bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Does the Quality of Junior High Schools Affect Housing Prices? A Quasi-Natural Experiment Based on the Admission Reform in Chengdu, China
Authors: Tian Xiao , Liu Jin , Liu Yong
Published: September 2022

We exploit an admission reform of junior high schools in Chengdu, China, to identify the capitalization effect of high-quality educational facilities on housing prices. Since 2013, some elite junior high schools have conducted an experimental policy called the four-year junior high school project (hereinafter referred to as FJHP). The FJHP reduced the admission chances to elite junior high schools within the FJHP school districts via lottery. Based on 88,745 resale housing transaction records from Chengdu during 2010–2018, we used the difference-in-difference (DID) methodology to estimate the average price effect of the FJHP. Furthermore, we established a DID model with quantile regression to estimate the heterogeneous effect of the FJHP on housing prices. The empirical results show that the implementation of the FJHP reduced the housing prices in the relevant school districts by at least 5.5%, and its price reduction effect increased over time. The quantile regression results show that households with high-priced housing are more sensitive to the change of admission chance to elite junior high schools, which indicates the inequality in accessing high-quality school facilities under the designating admission zone policy. This study concludes with implications for improving the accessibility of school facilities.
Artificial Radionuclides in the System: Water, Irrigated Soils, and Agricultural Plants of the Crimea Region
Authors: Mirzoeva Natalia , Tereshchenko Nataliya , Korotkov Andrey
Published: September 2022

In the frame of the radioecological monitoring after the Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident, the features of migration and distribution of artificial radionuclides in the North Crimean Canal (NCC) irrigation system were studied. Standard methods of radiochemical analyzes and modern radiospectrometric equipment were used. It was determined that the irrigation system of the NCC retains 43–59% 90Sr, 59–60% 239+240Pu, and 66–70% 137Cs of the concentration radionuclides entering to irrigated fields with the Dnieper waters. The NCC irrigation system plays the role of a buffer against the radionuclide pollution of the Karkinitsky Bay (the Black Sea). Differences in the accumulation of radionuclides by agricultural crops were revealed. The 90Sr and 239+240Pu transfer factors (TF) for alfalfa were n × 10−2 and n × 10−1, respectively. The TF for wheat, corn, and rice for 90Sr were n × 10−3, and for 239+240Pu—n × 10−2. A radioecological assessment on the safety agriculture along the NCC was made: in the absence of an increase in the entry of the Chernobyl origin radionuclides with the Dnieper river waters to the NCC, the levels of activity concentration of artificial radionuclides in cultivated crops will not exceed the maximum permissible concentration for food raw materials in the coming years.
Distribution Characteristics, Regional Differences and Spatial Convergence of the Water-Energy-Land-Food Nexus: A Case Study of China
Authors: Li Qiangyi , Yang Lan , Jiang Fangxin , Liu Yangqing , Guo Chenyang , Han Shuya
Published: September 2022

Land use change affects the supply and demand of water, energy and food and the integration of land elements into the common water-energy-food (WEF) nexus, which is an effective way to strictly adhere to the bottom line of natural resources. First, this study used the entropy method and coupling coordination model to measure the coupling coordination degree of the water-energy-land-food (WELF) nexus in 30 provinces in China during the period of 2006–2019. Then, the regional differences and distribution dynamics were examined with the Dagum Gini coefficient and Kernel density estimation, respectively. Finally, the spatial correlation was analyzed using the global Moran’s I, and a spatial β convergence model was constructed to empirically test its spatial β convergence characteristics. The results show that the coupling coordination degree of the WELF nexus in most of the provinces was at the stage of barely coordinated, with a decreasing trend; the intensity of transvariation was the main source of regional differences in the coupling coordination degree of the WELF nexus, followed by intra-regional differences, while inter-regional differences were small. The national, eastern and central regions had a slight gradient effect, showing regional dispersion characteristics, albeit less obvious; there was a spatial absolute-β convergence and spatial conditional-β convergence nationally and in the three regions. On this basis, policy recommendations were made to realize the synergistic development of land planning, water resources allocation, energy utilization, and food production and to balance regional differences in resources.
Prevalence Trends of Metabolic Syndrome among Korean Children and Adolescents from a Population-Based Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Kim Ji Hyun , Lim Jung Sub
Published: September 2022

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) is increasing worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence trend of metabolic syndrome among Korean adolescents and to examine the effect of changes in dietary components on metabolic syndrome components. It has used the data of children and adolescents (8718 subjects aged 10–18) from the National Health and Nutrition Survey IV-VII (KNHANES 2007–2018) to estimate the recent prevalence of MetS and identify related nutritional factors. The definition of MetS used modified NCEP-ATP III and IDF criteria. The prevalence of MetS among Korean adolescents in 2007–2018 was 4.6% using the modified NCEP-ATP III criteria, and the trend of MetS increased significantly (p trend = 0.02). In the overweight and obese groups, the risk of MetS increased 7.08 (95% CI, 5.19–9.79) and 27.13 (95% CI, 20.90–35.24) compared to the normal-weight group. During KNHANES IV-VII, overall caloric intake increased, carbohydrate and sodium intake decreased, but fat intake increased (KNHANE-IV; 21.3% to VII; 24.0%, p < 0.001). These fat intakes were significantly correlated with an increase in systolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and waist circumference. The prevalence of MetS is also increasing in Korean adolescents, and changes in dietary habits are related. In the future, it is also necessary to study the relationship of MetS to lifestyle.
Integrative Application of Foliar Yeast Extract and Gibberellic Acid Improves Morpho-Physiological Responses and Nutrient Uptake of Solidago virgaurea Plant in Alkaline Soil
Authors: Youssef Samah M. , Abdella Ebtsam M. M. , Al-Elwany Omar A. , Alshallash Khalid S. , Alharbi Khadiga , Ibrahim Mariam T. S. , Tawfik Moataz M. , Abu-Elsaoud Abdelghafar M. , Elkelish Amr
Published: September 2022

Alkaline soils have fertility issues due to poor physical qualities, which have a negative impact on crop growth and output. Solidago is used in flower arrangements, bouquet filler, and traditional medicine. The possible biological fertilizers’ eco-friendly and cost-effective nature favours farmers because of the vital role in soil productivity and environmental sustainability. A field experiment was performed during two successive seasons to explore the effect of applying yeast extract (YE) at (0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 g/L) and/or gibberellic acid (GA3) at (control, 100, 200, and 300 ppm) on the morpho-physiological parameters, macronutrients, and biochemical constituents of Solidago virgaurea. The results emphasize that YE (1.5 g/L) and/or GA3 (300 ppm) treatments show the highest significant increase in plant growth (i.e., plant height, no. of branches, fresh and dry weight of shoots); photosynthetic efficiency (i.e., chlorophyll (a), chlorophyll (b) and total carotenoids); macronutrient content (i.e., N, P, and K); and biochemical constituents (i.e., total soluble sugars, total phenolic, total flavonoids, and total glycosides). The study results recommend using YE and GA3 in combination at concentrations of 1.5 g/L and 300 ppm, respectively, to improve Solidago production sustainability under alkaline soil conditions.
Discovery of Potential SARS-CoV-2 Papain-like Protease Natural Inhibitors Employing a Multi-Phase In Silico Approach
Authors: Elkaeed Eslam B. , Metwaly Ahmed M. , Alesawy Mohamed S. , Saleh Abdulrahman M. , Alsfouk Aisha A. , Eissa Ibrahim H.
Published: September 2022

As an extension of our research against COVID-19, a multiphase in silico approach was applied in the selection of the three most common inhibitors (Glycyrrhizoflavone (76), Arctigenin (94), and Thiangazole (298)) against papain-like protease, PLpro (PDB ID: 4OW0), among 310 metabolites of natural origin. All compounds of the exam set were reported as antivirals. The structural similarity between the examined compound set and S88, the co-crystallized ligand of PLpro, was examined through structural similarity and fingerprint studies. The two experiments pointed to Brevicollin (28), Cryptopleurine (41), Columbamine (46), Palmatine (47), Glycyrrhizoflavone (76), Licochalcone A (87), Arctigenin (94), Termilignan (98), Anolignan B (99), 4,5-dihydroxy-6″-deoxybromotopsentin (192), Dercitin (193), Tryptanthrin (200), 6-Cyano-5-methoxy-12-methylindolo [2, 3A] carbazole (211), Thiangazole (298), and Phenoxan (300). The binding ability against PLpro was screened through molecular docking, disclosing the favorable binding modes of six metabolites. ADMET studies expected molecules 28, 76, 94, 200, and 298 as the most favorable metabolites. Then, molecules 76, 94, and 298 were chosen through in silico toxicity studies. Finally, DFT studies were carried out on glycyrrhizoflavone (76) and indicated a high level of similarity in the molecular orbital analysis. The obtained data can be used in further in vitro and in vivo studies to examine and confirm the inhibitory effect of the filtered metabolites against PLpro and SARS-CoV-2.
Effect of Different Doses of Vitamin D on the Intestinal Flora of Babies with Eczema: An Experimental Study
Authors: Liu Youping , Yang Meng , Ran Zhiling , Wang Junxia , Ma Wujie , Sheng Qiaoni
Published: September 2022

Infantile eczema is a common allergic disease caused by a variety of factors, which is often accompanied by immune dysfunction and dysbiosis of the intestinal flora. Vitamin D may affect the composition and function of intestinal flora by regulating the expression of antimicrobial peptides, thereby avoiding intestinal dysbiosis. The present study aims to explore whether the disorder of intestinal flora and immune function can be reversed by changing the Vit D intake of eczema infants. In this study, 12 healthy infants were selected as the healthy control group (CON), and 32 infants with eczema were selected for the eczema patient groups, of which 8 were randomly allocated as the eczema model group (ECZ, for which the infants’ peripheral blood and stool were collected before any treatment). The 12 healthy infants and 32 eczema infants all regularly adhered to the feeding of Vit D 400 IU/d. The 32 eczema infants were randomly divided into 3 groups, and patients in each group took Vit D 200 (D-LOW), 400 (D-MED), and 800 (D-HIGH) IU/day for 1 month, respectively. The peripheral blood and stool of the three groups were collected one month later. Flow cytometry was used to detect the levels of T lymphocyte subsets (CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+/CD8+) and serum inflammatory factor interleukin IL-6, IL-10, and interferon-γ(IFN-γ). The contents of serum immunoglobulin Ig E and 25-(OH) D3 were detected by chemiluminescence. Two hypervariable regions of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene (V3–V4) were high-throughput sequenced for stool intestinal flora analysis. The results showed that no significant difference was found in the content of 25 (OH) D3 between the ECZ and the CON groups. However, the intestinal flora and immune function in the ECZ group were remarkably more disordered than those in the CON group (p < 0.05). After the corresponding medical treatments for one month, the LOW-D and HIGH-D groups presented some reversals in the intestinal flora and immune-related indexes in comparison to the ECZ group, and the reversal effect in the LOW-D group was most significant (p < 0.05). These results indicated that low-dose Vit D(200 IU/d) can partly improve the disorder of intestinal flora and immune function in eczema infants who usually adhere to a Vit D preventive dose of 400 IU/d feeding.
Super-Responders in Moderate–Severe Psoriasis under Guselkumab Treatment: Myths, Realities and Future Perspectives
Authors: Ruiz-Villaverde Ricardo , Vasquez-Chinchay Fiorella , Rodriguez-Fernandez-Freire Lourdes , C. Armario-Hita Jose , Pérez-Gil Amalia , Galán-Gutiérrez Manuel
Published: September 2022

A fast skin clearance is the main goal to achieve in psoriasis treatment. Patients that present a fast and exceptional improvement with treatment are called super-responders (SR). There is no consensus on the definition of SR with respect to psoriasis. Included herein is a retrospective analysis of a multicenter, observational study of real clinical practices including patients with moderate-to-severe plaque PSO undergoing treatment with Guselkumab (GUS). This cross-sectional analysis includes information on patients between February 2019 to February 2022. A SR is a patient that achieved a PASI = 0 at weeks 12 and 24. Analyses have been performed “as observed” using GraphPad Prism version 8.3.0 for Windows (GraphPad Software, San Diego, CA, USA, At baseline, the PASI is significantly correlated with VAS_pruritus, BSA, and DLQI, while DLQI is significantly correlated with VAS_pruritus. Significant correlations increase in number and magnitude over the follow-up time. In relation to the univariate logistic models carried out, only three variables showed a significant association with the super-responder variable: depression, VAS_pruritus, and DLQI.SR patients, who show a faster evolution in PASI and BSA improvement than non-SRs. Based on the results obtained, it would be possible to also include DLQI and VAS_pruritus in the broader concept of the SR.
Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Predicts Early Neurological Deterioration after Endovascular Treatment in Patients with Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Lattanzi Simona , Norata Davide , Broggi Serena , Meletti Stefano , Świtońska Milena , Słomka Artur , Silvestrini Mauro
Published: September 2022

The worsening of neurological status that occurs early after acute ischemic stroke (AIS) remains a serious issue, and the inflammatory response plays a key role in stroke pathobiology. Recently, endovascular treatment (EVT) has revolutionized the management and outcome of patients with AIS due to either extracranial carotid disease or intracranial disease. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) represents an easily available inflammatory biomarker. The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between the NLR at admission and the occurrence of early neurological deterioration (END) in patients with AIS who underwent EVT. Patients with AIS and proximal arterial occlusion in the anterior circulation undergoing EVT were retrospectively identified. Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) and absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) were collected from admission blood work to calculate the NLR. The study outcome was END defined as an increase in at least 4 points in NIHSS score or death between baseline and 24 h after the ischemic event. Patients included were 211, and END occurred in 30 (14.2%). Patients with older age (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.02–1.13), higher serum glucose (OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 1.01–1.02), and higher NLR (OR = 1.011, 95% CI: 1.04–1.18) had an increased risk of END. The best predictive cut-off value of NLR was 6.4, and END occurred in 24.1% and 3.9% of the patients with NLR ≥ 6.4 and <6.4, respectively (p < 0.001). In patients with AIS undergoing EVT, higher NLR values predicted a higher risk of END. Biomarkers able to identify inflammatory mechanisms might identify novel treatment targets and enhance proof-of-concept trials of immunomodulation in stroke.
Characteristics of the Skin Microbiome in Selected Dermatological Conditions: A Narrative Review
Authors: Olunoiki Esther , Rehner Jacqueline , Bischoff Markus , Koshel Elena , Vogt Thomas , Reichrath Jörg , Becker Sören L.
Published: September 2022

The skin is the largest and outermost organ of the human body. The microbial diversity of the skin can be influenced by several variable factors such as physiological state, lifestyle, and geographical locations. Recent years have seen increased interest in research aiming at an improved understanding of the relationship between the human microbiota and several diseases. Albeit understudied, interesting correlations between the skin microbiota and several dermatological conditions have been observed. Studies have shown that a decrease or increase in the abundance of certain microbial communities can be implicated in several dermatological pathologies. This narrative review (i) examines the role of the skin microbiota in the maintenance of skin homeostasis and health, (ii) provides examples on how some common skin diseases (acne inversa, candidiasis, psoriasis) are associated with the dysbiosis of microbial communities, and (iii) describes how recent research approaches used in skin microbiome studies may lead to improved, more sensitive diagnostics and individual therapeutics in the foreseeable future.
Friction Prediction and Application to Lateral or Longitudinal Slip Force Prediction
Authors: Xia Danhua , Liu Qianjin , Lu Dang
Published: September 2022

The empirical or semi-empirical model is widely used for vehicle simulation because of its high accuracy but relies on massive experimental data of tire force and moment. Therefore, tire mechanical prediction is of great significance to improve tire modeling efficiency and to reduce costs. Typical prediction methods or models based on normalization presented by Pacejka and Radt assume that different loads could be close to one normalized curve, but it is not always accurate enough to predict tire force under pure slip conditions and there is no mention of friction prediction methods. In the paper, a theoretical model considering the deformation of belt/carcass is established, which lays the foundation for a normalization model. A method for separation of friction from test data and the proportional assumption of longitudinal and lateral peak friction coefficient between target tire and reference tire are proposed, and the experimental results show that this assumption is acceptable. Finally, according to the separation of friction method and assumption, a new prediction method for tire force under pure slip conditions is presented and validated by comparison with the experimental data. It shows that the proposed method has good prediction capability with satisfactory accuracy.
Effects of a Novel Proprioceptive Rehabilitation Device on Shoulder Joint Position Sense, Pain and Function
Authors: Gliga Alexandra Camelia , Neagu Nicolae Emilian , Voidazan Septimiu , Popoviciu Horatiu Valeriu , Bataga Tiberiu
Published: September 2022

Background and Objectives: Shoulder disorders are associated with pain, restricted range of motion and muscular strength, moderate disability and diminished proprioception. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of an innovative technology-supported and a classical therapist-based proprioceptive training program in addition to conventional physiotherapy, on joint position sense (JPS), pain and function, in individuals with different musculoskeletal shoulder disorders, such as rotator cuff tear, subacromial impingement syndrome and superior labrum anterior and posterior tear. The innovative element of the proprioceptive training programme consists of the use of the Kinesimeter, a device created for both training and assessing shoulder JPS. Materials and Methods: The shoulder JPS test and the DASH outcome questionnaire were applied to fifty-five individuals (28 females, 27 males, mean age 56.31 ± 6.75), divided into three groups: 17 in the conventional physiotherapy group (control group); 19 in the conventional physiotherapy + classical proprioceptive training program group (CPT group); and 19 in the conventional physiotherapy + innovative proprioceptive training program group (KPT group). Assessments were performed before and after a four-week rehabilitation program, with five physiotherapy sessions per week. Results: When baseline and post-intervention results were compared, the value of the shoulder JPS and DASH outcome questionnaire improved significantly for the KPT and CPT groups (all p < 0.001). Both KPT and CPT groups showed statistically significant improvements in JPS, pain and function, compared to the control group which received no proprioceptive training (all p < 0.05). However, the KPT group showed no significant benefits compared to the CPT group. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that using the Kinesimeter device as a novel, innovative proprioceptive training tool has similar effects as the classical proprioceptive training programs among individuals with different non-operated musculoskeletal shoulder disorders such as: rotator cuff tear, subacromial impingement syndrome, and superior labrum anterior and posterior tear.
The Neural Multilineage Differentiation Capacity of Human Neural Precursors from the Umbilical Cord—Ready to Bench for Clinical Trials
Authors: de Souza Dobuchak Daiany , Stricker Priscila Elias Ferreira , de Oliveira Nathalia Barth , Mogharbel Bassam Felipe , da Rosa Nádia Nascimento , Dziedzic Dilcele Silva Moreira , Irioda Ana Carolina , Athayde Teixeira de Carvalho Katherine
Published: September 2022

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are promising for regenerative medicine as they have a vast differentiation capacity, immunomodulatory properties and can be isolated from different tissues. Among them, the umbilical cord is considered a good source of MSC, as its collection poses no risk to donors and is unrelated to ethical issues. Furthermore, umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSC) can differentiate into several cell lines, including neural lineages that, in the future, may become an alternative in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. This study used a natural functional biopolymer matrix (NFBX) as a membrane to differentiate UC-MSC into neurospheres and their Neural precursors without using neurogenic growth factors or gene transfection. Through the characterization of Neural precursors and differentiated cells, it was possible to demonstrate the broad potential for the differentiation of cells obtained through cultivation on this membrane. To demonstrate these Neural precursors’ potential for future studies in neurodegenerative diseases, the Neural precursors from Wharton’s jelly were differentiated into Schwann cells, oligodendrocytes, cholinergic-, dopaminergic- and GABAergic-like neurons.
Modelling of Fractionated Condensation for Off-Flavours Reduction from Red Wine Fermentation Headspace
Authors: Pereira Maria João , Ferreira António , Brazinha Carla , Crespo João
Published: September 2022

A mathematical model of fractionated condensation is proposed for predicting the recovery and fractionation of target aromas from red wine fermentation headspaces in order to remove off-flavours. The applicability of the model is assessed for two different alternative processes: fractionated condensation and vapour permeation–fractionated condensation. The aromas of the headspace of red wine fermentation are commonly lost through the fermenter venting system and are enhanced by the stripping effect of the produced CO2. To mimic the operating conditions during the red wine fermentation, all experiments were performed at 30 °C with a red wine model solution containing relevant red wine aromas, the cosolvent ethanol at representative concentrations, and CO2. Both studied processes allow for a good recovery of esters in the 2nd condenser, with over 80% of ethyl acetate and isoamyl acetate recovery when using vapour permeation–fractionated condensation and a recovery of 84–96% of all esters when using fractionated condensation. However, only the integrated process of vapour permeation–fractionated condensation achieves a significant decrease in the amount of ethyl phenols (off-flavours compounds) in the 1st condenser, above 50%, as expected due to the use of an organophilic membrane. The developed model was validated experimentally for the integrated process, proving to be a highly valuable tool for the prediction of aroma fractionation, aiming at the removal of off-flavours.
The Effect of a Flexible Electrode on the Electro Deformability of an Actuating Unit of a MDI-Polyurethane Composite Fiber Membrane Filled with BaTiO3
Authors: Lu Gang , Shuai Changgeng , Liu Yinsong , Yang Xue , Hu Xiaoyang
Published: September 2022

The electro deformability of an actuating unit of a polyurethane dielectric elastomer (PUDE) is affected by many factors. The agglomeration of dielectric fillers faced by the traditional dielectric modification methods will lead to the instability of the actuation performance of dielectric composites. In addition, the electro deformability (ability of deformation after voltage loading) is great affected by the selection of flexible electrodes and packaging technology. Based on the research findings, Diphenylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanat (MDI)-polyurethane dielectric composite fiber membrane filled with barium titanate (BaTiO3) is prepared using coaxial spinning, and this study then analyzes the effects of the types of flexible electrodes and coating methods on the electro deformability of the actuating unit of the dielectric composite fiber membrane. It is found that the electro deformability of the actuating unit coated with the single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) flexible electrode is better than that of the perfluoropolyether conductive grease (PCG) or the traditional conductive carbon grease (CCG) electrode in various degrees. When the loading voltage is 20 kV, the electro deformability of the actuating unit coated with SWNT flexible electrode exceeds the latter two electrodes by 13.8%; when the SWNT flexible electrode is encapsulated by physical surface implantation (PSI), the electric deformation of the actuating unit is higher than that of the solvent suspension dispersion (SSD).
Investigating the Material Properties of Nodular Cast Iron from a Data Mining Perspective
Authors: Fragassa Cristiano
Published: September 2022

Cast iron is a very common and useful metal alloy, characterized by its high carbon content (>4%) in the allotropic state of graphite. The correct shape and distribution of graphite are essential for ensuring that the material has the right properties. The present investigation examines the metallurgical and mechanical characterization of a spheroidal (nodular) cast iron, an alloy that derives its name and its excellent properties from the presence of graphite as spheroidal nodules. Experimental data are detected and considered from a data mining perspective, with the scope to extract new and little-known information. Specifically, a machine learning toolkit (i.e., Orange Data Mining) is used as a means of permitting supervised learners/classifiers (such as neural networks, k-nearest neighbors, and many others) to understand related metallurgical and mechanical features. An accuracy rate of over 90% can be considered as representative of the method. Finally, interesting considerations emerged regarding the dimensional effect on the variation in the solidification rates, microstructure, and properties.
Advanced Characterization and On-Line Process Monitoring of Additively Manufactured Materials and Components
Authors: Bruno Giovanni , Maierhofer Christiane
Published: September 2022

Additive manufacturing (AM) techniques have risen to prominence in many industrial sectors [...]
The Tribo-Corrosion Behavior of Monel 400 Alloy in Marine Environment at Varied Rotational Velocities
Authors: Zhu Yuhua , Wang Jianzhang , Liu Hao , Yan Fengyuan
Published: September 2022

Monel 400 alloy is widely employed in marine engineering equipment due to its excellent corrosion resistance, high strength and toughness. In this paper, the tribo-corrosion behavior of Monel 400 alloy in seawater under different rotational velocities was investigated by a pin-disk tribometer with an integrated electrochemical cell. The results revealed that the material loss rate and friction coefficient of the Monel 400 alloy, after tribo-corrosion and mechanical wear tests, increased with increasing rotational velocity. Under mechanical-wear conditions, the material loss rate increased with the sliding distance extension at higher velocities, and then more serious crack nucleation and propagation occurred at the subsurface. Under tribo-corrosion conditions, when the rotational velocities increased from 0.125 m/s to 0.5 m/s, the thickness of the corrosion product’s layer was reduced from 50 nm to 30 nm; that is, the lubrication of the corrosion product became worse. As a result, the material-loss rate and friction coefficient increased significantly at the velocity of 0.5 m/s. Importantly, the antagonistic effect, rather than the synergistic effect, between corrosion and mechanical wear, has been verified for the tribo-corrosion of Monel 400 alloy in seawater, and the mechanism was analyzed.
Formation and Removal Mechanism of Nonmetallic Inclusions in 42CrMo4 Steel during the Steelmaking Process
Authors: Qiao Tong , Cheng Guoguang , Huang Yu , Li Yao , Zhang Yanling , Li Zhanchun
Published: September 2022

Nonmetallic inclusions are harmful to the quality of 42CrMo4 steel. Therefore, the formation and removal mechanism of inclusions in 42CrMo4 steel during the steelmaking process is investigated by industrial trials. The characteristics of inclusions in specimens were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The main type of inclusions in molten steel in the early stage of ladle furnace (LF) refining is MgO-Al2O3 inclusions of irregular shape. CaO begins to appear in MgO-Al2O3 inclusions in the middle and late stages of LF. In the vacuum degassing (VD) refining stage, the inclusions in molten steel completely change into low-melting-point CaO-MgO-Al2O3 inclusions. The existence of [Mg] in molten steel is the fundamental reason for the formation of a large number of MgO-Al2O3 inclusions. Thermodynamic calculation shows that the refractory mainly transfers [Mg] to the liquid steel in the LF refining stage, whereas the slag mainly transfers [Mg] to the liquid steel in the VD refining stage. Kinetic calculation indicates that MgO-Al2O3 inclusions could be removed from molten steel faster than low-melting-point CaO-MgO-Al2O3 inclusions. The fundamental reason for the different removal behavior of the two types of inclusions is that the interfacial tension between the low-melting-point CaO-MgO-Al2O3 inclusions and the liquid steel is 50% lower than that of the MgO-Al2O3 inclusions.
Levels of Acylcarnitines and Branched-Chain Amino Acids in Antipsychotic-Treated Patients with Paranoid Schizophrenia with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Mednova Irina A. , Chernonosov Alexander A. , Kornetova Elena G. , Semke Arkadiy V. , Bokhan Nikolay A. , Koval Vladimir V. , Ivanova Svetlana A.
Published: September 2022

Several studies have shown that patients with schizophrenia are at high risk for metabolic syndrome (MetS) and bioenergetic dysfunction. Because acylcarnitines are involved in bioenergetic pathways and reflect the functioning of mitochondria, we hypothesized that these compounds are biomarkers of MetS in schizophrenia. The aim of this work was to quantify acylcarnitines and branched-chain amino acids in patients with schizophrenia comorbid with MetS. The study included 112 patients with paranoid schizophrenia treated with antipsychotics. Among them, 39 subjects met criteria of MetS. Concentrations of 30 acylcarnitines and three amino acids in dry serum spots were measured by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. MetS patients were found to have higher levels of valeryl carnitine (C5), leucine/isoleucine, and alanine as compared with patients without MetS, indicating possible participation of these compounds in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders in schizophrenia. In patients with paranoid schizophrenia with or without MetS, lower levels of carnitines C10, C10:1, C12, and C18 were recorded as compared with the healthy individuals (n = 70), implying deterioration of energy metabolism. We believe that this finding can be explained by effects of antipsychotic medication on an enzyme called carnitine-palmitoyl transferase I.
AMOLED Pixel Circuit Using LTPO Technology Supporting Variable Frame Rate from 1 to 120 Hz for Portable Displays
Authors: Fan Ching-Lin , Chen Chun-Yuan , Liu Shih-Yang , Lin Wei-Yu
Published: September 2022

This paper proposes a new 6T1C pixel circuit based on low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) technology for portable active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) displays with variable refresh rates ranging from 1 to 120 Hz. The proposed circuit has a simple structure and is based on the design of sharing lines of switch-controlling signals. It also provides low-voltage driving and immunity to OLED degeneration issues. The calculation and analysis of programming time are discussed, and the optimal storage capacitor for the proposed circuit’s high-speed driving is selected. The results of the simulation reveal that threshold voltage variations in driving thin-film transistors of ±0.33 V can be well sensed and compensated with a 1.8% average shift of OLED currents in high-frame-rate operation (120 Hz), while the maximum variation in OLED currents within all gray levels is only 3.56 nA in low-frame-rate operation (1 Hz). As a result, the proposed 6T1C pixel circuit is a good candidate for use in portable AMOLED displays.
Multiple Sulfur Isotope Evidence for Bacterial Sulfate Reduction and Sulfate Disproportionation Operated in Mesoarchaean Rocks of the Karelian Craton
Authors: Vysotskiy Sergey , Velivetskaya Tatyana , Ignatiev Aleksandr , Slabunov Aleksandr , Aseeva Anna
Published: September 2022

Sulfur isotope in sulfides from the Paleoarchean and the Neoarchean sedimentary rocks evidence microbial sulfur metabolism in Archean sulfur cycle. However, sulfur metabolism for the Mesoarchean interval is less obvious since evidence for a large range in sulfur isotope values has not yet been observed in Mesoarchean samples. We report the results of multiple sulfur isotope measurements for sulfide minerals from ~2.8 Ga sedimentary rocks in the southeastern part of the Karelian Craton. In situ isotope analysis of sulfide grains have been performed using a femtosecond laser-ablation fluorination method. Sulfide samples studied here yielded Δ33S values between −0.3 and +2.7‰ and δ34S values between −10 and +33‰. The Δ33S dataset was interpreted to indicate the incorporation of sulfur from two coexisting sulfur pools, photolytic sulfate and photolytically derived elemental sulfur. We suggest that the relative contributions of these Δ33S different pools to the pyritic sulfur could be controlled by the metabolic activity of coexisting sulfate-reducing and sulfur-disproportionating bacteria during pyrite formation. We therefore suggest the operation of different metabolic pathways of sulfur in Mesoarchean sedimentary environments.
Formation of the Miaoan Au-Polymetallic Deposit in the Northern Taihang Mountain, North China Craton: Ore Geology, Geochronological and Geochemical Perspectives
Authors: Li Jie , Li Nan , Wang Meiyun , Song Yingxin , Tang Zongyuan , Zhang Pu , Wang Guang , Zhang Lipeng
Published: September 2022

Several gold ore-concentrated areas have been recognized in the destruction zone of the North China Craton (NCC). However, the deposits in the western part of the destruction zone have received less attention. Miaoan, a typical Au-polymetallic deposit in the northern Taihang Mountain, provides a good sample for deepening our understanding of the genesis of gold deposits in the western destruction zone. In this study, detailed ore geology, pyrite Rb-Sr age, trace element and S-C-O isotopes of Au-bearing ores were conducted to constrain the source of ore-forming materials and their tectonic setting. The pyrites obtain an Rb-Sr isochron age of 129.5 ± 2.5 Ma, consistent with those of magmatic rocks in this deposit, suggesting their genetic relationship. The δ34S values ranging from −5.5‰ to 1.6‰ and the high Co/Ni and Y/Ho ratios of pyrites indicate the mantle-crust mixing characteristics of ore-forming fluids. The δ13C (−6.3‰ to −2.0‰) and δ18O (9.3‰ to 17.6‰) values of Au-bearing ores and calcites suggest mixing characteristics as well. Geochronologically, the Miaoan Au-polymetallic deposit was formed during the destruction of the NCC. We propose that the Miaoan Au-polymetallic deposit is a decratonic gold deposit and that its ore-forming materials have a mixed source of mantle and crust.
Preparation of Bimetallic Au-Pd/MWCNTs Electrode for Detection of Dopamine
Authors: Zhu Zhen , Luk Hsiang-Ning , Liu Yu-Shih , Wu Ren-Jang , Chung Ming-Hung , Chang Xu-Jia
Published: September 2022

In this study, functionalized bimetallic Au-Pd on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (AuPd/MWCNT) are prepared and their application as electrochemical sensor materials for dopamine detection is explored. Furthermore, the as-prepared composite materials are identified using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS). In addition, the experimental results show that AuPd/MWCNT displayed excellent sensing properties to dopamine. Especially, 1% Pd-5% Au/MWCNT showed a wide detection range (0.98–200 μM) and a low detection limit of 0.058 μM for dopamine. The sensor also displayed properties such as repeatability, reproducibility, and stability, which can be ascribed to the large specific surface area and the synergistic effect of the bimetallic nanoparticles. Therefore, the prepared functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes have good application prospects in the field of dopamine detection.
Mélange, Flysch and Cliffs in the Pieniny Klippen Belt (Poland): An Overview
Authors: Golonka Jan , Waśkowska Anna , Cichostępski Kamil , Dec Jerzy , Pietsch Kaja , Łój Monika , Bania Grzegorz , Mościcki Włodzimierz Jerzy , Porzucek Sławomir
Published: September 2022

The Pieniny Klippen Belt (PKB) is located in the suture zone between the Central and Outer (Flysch) Carpathians. Its structure is an effect of prolonged processes of the Cretaceous–Miocene folding, thrusting and uplifting. In this zone, tectonic components of different ages and features, including strike-slip-bounded tectonic blocks, thrust units, as well as toe-thrusts and olistostromes, result in the present-day mélange characteristics of the PKB, where individual tectonic units are difficult to distinguish. In the PKB, both tectonic and sedimentary events triggered the mélange creation. The name “Klippen Belt” is derived from cliffs (German Klippen). These cliffs form harder, more erosion-resistant elements of the mélange, residing within less competent clastic deposits, sandstones, shales and marls that form flysch complexes. The cliffs often represent olistoliths, which glided down from elevated areas to the deeper basinal zones. Two olistostrome belts were distinguished. The older one resulted from subduction of the southern part of the Alpine Tethys, and the younger originated in response to the northward shift of the accretionary wedge. The other cliffs were placed within the surrounding clastic by tectonic deformational processes. The flower structure of the PKB was formed during the collision and strike-slip movement of the lithospheric plates. This structure is limited on both sides by deep-rooted faults. Several evolutionary stages could be distinguished in these areas. The rift-related stage is expressed by the opening of the Alpine Tethys that contains two major basins—Magura and Pieniny (Złatne) basins, separated by Czorsztyn Ridge. The reorganization of the Alpine Tethys basins and the development of the accretionary prism happened during the synorogenic stage. This process was initiated by the movement of the Central Carpathians. Thick flysch sequences with olistostromes were deposited in these basins. The Czorsztyn Ridge was destroyed during the late orogenic stages.
Phanerozoic Evolution of Continental Large Igneous Provinces: Implications for Galactic Seasonality
Authors: Nechaev Victor P. , Sutherland Frederick L. , Nechaeva Eugenia V.
Published: September 2022

This study reviews the available data on the Phanerozoic plume activity (Large Igneous Provinces (LIP’s) size and frequency) and geochemistry of their igneous rocks. A major goal of this review is to try to find the changes in intensity and geochemistry of mantle plumes linked to the Earth’s evolution and galactic seasonality that was supposed in the authors’ previous publications. The data indicate that the Cambrian–Ordovician and Jurassic–Cretaceous galactic summers were associated with peaks of various igneous activities including both plume- and subduction/collision-related magmatism, while the Carboniferous–Permian and current galactic winters led to significant drops within the igneous activity. The materials subducted into the transitional and lower mantle, which highly influenced the plume magmas in the galactic-summer times, were less significant in the galactic spring and autumn seasons. The least subduction-influenced LIPs were probably the Tarim and Emeishan deep plume magmas that developed in the mid–late Permian, during the galactic late winter–early spring subseason. The Fe enrichment of clinopyroxenite, gabbro, and associated ores of these provinces might be caused by fluids ascending from the core–mantle boundary. However, the most significant core influence through plume-associated fluids on the surface of solid Earth is supposed to have occurred in the galactic summer times (Cambrian–Ordovician and Jurassic–Cretaceous), which is indicated by peak abundances of ironstone ores. Their contributions to the Cambrian–Ordovician and Jurassic–Cretaceous plume magmas were, however, obscured by more significant influences from subduction.
Comparative Analysis of the Phenolic Profile of Lycium barbarum L. Fruits from Different Regions in China
Authors: Duan Wenwen , Zhang Zhijie , Zhu Jingjing , Zhang Dong , Qian Dan , Teng Fei , Zhao Yifan , Chen Fengming , Li Raorao , Yang Jin
Published: September 2022

Lycium barbarum L. (LB) fruits have high nutritive values and therapeutic effects. The aim of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the differences in phenolic composition of LB fruits from different geographical regions. Different methods of characterization and statistical analysis of data showed that different geographic sources of China could be significantly separated from each other. The highest total phenolic compound (TPC) content was observed in LB fruits from Ningxia (LBN), followed by those from Gansu (LBG) and Qinghai (LBQ). The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra of LB fruits revealed that LBQ had a peak at 2972 cm−1 whereas there was no similar peak in LBG and LBQ. A new HPLC method was established for the simultaneous determination of 8 phenolic compounds by quantitative analysis of multiple components by a single marker (QAMS), including 4 phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, 4-hydroxycinnamic acid, and ferulic acid), 1 coumarin (scopoletin), and 3 flavonoids (kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, rutin, and narcissoside). It was showed that rutin was the most dominant phenolic compound in LBQ, although the average content of 4 phenolic acids was also high in LBQ, and scopoletin was the richest in LBG. UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS was used to qualitatively analyze the phenolics, which showed LBN was abundant in phenolic acids, LBQ was rich in flavonoids, and coumarins were the most plentiful in LBG. In conclusion, this study can provide references for the quality control and evaluation of phenolics in LB fruits and their by-products.
Surface Chelation Enabled by Polymer-Doping for Self-Healable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Kuiyuan , Shi Xiangrong , Wu Guangyu , Huang Yudong
Published: September 2022

Polymer doping is an efficient approach to achieve self-healing perovskite solar cells. However, achieving high self-healing efficiency under moderate conditions remains challenging. Herein, an innovative self-healable polysiloxane (PAT) containing plenty of thiourea hydrogen bonds was designed and introduced into perovskite films. Abundant thiourea hydrogen bonds in PAT facilitated the self-healing of cracks at grain boundaries for damaged SPSCs. Importantly, the doped SPSCs demonstrated a champion efficiency of 19.58% with little hysteresis, almost rivalling those achieved in control atmosphere. Additionally, owing to the effective chelation by PAT and good level of thiourea hydrogen bonds, after 800 cycles of stretching, releasing and self-healing, the doped SPSCs retained 85% of their original IPCE. The self-healing characteristics were demonstrated in situ after stretching at 20% strain for 200 cycles. This strategy of pyridine-based supramolecular doping in SPSCs paves a promising way for achieving efficient and self-healable crystalline semiconductors.
A Novel Bio-Inspired Ag/3D-TiO2/Si SERS Substrate with Ordered Moth-like Structure
Authors: Yang Jingguo , Petrescu Florian Ion Tiberiu , Li Ying , Song Dandan , Shi Gang
Published: September 2022

This paper reports a novel method to fabricate a bio-inspired SERS substrate with low reflectivity, ultra-sensitivity, excellent uniformity, and recyclability. First, double layers of polystyrene spheres with different particle sizes were assembled on the surface of a silicon wafer to act as a moth-like template. Second, through the template sacrifice method, the TiO2 film with a three-dimensional moth-like eye structure was induced by the double-layer polystyrene spheres in the previous step, and its microscopic morphology showed a high degree of order. Finally, Ag nanoparticles were assembled on the TiO2 film to form a bio-inspired SERS substrate. This ordered bio-inspired structure can not only reduce reflection, but also reinforce the uniformity of hotspot density, which helps to improve the sensitivity and uniformity of the Raman signal. This bio-inspired SERS substrate can detect R6G molecules at a concentration as low as 1.0 × 10−10 mol/L, and its enhancement factor (EF) can reach 6.56 × 106. In addition, the composite of Ag and TiO2 can realize the photocatalytic degradation of R6G and then realize the recyclability of the SERS substrate.
Nanocomposite Hydrogels Containing Few-Layer Graphene Sheets Prepared through Noncovalent Exfoliation Show Improved Mechanical Properties
Authors: El-Refaey Ahmed , Ito Yoshihiro , Kawamoto Masuki
Published: September 2022

Hydrogels show great potential as soft materials for biomedical applications and flexible devices. However, conventional hydrogels exhibit poor mechanical strengths owing to the presence of water in their polymer networks. Therefore, improving the mechanical properties of hydrogels by controlling the chemical and physical structures that affect their macroscopic behaviors is a challenging issue. In this study, we developed a nanocomposite (NC) hydrogel that harbors exfoliated few-layer graphene sheets through noncovalent interactions. The bifunctional polymer PImQ, which contains both aromatic and cationic groups, was found to enable the direct exfoliation of graphite to few-layer graphene through π–π interactions in 2.7% yield. The poly(acrylamide)-based NC hydrogel containing the PImQ/graphene composite as a nanofiller shows a 3.4-fold increase in tensile stress compared with the hydrogel without the nanofiller. The introduction of the PImQ/graphene nanocomposite also increases the fracture stress of the NC hydrogel through cation–π and π–π interactions. The improved mechanical properties of the NC hydrogel result from the synergistic effects of the chemical crosslinking of the polymer network and the physical crosslinking of the polymer/graphene nanofiller.