bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel findings deduced from the microscopic kinetics model contest the classical nucleation theory
Authors: Xu Jun
Published: April 2023

In this study, we revisit the microscopic kinetics model considering crystal nucleation as reversible attachment and detachment of units from growing clusters. Based on the variation of the rate constants of attaching and detaching with cluster size, we derive some findings that contest the classical nucleation theory. First, the equivalent thermodynamic parameters are deduced from the rate constants, which reveal that the interfacial free energy per area varies with cluster size and finally levels off. Second, if the crystal is not perfect, at the melting point, the nucleation barrier will be definite rather than infinitely large. Third, it is predicted that the critical nuclei size does not vary with supersaturation. Fourth, when the neighboring units from the same polymer chain are used for crystal nucleation, the attaching rate constant should decrease with cluster size, which is distinctly different from the same attaching rate constant in the nucleation of small molecular crystals. These interesting findings show that teaching the old dog (the microscopic kinetics model) new tricks could lead to new findings and deepen our understanding of crystal nucleation.
Bladder irrigation with tap water to reduce antibiotic treatment for catheter-associated urinary tract infections: an evaluation of clinical practice
Authors: van Veen Felice E. E. , Den Hoedt Stefan , Coolen Rosa L. , Boekhorst Jessica , Scheepe Jeroen R. , Blok Bertil F. M.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) is a common complication among patients with urinary catheters and is often treated with antibiotics. With increasing rates of antibiotic resistance, it is necessary to explore alternative treatment options for CAUTIs. The aims of this study were 1) to assess the efficacy and treatment satisfaction of bladder irrigation (BI) with tap water to prevent and treat CAUTIs, 2) and to evaluate the current use of BI for CAUTIs among Dutch clinicians.

Methods

The first part of this study consisted of a cross-sectional study among patients with intermittent or indwelling catheters who performed BI with tap water between March 2020 and May 2021. Efficacy, treatment satisfaction, and Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) were assessed using questionnaires. Outcomes were compared between neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) and non-NLUTD patients. Factors associated with overall treatment satisfaction were determined using logistic regression analysis. Second, a nationwide survey of Dutch clinicians was conducted to evaluate the current use of BI for CAUTIs.

Results

A total of 99 patients who were performing BI for at least three months were included. The median age was 61.9 years, 41.4% had NLUTD, and 72.2% performed BI >1 year. The majority of both NLUTD (65.9%) and non-NLUTD patients (68.4%) were (very) satisfied with BI. Women had higher odds of reporting higher satisfaction and each additional CAUTI decreased the odds. Most NLUTD (85.4%) and non-NLUTD (65.5%) patients reported an improvement on the PGI-I with a difference in favour of NLUTD patients (p=0.002). In addition, 40.4% of the patients had no CAUTI, and 59.6% reported 1.39 (SD 2.06) CAUTIs. Only half of these self-reported CAUTIs were treated with antibiotics. In addition, 33 (58.9%) clinicians used BI for CAUTIs, of which ten used tap water as irrigation agent.

Discussion

This study provides first evidence supporting the efficacy of BI with tap water in the treatment of CAUTIs and reducing the use of antibiotics. Patients are overall satisfied and experience improvement in their condition with BI. In addition, the majority of the surveyed Dutch clinicians use BI for CAUTIs. However, irrigation with tap water is still not widely used.
Gender and sexuality in mental health: perspectives on lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender (LGBT) rights and mental health in the ASEAN region
Authors: Alibudbud Rowalt
Published: April 2023

This perspective piece focuses on and analyzes several lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender (LGBT) individuals' rights and their limitations in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, including the limited recognition of self-determined gender identity, limited legal provisions for LGBT marriage, inadequate anti-discrimination policies, and the criminalization of homosexuality. These inadequacies in LGBT rights may stem from colonial, religious, and cultural factors. Moreover, these limited LGBT rights and their societal repercussions may contribute to the minority stress of LGBT individuals, leading to their higher rates of mental health problems. Thus, there may be a need to uphold, recognize, and protect LGBT rights as the region pursue equitable mental health. Toward this pursuit, the region may possibly benefit from culturally adapting gender-affirming practices, increasing their social support, opposing the practice of conversion therapy, and decriminalizing homosexuality. It may also be necessary to explore, analyze, and study the intersection of LGBT identity and mental health, especially longitudinal and interventional studies.
Levering proteomic analysis of Pseudomonas fluorescens mediated resistance responses in tomato during pathogenicity of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. oxysporum
Authors: Paranthaman Lakshmidevi , Seethapathy Parthasarathy , Pandita Deepu , Gopalakrishnan Chellappan , Sankaralingam Subbiah , Venkatesh Sakthivel , Malaisamy Arunkumar , Pandita Anu , Casini Ryan , Alataway Abed , Dewidar Ahmed Z. , Almutairi Khalid F. , Elansary Hosam O.
Published: April 2023

The tomato, one of the world’s most extensively cultivated and consumed vegetable crops is negatively impacted by various pathogens. This study aimed to observe the differentially expressed proteins in tomato samples in plant–pathogen-biocontrol interactions. The fungal pathogen associated with wilted plants were isolated and identified based on its morphological and molecular characteristics. Fourteen strains of Pseudomonas fluorescens from agricultural soils were identified and described using biochemical assays, molecular analyses, and screening for antagonistic ability against the Fusarium wilt pathogen. Results demonstrated that the potential of P. fluorescens (TPf12) positively influenced the expression of antagonism against tomato wilt disease. A total of 14 proteins expressed differently were revealed in the 2D-PAGE-MS investigation. Proteins such as nucleoside diphosphate kinase, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, protein kinase family protein, Ser/Thr protein kinase-like are unchanged in FOL pathogen interaction, but up-regulated in FOL + TPf12 treated roots, and lipid transfer-like protein, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase were down-regulated in FOL infested roots and upregulated in FOL + TPf12 treated tomato roots. Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase protein expression is commonly found in TPf12 bioenriched roots, and FOL + TPf12 treated roots, indicating its role in response to the application of TPf12 in tomato. A GC–MS analysis was performed to detect the bioactive metabolites synthesized by TPf12. Molecular docking investigations were conducted using the maestro’s GLIDE docking module of the Schrodinger Software program. Among the secondary metabolites, Cyclohexanepropanoic acid, 2-oxo-, methyl ester (CAS), and 3-o-(4-o-Beta-D-Galactopyranosyl-Beta-D-Galactopyraosyl)-2-Acetylamino-2-Deoxy-D-Galactose were shown to be top-ranked with a least docking score against each differently expressed proteins. The profiled molecules expressed differently due to plant-pathogen-biocontrol interactions may be directly or incidentally involved in the wilt disease resistance of tomato plants.
Case report and literature review: Isolated HCC- recurrence in gallbladder after curative resection
Authors: Zhang Shi-Ran , Ma Yu , Zhou Bo , Li Guang-Yao , Chen Ping , Chen Geng
Published: April 2023

Background

Liver resection (LR) is considered the mainstay treatment for eligible patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and provides a 5-year overall survival (OS) of 60%–80%. However, the recurrence rate within five years after LR remains high, ranging from 40% to 70%. Recurrence in gallbladder after liver resection is extremely rare. Here, we present a case of isolated recurrence in gallbladder after curative resection of HCC and review the relevant literature. No similar cases have been reported before.

Case presentation

A 55-year-old male patient was diagnosed with HCC in 2009 and subsequently underwent a right posterior sectionectomy of the liver. In 2015, the patient underwent liver tumor radiofrequency ablation and three transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) procedures in succession for HCC recurrence. In 2019, a gallbladder lesion was detected by computed tomography (CT) without perceivable intrahepatic focus. We performed an en bloc resection of the gallbladder and hepatic segment IVb. The pathological biopsy suggested that the gallbladder tumor was moderately differentiated HCC. The patient survived more than 3 years in good condition, and there were no signs of tumor recurrence.

Conclusions

In patients with isolated gallbladder metastasis, if the lesion can be resected en bloc without remnants, surgery should be the preferred option. Both postoperative molecularly targeted drugs and immunotherapy are expected to improve the long-term prognosis.
Evaluation of individualized para-tumor resection of cervical cancer patients based on three-dimensional reconstruction
Authors: Wang Lu , Liu Ping , Duan Hui , Li Pengfei , Li Weili , Chen Chunlin
Published: April 2023

Objective

To discuss the possibility of individualizing the para-tumor resection range (PRR) in cervical cancer patients based on three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction.

Methods

We retrospectively included 374 cervical cancer patients who underwent abdominal radical hysterectomy. Preoperative computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data sets were collected to get 3D models. Postoperative specimens were measured to evaluate surgical scope. Oncological outcomes of patients with different depths of stromal invasion and PRR were compared.

Results

A PRR of 32.35 mm was found to be the cut-off point. For the 171 patients with stromal invasion <1/2 depth, patients with a PRR over 32.35 mm had a lower risk of death and higher 5-year overall survival (OS) than that in the ≤32.35 mm group (HR = 0.110, 95% CI: 0.012–0.988, P = 0.046; OS: 98.8% vs. 86.8%, P = 0.012). No significant differences were found in 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) between the two groups (92.2% vs. 84.4%, P = 0.115). For the 178 cases with stromal invasion ≥1/2 depth, no significant differences were found in 5-year OS and DFS between groups (≤32.35 mm group vs. >32.35 mm group, OS: 71.0% vs. 83.0%, P = 0.504; DFS: 65.7% vs. 80.4%, P = 0.305).

Conclusion

In patients with stromal invasion <1/2 depth, the PRR should reach 32.35 mm to get more survival benefit and in patients with stromal invasion ≥1/2 depth, the PRR should reach 32.35 mm at least to avoid worse prognosis. Cervical cancer patients with different depths of stromal invasion may receive tailoring resection of the cardinal ligament.
Retrospective analysis of postoperative complications following surgical treatment of ileal impaction in horses managed with manual decompression compared to jejunal enterotomy
Authors: Ruff Jennifer , Zetterstrom Sandra , Boone Lindsey , Hofmeister Erik , Smith Caitlin , Epstein Kira , Blikslager Anthony , Fogle Callie , Burke Megan
Published: April 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to compare the occurrence of post-operative complications and survival to discharge in horses with ileal impactions resolved by manual decompression compared with jejunal enterotomy.

Animals

A total of 121 client-owned horses undergoing surgical correction of an ileal impaction at three teaching hospitals.

Materials and methods

Data from the medical records of horses undergoing surgical correction of an ileal impaction was retrospectively collected. Post-operative complications, survival to discharge, or post-operative reflux present were evaluated as dependent variables and pre-operative PCV, surgery duration, pre-operative reflux, and type of surgery were evaluated as independent variables. Type of surgery was divided into manual decompression (n = 88) and jejunal enterotomy (n = 33).

Results

There were no significant differences in development of minor complications, development of major complications, presence of post-operative reflux, amount of post-operative reflux, and survival to discharge between horses that were treated with manual decompression and those treated with distal jejunal enterotomy. Pre-operative PCV and surgery duration were significant predictors of survival to discharge.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

This study showed that there are no significant differences in post-operative complications and survival to discharge in horses undergoing distal jejunal enterotomy versus manual decompression for correction of ileal impaction. Pre-operative PCV and duration of surgery were found to be the only predictive factors of survival to discharge. Based on these findings, distal jejunal enterotomy should be considered earlier in horses with moderate to severe ileal impactions identified at surgery.
Economical implications and the impact of gonadotropin-releasing hormone administration at the time of artificial insemination in cows raised in the extensive system in North Romania
Authors: Berean Daniel , Bogdan Liviu Marian , Opris Petrică , Cimpean Raluca
Published: April 2023

Artificial insemination (AI) is the first and the most used biotechnologies in reproduction all over the world. Many studies reported the beneficial role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) administrated some hours before the AI or at the artificial insemination time. This study aimed to assess the effect of GnRH analogs given at the time of insemination on the first, second, and third AIs and to assess the economical implications of GnRH administration. We hypothesized that administration of GnRH at the time of insemination would increase ovulation and pregnancy rate. The study was conducted on small farms in northwestern Romania and included animals of the Romanian Brown and Romanian Spotted breeds. Animals in estrous at the first, second, and third inseminations were randomly divided into groups that received GnRH at insemination and groups that did not. A comparison between the groups was performed and the cost of GnRH administration to obtain one gestation was calculated. The GnRh administration increased the pregnancy rate at the first and the second inseminations by 12 and 18%, respectively. For one pregnancy, the cost of GnRH administration was approximately 49 euros for the first insemination group and around 33 euros for the second insemination group. No improvement of the pregnancy rate was observed after the GnRH administration for the cows at the third insemination, so, for this group, no economic statistics were performed.
Cross-reactivities and cross-neutralization of different envelope glycoproteins E2 antibodies against different genotypes of classical swine fever virus
Authors: Chen Wei-Tao , Liu Hsin-Meng , Chang Chia-Yi , Deng Ming-Chung , Huang Yu-Liang , Chang Yen-Chen , Chang Hui-Wen
Published: April 2023

Classical swine fever (CSF) is a highly contagious swine disease caused by the classical swine fever virus (CSFV), wreaking havoc on global swine production. The virus is divided into three genotypes, each comprising 4–7 sub-genotypes. The major envelope glycoprotein E2 of CSFV plays an essential role in cell attachment, eliciting immune responses, and vaccine development. In this study, to study the cross-reaction and cross-neutralizing activities of antibodies against different genotypes (G) of E2 glycoproteins, ectodomains of G1.1, G2.1, G2.1d, and G3.4 CSFV E2 glycoproteins from a mammalian cell expression system were generated. The cross-reactivities of a panel of immunofluorescence assay-characterized serum derived from pigs with/without a commercial live attenuated G1.1 vaccination against different genotypes of E2 glycoproteins were detected by ELISA. Our result showed that serum against the LPCV cross-reacted with all genotypes of E2 glycoproteins. To evaluate cross-neutralizing activities, hyperimmune serum from different CSFV E2 glycoprotein-immunized mice was also generated. The result showed that mice anti-E2 hyperimmune serum exhibited better neutralizing abilities against homologous CSFV than heterogeneous viruses. In conclusion, the results provide information on the cross-reactivity of antibodies against different genogroups of CSFV E2 glycoproteins and suggest the importance of developing multi-covalent subunit vaccines for the complete protection of CSF.
Transcriptome Analysis of the Salt-Treated Actinidia deliciosa (A. Chev.) C. F. Liang and A. R. Ferguson Plantlets
Authors: Wu Jiexin , Wei Zhuo , Zhao Wenjuan , Zhang Zhiming , Chen Daming , Zhang Hanyao , Liu Xiaozhen
Published: April 2023

The area of saline land in the world is quite large, and there is broad room for its development and usage. ‘Xuxiang’ is an Actinidia deliciosa variety that is tolerant to salt and can be planted in an area of light-saline land, and has good comprehensive characteristics and high economic value. However, the molecular mechanism of salt tolerance is unknown at present. To understand the molecular mechanism of salt tolerance, the leaves of A. deliciosa ‘Xuxiang’ were used as explants to establish a sterile tissue culture system, and plantlets were obtained using this system. One percent concentration (w/v) of sodium chloride (NaCl) was employed to treat the young plantlets cultured in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium, then RNA-seq was used for transcriptome analysis. The results showed that the genes related to salt stress in the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway and the anabolism of trehalose and maltose pathways were up-regulated; however, those genes in the plant hormone signal transduction and metabolic pathways of starch, sucrose, glucose, and fructose were down-regulated after salt treatment. The expression levels of ten genes that were up-regulated and down-regulated in these pathways were confirmed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis. The salt tolerance of A. deliciosa might be related to the expression level changes in the genes in the pathways of plant hormone signal transduction, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and starch, sucrose, glucose, and fructose metabolism. The increased expression levels of the genes encoding alpha-trehalose-phosphate synthase, trehalose-phosphatase, alpha-amylase, beta-amylase, feruloyl-CoA 6-hydroxylase, ferulate 5-hydroxylase, and coniferyl-alcohol glucosyl transferase might be vital to the salt stress response of the young A. deliciosa plants.
Experimental Evaluation of Post-Earthquake Fire on Reinforced Concrete Structures—A Review
Authors: Khiali Vahid , Rodrigues Hugo
Published: April 2023

This review aims to investigate the recent advancements in the performance of earthquake-damaged reinforced concrete structures subjected to fire loading and the damages that are induced by fire to reinforced concrete structural elements with damage due to seismic loads. The first part of the paper provides a general understanding of the Post-Earthquake Fire (PEF) effect on reinforced concrete structures, and some statistics regarding the previous earthquake casualties and amounts of destruction in different regions of the world are addressed. In the second part of the investigation, an in-depth review of the experimental and numerical procedures of PEF analysis in concrete columns, beams, slabs, and full-scale RC frames and the types of damages in RC members due to PEF have been presented, giving a general review of the results and conclusions in previous research in PEF in different reinforced concrete structures. In the end is discussed the concept of hybrid fire simulation, its applications in engineering problems, the methodologies that consider full interaction effects as well as recent breakthroughs in studying PEF using Real-Time Hybrid Simulation.
Synergistic Interaction of Glycyrrhizin with Norfloxacin Displays ROS-Induced Bactericidal Activity against Multidrug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Singh Vigyasa , Pal Anirban , Darokar Mahendra P.
Published: April 2023

Acquired bacterial resistance against several antibiotics has severely impaired the drug treatment regime. Multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MDRSA) causes several life-threatening human pathologies. The introduction of novel antibiotics is a tedious process. Therefore, we have introduced glycyrrhizin (Gly) as a bioenhancer of norfloxacin (Nor), which showed synergistic interactions and a robust drug response. The drug resistance reversal potential of Gly against MDRSA was monitored. Gly and GlyNor (glycyrrhizin + norfloxacin) were used for spectrofluorometer and flow cytometry analysis for the measurement of free radicals and its effect upon cell membranes and macromolecules. Morphological analysis was carried out with the help of SEM. qRT-PCR analysis was conducted for gene regulation. Gly was observed to lower the MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) of different groups of antibiotics up to 64-fold against MDRSA. GlyNor exerted oxidative stress, as evidenced by the measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and their effect upon cell components. Gly and GlyNor showed membrane damage potential. The expression analysis of oxidative-related and MDR genes showed the up- and downregulation of these genes, respectively. GlyNor significantly lengthened post-antibiotic effects (PAE) and showed reduced mutation frequency rate (MFR). The synergistic bioenhancer properties of Gly with Nor and their enhanced ROS generation against MDRSA are reported for the first time in this study. Severe oxidative stress caused membrane damage, DNA fragmentation, transcriptional changes, and bacterial cell death. We strongly believe this could be a potential measure against rapidly evolving MDRSA.
Managing Thermal Injuries of the Penis and Scrotum: A Narrative Review
Authors: Tople Tannon , Skokan Alexander , Ettinger Russell , Morrison Shane
Published: April 2023

While thermal injuries to the external genitalia occur less often than burns to the trunk and extremities, such injuries can potentially leave patients with devastating lifelong sequelae. Though much is known about treating burns in commonly exposed areas of the body, there is a lack of agreement concerning the management of genital thermal injuries. In this review, we seek to synthesize the past and existing literature into a clear analysis while reviewing current recommendations and new developments in the management of genital thermal injuries of the penis and scrotum. Specifically, recommendations for managing genital burns are discussed, including the role of urinary and fecal diversion, debridement, use of skin grafts, and flap coverage choice. Finally, less common thermal injuries, such as frostbite of the genitalia, are discussed.
Review of RoCoF Estimation Techniques for Low-Inertia Power Systems
Authors: Deng Xiaoyu , Mo Ruo , Wang Pengliang , Chen Junru , Nan Dongliang , Liu Muyang
Published: April 2023

As the traditional generation is gradually replaced by inverter-based resources, a lack of rotational inertia is now a common issue of modern power systems, which leads to an increasingly larger rate of change of frequency (RoCoF) following contingencies and may result in frequency collapse. As a crucial index of the frequency security and stability of power systems, the accurate estimation of the RoCoF can be a foundation for the development of advanced operations and control techniques of the future power system. This paper firstly analyzes the role of the RoCoF in typical blackouts occurring in recent years and discusses the physical and numerical nature of the RoCoF; then, by introducing the frequency spatial distribution of the power system, the paper discusses the concept of the “center” RoCoF that can present the frequency security and stability of the entire system. The estimation and prediction techniques of the maximal power system RoCoF following a contingency and the existing real-time tracking techniques of the power system RoCoF are comprehensively reviewed. Finally, the open questions and related research topics of the RoCoF estimation are discussed.
The Efficiency of Offshore Wind Energy Companies in the European Countries: A DEA Approach
Authors: Maradin Dario , Olgić Draženović Bojana , Čegar Saša
Published: April 2023

Considering environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions associated with climate change and the depletion of fossil fuels, one of the possible solutions is the use of renewable energy sources. Wind energy is one of the most competitive and resilient energy sources in the world, which can play an important role in accelerating the global transition to green energy. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the allocative efficiency of 47 offshore wind energy companies in 9 European countries using the input-oriented BCC DEA model. The basic hypothesis is that by evaluating the relative efficiency of offshore wind energy companies in European countries, it is possible to determine a correlation between the results of efficiency between the two observed periods with slight deviations. The empirical results show no significant correlation between the score of relative efficiency and the country where the offshore wind energy company is located. On the other hand, the results are consistent with the basic hypothesis of this study. From the management perspective, significant improvements in all financial variables, i.e., tangible fixed assets, cash and cash equivalents, and current assets, are required to achieve relative efficiency. The model variables refer to the economic characteristics of offshore wind energy companies, indicating that only allocative efficiency was analysed, which is in contrast to previous studies.
Discussion on Transitional Shale Gas Accumulation Conditions from the Perspective of Source-Reservoir-Caprock Controlling Hydrocarbon: Examples from Permian Shanxi Formation and Taiyuan Formation in the Eastern Margin of Ordos Basin, NW China
Authors: Zhang Qin , Xiong Wei , Li Xingtao , Feng Congjun , Qiu Zhen , Liu Wen , Li Xiang , Xiao Yufeng , Liu Dan , Yang Haixing
Published: April 2023

Transitional shale gas, rich in resources, is expected to be a practical contributor to the increase in shale gas reserves and production in China. Its exploration prospect has been demonstrated by several wells in the Daning-Jixian block on the eastern margin of the Ordos Basin. In this paper, the Lower Permian Shanxi Formation (P1s) and Taiyuan Formation (P1t) in the eastern margin of Ordos Basin were compared for organic geochemical parameters, revealing that the overflow fan + lagoon combination (OLC) of the third sub-member of the second member of Shanxi Formation (P1s23) and the marine + lagoon combination (MLC) of the first member of Taiyuan Formation (P1t1) are the most favorable shale gas intervals. The two intervals were comparatively analyzed with respect to mineral composition, brittleness, caprocks, and preservation conditions. It is found that the OLC of P1s23 has a similar porosity to and much lower permeability than the MLC of P1t1 (or MLC1) and a BET surface area of 10–15 m2/g, which is smaller than the MLC1 (15–20 m2/g). Moreover, OLC has a brittle mineral content equivalent to MLC1 but a brittleness index of 33.73–62.36 (avg. 49.86), smaller than MLC1 (53.34–58.27, or avg. 55.85). OLC contains sandstones at both the roof and floor, with a higher permeability than shale in the interval, which cannot serve as good physical seals. In contrast, MLC1 contains limestones with lower permeability at the roof and floor, which, together with the overlying coal seams, have hydrocarbon generation capacity and can physically seal the MLC1 shale but also fill it with hydrocarbons, making MLC1 have higher gas content and superior for shale gas exploration than the OLC shale. Due to the multi-lithologies developed in transitional facies, besides the organic matter enrichment, and reservoir characteristics, it is necessary to find a suitable lithological combination to ensure the gas in shale can be better preserved and retained.
Suppression Measures of Partial Discharge at Rod–Plate Connection in Composite Tower
Authors: Hao Jinpeng , Huang Jinzhu , Fang Ziyi , He Xiao , Wu Qiang , Gu Xiaolong , Wang Yu , Wu Hong
Published: April 2023

Rods and plates at the connections in composite insulating material towers are commonly fixed to each other by metal bolts, which may cause electrical field distortion at the connections. So, the rod–plate connections are prone to partial discharge under polluted and wet conditions, and the resulting electric field and temperature changes can affect the mechanical and electrical performance of the whole tower. In this paper, an artificial pollution test synchronous observation platform with an infrared and visible light imager, leakage current, and voltage measurement was built to observe the dry band formation and partial discharge at the simplified rod–plate connections in the composite towers. Then, the electric field simulation of the rod–plate connection specimen showed the current density distribution. When combining the test and the simulation, it was concluded that the cause of the partial discharge was the distortion of the current density and, thus, measures to suppress the partial discharge at the rod–plate connections were proposed. Finally, it was verified that the measures can improve the current density distortion phenomenon, delay dry band formation, and effectively suppress the partial discharge at the rod–plate connections under the same test conditions.
Impact of the Air Filtration in the Nacelle on the Wind Turbine Performance
Authors: Shalby Mohammad , Gomaa Mohamed R. , Salah Ahmad , Marashli Abdullah , Yusaf Talal , Laimon Mohamd
Published: April 2023

Wind turbine farms require efficient operation and maintenance strategies to ensure long-term profitability and cost-effectiveness. However, temperatures and dust accumulation can significantly affect turbine performance and increase maintenance costs. This study investigates the impact of air filter clogging on wind turbine nacelle temperature and performance by collecting data from the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system of wind farms in southern Jordan, including temperature, wind speed, and power generation. The findings demonstrate that uncleaned air filters can lead to inefficient heat dissipation, higher nacelle temperatures, and reduced power production. Turbines with uncleaned filters experienced an average nacelle temperature increase of 15.44 °C compared to 13.30 °C for turbines with clean filters, resulting in a difference in the power production of 66.54 kW.
Experimental Investigation of the Influence of NO on a PEM Fuel Cell System and Voltage Recovery Strategies
Authors: Reithuber Peter , Poimer Florian , Brandstätter Stefan , Schutting Eberhard , Buchberger Simon , Trattner Alexander , Eichlseder Helmut
Published: April 2023

Air contaminants can have detrimental effects on the performance and durability of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell vehicles. This research focuses on the experimental investigation of the effect of nitrogen monoxide (NO) in the cathode gas stream, which provokes a cell voltage decrease due to the partially reversible adsorption of NO on the platinum catalyst. The concentration and exposure time of NO in the cathode gas stream are varied at selected constant current densities and load ramps to assess the effects throughout the fuel cell system operating range. The results show the cell voltage loss in the presence of NO and reveal a near-catalyst saturation with increased injected NO mass. Additionally, several voltage recovery and mitigation strategies are introduced and discussed by presenting conclusions about the general effect of NO on a fuel cell system in operation. The most promising recovery strategy for fuel cell systems is identified, and the overall system degradation is discussed. All experiments are performed in a test bed environment on a 25 kW low-temperature fuel cell system via controlled injection of NO into the cathode gas stream.
Development of a Steam Generator Mock-Up for EU DEMO Fusion Reactor: Conceptual Design and Code Assessment
Authors: Vannoni Alessandra , Lorusso Pierdomenico , Eboli Marica , Giannetti Fabio , Ciurluini Cristiano , Tincani Amelia , Marinari Ranieri , Tarallo Andrea , Del Nevo Alessandro
Published: April 2023

Recent R&D activities in nuclear fusion have identified the DEMO reactor as the ITER successor, aiming at demonstrating the technical feasibility of fusion plants, along with their commercial exploitation. However, the pulsed operation of the machine causes an “unconventional” operation of the system, posing unique challenges to the functional feasibility of the steam generator, for which it is necessary to define and qualify a reference configuration for DEMO. In order to facilitate the transitions between different operational regimes, the Once Through Steam Generator (OTSG) is considered to be a suitable choice for the DEMO primary heat transfer systems, being characterized by lower thermal inertia with respect to the most common U-tube steam generators. In this framework, the ENEA has undertaken construction of the STEAM facility at Brasimone R.C., aiming at characterizing the behavior of the DEMO OTSG and related water coolant systems in steady-state and transient conditions. A dedicated OTSG mock-up has been conceived and designed, adopting a scaling procedure, keeping the height 1:1 of the DEMO OTSGs. The conceptual design has been supported by RELAP5/Mod3.3 thermal-hydraulic calculations. CFD and FEM codes have been used for fluid-dynamic analyses and mechanical stress analyses, respectively, in specific parts of the component.
Thermocatalytic Decomposition of Sesame Waste Biomass over Ni-Co-Doped MCM-41: Kinetics and Physicochemical Properties of the Bio-Oil
Authors: Nisar Jan , Ullah Raqeeb , Ali Ghulam , Shah Afzal , Din Muhammad Imran , Hussain Zaib , Amin Roohul
Published: April 2023

The increase in industrialization and development has tremendously diminished fossil fuel resources. Moreover, the excessive use of fossil fuels has resulted in the release of various toxic gases and an increase in global warming. Hence, necessitating the need to search for a renewable energy source. In this study, sesame waste biomass (SWB), which is abundantly available in Pakistan, has been used as feedstock for obtaining bio-oil using the pyrolysis technique. Pyrolysis was carried out using thermogravimetry and a pyrolysis chamber. Firstly, thermogravimetric analysis was performed on biomass with/without a laboratory synthesized catalyst Ni/Co/MCM-41 in nitrogen at different temperature programmed rates of 5, 10, 15, and 20 °C/min. A four-stage weight loss was observed that pointed toward the vaporization of water, and degradation of hemicelluloses, cellulose, and lignin. The kinetics parameters were determined using the Kissinger equation. The activation energy for the decomposition reaction of hemicelluloses, cellulose, and lignin, without catalyst, was observed as 133.02, 141.33, and 191.22 kJ/mol, respectively, however, with catalyst it was found as 91.45, 99.76, and 149.65 kJ/mol, respectively. In the catalyzed reaction the results showed the lowest activation energy, which is an indication of the fact that the catalyst is successful in reducing the activation energy to a sufficient level. As the TG/DTG showed active degradation between 200 and 400 °C, therefore, the waste sesame biomass over Ni-Co/MCM-41 was pyrolyzed within the same temperature range in the pyrolysis chamber. Temperature and time were optimized for maximum oil yield. A maximum oil yield of 38% was achieved at 330 °C and 20 min. The oil obtained was studied using GCMS. The physicochemical characteristics of the oil were assessed, and it was found that if the oil was upgraded properly, it could serve as a fuel for commercial use.
Possibilities of Reducing the Heat Energy Consumption in a Tissue Paper Machine—Case Study
Authors: Reczulski Mariusz , Szewczyk Włodzimierz , Kuczkowski Michał
Published: April 2023

The article presents studies on the impact of the significant process parameters of a paper machine with a Yankee cylinder on its production capacity and heat energy consumption for drying the paper web. Parameters such as machine speed, web moisture content before and after pressing, parameters of steam supplied to the cylinder and parameters of hot air flowing from the nozzles of the hood were analyzed. The study’s results were used to optimize production to improve the energy efficiency and performance of the machine. In order to use the possible methods of improving the production capacity and heat energy consumption, the parameters of the production process were measured and the basic indicators characterizing the operation of the machine were calculated in the Yankee cylinder–dryer hood system. The correct functioning of the machine components and the possibility of their modernization were also analyzed. Technological and construction changes introduced based on the research results made it possible to increase the production capacity by 10% and to reduce the consumption of heat energy per 1 ton of produced paper by 16.3%. The article presents a description of changes in the technology of paper production and modernization of the tissue machine made in the years 2013–2022.
The Evolution of Energy Management Maturity in Organizations Subject to Mandatory Energy Audits: Findings from Italy
Authors: Santolamazza Annalisa , Introna Vito , Cesarotti Vittorio , Martini Fabrizio
Published: April 2023

Promoting energy efficiency is a key element of the strategic commitment of the European Community. Prominent among the binding measures established by the 2012 Energy Efficiency Directive to further this vision is the requirement for large companies to conduct energy audits every four years. After receiving the second cycle of energy audit reports in December 2019, a new description of the energy situation of Italian companies was made available. This presented the previously inaccessible possibility of comparing the two situations reported in 2015 and 2019 to assess the development of energy efficiency practices in organizations subject to the legislative obligation of energy audits in the country. To this end, in collaboration with the Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), a project was initiated with the aim of developing the tools and methodologies necessary to assess in more detail the evolution that has occurred in the four years since 2015. In this paper, the findings of the analysis conducted on a significant sample of companies in Italy are presented. Through the design of a maturity model to assess the degree of progress achieved in a company’s energy management, the results of the two situations were analyzed. The analysis was deepened by assessing the progress achieved in different aspects of Energy Management: “Strategic Approach”, “Awareness, Competence, and Knowledge”, “Methodological Approach”, “Organizational Structure”, “Energy Performance Management and Information System”, and “Best Practices”. Furthermore, the observed variations were statistically tested using a pairwise t-test to make statistical inferences about the maturity of the total population of Italian enterprises under legislative obligation. The results have shown an increase in overall energy management maturity in each maturity dimension.
Analysis of Damage Characteristics for Skarn Subjected to Freeze-Thaw Cycles Based on Fractal Theory
Authors: Li Jielin , Tan Shuaijie , Yang Chun , Chen Hui , Lin Yun
Published: April 2023

A large number of rock works in cold areas suffer from long-term freeze-thaw damage, and it seriously affects the stability of mine slopes. In this paper, the XRD component measurement, P-wave velocity, freeze-thaw cycling test at different times, uniaxial compression test, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) test were carried out to obtain the mechanical properties and microstructure evolution of skarn under the effect of freeze-thaw cycles. The results of the study indicate that with an increase in the number of freeze-thaw cycles, the mass of the rock gradually increases and the P-wave velocity, uniaxial compressive strength, elastic modulus, and Poisson’s ratio all decrease. Based on the SEM image of the rock after crushing, fine pores and fissures gradually developed, expanded, and penetrated each other under the action of freezing and thawing; the inter-particle bonding force decreased; and the cement gradually loosened. The fractal dimension of the specimens under different numbers of freeze-thaw cycles was obtained using the box dimension method, and the degradation of the fine structure of the rock was quantitatively elaborated. By establishing the relationship between the compressive strength of rocks and the fractal dimension, the mechanism of damage to skarn under freeze-thaw action was further investigated. It provides some theoretical basis for the characterization of freeze-thaw damage of rocks in cold regions.
Transplacental Treatment of Fetal Tachyarrhythmia: Current Trends and Future Perspectives
Authors: Chimenea Ángel , Vargas-Rodríguez Carmen , García-Díaz Lutgardo , Antiñolo Guillermo
Published: April 2023

Fetal arrhythmias complicate 1% of pregnancies. Although most of them have a benign and intermittent course, sustained fetal tachyarrhythmias constitute an emerging situation, which is associated with high fetal morbidity and mortality. However, one of the major milestones in fetal therapy is the pharmacologic management of fetal arrhythmias by crossing the placental barrier. To date, there is no consensus on the first-line antiarrhythmic treatment for fetal tachyarrhythmias. The role of sotalol in therapeutic management, the use of flecainide versus digoxin as first line of treatment, the need for fetal intramuscular treatment administration, or the best treatment in case of fetal hydrops are situations whose application or management are controversial. The current paper is a scoping review of observational and experimental evidence, addressing the types of best management strategies for each type of tachyarrhythmia and the optimal pharmacological dose, considering precautions and safety elements. Finally, we will highlight new therapeutic perspectives and future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
The Design, Synthesis and Application of Nitrogen Heteropolycyclic Compounds with UV Resistance Properties
Authors: Yang Biao , Yang Xinbo , Li Yuchuan , Pang Siping
Published: April 2023

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light is known to cause skin aging, skin damage, cancer, and eye diseases, as well as polymer material aging. Therefore, significant attention has been devoted to the research and development of UV absorbers. Considering the robust hydrogen bonding and conjugated structure present in nitrogen-containing polycyclic compounds, these compounds have been selected as potential candidates for exploring ultraviolet absorption properties. After structural optimization and the simulation of ultraviolet absorption spectra, four tris-[1,2,4]-triazolo-[1,3,5]-triazine (TTTs) derivatives, namely TTTB, TTTD, TTTJ, and TTTL, were selected as the preferred compounds and synthesized. The structure of the compound was determined using various analytical techniques, including FTIR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, HRMS, and XRD. Subsequently, composite films of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and TTTs were produced using a simple solvent casting technique. The PVC films were subjected to UV age testing by exposing them to an ultraviolet aging chamber. The age-resistant performance of the fabricated films was evaluated using an ultraviolet spectrophotometer and Fourier infrared spectrum instrument. The findings suggest that TTTs exhibit a noteworthy capacity for absorbing ultraviolet radiation. The TTTL compound exhibits a superior UV absorption performance compared to commercially available UV absorbers such as UV-0 and UV-327 in the market.
The Molecular Epidemiology of Pneumococcal Strains Isolated from the Nasopharynx of Preschool Children 3 Years after the Introduction of the PCV Vaccination Program in Poland
Authors: Kielbik Karolina , Grywalska Ewelina , Glowniak Andrzej , Mielnik-Niedzielska Grażyna , Korona-Glowniak Izabela
Published: April 2023

The genetic mechanisms of resistance, clonal composition, and the occurrence of pili were analyzed in 39 pneumococcal strains isolated from healthy children in the southeastern region of Poland. Strains with resistance to combinations of erythromycin, clindamycin, and tetracycline were found in clonal groups (CGs) related to Tennessee 23F-4 and Taiwan 19F-14 clones. Capsular switching possibly occurred in the Spain 9V-3 clone and its variants to serotypes 35B and 6A, as well as DLVs of Tennessee 23F-4 to serotype 23A. The double-locus variants of Colombia 23F-26 presented serotype 23B. The major transposons carrying the erythromycin and tetracycline resistance genes were Tn6002 (66.6%), followed by Tn916 (22.2%) and Tn2009 (11.1%). The macrolide efflux genetic assembly (MEGA) element was found in 41.7% of all erythromycin-resistant isolates. The majority of the isolates carrying the PI-1 gene belonged to the CGs related to the Spain 9V-3 clone expressing serotypes 35B and 6A, and the presence of both PI-1 and PI-2 was identified in CG4 consisting of the isolates related to the Taiwan 19F-14 clone expressing serotypes 19F and 19A. Importantly, in the nearest future, the piliated strains of serogroups 23B, 23A, and 35B may be of concern, being a possible origin of the emerging clones of piliated non-vaccine pneumococcal serotypes in Poland. This study reveals that nasopharyngeal carriage in children is an important reservoir for the selection and spreading of new drug-resistant pneumococcal clones in the community after the elimination of vaccine serotypes.
Identification of Protein Complexes by Integrating Protein Abundance and Interaction Features Using a Deep Learning Strategy
Authors: Li Bohui , Altelaar Maarten , van Breukelen Bas
Published: April 2023

Many essential cellular functions are carried out by multi-protein complexes that can be characterized by their protein–protein interactions. The interactions between protein subunits are critically dependent on the strengths of their interactions and their cellular abundances, both of which span orders of magnitude. Despite many efforts devoted to the global discovery of protein complexes by integrating large-scale protein abundance and interaction features, there is still room for improvement. Here, we integrated >7000 quantitative proteomic samples with three published affinity purification/co-fractionation mass spectrometry datasets into a deep learning framework to predict protein–protein interactions (PPIs), followed by the identification of protein complexes using a two-stage clustering strategy. Our deep-learning-technique-based classifier significantly outperformed recently published machine learning prediction models and in the process captured 5010 complexes containing over 9000 unique proteins. The vast majority of proteins in our predicted complexes exhibited low or no tissue specificity, which is an indication that the observed complexes tend to be ubiquitously expressed throughout all cell types and tissues. Interestingly, our combined approach increased the model sensitivity for low abundant proteins, which amongst other things allowed us to detect the interaction of MCM10, which connects to the replicative helicase complex via the MCM6 protein. The integration of protein abundances and their interaction features using a deep learning approach provided a comprehensive map of protein–protein interactions and a unique perspective on possible novel protein complexes.