bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lonicerae flos polysaccharides improve nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by activating the adenosine 5′‐monophosphate‐activated protein kinase pathway and reshaping gut microbiota
Authors: Han Chao , Li Zongshuo , Liu Ruiying , Zhao Zihan , Wang Yu , Zuo Xuli , Zhang Yushi , Geng Zeyu , Huang Houyu , Pan Xiuzhen , Li Weidong
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of liver cirrhosis and cancer. Lonicerae flos polysaccharides (LPs) have been shown to be effective in treating metabolic diseases; however, the therapeutic effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of LPs in NAFLD remain unclear.

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to investigate the morphological characterization of Lonicerae flos polysaccharides (LPs) and the mechanism of LPs in relieving NAFLD.

METHODS

The morphology of LPs was observed using atomic force microscopy (AFM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermal weight (TG), and thermal weight derivative (DTG); NAFLD mice were treated with LPs at the same time as they were induced with a Western diet, and then the indexes related to glycolipid metabolism, fibrosis, inflammation, and autophagy in the serum and liver of the mice were detected.

RESULTS

The atomic force microscope analysis results indicated that the LPs displayed sugar‐chain aggregates, exhibited an amorphous structure, and were relatively stable in thermal cracking at 150 °C. It was also found that LPs exerted therapeutic effects in NAFLD. The LPs prevented high‐fat and ‐cholesterol diet‐induced NAFLD progression by regulating glucose metabolism dysregulation, insulin resistance, lipid accumulation, inflammation, fibrosis, and autophagy. Adenosine 5′‐monophosphate (AMP)‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) inhibitor compound C abrogated LP‐induced hepatoprotection in mice with NAFLD. The LPs further treated NAFLD by reshaping the structure of the gut microbiota, in which Desulfovibrio bacteria plays a key roles.

CONCLUSION

Lonicerae flos polysaccharides exert protective effects against NAFLD in mice by improving the structure of the intestinal flora and activating the AMPK signaling pathway. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Cascading, interactive, and indirect effects of climate change on aquatic communities, habitats, and ecosystems
Authors: Menden‐Deuer Susanne , Mullarney Julia C. , Boersma Maarten , Grossart Hans‐Peter , Sponseller Ryan , Woodin Sarah Ann
Published: July 2023

Climate‐change is rapidly and intensively altering aquatic communities and habitats. While previous work has focused on direct effects of potential drivers, indirect and interactive effects on organisms and ecosystems have received less attention. Here, we give an overview of contributions to a special issue in Limnology and Oceanography that addresses this knowledge gap. Contributions covered diverse habitats, from polar to tropical regions, alpine streams to coral reefs. Several studies relied on time‐series to identify indirect effects, thus emphasizing our need to maintain high‐quality time‐series data. Time‐series are particularly crucial now that the pace of climate‐change on aquatic‐ecosystems is accelerating. Another common theme is the role of species‐specific characteristics in physiology, behavior or genetics in aquatic ecosystem function. The addition of inter‐ and intra‐specific variability to investigations of climate‐change may be challenging particularly since ecosystem studies typically involve a large parameter space of environmental and biological variables across spatial and temporal scales. However, the results demonstrate that inclusion of species‐specific dynamics, although challenging, can deliver mechanistic insights into aquatic ecosystem patterns and processes. Some contributions leverage habitat changes from disturbances or climate shifts to document capacity for resilience or recovery of pelagic and benthic communities. Jointly, the results in this special issue document fruitful approaches and provide urgent information needed for deciphering aquatic ecosystem responses to climate forcings. This information is foundational if we wish to tackle the combined effects of climate change and other human impacts with maximum efficacy and minimize unintended consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
Application of Nondegradable Synthetic Materials for Tendon and Ligament Injury
Authors: Yu Chengxuan , Feng Sijia , Li Yunxia , Chen Jun
Published: July 2023

Tendon and ligament injuries, prevalent requiring surgical intervention, significantly impact joint stability and function. Owing to excellent mechanical properties and biochemical stability, Nondegradable synthetic materials, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), have demonstrated significant potential in the treatment of tendon and ligament injuries. These above materials offer substantial mechanical support, joint mobility, and tissue healing promotion of the shoulder, knee, and ankle joint. This review conclude the latest development and application of nondegradable materials such as artificial patches and ligaments in tendon and ligament injuries including rotator cuff tears (RCTs), anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, and Achilles tendon ruptures.
Preparation of corrosion‐resistant composite coating on AZ91D magnesium alloy through hydrothermal method
Authors: Chen Shengli , Zhu Jiyuan
Published: July 2023

The high corrosion susceptibility of magnesium alloy has become a practical problem which restricts its wide application in many fields. To improve its surface properties, a composite coating has been successfully prepared on the surface of AZ91D magnesium alloy using a one‐step hydrothermal method. The coating surface possesses a dense structure in the form of scales and has an adhesion strength of 3B. The effect of different preparation conditions on the coating thickness and corrosion resistance is discussed. The coating heated at 180°C for 2 h showed the best corrosion resistance in a 3.5 wt% sodium chloride solution, with a reduction in corrosion current density of 5 orders of magnitude compared to the bare sample. This solution significantly improved the corrosion resistance of the magnesium alloy and helped to further realize the application of magnesium alloys in corrosive environments.
Corrosion inhibition mechanism of aromatic amino acids for steel in alkaline pore solution simulating carbonated concrete environment
Authors: Purnima  , Goyal Shweta , Luxami Vijay
Published: July 2023

Corrosion inhibition mechanism of two aromatic amino acids, phenylalanine (Phe) and tryptophan (Trp), was explored for steel in an alkaline pore solution simulating a carbonated concrete environment. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization test results revealed that both compounds can be used effectively as corrosion inhibitors for carbonated concrete environments with high inhibition efficiency. The dissolution of steel got controlled as Phe and Trp acted as anodic‐type inhibitors. Phe and Trp adsorbed on the steel surface by physiochemisorption process following the Langmuir isotherm. The inhibitive solution analysis through UV–visible technique confirmed the formation of inhibitor–Fe complexes. The surface of steel was analyzed after submergence in corrosive solutions with and without inhibitors by means of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, Fourier transformed infrared, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, which highlights the formation of a compact, barrier layer comprised of metal–inhibitor complex. Subsequently, with the help of the aforementioned techniques, an inhibition mechanism for Phe and Trp was conjectured, which revealed that the presence of additional heterocycle in amino acids can raise the chances of chelation and formation of a more adherent and thermodynamically stable layer. Phe bound with Fe ions through the carboxylate functional group only, while Trp chelated the Fe ions via a nitrogen atom of the pyrrole ring and carboxylate functional group.
Matrix stiffness‐induced α‐tubulin acetylation is required for skin fibrosis formation through activation of Yes‐associated protein
Authors: Wen Dongsheng , Gao Ya , Liu Yangdan , Ho Chiakang , Sun Jiaming , Huang Lu , Liu Yuxin , Li Qingfeng , Zhang Yifan
Published: July 2023

Skin fibrosis, a pathological process featured by fibroblast activation and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, makes a significant contribution to morbidity. Studies have identified biomechanics as the central element in the complex network of fibrogenesis that drives the profibrotic feedback loop. In this study, we found that the acetylation of α‐tubulin at lysine 40 (K40) was augmented in fibrotic skin tissues. Further analysis showed that α‐tubulin acetylation is required for fibroblast activation, including contraction, migration, and ECM deposition. More importantly, we revealed that biomechanics‐induced upregulation of K40 acetylation promotes fibrosis by mediating mechanosensitive Yes‐associated protein S127 dephosphorylation and its cytoplasm nucleus shuttle. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the knockdown of α‐tubulin acetyltransferase 1 could rescue the K40 acetylation upregulation caused by increased matrix rigidity and ameliorate skin fibrosis both in vivo and in vitro. Herein, we highlight the critical role of α‐tubulin acetylation in matrix stiffness‐induced skin fibrosis and clarify a possible molecular mechanism. Our research suggests α‐tubulin acetylation as a potential target for drug design and therapeutic intervention.
The intra‐cavity QEPAS sensor using fiber‐ring laser for C2H2 and CO2 detection
Authors: Zhang Hengbiao , Yu Yuanfang , Bi Shaoqiang , Zhang Qinduan , Tian Cunwei , Wang Zongliang
Published: July 2023

An intra‐cavity quartz‐enhanced photoacoustic spectroscopy (QEPAS) sensor using fiber‐ring laser is demonstrated. The sensor includes an erbium‐doped fiber (EDF) intra‐cavity laser and a quartz tuning fork (QTF), and realizes wavelength scanning through a piezoelectric transducer (PZT). The acousto‐optic modulator (AOM) is used to modulate laser intensity at a frequency of 32.758 kHz. We use optical switches to detect acetylene (C2H2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) at 1530.37 and 1572.66 nm, respectively, based on the time division multiplexing (TDM) technology. The two‐component gas sensor showed good linearity of 0.9996 and 0.9966, and could achieve a minimum detection limit (MDL) of 180.64 ppbv and 145.45 ppmv for C2H2 and CO2 detection, respectively.
An 8‐channel Tx dipole and 20‐channel Rx loop coil array for MRI of the cervical spinal cord at 7 Tesla
Authors: Lopez‐Rios Nibardo , Gilbert Kyle M. , Papp Daniel , Cereza Gaspard , Foias Alexandru , Rangaprakash Deshpande , May Markus W. , Guerin Bastien , Wald Lawrence L. , Keil Boris , Stockmann Jason P. , Barry Robert L. , Cohen‐Adad Julien
Published: July 2023

The quality of cervical spinal cord images can be improved by the use of tailored radiofrequency (RF) coil solutions for ultrahigh field imaging; however, very few commercial and research 7‐T RF coils currently exist for the spinal cord, and in particular, those with parallel transmission (pTx) capabilities. This work presents the design, testing, and validation of a pTx/Rx coil for the human neck and cervical/upper thoracic spinal cord. The pTx portion is composed of eight dipoles to ensure high homogeneity over this large region of the spinal cord. The Rx portion is made up of twenty semiadaptable overlapping loops to produce high signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) across the patient population. The coil housing is designed to facilitate patient positioning and comfort, while also being tight fitting to ensure high sensitivity. We demonstrate RF shimming capabilities to optimize B1+ uniformity, power efficiency, and/or specific absorption rate efficiency. B1+ homogeneity, SNR, and g‐factor were evaluated in adult volunteers and demonstrated excellent performance from the occipital lobe down to the T4‐T5 level. We compared the proposed coil with two state‐of‐the‐art head and head/neck coils, confirming its superiority in the cervical and upper thoracic regions of the spinal cord. This coil solution therefore provides a convincing platform for producing the high image quality necessary for clinical and research scanning of the upper spinal cord.
Study on the influence of patient safety culture on the pain and turnover intention of Chinese nurses in adverse nursing events
Authors: Sun Lefei , Lu Qi , Gao Wei , Li Xinxin , Cheng Junqing , Liu Deshan , Cao Yingjuan
Published: July 2023

Aim

Exploring the influence of patient safety culture on nurses' pain and turnover intention the job as a second victim.

Design

The study employed a cross‐sectional design.

Methods

From July 2020 to August 2020, a convenience sampling method was used to select 1525 clinical nurses from hospitals of different levels in Shandong Province as the research subjects, and the general data survey method, patient safety culture scale and the assessment entries on pain in the second victim experience and support scale, using a convenience sampling method.

Results

Patient safety culture is an influencing factor that affects the second‐victim pain and turnover intention. Among them, the non‐punitive response to errors, open communication, cooperation between different departments, organizational learning and promotion has a statistically significant influence on the second‐victim pain and turnover intention.
Distributed fusion robust filter for multisensor networked singular control system with uncertain variances and missing measurement
Authors: Zheng Jiayi , Ran Chenjian
Published: July 2023

A distributed fusion time‐varying robust filtering algorithm for multisensor networked singular control system is studied in this paper, mainly aiming at the system with missing measurement and uncertain variances in practical application. First, the singular value decomposition (SVD) method and de‐randomization method are used to transform the singular control system into a standard system only with uncertain variances. Based on the new standard system, a minimax robust local Kalman filter is proposed by using the minimax robust estimation principle, which ensures that the actual filtering error variance has the corresponding minimum upper bound for all allowable uncertainties. Further, the robust local and distributed fusion filters for original singular control systems are proposed, and the actual and conservative filtering error variances are obtained. Their robustness is proved by Lyapunov equation method and nonnegative definite matrix decomposition method. A simulation example of two‐loop system verifies the effectiveness of the proposed results.
Aspergillus niger produces lethal compounds against nematodes
Authors: Zhang Ruizhe , Yu Zefen , Cui Hexin , Ye Chuwen , Qiao Min
Published: July 2023

Background

Aspergillus niger is generally considered safe and is widely used across a broad range of industries from food to pharmaceuticals. The metabolites of some Aspergillus species are effective in killing nematodes. The active ingredients that play a role are citric acid and oxalic acid.

Results

The effective nematocidal metabolite in the fermentation broth of the A. niger Ym16 is a calcium oxalate coordination compound (C2H2O4•2(C2HO4)•C2O4•4(H2O)•2(Ca)). The mortality of fermentation broth and compound solution to second‐stage juveniles (J2s) of Meloidogyne incognita were 94% (8 h) and 95% (2 h), respectively. The hatching inhibition rates of fermentation broth and compound solution to eggs of M. incognita were 86% (24 h) and 87% (12 h), respectively. Furthermore, the Ym16 strain promoted plant growth.

Conclusion

Strain Ym16 and its metabolites should be the first choice for nematode control because it is an effective agent against soil nematodes. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Medicinal plant molecules against hepatitis C virus: Current status and future prospect
Authors: Mandal Anirban , Hazra Banasri
Published: July 2023

Hepatitis C virus (HCV), a global malady, causes acute and chronic hepatitis leading to permanent liver damage, hepatocellular carcinoma, and death. Modern anti‐HCV therapies are efficient, but mostly inaccessible for residents of underdeveloped regions. To innovate more effective treatments at affordable cost, medicinal plant‐based products need to be explored. The aim of this article is to review plant constituents in the light of putative anti‐HCV mechanisms of action, and discuss existing problems, challenges, and future directions for their potential application in therapeutic settings. One hundred sixty literatures were collected by using appropriate search strings via scientific search engines: Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus. Bibliography was prepared using Mendeley desktop software. We found a substantial number of plants that were reported to inhibit different stages of HCV life cycle. Traditional medicinal plants such as Phyllanthus amarus Schumach. and Thonn., Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk., and Acacia nilotica (L.) Delile exhibited strong anti‐HCV activities. Again, several phytochemicals such as epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate, honokilol, punicalagin, and quercetin have shown broad‐spectrum anti‐HCV effect. We have presented promising phytochemicals like silymarin, curcumin, glycyrrhizin, and camptothecin for nanoparticle‐based hepatocyte‐targeted drug delivery. Nevertheless, only a few animal studies have been performed to validate the anti‐HCV effect of these plant products. Again, insufficient clinical evaluation of the safety and effectiveness of herbal medications remain a problem. Selected plants products could be developed as novel therapeutics for HCV patients only after scrupulous evaluation of their safety and efficacy in a clinical set‐up.
A conceptual model for food industry views on the commercialisation of active and intelligent packaging
Authors: Young Erin , Mirosa Miranda , Bremer Phil
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a conceptual model, identifying the factors that impact the supply chain commercialisation of active and intelligent packaging across various food product types. The model was derived from interviews conducted with marketing and technical personnel across various food exporters, packaging manufacturers, relevant government agents and industry bodies with global perspectives based in New Zealand. The conceptual model theorises the relationships among the macro, sector and business factors that characterise an organisation, the perceived benefits of commercialising active or intelligent packaging, and the perceived barriers preventing commercialisation. Interactions between commercialising active and intelligent packaging and needing to meet packaging sustainability objectives were also identified. Developers of active and intelligent packaging can utilise the findings of this research to prioritise and refine their innovations better to suit the industry's needs within a sustainability framework.
Prioritization of patients for surgery in Canada: The case of hip and knee replacement surgeries in Newfoundland
Authors: Vo Anh Thu , Yi Yanqing , Mathews Maria , Valcour James , Alexander Michelle , Billard Marcel
Published: July 2023

Background

Single‐entry models (SEM) improve wait times for hip and knee replacement, but little is known whether prioritization implemented in SEM can help meet the benchmarks for consolation/surgery. This study aimed to determine the impact of prioritization on receiving consultation and surgery within the benchmarks.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study for which two administration databases were linked. Logistic regression was used to investigate the impact of prioritization on receiving consultations and surgery within the benchmarks of 90 and 182 days, respectively, adjusting for patients’ characteristics and preference for surgeon.

Results

1,967 patients were included in this study. The odds ratios of having consultation within 90 days for hip replacement patients in priorities 1 and 2 (high priority) were 57.24 (CI: 23.16–141.47) and 14.63 (CI: 6.44–33.25), respectively, compared with those in priority 3. For knee replacement, patients with higher priority were more likely to have consultation within 90 days. Although priority levels were not related to having surgery within 182 days for knee replacement, hip replacement patients with priority 1 (CI: 0.2–0.75) and 2 (CI: 0.16–0.54) were less likely to have surgery within 182 days, compared with those with priority 3.

Conclusion

Patients with high priority levels were more likely to have consultation within 90 days for hip and knee replacements. SEM may not help have surgery within 182 days. Prioritization has no impact on receiving surgery within 182 days for knee replacement, but hip replacement patients with high priority were less likely to have surgery within 182 days.
Spin‐Decoupling and In‐Situ Nuclear Magnetometer with Hyperpolarized Nuclear Spin
Authors: Pei Hongyu , Liu Feng , Fan Wenfeng , Fan Shimiao , Li Xiaoping , Wei Jiayi , Quan Wei
Published: July 2023

This paper investigates the dynamical properties of the spin‐coupling ensemble, with a focus on the spin‐decoupling phenomenon. The nuclear spin in such systems is significantly impacted by the electron spin when the main magnetic field approaches the Fermi contact field of nuclear spin, leading to measurement inaccuracies. A comprehensive dynamics model of the electron‐nuclear spin coupling ensemble has been established and analyzed. It proposes that the primary magnetic field augmenting effectively disentangles the precession frequency of the two spin‐coupling species, thereby yielding a spin‐decoupled state. Such a state allows nuclear spin serves as a high sensitive element for magnetic field measurements, while electron spin serves as a probe to acquire the precession of nuclear spin. With proposed method, a magnetic field resolution of 0.75 nT in a 12000 nT environment is achieved, indicating potential for magnetic field detection in geomagnetic environments. It further demonstrates measurements of electron spin Fermi contact interaction and polarization based on spin‐decoupling and in situ nuclear spin precession, results indicate measurement errors close to 1%. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in improving the accuracy and sensitivity of magnetic field measurements in spin‐coupled systems such as co‐magnetometers, nuclear magnetic resonance gyroscopes, and nuclear magnetometers.
Towards low‐carbon sustainable development under Industry 4.0: The influence of industrial intelligence on China's carbon mitigation
Authors: Tian Hui , Qin Jiaqi , Cheng Chaoyin , Javeed Sohail Ahmad , Chu Tiansi
Published: July 2023

Global climate change is becoming an increasingly serious issue. China, the largest carbon emitter, has a long way towards its sustainable development goals (SDGs) and take on its carbon reduction responsibility, especially in the industrial sector. In this vein, industrial intelligence, a key driver in the “Industry 4.0 era”, offers an opportunity in this carbon reduction campaign. This paper seeks to examine the influences of industrial intelligence on carbon emissions, their heterogeneous characteristics and transmission mechanisms, and the moderating role of human capital. Therefore, we properly probed theoretical aspects, and then we used China's provincial data from 2006 to 2019 and a number of tests, namely the fixed effect model, the two‐stage test, and the moderating effect model, to test the relevant assumptions. We first unfolded that industrial intelligence can significantly mitigate carbon emissions. Specifically, the heterogeneous analysis found that carbon reduction efforts are more pronounced in China's central and western regions and resource‐based regions. We further highlight the mechanism identification, which reveals that industrial structure upgrading and technological innovation are the main channels for industrial intelligence to abate CO2 emissions. Importantly, we pinpoint the role of human capital, which positively moderates the relationship between industrial intelligence and carbon emissions and can well amplify the industrial structure effect of industrial intelligence. These results are conducive to accurately assessing the environmental benefits of industrial intelligence and providing policy enlightenment for China to alleviate carbon emissions, and they will also offer a reference for other developing countries to learn from.
Room Temperature Ion Beam Synthesis of Ultra‐Fine Molybdenum Carbide Nanoparticles: Toward a Scalable Fabrication Route for Earth‐Abundant Electrodes
Authors: Fiedler Holger , Malone Niall , Mitchell David R. G. , Nancarrow Mitchell , Jovic Vedran , Waterhouse Geoffrey I. N. , Kennedy John , Gupta Prasanth
Published: July 2023

Molybdenum carbides are promising low‐cost electrocatalysts for electrolyzers, fuel cells, and batteries. However, synthesis of ultrafine, phase‐pure carbide nanoparticles (diameter < 5 nm) with large surface areas remains challenging due to uncontrollable agglomeration that occurs during traditional high temperature syntheses. This work presents a scalable, physical approach to synthesize molybdenum carbide nanoparticles at room temperature by ion implantation. By tuning the implantation conditions, various molybdenum carbide phases, stoichiometries, and nanoparticle sizes can be accessed. For instance, molybdenum ion implantation into glassy carbon at 30 keV energy and to a fluence of 9 × 1016 at cm−2 yields a surface η‐Mo3C2 with a particle diameter of (10 ± 1) nm. Molybdenum implantation into glassy carbon at 60 keV to a fluence of 6 × 1016 at cm−2 yields a buried layer of ultrafine γ’‐MoC/η‐MoC nanoparticles. Carbon ion implantation at 20 keV into a molybdenum thin film produces a 40 nm thick layer primarily composed of β‐Mo2C. The formation of nanoparticles in each molybdenum carbide phase is explained based on the Mo‐C phase diagram and Monte‐Carlo simulations of ion‐solid interactions invoking the thermal spike model. The approaches presented are widely applicable for synthesis of other transition metal carbide nanoparticles as well.
The last horned armadillos: phylogeny and decline of Peltephilidae (Xenarthra, Cingulata)
Authors: Barasoain Daniel , Croft Darin A. , Zurita Alfredo E. , Contreras Victor H. , Tomassini Rodrigo L.
Published: July 2023

Peltephilidae (Xenarthra, Cingulata) is an ancient lineage of medium–large‐sized ‘armadillos’ from South America, characterized by chisel‐shaped molariforms, a U‐shaped dental arcade, and cephalic osteoderms modified into hornlike structures. Although the biochron of the group extends from the early Eocene to the Late Miocene, the most abundant and complete records come from the Early Miocene of Patagonia. Remains from the Late Miocene are very scarce, and the last records of the group are from the Chasicoan Stage (Tortonian). The only taxon known from this interval is Epipeltephilus kanti from the Arroyo Chasicó Formation (9.23 ± 0.09 Ma; Buenos Aires Province, Argentina), a species previously represented only by a few isolated osteoderms. Here we report new remains assigned to E. kanti from the Late Miocene of Loma de Las Tapias Formation (c. 9.0–7.8 Ma; San Juan Province, Argentina), including a hemimandible and several fixed and mobile osteoderms. These new specimens constitute the youngest record of Peltephilidae. The inclusion of E. kanti within Epipeltephilus and the monophyly of the genera Peltephilus and Epipeltephilus are corroborated for the first time through a cladistic analysis. The decline and eventual disappearance of this ‘armadillo’ group in the Late Miocene is chronologically coincident with the replacement of subtropical/tropical environments by more open and arid ones and with the proliferation of other large armadillos such as Vetelia, Macrochorobates, and Macroeuphractus.
Optimal Process Parameters for Direct Carbothermal Reduction of Vanadium–Titanium Magnetite in a Rotary Kiln
Authors: Shi Quan , Tang Jue , Chu Mansheng
Published: July 2023

Direct reduction in rotary kiln plays a crucial role in the reduction and smelting of vanadium–titanium magnetite. The effect of the process parameters on the metallization rate and reaction mechanism during the reduction process in a rotary kiln is investigated. The results indicate that the optimal process parameters for direct reduction of vanadium–titanium magnetite in a rotary kiln are as follows: a reduction temperature of 1150 °C, reduction time of 4 h, carbon ratio 1.2, particle size of vanadium–titanium magnetite as 8–12 mm, and particle size of pulverized coal of <8 mm. During the direct reduction of vanadium–titanium magnetite, favorable conditions such as absence of smelting phenomenon on the surface of the reduction products, high metallization rate, and high quality of direct reduction iron are achieved. Through direct reduction, the transformation process of iron oxide in vanadium–titanium magnetite is Fe3O4 → iron oxide → Fe, and the transformation process of titanium–iron oxide is Fe9TiO15 → Fe2.75Ti0.25O4 → Fe2.5Ti0.5O4 → iron titanate → Fe. In addition, vanadium and ferrochrome oxides undergo reduction to form oxides or carbides.
The 3D Flower–Like MnV12O31·10H2O as a High‐Capacity and Long‐Lifespan Cathode Material for Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ran Yan , Ren Jie , Yang Zhi Chao , Zhao Huaping , Wang Yude , Lei Yong
Published: July 2023

Selecting the right cathode material is a key component to achieving high‐energy and long‐lifespan aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs); however, the development of cathode materials still faces serious challenges due to the high polarization of Zn2+. In this work, MnV12O31·10H2O (MnVO) synthesized via a one‐step hydrothermal method is proposed as a promising cathode material for AZIBs. Because the stable layered structure and hieratical morphology of MnVO provide a large layer space for rapid ion transports, this material exhibits high specific capacity (433 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1), an outstanding long‐term cyclability (5000 cycles at a current density of 3 A g−1), and an excellent energy density (454.65 Wh kg−1). To illustrate the intercalation mechanism, ex situ X‐Ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy are adopted, uncovering an H+/Zn2+ dual‐cation co‐intercalation processes. In addition, density‐functional theory calculation analysis shows that MnVO has a delocalized electron cloud and the diffusion energy barrier of Zn2+ in MnVO is low, which promotes the Zn2+ transport and consequently improves the reversibility of the battery upon deep cycling. The key and enlightening insights are provided in the results for designing high‐performance vanadium‐oxide‐based cathode materials for AZIBs.
Protokollbücher als Steuerung von Entscheidungsprozessen. Die Kabinettskanzlei und der Schreibtisch des Kaisers
Authors: Becker Peter
Published: July 2023

Die Protokollbücher der Kabinettskanzlei werden als Ausgangspunkt verwendet, um einen ethnographisch inspirierten Blick auf die Regierungstätigkeit von Kaiser Franz Joseph zu richten. Der Wirklichkeitsbezug des Monarchen war durch schriftliche Vorträge bestimmt, die bis zum Schreibtisch des Kaisers mehrere Instanzen durchliefen. Ein Sachverhalt wurde beim Weg durch die Instanzen mehrfach  übersetzt  und transformiert. In diesem Beitrag interessiere ich mich für den kritischen Umgang des Kaisers und seiner Kanzlei mit diesen komplex strukturierten Texten, die den Ausgangspunkt für eine Entscheidungstätigkeit bildeten.
Die Eitelkeit der Organisation. Protokolle als Vor- und Mitschriften formaler Mitgliedschaft
Authors: Lehmann Maren
Published: July 2023

Der Text diskutiert die Frage des Protokolls als Frage nach Praxisformen des Beobachtens und konzentriert sich dabei nicht allein auf Entscheider, deren Entscheidungen der protokollarischen Ordnung bedürfen, sondern auf das kommunikative Substrat der Protokolle, auf Mündlichkeit, Geselligkeit, Informalität. Besondere Relevanz haben diese informalen Organisationsvarianten in Anstaltsorganisationen, wie sie vor allem in professionalisierten Kontexten zu finden sind. Eine Anschlussüberlegung, die auch als Ausblick auf ein Forschungsinteresse zu verstehen ist, widmet sich dem Übergreifen dieser Anstaltsform auf Alltagssozialität; das Protokollarische wird hier zu einer ekstatischen Mitschrift, praktiziert in unpersönlicher Attitüde.
Shift Symmetries and AdS/CFT
Authors: Blauvelt Erin , Engelbrecht Laura , Hinterbichler Kurt
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Massive fields on anti-de Sitter (AdS) space enjoy galileon-like shift symmetries at particular values of their masses. We explore how these shift symmetries are realized through the boundary conformal field theory (CFT), at the level of the 2-point functions. In the alternate quantization scheme in which the dual conformal field gets the smaller ∆− conformal dimension, the shift symmetry is realized as a gauge symmetry in the dual CFT, so that only shift invariant operators are true conformal primary fields. In the standard quantization scheme the shift symmetry acts on the source, leading to Ward identities that take the form of integral constraints.
A layerwise monitoring methodology based on blue laser line profilometer for Material Extrusion processes
Authors: Lafirenza Marco , Guerra Maria Grazia , Lavecchia Fulvio
Published: July 2023

Material Extrusion (MEX) is an Additive Manufacturing technology widely used for the fabrication of polymeric, metallic and composite parts with clear advantages. In the last decades, the growing interest of such industries like aerospace, medical, automotive and R&D has driven technological improvements of MEX to make the technology more reliable and repeatable. Although, defects and geometric dimensional inaccuracies are still known to affect the process, limiting the applicability of MEX for the realization of functional parts. Recently, in-process monitoring methods have been implemented for a rapid detection of defects and process anomalies, activating, eventually, the control of the process. In this work, an innovative layerwise monitoring methodology based on a high-resolution blue laser line profilometer applied to a MEX process, was proposed. By analyzing the point clouds of each layer, with proper quality indexes, it was possible to compute the layer height deviation and to evaluate the surface quality in terms of occurrence of defects. In particular, the quality indexes presented in this work were representative of the layer height accuracy, the occurrence and distribution of defects on the layer surface and the stability of the process (respectively the so-called indexes were ADLH, RAD and the slope s). Different process conditions were generated by varying the raster angle and the sample location on the building platform.
Submerged arc welding process: a numerical investigation of temperatures, displacements, and residual stresses in ASTM A516-Gr70 corner joined samples
Authors: Conte Romina , Izquierdo David Rodríguez , Francesco Gagliardi
Published: July 2023

Arc welding processes represent an important category of fusion welding techniques. They are characterised by the use of an electric arc to create heat to melt and join metals. Submerged arc welding belongs to this process category. Its peculiarities are mainly related to the employment of a continuously fed electrode and of a powdered flux to cover the arc providing electrical conduction between electrode and metals to be connected and, at the same time, generating protective gas and slag shields. Current ($$I$$
I
), voltage ($$V$$
V
), and welding speed ($$v$$
v
) are the main process variables, properly set, to guarantee the specific heat (SH) required to achieve sound weld beads. In this research, finite element models were built looking at the macrographs extracted by experimental tests performed in two steps in order to obtain the real area of each pass and setting different welding conditions. Different combinations of $$I$$
I
, $$V$$
V
, and $$v$$
v
were proposed providing, however, a fixed SH to the welding zone according to the required industrial standards. Specifically, tests were executed increasing the ratio V to v (for a constant $$I$$
I
) and the ratio $$I$$
I
to $$v$$
v
(for a constant $$V$$
V
) and with a different combination of $$V$$
V
and $$I$$
I
maintaining constant their product (for a constant $$v$$
v
). The influence of the investigated variables’ combination on the weld pool in terms of depth and width was discussed. Finally, the validated numerical models were employed to highlight precisely residual stresses and displacements trend on cross-sectioned weld beads connecting the shown tendencies to the investigated process conditions.
Reassessing the origin of lentil cultivation in the Pre-Pottery Neolithic of Southwest Asia: new evidence from carbon isotope analysis at Gusir Höyük
Authors: Kabukcu Ceren
Published: July 2023

Lentils represent the most common pulse crop found in Southwest Asian Neolithic archaeobotanical assemblages. Using carbon isotope determinations and palaeoclimatic modelling this paper investigates variability and change through time in lentil growth habitats at Gusir Höyük, a Pre-Pottery Neolithic habitation site in the Upper Tigris basin of southeast Anatolia dated to the 12th and 11th millennia cal bp. The elevated lentil carbon isotope values from samples dated to ~ 10,500–10,300 cal bp possibly points to greater water availability and the potential onset of lentil cultivation at Gusir Höyük during the Early Pre-Pottery Neolithic B. The paper revisits previous hypotheses about the process and timing of initial lentil domestication in the region through a re-evaluation of materials available from other Neolithic sites in SW Asia. Its findings highlight the important role of wild lentil populations growing in higher-rainfall localities, which may have responded more readily to increasing water availability in the context of early cultivation. It also explores the potential offered by isotopic approaches for detecting early cultivation, highlighting the need for future studies on pulse and cereal crop progenitors in SW Asia and beyond.
Feature subset selection for data and feature streams: a review
Authors: Villa-Blanco Carlos , Bielza Concha , Larrañaga Pedro
Published: July 2023

Real-world problems are commonly characterized by a high feature dimensionality, which hinders the modelling and descriptive analysis of the data. However, some of these data may be irrelevant or redundant for the learning process. Different approaches can be used to reduce this information, improving not only the speed of building models but also their performance and interpretability. In this review, we focus on feature subset selection (FSS) techniques, which select a subset of the original feature set without making any transformation on the attributes. Traditional batch FSS algorithms may not be adequate to efficiently handle large volumes of data, either because memory problems arise or data are received in a sequential manner. Thus, this article aims to survey the state of the art of incremental FSS algorithms, which can perform more efficiently under these circumstances. Different strategies are described, such as incrementally updating feature weights, applying information theory or using rough set-based FSS, as well as multiple supervised and unsupervised learning tasks where the application of FSS is interesting.
Measuring healthy ageing: current and future tools
Authors: Silva Nádia , Rajado Ana Teresa , Esteves Filipa , Brito David , Apolónio Joana , Roberto Vânia Palma , Binnie Alexandra , Araújo Inês , Nóbrega Clévio , Bragança José , Castelo-Branco Pedro ,   ALFAScore Consortium, Andrade Raquel P. , Calado Sofia , Faleiro Maria Leonor , Matos Carlos , Marques Nuno , Marreiros Ana , Nzwalo Hipólito , Pais Sandra , Palmeirim Isabel , Simão Sónia , Joaquim Natércia , Miranda Rui , Pêgas António , Sardo Ana
Published: July 2023

Human ageing is a complex, multifactorial process characterised by physiological damage, increased risk of age-related diseases and inevitable functional deterioration. As the population of the world grows older, placing significant strain on social and healthcare resources, there is a growing need to identify reliable and easy-to-employ markers of healthy ageing for early detection of ageing trajectories and disease risk. Such markers would allow for the targeted implementation of strategies or treatments that can lessen suffering, disability, and dependence in old age. In this review, we summarise the healthy ageing scores reported in the literature, with a focus on the past 5 years, and compare and contrast the variables employed. The use of approaches to determine biological age, molecular biomarkers, ageing trajectories, and multi-omics ageing scores are reviewed. We conclude that the ideal healthy ageing score is multisystemic and able to encompass all of the potential alterations associated with ageing. It should also be longitudinal and able to accurately predict ageing complications at an early stage in order to maximize the chances of successful early intervention.
Implementation studio: implementation support program to build the capacity of rural community health educators serving immigrant communities to implement evidence-based cancer prevention and control interventions
Authors: Ko Linda K. , Vu Thuy , Bishop Sonia , Leeman Jennifer , Escoffery Cam , Winer Rachel L. , Duran Miriana C. , Masud Manal , Rait Yaniv
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Rural community-based organizations (CBOs) serving immigrant communities are critical settings for implementing evidence-based interventions (EBIs). The Implementation Studio is a training and consultation program focused on facilitating the selection, adaptation, and implementation of cancer prevention and control EBIs. This paper describes implementation and evaluation of the Implementation Studio on CBO’s capacity to implement EBIs and their clients’ knowledge of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and intention to screen.

Methods

Thirteen community health educators (CHEs) from two CBOs participated in the Implementation Studio. Both CBOs selected CRC EBIs during the Studio. The evaluation included two steps. The first step assessed the CHEs’ capacity to select, adapt, and implement an EBI. The second step assessed the effect of the CHEs-delivered EBIs on clients’ knowledge of CRC and intention to screen (n = 44).

Results

All CHEs were Hispanic and women. Pre/post-evaluation of the Studio showed an increase on CHEs knowledge about EBIs (pre: 23% to post: 75%; p < 0.001). CHEs’ ability to select, adapt, and implement EBIs also increased, respectively: select EBI (pre: 21% to post: 92%; p < 0.001), adapt EBI (pre: 21% to post: 92%; p < 0.001), and implement EBI (pre: 29% to post: 75%; p = 0.003). Pre/post-evaluation of the CHE-delivered EBI showed an increase on CRC screening knowledge (p < 0.5) and intention to screen for CRC by their clients.

Conclusion

Implementation Studio can address unique needs of low resource rural CBOs. An implementation support program with training and consultation has potential to build the capacity of rural CBOs serving immigrant communities to implementation of cancer prevention and control EBIs. Clinical Trials Registration Number: NCT04208724 registered.
How circulating tumor cluster biology contributes to the metastatic cascade: from invasion to dissemination and dormancy
Authors: Nasr Mostafa M , Lynch Conor C
Published: July 2023

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are known to be prognostic for metastatic relapse and are detected in patients as solitary cells or cell clusters. Circulating tumor cell clusters (CTC clusters) have been observed clinically for decades and are of significantly higher metastatic potential compared to solitary CTCs. Recent studies suggest distinct differences in CTC cluster biology regarding invasion and survival in circulation. However, differences regarding dissemination, dormancy, and reawakening require more investigations compared to solitary CTCs. Here, we review the current state of CTC cluster research and consider their clinical significance. In addition, we discuss the concept of collective invasion by CTC clusters and molecular evidence as to how cluster survival in circulation compares to that of solitary CTCs. Molecular differences between solitary and clustered CTCs during dormancy and reawakening programs will also be discussed. We also highlight future directions to advance our current understanding of CTC cluster biology.
A surrogate-assisted uncertainty-aware Bayesian validation framework and its application to coupling free flow and porous-medium flow
Authors: Mohammadi Farid , Eggenweiler Elissa , Flemisch Bernd , Oladyshkin Sergey , Rybak Iryna , Schneider Martin , Weishaupt Kilian
Published: July 2023

Existing model validation studies in geoscience often disregard or partly account for uncertainties in observations, model choices, and input parameters. In this work, we develop a statistical framework that incorporates a probabilistic modeling technique using a fully Bayesian approach to perform a quantitative uncertainty-aware validation. A Bayesian perspective on a validation task yields an optimal bias-variance trade-off against the reference data. It provides an integrative metric for model validation that incorporates parameter and conceptual uncertainty. Additionally, a surrogate modeling technique, namely Bayesian Sparse Polynomial Chaos Expansion, is employed to accelerate the computationally demanding Bayesian calibration and validation. We apply this validation framework to perform a comparative evaluation of models for coupling a free flow with a porous-medium flow. The correct choice of interface conditions and proper model parameters for such coupled flow systems is crucial for physically consistent modeling and accurate numerical simulations of applications. We develop a benchmark scenario that uses the Stokes equations to describe the free flow and considers different models for the porous-medium compartment and the coupling at the fluid–porous interface. These models include a porous-medium model using Darcy’s law at the representative elementary volume scale with classical or generalized interface conditions and a pore-network model with its related coupling approach. We study the coupled flow problems’ behaviors considering a benchmark case, where a pore-scale resolved model provides the reference solution. With the suggested framework, we perform sensitivity analysis, quantify the parametric uncertainties, demonstrate each model’s predictive capabilities, and make a probabilistic model comparison.