bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Virtual Synchronous Generator Principle for Better Economic Dispatch and Stability in Grid-Connected Microgrids with Low Noise
Authors: Singh Shruti , Gao David Wenzhong
Published: June 2023

The proper operation of microgrids depends on Economic Dispatch. It satisfies all requirements while lowering the microgrids’ overall operating and generation costs. Since distributed generators constitute a large portion of microgrids, seamless communication between generators is essential. While guaranteeing a reliable microgrid operation, this should be achieved with the fewest losses as possible. The distributed generator technology introduces noise into the system by design. To find the best economic dispatch strategy, noise was considered in this research as a limitation in grid-connected microgrids. The microgrid’s performance was improved, and the proposed technique also showed increased resilience. A virtual synchronous generator (VSG) control approach is proposed with a noiseless consensus-based algorithm to improve the power quality of microgrids. Voltage and frequency regulation modules are the foundation of the VSG paradigm. The synchronous generator’s second-order equation (hidden-pole configuration) was also used to represent the voltage of the stator and rotor motion. This study compared changes in power, frequency, and voltage for the microgrid by utilizing the described control approach using MATLAB. According to the findings, this method aids in controlling load and noise variations and offers distributed generators an efficient control strategy.
DUSP2 Deletion Inhibits Macrophage Migration by Inhibiting ERK Activation in Zebrafish
Authors: Li Yu-Jiao , Wang Xin-Liang , Shi Ling-Yu , Wang Zong-Yi , Zhao Zi-Ang , Ge Shu-Chao , Hu Bing
Published: June 2023

Dual-specificity phosphatase 2 (DUSP2) regulates the activation of members of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family, which is involved in a variety of cellular processes including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and migration. DUSP2 also regulates the expression of inflammatory mediators in macrophages; however, it remains unknown whether DUSP2 participates in macrophage migration. Here, using the tail fin injury model in zebrafish larvae, we found that the deletion of DUSP2 inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and macrophage chemokines. Moreover, live imaging results showed that the migration of macrophages to the injury site was inhibited after DUSP2 deletion. This inhibitory effect was mediated through the reduced activation of extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) in DUSP2 knockout zebrafish.
3D Bioprinting as a Powerful Technique for Recreating the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Parodi Ilaria , Di Lisa Donatella , Pastorino Laura , Scaglione Silvia , Fato Marco Massimo
Published: June 2023

In vitro three-dimensional models aim to reduce and replace animal testing and establish new tools for oncology research and the development and testing of new anticancer therapies. Among the various techniques to produce more complex and realistic cancer models is bioprinting, which allows the realization of spatially controlled hydrogel-based scaffolds, easily incorporating different types of cells in order to recreate the crosstalk between cancer and stromal components. Bioprinting exhibits other advantages, such as the production of large constructs, the repeatability and high resolution of the process, as well as the possibility of vascularization of the models through different approaches. Moreover, bioprinting allows the incorporation of multiple biomaterials and the creation of gradient structures to mimic the heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment. The aim of this review is to report the main strategies and biomaterials used in cancer bioprinting. Moreover, the review discusses several bioprinted models of the most diffused and/or malignant tumors, highlighting the importance of this technique in establishing reliable biomimetic tissues aimed at improving disease biology understanding and high-throughput drug screening.
Public–Private Partnerships Model Applied to Hospitals—A Critical Review
Authors: Rodrigues Nuno J. P.
Published: June 2023

In this paper, a conceptual framework for investigating the PPP model as it relates to hospitals is proposed. When the PPP model is applied to healthcare (hospitals), it is possible to discover the path to success by developing a critical assessment and deriving a clear model. It is concluded that most PPP model implementations in hospitals around the world have produced favorable outcomes, both in terms of the performance of healthcare units and in terms of cost-effectiveness. Additionally, a path-to-success model that applies to hospitals is offered, taking into account six PPP model dimensions: (i) Environment; (ii) Potentiate Benefits; (iii) Constant Measure; (iv) Evaluation; (v) Management; and (vi) Enhance Strengths. The PPP model only applies case by case and under specific requirements that should be met cumulatively to provide additional value to healthcare’s quality of service. The right conditions are created, the right benefits are amplified, public concerns are frequently assessed, private contributions are carefully considered, and all pressing challenges are managed by enhancing both public and private strengths. Leading decision- and action-making processes in corporate, governmental, and social sectors is the goal of managing PPP models.
Mass-Transfer Air Pollution Modeling in Heritage Buildings
Authors: Ryhl-Svendsen Morten , Smedemark Signe Hjerrild
Published: June 2023

Two simple mass-balance models for estimating the concentration of air pollutants inside buildings are presented for pollutants originating from outdoors or generated indoors. The models can be used to establish average pollution loads on heritage objects inside buildings and assist in risk assessment for conservation. The models can be run with a minimum of data, either based on fixed conditions or as a Monte Carlo simulation based on plausible intervals of the input factors. Input data can be obtained by simple measurements or based on the literature. A museum storage hall in Denmark was used as a test site for demonstrating the models. They were evaluated with regard to the prediction of the indoor/outdoor concentration ratio for ozone and nitrogen dioxide and the build-up concentration of indoor generated organic acids. The pros and cons of such models were discussed, where the main reservation is related to shortcomings when real buildings are more complicated than the single-zone structure of the models. A strength of the models is the easy adaption to an indoor environment and, despite being semi-quantitative at times, the simplicity of the models, which allows for practical everyday use in air quality management of heritage buildings.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Role of Phytohormones in the Distant Hybridization of Peony Embryo Abortion
Authors: He Dan , Guo Haonan , He Songlin , Zhang Mingxing , Chang Yihong , Wang Zheng , Liu Yiping
Published: June 2023

Peonies are significant ornamental plants that are primarily propagated through distant cross-breeding to create new varieties. However, hybrid failure is a critical issue that impedes the advancement of breeding. Numerous studies have demonstrated that endogenous hormones in the seed embryo constitute a significant factor in embryo failure. Nevertheless, it is still unknown how plant hormones control the development of peony embryos at the molecular level. In this study, we characterized the endogenous hormone levels in peony seeds of hybrid-aborted, hybrid-normal, and self-crossing normal after 26 days of pollination (DAP). Our findings show that the hybrid-aborted embryos had significantly higher amounts of ABA, IAA, and GA. In addition, the ratio of GA+IAA/ABA was lower than that of the hybrid-normal seeds and higher than that of the self-crossing normal seeds. To further investigate the mechanism of hormone control on peony embryo development, we conducted a transcriptome sequencing analysis of the three seed types. Results revealed that differentially expressed genes involved in phytohormone metabolism and signal transduction significantly enriched the aborted embryos. Furthermore, we examined the expression levels of six hormones in different seeds and used the Gene Common Expression Trend analysis to analyze genes highly correlated with phytohormone in the KEGG pathway. We used protein interaction networks to explore the interactions between proteins in the hormone pathway in aborted embryos. Then we identified key genes and transcription factors (TFs) such as Abscisic acid-insensitive 5 (ABI5), Auxin Response Factor 5 (ARF5), Gibberellin Insensitive Dwarf 1 (GID1), Arabidopsis Response Regulator4 (ARR4), Jasmonate-zim-domain protein 1 (JAZ1), Brassinazole-resistant 1 (BZR1), etc., whose functions require further investigation. Our findings establish a foundation for the metabolic regulation of peony hybrid embryo abortion via networks regulating phytohormone signaling. However, further research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms by which hormones regulate peony embryo development and to explore new methods for improving the success rate of hybridization.
Benchmarking Three Event-Based Rainfall-Runoff Routing Models on Australian Catchments
Authors: Kemp David , Alankarage Guna Hewa
Published: June 2023

In the field of hydrology, event-based models are commonly used for flood-flow prediction in catchments, for use in flood forecasting, flood risk assessment, and infrastructure design. The models are simplistic, as they do not consider longer-term catchment processes such as evaporation and transpiration. This paper examines the relative performance of two widely used models, the American HEC-HMS model, the Australian RORB model, and a newer model, the RRR model. The evaluation is conducted on four case study catchments in Australia. The first two models, HEC-HMS and RORB, do not include baseflow, necessitating the estimation of baseflow through alternate means. By contrast, the RRR model includes baseflow, by extracting a separate loss from the rainfall, and then routing the resultant flow through the catchment, much like quickflow, but with a longer delay time. The models are calibrated and then verified with weighted mean parameter values on an independent set of events in each case study catchment. This gives an indication of the ability of the models to correctly predict flow, which is important when the models are used with design rainfalls to predict design flows. The results demonstrate that all models perform adequately on the four examined catchments, but the RRR model exhibits superior calibration, and, to a lesser extent, better validation compared to the other two models.
Self-Compassion Interventions to Target Secondary Traumatic Stress in Healthcare Workers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rushforth Annabel , Durk Mia , Rothwell-Blake Gabby A. A. , Kirkman Ann , Ng Fiona , Kotera Yasuhiro
Published: June 2023

Healthcare professionals’ wellbeing can be adversely affected by the intense demands of, and the secondary traumatic stress associated with, their job. Self-compassion is associated with positive wellbeing outcomes across a variety of workforce populations and is potentially an important skill for healthcare workers, as it offers a way of meeting one’s own distress with kindness and understanding. This systematic review aimed to synthesise and evaluate the utility of self-compassion interventions in reducing secondary traumatic stress in a healthcare worker population. Eligible articles were identified from research databases, including ProQuest, PsycINFO, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and EBSCO. The quality of non-randomised and randomised trials was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. The literature search yielded 234 titles, from which 6 studies met the inclusion criteria. Four studies reported promising effects of self-compassion training for secondary traumatic stress in a healthcare population, although these did not use controls. The methodological quality of these studies was medium. This highlights a research gap in this area. Three of these four studies recruited workers from Western countries and one recruited from a non-Western country. The Professional Quality of Life Scale was used to evaluate secondary traumatic stress in all studies. The findings show preliminary evidence that self-compassion training may improve secondary traumatic stress in healthcare professional populations; however, there is a need for greater methodological quality in this field and controlled trials. The findings also show that the majority of research was conducted in Western countries. Future research should focus on a broader range of geographical locations to include non-Western countries.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the SPL Gene Family in Three Orchids
Authors: Zhao Xuewei , Zhang Mengmeng , He Xin , Zheng Qinyao , Huang Ye , Li Yuanyuan , Ahmad Sagheer , Liu Dingkun , Lan Siren , Liu Zhongjian
Published: June 2023

SPL transcription factors regulate important processes such as plant growth and development, metabolic regulation, and abiotic stress. They play crucial roles in the development of flower organs. However, little is known about the characteristics and functions of the SPLs in the Orchidaceae. In this study, Cymbidium goeringii Rchb. f., Dendrobium chrysotoxum Lindl., and Gastrodia elata BI. were used as research objects. The SPL gene family of these orchids was analyzed on a genome-wide scale, and their physicochemical properties, phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, and expression patterns were studied. Transcriptome and qRT-PCR methods were combined to investigate the regulatory effect of SPLs on the development of flower organs during the flowering process (bud, initial bloom, and full bloom). This study identifies a total of 43 SPLs from C. goeringii (16), D. chrysotoxum (17), and G. elata (10) and divides them into eight subfamilies according to the phylogenetic tree. Most SPL proteins contained conserved SBP domains and complex gene structures; half of the genes had introns longer than 10 kb. The largest number and variety of cis-acting elements associated with light reactions were enriched, accounting for about 45% of the total (444/985); 13/43 SPLs contain response elements of miRNA156. GO enrichment analysis showed that the functions of most SPLs were mainly enriched in the development of plant flower organs and stems. In addition, expression patterns and qRT-PCR analysis suggested the involvement of SPL genes in the regulation of flower organ development in orchids. There was little change in the expression of the CgoSPL in C. goeringii, but DchSPL9 and GelSPL2 showed significant expression during the flowering process of D. chrysotoxum and G. elata, respectively. In summary, this paper provides a reference for exploring the regulation of the SPL gene family in orchids.
A Comparison of Methods to Estimate Additive–by–Additive–by–Additive of QTL×QTL×QTL Interaction Effects by Monte Carlo Simulation Studies
Authors: Cyplik Adrian , Bocianowski Jan
Published: June 2023

The goal of the breeding process is to obtain new genotypes with traits improved over the parental forms. Parameters related to the additive effect of genes as well as their interactions (such as epistasis of gene–by–gene interaction effect and additive–by–additive–by–additive of gene–by–gene–by–gene interaction effect) can influence decisions on the suitability of breeding material for this purpose. Understanding the genetic architecture of complex traits is a major challenge in the post-genomic era, especially for quantitative trait locus (QTL) effects, QTL–by–QTL interactions and QTL–by–QTL–by–QTL interactions. With regards to the comparing methods for estimating additive–by–additive–by–additive of QTL×QTL×QTL interaction effects by Monte Carlo simulation studies, there are no publications in the open literature. The parameter combinations assumed in the presented simulation studies represented 84 different experimental situations. The use of weighted regression may be the preferred method for estimating additive–by–additive–by–additive of QTL–QTL–QTL triples interaction effects, as it provides results closer to the true values of total additive–by–additive–by–additive interaction effects than using unweighted regression. This is also indicated by the obtained values of the determination coefficients of the proposed models.
MIF Increases sFLT1 Expression in Early Uncomplicated Pregnancy and Preeclampsia
Authors: Yong Qing , Dijkstra Kyra L. , van der Keur Carin , Bruijn Jan A. , Eikmans Michael , Baelde Hans J.
Published: June 2023

Insufficient immune tolerance during pregnancy is associated with pathological conditions such as preeclampsia (PE). Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT1), which exerts a role in the late stage of PE, has shown its beneficial anti-inflammatory effects in inflammation-associated diseases. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) was reported to upregulate sFLT1 production in experimental congenital diaphragmatic hernia. However, the placental sFLT1 expression in early uncomplicated pregnancy and whether MIF can regulate sFLT1 expression in uncomplicated and preeclamptic pregnancy are unclear. We collected first-trimester placentas and term placentas from uncomplicated and preeclamptic pregnancies to investigate sFLT1 and MIF expression in vivo. Primary cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) and a human trophoblast cell line (Bewo) were used to study the regulation of MIF on sFLT1 expression in vitro. In placentas from first-trimester pregnancy, we observed a high expression of sFLT1, specifically in extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) and syncytiotrophoblast (STB) cells. MIF mRNA levels strongly correlated with sFLT1 expression in term placentas from preeclamptic pregnancies. In in vitro experiments, sFLT1 and MIF levels increased significantly in CTBs during their differentiation to EVTs and STBs, and MIF inhibitor (ISO-1) significantly reduced sFLT1 expression in a dose-dependent manner during this process. sFLT1 showed significant upregulation with increasing doses of MIF in Bewo cells. Our results show that sFLT1 is highly expressed at the maternal–fetal interface during early pregnancy and that MIF can increase sFLT1 expression in early uncomplicated pregnancy and PE, which suggests that sFLT1 plays an essential role in the modulation of inflammation in pregnancy.
Affi-BAMS™: A Robust Targeted Proteomics Microarray Platform to Measure Histone Post-Translational Modifications
Authors: Hamza Ghaith M. , Miele Eric , Wojchowski Don M. , Toran Paul , Worsfold Camilla R. , Anthonymuthu Tamil S. , Bergo Vladislav B. , Zhang Andrew X. , Silva Jeffrey C.
Published: June 2023

For targeted protein panels, the ability to specifically assay post-translational modifications (PTMs) in a quantitative, sensitive, and straightforward manner would substantially advance biological and pharmacological studies. The present study highlights the effectiveness of the Affi-BAMS™ epitope-directed affinity bead capture/MALDI MS platform for quantitatively defining complex PTM marks of H3 and H4 histones. Using H3 and H4 histone peptides and isotopically labelled derivatives, this affinity bead and MALDI MS platform achieves a range of >3 orders of magnitude with a technical precision CV of <5%. Using nuclear cellular lysates, Affi-BAMS PTM-peptide capture resolves heterogeneous histone N-terminal PTMs with as little as 100 µg of starting material. In an HDAC inhibitor and MCF7 cell line model, the ability to monitor dynamic histone H3 acetylation and methylation events is further demonstrated (including SILAC quantification). Affi-BAMS (and its capacity for the multiplexing of samples and target PTM-proteins) thus provides a uniquely efficient and effective approach for analyzing dynamic epigenetic histone marks, which is critical for the regulation of chromatin structure and gene expression.
Low-Code Machine Learning Platforms: A Fastlane to Digitalization
Authors: Raghavendran Krishna Raj , Elragal Ahmed
Published: June 2023

In the context of developing machine learning models, until and unless we have the required data engineering and machine learning development competencies as well as the time to train and test different machine learning models and tune their hyperparameters, it is worth trying out the automatic machine learning features provided by several cloud-based and cloud-agnostic platforms. This paper explores the possibility of generating automatic machine learning models with low-code experience. We developed criteria to compare different machine learning platforms for generating automatic machine learning models and presenting their results. Thereafter, lessons learned by developing automatic machine learning models from a sample dataset across four different machine learning platforms were elucidated. We also interviewed machine learning experts to conceptualize their domain-specific problems that automatic machine learning platforms can address. Results showed that automatic machine learning platforms can provide a fast track for organizations seeking the digitalization of their businesses. Automatic machine learning platforms help produce results, especially for time-constrained projects where resources are lacking. The contribution of this paper is in the form of a lab experiment in which we demonstrate how low-code platforms can provide a viable option to many business cases and, henceforth, provide a lane that is faster than the usual hiring and training of already scarce data scientists and to analytics projects that suffer from overruns.
Design and Analysis of an Automobile Disc Brake Rotor by Using Hybrid Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite for High Reliability
Authors: Singh Mandeep , Garg Harish Kumar , Maharana Sthitapragyan , Muniappan Appusamy , Loganathan M. K. , Nguyen Tien V. T. , Vijayan V.
Published: June 2023

Due to their superior capabilities for manufacturing lightweight automotive components, aluminium metal matrix composites have gained a lot of attention in the last few years. Aluminium metal matrix composites are an exceptional class of metal matrix composites that can solve all the major problems related to the automobile industry. Aluminium matrix composites in the disc braking system have already been employed and studied by many scientists. However, the developed materials are not yet always sufficiently accurate and reliable. In this article, a new enhanced metal matrix composite material is used and studied to improve the efficiency of an ordinary car’s braking system. To improve the accuracy of the designated braking system, an innovative hybrid aluminium matrix composite (Al6061/SiC/Gr)-based brake rotor has been developed, and its effectiveness has been determined by finite element analysis. From the simulation, the product performance confirmed that the hybrid aluminium matrix composite (Al6061/SiC/Gr)-based brake rotor has the potential to replace the standard cast iron brake disc. The new enhanced hybrid composite material used in this study can be used for the efficient design of various braking parts.
Erosion–Corrosion Behavior of Friction Stud Welded Joints of X65 Pipelines in Simulated Seawater under Different Flow Rates
Authors: Zhao Jie , Feng Yuqi , Gao Hui , Wang Lei , Yang Xiaoyu , Gu Yanhong
Published: June 2023

In order to study the complex erosion–corrosion mechanism of friction stud welded joints in seawater, experiments were carried out in the mixed solution of 3 wt% sea sand and 3.5% NaCl at flow rates of 0 m/s, 0.2 m/s, 0.4 m/s, and 0.6 m/s. The effects of corrosion and erosion–corrosion at different flow rates on materials were compared. The corrosion resistance of X65 friction stud welded joint was studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) curves. The corrosion morphology was observed by a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the corrosion products were analyzed by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that the corrosion current density decreased first and then increased with the increase in the simulated seawater flow rate, which indicated that the corrosion resistance of the friction stud welded joint increased first and then decreased. The corrosion products are FeOOH (α-FeOOH and γ-FeOOH), and Fe3O4. According to the experimental results, the erosion–corrosion mechanism of friction stud welded joints in seawater environment was predicted.
Colour Stability of Two Commercially Available Maxillofacial Prosthetic Elastomers after Outdoor Weathering in Al Jouf Province
Authors: Salloum Mahmoud Gamal , Ganji Kiran Kumar , Aldajani Ali Mohammed , Sonune Shital
Published: June 2023

Facial prostheses are created from special elastomers modified for their specific physical and mechanical properties; however, they also show two common major clinical problems: gradual discolouration of the prosthesis over time in service environment and deterioration of static, dynamic, and physical properties. As a result of external environmental factors, facial prostheses may become discoloured and discolour by changing colour from intrinsic and extrinsic colouring, and this is associated with the intrinsic colour stability of elastomers and colourants. Thus, in this in vitro study, a comparative evaluation of the effect of outdoor weathering on the colour stability of A-103 and A-2000 room-temperature vulcanised silicones used for maxillofacial prosthesis was conducted. To accomplish this study, a total of 80 samples were fabricated, 40 samples of each material were grouped as clear (20) and pigmented (20). These samples were mounted on wooden board and the assembly was placed on the roof of the dental school from October 2021 to March 2022. To maximise the amount of sunlight on the specimens, the exposure rack was set on five 68° angles from horizontal and also to prevent standing water. The specimens were left uncovered during exposure. The testing of samples was conducted with the help of a spectrophotometer. The colour values were recorded in the CIELAB colour system. It describes the three colour coordinates (colour values) x, y, and z in three new reference values of L, a, and b, aiding in numerically classifying colour differences. After 2, 4, and 6 months of weathering, testing was conducted using a spectrophotometer and the colour change (ΔE) was calculated. The A-103 RTV silicone group with pigmentation showed the maximum change in colour after six months of environmental conditioning. The data for colour difference within groups were analysed using a one-way ANOVA test. Tukey’s post hoc test assessed the pairwise mean comparison’s contribution to the overall significant difference. The nonpigmented A-2000 RTV silicone group showed the maximum change in colour after six months of environmental conditioning. After 2, 4, and 6 months of environmental conditioning, pigmented A-2000 RTV silicone showed better colour stability than A-103 RTV silicone. The patients requiring facial prosthesis do need to work on outdoor fields, and thus weathering will have deleterious effects on such prosthesis. Hence, the selection of appropriate silicone material with respect to the Al Jouf province region is crucial, which includes economic, durable, and colour stability.
Optical Second Harmonic Generation on LaAlO3/SrTiO3 Interfaces: A Review
Authors: Rubano Andrea , Paparo Domenico
Published: June 2023

As we approach the limits of semiconductor technology, the development of new materials and technologies for the new era in electronics is compelling. Among others, perovskite oxide hetero-structures are anticipated to be the best candidates. As in the case of semiconductors, the interface between two given materials can have, and often has, very different properties, compared to the corresponding bulk compounds. Perovskite oxides show spectacular interfacial properties due to the the rearrangement of charges, spins, orbitals and the lattice structure itself, at the interface. Lanthanum aluminate and Strontium titanate hetero-structures (LaAlO3/SrTiO3) can be regarded as a prototype of this wider class of interfaces. Both bulk compounds are plain and (relatively) simple wide-bandgap insulators. Despite this, a conductive two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) is formed right at the interface when a LaAlO3 thickness of n≥4 unit cells is deposited on a SrTiO3 substrate. The 2DEG is quite thin, being confined in only one or at least very few mono-layers at the interface, on the SrTiO3 side. A very intense and long-lasting study was triggered by this surprising discovery. Many questions regarding the origin and characteristics of the two-dimensional electron gas have been (partially) addressed, others are still open. In particular, this includes the interfacial electronic band structure, the transverse plane spatial homogeneity of the samples and the ultrafast dynamics of the confined carriers. Among a very long list of experimental techniques which have been exploited to study these types of interfaces (ARPES, XPS, AFM, PFM, …and many others), optical Second Harmonic Generation (SHG) was found to be suitable for investigating these types of buried interfaces, thanks to its extreme and selective interface-only sensitivity. The SHG technique has made its contribution to the research in this field in a variety of different and important aspects. In this work we will give a bird’s eye view of the currently available research on this topic and try to sketch out its future perspectives.
Tailoring SnO2 Defect States and Structure: Reviewing Bottom-Up Approaches to Control Size, Morphology, Electronic and Electrochemical Properties for Application in Batteries
Authors: Ponte Reynald , Rauwel Erwan , Rauwel Protima
Published: June 2023

Tin oxide (SnO2) is a versatile n-type semiconductor with a wide bandgap of 3.6 eV that varies as a function of its polymorph, i.e., rutile, cubic or orthorhombic. In this review, we survey the crystal and electronic structures, bandgap and defect states of SnO2. Subsequently, the significance of the defect states on the optical properties of SnO2 is overviewed. Furthermore, we examine the influence of growth methods on the morphology and phase stabilization of SnO2 for both thin-film deposition and nanoparticle synthesis. In general, thin-film growth techniques allow the stabilization of high-pressure SnO2 phases via substrate-induced strain or doping. On the other hand, sol–gel synthesis allows precipitating rutile-SnO2 nanostructures with high specific surfaces. These nanostructures display interesting electrochemical properties that are systematically examined in terms of their applicability to Li-ion battery anodes. Finally, the outlook provides the perspectives of SnO2 as a candidate material for Li-ion batteries, while addressing its sustainability.
Effect of Forming and Heat Treatment Parameters on the Mechanical Properties of Medium Manganese Steel with 5% Mn
Authors: Leták Radek , Jirková Hana , Kučerová Ludmila , Jeníček Štěpán , Volák Josef
Published: June 2023

Medium manganese steels fall into the category of modern third-generation high-strength steels. Thanks to their alloying, they use a number of strengthening mechanisms, such as the TRIP and TWIP effects, to achieve their mechanical properties. The excellent combination of strength and ductility also makes them suitable for safety components in car shells, such as side reinforcements. Medium manganese steel with 0.2% C, 5% Mn, and 3% Al was used for the experimental program. Sheets with a thickness of 1.8 mm without surface treatment were formed in a press hardening tool. Side reinforcements require various mechanical properties in different parts. The change in mechanical properties was tested on the produced profiles. The changes in the tested regions were produced by local heating to an intercritical region. These results were compared with classically annealed specimens in a furnace. In the case of tool hardening, strength limits were over 1450 MPa with a ductility of about 15%.
Energy and Infrared Radiation Characteristics of the Sandstone Damage Evolution Process
Authors: Sun Hai , Zhu Hong-Yan , Han Jie , Fu Chun , Chen Mi-Mi , Wang Kun
Published: June 2023

The mechanical characteristics and mechanisms of rock failure involve complex rock mass mechanics problems involving parameters such as energy concentration, storage, dissipation, and release. Therefore, it is important to select appropriate monitoring technologies to carry out relevant research. Fortunately, infrared thermal imaging monitoring technology has obvious advantages in the experimental study of rock failure processes and energy dissipation and release characteristics under load damage. Therefore, it is necessary to establish the theoretical relationship between the strain energy and infrared radiation information of sandstone and to reveal its fracture energy dissipation and disaster mechanism. In this study, an MTS electro-hydraulic servo press was used to carry out uniaxial loading experiments on sandstone. The characteristics of dissipated energy, elastic energy, and infrared radiation during the damage process of sandstone were studied using infrared thermal imaging technology. The results show that (1) the transition of sandstone loading from one stable state to another occurs in the form of an abrupt change. This sudden change is characterized by the simultaneous occurrence of elastic energy release, dissipative energy surging, and infrared radiation count (IRC) surging, and it has the characteristics of a short duration and large amplitude variation. (2) With the increase in the elastic energy variation, the surge in the IRC of sandstone samples presents three different development stages, namely fluctuation (stage Ⅰ), steady rise (stage Ⅱ), and rapid rise (stage Ⅲ). (3) The more obvious the surge in the IRC, the greater the degree of local damage of the sandstone and the greater the range of the corresponding elastic energy change (or dissipation energy change). (4) A method of sandstone microcrack location and propagation pattern recognition based on infrared thermal imaging technology is proposed. This method can dynamically generate the distribution nephograph of tension-shear microcracks of the bearing rock and accurately evaluate the real-time process of rock damage evolution. Finally, this study can provide a theoretical basis for rock stability, safety monitoring, and early warning.
Luminescence Properties of Epitaxial Cu2O Thin Films Electrodeposited on Metallic Substrates and Cu2O Single Crystals
Authors: Trinkler Laima , Dai Dajin , Chang Liuwen , Chou Mitch Ming-Chi , Wu Tzu-Ying , Gabrusenoks Jevgenijs , Nilova Dace , Ruska Rihards , Berzina Baiba , Nedzinskas Ramunas
Published: June 2023

The luminescent properties of epitaxial Cu2O thin films were studied in 10–300 K temperature range and compared with the luminescent properties of Cu2O single crystals. Cu2O thin films were deposited epitaxially via the electrodeposition method on either Cu or Ag substrates at different processing parameters, which determined the epitaxial orientation relationships. Cu2O (100) and (111) single crystal samples were cut from a crystal rod grown using the floating zone method. Luminescence spectra of thin films contain the same emission bands as single crystals around 720, 810 and 910 nm, characterizing VO2+, VO+ and VCu defects, correspondingly. Additional emission bands, whose origin is under discussion, are observed around 650–680 nm, while the exciton features are negligibly small. The relative mutual contribution of the emission bands varies depending on the thin film sample. The existence of the domains of crystallites with different orientations determines the polarization of luminescence. The PL of both Cu2O thin films and single crystals is characterized by negative thermal quenching in the low-temperature region; the reason of this phenomenon is discussed.
Various Flexible Fixation Techniques Using Suture Button for Ligamentous Lisfranc Injuries: A Review of Surgical Options
Authors: Yi Young , Chaudhari Sagar
Published: June 2023

Contrary to Lisfranc joint fracture-dislocation, ligamentous Lisfranc injury can lead to additional instability and arthritis and is difficult to diagnose. Appropriate procedure selection is necessary for a better prognosis. Several surgical methods have recently been introduced. Here, we present three distinct surgical techniques for treating ligamentous Lisfranc employing flexible fixation. First is the “Single Tightrope procedure”, which involves reduction and fixation between the second metatarsal base and the medial cuneiform via making a bone tunnel and inserting Tightrope. Second is the “Dual Tightrope Technique”, which is similar to the “Single Tightrope technique”, with additional fixation of an intercuneiform joint using one MiniLok Quick Anchor Plus. Last but not least, the “internal brace approach” uses the SwiveLock anchor, particularly when intercueniform instability is seen. Each approach has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of surgical complexity and stability. These flexible fixation methods, on the other hand, are more physiologic and have the potential to lessen the difficulties that have been linked to the use of conventional screws in the past.
GAD65 Antibody-Associated Epilepsy
Authors: Valinčiūtė Justina , Jucevičiūtė Neringa , Balnytė Renata , Jurkevičienė Giedrė , Gelžinienė Giedrė
Published: June 2023

Autoimmune processes are an increasingly recognized cause of seizures. Antibodies against neuronal surface antigens are implicated in the development of acute symptomatic seizures secondary to autoimmune encephalitis, whereas antibodies against intracellular antigens (anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) and onconeural antibodies) are found in cases of autoimmune-associated epilepsy (AAE). AAE is described as isolated drug-resistant epilepsy without any specific magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or cerebrospinal fluid changes and with a very limited response to immunotherapy. We present a clinical case and a literature review on autoimmune-associated epilepsy to increase awareness of this disease and illustrate its complexity. This is a clinical case of a female with a history of refractory focal epilepsy. The patient had been given several trials of multiple antiepileptic drugs and their combinations without any clear effect. Multiple evaluations including brain MRI, PET, and interictal and ictal electroencephalograms were performed. An APE2 score was calculated with a result of 4 and, in the presence of anti-GAD65 antibodies in the serum, the diagnosis of AAE was confirmed. There was no effect after five sessions of plasma exchange; however, after a course of intravenous immunoglobulin, a positive but temporary clinical effect was noticed: anti-GAD65 levels initially decreased but rebounded to previous levels 6 months later.
T-Cell-Dominated Immune Response Resolves Protracted SARS-CoV-2 Infection in the Absence of Neutralizing Antibodies in an Immunocompromised Individual
Authors: Bunse Till , Koerber Nina , Wintersteller Hannah , Schneider Jochen , Graf Alexander , Radonic Aleksandar , Thuermer Andrea , von Kleist Max , Blum Helmut , Spinner Christoph D. , Bauer Tanja , Knolle Percy A. , Protzer Ulrike , Schulte Eva C.
Published: June 2023

Immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of developing protracted and severe COVID-19, and understanding individual disease courses and SARS-CoV-2 immune responses in these individuals is of the utmost importance. For more than two years, we followed an immunocompromised individual with a protracted SARS-CoV-2 infection that was eventually cleared in the absence of a humoral neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 antibody response. By conducting an in-depth examination of this individual’s immune response and comparing it to a large cohort of convalescents who spontaneously cleared a SARS-CoV-2 infection, we shed light on the interplay between B- and T-cell immunity and how they interact in clearing SARS-CoV-2 infection.
A Genetically Engineered Escherichia coli for Potential Utilization in Fungal Smut Disease Control
Authors: Cui Guobing , Bi Xinping , Lu Shan , Jiang Zide , Deng Yizhen
Published: June 2023

Sporisorium scitamineum, the basidiomycetous fungus that causes sugarcane smut and leads to severe losses in sugarcane quantity and quality, undergoes sexual mating to form dikaryotic hyphae capable of invading the host cane. Therefore, suppressing dikaryotic hyphae formation would potentially be an effective way to prevent host infection by the smut fungus, and the following disease symptom developments. The phytohormone methyl jasmonate (MeJA) has been shown to induce plant defenses against insects and microbial pathogens. In this study, we will verify that the exogenous addition of MeJA-suppressed dikaryotic hyphae formation in S. scitamineum and Ustilago maydis under in vitro culture conditions, and the maize smut symptom caused by U. maydis, could be effectively suppressed by MeJA in a pot experiment. We constructed an Escherichia coli-expressing plant JMT gene, encoding a jasmonic acid carboxyl methyl transferase that catalyzes conversion from jasmonic acid (JA) to MeJA. By GC-MS, we will confirm that the transformed E. coli, designated as the pJMT strain, was able to produce MeJA in the presence of JA and S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM as methyl donor). Furthermore, the pJMT strain was able to suppress S. scitamineum filamentous growth under in vitro culture conditions. It waits to further optimize JMT expression under field conditions in order to utilize the pJMT strain as a biocontrol agent (BCA) of sugarcane smut disease. Overall, our study provides a potentially novel method for controlling crop fungal diseases by boosting phytohormone biosynthesis.
Rice Germ Attenuates Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress-Induced Muscle Atrophy
Authors: Batsukh Sosorburam , Oh Seyeon , Rheu Kyoungmin , Lee Bae-Jin , Choi Chang Hu , Son Kuk Hui , Byun Kyunghee
Published: June 2023

Chronic stress leads to hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis dysfunction, increasing cortisol levels. Glucocorticoids (GCs) promote muscle degradation and inhibit muscle synthesis, eventually causing muscle atrophy. In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether rice germ supplemented with 30% γ-aminobutyric acid (RG) attenuates muscle atrophy in an animal model of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). We observed that CUMS raised the adrenal gland weight and serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol levels, and these effects were reversed by RG. CUMS also enhanced the expression of the GC receptor (GR) and GC–GR binding in the gastrocnemius muscle, which were attenuated by RG. The expression levels of muscle degradation-related signaling pathways, such as the Klf15, Redd-1, FoxO3a, Atrogin-1, and MuRF1 pathways, were enhanced by CUMS and attenuated by RG. Muscle synthesis-related signaling pathways, such as the IGF-1/AKT/mTOR/s6k/4E-BP1 pathway, were reduced by CUMS and enhanced by RG. Moreover, CUMS raised oxidative stress by enhancing the levels of iNOS and acetylated p53, which are involved in cell cycle arrest, whereas RG attenuated both iNOS and acetylated p53 levels. Cell proliferation in the gastrocnemius muscle was reduced by CUMS and enhanced by RG. The muscle weight, muscle fiber cross-sectional area, and grip strength were reduced by CUMS and enhanced by RG. Therefore, RG attenuated ACTH levels and cortisol-related muscle atrophy in CUMS animals.
Association of Plant-Based Diet Indices and Abdominal Obesity with Mental Disorders among Older Chinese Adults
Authors: Qi Ran , Sheng Baihe , Zhou Lihui , Chen Yanchun , Sun Li , Zhang Xinyu
Published: June 2023

We aimed to explore the correlation between plant-based diet indices and abdominal obesity with depression and anxiety among older Chinese adults. This study used a cross-sectional design using data from the 2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). We used a simplified food frequency questionnaire to evaluate the overall plant-based diet index (PDI), the healthful plant-based diet index (hPDI), and the unhealthful plant-based diet index (uPDI) separately, based on the potential health effects of the foods. Waist circumference (WC) was used to define abdominal obesity. The 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D-10) and the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) were applied to estimate depression symptoms and anxiety symptoms, respectively. Multi-adjusted binary logistic regression models were conducted to explore the effects of the three plant-based diet indices, abdominal obesity status, and their interaction on depression and anxiety. We enrolled a total of 11,623 participants aged 83.21 ± 10.98 years, of which 3140 (27.0%) participants had depression and 1361 (11.7%) had anxiety. The trend in the prevalence of depression/anxiety across increasing quartiles of the plant-based diet indices was statistically significant after controlling for potential confounders (p-trend < 0.05). Abdominal obesity was related to a lower prevalence of depression (OR = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.77−0.95) and anxiety (OR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.69−0.90) compared with non-abdominal obesity. The protective effects of the PDI and hPDI against depression (OR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.41−0.64; OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.48−0.73, respectively) and anxiety (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.57−1.00; OR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.39−0.70, respectively) were more pronounced in non-abdominally obese participants. The harmful effects of the uPDI against depression (OR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.42−2.23) and anxiety (OR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.16−2.10) were more pronounced in non-abdominally obese participants. In addition, a significant interaction between the plant-based diet indices and abdominal obesity was observed in terms of causing the prevalence of depression and anxiety. Consuming more of a healthful plant-based diet and less of an animal-based diet is related to a lower prevalence of depression and anxiety. A healthful plant-based diet plays a vital role in non-abdominally obese individuals.