bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immobilization of modular peptides on graphene cocktail for differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells to hepatic-like cells
Authors: Adibi-Motlagh Behzad , Hashemi Ehsan , Akhavan Omid , Khezri Jafar , Rezaei Aram , Zamani Amir Zakria Javad , Siadat Seyed Davar , Sahebghadam Lotfi Abbas , Farmany Abbas
Published: August 2022

In this study, two novel biomimetic modular peptide motifs based on the alpha-2 subunit of type IV collagen (CO4A2) were designed and immobilized on a graphene platform to imitate integrin and heparan sulfate- (HS-) binding proteins. The in silico study was used to design 9-mer K[KGDRGD]AG and 10-mer KK[SGDRGD]AG for testing designed Integrin-Binding Peptide (dIBP) and HS-Binding Peptide (dHBP). The virtual docking technique was used to optimize the peptide motifs and their relevant receptors. Molecular dynamic (MD) simulation was used to evaluate the stability of peptide-receptor complexes. The effect of the platform on the differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) to hepatic-like cells (HLCs) was evaluated. After differentiation, some hepatic cells’ molecular markers such as albumin, AFP, CK-18, and CK-19 were successfully followed. Graphene-heparan sulfate binding peptide (G-HSBP) enhances the mature hepatic markers’ expression instead of control (p ≤ 0.05). The pathological study showed that the designed platform is safe, and no adverse effects were seen till 21 days after implantation.
Miniaturized microfluidic-based nucleic acid analyzer to identify new biomarkers of biopsy lung cancer samples for subtyping
Authors: Lin Xue , Bo Zi-Hao , Lv Wenqi , Zhou Zhanping , Huang Qin , Du Wenli , Shan Xiaohui , Fu Rongxin , Jin Xiangyu , Yang Han , Su Ya , Jiang Kai , Guo Yuchen , Wang Hongwu , Xu Feng , Huang Guoliang
Published: August 2022

Identifying new biomarkers is necessary and important to diagnose and treat malignant lung cancer. However, existing protein marker detection methods usually require complex operation steps, leading to a lag time for diagnosis. Herein, we developed a rapid, minimally invasive, and convenient nucleic acid biomarker recognition method, which enabled the combined specific detection of 11 lung cancer typing markers in a microliter reaction system after only one sampling. The primers for the combined specific detection of 11 lung cancer typing markers were designed and screened, and the microfluidic chip for parallel detection of the multiple markers was designed and developed. Furthermore, a miniaturized microfluidic-based analyzer was also constructed. By developing a microfluidic chip and a miniaturized nucleic acid analyzer, we enabled the detection of the mRNA expression levels of multiple biomarkers in rice-sized tissue samples. The miniaturized nucleic acid analyzer could detect ≥10 copies of nucleic acids. The cell volume of the typing reaction on the microfluidic chip was only 0.94 μL, less than 1/25 of that of the conventional 25-μL Eppendorf tube PCR method, which significantly reduced the testing cost and significantly simplified the analysis of multiple biomarkers in parallel. With a simple injection operation and reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP), real-time detection of 11 lung cancer nucleic acid biomarkers was performed within 45 min. Given these compelling features, 86 clinical samples were tested using the miniaturized nucleic acid analyzer and classified according to the cutoff values of the 11 biomarkers. Furthermore, multi-biomarker analysis was conducted by a machine learning model to classify different subtypes of lung cancer, with an average area under the curve (AUC) of 0.934. This method shows great potential for the identification of new nucleic acid biomarkers and the accurate diagnosis of lung cancer.
Green synthesized silver nanoparticles: Optimization, characterization, antimicrobial activity, and cytotoxicity study by hemolysis assay
Authors: Liaqat Nida , Jahan Nazish , Khalil-ur-Rahman  , Anwar Tauseef , Qureshi Huma
Published: August 2022

Green nanotechnology has emerged as a viable option for the production of nanoparticles. The purpose of the current investigation was to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Eucalyptus camaldulensis and Terminalia arjuna extracts, as well as their combinations, as green reducing and capping agents. The parameters (concentration of silver nitrate solution and plant extract, time, pH, and temperature) were optimized for maximal yields, regulated size, and stability of silver nanoparticles. The ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometer (UV-Vis) and the surface plasmon resonance band (SPR) were used to validate the synthesis of AgNPs. The size, shape, and stability of nanoparticles were assessed using a zeta analyzer and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The biomolecules responsible for the reduction of silver ion (Ag+) and the stability of silver nanoparticles generated with the plant extracts were identified using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The agar-well diffusion method was used to test the antimicrobial activity of biosynthesized nanoparticles against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Pasteurella multocida, and Escherichia coli. When 1 mM of silver nitrate (AgNO3) was added to plant extracts and incubated for 60 min at 75°C in a neutral medium, maximum nanoparticles were produced. Biosynthesized silver nanoparticles were stable, spherical, and monodispersed according to zeta potential and scanning electron microscopy. Silver nanoparticles synthesized with combination 2 and T. arjuna showed the highest zone of inhibition (16 mm) against B. subtilis while combination 3 showed the largest zone of inhibition against S. aureus (17 ± 0.8). It was concluded that greenly produced silver nanoparticles showed good antibacterial activity while causing negligible cytotoxicity.
DNA methylation alterations caused by Leishmania infection may generate a microenvironment prone to tumour development
Authors: Vega-Benedetti Ana Florencia , Loi Eleonora , Zavattari Patrizia
Published: August 2022

DNA methylation is an epigenetic signature consisting of a methyl group at the 5’ cytosine of CpG dinucleotides. Modifications in DNA methylation pattern have been detected in cancer and infectious diseases and may be associated with gene expression changes. In cancer development DNA methylation aberrations are early events whereas in infectious diseases these epigenetic changes may be due to host/pathogen interaction. In particular, in leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease caused by the protozoan Leishmania, DNA methylation alterations have been detected in macrophages upon infection with Leishmania donovani and in skin lesions from patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis. Interestingly, different types of cancers, such as cutaneous malignant lesions, lymphoma and hepatocellular carcinoma, have been diagnosed in patients with a history of leishmaniasis. In fact, it is known that there exists an association between cancer and infectious diseases. Leishmania infection may increase susceptibility to develop cancer, but the mechanisms involved are not entirely clear. Considering these aspects, in this review we discuss the hypothesis that DNA methylation alterations induced by Leishmania may trigger tumorigenesis in long term infection since these epigenetic modifications may enhance and accumulate during chronic leishmaniasis.
Conversion From Unstructured LTI Controllers to Observer-Structured Ones for LPV Systems
Authors: Sato Masayuki , Sebe Noboru
Published: August 2022

This paper considers the conversion problem from unstructured linear time-invariant (LTI) controllers to observer-structured LTI controllers, whose structure is similar to but not exactly the same as the so-called “Luenberger observer–based controllers,” for linear parameter-varying (LPV) plant systems. In contrast to Luenberger observer–based controllers, observer-structured LTI controllers can be defined and constructed even if the plant systems are given as LPV systems. In the conversion problem, the state-space matrices of the observer-structured LTI controller are parameterized with those of the given unstructured LTI controller, one free matrix, and a state transformation matrix. We also show a method to obtain the optimal state transformation matrix with respect to the convergence of the discrepancy between the plant state and the observer-structured controller state for a stochastically defined non-zero initial plant state. Several toy examples are included to illustrate the effectiveness and the usefulness of observer-structured LTI controllers, and the utility of the proposed conversion parametrization.
The diagnostic significance of integrating m6A modification and immune microenvironment features based on bioinformatic investigation in aortic dissection
Authors: Guo Ruiming , Dai Jia , Xu Hao , Zang Suhua , Zhang Liang , Ma Ning , Zhang Xin , Zhao Lixuan , Luo Hong , Liu Donghai , Zhang Jian
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of m6A modification and the immune microenvironment (IME) features in aortic dissection (AD) and establish a clinical diagnostic model for AD based on m6A and IME factors.

Methods

GSE52093, GSE98770, GSE147026, GSE153434, and GSE107844 datasets were downloaded from the GEO database. The expression of 21 m6A genes including m6A writers, erasers, readers, and immune cell infiltrates was analyzed in AD and healthy samples by differential analysis and ssGSEA method, respectively. Both correlation analyses between m6A genes and immune cells were conducted by Pearson and Spearman analysis. XGboost was used to dissect the major m6A genes with significant influences on AD. AD samples were classified into two subgroups via consensus cluster and principal component analysis (PCA) analysis, respectively. Among each subgroup, paramount IME features were evaluated. Random forest (RF) was used to figure out key genes from AD and healthy shared differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and two AD subgroups after gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. Finally, we constructed an AD diagnostic model combining important m6A regulatory genes and assessed its efficacy.

Results

Among 21 m6A genes, WTAP, HNRNPC, and FTO were upregulated in AD samples, while IGF2BP1 was downregulated compared with healthy samples. Immune cell infiltrating analysis revealed that YTHDF1 was positively correlated with γδT cell level, while FTO was negatively correlated with activated CD4+ T cell abundance. FTO and IGF2BP1 were identified to be crucial genes that facilitate AD development according to the XGboost algorithm. Notably, patients with AD could be classified into two subgroups among which 21 m6A gene expression profiles and IME features differ from each other via consensus cluster analysis. The RF identified SYNC and MAPK1IP1L as the crucial genes from common 657 shared common genes in 1,141 DEGs between high and low m6A scores of AD groups. Interestingly, the AD diagnostic model coordinating SYNC and MAPK1IP1L with FTO and IGF2BP1 performed well in distinguishing AD samples.

Conclusion

This study indicated that FTO and IGF2BP1 were involved in the IME of AD. Integrating FTO and IGF2BP1 and MAPK1IP1L key genes in AD with a high m6A level context would provide clues for forthcoming AD diagnosis and therapy.
Pinocytotic engulfment of lipoproteins by macrophages
Authors: Miyazaki Takuro
Published: August 2022

Atherosclerosis is a major cause of acute coronary syndrome and stroke. Foam cell formation in macrophages is involved in controlling plaque stability and the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Accordingly, many studies have examined the processes of lipid incorporation, such as scavenger receptor-mediated uptake of oxidized low-density lipoprotein, in cells. In addition to receptor-mediated machinery, growing evidence has suggested that pinocytosis, which is a receptor-independent endocytic pathway, is associated with foam cell formation when a sufficient number of lipoproteins is accumulated around cells. Pinocytotic engulfment of nanoparticles is initiated by plasma membrane ruffling in a phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase-dependent manner. Subsequent to pinosome closure, the majority of pinosomes are internalized through endocytic processes, and they can be recycled into the plasma membrane. These pinocytotic processes are modulated by small GTPases and their cytoskeletal rearrangement. Moreover, pinocytotic abilities may vary between immunological subsets in cells. Accordingly, macrophages may show diverse pinocytotic abilities depending on the surrounding microenvironment. This review summarizes the current understanding of pinocytotic engulfment of lipoprotein in macrophages, and discusses how this endocytic process is governed under hypercholesterolemic conditions.
Suspended sediment dynamics in macrotidal turbid Hangzhou Bay during Typhoon Chan-hom
Authors: Li Li , Shen Fangzhou , He Zhiguo , Yu Zhuzhu
Published: August 2022

Typhoons are extreme weather events that cause serious social and economic losses in coastal and estuarine areas worldwide. Understanding the impact of typhoons on sediment dynamics is essential for protecting coastal areas from these marine disasters. Hangzhou Bay is macro-tidal, turbid, and frequently affected by strong typhoons. In this study, we established and validated a three-dimensional model coupling waves, current, and sediment to investigate the sediment dynamics in Hangzhou Bay during Typhoon Chan-hom. The results showed that high suspended sediment concentration (SSC) areas during the typhoon were mainly located at the bay head and near the southern shore near the Andong tidal flat. The maximum bottom SSC was at least twice that near the surface. The peak bottom SSC values at the peak flood (6 g/L) were larger than those at the peak ebb (5 g/L) owing to the stronger current velocity at peak flood. The SSC near the northern shore was larger at the peak flood than at other times, and the SSC was high at the southern shore at peak ebb at the cross-section near the Andong tidal flat. The typhoon impacted SSC by changing the bottom stress. SSC was most influenced by wave action, followed by wind stress action, and was least influenced by air pressure action, which contributed 71.3%, 69.9%, and 1.8% to the bottom stress, respectively. Our findings are scientifically important for research on geomorphological evolution and are practically meaningful for coastal management.
Timing and implications of aeolian sand accumulation in a alpine basin of Qilian Shan, NE Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Yang Na , Zhang Jingran , Cai Yun , Feng Yuye , Yang Linhai , Cheng Hongyi , Long Hao
Published: August 2022

The reconstruction of regional moisture and climate changes during the Holocene has been intensively carried out over the NE Tibetan Plateau, based on different geological archives. However, owing to either the lack of robust independent chronology or ambiguous interpreting of climate proxies as well as complex geographic settings within the plateau, the nature of Holocene environmental changes and their influence factors remain controversial, particularly on whether the optimal climate condition (effective moisture peak) has prevailed during the early- or mid-Holocene. In this study, we reported a new well-dated sand dune accumulation record from the Shawotou sand field in the Babao River drainage area in the southeast Qilian Mountains, to unravel the late glacial and Holocene moisture variation history. The robust chronologies of aeolian sands and palaeosols from two sections were established based on densely collected 49 samples using post-infrared (IR) IR-stimulated luminescence dating of coarse-grained K-feldspar. Based on stratigraphic investigation of the sand dune/palaeosol sections, the results show that the climatic condition was very dry during the late glacial and early Holocene (14–8 ka), characterized by sand dune formation, and then the moisture peaked in the middle Holocene (8–4 ka) with the strongest pedogenesis, followed by a relatively dry condition in the late Holocene (since 4 ka). The regional comparison suggested that the Holocene moisture variation pattern seems synchronous over the NE Tibetan Plateau, that is, the dry early Holocene and late Holocene but with peaked moisture in the middle Holocene, which is likely attributed to the precipitation changes of the East Asian summer monsoon.
Fractal analysis of pore structures in transitional shale gas reservoirs in the Linxing area, Ordos Basin
Authors: Shi Shuai , He Jinxian , Zhang Xiaoli , Wu Hongchen , Yu Ziqi , Wang Jian , Yang Tiantian , Wang Wei
Published: August 2022

Studying complex pore structures and fractal characteristics of gas shale provides significant guidance for clarifying the mechanism of shale gas accumulation and realizing its efficient development. In this paper, 12 samples of Taiyuan Formation shale are used as the research object, and the fractal theory is combined with mercury intrusion porosimetry and N2 adsorption technology to innovatively solve the problem of splicing point selection, which can reveal the full-scale pore size distribution of shale. The results demonstrate that the most common types of pores in the chosen samples are pores between or within clay minerals, micropores and mesopores inside organic matter, and microfractures, based on scanning electron microscopy imagery analyses. The pores of shale samples have fractal geometries. The fractal dimension DM1 values in the mercury intrusion porosimetry experiments range from 2.3060 to 2.6528. Two fractal dimensions, DN1 and DN2, may be obtained using the Frenkel-Halsey-Hill fractal method. DN1 values vary from 2.4780 to 2.6387, whereas DN2 values range from 2.5239 to 2.7388. Most macropores in shale samples have a size range of about 0.2 mm, with a wide pore size distribution, and the largest peak of the micro-mesopore volume is generally about 50 nm. The fractal dimension correlates positively with the corresponding pore volume, although the correlation between volume and composition is weak. The relatively strong correlation between fractals and the basic compositions of shale proves the fractal theory’s relevance in defining pore inhomogeneity. This study would contribute to the development of a fractal perspective-based method for pore splicing while also expanding our understanding of pore morphology and structure in transitional shale.
Effects of diagenesis on quality of deep dolomite reservoirs: A case study of the Upper Cambrian Xixiangchi Formation in the eastern Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Ren Guanxiong , Qin Qirong , Qin Zhangjin , Guo Yanbo , Ye Zhaoyang
Published: August 2022

With the Upper Cambrian Xixiangchi Formation in the eastern Sichuan Basin as the target, this study investigates various diagenetic events during different diagenetic stages in deep dolomite reservoirs, accompanied by evaluations of their effects on the formation and evolution of the reservoir rock. A series of experiments are implemented on core and outcrop samples, including petrologic analysis, fluid inclusion analysis, rare earth and minor element investigation, and carbon and oxygen isotope test. During the syngenetic (syndepositional and penecontemporaneous) diagenesis stage, dolomitization is closely related to evaporation concentration and seepage reflux of high-salinity seawater, which facilitates the reservoir rock development by greatly enhancing the permeability of the reservoir. Meanwhile, a small number of secondary pores are generated in the sediments subjected to episodic atmospheric exposure and thus affected by meteoric water. During the early diagenesis stage, recrystallization transforms part of the granular dolomite into the crystalline dolomite with or without the phantom of the grain texture. It also alters the original rock’s pore structure and improves the effective primary porosity. Thus, recrystallization is key in forming the crystalline dolomite reservoir rock. However, compaction, cementation, and filling lead to the loss of massive early-formed primary pores and some secondary pores. During the mesodiagenesis-late diagenesis stage, the burial karstification, related to organic matter maturation, is the most direct control factor of the effective reservoirs space formation, and its alteration effect on the reservoir rock is related to the early process. This research helps to better identify the impact of various diagenetic processes during different diagenetic stages upon the formation and evolution of the deep dolomite reservoir rock, and it also helps analyze the relationships among these diagenetic processes. The findings of this research provide valuable references for investigating the formation mechanism of the deep dolomite reservoir rock in the Sichuan Basin.
Body mass index and glioma risk: A prospective multicenter study
Authors: Shao Chuan , Tang Hui , Wang Xiaoya , He Jiaquan , Wang Pan , Wu Nan
Published: August 2022

Background

The association between glioma risk and body mass index (BMI) remains obscure.

Methods

This study aimed to assess the association between glioma risk and BMI in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

The onset of a total of 269 gliomas was observed during a median follow-up period of 12.04 years. Compared with the normal weight, overweight (HR: 1.05; 95% CI: 0.80, 1.39) and obesity (HR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.56, 1.39) were not significantly associated with glioma risk. Further analysis showed a nonlinear relationship between glioma risk and BMI in men but not women. The multivariable-adjusted HRs per unit increase in BMI were 0.94 (95% CI: 0.89, 1.00; P = 0.037) in men with BMI >25 kg/m2 and 1.16 (95% CI: 0.98, 1.38; P = 0.075) in men with BMI <25 kg/m2.

Conclusion

The present data provide evidence that there may be a nonlinear association between BMI and glioma risk in men. The risk of glioma decreased with increasing BMI among men with BMI >25 kg/m2. Future studies are needed to validate our observation.
Mediating effect analysis of visceral adiposity index on free triiodothyronine to free thyroxine ratio and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in euthyroid population
Authors: Liu Huan-Xin , Ren Yan-Yan , Meng Cui-Qiao , Li Zhong , Nie Qian , Yu Chun-Hong , Ma Hui-Juan
Published: August 2022

Background

The association between free triiodothyronine/free thyroxine (FT3/FT4) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in euthyroid subjects is unclear. In addition, few studies have explored whether VAI mediates the association between FT3/FT4 ratio and NAFLD in the euthyroid population. We aimed to analyze the mediating effect of VAI on the FT3/FT4 ratio and NAFLD risk in the euthyroid population.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 7 946 annual health examinees from the Health Examination Center, Hebei General Hospital, from January to December 2020. The basic information and biochemical parameters, as well as calculated FT3/FT4 ratio and VAI were collected. NAFLD was diagnosed according to abdominal ultrasonography. The fibrosis score for NAFLD positive subjects (NFS) was calculated to reflect the extent of liver fibrosis. The risk of NAFLD was analyzed by quartiles of FT3/FT4 ratio (Q1-Q4 quartiles) and VAI (V1-V4 quartiles), respectively. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to investigate the correlation between FT3/FT4 ratio and VAI. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was applied to analyze the effect of FT3/FT4 ratio and VAI on NAFLD and NFS status. Bootstrap was conducted to explore whether VAI mediated the association between FT3/FT4 ratio and NAFLD.

Results

Of the 7 946 participants, 2 810 (35.36%) had NAFLD and 5 136 (64.64%) did not. Pearson correlation analysis indicated that FT3/FT4 ratio was positively associated with VAI (P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that compared to the Q1 group, the risk of NAFLD significantly increased in Q3 group [OR=1.255, 95%CI (1.011, 1.559)] and Q4 group [OR=1.553, 95%CI (1.252, 1.926)](P<0.05). Compared to the V1 group, the risk of NAFLD notably increased in V2 group [OR=1.584, 95%CI (1.205, 2.083)], V3 group [OR=2.386, 95%CI (1.778, 3.202)] and V4 group [OR=4.104, 95%CI (2.835, 5.939)] (P<0.01). There was no relevance between FT3/FT4 ratio, VAI and NFS status. Mediating effect analysis showed that FT3/FT4 ratio significantly directly influenced NAFLD prevalence [β=3.7029, 95%CI (2.9583, 4.4474)], and VAI partly mediated the indirect effect of the FT3/FT4 ratio on NAFLD prevalence [β=2.7649, 95%CI (2.2347, 3.3466)], and the mediating effect accounted for 42.75% of the total effects.

Conclusion

Both FT3/FT4 ratio and VAI were predictors of NAFLD, and VAI partly mediated the indirect effect of the FT3/FT4 ratio on NAFLD prevalence in the euthyroid population.
Assessment of prevalence, knowledge of polycystic ovary syndrome and health-related practices among women in klang valley: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Goh Jia Ean , Farrukh Muhammad Junaid , Keshavarzi Fazlollah , Yap Chuan Sheng , Saleem Zikria , Salman Muhammad , Ramatillah Diana Laila , Goh Khang Wen , Ming Long Chiau
Published: August 2022

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common metabolic and reproductive disorder affecting women of childbearing age. Its symptoms associated with androgen excess and menstrual abnormalities have great impact on the quality of life in women with PCOS. Data on the knowledge of PCOS and health-related practices among Malaysian women is scarce. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, knowledge and health-related practices of PCOS among women in Klang Valley, Malaysia.

Method

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among women in Klang Valley, Malaysia using a self-administered questionnaire. Participants were conveniently recruited through online platforms. Questionnaire consisted of four sections. The knowledge scores ranged from 0-20 where < 10 was classified as poor knowledge. Health-related practices scores ranged from 10-50, with score <30 was classified as poor practice. Descriptive statistics was used to report demographic characteristics. Inferential statistics was used to report the differentiation, association, and correlations of the variables.

Results

A total of 410 respondents participated in this survey. The finding revealed that 43 (10.49%) respondents had medical diagnosis of PCOS, 11 (2.68%) were diagnosed with PCOS based on signs and symptoms, and 135 (32.93%) were suspected with PCOS. Nearly half of the respondents had poor knowledge (47.30%) and poor practice (47.60%) of PCOS. Also, 46 (11.22%) respondents reported abnormal scalp hair loss and 30 (7.32%) respondents had diabetes. Educational levels and PCOS history were significantly associated with PCOS knowledge. Respondents with healthcare related educational background demonstrated good knowledge (p<0.01). Majority of respondents (n= 328, 80%) were unable to control their diets on weekends. Married participants and aged between 40 to 45 women showed better practice of PCOS.

Conclusion

Nearly half of the respondents had poor knowledge and health-related practices towards PCOS. Women with suspected or diagnosed PCOS should seek immediate medical help as early diagnosis and treatment for PCOS are beneficial in improving their quality of life.
Fluorinated co-solvent electrolytes for high-voltage Ni-rich LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) positive electrodes
Authors: Chen Mingming , Liu Zezhao , Zhao Xinzhe , Li Kuihao , Wang Kehuang , Liu Zhishan , Xia Lan , Yuan Jinliang , Zhao Ruirui
Published: August 2022

Nickel-rich LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) is one of the most promising positive electrodes for utilization in the next-generation of lithium-ion batteries. Charging the NCM cells above 4.3 V is proposed to be beneficial for its reversible capacity. However, the high reactivity of the NCM811 usually results in parasitic electrolyte degradation, which is accelerated with the increase of the Ni content in the NCM positive electrodes, leading to the thickening of the positive electrode-electrolyte interphase during cycling. Herein, to counter this issue, we select partially fluorinated solvents, such as methyl 3,3,3-trifluoropropanoate (MTFP) and 1,1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4-nonafluoro-4-methoxybutane (NFMB), as a co-solvent for fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC)-based electrolytes, and detailed investigate theirs physical, chemical, and electrochemical properties for applications in NCM811 materials. Compared to the carbonate-based electrolyte without a fluorinated solvent, the electrolytes with a fluorinated co-solvent display an obviously enhanced cycling performance of the Li/NCM811 cells charged to above 4.5 V. This work suggests that fluorinated co-solvent electrolytes provide an alternative way to the high-concentration electrolyte for the design of new electrolyte systems for high energy density lithium-ion batteries.
Comprehensive characterization of formation rock for tight oil exploitation
Authors: Kang Hao , Zhou Xinyu , Gao Jian , Zhang Chunxiang
Published: August 2022

Although it is generally very difficult to supplement flow energy into the tight oil reservoir, there is still good prospect for enhanced oil and gas recovery in this area due to its large proportion of hydrocarbon reserves. However, due to the sensitivity of tight oil reservoir to formation pressure, the porosity and permeability of the reservoir will change greatly with the change of formation pressure in the process oil development, which has a complex impact on dynamic analysis, productivity evaluation and later adjustment of potential stimulation measures. This study mainly focus on the characterization of tight formation rock in the Northwest part of China. In order to get a visual impression of the reservoir core, some routine tests were firstly carried out. After that, porosity and permeability are tested under overburden pressure conditions. Studies show that overburden porosity and permeability will decrease but total decrease percentage will increase with the increase of net effective overburden pressure. The decrease percentage of permeability is much higher compared with that of porosity decrease percentage under overburden pressures. When the net effective overburden pressure is larger than 10 MPa, the decrease of overburden porosity will become relatively small. At the same time, when the net effective overburden pressure is larger than 15 MPa, the decrease of overburden permeability will become relatively small. Taking the pressure-increasing process and the pressure-decreasing process as a whole: the permeability cannot recover to the initial level when overburden pressure is the same as previous round because certain permeability is permanently damaged in the process. At the same time, when the net effective overburden pressure increased to a higher level, the permeability damaged will become relatively smaller. These experiments compose of a comprehensive characterization of formation rock and are of great significance to accurately understand the reservoir damage in the process of tight oil development and reasonably evaluate the productivity of oil producers.
The dynamics of mature and emerging freshwater conservation programs
Authors: Neeson Thomas M. , Wineland Sean M. , Phillips Erin , McFadden Jonathan
Published: August 2022

Conservation programs range from small, place-based initiatives to large, bureaucracy-heavy systems. The dynamics of these programs vary greatly. New initiatives may experience exponential growth, but participation and spending in mature programs may rise and fall in response to a number of factors. Here, we analyze historical patterns of participation and spending across five freshwater conservation programs in the United States. Our analysis highlights fundamental differences between emerging programs, which may experience exponential or logistic growth, and mature programs with slower growth, in which changes in participation may be driven by a number of internal and exogenous factors. We propose that changes in the number and spatial distribution of conservation projects are associated with four key factors: changes in legislation that open new funding streams; shifting priorities of actors; changes in the policies or management of a program that align it with new funding opportunities; and increases in individuals’ willingness to participate in a program as it grows. These programmatic shifts represent windows of opportunity for strategically reorienting conservation programs to leverage newly-available resources. Given that large, mature conservation programs support biodiversity and ecosystem services worldwide, comparison of their dynamics with those of emerging programs may reveal key opportunities for maximizing the benefits of investments in these programs.
Enterprise location choice and regional sustainable development based on the theory of stable matching
Authors: Shi Lifan , Tang Decai , Kong Haojia , Boamah Valentina
Published: August 2022

As an important path of industrial structure adjustment and upgrading, industrial transfer is of great significance to narrow the regional economic development gap in China and promoting the sustainable development of regional economies. The locational choice of firms is one of the main reasons for the transfer of industries. The aim of this study was to obtain an optimal and stable match between firms and local governments. By constructing an evaluation index system for enterprise location selection and an evaluation index system for local government investment attraction, and based on the relevant linguistic evaluation information, this study calculates the satisfaction of enterprises with the location and the satisfaction of local governments with the target investment enterprises and then obtains the optimal stable match between enterprises and local governments based on the constructed stable match model. Most of the previous studies only consider the location choice of enterprises and government’s investment attraction as their respective unilateral choice of location, ignoring the relationship between the two as mutual stakeholders. This study, however, examines firms’ choice of location and the government’s investment promotion from a bilateral matching perspective. The study also studies the mechanism by which the stable matching between enterprises and the government’s inducements to invest is realized. The results show that, based on the stable matching mechanism, a bilateral matching scheme between enterprises and the government can give full play to the decisive role of the markets in resource allocation, maintain long-term stable investment and cooperation between the two sides, and help China’s industries transfer and upgrade their quality in an orderly fashion.
Evidence of the Middle-Income Trap in Latin American Countries: Factor Analysis Approach Using Regression and the ARDL Model
Authors: Galvan Lisette Paola Cervantes , Campo Carlos Carmona , Stanojevic Savo , Alzate David Villada
Published: August 2022

The middle-income trap (MIT) is often accompanied by the decline or stagnation of economic growth, unreasonable domestic industrial structure, and serious polarization between the rich and the poor. However, due to different international environments, different specific national conditions, and different development policies adopted by each country, how to get out of the MIT varies. This study carries out an analysis of different economic growth factors of Latin American countries (we selected 19 MIT countries out of 33) and compared them with Singapore and Korea, which are in a high-income range. We used a regression model to find the relationship of variables in each country and the impact on the economic growth due to these variables. The study finds using correlation and regression analysis, that trade and foreign direct investment (FDI) play a major role in avoiding the MIT by having a strong regression (R2= 1.481*** for S. Korea, R2= 0.65 for Singapore) with the gross domestic product (GDP) for high-income countries while having a weak regression in Latin American countries. Another factor is that industrialization and services export play a vital role in avoiding the MIT in Singapore and South Korea, and the same model should be used in Latin American countries to avoid the MIT. Furthermore, using the panel ARDL model we validated the results of a regression model and established that similar factors are impacting Latin American countries’ MIT. Correlation analysis is used to determine the relationship of selected factors and their impacting strength on the growth of an economy. In the final section, we present Latin American countries, and their main policy gaps according to their unique characteristics and recommend a policy with suggestions for avoiding the MIT by comparing their economies with those of high-income countries.
Estimation of critical metal stock and recycling potential in China’s automobile industry
Authors: Li Yang , Liu Yanhui , Huang Shiyu , Sun Liangfan , Ju Yiyi
Published: August 2022

The rapid expansion of electric vehicles (EVs) in China will induce a potential imbalance in the demand and supply of critical metals, which emphasized the importance of recycling critical metals. Evaluating their stock and recycling potential is essential to the electrification transformation in the automobile industry and provides references to the overall national resource strategy. In this study, we identified the critical metals in the electrification transformation of the automobile industry, estimated the stock of critical metals from 2022 to 2050 under multiple scenarios in China, and assessed the recycling potential of critical metals in EVs as well as their economic value. The results show that China’s passenger vehicles will reach 547.5–623.8 million in 2050. According to China’s current energy conservation and emission reduction policies, fuel vehicle (FV) ownership will peak in 2042, at 488.2 million. If strict energy conservation and emission reduction policies are adopted, electric vehicle ownership will increase from 148.3 million to 293.9 million by 2050, leading to a rapid increase in the stock of critical metals. The total stock of key critical metals under the scenario with stringent policies will be 29.27 million tons in 2050, 10.55 million higher compared to the scenario with no ban on fuel vehicles. Based on our results, the recycling of critical metals can be an effective option for the inadequate critical metal supply, especially given the policy context of increasingly expanding EV ownership in the near-term future.
Does industrial eco-innovative development and economic growth affect environmental sustainability? New evidence from BRICS countries
Authors: Liu Siming , Gao Leifu , Hu Xuhua , Shi Junguo , Mohsin Muhammad , Naseem Sobia
Published: August 2022

This research aims to identify the periodical impact of industrial development, renewable energy, economic growth, and gross capital formation on environmental deterioration in BRICS countries. The analytical procedure is based on the annual data from 1995 to 2020. The selected econometric methods which are used to determine the relationship among exogenous and endogenous variables are panel unit-root tests for stationarity check, Johansen co-integration test for co-integration relationship, and FMOLS and quantile regression for long-run relationship. The empirical research findings confirm a significant positive association of environmental deterioration with industrial development, GDP, and GCF, while a significant negative relationship was observed between CO2 emission and renewable energy. The BRICS group of countries should be more focused on environmentally friendly technological development as they are concerned with economic growth. Renewable energy resources positively impact the environmental quality, so backward resources should be replaced with renewable energy resources to attain double impacts, that is, the reduction of CO2 emission with the reduction of oldfangled resources and increase in the environmental quality with the aggrandizement of renewable energy resources. Based on key findings and implications of the sectorial and whole economic growth of BRICS countries, this research suggests some policy implications for reducing toxic CO2 emissions and enhancing the quality of the environment.
Motion characteristics and aero-elastic responses of floating offshore wind turbine under coupling action of waves and winds
Authors: Wang Bin , Li Ying , Gao Shan , Shen Kanmin , Hu Zhenhong , Zheng Xing
Published: August 2022

As a complex multi degree of freedom coupling system, floating offshore wind turbine usually works in complex and changeable marine environment. The research of floating offshore wind turbine often needs to consider the coupling effect of wind, wave and current at the same time. Under the action of wind and wave load, floating offshore wind turbine will produce a large motion response. Generally, the surge motion and pitch motion are the most obvious aspects, and their motion amplitude is also the largest, and large-scale motion of the floating platform will directly affect the relative velocity of the wind loaded flow. Therefore, the surge motion and pitch motion usually have the most obvious impact on the aerodynamic load of wind turbine. In this paper, the motion characteristics and aeroelastic responses of the DTU-10MW semi-floating offshore wind turbine under coupling action of wind and wave are simulated. The motion characteristics and aeroelastic responses of floating offshore wind turbine are calculated under different wind and wave combination conditions, and the influence law of wind and wave action are summarized. The results show that wind load affects the mean value of motion of the floating offshore wind turbine, and wave load affects the amplitude of motion; Finally, the dynamic response of the wind turbine with the included angle of the wind and wave load is discussed and analyzed, and the influence of the incident angle of the wind wave on the motion response of the floating offshore wind turbine is analyzed.
Effects of the annular eclipse on the surface O3 in yunnan province, China
Authors: Tian Yufeng , Li Jingyuan , Yang Chaolei , Cui Jingqi , Shen Fuzhen , Lu Jianyong , Xiong Shiping , Wei Guanchun , Li Zheng , Zhang Hua , Yang Guanglin , Wu Yewen , Wei Zong , Jiang Shuwen , Yao Jingrui , Wang Jingye , Zhu Zhixin
Published: August 2022

The impact of the annual solar eclipse, starting on 21st June 2020, attributable to surface ozone concentration (O3) has been investigated in this study. To estimate the influence of the solar eclipse on O3 better, the variations of one reaction precursor of ozone production [nitrogen dioxide (NO2)], coupled with the meteorological factors (including Total Solar Irradiance (TSI), Temperature (T), and Relative Humidity (RH)), were analyzed in Yunnan Province, China. The results show observed O3 decreases from the beginning of the eclipse, reaching its minimum value when the eclipse left Yunnan province. During the period of the solar eclipse, the O3 decrease lasted for 20 h with a reduction of more than 40%. The reduction of TSI lasted for 5 h with a maximum at -90%. Simultaneously, the temperature decreased but the relative humidity increased during the reduction in solar radiation. O3 exhibits a significantly positive correlation with temperature and a negative correlation with relative humidity. However, NO2 did not show a clear response with changes lasting for 4 h. O3 and NO2 show a negative correlation. The influence of CO on O3 is minor except for Kunming. Thus, O3 in seriously polluted cities is more sensitive to NO2 and CO during the eclipse, such as in Kunming.
Impact of environment on hotel customer satisfaction in Southeast Asia: A study of online booking site reviews
Authors: Ding Cuicui , Guo Qingran , Rehman Alam , Zeeshan Muhammad
Published: August 2022

This paper empirically analyzes the effect of the environment on hotel customer satisfaction in Southeast Asian countries, as reflected in reviews on online booking sites. The logistic regression method is applied to extract the estimations. The empirical outcomes reveal that the environment can significantly influence customer satisfaction, which means tourists are likely to maximize their satisfaction by choosing destinations that provide a good environment. In addition, room price, hotel location, and service quality can also increase customer satisfaction. Web-based customer reviews potentially affect the booking decisions of future tourists, who carefully evaluate reviewers’ comments when making decisions about accommodation. Hotel authorities in Southeast Asian countries can improve hotel service by adopting renewable energy resources, which may in turn increase the booking interest. Furthermore, customer feedback is an essential factor, and hotel authorities can improve hotel services by considering reviewers’ comments.
Risk preference and willingness to participate in the futures market: Evidence from cotton and jujube enterprises of China
Authors: Cheng An , Han Xinru , Ahmad Mahmood
Published: August 2022

Since the instability and uncertainty are mounting on the international landscape, it is urgent and necessary to explore the risk awareness and risk management capabilities of leading agricultural enterprises in China. Based on a survey of 219 enterprises, we build a logit model and estimate the impact of risk preference and price risk perception of leading cotton and jujube enterprises on their willingness to participate in the futures market. We further explore the moderating effect of the price risk perception on the relationship between risk preference and willingness to participate in the futures market. Results show that the risk preference and price risk perception of leading enterprises have a significant positive impact on their willingness to participate in the futures market, and the proportion of the mediating effect in the total effect is calculated to be 35.1%. Therefore, risk management instruments suitable for various types of leading enterprises and segmentation of training courses are suggested to optimize the effectiveness of China’s cotton and jujube futures market.