bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nano-WSe2 Is Absorbable and Transformable by Rice Plants
Authors: Tian Xue , Xie Hongxin , Li Jincheng , Cui Liwei , Yu Yong-Liang , Li Bai , Li Yu-Feng
Published: November 2022

As typical transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDC), tungsten selenide (WSe2) nanosheets (nano-WSe2) are widely used in various fields due to their layered structures and highly tunable electronic and magnetic properties, which results in the unwanted release of tungsten (W) and selenium (Se) into the environment. However, the environmental effects of nano-WSe2 in plants are still unclear. Herein, we evaluated the impacts and fate of nano-WSe2 and micro-WSe2 in rice plants (Oryza sativa L.). It was found that both nano-WSe2 and micro-WSe2 did not affect the germination of rice seeds up to 5000 mg/L but nano-WSe2 affected the growth of rice seedlings with shortened root lengths. The uptake and transportation of WSe2 was found to be size-dependent. Moreover, W in WSe2 was oxidized to tungstate while Se was transformed to selenocysteine, selenomethionine, SeIV and SeVI in the roots of rice when exposed to nano-WSe2, suggesting the transformation of nano-WSe2 in rice plants. The exposure to nano-WSe2 brought lipid peroxidative damage to rice seedlings. However, Se in nano-WSe2 did not contribute to the synthesis of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) since the latter did not change when exposed to nano-WSe2. This is the first report on the impacts and fate of nano-WSe2 in rice plants, which has raised environmental safety concerns about the wide application of TMDCs, such as WSe2 nanosheets.
Development and Validation of an LC-MS/MS Method for Simultaneous Determination of Short Peptide-Based Drugs in Human Blood Plasma
Authors: Fisher Elizaveta N. , Melnikov Evgeny S. , Gegeckori Vladimir , Potoldykova Natalya V. , Enikeev Dmitry V. , Pavlenko Kirill A. , Agatonovic-Kustrin Snezana , Morton David W. , Ramenskaya Galina V.
Published: November 2022

A novel HPLC-ESI-MS/MS method for simultaneous gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs and somatostatin analog quantitation was developed and validated. The developed method was successfully applied to pharmacokinetic studies. The sample preparation process included solid-phase extraction (SPE). Effective chromatographic separation of the analytes and internal standard (dalargin) was achieved with a C18 column, using a gradient elution with two mobile phases: 0.1% v/v formic acid (aqueous solution) and 0.1% v/v formic acid (acetonitrile solution). The linearity of the method was demonstrated within a concentration range of 0.5–20 ng/mL, with correlation coefficients between 0.998–0.999 for goserelin, buserelin, triptorelin, and octreotide, respectively. The relative standard deviation (RSD, %) values for method accuracy and precision did not exceed 20% at the lower level of quantitation (LLOQ) or 15% at other concentration levels.
Chemical Profile and Antioxidant Capacity of Propolis from Tetragonula, Lepidotrigona, Lisotrigona and Homotrigona Stingless Bee Species in Vietnam
Authors: Popova Milena , Trusheva Boryana , Chimshirova Ralitsa , Antonova Daniela , Gechovska Kamelia , Thanh Le Nguyen , Lien Nguyen Thi Phuong , Phuong Diep Thi Lan , Bankova Vassya
Published: November 2022

The present study aimed to analyze and compare the chemical profile and antioxidant capacity of propolis from different bee species and different regions. The chemical profiles of propolis from six stingless bee species (Tetragonula iridipennis, T. laeviceps, Lepidotrigona terminata, L. ventralis, Lisotrigona carpenteri and Homotrigona apicalis) collected from a total of eight locations in Vietnam were investigated by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). More than 70 compounds were identified, amongst which phenolic lipids (cardanols, resorcinols and anacardic acids), aromatic acids, triterpenes and xanthones. Taxonomic markers for Mangifera indica (phenolic lipids and cycloartane triterpenes) were detected in propolis from bees of the genera Tetragonula and Lepidotrigona, although in different amounts, whereas propolis from H. apicalis was characterized by triterpenes of the amyrine type, typical of dipterocarp trees. A clear discrimination between both groups was observed by principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares–discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). Propolis from Tetragonula and Lepidotrigona spp. and from Lisotrigona carpenteri, which is rich in xanthones, possesses higher radical scavenging and ferric-reducing capacity than that from H. apicalis. Propolis produced by all six stingless bee species in Vietnam was analyzed for the first time. In addition, this is the first report on L. carpenteri propolis.
Review on Coupled Thermo-Hydraulic Performance of Nanofluids and Microchannels
Authors: Wang Yuwei , Yu Jie , Qi Cong , Zhang Wenjie
Published: November 2022

As electronic components continue to be miniaturized, the heat flux density continues to increase. Scholars have proposed the use of microchannel heat sinks (MCHS) to dissipate heat from devices with high heat flux density, and have pointed out that the heat dissipation capability of MCHS can be improved in two ways: using nanofluids with high thermal conductivity and optimizing the structure of MCHS. In this paper, the thermophysical parameters and thermo-hydraulic performance of nanofluids in microchannels are reviewed. Improving the heat dissipation of MCHS is analyzed and discussed in terms of both thermal properties and flow properties, respectively.
Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution over Mo-Doped ZnIn2S4 with Sulfur Vacancies
Authors: Guan Wei , Zhang Lin , Wang Peng , Wang Ying , Wang Haoyu , Dong Xingchen , Meng Ming , Sui Lina , Gan Zhixing , Dong Lifeng , Yu Liyan
Published: November 2022

The introduction of impure atoms or crystal defects is a promising strategy for enhancing the photocatalytic activity of semiconductors. However, the synergy of these two effects in 2D atomic layers remains unexplored. In this case, the preparation of molybdenum-doped thin ZnIn2S4-containing S vacancies (Mo-doped Sv-ZnIn2S4) is conducted using a one-pot solvothermal method. The coordination of Mo doping and S vacancies not only enhances visible light absorption and facilitates the separation of photogenerated carriers but also provides many active sites for photocatalytic reactions. Meanwhile, the Mo-S bonds play function as high-speed channels to rapidly transfer carriers to the active sites, which can directly promote hydrogen evolution. Consequently, Sv-ZnIn2S4 with an optimized amount of Mo doping exhibits a high hydrogen evolution rate of 5739 μmol g−1 h−1 with a corresponding apparent quantum yield (AQY) of 21.24% at 420 nm, which is approximately 5.4 times higher than the original ZnIn2S4. This work provides a new strategy for the development of highly efficient and sustainable 2D atomic photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution.
Fabrication of a Disposable Electrochemical Immunosensor Based on Nanochannel Array Modified Electrodes and Gated Electrochemical Signals for Sensitive Determination of C-Reactive Protein
Authors: Ma Ning , Luo Xuan , Wu Weidong , Liu Jiyang
Published: November 2022

Sensitive determination of C-reactive protein (CRP) is of great significance because it is an early indicator of inflammation in cardiovascular disease and acute myocardial infarction. A disposable electrode with an integrated three-electrode system (working, reference, and counter electrodes) has great potential in the detection of biomarkers. In this work, an electrochemical immunosensing platform was fabricated on disposable and integrated screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) by introducing nanochannel arrays and gated electrochemical signals, which can achieve the sensitive detection of CRP in serum. To introduce active reactive groups for the fabrication of immuno-recognitive interface, vertically-ordered mesoporous silica-nanochannel film (VMSF) with rich amino groups (NH2-VMSF) was rapidly grown by electrochemical assisted self-assembly (EASA). The electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ErGO) synthesized in situ during the growth of NH2-VMSF was used as a conductive adhesive glue to achieve stable bonding of the nanochannel array (NH2-VMSF/ErGO/SPCE). After the amino group on the outer surface of NH2-VMSF reacted with bifunctional glutaraldehyde (GA/NH2-VMSF/ErGO/SPCE), the converted aldehyde surface was applied for covalent immobilization of the recognitive antibody (Ab) followed with the blocking of the non-specific sites. The fabricated immunosensor, Ab/GA/NH2-VMSF/ErGO/SPCE, enables sensitive detection of CRP in the range from 10 pg/mL to 100 ng/mL with low limit of detection (LOD, 8 pg/mL, S/N = 3). The immunosensor possessed high selectivity and can realize reliable determination of CRP in human serum.
Effects of a Nonviolent Communication-Based Empathy Education Program for Nursing Students: A Quasi-Experimental Pilot Study
Authors: Sung Jieun , Kweon Youngran
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to develop and examine the effects of a nonviolent communication empathy education program, based on a cyclical empathy model of self-esteem, empathic ability, interpersonal relationships, and communication competency for nursing students. Participants were first-grade nursing students from two different colleges in Korea. There were 62 participants: 32 and 30 in the experimental and control groups, respectively. The experimental group received six sessions of 120 min each. The sessions were based on nonviolent communication content and utilized teaching methods such as lectures, presentations, personal activities, group activities, role plays, assignments, and reflective journals. The data were analyzed with percentage, χ²-test, Fisher’s Exact test, and a two-group independent means t-test using the SPSS 24.0 program. There were significant increases in self-esteem (t = 4.06, p < 0.001), empathic ability (t = 5.22, p < 0.001), interpersonal relationships (t = 5.14, p < 0.001), and communication competency (t = 5.27, p < 0.001) in the experimental group compared to the control group. Therefore, a nonviolent communication empathy education program based on the cyclical empathy model is expected to be useful for the humanities and social education in a nursing curriculum. Furthermore, it can improve human nursing competency based on multidimensional empathy in clinical settings.
Prevalence of Toxoplasmosis in Sheep and Goats in Pakistan: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mumtaz Tanzila , Awan Usman Ayub , Mushtaq Aqsa , Afzal Muhmmad Sohail , Mahmood Tahir , Wasif Samia , Ali Abid , Ajmal Kiran , Mohamed Teroj , Muhammad Ali , Liu Hua , Ahmed Haroon , Cao Jianping
Published: November 2022

Toxoplasmosis, a parasitic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii, results in congenital disorders and miscarriages among livestock and humans worldwide. This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to determine the prevalence of T. gondii infection in sheep and goats in Pakistan from 2000 to 2020. We searched the PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and Google Scholar databases and selected 17 publications that fulfilled our inclusion criteria. Eight studies were conducted in Southern Punjab, six in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, two in Northern Punjab, and one in Central Punjab. The diagnostic tests used in the included articles to confirm toxoplasmosis were the latex agglutination test in 56% of the studies, the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 38%, and the indirect hemagglutination assay in 6%. The infection rates were substantially higher among sheep > 1 year of age (37%) than among sheep ≤ 1 year old (19%). Statistically significant differences in infection rates were found between male and female sheep and goats. The overall infection rate by age was also significant among sheep and goats. Sex and age variability between sheep investigations were significant, and sex heterogeneity and age homogeneity were significant among goats. Hence, robust infection control protocols should be implemented to prevent infection in animals and humans.
High Throughput Sequencing for Clinical Tuberculosis: An Overview
Authors: Ness Tara E. , DiNardo Andrew , Farhat Maha R.
Published: November 2022

High throughput sequencing (HTS) can identify the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA in a clinical sample while also providing information on drug susceptibility. Multiple studies have provided a context for exploring the clinical application of HTS for TB diagnosis. The workflow challenges, strengths and limitations of the various sequencing platforms, and tools used for analysis are presented to provide a framework for further innovations in the field.
Luna Virus and Helminths in Wild Mastomys natalensis in Two Contrasting Habitats in Zambia: Risk Factors and Evidence of Virus Dissemination in Semen
Authors: Munjita Samuel Munalula , Moonga Given , Mukubesa Andrew Nalishuwa , Ndebe Joseph , Mubemba Benjamin , Vanaerschot Manu , Tato Cristina , Tembo John , Kapata Nathan , Chitanga Simbarashe , Changula Katendi , Kajihara Mashiro , Muleya Walter , Takada Ayato , Fichet-Calvet Elisabeth , Zumla Alimuddin , Sawa Hirofumi , Bates Matthew , Munsaka Sody , Simulundu Edgar
Published: November 2022

Transmission dynamics and the maintenance of mammarenaviruses in nature are poorly understood. Using metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and RT-PCR, we investigated the presence of mammarenaviruses and co-infecting helminths in various tissues of 182 Mastomys natalensis rodents and 68 other small mammals in riverine and non-riverine habitats in Zambia. The Luna virus (LUAV) genome was the only mammarenavirus detected (7.7%; 14/182) from M. natalensis. Only one rodent from the non-riverine habitat was positive, while all six foetuses from one pregnant rodent carried LUAV. LUAV-specific mNGS reads were 24-fold higher in semen than in other tissues from males. Phylogenetically, the viruses were closely related to each other within the LUAV clade. Helminth infections were found in 11.5% (21/182) of M. natalensis. LUAV–helminth co-infections were observed in 50% (7/14) of virus-positive rodents. Juvenility (OR = 9.4; p = 0.018; 95% CI: 1.47–59.84), nematodes (OR = 15.5; p = 0.001; 95% CI: 3.11–76.70), cestodes (OR = 10.8; p = 0.025; 95% CI: 1.35–86.77), and being male (OR = 4.6; p = 0.036; 95% CI: 1.10–18.90) were associated with increased odds of LUAV RNA detection. The role of possible sexual and/or congenital transmission in the epidemiology of LUAV infections in rodents requires further study, along with the implications of possible helminth co-infection.
Aspartames Alter Pharmacokinetics Parameters of Erlotinib and Gefitinib and Elevate Liver Enzymes in Wistar Rats
Authors: AlRasheed Hajer , Almomen Aliyah , Aljohar Haya , Arafah Maria , Almotawa Rana , Alossaimi Manal , Alzoman Nourah
Published: November 2022

Background: Erlotinib (ERL) and gefitinib (GEF) are extensively metabolized by CYP450 enzymes. Aspartame (ASP), an artificial sweetener, induces CYP2E1 and CYP3A2 enzymes in the brain and could increase liver enzymes. In this work, the influence of ASP on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of ERL and GEF in Wistar rats was evaluated. Methods: The PKs of ERL and GEF were evaluated after receiving 175 mg/kg or 1000 mg/kg of ASP for four weeks using UPLC-MS/MS. Levels of liver enzymes after four weeks of ASP consumption were also evaluated. Results: ASP 175 mg/kg was able to significantly alter levels of Cmax (36% increase for ERL, 38% decrease for GEF), AUC0–72 (205% increase for ERL, 41% increase for GEF), and AUC0–∞ (112% increase for ERL, 14% increase for GEF). Moreover, ASP 175 mg/kg decreased the apparent oral clearance ERL and GEF by 58% and 13%, respectively. ASP 1000 mg/kg increased Cmax of ERL by 159% and decreased GEF’s Cmax by and 73%. Both AUC0–72 and AUC0–∞ were increased by ASP 1000 for ERL and decreased for GEF. CL/F decreased by 64% for ERL and increased by 38.8% for GEF. Moreover, data indicated that ASP significantly increased levels of liver enzymes within two weeks of administration. Conclusions: Although ASP 175 and 1000 mg/kg alter ERL and GEF PKs parameters, ASP 1000 mg/kg has the highest impact on most parameters. ASP 1000 mg/kg also can significantly increase activities of liver enzymes indicating the possibility of inducing liver injury. Therefore, it might be of clinical importance to avoid the administration of aspartame containing products while on ERL or GEF therapy.
Laser Treatment for Retinal Arterial Macroaneurysm
Authors: Bianco Lorenzo , Gawęcki Maciej , Antropoli Alessio , Arrigo Alessandro , Bandello Francesco , Battaglia Parodi Maurizio
Published: November 2022

Retinal arterial macroaneurysm (RAM) can be defined as an acquired round or fusiform dilation of a retinal artery. RAMs frequently remain stable but, in some cases, can complicate with macular exudation or hemorrhage, resulting in symptomatic disease. While a watch-and-wait approach is the standard option in asymptomatic RAMs, there is no universal agreement regarding treatment of symptomatic cases and randomized clinical trials are warranted. Anti-VEGF intravitreal injections can reduce exudation, albeit multiple treatments may be necessary. Hence, laser treatment may be a better choice to provide a durable control of symptoms while anti-VEGF therapy should be preferred for lesions adjacent to the fovea. Indirect laser is recommended because there is a decreased danger of RAM rupture and hemorrhage. Furthermore, subthreshold laser seems to be comparable to conventional laser in terms of efficacy outcomes.
A Dual-Band Carbon Dioxide Sensor Based on Metal–TiO2–Metal Metasurface Covered by Functional Material
Authors: Long Wei , Zhou Rujun , Du Zixuan , Ling Qiang , Zhang Yusheng , Zhao Ding , Shao Jie , Luo Si , Chen Daru
Published: November 2022

Highly sensitive and integrated optical multi-band CO2 sensors are significant at the shortwave infrared (SWIR) region and still lack research. A compact CO2 sensor composed of a Au-disk/TiO2-cylinder/Au-film metasurface coated by polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) film, functioning at multi-band resonances as well as having high sensitivity to gas concentrations, is presented. It can be employed as a dual-band narrowband absorber, producing two strongly resonant modes at the SWIR region under a reflection-type framework of linearly polarized incidence. Moreover, the metasurface sensor possesses high refractive index sensitivity of 109.25 pm/ppm at around 1040 nm and 42.57 pm/ppm at around 1330 nm in the range of 200–600 ppm, which is suitable for detecting atmospheric CO2. Furthermore, the numerical results show that the sensitivity increases with a thicker PHMB film and optimizes at a thickness above 600 nm. The physical mechanism reveals that the higher order mode exhibits more extended near-field energy than the lower order mode, resulting in more sensitivity towards the surroundings. The design and results of our investigation show high-quality CO2 sensing performance which functions at dual spectrum bands in the SWIR region and is promising for integrated photonic applications.
A Novel Metaheuristic Approach for Solar Photovoltaic Parameter Extraction Using Manufacturer Data
Authors: Tajjour Salwan , Chandel Shyam Singh , Malik Hasmat , Alotaibi Majed A. , Ustun Taha Selim
Published: November 2022

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panel parameter estimation is vital to manage solar-based microgrid operations, for which several techniques have been developed. Solar cell modeling using metaheuristic algorithms is found to be one of the accurate techniques. However, it requires experimental datasets, which may not be available for most of the industrial modules. Therefore, this study proposed a new model to estimate the solar parameters for two types of PV panels using manufacturer datasheets only. In addition, two optimization techniques called particle swarm optimization (PSO) and genetic algorithm (GA) were also investigated for solving this problem. The predicted results showed that GA is more accurate than PSO, but PSO is faster. The new model was tested under different solar radiation conditions and found to be accurate under all conditions, with an error which varied between 7.6212 × 10−4 under standard testing conditions and 0.0032 at 200 W/m2 solar radiation. Further comparison of the proposed method with other methods in the literature showed its capability to compete with other models despite not using experimental datasets. The study is of significance for the sustainable energy management of newly established commercial PV micro grids.
Dynamics Simulation of Self-Mode-Locking in a Semiconductor Disk Laser Using Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Wang Tao , Zhu Renjiang , Tong Cunzhu , Liu Yunjie , Zhang Peng
Published: November 2022

Self-mode-locked semiconductor disk lasers possess compact resonant cavity and stable construction. These devices have a wide application prospect because of their picosecond to sub-picosecond pulse width, excellent beam quality and tailorable emission wavelength. In this paper, dynamics simulations of self-mode-locking in a semiconductor disk laser are performed by using delay differential equations for the first time. The corresponding conditions of different modality of mode-locking, including Q-switched mode-locking, continuous-wave mode-locking and harmonic mode-locking are calculated, and their dynamics evolution processes are presented. We also analyze the characteristics of the three different mode-locking modalities and summarize their overall dynamics evolution tendency. This kind of numerical simulation and analysis provides an understanding of the dynamics process of self-mode-locking, and may be referenced for related experiments.
Phosphorous Supplementation Alleviates Drought-Induced Physio-Biochemical Damages in Calligonum mongolicum
Authors: Ullah Abd , Tariq Akash , Zeng Fanjiang , Sardans Jordi , Graciano Corina , Ullah Sami , Chai Xutian , Zhang Zhihao , Keyimu Maierdang , Asghar Muhammad Ahsan , Javed Hafiz Hassan , Peñuelas Josep
Published: November 2022

Calligonum mongolicum is a phreatophyte playing an important role in sand dune fixation, but little is known about its responses to drought and P fertilization. In the present study, we performed a pot experiment to investigate the effects of P fertilization under drought or well-watered conditions on multiple morpho-physio-biochemical attributes of C. mongolicum seedlings. Drought stress leads to a higher production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA), leading to impaired growth and metabolism. However, C. mongolicum exhibited effective drought tolerance strategies, including a higher accumulation of soluble sugars, starch, soluble protein, proline, and significantly higheractivities of peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes. P fertilization increased the productivity of drought-stressed seedlings by increasing their growth, assimilative shoots relative water content, photosynthetic pigments, osmolytes accumulation, mineral nutrition, N assimilation, and reduced lipid peroxidation. Our findings suggest the presence of soil high P depletion and C. mongolicum high P requirements during the initial growth stage. Thus, P can be utilized as a fertilizer to enhance the growth and productivity of Calligonum vegetation and to reduce the fragility of the hyper-arid desert of Taklamakan in the context of future climate change.
Evaluation of Essential Oils as Sprout Suppressants for Potato (Solanum tuberosum) at Room Temperature Storage
Authors: Thoma Jena L. , Cantrell Charles L. , Zheljazkov Valtcho D.
Published: November 2022

Chlorpropham (CIPC) has been the dominant method of chemical sprout suppression for the last half-century. However, stricter regulations including outright bans on its use in several countries has prompted investigation into alternative products to replace it. Growing interest in organic foods has increased focus on the use of biopesticides, including essential oils (EOs), as potential sprout suppressants in stored potato. We evaluated the potential of ten EOs for sprout suppression in potato cultivar Ranger Russet at room temperature. Treatment with Cymbopogon citratus EO was found to be the most effective sprout suppressant, completely suppressing sprouting over the 90-day storage period. The EOs of Myrtus communis and Melaleuca quinquenervia significantly reduced sprout length relative to the control but did not have any effect on sprout number. These findings demonstrate the potential of select EOs as effective potato sprout suppressants that could replace CIPC use in this industry while also giving more power to organic potato producers and processors to control sprouting in their operations.
Comparison of Two Simplified Versions of the Gielis Equation for Describing the Shape of Bamboo Leaves
Authors: Yao Weihao , Niinemets Ülo , Yao Wenjing , Gielis Johan , Schrader Julian , Yu Kexin , Shi Peijian
Published: November 2022

Bamboo is an important component in subtropical and tropical forest communities. The plant has characteristic long lanceolate leaves with parallel venation. Prior studies have shown that the leaf shapes of this plant group can be well described by a simplified version (referred to as SGE-1) of the Gielis equation, a polar coordinate equation extended from the superellipse equation. SGE-1 with only two model parameters is less complex than the original Gielis equation with six parameters. Previous studies have seldom tested whether other simplified versions of the Gielis equation are superior to SGE-1 in fitting empirical leaf shape data. In the present study, we compared a three-parameter Gielis equation (referred to as SGE-2) with the two-parameter SGE-1 using the leaf boundary coordinate data of six bamboo species within the same genus that have representative long lanceolate leaves, with >300 leaves for each species. We sampled 2000 data points at approximately equidistant locations on the boundary of each leaf, and estimated the parameters for the two models. The root–mean–square error (RMSE) between the observed and predicted radii from the polar point to data points on the boundary of each leaf was used as a measure of the model goodness of fit, and the mean percent error between the RMSEs from fitting SGE-1 and SGE-2 was used to examine whether the introduction of an additional parameter in SGE-1 remarkably improves the model’s fitting. We found that the RMSE value of SGE-2 was always smaller than that of SGE-1. The mean percent errors among the two models ranged from 7.5% to 20% across the six species. These results indicate that SGE-2 is superior to SGE-1 and should be used in fitting leaf shapes. We argue that the results of the current study can be potentially extended to other lanceolate leaf shapes.
Transcriptome Analysis of Wheat–Tilletia indica Interaction Provides Defense and Pathogenesis-Related Genes
Authors: Gurjar Malkhan Singh , Jain Shekhar , Aggarwal Rashmi , Saharan Mahender Singh , Kumar Tej Pratap Jitendra , Kharbikar Lalit
Published: November 2022

Karnal bunt (Tilletia indica Mitra) is an internationally quarantined disease of wheat. Until now, very little information has been available on the molecular basis of resistance and pathogenicity of T. indica. To investigate the molecular basis of host–pathogen interaction, the transcriptome of T. indica inoculated resistant (HD29) and susceptible (WH542) genotypes of wheat were analyzed. Approximately 58 million reads were generated using RNA sequencing by the Illumina NextSeq500 platform. These sequence reads were aligned to a reference genome of wheat to compare the expression level of genes in resistant and susceptible genotypes. The high-quality reads were deposited in the NCBI SRA database (SRP159223). More than 80,000 genes were expressed in both the resistant and susceptible wheat genotypes. Of these, 76,088 were commonly expressed genes, including 3184 significantly upregulated and 1778 downregulated genes. Four thousand one hundred thirteen and 5604 genes were exclusively expressed in susceptible and resistant genotypes, respectively. Based on the significance, 503 genes were upregulated and 387 genes were downregulated. Using gene ontology, the majority of coding sequences were associated with response to stimuli, stress, carbohydrate metabolism, developmental process, and catalytic activity. Highly differentially expressed genes (integral component of membrane, exonuclease activity, nucleic acid binding, DNA binding, metal ion binding) were validated in resistant and susceptible genotypes using qPCR analysis and similar expression levels were found in RNA-Seq. Apart from the wheat, the mapping of T. indica was 7.07% and 7.63% of resistant and susceptible hosts, respectively, upon infection, which revealed significant pathogenesis-related genes. This first study provided in-depth information and new insights into wheat–T. indica interaction for managing Karnal bunt disease of wheat.
SPL12 Regulates AGL6 and AGL21 to Modulate Nodulation and Root Regeneration under Osmotic Stress and Nitrate Sufficiency Conditions in Medicago sativa
Authors: Nasrollahi Vida , Yuan Ze-Chun , Kohalmi Susanne E. , Hannoufa Abdelali
Published: November 2022

The highly conserved plant microRNA, miR156, affects root architecture, nodulation, symbiotic nitrogen fixation, and stress response. In Medicago sativa, transcripts of eleven SQUAMOSA-PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN-LIKE, SPLs, including SPL12, are targeted for cleavage by miR156. Our previous research revealed the role of SPL12 and its target gene, AGL6, in nodulation in alfalfa. Here, we investigated the involvement of SPL12, AGL6 and AGL21 in nodulation under osmotic stress and different nitrate availability conditions. Characterization of phenotypic and molecular parameters revealed that the SPL12/AGL6 module plays a negative role in maintaining nodulation under osmotic stress. While there was a decrease in the nodule numbers in WT plants under osmotic stress, the SPL12-RNAi and AGL6-RNAi genotypes maintained nodulation under osmotic stress. Moreover, the results showed that SPL12 regulates nodulation under a high concentration of nitrate by silencing AGL21. AGL21 transcript levels were increased under nitrate treatment in WT plants, but SPL12 was not affected throughout the treatment period. Given that AGL21 was significantly upregulated in SPL12-RNAi plants, we conclude that SPL12 may be involved in regulating nitrate inhibition of nodulation in alfalfa by targeting AGL21. Taken together, our results suggest that SPL12, AGL6, and AGL21 form a genetic module that regulates nodulation in alfalfa under osmotic stress and in response to nitrate.
Novel Single-Nucleotide Variants for Morpho-Physiological Traits Involved in Enhancing Drought Stress Tolerance in Barley
Authors: Elbasyoni Ibrahim S. , Eltaher Shamseldeen , Morsy Sabah , Mashaheet Alsayed M. , Abdallah Ahmed M. , Ali Heba G. , Mariey Samah A. , Baenziger P. Stephen , Frels Katherine
Published: November 2022

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) thrives in the arid and semi-arid regions of the world; nevertheless, it suffers large grain yield losses due to drought stress. A panel of 426 lines of barley was evaluated in Egypt under deficit (DI) and full irrigation (FI) during the 2019 and 2020 growing seasons. Observations were recorded on the number of days to flowering (NDF), total chlorophyll content (CH), canopy temperature (CAN), grain filling duration (GFD), plant height (PH), and grain yield (Yield) under DI and FI. The lines were genotyped using the 9K Infinium iSelect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) genotyping platform, which resulted in 6913 high-quality SNPs. In conjunction with the SNP markers, the phenotypic data were subjected to a genome-wide association scan (GWAS) using Bayesian-information and Linkage-disequilibrium Iteratively Nested Keyway (BLINK). The GWAS results indicated that 36 SNPs were significantly associated with the studied traits under DI and FI. Furthermore, eight markers were significant and common across DI and FI water regimes, while 14 markers were uniquely associated with the studied traits under DI. Under DI and FI, three (11_10326, 11_20042, and 11_20170) and five (11_20099, 11_10326, 11_20840, 12_30298, and 11_20605) markers, respectively, had pleiotropic effect on at least two traits. Among the significant markers, 24 were annotated to known barley genes. Most of these genes were involved in plant responses to environmental stimuli such as drought. Overall, nine of the significant markers were previously reported, and 27 markers might be considered novel. Several markers identified in this study could enable the prediction of barley accessions with optimal agronomic performance under DI and FI.
Characterization of the (Poly)Phenolic Fraction of Fig Peel: Comparison among Twelve Cultivars Harvested in Tuscany
Authors: Calani Luca , Bresciani Letizia , Rodolfi Margherita , Del Rio Daniele , Petruccelli Raffaella , Faraloni Cecilia , Ganino Tommaso
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: The fig tree (Ficus carica L.) is widely cultivated in the Mediterranean area and it produces fruits largely consumed in the Mediterranean diet. Previous studies have shown that this fruit represents a rich source of (poly)phenols, which are mainly located in the peel rather than the pulp. In our study, fig peel derived from twelve different cultivars located in Tuscany was assessed for its (poly)phenol profile. (2) Methods: The (poly)phenol characterization was performed through ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to multiple-stage mass spectrometry. (3) Results: Twenty-eight (poly)phenolic compounds were quantified in the investigated fig peel. It was possible to observe an interesting variability in the (poly)phenol content among the twelve cultivars of fig peel. Rutin and 5-caffeoylquinic acid were the main compounds in the greenish fig peel, while cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside was the main component in the dark-violet fig peel. (4) Conclusions: fig peel could be used as a (poly)phenol-rich ingredient in several food products to increase the bioactive compound content of foods. Moreover, dark-violet peel could be considered potentially suitable as a natural food colorant.
Orphan Genes in Crop Improvement: Enhancing Potato Tuber Protein without Impacting Yield
Authors: Tanvir Rezwan , Wang Lei , Zhang Amy , Li Ling
Published: November 2022

Qua-Quine Starch (QQS), an Arabidopsis thaliana orphan gene, and its interactor, Arabidopsis Nuclear Factor Y subunit C4 (AtNF-YC4), can increase the total leaf and seed protein in different plants. Despite their potential in developing protein-rich crop varieties, their influence on the protein content of the stem, modified stem, and tuber was never investigated. Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is one of the most valuable food crops worldwide. This staple food is rich in starch, vitamins (B6, C), phenolics, flavonoids, polyamines, carotenoids, and various minerals but lacks adequate proteins necessary for a healthy human diet. Here we expressed A. thaliana QQS (AtQQS) and overexpressed S. tuberosum NF-YC4 (StNF-YC4) in potatoes to determine their influence on the composition and morphological characteristics of potato tubers. Our data demonstrated higher protein and reduced starch content in potato tubers without significantly compromising the tuber yield, shape, and numbers, when QQS was expressed or StNF-YC4 was overexpressed. Publicly available expression data, promoter region, and protein–protein interaction analyses of StNF-YC4 suggest its potential functionality in potato storage protein, metabolism, stress resistance, and defense against pests and pathogens. The overall outcomes of this study support QQS and NF-YC4’s potential utilization as tools to enhance tuber protein content in plants.
Highly Durable Antibacterial Properties of Cellulosic Fabric via β-Cyclodextrin/Essential Oils Inclusion Complex
Authors: Farouk A. , Sharaf S. , Refaie R. , Abd El-Hady M. M.
Published: November 2022

Essential oils (EOS), which naturally come from plants, have significant antibacterial properties against a variety of pathogens, but their high volatility and poor water solubility severely restrict their use in the textile industry. In this study, an inclusion complex based on β-cyclodextrin (β-CD)/EOS was prepared by two different simple methods: pad dry cure (method 1) and pad batch (method 2). A glyoxal crosslinking agent was used for the fixation of the inclusion complexes on the surface of the fabric. Lavender, rosemary, salvia, and lemon essential oils were applied. The structure of the β-CD/EOs inclusion complex was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and weight gain (%), which indicated that the β-CD/EOs were successfully deposited on cellulose-based fabric. The results demonstrated that β-CD enhanced the oils’ scent stability, with the advantage of exhibiting no major change in the tensile strength or permeability of cotton. Lavender oil had the highest stability scent with a value of 3.25, even after 30 days of evaluation. The antibacterial activity showed that EOS/βCD-impregnated fabrics for method 1 had an inhibition zone ranging from 33 to 23 mm, while the inhibition zone for method 2 ranged from 39 mm to 29 mm, indicating that our treatment was able to control the growth of bacteria, even after five washing cycles. This study confirmed that the EOs/βCD inclusion-complex-deposited cotton fabric might hold further promise for medical and hospital use.
Facile Synthesis of Nitrogen-Doped Carbon-Supported Rhodium–Cobalt Alloy Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Park Sujung , Park NaHyun , Nallal Muthuchamy , Yusuf Mohammad , Park Sungkyun , Lee Jae-Myung , Park Kang
Published: November 2022

Fuel cells are considered as efficient and environmentally ecofriendly alternatives for energy production. The oxygen-reduction reaction is important in energy-conversion systems for fuel cells. In this work, rhodium (Rh) and cobalt (Co) alloy nanoparticles were deposited on nitrogen (N)-doped carbon (C) supports (RhCo/NC) using ball milling and thermal decomposition. The RhCo/NC composites were transformed into small nanoparticles with an average diameter of approximately 4 nm. The properties of the as-synthesized RhCo/NC nanocatalyst were characterized through transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The catalytic activity of the nanocatalyst for the ORR was investigated. The RhCo/NC nanocatalyst showed good activity for the ORR, long-term durability in chronoamperometry tests, and resistance to methanol crossover in an alkaline solution. This was because of the synergistic effects of the metal alloy. Chronoamperometric analysis demonstrated the remarkable durability of the RhCo/NC nanocatalyst compared to a commercial platinum (Pt)/C catalyst. Moreover, the RhCo/NC nanocatalyst exhibited good methanol tolerance. The RhCo/NC nanocatalyst can replace Pt-based catalysts in energy-conversion systems.
Techno-Economic Assessment of Producer Gas from Heavy Oil and Biomass Co-Gasification Aiming Electricity Generation in Rankine Cycle
Authors: Castillo Santiago York , Henao Nelson , Venturini Osvaldo , Sphaier Leandro , Duarte Stefany , de Rezende Túlio , Ochoa Guillermo
Published: November 2022

Heavy oil and biomass co-gasification has been analyzed through a model developed in Aspen Plus™ v 11.0 software. The model was used to assess main gasification parameters, such as cold gas efficiency, yield, low heating value (LHV), and producer gas composition, using air and oxygen as gasification agents. Subsequently, producer gas energy use in the Rankine cycle was performed using a model developed in GateCycle™ v11.1.2.4.850 software. Likewise, the economic indicators of the integrated Rankine cycle-gasification system were calculated. The economic evaluation was developed through Monte Carlo simulation using Crystalball™. The results showed a LHV producer gas decreasing trend as the equivalence ratio (ER) increased, oscillating between 6.37 and 3.63 MJ/Nm3 for ER values greater than 0.30 in the air co-gasification case, while the scenario that used oxygen presented better LHV results, ranging from 9.40 to 11.79 MJ/Nm3. For air co-gasification, the Rankine cycle efficiency range was between 13.0% and 9.5%, while for oxygen co-gasification, values between 14.0% and 13.2% were obtained. Regarding the economic assessment, the two scenarios evaluated (with a reliability of 95%) have a probability higher than 92.1% of economic losses due mainly to the lower electrical power and the local electricity rate.
Thermal Performance and Energy Conservation Effect of Grain Bin Walls Incorporating PCM in Different Ecological Areas of China
Authors: Wang Yan , Zeng Changnv , Hu Chaoxin
Published: November 2022

China, as one of the largest grain production countries, is faced with a storage loss of at least 20 billion kilograms each year. The energy consumption from grain bin buildings has been rising due to the preferred environmental demand for the long-term storage of grain in China. A prefabricated phase change material (PCM) plate was incorporated into the bin walls to reduce energy consumption. The physical model of PCM bin walls was numerically simulated to optimize the latent heat and phase change temperature of PCMs for ecological grain storage area. The thermal regulating performance of the prefabricated PCM plate on the grain bin wall was optimized. It was indicated that a higher value of latent heat of the PCM is more suitable for the hotter region for storing grain in bins in this paper. The energy saving did not increase in the same proportion as the increase in latent heat, suggesting a diminishing return. In this study, the optimal latent heat ranged from 180 to 250 kJ/kg. The values of phase change temperature were selected as 31 °C, 28 °C, and 28 °C for Guangzhou, Zhengzhou, and Harbin cities, respectively, corresponding to hot, warm, and cold climates. The percentages of energy saving were 12.5%, 14.8%, and 17.5% with the corresponding phase change temperatures, which showed an advantage of the PCM used in grain bin walls.
Microbial-Mediated Emissions of Greenhouse Gas from Farmland Soils: A Review
Authors: Wang Han , Zhao Rui , Zhao Dan , Liu Shejiang , Fu Jianfeng , Zhang Yuxin , Dai Nan , Song Dan , Ding Hui
Published: November 2022

The greenhouse effect is one of the concerning environmental problems. Farmland soil is an important source of greenhouse gases (GHG), which is characterized by the wide range of ways to produce GHG, multiple influencing factors and complex regulatory measures. Therefore, reducing GHG emissions from farmland soil is a hot topic for relevant researchers. This review systematically expounds on the main pathways of soil CO2, CH4 and N2O; analyzes the effects of soil temperature, moisture, organic matter and pH on various GHG emissions from soil; and focuses on the microbial mechanisms of soil GHG emissions under soil remediation modes, such as biochar addition, organic fertilizer addition, straw return and microalgal biofertilizer application. Finally, the problems and environmental benefits of various soil remediation modes are discussed. This paper points out the important role of microalgae biofertilizer in the GHG emissions reduction in farmland soil, which provides theoretical support for realizing the goal of “carbon peaking and carbon neutrality” in agriculture.
Effect on Starting Modes on Centrifugal Pump Performance
Authors: Cheng Liang , Zhang Kai-Yuan , Zhang Yu-Liang , Jia Xiao-Qi
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a small centrifugal pump experiment was conducted under conditions of power frequency startup and frequency conversion startup respectively. The evolutionary trends for hydraulic performance parameters with time were obtained, and the transient properties of the two starting modes were revealed with the help of three dimensionless coefficients. This study revealed the similarities and differences between the two starting modes. In both starting modes, the increase of the valve opening caused a time lag for the flow to reach a steady state. Compared with the power frequency startup mode, the frequency conversion startup mode had weaker shaft power shocks and was safer in practice. The dimensionless flow curves maintained a good evolutionary agreement with the corresponding flow curves. The dimensionless shaft power was extremely high at the beginning of startup and then decreased to a stable value.
Valorization of Bayer Red Mud in a Circular Economy Process: Valuable Metals Recovery and Further Brick Manufacture
Authors: Leiva Carlos , Arroyo-Torralvo Fátima , Luna-Galiano Yolanda , Villegas Rosario , Vilches Luis Francisco , Fernández Pereira Constantino
Published: November 2022

In this work, the recovery of valuable metals from Bayer red mud using hydrometallurgical techniques and the subsequent use of the solid remaining after leaching as the principal component of the fired bricks were analyzed. Water, sulfuric acid, and sodium hydroxide were used as leaching agents. Different L/S ratios and contact times were also tested. According to technical, economic, and environmental considerations, the optimal conditions to recover valuable elements from red mud were 2 M H2SO4, in contact for 24 h, with an L/S ratio = 5. Under these conditions, high leaching yields of valuable elements such as La (47.6%) or V (11%) were achieved. After the leaching process, the remaining solid was mixed with clay and water to produce bricks. Two doses of red mud (50 and 80% w) and two different sintering temperatures (900 and 1100 °C) were tested. When the proportion of treated RM in the mix was increased, the compressive strength of the bricks was reduced, but it was increased as the sintering temperature was increased. The environmental safety of the bricks manufactured (leaching of heavy metals and radionuclides) was also studied, and it was found that it was more favorable when red mud was treated instead of fresh red mud being used.
Incorporated Metal–Organic Framework Hybrid Materials for Gas Separation, Catalysis and Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Jaffar Zahirah , Yunus Normawati M. , Shaharun Maizatul Shima , Allim Muhammad Faizadmesa , Rahim Asyraf Hanim Ab
Published: November 2022

The special features of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), namely, tunable porosity, exceptional structure, high surface area and high adsorption capability enable them to be widely studied in many applications including carbon capture and storage (CCS), biomedical engineering, catalysis and pollutant treatment. Despite these remarkable properties, MOFs are known to be moisture-sensitive, hardly recyclable and expensive in fabrication cost which limits their breakthrough performance in more efficient uses. Recently, extensive studies have been devoted to counter those shortcomings by embedding MOFs with support materials using various series of synthetic designs to yield incorporated MOF hybrid materials to counter their limitations. In view of this interest, this review summarizes the latest developments of incorporated MOFs with various materials, namely, ionic liquids (ILs), membranes and metal species. Pre-synthetic and post-synthetic synthesis methods are also discussed. This review also aims to highlight the factors associated with incorporated MOF performance such as materials selection and mass ratio which could have favorable effects in gas separation, catalysis and wastewater treatment applications. The data indicate that incorporated MOF hybrid materials exhibit exceptional properties including excellent robustness and stability. Correspondingly, in comparison to pristine MOFs, incorporated MOF hybrid materials significantly improve, among others, the gas selectivity, catalyst activity and dye removal efficiency in gas separation, catalysis and wastewater treatment, respectively. In addition, the challenge related to the utilization of this newly incorporated material is mentioned.