bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduction in Human Interaction with Magnetic Resonant Coupling WPT Systems with Grounded Loop
Authors: Duan Xianyi , Lan Junqing , Diao Yinliang , Gomez-Tames Jose , Hirayama Hiroshi , Hotta Masashi , Fischer George , Hirata Akimasa
Published: November 2021

Wireless power transfer (WPT) systems have attracted considerable attention in relation to providing a reliable and convenient power supply. Among the challenges in this area are maintaining the performance of the WPT system with the presence of a human body and minimizing the induced physical quantities in the human body. This study proposes a magnetic resonant coupling WPT (MRC-WPT) system that utilizes a resonator with a grounded loop to mitigate its interaction with a human body and achieve a high-efficiency power transfer at a short range. Our proposed system is based on a grounded loop to reduce the leakage of the electric field, resulting in less interaction with the human body. As a result, a transmission efficiency higher than 70% is achieved at a transmission distance of approximately 25 cm. Under the maximum-efficiency conditions of the WPT system, the use of a resonator with a grounded loop reduces the induced electric field, the peak spatial-average specific absorption rate (psSAR), and the whole-body averaged SAR by 43.6%, 69.7%, and 65.6%, respectively. The maximum permissible input power values for the proposed WPT systems are 40 and 33.5 kW, as prescribed in the International Commission of Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) guidelines to comply with the limits for local and whole-body average SAR.
A New Equivalent Circuit Model Parametrization Methodology Based on Current Pulse Tests for Different Battery Technologies
Authors: Arregi Oier , Agirrezabala Eneko , Iraola Unai , Milo Aitor , Yeregui Josu , Nogueras Unai , Sánchez Roberto , Gil Iñigo
Published: November 2021

With growing global commitment to renewable energy generation, the role of energy storage systems has become a central issue in traction power applications, such as electric vehicles, trains, and elevators. To achieve the optimal integration of batteries in such applications, without unnecessary oversizing, improvements in the process of battery selection are needed. Specifically, it is necessary to develop models able to predict battery performance for each particular application. In this paper, a methodology for the parametrization of a battery equivalent circuit model (ECM) based on capacity and pulse tests is presented. The model can be extrapolated to different battery technologies, and was validated by comparing simulations and experimental tests with lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries.
Deduction of Optimal Control Strategies for a Sector-Coupled District Energy System
Authors: Grimm Adrian , Schönfeldt Patrik , Torio Herena , Klement Peter , Hanke Benedikt , von Maydell Karsten , Agert Carsten
Published: November 2021

We present a method to turn the results of model-based optimisations into resilient and comprehensible control strategies. Our approach is to define priority lists for all available technologies in a district energy system. Using linear discriminant analysis and the results of the optimisations, these are then assigned to discrete time steps using a set of possible steering parameters. In contrast to the model-based optimisations, the deduced control strategies do not need predictions or even perfect foresight but solely rely on data about the present. The case study using priority lists presents results in terms of emissions and prices that are only about 5% off the linear optimum. Considering that the priority lists only need information about the present, the results of the control strategies obtained using the proposed method can be considered competitive.
A Renewable Energy Community of DC Nanogrids for Providing Balancing Services
Authors: Barone Giuseppe , Brusco Giovanni , Menniti Daniele , Pinnarelli Anna , Sorrentino Nicola , Vizza Pasquale , Burgio Alessandro , A. Bayod-Rújula Ángel
Published: November 2021

The massive expansion of Distributed Energy Resources and schedulable loads have forced a variation of generation, transmission, and final usage of electricity towards the paradigm of Smart Communities microgrids and of Renewable Energy Communities. In the paper, the use of multiple DC microgrids for residential applications, i.e., the nanogrids, in order to compose and create a renewable energy community, is hypothesized. The DC Bus Signaling distributed control strategy for the power management of each individual nanogrid is applied to satisfy the power flow requests sent from an aggregator. It is important to underline that this is an adaptive control strategy, i.e., it is used when the nanogrid provides a service to the aggregator and when not. In addition, the value of the DC bus voltage of each nanogrid is communicated to the aggregator. In this way, the aggregator is aware of the regulation capacity that each nanogrid can provide and which flexible resources are used to provide this capacity. The effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is demonstrated via numerical experiments. The energy community considered in the paper consists of five nanogrids, interfaced to a common ML-LV substation. The nanogrids, equipped with a photovoltaic plant and a set of lithium-ion batteries, participate in the balancing service depending on its local generation and storage capacity.
Review on the Effect of the Phenomenon of Cavitation in Combustion Efficiency and the Role of Biofuels as a Solution against Cavitation
Authors: Lamoot Ludovic , Manescau Brady , Chetehouna Khaled , Gascoin Nicolas
Published: November 2021

Concerning the problem of wanting the performance of heat engines used in the automotive, aeronautics, and aerospace industries, researchers and engineers are working on various possibilities for improving combustion efficiency, including the reduction of gases such as CO, NOx, and SOx. Such improvements would also help reduce greenhouse gases. For this, research and development has focused on one factor that has a significant impact on the performance of these engines: the phenomenon of cavitation. In fact, most high-performance heat engines are fitted with a high-speed fuel supply system. These high speeds lead to the formation of the phenomenon of cavitation generating instabilities in the flow and subsequently causing disturbances in the combustion process and in the efficiency of the engine. In this review article, it is a question of making a state-of-the-art review on the various studies which have dealt with the characterization of the phenomenon of cavitation and addressing the possible means that can be put in place to reduce its effects. The bibliographic study was carried out based on five editors who are very involved in this theme. From the census carried out, it has been shown that there are many works which deal with the means of optimization that must be implemented in order to fight against the phenomenon of cavitation. Among these solutions, there is the optimization of the geometry of the injector in which the fuel flows and there is the type of fuel used. Indeed, it is shown that the use of a biofuel, which, by its higher viscosity, decreases the effects of cavitation. Most of these jobs are performed under cold fluidic conditions; however, there is little or no work that directly addresses the effect of cavitation on the combustion process. Consequently, this review article highlights the importance of carrying out research work, with the objective of characterizing the effect of cavitation on the combustion process and the need to use a biofuel as an inhibitor solution on the cavitation phenomenon and as a means of energy transition.
Experimental Oxygen Mass Transfer Study of Micro-Perforated Diffusers
Authors: Herrmann-Heber Robert , Ristau Florian , Mohseni Ehsan , Reinecke Sebastian Felix , Hampel Uwe
Published: November 2021

We studied new micro-perforated diffuser concepts for the aeration process in wastewater treatment plants and evaluated their aeration efficiency. These are micro-perforated plate diffusers with orifice diameters of 30 µm, 50 µm and 70 µm and a micro-perforated tube diffuser with an orifice diameter of 50 µm. The oxygen transfer of the diffuser concepts is tested in clean water, and it is compared with commercial aerators from the literature. The micro-perforated tube diffuser and micro-perforated plate diffusers outperform the commercial membrane diffusers by up to 44% and 20%, respectively, with regard to the oxygen transfer efficiency. The most relevant reason for the improved oxygen transfer is the fine bubble aeration with bubble sizes as small as 1.8 mm. Furthermore, the more homogenous cross-sectional bubble distribution of the micro-perforated tube diffuser has a beneficial effect on the gas mass transfer due to less bubble coalescence. However, the pressure drop of micro-perforated diffusers seems to be the limiting factor for their standard aeration efficiencies due to the size and the number of orifices. Nevertheless, this study shows the potential for better aeration efficiency through the studied conceptual micro-perforated diffusers.
Comparison of Machine Learning Methods for Image Reconstruction Using the LSTM Classifier in Industrial Electrical Tomography
Authors: Kłosowski Grzegorz , Rymarczyk Tomasz , Niderla Konrad , Rzemieniak Magdalena , Dmowski Artur , Maj Michał
Published: November 2021

Electrical tomography is a non-invasive method of monitoring the interior of objects, which is used in various industries. In particular, it is possible to monitor industrial processes inside reactors and tanks using tomography. Tomography enables real-time observation of crystals or gas bubbles growing in a liquid. However, obtaining high-resolution tomographic images is problematic because it involves solving the so-called ill-posed inverse problem. Noisy input data cause problems, too. Therefore, the use of appropriate hardware solutions to eliminate this phenomenon is necessary. An important cause of obtaining accurate tomographic images may also be the incorrect selection of algorithmic methods used to convert the measurements into the output images. In a dynamically changing environment of a tank reactor, selecting the optimal algorithmic method used to create a tomographic image becomes an optimization problem. This article presents the machine learning method’s original concept of intelligent selection depending on the reconstructed case. The long short-term memory network was used to classify the methods to choose one of the five homogenous methods—elastic net, linear regression with the least-squares learner, linear regression with support vector machine learner, support vector machine model, or artificial neural networks. In the presented research, tomographic images of selected measurement cases, reconstructed using five methods, were compared. Then, the selection methods’ accuracy was verified thanks to the long short-term memory network used as a classifier. The results proved that the new concept of long short-term memory classification ensures better tomographic reconstructions efficiency than imaging all measurement cases with single homogeneous methods.
A Probabilistic and Value-Based Planning Approach to Assess the Competitiveness between Gas-Fired and Renewables in Hydro-Dominated Systems: A Brazilian Case Study
Authors: Nazaré Felipe , Barroso Luiz , Bezerra Bernardo
Published: November 2021

The main challenge with the penetration of variable renewable energy (VRE) in thermal-dominated systems has been the increase in the need for operating reserves, relying on dispatchable and flexible resources. In the case of hydro-dominated systems, the cost-effective flexibility provided by hydro-plants facilitates the penetration of VRE, but the compounded production variability of these resources challenges the integration of baseload gas-fired plants. The Brazilian power system illustrates this situation, in which the development of large associated gas fields economically depends on the operation of gas-fired plants. Given the current competitiveness of VRE, a natural question is the economic value and tradeoffs for expanding the system opting between baseload gas-fired generation and VRE in an already flexible hydropower system. This paper presents a methodology based on a multi-stage and stochastic capacity expansion model to estimate the optimal mix of baseload thermal power plants and VRE additions considering their contributions for security of supply, which includes peak, energy, and operating reserves, which are endogenously defined in a time-varying and sized in a dynamic way as well as adequacy constraints. The presented model calculates the optimal decision plan, allowing for the estimation of the economical tradeoffs between baseload gas and VRE supply considering their value for the required services to the system. This allows for a comparison between the integration costs of these technologies on the same basis, thus helping policymakers and system planners to better decide on the best way to integrate the gas resources in an electricity industry increasingly renewable. A case study based on a real industrial application is presented for the Brazilian power system.
Boiling of FC-72 on Surfaces with Open Copper Microchannel
Authors: Kaniowski Robert , Pastuszko Robert
Published: November 2021

The paper presents the results of experimental research on pool boiling heat transfer of dielectric liquid FC-72. Measurements were made at atmospheric pressure on open surfaces with microchannels. Heat transfer surfaces, in the form of parallel milled microchannels, were made of copper. The rectangular cross-sectional microchannels were 0.2 to 0.5 mm deep and 0.2 to 0.4 mm wide. The surfaces, compared to a smooth flat surface, provided a five-fold increase in the heat transfer coefficient and a two-fold increase in the critical heat flux. The article analyses the influence of the width and height of the microchannel on the heat transfer process. The maximum heat flux was 271.7 kW/m2, and the highest heat transfer coefficient obtained was 25 kW/m2K. Furthermore, the experimental results were compared with selected correlations for the nucleate pool boiling.
Designing a User-Centric P2P Energy Trading Platform: A Case Study—Higashi-Fuji Demonstration
Authors: Takeda Yasuhiro , Nakai Yoichi , Senoo Tadatoshi , Tanaka Kenji
Published: November 2021

Peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading is gaining attention as a technology to effectively handle already existing distributed energy resources (DER). In order to manage a large number of DER, it is necessary to increase the number of P2P energy trading participants. For that, designing incentives for participants to engage in P2P energy trading is important. This paper describes a user-centric cooperative mechanism that enhances user participation in P2P energy trading. The key components of this incentive for participants to engage in P2P energy trading are described and evaluated in this study. The goal of the proposal is to make it possible to conduct economic transactions while reflecting the preferences of the traders in the ordering process, making it possible to conduct transactions with minimal effort. As a case study, the Higashi-Fuji demonstration experiment conducted in Japan verified the proposed mechanism. In this experiment, 19 households and 9 plugin hybrid vehicles (PHV) were evaluated. As a result, the study confirmed that prosumers were able to sell their surplus electricity, and consumers were able to preferentially purchase renewable energy when it was available. In addition, those trades were made economically. All trades were made automatically, and this efficiency allowed the users to continue using the P2P energy trading.
Multi-Virtual-Vector Model Predictive Current Control for Dual Three-Phase PMSM
Authors: Luan Tianjiao , Wang Zhichao , Long Yang , Zhang Zhen , Li Qi , Zhu Zhihao , Liu Chunhua
Published: November 2021

This paper proposes a multi-virtual-vector model predictive control (MPC) for a dual three-phase permanent magnet synchronous machine (DTP-PMSM), which aims to regulate the currents in both fundamental and harmonic subspace. Apart from the fundamental α-β subspace, the harmonic subspace termed x-y is decoupled in multiphase PMSM according to vector space decomposition (VSD). Hence, the regulation of x-y currents is of paramount importance to improve control performance. In order to take into account both fundamental and harmonic subspaces, this paper presents a multi-virtual-vector model predictive control (MVV-MPC) scheme to significantly improve the steady performance without affecting the dynamic response. In this way, virtual vectors are pre-synthesized to eliminate the components in the x-y subspace and then a vector with adjustable phase and amplitude is composed of two effective virtual vectors and a zero vector. As a result, an enhanced current tracking ability is acquired due to the expanded output range of the voltage vector. Lastly, both simulation and experimental results are given to confirm the feasibility of the proposed MVV-MPC for DTP-PMSM.
Impact of Epidemic-Affected Labor Shortage on Food Safety: A Chinese Scenario Analysis Using the CGE Model
Authors: Liang Li , Qin Keyu , Jiang Sijian , Wang Xiaoyu , Shi Yunting
Published: November 2021

Human food safety should be given priority during a major public health crisis. As the primary element of agricultural production, labor tends to suffer the most during a period of public health concern. Studying the impact of epidemic-affected labor shortages on agricultural production, trade, and prices has important implications for food security. This study used a calculable general equilibrium model to study the changes in agricultural production, trade, and prices under different labor damage scenarios. The results showed that agricultural production was less affected under a scenario where the epidemic was controlled locally. The output of agricultural products decreased by about 2.19%, and the prices of agricultural products increased slightly. However, the nationwide output of agricultural products decreased by only 0.1%, and the prices remained largely stable. In the case of the spread of the epidemic, the output of agricultural products in the epidemic area decreased by 2.11%, and the prices of certain agricultural products increased significantly. For example, the price of vegetables increased by 0.78%, the price of pork increased by about 0.7%, and those of agricultural products in other parts of the country also increased slightly. Compared with the national spread scenario, the local outbreak scenario had a smaller impact on Chinese food security, indicating Chinese effective policy against the epidemic. Although the impact of labor shortage under the influence of the epidemic on China was relatively limited, and considering its stable food security, we should pay attention to the increase in the process of agricultural products and changes in agricultural trade in the epidemic area. The residents in the epidemic areas could not effectively obtain nutritious food, which affected their health. Thus, the government should also completely mobilize agricultural resources to ensure the nutrition safety of residents during major public health incidents.
Analysis and Identification of Sustainable Public Policy for Management of Cultural and Natural Heritage in the Maya Region in Line with the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Magio Kennedy Obombo , Lizama Aranda Lilia Lucia , González Laureano , Alpuche Christian
Published: November 2021

The present study identifies suitable sustainable public policy for the administration of archaeological zones in Mexico, particularly in the states of Yucatán, Campeche and Quintana Roo (Maya region). Given the rapid economic growth of the Southeastern region of Mexico, it is necessary to implement a comprehensive and sustainable form of administration for the cultural and archaeological heritage. Key components of the ideal policy are aligned to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Data is based on researchers’ own experiences on how these SDGs can act as a base for the much needed change in the management of Mexico´s archaeological zones. We are looking at a policy that has clear goals, objectives, concrete strategies and actions including: (1) Comprehensive plan, (2) Regional plan, (3) Land use plan—master plan, (4) Cultural tourism plan which covers ecotourism and nature based tourism, art centers, museums and monuments. The resource management plan should cover aspects like: (1) disaster planning, (2) operations and marketing, (3) interpretation, (4) budgetary issues and (5) financing. Success in the implementation of such a policy requires the strengthening of regional and local federalism, transparency, accountability, corporate governance and planning for sustainable cultural tourism development.
Art and Argument: Indigitization of a Kiowa Historical Map for Teaching and Research
Authors: Palmer Mark H. , Frost Sarah , Martinez Grace , Venigalla Lasya
Published: November 2021

How might we teach undergraduate students about Indigenous geographies using historical maps? This paper describes processes associated with the bridging of a historical Kiowa map with computerized geographic information systems (GIS) and undergraduate geography curriculum. The authors applied an indigital framework as an approach for melding Indigenous and Western knowledge systems into a third kind of construct for teaching undergraduate students about historical/contemporary spatial issues. Indigital is the blending of Indigenous knowledge systems, such as storytelling, language, calendar keeping, dance, and songs, with computerized systems. We present an origin story about the indigitization of a historical Kiowa pictorial map, known as the Chál-ko-gái map, at the University of Missouri, USA. Undergraduate student engagement with the map resulted in new questions about Indigenous geographies, particularly map projections, place names, and the meaning of Kiowa symbols.
Novel Ion Channel Targets and Drug Delivery Tools for Controlling Glioblastoma Cell Invasiveness
Authors: Varricchio Alanah , Ramesh Sunita A. , Yool Andrea J.
Published: November 2021

Comprising more than half of all brain tumors, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a leading cause of brain cancer-related deaths worldwide. A major clinical challenge is presented by the capacity of glioma cells to rapidly infiltrate healthy brain parenchyma, allowing the cancer to escape control by localized surgical resections and radiotherapies, and promoting recurrence in other brain regions. We propose that therapies which target cellular motility pathways could be used to slow tumor dispersal, providing a longer time window for administration of frontline treatments needed to directly eradicate the primary tumors. An array of signal transduction pathways are known to be involved in controlling cellular motility. Aquaporins (AQPs) and voltage-gated ion channels are prime candidates as pharmacological targets to restrain cell migration in glioblastoma. Published work has demonstrated AQPs 1, 4 and 9, as well as voltage-gated potassium, sodium and calcium channels, chloride channels, and acid-sensing ion channels are expressed in GBM and can influence processes of cell volume change, extracellular matrix degradation, cytoskeletal reorganization, lamellipodial and filopodial extension, and turnover of cell-cell adhesions and focal assembly sites. The current gap in knowledge is the identification of optimal combinations of targets, inhibitory agents, and drug delivery systems that will allow effective intervention with minimal side effects in the complex environment of the brain, without disrupting finely tuned activities of neuro-glial networks. Based on published literature, we propose that co-treatments using AQP inhibitors in addition to other therapies could increase effectiveness, overcoming some limitations inherent in current strategies that are focused on single mechanisms. An emerging interest in nanobodies as drug delivery systems could be instrumental for achieving the selective delivery of combinations of agents aimed at multiple key targets, which could enhance success in vivo.
Tapping into 5-HT3 Receptors to Modify Metabolic and Immune Responses
Authors: Irving Helen , Turek Ilona , Kettle Christine , Yaakob Nor
Published: November 2021

5-hydroxytryptamine type 3 (5-HT3) receptors are ligand gated ion channels, which clearly distinguish their mode of action from the other G-protein coupled 5-HT or serotonin receptors. 5-HT3 receptors are well established targets for emesis and gastrointestinal mobility and are used as adjunct targets in treating schizophrenia. However, the distribution of these receptors is wider than the nervous system and there is potential that these additional sites can be targeted to modulate inflammatory and/or metabolic conditions. Recent progress in structural biology and pharmacology of 5-HT3 receptors have provided profound insights into mechanisms of their action. These advances, combined with insights into clinical relevance of mutations in genes encoding 5-HT3 subunits and increasing understanding of their implications in patient’s predisposition to diseases and response to the treatment, open new avenues for personalized precision medicine. In this review, we recap on the current status of 5-HT3 receptor-based therapies using a biochemical and physiological perspective. We assess the potential for targeting 5-HT3 receptors in conditions involving metabolic or inflammatory disorders based on recent findings, underscoring the challenges and limitations of this approach.
Autophagy Regulation by Crosstalk between miRNAs and Ubiquitination System
Authors: Qu Junyan , Lin Zhenghong
Published: November 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding single-stranded RNA molecules encoded by endogenous genes with ~22 nucleotides which are involved in the regulation of post-transcriptional gene expression. Ubiquitination and deubiquitination are common post-translational modifications in eukaryotic cells and important pathways in regulating protein degradation and signal transduction, in which E3 ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinases (DUBs) play a decisive role. MiRNA and ubiquitination are involved in the regulation of most biological processes, including autophagy. Furthermore, in recent years, the direct interaction between miRNA and E3 ubiquitin ligases or deubiquitinases has attracted much attention, and the cross-talk between miRNA and ubiquitination system has been proved to play key regulatory roles in a variety of diseases. In this review, we summarized the advances in autophagy regulation by crosstalk between miRNA and E3 ubiquitin ligases or deubiquitinases.
Easy Preparation of Liposome@PDA Microspheres for Fast and Highly Efficient Removal of Methylene Blue from Water
Authors: De Leo Vincenzo , Maurelli Anna Maria , Ingrosso Chiara , Lupone Fabio , Catucci Lucia
Published: November 2021

Mussel-inspired chemistry was usefully exploited here with the aim of developing a high-efficiency, environmentally friendly material for water remediation. A micro-structured material based on polydopamine (PDA) was obtained by using liposomes as templating agents and was used for the first time as an adsorbent material for the removal of methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solutions. Phospholipid liposomes were made by extrusion and coated with PDA by self-polymerization of dopamine under simple and mild conditions. The obtained Liposome@PDA microspheres were characterized by DLS and Zeta potential analysis, TEM microscopy, and FTIR spectroscopy. The effects of pH, temperature, MB concentration, amount of Liposome@PDA, and contact time on the adsorption process were investigated. Results showed that the highest adsorption capacity was obtained in weakly alkaline conditions (pH = 8.0) and that it could reach up to 395.4 mg g−1 at 298 K. In addition, adsorption kinetics showed that the adsorption behavior fits a pseudo-second-order kinetic model well. The equilibrium adsorption data, instead, were well described by Langmuir isotherm. Thermodynamic analysis demonstrated that the adsorption process was endothermic and spontaneous (ΔG0 = −12.55 kJ mol−1, ΔH0 = 13.37 kJ mol−1) in the investigated experimental conditions. Finally, the applicability of Liposome@PDA microspheres to model wastewater and the excellent reusability after regeneration by removing MB were demonstrated.
Towards Biomanufacturing of Cell-Derived Matrices
Authors: Chan Weng Wan , Yu Fang , Le Quang Bach , Chen Sixun , Yee Marcus , Choudhury Deepak
Published: November 2021

Cell-derived matrices (CDM) are the decellularised extracellular matrices (ECM) of tissues obtained by the laboratory culture process. CDM is developed to mimic, to a certain extent, the properties of the needed natural tissue and thus to obviate the use of animals. The composition of CDM can be tailored for intended applications by carefully optimising the cell sources, culturing conditions and decellularising methods. This unique advantage has inspired the increasing use of CDM for biomedical research, ranging from stem cell niches to disease modelling and regenerative medicine. However, while much effort is spent on extracting different types of CDM and exploring their utilisation, little is spent on the scale-up aspect of CDM production. The ability to scale up CDM production is essential, as the materials are due for clinical trials and regulatory approval, and in fact, this ability to scale up should be an important factor from the early stages. In this review, we first introduce the current CDM production and characterisation methods. We then describe the existing scale-up technologies for cell culture and highlight the key considerations in scaling-up CDM manufacturing. Finally, we discuss the considerations and challenges faced while converting a laboratory protocol into a full industrial process. Scaling-up CDM manufacturing is a challenging task since it may be hindered by technologies that are not yet available. The early identification of these gaps will not only quicken CDM based product development but also help drive the advancement in scale-up cell culture and ECM extraction.
Molecular Approaches Fighting Nonsense
Authors: Pibiri Ivana
Published: November 2021

Nonsense mutations are the result of single nucleotide substitutions in the DNA that change a sense codon (coding for an amino acid) to a nonsense or premature termination codon (PTC) within the coding region of the mRNA [...]
Study on Microstructural Characterization, Mechanical Properties and Residual Stress of GTAW Dissimilar Joints of P91 and P22 Steels
Authors: Sauraw Anupam , Sharma Atul Kumar , Fydrych Dariusz , Sirohi Sachin , Gupta Ankur , Świerczyńska Aleksandra , Pandey Chandan , Rogalski Grzegorz
Published: November 2021

This article deals with the dissimilar joining of two different grade Cr-Mo steel (2.25Cr-1Mo: P22 and modified 9Cr-1Mo: P91) for power plant application. The dissimilar butt-welded joint was produced for conventional V groove design by using the gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) process with the application of an ERNiCrMo-3 Ni-based super alloy filler. A microstructure characterization was performed to measure the inhomogeneity in the microstructure and element diffusion across the interface in a welded joint. The experiments were also performed to evaluate the mechanical properties of the dissimilar welded joint in as-welded (AW) and post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) conditions. An acceptable level of the mechanical properties was obtained for the AW joint. After PWHT, a significant level of the element diffusion across the interface of the weld metal and P22 steel was observed, resulting in heterogeneity in microstructure near the interface, which was also supported by the hardness variation. Inhomogeneity in mechanical properties (impact strength and hardness) was measured across the weldments for the AW joint and was reduced after the PWHT. The tensile test results indicate an acceptable level of tensile properties for the welded joint in both AW and PWHT conditions and failure was noticed in the weak region of the P22 steel instead of the weld metal.
Preparation and Characterization of Water-Insoluble Gardenia Blue Pigment
Authors: Gao Yakun , Xu Jinchuan , Liu Guorong , Nie Rong , Duan Jiaojiao , Xu Duoxia , Wang Chengtao
Published: November 2021

Based on molecular simulations, the synthetic route of water-insoluble gardenia blue pigment was prepared by the reaction of genipin and L-Phenylalanine methyl ester hydrochloride. A highly purified pigment was obtained after extraction by chloroform and purification by silica gel column chromatography, and the value of color is up to 288. A study on the structural characteristics of the pigment was implemented with a scanning electron microscope, ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, X-ray photoelectron spectrometer, and quatropde-time of flight mass spectrometer. The results showed that the surface of the pigment was largely smooth and spherical; The λmax was 607 nm, and the main functional groups include O-C=O, C=O, C-N, C=C, OH, and benzene ring; We detrained six different molecular weight and chemical structures of pigments and speculated the particular structures and formation mechanisms of three kinds of pigment, whose molecular weights are 690.1156, 720.1226, and 708.1246 Da, respectively. The pigment was only able to be dissolved in ethanol, methanol, acetone, ethyl acetate, and other strong polar organic solvents, but was not able to be dissolved in water, ethyl ether, petroleum ether, and other weak polar organic solvents. In terms of light and thermal stabilities, water-insoluble gardenia blue pigment is significantly better than water-soluble gardenia blue pigment (p < 0.05). When it is under direct light for 7 days or incubated at 80–120 °C for 24 h, the pigment residual rates were 74.90, 95.26, 88.27, and 87.72%, respectively.
Study on Active Components of Cuscuta chinensis Promoting Neural Stem Cells Proliferation: Bioassay-Guided Fractionation
Authors: Wang Hanze , Hou Xiaomeng , Li Bingqi , Yang Yang , Li Qiang , Si Yinchu
Published: November 2021

Neural stem cells (NSCs) exist in the central nervous system of adult animals and capable of self-replication. NSCs have two basic functions, namely the proliferation ability and the potential for multi-directional differentiation. In this study, based on the bioassay-guided fractionation, we aim to screen active components in Cuscuta chinensis to promote the proliferation of NSCs. CCK-8 assays were used as an active detection method to track the active components. On the basis of isolating active fraction and monomer compounds, the structures of these were identified by LC-MS and (1H, 13C) NMR. Moreover, active components were verified by pharmacodynamics and network pharmacology. The system solvent extraction method combined with the traditional isolation method were used to ensure that the fraction TSZE-EA-G6 of Cuscuta chinensis exhibited the highest activity. Seven chemical components were identified from the TSZE-EA-G6 fraction by UPLC-QE-Orbitrap-MS technology, which were 4-O-p-coumarinic acid, chlorogenic acid, 5-O-p-coumarinic acid, hyperoside, astragalin, isochlorogenic acid C, and quercetin-3-O-galactose-7-O-glucoside. Using different chromatographic techniques, five compounds were isolated in TSZE-EA-G6 and identified as kaempferol, kaempferol-3-O-glucoside (astragalin), quercetin-3-O-galactoside (hyperoside), chlorogenic acid, and sucrose. The activity study of these five compounds showed that the proliferation rate of kaempferol had the highest effects; at a certain concentration (25 μg/mL, 3.12 μg/mL), the proliferation rate could reach 87.44% and 59.59%, respectively. Furthermore, research results using network pharmacology techniques verified that kaempferol had an activity of promoting NSCs proliferation and the activity of flavonoid aglycones might be greater than that of flavonoid glycosides. In conclusion, this research shows that kaempferol is the active component in Cuscuta chinensis to promote the proliferation of NSCs.
Novel Thiosemicarbazone Derivatives: In Vitro and In Silico Evaluation as Potential MAO-B Inhibitors
Authors: Osmaniye Derya , Kurban Berkant , Sağlık Begüm Nurpelin , Levent Serkan , Özkay Yusuf , Kaplancıklı Zafer Asım
Published: November 2021

MAO-B inhibitors are frequently used in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Due to the limited number of compounds available in this field, there is a need to develop new compounds. In the recent works, it was shown that various thiosemicarbazone derivatives show hMAO inhibitory activity in the range of micromolar concentration. It is thought that benzofuran and benzothiophene structures may mimic structures such as indane and indanone, which are frequently found in the structures of such inhibitors. Based on this view, new benzofuran/benzothiophene and thiosemicarbazone hybrid compounds were synthesized, characterized and screened for their hMAO-A and hMAO-B inhibitory activity by an in vitro fluorometric method. The compounds including methoxyethyl substituent (2b and 2h) were found to be the most effective agents in the series against MAO-B enzyme with the IC50 value of 0.042 ± 0.002 µM and 0.056 ± 0.002 µM, respectively. The mechanism of hMAO-B inhibition of compounds 2b and 2h was investigated by Lineweaver–Burk graphics. Compounds 2b and 2h were reversible and non-competitive inhibitors with similar inhibition features as the substrates. The Ki values of compounds 2b and 2h were calculated as 0.035 µM and 0.046 µM, respectively, with the help of secondary plots. The docking study of compound 2b and 2h revealed that there is a strong interaction between the active sites of hMAO-B and analyzed compound.
Panduratin A Derivative Protects against Cisplatin-Induced Apoptosis of Renal Proximal Tubular Cells and Kidney Injury in Mice
Authors: Thongnuanjan Penjai , Soodvilai Sirima , Fongsupa Somsak , Thipboonchoo Natechanok , Chabang Napason , Munyoo Bamroong , Tuchinda Patoomratana , Soodvilai Sunhapas
Published: November 2021

Background: Panduratin A is a bioactive cyclohexanyl chalcone exhibiting several pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-cancer activities. Recently, the nephroprotective effect of panduratin A in cisplatin (CDDP) treatment was revealed. The present study examined the potential of certain compounds derived from panduratin A to protect against CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity. Methods: Three derivatives of panduratin A (DD-217, DD-218, and DD-219) were semi-synthesized from panduratin A. We investigated the effects and corresponding mechanisms of the derivatives of panduratin A for preventing nephrotoxicity of CDDP in both immortalized human renal proximal tubular cells (RPTEC/TERT1 cells) and mice. Results: Treating the cell with 10 µM panduratin A significantly reduced the viability of RPTEC/TERT1 cells compared to control (panduratin A: 72% ± 4.85%). Interestingly, DD-217, DD-218, and DD-219 at the same concentration did not significantly affect cell viability (92% ± 8.44%, 90% ± 7.50%, and 87 ± 5.2%, respectively). Among those derivatives, DD-218 exhibited the most protective effect against CDDP-induced renal proximal tubular cell apoptosis (control: 57% ± 1.23%; DD-218: 19% ± 10.14%; DD-219: 33% ± 14.06%). The cytoprotective effect of DD-218 was mediated via decreases in CDDP-induced mitochondria dysfunction, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, activation of ERK1/2, and cleaved-caspase 3 and 7. In addition, DD-218 attenuated CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity by a decrease in renal injury and improved in renal dysfunction in C57BL/6 mice. Importantly, DD-218 did not attenuate the anti-cancer efficacy of CDDP in non-small-cell lung cancer cells or colon cancer cells. Conclusions: This finding suggests that DD-218, a derivative of panduratin A, holds promise as an adjuvant therapy in patients receiving CDDP.
Alkyne-Functionalized Cyclooctyne on Si(001): Reactivity Studies and Surface Bonding from an Energy Decomposition Analysis Perspective
Authors: Pieck Fabian , Tonner-Zech Ralf
Published: November 2021

The reactivity and bonding of an ethinyl-functionalized cyclooctyne on Si(001) is studied by means of density functional theory. This system is promising for the organic functionalization of semiconductors. Singly bonded adsorption structures are obtained by [2 + 2] cycloaddition reactions of the cyclooctyne or ethinyl group with the Si(001) surface. A thermodynamic preference for adsorption with the cyclooctyne group in the on-top position is found and traced back to minimal structural deformation of the adsorbate and surface with the help of energy decomposition analysis for extended systems (pEDA). Starting from singly bonded structures, a plethora of reaction paths describing conformer changes and consecutive reactions with the surface are discussed. Strongly exothermic and exergonic reactions to doubly bonded structures are presented, while small reaction barriers highlight the high reactivity of the studied organic molecule on the Si(001) surface. Dynamic aspects of the competitive bonding of the functional groups are addressed by ab initio molecular dynamics calculations. Several trajectories for the doubly bonded structures are obtained in agreement with calculations using the nudged elastic band approach. However, our findings disagree with the experimental observations of selective adsorption by the cyclooctyne moiety, which is critically discussed.
Spiritual Care as the Foundation for a Child’s Religious Education
Authors: Bellous Joyce E.
Published: November 2021

This article outlines spiritual care as the foundation for a child’s religious education. The elements of spiritual care are described by identifying how God concepts form in the young, by naming children’s inherent spiritual needs, by offering perspectives from human spirituality research over the last 60 years, particularly as it applies to children, by analyzing the way meaning forms through experience as it finds its way into worldviews each of us holds by early adolescence, and finally, by depicting four types of literacy (cognitive, emotional, imaginative and social) at the basis of spiritual care and as the groundwork for a child’s future development within various religious traditions. The purpose of spiritual care is to focus on the humanity of children and to situate their education within a framework built on their spiritual needs. This article is deeply embedded in assumptions associated with the Christian tradition. However, a fundamental assumption of spirituality research is that every person is spiritual. As a result, the intention to educate the human spirit as a first step to initiating children into a faith tradition is well founded; it also raises the possibility of spiritual care as undergirding secular education, but that question is beyond this article’s purview. The intention is to spark a conversation among religious traditions as one way to meet the deepest spiritual needs of children, which is an urgent dialogue to engage in at present. If French philosopher Jean Baudrillard was correct, the age we are living in is well described as a revolution of confusion. A response to confusion requires [meeting] the spiritual needs of children and creating a broad theoretical and practical approach to how they think and act, as they move into a tradition that they take on board, along with their developed capacity to reflect on that tradition from personal and socially informed perspectives.
The Naked Truth: Temptation and the Likely ‘Fall’ of Catholic Education
Authors: Torevell David , Bennett Michael James
Published: November 2021

This article highlights one likely ‘fall’ to which Catholic education is susceptible in the modern era due to the oppressive climate in which it operates. Our critical method in arguing for this position is to oscillate between two texts—one written and one visual: Genesis 3: 1–18 and Masaccio’s painting of ‘The Expulsion’. The hope is that one will inform and enrich a deeper understanding of the other. As part of this exercise in creative hermeneutics, we first argue that the dramatic story of the fall through pride or amor sui (self-love) and its resultant feeling of shame is a universal one in which readers (listeners) glimpse the long history of their own fears and desires. Second, we show how one 15th century Italian painter represented the tragic consequences of the Faustian self by examining Masaccio’s painting in some detail. Third, we investigate St. Augustine’s writings on this narrative and suggest how some forms of self-elevation align dangerously with the promotion of the autonomous self in contemporary education. We also critically examine exegetical writings from Jewish and Christian perspectives to draw out further meanings of the narrative. Fourth, we point to the themes of hiding and forgiveness embedded in the account which leads us neatly into the last fifth section where we discuss the text’s implications for contemporary Catholic education. Here, the focus is on one likely ‘fall’ of Catholic education when it fails to live up to its distinctive mission to place love unconditionally at its centre. In a highly market-driven, managerial climate of competition where league tables, bureaucratisation, and data analysis assume an overwhelming significance allied to institutional survival and kudos, the temptation is to show the worth of the school by emphasising its examination success and employment rates rather than through its service to others, especially those who have been forgotten. Although we are highly sensitive to the conflictual demands on Catholic institutions at the present time from a variety of stakeholders, we conclude that their healthy continuation depends on their public, ethical avowal to love everyone unreservedly with assistance from God’s grace and when this aspiration fails, to seek forgiveness. The article is not concerned with strategies of resistance against those developments in education contrary to a Catholic philosophy.
From Contestation to Cooperation: The German Orthodox Church, Neo-Pietism and the Quest for an Alternative Ideal of the Nation
Authors: Avraham Doron
Published: November 2021

The emergence of German neo-Pietism after the Napoleonic Wars appeared to contest the dominance of orthodox Protestantism, mainly in Prussia, but also in other German lands. However, nineteenth-century neo-Pietists forged a different kind of relationship with the orthodox than that of the early Pietists and the orthodox about two centuries earlier. Although challenging each other during the 1820s, from the 1830s onwards, neo-Pietists and the orthodox joined forces to confront rational theology, liberalism, and modern nationalism. This article departs from the existing scholarly discussion about these developments in arguing that the Pietist–orthodox alliance, which merged with political conservatism, did not necessarily apply a reactionary policy. Acknowledging the impact of the new liberal trends, these Christian devotees introduced an alternative national ideal that was based on their religious and political views. Invoking the ideal of a German Christian State, the rival Christian strands became woven into a modernized force which fostered a specific German national identity. This was characterized by ecumenical Christianity, a specific understanding of religion, a deep devotion to the German people, and nationalization of Judaism. Theirs was not a democratic nation-state, but an amalgamated model which combined a historic relation to Christianity with new efforts to redefine collective identity in a national age.
Latest Trends in the Improvement of Measuring Methods and Equipment in the Area of NDT
Authors: Wotzka Daria , Kozioł Michał , Boczar Tomasz , Kunicki Michał , Nagi Łukasz
Published: November 2021

The adequate assessment of key apparatus conditions is a hot topic in all branches of industry [...]