bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Galangin and Its In Vitro/In Vivo Metabolites via Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography/Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zhao Feng , Ma Yinling , Yin Jintuo , Li Ying , Cao Yanli , Zhang Lantong
Published: October 2022

Galangin, a naturally available flavonoid, induces a variety of pharmacological activities and biological effects via several mechanisms. However, in vivo metabolism of galangin has not been fully explored, which means knowledge of its pharmacodynamics and application potential is limited. The objective of this study was to establish an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry method for the rapid profiling and identification of galangin metabolites in vitro and in vivo using unique online information-dependent acquisition with multiple mass defect filtering combined with dynamic background subtraction in positive ion mode. A total of 27 metabolites were detected and characterized, among which eight metabolites in liver microsomes and four metabolites in intestinal microflora were characterized, and 27 metabolites from rat plasma, bile, urine, feces, and a number of different tissue samples were characterized. Thirteen major metabolic pathways including hydrogenation, hydroxylation, glycosylation, methylation, acetylation, glucuronidation, and sulfation were observed to be attributable to the biotransformation of the metabolites. This study provides evidence for the presence of in vitro and in vivo metabolites and the pharmacokinetic mechanism of galangin. Moreover, the study promotes the further development and utilization of galangin and the plant from which it is derived, Alpinia officinarum Hance.
Mammary Fibrosis Tendency and Mitochondrial Adaptability in Dairy Cows with Mastitis
Authors: Kan Xingchi , Hu Guiqiu , Liu Yiyao , Xu Ping , Huang Yaping , Cai Xiangyu , Guo Wenjin , Fu Shoupeng , Liu Juxiong
Published: October 2022

Dairy cow mammary gland fibrosis causes huge economic losses to livestock production, however, research on dairy cow mammary gland fibrosis is in its infancy and it lacks effective treatments. Therefore, the purpose of this experiment was to explore the correlation between mastitis and fibrosis and mitochondrial damage, and to further explore its pathogenesis. In vivo, mammary tissue and milk samples were collected from healthy cows (n = 10) and mastitis cows (n = 10). The results of the study showed that compared with the control group, the mastitis tissue showed tissue damage, accumulation of collagen fibers, and the content of TGF-β1 in mammary tissue and milk was significantly increased; the level of inflammatory mediators was significantly increased; the fibrotic phenotype, collagen 1, α-SMA, vimentin gene, and protein levels were significantly increased, while the E-cadherin gene and protein levels were significantly decreased. In vitro, based on TGF-β1-induced bMECs, the above experimental results were further confirmed, and TGF-β1 significantly promoted the fibrotic phenotype of bMECs. On the other hand, in vivo results showed that fibrotic mammary tissue had a significantly stronger mitochondrial damage phenotype and significantly higher ROS than the control group. In vitro, the results also found that TGF-β1 induced a significant increase in the mitochondrial damage phenotype of bMECs, accompanied by a large amount of ROS production. Furthermore, in a TGF-β1-induced bMEC model, inhibiting the accumulation of ROS effectively alleviated the elevated fibrotic phenotype of TGF-β1-induced bMECs. In conclusion, the fibrotic phenotype of mammary gland tissue in dairy cows with mastitis was significantly increased, and mastitis disease was positively correlated with mammary fibrotic lesions. In an in vitro and in vivo model of cow mammary fibrosis, bMECs have impaired mitochondrial structure and dysfunction. Inhibiting the accumulation of ROS effectively alleviates the elevated fibrotic phenotype, which may be a potential therapeutic approach to alleviate mammary fibrosis.
Discrete Correlation Summation Clustering Reveals Differential Regulation of Liver Metabolism by Thrombospondin-1 in Low-Fat and High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice
Authors: Bronson Steven M. , Westwood Brian , Cook Katherine L. , Emenaker Nancy J. , Chappell Mark C. , Roberts David D. , Soto-Pantoja David R.
Published: October 2022

Thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) is a matricellular protein with many important roles in mediating carcinogenesis, fibrosis, leukocyte recruitment, and metabolism. We have previously shown a role of diet in the absence of TSP1 in liver metabolism in the context of a colorectal cancer model. However, the metabolic implications of TSP1 regulation by diet in the liver metabolism are currently understudied. Therefore Discrete correlation summation (DCS) was used to re-interrogate data and determine the metabolic alterations of TSP1 deficiency in the liver, providing new insights into the role of TSP1 in liver injury and the progression of liver pathologies such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). DCS analysis provides a straightforward approach to rank covariance and data clustering when analyzing complex data sets. Using this approach, our previous liver metabolite data was re-analyzed by comparing wild-type (WT) and Thrombospondin-1 null (Thbs1−/−) mice, identifying changes driven by genotype and diet. Principal component analysis showed clustering of animals by genotype regardless of diet, indicating that TSP1 deficiency alters metabolite handling in the liver. High-fat diet consumption significantly altered over 150 metabolites in the Thbs1−/− livers versus approximately 90 in the wild-type livers, most involved in amino acid metabolism. The absence of Thbs1 differentially regulated tryptophan and tricarboxylic acid cycle metabolites implicated in the progression of NAFLD. Overall, the lack of Thbs1 caused a significant shift in liver metabolism with potential implications for liver injury and the progression of NAFLD.
Metabolomic Analysis of Exosomes Derived from Lung Cancer Cell Line H460 Treated with SH003 and Docetaxel
Authors: Choi Yu-Jeong , Lee Kangwook , Jeong Miso , Shin Yong Cheol , Ko Seong-Gyu
Published: October 2022

Exosomes released from tumor cells treated with cancer-targeting drugs reflect altered metabolic processes within the cells. Therefore, metabolites in exosomes can be used as markers to predict the therapeutic response or identify therapeutic targets. In this study, metabolite changes in exosomes were investigated by co-administration of the herbal extract SH003 and docetaxel (DTX), which exert a synergistic anti-cancer effect on lung cancer cells. Exosomes released from cells treated with SH003 and DTX were purified, and untargeted metabolic profiling was performed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Analysis of altered metabolic-based pathways showed that the combined treatment synergistically increased pyrimidine metabolism compared with single-drug treatment. Additionally, xenobiotic metabolism by cytochrome P450 was specifically increased in cells treated with the combination. However, the released exosomes and increased metabolites in exosomes did not affect the anti-cancer effect of SH003 and DTX. Therefore, our study suggests that metabolite profiling can be used to evaluate the efficacy of combined treatments. Furthermore, such exosome-based metabolism may facilitate understanding the physiological endpoints of combination therapy in human biofluids.
Bacterial Volatile Isovaleric Acid Triggers Growth Alteration of Arabidopsis Seedlings
Authors: Murata Jun , Watanabe Takehiro , Komura Hajime
Published: October 2022

Bacterial volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) released from selected soil microbes have been shown to trigger the alteration of plant growth. However, the substances responsible for such bioactivity and the mechanism of how plants interpret and respond to BVOCs remain largely elusive. Here, we established a model bioassay system using Arabidopsis and Bacillus spp. and found that Bacillus BVOCs interfere with the normal growth of Arabidopsis seedlings. Moreover, through a bioassay-guided purification, we identified isovaleric acid (IVA) as a volatile compound that exhibits inhibitory growth activity towards Arabidopsis seedlings. Our data provide novel molecular insights into how short-chain fatty acids released from soil microbes can affect plant growth through interkingdom signals.
Circulating microRNA Related to Cardiometabolic Risk Factors for Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Authors: Brandão-Lima Paula N. , de Carvalho Gabrielli B. , Payolla Tanyara B. , Sarti Flavia M. , Rogero Marcelo M.
Published: October 2022

MicroRNA regulates multiple pathways in inflammatory response, adipogenesis, and glucose and lipid metabolism, which are involved in metabolic syndrome (MetS). Thus, this systematic review aimed at synthesizing the evidence on the relationships between circulating microRNA and risk factors for MetS. The systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42020168100) and included 24 case-control studies evaluating microRNA expression in serum/plasma of individuals ≥5 years old. Most of the studies focused on 13 microRNAs with higher frequency and there were robust connections between miR-146a and miR-122 with risk factors for MetS, based on average weighted degree. In addition, there was an association of miR-222 with adiposity, lipid metabolism, glycemic metabolism, and chronic inflammation and an association of miR-126, miR-221, and miR-423 with adiposity, lipid, and glycemic metabolism. A major part of circulating microRNA was upregulated in individuals with risk factors for MetS, showing correlations with glycemic and lipid markers and body adiposity. Circulating microRNA showed distinct expression profiles according to the clinical condition of individuals, being particularly linked with increased body fat. However, the exploration of factors associated with variations in microRNA expression was limited by the variety of microRNAs investigated by risk factor in diverse studies identified in this systematic review.
Effects of Dietary Cottonseed Protein Concentrate Levels on Growth Performance, Health Status, Flesh Quality and Intestinal Microbiota of Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus)
Authors: Liu Guoqing , Zhou Meng , Wang Xiaoyu , Mao Xiangjie , Long Xianmei , Xie Shouqi , Han Dong , Tan Qingsong
Published: October 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional value of cottonseed protein concentrate (CPC) as a single dietary protein source and the optimal protein level for grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus). An 8-week feeding trial was conducted by feeding juvenile grass carp (initial body weight: 4.68 ± 0.01 g) with six experimental diets containing graded levels of protein provided by CPC. The results showed that the optimal CPC level (CPC4) improved the growth performance and health status of grass carp. The optimal dietary protein level was estimated to be 38.61 and 38.66% based on specific growth rate (SGR) and feed efficiency (FE), respectively. The CPC4 group significantly increased the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) content and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in the hepatopancreas (p < 0.05). In addition, the CPC4 group increased the muscle T-AOC and glutathione (GSH) content and improved muscle hardness, and the gene expression of MRFs, fgf6a, myhc-7, myhc-1, myhc-4, igf-II, and tor was upregulated while mstn gene expression was downregulated (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed that the optimal dietary CPC level promoted grass carp growth, health, and flesh quality by regulating the relative abundance of intestinal microbes. Furthermore, CPC6 upregulated the ko00480 (Glutathione metabolism) and ko00620 (Pyruvate metabolism) pathways compared to CPC1 (p < 0.05), possibly indicating that low dietary CPC levels adversely affected amino acid metabolism in the intestinal microbiota of grass carp, while a high level of CPC will meet the metabolic needs of the body by increasing the utilization of energy.
Monitoring Colonies of Large Gulls Using UAVs: From Individuals to Breeding Pairs
Authors: Corregidor-Castro Alejandro , Riddervold Marie , Holm Thomas Eske , Bregnballe Thomas
Published: October 2022

Measuring success or failure in the conservation of seabirds depends on reliable long-term monitoring. Traditionally, this monitoring has been based on line transects and total or point counts, all of which are sensitive to subjective interpretation. Such methods have proven to consistently record fewer individuals than intensive efforts, while requiring many hours of fieldwork and resulting in high disturbance. New technologies, such as drones, are potentially useful monitoring tools, as they can cover large areas in a short time, while providing high-resolution data about bird numbers and status. This study conducted two types of Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) surveys in a big colony of multispecies breeding gulls. From a 25 m height, we photographed 30 circle plots where nests were also counted on the ground, showing that the number of occupied nests/breeding pairs could be estimated accurately by multiplying the number of counted individuals with a 0.7 conversion factor. A fixed-wing UAV was used to photograph the entire island to compare drone counts with counts conducted by traditional methods, were we counted a higher number of breeding pairs than the traditional count (1.7–2.2 times more individuals). It was concluded that UAVs provided improved estimates of colony size with much reduced monitoring effort.
Electrochemical Sensor for Bilirubin Detection Using Paper-Based Screen-Printed Electrodes Functionalized with Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Anzar Nigar , Suleman Shariq , Kumar Rocky , Rawal Rachna , Pundir Chandra Shekhar , Pilloton Roberto , Narang Jagriti
Published: October 2022

A notable diagnostic for the detection of hemolytic diseases is bilirubin, a by-product of haemoglobin breakdown. The concentration of bilirubin ranges from 0.3 to 1.9 mg in 100 mL of blood. Low blood bilirubin levels are associated with a greater risk of coronary heart disease and anaemia. Hyperbilirubinemia results from a serum bilirubin level of more than 2.5 mg/100 mL. Therefore, it is very crucial to check the serum bilirubin level. Analytical equipment for point-of-care testing must be portable, small, and affordable. A unique method is used to detect bilirubin selectively using paper-based screen-printed carbon electrodes that were covalently linked with nanoparticles, that serves as a key biomarker for jaundice. In order to create an electrochemical biosensor, bilirubin oxidase was immobilised on electrodes modified with AgNPs. The morphology of Ag nanoparticles in terms of size and shape was determined using both UV- Vis Spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The biosensor’s analytical response was assessed using potentiostat (Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV)). The developed paper-based sensor provided optimum feedback and a broad linear range of 1 to 9 µg/mL for bilirubin, with a lower LOD of 1 µg/mL. Through tests of bilirubin in artificial blood serum, the viability is confirmed. The method that is being used makes it possible to create and use an inexpensive, miniature electrochemical sensor.
Nominal-Model-Based Sliding-Mode Control for Traveling-Wave Ultrasonic Motor
Authors: Liang Jing , Jing Kai , Dong Yan , Lin Xiaping , Wang Yuqing
Published: October 2022

Traveling-wave ultrasonic motors (TWUSMs) have strong nonlinearity and uncertainty, which are sensitive to the environment, disturbances, and load changes. Thus, precision control of TWUSMs is hard to achieve with traditional methods for complex driving mechanisms. A nominal-model-based sliding-mode control strategy with strong robustness is proposed to achieve accurate speed control of TWUSMs. Firstly, a second-order nominal model of the speed difference and output torque was deduced to construct a nonlinear sliding-mode surface; then, a nonlinear sliding-mode controller was designed with the collaborative regulation of frequency and the amplitude of two-phase control voltages. The global asymptotic stability of the controller was proved under bounded disturbances and parameter uncertainty. Finally, the effectiveness and accurate control were testified to and verified by the simulations and experiments, which showed good robustness and a disturbance rejection of the strategy for TWUSMs, with strong nonlinearity and uncertainty.
pH-Responsive PVA-Based Nanofibers Containing GO Modified with Ag Nanoparticles: Physico-Chemical Characterization, Wound Dressing, and Drug Delivery
Authors: Rahmani Erfan , Pourmadadi Mehrab , Zandi Nayereh , Rahdar Abbas , Baino Francesco
Published: October 2022

Site-specific drug delivery and carrying repairing agents for wound healing purposes can be achieved using the intertwined three-dimensional structure of nanofibers. This study aimed to optimize and fabricate poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-graphene oxide (GO)-silver (Ag) nanofibers containing curcumin (CUR) using the electrospinning method for potential wound healing applications. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometry, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), and zeta potential were used to characterize the nanostructures. The mechanical properties of the nanostructures were subsequently examined by tensile strength and elongation test. As shown by MIC analysis of E. coli and S. aureus bacteria, the fabricated nanofibers had superior inhibitory effects on the bacteria growth. Ag nanoparticles incorporation into the nanofibers resulted in increased loading and encapsulation efficiencies from 21% to 56% and from 61% to 86%, respectively. CUR release from PVA/GO-Ag-CUR nanofiber at pH 7.4 was prevented, while the acidic microenvironment (pH 5.4) increased the release of CUR from PVA/GO-Ag-CUR nanofiber, corroborating the pH-sensitivity of the nanofibers. Using the in vitro wound healing test on NIH 3T3 fibroblast cells, we observed accelerated growth and proliferation of cells cultured on PVA/GO-Ag-CUR nanofibers.
A Conservative Level Set Approach to Non-Spherical Drop Impact in Three Dimensions
Authors: Pan Xu , Wang Ying , Shen Mingguang
Published: October 2022

A recently developed conservative level set model, coupled with the Navier-Stokes equations, was invoked to simulate non-spherical droplet impact in three dimensions. The advection term in the conservative level set model was tackled using the traditional central difference scheme on a half-staggered grid. The pressure velocity coupling was decoupled using the projection method. The inhouse code was written in Fortran and was run with the aid of the shared memory parallelism, OpenMP. Before conducting extensive simulations, the model was tested on meshes of varied resolutions and validated against experimental works, with satisfyingly qualitative and quantitative agreement obtained. The model was then employed to predict the impact and splashing dynamics of non-spherical droplets, with the focus on the effect of the aspect ratio. An empirical correlation of the maximum spread factor was proposed. Besides, the number of satellite droplets when splashing occurs was in reasonable agreement with a theoretical model.
A Linear Ultrasonic Motor Based on Coupling Vibration Mode
Authors: Lu Danhong , Liu Hong , Xu Jianqiao , Yang Ting , Hu Hanwen
Published: October 2022

A coupled linear ultrasonic motor (LUSM) based on an eccentric constraint was proposed. Two pieces of oblique piezoelectric ceramics were arranged at each end of the elastomer, and the polarization direction of the ceramics was vertically upward. Using the tilting characteristics of the piezoelectric ceramics, the two ends of the fixed piezoelectric ceramics formed an eccentric restraint on the motor, providing conditions for the motor to generate coupled modes. When the elastomer of the motor generated the coupling vibration, the motion trajectories of the driving feet ends were oblique straight lines, and the oblique straight-line motion trajectories of the upper and lower driving feet ends were in opposite directions, driving the upper and lower sliders to run simultaneously. The stator parameters were optimized by using ANSYS to obtain larger amplitudes for the ends of the driving feet in both X and Z directions. The structure and operation principle of the motor are explained in detail. A prototype was fabricated to study the arrangement scheme with fixed constraints at the ends of the motor. The frequency–velocity characteristics, voltage–velocity characteristics, and mechanical characteristics of the motor were tested. The no-load speed and maximum output power were measured to be 45.9 mm/s and 3.24 mW.
Localized Surface Hydrophilicity Tailoring of Polyimide Film for Flexible Electronics Manufacturing Using an Atmospheric Pressure Ar/H2O Microplasma Jet
Authors: Ji Bowen , Wang Tao , Li Meng , Shi Liping , You Xiaoli , Sun Fanqi , Luan Haiwen
Published: October 2022

The poor hydrophilicity of polyimide (PI) films limits their applications in flexible electronics, such as in wearable and implantable bio-MEMS devices. In this paper, an atmospheric pressure Ar/H2O microplasma jet (μAPPJ) with a nozzle diameter of 100 μm was utilized to site-selectively tune the surface hydrophilicity of a PI film. The electrical and optical characteristics of the μAPPJ were firstly investigated, and the results showed that multi-spikes occurred during the plasma discharge and that diverse reactive species, such as O atoms and OH radicals, were generated in the plasma plume. The physical and chemical properties of pristine and microplasma-modified PI surfaces were characterized by the water contact angle (WCA), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The wettability of the PI surface was significantly enhanced after microplasma modification, and the WCA could be adjusted by varying the applied voltage, water vapor content, plasma treatment time and storage time. The AFM images indicated that the surface roughness increased after the plasma treatment, which partially contributed to an improvement in the surface hydrophilicity. The XPS results showed a reduction in the C content and an increase in the O content, and abundant hydrophilic polar oxygen-containing functional groups were also grafted onto the PI film surface. Finally, the interaction mechanism between the PI molecular chains and the microplasma is discussed. The breaking of C-N and C-O bonds and the grafting of OH radicals were the key pathways to dominate the reaction process.
A High-Performance and Flexible Architecture for Accelerating SDN on the MPSoC Platform
Authors: Sha Meng , Guo Zhichuan , Guo Yunfei , Zeng Xuewen
Published: October 2022

Software-defined networking has been developing in recent years and the separation of the control plane and the data plane has made networks more flexible. Due to its flexibility, the software method is used to implement the data plane. However, with increasing network speed, the CPU is becoming unable to meet the requirements of high-speed packet processing. FPGAs are usually used as dumb switches to accelerate the data plane, with all intelligence centralized in the remote controller. However, the cost of taking the intelligence out of the switch is the increased latency between the controller and the switch. Therefore, we argue that the control decisions should be made as locally as possible. In this paper, we propose a novel architecture with high performance and flexibility for accelerating SDN based on the MPSoC platform. The control plane is implemented in the on-chip CPU and the data plane is implemented in the FPGA logic. The communication between the two components is performed using Ethernet communication. We design a high-performance TCAM based on distributed RAM. The architecture employs a pipeline design with modules connected via the AXI Stream interface. The designed architecture is flexible enough to support multiple network functions while achieving high performance at 100 Gbps. As far as we know, the architecture is the first proposed in the design of a 100 Gbps system.
Recent Advances in Tracking Devices for Biomedical Ultrasound Imaging Applications
Authors: Peng Chang , Cai Qianqian , Chen Mengyue , Jiang Xiaoning
Published: October 2022

With the rapid advancement of tracking technologies, the applications of tracking systems in ultrasound imaging have expanded across a wide range of fields. In this review article, we discuss the basic tracking principles, system components, performance analyses, as well as the main sources of error for popular tracking technologies that are utilized in ultrasound imaging. In light of the growing demand for object tracking, this article explores both the potential and challenges associated with different tracking technologies applied to various ultrasound imaging applications, including freehand 3D ultrasound imaging, ultrasound image fusion, ultrasound-guided intervention and treatment. Recent development in tracking technology has led to increased accuracy and intuitiveness of ultrasound imaging and navigation with less reliance on operator skills, thereby benefiting the medical diagnosis and treatment. Although commercially available tracking systems are capable of achieving sub-millimeter resolution for positional tracking and sub-degree resolution for orientational tracking, such systems are subject to a number of disadvantages, including high costs and time-consuming calibration procedures. While some emerging tracking technologies are still in the research stage, their potentials have been demonstrated in terms of the compactness, light weight, and easy integration with existing standard or portable ultrasound machines.
Enhanced Performance of Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes via Phenylmethylamine Passivation
Authors: Yu Shisong , Zhang Kai , Cai Xiangcheng , Tu Peng , Zhou Yuanming , Mei Fei
Published: October 2022

Organic-inorganic perovskite materials are widely used in the preparation of light-emitting diodes due to their low raw material cost, solution preparation, high color purity, high fluorescence quantum yield, continuously tunable spectrum, and excellent charge transport properties. It has become a research hotspot in the field of optoelectronics today. At present, the nonradiative recombination and fluorescence quenching occurring at the interface between the device transport layer and the light-emitting layer are still important factors limiting the performance of perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs). In this work, based on CH3NH3PbBr3 perovskite, the effects of parameters such as precursor solution, anti-solvent chlorobenzene (CB), and small amine molecule phenylmethylamine (PMA) on the performance of perovskite films and devices were investigated. The research results show that adding an appropriate amount of PMA can reduce the grain size of perovskite, improve the coverage of the film, enhance the crystallinity of the film, and increase the fluorescence intensity of the perovskite film. When the PMA content is 0.050 vol.%, the maximum luminance of PeLEDs is 2098 cd/m2 and the maximum current efficiency is 1.592 cd/A, which is greatly improved by 30% and 64.8% compared with the reference device without PMA doping. These results suggest that an appropriate amount of PMA can effectively passivate the defects in perovskite films, and inhibit the non-radiative recombination caused by the traps, thereby improving the optoelectronic performance of the device.
Energy Dissipation Rate and Micromixing in a Two-Step Micro-Reactor with Intensively Swirled Flows
Authors: Abiev Rufat Sh. , Makusheva Irina V.
Published: October 2022

The influence of the hydrodynamics (flow rates Q, specific energy dissipation rate ε) on the micromixing in a two-step microreactor with intensively swirled flows (MRISF-2) was studied experimentally. Three methods of liquid input into the reactor were compared: (i) through the upper tangential and axial nozzles (TU1, Ax); (ii) through two upper tangential nozzles (TU1, TU2); (iii) through the upper and lower tangential nozzles (TU1, TL2). Segregation index Xs used as a measure of micromixing level was determined by means of iodide iodate reaction method. The Bernoulli equation for a device with two inputs and one output was derived to assess the energy consumption. It was revealed that in MRISF-2 up to 99.8–99.9% of input energy is dissipated, i.e., transformed into liquid element deformations thus resulting in better micromixing. For each of three liquid inputs, the dependence ε = f(Q) could be fairly approximated by an exponent ε = A1Qn1, with n1 ≈ 3.0. For connection (TU1, TU2) the dependence Xs = f(ε) falls linearly for Q > 2 L/min, but for the low flow rates (Q ≈ 1 L/min) there is an unusually small Xs value; the effect of good micromixing is caused by the kinetic energy concentrated in a small volume of liquid near the neck. The best behavior in terms of micromixing was achieved for the (TU1, Ax) connection scheme: the level of Xs ≈ 0.01 for ε ≈ 30 W/kg, and comes down with growing ε to Xs ≈ 0.002 for ε ≈ 30,000 W/kg. These values are 50 and 250 times lower compared to the mixing in a lab glass with a magnetic stirrer, as shown in our previous work. The parameters of dependencies Xs=A3εn3 were found for (TU1, Ax) and (TU1, TL2).
Combined Effect of TID Radiation and Electrical Stress on NMOSFETs
Authors: Cao Yanrong , Wang Min , Zheng Xuefeng , Zhang Enxia , Lv Ling , Wang Liang , Ma Maodan , Lv Hanghang , Wang Zhiheng , Wang Yongkun , Tian Wenchao , Ma Xiaohua , Hao Yue
Published: October 2022

The combined effect of total ionizing dose (TID) and electrical stress is investigated on NMOSFETs. For devices bearing both radiation and electrical stress, the threshold voltage shift is smaller than those only bearing electrical stress, indicating that the combined effect alleviates the degradation of the devices. The H bond is broken during the radiation process, which reduces the participation of H atoms in the later stage of electrical stress, thereby reducing the degradation caused by electrical stress. The positive charges of the oxide layer generated by radiation neutralize part of the tunneling electrons caused by electrical stress, and consume some of the electrons that react with the H bond, resulting in weaker degradation. In addition, the positive charges in shallow trench isolation (STI) generated by radiation create parasitic leakage paths at the interfaces of STI/Si, which increase the leakage current and reduce the positive shift of the threshold voltage. The parasitic effect generated by the positive charges of STI makes the threshold voltage of the narrow-channel device degrade more, and due to the gate edge effect, the threshold voltage of short-channel devices degrades more.
Electrical Performance of 28 nm-Node Varying Channel-Width nMOSFETs under DPN Process Treatments
Authors: Chao Shou-Yen , Lan Wen-How , Fan Shou-Kong , Zhon Zi-Wen , Wang Mu-Chun
Published: October 2022

The decoupled-plasma nitridation treatment process is an effective recipe for repairing the trap issues when depositing high-k gate dielectric. Because of this effect, electrical performance is not only increased with the relative dielectric constant, but there is also a reduction in gate leakage. In the past, the effect of nitridation treatment on channel-length was revealed, but a channel-width effect with that treatment was not found. Sensing the different nano-node channel-width n-channel MOSFETs, the electrical characteristics of these test devices with nitridation treatments were studied and the relationship among them was analyzed. Based on measurement of the VT, SS, Gm, ION, and IOFF values of the tested devices, the electrical performance of them related to process treatment is improved, including the roll-off effect of channel-width devices. On the whole, the lower thermal budget in nitridation treatment shows better electrical performance for the tested channel-width devices.
Design of GHz Mechanical Nanoresonator with High Q-Factor Based on Optomechanical System
Authors: Jin Jun , Hu Ningdong , Zhan Lamin , Wang Xiaohong , Zhang Zenglei , Hu Hongping
Published: October 2022

Micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) have dominated the interests of the industry due to its microminiaturization and high frequency for the past few decades. With the rapid development of various radio frequency (RF) systems, such as 5G mobile telecommunications, satellite, and other wireless communication, this research has focused on a high frequency resonator with high quality. However, the resonator based on an inverse piezoelectric effect has met with a bottleneck in high frequency because of the low quality factor. Here, we propose a resonator based on optomechanical interaction (i.e., acoustic-optic coupling). A picosecond laser can excite resonance by radiation pressure. The design idea and the optimization of the resonator are given. Finally, with comprehensive consideration of mechanical losses at room temperature, the resonator can reach a high Q-factor of 1.17 × 104 when operating at 5.69 GHz. This work provides a new concept in the design of NEMS mechanical resonators with a large frequency and high Q-factor.
The Relevant Approaches for Aligning Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Yin Zhifu , Ding Ao , Zhang Hui , Zhang Wang
Published: October 2022

Carbon-nanotube (CNT) is a promising material owing to its compelling mechanical, thermal and electrical properties and has been applied in a broad variety of fields such as composite, fiber, film and microelectronic. Although the introductions of CNT have brought huge improvement for many applications, these properties of macrostructures prepared by CNTs still cannot meet those of individual CNT. Disordered alignment of CNTs in the matrix results in degradation of performance and hinders further application. Nowadays, quantities of methods are being researched to realize alignments of CNTs. In this paper, we introduce the application of CNTs and review some typical pathways for vertical and horizontal alignment, including chemical vapor disposition, vertical self-assembly, external force, film assisted, electric field, magnetic field and printing. Besides that, advantages and disadvantages of specific methods are also discussed. We believe that these efforts will contribute to further understanding the nature of aligned CNT and generating more effective ideas to the relevant workers.
A Novel Algorithm for Scenario Recognition Based on MEMS Sensors of Smartphone
Authors: Li Xianghong , Yuan Hong , Yang Guang , Gong Yingkui , Xu Jiajia
Published: October 2022

The scenario is very important to smartphone-based pedestrian positioning services. The smartphone is equipped with MEMS(Micro Electro Mechanical System) sensors, which have low accuracy. Now, the methods for scenario recognition are mainly machine-learning methods. The recognition rate of a single method is not high. Multi-model fusion can improve recognition accuracy, but it needs to collect many samples, the computational cost is high, and it is heavily dependent on feature selection. Therefore, we designed the DT-BP(decision tree-Bayesian probability) scenario recognition algorithm by introducing the Bayesian state transition model based on experience design in the decision tree. The decision-tree rules and state transition probability assignment methods were respectively designed for smartphone mode and motion mode. We carried out experiments for each scenario and compared them with the methods in the references. The results showed that the method proposed in this paper has a high recognition accuracy, which is equivalent to the accuracy of multi-model machine learning, but it is simpler, easier to implement, requires less computation, and requires fewer samples.
Three-Dimensional Cell Drawing Technique in Hydrogel Using Micro Injection System
Authors: Shinagawa Takuya , Miyata Shogo
Published: October 2022

Fabrication of three-dimensional tissues using living cells is a promised approach for drug screening experiment and in vitro disease modeling. To study a physiological neuronal function, three-dimensional cell patterning and construction of neuronal cell network were required. In this study, we proposed a three-dimensional cell drawing methodology in hydrogel to construct the three-dimensional neuronal cell network. PC-12 cells, which were used as neuronal cell differentiation model, were dispensed into a collagen hydrogel using a micro injector with a three-dimensional position control. To maintain the three-dimensional position of cells, atelocollagen was kept at sol-gel transition state during cell dispensing. As the results, PC-12 cells were patterned in the atelocollagen gel to form square pattern with different depth. In the patterned cellular lines, PC-12 cells elongated neurites and form a continuous cellular network in the atelocollagen gel. It was suggested that our three-dimensional cell drawing technology has potentials to reconstruct three-dimensional neuronal networks for an investigation of physiological neuronal functions.
Prediction Method of Steel Corrosion Rate Based on the Helix Distributed Sensor
Authors: Li Jian-Zhi , Zhao Yi-Yao , Wang Jun-Jie
Published: October 2022

Corrosion of steel bars is of great significance for safety and service life of reinforced concrete structures. This work develops a prediction method for steel corrosion mass loss rate before the crack of concrete structure based on a spiral distributed fiber optic sensor. Reinforced concrete sample instrumented with a spiral distributed fiber optic sensor were prepared. The mathematic relationship between the corrosion mass loss rate of steel bar and the spiral distributed strain is theoretically derived. Meanwhile, numerical analysis by MATLAB shows that these parameters such as the protective layer thickness, corrosion mass loss rate, bar diameter, corrosion expansion coefficient have a remarkable influence on spiral distributed strain. Additionally, electrical accelerated corrosion experiment was performed on the reinforced concrete specimens. The helix strain along the distributed sensor was used to evaluate the corrosion mass loss of steel bar. Further, the influencing factors on the corrosion sensitivity are illustrated here and the corrosion mass loss rate before concrete crack is also quantified. This research provides insights into the corrosion deteriorate mechanism.
Conduction Mechanism Analysis of Abrupt- and Gradual-Switching InGaZnO Memristors
Authors: Choi Woo Sik , Song Min Suk , Kim Hyungjin , Kim Dae Hwan
Published: October 2022

In this work, two types of InGaZnO (IGZO) memristors were fabricated to confirm the conduction mechanism and degradation characteristics of memristors with different electrode materials. The IGZO memristor exhibits abrupt switching characteristics with the Pd electrode owing to the formation and destruction of conductive filaments but shows gradual switching characteristics with the p-type Si electrode according to the amount of generated oxygen vacancy. The electrical characteristics and conduction mechanisms of the device are analyzed using an energy band diagram and experimentally verified with random telegraph noise characteristics confirming the trap effects on the device conduction.
Performance of Air-Conditioning System with Different Nanoparticle Composition Ratio of Hybrid Nanolubricant
Authors: Zawawi Nurul Nadia Mohd , Azmi Wan Hamzah , Ghazali Mohd Fairusham , Ali Hafiz Muhammad
Published: October 2022

To reduce fuel consumption, the automotive air-conditioning (AAC) system’s coefficient of performance (COP) needs to be improved. The use of a diverse selection of hybrid nanolubricant composition ratios is expected to improve the properties of single nanolubricants, resulting in improved AAC system performance. The goal of this study was to find the best combination of hybrid nanolubricants for the best performance of the AAC system. Al2O3-SiO2/PAG hybrid nanolubricants at 0.06% volume concentrations with various composition ratios (20:80, 40:60, 50:50, 60:40, and 80:20) were investigated. An initial refrigerant charge of up to 155 g and a compressor speed of up to 2100 rpm were used in the experiment. The cooling capacity, compressor work, and COP of the AAC system were measured to determine its efficiency. The COP enhancement and compressor work reduction were recorded up to 16.31% and 18.65% for the 60:40 composition ratio, respectively. The maximum cooling capacity up to 75.84% was recorded for the 80:20 ratio, followed by 60:40. The maximum COP value of 8.81 for 155 g of hybrid nanolubricants was obtained at 900 rpm with a 60:40 composition ratio. Therefore, for optimal performance in the AAC system, a 60:40 composition ratio of the Al2O3-SiO2/PAG nanolubricant combination is strongly recommended.
Determining the Antibiofilm Efficacy of Oregano Gel in an Ex Vivo Model of Percutaneous Osseointegrated Implants
Authors: Ong Jemi , Godfrey Rose , Isaacson Brad , Pasquina Paul , Williams Dustin
Published: October 2022

Biofilm contamination is common in patients with percutaneous osseointegrated (OI) implants, leading to frequent infections, irritation, and discomfort. Reported infection rates soar up to 65% as the recalcitrant nature of biofilms complicates treatment. There is persistent need for therapies to manage biofilm burden. In response, we formulated and tested oregano essential oil in a topical gel as a potential biofilm management therapy. We developed an ex vivo system based on an established ovine OI implant model with Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 biofilms as initial inocula. Gel was administered to the samples across a period of five days. Samples were quantified and colony forming unit (CFU) counts were compared against a positive control (initial bacterial inocula without treatment). Significant biofilm reduction was observed in samples treated with oregano gel compared to controls, demonstrating the potential of an oregano oil-based gel as a biofilm management therapy at the skin-implant interface of percutaneous OI implants.
Campylobacter jejuni in Poultry: Pathogenesis and Control Strategies
Authors: Al Hakeem Walid Ghazi , Fathima Shahna , Shanmugasundaram Revathi , Selvaraj Ramesh K.
Published: October 2022

C. jejuni is the leading cause of human foodborne illness associated with poultry, beef, and pork consumption. C. jejuni is highly prevalent in commercial poultry farms, where horizontal transmission from the environment is considered to be the primary source of C. jejuni. As an enteric pathogen, C. jejuni expresses virulence factors regulated by a two-component system that mediates C. jejuni’s ability to survive in the host. C. jejuni survives and reproduces in the avian intestinal mucus. The avian intestinal mucus is highly sulfated and sialylated compared with the human mucus modulating C. jejuni pathogenicity into a near commensal bacteria in poultry. Birds are usually infected from two to four weeks of age and remain colonized until they reach market age. A small dose of C. jejuni (around 35 CFU/mL) is sufficient for successful bird colonization. In the U.S., where chickens are raised under antibiotic-free environments, additional strategies are required to reduce C. jejuni prevalence on broilers farms. Strict biosecurity measures can decrease C. jejuni prevalence by more than 50% in broilers at market age. Vaccination and probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, organic acids, bacteriophages, bacteriocins, and quorum sensing inhibitors supplementation can improve gut health and competitively exclude C. jejuni load in broilers. Most of the mentioned strategies showed promising results; however, they are not fully implemented in poultry production. Current knowledge on C. jejuni’s morphology, source of transmission, pathogenesis in poultry, and available preharvest strategies to decrease C. jejuni colonization in broilers are addressed in this review.
MALDI-TOF MS Limits for the Identification of Mediterranean Sandflies of the Subgenus Larroussius, with a Special Focus on the Phlebotomus perniciosus Complex
Authors: Huguenin Antoine , Pesson Bernard , Kaltenbach Matthieu L. , Diarra Adama Zan , Parola Philippe , Depaquit Jérôme , Randrianambinintsoa Fano José
Published: October 2022

Leishmania infantum is the agent of visceral leishmaniasis in the Mediterranean basin. It is transmitted by sandflies of the subgenus Larroussius. Although Phlebotomus perniciosus is the most important vector in this area, an atypical Ph. perniciosus easily confused with Ph. longicuspis has been observed in North Africa. MALDI-TOF MS, an important tool for vector identification, has recently been applied for the identification of sandflies. Spectral databases presented in the literature, however, include only a limited number of Larroussius species. Our objective was to create an in-house database to identify Mediterranean sandflies and to evaluate the ability of MALDI-TOF MS to discriminate close species or atypical forms within the Larroussius subgenus. Field-caught specimens (n = 94) were identified morphologically as typical Ph. perniciosus (PN; n = 55), atypical Ph. perniciosus (PNA; n = 9), Ph. longicuspis (n = 9), Ph. ariasi (n = 9), Ph. mascittii (n = 3), Ph. neglectus (n = 5), Ph. perfiliewi (n = 1), Ph. similis (n = 9) and Ph. papatasi (n = 2). Identifications were confirmed by sequencing of the mtDNA CytB region and sixteen specimens were included in the in-house database. Blind assessment on 73 specimens (representing 1073 good quality spectra) showed a good agreement (98.5%) between MALDI-TOF MS and molecular identification. Discrepancies concerned confusions between Ph. perfiliewi and Ph. perniciosus. Hierarchical clustering did not allow classification of PN and PNA. The use of machine learning, however, allowed discernment between PN and PNA and between the lcus and lcx haplotypes of Ph. longicuspis (accuracy: 0.8938 with partial-least-square regression and random forest models). MALDI-TOF MS is a promising tool for the rapid and accurate identification of field-caught sandflies. The use of machine learning could allow to discriminate similar species.
Legacy Effects of Biochar and Compost Addition on Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Community and Co-Occurrence Network in Black Soil
Authors: Xin Ying , Fan Yi , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti , Zhang Ximei , Yang Wei
Published: October 2022

Compost and biochar are beneficial soil amendments which derived from agricultural waste, and their application was proven to be effective practices for promoting soil fertility. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi form symbiotic associations with most crop plant species, and are recognized as one group of the most important soil microorganisms to increase food security in sustainable agriculture. To understand the legacy effects of compost and biochar addition on AM fungal communities, a field study was conducted on the Songnen Plain, Northeast China. Two years after application, compost addition improved soil aggregate stability, but we did not detect a legacy effect of compost addition on AM fungal community. Our results indicated that AM fungal Shannon diversity and Pielou evenness indices were significantly increased by one-time biochar addition, but unaffected by compost addition after two year’s application. PERMANOVA analysis also revealed a legacy effect of biochar addition on AM fungal community. Network analysis revealed a dramatically simplified AM fungal co-occurrence network and small network size in biochar added soils, demonstrated by their topological properties (e.g., low connectedness and betweenness). However, AM fungal community did not differ among aggregate fractions, as confirmed by the PERMANOVA analysis as well as the fact that only a small number of AM fungal OTUs were shared among aggregate fractions. Consequently, the current study highlights a stronger legacy effect of biochar than compost addition on AM fungi, and have implications for agricultural practices.