bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Historical Trends Analysis of Main Agronomic Traits in South China Inbred Indica Rice Varieties since Dwarf Breeding
Authors: Feng Xiaomin , Zhao Ying , Nie Wenlong , Zhang Qiang , Liu Zhixia , Jiang Yijun , Chen Kai , Yu Ning , Luan Xin , Li Wenlong , Shan Miaomiao , Xu Jianlong , Lin Qingshan
Published: August 2023

Studying the evolutionary patterns of rice agronomic traits in South China and analyzing the characteristics of rice improvement can provide insights into the developmental trajectory of rice breeding in South China and can guide further enhancement of variety yield. In this study, widely promoted varieties and core parents developed through dwarf breeding in the southern region, as well as landraces, were collected and planted in three different ecological regions. A total of 18 agronomic traits were investigated related to heading date, plant type, panicle type, grain type, and yield, and multiple comparisons, a correlation analysis, and a path analysis were conducted. The results indicate that dwarf breeding has significantly increased the yield of inbred indica rice varieties in South China. However, a reduction in plant height has also resulted in a reduction in flag leaf, shorter panicles, and decreased biomass, which have led to metabolic source and storage capacity deficiencies and limited yield potential. To address these limitations, breeders have employed strategies such as increasing flag leaf width, spikelet density, number of primary branches, and grain number per panicle. These measures have led to a gradual increase in yield. Additionally, starting from the 1980s, high-quality rice breeding has been pursued in South China, resulting in slender grain shape and reduced thousand grain weight. Given that total grain number per panicle has already increased significantly and the thousand grain weight cannot be reduced further, enhancing the effective tiller number, which decreases year by year, becomes an important approach to increasing the yield of inbred indica rice varieties in South China.
Physiological Stress Responses in Cattle Used in the Spanish Rodeo
Authors: Caceres Sara , Moreno Julia , Crespo Belen , Silvan Gema , Illera Juan Carlos
Published: August 2023

Certain events can cause distress in cattle. In Spain, there is a sport similar to rodeo called persecution and takedown, in which calves are harassed and knocked down by riders. In this study, the physiological stress response of calves (n = 260) is assessed by measuring hormonal physiological parameters. Salivary samples were collected from Salers (n = 110) and Lidia (n = 150) calves before, during, and after the persecution and takedown event. The hormones epinephrine, cortisol, serotonin, and dopamine were determined in saliva samples using enzyme-immunoassay techniques. The results obtained revealed that epinephrine and cortisol levels increased during the event in Salers calves, with a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the case of epinephrine, although after the event, these values returned to their initial state. Therefore, this sport supposes an assumable punctual stressor stimulus for the animal. In contrast, in Lidia calves, cortisol and epinephrine levels decreased, with a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the case of cortisol, which may be related to the temperament of this breed and facing a stressful situation in a different manner. This is confirmed by serotonin and dopamine levels that were altered in Lidia calves with respect to the other group studied. In conclusion, the sport of persecution and takedown produces a physiological response of adaptive stress assumable for the animals.
Oxidative DNA Damage and Repair: Mechanisms, Mutations, and Relation to Diseases
Authors: Roginskaya Marina , Razskazovskiy Yuriy
Published: August 2023

Oxidative DNA damage (ODD) by reactive oxygen species (ROS) or reactive nitrogen species (RNS) is an inevitable tradeoff for using oxidation processes by living cells as a source of energy [...]
Sequencing, Fast and Slow: Profiling Microbiomes in Human Samples with Nanopore Sequencing
Authors: Park Yunseol , Lee Jeesu , Shim Hyunjin
Published: August 2023

Rapid and accurate pathogen identification is crucial in effectively combating infectious diseases. However, the current diagnostic tools for bacterial infections predominantly rely on century-old culture-based methods. Furthermore, recent research highlights the significance of host–microbe interactions within the host microbiota in influencing the outcome of infection episodes. As our understanding of science and medicine advances, there is a pressing need for innovative diagnostic methods that can identify pathogens and also rapidly and accurately profile the microbiome landscape in human samples. In clinical settings, such diagnostic tools will become a powerful predictive instrument in directing the diagnosis and prognosis of infectious diseases by providing comprehensive insights into the patient’s microbiota. Here, we explore the potential of long-read sequencing in profiling the microbiome landscape from various human samples in terms of speed and accuracy. Using nanopore sequencers, we generate native DNA sequences from saliva and stool samples rapidly, from which each long-read is basecalled in real-time to provide downstream analyses such as taxonomic classification and antimicrobial resistance through the built-in software (<12 h). Subsequently, we utilize the nanopore sequence data for in-depth analysis of each microbial species in terms of host–microbe interaction types and deep learning-based classification of unidentified reads. We find that the nanopore sequence data encompass complex information regarding the microbiome composition of the host and its microbial communities, and also shed light on the unexplored human mobilome including bacteriophages. In this study, we use two different systems of long-read sequencing to give insights into human microbiome samples in the ‘slow’ and ‘fast’ modes, which raises additional inquiries regarding the precision of this novel technology and the feasibility of extracting native DNA sequences from other human microbiomes.
Multi-Temporal Variabilities of Extreme Precipitation over Central Asia and Associated Planetary-Scale Climate Modes
Authors: Tang Wei , Xiao Fang , Lai Sheng
Published: August 2023

Arid- and semi-arid Central Asia is particularly sensitive to climate change. The changes in extreme precipitation in Central Asia stemming from climate warming are the subject of intense debate within the scientific community. This study employed a Morlet wavelet analysis to examine the annual occurrence number of extreme precipitation in Central Asia from May to September during the period of 1951–2005. Their modulating planetary-scale climate modes were identified by using linear regression analysis. Two major scales of the temporal variability were derived: 2–3.9 years and 4–6 years. The dominant variability was a 2–3.9-year scale and was associated with the negative phase of the Polar/Eurasia (POL) pattern. The 4–6-year scale provided a secondary contribution and was closely linked to the negative phase of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). These planetary climate modes acted as precursors of extreme precipitation over Central Asia. The negative phase of POL directly contributed to a negative height anomaly over Central Asia, which was intimately related to extreme precipitation. In contrast, the negative NAO phase possibly manifested as a Rossby wave source, which was subsequently exported to Central Asia through a negative–positive–negative Rossby wave train.
Construction of Wearable Touch Sensors by Mimicking the Properties of Materials and Structures in Nature
Authors: Geng Baojun , Zeng Henglin , Luo Hua , Wu Xiaodong
Published: August 2023

Wearable touch sensors, which can convert force or pressure signals into quantitative electronic signals, have emerged as essential smart sensing devices and play an important role in various cutting-edge fields, including wearable health monitoring, soft robots, electronic skin, artificial prosthetics, AR/VR, and the Internet of Things. Flexible touch sensors have made significant advancements, while the construction of novel touch sensors by mimicking the unique properties of biological materials and biogenetic structures always remains a hot research topic and significant technological pathway. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the research status of wearable touch sensors constructed by imitating the material and structural characteristics in nature and summarizes the scientific challenges and development tendencies of this aspect. First, the research status for constructing flexible touch sensors based on biomimetic materials is summarized, including hydrogel materials, self-healing materials, and other bio-inspired or biomimetic materials with extraordinary properties. Then, the design and fabrication of flexible touch sensors based on bionic structures for performance enhancement are fully discussed. These bionic structures include special structures in plants, special structures in insects/animals, and special structures in the human body. Moreover, a summary of the current issues and future prospects for developing wearable sensors based on bio-inspired materials and structures is discussed.
Application of the Improved Rapidly Exploring Random Tree Algorithm to an Insect-like Mobile Robot in a Narrow Environment
Authors: Wang Lina , Yang Xin , Chen Zeling , Wang Binrui
Published: August 2023

When intelligent mobile robots perform global path planning in complex and narrow environments, several issues often arise, including low search efficiency, node redundancy, non-smooth paths, and high costs. This paper proposes an improved path planning algorithm based on the rapidly exploring random tree (RRT) approach. Firstly, the target bias sampling method is employed to screen and eliminate redundant sampling points. Secondly, the adaptive step size strategy is introduced to address the limitations of the traditional RRT algorithm. The mobile robot is then modeled and analyzed to ensure that the path adheres to angle and collision constraints during movement. Finally, the initial path is pruned, and the path is smoothed using a cubic B-spline curve, resulting in a smoother path with reduced costs. The evaluation metrics employed include search time, path length, and the number of sampling nodes. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm, simulations of the RRT algorithm, RRT-connect algorithm, RRT* algorithm, and the improved RRT algorithm are conducted in various environments. The results demonstrate that the improved RRT algorithm reduces the generated path length by 25.32% compared to the RRT algorithm, 26.42% compared to the RRT-connect algorithm, and 4.99% compared to the RRT* algorithm. Moreover, the improved RRT algorithm significantly improves the demand for reducing path costs. The planning time of the improved RRT algorithm is reduced by 64.96% compared to that of the RRT algorithm, 40.83% compared to that of the RRT-connect algorithm, and 27.34% compared to that of the RRT* algorithm, leading to improved speed. These findings indicate that the proposed method exhibits a notable improvement in the three crucial evaluation metrics: sampling time, number of nodes, and path length. Additionally, the algorithm performed well after undergoing physical verification with an insect-like mobile robot in a real environment featuring narrow elevator entrances.
A Critical Study on DNA Probes Attached to Microplate for CRISPR/Cas12 Trans-Cleavage Activity
Authors: Burkin Konstantin M. , Ivanov Aleksandr V. , Zherdev Anatoly V. , Dzantiev Boris B. , Safenkova Irina V.
Published: August 2023

CRISPR/Cas12-based biosensors are emerging tools for diagnostics. However, their application of heterogeneous formats needs the efficient detection of Cas12 activity. We investigated DNA probes attached to the microplate surface and cleaved by Cas12a. Single-stranded (ss) DNA probes (19 variants) and combined probes with double-stranded (ds) and ssDNA parts (eight variants) were compared. The cleavage efficiency of dsDNA-probes demonstrated a bell-shaped dependence on their length, with a cleavage maximum of 50%. On the other hand, the cleavage efficiency of ssDNA probes increased monotonously, reaching 70%. The most effective ssDNA probes were integrated with fluorescein, antibodies, and peroxidase conjugates as reporters for fluorescent, lateral flow, and chemiluminescent detection. Long ssDNA probes (120–145 nt) proved the best for detecting Cas12a trans-activity for all of the tested variants. We proposed a test system for the detection of the nucleocapsid (N) gene of SARS-CoV-2 based on Cas12 and the ssDNA-probe attached to the microplate surface; its fluorescent limit of detection was 0.86 nM. Being united with pre-amplification using recombinase polymerase, the system reached a detection limit of 0.01 fM, thus confirming the effectiveness of the chosen ssDNA probe for Cas12-based biosensors.
Enhancing Accessibility: A Comprehensive Study of Current Apps for Enabling Accessibility of Disabled Individuals in Buildings
Authors: Apostolidou Eleni , Fokaides Paris A.
Published: August 2023

In today’s digital age, mobile applications have become invaluable tools for enhancing accessibility and inclusivity, especially for individuals with disabilities. This study focuses on the landscape of accessibility apps designed to facilitate inclusivity for disabled individuals in buildings. By investigating current trends, strengths, weaknesses, and their impact on independence and quality of life, the research aims to shed light on the state of these apps and identify areas for future development. To achieve these objectives, a multi-faceted approach was employed, encompassing a literature review and app categorization. The study emphasizes the necessity for a common evaluation and certification framework to ensure consistency, reliability, and transparency in assessing the effectiveness of accessibility apps in the built environment. Such a framework would instill user trust, support informed decision-making, and stimulate innovation in this field. The findings of this research contribute to the advancement of inclusive design practices, serving as a valuable resource for developers, policymakers, and disabled individuals seeking effective tools to enhance accessibility. By fostering an inclusive society where disabled individuals can fully navigate and participate, this study aligns with the broader goal of creating a more inclusive and equitable world.
The Diagnostics of the Condition and Management of Large-Panel Buildings Using Point Clouds and Building Information Modelling (BIM)
Authors: Wardach Maciej , Pawłowicz Joanna Agnieszka , Kosior-Kazberuk Marta , Krentowski Janusz Ryszard
Published: August 2023

Technological developments involving the implementation of modern measuring equipment and the digitalisation of civil engineering can contribute to extending the service life of buildings. Large-panel buildings constitute a large housing stock throughout Europe. This paper presents the possibility of using laser scanning to identify typical assembly defects in large-panel buildings. Based on point cloud data, numerical models were created to assess the impact of improper assembly on the elements’ performance. It was indicated that using scanning to identify and monitor the displacement of structural elements does not relieve experts of the need to perform other tests. Analyses related to the possibility of using Building Information Modeling technology to manage large-panel buildings were also conducted. A parametric model was made, from which a number of possibilities of its use at every stage of the building’s life were presented in an example. It was highlighted that parametric models of large-panel buildings, due to their repeatable geometry, can be copied for use in managing entire neighbourhoods. Limitations associated with implementing BIM technology in practice were also formulated. The analyses and research performed confirm the validity of implementing modern research methods in engineering practice and digitising the documentation of large-panel buildings.
Leukemic Involvement Is a Common Feature in Waldenström Macroglobulinemia at Diagnosis
Authors: Montesdeoca Sara , García-Gisbert Nieves , Calvo Xavier , Arenillas Leonor , Román David , Fernández-Rodríguez Concepción , Navarro Rosa , Costan Beatriz , Vela María del Carmen , Camacho Laura , Abella Eugènia , Colomo Lluís , Salido Marta , Puiggros Anna , Florensa Lourdes , Espinet Blanca , Bellosillo Beatriz , Ferrer del Álamo Ana
Published: August 2023

Waldenström Macroglobulinemia (WM) is a lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma with bone marrow (BM) involvement and IgM monoclonal gammopathy. To date, no studies have focused specifically on peripheral blood (PB) involvement. In this study, 100 patients diagnosed with WM according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria were included based on the demonstration of MYD88mut in BM and the availability of PB multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC) analysis. Leukemic involvement by MFC was detected in 50/100 patients. A low percentage of mature small lymphocytes in PB smears was observed in only 15 cases. MYD88mut by AS-qPCR was detected in PB in 65/100 cases. In cases with leukemic expression by MFC, MYD88mut was detected in all cases, and IGH was rearranged in 44/49 cases. In 21/50 patients without PB involvement by MFC, molecular data were consistent with circulating disease (MYD88mut by AS-qPCR 3/50, IGH rearranged 6/50, both 12/50). Therefore, PB involvement by standard techniques was detected in 71/100 patients. MYD88mut was detected in PB by dPCR in 9/29 triple negative cases. Overall, 80% of the patients presented PB involvement by any technique. Our findings support the role of PB MFC in the evaluation of patients with IgM monoclonal gammopathy and provide reliable information on correlation with molecular features. The development of a feasible MFC assay may stand as an objective tool in the classification of mature B cell neoplasms presenting with IgM monoclonal gammopathy.
Tumor Endothelial Cells-Associated Integrin Alpha-6 as a Promising Biomarker for Early Detection and Prognosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kim Hyung Seok , Yoon Jung Hwan , Baek Geum Ok , Yoon Moon Gyeong , Han Ji Eun , Cho Hyo Jung , Kim Soon Sun , Jeong Jee-Yeong , Cheong Jae Youn , Eun Jung Woo
Published: August 2023

HCC remains a lethal cancer type, with early detection being critical for improved patient outcomes. This study introduces a comprehensive methodological approach to identify the ITGA6 gene as a potential blood marker for early HCC (eHCC) detection. We initially analyzed the GSE114564 dataset encompassing various stages of liver disease, identifying 972 differentially expressed genes in HCC. A refined analysis yielded 59 genes specifically differentially expressed in early HCC, including ITGA6. Subsequent validation in multiple datasets confirmed the consistent upregulation of ITGA6 in HCC. In addition, when analyzing progression-free survival (PFS) within the entire patient cohort and overall survival (OS) specifically among patients classified as tumor grade G1, the group of patients characterized by high expression levels of ITGA6 displayed an elevated risk ratio in relation to prognosis. Further analyses demonstrated the predominant expression of ITGA6 in TECs and its enrichment in angiogenesis-related pathways. Additionally, positive correlations were found between ITGA6 expression and pro-tumorigenic immune cells, but not with anti-tumorigenic immune cells. Our study elucidates the potential of ITGA6 as a blood-based marker for HCC early detection and diagnosis and its complex interplay with the tumor microenvironment. Further research may lead to novel strategies for HCC management and patient care.
Pretreatment Tumor Growth Rate and Radiological Response as Predictive Markers of Pathological Response and Survival in Patients with Resectable Lung Cancer Treated by Neoadjuvant Treatment
Authors: Ramtohul Toulsie , Challier Léa , Servois Vincent , Girard Nicolas
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Predictive biomarkers associated with pathological response, progression precluding surgery, and/or recurrence after surgery are needed for patients with resectable non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) treated by neoadjuvant treatment. We evaluated the clinical impact of the pretreatment tumor growth rate (TGR0) and radiological response for patients with resectable NSCLC treated with neoadjuvant therapies. Methods: Consecutive patients with resectable stage IB (≥4 cm) to IIIA NSCLC treated by neoadjuvant platinum-doublet chemotherapy with or without nivolumab at our tertiary center were retrospectively analyzed. TGR0 and RECIST objective responses were determined. Multivariable analyses identified independent predictors of event-free survival (EFS), overall survival (OS), and major pathological response (MPR). Results: Between November 2017 and December 2022, 32 patients (mean [SD] age, 63.8 [8.0] years) were included. At a median follow-up of 54.8 months (95% CI, 42.3–60.4 months), eleven patients (34%) experienced progression or recurrence, and twelve deaths (38%) were recorded. The TGR0 cutoff of 30%/month remained the only independent factor associated with EFS (HR = 0.04; 95% CI, 0.01–0.3; p = 0.003) and OS (HR = 0.2; 95% CI, 0.03–0.7; p = 0.01). The TGR0 cut-off had a mean time-dependent AUC of 0.83 (95% CI, 0.64–0.95) and 0.80 (95% CI, 0.62–0.97) for predicting EFS and OS, respectively. Fifteen of 26 resection cases (58%) showed MPR including nine with pathological complete responses (35%). Only the objective response of the primary tumor was associated with MPR (OR = 27.5; 95% CI, 2.6–289.1; p = 0.006). Conclusions: Assessment of TGR0 can identify patients who should benefit from neoadjuvant treatment. A tumor objective response might be a predictor of MPR after neoadjuvant treatment, which will help to adapt surgical management.
Alzheimer’s Disease-like Pathological Features in the Dorsal Hippocampus of Wild-Type Rats Subjected to Methionine-Diet-Evoked Mild Hyperhomocysteinaemia
Authors: Kovalska Maria , Hnilicova Petra , Kalenska Dagmar , Adamkov Marian , Kovalska Libusa , Lehotsky Jan
Published: August 2023

Multifactorial interactions, including nutritional state, likely participate in neurodegeneration’s pathogenesis and evolution. Dysregulation in methionine (Met) metabolism could lead to the development of hyperhomocysteinaemia (hHcy), playing an important role in neuronal dysfunction, which could potentially lead to the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-like pathological features. This study combines proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) with immunohistochemical analysis to examine changes in the metabolic ratio and histomorphological alterations in the dorsal rat hippocampus (dentate gyrus—DG) subjected to a high Met diet. Male Wistar rats (420–480 g) underwent hHcy evoked by a Met-enriched diet (2 g/kg of weight/day) lasting four weeks. Changes in the metabolic ratio profile and significant histomorphological alterations have been found in the DG of hHcy rats. We have detected increased morphologically changed neurons and glial cells with increased neurogenic markers and apolipoprotein E positivity parallel with a diminished immunosignal for the N-Methyl-D-Aspartate receptor 1 in hHcy animals. A Met diet induced hHcy, likely via direct Hcy neurotoxicity, an interference with one carbon unit metabolism, and/or epigenetic regulation. These conditions lead to the progression of neurodegeneration and the promotion of AD-like pathological features in the less vulnerable hippocampal DG, which presents a plausible therapeutic target.
Co-Creation of a School-Based Motor Competence and Mental Health Intervention: Move Well, Feel Good
Authors: Clifford Lauren , Tyler Richard , Knowles Zoe , Ashworth Emma , Boddy Lynne , Foweather Lawrence , Fairclough Stuart J.
Published: August 2023

Low motor competence (MC) and inhibited psychosocial development are associated with mental health difficulties. Improving children’s MC through school-based physical activity interventions emphasising psychosocial development may therefore be a mechanism for promoting positive mental health. This study describes and provides reflective insights into the co-creation of ‘Move Well Feel Good’, a primary school physical activity intervention to improve children’s MC and mental health. Class teachers, school leaders, physical activity specialists, and children (aged 8–9 years) participated in a series of co-creation workshops. Stakeholders’ knowledge and experiences were integrated with existing research evidence using creative methods (e.g., post-it note tasks, worksheets, and drawings) to facilitate discussion. The co-creation process culminated in stakeholder consensus voting for one of three proposed intervention ideas. Children cited physical and mental health benefits, enjoyment with friends, and high perceived competence as motives for being physically active. Opportunities to develop MC across the different segments of the school day were identified by adult stakeholders, who perceived children’s lack of resilience, an overloaded curriculum, and poor parental support for physical activity as barriers to intervention implementation. The chosen intervention idea received six out of a possible twelve votes. Co-creation projects are specific to the contexts in which they are implemented. This study reinforces the complex nature of school-based intervention development and highlights the value of engaging with stakeholders in co-creation processes.
The Pandemic Allocation of Ventilators Model Penalizes Infants with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Sundaram Anupama , Fanaroff Jonathan M. , Wilson-Costello Deanne , Alberts Melissa , Shiswawala Naini , Stern Noam , Ryan Rita M.
Published: August 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, institutions developed ventilator allocation models. In one proposed model, neonates compete with adults for ventilators using a scoring system. Points are given for conditions that increase one- and five-year (y) mortality. For example, comparable points were added for adult conditions with mortality of 71.3% and for neonates with moderate or severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (mod/sBPD). We hypothesized that this model overestimates mortality in neonates with BPD and would penalize these infants unfairly. There was little information available on 1 y and 5 y mortality risk for mod/sBPD. To evaluate this allocation protocol, a retrospective chart review was performed on infants born ≥22 weeks and weighing <1500 g admitted to Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in 2015 to identify babies with BPD. The main outcomes were 1 and 5 y mortality. In 2015, 28 infants were diagnosed with mod/s BPD based on NIH 2001 definition; 4 infants had modBPD and 24 had sBPD. All infants (100%) with modBPD survived to 5 y; 2 infants with sBPD died by 1 y (8%) and 22 survived (92%) to 1 y; 3 died (12.5%) by 5 y; and at least 13 survived (54%) to 5 y. Infants with mod/s BPD had lower-than-predicted 1 and 5 y mortality, suggesting the points assigned in the model are too high for these conditions. We believe this model would unfairly penalize these babies.
Recent Advances in Molecular Mechanisms of Nucleoside Antivirals
Authors: Kamzeeva Polina N. , Aralov Andrey V. , Alferova Vera A. , Korshun Vladimir A.
Published: August 2023

The search for new drugs has been greatly accelerated by the emergence of new viruses and drug-resistant strains of known pathogens. Nucleoside analogues (NAs) are a prospective class of antivirals due to known safety profiles, which are important for rapid repurposing in the fight against emerging pathogens. Recent improvements in research methods have revealed new unexpected details in the mechanisms of action of NAs that can pave the way for new approaches for the further development of effective drugs. This review accounts advanced techniques in viral polymerase targeting, new viral and host enzyme targeting approaches, and prodrug-based strategies for the development of antiviral NAs.
Interaction of Si Atom with the (001) Surface of TiN, AlN and TaN Compounds
Authors: Svyatkin Leonid , Ognev Sergey , Syrtanov Maxim , Koroteev Yury
Published: August 2023

Nowadays, the application of multicomponent coatings with multiphase nanocrystalline structure is the most promising direction in the search for wear-resistant protective coatings with a full set of necessary operational properties. Nanocrystalline multicomponent coatings based on the Ti-Al-Ta-Si-N system have a high hardness combined with thermal stability and oxidation resistance. Silicon atoms are weakly soluble in the TiN, Ti1−xAlxN, and TaN crystalline phases of the Ti-Al-Ta-Si-N system and interact preferentially with N atoms, forming the amorphous Si3N4 phase. In this context, it is important to first study the peculiarities of the interaction of Si atoms with the simplest structural units of the Ti-Al-Ta-Si-N system, such as TiN, AlN, and TaN compounds with the NaCl structure. This work is devoted to the study of the interaction of a Si atom with the (001) surface of AlN, TiN, and TaN compounds with the NaCl structure using ab initio calculations. This provides information for a deep understanding of the initial stages of the formation of different crystallites of the considered composite. It was established that the adsorption of silicon on the (001) surface of AlN, TiN, and TaN significantly increases the relaxation of the surface layers and leads to an increase in the corrugation observed on the clean surfaces. The largest corrugation is observed on the surface of the TaN compound. The most energetically favorable adsorption positions of Si atoms were found to be the position of Si above the N atom on the TiN and TaN surfaces and the quadruple coordinated position on the AlN surface. The valence electron density distribution and the crystal orbital Hamiltonian population were studied to identify the type of Si atom bonding with the (001) surface of AlN, TiN, and TaN compounds. It was found that silicon forms predominantly covalent bonds with the nearest metal and nitrogen atoms, except for the quadruple coordinated position on the surface of TiN and TaN, where there is a high degree of ionic bonding of silicon with surface atoms.
Investigation of the High-Pressure Behaviors of Amblygonite by Single-Crystal X-ray Diffraction, Raman Spectroscopy, and DFT Calculations
Authors: Qin Fei , Hou Bingxu , Hu Kailan , Niu Jingjing , Zhang Dongzhou
Published: August 2023

In the present study, we extensively explored the high-pressure behaviors and vibrational properties of amblygonite LiAlPO4F with elevated pressures up to 34.3 GPa based on single-crystal X-ray diffraction measurements, Raman spectroscopy, and DFT calculations. The compressibility and elastic properties of amblygonite were determined first. Specifically, the obtained isothermal bulk modulus of LiAlPO4F is 128(4) GPa and the triclinic phase exhibited anisotropic compression with axial compressibility βc > βa > βb with a ratio of 1.11:1.00:1.20. The Raman spectra showed no indication of phase transformation and were used to obtained mode Grüneisen parameters. The average Grüneisen parameter for PO4 tetrahedral sites was smaller than for the LiO4F sites. Our results provide new insights into the phase stability and elastic properties of lithium-fluorite granites at extreme conditions.
Energetics of Interfaces and Strain Partition in GaN/AlN Pseudomorphic Superlattices
Authors: Karakostas Theodoros , Komninou Philomela , Pontikis Vassilis
Published: August 2023

We present the results of a twofold experimental and computational study of (0001) GaN/AlN multilayers forming pseudomorphic superlattices. High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) shows that heterostructures with four c-lattice parameters thick GaN Quantum Wells (QW) are misfit-dislocation free. Accurate structural data are extracted from HRTEM images via a new methodology optimizing the residual elastic energy stored in the samples. Total energy calculations are performed with several models analogous to the experimental QWs with increasing thicknesses of GaN, whereas this of the AlN barrier is kept fixed at n = 8 c-lattice parameters. With vanishing external stresses, minimum energy configurations of the studied systems correspond to different strain states. Linear elasticity accurately yields the corresponding lattice parameters, suppressing the need for on-purpose total energy calculations. Theoretically justified parabolic fits of the excess interfacial energy yield the values of interfacial stress and elastic stiffness as functions of the GaN QW thickness. Total species-projected densities of states and gap values extracted from there allow deciphering the effect of the evolving strain on the electronic structure of the superlattice. It is found that the gap energy decreases linearly with increasing the strain of the QW. These results are briefly discussed in the light shed by previous works from the literature.
Joint Resource Slicing and Vehicle Association for Drone-Assisted Vehicular Networks
Authors: Shen Hang , Wang Tianjing , Heng Yilong , Bai Guangwei
Published: August 2023

The drone-small-cell-assisted air-ground integrated network is a promising architecture for enabling diverse vehicle applications. This paper presents a joint resource slicing and vehicle association framework for drone-assisted vehicular networks, which facilitates spectrum sharing among heterogeneous base stations (BSs) and achieves dynamic resource provisioning in the presence of network load dynamics. We formulate the network utility maximization problem as mixed-integer nonlinear programming, considering traffic statistics, quality-of-service (QoS) constraints, varying vehicle locations, load conditions in each cell, and interdrone interference. The original maximization problem is transformed into a biconcave optimization problem to ensure mathematical tractability. An alternate concave search algorithm is then designed to iteratively solve vehicle association patterns and spectrum partitioning among heterogeneous BSs until convergence. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme achieves a significant performance improvement in throughput and spectrum utilization compared with two other baseline schemes.
Parameterized Modeling of the Energy Demand of Machining Processes as a Basis for Reusable Life Cycle Inventory Datasets
Authors: Zeulner Julia , Zeller Vanessa , Schebek Liselotte
Published: August 2023

Manufacturing processes have a significant contribution to energy consumption and related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in a product’s life cycle. Today, information on GHG emissions is increasingly demanded from companies in a life cycle perspective, based on the methodology of Life Cycle Assessment. Manufacturing companies supply producers of final products and are, therefore, requested to provide data on GHG of their manufacturing processes and resulting products. Obtaining such data for real-world manufacturing processes represents a huge effort. This challenge can be overcome with the use of a parameterized model, the Extended Energy Modeling Approach (EEMA), that has been developed for the machining process, which is a widespread industrial manufacturing process. The model calculates the total energy demand from power key values, which report the average power consumption of the constant and variable units of the machinery equipment, the consumer groups, as well as the different operating states of the equipment. Therefore, EEMA enables the reuse of a single measurement campaign for follow-up investigations of the specific machine tool, thereby significantly improving the efficiency of data acquisition for the calculation of the total energy demand and life-cycle-based GHG emissions. To use EEMA for the compilation of life cycle inventory datasets, methodological requirements were analyzed to derive a procedure for LCA-compliant datasets for machine tools. The key findings of applying the EEMA for the case study of a turning machine show that the constant consumer groups have a significant influence on the total energy demand. The share of the variable consumer groups in the total energy demand increases with increasing machine utilization but is always below 5%.
Resonant DC/DC Converters: Investigating Phase-Shift Control
Authors: Reddy Vijaya Bhaskar , Bhaskar Mahajan Sagar , Subramaniam Umashankar
Published: August 2023

The paper presents an innovative approach to control the voltage of an LCL-T type converter at the output side against variation at input and load ports, utilizing a fixed-frequency phase-shift control scheme. The examination of the converter is performed employing a Fourier series method that takes into account the effect of n-harmonics. To assure high-frequency switches with a zero-voltage switching (ZVS) technique, the lagging pf mode is utilized. PSIM simulations were used to investigate the performance of a 300 W converter. With the minimal input voltage, all switches turn on with ZVS for all loading conditions, whereas the ZVS strategy loses by two switches when the voltage at the input is highest. The power loss calculations of each component are performed and presented in a pie chart. The findings of the experiments are presented and verified with theoretical and simulation results. It is demonstrated that for both input voltage and load fluctuations, a minor adjustment in pulse width is sufficient to keep the output voltage constant.
Identification and Analysis of Noise Sources of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Traction Motor with Interior Permanent Magnet
Authors: Król Emil , Maciążek Marcin
Published: August 2023

The rapid development of electromobility is placing ever higher demands on new electric motor designs. This results in a gradual reduction in weight with a simultaneous increase in maximum torque. As a result, unfavorable phenomena, such as vibration and noise, can become apparent in the drivetrain. Modeling and evaluation of the acoustic noise sources of a traction motor are particularly important when it is used, for example, as the traction drive of an electric bus, where too high noise levels can have a negative impact on passengers. This article describes methods for analyzing and evaluating the root causes of noise that occurs in permanent magnet traction motors with a rotor in which the magnets have been placed inside the rotor (PMSM IPM). This paper presents an analysis of acoustic noise and forces acting in the air gap of a 240 kW motor with 60 stator slots and 2p = 10 (s60p20) as the number of pole pairs designed for bus and truck drives. To determine the dominant noise sources and evaluate their value, the forces acting in the air gap and their effect on the deflection of the outer surface of the stator yoke were calculated. The natural frequencies of the machine, their frequencies for the entire rotor speed range, and the frequency of vibration of the motor stator were calculated. Based on these data, the sound power level (A-SWL) was calculated at varying motor speeds. MANATEE software (EOMYS, 9, avenue de la Créativité, 59650 Villeneuve d’Ascq—FRANCE) from EOMYS was used to perform vibroacoustic calculations. The analysis results were also subjected to verification on a laboratory bench.
Nonlinear Loads in Lighting Installations—Problems and Threats
Authors: Popławski Tomasz , Kurkowski Marek
Published: August 2023

Distorted currents drawn by nonlinear loads used in power installations (including lighting) can cause many problems. With the constantly progressing increase in the number of these loads, these phenomena can accumulate, constituting significant causes of serious failures in both electrical and electronic devices, as well as installation components. The effects of disturbances introduced to the network by nonlinear loads may include, for example, line overloads, overheating of transformers and motors, capacitor failures, accelerated degradation of insulation, etc. The article presents examples of measurement results for luminaires with discharge and LED sources. Measurements of the electrical parameters of a three-phase outdoor lighting installation consisting of luminaires with low-power LED sources and luminaires with discharge sources are also discussed. Based on the recorded waveforms, the measurement results were determined. High harmonic values for the phase currents and the current in the neutral conductor were recorded. The results of measurements of the parameters of LED luminaires with control systems, the operation of which causes excessive heat generation, are presented. The methodology for cable selection in circuits with current harmonics is described.
Identification of Lossy Y-Type Two-Port Circuit Models under Measurement Uncertainties: Closed-Form Solution and Statistical–Perturbative Characterization
Authors: Fiori Simone , Cisse Cheikh
Published: August 2023

The present paper treats a black-box estimation of the three independent parameters of a reciprocal lossy two-port network whose terminals are supposed to be accessible to an impedance measurement device. The discussed estimation method is based on the availability of a number of data pairs made of external load admittances paired to equivalent external admittances affected by measurement errors. The proposed method is framed as a squared-estimation-error minimization problem that leads to a system of three nonlinear equations in the three unknown parameters. A key observation is, however, that a core subsystem of two equations may be turned exactly to a linear form and hence may be solved in closed form. The purely real-valued case is treated first since it serves to clarify the optimization problem at hand and the structure of its solution. In the purely real-valued case, a statistical analysis is carried out as well, which affords the evaluation of the effects of the measurement errors. The results of the statistical analysis afford quantifying the dependence of the estimation errors from the number of samples and from the variance of the measurement errors. Subsequently, the full complex-valued case is treated. Results of numerical simulations complement and illustrate the theoretical findings. The obtained numerical results confirm the statistical analysis and that the proposed external identification method is effective.
Biosynthesis of Glucaric Acid by Recombinant Strain of Escherichia coli Expressing Two Different Urinate Dehydrogenases
Authors: Yang Xinchao , Niu Linlin , Ye Chunjiang , Wang Yuanxiu , Liu Yuehui , Wang Fang , Sun Naxin
Published: August 2023

D-glucaric acid is an important bio-based building block of polymers and is a high value-added chemical that can be used in a variety of applications. In the present study, the Udh target genes from Pseudomonas putida and Pseudomonas syringae were used together to construct the expression vector pETDuet-2 × Udh. The transformants of BL21 (DE3) with vector pETDuet-2 × Udh were applied to produce glucaric acid from glucuronic acid. After optimizing the induction conditions, the highest Udh expression was achieved when 0.4 mmol·L−1 isopropyl-β-d–thiogalactoside (IPTG) was added to the cell cultures at an OD600 value of 0.6 followed by culturing at 26 °C for 6 h. The production of glucaric acid substantially reached 5.24 ± 0.015 g·L−1 in fed-batch cultures in a 30 L tank. In the present study, a new system for glucaric acid production was established, which was more economic and friendly to the environment.
Applying the DEMATEL Method to Analyze the Influence of Different Grey Accumulated Generating Operators on Samples
Authors: Wang Mengyu , Xu Limin
Published: August 2023

Since the introduction of the grey forecasting model, various improvements have been developed in the field of grey accumulated generating operators (AGOs). Fractional accumulated generating operator (FAGO) and other novel AGOs have enriched the grey theory and expanded its application scope. Nevertheless, limited attention has been given to interrelationships and contributions of new and old information. To fill this research gap, this study employed the DEMATEL method to calculate the influence degree of samples under different grey AGOs. Additionally, the pattern of influence degree variation with respect to the accumulation order was determined. The results demonstrate that, compared to traditional first-order AGO, FAGO and its corresponding grey forecasting models can effectively utilize the advantages of new information by altering the accumulation order.
Carbon Gels–Green Graphene Composites as Metal-Free Bifunctional Electro-Fenton Catalysts
Authors: Ramírez-Valencia Lilian D. , Bailón-García Esther , Moral-Rodríguez Adriana I. , Carrasco-Marín Francisco , Pérez-Cadenas Agustín F.
Published: August 2023

The Electro-Fenton (EF) process has emerged as a promising technology for pollutant removal. However, the EF process requires the use of two catalysts: one acting as an electrocatalyst for the reduction of oxygen to H2O2 and another Fenton-type catalyst for the generation of ·OH radicals from H2O2. Thus, the search for materials with bifunctionality for both processes is required for a practical and real application of the EF process. Thus, in this work, bifunctional electrocatalysts were obtained via doping carbon microspheres with Eco-graphene, a form of graphene produced using eco-friendly methods. The incorporation of Eco-graphene offers numerous advantages to the catalysts, including enhanced conductivity, leading to more efficient electron transfer during the Electro-Fenton process. Additionally, the synthesis induced structural defects that serve as active sites, promoting the direct production of hydroxyl radicals via a 3-electron pathway. Furthermore, the spherical morphology of carbon xerogels enhances the accessibility of the reagents to the active sites. This combination of factors results in the effective degradation of Tetracycline (TTC) using metal-free catalysts in the Electro-Fenton process, achieving up to an impressive 83% degradation without requiring any other external or additional catalyst.
Generation of the Quaternary Normal Faults in the Messina Strait (Italy)
Authors: Mantovani Enzo , Viti Marcello , Babbucci Daniele , Tamburelli Caterina
Published: August 2023

It is widely recognized that since the Early–Middle Pleistocene, the Messina zone, the site of strong earthquakes, has undergone extension, but the geodynamic context which determined this deformation is still a matter of debate. This work suggests that such a tectonic event was caused by the interaction of northern Calabria with the continental Adriatic domain. The suture of that consuming boundary produced major changes in the microplate mosaic and the related kinematic pattern in the Southern Italian zones, which was triggered by the activation of the Sibari and Vulcano faults. In the new context, the Peloritani belt sector, dragged by the Hyblean block, rotated clockwise and then moved northward, causing its divergence from southern Calabria. The normal faults which have accommodated that separation may be the main seismogenic source in the Messina Strait.