric tortuosity can be computed considering an averaged distance. A tortuosity-porosity correlation is proposed, and the results are compared with previous studies. Results show that the A-asterisk algorithm is a capable algorithm to evaluate the geometric tortuosity values in SOFC anodes with different particle size distribution and porosities.
Quantitative Characterization of the Microstructure-Property Relationships in Ni and MIEC Nanocatalyst-Infiltrated Ni/YSZ Anodes
Authors: Rix Jillian , Mo Boshan , Pal Uday , Gopalan Srikanth , Basu Soumendra
Published: July 2021

The performance of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) anodes can be improved by infiltration of nanoscale electrocatalysts, which increases triple phase boundary (TPB) density, but only when the added TPBs are active. Quantitative characterization of the microstructure of infiltrated nanocatalysts remains a critical challenge in understanding their role in improved performance. This paper explores the relationship between electrochemical performance and microstructure for Ni/YSZ anodes infiltrated with Ni, gadolinium-doped-ceria (GDC), and Ni/GDC nanocatalysts using a combination of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), distribution of relaxation times (DRT) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) microstructural characterization, and three-dimensional (3-D) anode reconstruction. Estimated polarization resistance improvements as a result of nickel nanoparticle infiltration are discussed.
Thin-Film SOFC Enabling Low-Temperature and Low-Hydrogen-Concentration Operation
Authors: Sasago Yoshitaka , Sakuma Noriyuki , Yokoyama Natsuki , Fujisaki Koji , Anzai Yumiko , Migitaka Sonoko , Degawa Munenori , Mise Nobuyuki , Tsutsumi Takashi , Aramaki Toru , Sugimoto Aritoshi
Published: July 2021

A thin-film solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) was developed on an anodic aluminum oxide substrate. A dense yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) layer with a thickness of 290 nm on a platinum anode layer, and a cathode layer of gadolinia-doped ceria and platinum (10:90) with a thickness of 20 nm was deposited on the YSZ layer. As a result, the output power density of 203 mW/cm2 at 453°C was achieved even when using 3%-concentration hydrogen. The high power density indicates that our SOFC can operate using the low-concentration hydrogen from hydrous bioethanol at low temperatures.
Defect and Structural Properties of Pr-Doped Strontium Cerate as a Mixed Conductor
Authors: Ostrovskiy Yevgeniy , Huang Yilin , Pellegrinelli Christopher , Hussain Mohammaned , Sakhbodin Mann , Wachsman Eric
Published: July 2021

Proton conducting membranes that are designed for mixed ionic and electronic conductivity are often limited by their low electronic conductivity. Improving the electronic conductivity of these membranes would increase their hydrogen permeation flux. One of the most promising classes of materials for ceramic proton conductors, perovskites, have highly-tunable compositions that allow for the optimization of both ionic and electronic conductivity. Many of these perovskites that act as mixed conductors, such as SrCeO3, are primarily limited by their electronic conductivity, which becomes a bottleneck for overall hydrogen permeation. In this work Pr-doped SrCeO3 was studied over a wide range of oxygen partial pressures (pO2’s) and temperatures to determine its defect properties and conductivity. Under reducing conditions Pr-doped SrCeO3 was found to be chemically and structurally stable, with an optimal doping level of 10%. This composition also shows greater conductivity compared to previous reported Eu-doped SrCeO3. In the low pO2 region, Pr-doped SrCeO3 exhibited primarily n-type behavior as its conductivity dramatically increased in reducing atmosphere, suggesting that the electronic conductivity of SrCeO3 is significantly enhanced by Pr doping. Under high pO2 conditions, Pr-doped SrCeO3 showed a considerable improvement in conductivity in the presence of water, affirming its high protonic conductivity. This validates the use of Pr as a means of enhancing electronic conductivity in proton conducting perovskites.
Design and Modeling of Proton-Conducting Bilayer Electrolytes Using a Nernst-Planck-Poisson Formulation
Authors: Ortiz-Corrales Julián Andrés , Matsuo Hiroki , Otomo Junichiro
Published: July 2021

In this study, the efficiency of proton-conducting ceramic fuel cells was improved by designing bilayer electrolytes with high ion conductivity and low hole conduction. The designs were carried out by finding the thicknesses of anode and cathode-side electrolytes that optimizes efficiency using integral equations based on Wagner theory. Results obtained for bilayer electrolytes were compared with those of single-layer electrolytes. Best performances were found when thin layers of lanthanum tungstate (La28-x
W4+x
O54+3x/2v2-3x/2) with an La/W ratio of 6.7 (LWO67) were used as cathode-side electrolytes attached to commonly used perovskite materials like BaCe0.9Y0.1O3-
δ (BCY10), BaZr0.8Y0.2O3-
δ (BZY20), and BaZr0.1Ce0.7Y0.1Yb0.1O3-
δ (BZCYYb1711). In addition, the transport properties of a single-layer LWO67 electrolyte were further analyzed by using the Nernst-Planck-Poisson (NPP) model for which parameters were fitted. Finally, a bilayer NPP formulation was explored to obtained the charged defect fluxes and other useful information to enhance the efficiency of a bilayer BZY20|BZCYYb1711 electrolyte.
Electrical Energy Storage Using Hydrogen Storage Alloy Coupled Proton-Conducting Reversible Solid Oxide Cell
Authors: 陈 彦伯 , Shi Yixiang , Cai Ningsheng
Published: July 2021

Proton-conducting solid oxide cell (SOC) can efficiently store intermittent renewable energy in the form of hydrogen. The cell can operate in either SOFC mode or SOEC mode and achieve efficient and low cost energy storage. The SOC needs a hydrogen storage equipment to reach enough energy storage capacity. In this study, a hydrogen storage alloy coupled proton-conducting solid oxide cell model is developed. The simulation results shows that the cell’s optimize current and round trip efficiency are dependent on hydrogen storage alloy. The roundtrip efficiency improvement is 2.6% using hydrogen storage alloy. A detailed analyze of the heat source show that the influence of adsorption heat source to reversible heat source is the main reason for the current and efficiency change.
The Time for Industrialization Has Come: A Pre-Coated Solution for the GW Scale
Authors: Bernuy-Lopez Carlos , Bexell Ulf , Stenstrom Mikael , Norrby Niklas , Westlinder Jörgen
Published: July 2021

Fuel Cells and Electrolyzers are key technologies for the utilization of Green Hydrogen, one of the tools to be able to enlarge the use of renewable energy. During the 2020 decade, a large ramp-up of both technologies will take place and therefore, industrial processes will be needed in order to realize these goals and bring these technologies to the GW level. Sandvik Materials Technology has developed a coil-to-coil process to produce pre-coated stainless steel materials in a rapid and cost-effective manner. These coated material are the base material for the production of both bipolar plates and interconnects which are key for the rapid industrialization of both fuel cells and electrolyzers. A large portfolio of materials for PEM fuel cells, both PEM and AEM electrolysis but also SOC applications are available for this purpose. Sanergy HT has been proven over nearly the last decade to be the leading material in the interconnect fabrication for SOC application due to its excellent corrosion properties, very low Cr evaporation, and excellent performance after long-term exposures.
The Influence of Humidity Content on Ferritic Stainless Steels Used in Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Under Dual Atmosphere Conditions at 600°C
Authors: Gagliani Luca , Visibile Alberto , Gündüz Kerem Özgür , Svensson Jan-Erik , Froitzheim Jan
Published: July 2021

In Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC), interconnects are simultaneously exposed to dual atmosphere conditions in a range of temperature between 600 and 900°C. The presence of dissolved hydrogen in the steel can cause accelerated corrosion on the side exposed to air compared to exposures in air only. Moreover, the interconnect is subject to different humidity levels on the fuel side depending on fuel utilization. It has been already observed that a protective layer of chromia (Cr2O3) at the fuel side can mitigate the dual effect at the airside acting as a barrier for hydrogen permeation into the material. In this work, AISI 441 and Crofer 22 APU samples were exposed to dual atmosphere at 600°C under controlled humidity levels at the fuel side (20% vs. dry). Analysis performed showed how the humidity content on the fuel side largely affects the breakaway corrosion of the samples at the airside.
Flexible and Modular Fully Metallic Housing Concept for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Steinrücken Benjamin , Herrmann Stephan , Hauck Maximilian , Spliethoff Hartmut
Published: July 2021

This paper presents a modular, fully metallic housing concept that enables a fast change of the cell size due to the utilization of a baseplate. Metal instead of alumina oxide is used to reduce the manufacturing costs. Two different variations are presented, one utilizing a gold seal and a second concept based on a flexible metallic frame. The latter is designed to separate the contacting pressure via a pneumatic piston from the sealing pressure applied via metallic screws. For accurate voltage measurements, sense wires are separated from the current collection and are electrically isolated from the metallic housing. Thermocouples are used to measure the temperature distribution inside the anode part of the housing, as close as possible to the cell, as well as the inlet and outlet gas temperatures. The chromium evaporation of the cathode part of the housing is reduced by a protective coating.
Investigation of the Glass-Ceramic Sealants in SOFC Stacks
Authors: Tan Chao , Han Minfang , Li Haibin , Song Wenwan , Xia Yunfeng
Published: July 2021

The stack sealing is one of the most important factors in planar solid oxide fuel cell (pSOFC) applications. In this study, the barium-silicate glass with addition of Al2O3 were analyzed by ICP, DSC, and SEM. Differential thermal analysis was utilized to design the heat-treatment of the glass to obtain a glass-ceramic for sealing. The glass material and sealing process were verified on the 114×114 mm SOFC stack. A tight stack was obtained with a leak rate much better than the desired 0.004 SCCM/cm, which is equivalent to 0.001 MPa/s. A good electric performance was also found for a 6-layer sealed stack. Post-characterization was conducted for the seal dismounted from the stack via the methods of leakage inspection, SEM-EDS, and XRD. A good interaction was found between the glass-ceramic seal and the steel interconnect, due to the diffusion of aluminum from the glass component.
Repair Joining of Glass-Ceramic Sealants for SOC Stacks
Authors: Gross-Barsnick Sonja , Malzbender Jürgen , Fang Qingping
Published: July 2021

A new concept was developed to repair leaking solid oxide cell (SOC) stacks. Conventionally, stacks are joined with a glass-ceramic sealant before they are put into operation. Once the sealant starts leaking, they are considered unusable. The approach outlined here aims to prevent the scrapping of valuable aggregates. The method was tested for a composite sealing material based on a crystallizing glass matrix of the BaO-CaO-SiO2 system reinforced with yttrium-stabilized zirconia fibers.
Solid Oxide Electrolyser Demonstrator Development at Elcogen
Authors: Lehtinen Timo , Noponen Matti
Published: July 2021

Elcogen is a company providing solid oxide cell and stack solutions for fuel cell (SOFC) and electrolysis (SOEC) applications. Elcogen’s solutions are designed to operate at reduced operating temperatures but still providing high performance at affordable cost and low degradation level. Elcogen is currently expanding its manufacturing capabilities towards multi-MW annual production levels through a factory project. As a part of commercialization tasks, Elcogen is developing a demonstrator unit for steam electrolysis applications producing green hydrogen. This demonstrator unit is a part of an EU’s H2020 funded C2FUEL project. This presentation outlines the current progress of the high temperature electrolysis demonstrator development at Elcogen.
Electrical Properties of Novel La0.
2Sr0.7-xCaxTi0.95Fe0.05O3-δ Based Fuel Electrode for Solid Oxide Cell
Authors: Paydar Sara , Korjus Ove , Maide Martin , Kivi Indrek , Lust Enn , Nurk Gunnar
Published: July 2021

A novel La0.
2Sr0.7-xCaxTi0.95Fe0.05O3-δ (LSCFT-x) fuel electrode compositions for high-temperature solid oxide fuel cell application are synthesized using glycine-nitrate synthesis method. To understand the influence of Sr/Ca ratio on electrical conductivities of different compositions of LSCFT, the DC four-probe conductivity measurements of porous electrode layers has been performed. Conductivities have been measured at three different atmospheres: air, 1% H2 + 3% H2O + 96% Ar, and 97% H2 + 3% H2O. The crystal structure and microstructure have been studied using X-ray diffraction and SEM, respectively to confirm the phase purity and visualize the microstructure of studied electrode layers. It has been shown that the LSCTF material behave like semiconductor and the conductivity is significantly dependent of Ca concentration in A-site. The maximal total electrical conductivity of porous electrode layer made of LSCFT was 5.5 S cm−
1 at 850°C characteristic for the LSCFT-45 material in 97% H2 + 3% H2O atmosphere.
DRT Analysis of Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells: Polarization Resistance of Fuel Electrodes
Authors: Endo Naoki , Fukumoto Takuro , Ushijima Rei , Natsukoshi Katsuya , Tachikawa Yuya , Matsuda Junko , Taniguchi Shunsuke , Sasaki Kazunari
Published: July 2021

Solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs), which enable steam electrolysis by operating solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) in reverse, are capable of highly efficient hydrogen production. While SOFCs and SOECs are using similar materials and cell structures, electrode reactions in SOEC operation have to be investigated in more detail. In this study, we compared and discussed conventional cells and cells fabricated by an impregnation method by characterizing the electrode reactions through measurements of electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS) and subsequent analysis of distribution of relaxation times (DRT).
Evaluation of Three-Dimensional Placement of Built-in Catalytic Partial Oxidation Catalyst in an Anode-Supported Honeycomb SOFC
Authors: Higa Tasuku , Nakajima Hironori
Published: July 2021

Honeycomb solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) can achieve high volumetric power density with improved thermo-mechanical durability at high temperatures. In this study, a compact SOFC with catalytic partial oxidation reforming catalyst embedded in the flow channels of a porous honeycomb anode support has been fabricated and evaluated. Current-voltage (I-V) measurements and gas chromatography for the outlet gas were carried out while methane/air mixture gas was fed as fuel. I-V measurements were performed to compare the performance of two flow channel configurations: one with fuel fed to the central channel having a built-in reformer and discharged from surrounding four channels, and the other with fuel fed to the four channels with the reformer and discharged from the central channel. As a result, the concentration overpotential was smaller in the latter case. The gas chromatography detected hydrogen in the reformed gas at the outlets of both cases.
Joint Strength of a Braze Sealant with Metallic Interconnect in Solid Oxide Fuel Cell
Authors: Tseng Yu-Wei , Lin Chih-Kuang , Huang Liang-Wei , Liu Chien-Kuo , Lee Ruey-Yi
Published: July 2021

Mechanical behavior of a braze sealant/metallic interconnect joint in SOFC is investigated. Sandwich-like joint specimens are made to determine the shear and tensile joint strength at room temperature (RT) and 750°C. For tensile loading mode, the joint strength at RT and 750°C is of 30.63 ± 3.2 MPa and 13.43 ± 0.99 MPa, respectively. For shear loading mode, the joint strength at RT and 750°C is of 40.02 ± 2.88 MPa and 10.06 ± 0.36 MPa, respectively. Regardless of testing temperature, fracture of the tensile specimens occurs at the interface between the braze sealant and the Cr2O3 oxide layer and occasionally within the Cr2O3 oxide layer. When the testing temperature of the shear specimens is increased from RT to 750°C, the location of rupture changes from the interface between the braze sealant and interconnect to the interface between the braze sealant and the Cr2O3 oxide layer.
Experimental Investigation of Electrochemical Reactions Along SOFCs for Internal and External Reformed Methane
Authors: Höber Michael , Königshofer Benjamin , Pongratz Gernot , Boškoski Pavle , Nusev Gjorgji , Hochenauer Christoph , Subotic Vanja
Published: July 2021

Modern societies require a reliable and sustainable energy supply, which can be achieved by solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). SOFCs run with a variety of fuels such as methane containing reformates. It is possible to utilize methane directly in SOFCs, but it can cause degradation of the fuel cells anode. However, irreversible degradation can be prevented, when identifying degradation mechanisms at an early stage by online monitoring tools. We used electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and its advanced tool distribution of relaxation times (DRT) method. The operating conditions were varied in order to determine the relevant system behavior as a response to the corresponding methane utilization processes. The tested electrolyte supported cells have an active area of 81cm² and are tested under different reforming conditions. The holistic approach of this work combines thermal, electrical, electrochemical measurement methods and gas analysis to show the influence of methane utilization on the DRT spectra.
Determination of Partial Proton Conductivity in Fluorite-Type Oxides Using Electrochemical Technique
Authors: Yamaguchi Takuya , Ishiyama Tomohiro , Kishimoto Haruo , Bagarinao Katherine Develos , Yamaji Katsuhiko
Published: July 2021

The oxide ion blocking measurements using Pd as hydrogen permeable electrode was conducted to detect proton conduction in 8YSZ. The blocking measurements with increasing applied voltage were firstly performed, but no significant deference was observed between the measured conductivities in dry and wet conditions. The reason was thought to be the decrease in p
H2O at the blocking electrode caused by the application of high voltage, so the experimental conditions were modified. Under constant low applied voltage and p
O2, the current response to switching from dry to wet atmosphere was recorded. Current increment by humidification and its protons/deuterons isotopic effect was observed, which means proton conduction in 8YSZ was successfully detected. The proton conductivity calculated from the current increment was 7.8×10−8 Scm−1 at 750°C.
Long-Term Oxidation Behavior of SOFC Interconnects Alloy ZMG232G10 for 40,000 Hours
Authors: Yamamura Kazuhiro , Uehara Toshihiro , Momono Shogo , Fujii Takahiro
Published: July 2021

ZMGTM232G10 is Fe-Cr ferritic alloy, which has better oxidation resistance for SOFC interconnects. Oxidation behavior of ZMG232G10 was investigated in air at 750 and 850°C for 40,000 hours. Bulk specimens of ZMG232G10 showed stable oxidation behavior according to parabolic law. However, thinner specimens showed anomalous oxidation behavior for 40,000 hours at 850°C. Furthermore, ferrite to austenite phase transformation was observed in a part of specimens which was oxidized at 850°C. This unstable oxidation behavior resulted from Cr consumption in alloy matrix by oxidation.
Selection of Highlights of the European Project Next Generation Solid Oxide Fuel Cell and Electrolysis Technology – NewSOC
Authors: Hagen Anke , Christensen Jens Ole , Sudireddy Bhaskar Reddy , Balomenou Stella , Tsiplakides Dimitrios , Papazisi Kalliopi-Maria , Zaravelis Fotios , Neofytidis Charalampos , Ioannidou Evangelia , Neophytides Stylianos , Niakolas Dimitris , Coppola Nunzia , Maritato Luigi , Polverino Pierpaolo , Carapella Giovanni , Ferchaud Claire Julie , Berkel Frans , Vulliet Julien , Laurencin Jérôme
Published: July 2021

In a time, where first solid oxide based systems enter demonstration and commercial markets, the European NewSOC project focuses on next generations. It aims at significantly improving performance, durability, and cost competitiveness of solid oxide cells and stacks compared to state-of-the-art (SoA). In order to achieve these goals, NewSOC investigates twelve innovative concepts in the following areas: (i) structural optimization and innovative architectures based on SoA materials, (ii) alternative materials, which allow for overcoming inherent challenges of SoA, (iii) innovative manufacturing to reduce critical raw materials and reduction of environmental footprint at improved performance and lifetime. The NewSOC unifies competences of 16 strong research and industry players. First scientific highlights were achieved despite the challenging working conditions under the European wide Covid-19 restrictions in the first year of the project. The presentation will provide a selection of these highlights.
Pore Network Modelling of Galvanostatic Discharge Behaviour of Lithium-Ion Battery Cathodes
Authors: Khan Zohaib Atiq , Agnaou Mehrez , Sadeghi Mohammad Amin , Elkamel Ali , Gostick Jeff T
Published: July 2021

The performance of Lithium-Ion batteries (LIB’s) strongly depends on 3D microstructure and continued research is needed for the development and optimization of electrode designs to further reduce cost and improve performance and durability. In this work, a pore network modelling approach is presented to understand the structure-performance relationship of porous cathodes of LIB’s. It was demonstrated that pore network models can efficiently predict the rate-dependent capacity of an electrode using only a 3-phase tomogram as input. The developed modelling framework was used to perform structural analysis on two Li(Ni0.5Mn0.3Co0.2)O2 (NMC532) cathodes of different thickness and calendaring pressure and revealed important insights of microstructural heterogeneities inside porous structures, including spatial distribution of concentration, potential and state of lithiation in electrolyte, active material and carbon binder domain. The computational performance of the pore network model was analyzed, and excellent performance was demonstrated, taking hours instead of weeks for a similar direct numerical simulation. The novel modelling framework reported in this study will enable the study of local heterogeneities in other types of cathode material to help screen next-generation electrode designs, augmenting and informing time-consuming cell fabrication and laboratory testing.
Detection of Over-Discharged Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide Lithium Ion Cells Using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy and Differential Voltage Analysis
Authors: Togasaki Norihiro , Yokoshima Tokihiko , Osaka Tetsuya
Published: July 2021

Addressing the reuse of lithium ion batteries (LIBs) extracted from used battery packs is an option for addressing environmental concerns. To guarantee their safety, the development of non-destructive analysis to identify LIBs exposed to over-discharge is mandatory. In this study, over-discharge-induced degradation in graphite/nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA) lithium ion cells was investigated using differential voltage analysis (DVA) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Two-stage cell capacity decay was solely observed in the deep over-discharge cycling at a lower cutoff voltage (LCV) of 1.00 V; in the first stage, the capacity gradually decreased similar to that at LCV ≥ 2.50 V, and then decreased steeply. In the over-discharge cycling, the DVA results confirmed that the electrode balancing between the anode and cathode contribute to increasing the cell capacity, whereas the cathode capacity decreased as cycling progressed, suggesting that electrode degradation induced by over-discharge is difficult to assess using the cell capacities. EIS analysis revealed that the charge-transfer resistance and interfacial capacitance of the NCA cathode changed markedly in the first stage under over-discharge. This study reports a meticulous characterization of over-discharge of LIBs using non-destructive electrochemical analysis and introduces a critical aspect for their detection before serious cell deterioration.
Diseases caused by mutations in the Na+/K+ pump α1 gene ATP1A1
Authors: Biondo Elisa D. , Spontarelli Kerri , Ababioh Giovanna , Méndez Lois , Artigas Pablo
Published: July 2021

Human cell survival requires function of the Na+/K+ pump; the heteromeric protein that hydrolyzes ATP to extrude Na+ and import K+ across the plasmalemma, thereby building and maintaining these ions’ electrochemical gradients. Numerous dominant diseases caused by mutations in genes encoding for Na+/K+ pump catalytic (α) subunit isoforms highlight the importance of this protein. Here, we review literature describing disorders caused by missense mutations in ATP1A1, the gene encoding the ubiquitously expressed α1 isoform of the Na+/K+ pump. These various maladies include primary aldosteronism with secondary hypertension, an endocrine syndrome, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a peripheral neuropathy, complex spastic paraplegia, another neuromuscular disorder, as well as hypomagnesemia accompanied by seizures and cognitive delay, a condition affecting the renal and central nervous systems. This article focuses on observed commonalities among these mutations’ functional effects, as well as on the special characteristics that enable each particular mutation to exclusively affect a certain system, without affecting others. In this respect, it is clear how somatic mutations localized to adrenal adenomas increase aldosterone production without compromising other systems. However, it remains largely unknown how and why some but not all de novo germline or familial mutations (where the mutant must be expressed in numerous tissues) produce a specific disease and not the other diseases. We propose hypotheses to explain this observation and the approaches that we think will drive future research on these debilitating disorders to develop novel patient-specific treatments by combining the use of heterologous protein-expression systems, patient-derived pluripotent cells, and gene-edited cell and mouse models.
Mired in the glomeruli: witnessing live neutrophil recruitment in the kidney
Authors: Liew Pei Xiong
Published: July 2021

Inflammation of the kidney is a key contributor to proliferative glomerulonephritis, and kidney damage during glomerulonephritis can lead to renal failure. The immune response associated with glomerulonephritis episodes is a major determinant of patient outcomes, and understanding this response is paramount for effective therapeutic treatment. Neutrophils are the first responders to sites of infection or tissue injury and are a significant cellular infiltrate during proliferative glomerulonephritis. This immune cell was initially recognized as a “blunt” nonspecific effector cell that was recruited to kill pathogens and then die quickly. However, recent studies have shown that the behavior and function of neutrophils are substantially more complex. Neutrophil recruitment to inflammatory sites must be carefully regulated so that these potent cells accurately arrive at tissue sites and perform their functions without nonspecific injury to other locations. As the kidney contains unique microvasculature befitting their specialized role in blood filtration, the recruitment of neutrophils in the renal environment differs from other organs. This Mini-Review will describe how advances in live-animal (intravital) imaging led to the discovery of novel recruitment pathways in the kidney, particularly in the glomeruli, and highlight these differences to canonical neutrophil recruitment. In addition, molecular engagement of surface molecules that lead to intracellular signaling, which is followed by neutrophil capture in the glomeruli, is also briefly discussed. Finally, the contribution of other immune cells in renal neutrophil recruitment, the fate of the emigrated neutrophils after inflammation, and the relevance of mouse models compared with human glomerulonephritides will also be explored.
Fungi, host immune response, and tumorigenesis
Authors: Elaskandrany Miar , Patel Rohin , Patel Mintoo , Miller George , Saxena Deepak , Saxena Anjana
Published: July 2021

Advances in -omics analyses have tremendously enhanced our understanding of the role of the microbiome in human health and disease. Most research is focused on the bacteriome, but scientists have now realized the significance of the virome and microbial dysbiosis as well, particularly in noninfectious diseases such as cancer. In this review, we summarize the role of mycobiome in tumorigenesis, with a dismal prognosis, and attention to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We also discuss bacterial and mycobial interactions to the host’s immune response that is prevalently responsible for resistance to cancer therapy, including immunotherapy. We reported that the Malassezia species associated with scalp and skin infections, colonize in human PDAC tumors and accelerate tumorigenesis via activating the C3 complement-mannose-binding lectin (MBL) pathway. PDAC tumors thrive in an immunosuppressive microenvironment with desmoplastic stroma and a dysbiotic microbiome. Host-microbiome interactions in the tumor milieu pose a significant threat in driving the indolent immune behavior of the tumor. Microbial intervention in multimodal cancer therapy is a promising novel approach to modify an immunotolerant (“cold”) tumor microenvironment to an immunocompetent (“hot”) milieu that is effective in eliminating tumorigenesis.
miR-29a, b, and c regulate SLC5A8 expression in intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Anbazhagan Arivarasu N. , Priyamvada Shubha , Kumar Anoop , Jayawardena Dulari , Borthakur Alip , Saksena Seema , Gill Ravinder K. , Alrefai Waddah A. , Dudeja Pradeep K.
Published: July 2021

Our study for the first time reports the posttranscriptional regulation of SMCT-1 by miR-29a, b, and c in colonic epithelial cells. We also demonstrate that the expression of these microRNAs is lower in the mouse proximal and distal colon which partially explains the higher expression level of SMCT-1 in the colon compared with small intestine.
Preparatory activity links the frontal eye field response with small amplitude motor unit recruitment of neck muscles during gaze planning
Authors: Rungta Satya , Basu Debaleena , Sendhilnathan Naveen , Murthy Aditya
Published: July 2021

This study shows that the temporal aspects of a motor plan in the oculomotor circuitry can be accessed by peripheral neck muscles hundreds of milliseconds before the instruction to initiate a saccadic eye movement. The coupling between central and peripheral processes during the delay time is mediated by the recruitment pattern of motor units with smaller amplitude. These findings suggest that information processed in cortical areas could be read from periphery before execution.
Differential contribution of the subthreshold operating currents IT, Ih, and IKir to the resonance of thalamocortical neurons
Authors: Tissone Angela Isabel , Vidal Varinia Beatriz , Nadal Marcela Silvia , Mato German , Amarillo Yimy
Published: July 2021

Our study expands the repertoire of ionic mechanisms known to be involved in the generation and control of resonance and provides the first experimental proof of previous theoretical predictions on resonance amplification mediated by regenerative hyperpolarizing currents. In thalamocortical neurons, we confirmed that the calcium current IT generates resonance, determined that the large steady conductance of the cationic current Ih curtails resonance, and demonstrated that the inward rectifier potassium current IKir amplifies resonance.
A model of metabolic supply-demand mismatch leading to secondary brain injury
Authors: Song Jiang-Ling , Kim Jennifer A. , Struck Aaron F. , Zhang Rui , Westover M. Brandon
Published: July 2021

We present a novel mechanistic model for the metabolic supply demand mismatch hypothesis (MSDMH), which attempts to explain why patients with acute brain injury frequently develop seizure activity and secondary brain injury (SBI). Specifically, we investigate how decreased oxygen, increased extracellular potassium, excitotoxicity, seizures, all common sequalae of primary brain injury (PBI), can induce SBI and suggest three underlying paths for how events following PBI may lead to SBI.
Using Continuum‐Discontinuum Element Method to Model the Foliation‐Affected Fracturing in Rock Brazilian Test
Authors: Zhang Qunlei , Zhi Zihan , Feng Chun , Li Ruixia , Yue Jinchao , Cong Junyu
Published: July 2021

In this study, the continuum‐discontinuum element method (CDEM) was used to investigate the tensile fracture mechanism of rock materials. An isotropic rock disk model and models considering different foliation inclinations were established, and three schemes were used to simulate the rock fracturing in Brazilian test. Then, the influences of the rock matrix and foliation strengths on anisotropy rock fracturing were investigated. Furtherly, simulation results were verified, and the rock fracture mechanisms were discussed. The results show that the rock fracturing in Brazilian test can be accurately simulated by CDEM, which is in accordance with the experimental results. For isotropic and horizontal foliation rock, the stress concentration in loading positions causes a local fracture of rock sample, and application of a local strengthening scheme can simulate the integral tension fracture of sample middle. As the foliation angle varies from 15° to 45°, the rock fracturing is affected by the stress concentration and foliation distribution. In splitting simulation, a strengthening scheme should be adopted to overcome this influence. As a result, the rock sample generates the sliding and compression‐shear fracture. As the foliation angle changes from 45° to 75°, the foliation, rather than the matrix, dominates the fracture behavior of rock sample. For vertical foliations’ rock, as the middle foliation thickness is appropriately broadened, the simulation results are reasonable. In general, the tensile strength of anisotropic rock entirely decreases with an increase of foliation angle, and the effect of foliation strength on the tensile strength rock sample is larger than that of the rock matrix.
[Retracted] Language Processing Model Construction and Simulation Based on Hybrid CNN and LSTM
Authors: Zhang Shujing
Published: July 2021

Deep learning is the latest trend of machine learning and artificial intelligence research. As a new field with rapid development over the past decade, it has attracted more and more researchers’ attention. Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model is one of the most important classical structures in deep learning models, and its performance has been gradually improved in deep learning tasks in recent years. Convolutional neural networks have been widely used in image classification, target detection, semantic segmentation, and natural language processing because they can automatically learn the feature representation of sample data. Firstly, this paper analyzes the model structure of a typical convolutional neural network model to increase the network depth and width in order to improve its performance, analyzes the network structure that further improves the model performance by using the attention mechanism, and then summarizes and analyzes the current special model structure. In order to further improve the text language processing effect, a convolutional neural network model, Hybrid convolutional neural network (CNN), and Long Short‐Term Memory (LSTM) based on the fusion of text features and language knowledge are proposed. The text features and language knowledge are integrated into the language processing model, and the accuracy of the text language processing model is improved by parameter optimization. Experimental results on data sets show that the accuracy of the proposed model reaches 93.0%, which is better than the reference model in the literature.
[Retracted] Synergy and Communication of IoT Industry Development Strategies in the Perspective of Low Carbon Economy
Authors: Lu Shaobo
Published: July 2021

In this paper, from the perspective of a low‐carbon economy, the development mode and influencing factors of the IoT industry are studied, and development strategies are proposed in a targeted manner. Through the analysis of relevant literature, the connotation of the concept of cooperation and dissemination of IoT industry development strategy under low‐carbon economy is enriched, emphasizing its systemic, multisubjectivity, and low‐carbon effect, and its mechanistic effect is analyzed and different types of models are analyzed and established. The analysis of the model of IoT industry development strategy cooperation and dissemination in low‐carbon economy finds that there is industrial variability in the overall trend of continuous increase of IoT industry development strategy cooperation and dissemination in the low‐carbon economy, and the reasonable industrial categories and their characteristics are pointed out through cluster analysis. Based on the viewpoint of the IoT industry and regional differentiation, the analysis establishes the path analysis model of enterprise, industry, and region. From the perspective of enterprises using game analysis method research shows that the development process of IoT industry under low‐carbon economy first adopts the important benchmarking significance of enterprise technology innovation behavior and its effect on potential enterprises and then pays attention to the government financial and tax policies and market cultivation on the coincidence between different types of IoT enterprises. The research shows that there are fault paths, distorted paths, and pathway types in the development of the IoT industry under a low‐carbon economy. Finally, based on the policy analysis, we summarize our shortcomings and the above‐mentioned development path views and make suggestions for better policy formulation of IoT industry development in a low‐carbon economy from enterprise‐level, industry level, and regional level. The above perspectives, conclusions, and policy recommendations on the synergy and dissemination of development strategies will have important positive theoretical and practical guidance for promoting the development of the low‐carbon economy and IoT industry.
On the Investigation of Monthly River Flow Generation Complexity Using the Applicability of Machine Learning Models
Authors: Shaofu Ma , Al-Juboori Anas Mahmood , Alwan Asmaa Hussein , Abdel-Salam Abdel-Salam G.
Published: July 2021

Streamflow is associated with several sources on nonstationaries and hence developing machine learning (ML) models is always the motive to provide a reliable methodology to understand the actual mechanism of streamflow. The current research was devoted to generating monthly streamflows from annual streamflow. In this study, three different ML models were applied for this purpose, including Multiple Additive Regression Trees (MART), Group Methods of Data Handling (GMDH), and Gene Expression Programming (GEP). The models were developed based on annual streamflow and monthly time index of three rivers (i.e., Upper Zab, Lower Zab, and Diyala) located in the north region of Iraq. The modeling results indicated an optimistic simulation for generating the monthly streamflow time series from annual streamflow time series. The potential of the MART model was superior to the GMDH and GEP models for Upper Zab River (R2 0.84, 0.64, and 0.47), Lower Zab River (R2 0.75, 0.46, and 0.40), and Diyala River (R2 0.78, 0.42, and 0.5). The results of RMSE were 113, 169, and 208 for Upper Zab River, 95, 149, and 0.5 for Lower Zab River, and 73, 118, and 109 for Diyala River. The results have proved the possibility of changing the timescale in generating streamflow data.
Distilling the Knowledge of Multiscale Densely Connected Deep Networks in Mechanical Intelligent Diagnosis
Authors: Wang Xiaochuan , Chen Aiguo , Zhang Liang , Gu Yi , Xu Mang , Yan Haoyuan
Published: July 2021

At present, deep neural network (DNN) technology is often used in intelligent diagnosis research. However, the huge amount of calculation of DNN makes it difficult to apply in industrial practice. In this paper, an advanced multiscale dense connection deep network MSDC‐NET is designed. A well‐designed multiscale parallel branch module is used in the network. This module can greatly improve the acceptance domain of MSDC‐NET, so as to learn useful information from input samples more effectively. Based on the inspiration of Densely Connected Convolutional Networks, MSDC‐NET designed a similar dense connection technology, so that the model will not have the problem of gradient vanishing because of the deep network. The experimental data of MSDC‐NET on MFPT, SEU, and Pu datasets show that our method has higher performance than other latest technologies. At the same time, we carried out knowledge distillation based on the high‐precision classification level of MSDC‐NET, which makes the diagnosis ability and robustness of the lightweight CNN model improve significantly.
Prevention by the Natural Artocarpin of Morphological and Biochemical Alterations on UVB‐Induced HaCaT Cells
Authors: Luangpraditkun Kunlathida , Tissot Marion , Joompang Anupong , Charoensit Pensri , Grandmottet François , Viyoch Jarupa , Viennet Céline
Published: July 2021

Natural substances have gained considerable attention for skin protection against UV light reactions. Artocarpus altilis plant’s heartwood extract is comprised of artocarpin as a major substance, already known for its interesting biological attributes as an antimicrobial, an anti‐inflammatory, an antioxidant, and a melanogenesis inhibitor. The present work clarified the mechanism of natural artocarpin (NAR) with a purity of approximately 99% against the effects of UVB‐induced HaCaT keratinocyte apoptosis. The indicated results showed that NAR suppresses free radical production (ROS and nitrite) and apoptosis‐related molecule activation (caspase‐3, p‐p53, p‐p38, and NF‐κB p65) and secretion (TNF‐α). Additionally, NAR prevented structural damages (nuclei condensation and fragmentation, apoptotic body formation, impaired cell adherence and round cell shape, disruption of F‐actin filament, and clustering of cell death receptor CD95/Fas) and biophysical changes (plasma membrane rigidification). Thus, NAR acts directly from scavenging free radicals generated by UV and indirectly by suppressing morphological and biochemical UV‐induced cell damages. Its biological effects are mainly attributed to antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties. Taken together, NAR could be considered as an effective natural product for photoprotective formulations.
In Vitro and In Silico Evaluation for the Inhibitory Action of O. basilicum Methanol Extract on α-Glucosidase and α-Amylase
Authors: Shanak Siba , Bassalat Najlaa , Albzoor Raghad , Kadan Sleman , Zaid Hilal
Published: July 2021

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease that predominates, nowadays. It causes hyperglycemia and consequently major health complications. Type II diabetes is the most common form and is a result of insulin resistance in the target tissues. To treat this disease, several mechanisms have been proposed. The most direct route is via inhibiting the intestinal enzymes, e.g., α-glucosidase and α-amylase, responsible for intestinal polysaccharide digestion that therefore would reduce the absorption of monosugars through the intestinal walls. In this study, we shed the light on this route by testing the inhibitory effect of Ocimum basilicum extract on the enzymes α-glucosidase and α-amylase in vitro and in silico. Experimental procedures were performed to test the effect of the O. basilicum methanol extract from aerial parts followed by the in silico docking. 500 μg/mL of the extract led to 70.2% ± 8.6 and 25.4% ± 3.3 inhibition on α-glucosidase and α-amylase activity, respectively. Similarly, the effect of caffeic acid, a major extract ingredient, was also tested, and it caused 42.7% ± 3.0 and 47.1% ± 4.0 inhibition for α-amylase and α-glucosidase, respectively. Docking experiments were performed to predict the phytochemicals responsible for this robust inhibitory activity in the O. basilicum extracts. Several compounds have shown variable levels of inhibition, e.g., caffeic acid, pyroglutamic acid, and uvasol. The results indicated that O. basilicum can be a potent antidiabetic drug.
Chemotaxonomic Study of Four Subspecies of Pinus nigra Arn. Grown in Common Garden Based on Essential Oil Composition
Authors: Fkiri Sondes , Mezni Faten , Rigane Ghayth , Ben Salem Ridha , Ghazghazi Hanene , Khouja M. Larbi , Nasr Zouheir , Khaldi Abdelhamid
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical diversity of Pinus nigra Arn. essential oils. The research was carried out on the needles collected from eighteen provenances of black pine grown in common garden located in West-Northern Tunisia and belonging to four different subspecies (Pinus nigra subsp. nigra, Pinus nigra subsp. salzmannii, Pinus nigra subsp. pallasiana, and Pinus nigra subsp. laricio). Essential oil yields ranged from 0.19% to 0.68%. The obtained essential oils have been analyzed by GC-FID and GC-MS apparatus. Twenty-three constituents accounting about 98% of total essential oil composition were identified. The essential oil compositions appeared to be very different according to their origin. Thus, five main essential oil chemotypes were identified in Pinus nigra plants: caryophyllene oxide, camphene, ß-caryophyllene, α-amorphene, and germacrene D. The chemotaxonomic value of the essential oil compositions was discussed in relation to the results of the multivariate statistical test, including a detailed survey of the available literature data.