bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical Characteristics Analysis and Structural Optimization of Key Component of Self-Moving Temporary Support
Authors: Ding Shuhui , Bai Jindong , Han Jingliang , Wang Haixia , Ma Fai
Published: October 2022

In order to prevent a roof fall accident of a coal mine roadway mining face, temporary support must be provided before the permanent support of the roadway. At present, the commonly used forepoling bar support has poor reliability and low efficiency, and other machine-mounted or self-moving temporary supports are also difficult to use widely due to the complex geological conditions and limited working space at the heading face. On the basis of the mechanical characteristics analysis and numerical simulation of the wall rock support system, we propose a temporary support scheme that can adapt to the uneven roof of the roadway and the complex geological conditions on site, and that can ensure the cooperative operation of multiple equipment on site. A self-moving temporary support (SmTS) is designed, and its mechanical characteristics are analyzed to meet the mechanical requirements of the wall rock support system on the mining face. The multiobjective optimization of the main beam structure based on response surface methodology (RSM) is carried out to eliminate the design redundancy on the premise of meeting the support requirements of the main beam. Our research provides a novel method and corresponding equipment for the temporary support of a mining face. Applications of the proposed approach in the 7900 mining area of a mine proves the effectiveness of the method and equipment.
Analysis and Synthesis of Architectures for Automotive Battery Management Systems
Authors: Schärtel Lukas , Reick Benedikt , Pfeil Markus , Stetter Ralf
Published: October 2022

Current batteries of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) require a battery management system (BMS) in order to enable a safe and long-lasting operation. The main functions of the battery management systems are a continuous monitoring of the voltage of each cell, a continuous monitoring of the battery temperature, the control of the charge current and the discharge current as well as the prevention of both a deep discharge and an overcharging. For the realization of these functions, different architectures are possible, ranging from an individual intelligent system at each cell up to a realization of the whole BMS within one central computing unit for the whole vehicle. This paper investigates and structures different architectural possibilities, discusses analysis possibilities and presents approaches for the synthesis of sensible architectures such as BMS. A concept synthesis for the start-up and shut-down of the high-voltage system is presented by comparing three different integrated pre- and discharging circuits and using a Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL) program as an example. Finally, a topology consisting of three switches and two resistors (3S2R2) turns out to be the best one, due to the number of components, safety and price.
A Voxel Generator Based on Autoencoder
Authors: Huang Bo-Cheng , Feng Yu-Cheng , Liang Tyng-Yeu
Published: October 2022

In recent years, 3D models have been widely used in the virtual/augmented reality industry. The traditional way of constructing 3D models for real-world objects remains expensive and time-consuming. With the rapid development of graphics processors, many approaches based on deep learning models have been proposed to reduce the time and economic cost of the generation of 3D object models. However, the quality of the generated 3D object models leaves considerable room for improvement. Accordingly, we designed and implemented a voxel generator called VoxGen, based on the autoencoder framework. It consists of an encoder that extracts image features and a decoder that maps feature values to voxel models. The main characteristics of VoxGen are exploiting modified VGG16 and ResNet18 to enhance the effect of feature extraction and mixing the deconvolution layer with the convolution layer in the decoder to enhance the feature of generated voxels. Our experimental results show that VoxGen outperforms related approaches in terms of the volumetric intersection over union (IOU) values of generated voxels.
Development of an Active Sound Generation System for Sound Quality in EVs at Constant Speed Combined with Subjective Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Li Yipeng , Xu Liyou , Cao Yuntao
Published: October 2022

In order to improve the comfort and dynamic sense of the interior sound of PEVs when driving at a constant speed, this paper carried out research on the evaluation method of the interior sound quality of EVs and the development of an active sound generation system (ASGS). The investigation and research on the sound development trend of EV interiors were carried out. Combined with subjective evaluation methods and test results, a constant-speed vehicle interior sound design method was proposed, which focused on three dimensions: engine order composition, spectral energy distribution, and sound amplitude enhancement in the typical vehicle speed range. The internal sound spectrum of FVs was analyzed, and the engine order sound simulation analysis was completed. It is verified that the short-time Fourier transform and synthesis technology based on Kaiser window function can meet the requirements of engine order sound fitting accuracy. To formulate the sound design plan, control objectives and control methods of an A-class pure electric SUV with both comfort and dynamic sense during accelerated driving, the correlation between the engine order sound amplitude and dynamic sense in the vehicle was analyzed, and the setting of active sound parameters of EVs was clarified. The control hardware and software of ASGS in the vehicle was developed, the construction of ASGS based on the vehicle sound system completed, and test verification was conducted. The objective test of the real vehicle shows that ASGS ensures a low-amplitude interior noise level. When the vehicle speed is 28.6 km/h, the sharpness is reduced by 0.52 acum, and the subjective evaluation test of the real vehicle further verifies that ASGS can improve the comfort and dynamic sound quality of EVs driving at a constant speed.
Natural Language Processing Application on Commit Messages: A Case Study on HEP Software
Authors: Yang Yue , Ronchieri Elisabetta , Canaparo Marco
Published: October 2022

Version Control and Source Code Management Systems, such as GitHub, contain a large amount of unstructured historical information of software projects. Recent studies have introduced Natural Language Processing (NLP) to help software engineers retrieve information from a very large collection of unstructured data. In this study, we have extended our previous study by increasing our datasets and machine learning and clustering techniques. We have followed a complex methodology made up of various steps. Starting from the raw commit messages we have employed NLP techniques to build a structured database. We have extracted their main features and used them as input of different clustering algorithms. Once each entry was labelled, we applied supervised machine learning techniques to build a prediction and classification model. We have developed a machine learning-based model to automatically classify commit messages of a software project. Our model exploits a ground-truth dataset that includes commit messages obtained from various GitHub projects belonging to the High Energy Physics context. The contribution of this paper is two-fold: it proposes a ground-truth database and it provides a machine learning prediction model that automatically identifies the more change-prone areas of code. Our model has obtained a very high average accuracy (0.9590), precision (0.9448), recall (0.9382), and F1-score (0.9360).
Relation of Offensive Performance during Exclusions and Final Ranking in Female Handball
Authors: Trejo-Silva Alejandro , Feu Sebastian , Camacho-Cardenosa Alba , Camacho-Cardenosa Marta , Brazo-Sayavera Javier
Published: October 2022

The aim of this study was to determine team offensive performance indicators during exclusions related to the final ranking obtained in the tournament. Twenty-nine matches from the 2017 Pan-American Female Championship played by 10 national teams were analyzed using observational methodology. Cramer’s V and Fisher’s exact test were applied to identify associations between the variables. The Chaid algorithm was used to identify performance variables during inequality situations associated with the final ranking. Results showed that teams ranked 1st to 3rd presented a statistically significant relationship (p < 0.001; ASR 5.2) of being in superiority, scoring on 56.8% of their finalizations, while teams ranked 7th to 10 th showed a tendency of ending their attacks in turnovers under inequality situations (p < 0.00; ASR 3.1). Playing with an empty net during inferiority situations was a predictor of winners belonging to the medalist teams in 76.2% of the analyzed situations. It can be concluded that during numerical superiority, the best-ranked teams better handled their possessions. The substitution of the goalkeeper for a court player during inferiority was a predictor of belonging to the medalist group. Playing with the goalkeeper in goal (playing 5 against 6) when the match status was balanced or unbalanced, was a predictor of losing teams that did not end up in the medalist groups.
Mutant Number Laws and Infinite Divisibility
Authors: Pakes Anthony
Published: October 2022

Concepts of infinitely divisible distributions are reviewed and applied to mutant number distributions derived from the Lea-Coulson and other models which describe the Luria-Delbrück fluctuation test. A key finding is that mutant number distributions arising from a generalised Lea-Coulson model for which normal cell growth is non-decreasing are unimodal. An integral criterion is given which separates the cases of a mode at the origin, or not.
Bone-Regenerative Ability of Platelet-Rich Plasma Following Sinus Augmentation with Anorganic Bovine Bone: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Anitua Eduardo , Allende Mikel , Eguia Asier , Alkhraisat Mohammad
Published: October 2022

Background: The objective of this systematic review is to assess the effect of the adjuvant use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and its type on new bone formation by anorganic bovine bone during maxillary sinus floor augmentation procedure. Methods: PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Ovid databases were searched for relevant studies published up to 16 September 2021. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and non-randomized controlled clinical trials (CCTs) that reported data on the new bone formation (measured by histomorphometric analysis) were considered. Risk of bias and quality assessment of included studies were evaluated following the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and the Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool. Strength of evidence was assessed following the approach of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) through its evidence-based practice center (AHRQ EPC). The meta-analysis was based on the primary outcome of newly formed bone, for which the standard mean difference was calculated. Results: After the application of eligibility criteria, six clinical trials (three RCTs and three CCTs) covering 85 maxillary sinus floor elevation procedures were included. The pooled new bone formation value for PRP was 1.67 (95% CI: −0.15 to 3.49; I2: 86%), indicating the absence of significant effect. Plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) was the pure PRP tested in five of the included studies. When sub-group (type of PRP) meta-analysis was performed, significantly higher new bone formation was observed in the PRGF group [2.85 (95% CI: 0.07 to 5.64; I2: 88%)] in comparison to the control group. Conclusions: A beneficial effect on new bone formation after maxillary sinus floor elevation can be obtained when anorganic bovine bone is mixed with PRGF.
Surgical Treatment of Pediatric Scoliosis: Historical Origins and Review of Current Techniques
Authors: Block Andrew M. , Tamburini Lisa M. , Zeng Francine , Mancini Michael R. , Jackson Casey A. , Antonacci Christopher L. , Karsmarski Owen P. , Stelzer John W. , Wellington Ian J. , Lee Mark C.
Published: October 2022

The treatment of scoliosis has been explored and debated in medicine since the first recorded texts. Scoliosis treatment has shifted over time from external modalities, such as traction and bracing, to internal stabilization techniques that leverage surgical advances. Surgical fixation constructs can generally be separated into two different modalities: dynamic vs. static constructs. For skeletally immature individuals with progressive deformities, surgical options range from traditional or magnetically controlled growing rods to vertebral body staples or tethering. For individuals who have reached skeletal maturity, many devices have been developed that provide static length constructs. Understanding the surgical options available is critical for the appropriate management of this varied patient population. With this article, we sought to provide a summary of past and present techniques and devices used in the treatment of scoliosis.
Indirect 3D Bioprinting of a Robust Trilobular Hepatic Construct with Decellularized Liver Matrix Hydrogel
Authors: Khati Vamakshi , Turkki Johannes Artturi , Ramachandraiah Harisha , Pati Falguni , Gaudenzi Giulia , Russom Aman
Published: October 2022

The liver exhibits complex geometrical morphologies of hepatic cells arranged in a hexagonal lobule with an extracellular matrix (ECM) organized in a specific pattern on a multi-scale level. Previous studies have utilized 3D bioprinting and microfluidic perfusion systems with various biomaterials to develop lobule-like constructs. However, they all lack anatomical relevance with weak control over the size and shape of the fabricated structures. Moreover, most biomaterials lack liver-specific ECM components partially or entirely, which might limit their biomimetic mechanical properties and biological functions. Here, we report 3D bioprinting of a sacrificial PVA framework to impart its trilobular hepatic structure to the decellularized liver extracellular matrix (dLM) hydrogel with polyethylene glycol-based crosslinker and tyrosinase to fabricate a robust multi-scale 3D liver construct. The 3D trilobular construct exhibits higher crosslinking, viscosity (182.7 ± 1.6 Pa·s), and storage modulus (2554 ± 82.1 Pa) than non-crosslinked dLM. The co-culture of HepG2 liver cells and NIH 3T3 fibroblast cells exhibited the influence of fibroblasts on liver-specific activity over time (7 days) to show higher viability (90–91.5%), albumin secretion, and increasing activity of four liver-specific genes as compared to the HepG2 monoculture. This technique offers high lumen patency for the perfusion of media to fabricate a densely populated scaled-up liver model, which can also be extended to other tissue types with different biomaterials and multiple cells to support the creation of a large functional complex tissue.
Effect of Potassium Deficiency on Physiological Responses and Anatomical Structure of Basil, Ocimum basilicum L.
Authors: Attia Houneida , Rebah Fedia , Ouhibi Chayma , Saleh Muneera A. , Althobaiti Ashwaq T. , Alamer Khalid H. , Ben Nasri Mouhiba , Lachaâl Mokhtar
Published: October 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a variable supply of potassium to culture medium on physiological and anatomical parameters (histological sections at the third internode) in basil, Ocimum basilicum. Thirty-four-day-old plants grown on basic nutrient medium were divided into four batches and grown on media with varying doses of potassium: 0.375 mM, 0.250 mM, 0.125 mM and 0 mM K+. After 64 days of culture, a final harvest was performed. The results showed that root and shoot growth in basil was decreased with decreased K+ concentration. This restriction was associated with a reduction in root elongation and leaf expansion, which was coupled with a decrease in chlorophyll and carotenoid contents. The estimation of electrolyte leakage reveals that this parameter was increased by potassium deficiency. With respect to total polyphenol and flavonoid contents, only the third leaf-stage extracts exhibited a decrease under low-K+ conditions. However, variability in response of phenolic compounds was recorded depending on the organ and the K+ concentration in the medium. Stem cross sections of potassium-deficient basil plants revealed a decrease in the diameter of these organs, which can be attributed to a restriction of the extent of different tissue territories (cortex and medulla), as well as by a reduction in cell size. These effects were associated with a decrease in the number of conducting vessels and an increase in the number of woody fibers.
Renoprotective Effects of Luteolin: Therapeutic Potential for COVID-19-Associated Acute Kidney Injuries
Authors: Diniz Lúcio Ricardo Leite , Elshabrawy Hatem A. , Souza Marilia Trindade S. , Duarte Allana Brunna Sucupira , Madhav Nikhil , de Sousa Damião Pergentino
Published: October 2022

Acute kidney injury (AKI) has been increasingly reported in critically-ill COVID-19 patients. Moreover, there was significant positive correlation between COVID-19 deaths and renal disorders in hospitalized COVID-19 patients with underlying comorbidities who required renal replacement therapy. It has suggested that death in COVID-19 patients with AKI is 3-fold higher than in COVID-19 patients without AKI. The pathophysiology of COVID-19-associated AKI could be attributed to unspecific mechanisms, as well as COVID-19-specific mechanisms such as direct cellular injury, an imbalanced renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, pro-inflammatory cytokines elicited by the viral infection and thrombotic events. To date, there is no specific treatment for COVID-19 and its associated AKI. Luteolin is a natural compound with multiple pharmacological activities, including anticoronavirus, as well as renoprotective activities against kidney injury induced by sepsis, renal ischemia and diverse nephrotoxic agents. Therefore, in this review, we mechanistically discuss the anti-SARS-CoV-2 and renoprotective activities of luteolin, which highlight its therapeutic potential in COVID-19-AKI patients.
A Novel Automated Chemiluminescence Method for Detecting Cerebrospinal Fluid Amyloid-Beta 1-42 and 1-40, Total Tau and Phosphorylated-Tau: Implications for Improving Diagnostic Performance in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Arcaro Marina , Fenoglio Chiara , Serpente Maria , Arighi Andrea , Fumagalli Giorgio G. , Sacchi Luca , Floro Stefano , D’Anca Marianna , Sorrentino Federica , Visconte Caterina , Perego Alberto , Scarpini Elio , Galimberti Daniela
Published: October 2022

Recently, a fully automated instrument for the detection of the Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) biomarker for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) (low concentration of Amyloid-beta 42 (Aβ42), high concentration of total tau (T-tau) and Phosphorylated-tau (P-tau181)), has been implemented, namely CLEIA. We conducted a comparative analysis between ELISA and CLEIA methods in order to evaluate the analytical precision and the diagnostic performance of the novel CLEIA system on 111 CSF samples. Results confirmed a robust correlation between ELISA and CLEIA methods, with an improvement of the accuracy with the new CLEIA methodology in the detection of the single biomarkers and in their ratio values. For Aβ42 regression analysis with Passing–Bablok showed a Pearson correlation coefficient r = 0.867 (0.8120; 0.907% 95% CI p < 0.0001), T-tau analysis: r = 0.968 (0.954; 0.978% 95% CI p < 0.0001) and P-tau181: r = 0.946 (0.922; 0.962 5% 95% CI p < 0.0001). The overall ROC AUC comparison between ROC in ELISA and ROC in CLEIA confirmed a more accurate ROC AUC with the new automatic method: T-tau AUC ELISA = 0.94 (95% CI 0.89; 0.99 p < 0.0001) vs. AUC CLEIA = 0.95 (95% CI 0.89; 1.00 p < 0.0001), and P-tau181 AUC ELISA = 0.91 (95% CI 0.85; 0.98 p < 0.0001) vs. AUC CLEIA = 0.98 (95% CI 0.95; 1.00 p < 0.0001). The performance of the new CLEIA method in automation is comparable and, for tau and P-tau181, even better, as compared with standard ELISA. Hopefully, in the future, automation could be useful in clinical diagnosis and also in the context of clinical studies.
Novel Expression of Thymine Dimers in Renal Cell Carcinoma, Demonstrated through Immunohistochemistry
Authors: Novacescu Dorin , Cut Talida Georgiana , Cumpanas Alin Adrian , Bratosin Felix , Ceausu Raluca Amalia , Raica Marius
Published: October 2022

Despite significant developments in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) detection and molecular pathology, mortality has been steadily rising. Advanced RCC remains an incurable disease. Better clinical management tools, i.e., RCC biomarkers, have yet to emerge. Thymine-dimers (TDs) were traditionally considered photo-dependent pre-mutagenic lesions, occurring exclusively during ultra-violet light exposure. Non-oxidative, direct, and preferential byproducts of DNA photochemical reactions, TDs, have recently shown evidence regarding UVR-independent formation. In this study, we investigate, for the first time, TD expression within RCC tumor tissue and tumor-adjacent healthy renal parenchyma using a TD-targeted IHC monoclonal antibody, clone KTM53. Remarkably, out of the 54 RCCs evaluated, 77.8% showed nuclear TD-expression in RCC tumor tissue and 37% in the tumor-adjacent healthy renal parenchyma. A comprehensive report regarding quantitative/qualitative TD-targeted immunostaining was elaborated. Two main distribution models for TD expression within RCC tumor tissue were identified. Statistical analysis showed significant yet moderate correlations regarding TD-positivity in RCC tissue/tumor-adjacent healthy renal parenchyma and TNM stage at diagnosis/lymphatic dissemination, respectively, indicating possible prognostic relevance. We review possible explanations for UVR-independent TD formation and molecular implications regarding RCC carcinogenesis. Further rigorous molecular analysis is required in order to fully comprehend/validate the biological significance of this newly documented TD expression in RCC.
Glycated Hemoglobin Electrochemical Immunosensor Based on Screen-Printed Electrode
Authors: Zhao Yuliang , Zhang Hongyu , Li Yang , Wang Xiaoai , Zhao Liang , Xu Jianghong , Zhan Zhikun , Zhang Guanglie , Li Wen Jung
Published: October 2022

An electrochemical HbA1c sensor with high sensitivity and good specificity is proposed based on the electrochemical immune principle. The reproducibility and conductivity of the electrode are improved by depositing gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on the surface of the screen-printed electrode (SPE). The HbA1c antibodies are immobilized on the surface of the modified electrode by adsorption to capture the HbA1c in the sample. The hindering effect of HbA1c on the electrode transfer reaction was exploited as the HbA1c detection mechanism. The electrode’s properties were characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and the measurement properties of the electrode were analyzed using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The experimental results show that the peak current signal of the electrochemical immunosensor produced a linear response to HbA1c in the concentration range of 20–200 μg/mL, a linear relationship coefficient of 0.9812, a detection limit of 15.5 µg/mL, and a sensitivity of 0.0938 µA/µg·mL−1. The sensor delivered satisfactory repeatability, stability, and anti-interference performance. Due to its small size, high sensitivity, and wide linear detection range, it is expected to play a significant role in managing diabetes at home.
Graphene and Its Derivatives: Synthesis and Application in the Electrochemical Detection of Analytes in Sweat
Authors: Singh Anoop , Ahmed Aamir , Sharma Asha , Arya Sandeep
Published: October 2022

Wearable sensors and invasive devices have been studied extensively in recent years as the demand for real-time human healthcare applications and seamless human–machine interaction has risen exponentially. An explosion in sensor research throughout the globe has been ignited by the unique features such as thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties of graphene. This includes wearable sensors and implants, which can detect a wide range of data, including body temperature, pulse oxygenation, blood pressure, glucose, and the other analytes present in sweat. Graphene-based sensors for real-time human health monitoring are also being developed. This review is a comprehensive discussion about the properties of graphene, routes to its synthesis, derivatives of graphene, etc. Moreover, the basic features of a biosensor along with the chemistry of sweat are also discussed in detail. The review mainly focusses on the graphene and its derivative-based wearable sensors for the detection of analytes in sweat. Graphene-based sensors for health monitoring will be examined and explained in this study as an overview of the most current innovations in sensor designs, sensing processes, technological advancements, sensor system components, and potential hurdles. The future holds great opportunities for the development of efficient and advanced graphene-based sensors for the detection of analytes in sweat.
Simple Preparation and Characterization of Hierarchical Flower-like NiCo2O4 Nanoplates: Applications for Sunset Yellow Electrochemical Analysis
Authors: Beitollahi Hadi , Tajik Somayeh , Dourandish Zahra , Garkani Nejad Fariba
Published: October 2022

The current work was performed to construct a novel electrochemical sensing system for determination of sunset yellow via the modification of screen-printed graphite electrode modified with hierarchical flower-like NiCo2O4 nanoplates (NiCo2O4/SPGE). The prepared material (hierarchical flower-like NiCo2O4 nanoplates) was analyzed by diverse microscopic and spectroscopic approaches for the crystallinity, composition, and morphology. Chronoamperometry, differential pulse voltammetry, linear sweep voltammetry, and cyclic voltammetry were used for determination of the electrochemical behavior of sunset yellow. The as-fabricated sensor had appreciable electro-catalytic performance and current sensitivity in detecting the sunset yellow. There were some advantages for NiCo2O4/SPGE under the optimized circumstances of sunset yellow determination, including a broad dynamic linear between 0.02 and 145.0 µM, high sensitivity of 0.67 μA/(μM.cm2), and a narrow limit of detection of 0.008 μM. The practical applicability of the proposed sensor was verified by determining the sunset yellow in real matrices, with satisfactory recoveries.
Optimization of Preparation Method, Nucleating Agent, and Stabilizers for Synthesizing Calcium Chloride Hexahydrate (CaCl2.6H2O) Phase Change Material
Authors: Thakkar Jay , Bowen Nicholas , Chang Allen C. , Horwath Peter , Sobkowicz Margaret J. , Kośny Jan
Published: October 2022

This study investigates improvements in low-cost latent heat storage material calcium chloride hexahydrate (CaCl2.6H2O). Its melting point is between 25 and 28 °C, with relatively high enthalpy (170–190 J/g); however, this phase change material (PCM) shows supercooling and phase separation. In CaCl2.6H2O incongruent melting causes lower hydrates of CaCl2 to form, which affects the overall energy storage capacity and long-term durability. In this work, PCM performance enhancement was achieved by adding SrCl2.6H2O as a nucleating agent and NaCl/KCl as a stabilizer to prevent supercooling and phase separation, respectively. We investigated the PCM preparation method and optimized the proportions of SrCl2.6H2O and NaCl/KCl. Thermal testing for 25 cycles combined with DSC and T-history testing was performed to observe changes in enthalpy, phase transitions and supercooling over the extended period of usage. X-ray diffraction was used to verify crystalline structure in the compounds. It was found that the addition of 2 wt.% of SrCl2.6H2O reduced supercooling from 12 °C to 0 °C compared to unmodified CaCl2.6H2O. The addition of 5 wt.% NaCl or KCl proved to effectively suppress separation and the melting enthalpy achieved was 169 J/g–178 J/g with congruent melting over 25 cycles, with no supercooling and almost no reduction in the latent heat.
Early-Age Properties Evaluation of Nano-Metakaolin Cement Paste Based on Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Qiuchao , Fan Yingfang , Zhao Yulong , Liang Zilong
Published: October 2022

The early-age properties of nano-metakaolin (NMK) cement paste were examined from 15 min to 24 h, contacted between cement and water based on the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) method. The effects of a superplasticizer and chloride ions were taken into consideration. The variation of the electrochemical parameters of NMK cement paste with or without the superplasticizer and chloride ions was analyzed. The results demonstrated that the solution resistance and impedance modulus of the cement paste decreased first then increased between 15 min and 12 h after cement contact with water. When the cement contacted with water within about 8 h, the pore solution resistance and impedance modulus were less affected by NMK. When the cement hydration was over about 8 h, the pore solution resistance and impedance modulus of the cement paste were significantly improved by the addition of 1% NMK. The pore solution resistance of the cement paste with 1% NMK was increased by 0.49%, 2.64% and 18.17% as compared with ordinary cement paste when the hydration time was 4 h, 8 h and 12 h, respectively. NMK promoted cement hydration and increased the pore solution resistance and impedance modulus in the cement paste with or without the superplasticizer and chloride ions. The superplasticizer and chloride ions reduced the pore solution resistance and impedance modulus of cement paste with or without NMK.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Thermal Comfort in Ship Cabins: A Case Study of Ships in Yangtze River Basin, China
Authors: Xie Dong , Li Kun
Published: October 2022

In recent years, the waterway navigation and transportation industry has been developing rapidly, and the living environment of ship cabins has not received much attention. Using questionnaire surveys, data collection and computer simulations, this study explored the problems and causes related to thermal comfort that affect a crew living onboard. The survey showed differences in the thermal sensations of the crew. Cabins below the deck of a ship are usually more comfortable than those above deck. These differences were related to the range of frequent activities undertaken in the cabins. The data and calculations show that the thermal comfort in the stern winch cabin and the engine cabin was significantly higher than in the top living cabin and the meeting cabin. For cabins without windows in winter, the PMV and PPD indexes of those below deck were on average 11.95% higher and 7.03% lower, respectively, than those above deck, indicating better overall thermal comfort below deck. The simulation showed that the simulated PMV of an occupied cabin was up to 17.55% higher than the actual PMV, indicating that the number of crew members in the cabin significantly affected its level of thermal comfort. The results provide a reference for understanding and improving the thermal environment of ships and temporary water facilities.
Numerical Evaluation of the Flow Field of an Isothermal Dual-Corner Impinging Jet for Building Ventilation
Authors: Ameen Arman , Yamasawa Haruna , Kobayashi Tomohiro
Published: October 2022

The corner impinging jet ventilation is a new air distribution system for use in office environments. This study reports the mean flow field behavior of dual isothermal corner-placed inlets based on an impinging jet in a square-shaped room with the size of 7.2 m × 7.2 m. A detailed numerical study is carried out to evaluate the influence the different configuration parameters, such as the inlet placement, same side or opposite side, and supply airflow rate, have on the flow field. The results show that the highest velocity peak for all cases is obtained at x = 0.5 m and the lowest at x = 3.5 m. The velocity profiles development remains similar when increasing the flow rate. For the zone evaluation, the results show that Case 1 and 2 (V = 20 L/s) meet the requirement of not exceeding 0.15 m/s during the heating season in the occupied zone according the BBR standard both for same-side and opposite-side configurations. For Case 4, the optimal placement of the inlets is opposite to each other when V = 30 L/s for the BBR requirements. Case 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7 all meet the requirement of not exceeding 0.25 m/s during the cooling season both for the same-side and opposite-side configurations. For Case 8, the optimal placement of the inlets is opposite to each other when V = 50 L/s.
Decision Analysis of a Reinforcement Scheme for In-Service Prestressed Concrete Box Girder Bridges Based on AHP and Evaluation of the Reinforcement Effect
Authors: Liu Haikuan , Li Jie , Zhang Junfeng , Pang Dongyuan
Published: October 2022

Prestressed concrete girder bridges are widely used worldwide due to their mature construction technology, economical cost, and low maintenance. After a certain number of years of service, prestressed concrete girders inevitably suffer from deterioration of their material properties, cracking, and reduced load-carrying capacity due to the natural environment and long-term vehicle loading. When the performance of a bridge declines to the point that it cannot meet the requirements of normal use, reinforcement and maintenance are required. In this study, a 5 × 45 m prestressed concrete continuous box girder bridge that has been in service for 25 years is taken as an example, and the causes of crack development and deterioration of the technical condition of the bridge are analyzed. Based on an analysis of the causes, reinforcement schemes for overall replacement of the girder and adding bridge piers are proposed. According to a comparison of the advantages and disadvantages, a decision analysis of the reinforcement scheme is carried out via the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The vector weights of the two schemes were found to be 0.4288 and 0.5712, respectively, indicating that adding bridge piers is more advantageous than overall replacement of the girder. Thus, a scheme of adding five piers was adopted to reinforce the bridge. A load test was then performed after the reinforcement, and both the test deflection and strain calibration coefficients were found to be less than 1, indicating that the force state of the added piers and bearings was better than the theoretical calculations. The present study shows that the reinforcement scheme of adding piers can achieve the design goal. The working status of the box girder was significantly improved, the crack development of box girder was suppressed, and the service life of the bridge was prolonged.
Robustness Analysis of Historical Timber Roofs: A Case Study of the Gaggiandre Shipyard at the Arsenale of Venice
Authors: Ferretti Francesca , Pozza Luca , Talledo Diego Alejandro
Published: October 2022

In this work, a deterministic approach is adopted to analyze the robustness of the timber roof of the Gaggiandre shipyard at the Arsenale of Venice. The capacity of the traditional timber truss to withstand the design loads as a result of the damage in the strut-tie node is evaluated according to the alternative load path method. Two layouts of the trusses are analyzed and compared: before and after the Austrian retrofitting intervention, performed in the late 1800s. For both configurations, robustness analyses are carried out by using linear 2D numerical models that consider the effective rotational capacity of the structural nodes in relation to the construction methods of the timber joints. For the configuration subject to the 19th-century restoration, the 3D response of the roof is also analyzed to verify the additional contribution provided by the longitudinal bracing system to the activation of alternative load paths (bridge effect). The results obtained with the different analyses are thoroughly evaluated, providing an indication of the deterministic robustness index of the roofing system based on different assumptions. The outcomes of this work allow to draw some general considerations on the method that could be used for the robustness assessment of historical wood systems.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Tetracycline under Visible Light Irradiation on BiVO4 Microballs Modified with Noble Metals
Authors: Wu Limeng , Yue Xin , Chang Ying , Wang Kunlei , Zhang Jinyue , Sun Jiajie , Wei Zhishun , Kowalska Ewa
Published: October 2022

Monoclinic scheelite bismuth vanadate (BVO) microballs were prepared by a facile hydrothermal method and subsequently modified with 2 wt% of noble metals (NM = Au, Ag, Cu, Pt and Pd) by a photodeposition route. All materials were characterized by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The photocatalytic performance was investigated by degradation of tetracycline antibiotic under visible light irradiation. Moreover, photocurrent generation under UV/vis was also examined. It was found that BVO modification with all tested NMs resulted in a significant improvement in photocatalytic performance. The highest activity was obtained for Cu/BVO with mainly oxidized forms of copper. Based on scavenger tests (∙O2− and ∙OH as the main responsible species for TC degradation) and redox properties, it was proposed that the Z-scheme mechanism between copper oxides and BVO was responsible for enhanced photocatalytic activity. However, the co-participation of zero-valent forms of NMs should also be considered, either as electron scavengers, plasmonic sensitizers or conductors. Presented data reveal that porous microballs, highly attractive for practical applications due to micro-sized diameter and efficient light harvesting inside the structure, could be efficiently used for environmental and energy purposes under solar radiation.
The Activity of Ultrafine Cu Clusters Encapsulated in Nano-Zeolite for Selective Hydrogenation of CO2 to Methanol
Authors: Ding Ruiqin , Fu Guangying , Wang Songxia , Yang Yang , Lang Qiaolin , Zhao Haonuan , Yang Xiaobo , Valtchev Valentin
Published: October 2022

Narrowly dispersed ultrafine Cu clusters of sizes smaller than 2.0 nm have been encapsulated in nanosized silicalite-1 zeolite through direct crystallization in the presence of Cu(en)22+ complex ions as the metal precursor. The growing silicalite-1 crystals are rich in vacancy defects and connectivity defects on the grain boundaries, where the terminating silanols promote the decomposition of Cu(en)22+, thus the deposition of ultrafine Cu species. The obtained composite material as a model catalyst is active for CO2 activation and hydrogenation to methanol. The preliminary in situ FTIR study recognizes a series of surface-adsorbed carbonyl, formyl, carbonate, and formate species when the material is exposed to CO2 and H2. Among others, the adsorbed formate decays most rapidly upon cofeeding CO2 and H2, implying that the most probable pathway toward methanol formation over this material is via the formate-mediated mechanism.
Inactivation and Degradation of Influenza A Virus on the Surface of Photoactive Self-Cleaning Cotton Fabric Functionalized with Nanocrystalline TiO2
Authors: Selishchev Dmitry , Stepanov Grigory , Sergeeva Mariia , Solovyeva Maria , Zhuravlev Evgenii , Komissarov Andrey , Richter Vladimir , Kozlov Denis
Published: October 2022

Chemical modification of cotton-rich fabrics with TiO2 nanoparticles results in photoactive self-cleaning textiles, which can provide, under UV or solar radiation, complete oxidation of low-molecular compounds, degradation of supramolecular structures, and inactivation of microorganisms due to the photocatalytic effect. In this paper, we describe, based on the example of influenza A (H1N1) virus, a photoinduced antiviral effect of cotton fabric functionalized with nanocrystalline TiO2. Fast inactivation of influenza virus occurs on the irradiated surface of photoactive fabric due to adsorption and photocatalytic degradation. The TiO2 component in the prepared fabric increases the adsorption effect compared to initial cotton due to a high specific area of TiO2 nanocrystallites. Long-term irradiation leads to destruction of all virion structures to the point of RNA molecules. In contrast to pristine cotton, no virus RNA is detected using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique after long-term irradiation of photoactive fabric. The results of this study underline the potential of photoactive self-cleaning fabrics for application in air purification systems and personal protective clothes to provide permanent protection of people against harmful chemical and biological pollutants.
PdPty/V2O5-TiO2: Highly Active Catalysts with Good Moisture- and Sulfur Dioxide-Resistant Performance in Toluene Oxidation
Authors: Sun Jingjing , Liu Yuxi , Deng Jiguang , Jing Lin , Bao Minming , Sun Qinpei , Li Linlin , Wu Linke , Hao Xiuqing , Dai Hongxing
Published: October 2022

Catalytic performance and moisture and sulfur dioxide resistance are important for a catalyst used for the oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Supported noble metals are active for VOC oxidation, but they are easily deactivated by water and sulfur dioxide. Hence, it is highly desired to develop a catalyst with high performance and good moisture and sulfur dioxide resistance in the oxidation of VOCs. In this work, we first adopted the hydrothermal method to synthesize a V2O5-TiO2 composite support, and then employed the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-protecting NaBH4 reduction strategy to fabricate xPdPty/V2O5-TiO2 catalysts (x and y are the PdPty loading (0.41, 0.46, and 0.49 wt%) and Pt/Pd molar ratio (2.10, 0.85, and 0.44), respectively; the corresponding catalysts are denoted as 0.46PdPt2.10/V2O5-TiO2, 0.41PdPt0.85/V2O5-TiO2, and 0.49PdPt0.44/V2O5-TiO2). Among all the samples, 0.46PdPt2.10/V2O5-TiO2 exhibited the best catalytic activity for toluene oxidation (T50% = 220 °C and T90% = 245 °C at a space velocity of 40,000 mL/(g h), apparent activation energy (Ea) = 45 kJ/mol), specific reaction rate at 230 °C = 98.6 μmol/(gPt s), and turnover frequency (TOFNoble metal) at 230 °C = 142.2 × 10−3 s−1. The good catalytic performance of 0.46PdPt2.10/V2O5-TiO2 was associated with its well-dispersed PdPt2.10 nanoparticles, high adsorbed oxygen species concentration, good redox ability, large toluene adsorption capacity, and strong interaction between PdPty and V2O5-TiO2. No significant changes in toluene conversion were detected when 5.0 vol% H2O or 50 ppm SO2 was introduced to the reaction system. According to the characterization results, we can realize that vanadium is the main site for SO2 adsorption while PdO is the secondary site for SO2 adsorption, which protects the active Pt site from being poisoned by SO2, thus making the 0.46PdPt2.10/V2O5TiO2 catalyst show good sulfur dioxide resistance.
Genomic Amplification of UBQLN4 Is a Prognostic and Treatment Resistance Factor
Authors: Kobayashi Yuta , Bustos Matias A. , Shoji Yoshiaki , Jachimowicz Ron D. , Shiloh Yosef , Hoon Dave S. B.
Published: October 2022

Ubiquilin-4 (UBQLN4) is a proteasomal shuttle factor that directly binds to ubiquitylated proteins and delivers its cargo to the 26S proteasome for degradation. We previously showed that upregulated UBQLN4 determines the DNA damage response (DDR) through the degradation of MRE11A. However, the regulatory mechanism at DNA level, transcriptionally and post-transcriptional levels that control UBQLN4 mRNA levels remains unknown. In this study, we screened 32 solid tumor types and validated our findings by immunohistochemistry analysis. UBQLN4 is upregulated at both mRNA and protein levels and the most significant values were observed in liver, breast, ovarian, lung, and esophageal cancers. Patients with high UBQLN4 mRNA levels had significantly poor prognoses in 20 of 32 cancer types. DNA amplification was identified as the main mechanism promoting UBQLN4 upregulation in multiple cancers, even in the early phases of tumor development. Using CRISPR screen datasets, UBQLN4 was identified as a common essential gene for tumor cell viability in 81.1% (860/1,060) of the solid tumor derived cell lines. Ovarian cancer cell lines with high UBQLN4 mRNA levels were platinum-based chemotherapy resistant, while they were more sensitive to poly (adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi). Our findings highlight the utilities of UBQLN4 as a significant pan-cancer theranostic factor and a precision oncology biomarker for DDR-related drug resistance.
FIP200 Methylation by SETD2 Prevents Trim21-Induced Degradation and Preserves Autophagy Initiation
Authors: Dai Yuan , Luo Weijia , Li Wenjiao , Chen Zhishi , Wang Xinjie , Chang Jiang
Published: October 2022

FIP200, also known as RB1CC1, is a protein that assembles the autophagy initiation complex. Its post-translational modifications and degradation mechanisms are unclear. Upon autophagy activation, we find that FIP200 is methylated at lysine1133 (K1133) by methyltransferase SETD2. We identify the E3 ligase Trim21 to be responsible for FIP200 ubiquitination by targeting K1133, resulting in FIP200 degradation through the ubiquitin–proteasome system. SETD2-induced methylation blocks Trim21-mediated ubiquitination and degradation, preserving autophagy activity. SETD2 and Trim21 orchestrate FIP200 protein stability to achieve dynamic and precise control of autophagy flux.
Cellular-Based Therapies in Systemic Sclerosis: From Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant to Innovative Approaches
Authors: Xue Elisabetta , Minniti Antonina , Alexander Tobias , Del Papa Nicoletta , Greco Raffaella ,   on behalf of The Autoimmune Diseases Working Party (ADWP) of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT)
Published: October 2022

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic disease characterized by autoimmune responses, vasculopathy and tissue fibrosis. The pathogenic mechanisms involve a wide range of cells and soluble factors. The complexity of interactions leads to heterogeneous clinical features in terms of the extent, severity, and rate of progression of skin fibrosis and internal organ involvement. Available disease-modifying drugs have only modest effects on halting disease progression and may be associated with significant side effects. Therefore, cellular therapies have been developed aiming at the restoration of immunologic self-tolerance in order to provide durable remissions or to foster tissue regeneration. Currently, SSc is recommended as the ‘standard indication’ for autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation by the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation. This review provides an overview on cellular therapies in SSc, from pre-clinical models to clinical applications, opening towards more advanced cellular therapies, such as mesenchymal stem cells, regulatory T cells and potentially CAR-T-cell therapies.