bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parallelized and Cascadable Optical Logic Operations by Few-Layer Diffractive Optical Neural Network
Authors: Liu Xianjin , Zhang Dasen , Wang Licheng , Ma Ting , Liu Zhenzhen , Xiao Jun-Jun
Published: April 2023

Optical computing has gained much attention due to its high speed, low energy consumption, and the fact that it is naturally parallelizable and multiplexable, etc. Single-bit optical logic gates based on a four-hidden-layer diffractive optical neural network (DONN) have been demonstrated with paired apertures. Here, we show a parallel-logic operation strategy based on two-hidden-layer DONN, showcasing their efficiency by multiple-bit (up to 16-bit) optical logic (e.g., NAND) operations. In addition, we demonstrate how NAND-DONN units can be utilized to achieve NOR and AND operations by flipping and cascading the DONN.
Head Phantom for the Acquisition of Pulsatile Optical Signals for Traumatic Brain Injury Monitoring
Authors: Roldan Maria , Kyriacou Panicos A.
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: Tissue phantoms can provide a rigorous, reproducible and convenient approach to evaluating an optical sensor’s performance. The development, characterisation and evaluation of a vascular head/brain phantom is described in this study. (2) Methods: The methodology includes the development of mould-cast and 3D-printed anatomical models of the brain and the skull and a custom-made in vitro blood circulatory system used to emulate haemodynamic changes in the brain. The optical properties of the developed phantom were compared to literature values. Artificial cerebrospinal fluid was also incorporated to induce changes in intracranial pressure. (3) Results: A novel head model was successfully developed to mimic the brain and skull anatomies and their optical properties within the near-infrared range (660–900 nm). The circulatory system developed mimicked normal arterial blood pressure values, with a mean systole of 118 ± 8.5 mmHg and diastole of 70 ± 8.5 mmHg. Similarly, the cerebrospinal fluid circulation allowed controlled intracranial pressure changes from 5 to 30 mmHg. Multiwavelength pulsatile optical signals (photoplethysmograms (PPGs)) from the phantom’s cerebral arteries were successfully acquired. Conclusions: This unique head phantom technology forms the basis of a novel research tool for investigating the relationship between cerebral pulsatile optical signals and changes in intracranial pressure and brain haemodynamics.
High–Efficiency, Widely Tunable MgO: PPLN Optical Parametric Oscillator
Authors: Lian Yueyue , Tian Wenlong , Sun Hao , Yu Yang , Su Yulong , Tong Hui , Zhu Jiangfeng , Wei Zhiyi
Published: April 2023

We report on the investigation of a high–efficiency, widely tunable femtosecond optical parametric oscillator (OPO) based on a multi–period MgO–doped periodically poled lithium niobite (MgO: PPLN) crystal, pumped by an all–solid–state femtosecond mode–locked Yb: KGW laser at 1030 nm providing 100 fs pulses. With 6 W pump power, the OPO generates 2.68 W of signal power at 1540 nm and 1.2 W of idler power at 3110 nm, which corresponds to the total conversion efficiency adding up to 67.4%. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest conversion efficiency of a femtosecond OPO. Meanwhile, in order to obtain a broad optical spectrum range, both the grating period and working temperature are tuned, resulting in tunable signals of 1.43–1.78 µm and idlers of 2.44–3.68 µm. This source will be used to generate a femtosecond mid–infrared laser of wavelength range 3.7–6.5 µm and tens milliwatts average power through difference frequency generation (DFG).
Design of a Large Field of View and Low-Distortion Off-Axis Optical System Based on a Free-Form Surface
Authors: Jia Bing , Li Yubing , Lv Qiongying , Jin Fan , Tian Chunlin
Published: April 2023

Free-form surfaces have good aberration correction capability and balance capability for nonrotationally symmetric imaging systems. In this study, we analyzed the quantitative relationship between X–Y polynomial combination and aberration for the efficient design of X–Y free-form optical systems. The purpose of this study was to provide an exhaustive design method for off-axis triple inverse optical systems with X–Y free-form surfaces. Finally, we designed a free-form off-axis optical system with a large field of view (FOV) and low distortion based on the off-axis triple inverse optical system without an intermediate image plane. The primary mirror (PM) of the system adopted an X–Y polynomial free-form surface to correct the aberration of different FOVs of the system and improve the image width and quality. The optical system had a focal length of 1000 mm, an F-value of 9.5, an FOV angle of 23° × 1°, a maximum distortion grid in the FOV less than or equal to −0.05%, and a full-field average wave aberration better than 0.055 λ (λ/18.2, λ = 632.8 nm). The analysis of the design results showed that the system had high-quality imaging and a compact structure. This design method can provide a technical reference for the study of such free-form off-axis systems.
Festuca coelestis Increases Drought Tolerance and Nitrogen Use via Nutrient Supply–Demand Relationship on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Authors: Zhao Ningning , Sun Xingrong , Hou Shuai , Ma Sujie , Chen Guohao , Chen Zelin , Wang Xiangtao , Zhang Zhixin
Published: April 2023

Drought and nutrient deficiency pose great challenges to the successful establishment of native plants on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The dominant factors and strategies that affect the adaptation of alpine herbs to dry and nutrient-deficient environments remain unclear. Three water gradients were established using two-factor controlled experiments: low water (WL), medium water (WM), and high water (WH). The field water-holding capacities were 35%, 55%, and 75%, respectively. Nitrogen fertilizer (N) was applied at four levels: control (CK), low (FL), medium (FM), and high (FH) at 0, 110, 330, and 540 mg/kg, respectively. The results revealed that N was the main limiting factor, rather than phosphorous (P), in Festuca coelestis under drought stress. Under water shortage conditions, F. coelestis accumulated more proline and non-structural carbohydrates, especially in the aboveground parts of the leaves and stems; however, the root diameter and aboveground nitrogen use efficiency were reduced. Appropriate N addition could mitigate the adverse effects by increasing the release of N, P, and enzyme activity in the bulk soil and rhizosphere to balance their ratio, and was mainly transferred to the aboveground parts, which optimized the supply uptake relationship. The effects of water and fertilizer on the physiological adaptability and nutrient utilization of F. coelestis were verified using structural equation modeling. Based on their different sensitivities to water and nitrogen, the WHFM treatment was more suitable for F. coelestis establishment. Our results demonstrated that the disproportionate nutrient supply ability and preferential supply aboveground compared to below ground were the main factors influencing F. coelestis seedling establishment under drought conditions. This study provides evidence for a better understanding of herbaceous plants living in high mountain regions and offers important information for reducing the risk of ecological restoration failure in similar alpine regions.
Hydroxylated Cinnamates Enhance Tomato Resilience to Alternaria alternata, the Causal Agent of Early Blight Disease, and Stimulate Growth and Yield Traits
Authors: Nehela Yasser , Mazrou Yasser S. A. , Taha Naglaa A. , Elzaawely Abdelnaser A. , Xuan Tran Dang , Makhlouf Abeer H. , El-Nagar Asmaa
Published: April 2023

The important vegetable crop, tomato, is challenged with numerous abiotic and biotic stressors, particularly the newly emerged fungicide-resistant strains of phytopathogenic fungi such as Alternaria alternata, the causal agent of early blight disease. The current study investigated the potential antifungal activity of four cinnamate derivatives including cinnamic acid, ρ-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid against A. alternata. Our in vitro findings showed that all tested compounds exhibited dose-dependent fungistatic action against A. alternata when their concentrations were increased from 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, and 0.7, to 0.9 mM, respectively. The high concentration of ferulic acid (0.9 mM) completely inhibited the radial mycelial growth of A. alternata and it was comparable to the positive control (difenoconazole fungicide). Additionally, under greenhouse conditions, foliar application of the four tested cinnamates significantly reduced the severity of early blight disease without any phytotoxicity on treated tomato plants. Moreover, it significantly improved the growth traits (plant height, total leaf area, number of leaves per plant, and shoot fresh weight), total chlorophyll, and yield components (number of flowers per plant, number of fruits per plant, and fruit yield) of treated A. alternata-infected plants. Collectively, our findings suggest that cinnamate derivatives could be good candidates as eco-friendly alternatives to reduce the use of chemical fungicides against A. alternata.
Artificial Neural Network and Response Surface-Based Combined Approach to Optimize the Oil Content of Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora (Thai Basil)
Authors: Sahu Akankshya , Nayak Gayatree , Bhuyan Sanat Kumar , Akbar Abdul , Bhuyan Ruchi , Kar Dattatreya , Kuanar Ananya
Published: April 2023

Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora is valuable for its medicinal properties. The barriers to the commercialization of essential oil are the lack of requisite high oil-containing genotypes and variations in the quantity and quality of essential oils in different geographic areas. Thai basil’s essential oil content is significantly influenced by soil and environmental factors. To optimize and predict the essential oil yield of Thai basil in various agroclimatic regions, the current study was conducted. The 93 datasets used to construct the model were collected from samples taken across 10 different agroclimatic regions of Odisha. Climate variables, soil parameters, and oil content were used to train the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model. The outcome showed that a multilayer feed-forward neural network with an R squared value of 0.95 was the most suitable model. To understand how the variables interact and to determine the optimum value of each variable for the greatest response, the response surface curves were plotted. Garson’s algorithm was used to discover the influential predictors. Soil potassium content was found to have a very strong influence on responses, followed by maximum relative humidity and average rainfall, respectively. The study reveals that by adjusting the changeable parameters for high commercial significance, the ANN-based prediction model with the response surface methodology technique is a new and promising way to estimate the oil yield at a new site and maximize the essential oil yield at a particular region. To our knowledge, this is the first report on an ANN-based prediction model for Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora.
Photosynthesis Product Allocation and Yield in Sweet Potato in Response to Different Late-Season Irrigation Levels
Authors: Zhou Mingjing , Sun Yiming , Wang Shaoxia , Liu Qing , Li Huan
Published: April 2023

Soil water deficit is an important factor affecting the source–sink balance of sweet potato during its late-season growth, but water regulation during this period has not been well studied. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the appropriate irrigation level in late-season sweet potato, and the effect of irrigation level on accumulation and allocation of photosynthetic products. In this study, two yield-based field trials (2021–2022) were conducted in which five late-season irrigation levels set according to the crop evapotranspiration rate were tested (T0: non-irrigation, T1: 33% ETc, T2: 75% ETc, T3: 100% ETc, T4: 125% ETc). The effects of the different irrigation levels on photosynthetic physiological indexes, 13C transfer allocation, water use efficiency (WUE), water productivity (WP), and the yield and economic benefit of sweet potato were studied. The results showed that late-season irrigation significantly increased the total chlorophyll content and net photosynthetic rate of functional leaves, in addition to promoting the accumulation of above-ground-source organic biomass (p < 0.05). The rate of 13C allocation, maximum accumulation rate (Vmax), and average accumulation rate (Vmean) of dry matter in storage root were significantly higher under T2 irrigation than under the other treatments (p < 0.05). This suggests that both non-irrigation (T0) and over-irrigation (T4) were not conducive to the transfer and allocation of photosynthetic products to storage roots in late-season sweet potato. However, moderate irrigation (T2) effectively promoted the source–sink balance, enhanced the source photosynthetic rate and stimulated the sink activity, such that more photosynthate was allocated to the storage sink. The results also showed that T2 irrigation treatments significantly increased yield, WUE and WP compared to T0 and T4 (p < 0.05), suggesting that moderate irrigation (T2) can significantly promote the potential of storage root production and field productivity. There was a close relationship between economic benefit and marketable sweet potato yield, and both were highest under T2 (p < 0.05), increasing by 36.1% and 59.9% compared with T0 over the two-year study period. In conclusion, irrigation of late-season sweet potato with 75% evapotranspiration (T2) can improve both the yield and production potential. Together, these results support the use of late-season water management in the production of sweet potato.
Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Induce Changes of Photosynthesis-Related Parameters in Virus Infected Grapevine
Authors: Gaši Emanuel , Radić Tomislav , Čarija Mate , Gambino Giorgio , Balestrini Raffaella , Hančević Katarina
Published: April 2023

The negative effects of viruses and the positive effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on grapevine performance are well reported, in contrast to the knowledge about their interactive effects in perennial plants, e.g., in grapevine. To elucidate the physiological consequences of grapevine–AMF–virus interactions, two different AMF inoculum (Rhizophagus irregularis and ‘Mix AMF’) were used on grapevine infected with grapevine rupestris stem pitting virus, grapevine leafroll associated virus 3 and/or grapevine pinot gris virus. Net photosynthesis rate (AN), leaf transpiration (E), intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) and conductance to H2O (gs) were measured at three time points during one growing season. Furthermore, quantum efficiency in light (ΦPSII) and electron transport rate (ETR) were surveyed in leaves of different maturity, old (basal), mature (middle) and young (apical) leaf. Lastly, pigment concentration and growth parameters were analysed. Virus induced changes in grapevine were minimal in this early infection stage. However, the AMF induced changes of grapevine facing biotic stress were most evident in higher net photosynthesis rate, conductance to H2O, chlorophyll a concentration, total carotenoid concentration and dry matter content. The AMF presence in the grapevine roots seem to prevail over virus infection, with Rhizophagus irregularis inducing greater photosynthesis changes in solitary form rather than mixture. This study shows that AMF can be beneficial for grapevine facing viral infection, in the context of functional physiology.
Cnidium monnieri (L.) Cusson Flower as a Supplementary Food Promoting the Development and Reproduction of Ladybeetles Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)
Authors: Su Wenwen , Ouyang Fang , Li Zhuo , Yuan Yiyang , Yang Quanfeng , Ge Feng
Published: April 2023

Predaceous ladybeetles are highly polyphagous predators that ingest supplementary food from flowering plants. Flowering plants widely grown in agroecosystems can sustain multiple natural enemies of agricultural pests, and the pollen and nectar resources from flowering plants may have a positive role in natural enemies. Cnidium monnieri (L.) Cusson, an annual herb with many flowers, blooms from May to July. C. monnieri can support several predatory natural enemies, and the addition of C. monnieri strips increases the density of Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) and improves the biological control of apple aphids in an apple orchard. H. axyridis is also the most important natural enemy in wheat aphid biocontrol and is attracted to healthy and aphid-infested C. monnieri plants. In addition, adult Propylaea japonica Thunberg survives significantly longer on C. monnieri flowers than on a water-only diet. In this study, a laboratory experiment was conducted to assess (i) the effect of nutritional supplements derived from C. monnieri flowers on the development and reproduction of H. axyridis under a wheat aphids-only diet; (ii) the effect of C. monnieri flowers on H. axyridis adult reproduction performance. We compared the larval durations, survival, weight, adult longevity, and reproduction of H. axyridis reared on wheat aphids-only and aphids plus C. monnieri flower diets. The results showed that H. axyridis larvae reared on aphids plus flowers had significantly greater weights and survival rates, shorter larval durations, and produced 1.62 times more eggs than those reared on wheat aphids-only diets. H. axyridis adults ingesting a C. monnieri flowers plus an aphid diet increased egg production 1.44 times compared to the aphids-only diet. Our study demonstrates that C. monnieri flowers as a supplementary food positively affect the survival, development, and reproduction performance of H. axyridis.
Agronomic Investigation of Spray Dispersion of Metal-Based Nanoparticles on Sunflowers in Real-World Environments
Authors: Ernst Dávid , Kolenčík Marek , Šebesta Martin , Ďurišová Ľuba , Ďúranová Hana , Kšiňan Samuel , Illa Ramakanth , Safarik Ivo , Černý Ivan , Kratošová Gabriela , Žitniak Čurná Veronika , Ivanič Porhajašová Jana , Babošová Mária , Feng Huan , Dobročka Edmund , Bujdoš Marek , Pospiskova Kristyna Zelena , Afzal Shadma , Singh Nand K. , Swamiappan Sasikumar , Aydın Elena
Published: April 2023

In environmental and agronomic settings, even minor imbalances can trigger a range of unpredicted responses. Despite the widespread use of metal-based nanoparticles (NPs) and new bio-nanofertilizers, their impact on crop production is absent in the literature. Therefore, our research is focused on the agronomic effect of spray application of gold nanoparticles anchored to SiO2 mesoporous silica (AuSi-NPs), zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs), and iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4-NPs) on sunflowers under real-world environments. Our findings revealed that the biosynthetically prepared AuSi-NPs and ZnO-NPs were highly effective in enhancing sunflower seasonal physiology, e.g., the value of the NDVI index increased from 0.012 to 0.025 after AuSi-NPs application. The distribution of leaf trichomes improved and the grain yield increased from 2.47 t ha−1 to 3.29 t ha−1 after ZnO-NPs application. AuSi-NPs treatment resulted in a higher content of essential linoleic acid (54.37%) when compared to the NPs-free control (51.57%), which had a higher determined oleic acid. No NPs or residual translocated metals were detected in the fully ripe sunflower seeds, except for slightly higher silica content after the AuSi-NPs treatment. Additionally, AuSi-NPs and NPs-free control showed wide insect biodiversity while ZnO-NPs treatment had the lowest value of phosphorus as anti-nutrient. Contradictory but insignificant effect on physiology, yield, and insect biodiversity was observed in Fe3O4-NPs treatment. Therefore, further studies are needed to fully understand the long-term environmental and agricultural sustainability of NPs applications.
Variation in Seed Dormancy of Chaco Seasonally Dry Forest Species: Effects of Seed Traits and Population Environmental Conditions
Authors: Bertuzzi Tania , López-Spahr Diego , Gómez Carlos A. , Sühring Silvia , Malagrina Gisela , Baskin Carol C. , Galíndez Guadalupe
Published: April 2023

The persistence of subtropical seasonally dry forests urgently requires the implementation of ex situ conservation and restoration programs. We studied variation in seed traits and dormancy of six native species growing in seasonally dry Chaco forests of Argentina. We documented high intra- and interspecific variability in seed traits and dormancy. Fresh seeds of Geoffroea decorticans and Parasenegalia visco (Fabaceae) were water-permeable and nondormant (ND), while those of Parkinsonia praecox and Vachellia aroma (Fabaceae) were water-impermeable and had physical dormancy (PY). Seeds of Schnopsis lorentzii (Anacardiaceae) and Sarcomphalus mistol (Rhamnaceae) were water-permeable and had physiological dormancy (PD). Mechanical and chemical scarification were the most effective methods to break PY, and dry storage for 3 months was effective in breaking PD. Seeds of large-seeded species were ND or had PD, and those of small-seeded species had PY. Species inhabiting moist habitats had ND seeds, whereas those from seasonally dry habitats had seeds with PY or PD. These results suggest that seed traits and dormancy are species-specific and that intraspecific variation in seed traits is likely associated with high phenotypic plasticity of species in response to local environmental heterogeneity. These findings should be considered at the time of implementation of conservation techniques and for seed sourcing decisions for restoration.
Mineral Content and Phytochemical Composition of Avocado var. Hass Grown Using Sustainable Agriculture Practices in Ecuador
Authors: Viera William , Gaona Pablo , Samaniego Iván , Sotomayor Andrea , Viteri Pablo , Noboa Michelle , Merino Jorge , Mejía Paúl , Park Chang Hwan
Published: April 2023

Avocado demand has increased in recent years due to the nutraceutical properties that this fruit has and its positive impacts on human health; however, avocado production also requires sustainable alternatives to improve its cultivation. The objective of this study was to carry out characterization of the mineral content and phytochemical compounds in avocado fruit of the Hass variety grown using sustainable agricultural practices in Ecuador. Our results show an increase in fruit quality traits, such as firmness, and in the content of soluble solids, protein, fiber, fat, carotenoids, Ca, Mg, Zn and stearic acid in the pulp of the avocado Hass variety, as well as an initial trend of yield increase with the application of sustainable practices. Moreover, antioxidant activity was associated with polyphenol content. There were positive correlations of Mg with K and Ca, and of flavonoids with linolelaidic, linoleic and linolenic acids. Overall, our results indicate that avocado can be used as a functional and nutritional food due to its phytochemical composition and the mineral content of its pulp, which contributes to the promotion of its consumption and encourages healthy eating. In addition, the use of sustainable practices, such as fertigation and the application of microorganisms, is also promoted for growing avocado.
Effect of Abiotic Stresses from Drought, Temperature, and Density on Germination and Seedling Growth of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Authors: Tarnawa Ákos , Kende Zoltán , Sghaier Asma Haj , Kovács Gergő Péter , Gyuricza Csaba , Khaeim Hussein
Published: April 2023

Seed germination and seedling growth are highly sensitive to deficit moisture and temperature stress. This study was designed to investigate barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) seeds’ germination and seedling growth under conditions of abiotic stresses. Constant temperature levels of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 °C were used for the germination test. Drought and waterlogging stresses using 30 different water levels were examined using two methods: either based at 1 milliliter intervals or, on the other hand, as percentages of thousand kernel weight (TKW). Seedling density in a petri dish and antifungal application techniques were also investigated. Temperature significantly impacted germination time and seedling development with an ideal range of 15–20 °C, with a more comprehensive range to 10 °C. Higher temperatures reversely affected germination percentage, and the lower ones affected the germination and seedling growth rate. Germination commenced at 130% water of the TKW, and the ideal water range for seedling development was greater and more extensive than the range for germination, which means there is a difference between the starting point for germination and the seedling development. Seed size define germination water requirements and provides an objective and more precise basis suggesting an optimal range supply of 720% and 1080% of TKW for barley seedling development. A total of 10 seeds per 9 cm petri dish may be preferable over greater densities. The techniques of priming seeds with an antifungal solution (Bordóilé or Hypo) or antifungal application at even 5 ppm in the media significantly prevented fungal growth. This study is novel regarding the levels and types of abiotic stresses, the crop, the experimental and measurement techniques, and in comparison to the previous studies.
Key Pathways and Genes of Arabidopsis thaliana and Arabidopsis halleri Roots under Cadmium Stress Responses: Differences and Similarities
Authors: Sferra Gabriella , Fantozzi Daniele , Scippa Gabriella Stefania , Trupiano Dalila
Published: April 2023

Cadmium (Cd) is among the world’s major health concerns, as it renders soils unsuitable and unsafe for food and feed production. Phytoremediation has the potential to remediate Cd-polluted soils, but efforts are still needed to develop a deep understanding of the processes underlying it. In this study, we performed a comprehensive analysis of the root response to Cd stress in A. thaliana, which can phytostabilize Cd, and in A. halleri, which is a Cd hyperaccumulator. Suitable RNA-seq data were analyzed by WGCNA to identify modules of co-expressed genes specifically associated with Cd presence. The results evidenced that the genes of the hyperaccumulator A. halleri mostly associated with the Cd presence are finely regulated (up- and downregulated) and related to a general response to chemical and other stimuli. Additionally, in the case of A. thaliana, which can phytostabilize metals, the genes upregulated during Cd stress are related to a general response to chemical and other stimuli, while downregulated genes are associated with functions which, affecting root growth and development, determine a deep modification of the organ both at the cellular and physiological levels. Furthermore, key genes of the Cd-associated modules were identified and confirmed by differentially expressed gene (DEG) detection and external knowledge. Together, key functions and genes shed light on differences and similarities among the strategies that the plants use to cope with Cd and may be considered as possible targets for future research.
Chemical Composition and Biological Activity of Salvia officinalis L. Essential Oil
Authors: Jažo Zvonimir , Glumac Mateo , Paštar Vlatka , Bektić Sanida , Radan Mila , Carev Ivana
Published: April 2023

In our study, we investigated the chemical composition and cytotoxic activity of essential oils isolated from Dalmatian sage (Salvia officinalis L.) collected along the Adriatic coast of Croatia. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the morphology of the stem and leaf surfaces. Essential oil excretory glands were detected on both the leaves and stem surfaces. The essential oils were isolated by hydrodistillation, and their chemical composition was determined by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Sage essential oils were mixtures of terpene compounds, among which the most common were: α- and β-thujone, camphor, and 1,8-cineol. Cytotoxic activity was tested using MTS assay on multiple cell lines: normal and immortalized fibroblasts (HF77FA and HDF-Tert), immortalized lung line (BEAS-2B), and breast adenocarcinoma (MDA-MB-231). The growth of treated cells was determined relative to control conditions without treatment. The immortalized lung line was the least resistant to the activity of the essential oils, whereas immortalized fibroblasts were the most resistant. Statistical analysis has connected the cytotoxic effect and chemical composition of the studied essential oils. To the best of our knowledge, this work is the first testing of the cytotoxic activity of S. officinalis EO’s on the BEAS-2B, HF77FA, and HDF-Tert cell lines. The presented data on essential oil chemical composition and cytotoxic effect on 4 types of human cells supports pharmacotherapeutic potential this plant is known to have.
Research Progress and Trends on Utilization of Lignocellulosic Residues as Supports for Enzyme Immobilization via Advanced Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Neto Francisco Simão , Fernandes de Melo Neta Maria Marliete , Sales Misael Bessa , Silva de Oliveira Francisco Arisson , de Castro Bizerra Viviane , Sanders Lopes Ada Amélia , de Sousa Rios Maria Alexsandra , Santos José Cleiton Sousa dos
Published: April 2023

Lignocellulosic biomasses are used in several applications, such as energy production, materials, and biofuels. These applications result in increased consumption and waste generation of these materials. However, alternative uses are being developed to solve the problem of waste generated in the industry. Thus, research is carried out to ensure the use of these biomasses as enzymatic support. These surveys can be accompanied using the advanced bibliometric analysis tool that can help determine the biomasses used and other perspectives on the subject. With this, the present work aims to carry out an advanced bibliometric analysis approaching the main studies related to the use of lignocellulosic biomass as an enzymatic support. This study will be carried out by highlighting the main countries/regions that carry out productions, research areas that involve the theme, and future trends in these areas. It was observed that there is a cooperation between China, USA, and India, where China holds 28.07% of publications in this area, being the country with the greatest impact in the area. Finally, it is possible to define that the use of these new supports is a trend in the field of biotechnology.
Crushing Responses of Expanded Polypropylene Foam
Authors: Xing Yueqing , Sun Deqiang , Zhang Meiyun , Shu Guowei
Published: April 2023

This paper aimed to experimentally clarify the crushing mechanism and performance of expanded polypropylene foam (EPP) and analyze the influence of density and thickness on its mechanical behavior and energy absorption properties under static crushing loadings. Hence, a series of compression tests were carried out on EPP foams with different densities and thicknesses. For foam with a density of 60 kg/m3, the mean crushing strength, energy absorption (Ea), energy absorption efficiency (Ef), specific energy absorption (SEA), and energy absorption per unit volume (w) increased by 245.3%, 187.2%, 42.3%, 54.3%, and 242.8%, respectively, compared to foam with a density of 20 kg/m3. Meanwhile, compared to foam with a thickness of 30 mm, the mean crushing strength, energy absorption (Ea), energy absorption efficiency (Ef), SEA, and energy absorption per unit volume (w) for foam with a thickness of 75 mm increased by 53.3%, 25.2%, −10.8%, −4.7%, and −10.6%, respectively. The results show that foam density has a significantly greater influence on static compressive performance than foam thickness. The microstructures of the EPP foam before and after static compression were compared by observing with a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the failure mechanism was analyzed. Results showed that the load and energy as well as the deformation and instability processes of its cells were transferred layer by layer. The influence of density on the degree of destruction of the internal cells was obvious. Due to its larger mass and larger internal damping, thicker foams were less damaged, and less deformation was produced. Additionally, the EPP foam exhibited a considerable ability to recover after compression.
Fibre-Reinforced Polymers and Steel for the Reinforcement of Wooden Elements—Experimental and Numerical Analysis
Authors: Wdowiak-Postulak Agnieszka , Wieruszewski Marek , Bahleda František , Prokop Jozef , Brol Janusz
Published: April 2023

These elements are innovative and of interest to many researchers for the reinforcement of wooden elements. For the reinforced beam elements, the effect of the reinforcement factor, FRP and steel elastic modulus or FRP and steel arrangement of the reinforcement on the performance of the flexural elements was determined, followed by reading the load-displacement diagram of the reinforced beam elements. The finite element model was then developed and verified with the experimental results, which was mainly related to the fact that the general theory took into account the typical tensile failure mode, which can be used to predict the flexural strength of reinforced timber beams. From the tests, it was determined that reinforced timber beam elements had relatively ductile flexural strengths up to brittle tension for unreinforced elements. As for the reinforcements of FRP, the highest increase in load-bearing capacity was for carbon mats at 52.47%, with a reinforcement grade of 0.43%, while the lowest was for glass mats at 16.62% with a reinforcement grade of 0.22%. Basalt bars achieved the highest stiffness, followed by glass mats. Taking into account all the reinforcements used, the highest stiffness was demonstrated by the tests of the effectiveness of the reinforcement using 3 mm thick steel plates. For this configuration with a reinforcement percentage of 10%, this increase in load capacity was 79.48% and stiffness was 31.08%. The difference between the experimental and numerical results was within 3.62–27.36%, respectively.
Natural and Natural-Based Polymers: Recent Developments in Management of Emerging Pollutants
Authors: Fierascu Radu Claudiu , Fierascu Irina , Matei (Brazdis) Roxana Ioana , Manaila-Maximean Doina
Published: April 2023

Anthropogenic activities lead to the issue of new classes of pollutants in the environment that are not currently monitored in environmental studies. This category of pollutants (known as emerging contaminants) includes a very wide range of target substances, such as pharmaceuticals, plant protection products, personal care products, dyes, toxins, microplastics and many other industrially important intermediaries. Together with an increasing demand for clean water (both for agricultural necessities and for the increasing population consumption), the need for the removal of emerging pollutants, simultaneously with the current “green chemistry” approach, opens the door for the industrial application of natural polymers in the area of environmental protection. Recent developments in this area are presented in this paper, as well as the application of these particular natural materials for the removal of other contaminants of interest (such as radioisotopes and nanoparticles). The current knowledge regarding the processes’ kinetics is briefly presented, as well as the future development perspectives in this area.
Structural and Tribological Characterization of Carbon and Glass Fabrics Reinforced Epoxy for Bushing Applications Safety
Authors: Moosa Majed H. , Abu-Okail Mohamed , Abu-Oqail Ahmed , Al-Shelkamy Samah A. , Shewakh W. M. , Ghafaar M. Abdel
Published: April 2023

This article investigates the effect of geometrical alternatives for fiber directions on the structural and tribological properties of glass and carbon fibers when molded with epoxy as polymeric composite fabrics for the safety and quality of bushing applications. To confirm the best composite fabric direction, scanning electron microscope and tribological analyses were carried out for the glass and carbon fabrics at horizontal and vertical geometrical alternative orientations. The tribological test was applied using a pin-on-disk tribometer at constant bark velocity of 0.520 m/s against different loads, beginning with 5, 10, 15, and 20 N for the investigated composite samples. The structural measurements demonstrated that the carbon fiber had a high ability to merge with the resin epoxy when compared with the glass fiber. The tribological analysis elucidated that the lower wear volume loss and friction coefficient were obtained when molding the resin epoxy horizontally to the fiber-stacking direction compared with the other vertical direction. Accordingly, the study deduced that the carbon fiber composite material achieves superior wear resistance when molded by resin epoxy horizontally to the direction of tribological wear, which is suitable for several advanced bushing applications.
Performance of Rubber Concrete Containing Polypropylene and Basalt Fibers under Coupled Sulfate Attack and Freeze–Thaw Conditions: An Experimental Evaluation
Authors: Ran Tao , Pang Jianyong , Yu Jincheng
Published: April 2023

Rubber concrete (RC) is a new type of concrete that is currently receiving a lot of attention, solving serious pollution problems by grinding waste tires into granules and adding them to concrete. However, rubber concrete has deficiencies in mechanics and durability, and has been reinforced by adding fibers in many studies. In this study, the mechanical and durability properties of rubber concrete with added polypropylene and basalt fibers (PBRC) were investigated in a series of experiments including apparent morphology, mass, static compressive and tensile tests, ultrasonic non-destructive testing, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) tests under coupled environments of sulfate attack and freeze–thaw. The results showed that the mass loss rate of RC and PBRC gradually increased with the number of freeze–thaw cycles, with more pits and cement paste peeling from the specimen surface. Moreover, the compressive and splitting tensile strengths of RC and PBRC groups exhibited distinct trends, with the former group showing a lower residual strength relative to the latter. The residual compressive strength of the RC group was only 69.4% after 160 freeze–thaw cycles in 5% MgSO4 solution. However, it is worth noting that the addition of too many fibers also had a negative effect on the strength of the rubber concrete. Additionally, the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results indicated that the fibers restricted the formation of microcracks in the microstructure and curtailed the brittleness of the concrete. This study can provide a valuable reference for the application of environmentally friendly material fibers in recycled aggregate concrete.
Biaxial Orientation of PLA/PBAT/Thermoplastic Cereal Flour Sheets: Structure–Processing–Property Relationships
Authors: Jaouadi Nour , Al-Itry Racha , Maazouz Abderrahim , Lamnawar Khalid
Published: April 2023

This paper investigates the biaxial stretchability of polylactic acid (PLA)/poly (butylene adipate co-terephthalate) (PBAT)/thermoplastic cereal flour (TCF) ternary blends with a PLA/PBAT ratio close to 60/40 and a constant TCF content. A twin-screw extrusion process was used to gelatinize the starch and devolatilize the water in order to obtain a water-free TCF, which was then blended into a compatibilized or non-compatibilized PLA/PBAT matrix, introduced in the molten state. These blends were subsequently cast into sheets and biaxially drawn using a biaxial laboratory stretcher. The prepared ternary blends were found to present a typical ductile behavior. Scanning electron micrography highlighted dispersion and adhesion properties in the PLA/PBAT/TCF blends, where two different phases were observed. Moreover, the addition of the thermoplastic cereal flour did not significantly affect the biaxial stretchability of the PLA/PBAT blends but was found to lower the maximum stress before breaking. The modification of the interfacial tension between PLA and PBAT with the compatibilizer Joncryl before mixing with TCF had no effect on the durability of the PLA/PBAT/TCF sheet. Still, it slightly increased the maximum of nominal stress before failure.
Thermal Stabilization of Nafion with Nanocarbon Materials
Authors: Krasnova Anna O. , Glebova Nadezhda V. , Kastsova Angelina G. , Rabchinskii Maxim K. , Nechitailov Andrey A.
Published: April 2023

The stability of Nafion–carbon composites is important for the efficient functioning of fuel cells. The thermal decomposition of Nafion, nanostructured carbon materials, such as multi-walled carbon nanotubes, graphene-like materials, and their composites, have been studied using constant heating rate thermogravimetry in air. Materials were characterized by quantitative and qualitative analysis methods, such as thermogravimetry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy with field emission. In Nafion–carbon composites, an increase in the thermal stability of the Nafion polymer is observed due to the formation of surface compounds at the Nafion–carbon interface. In this case, the degree of stabilization is affected by both the component composition of the composite and the structure of the nanocarbon material. The greatest effect was obtained in the case of using thermally expanded graphite (few-layer graphene). Nafion is distributed to a greater extent over the surface of the carbon material due to its high structural accessibility. The most thermally stable composite is Nafion–graphene in a mass ratio of components 1:4 with one stage Nafion degradation at 422 °C, whereas the degradation of pristine Nafion occurs in three stages at 341, 413, and 430 °C. The dependences of thermal stability and features of thermal degradation on the composition and structure of composites are discussed.
Properties and Structure of Thermoplastic Polyvinyl Alcohol/Polyamide Sea-Island Fibers
Authors: Song Bing , Cao Yang , Wang Liang , Shen Yake , Qian Xiaoming
Published: April 2023

Ultra-fine fibers derived from sea-island fibers have attracted great attention due to their excellent overall performance. However, green and efficient splitting of sea-island fibers is still a challenging task. In this work, thermoplastic polyvinyl alcohol (TPVA) was prepared by the physical blending of plasticizer. The modified TPVA showed a high decomposition temperature (285 °C) and a wide thermoplastic processing window. This made TPVA match well with polyamide 6 (PA6) to form conjugated melts at 250 °C. Corresponding PVA/PA6 sea-island fibers were first reported to realize water-splitting instead of alkali-extraction of “sea” polymers. The effects of sea/island mass ratios and different spinning speeds on the properties of PVA/PA6 sea-island pre-oriented yarn (POY) were investigated. A higher spinning speed enhanced the orientation-induced crystalline behavior of fiber, therefore increasing the tensile strength of fibers. As the increase of spinning speed from 1000 to 1500 m/min, the crystalline degree of corresponding POYs increased from 9.9 to 14.3%. The plasticizer in PVA did not diffuse to the PA matrix during spinning. However, PVA could induce the crystallization of PA6 via interfacial hydrogen bonding. When the spinning speed was 1500 m/min, and PVA/PA6 was 7:3, the tensile strength reached the highest value of 1.67 cN/dtex. The uniform diameters of ultra-fine PA6 fibers (2–5 μm) were obtained by an environment-friendly water-splitting process. The “sea” phase (TPVA) in sea-island fiber could be removed quickly by boiling water treatment in 3 min. This green and energy-saving sea-island fiber splitting technique is of great significance in reducing CO2 emissions during the preparation of super-fine fibers.
Theory and Application of Geostatistical Inversion: A Facies-Constrained MCMC Algorithm
Authors: Dong Wenbo , Li Yonggen , Gui Zhixian , Zhou Lei
Published: April 2023

To improve the prediction of thin reservoirs with special geophysical responses, a geostatistical inversion technique is proposed based on an in-depth analysis of the theory of geostatistical inversion. This technique is based on the Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm, to which we added the contents of facies-constrained. The feasibility of the technique and the reliability of the prediction results are demonstrated by a prediction of the sand bodies in the braided river channel bars in the Xiazijie Oilfield in the Junggar Basin. Based on the MCMC algorithm, the results show that leveraging the lateral changes in the seismic waveforms as geologically relevant information to drive the construction of the variogram and the optimization of the statistical sampling can largely overcome the obstacle that prevents traditional geostatistical inversions from accurately delineating the sedimentary characteristics; thereby, the proposed algorithm truly achieves facies-constrained geostatistical inversion. The case study of the Xiazijie Oilfield showed the feasibility and reliability of this technology. The prediction accuracy of the FCMCMC algorithm-based geostatistical inversion is as high as 6 m for thin interbedded reservoirs, and the coincidence rate between the prediction results and the well log data is more than 85%, which confirms the reliability of the technique. The demonstrated performance of the proposed technique provides a preliminary reference for the prediction of the thin interbedded reservoirs formed in terrestrial sedimentary basins and characterized by small thicknesses and rapid lateral changes with special geophysical responses.
Emissions and Absorption of CO2 in China’s Cold Regions
Authors: Song Weiwei , Zhu Zhiyu , Yao Wanying , Gao Zhi , Chen Ruihan , Zhao Yixuan , Wang Mengying , Wang Xiaoyan , Li Chunhui , Liang Miao , Yu Dajiang
Published: April 2023

Energy production and consumption are dominant sources of CO2 emissions. Investigating the amount and characteristics of CO2 emission sources can aid in reducing CO2 emissions from energy-related sectors, which could lead to the development of advanced technologies and ideas for abatement. Cities play a significant role in CO2 emissions, representing a distinctive unit with a specialized energy consumption structure, meteorology, economy, agriculture, forest acreage, etc. Those properties interact and influence CO2 emissions. The city-level emission inventory is an important scientific database helping to investigate emission abatement technologies and establish control strategies. In this study, city-level CO2 emissions and ecological absorption of China’s coldest province are quantified. In the targeted region, winter lasts for about 6 months. Sectors of industry, thermal power generation, and domestic heating are dominant contributors to the total emissions. The provincial CO2 emissions from energy consumption increased gradually, reaching 327.61 million tons in 2019. Cities with strong industrial activities produced higher CO2 emissions. Moreover, the targeted region is a strong agriculture province, with the largest contribution to grain production in China. The absorption of farmland and forest was quantified, at 343.91 and 69.3 million tons in 2019, respectively. The total absorption was higher than the energy-related emissions. This indicated that the targeted region would provide a considerable carbon sink, attributed to the properties of its ecological system. From 2017 onwards, small boilers (single boilers smaller than 32 steam tons) were removed, and hence the emissions were lower than the original value. This study presents the characteristics of CO2 emissions, and reveals the co-benefit of air pollution control on CO2 reduction.