bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Charged excitons or trions in 2D parabolic quantum dots?
Authors: Quang Nguyen Hong , Huong Nguyen Que
Published: May 2022

So far in the literature the terms “charged exciton” and “trion” are often confused with each other and mostly considered as the same. In this work we show this is not the case in 2D quantum dots with a parabolic confinement. By using the unrestricted Hartree-Fock method the energy and binding energy of both charged excitons and trions in 2D parabolic quantum dots are calculated in dependence on the confinements of charge carriers in quantum dot. It is shown that the binding energies of the charged exciton and the trion behave differently in regard to the ratios of the confinements between the electron and hole. The effect of the external magnetic field on the binding energies of charged excitons has been also considered.
Magnetic competition with different spin chiralities in kagome magnets
Authors: Mai Tran Thi Thanh , Son Nguyen Hong , Tien Tran Minh
Published: May 2022

Using the Bogoliubov variational method we study the magnetic competition in a minimal model proposed for kagome magnets. The minimal model consists of itinerant electrons with their spin-orbit coupling and localized electrons with their anisotropic spin exchange. A spin exchange between localized and itinerant electrons is also included into the model, and it is anisotropic. At half filling and in the region of stable in-plane antiferromagnetism, a magnetic competition between antiferromagnetic phases with different spin chiralities is found. Depending on the sign of the hopping integral and the spin-orbit coupling, either the 1 × 1 or

3

×

3

in-plane antiferromagnetism is established. These in-plane antiferromagnetic states are characterized by distinguishable spin chiralities.
Numerical calculation of the dependence of chemical potential on temperature for ideal quantum gases in 1,2 and 3-dimensional spaces
Authors: Le Hieu B , Nguyen Uyen T , Ngoc Giau N , Tran Hieu V , Le Khang M , Pham Vinh N T
Published: May 2022

In this study, we use the Gauss–Kronrod quadrature rule with Brent’s method to numerically calculate the chemical potentials of ideal quantum gases in 1, 2, and 3-dimensional spaces as functions of absolute temperature. Our numerical results are validated by the analytical formulae in [Cowan, B. 2019, Journal of Low Temperature Physics, 197 (5-6), 412-44]. In vice versa, we can evaluate the applicability of these proposed formulae in low- and high-temperature regimes. The results in this work are initiated for the ongoing project to analytical and numerical calculations of other thermodynamic quantities of ideal quantum gases in 1, 2, and 3-dimensional spaces such as energy, heat capacity, and entropy.
Investigation of Allopurinol binding mechanism to allele HLA-A*33:03 by using Molecular Dynamics simulation
Authors: Pham Oanh P. , Lai Hien T.T. , Tran Duong B. , Le Linh T. P. , Nguyen Anh Thi Van , Nguyen Hang Thi Thu , Nguyen Toan T.
Published: May 2022

Allopurinol (ALP), a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, is an FDA-approved urate-lowering medication used to treat Gout, prevent tumor lysis syndrome, and prevent recurrent calcium nephrolithiasis in hyperuricosuria patients. However, it has been known as a common cause of severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions (SCAR) including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), hypersensitivity syndrome/drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (HSS/DRESS), especially in patients carrying the Human Leukocyte Antigens allele HLA-B*58:01, which is more prevalent in Asian population. However, although patients do not carry the HLA-B*58:01 allele, they still exhibit allopurinol-induced SCAR. Surprisingly, a large number of these patients have the HLA-A*33:03 allele. In this research, we investigated the binding of ALP to the HLA-A*33:03 structure using Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation. Our results showed that the complex of HLA-A*33:03 and ALP was stable after 100000 ps simulation time. ALP had strong interactions with three important residues locating in the active site of HLA-A*33:03, which include the seven amino acid residues Val 76, Asp 77, Leu 81, Ile 95, Gln 96, Asp 116, and Tyr 123. This data suggests that ALP has strong binding affinity for this allele. Thus, in addition to HLA-B*58:01, HLA-A*33:03 may be a potential screening marker before prescribing Allopurinol for Gout treatment.
Research on hydrodynamic characteristics of circular aquaculture tank based on PIV technology
Authors: Zhu Fang , Zhang Zekun , Hu Jiajun , Feng Dejun
Published: May 2022

The diameter-depth ratio of the water inlet pipe in the aquaculture tank (the ratio of the diameter of the aquaculture tank to the water depth, D/H) and the setting angle of the water inlet pipe (the acute angle formed by the water outlet direction and the tangent to the tank wall, α) are important factors that affect the hydrodynamic characteristics of the tank and directly affect the circulation. The comprehensive performance of the aquaculture system, in order to study the influence of the diameter-depth ratio of the aquaculture tank and the setting angle of the inlet pipe on the flow field of the aquaculture tank, this paper uses the particle image velocimetry (PIV) to measure the effect of different diameter-depth ratios and the setting angle of the inlet pipe on the circular shape. Hydrodynamic characteristics of circulating water aquaculture tanks. The test selects the single-pipe water intake mode commonly used in actual production for the circular aquaculture tank as the research object, and selects three groups of commonly used D/H conditions (3:1, 4:1, 5:1), Set up 8 groups of inlet pipe setting angles for each group of D/H conditions. In the experiment, the PIV technology was used to measure the flow field of the water layer 1 cm from the bottom of the tank under different working conditions, and the hydrodynamic characteristics of the culture tank were quantitatively analyzed through 2 aspects: the average flow velocity v
avg and the velocity uniformity coefficient DU
50.The comprehensive test results show that the D/H and the setting angle of the inlet pipe obviously affect the flow field and hydrodynamic characteristics of the aquaculture tank. With the increase of the D/H, the v
avg in the aquaculture tank gradually decreases, and the DU
50 gradually decreases. The changing trends of the hydrodynamic characteristics of the aquaculture tank with the setting angle of the inlet pipe under different D/H conditions are similar. When the water inlet pipe is set at an angle of 50°∼60°, the sewage collection and hydrodynamic characteristics in the aquaculture tank are optimal. The research results in this paper can provide a reference for the setting method of the inlet pipe of the circular aquaculture tank for industrial circulating water.
Inundation analysis of Xiuzhen River based on one-dimensional hydrodynamic model
Authors: Hao Zhenzhi , Sang Guoqing , Li Taili
Published: May 2022

In order to deal with the mountain flood disaster for small and medium-sized rivers and reduce the loss of life and property caused by mountain flood to the people, it is necessary to calculate the flood inundation risk of the region along the river. In this paper, taking Xiuzhen River in Lanshan District of Rizhao City as an example, an one-dimensional hydrodynamic model was established and D8 algorithm was coupled to simulate flood inundation in the target area, and the submerged depth, flood amount and submerged area under different frequency of flood were analyzed. The results show that the method can calculate flood inundation risk and scope quickly and accurately. It provides flood and drought disaster risk information and scientific decision-making basis for the sustainable development of social economy.
Research on water heat coupling model of riparian zone based on soil thermal conductivity model
Authors: Ma Chen , Ren Jie , Dai Juan , Ma Zhaoyang , Wang Fan
Published: May 2022

In recent years, the research on the process of water and heat transfer in the riparian zone has become more and more extensive, a more accurate riparian water and heat coupling model is helpful for us to understand the law of water and heat transfer in the riparian zone. The hydro thermal coupling model of riparian zone is constructed based on different soil thermal conductivity models, the simulation effects of different models are verified and compared by using the experimental data, the parameter sensitivity analysis of the built model is carried out to determine the main parameters affecting the output of model temperature field, and the influence of revetment structure on the process of hydro thermal transport in riparian zone is simulated. The results show that: 1. the Hydrothermal Coupling Model of riparian zone based on Johansen thermal conductivity model has the best simulation effect and high reliability. 2. The permeability coefficient (ks
) and porosity (n) have the most significant influence on the temperature simulation results, and the parameter sensitivity is the highest. 3. The revetment structure hinders the infiltration of surface water into the riparian zone in the horizontal direction, reduces the infiltration water level and temperature fluctuation in the riparian zone.
Study on flow field characteristics of box artificial reef
Authors: Zhu Ping , Hao Yuchi , Wei Zhenxing , Yuan Chaozhe , Wang Sheng
Published: May 2022

Based on Zhuhai Miaowan artificial reef demonstration project, this paper studied the flow field characteristics of single box artificial reef and reef group under different spacing by using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method. The results show that the box artificial reef has a significant effect on flow field. The maximum upwelling height near the reef is about 1.4 times the reef height, and the length of the back vortex is twice the reef size. In the reef group arrangement, the flow field distribution plays the best performance at the 5m spacing arrangement. The research results can provide guidance for reef structure optimization and practical arrangement in site.
Numerical analysis of the hydrodynamic performance of RDT with varying blade numbers
Authors: Jiang Wen , Yu Ruixue , Liu Liangliang , Zou Ao , Bian Tao
Published: May 2022

This study investigates the effect of the blade number of rim-driven thruster (RDT) on the hydrodynamic performance of RDT. Numerical investigation is performed to compare the thrust coefficient and efficiency of the RDT with various blade numbers. The results show that the thrust coefficient of the RDT increases and the efficiency of the RDT decreases with the number of blades increasing.
Research on active reconfiguration strategy of distribution network for real-time risk
Authors: Li Yuan , Chen Yonghua , Wang Bingwen
Published: May 2022

Based on the rapid development of smart distribution network, an active reconfiguration strategy for real-time risk prevention is proposed. Firstly, the operation risk assessment model of distribution network is constructed. Based on the distribution internet of things, the risk source information is collected in real time, and the system risk value under the current operation mode is evaluated from the dual dimensions of distribution network equipment operation reliability and failure consequences. On this basis, the proactive network reconstruction strategy and implementation scheme for risk prevention are proposed. When the risk value of the system exceeds the safety warning line, the network reconstruction of the distribution network is carried out with the minimum risk value and the minimum switching operation times as multiple objectives, so that the distribution network can recover the safe and reliable operation state in time. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the active reconfiguration strategy of distribution network under the risk state proposed in this paper are demonstrated by taking the IEEE 33 node distribution system as an example.
RETRACTED: Study of Power Flow Optimisation for Distributed Energy Systems
Authors: Shi TianYi
Published: May 2022

This paper takes energy saving as the reference point. The distributed energy system is based on the principle of energy “stepped utilization”, where the power generation system is built at the end of the customer to meet the customer’s cooling and heating load, and the energy of different temperatures is utilized according to the temperature matching principle to improve the utilization rate of primary energy. The system is optimised from the perspectives of reliability and economy of operation of the multi-energy complementary distributed energy system, and is analysed using an improved particle swarm optimisation algorithm. The system is optimised to meet the needs of customers in terms of electricity, cooling and heating, while optimising the reliability of the energy system and optimising the environmental and economic aspects of the distributed energy system to maximise the energy efficiency and economic benefits of the system.
Optimal scheduling of wind energy storage microgrid considering demand response
Authors: Li Haibin , Sun Li , Wu Bin
Published: May 2022

As an effective way to improve the utilization efficiency of renewable energy, microgrid has received more and more attention in ensuring energy security and sustainable supply. Microgrid generally consists of power supply, energy storage system and load. However, the uncertainty of renewable energy generation makes it difficult to solve the problem of peak regulation of microgrid. In addition, demand response strategies are playing an increasingly important role in renewable energy consumption because they can use load flexibility to maintain supply and demand balance, rather than just regulating generation on the power side. This paper mainly studies the scheduling problem and demand response strategy of photovoltaic energy storage in microgrid, and outputs the optimal scheduling scheme of microgrid by solving the model.
Numerical study on wave attenuation performance of arc layout floating breakwater
Authors: Zhao Shuai , Cheng Yong , Ji Chunyan , Guo Jianting
Published: May 2022

The floating breakwater has the functions of resisting wave propagation and maintaining stability of water surface, and its layout form will have an impact on the shielding effect and the shielding area. This paper uses the CFD method for numerical calculation based on the self-compiled program. The hydrodynamic performance and wave attenuation performance of floating breakwater with arc layout are mainly studied, and the calculation results of linear layout are compared and analyzed. The results show that the rolling response of linear layout under the action of the cross wave is intense, and there is transverse inclination under the action of the oblique wave. The motion of arc layout is relatively stable under the action of cross wave and oblique wave, and the hydrodynamic performance is better. The wave attenuation performance of arc layout is better than that of linear layout under transverse wave condition, while the wave attenuation performance of arc layout is further improved under the oblique wave, and the wave attenuation performance of linear layout is decreased under the oblique wave. It can be seen that the arc layout has better shielding performance than the linear layout under the oblique wave.
Stability analysis of expansion and efficiency improvement of bulb tubular turbine
Authors: Tang Xiaoyong
Published: May 2022

Many bulb tubular turbines were put into operation earlier. The construction of upper and lower cascade power stations leads to the decrease of generating head. Unit efficiency decline can not reach the design output. Large quantities of water were abandoned from the power station. Taking the expansion and efficiency improvement of water turbine generator unit in Bailongtan Hydropower Station as an example. The stability and efficiency improvement before and after expansion are compared and analyzed. The transformation not only solves the problem of high vibration of low waterhead and failure to reach the designed output, but also increases the flow and output of the unit, reduces abandoned water of the power station, improves the utilization rate of hydraulic resources, improves the stability of the unit and ensures the safe operation of the power plant. The result of unit transformation is good. It can be used as a reference for the transformation of similar tubular units.
Calculation Method of Foundation-Subgrade Dynamic Interaction for Large Wind Turbine
Authors: Han Zhifan , Lu Guohua , Li Wen , Deng Guang
Published: May 2022

Taking a 3MW large wind turbine foundation as the research object, the dynamic interaction model of wind turbine foundation and subgrade is established. By intercepting the subgrade in a limited range and setting spring-damper elements at the boundary of the subgrade, the semi-infinite space of the subgrade is simulated. In order to facilitate the use of structural designers, the calculation methods of the stiffness coefficient and damping coefficient of the spring-damper element are simplified. The simplified calculation formulas for the stiffness coefficient and damping coefficient of the spring-damper unit are obtained when the intercepted subgrade range is 5 times and 10 times the wind turbine foundation.
Zoning Study on Influence Intensity of Cao’e River Sluice on River Network Drainage Based on 2D Numerical Model
Authors: Yu Junfeng , Chen Weijin , Fang Zhihao , Li Dongfeng , Li Zihao , Yang Le
Published: May 2022

Shaoxing City is located in the central and northern part of Zhejiang Province, generally showing the topographic trend of high in the South and high in the North. The South is mountainous and the North is plain. There are many rivers in the river network, which are staggered and complex. A two-dimensional mathematical model for flood control and drainage of river network in Shaoxing plain is established, the hydrodynamic influence of Cao’e River gate on river network in different regions is studied, and the characteristics of each region are analyzed. According to the zoning of the impact intensity of Cao’e River sluice on river network hydrodynamic force, six obvious zoning from strong to weak are obtained, and the characteristics of each region are analyzed. It has reference value for comprehensively formulating sluice dispatching operation procedures, changing river network hydrodynamic force distribution and other non-engineering countermeasures, and provides decision-making basis for river network comprehensive management and hydrodynamic force utilization.
Study on Geese Array Effect and Optimal Layout of Herringbone PV array
Authors: Liu Guiyuan , Hu Junhong , Liu Jiang
Published: May 2022

Layout parameters play a significant role in wind loads of PV array. In view of this, wind loads of the herringbone PV array composed of 9 panels under five array angles (30°,40°,45°,50°,60°), five installation angles (30°,40°,45°,50°,60°) and five array distances (1.5m,1.75m,2m,2.25m,2.5m), are investigated by using the SST k-ω turbulence model and unsteady RANS approach. Then laws of wind pressure subjected to parameters are evaluated by drawing the contour and boxplot. Results show that: in the construction of herringbone photovoltaic panels, array angle is preferably not greater than 45°, installation inclination angle is not greater than 50°, and optimal array distance is between 1.75m and 2.5m. It is expected to provide theoretical basis and scientific guidance for layout of the herringbone array and sand control in desert areas.
Numerical Simulation of Hydraulic Characteristics of Spillway Tunnel with Gradually Expanding Outlet and Lower outlet height
Authors: Deng Chengfa , Du Jincheng
Published: May 2022

Using a practical and efficient overall three-dimensional turbulent numerical model of the spillway tunnel, the numerical simulation of the hydraulic characteristics of the spillway tunnel with the gradually expanding outlet and lower outlet height is carried out. The calculation results show that when the gate is fully open, there is pressure flow in the whole tunnel of the spillway tunnel, and the flow state is stable; when the gate is not fully open and the water level is low, the flow state in the tunnel is unstable, and the free and pressure flow occur alternately. When the gate is at a small opening, the flip bucket raises the water level at the outlet, and the lower outlet height causes insufficient air supply in the cave, which is prone to cavitation. The lift distance is small, and it is easy to scour the slope of the hole. The lower outlet height at the outlet of the spillway tunnel further exacerbates the complexity of the hydraulic characteristics in the back arc section, which should be paid attention to during design and construction, and it is necessary to carry out hydraulic model test research.
Numerical investigation for CO2/N2 mixture gas - liquid Taylor flow in microchannel by CFD simulation
Authors: Zhong Qiuwen , Zhou Jiancheng , Jiao Zhen
Published: May 2022

Taking CO2/N2 and water as a system, the influence of microchannel inlet structure on the hydrodynamics of gas-liquid two-phase Taylor flow is numerically simulated by using VOF and species transport model. The flow properties of Taylor flow in perpendicular inlet structure are firstly explored, and the simulation results are compared with the inlet structures with different angles. The microchannel inlet structure has an obvious effect on the flow properties of Taylor flow. The simulation results provide some guidance for the design of micro reactor.
Design of power system excitation auxiliary controller based on Multi-Agent
Authors: Hou Qiuhua , Meng Fanmin , Liu Xiaoyu , Qi Xiaoyan , Ding Huifang , Chen Xuju
Published: May 2022

The continuous access of new energy to the power grid increases the complexity of the structure of the power system, which brings hidden dangers to the security of new energy power system. In order to further enhance the operation stability and security of new energy grid, a generator excitation auxiliary controller based on multi-agent is proposed in this paper. Firstly, the multi-agent model of power system is established, and then the distributed output feedback controller is designed for the generator model. The parameters of the controller are calculated and solved by H ∞ theory. Finally, the effectiveness of the controller designed is verified by simulation analysis.
Charged particles interaction in both a finite volume and a uniform magnetic field: II. Topological and analytic properties of a magnetic system
Authors: Guo Peng , Gasparian Vladimir
Published: May 2022

In present work, we extend Lüscher formula-like formalism to few-body system in a uniform magnetic field with Dirichlet boundary conditions. As a signature of non-trivial topological systems, the energy spectrum of topological edge states show up in the gap between allowed energy bands.
The Relationship Between Socio-Demographic Environment and Trip Preferences Towards Relaxation Facilities in Urban Area (Case Study: Modern Café in Makassar)
Authors: Yatmar H , Ramli M I , Pasra M , Ikbal M
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to investigate the trip preferences on relaxation facilities specific to café in Makassar city. For this purpose, 1,184 visitors are the respondents who have visited modern café in Makassar: Anomali, Grid and Pool, Numerica, Fireflies, and Black Canyon Coffee. A descriptive analysis was conducted to evaluate the trip preference due to socio-demography background. The finding shows that the trip purpose preferences among the socio-demography characteristics were similar. The dominant trip purposes sequentially are “hangout and refreshing”, “eating and drink”, and “study”. The significance of this study is to provide a travel demand preference according to the socio-demography background related to trip purpose in the café as one of the relaxation facilities that affect the trip attraction in the urban area.
Test of mindful motorcycling as a psychological intervention to increase awareness of riding
Authors: Dewi M P , Sulthoni M I , Puspitaningrum B C , Kusumastuti A N , Marissa A , Prabowo H
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study was to test mindful motorcycling interventions to raise awareness of driving on motorcyclists. Mixed method research is conducted with qualitative research followed by quantitative experiment research. Both of these methods result in increased awareness in motorcyclists.
Road Infrastructure Deficiency and Road Safety Audit at Black Spot Area in Rural Road
Authors: Sugiyanto G , Suciningtyas R , Indriyati E W , Yanto  , Mulyono B , Santi M Y
Published: May 2022

One of the factors that caused traffic accidents is road infrastructure. Strategies to minimize the road deficiency infrastructure is implementation of the forgiving road, self-explaining road, and self-regulating road. The purpose of this study was analyzing the deficiency of road infrastructure and implementing the road safety audit at black spot areas in rural areas. Study location in Bojongsari Street, Purbalingga. Parameters that are analyzed in deficiency of road infrastructure include the road geometric condition, road pavement performance, and road equipment facilities. Parameters that analyzed in road geometric condition, namely stopping and passing sight distance, lane width of road, and road shoulder width. The results of this study show that the highest passing and stopping sight distance of all vehicles was motorcycles at 304.48 m and 64.67 m. The road pavement performance based on pavement condition index for the longitudinal/transverse cracking conditions is 94 and for the lane or shoulder drop-off condition is 77. Recommendations given based on road safety audit results for road geometric is to improve the road shoulder, for pavement condition improves shoulder drop-off and longitudinal/transverse cracking. For the road equipment facilities are to install the maximum speed limit sign of 40 km/h and install the warning sign.
Design of climbing lane on provincial road study case in Magetan Districts East Java
Authors: Arpriyanita V P , Tjahjono T
Published: May 2022

The roads from Magetan Districts (East Java) to Surakarta Districts (Central Java) have high climbing conditions. This is because the location is in the mountains. This study, discusses the design of then climbing lane on road Magetan Districts, precisely on Tawangmangu-Plaosan. A climbing lane is a path that is used as an additional route added to a single or multiple traffic lane which serves to increase capacity and/or safety due to a steep gradient. The method of collecting data is by conducting a field survey to review vehicle speed, vehicle volume, road dimensions, and elevation. The results of the study were used to determine the exact location of the climbing lane, to design the climbing lane using the England Standard concept combined with literature studies.
On the use of large-eddy simulation time data coarsening for dispersion forecasting in the SILAM atmospheric composition model
Authors: Varentsov A I , Stepanenko V M , Mortikov E V , Debolskiy A V , Kouznetsov R D , Sofiev M
Published: May 2022

The paper presents the results of one-way coupling of a large eddy simulation model and an atmospheric composition and diffusion complex SILAM. This study investigates a possibility of large eddy simulation time data coarsening (filtering) for use in SILAM for microscale calculations. Experiments with scalar tracers with a limited lifetime are carried out under conditions of convective boundary layer. A comparison between the calculations with filtered and nonfiltered data demonstrate that time data coarsening is possible without a significant loss in accuracy for tracers whose lifetime is much longer than the coarsening scale and the timestep of the filtered data.
Experimental simulation research on TMCP of 30MnCr22 oil well pipe
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Bao Xirong , Cen Yaodong , Chen Lin
Published: May 2022

Thermo-mechanical controlled process (TMCP) of 30MnCr22 oil well pipes was investigated by experimental simulation. The results showed that controlled rolling of TMCP effectively exerted the comprehensive effects of grains refinement by recrystallization in piercing and continuous rolling and deformation strengthening by strains accumulation in the non-recrystallization zone of reducing deformation. And the key point of TMCP is that quenching realized the microstructural heritability of fine and strengthened austenite, which achieved the best refinement of martensite laths to be 170 nm, nanoscale carbides with the average size of 101 nm and dislocations with the high-density of 8.38 × 109 mm−2, presenting a kind of complicated multi-layer microstructural characteristics. Finally, the synergistic strengthening effects on fine grain strengthening, laths refinement strengthening, dislocation strengthening and precipitation strengthening were realized by TMCP. Further, the synergistic strengthening mechanisms are explored to be that quenching enforced the interaction between martensite laths and dislocations, as well as the entanglement between θ-(Fe, Cr)3C and dislocations.
Organs’ absorbed dose and comparison of different methods for effective dose calculation in computed tomography of parathyroid glands
Authors: Dimitroukas Christos P , Metaxas Vasileios I , Efthymiou Fotios O , Zampakis Petros E , Kalogeropoulou Christina P , Panayiotakis George S
Published: May 2022

Objective. To estimate organs’ absorbed dose from the two-phase CT of parathyroid glands, effective dose (ED) based on three different methods, and compare the dose values with those reported by other published protocols. Methods. Volumetric computed tomography dose index (CTDIvol), dose length product (DLP), and the corresponding scan length during each phase of a parathyroid protocol were recorded, for seventy-six patients. One k-factor, and two different k-factors for the neck and chest area were used to estimate the ED from DLP. A Monte Carlo software, VirtualDoseCT, was also used for the estimation of organs’ absorbed dose and ED. Results. Two-phase parathyroid CT resulted in a mean ED of 3.93 mSv, 4.29 mSv and 4.21 mSv according to the one k-factor, two k-factors, and VirtualDoseCT methods, respectively. The two k-factors method resulted in a slight overestimation of 1.9% in total ED compared to VirtualDoseCT. No statistically significant difference was found in ED values between these methods (Wilcoxon test, p > 0.05), except for female patients in the pre-contrast phase. The organs inside the scanning field of view (SFOV) received the following doses: thymus 23.3 mGy, lungs 11.5 mGy, oesophagus 9.2 mGy, thyroid 6.9 mGy, and breast 6.3 mGy. The ED and organs’ dose (OD) values were significantly lower in the pre-contrast than in the arterial phase (Wilcoxon test, p < 0.001). A statistically significant difference was observed between male and female patients for the pre-contrast phase (Mann-Whitney test, p < 0.05), regarding the ED values obtained with the two k-factors method and VirtualDoseCT software. Conclusions. The two k-factors method could be applied for the ED estimation in clinical practice, if appropriate software is not available. An extensive range of ED values derived from the literature, mainly depending on the acquisition protocol parameters and the estimation method.
First-principles investigations to evaluate Mo2B monolayers as promising two-dimensional anode materials for Mg-ion batteries
Authors: Mei Tiantian , Wu Jianbao , Lu Shuhan , Wang Bingqian , Zhao Xinxin , Wang LiLi , Yin ZhiXiang
Published: May 2022

Magnesium-ion batteries have the potential to replace the current commercial Li-ion batteries due to their eco-friendliness and cost-effectiveness. However, because of the strong polarization of Mg ions, conventional electrode materials find it difficult to capture Mg ions. In order to find an excellent anode material for Mg-ion batteries, we used density functional theory to evaluate the applicability of T-type and H-type Mo2B monolayers as electrode materials for Mg-ion batteries. The simulation results show that the adsorption energies of T-type and H-type Mo2B monolayers for Mg atoms are −1.08 eV and −0.78 eV (−2.16 eV and −2.14 eV with the solvent effect), respectively, which are sufficient to ensure the stability of the procession of magnetization. In addition, the ultra-low diffusion barriers (0.057 eV/0.110 eV) of Mg atoms on their surfaces show a good charge and discharge rate. The theoretical specific capacity (529 mA h g−1) and the theoretical voltages (0.65 V/0.40 V) indicate that T-type and H-type Mo2B monolayers are promising anode materials for Mg-ion batteries.
Hypoxia-induced polarization of M2 macrophages and C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 secretion promotes the migration and invasion of trophoblasts
Authors: Chen Xin , Song Qian Lin , Ji Rui , Wang Jia Yu , Li Ze Hong , Xiao Zhuo Ni , Guo Duan Ying , Yang Jing
Published: May 2022

In the early stage of pregnancy, hypoxia in the placenta is of great significance to the migration and invasion of trophoblasts. In addition, changes to the polarity and activity of macrophages can affect embryo implantation, trophoblast migration and invasion, and vascular remodeling by affecting cytokine secretion. However, the mechanism of the effects of hypoxic conditions in the placenta on trophoblasts remains unknown. We used gene knockdown on macrophages, and drug treatment on trophoblasts, and cultured them under hypoxic and normoxic conditions. The cells were then subjected to wound-healing assays, Transwell cell invasion experiments, quantitative real-time reverse transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), western blotting, and immunofluorescence. The polarization of macrophages in each group, the migration and invasion ability of trophoblasts, and changes to the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway were detected. Hypoxic conditions induce M2 polarization of macrophages. The conditioned medium from macrophages under hypoxic conditions increased the migration and invasion of trophoblasts and enhanced the levels of phosphorylated (p)-PI3K and p-AKT in trophoblasts. After C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 knockdown in macrophages, the ability of conditioned medium from macrophages cultured under hypoxic conditions to promote the migration and invasion of trophoblasts was weakened significantly. The use of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway agonists could reverse the attenuation effect caused by C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 knockdown.
Loss of Raptor induces Sertoli cells into an undifferentiated state in mice
Authors: Xie Minyu , Hu Xiao , Li Lei , Xiong Zhi , Zhang Hanbin , Zhuang Yuge , Huang Zicong , Liu Jinsheng , Lian Jingyao , Huang Chuyu , Xie Qiang , Kang Xiangjin , Fan Yong , Bai Xiaochun , Chen Zhenguo
Published: May 2022

In mammals, testis development is triggered by the expression of the sex-determining Y-chromosome gene SRY to commit the Sertoli cell (SC) fate at gonadal sex determination in the fetus. Several genes have been identified to be required to promote the testis pathway following SRY activation (i.e., SRY box 9 (SOX9)) in an embryo; however, it largely remains unknown about the genes and the mechanisms involved in stabilizing the testis pathway after birth and throughout adulthood. Herein, we report postnatal males with SC-specific deletion of Raptor demonstrated the absence of SC unique identity and adversely acquired granulosa cell-like characteristics, along with loss of tubular architecture and scattered distribution of SCs and germ cells. Subsequent genome-wide analysis by RNA sequencing revealed a profound decrease in the transcripts of testis genes (i.e., Sox9, Sox8, and anti-Mullerian hormone (Amh)) and, conversely, an increase in ovary genes (i.e., LIM/Homeobox gene 9 (Lhx9), Forkhead box L2 (Foxl2) and Follistatin (Fst)); these changes were further confirmed by immunofluorescence and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Importantly, co-immunofluorescence demonstrated that Raptor deficiency induced SCs dedifferentiation into a progenitor state; the Raptor-mutant gonads showed some ovarian somatic cell features, accompanied by enhanced female steroidogenesis and elevated estrogen levels, yet the zona pellucida 3 (ZP3)-positive terminally feminized oocytes were not observed. In vitro experiments with primary SCs suggested that Raptor is likely involved in the fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9)-induced formation of cell junctions among SCs. Our results established that Raptor is required to maintain SC identity, stabilize the male pathway, and promote testis development.
Advanced molecular approaches in male infertility diagnosis
Authors: Botezatu A , Vladoiu S , Fudulu A , Albulescu A , Plesa A , Muresan A , Stancu C , Iancu I V , Diaconu C C , Velicu A , Popa O M , Badiu C , Dinu-Draganescu D
Published: May 2022

In the recent years a special attention has been given to a major health concern namely to male infertility, defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected sexual intercourse, taken into account the statistics that highlight that sperm counts have dropped by 50–60% in recent decades. According to the WHO, infertility affects approximately 9% of couples globally, and the male factor is believed to be present in roughly 50% of cases, with exclusive responsibility in 30%. The aim of this article is to present an evidence-based approach for diagnosing male infertility that includes finding new solutions for diagnosis and critical outcomes, retrieving up-to-date studies and existing guidelines. The diverse factors that induce male infertility generated in a vast amount of data that needed to be analyzed by a clinician before a decision could be made for each individual. Modern medicine faces numerous obstacles as a result of the massive amount of data generated by the molecular biology discipline. To address complex clinical problems, vast data must be collected, analyzed, and used, which can be very challenging. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) methods to create a decision support system can help predict the diagnosis and guide treatment for infertile men, based on analysis of different data as environmental and lifestyle, clinical (sperm count, morphology, hormone testing, karyotype, etc.), and “omics” bigdata. Ultimately, the development of AI algorithms will assist clinicians in formulating diagnosis, making treatment decisions, and predicting outcomes for assisted reproduction techniques.
The ruminant placental trophoblast binucleate cell: an evolutionary breakthrough
Authors: Wooding F B P
Published: May 2022

Viviparity and the development of a placenta are two of the major reasons for the success of the mammals in colonizing all habitats, both terrestrial and aquatic. The placenta is an apposition of fetal to maternal tissue which serves two main, but competing functions: to maximize oxygen transfer and the acquisition of nutrients from the mother, but to minimize immunological rejection by the maternal immune system. This has resulted in the evolution of four main types differing in the degree of loss of the maternal uterine epithelial (UE) barrier: epitheliochorial, synepitheliochorial, endotheliochorial, and hemochorial, all providing a successful safe balance between the needs of mother and fetus. Epitheliochorial is the least invasive, a simple apposition and microvillar interdigitation of the apices of uterine epithelium and trophoblast. It is suggested to have evolved as a response to the increase in the size of the animal to provide a sufficiently long gestation to produce a single altricial (run/swim-soon-as-born) neonate as in the Cetartiodactyla. The mother needs to have good control of the fetal demands so the UE barrier is maintained. However, in the synepitheliochorial placenta, characteristic of all ruminants, the fetus has evolved a means of increasing, or at least maintaining, demand without the need for invasion. This has been achieved by the development of the trophoblast binucleate cell which, uniquely, can fuse with a UE cell to form fetomaternal hybrid tissue. This can maintain some maternal barrier function but also deliver fetally synthesized immunomodulatory and metabolic messages to the maternal circulation. This review provides the evidence for this remarkable evolutionary step and also considers an alternative explanation for the formation of the structure of the ruminant placenta.
Ralstonia pickettii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Bloodstream Infections Associated With Contaminated Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Water Heater Devices
Authors: Baker Meghan A , Rhee Chanu , Tucker Robert , Vaidya Vineeta , Holtzman Meghan , Seethala Raghu R , Bentain-Melanson Maria , Lenox Jesslyn , Smith Adam R , Gassett Allison , Huntley Miriam , Sater Mohamad , Reilly Karen , Klompas Michael
Published: May 2022

We report on probable factory-based contamination of portable water heaters with waterborne pathogens and 2 bloodstream infections potentially attributable to off-label use of these water heaters to warm extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuits. Great caution is warranted when using water-based devices to care for critically ill patients.
High Prevalence of Malnutrition and Micronutrient Deficiencies in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease Early in Disease Course
Authors: Gold Stephanie L , Rabinowitz Loren G , Manning Laura , Keefer Laurie , Rivera-Carrero William , Stanley, Stephanie , Sherman Alexis , Castillo Ana , Tse Stacy , Hyne, Amanda , Matos, Kristina , Cohen Benjamin , Grinspan Ari , Colombel Jean-Frederic , Sands Bruce E , Dubinsky Marla C , Ungaro Ryan C
Published: May 2022

Background

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at an increased risk of malnutrition. The goal of this study was to define the prevalence of malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies in recently diagnosed IBD patients and to compare the performance of existing malnutrition screening tools in identifying IBD patients at increased risk for malnutrition.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of adult patients with recently diagnosed IBD (≤18 months disease duration). A diagnosis of malnutrition was made utilizing the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism malnutrition criteria. Serum micronutrient levels were included. The sensitivity of 5 malnutrition screening tools in identifying patients at moderate-high risk of malnutrition was determined based on the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism malnutrition definition. Descriptive statistics summarized the data and univariate analyses tested associations.

Results

A total of 182 patients were included for analysis; 65 (36%) met criteria for malnutrition. A total of 135 (74%) patients had ≥1 micronutrient level checked and 105 (78%) had ≥1 deficiency. Patients with prior surgery (odds ratio [OR], 4.5; P = .004), active Crohn’s disease (OR, 2.8; P = .03), and diarrhea (OR, 2.1; P = .02) were more likely to be malnourished. The Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool and Saskatchewan IBD Nutrition Risk Tool had the highest sensitivity (100%) in predicting those at moderate-high risk of malnutrition at the time of screening.

Conclusions

Patients with recently diagnosed IBD have a high prevalence of malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. Both the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool and Saskatchewan IBD Nutrition Risk Tool can be used to identify those at increased risk of malnutrition. Future studies and screening tool development are necessary to identify those at risk of developing malnutrition to facilitate timely referral for nutritional evaluation and prevent disease related complications.
Effects of supplemental myo-inositol on growth performance and apparent total tract digestibility of weanling piglets fed reduced protein high-phytate diets and intestinal epithelial cell proliferation and function
Authors: Ogunribido Tobi Z , Bedford Michael R , Adeola Olayiwola , Ajuwon Kolapo M
Published: May 2022

Myo-inositol is a breakdown product of phytate produced in the gut through the action of phytase. Although the effect of phytase-released phosphorus (P) on growth performance of animals has been well characterized, there is still little understanding of the effect of myo-inositol. The first objective of this study was to determine the effects of added myo-inositol to a phytate-rich low-protein diet on growth performance and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) in growing piglets. The second objective was to determine whether myo-inositol could directly affect intestinal epithelial cell proliferation and function for which we used intestinal porcine epithelial cells (IPEC-J2). A total of 128 weanling piglets were allotted to four dietary treatments consisting of eight replicates per treatment and four piglets per replicate in a randomized complete block design for 4 wk. The four experimental diets comprised the positive control [PC; 20% crude protein (CP)], negative control (NC; 17% CP), negative control plus 2.0g/kg myo-inositol (NC+INO; 17% CP), and negative control plus 3000FTU/kg phytase (NC+PHY; 17% CP). Average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG), and gain-feed ratio (G: F) were recorded. Phytase supplementation in the protein-deficient NC diet increased the G:F ratio (P < 0.05) without myo-inositol effects on growth performance. Phosphorus digestibility in the phytase-supplemented group increased compared to the PC, NC, and NC+INO groups, whereas plasma myo-inositol concentration was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the NC+INO group. Due to the lack of myo-inositol effect on growth performance, an additional in vitro study was conducted to determine the direct effect of myo-inositol on the intestinal epithelium that might not be reflected in growth performance. Myo-inositol increased the mRNA abundance of selected nutrient transporters in a concentration-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Myo-inositol also enhanced barrier integrity in the IPEC-J2 monolayer by increasing the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) with reduced paracellular permeability of FITC-dextran (P < 0.05). In conclusion, despite the lack of myo-inositol effect on animal performance, the in vitro data indicate that myo-inositol may directly regulate gut barrier integrity. Addition of myo-inositol to pig diets at levels that enhance intestinal epithelial cell function may result in effects on growth performance and gut health of pigs.
Tell Me Your Story: A Case Report on the Use of Occupational Storytelling in the Treatment of a Subject with an Upper Extremity Burn Injury and Complex Psychosocial Issues
Authors: Kurakazu Dawn , Biggins Kristin , Groger Sandy
Published: May 2022

Recovering from a burn can leave a burn survivor struggling to cope with the physical and psychological trauma of their injury. Finding new ways to encourage positive coping strategies and strengthen their sense of self-efficacy and occupational identity can help to encourage the burn survivor to actively participate in their recovery and thereby increase their resiliency after injury. Occupational storytelling is a treatment strategy that utilizes the client’s occupational history and experiences to form their life story. Utilizing this technique with the Kawa Model as the practice model and guide uses the image of life as a river to facilitate the formation of the survivor’s story. The survivor is able to form a narrative of their life story by using their past, present, and future occupational identities as a means cope and problem solve after their injury. This case report will illustrate how the subject “Ray,” a pseudonym, used occupational storytelling to create a narrative of his past strengths to aid in recovering from his burn injury. Through his story, Ray was able to connect to a new occupational identity as a burn survivor rather than victim.