bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Systemic or Local Administration of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Patients with Osteoporosis or Osteoarthritis on Femoral Fracture Healing in a Mouse Model
Authors: Laguna Esther , Pérez-Núñez María Isabel , del Real Álvaro , Menéndez Guillermo , Sáinz-Aja José A. , López-Delgado Laura , Sañudo Carolina , Martín Alicia , Mazorra Remigio , Ferreño Diego , García-Montesinos Belén , Riancho José A.
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study was to analyze the regenerative capacity of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the treatment of fractures. MSCs extracted from patients with osteoporotic hip fractures or hip osteoarthritis undergoing hip replacement surgeries were cultured and injected into mice with femoral fracture. Two experimental models were established, one for the systemic administration of MSCs (n = 29) and another one for local administration (n = 30). Fracture consolidation was assessed by micro-CT and histology. The degree of radiological consolidation and corticalization was better with MSCs from osteoporosis than from osteoarthritis, being significant after systemic administration (p = 0.0302 consolidation; p = 0.0243 corticalization). The histological degree of consolidation was also better with MSCs from osteoporosis than from osteoarthritis. Differences in histological scores after systemic infusion were as follows: Allen, p = 0.0278; Huo, p = 0.3471; and Bone Bridge, p = 0.0935. After local administration at the fracture site, differences in histological scores were as follows: Allen, p = 0.0764; Huo, p = 0.0256; and Bone Bridge, p = 0.0012. As osteoporosis and control groups were similar, those differences depended on an inhibitory influence by MSCs from patients with osteoarthritis. In conclusion, we found an unexpected impairment of consolidation induced by MSCs from patients with osteoarthritis. However, MSCs from patients with osteoporosis compared favorably with cells from patients with osteoarthritis. In other words, based on this study and previous studies, MSCs from patients with osteoporosis do not appear to have worse bone-regenerating capabilities than MSCs from non-osteoporotic individuals of similar age.
Alterations in Cortical Activation among Soccer Athletes with Chronic Ankle Instability during Drop-Jump Landing: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Zhang Xiaoya , Su Wanrongyu , Ruan Bin , Zang Yu
Published: May 2022

Background: Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a common peripheral joint injury and there is still no consensus on the mechanisms. It is necessary to investigate electrocortical parameters to provide clinical insight into the functional alterations of brain activity after an ankle sprain, which would greatly affect the implementation of rehabilitation plans. The purpose of this study was to assess cortical activation characteristics during drop-jump landing among soccer athletes with CAI. Methods: A total of 24 participants performed the drop-jump landing task on a force platform while wearing a 64-channel EEG system. The differences of power spectral density (PSD) in theta and alpha (alpha-1 and alpha-2) bands were analyzed between two groups (CAI vs. CON) and between two limbs (injured vs. healthy). Results: CAI participants demonstrated significantly higher theta power at the frontal electrode than that in healthy control individuals (F(1,22) = 7.726, p = 0.011, η2p = 0.260). No difference in parietal alpha-1 and alpha-2 power was found between groups (alpha-1: F(1,22) = 0.297, p = 0.591, η2p = 0.013; alpha-2: F(1,22) = 0.118, p = 0.734, η2p = 0.005). No limb differences were presented for any frequency band in selected cortical areas (alpha-1: F(1,22) = 0.149, p = 0.703, η2p = 0.007; alpha-2: F(1,22) = 0.166, p = 0.688, η2p = 0.007; theta: F(1,22) = 2.256, p = 0.147, η2p = 0.093). Conclusions: Theta power at the frontal cortex was higher in soccer athletes with CAI during drop-jump landing. Differences in cortical activation provided evidence for an altered neural mechanism of postural control among soccer athletes with CAI.
The Effect of Odor Valence on Facial Attractiveness Judgment: A Preliminary Experiment
Authors: Feng Guo , Lei Jiawei
Published: May 2022

The role of social odors on human social interactions, including face evaluation, has been widely indicated. However, for nonsocial odors, there has not been a consistent conclusion. Therefore, this study aimed to verify the effect of suprathreshold nonsocial odors on facial attractiveness judgment when the visual input is ambiguous. We designed a 3 (odor valence: neutral, pleasant, and unpleasant) × 7 (continuous levels of morphed fuzziness of attractiveness: 37.5% to 62.5%) within-subject experiment. A total of 30 participants (18 females) completed the whole experiment simultaneously for three consecutive days. The results showed that faces presented with pleasant and neutral odors were judged as significantly more attractive than those with unpleasant odors. The intervention effect of odor valence on facial attractiveness differed by fuzzy attractiveness levels. Results also suggested that male faces were perceived as more attractive than female faces no matter the odor conditions. The results of this study provide evidence to support the cross-modal emotion integration effect of olfaction and vision. Follow-up studies need to be conducted to reveal the underlying mechanism of odor valence on visual fact attractive judgment.
A Scoping Review of Interventions for Family Bereavement Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Laranjeira Carlos , Moura Débora , Salci Maria Aparecida , Carreira Lígia , Covre Eduardo , Jaques André , Cuman Roberto Nakamura , Marcon Sonia , Querido Ana
Published: May 2022

The death of a loved one is a major stressor, and bereaved people are at a higher risk of negative health effects. This risk is higher during the COVID-19 pandemic, which raises the need for understanding existing bereavement support interventions. This scoping review aimed to map and summarize findings from the existing literature regarding bereavement support interventions (i.e., psychosocial and psychotherapeutic interventions) for family carers of people who died of COVID-19. The Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework was used. Five databases—Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science—were searched for articles available from the inception of COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020) to January 2022, following the PRISMA guidelines. Among the 990 studies identified, only seven met this study’s inclusion criteria. The analysis comprised three key topics: types of support programmes and bereavement interventions; tools used to measure the outcomes; and evidence of the impacts of the interventions. All studies analysed included interdisciplinary interventions, commonly developed in clinical settings. Support for recently bereaved individuals can entail cognitive behavioural therapy strategies and other tools to educate, guide, support, and promote healthy integration of loss. To mitigate the effects of non-normative family bereavement, we recommend a systematic approach and coordination between organizational settings, including access to informal and professional support, in order to find hope while navigating the aftermath of COVID-19.
Abusive Supervision and Employee’s Creative Performance: A Serial Mediation Model of Relational Conflict and Employee Silence
Authors: Lee Wang-Ro , Kang Seung-Wan , Choi Suk Bong
Published: May 2022

Many previous studies on creativity have focused on discovering positive factors to improve creativity and innovation performance from leader, individual, and organizational perspectives. However, research on factors that hinder creative performance was relatively insufficient. This study examines leaders’ behavior that hinders employees’ creative performance by focusing on abusive supervision. Based on the Korean employee context, our research model draws upon constructs of abusive supervision, relational conflict, employee silence, and creative performance to hypothesize serial mediation mechanisms connecting abusive supervision to creative performance. Using survey data of 555 Korean employees, we find that abusive supervision is negatively related to creative performance. We also find that both relational conflict and employee silence mediate the relationship between abusive supervision and employee creative performance. More importantly, our empirical analysis indicates that a serial mediation effect testing a dual coordination effect was identified in the process of the leader’s abusive supervision leading to employee’s creative performance. Although many previous studies were focused on a single medium effect in the relationship between leadership types and employee creativity, this study applied the serial mediation effects in the relationship to test a dual medium effect. We further addressed a more complex process to explain the path of reducing creative performance by supervisor abusive supervision. We conclude by discussing both theoretical and practical implications.
Sustainability Study of a Residential Building near Subway Based on LCA-Emergy Method
Authors: Chen Xinnan , Wang Hairuo , Zhang Junxue , Zhang He , Asutosh Ashish , Wu Guodong , Wei Guobin , Shi Yaling , Yang Minghui
Published: May 2022

In the context of ecological building and green building popularity, building sustainability assessment is becoming more and more important. In this paper, a comprehensive evaluation platform by coupled LCA method and energy method was designed, verified, and analyzed to assess the sustainability of the building system. The main results illustrated that the construction stage is the most critical stage in terms of emergy angle. From a sustainability perspective, the Emergy Sustainability Indicator was at a moderate level (1.0141), which can be considered to increase the proportion of renewable energy and reduce the proportion of non-renewable resources to improve the sustainability degree. Of the three scenarios designed, the second scenario has the best sustainability in the building system. The unit emergy value of the whole building was also shown to demonstrate the unit emergy of an individual. In order to verify the accuracy of the data, a sensitivity analysis was conducted. Finally, two types of positive measures are proposed to ameliorate the environmental sustainability in the building system, containing the increasing proportion of renewable energy and using recycled building materials.
Fatigue Behaviour of Aluminium Members with Different Notch Root Shapes
Authors: Buljan Nebojša , Skejić Davor , Krolo Paulina , Lukić Mladen
Published: May 2022

In unitised curtain walls, the transfer of horizontal loads, mainly wind loads, from the upper into the lower unit is achieved through the head/notch interlocking connection. Optimisation of the machining process would require a sharp root of the notch, causing an increase in the stress concentration. In order to predict fatigue resistance during design life, the influence of the radius at the root of the notch has been tested in both static and cyclic regimes. The cyclic regime is based on the load history equivalent of 50 years of wind exposure. Numerical simulations on the test assembly have been conducted in order to verify their adequacy for future research on similar issues. The experimental results demonstrated that, for the given specimen shape and alloy, a sharp notch would not lead to premature failure, and such a detail is safe from the purview of damage-tolerant design.
Unraveling the Reaction Mechanism of HCHO Catalytic Oxidation on Pristine Co3O4 (110) Surface: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Li Rong , Huang Tingting , Huang Yu , Chen Meijuan , Lee Shun-cheng , Ho Wingkei , Cao Junji
Published: May 2022

Various reaction mechanisms for the catalytic degradation of formaldehyde (HCHO) remain to be debated. Density functional theory (DFT) was applied to investigate whether the catalytic oxidation of HCHO on pristine Co3O4 (110) surface follows the Mars-van Krevelen (MvK) mechanism or the Langmuir–Hinshelwood (L-H) mechanism. Firstly, HCHO and O2 co-adsorb on the surface and two H atoms from HCHO are peculiarly prone to transfer to O2, forming CO and HOOH. For the MvK mechanism, CO2 is generated through CO grabbing a lattice oxygen. Meanwhile, the O–O bond of HOOH is broken into two OH groups. One OH fills the oxygen vacancy and its H atom moves to another OH group for H2O formation. For the L-H mechanism, CO directly obtains one OH group to generate COOH. Subsequently, the H atom of COOH transfers to another OH group along with CO2 and H2O generation. Both two mechanisms exhibit a similar maximum activation barrier. The lattice oxygen in the MvK mechanism and the surface-absorbed OH group in the L-H mechanism are the key reactive oxygen species. The small difference in energetic span further suggests that the catalytic cycle through the two mechanisms is feasible. This theoretical study provides new insight into the catalytic reaction path of HCHO oxidation on pristine Co3O4 surface.
Transcribed Ultraconserved Regions in Cancer
Authors: Gibert Myron K. , Sarkar Aditya , Chagari Bilhan , Roig-Laboy Christian , Saha Shekhar , Bednarek Sylwia , Kefas Benjamin , Hanif Farina , Hudson Kadie , Dube Collin , Zhang Ying , Abounader Roger
Published: May 2022

Transcribed ultraconserved regions are putative lncRNA molecules that are transcribed from DNA that is 100% conserved in human, mouse, and rat genomes. This is notable, as lncRNAs are typically poorly conserved. TUCRs remain very understudied in many diseases, including cancer. In this review, we summarize the current literature on TUCRs in cancer with respect to expression deregulation, functional roles, mechanisms of action, and clinical perspectives.
Activation and Migration of Human Skeletal Muscle Stem Cells In Vitro Differently Rely on Calcium Signals
Authors: Tollance Axel , Koenig Stéphane , Liaudet Nicolas , Frieden Maud
Published: May 2022

Muscle regeneration is essential for proper muscle homeostasis and relies primarily on muscle stem cells (MuSC). MuSC are maintained quiescent in their niche and can be activated following muscle injury. Using an in vitro model of primary human quiescent MuSC (called reserve cells, RC), we analyzed their Ca2+ response following their activation by fetal calf serum and assessed the role of Ca2+ in the processes of RC activation and migration. The results showed that RC displayed a high response heterogeneity in a cell-dependent manner following serum stimulation. Most of these responses relied on inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-dependent Ca2+ release associated with Ca2+ influx, partly due to store-operated calcium entry. Our study further found that blocking the IP3 production, Ca2+ influx, or both did not prevent the activation of RC. Intra- or extracellular Ca2+ chelation did not impede RC activation. However, their migration potential depended on Ca2+ responses displayed upon stimulation, and Ca2+ blockers inhibited their movement. We conclude that the two major steps of muscle regeneration, namely the activation and migration of MuSC, differently rely on Ca2+ signals.
Orobanche crenata Forssk. Extract Affects Human Breast Cancer Cell MCF-7 Survival and Viral Replication
Authors: Genovese Carlo , Garozzo Adriana , D’Angeli Floriana , Malfa Giuseppe Antonio , Bellia Francesco , Tomasello Barbara , Nicolosi Daria , Malaguarnera Roberta , Ronsisvalle Simone , Guadagni Fiorella , Acquaviva Rosaria
Published: May 2022

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of death worldwide. The severity of BC strictly depends on the molecular subtype. The less aggressive hormone-positive subtype is treated with adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET), which causes both physical and psychological side effects. This condition strongly impacts the adherence and persistence of AET among oncologic patients. Moreover, viral infections also constitute a serious problem for public health. Despite their efficacy, antiviral agents present several therapeutic limits. Accordingly, in the present work, we investigated the antitumor and antiviral activities of Orobanche crenata Forssk. (O. crenata), a parasitic plant, endemic to the Mediterranean basin, traditionally known for its beneficial properties for human health. Methods: The MTT assay was carried out to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of O. crenata leaf extract (OCLE) on human breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and the primary HFF-1 cell line. The lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) assay was performed on MCF-7 cells to analyze necrotic cell death. The antioxidant effect of OCLE was evaluated by intracellular determination of the reactive oxygen species and thiol groups, by DPPH and ABTS assays. The antiviral activity of OCLE was determined against Poliovirus 1, Echovirus 9, Human respiratory syncytial virus, Adenovirus type 2 and type 5, Coxsackievirus B1 (CoxB1) and B3 (CoxB3), Herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2), and β-Coronavirus by the plaque reduction assay. Results: The extract, after 24 h of incubation, did not affect MDA-MB-231 and HFF-1 cell viability. However, at the same time point, it showed a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on MCF-7 cells, with an increase in LDH release. OCLE exhibited free radical scavenging activity and significantly increased non-protein thiol levels in MCF-7 cells. OCLE effectively inhibited HSV-1, HSV-2, CoxB1, and CoxB3 replication. Conclusions: The overall results showed an interesting inhibitory effect of OCLE on both MCF-7 cell survival and viral replication.
Interaction of Cationic Carbosilane Dendrimers and Their siRNA Complexes with MCF-7 Cells Cultured in 3D Spheroids
Authors: Białkowska Kamila , Komorowski Piotr , Gomez-Ramirez Rafael , de la Mata Francisco Javier , Bryszewska Maria , Miłowska Katarzyna
Published: May 2022

Cationic dendrimers are effective carriers for the delivery of siRNA into cells; they can penetrate cell membranes and protect nucleic acids against RNase degradation. Two types of dendrimers (CBD-1 and CBD-2) and their complexes with pro-apoptotic siRNA (Mcl-1 and Bcl-2) were tested on MCF-7 cells cultured as spheroids. Cytotoxicity of dendrimers and dendriplexes was measured using the live–dead test and Annexin V-FITC Apoptosis Detection Kit (flow cytometry). Uptake of dendriplexes was examined using flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. The live–dead test showed that for cells in 3D, CBD-2 is more toxic than CBD-1, contrasting with the data for 2D cultures. Attaching siRNA to a dendrimer molecule did not lead to increased cytotoxic effect in cells, either after 24 or 48 h. Measurements of apoptosis did not show a high increase in the level of the apoptosis marker after 24 h exposure of spheroids to CBD-2 and its dendriplexes. Measurements of the internalization of dendriplexes and microscopy images confirmed that the dendriplexes were transported into cells of the spheroids. Flow cytometry analysis of internalization indicated that CBD-2 transported siRNAs more effectively than CBD-1. Cytotoxic effects were visible after incubation with 3 doses of complexes for CBD-1 and both siRNAs.
Ultrafast and Multiplexed Bacteriophage Susceptibility Testing by Surface Plasmon Resonance and Phase Imaging of Immobilized Phage Microarrays
Authors: O'Connell Larry , Mandula Ondrej , Leroy Loïc , Aubert Axelle , Marcoux Pierre R. , Roupioz Yoann
Published: May 2022

In the context of bacteriophage (phage) therapy, there is an urgent need for a method permitting multiplexed, parallel phage susceptibility testing (PST) prior to the formulation of personalized phage cocktails for administration to patients suffering from antimicrobial-resistant bacterial infections. Methods based on surface plasmon resonance imaging (SPRi) and phase imaging were demonstrated as candidates for very rapid (<2 h) PST in the broth phase. Biosensing layers composed of arrays of phages 44AHJD, P68, and gh-1 were covalently immobilized on the surface of an SPRi prism and exposed to liquid culture of either Pseudomonas putida or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (i.e., either the phages’ host or non-host bacteria). Monitoring of reflectivity reveals susceptibility of the challenge bacteria to the immobilized phage strains. Investigation of phase imaging of lytic replication of gh-1 demonstrates PST at the single-cell scale, without requiring phage immobilization. SPRi sensorgrams show that on-target regions increase in reflectivity more slowly, stabilizing later and to a lower level compared to off-target regions. Phage susceptibility can be revealed in as little as 30 min in both the SPRi and phase imaging methods.
Impact of Bullying—Victimization and Gender over Psychological Distress, Suicidal Ideation, and Family Functioning of Mexican Adolescents
Authors: Nuñez-Fadda Silvana Mabel , Castro-Castañeda Remberto , Vargas-Jiménez Esperanza , Musitu-Ochoa Gonzalo , Callejas-Jerónimo Juan Evaristo
Published: May 2022

Bullying victimization is strongly associated with increased psychological distress and suicide in adolescents and poor family functioning. Knowledge of gender differences influencing these factors will improve the prevention of mental problems and suicide in victimized adolescents. A total of 1685 Mexican secondary students, 12–17 years old (m = 13.65), of whom 54% were girls, responded to a standardized scale questionnaire to analyze such differences. Based on the statistical analysis, girls reported significantly lower family functioning and higher psychological distress and suicidal ideation than boys. The cluster analysis classified adolescents into high (5.78%), moderate (24.07%), and no-victimization (69.76%) groups. Boys predominated in the high (3.1%) and moderate-victimization (12.4%) clusters, and girls in the no-victimization group (39.51%). Multivariate statistical analyses found significant differences between the three groups, with the highest means of psychological distress and suicidal ideation and lowest family functioning in the high-victimization group. Only for suicidal ideation, there was an interaction between gender and the degree of victimization, with girls showing a higher increase of suicidal ideation than boys in the same cluster. Conclusions: Early detection and intervention in bullying-victimized adolescents, aiming to decrease psychological distress and suicidal ideation and strengthen family functioning, should consider contextual gender differences for effective prevention of mental health problems and suicide in adolescents.
Measurement of the Developing Foot in Shod and Barefoot Paediatric Populations: A Narrative Review
Authors: Squibb Maisie , Sheerin Kelly , Francis Peter
Published: May 2022

The theory that footwear may change foot shape dates back 100 years. Since this period, research has revealed the anatomical and functional consequences that footwear can cause to the foot. Children’s feet remain malleable as they undergo developmental changes until adolescence, which is why childhood is arguably a crucial period to understand how footwear can affect natural foot development. This review explored the development of the foot in children and adolescents and the methods used to measure the different foot structures; it comments on the key issues with some of these methods and gives direction for future research. Various internal and external factors can affect foot development; the main factors are age, gender, ethnicity, body mass index (BMI) and footwear habits. Research on how footwear can affect foot development has increased over the years and the final section of this review aimed to unpick the findings. Studies investigating the influence of footwear habits on foot length and width have established inconsistent findings. Many of the studies in the review did not control for internal and external factors that can affect foot development. There was also a limited number of studies that investigated hallux valgus angle and muscle strength differences in those with different footwear habits. Moreover, multiple studies in the final section of this review did not successfully examine the footwear habits of the participants and instead used observations or self-assessments, which is a major limitation. Future research should examine footwear behaviors and other confounding factors when investigating the development of the foot in children and adolescents. Moreover, researchers should critically evaluate the methods used to quantify the different structures of the foot to ensure valid and reliable parameters are being used.
Synthesis of the Porous ZnO Nanosheets and TiO2/ZnO/FTO Composite Films by a Low-Temperature Hydrothermal Method and Their Applications in Photocatalysis and Electrochromism
Authors: Liu Xusong , Wang Gang , Zhi Hui , Dong Jing , Hao Jian , Zhang Xiang , Wang Jing , Li Danting , Liu Baosheng
Published: May 2022

In this paper, porous zinc oxide (ZnO) nanosheets were successfully prepared by a simple low-temperature hydrothermal method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) tests showed that the synthesized product was ZnO with porous sheet structure. The diameter of porous nanosheets was about 100 nm and the thickness was about 8 nm. As a photocatalyst, the degradation efficiencies of porous ZnO nanosheets for methyl orange (MO), methylene blue (MB) and Rhodamine B (RhB) were 97.5%, 99% and 96.8%, respectively. In addition, the degradation efficiency of ZnO for mixed dyes (Mo, MB and RhB) was satisfactory, reaching 97.7%. The photocatalytic stability of MB was further tested and remained at 99% after 20 cycles. In the experiment, ZnO/FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide) composites were prepared by using ZnO as the conductive layer. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) was deposited on the surface of ZnO/FTO by electrodeposition, so as to obtain a TiO2/ZnO/FTO composite. By studying the electrochromic properties of this composite, it was found that the TiO2/ZnO/FTO composite shows a large light modulation range (55% at 1000 nm) and excellent cycle stability (96.6% at 200 cycles). The main reason for the excellent electrochromic properties may be the synergistic effect between the porous structure and the polymetallic oxides. This study is helpful to improve the photocatalytic efficiency and cycling stability of metal oxides, improve the transmittance of thin films and provide a new strategy for the preparation of ZnO composite materials with excellent photocatalytic and electrochromic properties.
Hydrodynamic Analysis of the Thickness Variation in a Solid Film Formed by a Spin Coating Process
Authors: Park Heesung
Published: May 2022

The surface profile of the film formed by spin coating is experimentally investigated in this paper. The unavoidable wavy form at the surface was observed when the ultraviolet curable resin was used. In addition, the surface thickness variation was directly related to the viscosity, disk rotation speed, and disk size. Fluid dynamic theory with non-dimensional analysis was conducted to describe the surface profile after the spin coating process. It was found that the film had been thickened until the viscosity force and Coriolis force were balanced. The Coriolis force, however, also affected the flow instability during the spinning of the disk. The film thickness variation is successfully described by using the non-dimensional factors. In addition, the edge bump which is induced by hydraulic jump is expressed by the relation of power law of Ekman, Weber, and Reynolds numbers. In this paper, the thickness variation and edge bump position are expressed by using hydrodynamic theory. It is also reveals that the Coriolis force acts based on the magnitude of thickness variation, and the surface tension affects the edge bump position. The presented relationships will contribute further understanding of the spin coating process. The outcome of this paper supports the cost-effective productions of electronic microcircuits and solar cells.
Low Forward Voltage III-Nitride Red Micro-Light-Emitting Diodes on a Strain Relaxed Template with an InGaN Decomposition Layer
Authors: Wong Matthew S. , Chan Philip , Lim Norleakvisoth , Zhang Haojun , White Ryan C. , Speck James S. , Denbaars Steven P. , Nakamura Shuji
Published: May 2022

In this study, III-nitride red micro-light-emitting diodes (µLEDs) with ultralow forward voltage are demonstrated on a strain relaxed template. The forward voltage ranges between 2.00 V and 2.05 V at 20 A/cm2 for device dimensions from 5 × 5 to 100 × 100 µm2. The µLEDs emit at 692 nm at 5 A/cm2 and 637 nm at 100 A/cm2, corresponding to a blueshift of 55 nm due to the screening of the internal electric field in the quantum wells. The maximum external quantum efficiency and wall-plug efficiency of µLEDs are 0.31% and 0.21%, respectively. This suggests that efficient III-nitride red µLEDs can be realized with further material optimizations.
NAi/Li Antisite Defects in the Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 Li-Rich Layered Oxide: A DFT Study
Authors: Tuccillo Mariarosaria , Costantini Angelo , Celeste Arcangelo , García Ana Belén Muñoz , Pavone Michele , Paolone Annalisa , Palumbo Oriele , Brutti Sergio
Published: May 2022

Li-rich layered oxide (LRLO) materials are promising positive-electrode materials for Li-ion batteries. Antisite defects, especially nickel and lithium ions, occur spontaneously in many LRLOs, but their impact on the functional properties in batteries is controversial. Here, we illustrate the analysis of the formation of Li/Ni antisite defects in the layered lattice of the Co-free LRLO Li1.2Mn0.6Ni0.2O2 compound through a combination of density functional theory calculations performed on fully disordered supercells and a thermodynamic model. Our goal was to evaluate the concentration of antisite defects in the trigonal lattice as a function of temperature and shed light on the native disorder in LRLO and how synthesis protocols can promote the antisite defect formation.
Grain-Size-Induced Collapse of Variable Range Hopping and Promotion of Ferromagnetism in Manganite La0.5Ca0.5MnO3
Authors: Novosel Nikolina , Rivas Góngora David , Jagličić Zvonko , Tafra Emil , Basletić Mario , Hamzić Amir , Klaser Teodoro , Skoko Željko , Salamon Krešimir , Kavre Piltaver Ivna , Petravić Mladen , Korin-Hamzić Bojana , Tomić Silvia , Gorshunov Boris P. , Zhang Tao , Ivek Tomislav , Čulo Matija
Published: May 2022

Among transition metal oxides, manganites have attracted significant attention because of colossal magnetoresistance (CMR)—a magnetic field-induced metal–insulator transition close to the Curie temperature. CMR is closely related to the ferromagnetic (FM) metallic phase which strongly competes with the antiferromagnetic (AFM) charge ordered (CO) phase, where conducting electrons localize and create a long range order giving rise to insulator-like behavior. One of the major open questions in manganites is the exact origin of this insulating behavior. Here we report a dc resistivity and magnetization study on manganite La1−xCaxMnO3 ceramic samples with different grain size, at the very boundary between CO/AFM insulating and FM metallic phases x=0.5. Clear signatures of variable range hopping (VRH) are discerned in resistivity, implying the disorder-induced (Anderson) localization of conducting electrons. A significant increase of disorder associated with the reduction in grain size, however, pushes the system in the opposite direction from the Anderson localization scenario, resulting in a drastic decrease of resistivity, collapse of the VRH, suppression of the CO/AFM phase and growth of an FM contribution. These contradictory results are interpreted within the standard core-shell model and recent theories of Anderson localization of interacting particles.
A Novel Nanostructured Mullite Feedstock for Environmental Barrier Coatings via Atmosphere Plasma Spraying
Authors: Xiao Fei , Gong Xue , Liu Saiyue , Jia Jin , Zhang Xiaodong , Wang Lan , Yan Mufu , Wang You
Published: May 2022

A novel strategy is proposed to design an exclusive nanostructured mullite spherical feedstock for environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) via atmosphere plasma spraying (APS). The nanostructured mullite spherical feedstocks are successfully obtained by the procedure of spray drying, solid-phase sintering and flame spheroidization. The crystal grain size of nano-mullite increases with annealing temperature. When the temperature is as high as 1500 °C, the reaction of Al2O3 and SiO2 can be fully completed. The average size is 52 nm for the grain of mullite in feedstocks sintered at 1500 °C, which can be reduced from 52 nm to 48 nm by flame spheroidization treatment as well. Meanwhile, the nanostructured spherical feedstocks show high density and good flowability, which is suitable for APS. The mullite coatings is successfully prepared on a SiC substrate by APS, in which both the nanoscale crystals and nanostructures are perfectly kept as designed. Furthermore, there is no crack appeared in the nanostructured mullite coatings. Thus, the nanostructured mullite feedstock is one of promising candidates for the high performance EBCs.
Bending and Wave Propagation Analysis of Magneto-Electro-Elastic Functionally Graded Porous Microbeams
Authors: Hong Jun , Wang Shaopeng , Qiu Xinyuan , Zhang Gongye
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a microstructure-dependent magneto-electro-elastic functionally graded porous (MEEFGP) beam model is proposed using a variational approach. To account for the microstructure effect, the extended modified couple stress theory is incorporated in the new model. In addition, the porosity variation of the two-phase beam model through the thickness direction is also considered. The new developed model is verified in terms of its correctness with a FEM model. Based on the equations of motion and boundary conditions derived by Hamilton’s principle, the static bending and wave propagation behaviors of the new model are analytically determined. The results prove the existence of the microstructure effect and the magneto-electro-elastic multi-field coupling effect. There are significant differences between the new model and the classical model at the microscale. Moreover, the porosity also has an important influence on the mechanical properties of the new model. The results predicted by the new model can provide the theoretical basis for the design of microscale acoustic wave devices and micro-electro-mechanical systems.
Cerebral Infarction and Evan’s Ratio on MRI Affect the Severity and Prognosis of Tuberculosis Meningitis Patients
Authors: Cao Xin , Yang Qingluan , Zhou Xian , Lv Kun , Zhou Zhe , Sun Feng , Ruan Qiaoling , Zhang Jun , Shao Lingyun , Geng Daoying
Published: May 2022

Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is widely used in the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) and its complications. We aimed to explore the relationship between MRI features and neurological deficits and TBM patients’ prognosis. Methods: patients diagnosed with TBM were subjected to a neurological evaluation on admission and divided into groups based on the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale. After several years of follow-up, the patients were further divided into groups according to the Modified Rankin Score (MRS). Their MR images were analyzed for meningeal enhancement, tuberculomas, infarction, hydrocephalus, and abscess, including the location and size of the lesion. Any changes in MRI features during the follow-up were recorded. MRI features between groups were compared, and the relationship between dynamic changes in images and Rankin grading was explored. Results: We found significant differences in acute cerebral infarction (ACI) and old cerebral infarctions (OCI) between the MRC groups, and the ORs of ACI and OCI were 21.818 (95% CI: 2.440–195.075) and 6.788 (95% CI: 1.516–30.392), respectively. There were significant differences in ACI, OCI, and Evan’s ratio between the MRS groups (p < 0.05), and the ORs of ACI, OCI, and hydrocephalus were 6.375 (95% CI: 1.501–27.080), 5.556 (95% CI: 1.332–23.177), and 9.139 (95% CI: 2.052–40.700), respectively. The changes of Evan’s ratio were related to the MRS grading (r = 0.335, p = 0.040). Conclusions: For patients with TBM, the presence of ACI or OCI is associated with neurological deficits, and ACI, OCI, and hydrocephalus can be regarded as poor prognostic predictors. Changes in Evan’s ratio will affect the outcome.
5G-Based Multi-Sensor Platform for Monitoring of Workpieces and Machines: Prototype Hardware Design and Firmware
Authors: Mohanram Praveen , Passarella Alice , Zattoni Elena , Padovani Roberto , König Niels , Schmitt Robert H.
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we introduce a 5G-based multi-sensor platform for monitoring workpieces and machines. The prototype is realized within the EU-funded 5G-SMART project, which aims to enable smart manufacturing through 5G, demonstrating and validating new generation network technology in industrial processes. There are already state-of-the-art solutions, but with drawbacks such as limited flexibility, brief real-time capability, and sensors aimed at single applications. The 5G-SMART multi-sensor platform is designed to overcome these points and meet the requirements of Industry 4.0. The device is equipped with different sensors to acquire multiple data from workpieces and machines of the shop floor, wirelessly connected by 5G to the factory cloud. A hardware design description of the prototype is provided, focusing on the electronic components and their interaction with the microcontroller. Verification of the correct functioning of the board is given, with a basic library for the main peripherals used as a basis for the final firmware.
Low-Light Image Enhancement with an Anti-Attention Block-Based Generative Adversarial Network
Authors: Qiao Junbo , Wang Xing , Chen Ji , Jian Muwei
Published: May 2022

High-quality images are difficult to obtain in complex environments, such as underground or underwater. The low performance of images that are captured under low-light conditions significantly restricts the development of various engineering applications. However, existing algorithms exhibit color distortion or under/overexposure when addressing non-uniform illumination images. Furthermore, they introduce high-level noise when processing extremely dark images. In this paper, we propose a novel generative adversarial network (GAN) structure to generate high-quality enhanced images, which is called anti-attention block (AAB)-based generative adversarial networks (AABGAN). Specifically, we propose AAB to suppress undesired chromatic aberrations and establish a mapping relationship between different channels. The deep aggregation pyramid pooling module guides the network when combining multi-scale context information. Furthermore, we design a new multiple loss function to adjust images to the most suitable range for human vision. The results of extensive experiments show that our method outperforms state-of-the-art unsupervised image enhancement methods in terms of noise reduction and has a well-perceived result.
Improving the Physical, Mechanical and Energetic Characteristics of Pine Sawdust by the Addition of up to 40% Agave durangensis Gentry Pellets
Authors: Blancarte-Contreras Emmanuel , Corral-Rivas Sacramento , Domínguez-Gómez Tilo Gustavo , Lujan-Soto José Encarnación , Goche-Télles José Rodolfo , Montiel-Antuna Eusebio
Published: May 2022

Agave durangensis Gentry biomass, as a residue from the mezcal production process, may be an interesting bioenergy alternative; however, its high ash content limits its application. In this study, pellets were generated with agave fiber mixed with Pinus species sawdust in the following six proportions (%): 100–0 (control), 80–20, 60–40, 40–60, 20–80 and 0–100 (control). The physical, chemical and energetic properties of the pellets were evaluated according to the UNE-EN ISO 17225-6, UNE EN ISO 17827-2, UNE-EN ISO 17828, UNE-EN ISO 18122, UNE-EN ISO 18123, UNE-EN ISO 18125, and UNE-EN ISO 18134-1 standards. The results showed significant statistical differences (p < 0.05) among the treatments tested. The percentage of volatile material and fixed carbon ranged from 86.53 to 89.96% and 4.17 to 8.16%, respectively; the ash content ranged from 0.27 to 10.06%, and the calorific value ranged from 17.33 to 18.03 MJ/kg. Bulk density ranged from 725.76 to 737.37 kg/m3 and the impact-strength index was in the range of 69.33 to 126.66. The mechanical hardness and compressive strength were found to be in the ranges of 50.5 to 68.4% and 0.90 to 36.65 N/mm, respectively. Pellets generated with Agave residue mixture ≤ 40% were identified as promising biobased resources for the sustainable production of renewable energy.
Pilot Study on Removal Characteristics of Multiple Pollutants by the Dual Baghouse Filter System
Authors: Luo Guopeng , Zhang Kai , Peng Yaqi , Wang Jinjin , Lu Shengyong , Huang Qunxing , Yan Jianhua
Published: May 2022

A 1000 Nm3/h capacity pilot scale dual baghouse filter system was tested on flue gas and fly ash from a municipal solid waste incinerator, and the removal efficiency of dioxins, heavy metals and HCl was studied. Activated carbon was injected at the inlet of the first baghouse filter to remove the gas phase dioxins and heavy metals, and baking soda was injected at the inlet of the second baghouse filter to remove HCl. Concentrations of dioxins at the outlet of the first and second baghouse were 0.034 and 0.011 ng TEQ/Nm3, respectively, which were both far below the national emission standard. The particulate matter concentration was 0.85 mg/m3, and the heavy metals leaching concentration of the fly ash from the second baghouse filter was lower than the hazardous waste identification standard. HCl concentration was almost zero at the outlet of the second baghouse filter when the optimal equivalence ratio of baking soda to HCl was 1.6. In addition, the estimated fly ash yield was 2.35% of the incinerated solid waste for the dual baghouse filter system, which was significantly lower than 3.5% as the traditional semidry scrubber + single baghouse filter.
Relevance of Optimized Low-Scale Green H2 Systems in a French Context: Two Case Studies
Authors: Gronier Timothé , Maréchal William , Gibout Stéphane , Geissler Christophe
Published: May 2022

Hydrogen has been identified as a very promising vector for energy storage, especially for heavy mobility applications. For this reason, France is making significant investments in this field, and use cases need to be evaluated as they are sprouting. In this paper, the relevance of H2 in two storage applications is studied: a domestic renewable electricity production system connected to the grid and a collective hydrogen production for the daily bus refill. The investigation consists of the sizing of the system and then the evaluation of its performance according to several criteria depending on case. Optimizations are made using Bayesian and gradient-based methods. Several variations around a central case are explored for both cases to give insights on the impact of the different parameters (location, pricing, objective, etc.) on the performance of the system.Our results show that domestic power-to-power applications (case 1) do not seem to be competitive with electrochemical storage. Meanwhile, without any subsidies or incentives, such configuration does not allow prosumers to save money (+16% spendings compared to non-equipped dwelling). It remains interesting when self-sufficiency is the main objective (up to 68% of energy is not exchanged). The power-to-gas application (case 2, central case), with a direct use of hydrogen for mobility, seems to be more relevant according to our case study, we could reach a production cost of green H2 around 5 €/kg, similar to the 3–10 $/kg found in literature, for 182 houses involved. In both cases, H2 follows a yearly cycle, charging in summer and discharging in winter (long term storage) due to low conversion efficiency.
Analysis of Smart Meter Electricity Consumption Data for PV Storage in the UK
Authors: Raillard-Cazanove Quentin , Barbour Edward
Published: May 2022

Solar PV and battery energy storage (BES) costs for domestic consumers are constantly diminishing. On top of this, the end of the Feed-in-Tariff programme has significantly increased interest in combined PV + BES systems. In this paper, we explore the economics of domestic PV + BES systems, extending the current literature on the topic via the use of a large smart meter dataset and a demographic comparison. Predictably, time-varying tariffs and higher electricity prices generally strengthen the economic arguments for PV + BES systems, however our consumption data yields a wide range of Net Present Values for different consumers. In terms of demographics, we find that batteries are more favourable for more affluent households due to their larger consumption levels, though profitability becomes more uniform if the batteries are tailored to individual households. This is an important point for policy, since it indicates that if PV + BES systems become widely profitable this is unlikely to help the financial situation of lower-income households.
Simulation Analysis of LED Stripes Drivers’ Influence on Electric Energy Quality
Authors: Smugala Dariusz , Ptak Pawel , Bonk Michal
Published: May 2022

This paper presents a comparative simulation study of the operation of various types of drivers dedicated for use in light-emitting diode (LED)-based light stripes. The study comprises an experimentally verified simulation in view of their influence on harmonic content generation and impact on electric energy quality. The simulation models were optimized in order to precisely reflect the currents and voltage waveforms recorded in the frame of laboratory measurements. The simulation parameters were adjusted in view of harmonic generation analysis and high-frequency (HF) transient presence resulting from circuit principles of operation. Two driver circuit types were analyzed in the framework of the study—a voltage stabilization circuit based on a Zener diode, and a current stabilization integrated circuit (IC) based on an AL8806 chip. The study results entail an analysis executed for light stripes comprising various numbers of LEDs connected to each driver and various numbers of each of the tested drivers equipped with the same number of LEDs used as load. Based on the simulation, THD factors, harmonic components spectrum, waveform factors, power factors analysis and HF transient parameters were determined. The obtained simulations results are characterized by a high level of similarity in relation to results gained by means of measurements.
An External Ocean Thermal Energy Power Generation Modular Device for Powering Smart Float
Authors: Zhang Hongwei , Ma Xinghai , Yang Yanan
Published: May 2022

Smart Float is a new multi-modal underwater vehicle, a tool for ocean observation and detection, whose performance is limited by its underwater voyage distance and endurance like most underwater vehicles. The utilization of marine energy provides an ideal way to overcome these limitations. In this paper, an external ocean thermal energy power generation module is developed for Smart Float, which can be used for multiple times of energy storage and power generation and is expected to be further applied to small and medium-sized underwater vehicles. The integration of the proposed device will cause changes in the counterweight characteristic, hydrodynamic characteristic, and heat transfer characteristic of the vehicle, which are deeply analyzed in this study, and adaptive modification solutions are proposed according to the analysis results. Finally, a prototype of Smart Float integrating the proposed device was deployed in the South China Sea to perform a sea trial, to test its performance in thermal energy utilization. According to the results, the device generates 1.341 Wh in a profile diving to 700 m, with the maximum single-profile generation of 1.487 Wh, the average electrical energy of 1.368 Wh, and the hydraulic-to-electric efficiency of about 60% in the power generation stage, which verifies its excellent performance in thermal energy utilization. This study realizes the integration of thermal energy power generation modules into an underwater vehicle for the first time, exploring a new way to improve the endurance and self-sustainability of commercial underwater vehicles.