bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combating Drug Resistance by Exploiting miRNA-200c-Controlled Phase II Detoxification
Authors: Köhler Bianca , Dubovik Sviatlana , Hörterer Elisa , Wilk Ulrich , Stöckl Jan Bernd , Tekarslan-Sahin Hande , Ljepoja Bojan , Paulitschke Philipp , Fröhlich Thomas , Wagner Ernst , Roidl Andreas
Published: November 2022

Acquired drug resistance constitutes a serious obstacle to the successful therapy of cancer. In the process of therapy resistance, microRNAs can play important roles. In order to combat resistance formation and to improve the efficacy of chemotherapeutics, the mechanisms of the multifaceted hsa-miR-200c on drug resistance were elucidated. Upon knockout of hsa-miR-200c in breast carcinoma cells, a proteomic approach identified altered expression of glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) when cells were treated with the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin. In different hsa-miR-200c expression systems, such as knockout, inducible sponge and inducible overexpression, the differential expression of all members of the GST family was evaluated. Expression of hsa-miR-200c in cancer cells led to the repression of a multitude of these GSTs and as consequence, enhanced drug-induced tumor cell death which was evaluated for two chemotherapeutic drugs. Additionally, the influence of hsa-miR-200c on the glutathione pathway, which is part of the phase II detoxification mechanism, was investigated. Finally, the long-term effects of hsa-miR-200c on drug efficacy were studied in vitro and in vivo. Upon doxycycline induction of hsa-miR-200c, MDA-MB 231 xenograft mouse models revealed a strongly reduced tumor growth and an enhanced treatment response to doxorubicin. A combined treatment of these tumors with hsa-miR-200c and doxorubicin resulted in complete regression of the tumor in 60% of the animals. These results identify hsa-miR-200c as an important player regulating the cellular phase II detoxification, thus sensitizing cancer cells not expressing this microRNA to chemotherapeutics and reversing drug resistance through suppression of GSTs.
Modified BEST-J Score Model Predicts Bleeding after Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection with Fewer Factors
Authors: Okada Tomoyuki , Mikamo Tsuyoshi , Hamamoto Wataru , Iwamoto Taku , Okamoto Toshiaki , Maeda Kazunori , Yanagitani Atsushi , Tanaka Kiwamu , Isomoto Hajime , Yamaguchi Naoyuki
Published: November 2022

This study constructed a simplified post-endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) prediction model with a prognostic nutritional index (PNI). A total of 449 patients who underwent gastric ESD was included, divided with a ratio of 2:1, and assigned to the model or validation cohort. A prediction model of post-ESD (modified BEST-J score) was constructed using the model cohort. The modified BEST-J score was evaluated by comparing its accuracy to the BEST-J score in the validation cohort. Within 4 weeks of ESD, melena, hematemesis, or a 2 g/dL or greater decrease in hemoglobin level that required esophagogastroduodenoscopy was defined as post-ESD bleeding. In the model cohort, 299 patients were enrolled and 25 (8.4%) had post-ESD bleeding. Independent risk factors for post-ESD bleeding were use of P2Y12RA, tumor size > 30 mm, location of lesion at lower one-third of the stomach, and PNI ≤ 47.9. Constructing the modified BEST-J score based on these variables, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive likelihood ratio were 73.9%, 78.1%, and 3.37. When comparing the modified BEST-J score to the BEST-J score in the validation cohort, no significant difference was observed by ROC-AUC (0.77 vs. 0.75, p = 0.81). Modified BEST-J score can predict post-ESD bleeding more simply, with the same accuracy as the BEST-J score.
Immune Cell Density Evaluation Improves the Prognostic Values of Staging and p16 in Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Descamps Géraldine , Furgiuele Sonia , Mhaidly Nour , Journe Fabrice , Saussez Sven
Published: November 2022

The incidence of oropharyngeal cancers (OPSCCs) has continued to rise over the years, mainly due to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Although they were newly reclassified in the last TNM staging system, some groups still relapse and have poor prognoses. Based on their implication in oncogenesis, we investigated the density of cytotoxic and regulatory T cells, macrophages, and Langerhans cells in relation to p16 status, staging and survival of patients. Biopsies from 194 OPSCCs were analyzed for HPV by RT-qPCR and for p16 by immunohistochemistry, while CD8, FoxP3, CD68 and CD1a immunolabeling was performed in stromal (ST) and intratumoral (IT) compartments to establish optimal cutoff values for overall survival (OS). High levels of FoxP3 IT and CD1a ST positively correlated with OS and were observed in p16-positive and low-stage patients, respectively. Then, their associations with p16 and TNM were more efficient than the clinical parameters alone in describing patient survival. Using multivariate analyses, we demonstrated that the respective combination of FoxP3 or CD1a with p16 status or staging was an independent prognostic marker improving the outcome of OPSCC patients. These two combinations are significant prognostic signatures that may eventually be included in the staging stratification system to develop personalized treatment approaches.
Features on Endoscopy and MRI after Treatment with Contact X-ray Brachytherapy for Rectal Cancer: Explorative Results
Authors: Custers Petra A. , Maas Monique , Lambregts Doenja M. J. , Beets-Tan Regina G. H. , Beets Geerard L. , Peters Femke P. , Marijnen Corrie A. M. , van Leerdam Monique E. , Huibregtse Inge L. , van Triest Baukelien
Published: November 2022

After neoadjuvant (chemo)radiotherapy for rectal cancer, contact X-ray brachytherapy (CXB) can be applied aiming at organ preservation. This explorative study describes the early features on endoscopy and MRI after CXB. Patients treated with CXB following (chemo)radiotherapy and a follow-up of ≥12 months were selected. Endoscopy and MRI were performed every 3 months. Expert readers scored all the images according to structured reporting templates. Thirty-six patients were included, 15 of whom obtained a cCR. On endoscopy, the most frequently observed feature early in follow-up was an ulcer, regardless of whether patients developed a cCR. A flat, white scar and tumor mass were common at 6 months. Focal tumor signal on T2W-MRI and mass-like high signal on DWI were generally absent in patients with a cCR. An ulceration on T2W-MRI and “reactive” mucosal signal on DWI were observed early in follow-up regardless of the final tumor response. The distinction between a cCR and a residual tumor generally can be made at 6 months. Features associated with a residual tumor are tumor mass on endoscopy, focal tumor signal on T2W-MRI, and mass-like high signal on DWI. Early recognition of these features is necessary to identify patients who will not develop a cCR as early as possible.
Actin Up: An Overview of the Rac GEF Dock1/Dock180 and Its Role in Cytoskeleton Rearrangement
Authors: Koubek Emily J. , Santy Lorraine C.
Published: November 2022

Dock1, originally Dock180, was the first identified member of the Dock family of GTPase Exchange Factors. Early biochemical and genetic studies of Dock180 elucidated the functions and regulation of Dock180 and informed our understanding of all Dock family members. Dock180 activates Rac to stimulate actin polymerization in response to signals initiated by a variety of receptors. Dock180 dependent Rac activation is essential for processes such as apoptotic cell engulfment, myoblast fusion, and cell migration during development and homeostasis. Inappropriate Dock180 activity has been implicated in cancer invasion and metastasis and in the uptake of bacterial pathogens. Here, we give an overview of the history and current understanding of the activity, regulation, and impacts of Dock180.
The Role of the Immune Phenotype in Tumor Progression and Prognosis of Patients with Mycosis Fungoides: A Quantitative Immunohistology Whole Slide Approach
Authors: Aulasevich Natallia , Haist Maximilian , Försch Sebastian , Weidenthaler-Barth Beate , Mailänder Volker
Published: November 2022

Background and objectives: Mycosis fungoides (MF) is the most common type of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas, characterized by mature, skin-tropic CD4+ T-helper cells. In order to study the immune tumor microenvironment in MF patients, we performed immunohistochemical stains on MF biopsies, digitized whole-slide tissue sections, and performed quantitative analysis of the different immune cell subsets to correlate tissue parameters with the clinical data of patients, such as progression-free survival or overall survival. Patients and methods: Overall, 35 patients who were treated between 2009 and 2019 and for whom one or more paraffin tissue blocks were available have been included in the present study (58 tissue specimens in total). Conventional immunohistochemistry stains for CD3, CD4, CD8, CD20 and CD30 were used for the analysis of the immune phenotype, and quantitative analysis was performed using QuPath as a quantitative digital pathology tool for bioimage analysis of whole slides. Results: Analysis of tissue parameters for prognostic significance revealed that patients with a stronger infiltration by CD8+ lymphocytes within the tumor cell compartment had a higher risk of disease progression (p = 0.031) and showed a shorter progress-free survival (p = 0.038). Furthermore, a significant association of the percentage of CD30+ cells (median: 7.8%) with the risk of disease progression (p = 0.023) and progression-free survival (p = 0.023) was found. In relation to the clinical features of our patient cohort, a higher risk of disease progression (p = 0.015) and a shorter progression-free survival (p = 0.032) for older patients (>61 years) were observed. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated the prognostic relevance of large-cell transformation in mycosis fungoides and its strong association with the presence of CD30+ lymphocytes. Unlike previous reports, our study suggests an adverse prognostic role for CD8+ T cells in patients with mycosis fungoides. Moreover, our data indicate that the immune phenotype within the tumor microenvironment shows strong temporal heterogeneity and is altered in the course of tumor progression.
Oxidative Stress and Oocyte Cryopreservation: Recent Advances in Mitigation Strategies Involving Antioxidants
Authors: Cao Beijia , Qin Jianpeng , Pan Bo , Qazi Izhar Hyder , Ye Jiangfeng , Fang Yi , Zhou Guangbin
Published: November 2022

Oocyte cryopreservation is widely used in assisted-reproductive technology and animal production. However, cryopreservation not only induces a massive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in oocytes, but also leads to oxidative-stress-inflicted damage to mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum. These stresses lead to damage to the spindle, DNA, proteins, and lipids, ultimately reducing the developmental potential of oocytes both in vitro and in vivo. Although oocytes can mitigate oxidative stress via intrinsic antioxidant systems, the formation of ribonucleoprotein granules, mitophagy, and the cryopreservation-inflicted oxidative damage cannot be completely eliminated. Therefore, exogenous antioxidants such as melatonin and resveratrol are widely used in oocyte cryopreservation to reduce oxidative damage through direct or indirect scavenging of ROS. In this review, we discuss analysis of various oxidative stresses induced by oocyte cryopreservation, the impact of antioxidants against oxidative damage, and their underlying mechanisms. We hope that this literature review can provide a reference for improving the efficiency of oocyte cryopreservation.
Method for the Isolation of “RNA-seq-Quality” RNA from Human Intervertebral Discs after Mortar and Pestle Homogenization
Authors: Ivanov Artemii A. , Leonova Olga N. , Wiebe Daniil S. , Krutko Alexsandr V. , Gridina Mariya M. , Fishman Veniamin S. , Aulchenko Yurii S. , Tsepilov Yakov A. , Golubeva Tatiana S.
Published: November 2022

The problem of isolating high-quality total RNA from intervertebral discs has no recognized solution yet. This is due to the extremely low content of live cells in the samples and the voluminous intercellular matrix. A variety of published protocols focused on isolating RNA from articular cartilage have recommended the use of expensive equipment, enzymatic matrix cleavage, or cell culture. In our study, we used a combination of the traditional QIAzol protocol (Qiagen, Germany) and RNEasy column purification (Qiagen, Germany) to obtain high-quality RNA from post-surgical intervertebral disc fragments. Only a mortar and a pestle were used for grinding, making our method particularly accessible. The isolated RNA with a RIN of ~7 is suitable for studying the expression profile of chondrocytes in situ. RNA-seq analysis of three samples demonstrated cell type ratios to be mostly relevant to intervertebral disc tissues, with over 70% of the chondrocytes of the three subtypes having an admixture of blood-related cells.
S100A8-Mediated NLRP3 Inflammasome-Dependent Pyroptosis in Macrophages Facilitates Liver Fibrosis Progression
Authors: Liu Yan , Kong Xuehua , You Yan , Xiang Linwei , Zhang Yan , Wu Rui , Zhou Lan , Duan Liang
Published: November 2022

NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent pyroptosis has been implicated in liver fibrosis progression. However, the definite intrahepatic cell types that undergo pyroptosis and the underlying mechanism as well as the clinical importance remain unclear. Here, augmented levels of pyroptosis-related indicators GSDMD, IL-1β, and IL-18 were verified in both liver fibrosis patients and CCl4-induced fibrotic mouse model. Confocal imaging of NLRP3 with albumin, F4/80 or α-SMA revealed that enhanced NLRP3 was mainly localized to kupffer cells (KCs), indicating that KCs are major cell types that undergo pyroptosis. Targeting pyroptosis by inhibitor MCC950 attenuated the severity and ameliorated liver function in fibrosis models. In addition, elevated S100A8 in liver fibrosis patients was correlated with pyroptosis-related indicators. S100A8 stimulated pyroptotic death of macrophages, which resulted in activation of human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2 cells and increased collagen deposition. Mechanistically, S100A8 activated TLR4/NF-κB signaling and upregulated its target genes NLRP3, pro-IL-1β, and pro-IL-18 expression, and induced reactive oxygen (ROS) abundance to activate NLRP3 inflammasome, finally leading to pyroptotic cell death in macrophages. More importantly, circulating GSDMD had the optimal predicting value for liver fibrosis progression. In conclusion, S100A8-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent pyroptosis by TLR4/NF-κB activation and ROS production in macrophages facilitates liver fibrosis progression. The identified GSDMD has the potential to be a biomarker for liver fibrosis evaluation.
Association between Skin-to-Skin Contact Duration after Caesarean Section and Breastfeeding Outcomes
Authors: Juan Juan , Zhang Xiaosong , Wang Xueyin , Liu Jun , Cao Yinli , Tan Ling , Gao Yan , Qiu Yinping , Yang Huixia
Published: November 2022

We aimed to explore the association between skin-to-skin contact (SSC) duration after caesarean sections (CSs) and breastfeeding outcomes. A prospective study was conducted in four hospitals in China during January and August 2021. A total of 679 participants with singleton pregnancy who delivered by elective CS after 37 gestational weeks using epidural or spinal anesthesia were included. Logistic regression was applied to assess the association between SSC duration and early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF), as well as the promoting factors for exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) at hospital discharge. Immediate SSC after CSs was strongly associated with higher rates of EIBF (p < 0.001) and EBF at hospital discharge (p = 0.002). The EIBF rates increased with longer duration of SSC, with the at least 90 min SSC group having the highest EIBF rate (74.5%). Skin-to-skin contact durations of at least 90 min, 60–89 min and 30–59 min were significantly associated with 8.53 times (OR = 8.53, 95%CI: 4.94–14.72, Padj < 0.001), 8.04 times (95%CI: 4.68–13.80, Padj < 0.001) and 6.28 times (95%CI: 3.75–10.51, Padj < 0.001), respectively, higher EIBF rates compared to those without immediate SSC. After multiple-testing correction, the rates of EBF at hospital discharge were found to be independent of the duration of SSC (Padj = 0.12). Early initiation of breastfeeding was not a significant predictor of EBF. Our results suggested that SSC is important for EIBF in Chinese baby-friendly hospitals. Skin-to-skin contact should be practiced after CS to promote breastfeeding and providing SSC with longer duration is encouraged to obtain the full benefit; if it is not feasible, a minimum of 30 min SSC could achieve improved EIBF and EBF at discharge.
Discrimination of Steel Coatings with Different Degradation Levels by Near-Infrared (NIR) Spectroscopy and Deep Learning
Authors: Chen Mingyang , Lu Guangming , Wang Gang
Published: November 2022

Assessing the current condition of protective organic coatings on steel structures is an important but challenging task, particularly when it comes to complex structures located in harsh environments. Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is a rapid, low-cost, and nondestructive analytical technique with applications ranging from agriculture, food, and remote sensing to pharmaceuticals. In this study, an objective and reliable NIR-based technique is proposed for the accurate distinction between different coating conditions during their degradation process. In addition, a state-of-the-art deep learning method using a one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1-D CNN) is explored to automatically extract features from the spectrum. The characteristics of the spectrum show a downward trend over the entire wavenumber period, and two major absorption peaks were observed around 5250 and 4400 cm−1. The experimental results indicate that the proposed deep network structure can powerfully extract the complex characteristics inside the spectrum, and the classification accuracy of the training and testing data was 99.84% and 95.23%, respectively, which suggests that NIR spectroscopy coupled with a deep learning algorithm could be used for the rapid and accurate inspection of steel coatings.
Flexible Free-Standing Graphene-Fe2O3 Hybrid Paper with Enhanced Electrochemical Performance for Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Chuanning , Xiao Wangchuan , Ren Shizhao , Li Qiyong
Published: November 2022

The cyclic performance of flexible free-standing graphene-Fe2O3 hybrid sheet is considerably improved and was fabricated by a novel one-step hydrothermal process. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and electrochemical workstation are performed to characterize the microstructure and electrochemical performance of the graphene-Fe2O3 hybrid sheet. At a current density of 200 mA·g−1, the obtained product has a high initial discharge capacity of 1466 mAh·g−1. The nanohybrids also exhibited a considerably high reversible capacity of 765 mAh·g−1 and high Coulombic efficiency of 99.8% after 100 cycles, which benefited from the open 3D laminated nanostructure constructed by layered graphene paper and Fe2O3 nanoparticles. Therefore, the composite has excellent rate performance and stability and can be greatly extended as the anode material of lithium-ion batteries.
Controllable Water Penetration through a Smart Brass Mesh Modified by Mercaptobenzoic Acid and Naphthalenethiol
Authors: Luan Cong-Cong , Zhang Yu-Ping , Cui Cheng-Xing , Chen De-Liang , Chen Yuan , Chen Meng-Jun
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a novel pH-responsive brass mesh modified by 3-mercaptobenzoic acid (MBA) and 2-naphthalenethiol (NPT) was demonstrated via a facile chemical etching method followed by surface modification. The smart wettability was dependent on the assembled MBA and NPT with suitable thiol proportions. The on–off control of water penetrating intelligently into the nanostructured brass mesh substrate was carried out by the pH change in the outside environment. The brass mesh modified with XNPT = 0.4 (mole fraction of NBT in the mixed solution) exhibited the strongest pH responsivity from superhydrophobicity to superhydrophilicity. Furthermore, the resulted Janus membrane (JM) fabricated by the integration of a smart brass mesh and hydrophobic Ni foam could be used as a water diode in air and liquid systems. Unidirectional penetration for the water droplet was realized by the resulting smart JM with a hydrophobic upper layer and a pH-responsive layer below.
Effect of Deposition Temperature on the Surface, Structural, and Mechanical Properties of HfO2 Using Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)
Authors: Bi Mengran , Zhu Junyu , Luo Yuan , Cai Hongzhong , Li Xuming , Wang Xian , Wei Yan , Wang Xiao , Hu Changyi , Hu Jinquan , Zhang Guixue , Wang Xingqiang , Zhang Xuxiang
Published: November 2022

A high-temperature-resistant and high-performance hafnium oxide (HfO2) coating for aerospace engines was developed. HfO2 thin film coatings were prepared by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) at 1200, 1250, 1300, and 1350 °C, respectively. The crystal structure and surface morphology of the HfO2 thin films at different deposition temperatures were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The effect of deposition temperature on the mechanical properties of the HfO2 thin films was studied by means of the drainage method and nanoindentation. The results showed that the HfO2 coatings deposited at different deposition temperatures are monoclinic crystal structures, and the surface morphology changes from cellular particles to columnar particles, and finally, to a loose and porous layered structure. When the deposition temperature is 1300 °C, the density of the HfO2 film is the highest, 9.62 ± 0.03 g/cm3, and the hardness is the highest, 7.33 ± 0.04 GPa. A HfO2 coating with the best comprehensive mechanical properties was prepared by changing the deposition temperature, which provided an experimental basis for the application of a HfO2 coating in the aerospace field.
Crystal Structure, Hirshfeld Analysis, and DFT Calculations of Three Trinuclear Cu(II) Polymorphs
Authors: Rue Kelly , Mathivathanan Logesh , Mezei Gellert , Mebel Alexander , Raptis Raphael
Published: November 2022

The crystal structure of the ferromagnetically-coupled CuII3−pyrazolato complex, (Bu4N)2[Cu3(μ3-Cl)2(μ-4-NO2-pz)3Cl3] (1a, pz = pyrazolato anion), was originally determined in the triclinic P-1 space group. By varying the recrystallization solvent and temperature, two additional true polymorphs were crystallized in the monoclinic P21/n (1b) and orthorhombic Pbca (1c) space groups. Comparison of the metric parameters of the three polymorphs revealed only minor variations in their bond lengths and angles but clearly distinguishable packing patterns. The DFT calculations showed that, in vacuum, 1a had the lowest energetic minimum (also the densest of three polymorphs), whereas 1b and 1c lay at 6.9 kcal/mol and 7.8 kcal/mol higher energies. The existence of isolable 1b and 1c is, therefore, attributed to the intermolecular interactions analyzed by the Hirshfeld methods.
Field-Induced Transition in (Nd,Dy)2Fe14B in Ultrahigh Magnetic Fields
Authors: Kostyuchenko N. V. , Tereshina I. S. , Bykov A. I. , Galanova S. V. , Kozabaranov R. V. , Korshunov A. S. , Strelkov I. S. , Makarov I. V. , Filippov A. V. , Kudasov Yu. B. , Maslov D. A. , Platonov V. V. , Surdin O. M. , Repin P. B. , Selemir V. D. , Zvezdin A. K.
Published: November 2022

We demonstrate the peculiarities of the magnetization process in the ferrimagnetic intermetallic compound (Nd0.5Dy0.5)2Fe14B, which has been studied theoretically and experimentally using ultrahigh magnetic fields. We observe phase transition induced by external ultrahigh magnetic fields (up to 170 T) and also describe the magnetization process analytically in terms of critical transition fields. In this work, the first and second critical fields of the field-induced magnetic transitions, Hc1 and Hc2, were estimated, and the results were verified against experimental data for Hc1. Critical field Hc2 predicting the place of transition to the forced-ferromagnetic state was estimated for the first time for (Nd0.5Dy0.5)2Fe14B compound. A comparison of the magnetization behavior for (Nd0.5Dy0.5)2Fe14B with the basic systems Nd2Fe14B and Dy2Fe14B is also performed. We demonstrate that, in the Dy2Fe14B compound, the field-induced transition type is changed from the first to the second order due to the replacement of the Nd atom by Dy one.
Silica Nanoparticles-Induced Lysozyme Crystallization: Effects of Particle Sizes
Authors: Zhang Yuxiao , Jiang Xuntao , Wu Xia , Wang Xiaoqiang , Huang Fang , Li Kefei , Zheng Gaoyang , Lu Shengzhou , Ma Yanxu , Zhou Yuyu , Yu Xiaoxi
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to explore the effects of nucleate agent sizes on lysozyme crystallization. Silica nanoparticles (SNP) with four different particle sizes of 5 nm, 15 nm, 50 nm, and 100 nm were chosen for investigation. Studies were carried out both microscopically and macroscopically. After adding SNP, the morphological defects of lysozyme crystals decreased, and the number of crystals increases with the size of the SNP. The interaction between SNP and lysozyme was further explored using UV spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and Zeta potential. It was found that the interaction between SNP and lysozyme was mainly electrostatic interaction, which increased with the size of SNP. As a result, lysozyme could be attracted to the surface of SNP and aggregated to form the nucleus. Finally, the activity test and circular dichroism showed that SNP had little effect on protein secondary structure.
Pseudovertical Schottky Diodes on Heteroepitaxially Grown Diamond
Authors: Weippert Jürgen , Reinke Philipp , Benkhelifa Fouad , Czap Heiko , Giese Christian , Kirste Lutz , Straňák Patrik , Kustermann Jan , Engels Jan , Lebedev Vadim
Published: November 2022

Substrates comprising heteroepitaxially grown single-crystalline diamond epilayers were used to fabricate pseudovertical Schottky diodes. These consisted of Ti/Pt/Au contacts on p− Boron-doped diamond (BDD) layers (1015–1016 cm−3) with varying thicknesses countered by ohmic contacts on underlying p+ layers (1019–1020 cm−3) on the quasi-intrinsic diamond starting substrate. Whereas the forward current exhibited a low-voltage shunt conductance and, for higher voltages, thermionic emission behavior with systematic dependence on the p− film thickness, the reverse leakage current appeared to be space-charge-limited depending on the existence of local channels and thus local defects, and depending less on the thickness. For the Schottky barriers ϕSB, a systematic correlation to the ideality factors n was observed, with an “ideal” n = 1 Schottky barrier of ϕSB = 1.43 eV. For the best diodes, the breakdown field reached 1.5 MV/cm.
Dynamic Properties of Non-Autonomous Femtosecond Waves Modeled by the Generalized Derivative NLSE with Variable Coefficients
Authors: Adel Mohamed , Aldwoah Khaled , Alharbi Farrie , Osman Mohamed S.
Published: November 2022

The primary purpose of this study is to analyze non-autonomous femtosecond waves with various geometrical configurations correlated to the generalized derivative nonlinear Shrödinger equation (NLSE) with variable coefficients. Numerous academic publications, especially in nonlinear optics, material science, semiconductor, chemical engineering, and many other fields, have looked into this model since it is closer to real-world situations and has more complex wave structures than models with constant coefficients. It can serve as a reflection for the slowly altering inhomogeneities, non-uniformities, and forces acting on boundaries. New complex wave solutions in two different categories are proposed: implicit and elliptic (or periodic or hyperbolic) forms are obtained for this model via the unified method. Indeed, the innovative wave solutions that were achieved and reported here are helpful for investigating optical communication applications as well as the transmission characteristics of light pulses.
Nicotine-Free E-Cigarettes Might Promote Tobacco Smoking Reduction Better Than Nicotine Delivery Devices: Results of a Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial at 1 Year
Authors: Lucchiari Claudio , Masiero Marianna , Mazzocco Ketti , Veronesi Giulia , Maisonneuve Patrick , Jemos Costantino , Salè Emanuela Omodeo , Spina Stefania , Bertolotti Raffaella , Busacchio Derna , Pravettoni Gabriella
Published: November 2022

The purpose of the present study was to determine whether the use of e-cigarettes to aid in quitting contributed to the increase in the pulmonary health of chronic smokers. The efficacy of e-cigarettes to support a successful smoking cessation attempt was also investigated. A total of 210 smokers (78 women) were enrolled in a screening program for the early detection of lung cancer and distributed in three arms: nicotine e-cigarette plus support, nicotine-free e-cigarette plus support, and support. Results showed that participants in the nicotine e-cigarette arm had a significant and fast decrease in daily cigarettes, but that later they resume smoking more than the other two groups. Conversely, participants in the other two arms showed similar daily consumption at the two evaluation points. Among abstinent participants, only 12.5% reported cough, while 48% of current smokers had pulmonary symptoms. Our study suggests that, in the long run, the use of a nicotine-free liquid may favor reducing smoking and could be considered a good option in a clinical setting.
The Effects of Sampling Depth on Benthic Testate Amoeba Assemblages in Freshwater Lakes: A Case Study in Lake Valdayskoe (the East European Plain)
Authors: Sysoev Vlad V. , Tsyganov Andrey N. , Reshetnikov Fedor Y. , Mazei Yuri A.
Published: November 2022

Testate amoebae are widely used as proxies in paleoecological reconstructions of lacustrine environments; however, our knowledge on their distribution along depth gradients are limited. This study investigates the distribution of benthic testate amoebae along a sampling depth gradient (0 to 57 m) and related environmental characteristics in Lake Valdayskoe, Russia. In total, 101 species belonging to twenty-one genera were identified. Four types of testate amoeba assemblages (littoral, sublittoral, bottom slope and profundal) were distinguished that corresponded well to the bottom zones of the lake. The results of redundancy analysis indicated that sampling depth, temperature, pH and bottom inclination significantly explained 40.2% of the total variance in the species composition. Temperature and sampling depth had the largest individual contributions of 19.2 and 7.4% (p < 0.001), respectively. The minimal values of species diversity were observed on the littoral and at the lower boundary of the thermocline. We estimated depth optima and ranges for the species with high occurrences and distinguish stenobathic and eurybathic species. These data might improve the interpretations of paleoecological records of subfossil testate amoeba assemblages in lacustrine surface sediments and serve as basis for the development of a transfer function for reconstruction of lake depths.
Similarity-Based Adaptive Window for Improving Classification of Epileptic Seizures with Imbalance EEG Data Stream
Authors: Fatlawi Hayder K. , Kiss Attila
Published: November 2022

Data stream mining techniques have recently received increasing research interest, especially in medical data classification. An unbalanced representation of the classification’s targets in these data is a common challenge because classification techniques are biased toward the major class. Many methods have attempted to address this problem but have been exaggeratedly biased toward the minor class. In this work, we propose a method for balancing the presence of the minor class within the current window of the data stream while preserving the data’s original majority as much as possible. The proposed method utilized similarity analysis for selecting specific instances from the previous window. This group of minor-class was then added to the current window’s instances. Implementing the proposed method using the Siena dataset showed promising results compared to the Skew ensemble method and some other research methods.
Levitated Micromagnets in Superconducting Traps: A New Platform for Tabletop Fundamental Physics Experiments
Authors: Vinante Andrea , Timberlake Chris , Ulbricht Hendrik
Published: November 2022

Magnetically levitated microparticles have been proposed as mechanical sensors with extreme sensitivity. In particular, micromagnets levitated above a superconductor can achieve very low levels of dissipation and thermal noise. In this paper, we review recent initial experiments and discuss the potential for using these systems as sensors of magnetic fields and rotational motion, as well as possible applications to fundamental physics.
Universal Single-Mode Lasing in Fully Chaotic Billiard Lasers
Authors: You Mengyu , Sakakibara Daisuke , Makino Kota , Morishita Yonosuke , Matsumura Kazutoshi , Kawashima Yuta , Yoshikawa Manao , Tonosaki Mahiro , Kanno Kazutaka , Uchida Atsushi , Sunada Satoshi , Shinohara Susumu , Harayama Takahisa
Published: November 2022

By numerical simulations and experiments of fully chaotic billiard lasers, we show that single-mode lasing states are stable, whereas multi-mode lasing states are unstable when the size of the billiard is much larger than the wavelength and the external pumping power is sufficiently large. On the other hand, for integrable billiard lasers, it is shown that multi-mode lasing states are stable, whereas single-mode lasing states are unstable. These phenomena arise from the combination of two different nonlinear effects of mode-interaction due to the active lasing medium and deformation of the billiard shape. Investigations of billiard lasers with various shapes revealed that single-mode lasing is a universal phenomenon for fully chaotic billiard lasers.
Addressing the Problem of Poverty through an International Cooperation Project: The Case Study of Agriculture Development by JICA in Cameroon
Authors: Bamenju Agho Oliver , Liu Xiaoyue , Yu Jeongsoo , Okubo Kazuaki
Published: November 2022

In this era of globalization, with social problems extending across social and geographical boundaries, partnerships between governments and international organizations are key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Agriculture is essential to reducing poverty in Cameroon. Since 2002, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has contributed to agricultural development through various projects in Cameroon. However, research has not been conducted to determine the contributions of agricultural development to poverty reduction. The aim of this study is to outline current agricultural problems and international cooperation projects in Cameroon. A social inquiry involving the collection of qualitative and quantitative data was conducted to assess whether agricultural projects have contributed to increasing income and alleviating other multidimensional indicators of poverty amongst the beneficiaries. In this paper, we provide useful recommendations with respect to solving the problem of poverty and achieving the SDGs. The analysis revealed that agriculture projects have significantly contributed to an increase in income, wellbeing and standard of living of the project beneficiaries. African countries, such as Cameroon, need to address poverty by improving the agricultural sector because these nations cannot currently maintain a stable crop production. International cooperation in the agricultural sector can help to increase crop yields, incomes and quality of life.
Accurate Design of Microwave Filter Based on Surrogate Model-Assisted Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Yongliang , Wang Xiaoli , Wang Yanxing , Yan Ningchaoran , Feng Linping , Zhang Lu
Published: November 2022

Filter optimization problems involve time-consuming simulations and many variables in the design. These problems require a large amount of computation. This paper proposes an adaptive online updating 1D convolutional autoencoders (AOU-1D-CAE) surrogate model for solving this computationally expensive problem. In the optimization process, an adaptive update surrogate mapping between input variables and output objectives is constructed within the surrogate model AOU-1D-CAE framework. AOU-1D-CAE can replace electromagnetic (EM) simulation software for data collection, and select and automatically use the accumulated data as training samples to train the AOU-1D-CAE surrogate model. With more and more training samples, the learning ability of the surrogate model is also becoming stronger and stronger. The experimental results show that the data collection efficiency of AOU-1D-CAE is greatly improved, and the automatic update of the sample set improves the prediction performance of the surrogate model. In this paper, the optimization framework is AOU-1D-CAE-assisted particle swarm optimization (PSO), and the surrogate model assists PSO to find the global optimal solution. In the PSO stage, PSO automatically updates and saves the optimal solution, and takes the optimal solution of each stage as the initial solution of the next optimization stage to avoid falling into the local optimal solution. The optimization time is greatly saved and the optimization efficiency is improved. The continuous iteration of PSO also improves the prediction accuracy of the surrogate model. The efficiency of the proposed surrogate model is demonstrated by using two cavity filters as examples.
Modification of Battery Separators via Electrospinning to Enable Lamination in Cell Assembly
Authors: Veitl Jakob , Weber Hans-Konrad , Frankenberger Martin , Pettinger Karl-Heinz
Published: November 2022

To meet the requirements of today’s fast-growing Li-ion battery market, cell production depends on cheap, fast and reliable methods. Lamination of electrodes and separators can accelerate the time-consuming stacking step in pouch cell assembly, reduce scrap rate and enhance battery performance. However, few laminable separators are available on the market so far. This study introduces electrospinning as a well-suited technique to apply thin functional polymer layers to common battery separator types, enabling lamination. The method is shown to be particularly appropriate for temperature resistant ceramic separators, for which stable interfaces between separator and electrodes were formed and capacity fading during 600 fast charging cycles was reduced by 44%. In addition, a straightforward approach to apply the method to other types of separators is presented, including separator characterization, coating polymer selection, mechanical tests on intermediates and electrochemical validation in pouch cells. The concept was successfully used for the modification of a polyethylene separator, to which a novel fluoroelastomer was applied. The stability of the electrode/separator interface depends on the polymer mass loading, lamination temperature and lamination pressure, whereas poorly selected lamination conditions may cause damage on the separator. Appropriate adhesion force of 8.3 N/m could be achieved using a polymer loading as low as 0.25 g/m2. In case separator properties, coating polymer, morphology of the fibrous coating and lamination conditions are well adjusted to each other, the implementation of electrospinning and lamination allows for faster, more flexible and robust pouch cell production at comparable or better electrochemical cell behaviour.
Reducing CO2 Emissions from Wastewater Treatment Plants by Utilising Renewable Energy Sources—Case Study
Authors: Płuciennik-Koropczuk Ewelina , Myszograj Sylwia , Mąkowski Mirosław
Published: November 2022

The European Parliament’s climate and energy policy, which aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 considerably, imposes on Member States the duty to develop National Action Plans (NAPs), which determine the percentage of renewable energy sources (RES) in gross energy consumption. Poland assumed a percentage of renewable energy sources in gross energy consumption of 21–23% in the NREAP. In 2020, Poland’s utilisation of renewable energy sources was 16.2% (22nd among EU nations), which was lower than the European average. The municipal sector, particularly sewage treatment facilities, can undoubtedly contribute to an increase in renewable energy generation and utilisation. Wastewater and sewage sludge are excellent sources of heat and energy in the methane fermentation process, and the sewage treatment plant area is perfect for solar panel installation. The article is a case study that presents the possibility of decreasing CO2 emissions from wastewater treatment facilities by 45,000 PE due to using renewable energy sources such as photovoltaics and cogeneration. The average monthly CO2 emission reduced from 68,905 kg CO2/ month to 37,385 kg CO2/month with the adoption of renewable energy sources.
Improving the Reliability of an Electric Power System by Biomass-Fueled Gas Engine
Authors: Clavijo-Camacho Jesús , Ruiz-Rodriguez Francisco J.
Published: November 2022

This paper shows a practice to raise the reliability of an electric power system by the installation of distributed generation, taking gasified biomass as fuel. To calculate the reliability index, a probabilistic load flow was used. This index is determined as the fault probability of the system. The resolution of this probabilistic load flow combines the method of cumulants and Gram–Charlier expansion. To achieve the reliability index, simulating a number of contingencies is required; the greater the number of simulated contingencies, the higher the accuracy of the index obtained. This probabilistic technique uses the random variables as starting information, so the two generators and loads are simulated as random variables. The generators of this distributed generation are biomass-fueled gas engines, commonly found in Spain. The simulations carried out on the IEEE 14-bus Test System, including three biomass generators, show that the inclusion of this type of generation improves the overall reliability indices of the electrical system.
Experimental Study on Heat Transfer Characteristics of Two-Phase Flow in Square and Rectangular Channels
Authors: Zhang Jingzhi , Zhang Bo , Lei Li , Cheng Cheng , Xu Jinjin , Zhou Naixiang
Published: November 2022

Two-phase flow in non-circular cross-section flow channels such as micro-heat sinks and micro-channel heat exchangers has received extensive attention due to its heat-enhancing properties. In this paper, under the boundary of constant heat flux, an experimental investigation of the heat transfer properties of gas–liquid two-phase flow in horizontal channels with cross-sections of 4 × 4 mm and 8 × 3 mm is carried out using air and water as working fluids. The effects of different inlet gas and liquid inlet Reynolds numbers on the wall temperature and Nusselt number are discussed. The results show that the effects of the liquid Reynolds number and the gas phase Reynolds number on the heat transfer coefficient of the square tube and the rectangular tube are different. Under the same gas–liquid Reynolds number, the Nusselt number of the gas–liquid two-phase flow in the square-section tube can be increased by 3.2 times compared with that in the single-phase flow, while the Nusselt number of the gas–liquid two-phase flow in the rectangular tubes can be increased by 1.87 times. The results of this paper provide a reference for the design of microchannel heat exchangers and the establishment of mathematical models for Taylor flow heat transfer in rectangular and square tubes.
Autonomous Vehicle Adoption in Developing Countries: Futurist Insights
Authors: Zali Nader , Amiri Sara , Yigitcanlar Tan , Soltani Ali
Published: November 2022

In recent years, research into autonomous vehicles (AVs) has become highly popular in industrialized nations due to their importance in the future success of smart cities. Research on this mobility technology and the critical elements affecting its development in developing countries, however, has been rather limited. This paper aims to shed light on the most influential elements of AV adoption in developing nations. A structural analysis approach is used, based on the primary qualitative data—that was gathered via an expert-opinion poll utilizing the fuzzy Delphi with a snowballing method and engaging 25 experts in the field in two rounds—, in accordance with the tradition of futurist research. The analysis has led to the identification of 11 key factors, from the initial factor pool of 54, affecting AV adoption in the case study context of Iran. The results of the analysis revealed the following conclusions, that fall under the policy and legislation domain, and present the most significant issues impacting AV adoption: (a) Future orientation of government—consistency and of accountability of policies, the long-term vision of the government for developing AVs industry; (b) Managing the international sanctions for foreign investment, and; (c) Funding mega projects to enable AVs. The results indicate that the establishment of legislation and the formulation of government policy regarding the provision of infrastructure, investment, and credit allocation are crucial for the development of AVs in Iran and other developing nations with comparable characteristics.
Specificity of Burning of Porous Combustible Material Used as Cartridge Case
Authors: Surma Zbigniew , Leciejewski Zbigniew , Trębiński Radosław
Published: November 2022

The combustible cartridge case has become an integral part of many modern weapons systems. The energetic and burning characteristics of the combustible case can have a significant impact on shot parameters. This paper describes Closed Vessel Tests (CVTs) performed on combustible cartridge case material and presents a method of determining the physical burning law and the linear burning rate of the tested material. The method was verified on the basis of the results of CVT of the felted combustible cartridge case material of a 120 mm tank round. It is shown that, in the case of porous combustible materials, the standard methods of determining the burning rate fail. The porosity of combustible materials greatly increases the burning surface and heat feedback from the burning zone to the unburned structure. These effects significantly increase the burning rate of porous materials. The results of analysis show the strong dependence of the burning rate on pressure. The results of this study can be applied in the modeling of gun propellant systems that contain combustible case elements.
Sub Synchronous Oscillations under High Penetration of Renewables—A Review of Existing Monitoring and Damping Methods, Challenges, and Research Prospects
Authors: Perera Uvini , Oo Amanullah Maung Than , Zamora Ramon
Published: November 2022

With the recent developments in renewable energy generation and addition of power electronic devices, power system dynamics have become extremely complex. One of the challenges faced due to this transition is the sub synchronous oscillations caused by the interaction of renewable energy sources and various components of the power grid. Recently reported incidents due to sub synchronous oscillations highlight the need of monitoring and suppression of these harmful oscillations in real time. This paper gives an overview of the phenomena of sub synchronous oscillations and discusses the existing monitoring and damping techniques along with their limitations. Further, it highlights the research trends along this path.