bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Factors Governing Degradation of Anode-Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells as Influenced by Current Density and Humidity
Authors: Budiman Riyan Achmad , Bagarinao Katherine Develos , Ishiyama Tomohiro , Yamaguchi Toshiaki , Kishimoto Haruo , Yamaji Katsuhiko
Published: July 2021

In order to understand the degradation mode of the Ni/YSZ anode in anode-supported cells, durability measurements were performed as a function of current density (OCV, 0.25, 0.5, and 1 A/cm2) and humidity and evaluated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The impedance spectra were analyzed using distribution of relaxation times (DRT) method and the corresponding resistances were determined for varied p(O2), p(H2), and p(H2O). From the DRT analysis it was revealed that the anode resistance significantly increased when 0.60 bar p(H2O) and 1 A/cm2 was applied to the cell. Microstructural analysis of the cross-section of Ni/YSZ anode using SEM revealed that there are significant changes in the density and particle size of Ni particles and porosity in the anode when higher humidity and current density were applied.
In-Operando Observations of Ni-YSZ Patterned Fuel Electrodes Under SOFC and SOEC Operations
Authors: Ouyang Zhufeng , Komatsu Yosuke , Sciazko Anna , Katsuhiko Nishimura , Shikazono Naoki
Published: July 2021

In-operando observations and electrochemical measurements of patterned nickel (Ni) film electrodes under both solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) and solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) operations are conducted. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) is applied to acquire the optical and laser microscopy images of patterned Ni film electrodes under polarization to study the Ni mobility on the yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) surface. The Ni film dynamically spreads and breaks up only under SOFC operation, while such a phenomenon is not observed during SOEC operation. Ni coarsening occurs regardless of the operation mode. The morphological evolution of Ni qualitatively correlates with the changes of the current density. The Ni evolution in a single YSZ open window is well correlated with the total current density variation, which means that Ni movements of most of the YSZ windows are synchronized on the whole cell.
Application of High-Temperature Raman Spectroscopy (RS) for Studies of Electrochemical Processes in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) and Functional Properties of their Components
Authors: Korableva Galina , Agarkov Dmitrii Aleksandrovich , Burmistrov Ilya Nikolaevich , Lomonova Elena , Maksimov Andrey , Samoilov Aleksandr , Solovyev Andrey , Tartakovskii Ilya , Kharton Vladislav , Bredikhin Sergey Ivanovich
Published: July 2021

Combined technique and setup have been created that combines capabilities of electrochemical methods, as well as high-temperature Raman spectroscopy (RS) at Osipyan Institute of Solid State Physics RAS. In order to study the processes in the electrochemically active zone, a special geometry of samples was developed on basis of optically transparent single crystal membranes of an anionic conductor with a toroidal shape counter-electrode. With the use of this combined technique and special geometry, studies of the kinetics of reduction of nickel in composite SOFC anodes were carried out. The influence of the composition of fuel on Raman spectra obtained from the internal interface in the current load mode was also investigated, and the correlations with the cell voltage were studied. RS is also used to study the structure of single-crystal samples of anionic conductors, including at SOFCs operating temperature. The new combined technique was used to study other components: sealing glasses for SOFCs and optical glasses.
Nanoscale Analysis of LSM/YSZ Interfaces within Composite Cathodes for Commercial Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Picard Yoosuf N. , Poplawsky Jonathan D. , Lee Shiwoo , Abernathy Harry W.
Published: July 2021

Atom probe tomography (APT) was utilized to probe composition at the nanoscale across cathode/electrolyte interfaces for anode-supported commercial SOFCs. These SOFCs contained a porous composite cathode layer, consisting of sintered (La0.8Sr0.2)0.95MnO3 (LSM) and yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ). SOFCs were operated up to a 500 h duration at a 0.75 A/cm2 current density and 800°C. The measured cell voltage increased over the first 100 hours of operation, followed by a steady and linear drop in cell voltage that translated to a 5.35% performance loss per 1000 h. Cation migration behavior was extrapolated through comparisons of compositional profiles acquired by APT across LSM/YSZ particle interfaces for as-sintered, operated, and thermally aged conditions. The results show that operation drives La/Sr away from the LSM nanoparticle surface and Y depletion at the YSZ nanoparticle surface. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) inside a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) provided additional insights regarding Mn aggregation behavior during operation.
Analysis of the DRT as Evaluation Tool for EIS Data Analysis
Authors: Nohl Markus , Raut Gaurav , Wolf Stephanie Elisabeth , Duyster Tobias , Dittrich Lucy , Vinke I. C. , Eichel Rüdiger-A. , De Haart L. G. J.
Published: July 2021

The Distribution of Relaxation Times (DRT) is an important analytical tool that is capable of giving initial information from Electrochemical Impedance Spectra (EIS) with respect to the number of relaxation processes occurring in the system and their corresponding relaxation frequencies. The DRT transformation with the Tikhonov regularization is used for analysis of EIS data obtained from the characterization Solid Oxide Fuel and Electrolysis Cells (SOFC/SOEC) operating at high temperatures. The effects of this transformation together with occurring pitfalls on the most commonly implemented circuit elements used to describe EIS data was investigated to gain a better understanding. The behavior of the DRT transformation as a function of the individual circuit elements is reported, the regularization parameter λ is taken as a sweep parameter to investigate its influence and optimal ranges for the selection of λ are presented.
Surface Modification and the Long-Term Performance Stability of Ca Doped LaCoO3 SOFC Electrodes
Authors: Sezer Mehmet , Ozdemir Okan , Colakerol Arslan Leyla , Buyukaksoy Aligul
Published: July 2021

Development of solid oxide fuel cells strongly depends on the improvement of the long-term performance stability of cathode components. In our recent study, impressive activity was detected for thin-film La0.6Ca0.4CoO3 (LCC) electrodes, fabricated by cost-effective polymeric precursor methods. However, significant performance degradation, i.e., 26 times increase in area-specific resistance (ASR), upon long-term exposure to 700°C, originating from changes in surface chemistry, such as; CaO + La2O3 segregation, was observed. In the present study, to enhance the performance stability of LCC cathode, the electrode surface was modified by the oxides of its A and B-site cations, i.e., La, Ca, and Co. This way, reduction of the driving force for surface segregation was aimed. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements performed on symmetrical half-cells at 700°C revealed that the application of the CaO overlayer did not significantly affect ASR, while CoOx or La2O3 deposition caused slight improvements. Upon prolonged exposure to 700° for 100 hours, the ASR increased by factors of 3.3, 2.5, and 2 in the cases of La-, Co- and Ca-oxides, respectively.
Efficient and Economically Favorable Co-Free Air Electrodes for Solid Oxide Cells
Authors: Niemczyk Anna , Jagielski Stanisław , Kluczowski Ryszard , Li Keyun , Świerczek Konrad , Zheng Kun , Naumovich Yevgeniy , Kupecki Jakub
Published: July 2021

In this work, the assessment of LaNi0.5Cu0.5O3-δ-based perovskite in terms of the availability of critical raw materials, sustainability, and economic aspect in relation to the Co-based oxides is presented. Chemical compatibility between LaNi0.5Cu0.5O3-δ, obtained by the sol-gel method, and commercial CGO powder is evaluated. Moreover, the electrochemical studies of fuel electrode-supported cells with LaNi0.5Cu0.5O3-δ material as the air electrodes are presented. The electrochemical measurements - current density-voltage curves, were measured at different conditions including temperature in the 700-800 °C range and variation of the composition of feeding gases.
Aqueous Thick-Film Ceramic Processing of Planar Solid Oxide Fuel Cells Using La0.20Sr0.25Ca0.45TiO3 Anode Supports
Authors: Price Robert , Savaniu Cristian Daniel , Cassidy Mark , Irvine John Thomas Sirr
Published: July 2021

Recent research into the upscaling and implementation of Rh/Ce0.80Gd0.20O1.90 co-impregnated La0.20Sr0.25Ca0.45TiO3 (LSCTA-) anodes in electrolyte-supported SOFC at short-stack industrial scales has resulted in extremely robust performance under realistic operation and tolerance to harsh conditions. Furthermore, evaluation of the mechanical strength of LSCTA- and incorporation of this material into anode-supported SOFC also yielded promising performance at the button cell scale (using Ni and CeO2 catalyst impregnates). The knowledge on ceramic processing obtained during these previous research campaigns may be used to develop anode-supported SOFC with LSCTA- ‘backbones’ that have been optimised for high mechanical strength, high ‘effective’ electronic conductivity and sufficient porosity. Therefore, this manuscript details the preparation of anode-supported SOFC using the thick-film ceramic processing technique of aqueous tape casting, the optimisation of anode microstructure through addition of aqueous solvent-compatible graphitic and methacrylate polymer pore formers and the co-sintering of a LSCTA- support with a typical SOFC electrolyte material.
Cycling Characteristics of Tubular Liquid Antimony Anode Direct Carbon Fuel Cells Prepared by Atmospheric Plasma Spray
Authors: Jiang Yidong , Shi Yixiang , Cai Ningsheng
Published: July 2021

Liquid antimony anode solid oxide fuel cell (LAA-SOFC) is a promising technology for efficient conversion of solid carbon and hydrocarbon fuels. However, the operating process and the regeneration method of the fuel cells with LAAs are different from those with solid anodes and still need to be investigated. In the present research, a tubular LAA-SOFC unit was fabricated by atmospheric plasma spraying based on a stainless-steel support. The LAA-SOFC was cycled by a furnace control method and a “hot plug” method to simulate the normal start-stop and the anode/cell replacement processes, respectively. Scarce degradation was observed after the cycles with phase change, redox, and temperature variation, which demonstrated the robustness of the sprayed electrolyte to the anode changes. The air leakage and the floating ash retarded the recovery rate of the “hot plug” cycles, but have no influence on the degradation degree. The cycling characteristics in the present research proved the long-term operating feasibility of SOFC with LAA.
Preparation, Evaluation, and Application of SUS430/441 Interconnect with Mn-Co Coating in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Cui Tonghui , Liang Fuyuan , Sun Ruiting , Wu Junwei , Han Minfang , Sun Kaihua , Liu Yang
Published: July 2021

Mn-Co spinel is one of the most promising coatings for ferrite stainless steel interconnects. This study combines ex-situ and in-situ experiments, evaluating corrosion behavior and electrical performance of SUS430/441 interconnects with Mn-Co spinel coatings prepared by physical vapor deposition (PVD) in air. The ex-situ area-specific resistance (ASR) test indicated that the ASR growth rate of the coated sample at 750℃ was 0.37%/kh, suggesting good corrosion resistance. Under actual operating conditions, the stack with a Mn-Co spinel coating and heat treatment had the lowest ohmic resistance growth rate and performance degradation rate. Thus, a Mn-Co spinel coating applied to the cathode side of the interconnect by PVD can efficiently improve stack stability. Meanwhile, heat treatment at the initial operation of stacks is beneficial to the formation of the Mn-Co coating and the elimination of Cr diffusion.
CGO-Infiltrated Ni/YSZ SOEC Fuel Electrodes for Increased Carbon Tolerance During CO2 Electrolysis
Authors: Clausen Anders Kring , Traulsen Marie , Hendriksen Peter Vang , Sun Xiufu , Hauch Anne
Published: July 2021

Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOEC) have the ability to operate as CO2 electrolysis cells, reducing CO2 to CO. Applying SOEC for CO2 electrolysis should be done carefully, since processes including carbon deposition lead to decreased life-time. This study is investigating the effect of the fuel electrode overpotential on carbon deposition in the Ni/YSZ fuel electrode, and the effects of CGO infiltration of the fuel electrode on carbon deposition, on performance during CO2 electrolysis. Long-term durability test shows an increase in degradation rate from 252 mV/kh to 467 mV/kh over a ~50 h period at ~1375 mV. The carbon deposition threshold is investigated through the potential-current response, where a bend around 1375 mV in the iV-curve led to a hysteresis effect. Raman spectroscopy of the long-term tested cell shows carbon deposition; the largest quantities are found near the fuel gas inlet and the amount decreases along the gas flow direction.
Preparation of Model SOFCs with Proton-Conducting Electrolyte on Metal Support Using Pulse Laser Deposition
Authors: Miyamoto Katsuya , Kawabata Tsutomu , Tachikawa Yuya , Matsuda Junko , Taniguchi Shunsuke , Matsuzaki Yoshio , Hayashi Akari , Sasaki Kazunari
Published: July 2021

Since operating temperature of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) is relatively high, SOFCs must consist of heat resistant components, such as ceramics, which results in high cost. In this study, SOFCs with a proton-conductor as the electrolyte membrane was fabricated on metal supports and examined for lower-temperature operation of SOFCs. Technological issues of such metal-supported proton-conducting SOFCs (p-SOFCs) prepared by pulse laser deposition (PLD) are analyzed through microstructural observation and electrochemical characterization.
Microstructure and Performance Analysis of Low-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells Synthesized on Inert Al2O3 Substrates
Authors: Solovyev Andrey , Shipilova Anna , Smolyanskiy Egor , Rabotkin Sergey , Semenov Vyacheslav , Matveev Danila
Published: July 2021

Low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (LT-SOFC) are usually fabricated using ultra-thin yttria-stabilized zirconia electrolyte films and Pt electrodes. This paper studies the possibility of creating LT-SOFCs using the traditional ceramic materials such as the NiO/GDC (GDC - gadolinium doped ceria) anode, GDC electrolyte, and La0.6Sr0.4CoO3 (LSC) cathode. The anode/electrolyte bilayer structure is prepared on porous anodic aluminium oxide substrates using magnetron sputtering. The microstructure of the obtained bilayer structure is investigated before and after high-temperature annealing in air. The fuel cells are fabricated with the LSC cathode; their current-voltage characteristic and electrochemical impedance spectra are measured in the temperature range of 450–600°C.
Perovskites Doped with Small Amounts of Noble Metals for IT-SOFCs
Authors: Marasi Martina , Panunzi Anna Paola , Duranti Leonardo , D'Ottavi Cadia , Di Bartolomeo Elisabetta
Published: July 2021

Noble metal-doped lanthanum strontium ferrite (La0.6Sr0.4Fe0.99M0.01O3-d M=Ru, Pt) powders were developed as active electrodes for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs). The as low as 1% mol doping sensitively improved the electrochemical performance. Structural, electrical, and electrochemical properties are discussed in detail. Fuel cell tests in H2 show promising performance in the 700-750°C temperature range.
Comparison of Different Synthesis Methods to Obtain GDC as Nanoparticulated Electrolytic Material for SOFCs Operating at Intermediate Temperature (~500°C)
Authors: Monterrosa Álvarez Laura Paulina , Santa Juan Felipe , Gonzalez Javier de Jesús , Ribadeneira Paz Rafael , Buitrago Robison
Published: July 2021

Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) are a promising technology to produce electric energy from chemical energy. To achieve this, the development of new materials with enhanced properties are still needed. In this work, the synthesis of nanostructured powders to be used as components of an Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (IT-SOFC) was carried out through different synthesis methods. So, co-precipitation, sol-gel combustion, and hydrothermal synthesis methods were compared in the synthesis of the Gadolinium Doped Cerium G0,2C0,8O1,9 (GDC) used as electrolytic material. Cathodic material (La0.6Sr0.4Co0.8Fe0.2O3 (LSCF) cobaltite type perovskite) was obtained by coprecipitation method. The materials were characterized by Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermal Gravimetrical Analysis (TGA), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM-EDS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The synthesized materials showed to be nanostructured. The chemical composition measured by EDS was constant in the entire sample and it has the expected stoichiometry in both materials. On the other hand, X-ray patterns exhibited well-defined peaks characteristic of ordered structures and with a high degree of crystallinity, corresponding with the information reported in the literature. From FTIR results, the characteristic peaks related to the presence of perovskites can be observed in the case of LSCF when it was compared to the results found in the literature. Nanostructured LSCF cathodic material was effectively synthesized by coprecipitation method. In the case of GDC highly crystalline material was obtain by sol-gel combustion method. Based on the results, the employed method allows to obtain homogeneous materials suitable to be used in IT-SOFC.
Electrical Conductivity of La0.9Sr0.1Ga0.8Mg0.2O3-D/La1.55Sr0.45Ga3O7+D Composite Electrolyte
Authors: Fujimoto Talita Gishitomi , Steil Marlu Cesar , Muccillo Eliana Navarro dos Santos
Published: July 2021

Doped lanthanum gallate constitutes a family of solid electrolytes with high ionic conductivity, wide electrolytic domain, and good chemical stability. The combination of its properties turns some compounds of this family promising candidates for application in solid oxide cells operating at intermediate temperatures. In this work, La0.9Sr0.1Ga0.8Mg0.2O3-y - xLa1.55Sr0.45Ga3O7+δ with x = 0, 1, and 5 wt.% were investigated aiming to obtain a composite solid electrolyte with optimized properties compared to the parent material. Composite electrolytes were prepared by solid state reaction method and evaluated for densification, phase content, and microstructure. Electrical conductivity measurements were carried out as a function of temperature and oxygen partial pressure. Increase on densification and structural homogeneity were obtained with increasing fraction of the melilite phase. The electrical conductivity determined by impedance spectroscopy revealed a decrease of the bulk resistivity for increasing amounts of La1.55Sr0.45Ga3O7+δ.
Conductivity Degradation of Transition Metal (Mn, Fe, Co) Doped Yttria Stabilized Zirconia by Phase Transformation
Authors: Zhang Wenrui , Ishiyama Tomohiro , Kishimoto Haruo , Yamaji Katsuhiko
Published: July 2021

Conductivity degradation behavior of 1 mol% transition metal (Mn, Fe, Co) doped yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) under SOFC operation atmospheres was examined by AC impedance technique under an OCV condition, using a test cell consisting of dry air, Pt / transition metal (Mn, Fe, Co) doped 8YSZ / Pt, 1.2 % H2O–H2, at 900°C for 300 h. Phase transformation of YSZ from the cubic to the tetragonal phase was analyzed by Raman spectroscopy. Micro-Raman analysis indicated the phase transformation of transition metal (Mn, Fe, Co) doped 8YSZ from the cubic phase to the tetragonal phase. We have experimentally demonstrated that the conductivity degradation of transition metal (Mn, Fe, Co) doped YSZ is closely associated to the phase transformation under SOFC operation atmospheres at 900°C. All the transition metal (Mn, Fe, Co) doped YSZ showed a lesser conductivity degradation and a lower phase transformation than the Ni doped YSZ. The Fe doped YSZ showed the least conductivity degradation and lowest phase transformation during the transition metal (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni) doped YSZ under SOFC operation atmospheres at 900°C.
Estrogen-Wnt signaling cascade regulates expression of hepatic fibroblast growth factor 21
Authors: Badakhshi Yasaman , Shao Weijuan , Liu Dinghui , Tian Lili , Pang Juan , Gu Jianqiu , Hu Jim , Jin Tianru
Published: July 2021

FGF21 is mainly produced in the liver. Therapeutic effect of FGF21 analogues has been demonstrated in clinical trials on reducing hyperlipidemia. We show here that Fgf21 transcription is positively regulated by Wnt pathway effector β-cat/TCF. Importantly, hepatic β-cat/TCF activity can be regulated by the female hormone estradiol, involving GPER. The investigation enriched our understanding on hepatic FGF21 hormone production, and expanded our view on metabolic functions of the Wnt pathway in the liver.
M2 macrophages have unique transcriptomes but conditioned media does not promote profibrotic responses in lung fibroblasts or alveolar epithelial cells in vitro
Authors: Hult Elissa M. , Gurczynski Stephen J. , Moore Bethany B.
Published: July 2021

Macrophages are critical regulators of pulmonary fibrosis. Their plasticity, proximity, and ability to cross talk with structural cells of the lung make them a key cell type of interest in the regulation of lung fibrosis. Macrophages can express a variety of phenotypes, which have been historically represented through an “M1-like” to “M2-like” delineation. In this classification, M1-like macrophages are proinflammatory and have increased phagocytic capacity compared with alternatively activated M2-like macrophages that are profibrotic and are associated with wound healing. Extensive evidence in the field in both patients and animal models aligns pulmonary fibrosis with M2 macrophages. In this study, we performed RNA sequencing (RNAseq) to fully characterize M1- vs. M2-skewed bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) and investigated the profibrotic abilities of M2 BMDM conditioned media (CM) to promote fibroblast migration and proliferation, alveolar epithelial cell (AEC) apoptosis, and mRNA expression of key fibrotic genes in both fibroblasts and AECs. Although M2 CM-treated fibroblasts had increased migration and M2 CM-treated fibroblasts and AECs had increased expression of profibrotic proteins over M1 CM-treated cells, all differences can be attributed to M2 polarization reagents IL-4 and IL-13 also present in the CM. Collectively, these data suggest that the profibrotic effects associated with M2 macrophage CM in vitro are attributable to effects of polarization cytokines rather than additional factors secreted in response to those polarizing cytokines.
Blocking ATP-releasing channels prevents high extracellular ATP levels and airway hyperreactivity in an asthmatic mouse model
Authors: Arzola-Martínez Llilian , Benavente Rebeca , Vega Génesis , Ríos Mariana , Fonseca Wendy , Rasky Andrew J. , Morris Susan , Lukacs Nicholas W. , Villalón Manuel J.
Published: July 2021

Allergic asthma is a chronic airway inflammatory response to different triggers like inhaled allergens. Excessive ATP in fluids from patients with asthma is considered an inflammatory signal and an important autocrine/paracrine modulator of airway physiology. Here, we investigated the deleterious effect of increased extracellular ATP (eATP) concentration on the mucociliary clearance (MCC) effectiveness and determined the role of ATP releasing channels during airway inflammation in an ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized mouse model. Our allergic mouse model exhibited high levels of eATP measured in the tracheal fluid with a luciferin-luciferase assay and reduced MCC velocity determined by microspheres tracking in the trachea ex vivo. Addition of ATP had a dual effect on MCC, where lower ATP concentration (µM) increased microspheres velocity, whereas higher concentration (mM) transiently stopped microspheres movement. Also, an augmented ethidium bromide uptake by the allergic tracheal airway epithelium suggests an increase in ATP release channel functionality during inflammatory conditions. The use of carbenoxolone, a nonspecific inhibitor of connexin and pannexin1 channels reduced the eATP concentration in the allergic mouse tracheal fluid and dye uptake by the airway epithelium, providing evidence that these ATP release channels are facilitating the net flux of ATP to the lumen during airway inflammation. However, only the specific inhibition of pannexin1 with 10Panx peptide significantly reduced eATP in bronchoalveolar lavage and decreased airway hyperresponsiveness in OVA-allergic mouse model. These data provide evidence that blocking eATP may be a pharmacological alternative to be explored in rescue therapy during episodes of airflow restriction in patients with asthma.
Sympathetic innervation of the mouse kidney and liver arising from prevertebral ganglia
Authors: Torres Hayden , Huesing Clara , Burk David H. , Molinas Adrien J.R. , Neuhuber Winfried L. , Berthoud Hans-Rudolf , Münzberg Heike , Derbenev Andrei V. , Zsombok Andrea
Published: July 2021

The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) plays a crucial role in the regulation of renal and hepatic functions. Although sympathetic nerves to the kidney and liver have been identified in many species, specific details are lacking in the mouse. In the absence of detailed information of sympathetic prevertebral innervation of specific organs, selective manipulation of a specific function will remain challenging. Despite providing major postganglionic inputs to abdominal organs, limited data are available about the mouse celiac-superior mesenteric complex. We used tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and dopamine β-hydroxylase (DbH) reporter mice to visualize abdominal prevertebral ganglia. We found that both the TH and DbH reporter mice are useful models for identification of ganglia and nerve bundles. We further tested if the celiac-superior mesenteric complex provides differential inputs to the mouse kidney and liver. The retrograde viral tracer, pseudorabies virus (PRV)-152 was injected into the cortex of the left kidney or the main lobe of the liver to identify kidney-projecting and liver-projecting neurons in the celiac-superior mesenteric complex. iDISCO immunostaining and tissue clearing were used to visualize unprecedented anatomical detail of kidney-related and liver-related postganglionic neurons in the celiac-superior mesenteric complex and aorticorenal and suprarenal ganglia compared with TH-positive neurons. Kidney-projecting neurons were restricted to the suprarenal and aorticorenal ganglia, whereas only sparse labeling was observed in the celiac-superior mesenteric complex. In contrast, liver-projecting postganglionic neurons were observed in the celiac-superior mesenteric complex and aorticorenal and suprarenal ganglia, suggesting spatial separation between the sympathetic innervation of the mouse kidney and liver.
L-WNK1 is required for BK channel activation in intercalated cells
Authors: Ray Evan C. , Carrisoza-Gaytan Rolando , Al-Bataineh Mohammad , Marciszyn Allison L. , Nkashama Lubika J. , Chen Jingxin , Winfrey Aaliyah , Griffiths Shawn , Lam Tracey R. , Flores Daniel , Wu Peng , Wang WenHui , Huang Chou-Long , Subramanya Arohan R. , Kleyman Thomas R. , Satlin Lisa M.
Published: July 2021

When mice are placed on a high-K+ diet, genetic disruption of the long form of with no lysine kinase 1 (L-WNK1) in intercalated cells reduced relative apical/subapical localization of the large-conductance K+ channel, blunted large-conductance K+ channel currents in intercalated cells, and increased blood K+ concentration. These data confirm an in vivo role of L-WNK1 in intercalated cells in adaptation to a high-K+ diet.
Cortical compensation for hearing loss, but not age, in neural tracking of the fundamental frequency of the voice
Authors: Van Canneyt Jana , Wouters Jan , Francart Tom
Published: July 2021

Previous studies disagree on the effects of age and hearing loss on the neurophysiological processing of the fundamental frequency of the voice (f0), in part due to confounding effects. Using a novel electrophysiological technique, natural speech stimuli, and controlled study design, we quantified and disentangled the effects of age and hearing loss on neural f0 processing. We uncovered evidence for underlying neurophysiological mechanisms, including a cortical compensation mechanism for hearing loss, but not for age.
A KCNC1 mutation in epilepsy of infancy with focal migrating seizures produces functional channels that fail to be regulated by PKC phosphorylation
Authors: Zhang Yalan , Ali Syed R. , Nabbout Rima , Barcia Giulia , Kaczmarek Leonard K.
Published: July 2021

Ion channel mutations that cause serious human diseases generally alter the biophysical properties or expression of the channel. We describe a de novo mutation in the Kv3.1 potassium channel that causes severe intellectual disability with early-onset epilepsy. The properties of this channel appear identical to those of wild-type channels, but the mutation prevents phosphorylation of the channel by protein kinase C. Our findings emphasize the role of channel modulation in normal brain function.
Coupling Coordination between Technology Transfer in Universities and High‐Tech Industries Development in China
Authors: Fang Haining , Yang Qing , Wang Jinmei , Liu Xingxing
Published: July 2021

Only through successful transformation and application in industries, technology achievements in universities can promote economic and social development. Meanwhile, technological progress in high‐tech industries depends in part on universities’ technology achievements. Coupling coordination between technology transfer in universities (TTU) and high‐tech industries development (HTID) is of great significance to the sustainable development of the regional sci‐tech innovation system. In this paper, the coupling mechanism of TTU and HTID is analyzed and comprehensive evaluation index systems are established by using the evaluation indicator to screen and assign weights based on information contribution rate. The coupling coordination index (CCI) and productivity index (PI) are introduced to derive the spatiotemporal characteristics of the coupling and coordination of TTU and HTID from 2010 to 2019 in China and analyze its influence factors by System‐Generalized Method of Moments (SYS‐GMM). The results show the following: (1) the overall national TTU‐HTID CCI shows a gradual upward trend and large regional differences; (2) CCI of most provinces is increasing, but the differences are widening; (3) the national TTU PI is in a state of volatility and decline, but the ability of TTU is still much higher than the level of HTID; (4) technological innovation in high‐tech industries, high‐tech industry technology absorption capacity, high‐tech industry development level, industry‐university cooperation, and technological finance development have significant roles in promoting the coupling coordination of TTU‐HTID. Meanwhile, the sci‐tech innovation level in universities, technology transferability in universities, government support, development of sci‐tech intermediary, and development of other research institutions have no significant impact.
Randomized Controlled Trial of Laparoscopic versus Open Radical Cystectomy in a Laparoscopic Naïve Center
Authors: Fadlalla Waleed Mohamed , Hanafy Ayman , Abdelhakim Mahmoud , Aboulkassem Hatem , Ashraf El Sayed , Abdelbary Ahmed
Published: July 2021

Background. Laparoscopic radical cystectomy is a challenging surgical procedure; however, it has been largely abandoned in favor of the more intuitive robotic-assisted cystectomy. Due to the prohibitive cost of robotic surgery, the adoption of laparoscopic cystectomy is of relevance in low-resource institutes. Methodology. This is a randomized controlled trial comparing laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) to open radical cystectomy (ORC) at a single institute. Each group included thirty patients. The trial was designed to compare both approaches regarding operative time, blood loss, transfusion requirements, length of hospital stay, time to oral intake, requirement of opioid analgesia, and complications. Results. LRC was associated with less hospital stay (9.8 vs. 13.8 days,

P
=
0.001

), less time to oral solid intake (6 vs. 8.6 days,

P
=
0.031

), and lower opioid requirements (23.3% vs. 53.3%,

P
=
0.033

). There was a trend towards lower blood loss and transfusion requirements, but this did not reach statistical significance. Overall complication rates were comparable. Conclusion. Laparoscopic radical cystectomy was associated with comparable postoperative outcomes when compared to ORC in the first laparoscopic cystectomy experience in our center. Benefitting from the assistance of an experienced laparoscopic surgeon is recommended to shorten the learning curve.
Diabetes Management Delivery and Pregnancy Outcomes in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus during the First Wave of the 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic: A Single-Reference Center Report
Authors: Wilk Magdalena , Surowiec Paulina , Matejko Bartłomiej , Wróbel Albert , Zięba-Parkitny Joanna , Cyganek Katarzyna , Huras Hubert , Małecki Maciej T.
Published: July 2021

Objectives. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced a rapid adaptation of healthcare services to secure care for many patient groups. This includes women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We evaluated the impacts of the first COVID-19 wave on parameters such as the GDM treatment, glycemic control, and pregnancy outcomes. Methods. In this retrospective study from a reference diabetes center (Krakow, Poland), we compared patient data from two different time periods: the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020–June 2020) and the preceding five months (October 2019–February 2020). Data was collected from the medical records and telephone surveys. Results. We included 155 consecutive women (group

N
1
=
73

and group

N
2
=
82

from the COVID-19 pandemic period and non-COVID-19 period, respectively). During the COVID-19 pandemic, almost half of all GDM women (

N
1
=
36

, 49.3%) used telemedicine as a method of contacting their diabetic specialists while this tool was not utilized in the earlier period. Moreover, these patients reported difficulties in performing blood glucose self-control more often (

N
1
=
20

, 27.4%, vs

N
2
=
7

, 8.5%;

p
≤
0.01

) and spent less time on diabetes education than the control group on average (

N
1
=
39

, 53.4%, vs

N
2
=
9

, 9.8% below 2 hours of training;

p
≤
0.01

). Most analyzed glycemic parameters and pregnancy outcomes were similar. Differences were found with respect to the incidence of prolonged labor (

N
1
=
12

, 16.4%, vs

N
2
=
3

, 3.7%;

p
≤
0.01

) and preeclampsia (

N
1
=
0

vs

N
2
=
7

, 8.5%;

p
=
0.01

). Conclusion. In this single-center observational study, the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic did not seem to have a negative impact on pregnancy outcomes in GDM women, despite the difficulties in diabetes management delivery.
A Spontaneous Wireless Ad Hoc Trusted Neighbor Network Creation Protocol
Authors: Sorribes Jose Vicente , Peñalver Lourdes , Lloret Jaime
Published: July 2021

Spontaneous networks lack an a priori communication infrastructure, the neighbors are unknown right after the deployment, and they are used during a period of time and in a certain location. In this paper, we present a new randomized creation model of a spontaneous wireless ad hoc network based on trusted neighbors. The idea is to manage the neighbor discovery with the exchange of identity cards, and the checking of a signature establishes a relationship based on trust of the neighbors. To asses the performance of our randomized trusted network proposal and compare it against an existing deterministic protocol used as reference, we relied on Castalia 3.2 simulator, regarding 4 metrics: time, energy consumption, throughput, and number of discoveries vs packet sent ratio. We found that our proposal outperforms the reference protocol in terms of time, energy, and discoveries vs packet sent ratio in a one‐hop setting, while it outperforms the reference protocol regarding all 4 metrics in multihop environments. We also evaluated our proposal through simulations varying the transmission probability and proved that it does not require to know the number of nodes if a fixed transmission probability is set, providing reasonable results. Moreover, our proposal is based on collision detection, it knows when to terminate the process, it does not require a transmission schedule, and it follows more realistic assumptions. In addition, a qualitative comparison is carried out, comparing our proposal against existing protocols from the literature.
A Prosthodontic Approach as a Complementary Solution for a Complicated Orthodontic Treatment of a Patient with Cleidocranial Dysplasia
Authors: Jasnoch Joanna , Zielke Maria , Maciejewska Izabela
Published: July 2021

This clinical report describes a prosthodontic rehabilitation of a 29-year-old patient with cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD), who, after completing an orthodontic treatment, was not satisfied with the aesthetic outcome. Besides aesthetics, the patient complained about mastication muscles pain, and clicking while eating but was not aware about her unilateral open bite on the right side. The aim of this treatment was to improve smile appearance and patient’s well-being, as well as to restore the proper occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) along with complete intercuspation and to establish masticatory function. The first phase of the treatment concentrated on eliminating the muscle pain and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) clicking with a repositioning splint. During the second phase, the functional and aesthetic rehabilitation was obtained using adhesive prosthesis overlays and veneers.
Effects of Strongbacks and Strappings on Vibrations of Timber Truss Joist Floors
Authors: Xue Shuo , Zhang Zhanyi , Zhang Zhanyi , Zhou Haibin , Shen Yinlan
Published: July 2021

It is well known that the vertical vibrations of lightweight timber floors would cause discomfort to the occupants. As a new kind of flooring system, the metal‐plate‐connected timber truss joist floors were developed due to their larger spans and easier crossing of pipes and cables after sawn timber and I‐joist floors. In this paper, the vibration modes and transfer functions of sixteen metal‐plate‐connected timber truss joist floors over a nominal span of 6 m were determined experimentally to measure the changes in vibration frequencies and transmissions obtained after the installation of strongbacks and strappings. The results showed that the fundamental natural frequencies of the metal‐plate‐connected timber truss joist floors at a 400 mm joist spacing were about 15 Hz, while the frequencies of the floors at a 600 mm joist spacing were about 12.5 Hz. The bracing elements of the strongbacks and strappings mainly enhanced the system stiffness in the across‐joist direction of the flooring system, but they did not govern the fundamental natural frequencies of the floors and just changed the spacing of adjacent natural frequencies. The bracing elements as secondary elements of the floors also altered the vibration transmission paths in the across‐joist direction. The frequencies where the stronger vibration transfers happened in the direction perpendicular to floor joists were generally above 15 Hz. Proper installation measurements of bracing elements in practical control need to be taken to alleviate the vibration response intensity at the targeted locations and frequencies.
Agreement between Arterial and Capillary pH, pCO2, and Lactate in Patients in the Emergency Department
Authors: Collot Vincent , Malinverni Stefano , Haltout Jabir , Schweitzer Eric , Mols Pierre , Bartiaux Magali
Published: July 2021

Background. Blood gas analysis (BGA) is a frequent painful procedure in emergency departments. The primary objective of the study was a quantitative analysis to assess the mean difference and 95% confidence interval of the difference between capillary and arterial BGA for pH, pCO2, and lactate. Secondary objective was to measure the sensitivity and specificity of capillary samples to detect altered pH, hypercarbia, and lactic acidosis. Adults admitted to the ED were screened for inclusion. We studied the agreement between the two methods for pH, pCO2, and lactate with Bland-Altman bias plot analysis and receiver operating characteristic curves. Results. One hundred ninety-seven paired analyses were included. Mean difference for pH between arterial and capillary BGA was 0.0095, and 95% limits of agreement (LOA) were −0.048 to 0.067. For pCO2, mean difference was −0.3 mmHg, and 95% LOA were −8.5 to 7.9 mmHg. Lactate mean difference was −0.93 mmol/L, and 95% LOA were −2.7 to 0.8 mmol/L. At a threshold of 7.34, capillary pH had 98% sensitivity and 97% specificity to detect acidemia; at 45.9 mmHg, capillary pCO2 had 89% sensitivity and 96% specificity to detect hypercarbia. At a threshold of 3.5 mmol/L, capillary lactate had 66% sensitivity to detect lactic acidosis. Conclusion. Capillary BGA cannot replace arterial BGA despite high concordance between the two methods for pH and pCO2 and moderate concordance for lactate. Capillary measures had good accuracy when used as a screening tool to detect altered pH and hypercarbia but insufficient sensitivity and specificity when screening for lactic acidosis.
Forest Systems Services Provisioning in Africa: Case of Gambari Forest Reserve, Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Olatoye Tolulope Ayodeji , Mazinyo Sonwabo Perez , Odeyemi Akinwunmi Sunday , Orimoloye Israel Ropo , Busayo Emmanuel Tolulope
Published: July 2021

This study, therefore, which is focused on forest systems services provisioning in Africa, case of Gambari Forest Reserve, Ibadan, Nigeria, provides policy makers, decision makers, ecologists, environmentalists, the academia, and other stakeholders with a document geared towards promoting national development through sustainable forest products utilization practices. In this study, a total of 200 key respondents participated in it, out of which 194 copies were returned and distributed among the seven main communities in the study area, namely, Ibusogbora, Oloowa, Daley north and south, Onipe, Mamu, Olubi, and Onipanu, respectively. The respondents stated that moringa 164 (84.5%), mint leaf (166 (85.6%), bitter kola 143 (73.7%), and shea tree accounts for 176 (90.7%), and the wood species utilized by producers in the study area include Leucaena leucocephala, Leucaena glauca, Gliricidia sepium, Tectona grandis, and Gmelina arborea, among others. The study recommends that there is need for African governments to restore public awareness campaign in the area of timber planting initiatives and sustainable forest resource management and increase allocation to fund forestry research in the African continent.
Rupture of Hydatid Cyst in the Gallbladder Leading to Acute Cholangitis
Authors: Elmajdoubi Hicham , Elbarkaoui Zakaria , Sebbah Farid , Raiss Mohamed , Hrora Abdelmalek
Published: July 2021

Hydatid disease is a health problem in endemic areas such as the Mediterranean region caused by Echinococcus granulosus which can develop anywhere in the human body, but it is most frequently located at the liver. Liver hydatid cyst may rupture into the biliary tract, thorax, peritoneum, viscera, digestive tract, or skin, but its rupture in the gallbladder remains rare. We report a rare case of rupture of liver hydatid cyst in the gallbladder leading to acute cholangitis. The diagnosis was suspected on radiological imaging, and the patient was taken to open surgery which confirmed the imaging findings. The gallbladder and adjacent cyst were excised, and a transcystic drain was placed. Postoperative recovery was uneventful.
Multilevel Privacy Controlling Scheme to Protect Behavior Pattern in Smart IoT Environment
Authors: Khan Asad , Khan Muhammad Mehran Arshad , Javeed Muhammad Awais , Farooq Muhammad Umar , Akram Adeel , Wang Chengliang
Published: July 2021

Traditional approaches generally focus on the privacy of user’s identity in a smart IoT environment. Privacy of user’s behavior pattern is an important research issue to address smart technology towards improving user’s life. User’s behavior pattern consists of daily living activities in smart IoT environment. Sensor nodes directly interact with activities of user and forward sensing data to service provider server (SPS). While availing the services provided by a server, users may lose privacy since the untrusted devices have information about user’s behavior pattern and it may share data with adversary. In order to resolve this problem, we propose a multilevel privacy controlling scheme (MPCS) which is different from traditional approaches. MPCS is divided into two parts: (i) behavior pattern privacy degree (BehaviorPrivacyDeg), which works as follows: firstly, frequent pattern mining‐based time‐duration algorithm (FPMTA) finds the normal pattern of activity by adopting unsupervised learning. Secondly, patterns compact algorithm (PCA) is proposed to store and compact the mined pattern in each sensor device. Then, abnormal activity detection time‐duration algorithm (AADTA) is used by current triggered sensors, in order to compare the current activity with normal activity by computing similarity among them; (ii) multilevel privacy design model: we have divided privacy of users into four levels in smart IoT environment, and by using these levels, the server can configure privacy level for users according to their concern. Multilevel privacy design model consists of privacy‐level configuration protocol (PLCP) and activity design model. PLCP provides fine privacy controls to users while enabling users to set privacy level. In PLCP, we introduce level concern privacy algorithm (LCPA) and location privacy algorithm (LPA), so that adversary could not damage the data of user’s behavior pattern. Experiments are performed to evaluate the accuracy and feasibility of MPCS in both simulation and real‐case studies. Results show that our proposed scheme can significantly protect the user’s behavior pattern by detecting abnormality in real time.
A Study of a DC/AC Conversion Structure for Photovoltaic System Connected to the Grid with Active and Reactive Power Control
Authors: Brahmi Houda , Dhifaoui Rachid
Published: July 2021

DC/AC conversion of photovoltaic energy is in great demand for AC applications; the supply of electrical machines and transfer energy to the distribution network is a typical case. This work is realized in this context and presents a new structure for the transfer of photovoltaic energy to the electricity grid. This structure is based on a push‐pull converter connected to a three‐phase DC/AC inverter. In particular, a great interest is focused on the steady operating conditions of energy transfer. The study also develops the limits and the feasibility of the PV energy transfer to the grid of the proposed structure. Injecting photovoltaic energy into the grid with maximum active power and zero reactive power is also considered for the dynamic regime. Support simulations are carried out to validate the proposed control strategy.