bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence and Genetic Diversity of Grapevine Virus G in Croatian Vineyards
Authors: Jagunić Martin , Diaz-Lara Alfredo , Szőke Lóránt , Rwahnih Maher Al , Stevens Kristian , Zdunić Goran , Vončina Darko
Published: September 2022

Grapevine virus G (GVG) is a recently discovered vitivirus infecting grapevines. Historically, viruses in the genus Vitivirus have been associated with the grapevine rugose wood disease. Based on new and previously reported GVG isolates, primers and probes were developed for real-time RT-PCR. The developed assay successfully detected the virus in infected plants during dormancy and the growing season. A field study of 4327 grapevines from Croatian continental and coastal wine-growing regions confirmed the presence of GVG in 456 (~10.5%) grapevines from three collection plantations and 77 commercial vineyards, with infection rates ranging from 2% to 100%. Interestingly, the virus was confirmed only in vines considered to be Croatian autochthonous cultivars, but not in introduced cultivars. A 564-nucleotide long portion of the coat protein gene from previously known and newly characterized GVG isolates had nucleotide and amino acid identities ranging from 89% to 100% and from 96.8% to 100%, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed five distinct groups, with isolates originating from the same site being close to each other, indicating possible local infection. The information presented in this manuscript sets the stage for future studies to better understand the ecology and epidemiology of GVG and the possible need for inclusion in certification schemes.
Efficiency of Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents to Extract Phenolic Compounds from Agrimonia eupatoria: Experimental Study and In Silico Modelling
Authors: Lazović Mila , Cvijetić Ilija , Jankov Milica , Milojković-Opsenica Dušanka , Trifković Jelena , Ristivojević Petar
Published: September 2022

To replace common organic solvents that present inherent toxicity and have high volatility and to improve the extraction efficiency, a range of natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) were evaluated for the extraction of phenolic compounds from Agrimonia eupatoria. Screening of NADES efficiency was carried out based on the total phenolic and flavonoid content and radical-scavenging activity, determined by spectrophotometry, as well as phenolic compounds quantified, obtained using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector and a triple-quadrupole mass spectrometer. Increased extraction efficiency when compared with organic solvent was achieved using NADES mixtures choline chloride (ChCl):urea 1:2 and choline chloride:glycerol 1:1. Flavonol glycosides were the most abundant compounds in all extracts. The COSMO-RS model provided insights into the most important intermolecular interactions that drive the extraction process. Moreover, it could explain the extraction efficiency of flavonol glycosides using ChCl:glycerol NADES. The current article offers experimental evidence and mechanistic insights for the selection of optimal NADES to extract bioactive components from Agrimonia eupatoria.
Investigation on Spectral Characteristics of Gliding Arc Plasma Assisted Ammonia Lean Combustion
Authors: Zhu Ximing , Zhao Yang , Zhai Ming , Lv Pengyi , Zhou Weixing , Huang Bangdou
Published: September 2022

Ammonia as a non-carbon fuel is expected to play an important role in the future, but it is difficult to be effectively utilized at this stage due to its flame retardancy and other characteristics. Therefore, we propose to use gliding arc plasma combined with a swirl burner to enhance the combustion performance of ammonia. The electrical characteristics, electron density, gas rotational temperature and the distribution of key active species in the burner were studied via optical emission spectroscopy (OES). With the increase of equivalence ratio (EQR), the width of the Hα line decreases significantly, indicating that the electron density shows a downward trend, even as the gas rotational temperature shows an upward trend. When the equivalence ratio was 0.5, the gas rotational temperature increases by about 320 K compared with the pure air condition. During pure air discharge, there will still be obvious NO emission due to the plasma reaction, but with the addition of NH3, the NO content in the emission is significantly reduced. The light intensity of O atoms in the burner gradually decreases with the increase of the equivalence ratio, the light intensity of H atoms increases first and then decreases, and the light intensity of NH shows an upward trend. The reason may be that the plasma discharge effectively strengthens NH3(E)->NH2+H, NH2+H->NH+H2 and other reactions promote the initial reaction step of NH3 which thus effectively strengthens the NH3 combustion.
Optimization and Internal Flow Analysis of Inlet and Outlet Horn of Integrated Pump Gate
Authors: Xie Chuanliu , Fu Tenglong , Xuan Weipeng , Bai Chuanzhen , Wu Liming
Published: September 2022

In order to improve the hydraulic performance of the integrated pump gate, the flow pattern of the inlet and outlet of the pump gate is improved. This paper adopts the SST k-ω turbulence model to numerically calculate the initial scheme of the integrated pump gate, verifies its internal flow pattern through experiments, then adds and optimizes the design of the inlet and outlet horn pipes of the integrated pump gate through orthogonal optimization. The research results conclude that the hydraulic performance of the integrated pump gate is significantly improved after adding the inlet and outlet horn. Under the design flow condition (Qd = 11.5 L/s), the efficiency of the pump gate increased from 60.50% to 67.19%, the head increased from 2.7569 m to 3.1178 m, the hydraulic loss in the inlet channel decreased from 0.064 m to 0.027 m, and the hydraulic loss in the outlet channel decreased from 1.337 m to 1.027 m. The optimized trumpet pipe can improve the inlet conditions of the pump while weakening the vortices in the outlet channel, thus improving the efficiency and safety of the integrated pump gate. The research results of this paper are of reference value for similar projects.
Hydrogen-Enriched Compressed Natural Gas Network Simulation for Consuming Green Hydrogen Considering the Hydrogen Diffusion Process
Authors: Qiu Yue , Zhou Suyang , Chen Jinyi , Wu Zhi , Hong Qiteng
Published: September 2022

Transporting green hydrogen by existing natural gas networks has become a practical means to accommodate curtailed wind and solar power. Restricted by pipe materials and pressure levels, there is an upper limit on the hydrogen blending ratio of hydrogen-enriched compressed natural gas (HCNG) that can be transported by natural gas pipelines, which affects whether the natural gas network can supply energy safely and reliably. To this end, this paper investigates the effects of the intermittent and fluctuating green hydrogen produced by different types of renewable energy on the dynamic distribution of hydrogen concentration after it is blended into natural gas pipelines. Based on the isothermal steady-state simulation results of the natural gas network, two convection–diffusion models for the dynamic simulation of hydrogen injections are proposed. Finally, the dynamic changes of hydrogen concentration in the pipelines under scenarios of multiple green hydrogen types and multiple injection nodes are simulated on a seven-node natural gas network. The simulation results indicate that, compared with the solar-power-dominated hydrogen production-blending scenario, the hydrogen concentrations in the natural gas pipelines are more uniformly distributed in the wind-power-dominated scenario and the solar–wind power balance scenario. To be specific, in the solar-power-dominated scenario, the hydrogen concentration exceeds the limit for more time whilst the overall hydrogen production is low, and the local hydrogen concentration in the natural gas network exceeds the limit for nearly 50% of the time in a day. By comparison, in the wind-power-dominated scenario, all pipelines can work under safe conditions. The hydrogen concentration overrun time in the solar–wind power balance scenario is also improved compared with the solar-power-dominated scenario, and the limit-exceeding time of the hydrogen concentration in Pipe 5 and Pipe 6 is reduced to 91.24% and 91.99% of the solar-power-dominated scenario. This work can help verify the day-ahead scheduling strategy of the electricity-HCNG integrated energy system (IES) and provide a reference for the design of local hydrogen production-blending systems.
Manufacturing Cell Integrated Layout Method Based on RNS-FOA Algorithm in Smart Factory
Authors: Zhao Yanlin
Published: September 2022

The research on the layout of multi-layer manufacturing cells for smart factories is still in its infancy, but there is an urgent need to address this issue in building smart factories. This paper presents the Manufacturing Cell Integrated Layout (MCIL) Method, which integrates multiple layout forms of multi-layer and single-layer manufacturing cells. The paper develops a mathematical model of the MCIL problem which considers the multi-objective functions of logistics handling, occupied space, cell stability, lost time, and non-logistics relations, as well as the constraints between equipment in the cell and cells. An adaptive RNS-FOA algorithm is proposed to solve the high-dimensional and large-scale characteristics of the MCIL problem based on the research of academics. Lastly, a case demonstrates the outstanding contribution of the mathematical model to the solution of the MCIL problem, while simultaneously validating the efficiency and stability of the RNS-FOA algorithm for solving the MCIL problem.
Geometric Calculation of the Influence of an Oscillating Sieve’s Actuation Mechanism Position on Its Motion
Authors: Moșneguțu Emilian , Tomozei Claudia , Panainte-Lehăduș Mirela , Chițimuș Dana , Irimia Oana
Published: September 2022

This article offers a general approach to studying a four-bar mechanism from a geometric viewpoint. The four-bar mechanism form is used in a large number of existing pieces of machinery and equipment. This type of mechanism, used to drive a screen and generate its oscillating motion, is referred to in this article for its application in separation systems. In the literature, there are numerous approaches for analyzing such a mechanism. In addition to determining this mechanism’s geometry, an examination of the influence of the drive system’s position on the motion of the tie rods, or the support system of an oscillating site, is also conducted. In the investigation, the connecting rod angle was adjusted between −45 degrees and 60 degrees without respect to the horizontal. The following parameters, which correspond to the operation of the oscillating sieve motion, were obtained from the determined mathematical relations: the movement made by the free end of the tie rod; the tie rod’s angle in relation to the crank movement varies; and variation in the angle the tie rod achieves based on the drive system’s inclination angle. From the analysis, it was discovered that the drive system’s position in relation to the other components of the assembly had a direct influence. The calculation steps were designed to be performed using Mathcad 15.
Failure Analysis of Drill Pipe during Working Process in a Deep Well: A Case Study
Authors: Li Luchun , Lian Zhanghua , Zhou Changhong
Published: September 2022

The failure of a 101.6 mm drill pipe was studied by combining experimental testing and finite element simulation. The macro analysis, metallographic structure and energy spectrum, chemical composition and a mechanical property test of the failed drill pipe sample were firstly carried out. Then, a three-dimensional finite element model of drill pipe failure was established based on the experimental results. Finally, the failure mechanism of drill pipe was analyzed and the mitigation measures were put forward. The results showed that solids settling sticking was the direct cause of fracture failure of the drill pipe joint. Due to the violent friction and wear between the drill pipe joint and the settled sand, the large amount of heat generated caused the microstructure of the joint material to undergo phase transformation and the bearing capacity to be reduced. Finally, fracture occurs under tensile and torsional loads.
Incorporating Machine Learning in Computer-Aided Molecular Design for Fragrance Molecules
Authors: Heng Yi Peng , Lee Ho Yan , Chong Jia Wen , Tan Raymond R. , Aviso Kathleen B. , Chemmangattuvalappil Nishanth G.
Published: September 2022

The demand for new novel flavour and fragrance (F&F) molecules has boosted the need for a systematic approach to designing fragrance molecules. However, the F&F-related industry still relies heavily on experimental approaches or on existing databases without considering the consequences resulting from changes in concentration, which could omit potential fragrances. Computer-aided molecular design (CAMD) has great potential to identify novel molecular structures to be used as fragrances. Using CAMD for this purpose requires models to predict the olfaction properties of molecules. A rough set-based machine learning (RSML) approach is used to develop an interpretable predictive model for odour characteristics in this work. New rule-based models are generated from RSML based on the dilution and a number of different topological indices which identify the structure-odour relationship of fragrance molecules. The most prominent rules are selected and formulated as constraints in a CAMD optimisation model. The combination of several rules was able to increase the coverage of different classes of molecules. To model the performance indicators that vary over a range of properties, a disjunctive programming model is also incorporated into the CAMD framework. A case study demonstrates the utilisation of this methodology to design fragrance additives in dishwashing liquid. The results illustrate the capability of the novel RSML and CAMD framework to identify potential fragrance molecules that can be used in consumer products.
Managing Engineering Change within the Paradigm of Product Lifecycle Management
Authors: Habib Hassan , Menhas Rashid , McDermott Olivia
Published: September 2022

Managing change in organizations is a laborious task that consumes value added time in various segments of the product lifecycle including design and development, production, delivery, and product disposition. Product lifecycle management plays an important role in minimizing the time required for managing engineering changes. This research aims to perform an extensive survey of the literature in this area. There is no consolidated review available in this area summarizing advances in engineering change management vis-à-vis product lifecycle management. Thus, the paper gives an overview of product lifecycle management-based thinking and change management. This review puts forward the most relevant research regarding the practices and frameworks developed for managing engineering change in an organization. These include model-based definition, digital twin, process-based semantic approach, service-oriented architecture, Unified Modeling Language, and unified feature modeling. The gaps between the extents of conformance to success factors have been identified as extent of integration, standardization, versatility of application, support of existing systems, and the extent of product lifecycle management support.
Factors Affecting the Natural Regeneration of the Larix principis-rupprechtii Mayr Plantations: Evidence from the Composition and Co-Occurrence Network Structure of Soil Bacterial Communities
Authors: Niu Yajie , Liang Wenjun , Wei Xi , Han Youzhi
Published: September 2022

Bacterial communities living in the soil can affect forests natural regeneration, but the effects of their composition and network inference on regeneration of Larix principis-rupprechtii Mayr plantations remain largely elusive. Therefore, the redundancy analysis and structure equations modeling of affecting elements for the regeneration of L. principis-rupprechtii plots including the diversity, composition and network structure of soil bacteria, topographic factors, light factors, and soil physicochemical properties have been conducted. It was found that the increased modularity of the soil bacterial community co-occurrence network and the enrichment of metabolic pathway bacteria had a significant positive effect on the successful regeneration (total effect of 0.84). The complexity of the soil bacterial community gradually decreased with the increase of stand regeneration, and the composition and structure of the flora became simpler (with standard path coefficients: −0.70). In addition, altitude also had a positive effect on regeneration with a total effect of 0.39. Soil nutrients had significantly negative effects on regeneration with total effects of −0.87. Soil bacterial communities may mediate the effects of soil nutrients, altitude, litter thickness, and herbaceous diversity on regeneration in L. principis-rupprechtii plantations. The results provide a great contribution to our understanding of regeneration-soil bacterial community interactions and the basis and important data for sustainable management of L. principis-rupprechtii plantations in the Lvliang Mountains located in northern China.
In Situ DRIFTS Study of Single-Atom, 2D, and 3D Pt on γ-Al2O3 Nanoflakes and Nanowires for C2H4 Oxidation
Authors: Peng Shengpan , Ma Ziran , Ma Jing , Wang Hongyan , Ren Kai , Wu Xiaodong , Wang Baodong
Published: September 2022

Up to now, a great number of catalysts have been reported that are active in the oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). However, supported noble-metal catalysts (especially Pt-based catalysts) are still the most excellent ones for this reaction. In this study, Pt species supported on γ-Al2O3 and ranging from single-atom sites to clusters (less than 1 nm) and 1–2 nm nanoparticles were prepared and investigated for oxidizing C2H4. The Pt-loaded γ-Al2O3 nanoflakes (PtAl-NF) and Pt-loaded γ-Al2O3 nanowires (PtAl-NW) were successfully prepared. The samples were characterized using XRD, TEM, XPS, HAADF-STEM, and in situ DRIFTS. Based on in situ DRIFTS, a simple surface reaction mechanism was developed. The stable intermediates CO on single-atom Pt, subnanometer Pt particles, and fully exposed Pt clusters could be explained by the strong binding of CO molecule poisoning Pt sites. Moreover, the oxidation of C2H4 was best achieved by Pt particles that were 1–2 nm in size and the catalytic activity of PtAl-NF was better when it had less Pt. Lastly, the most exposed (110) facets of γ-Al2O3 nanoflakes were more resistant to water than the majorly exposed (100) facets of γ-Al2O3 nanowires.
Numerical Investigation of Natural Convection in an Open-Ended Square Channel with Two Suspending Heat Sources
Authors: Liu Qi , Xu Xingrong , Liang Peng , Xia Junjie , Li Wen-Peng , Li Gu-Yuan , Yu Jia-Jia
Published: September 2022

Passive heat dissipation cooling technologies based on natural convection in open channels can effectively control the maximum temperature and improve the temperature homogeneity of 5G base stations, data centers and other equipment. In this paper, the flow and heat transfer of natural convection in an open-ended square channel with two suspending heat sources are studied through numerical simulation. The distributions of the temperature field and flow field in the channel with different horizontal distances and vertical altitude differenced of the heat sources are acquired via the finite element method (FEM)-based COMSOL Multiphysics. The changes in local temperature and the local Nusselt number are obtained. The relationships between the temperature field, flow field, and Nusselt number with respect to the geometric parameters of the heat sources are discussed. With different geometric parameters of the two suspending heat sources, the average surface temperature at the bottom is always lower than the top, while the average Nusselt number reaches maximum and minimum values at the bottom and top surfaces, respectively. As the horizontal distance increases, the maximum vertical airflow velocity decreases. The average surface temperature and local Nusselt number go through a V-shape and reverse V-shape tendency, respectively. The maximum temperature at the surface of the heat source is 397 K at a horizontal distance of 0.36 m. The local Nusselt number on the side of the heat source reaches its maximum at a horizontal distance of 0.28 m with an average value of 33.5. As the vertical altitude difference increases, the temperature difference between the heat sources increases from 0 K to 54 K, and the maximum vertical airflow velocity goes through a reverse V-shape tendency. The Nusselt number of the right heat source decreases to a certain value of about 20, while that of the left heat source goes through a fluctuating tendency. The results show that the best arrangement of the heat sources is a vertical altitude difference of 0 m and a horizontal distance of 0.28 m.
A Sustainable Supply Chain Integrated with Autonomated Inspection, Flexible Eco-Production, and Smart Transportation
Authors: Dey Bikash Koli , Yilmaz Ibrahim , Seok Hyesung
Published: September 2022

The present study focuses on supply chain management to improve its sustainability from economic, environmental, and social perspectives. First, improving production process reliability and cost reduction are two main factors for enhancing economic sustainability. Hence, we introduced autonomated inspection and invested in ordering and setup costs. Second, reducing the carbon footprint in supply chains is the main pillar of their environmental stewardship, which is addressed by an eco-friendly and flexible production system in this study. Finally, an advanced single-setup-multi-delivery (SSMD) strategy is utilized to improve social aspects associated with human labor increase. For practicality, demand is considered as the selling price and is quality dependent. The sustainability enhancement is transformed as a term of profit; therefore, our model maximizes the total profit of the supply chain by optimizing a manufacturer’s and retailer’s decision variables. Numerical examples show that autonomation technology increases the system’s reliability by 64%, where eco-production reduces carbon emission by up to 16%, and the total profit increases by up to 25%. Moreover, the application of advanced SSMD reduces the transportation cost by up to 34%.
Heavy Metal Contamination in Soils from a Major Planting Base of Winter Jujube in the Yellow River Delta, China
Authors: Shan Changqing , Zhang Zaiwang , Zhao Deyong , Zou Meiling , Huang Wenwen , Wang Xiangrui , Jin Jianchao , Zhang Yanpeng , Yang Qian , Xie Wenjun , Li Jialiang
Published: September 2022

Surface soils form a major planting base of winter jujube in China were collected and detected for six heavy metals including Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb. The concentrations of Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were 27.6 ± 6.0, 57.9 ± 12.8, 67.1 ± 10.3, 102.6 ± 23.4, 0.24 ± 0.07, and 25.1 ±5.9 mg/kg, respectively, showing an order of Zn > Cu > Ni > Co > Pb > Cd. The contents of the investigated metals were frequently observed higher than their related background values, suggesting that extra metal inputs occurred. Levels of all elements were below the associated risk screening values of agricultural soil in China, indicating healthy planting conditions for the winter jujube cultivation. Nemerow comprehensive pollution indexes of the metals in all the sampling stations were lower than 0.7, revealing a non-pollution status of the soils. Geo-accumulation indexes suggested that Zn and Pb caused no pollution, and Co, Ni, Cu, and Cd seemed to result in slight pollution. Co, Ni, Zn, Cd, and Pb had similar sources, which might be related to some natural processes and the use of fertilizers. Extra Cu might be mainly from the use of copper-containing pesticides. Based on our observations, the soils from the planting base of winter jujube in the Yellow River Delta were safe for the cultivation of winter jujube, and the rational utilization of pesticide and fertilizer were proposed to control the new inputs of heavy metals.
Dynamically Coupled Reservoir and Wellbore Simulation Research in Two-Phase Flow Systems: A Critical Review
Authors: Peng Long , Han Guoqing , Chen Zhangxing , Pagou Arnold , Zhu Liying , Abdoulaye Akhayie
Published: September 2022

A coupled reservoir/wellbore simulator is essential for solving relevant flow phenomena with dynamic interactions between reservoir and wellbore in two-phase flow systems. A reservoir simulator or wellbore simulator alone fails to solve these transient flow phenomena. This paper summarises a critical review of the coupled reservoir and wellbore simulation. First, a wide application of the drift-flux (DF) models to simulate gas–liquid flow in a wellbore model coupling to a reservoir model was discussed. Then, the mechanisms of the coupled reservoir/wellbore simulator in two-phase flow systems were discussed, including the reservoir modeling, wellbore modeling, and their coupling schemes. Various examples of representative coupled simulators were presented. Finally, some case studies were reported to reveal dynamic interactions between wellbore and reservoir by using the coupled reservoir/wellbore simulators. This study gives the most up-to-date and systematic sights on the relevant research topic of reservoir/wellbore coupling, allowing for a better understanding of the coupled reservoir and wellbore simulation and its application in the oil and gas industry.
Process Automation and Control Strategy by Quality-by-Design in Total Continuous mRNA Manufacturing Platforms
Authors: Schmidt Axel , Helgers Heribert , Vetter Florian Lukas , Zobel-Roos Steffen , Hengelbrock Alina , Strube Jochen
Published: September 2022

Vaccine supply has a bottleneck in manufacturing capacity due to operation personnel and chemicals needed. Assessment of existing mRNA (messenger ribonucleic acid) vaccine processing show needs for continuous manufacturing processes. This is enabled by strict application of the regulatory demanded quality by design process based on digital twins, process analytical technology, and control automation strategies in order to improve process transfer for manufacturing capacity, reduction out-of-specification batch failures, qualified personnel training and number, optimal utilization of buffers and chemicals as well as speed-up of product release. In this work, process control concepts, which are necessary for achieving autonomous, continuous manufacturing, for mRNA manufacturing are explained and proven to be ready for industrialization. The application of the process control strategies developed in this work enable the previously pointed out benefits. By switching from batch-wise to continuous mRNA production as was shown in previous work, which was the base for this study, a potential cost reduction by a factor 5 (i.e., from EUR 0.380 per dose to EUR 0.085 per dose) is achievable. Mainly, based on reduction of personnel (factor 30) and consumable (factor 7.5) per campaign due to the significant share of raw materials in the manufacturing costs (74–97). Future research focus following this work may be on model-based predictive control to gain further optimization potential of potential batch failure and out of specification (OOS) number reduction.
Essential Oils of Ocimum basilicum L. and Ocimum americanum L. from Djibouti: Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial and Cytotoxicity Evaluations
Authors: Mohamed Abdoul-Latif Fatouma , Elmi Abdirahman , Merito Ali , Nour Moustapha , Risler Arnaud , Ainane Ayoub , Bignon Jérôme , Ainane Tarik
Published: September 2022

Ocimum plants are of great interest to traditional medicine in the history of several civilizations, particularly in terms of chronic human diseases. Essential oils obtained from this genus have also been used as therapeutic agents. In this present work, two plants of the Ocimum species from Djibouti, Ocimum basilicum L. and Ocimum americanum L., were subjected to hydrodistillation to obtain their essential oils. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was performed to determine the chemical composition of both essential oils. Linalool (41.2%) and estragole (30.1%) are the major compounds among the 37 compounds that have been identified in the essential oil of Ocimum basilicum L. (EOOB), and carvotanacetol (38.4%) and estragole (27.5%) are the main compounds among the 42 compounds that have been identified in the essential oil of Ocimum americanum L. (EOOA). Morever, the cytotoxic activity of EOs was evaluated against 13 human cancer cell lines (K562, A549, HCT116, PC3, U87-MG, MIA-Paca2, HEK293, NCI-N87, RT4, U2OS, A2780, MRC -5 and JIMT-T1) using a luminescence spectrophotometric method; hence, the oils showed significant cytotoxic activities. The antibacterial activities of the oils were assayed on five Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus agalactiae, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Corynebacterium sp.) and seven Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Shigella sonnei, Salmonella enterica sv. Typhimurium and Enterobacter cloacae) by agar disc diffusion methods. Both essential oils exhibited moderate activities against Streptococcus agalactiae, and thus each has an activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa for EOOB and against Enterobacter cloacae for EOOA, while the others are negative. The findings of this work showed the promising anticancer effects of both oils against total cell lines with a potential for use as natural alternatives to synthetic drugs; however, there was only an antibacterial effect against Streptococcus agalactiae.
Modeling Study of a Microbial Spray-Drying Process Based on Real-Time Sampling
Authors: Xiong Feng-kui , Yuan Yue-jin , Xu Ying-ying , Li Jing-yu , Zhao Zhe , Tan Li-bin
Published: September 2022

The process of microbial spray-drying has inherent defects such as short time, complexity, and non-visualization of particle trajectory. However, there has been a lack of effective methods for real-time sampling, rehydration, and non-destructive storage of dried particles, as well as mathematical modeling of the drying process of yeast particles based on sampling and measurement data. Therefore, firstly, a real-time sampling system was developed which completed real-time sampling, rehydration, and non-destructive storage of spray-dried particles, and realized the real reproduction of the changes of yeast particles in the process of spray drying. The laws that the motion trajectory of microbial particles during spray drying are divided into the first cycle region and the reflux cycle region were concluded, and the partition mechanism was explored. Then, based on the sampling data and the law of heat and mass transfer, a mathematical model of porous media was established to predict the variation of moisture content and rehydration survival rate of dried microbial particles with drying time. Finally, the mathematical model was tested by a microbial spray drying experiment, and the maximum errors between the predicted value and the test value of moisture content and rehydration survival rate were Xmax1=0.027(d.b) and Qvmax1=1.06%, respectively, both were less than 5% which proved the correctness of the mathematical model of porous media and laid a foundation for the study of the damage mechanism of microbial spray drying.
Design and Control Applied to an Extractive Distillation Column with Salt for the Production of Bioethanol
Authors: Torres Cantero Carlos Alberto , Pérez Zúñiga Ricardo , Martínez García Mario , Ramos Cabral Silvia , Calixto-Rodriguez Manuela , Valdez Martínez Jorge Salvador , Mena Enriquez Mayra Guadalupe , Pérez Estrada Abraham Jashiel , Ortiz Torres Gerardo , Sorcia Vázquez Felipe de J. , García Rebolledo Azael , Rumbo Morales Jesse Yoe
Published: September 2022

Extractive distillation with salts, unlike other dehydration technologies, is better due to the null toxicity that exists in the distillate, since salt cannot be evaporated. With this distillation technology, it is possible to obtain a high concentration of ethanol, however, there are still problems in the control of the distillation columns in the presence of disturbances. The present work deals with the simulation and control of an extractive distillation column using CaCl2 as a separating agent, for which the Aspen Dynamics® simulator is used. The measurement and control of the ethanol composition are carried out by means of temperature, in addition, four control structures are evaluated and compared. These structures are L, D, LV, and DV, which are the most common in conventional distillation, and their performance is measured by means of deterministic indicators applying changes (disturbances) of composition and the flow rate in the main feed of the column. The most relevant results of this work lead to the fact that by applying a controller, it is possible to maintain the desired purity above the international purity standards (99% ethanol) that govern biofuels.
Studying Soil Ecology and Growth Conditions of Phellorinia herculeana, a Wild Edible Mushroom
Authors: Oviya Rajendiran , Sobanbabu Gunasekaran , Anbazhagan Palaniappan , Revathy Natarajan , Mahalakshmi Palani , Manonmani Karunakaran , Mareeswari Petchimuthu , Vijayasamundeeswari Ayyathurai , Shanmugaiah Vellasamy , Mehetre Sayaji , Ramamoorthy Vellaisamy
Published: September 2022

Phellorinia herculeana is an edible mushroom growing in nutritionally poor and desert soil. There has been little information available about its edaphic and culturing conditions for achieving the vigorous mycelial growth essential for its artificial cultivation, bioaugmentation and biodegradation in unfertile soil. Thus, the present study was conducted to assess its edaphic conditions and find a suitable culturing medium for obtaining maximum growth. It grows commonly in coastal soil with saline conditions, barren land soil unfit for cultivation, and desert soil. It forms a basidiocarp singly around xerophytic trees and annual plants and also in soil without vegetation. In addition to a well-developed pileus and stipe, it has a typical rhizoid that grows horizontally in soil. The rhizoid was thick at the base of the stipe and became thin into the mycelial strand. In our earlier study, we reported that its mycelial growth was very poor on nutrient-rich media containing simple sugar, for example, glucose. In the present study, we observed that cereal-grain-based agar media supported its mycelial growth and among the cereal-grain-based agar media, maize agar medium at the 5% level supported the maximum mycelial growth. Incorporation of glucose into the maize agar medium reduced its mycelial growth compared to its growth on maize agar medium without glucose. Its mycelial growth was at a maximum between 34 °C and 37 °C and at a pH between 7 and 8. Mass multiplication using sand-maize medium prepared at the ratio of 19:1 (sand: maize) supported the maximum mycelial growth. The results of this study would certainly pave a way for the scientific community to develop a protocol for its artificial cultivation and also for its mass multiplication, bioaugmentation and biodegradation in unfertile soil.
Descriptor Representation-Based Guaranteed Cost Control Design Methodology for Polynomial Fuzzy Systems
Authors: Shen Yu-Hsuan , Chen Ying-Jen , Yu Fan-Nong , Wang Wen-June , Tanaka Kazuo
Published: September 2022

This paper presents a descriptor representation-based guaranteed cost design methodology for polynomial fuzzy systems. This methodology applies the descriptor representation for presenting the closed-loop system of the polynomial fuzzy model with a parallel distributed compensation (PDC) based fuzzy controller. By the utility of descriptor representation, the guaranteed cost control (GCC) design analysis can utilize polynomial fuzzy slack matrices for obtaining less conservative results. The proposed GCC design is presented as the sum-of-squares (SOS) conditions. The application of polynomial fuzzy slack matrices leads to the double fuzzy summation issue in the control design. Accordingly, the copositive relaxation works out the problem well and is adopted in the control design analysis. The GCC design minimizes the upper limit of a predesignated cost function. According to the performance function, two simulation examples are provided to demonstrate the validity of the proposed GCC design. In these two examples, the proposed design obtains superior results.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Evaluation of Novel N-{4-[(4-Bromophenyl)sulfonyl]benzoyl}-L-valine Derivatives
Authors: Apostol Theodora-Venera , Chifiriuc Mariana Carmen , Socea Laura-Ileana , Draghici Constantin , Olaru Octavian Tudorel , Nitulescu George Mihai , Visan Diana-Carolina , Marutescu Luminita Gabriela , Pahontu Elena Mihaela , Saramet Gabriel , Barbuceanu Stefania-Felicia
Published: September 2022

In this article, we present the design and synthesis of novel compounds, containing in their molecules an L-valine residue and a 4-[(4-bromophenyl)sulfonyl]phenyl moiety, which belong to N-acyl-α-amino acids, 4H-1,3-oxazol-5-ones, 2-acylamino ketones, and 1,3-oxazoles chemotypes. The synthesized compounds were characterized through elemental analysis, MS, NMR, UV/VIS, and FTIR spectroscopic techniques, the data obtained being in accordance with the assigned structures. Their purities were verified by reversed-phase HPLC. The new compounds were tested for antimicrobial action against bacterial and fungal strains, for antioxidant activity by DPPH, ABTS, and ferric reducing power assays, and for toxicity on freshwater cladoceran Daphnia magna Straus. Furthermore, in silico studies were performed concerning the potential antimicrobial effect and toxicity. The results of antimicrobial activity, antioxidant effect, and toxicity assays, as well as of in silico analysis revealed a promising potential of N-{4-[(4-bromophenyl)sulfonyl]benzoyl}-L-valine and 2-{4-[(4-bromophenyl)sulfonyl]phenyl}-4-isopropyl-4H-1,3-oxazol-5-one for developing novel antimicrobial agents to fight Gram-positive pathogens, and particularly Enterococcus faecium biofilm-associated infections.
Assessment of Cadmium and Copper Adsorption by Two Agricultural Soils from Romania and Tunisia: Risk of Water Resource Pollution
Authors: Abdelwaheb Mohamed , Nedeff Valentin , Dridi-Dhaouadi Sonia , Moșneguțu Emilian , Barsan Narcis , Chițimus Alexandra-Dana
Published: September 2022

Using treated wastewater for irrigation is a good solution for conserving water, but it is also in part responsible for groundwater and water surface pollution by heavy metals, especially copper and cadmium. The soil can be a barrier to retaining these pollutants and protecting the water resource. This study presents an assessment of the adsorption of copper and cadmium by two agricultural soils from Tunisia and Romania to evaluate the risk of water pollution. At first, the two soils were characterized with a scanning electron microscope and different physico-chemical analyses. Before adsorption, the elemental analysis performed with an SEM showed a very low amount of cadmium and copper in both soils (0.01%). The Tunisian soil was considered clayey soil, and the Romanian soil was sandy clayey soil. All experimental kinetics and isotherms were well correlated (R2 > 0.9) with the pseudo-first-order kinetic model and the modified and extended Redlich–Peterson binary adsorption model. For an initial concentration of both pollutants of 0.1 mmol·L−1, the amounts retained and the adsorption percentage of copper and cadmium by the two soils indicate that the Romanian soil (qCu = 0.87 μmol·g−1; % Cu = 98%; qCd = 0.88 μmol·L−1; % Cd = 99%) retained both pollutants better than the Tunisian soil (qCu = 0.65 μmol·g−1, %Cu = 83%; qCd = 0.73 μmol·g−1; %Cd = 93%). Copper presents the greatest risk of water resource pollution, especially in Tunisia. The SEM confirmed the soil adsorption of Cu and Cd and estimated that the retention mechanisms of these two heavy metals are mainly related to the amount of phosphorus, chloride, sulfur and carbon by complexation and precipitation reactions.
A Review of the Impact of Zinc Oxide Nanostructure Morphology on Perovskite Solar Cell Performance
Authors: Manabeng Matshidiso , Mwankemwa Bernard S. , Ocaya Richard O. , Motaung Tshwafo E. , Malevu Thembinkosi D.
Published: September 2022

Zinc oxide (ZnO) has been widely studied over the last decade for its remarkable properties in optoelectronic and photovoltaic devices because of its high electron mobility and excitonic properties. It has probably the broadest range of nanostructured forms that are also easy and cheap to synthesize using a wide variety of methods. The volume of recent work on ZnO nanostructures and their devices can potentially overshadow significant developments in the field. Therefore, there is a need for a concise description of the most recent advances in the field. In this review, we focus on the effect of ZnO nanostructure morphologies on the performance of ZnO-based solar cells sensitized using methylammonium lead iodide perovskite. We present an exhaustive discussion of the synthesis routes for different morphologies of the ZnO nanostructure, ways of controlling the morphology, and the impact of morphology on the photoconversion efficiency of a given perovskite solar cell (PSC). We find that although the ZnO nanostructures are empirically similar, one-dimensional structures appear to offer the most promise to increasing photoconversion efficiency (PCE) by their proclivity to align and form vertically stacked layers. This is thought to favor electron hopping, charge mobility, and conductivity by allowing multiple charge conduction pathways and increasing the effective junction cross-sectional area. The combined effect is a net increase in PCE due to the reduced surface reflection, and improved light absorption.
Processes and Interactions Impacting the Stability and Compatibility of Vitamin K and Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Samide Adriana , Tutunaru Bogdan , Oprea Bogdan
Published: September 2022

This study provides evidence on the stability of vitamin K1 (VK) in the form of phytomenadione, in the absence and presence of a therapeutic preparation, as the gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), under the effect of sodium halide ions. The degradation susceptibility of the two compounds was assessed individually and in mixtures by cyclic voltammetry and electrolysis at a constant current density assisted by UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Their interactions with the halide ions differently impact on the electrochemical processes as follows: (i) the fluoride ions weakly affects the VK/AuNP stability and compatibility; (ii) the presence of chloride ions leads to VK/AuNP stability, for a short time and restrictive compatibility; (iii) bromide ions induce instability and incompatibility of the VK/AuNP system; (iv) spontaneous interactions between VK/AuNPs and iodide ions take place, consequently defining as an unstable and incompatible system.
Experimental Study on Floor Damage and Slurry Material Ratio Optimization in Deep and High Confined Water Mining
Authors: Wang Wenmiao , Yuan Yong , Liang Xiaokang , Qin Zhenghan , Chen Zhongshun , Ding Ke , Xia Yongqi , Yan Chenlong
Published: September 2022

Deep mining has started in the Huaibei mining area, and the serious threat of high confined water on the floor to the coal seam is gradually increasing. Based on the deep confined water mining project at working face II633 of the Hengyuan coal mine, this paper theoretically analyzes the damage depth of the floor and the risk of water inrush from the floor. The best proportion of grouting materials was quantitatively optimized by indoor experiments, and an industrial field test was conducted to judge the grouting effect. The results show that the failure depth of the bottom plate calculated by theoretical analysis is 31.73 m; a single factor test and a response surface optimization design method determined the best value of each index: water cement ratio 0.8, bentonite 2%, water reducer 0.6%, sodium silicate 2%. The damage depth of the bottom plate after grouting is 18.83~20 m, according to the field monitoring by the strain method. The optimized slurry significantly reduces the damage depth of the floor, ensures the safe and efficient mining of the coal seam above the high–pressure water, and has a high reference value for the safe mining of the coal seam under similar geological conditions.
Bibliometric Analysis of Current Status of Circular Economy during 2012–2021: Case of Foods
Authors: Del-Aguila-Arcentales Shyla , Alvarez-Risco Aldo , Carvache-Franco Mauricio , Rosen Marc A. , Yáñez Jaime A.
Published: September 2022

Food is usually recognized as a limited resource in sustainability, recognized by the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2, which aims to achieve zero hunger. It is expected that the circular economy (CE) can improve processes related to food production. The objective of the present study was to apply a bibliometric approach using VOSviewer visualization software as a research tool to analyze the relevant literature from the Scopus database in the field of circular economy and its relation to improvements in food issues throughout 2012–2021. A total of 1316 articles were analyzed. Italy was the most productive country with 313 articles, with Wageningen University & Research the organization with the most publications with 39 articles. The top 10 institutions originated from Italy, The Netherlands, France, and Denmark. Sustainability was the most productive journal with 107 articles. Bioresource Technology had the highest average citation frequency (44.68). The study helps initiate investigations to adapt the results obtained and create new strategies for increasing food circular economy efforts.
Glow Discharge Plasma Processing for the Improvement of Pasteurized Orange Juice’s Aroma and Off-Flavor
Authors: Rodrigues Sueli , Fernandes Fabiano Andre Narciso
Published: September 2022

Orange juice is one of the most popular juices sold in the world. Although very popular, most orange juice sold in the market is pasteurized, presenting off-flavor compounds and aromas different from the freshly squeezed juice. This study investigated how green chemistry, through the application of glow discharge plasma, can help improve the aroma and mitigate off-flavors of pasteurized orange juice. Orange juice was processed at different plasma flow rates (10 to 30 mL/min) for 10 to 30 min. Glow discharge plasma processing induced several chemical reactions enabling positive changes in the volatile profile of pasteurized orange juice. Chemical pathways were proposed and correlated to the changes in aroma and mitigation of off-flavor compounds. Glow discharge plasma increased the concentration of terpenoid and aldehyde compounds that give the orange juice its fresh-like characteristics and reduced the off-flavor compound concentration by 61%.