bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating Rubidium Density and Temperature Distributions in a High-Throughput 129Xe-Rb Spin-Exchange Optical Pumping Polarizer
Authors: Ball James E. , Wild Jim M. , Norquay Graham
Published: December 2022

Accurate knowledge of the rubidium (Rb) vapor density, [Rb], is necessary to correctly model the spin dynamics of 129Xe-Rb spin-exchange optical pumping (SEOP). Here we present a systematic evaluation of [Rb] within a high-throughput 129Xe-Rb hyperpolarizer during continuous-flow SEOP. Near-infrared (52S1/2→52P1/2 (D1)/52P3/2 (D2)) and violet (52S1/2→62P1/2/62P3/2) atomic absorption spectroscopy was used to measure [Rb] within 3.5 L cylindrical SEOP cells containing different spatial distributions and amounts of Rb metal. We were able to quantify deviation from the Beer-Lambert law at high optical depth for D2 and 62P3/2 absorption by comparison with measurements of the D1 and 62P1/2 absorption lines, respectively. D2 absorption deviates from the Beer-Lambert law at [Rb]D2>4×1017 m−3 whilst 52S1/2→62P3/2 absorption deviates from the Beer-Lambert law at [Rb]6P3/2>(4.16±0.01)×1019 m−3. The measured [Rb] was used to estimate a 129Xe-Rb spin exchange cross section of γ′=(1.2±0.1)×10−21 m3 s−1, consistent with spin-exchange cross sections from the literature. Significant [Rb] heterogeneity was observed in a SEOP cell containing 1 g of Rb localized at the back of the cell. While [Rb] homogeneity was improved for a greater surface area of the Rb source distribution in the cell, or by using a Rb presaturator, the measured [Rb] was consistently lower than that predicted by saturation Rb vapor density curves. Efforts to optimize [Rb] and thermal management within spin polarizer systems are necessary to maximize potential future enhancements of this technology.
Advances in the Asymmetric Synthesis of BINOL Derivatives
Authors: da Silva Everton Machado , Vidal Hérika Danielle Almeida , Januário Marcelo Augusto Pereira , Corrêa Arlene Gonçalves
Published: December 2022

BINOL derivatives have shown relevant biological activities and are important chiral ligands and catalysts. Due to these properties, their asymmetric synthesis has attracted the interest of the scientific community. In this work, we present an overview of the most efficient methods to obtain chiral BINOLs, highlighting the use of metal complexes and organocatalysts as well as kinetic resolution. Further derivatizations of BINOLs are also discussed.
Study on Volatile Chemicals as Spoilage Indexes of Salmon by HS-SPME-GC-MS Technique during Non-Frozen Storage
Authors: Xuan Guanhua , Guo Miaorong , Lin Hong , Sui Jianxin , Wang Jingxue
Published: December 2022

Freshness is the most fundamental and important factor to assess raw fish quality. The purpose of our study was to determine the potential spoilage indexes of salmon during non-frozen storage by using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). More than 300 volatile compounds in salmon were detected when sensory scores declined gradually following the quality changes of salmon at different temperatures. And there were 27 and 31 compounds that showed concentration variations when stored at 4 °C and 25 °C, respectively. Among them, the contents of 1,3-di-tert-butylbenzene, acetic acid, and 3-methyl-1-butanol increased significantly in the later storage period and were in accordance with the salmon’s qualities. The present study provides valuable information on the volatile chemical spoilage indexes that are closely related to the freshness of salmon, which may provide an efficient alternative way for quality evaluation of salmon.
Determination of Hg(II) and Methylmercury by Electrothermal Atomic Absorption Spectrometry after Dispersive Solid-Phase Microextraction with a Graphene Oxide Magnetic Material
Authors: Vicente-Martínez Yesica , Muñoz-Sandoval María Jose , Hernandez-Cordoba Manuel , Lopez-Garcia Ignacio
Published: December 2022

The toxicity of all species of mercury makes it necessary to implement analytical procedures capable of quantifying the different forms this element presents in the environment, even at very low concentrations. In addition, due to the assorted environmental and health consequences caused by each mercury species, it is desirable that the procedures are able to distinguish these forms. In nature, mercury is mainly found as Hg0, Hg2+ and methylmercury (MeHg), with the latter being rapidly assimilated by living organisms in the aquatic environment and biomagnified through the food chain. In this work, a dispersive solid-phase microextraction of Hg2+ and MeHg is proposed using as the adsorbent a magnetic hybrid material formed by graphene oxide and ferrite (Fe3O4@GO), along with a subsequent determination by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS). On the one hand, when dithizone at a pH = 5 is used as an auxiliary agent, both Hg(II) and MeHg are retained on the adsorbent. Next, for the determination of both species, the solid collected by the means of a magnet is suspended in a mixture of 50 µL of HNO3 (8% v/v) and 50 µL of H2O2 at 30% v/v by heating for 10 min in an ultrasound thermostatic bath at 80 °C. On the other hand, when the sample is set at a pH = 9, Hg(II) and MeHg are also retained, but if the solid collected is washed with N-acetyl-L-cysteine only, then the Hg(II) remains on the adsorbent, and can be determined as indicated above. The proposed procedure exhibits an enrichment factor of 49 and the determination presents a linear range between 0.1 and 10 µg L−1 of mercury. The procedure has been applied to the determination of mercury in water samples from different sources.
Glucocorticoids Directly Affect Hyaluronan Production of Orbital Fibroblasts; A Potential Pleiotropic Effect in Graves’ Orbitopathy
Authors: Galgoczi Erika , Katko Monika , Papp Fruzsina Reka , Csiki Robert , Csiha Sara , Erdei Annamaria , Bodor Miklos , Ujhelyi Bernadett , Steiber Zita , Gyory Ferenc , Nagy Endre V.
Published: December 2022

Orbital connective tissue expansion is a hallmark of Graves’ orbitopathy (GO). In moderate-to-severe active GO, glucocorticoids (GC) are the first line of treatment. Here we show that hydrocortisone (HC), prednisolone (P), methylprednisolone (MP), and dexamethasone (DEX) inhibit the hyaluronan (HA) production of orbital (OF) and dermal (DF) fibroblasts. HA production of GO OFs (n = 4), NON-GO OFs (n = 4) and DFs (n = 4) was measured by ELISA. mRNA expression of enzymes of HA metabolism and fibroblast proliferation was examined by RT-PCR and BrdU incorporation, respectively. After 24 h of GC treatment (1µM) HA production decreased by an average of 67.9 ± 3.11% (p < 0.0001) in all cell cultures. HAS2, HAS3 and HYAL1 expression in OFs also decreased (p = 0.009, p = 0.0005 and p = 0.015, respectively). Ten ng/mL PDGF-BB increased HA production and fibroblast proliferation in all cell lines (p < 0.0001); GC treatment remained effective and reduced HA production under PDGF-BB-stimulated conditions (p < 0.0001). MP and DEX reduced (p < 0.001, p = 0.002, respectively) PDGF-BB-induced HAS2 expression in OFs. MP and DEX treatment decreased PDGF-BB stimulated HAS3 expression (p = 0.035 and p = 0.029, respectively). None of the GCs tested reduced the PDGF-BB stimulated proliferation rate. Our results confirm that GCs directly reduce the HA production of OFs, which may contribute to the beneficial effect of GCs in GO.
Ecofriendly Green Synthesis of Copper (II) Oxide Nanoparticles Using Corchorus olitorus Leaves (Molokhaia) Extract and Their Application for the Environmental Remediation of Direct Violet Dye via Advanced Oxidation Process
Authors: Aljedaani Reham O. , Kosa Samia A. , Abdel Salam Mohamed
Published: December 2022

In this research, copper (II) oxide nanoparticles were prepared by an ecofriendly green method using the extract of corchorus olitorus leaves (Molokhaia) as a surfactant, capping and anti-agglomeration agent. The ecofriendly green CuO NPs were characterized using different chemical and physical techniques and the results confirmed the formation of monoclinic tenorite CuO nanoparticles with an average particle size of 12 nm and BET surface area of 11.1 m2/g. The eco-friendly green CuO NPs were used in environmental remediation for the efficient catalytic degradation of direct violet dye via advanced oxidation process (AOP) in presence of H2O2. The impact of AOP environmental parameters affecting the degradation process was investigated. Moreover, the catalytic degradation of the direct violet dye using the ecofriendly green CuO NPs was studied kinetically and thermodynamically and the results showed that the catalytic degradation process agreed well with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the process was spontaneous and endothermic in nature. Finally, high catalytic degradation of the direct violet dye was observed when the eco-friendly prepared green CuO NPs were placed in real water samples.
Development of a Novel Electrochemical Sensor Based on Gold Nanoparticle-Modified Carbon-Paste Electrode for the Detection of Congo Red Dye
Authors: Ganash Aisha , Alshammari Sahar , Ganash Entesar
Published: December 2022

In this study, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were electrodeposited on samples of a carbon-paste electrode (CPE) with different thicknesses. The prepared AuNPs were characterized using different analysis techniques, such as FTIR, UV–Vis, SEM, EDX, TEM images, and XRD analysis. The fabricated modified electrode AuNPs/CPE was used for the sensitive detection of Congo red (CR) dye. Electrochemical sensing was conducted using square-wave voltammetry (SWV) in a 0.1 M acetate buffer solution at pH 6.5. The proposed sensor exhibited high efficiency for the electrochemical determination of CR dye with high selectivity and sensitivity and a low detection limit of 0.07 μM in the concentration range of 1–30 μM and 0.7 μM in the concentration range of 50–200 μM. The practical application of the AuNPs/CPE was verified by detecting CR dye in various real samples involving jelly, candy, wastewater, and tap water. The calculated recoveries (88–106%) were within the acceptable range.
In Silico Screening of Metal−Organic Frameworks and Zeolites for He/N2 Separation
Authors: Grenev Ivan V. , Gavrilov Vladimir Yu.
Published: December 2022

In silico screening of 10,143 metal−organic frameworks (MOFs) and 218 all-silica zeolites for adsorption-based and membrane-based He and N2 separation was performed. As a result of geometry-based prescreening, structures having zero accessible surface area (ASA) and pore limiting diameter (PLD) less than 3.75 Å were eliminated. So, both gases can be adsorbed and pass-through MOF and zeolite pores. The Grand canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) and equilibrium molecular dynamics (EMD) methods were used to estimate the Henry’s constants and self-diffusion coefficients at infinite dilution conditions, as well as the adsorption capacity of an equimolar mixture of helium and nitrogen at various pressures. Based on the obtained results, adsorption, diffusion and membrane selectivities as well as membrane permeabilities were calculated. The separation potential of zeolites and MOFs was evaluated in the vacuum and pressure swing adsorption processes. In the case of membrane-based separation, we focused on the screening of nitrogen-selective membranes. MOFs were demonstrated to be more efficient than zeolites for both adsorption-based and membrane-based separation. The analysis of structure–performance relationships for using these materials for adsorption-based and membrane-based separation of He and N2 made it possible to determine the ranges of structural parameters, such as pore-limiting diameter, largest cavity diameter, surface area, porosity, accessible surface area and pore volume corresponding to the most promising MOFs for each separation model discussed in this study. The top 10 most promising MOFs were determined for membrane-based, vacuum swing adsorption and pressure swing adsorption separation methods. The effect of the electrostatic interaction between the quadrupole moment of nitrogen molecules and MOF atoms on the main adsorption and diffusion characteristics was studied. The obtained results can be used as a guide for selection of frameworks for He/N2 separation.
The Atomic Structure and Mechanical Properties of ZIF-4 under High Pressure: Ab Initio Calculations
Authors: Shi Zuhao , Weng Kaiyi , Li Neng
Published: December 2022

The effects of pressure on the structural and electronic properties and the ionic configuration of ZIF-4 were investigated through the first-principles method based on the density functional theory. The elastic properties, including the isotropic bulk modulus K, shear modulus G, Young’s modulus E, and Poisson’s ratio ν of the orthorhombic-type structure ZIF-4 were determined using the Voigt–Reuss–Hill averaging scheme. The results show that the ZIF-4 phase is ductile according to the analysis of K/G and Cauchy pressure. The Debye temperatures obtained from the elastic stiffness constants increase with increasing pressure. Finally, the pressure-dependent behaviors of the density of states and ionic configuration are successfully calculated and discussed.
Xylityl Sesquicaprylate Efficacy as an Antiseptic Ingredient for Oral Care Products (Mouthwash): An In Vitro Screening Investigation against Eight Microorganisms
Authors: Nogueira Cecília , Mussi Liliam , Baby André Rolim , Zupeli Roseli , Magalhães Wagner Vidal
Published: December 2022

For dental caries and periodontal diseases initiated by dental plaque (as bacterial communities) and to inhibit the growth of oral pathogenic bacteria, oral care products containing antiseptic active ingredients are highly recommended, nonetheless, side effects of such actives are a concern (teeth discoloration/staining and taste perception, for example). In this context, we challenged xylityl sesquicaprylate, an antiseptic compound from natural resources, as an active ingredient to be used in an alcohol-free mouthwash formulation. The xylityl sesquicaprylate sample was compared to a respective blank mouthwash formulation and one containing triclosan. The in vitro efficacy was screened by the time-kill assay against eight microorganisms. The xylityl sesquicaprylate-containing mouthwash (0.45% w/w) presented a particularly interesting profile of efficacy against Actinomyces viscosus, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Tannerella forsythia, with results of greater magnitude to reduce the log10 of those microorganisms in comparison with the triclosan sample.
The Antimicrobial and Toxicity Influence of Six Carrier Oils on Essential Oil Compounds
Authors: Moola Salehah , Orchard Ané , van Vuuren Sandy
Published: December 2022

Essential oil compounds have been identified as alternative antimicrobials; however, their use is limited due to their toxicity on human lymphocytes, skin, and reproduction. Carrier oils can reduce the toxicity of essential oils, which raises the question as to whether such activity would extend to the essential oil compounds. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial and toxicity activity of essential oil compounds in combination with carrier oils. The antimicrobial properties of the essential oil compounds, alone and in combination with carrier oils, were determined using the broth microdilution assay. The toxicity was determined using the brine shrimp lethality assay. Antimicrobial synergy (ΣFIC ≤ 0.50) occurred in 3% of the samples when tested against the ESKAPE pathogens. The compound thymoquinone in combination with the carrier oil Prunus armeniaca demonstrated broad-spectrum synergistic activity and a selectivity index above four, highlighting this combination as the most favorable. The carrier oils reduced the toxicity of several compounds, with Calendula officinalis and P. armeniaca carrier oils being responsible for the majority of the reduced toxicity observed. This study provides insight into the interactions that may occur when adding a carrier oil to essential oil compounds.
Physicochemical, Structural, and In Vitro Gastrointestinal Tract Release Properties of Sodium Alginate-Based Cryogel Beads Filled with Hydroxypropyl Distarch Phosphate as a Curcumin Delivery System
Authors: Moon Eun Chae , Chang Yoon Hyuk
Published: December 2022

The objectives of this study were to produce sodium alginate (SA)-based cryogel beads filled with different concentrations (0, 0.4, 1.0, and 2.5%, w/w) of hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate (HDP) as a curcumin delivery system and to investigate the physicochemical, structural, and in vitro gastrointestinal tract release properties of the cryogel beads. According to FT-IR analysis, the formation of ionic crosslinking between SA and Ca2+ and the presence of HDP were found. XRD analysis demonstrated the successful encapsulation of curcumin in the beads by observing the disappearance of the characteristic peaks of curcumin. SEM analysis results revelated that SA-based cryogel beads exhibited a denser internal structure as the HDP concentration was increased. The encapsulation efficiency of curcumin in SA cryogel beads filled with HDP concentration from 0% to 2.5% was increased from 31.95% to 76.66%, respectively, indicating that HDP can be a suitable filler for the encapsulation of curcumin in the production of SA-based cryogel beads. After exposure to simulated gastric fluid (SGF) and simulated intestinal fluid (SIF), the release rate of curcumin was decreased as HDP concentration was increased. Accordingly, SA-based cryogel beads filled with HDP can be utilized for the delivery system of curcumin in the food industry.
Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Investigations of Half-Sandwich Ruthenium(II) Complexes Containing Benzimidazole Moiety
Authors: Rogala Patrycja , Jabłońska-Wawrzycka Agnieszka , Czerwonka Grzegorz , Kazimierczuk Katarzyna , Gałczyńska Katarzyna , Michałkiewicz Sławomir , Kalinowska-Tłuścik Justyna , Karpiel Marta , Klika Karel D.
Published: December 2022

Half-sandwich Ru(II) complexes belong to group of biologically active metallo-compounds with promising antimicrobial and anticancer activity. Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of arene ruthenium complexes containing benzimidazole moiety, namely, [(η6-p-cymene)RuCl(bimCOO)] (1) and [(η6-p-cymene)RuCl2(bim)] (2) (where bimCOO = benzimidazole-2-carboxylate and bim = 1-H-benzimidazole). The compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, IR, UV–vis and CV. Molecular structures of the complexes were determined by SC-XRD analysis, and the results indicated the presence of a pseudo-tetrahedral (piano stool) geometry. Interactions in the crystals of the Ru complexes using the Hirshfeld surface analysis were also examined. In addition, the biological studies of the complexes, such as antimicrobial assays (against planktonic and adherent microbes), cytotoxicity and lipophilicity, were performed. Antibacterial activity of the complexes was evaluated against S. aureus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa PAO1 and LES B58. Cytotoxic activity was tested against primary human fibroblasts and adenocarcinoma human alveolar basal epithelial cells. Obtained biological results show that the ruthenium compounds have bacteriostatic activity toward Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 strain and are not toxic to normal cells. A molecular docking study was applied as a predictive source of information about the plausibility of examined structures binding with HSA as a transporting system.
Functional Diversification and Structural Origins of Plant Natural Product Methyltransferases
Authors: Lashley Audrey , Miller Ryan , Provenzano Stephanie , Jarecki Sara-Alexis , Erba Paul , Salim Vonny
Published: December 2022

In plants, methylation is a common step in specialized metabolic pathways, leading to a vast diversity of natural products. The methylation of these small molecules is catalyzed by S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM)-dependent methyltransferases, which are categorized based on the methyl-accepting atom (O, N, C, S, or Se). These methyltransferases are responsible for the transformation of metabolites involved in plant defense response, pigments, and cell signaling. Plant natural product methyltransferases are part of the Class I methyltransferase-superfamily containing the canonical Rossmann fold. Recent advances in genomics have accelerated the functional characterization of plant natural product methyltransferases, allowing for the determination of substrate specificities and regioselectivity and further realizing the potential for enzyme engineering. This review compiles known biochemically characterized plant natural product methyltransferases that have contributed to our knowledge in the diversification of small molecules mediated by methylation steps.
Luminescent Properties of Phosphonate Ester-Supported Neodymium(III) Nitrate and Chloride Complexes
Authors: Gerstel Miriam , Koehne Ingo , Reithmaier Johann Peter , Pietschnig Rudolf , Benyoucef Mohamed
Published: December 2022

This study examines the synthesis of two geminal bisphosphonate ester-supported Ln3+ complexes [Ln(L3)2(NO3)3] (Ln = Nd3+ (5), La3+ (6)) and optical properties of the neodymium(III) complex. These results are compared to known mono-phosphonate ester-based Nd3+ complexes [Nd(L1/L2)3X3]n (X = NO3−, n = 1; Cl−, n = 2) (1–4). The optical properties of Nd3+ compounds are determined by micro-photoluminescence (µ-PL) spectroscopy which reveals three characteristic metal-centered emission bands in the NIR region related to transitions from 4F3/2 excited state. Additionally, two emission bands from 4F5/2, 2H9/2 → 4IJ (J = 11/2, 13/2) transitions were observed. PL spectroscopy of equimolar complex solutions in dry dichloromethane (DCM) revealed remarkably higher emission intensity of the mono-phosphonate ester-based complexes in comparison to their bisphosphonate ester congener. The temperature-dependent PL measurements enable assignment of the emission lines of the 4F3/2 → 4I9/2 transition. Furthermore, low-temperature polarization-dependent measurements of the transitions from R1 and R2 Stark sublevel of 4F3/2 state to the 4I9/2 state for crystals of [Nd(L3)2(NO3)3] (5) are discussed.
Electroanalysis of Ibuprofen and Its Interaction with Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Dilshad Muhammad , Shah Afzal , Munir Shamsa
Published: December 2022

The current work presents a sensitive, selective, cost-effective, and environmentally benign protocol for the detection of ibuprofen (IBP) by an electrochemical probe made of a glassy carbon electrode modified with Ag-ZnO and MWCNTs. Under optimized conditions, the designed sensing platform was found to sense IBP up to a 28 nM limit of detection. The interaction of IBP with bovine serum albumin (BSA) was investigated by differential pulse voltammetry. IBP−BSA binding parameters such as the binding constant and the stoichiometry of complexation were calculated. The results revealed that IBP and BSA form a single strong complex with a binding constant value of 8.7 × 1013. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example that reports not only IBP detection but also its BSA complexation.
Co-Design within and between Communities in Cultural Heritage: Current and Open Questions
Authors: Maye Laura , Claisse Caroline
Published: December 2022

In this Special Issue, we explore emerging theories, methods, and case studies focusing on co-design activities within and between communities in cultural heritage contexts [...]
Effectiveness of Passive Ultrasonic Irrigation Protocols in Simulated Complex Root Canal Cavities
Authors: Plazza Flávia A. , Dal-Fabbro Renan , Cosme-Silva Leopoldo , Duarte Paulo C. T. , Loureiro Caroline , Custódio Vitória Z. , Cintra Luciano T. A. , Duarte Marco A. H. , Gomes-Filho João Eduardo
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of different Passive Ultrasonic Irrigation (PUI) protocols on debris removal and exposure of dentinal tubules in simulated complex root canal cavities. Twenty single-rooted human mandibular premolars with simulated root canal cavities were filled with the debris and randomly divided into ten groups based on the final irrigation protocol: 1—positive control; 2—negative control; 3—conventional irrigation (CI) with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl); 4—CI with 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) followed by NaOCl; 5—three cycles of PUI for 20 s (NaOCl-NaOCl-NaOCl); 6—three cycles of PUI for 20 s (NaOCl-EDTA-NaOCl); 7—one 60 s PUI cycle (NaOCl); 8—one PUI 180 s cycle (NaOCl); 9—two cycles of PUI for 60 s (EDTA-NaOCl); and 10—two cycles of PUI for 60 s (NaOCl-EDTA). The groups were analyzed by SEM. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used at a 5% level. PUI showed a higher reduction of debris, similar to the positive control group (p > 0.05) and higher than the CI and negative control groups (p < 0.05). Regarding the exposure tubules, the CI groups were similar to the negative control group in all cavities (p > 0.05). The PUI groups were similar to the positive control group (p > 0.05). However, only groups 6, 7, and 10 were statistically different from the CI and negative control (p < 0.05). The protocols using PUI, comprising groups with three cycles of 20 s (NaOCl-EDTA-NaOCl), two cycles of 60 s (EDTA-NaOCl), or one cycle of 60 s (NaOCl), were more effective at removing debris and increasing the exposure of dentinal tubules.
Stochastic Approach for Increasing the PV Hosting Capacity of a Low-Voltage Distribution Network
Authors: Bendík Jozef , Cenký Matej , Cintula Boris , Beláń Anton , Eleschová Žaneta , Janiga Peter
Published: December 2022

In recent years, the emerging fear of an energy crisis in central Europe has caused an increased demand for distributed energy resources (DER), especially small photovoltaic rooftop installations up to 10 kWp. From a technical point of view, distributed PV in low-voltage networks is associated with the risk of power quality violation, overvoltage, voltage unbalance, harmonics, and violation of the thermal limit of phase conductors, neutral conductors, and transformers. Distribution system operators (DSO) are currently in a position to determine the amount of installed PV power for which reliable and safe network operation is ensured, also known as the photovoltaic hosting capacity (PVHC). The presented study describes a stochastic methodology for PVHC estimation and uses it to analyze a typical LV rural network in the Slovak Republic. Detailed and precise calculations are performed on the 4-wire LV model with accurate results. In this study, we, thus, profoundly analyze the problems with voltage violation, unbalanced voltage energy losses, and the thermal loading effect of increasing PV penetration. The results show that overvoltage events are the main factor limiting the PVHC in LV systems. This conclusion is in accordance with the experience of the DSO in the Slovak and Czech Republic. Subsequently, the study focuses on the possibilities of increasing PVHC using those tools typically available for DSO, such as changes in PV inverter power factors and no-load tap changer transformers. The results are compared with those derived from similar analyses, but we ultimately find that the proposed solution is problematic due to the high variability of approaches and boundary conditions. In conclusion, the paper discusses the issue of the acceptable risk of overvoltage violation in the context of PVHC and lowering losses in LV networks.
Elimination of Leaf Angle Impacts on Plant Reflectance Spectra Using Fusion of Hyperspectral Images and 3D Point Clouds
Authors: Zhang Libo , Jin Jian , Wang Liangju , Rehman Tanzeel U. , Gee Mark T.
Published: December 2022

During recent years, hyperspectral imaging technologies have been widely applied in agriculture to evaluate complex plant physiological traits such as leaf moisture content, nutrient level, and disease stress. A critical component of this technique is white referencing used to remove the effect of non-uniform lighting intensity in different wavelengths on raw hyperspectral images. However, a flat white tile cannot accurately reflect the lighting intensity variance on plant leaves, since the leaf geometry (e.g., tilt angles) and its interaction with the illumination severely impact plant reflectance spectra and vegetation indices such as the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). In this research, the impacts of leaf angles on plant reflectance spectra were summarized, and an improved image calibration model using the fusion of leaf hyperspectral images and 3D point clouds was built. Corn and soybean leaf samples were imaged at different tilt angles and orientations using an indoor desktop hyperspectral imaging system and analyzed for differences in the NDVI values. The results showed that the leaf’s NDVI largely changed with angles. The changing trends with angles differed between the two species. Using measurements of leaf tilt angle and orientation obtained from the 3D point cloud data taken simultaneously with the hyperspectral images, a support vector regression (SVR) model was successfully developed to calibrate the NDVI values of pixels at different angles on a leaf to a same standard as if the leaf was laid flat on a horizontal surface. The R-squared values between the measured and predicted leaf angle impacts were 0.76 and 0.94 for corn and soybean, respectively. This method has a potential to be used in any general plant imaging systems to improve the phenotyping quality.
Efficacy of Green Extracting Solvents on Antioxidant, Xanthine Oxidase, and Plant Inhibitory Potentials of Solid-Based Residues (SBRs) of Cordyceps militaris
Authors: Minh Truong Ngoc , Anh Le Viet , Trung Nguyen Quang , Minh Bui Quang , Xuan Tran Dang
Published: December 2022

Solid-based residues (SBRs) of Cordyceps militaris are often considered as waste after the cultivation of the fruiting body. To demonstrate the value of this by-product, different ratios of two favorable green solvents (EtOH and water) were employed to optimize the yields of cordycepin (Cor) and adenosine (Ado) and investigate relevant activities of plant growth inhibition (allelopathy), antioxidants, and xanthine oxidase. The SBR extracts of 60% EtOH-40% water (W4) and 40% EtOH-60% water (W6) exhibited the highest antioxidant activity as well as yielded the optimum content of Cor and Ado. The W4 and Wt (hot water) exhibited maximum inhibitory effects on the growth of Raphanus sativus (radish), Lactuca sativa (lettuce) and two noxious weeds, Echinochloa crus-galli (barnyard grass) and Bidens pilosa (beggarticks). Furthermore, GC-MS scan analysis revealed the presence of 14 major compounds in the SBRs. W4 is the best solvent to optimize yields of Cor and Ado, as well as having the strongest levels of antioxidant activity, xanthine oxidase, and growth-inhibitory activity. This study reveals that SBRs are a potential source of medicinal and agricultural utilization.
Phenylcarbamate-Modified Paper for Paper Chromatographic Analysis of Hydrophobic Compounds
Authors: Ochiai Bungo , Koseki Seiya , Matsumura Yoshimasa
Published: December 2022

Paper chromatography is a low-cost and facile analytical method traditionally used to analyze hydrophilic substances. For the application to substances with lower polarity, we prepared a stationary phase based on filter paper modified with phenyl isocyanate (PI-FP), bearing phenyl carbamate moieties for hydrophobic, π-π, and electrostatic interactions. The preparation and chromatographic methods were established by selecting papers, comparing different chemical structures, optimizing the modification procedure, investigating eluents, and quantitatively parameterizing the separation behavior based on the character of the analytes. PI-FP exhibited better separation performance than esterified FPs and enabled chromatographic analysis of various dyes with both positive and negative clogP (calculated water-octanol partition coefficient). We also demonstrated an application of this system for a preparative separation of dyes using thread-like paper modified with PI.
Zamzam Water Ameliorates Gentamicin-Induced Testicular Toxicity in a Rat Model via Targeting Sperm Parameters, Testicular Tissue Oxidative Insult, Inflammation, Apoptosis, and Pituitary-Gonadal Axis
Authors: Taha Medhat , Elazab Sara T. , Saati Abdullah A. , Ahmed Gomaa S. , Baokbah Tourki A. S. , Fathy Khaled , El-Shenbaby Ibrahim , Abdelbagi Omer , Hassan Mahmoud A. E. , Ibrahim Mohie Mahmoud , Badawy Alaa. M.
Published: December 2022

Gentamicin is considered one of the most typical causes of testicular damage. Oxidative stress is a significant contributor to testicular tissue damage. Zamzam water (alkaline in nature) has an antioxidant effect. The purpose of this study was to assess the potential palliative effect of Zamzam water against gentamicin-induced testicular damage. Thirty Rats were separated into three groups, each with ten rats, as follows: The Control received only normal saline. The gentamicin group received 100 mg/kg/day of gentamicin intraperitoneally for six days from day 15 to the end of the experiment. The gentamicin +Zamzam Water group received a dose of gentamicin 100 mg/kg/day intraperitoneally with Zamzam water as their sole source of drinking from day one to day 21. Hormonal assay in serum, histological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural examination of testicular tissue with a molecular study were obtained. Pretreatment with Zamzam water significantly p < 0.001 increased serum levels of testosterone, FSH, and LH, as well as the percentage of sperm motility and progressive motility. It also upregulated SOD, CAT, GPx enzymatic activity, gene expression of Nrf2/HO-1, and immunoexpression of PCNA. While the percentage of dead sperm and abnormal sperm, immunoexpression of NFκB, Caspase 3, inflammatory cytokines TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6, and MDA levels significantly (p < 0.001) declined with histological improvement. It was concluded that Zamzam water as alkaline water possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects against gentamicin-induced testicular toxicity in vivo.
Jet Cloud–Star Interaction as an Interpretation of Neutrino Outburst from the Blazar TXS 0506+056
Authors: Wang Kai , Liu Ruo-Yu , Li Zhuo , Wang Xiang-Yu , Dai Zi-Gao
Published: December 2022

A neutrino outburst between September 2014 and March 2015 was discovered from the blazar TXS 0506+056 by an investigation of 9.5 years of IceCube data, while the blazar was in a quiescent state during the outburst with a gamma-ray flux of only about one-fifth of the neutrino flux. In this work, we give a possible interpretation of the abnormal feature by proposing that the neutrino outburst originated from the interaction between a relativistic jet and a dense gas cloud formed via the tidally disrupted envelope of a red giant being blown apart by the impact of the jet. Gamma-ray photons and electron/positron pairs produced through the hadronuclear interactions, correspondingly, will induce electromagnetic cascades and then make the cloud ionized and thermalized. The EM radiation from jet cloud–star interaction is mainly contributed by the relatively low-energy relativistic protons which propagate in the diffusion regime inside the cloud due to magnetic deflections, whereas the observed high-energy neutrinos (≳100 TeV) are produced by the relatively high-energy protons which can continue to beam owing to the weak magnetic deflections, inducing a much higher flux of neutrinos than electromagnetic radiation. The observed low-energy electromagnetic radiations during the neutrino outburst period are almost the same as that in the quiescent state of the source, so it may arise mainly as the same state as the generally quiescent. As a result, due to the intrusion of a dense cloud, the neutrino outburst can be expected, and, in the meantime, the accompanying electromagnetic radiations from hadronic processes will not cause any enhancement in the blazar’s electromagnetic flux.
Molecular Gas Heating, Star Formation Rate Relations, and AGN Feedback in Infrared-Luminous Galaxy Mergers
Authors: Farrah Duncan , Efstathiou Andreas , Afonso Jose , Clements David L. , Croker Kevin , Hatziminaoglou Evanthia , Joyce Maya , Lebouteiller Vianney , Lee Aláine , Lonsdale Carol , Pearson Chris , Petty Sara , Pitchford Lura K. , Rigopoulou Dimitra , Verma Aprajita , Wang Lingyu
Published: December 2022

We examine the origin of molecular gas heating in a sample of 42 infrared-luminous galaxies at z<0.3 by combining two sets of archival data: first, integrated CO line luminosities in the 1–0 and 5–4 through 13–12 transitions; second, results from radiative transfer modelling that decompose their bolometric emission into starburst, AGN, and host galaxy components. We find that the CO 1–0 and 5–4 through 9–8 lines primarily arise via radiative heating in the starburst and the host galaxy. In contrast, the CO 10–9 through 13–12 lines may arise primarily in the starburst and AGN, with an increasing contribution from mechanical heating and shocks. For the sample as a whole, we find no evidence that AGN luminosity affects the heating of molecular gas by star formation. However, for starbursts with low initial optical depths, a more luminous AGN may reduce the efficiency of starburst heating of the CO 5–4 and above lines, consistent with negative AGN feedback.
Entrevista com Rita Meoño Molina
Authors: Molina Rita Andrea Meoño , Moljo Carina Berta
Published: December 2022

Entrevista con Rita Meoño Molina, Presidente de la ALAEITS Gestión 2020- 2023 para la Revista Libertas de la Universidad Federal de Juiz de Fora: Facultad de Trabajo Social /Programa de Pós-graduación en Trabajo Social.

 Entrevistadora: Carina Berta Moljo, professora titular da Facultad de Trabajo Social, Investigadora del CNPq
Concepciones de una comunidad de práctica intercultural. El caso del profesor Benjamín en una institución de educación del distrito capital (Bogotá-Colombia)
Authors: Osorio Claudia Patricia Orjuela , Andrade Adela Molina , Suárez Oscar Jardey
Published: December 2022

Se presentan algunos resultados de la investigación doctoral[1] que se pregunta por las comunidades de práctica en enseñanza de las ciencias con una perspectiva de la diversidad cultural denominadas CoP-I.   Se describe el proceso metodológico y de análisis en la fase cualitativa de la tesis, para la interpretación de las concepciones individuales de un profesor vinculada a la secretaria de Educación del Distrito Capital (Bogotá-Colombia), a partir de la entrevista basada en situaciones.  Como resultado se establece un modelo de concepción para entender la práctica profesional como a) un proceso de construcción de una cultura propia en el ámbito escolar y b) la acción del profesor se construye y se reconstruyen a partir relaciones estructurales entre conocimientos, valores y creencias y prácticas sociales acorde con el origen cultural individual del profesor.
Análise da viabilidade técnica da utilização de Filito sericítico como material pozolânico na produção de concreto estrutural
Authors: Farias Helena Branjão de , David Rita Aparecida
Published: December 2022

A dilapidação dos recursos naturais é decorrente, principalmente, de atividades industriais como a mineração e a construção civil. A extração mineral gera grande volume de subprodutos como o estéril, e na cadeia produtiva do cimento há diversos impactos ambientais como, por exemplo, a emissão de dióxido de carbono (CO2), que contribui em grande parte para o aumento do efeito estufa. A mina de Pau-Branco, localizada no município de Brumadinho - MG, pertencente ao Quadrilátero Ferrífero, dispõe do estéril caracterizado como filito sericítico, que apresenta propriedades pozolânicas. Com intuito de promover uma destinação mais sustentável e diminuir o consumo de recursos minerais para a fabricação de cimento, este artigo apresenta a análise da viabilidade técnica do concreto produzido com a substituição, de 30% em massa, do cimento Portland CP V normatizado por filito sericítico. Produziu-se um concreto que foi avaliado em seu estado fresco e endurecido. Os resultados encontrados para a resistência à compressão aos 28 dias do concreto de cimento com adição do material cimentício suplementar (MCS) demonstram que este cimento é viável para fins estruturais.
Los nuevos modelos de negocios y la aplicación del principio de prevencion de operaciones ilicitas desafios y responsabilidades
Authors: Soria Graciela Cristina Cami
Published: December 2022

La Cuarta Revolución Industrial junto con el descrédito de la banca tradicional, producto de las últimas grandes crisis, y otros fenómenos que se desarrollarán en el presente trabajo, ha venido afectando el sector financiero y propiciado el auge de nuevos emprendimientos y plataformas web vinculados a las finanzas. Se ingresa de esta forma al mundo de los crowlending, los peer to peer lending y las FinTech. Las tecnologías que emplean y la modalidad en cómo operan algunos de estos nuevos modelos de negocios, los hace susceptibles de convertirse en instrumentos para el lavado de activos y financiamiento al terrorismo. El presente trabajo tiene por cometido analizar las circunstancias que han facilitado la aparición de esos nuevos modelos de negocios en línea, vinculados al sector financiero. Muchos países de la región vienen monitoreando de cerca este fenómeno, pero muy pocos cuenta con normativa que regule estos emprendimientos. En este trabajo se investiga el accionar de algunos ordenamientos jurídicos con el fin de supervisar las actividades desarrolladas por esas nuevas empresas. En principio se ha explorado el derecho comparado, en particular la ley mexicana que regula las Instituciones de Tecnología Financiera, para luego abordar el estudio de la normativa uruguaya. Es así que se incluye una novedosa Circular dictada recientemente por el Banco Central del Uruguay que reglamenta la actividad de las empresas administradoras de plataformas web de préstamos entre personas. Se incorpora asimismo una sucinta referencia a soluciones alternativas, como lo son las Sandbox. A lo largo de esta investigación se ha visto que el verdadero desafío para estas iniciativas y sus  reguladores, radica en controlar estos negocios sin correr el riesgo de hacerlos desaparecer. No obstante, se concluye que hay un interés superior, el cual consiste en dar cumplimiento al principio de prevención de operaciones ilícitas, para lo cual deben aplicarse los estándares internacionales en materia de lavado de activos, en especial la Recomendaciones de GAFI sobre nuevas tecnologías, con el fin de mitigar riesgos y evitar que estas plataformas tecnológicas sean empleadas como instrumentos para cometer ilícitos (lavar activos o financiar el terrorismo).
Gerenciamento de incidentes: estudo de caso de uma agência de tecnologia da informação e comunicação da UFPR
Authors: Neves Luiz Antonio Pereira , Jankoski Andréa Roseli Moreira Cruz , Santos Karine Antoniacomi dos
Published: December 2022

Este trabalho apresenta um estudo de caso sobre a utilização da Metodologia de Gerenciamento de Incidentes, e sua aplicação na Agência de Tecnologia da Informação e Comunicação (AGTIC) da Universidade Federal do Paraná. Para isto, é analisado o sistema de chamados de uma Instituição de Ensino Superior, onde foi investigado se este está seguindo as boas práticas de governança em Tecnologia da Informação (TI). Estas são estabelecidas no Gerenciamento de Incidentes, presentes no ITIL V3 (Information Technology Infrastructure Library).
A técnica de mapeamento conceitual no estudo de animais enigmáticos: caracterizando o táxon Micrognathozoa
Authors: Cunha Guilherme Marques da , Aciole Douglas de Souza Braga , Santos Roberto Lima , Araújo-de-Almeida Elineí
Published: December 2022

Os conhecimentos taxonômico, filogenético e ecológico sobre a biodiversidade possuem lacunas para várias espécies, gerando ausência de estratégias de conservação para elas. Dentro da diversidade de organismos, alguns são de difícil acesso, o que os tornam complexos para exploração em sala de aula. Assim, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo abordar características morfológicas gerais sobre micrognatozoários por meio de mapa conceitual e explicitando dados informativos sobre o processo de construção dos dispositivos gráficos. Os conhecimentos biológicos acerca do táxon e sobre a técnica de mapeamento de conceitos foram pesquisados em bibliografias relacionadas a esses temas e os procedimentos metodológicos foram efetivados. A construção do mapa conceitual explicitou, visualmente, informações acerca do táxon Micrognathozoa, com parentesco próximo aos Rotifera, dentro da linhagem dos Gnathifera. As informações ilustradas proporcionam visibilidade mais didática para leitura, constituindo-se elementos potenciais para o ensino, ao abordar sobre a diversidade biológica. Com a elaboração e divulgação de um escrito fundamentado cientificamente, acerca do esquema visual criado, oportunidades são dadas para a conservação da biodiversidade. Nesse sentido, o fomento às publicações envolvendo mapas conceituais dinamiza o processo de ensino, tornando mais eficaz a aprendizagem sobre os grupos de animais enigmáticos.
Análise das indicações de partos cesáreos segundo a classificação dos dez grupos de Robson em maternidade de baixo risco de Sorocaba-SP
Authors: Novo Joe Luiz Vieira Garcia , Izzo Felipe Passos Martins , Hamamoto Leonardo Galli
Published: December 2022

Objetivos: a pesquisa realizou estudo descritivo, prospectivo, analisando a distribuição das indicações dos partos cesáreos no HSL, segundo o sistema da Classificação de Robson. Métodos: coletados dados de prontuários médicos (gestantes e parturientes de termo e pré-termo) cesariadas, resolução da gestação durante o período de estudo. Resultados: a proporção total de partos cesáreas foi 33,67%, abaixo da média do Brasil (55,6%), superando os níveis preconizados pela OMS (15%), e mundial (21,1%). Cerca de 15,30% dos partos cesáreos realizaram-se em pacientes com trabalho de parto espontâneo, feto único, de termo, cefálico, em nulíparas e multíparas sem cesáreas prévias: grupos 1 (11,20%) e 3 (4,10%). Viram-se nulíparas (grupo 2) e multíparas (grupo 4): feto único, de termo, cefálico, sem cesáreas prévias, com trabalho de parto induzido ou realizada cesárea antes do início do parto:  21,86% e 4, 92% respectivamente. Houve maior número de multíparas com cesárea (s) prévia (s), gestação de termo, feto único, cefálico (grupo 5): 41,80%.  Operaram-se: feto único, pélvico, de termo, nulíparas (grupo 6: 3,01%) e multíparas (grupo 7: 5,46%); córmico ou oblíquo (grupo 9: 1,09%) e pré-termo (grupo 10: 6,56%). Conclusão: os grupos da classificação de Robson constituíram ferramenta de grande utilidade, analisando de forma individualizada, conjunta, as proporções de partos cesáreas nesta instituição. Sugerem-se que para ocorrerem menores proporções de intervenções cirúrgicas, que nos grupos 1 e 3 utilizem analgesias intrapartos e alívios nos períodos expulsivos; os grupos 2 e 4 requerem seletividade em induções aos partos, além de indicações precisas de cesáreas em gravidez de termo.