bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extension of Interval-Valued Fermatean Fuzzy TOPSIS for Evaluating and Benchmarking COVID-19 Vaccines
Authors: Ilieva Galina , Yankova Tania
Published: September 2022

In order to help curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, this paper develops a multi-attribute decision-making framework for COVID-19 vaccine evaluation based on their major clinical characteristics and efficacy. Firstly, a new multi-criteria Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) modification has been constructed in an interval-valued Fermatean fuzzy (IVFF) environment, improving the shortcomings of traditional TOPSIS. Secondly, a new conceptual framework for static and dynamic evaluation of COVID-19 vaccines has been built. The proposed methodology incorporates a variety of crisp and fuzzy MCDM methods. The analysis of the results of two practical examples shows that the new framework for vaccine comparison is feasible and effective, and finally, some recommendations for enhancement of government anti-COVID-19 strategies are suggested.
A More Flexible Asymmetric Exponential Modification of the Laplace Distribution with Applications for Chemical Concentration and Environment Data
Authors: Reyes Jimmy , Rojas Mario A. , Cortés Pedro L. , Arrué Jaime
Published: September 2022

In this work, a new family of distributions based on the Laplace distribution is introduced. We define this new family by its stochastic representation as the sum of two independent random variables, one with a Laplace distribution and the other with an exponential distribution. Using a Monte Carlo simulation study, the statistical performance of the estimators obtained by the moments and maximum likelihood methods were empirically evaluated. We studied the coverage probabilities and mean length of the confidence intervals of the corresponding parameters based on the asymptotic normality of these estimators. This simulation study reported a good statistical performance of these estimators. Fits were made to three real data sets with the new distribution, two related to chemical concentrations and one to the environment, comparing it with three similar distributions given in the literature. We have used information criteria for the selection of models. These results showed that the exponentially modified Laplace model can be an alternative distribution to model skewed data with high kurtosis. The new approach is a contribution to the tools of statisticians and various professionals interested in modeling data with high kurtosis.
Optimality Conditions for Multiobjective Mathematical Programming Problems with Equilibrium Constraints on Hadamard Manifolds
Authors: Treanţă Savin , Upadhyay Balendu Bhooshan , Ghosh Arnav , Nonlaopon Kamsing
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we consider a class of multiobjective mathematical programming problems with equilibrium constraints on Hadamard manifolds (in short, (MMPEC)). We introduce the generalized Guignard constraint qualification for (MMPEC) and employ it to derive Karush–Kuhn–Tucker (KKT)-type necessary optimality criteria. Further, we derive sufficient optimality criteria for (MMPEC) using geodesic convexity assumptions. The significance of the results deduced in the paper has been demonstrated by suitable non-trivial examples. The results deduced in this article generalize several well-known results in the literature to a more general space, that is, Hadamard manifolds, and extend them to a more general class of optimization problems. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that generalized Guignard constraint qualification and optimality conditions have been studied for (MMPEC) in manifold settings.
On QTAG-Modules Having All N-High Submodules h-Pure
Authors: Hasan Ayazul , Mba Jules Clement
Published: September 2022

The paper is concerned with h-pure-N-high submodules of QTAG-modules. Here, we characterize the submodules N of an h-reduced QTAG-module for which all h-pure-N-high submodules are bounded. We also discuss some interesting properties of subsocles and consequently give a characterization of the direct sum of uniserial modules.
Krill Oil Inhibits Cholesterol Synthesis and Stimulated Cholesterol Excretion in Hypercholesterolemic Rats
Authors: Kim Ok-Kyung , Yun Jeong Moon , Kim Dakyung , Park Soo-Jeung , Lee Chungil , Go Eun Byeol , Kim Jae Sil , Park Sang Yong , Lee Jeongmin
Published: September 2022

The present study aimed to investigate the antihypercholesterolemic effects of krill oil supplementation in high-cholesterol diet-induced hypercholesterolemic rats, and the mechanisms underlying these effects. Rats were divided into five groups: normal control, control (high-cholesterol diet), krill oil 100 mg/kg b.w. (high-cholesterol diet with Krill oil 100 mg/kg b.w.), and krill oil 200 mg/kg b.w. (high-cholesterol diet with Krill oil 200 mg/kg b.w.). After 12 weeks, the rats were sacrificed to observe the effects of krill oil on cholesterol synthesis and excretion. We found that krill oil supplementation suppressed total triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol levels, as well as HMG-CoA reductase activity. It stimulated AMPK phosphorylation, LDL receptor and ACAT2 expression in the liver, and the fecal output of cholesterol. Furthermore, it decreased the levels of P-selectin, sVCAM-1, and NO, as well as aortic wall thickness, demonstrating its role in the prevention of atherosclerosis. Thus, we suggest that krill oil supplementation can reduce LDL-cholesterol levels in the blood during hypercholesterolemia by stimulating the uptake of LDL-cholesterol into tissue and cholesterol excretion, as well as inhibition of cholesterol synthesis.
Training-Induced Muscle Fatigue with a Powered Lower-Limb Exoskeleton: A Preliminary Study on Healthy Subjects
Authors: Baptista Renato , Salvaggio Francesco , Cavallo Caterina , Pizzocaro Serena , Galasso Svonko , Schmid Micaela , De Nunzio Alessandro Marco
Published: September 2022

Powered lower-limb exoskeletons represent a promising technology for helping the upright stance and gait of people with lower-body paralysis or severe paresis from spinal cord injury. The powered lower-limb exoskeleton assistance can reduce the development of lower-limb muscular fatigue as a risk factor for spasticity. Therefore, measuring powered lower-limb exoskeleton training-induced fatigue is relevant to guiding and improving such technology’s development. In this preliminary study, thirty healthy subjects (age 23.2 ± 2.7 years) performed three motor tasks: (i) walking overground (WO), (ii) treadmill walking (WT), (iii) standing and sitting (STS) in three separate exoskeleton-based training sessions of 60 min each. The changes in the production of lower-limb maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) were assessed for knee and ankle dorsiflexion and extension before and after the three exoskeleton-based trained motor tasks. The MVIC forces decreased significantly after the three trained motor tasks except for the ankle dorsiflexion. However, no significant interaction was found between time (before-, and after-training) and the training sessions except for the knee flexion, where significant fatigue was induced by WO and WT trained motor tasks. The results of this study pose the basis to generate data useful for a better approach to the exoskeleton-based training. The STS task leads to a lower level of muscular fatigue, especially for the knee flexor muscles.
Impact of Hydrophilic Modification of Synthetic Dialysis Membranes on Hemocompatibility and Performance
Authors: Zawada Adam M. , Lang Thomas , Ottillinger Bertram , Kircelli Fatih , Stauss-Grabo Manuela , Kennedy James P.
Published: September 2022

The dialyzer is the core element in the hemodialysis treatment of patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). During hemodialysis treatment, the dialyzer replaces the function of the kidney by removing small and middle-molecular weight uremic toxins, while retaining essential proteins. Meanwhile, a dialyzer should have the best possible hemocompatibility profile as the perpetuated contact of blood with artificial surfaces triggers complement activation, coagulation and immune cell activation, and even low-level activation repeated chronically over years may lead to undesired effects. During hemodialysis, the adsorption of plasma proteins to the dialyzer membrane leads to a formation of a secondary membrane, which can compromise both the uremic toxin removal and hemocompatibility of the dialyzer. Hydrophilic modifications of novel dialysis membranes have been shown to reduce protein adsorption, leading to better hemocompatibility profile and performance stability during dialysis treatments. This review article focuses on the importance of performance and hemocompatibility of dialysis membranes for the treatment of dialysis patients and summarizes recent studies on the impact of protein adsorption and hydrophilic modifications of membranes on these two core elements of a dialyzer.
A Functionalized Membrane Layer as Part of a Dressing to Aid Wound Healing
Authors: Miłek Tomasz , Grzeczkowicz Anna , Lipko Agata , Oleksinski Leszek , Kwiatkowska Angelika , Strawski Marcin , Drabik Monika , Stachowiak Radosław , Goliszewski Jerzy , Granicka Ludomira H.
Published: September 2022

Purpose: This study is an approach to a dressing platform based on support functionalized with oxygenating factors within an alginate layer, constituting a safe and even contact surface for interface with a wound. Methods: An alginate layer with incorporated oxygenating elements deposited on the support patch was assessed. As an oxygenating factor, perfluorooctyl was applied, and the layer coatings in two options, cross-linked and not, were evaluated. The function of human dermal fibroblast cells cultured in the presence of these constructs was analyzed, as well as their morphology using flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. In addition, the membrane coating material was assessed using FTIR, AFM, and SEM-EDX characterization. Results: The applied membrane coatings adsorbed on the patch ensured the viability of the human fibroblasts cultured on the membranes during 10 days of culture. However, on the sixth day of culture, the percentage of live cells grown in the presence of cross-linked alginate with oxygenating factor ((ALG-PFC)net) was significantly higher than that of the cells cultured in the presence of the alginate coatings alone. SEM-EDX analysis of the (ALG-PFC)net confirmed the presence of oxygenating and cross-linking factors. In addition, the regular granular branched structure of the layer coating material involving the oxygenating and cross-linking factors was observed using the AFM technique. Conclusion: The topography of the layer coating material involving the oxygenating and cross-linking factors ensures an even contact surface for interface with the wound. Considering 5-day intervals between dressing replacements, the platform with an oxygenating configuration ensuring the growth and morphology of the human fibroblasts can be recommended at this time as an element of a dressing system.
The Role of the Morphological Characterization of Multilayer Hydrophobized Ceramic Membranes on the Prediction of Sweeping Gas Membrane Distillation Performances
Authors: Fawzy Mohamed K. , Varela-Corredor Felipe , Boi Cristiana , Bandini Serena
Published: September 2022

This paper shows which morphological characterization method is most appropriate to simulating membrane performance in sweeping gas membrane distillation in the case of multilayer hydrophobized ceramic membranes. As a case study, capillary four-layer hydrophobic carbon-based titania membranes arranged in bundles in a shell-and-tube configuration were tested with NaCl-water solutions using air as sweeping gas, operating at temperatures from 40 to 110 °C and at pressures up to 5.3 bar. Contrary to what is generally performed for polymeric membranes and also suggested by other authors for ceramic membranes, the mass transfer across the membrane should be simulated using the corresponding values of the mean pore diameter and the porosity-tortuosity ratio of each layer and measured by the layer-by-layer (LBL) method. Comparison of the modeling results with experimental data highlights that the use of parameters averaged over the entire membrane leads to an overestimation by a factor of two to eight of the modeled fluxes, with respect to the experimental values. In contrast, the agreement between the modeled fluxes and the experimental values is very interesting when the LBL parameters are used, with a discrepancy on the order of +/−30%. Finally, the model has been used to investigate the role of operative parameters on process performances. Process efficiency should be the optimal balance between the concomitant effects of temperature and velocity of the liquid phase and pressure and velocity of the gas phase.
Fabrication of Thin Film Composite Membranes on Nanozeolite Modified Support Layer for Tailored Nanofiltration Performance
Authors: Mohammed Shabin , Nassrullah Haya , Aburabie Jamaliah , Hashaikeh Raed
Published: September 2022

Thin-film composite (TFC) structure has been widely employed in polymeric membrane fabrication to achieve superior performance for desalination and water treatment. In particular, TFC membranes with a thin active polyamide (PA) selective layer are proven to offer improved permeability without compromising salt rejection. Several modifications to TFCs have been proposed over the years to enhance their performance by altering the selective, intermediate, or support layer. This study proposes the modification of the membrane support using nanozeolites prepared by a unique ball milling technique for tailoring the nanofiltration performance. TFC membranes were fabricated by the interfacial polymerization of Piperazine (PIP) and 1,3,5-Benzenetricarbonyl trichloride (TMC) on Polysulfone (PSf) supports modified with nanozeolites. The nanozeolite concentration in the casting solution varied from 0 to 0.2%. Supports prepared with different nanozeolite concentrations resulted in varied hydrophilicity, porosity, and permeability. Results showed that optimum membrane performance was obtained for supports modified with 0.1% nanozeolites where pure water permeance of 17.1 ± 2.1 Lm−2 h−1 bar−1 was observed with a salt rejection of 11.47%, 33.84%, 94%, and 95.1% for NaCl, MgCl2, MgSO4, and Na2SO4 respectively.
Purification of Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) Serotype 2 from Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) Lysate by Chromatographic Nonwoven Membranes
Authors: Fan Jinxin , Barbieri Eduardo , Shastry Shriarjun , Menegatti Stefano , Boi Cristiana , Carbonell Ruben G.
Published: September 2022

The success of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based therapeutics in gene therapy poses the need for rapid and efficient processes that can support the growing clinical demand. Nonwoven membranes represent an ideal tool for the future of virus purification: owing to their small fiber diameters and high porosity, they can operate at high flowrates while allowing full access to target viral particles without diffusional limitations. This study describes the development of nonwoven ion-exchange membrane adsorbents for the purification of AAV2 from an Sf9 cell lysate. A strong anion-exchange (AEX) membrane was developed by UV grafting glycidyl methacrylate on a polybutylene terephthalate nonwoven followed by functionalization with triethylamine (TEA), resulting in a quaternary amine ligand (AEX-TEA membrane). When operated in bind-and-elute mode at a pH higher than the pI of the capsids, this membrane exhibited a high AAV2 binding capacity (9.6 × 1013 vp·mL−1) at the residence time of 1 min, and outperformed commercial cast membranes by isolating AAV2 from an Sf9 lysate with high productivity (2.4 × 1013 capsids·mL−1·min−1) and logarithmic reduction value of host cell proteins (HCP LRV ~ 1.8). An iminodiacetic acid cation-exchange nonwoven (CEX-IDA membrane) was also prepared and utilized at a pH lower than the pI of capsids to purify AAV2 in a bind-and-elute mode, affording high capsid recovery and impurity removal by eluting with a salt gradient. To further increase purity, the CEX-IDA and AEX-TEA membranes were utilized in series to purify the AAV2 from the Sf9 cell lysate. This membrane-based chromatography process also achieved excellent DNA clearance and a recovery of infectivity higher that that reported using ion-exchange resin chromatography.
Characterization of Al-Co-Cr-Fe-Mn-Ni High-Entropy Alloy Coating Fabricated onto AA5083 Using Wire-Arc Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Osintsev Kirill , Konovalov Sergey , Ivanov Yurii , Gromov Victor , Vorobyev Sergey , Panchenko Irina
Published: September 2022

Fabrication of thick (more than 3 mm) hard coatings on Al-Mg alloys might provide better performance in terms of increased durability, wear resistance and hardness compared with the unmodified material. In this study we fabricated Al-Co-Cr-Fe-Mn-Ni high-entropy alloy coating by wire-arc additive manufacturing onto AA5083 substrate. The aim of this study is to investigate the microstructure and mechanical properties of the coating and its influence on the substrate. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the microstructure and elemental composition of the obtained coating. Microhardness and tribological tests were implemented to evaluate the mechanical properties. The results showed homogeneous distribution of the elements alongside the transversal direction in the coating which has the following average chemical composition: Al 8 at. %, Co 28 at. %, Cr 13 at. %, Fe 33 at. %, Mn 3 at. %, Ni 15 at. %. The wear rate of the coating decreased by ~five times comparing with the substrate, while the Vickers hardness improved by ~three times. The highest level of hardness accounting for 1010 ± 80 HV was observed in the transition zone between the coating and the substrate which might be attributed to high micro- and macrostress levels appeared in this zone. The study showed the practical applicability of wire-arc additive manufacturing method to fabricate a high-entropy alloy on Al-Mg substrate.
Effect of Microstructure Morphology of Q&P Steel on Carbon and Manganese Partitioning and Stability of Retained Austenite
Authors: Xiao Huan , Zhao Gang , Xu Deming , Cheng Yuanyao , Bao Siqian
Published: September 2022

In this study, we used 0.2C-1.7Si-1.9Mn wt% cold-rolled sheet as the experimental material to prepare the Q&P sample with blocky microstructures and the QQ&P sample with lath-shaped microstructures through the Q&P and QQ&P processes, respectively. The partitioning behavior of carbon and manganese in the two samples after intercritical annealing and partitioning were studied. During the intercritical annealing, the partitioning of carbon and manganese in the Q&P and the QQ&P samples occurred, resulting in the contents of carbon and manganese being significantly higher than those in the ferrite. Meanwhile, due to the migration of the ferrite–austenite interface during the formation of the austenite, the distributions of carbon and manganese in the lath-shaped and blocky austenite were both homogenous. The morphology of the microstructures had little influence on the distribution of carbon and manganese in metastable austenite during intercritical annealing. In the partitioning, the migration of the ferrite–austenite interface and diffusion of manganese can be ignored. Carbon first diffuses from the ferrite grains to the ferrite–austenite interface and then diffuses in the austenite grains. The morphology of the microstructures has a great effect on the homogenization of carbon in austenite grains. Compared with coarse blocky austenite, lath-shaped austenite can shorten the diffusion path of carbon in austenite grains and increase the homogeneity of carbon in austenite grains, thereby improving the thermal stability of lath-shaped austenite. Compared with the Q&P sample, the QQ&P sample has higher content of retained austenite (14.74% vs. 13.96%), better elongation (25.9% vs. 19.2%), and higher product of strength and elongation (27.5 GPa% vs. 24.4 GPa%).
Evaluation of Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of X70 Pipeline Steel with Strain-Based Design
Authors: Liu Denghui , Dong Yifan , Li Rutao , Jiang Jinxing , Li Xiaoyuan , Wang Zhenlong , Zuo Xiurong
Published: September 2022

The microstructure and mechanical properties of X70 pipeline steel with a ferrite/martensite dual-phase microstructure produced by thermo-mechanical controlled processing were investigated by tensile tests, Charpy V-notched (CVN) impact tests, drop-weight tear tests, guided-bend tests, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy combined with thermodynamic simulation analysis. All the mechanical properties met the strength, ductility, toughness and deformability properties requirements of X70 grade pipeline steel with strain-based design. The shear fracture area and absorbed energy of CVN at −10 °C were >97% and >205 J in base metal (BM), weld metal (WM) and heat affected zone (HAZ) with low transition temperature, indicating adequate resistance to propagating fracture. The microstructure of WM was mainly intragranular acicular ferrite that can guarantee high strength, toughness and over matching requirements of the welded joint. Because of being exposed to successive heat inputs, the ferrite plus martensite/bainite microstructure of BM was heated between Ac1 and Ts forming the HAZ. However, a high CVN impact toughness of 345 J at −10 °C in HAZ was obtained, which indicated that the excellent mechanical properties of BM would not be seriously deteriorated during the welding thermal cycles with the reasonable addition of Ti and Nb.
Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Investigation of Prenucleation at Liquid–Metal/Oxide Interfaces: An Overview
Authors: Fang Changming , Fan Zhongyun
Published: September 2022

Prenucleation refers to the phenomenon of atomic ordering in the liquid adjacent to a liquid/solid interface at temperatures above its nucleation temperature. It produces a precursor for heterogeneous nucleation in the liquid and thus has a strong influence on the nucleation process. Oxide particles, including magnesia, spinel, and alumina, are inevitably formed in the liquid during liquid–metal handling and casting. They may act as nucleation sites for potential grain refinement. Knowledge about prenucleation at liquid–metal/oxide (M(l)/oxide) interfaces is important for an understanding of heterogeneous nucleation during casting. Here, we present an overview of the recent studies on the prenucleation at the M(l)/oxide interfaces using ab initio molecular dynamics simulation techniques. We observed a wide variety of interfacial chemistry and identified the formation of an ordered metal layer terminating the oxide substrates, such as MgO{1 1 1} (denoting MgO with {1 1 1} surface termination), α-Al2O3{0 0 0 1}, MgAl2O4{1 1 1} and γ-Al2O3{1 1 1} in liquid light metals. The terminating metal atoms are positively charged and form topologically rough layers, which strongly impact the prenucleation at the interfaces. We suggest modification of nucleation potency of the substrate surfaces via elemental segregation to manipulate the solidification processes. This is demonstrated by the segregation of La atoms at the Al(l)/γ-Al2O3 interfaces.
Effect of Active Deflection on the Forming of Tubes Manufactured by 3D Free Bending Technology
Authors: Zhang Hao , El-Aty Ali Abd , Tao Jie , Guo Xunzhong , Zheng Shuo , Cheng Cheng
Published: September 2022

The formed parts of tubes easily interfere with the equipment when forming complex tubes in 3D free bending forming technology. Consequently, to solve the interferential phenomenon, an active deflection method (ADM) to avoid interference was proposed to drive the deformed tube around its axis by controlling the bending die. The method extended the activity freedom of the equipment without installing the additional motion shafting. However, severe section distortion, surface scratches and other forming defects frequently occurred during the implementation of ADM, which reduced the structural strength and pressure resistance of the tubes. A mechanical model was developed to analyze the force state of the tube, and the results showed that the driving force of active deflection was mainly determined by the trajectory radius. The curve of the adopted bell-shaped transition structure was closer to the bending curvature of the tube than the rounded structure, which transformed the guider and the tube from linear contact to surface contact. The simulation and experiment results indicated that adding the trajectory radius could strengthen the rotation torque. The stress concentration in the tube was alleviated after applying the bell-shaped transition structure.
Time-Restricted Feeding Could Not Reduce Rainbow Trout Lipid Deposition Induced by Artificial Night Light
Authors: Xu Hanying , Shi Ce , Ye Yangfang , Song Changbin , Mu Changkao , Wang Chunlin
Published: September 2022

Artificial night light (ALAN) could lead to circadian rhythm disorders and disrupt normal lipid metabolism, while time-restricted feeding (TRF) could maintain metabolic homeostasis. In mammals, TRF has been demonstrated to have extraordinary effects on the metabolic regulation caused by circadian rhythm disorders, but studies in lower vertebrates such as fish are still scarce. In this study, the impacts of ALAN on the body composition and lipid metabolism of juvenile rainbow trout were investigated by continuous light (LL) exposure as well as whether TRF could alleviate the negative effects of LL. The results showed that LL upregulated the expression of lipid synthesis (fas and srebp-1c) genes and suppressed the expression of lipid lipolysis (pparβ, cpt-1a, and lpl) genes in the liver, finally promoting lipid accumulation in juvenile rainbow trout. However, LL downregulated the expression of genes (Δ6-fad, Δ9-fad, elovl2, and elovl5) related to long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) synthesis, resulting in a significant decrease in the proportion of LC-PUFA in the dorsal muscle. In serum, LL led to a decrease in glucose (Glu) levels and an increase in triglyceride (TG) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (H-DLC) levels. On the other hand, TRF (mid-dark stage feeding (D)) and mid-light stage feeding (L)) upregulated the expression of both the lipid synthesis (srebp-1c and pparγ), lipolysis (pparα, pparβ, and cpt-1a), and lipid transport (cd36/fat and fatp-1) genes, finally increasing the whole-body lipid, liver protein, and lipid content. Meanwhile, TRF (D and L groups) increased the proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) and LC-PUFA in serum. In contrast, random feeding (R group) increased the serum Glu levels and decreased TG, total cholesterol (T-CHO), and H-DLC levels, suggesting stress and poor nutritional status. In conclusion, ALAN led to lipid accumulation and a significant decrease in muscle LC-PUFA proportion, and TRF failed to rescue these negative effects.
Transcriptome and Metabolome Studies on Pre-Harvest Nitrogen Impact on Fruit Yield and Quality of Peach (Prunus persica L.)
Authors: Zhang Yu , Guo Jiying , Zhou Xin , Zhao Jianbo , Liu Xin , Jiang Quan , Ren Fei
Published: September 2022

Pre-harvest nitrogen (N) application has been proven effective for improving fruit yield and quality. However, a full understanding of how differences in N availability/plant N status influence the transcriptome and metabolism underlying yield formation and quality remains elusive. Here, a combined analysis of the morpho-physiological qualities, transcriptome, and metabolite of peach plants was performed under different nitrogen levels at fruit pit hardening (PH) and fruit expansion (FE). Nitrogen fertilizer directly affected the yield, fruit quality, and metabolites of peach at different growth stages. RNA-Seq was used to analyze the influence of N levels at PH and FE in peach. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis showed that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) focused on flavonoid biosynthesis and secondary metabolite biosynthetic processes. The differential metabolites among the different treatments were mainly involved in flavonoid metabolism. Transcriptome analysis showed that applying different nitrogen fertilizers at different growth stages of peach mainly affected the synthesis of flavonoids in fruit. Overall, these results suggest that the impacts of pre-harvest N application on fruit yield and quality differ between developmental stages. This research provides a full understanding of the metabolic processes underlying fruit growth and development in peach, providing a theoretical basis for the improvement of nitrogen use efficiency in peach trees.
Geranylgeraniol and Green Tea Polyphenols Mitigate Negative Effects of a High-Fat Diet on Skeletal Muscle and the Gut Microbiome in Male C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Shen Chwan-Li , Elmassry Moamen M. , Grue Katherine , Joiner Hayli E. , Jacobo A. Unique , Hamood Abdul , Chung Eunhee
Published: September 2022

Natural bioactive compounds are proposed as alternatives in mitigating obesity-associated skeletal muscle dysfunction. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that the combination of geranylgeraniol (GGOH) and green tea polyphenols (GTPs) can alleviate high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced muscle atrophy and alter gut microbiome composition. Male C57BL/6J mice fed an HFD were assigned to four groups (12 mice each) in a 2 (no GGOH vs. 400 mg GGOH/kg diet) × 2 (no GTPs vs. 0.5% weight/volume GTPs in water) factorial design. After 14 weeks of diet intervention, skeletal muscle and cecal samples were collected and examined. Compared to the control groups, the group that consumed a combination of GGOH and GTPs (GG + GTPs) had significantly decreased body and fat mass but increased skeletal muscle mass normalized by body weight and cross-sectional area. In soleus muscle, the GG + GTP diet increased citrate synthase activity but decreased lipid peroxidation. Gut microbiome beta-diversity analysis revealed a significant difference in the microbiome composition between diet groups. At the species level, the GG + GTP diet decreased the relative abundance of Dorea longicatena, Sporobacter termitidis, and Clostridium methylpentosum, and increased that of Akkermansia muciniphila and Subdoligranulum variabile. These results suggest that the addition of GGOH and GTPs to an HFD alleviates skeletal muscle atrophy, which is associated with changes in the gut microbiome composition.
Comparison of Four Electrical Interfacing Circuits in Frequency Up-Conversion Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting
Authors: Lu Han , Chen Kairui , Tang Hao , Liu Weiqun
Published: September 2022

Efficiently scavenging piezoelectric vibration energy is attracting a lot of interest. One important type is the frequency up-conversion (FUC) energy harvester, in which a low-frequency beam (LFB) impacts a high-frequency beam (HFB). In this paper, four interface circuits, standard energy harvesting (SEH), self-powered synchronous electric charge extraction (SP-SECE), self-powered synchronized switch harvesting on inductor (SP-SSHI) and self-powered optimized SECE (SP-OSECE), are compared while rectifying the generated piezoelectric voltage. The efficiencies of the four circuits are firstly tested at constant displacement and further analyzed. Furthermore, the harvested power under FUC is tested for different electromechanical couplings and different load values. The results show that SP-OSECE performs best in the case of a weak coupling or low-load resistance, for which the maximum power can be 43% higher than that of SEH. As the coupling level increases, SP-SSHI becomes the most efficient circuit with a 31% higher maximum power compared to that of SEH. The reasons for the variations in each circuit with different coupling coefficients are also analyzed.
Feasibility of Implant Strain Measurement for Assessing Mandible Bone Regeneration
Authors: Rothweiler René Marcel , Zankovic Sergej , Brandenburg Leonard Simon , Fuessinger Marc-Anton , Gross Christian , Voss Pit Jacob , Metzger Marc-Christian
Published: September 2022

Nonunion is one of the most dreaded complications after operative treatment of mandible fractures or after mandible reconstruction using vascularized and non-vascularized bone grafts. Often diagnosis is made at advanced stage of disease when pain or complications occur. Devices that monitor fracture healing and bone regeneration continuously are therefore urgently needed in the craniomaxillofacial area. One promising approach is the strain measurement of plates. An advanced prototype of an implantable strain measurement device was tested after fixation to a locking mandible reconstruction plate in multiple compression experiments to investigate the potential functionality of strain measurement in the mandibular region. Compression experiments show that strain measurement devices work well under experimental conditions in the mandibular angle and detect plate deformation in a reliable way. For monitoring in the mandibular body, the device used in its current configuration was not suitable. Implant strain measurement of reconstruction plates is a promising methodical approach for permanent monitoring of bone regeneration and fracture healing in the mandible. The method helps to avoid or detect complications at an early point in time after operative treatment.
Au Wire Ball Welding and Its Reliability Test for High-Temperature Environment
Authors: Wu Chenyang , Wang Junqiang , Liu Xiaofei , Li Mengwei , Zhu Zehua , Qi Yue
Published: September 2022

The long-term application of sensors in a high-temperature environment needs to address several challenges, such as stability at high temperatures for a long time, better wiring interconnection of sensors, and reliable and steady connection of the sensor and its external equipment. In order to systematically investigate the reliability of thin coatings at high temperatures for a long time, Au and Cr layers were deposited on silicon substrates by magnetron sputtering. Additionally, samples with different electrode thicknesses were annealed at different temperatures for a varied duration to study the effect of electrode thickness, temperature, and duration on the reliability of samples. The results of tensile and probe tests before and after heat treatment revealed that the mechanical strength and electrical properties have changed after annealing. In addition, the bonding interface was analyzed by a cross-sectional electron microscope. The analysis showed that long-term continuous high-temperature exposure would result in thinning of the electrode, formation of pores, recrystallization, and grain growth, all of which can affect the mechanical strength and electrical properties. In addition, it was observed that increasing the thickness of the gold layer will improve reliability, and the test results show that although the thin metal layer sample is in poor condition, it is still usable. The present study provides theoretical support for the application of thin coatings in high temperatures and harsh environments.
Comparative Analysis on the Effect of Surface Reflectance for Laser 3D Scanner Calibrator
Authors: Ou Jia , Xu Tingfa , Gan Xiaochuan , He Xuejun , Li Yan , Qu Jiansu , Zhang Wei , Cai Cunliang
Published: September 2022

The calibrator is one of the most important factors in the calibration of various laser 3D scanning instruments. The requirements for the diffuse reflection surface are emphasized in many national standards. In this study, spherical calibrator and plane calibrator comparative measurement experiments were carried out. The black ceramic standard sphere, white ceramic standard sphere, metal standard sphere, metal standard plane, and white ceramic standard plane were used to test the laser 3D scanner. In the spherical calibrator comparative measurement experiments, the results indicate that the RMS of the white ceramic spherical calibrator with a reflectance of approximately 60% is 10 times that of the metal spherical calibrator with the reflectance of approximately 15%, and the RMS of the black ceramic spherical calibrator with reflectance of approximately 11% is of the same order as the metal spherical calibrator. In the plane calibrators comparative measurement experiments, the RMS of the flatness measurement is 0.077 mm for the metal plane calibrator with a reflectance of 15%, and 2.915 mm for ceramic plane calibrator with a reflectance of 60%. The results show that when the optimal measurement distance and incident angle are selected, the reflectance of the calibrator has a great effect on the measurement results, regardless of the outlines or profiles. Based on the experiments, it is recommended to use the spherical calibrator or the standard plane with a reflectance of around 18% as the standard, which can obtain reasonable results. In addition, it is necessary to clearly provide the material category and surface reflectance information of the standard when calibrating the scanner according to the measurement standard.
Modeling the Heating Dynamics of a Semiconductor Bridge Initiator with Deep Neural Network
Authors: Xu Jianbing , Tan Jimin , Li Hanshi , Ye Yinghua , Chen Di
Published: September 2022

A semiconductor bridge (SCB) is an ignition device that provides a safe and efficient method widely used in civilian and military fields. The heating process of an SCB under electrical stimulation has a wide range of applications owing to its unique energy release process. However, the temperature variation of an SCB is challenging to obtain, both experimentally because of the rapid reaction on a microscale and with simulation due to its high demand in nonlinear calculations. In this study, we propose deep learning (DL) approach to study the electrothermal-coupled multi-physical heating process of the SCB initiator. We generated training data with multi-physics simulation (MPS), producing surface temperature distributions of SCBs under different voltages. The model was then trained with partial data in this database and evaluated on a separate test set. A generative adversarial network (GAN) with a customized loss function was used for modeling point-wise temperature dynamics. In the test set, our proposed method can predict the temperature distribution of an SCB under different voltages with high accuracy of over 0.9 during the heating process. We reduced the computation time by several orders of magnitude by replacing MPS with a deep neural network.
Modification of Electrode Interface with Fullerene-Based Self-Assembled Monolayer for High-Performance Organic Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Sin Dong Hun , Kim Soo Hyun , Lee Jaewon , Lee Hansol
Published: September 2022

Efficient charge transfer between organic semiconductors and electrode materials at electrode interfaces is essential for achieving high-performance organic optoelectronic devices. For efficient charge injection and extraction at the electrode interface, an interlayer is usually introduced between the organic active layer and electrode. Here, a simple and effective approach for further improving charge transfer at the organic active layer–interlayer interface was presented. Treatment of the zinc oxide (ZnO) interlayer, a commonly used n-type interlayer, with a fullerene-based self-assembled monolayer (SAM) effectively improved electron transfer at the organic–ZnO interface, without affecting the morphology and crystalline structure of the organic active layer on the cathode interlayer. Furthermore, this treatment reduced charge recombination in the device, attributed to the improved charge extraction and reduction of undesirable ZnO-donor polymer contacts. The photocurrent density and power conversion efficiency of organic solar cells employing the fullerene-SAM-treated interlayer were ~10% higher than those of the device employing the nontreated interlayer. This improvement arises from the enhanced electron extraction and reduced charge recombination.
Research on Wave Energy Harvesting Technology of Annular Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based on Multi-Electrode Structure
Authors: Wang Chun Jie , Meng Fan , Fu Qiang , Fan Chen Hui , Cui Lin
Published: September 2022

Triboelectric nanogenerators can convert wave energy into the electrical energy required by ocean sensors, but the problem of the low electrical output performance of triboelectric nanogenerators has always been a concern. In this paper, an annular triboelectric nanogenerator (A-TENG) composed of an annular outer shell and an inner ball is proposed to improve the electrical output performance of the triboelectric nanogenerator by optimizing the structural parameters and wave parameters. Using the control variables, the effects of structural parameters (structure size, number of electrodes, electrode spacing, inner ball diameter, and number of inner balls) and wave parameters (wave frequency and wave amplitude) on the electrical output performance of the A-TENG were studied by combining COMSOL simulation and experimental research. The experimental results show that increasing the diameter and number of inner spheres can improve the open-circuit voltage between electrodes; the multi-electrode structure can improve the electron transfer rate and efficiently collect wave energy in all directions; and within the range of fixed sea conditions, there is an optimal annular size, which has the advantages of good electrical output performance and small size. The electrical output performance of the A-TENG can be greatly improved by optimizing the structural parameters. There are optimal wave parameters, such that the A-TENG can maximize the ocean wave energy conversion. This low-cost, long-life, efficient, and reliable energy harvesting system is ideal for powering ocean sensors.
First Report and Comparative Genomic Analysis of a Mycoplasma mycoides Subspecies capri HN-A in Hainan Island
Authors: Zhang Zhenxing , Jiang Junming , He Meirong , Li Haoyang , Cheng Yiwen , An Qi , Chen Si , Du Li , Man Churiga , Chen Qiaoling , Li Lianbin , Wang Fengyang
Published: September 2022

Mycoplasma mycoides subspecies capri (Mmc) is one of the six Mycoplasma mycoides cluster (Mm cluster) members, which can cause “MAKePS” (Mastitis, Arthritis, Keratoconjunctivitis, Pneumonia, Septicemia) syndrome in ruminants. These symptoms can occur alone or together in individuals or flocks of goats. However, little is known about the epidemic Mmc strains in Hainan Island, China. We aimed to isolate the endemic Mmc strains in Hainan Island and reveal their molecular characteristics by genomic sequencing and comparative genomics to mitigate the impact of Mmc on local ruminant farming. Here, the Mmc HN-A strain was isolated and identified for the first time in Hainan Island, China. The genome of Mmc HN-A was sequenced. It contains a 1,084,691 bp-long circular chromosome and 848 coding genes. The genomic analysis of Mmc HN-A revealed 16 virulence factors, 2 gene islands, and a bacterial type IV secretion system protein VirD4. Comparative genomics showed that the core genome of the five Mycoplasma mycoides contained 611 genes that could be exploited to develop drugs and endemic vaccines. Additionally, 36 specific genes were included in the Mmc HN-A genome, which could provide the possibility for the further control and prevention of the Mmc effects on local ruminants and enrich the information on Mmc strains.
The Role of Mycangial Fungi Associated with Ambrosia Beetles (Euwallacea interjectus) in Fig Wilt Disease: Dual Inoculation of Fusarium kuroshium and Ceratocystis ficicola Can Bring Fig Saplings to Early Symptom Development
Authors: Jiang Zi-Ru , Morita Takeshige , Jikumaru Shota , Kuroda Keiko , Masuya Hayato , Kajimura Hisashi
Published: September 2022

The ambrosia beetle, Euwallacea interjectus, is a wood-boring pest and a vector of Ceratocystis ficicola, a pathogenic fungus causing fig (Ficus carica) wilt disease (FWD) in Japan. The ambrosia fungi, Fusarium kuroshium and Neocosmospora metavorans, have been frequently isolated from heads (including mycangia) of wild and reared adult female E. interjectus, respectively. However, the exact mechanisms driving FWD as well as the interactions between F. kuroshium and C. ficicola in fig orchard remain unclear. To verify the role of the mycangial fungi in the FWD progression, fig saplings were subjected to inoculation treatments (T1, F. kuroshium; T2, N. metavorans, reference positive control; T3, C. ficicola; T4, F. kuroshium + C. ficicola, realistic on-site combination). T3 and T4 saplings began wilting approximately 12 days after inoculation, leading to eventual death. Median duration from inoculation to death of the T4 saplings was approximately four days significantly faster than that of the T3 saplings. Xylem sap-conduction test indicated that dysfunction and necrosis area were considerably wider in the T4 saplings than in T3 saplings. These results demonstrate that the synergistic action of F. kuroshium and C. ficicola contributed to accelerated wilting in the saplings. Based on these discoveries, we proposed a model for system changes in the symbiosis between E. interjectus and its associated fungi in FWD in Japan.
Role of the Spore Coat Proteins CotA and CotB, and the Spore Surface Protein CDIF630_02480, on the Surface Distribution of Exosporium Proteins in Clostridioides difficile 630 Spores
Authors: Montes-Bravo Nicolás , Romero-Rodríguez Alba , García-Yunge José , Medina César , Pizarro-Guajardo Marjorie , Paredes-Sabja Daniel
Published: September 2022

Clostridioides difficile is Gram-positive spore-former bacterium and the leading cause of nosocomial antibiotic-associated diarrhea. During disease, C. difficile forms metabolically dormant spores that persist in the host and contribute to recurrence of the disease. The outermost surface of C. difficile spores, termed the exosporium, plays an essential role in interactions with host surfaces and the immune system. The main exosporium proteins identified to date include three orthologues of the BclA family of collagen-like proteins, and three cysteine-rich proteins. However, how the underlying spore coat influences exosporium assembly remains unclear. In this work, we explore the contribution of spore coat proteins cotA and cotB, and the spore surface protein, CDIF630_02480, to the exosporium ultrastructure, formation of the polar appendage and the surface accessibility of exosporium proteins. Transmission electron micrographs of spores of insertional inactivation mutants demonstrate that while cotB contributes to the formation of thick-exosporium spores, cotA and CDIF630_02480 contribute to maintain proper thickness of the spore coat and exosporium layers, respectively. The effect of the absence of cotA, cotB and CDIF630_02480 on the surface accessibility of the exosporium proteins CdeA, CdeC, CdeM, BclA2 and BclA3 to antibodies was affected by the presence of the spore appendage, suggesting that different mechanisms of assembly of the exosporium layer might be implicated in each spore phenotype. Collectively, this work contributes to our understanding of the associations between spore coat and exosporium proteins, and how these associations affect the assembly of the spore outer layers. These results have implications for the development of anti-infecting agents targeting C. difficile spores.