bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Sintering Parameters on the Mechanical Properties and Wear Performance of Alumina Inserts
Authors: Adam Abdul Aziz , Bakar Hadzley Abu , Amani Umar Al , Paijan Lailatul Harina , Wahab Norfariza Ab , Mamat Mohd Fauzi , Ali Mohd Basri , Herawan Safarudin Gazali , Ahmad Zulkifli
Published: November 2022

The sintering temperature and holding time have a significant impact on the densification of a ceramic compact. In this study, alumina inserts were made with varying sintering temperatures and holding times. The procedure began with the compacting of alumina powders inside a mould with trapezium and round shapes. These inserts were then sintered between 1200 °C and 1400 °C for 5 to 9 h holding time. The sintered samples underwent analysis based on the shrinkage size, density, and microstructure. The sample with the highest density was chosen for additional machining tests. The results showed that the alumina shrinkage ranged from 3 to 6%, with a maximum relative density of 91.3% recorded when the sintering parameter was applied at 1400 °C and a 9 h holding time. The transition of the grain growth was observed depending on the sintering temperature and heating duration. When machined with AISI 1045 carbon steel, the sintered alumina inserts achieved a maximum tool life of 35 s at a cutting speed of 350 m/min. The sintered inserts exhibited brittle characteristics with a dominant notch wear and abrasive mechanisms.
Effects of Tempering Temperature on Mechanical and Tribological Behavior of Ductile Iron
Authors: Hu Zhitao , Liu Chen , Du Yuzhou , Wang Xin , Zhu Xinyu , Jiang Bailing
Published: November 2022

The mechanical properties and tribological behavior of ductile iron tempered at different temperatures were investigated. The tempered sample was composed of spheroidal graphite, α phase, and carbides. The strength and hardness decreased near-linearly but the plasticity increased with the increase of tempering temperature, which was mainly because carbon atoms precipitated from martensite and thus reduced the distortion of martensite. Wear tests indicated that the friction coefficient of the sample tempered at 420 °C decreased first and then increased with the increasing loads and exhibited the lowest friction coefficient of 0.37. No obvious change was detected for the friction coefficient of the sample tempered at 500 °C at different loads. The friction coefficient of the sample tempered at 580 °C increased to a stable value with the increase of loads. The wear rate of tempered ductile iron was increased with the increase of tempering temperature, which indicated that hardness was the critical factor for wear properties of ductile iron. The main wear mechanisms of tempered ductile iron were adhesive and abrasive wear. Adhesive wear was predominant for the sample tempered at low temperature but was gradually replaced by abrasive wear with the increase of tempering temperature and normal loads.
Analysis of Crack Problems in Multilayered Elastic Medium by a Consecutive Stiffness Method
Authors: Long Gongbo , Liu Yingjie , Xu Wanrong , Zhou Peng , Zhou Jiaqi , Xu Guanshui , Xiao Boqi
Published: November 2022

We propose a boundary-element-based method for crack problems in multilayered elastic medium that consists of a set of individually homogeneous strata. The method divides the medium along the slit-like crack surface so that the effects of the elements placed along one crack surface become distinguishable from those placed along the other surface. As a result, the direct method that cannot be directly applied for crack problems turns out to be applicable. After that, we derive a recursive formula that obtains a “stiffness matrix” for each layer by exploiting the chain-like structure of the system, enabling a sequential computation to solve the displacements on the crack surface in each layer “consecutively” in a descending order from the very top layer to the very bottom one. In our method, the final system of equations only contains the unknown displacements on the crack surface, ensuring the efficiency of the method. The numerical examples demonstrate better accuracy and broader applicability of our method compared to the displacement discontinuity method and more-acceptable efficiency of our method compared to the conventional direct method.
Phase Analysis of Event-Related Potentials Based on Dynamic Mode Decomposition
Authors: Li Li , Luo Jingjing , Li Yang , Zhang Lei , Guo Yuzhu
Published: November 2022

Real-time detection of event-related potentials (ERPs) and exploration of ERPs generation mechanisms are vital to practical application of brain–computer interfaces (BCI). Traditional methods for ERPs analysis often fall into time domain, time–frequency domain, or spatial domain. Methods which can reveal spatiotemporal interactions by simultaneously analyzing multi-channel EEG signals may provide new insights into ERP research and is highly desired. Additionally, although phase information has been investigated to describe the phase consistency of a certain frequency component across different ERP trials, it is of research significance to analyze the phase reorganization across different frequency components that constitute a single-trial ERP signal. To address these problems, dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) was applied to decompose multi-channel EEG into a series of spatial–temporal coherent DMD modes, and a new metric, called phase variance distribution (PVD) is proposed as an index of the phase reorganization of DMD modes during the ERP in a single trial. Based on the PVD, a new error-related potential (ErrP) detection method based on symmetric positive defined in Riemann manifold is proposed to demonstrate the significant PVD differences between correct and error trials. By including the phase reorganization index, the 10-fold cross-validation results of an ErrP detection task showed that the proposed method is 4.98%, 27.99% and 7.98% higher than the counterpart waveform-based ErrP detection method in the terms of weighted accuracy rate, precision and recall of the ErrP class, respectively. The resulting PVD curve shows that with the occurrence of ERP peaks, the phases of different frequency rhythms are getting to aligned and yields a significant smaller PVD. Since the DMD modes of different frequencies characterize spatiotemporal coherence of multi-channel EEG at different functional regions, the new phase reorganization index, PVD, may indicate the instantaneous phase alignment of different functional networks and sheds light on a new interpretation of ERP generation mechanism.
Explainable Deep-Learning-Based Depression Modeling of Elderly Community after COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Nguyen Hung Viet , Byeon Haewon
Published: November 2022

The impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on the mental health of elderly individuals is causing considerable worry. We examined a deep neural network (DNN) model to predict the depression of the elderly population during the pandemic period based on social factors related to stress, health status, daily changes, and physical distancing. This study used vast data from the 2020 Community Health Survey of the Republic of Korea, which included 97,230 people over the age of 60. After cleansing the data, the DNN model was trained using 36,258 participants’ data and 22 variables. We also integrated the DNN model with a LIME-based explainable model to achieve model prediction explainability. According to the research, the model could reach a prediction accuracy of 89.92%. Furthermore, the F1-score (0.92), precision (93.55%), and recall (97.32%) findings showed the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The COVID-19 pandemic considerably impacts the likelihood of depression in later life in the elderly community. This explainable DNN model can help identify patients to start treatment on them early.
Comparative Analysis of Accelerated Models for Solving Unconstrained Optimization Problems with Application of Khan’s Hybrid Rule
Authors: Rakočević Vladimir , Petrović Milena J.
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we follow a chronological development of gradient descent methods and its accelerated variants later on. We specifically emphasise some contemporary approaches within this research field. Accordingly, a constructive overview over the class of hybrid accelerated models derived from the three-term hybridization process proposed by Khan is presented. Extensive numerical test results illustrate the performance profiles of hybrid and non-hybrid versions of chosen accelerated gradient models regarding the number of iterations, CPU time, and number of function evaluation metrics. Favorable outcomes justify this hybrid approach as an accepted method in developing new efficient optimization schemes.
A Machine Learning-Based Risk Prediction Model for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Liu Yang , Xie Ya-Nan , Li Wen-Gang , He Xin , He Hong-Gu , Chen Long-Biao , Shen Qu
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused global public panic, leading to severe mental illnesses, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study aimed to establish a risk prediction model of PTSD based on a machine learning algorithm to provide a basis for the extensive assessment and prediction of the PTSD risk status in adults during a pandemic. Materials and Methods: Model indexes were screened based on the cognitive–phenomenological–transactional (CPT) theoretical model. During the study period (1 March to 15 March 2020), 2067 Chinese residents were recruited using Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap). Socio-demographic characteristics, PTSD, depression, anxiety, social support, general self-efficacy, coping style, and other indicators were collected in order to establish a neural network model to predict and evaluate the risk of PTSD. Results: The research findings showed that 368 of the 2067 participants (17.8%) developed PTSD. The model correctly predicted 90.0% (262) of the outcomes. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and their associated area under the ROC curve (AUC) values suggested that the prediction model possessed an accurate discrimination ability. In addition, depression, anxiety, age, coping style, whether the participants had seen a doctor during the COVID-19 quarantine period, and self-efficacy were important indexes. Conclusions: The high prediction accuracy of the model, constructed based on a machine learning algorithm, indicates its applicability in screening the public mental health status during the COVID-19 pandemic quickly and effectively. This model could also predict and identify high-risk groups early to prevent the worsening of PTSD symptoms.
Efficacy of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in COVID-19 Patients from the Western Part of Romania
Authors: Porosnicu Tamara Mirela , Gindac Ciprian , Popovici Sonia , Marinescu Adelina , Jipa Daniel , Lazaroiu Valentina , Sandesc Dorel , Oancea Cristian , Folescu Roxana , Zamfir Alexandra-Simona , Zamfir Carmen Lacramioara , Nussbaum Laura Alexandra , Sirbu Ioan Ovidiu
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has surprised the medical world with its devastating effects such as severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and cytokine storm, but also with the scant therapeutic solutions which have proven to be effective against the disease. Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) has been proposed from the very beginning as a possible adjuvant treatment in severe cases. Our objective was to analyze the evolution of specific biological markers of the COVID-19 disease before and one day after a therapeutic plasma exchange session, how a change in these parameters influences the patient’s respiratory status, as well as the impact of TPE on the survival rate. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, we include 65 patients with COVID-19 admitted to the intensive care unit department of our hospital between March 2020 and December 2021, and who received a total of 120 sessions of TPE. Results: TPE significantly reduced the following inflammation markers (p < 0.001): interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), fibrinogen, ferritin, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. This procedure significantly increased the number of lymphocytes and decreased D-dimers levels (p = 0.0024). TPE significantly improved the PaO2/FiO2 ratio (p < 0.001) in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (PaO2/FiO2 < 100). Survival was improved in intubated patients who received TPE. Conclusions: TPE involved the reduction in inflammatory markers in critical patients with COVID-19 disease and the improvement of the PaO2/FiO2 ratio in patients with severe ARDS and had a potential benefit on the survival of patients with extremely severe COVID-19 disease.
Effect of Dupilumab on Sexual Desire in Adult Patients with Moderate to Severe Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Napolitano Maddalena , Fabbrocini Gabriella , Kastl Sara , Battista Teresa , Di Guida Adriana , Martora Fabrizio , Picone Vincenzo , Ventura Virginia , Patruno Cataldo
Published: November 2022

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory condition causing itching skin, with a significant psychosocial impact on patients and relatives. AD affects 15 to 30% of children and 2 to 10% of adults. AD significantly affects patients’ quality of life (QoL) given the chronicity and symptoms of the disease. Most AD patients have reported that the disease affects daily life, resulting in limited social contact and a strong impact on sexual health (SH), especially in moderate–severe cases. Materials and methods: We performed a prospective study from 1 May 2020 to 1 May 2022; the aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of moderate to severe AD on sexual desire, seduction, and partner relationships, and describe how it varies following dupilumab therapy. We used the Sexual Desire Inventory-2 (SDI-2), a validated instrument consisting of 14 items; moreover, we used a second questionnaire with eight items, an unvalidated instrument created specifically for this study, to obtain the assessment of the influence of AD on the body image, sexuality, and self-perception of those affected. Results and Conclusions: The impact of AD on sexual desire assessed using SDI-2 showed a significant improvement in both sexes during dupilumab treatment from the baseline to W4 and W16. Similar results were obtained with our questionnaire.
The Role of the Metal in the Catalytic Reactions of Hydrogenation–Dehydrogenation of Polycyclic Hydrocarbons for Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Kustov Leonid M. , Kalenchuk Alexander N.
Published: November 2022

The design of benign and safe hydrogen storage systems is the priority in the development of new energy carriers. The storage of hydrogen in a liquid or compressed state, as well as in metal hydrides and adsorbents, depends on pressure and temperature and under normal conditions does not meet the criteria of the target hydrogen storage capacity, energy consumption for hydrogen storage or safety. The storage of hydrogen in chemical compounds in which it is naturally included in the composition is the only alternative. Aromatic hydrocarbons capable of reversible hydrogenation–dehydrogenation reactions are of the greatest interest among regenerable hydrogen-containing compounds and can be used for hydrogen storage. The role of the metal in the catalytic reactions of the hydrogenation–dehydrogenation of cyclic hydrocarbons for hydrogen storage is discussed in the present review in close relation to the structure and composition of the cyclic substrates.
Dynamic Enhancement for Dual Active Bridge Converter with a Deadbeat Current Controller
Authors: Tian Chengfu , Wei Shusheng , Xie Jiayu , Bai Tainming
Published: November 2022

This paper investigates the deadbeat current controllers for isolated bidirectional dual-active-bridge dc-dc converter (IBDC), including the peak current mode (PCM) and middle current mode (MCM). The controller uses an enhanced single phase shift (ESPS) modulation method by exploiting pulse width as an extra control variable in addition to phase shift ratio. The control variables for PCM controllers are derived in detail and the two different current controllers are compared. A double-closed-loop control method is then employed, which could directly control the high-frequency inductor current and eliminate the transient DC current bias of the transformer. Furthermore, load feedforward was introduced to further enhance the dynamic of the converter. With the proposed control method, the settling time could be reduced within several PWM cycles during load disturbance without transient DC current bias. A 5 kW IBDC converter prototype was built and the settling time of 6 PWM cycles during load change with voltage regulation mode was achieved, which verifies the superior dynamic performance of the control method.
Effects of Circadian Rhythm and Feeding Modes on Rumen Fermentation and Microorganisms in Hu Sheep
Authors: Zhang Chuntao , Ma Tao , Tu Yan , Ma Shulin , Diao Qiyu
Published: November 2022

All organisms have a biological clock system which is strongly tied to how well an organism digests food and develops. This study aimed to understand the effects of circadian rhythm and feeding modes on rumen fermentation and microorganisms in Hu sheep. Forty-five healthy Hu sheep were randomly divided into three treatment groups of 15 sheep in each group, wherein they were fed the same concentrate and roughage. Under the condition that the nutrient-feeding amount was consistent throughout the day, the concentrate-to-forage ratio was dynamically adjusted during the day and night. Rumen fluid collected after the feeding experiment was used to determine the study parameters; the results showed a connection between rumen fermentation and the circadian clock. Volatile fatty acids (VFAs), pH, and NH3-N were significantly influenced by the fermentation duration (p < 0.05). The activities of digestive enzymes also showed a relationship with nutrition and circadian rhythm, and there were differences in the digestive enzyme activities of amylase, lipase, and cellulase (p < 0.05). Dominant microorganisms, such as Saccharomycetes and Mucor, were more abundant in the daytime of the high-concentrate fed group. The correlation among the study objectives was evident from the differences in enzyme activity and microbial diversity among the treatment groups. On the basis of the circadian rhythm characteristics of Hu sheep, changes in the feeding mode of Hu sheep and only adjusting the proportion of concentrate and forage in the morning and evening showed that feeding diets with the high-concentrate ratio in the day significantly reduced rumen PH and increased NH3-N concentration (p < 0.05). Under this feeding pattern, the activities of major digestive enzymes in the rumen, such as amylase and lipase, were significantly increased (p < 0.05), and the microbial diversity was also improved.
The Microbiome of the Built Environment: The Nexus for Urban Regeneration for the Cities of Tomorrow
Authors: Bruno Antonia , Fumagalli Sara , Ghisleni Giulia , Labra Massimo
Published: November 2022

Built environments are, for most of us, our natural habitat. In the last 50 years, the built-up area has more than doubled, with a massive biodiversity loss. The undeniable benefits of a city providing all the basic needs to a growing population showed longer-term and less obvious costs to human health: autoimmune and non-communicable diseases, as well as antimicrobial resistance, have reached unprecedented and alarming levels. Humans coevolved with microbes, and this long-lasting alliance is affected by the loss of connection with natural environments, misuse of antibiotics, and highly sanitized environments. Our aim is to direct the focus onto the microbial communities harbored by the built environments we live in. They represent the nexus for urban regeneration, which starts from a healthy environment. Planning a city means considering, in a two-fold way, the ecosystem health and the multidimensional aspects of wellbeing, including social, cultural, and aesthetic values. The significance of this perspective is inspiring guidelines and strategies for the urban regeneration of the cities of tomorrow, exploiting the invaluable role of microbial biodiversity and the ecosystem services that it could provide to create the robust scientific knowledge that is necessary for a bioinformed design of buildings and cities for healthy and sustainable living.
An Overview of Macrolide Resistance in Streptococci: Prevalence, Mobile Elements and Dynamics
Authors: Berbel Dàmaris , González-Díaz Aida , López de Egea Guillem , Càmara Jordi , Ardanuy Carmen
Published: November 2022

Streptococcal infections are usually treated with beta-lactam antibiotics, but, in case of allergic patients or reduced antibiotic susceptibility, macrolides and fluoroquinolones are the main alternatives. This work focuses on studying macrolide resistance rates, genetic associated determinants and antibiotic consumption data in Spain, Europe and also on a global scale. Macrolide resistance (MR) determinants, such as ribosomal methylases (erm(B), erm(TR), erm(T)) or active antibiotic efflux pumps and ribosomal protectors (mef(A/E)-mrs(D)), are differently distributed worldwide and associated with different clonal lineages and mobile genetic elements. MR rates vary together depending on clonal dynamics and on antibiotic consumption applying selective pressure. Among Streptococcus, higher MR rates are found in the viridans group, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus agalactiae, and lower MR rates are described in Streptococcus pyogenes. When considering different geographic areas, higher resistance rates are usually found in East-Asian countries and milder or lower in the US and Europe. Unfortunately, the availability of data varies also between countries; it is scarce in low- and middle- income countries from Africa and South America. Thus, surveillance studies of macrolide resistance rates and the resistance determinants involved should be promoted to complete global knowledge among macrolide resistance dynamics.
Exploration of Polymetallic Nodules
Authors: Madureira Pedro , Abramowski Tomasz
Published: November 2022

The use of mineral resources has always been critical for human development [...]
Inversion and Uncertainty Estimation of Self-Potential Anomalies over a Two-Dimensional Dipping Layer/Bed: Application to Mineral Exploration, and Archaeological Targets
Authors: Biswas Ankit , Rao Khushwant , Biswas Arkoprovo
Published: November 2022

Self-Potential data have been widely used in numerous applications. The interpretation of SP data from subsurface bodies is quite challenging. The advantages of geophysical inversion for interpreting non-linear geophysical problems have gained a great deal of attention over conventional interpretation. The efficiency of the present inversion approach in interpreting SP anomalies from a thin dipping layer/bed is presented in the study. The inversion approach was applied to interpret synthetic model parameters such as the self-potential of the layer (k), depth to the body top (h), location of the body (x0), dip angle (θ), and the upper and lower end of the sheet (δ1 and δ2). The interpretation of the results showed that the parameters Δh, δ1, and δ2 exhibited a wide range of results. The estimated parameter values lay within the limit of uncertainty. The inversion approach was also applied to two field datasets obtained from polymetallic deposits in Russia and Azerbaijan for mineral exploration purposes and one from a buried ancient Roman limestone construction in Halutza, Israel, for the purposes of archaeological study. The field investigation results demonstrate a good agreement with previous works of literature. The efficiency of the present approach for interpreting SP anomalies from thin layer/bed-like structures is shown in this study.
Static Liquefaction Causes the Flow Failure of a Tailings Dam: A Case Study of El Descargador, Cartagena–La Unión Mining Region, SE Spain (October 1963)
Authors: Rodríguez-Pacheco Roberto , Caparrós Ana , Alcolea Alberto , Martínez-Pagán Pedro , Martínez-Segura Marcos , García-García Cristóbal , Faz Ángel , Corral Isaac , Roque Carles , Zarroca Mario
Published: November 2022

The aim of this work is to investigate the causes of the El Descargador tailings dam failure, at the mine district Cartagena–La Unión (SE Spain), in October 1963. Dam stability back analyses have been carried out by applying a geotechnical and geophysical approach. The failure occurred in the form of several landslides in five different points along the dam structure. The rise in the pore pressure and the steeped slopes of the tails, scaling up to 40° in some sectors, were the main causal preparatory factors. Here we propose that static liquefaction is the most plausible cause of the tailings dam flow failure. The presence of sand dikes and sand volcanoes with atypical stratigraphic architecture, both in the lagoon and at the surfaces exposed in the landslide areas, as well as the evidence of conspicuous sand fraction on the surface support the occurrence of the liquefaction processes. Major landslides were located near the drainage pipe and the flow directions were controlled by its position. Our results reveal that the liquefaction processes were triggered and aggravated by the poor drainage capability of the tailings dam structure.
Source and Evolution of Subduction–Related Hot Springs Discharged in Tengchong Geothermal Field, Southwest China: Constrained by Stable H, O, and Mg Isotopes
Authors: Yuan Jingying , Cao Haigang , Guo Yuping , Chen Xuegang
Published: November 2022

The hydrothermal system plays a crucial role in material and energy cycling between the lithosphere and hydrosphere. In general, seafloor hydrothermal systems are one of important Mg sinks, but the situation may not be the same as it is in terrestrial hydrothermal systems. In addition, the behavior of Mg isotopes during hydrothermal circulation is still unclear. Thus, in this study, we determined the Mg isotopic compositions of the hydrothermal fluids discharged in the Tengchong region to understand better the fate of Mg in the continental hydrothermal system. The δ2H and δ18O values of the Tengchong hydrothermal fluids indicate that the recharge water sources are primary from meteoric water and influenced by the evaporation process. In contrast, the subduction–related volcanic water input is limited, except in for the Rehai area. The Mg in most of the samples is contributed by percolated meteoric water. The measured δ26Mg values range from –0.969 to 0.173‰, which are enriched in light Mg compared to the volcanic rocks of Tengchong. Combined with the precipitation dissolution of carbonate, we calculated the δ26Mg value for the endmember fluid before precipitation, which shows that the process of carbonate precipitation changes the Mg isotope of the fluid, substantially. The Shiqiang (SQ) vent is unique among all of the samples, characterized by an extremely a high δ26Mg value and Mg concentration, and it is estimated that it could have been mixed with an upper crustal material. This also reveals the diversity of the hydrothermal fluid material sources in the subduction zone.
Experimental Study on the Evolution Law of Coal Mine Underground Reservoir Water Storage Space under the Disturbance and Water—Rock Interaction Effect
Authors: Wang Weinan , Yao Qiangling , Xu Qiang , Chen Xiaoyu , Liu Hengyi , Li Xuehua
Published: November 2022

The void of the cracked rock mass of the goaf is the main water storage space of underground reservoirs, which is in a time-space dynamic evolution process. Before the formation of the underground reservoir, the water storage space was primarily affected by disturbances. After the safe operation of the coal mine underground reservoir, the water level of the mine rises and falls repeatedly and the water storage space is affected by the water-rock interaction. To study the void evolution law of a cracked rock mass under mining disturbance and the compaction and void deformation characteristics of caving gangue under the effect of the water-rock interaction, a simulation test of a coal mine underground reservoir is conducted. Furthermore, the rupture motion law and movement deformation characteristics of the overburden during coal mining are analyzed. The digital image method and fractal theory are introduced to describe the fractal characteristics of the rock mass void of the caving zone, fracture zone, and entire goaf during the mining process. Five prototype gangue samples with different immersion times are prepared with the same grain size grading as the similar model caving gangue. The influence of the immersion times on the compaction characteristics and evolution law of the void rate of the gangue are also studied. Based on the parameter fitting method, the stress–strain relationship equation of the gangue sample and void rate-stress relationship equation of the cylindrical gangue sample, considering the influence of the immersion times, are constructed. The results show that the overburden of the model is of a “two zone” structure and the entire structure moves and sinks asymmetrically in a “∩” shape. As the advancing distance of the working face increased, the fractal dimensions of the rock mass void of the caving zone and entire goaf increased logarithmically, and the fractal dimension of the rock mass void of the fracture zone first increased rapidly (60–80 cm) and then decreased linearly (80–200 cm). As the immersion time increased, the saturated moisture content and density of the gangue samples increased logarithmically and exponentially, respectively. Under the same stress, the strain of the gangue sample increased gradually, and the void rate decreased gradually (except for the initial loading).
Mechanical Characterization of Two-Segment Free-Standing ZnO Nanowires Using Lateral Force Microscopy
Authors: Volk János , Radó János , Baji Zsófia , Erdélyi Róbert
Published: November 2022

Mechanical characterization of quasi one-dimensional nanostructures is essential for the design of novel nanoelectromechanical systems. However, the results obtained on basic mechanical quantities, such as Young’s modulus and fracture strength, show significant standard deviation in the literature. This is partly because of diversity in the quality of the nanowire, and partly because of inappropriately performed mechanical tests and simplified mechanical models. Here we present orientation-controlled bending and fracture studies on wet chemically grown vertical ZnO nanowires, using lateral force microscopy. The lateral force signal of the atomic force microscope was calibrated by a diamagnetic levitation spring system. By acquiring the bending curves of 14 nanowires, and applying a two-segment mechanical model, an average bending modulus of 108 ± 17 GPa was obtained, which was 23% lower than the Young’s modulus of bulk ZnO in the [0001] direction. It was also found that the average fracture strain and stress inside the nanowire was above 3.1 ± 0.3 % and 3.3 ± 0.3 GPa, respectively. However, the fracture of the nanowires was governed by the quality of the nanowire/substrate interface. The demonstrated technique is a relatively simple and productive way for the accurate mechanical characterization of vertical nanowire arrays.
Polarization Switching Kinetics in Thin Ferroelectric HZO Films
Authors: Kondratyuk Ekaterina , Chouprik Anastasia
Published: November 2022

Ferroelectric polycrystalline HfO2 thin films are the most promising material for the implementation of novel non-volatile ferroelectric memories because of their attractive properties, such as compatibility with modern Si technology, perfect scalability, low power consumption and high endurance. However, for the commercialization of ferroelectric memory, some crucial aspects of its operation should be addressed, including the polarization switching mechanism that determines the switching speed. Although several reports on polarization switching kinetics in HfO2-based layers already exist, the physical origin of retardation behavior of polarization switching at the low and medium switching fields remains unclear. In this work, we examine several models of switching kinetics that can potentially explain or describe retardation behavior observed in experimental switching kinetics for Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (HZO)-based capacitors and propose a new model. The proposed model is based on a statistical model of switching kinetics, which has been significantly extended to take into account the specific properties of HZO. The model includes contributions of the depolarization field and the built-in internal field originating from the charge injection into the functional HZO layer during the read procedure as well as in-plane inhomogeneity of the total electric field in ferroelectric. The general model of switching kinetics shows excellent agreement with the experimental results.
Strengthening Analysis of Ni-Sn Alloy Layer by Double Alloying Method Combined with First-Principles Calculation
Authors: Zhang Lingyan , Xu Kai , Liang Tulu , Shi Jin
Published: November 2022

Surface modification improves the performance of materials in practical applications. In this paper, mechanical alloying pretreatment is adopted. Advanced non-equilibrium processing of a high-current pulse electron beam is then used to obtain an Sn-rich Ni-Sn alloy layer, characterized by a higher surface hardness than the initial pure nickel layer. In addition, the atomic structure of the Sn-doped nickel substrate in the alloy layer is simulated, and the improvement of the alloy layer is analyzed based on the first principle. Mechanical alloying and electron beam irradiation form fine and even nanocrystals on the surface of the nickel. Sn doping is also important for enlarging the lattice and increasing the stress.
Acetylated Nanocelluloses Reinforced Shape Memory Epoxy with Enhanced Mechanical Properties and Outstanding Shape Memory Effect
Authors: Yu Tianyu , Zhu Feilong , Peng Xiongqi , Chen Zixuan
Published: November 2022

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) have aroused much attention owing to their large deformation and programmability features. Nevertheless, the unsatisfactory toughness and brittleness of SMPs still restrict their practical intelligent applications, e.g., textiles, flexible electronics, and metamaterials. This study employed nature-derived nanocelluloses (NCs) as the reinforcement to fabricate shape memory epoxy-based nanocomposites (SMEPNs). An acetylation modification approach was further proposed to ameliorate the intrinsic incompatibility between NCs and epoxy matrix. The storage modulus increases, and the shape memory effect (SME) sustains after acetylated nanocelluloses (ANCs) incorporation. The SMEPNs with 0.06 wt.% ANCs loading perform the most exceptional toughness improvement over 42%, along with the enhanced fracture strain, elastic modulus, and ultimate strength. The incorporated nanoscale ANCs effectively impede crack propagation without deterioration of the macromolecular movability, resulting in excellent mechanical properties and SME.
Investigating microRNAs to Explain the Link between Cholesterol Metabolism and NAFLD in Humans: A Systematic Review
Authors: Konings Maurice C. J. M. , Baumgartner Sabine , Mensink Ronald P. , Plat Jogchum
Published: November 2022

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is characterized by hepatic free cholesterol accumulation. In addition, microRNAs (miRNAs) might be involved in NAFLD development. Therefore, we systematically reviewed the literature to examine the link between miRNAs and cholesterol metabolism in NAFLD. Nineteen studies were retrieved by a systematic search in September 2022. From these papers, we evaluated associations between 13 miRNAs with NAFLD and cholesterol metabolism. Additionally, their diagnostic potential was examined. Four miRNAs (miR122, 34a, 132 and 21) were associated with cholesterol metabolism and markers for NAFLD. MiR122 was upregulated in serum of NAFLD patients, increased with disease severity and correlated with HDL-C, TAG, VLDL-C, AST, ALT, ALP, lobular inflammation, hepatocellular ballooning and NAFLD score. Serum and hepatic levels also correlated. Serum and hepatic miR34a levels were increased in NAFLD, and correlated with VLDL-C and TAG. Serum miR379 was also higher in NAFLD, especially in early stages, while miR21 gave ambiguous results. The diagnostic properties of these miRNAs were comparable to those of existing biomarkers. However, serum miR122 levels appeared to be elevated before increases in ALT and AST were evident. In conclusion, miR122, miR34a, miR21 and miR132 may play a role in the development of NAFLD via effects on cholesterol metabolism. Furthermore, it needs to be explored if miRNAs 122, 34a and 379 could be used as part of a panel in addition to established biomarkers in early detection of NAFLD.
Representations of Low(er) Alcohol (Craft) Beer in the United States
Authors: Myles Colleen C. , Vander Weil Bren Vander , Wiley Delorean , Watson Bart
Published: November 2022

Given increasing social interest in health and wellness, rising cultural trends toward sobriety and moderating alcohol intake, and improvements in brewing technology, low(er) alcohol beer is a rising segment in the beer industry for both craft and larger-scale producers. In this paper, we assess the representation of low(er) alcohol beer among craft brewers in the United States. Using a novel quantitatively-informed qualitative analytical approach, we surveyed a randomized, non-representative sample of 400 craft brewery websites in the United States to assess the relative presence of low(er) alcohol beers as well as how these brews are represented by the breweries themselves. To do so, we recorded, both numerically and via website screenshots, the lowest ABV beverage on offer and noted the beer type, the beer name, and the ABV. Ales were the most prominent style of beer on offer, accounting for 62% of the low(er) ABV beers identified. Only 15.5% of the breweries surveyed in this study offered a beer with an ABV of less than 4%; however, an additional 67.9% offered a beer with an ABV of less than 5%. The representations of these low(er) alcohol products focused mostly on taste, health, and demographic indicators.
Regular Supplementation with Antioxidants Rescues Doxorubicin-Induced Bone Deformities and Mineralization Delay in Zebrafish
Authors: Poudel Sunil , Martins Gil , Cancela M. Leonor , Gavaia Paulo J.
Published: November 2022

Osteoporosis is characterized by an abnormal bone structure with low bone mass and degradation of microarchitecture. Oxidative stress induces imbalances in osteoblast and osteoclast activity, leading to bone degradation, a primary cause of secondary osteoporosis. Doxorubicin (DOX) is a widely used chemotherapy drug for treating cancer, known to induce secondary osteoporosis. The mechanism underlying DOX-induced bone loss is still not fully understood, but one of the relevant mechanisms is through a massive accumulation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (i.e., ROS and NOS) leading to oxidative stress. We investigated the effects of antioxidants Resveratrol and MitoTEMPO on DOX-induced bone impairment using the zebrafish model. DOX was shown to increase mortality, promote skeletal deformities, induce alterations on intestinal villi, impair growth and mineralization and significantly downregulate osteoblast differentiation markers osteocalcin 2 and osterix/sp7. Lipid peroxidation was significantly increased in DOX-supplemented groups as compared to control and antioxidants, suggesting ROS formation as one of the key factors for DOX-induced bone loss. Furthermore, DOX affected mineral contents, suggesting an altered mineral metabolism. However, upon supplementation with antioxidants, DOX-induced effects on mineral content were rescued. Our data show that supplementation with antioxidants effectively improves the overall growth and mineralization in zebrafish and counteracts DOX-induced bone anomalies.
High-Specificity Test Algorithm for Bovine Tuberculosis Diagnosis in African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) Herds
Authors: Clarke Charlene , Bernitz Netanya , Goosen Wynand J. , Miller Michele A.
Published: November 2022

Ante-mortem bovine tuberculosis (bTB) tests for buffaloes include the single comparative intradermal tuberculin test (SCITT), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) release assay (IGRA) and IFN-γ-inducible protein 10 release assay (IPRA). Although parallel test interpretation increases the detection of Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis)-infected buffaloes, these algorithms may not be suitable for screening buffaloes in historically bTB-free herds. In this study, the specificities of three assays were determined using M. bovis-unexposed herds, historically negative, and a high-specificity diagnostic algorithm was developed. Serial test interpretation (positive on both) using the IGRA and IPRA showed significantly greater specificity (98.3%) than individual (90.4% and 80.9%, respectively) tests or parallel testing (73%). When the SCITT was added, the algorithm had 100% specificity. Since the cytokine assays had imperfect specificity, potential cross-reactivity with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) was investigated. No association was found between NTM presence (in oronasal swab cultures) and positive cytokine assay results. As a proof-of-principle, serial testing was applied to buffaloes (n = 153) in a historically bTB-free herd. Buffaloes positive on a single test (n = 28) were regarded as test-negative. Four buffaloes were positive on IGRA and IPRA, and M. bovis infection was confirmed by culture. These results demonstrate the value of using IGRA and IPRA in series to screen buffalo herds with no previous history of M. bovis infection.
Comparative Animal Models of Human Viral Infections
Authors: Ly Hinh
Published: November 2022

Comparative animal modeling has long served as a cornerstone for understanding the biological effects of infection by many DNA and RNA viruses [...]
Prognosis of Extended-Spectrum-Beta-Lactamase-Producing Agents in Emphysematous Pyelonephritis-Results from a Large, Multicenter Series
Authors: Robles-Torres José Iván , Castellani Daniele , Trujillo-Santamaría Hegel , Teoh Jeremy Yuen-Chun , Tanidir Yiloren , Campos-Salcedo José Gadú , Bravo-Castro Edgar Iván , Wroclawski Marcelo Langer , Kumar Santosh , Sanchez-Nuñez Juan Eduardo , Espinosa-Aznar José Enrique , Ragoori Deepak , Hamri Saeed Bin , Aik Ong Teng , Tarot-Chocooj Cecil Paul , Shrestha Anil , Amine Lakmichi Mohamed , Cosentino-Bellote Mateus , Vázquez-Lavista Luis Gabriel , Kabre Boukary , Tiong Ho Yee , Gómez-Guerra Lauro Salvador , Kutukoglu Umut , Alves-Barbosa Joao Arthur Brunhara , Jaspersen Jorge , Acevedo Christian , Virgen-Gutiérrez Francisco , Agrawal Sumit , Duarte-Santos Hugo Octaviano , Ann Chai Chu , Yeoh Wei Sien , Gauhar Vineet
Published: November 2022

Background: Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a necrotizing infection of the kidney and surrounding tissues with significant mortality. We aimed to assess the clinical factors and their influence on prognosis in patients being managed for EPN with and without ESBL-producing bacteria and to identify if those with EPN due to ESBL infections fared any different. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on patients with EPN diagnosis from 22 centers across 11 countries (between 2013 and 2020). Demographics, clinical presentation, biochemical parameters, radiological features, microbiological characteristics, and therapeutic management were assessed. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to determine the independent variables associated with ESBL pathogens. A comparison of ESBL and non-ESBL mortality was performed evaluating treatment modality. Results: A total of 570 patients were included. Median (IQR) age was 57 (47–65) years. Among urine cultures, the most common isolated pathogen was Escherichia coli (62.2%). ESBL-producing agents were present in 291/556 urine cultures (52.3%). In multivariable analysis, thrombocytopenia (OR 1.616 95% CI 1.081–2.413, p = 0.019), and Huang–Tseng type 4 (OR 1.948 95% CI 1.005–3.778, p= 0.048) were independent predictors of ESBL pathogens. Patients with Huang–Tseng Scale type 1 had 55% less chance of having ESBL-producing pathogens (OR 1.616 95% CI 1.081–2.413, p = 0.019). Early nephrectomy (OR 2.3, p = 0.029) and delayed nephrectomy (OR 2.4, p = 0.015) were associated with increased mortality in patients with ESBL infections. Conservative/minimally invasive management reported an inverse association with mortality (OR 0.314, p = 0.001). Conclusions: ESBL bacteria in EPN were not significantly associated with mortality in EPN. However, ESBL infections were associated with poor prognosis when patients underwent nephrectomy compared conservative/minimally invasive management.
Comparison of Three Diagnostic Methods to Detect the Occurrence of Fasciola Species in Communally Grazed Cattle in the North West Province, South Africa
Authors: Olaogun Sunday C. , Byaruhanga Charles , Ochai Sunday O. , Fosgate Geoffrey T. , Marufu Munyaradzi C.
Published: November 2022

Fasciolosis causes significant economic losses in commercial cattle herds in South Africa, but its prevalence is unknown in most communal areas. A cross-sectional study was conducted with the aim of determining the occurrence of bovine fasciolosis using three different diagnostic methods in Moretele Local Municipality in Bojanala District, North West Province. Faecal samples were collected from 277 cattle of different breeds, ages, sex and faecal condition scores and examined using the sedimentation technique, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and faecal antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (coproELISA). All samples were negative for bovine fasciolosis using coproELISA. A total of 73 (26.4%) samples were positive using the qPCR, while 36 were positive using the sedimentation technique, with low faecal egg counts (1 to 20 eggs per gram). The qPCR detected the highest positivity (26.4%, 95% CI 21.3, 32.0) followed by the sedimentation test (13.0%; 95% CI 9.3, 17.5). Location, breed, sex, age and faecal consistency score were not associated with positive qPCR results (p > 0.05). There was also no significant agreement (kappa = −0.011, p = 0.843) between qPCR and the sedimentation technique for the detection of Fasciola spp. The qPCR appeared to be the most sensitive method for detection of Fasciola spp. Further studies are required on the characterisation of Fasciola spp. in communal cattle in South Africa.
Filoviruses: Innate Immunity, Inflammatory Cell Death, and Cytokines
Authors: Lu Jianlin , Gullett Jessica M. , Kanneganti Thirumala-Devi
Published: November 2022

Filoviruses are a group of single-stranded negative sense RNA viruses. The most well-known filoviruses that affect humans are ebolaviruses and marburgviruses. During infection, they can cause life-threatening symptoms such as inflammation, tissue damage, and hemorrhagic fever, with case fatality rates as high as 90%. The innate immune system is the first line of defense against pathogenic insults such as filoviruses. Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), including toll-like receptors, retinoic acid-inducible gene-I-like receptors, C-type lectin receptors, AIM2-like receptors, and NOD-like receptors, detect pathogens and activate downstream signaling to induce the production of proinflammatory cytokines and interferons, alert the surrounding cells to the threat, and clear infected and damaged cells through innate immune cell death. However, filoviruses can modulate the host inflammatory response and innate immune cell death, causing an aberrant immune reaction. Here, we discuss how the innate immune system senses invading filoviruses and how these deadly pathogens interfere with the immune response. Furthermore, we highlight the experimental difficulties of studying filoviruses as well as the current state of filovirus-targeting therapeutics.