bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Transition Towards a Greener and More Competitive Economy: The Iberian Case
Authors: Pérez-Franco Ismael , García-García Agustín , Maldonado-Briegas Juan J.
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we analyze the effects of the energy transition process on economic growth in Spain and Portugal, countries that, adhering to European Union (EU) directives, opted to promote clean energies from the very start. On the one hand, we look at the energy transition laws introduced by the EU and other countries. On the other, we conduct a causal analysis of energy consumption and economic growth to confirm whether the change of energy model has generated positive effects on economic growth. The procedure was as follows. First, we conducted an aggregate causality analysis exploring the relationship between growth and energy consumption. As the results were not significant, we repeated the analysis with different disaggregations of renewable energy sources. With respect to solar thermal energy and economic growth, the main conclusion is that the data appear to show a one-way causal relationship for Portugal and EU-26 (European Union without Portugal and Spain) and a two-way relationship for Spain.
Business Ethics Crisis and Social Sustainability. The Case of the Product “Pura Vida” in Peru
Authors: Peñaflor-Guerra Renato , Sanagustín-Fons M. Victoria , Ramírez-Lozano Julianna
Published: April 2020

Peru is a Latin American country with one of the most powerful and dynamic emerging economies in the world; however, it reveals considerable inconsistencies and socioeconomic inequalities. This research demonstrates that business ethics and corporate social responsibility are closely related with the welfare state of the country/region where a company is incorporated. Research work has been carried out on the case of the product “Pura Vida”, of the Gloria Company, implementing a mixed research method (documentary, quan and qual) in which a descriptive collection of data from different sources, in relation to the company and the crisis with Pura Vida milk, has been used; additionally, an ad hoc survey has been conducted on a sample of Peruvian citizens to know their insight in relation to the relevant aspects of business ethics and corporate responsibility and their opinion regarding the specific case being investigated; finally, in-depth interviews were held with the company’s management staff. It is shown that without a certain degree of welfare state, it is difficult to implement ethics and social responsibility in companies and in society as a whole. In addition, the main concerns of Peruvians regarding ethics and social responsibility can be observed.
Removal Efficiencies of Constructed Wetland Planted with Phragmites and Vetiver in Treating Synthetic Wastewater Contaminated with High Concentration of PAHs
Authors: Alsghayer Rabia , Salmiaton Ali , Mohammad Thamer , Idris Azni , Ishak Che Fauziah
Published: April 2020

This study aimed to evaluate the capability of horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands (HSFCWs) in treating contaminated wastewater with a high concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) (Phenanthrene, Pyrene, and Benzo[a]Pyrene), using two plants, namely Phragmites and Vetiver. The investigated parameters were (1) PAHs uptake by the plants, (2) PAHs removal efficiencies, (3) accumulated PAHs in the soil of CWs, (4) shoot/root concentration factor, (5) translocation factor, and (6) PAHs correlation to lipid contains in the plants. During the treatment period, the results showed that the highest concentration of Phenanthrene in the shoot and the root systems of Phragmites, was 229.3 and 192 μg/g; Pyrene was 69.1 and 59.2 µg/g; and Benzo[a]Pyrene 25.1 and 20.2 µg/g, respectively. Meanwhile, in the Vetiver shoot and root systems were Phenanthrene 87.5 and 64.1 µg/g; Pyrene 63.2 and 42.1 µg/g; and Benzo[a]Pyrene 21.3 and 27.3 µg/g, respectively. The removal rates of Phenanthrene, Pyrene, and Benzo[a]Pyrene (PAHs compounds) by the CW planted with Phragmites were found to be 83%, 71%, and 81%, respectively, while the removal rates by CW planted with Vetiver were found to be 67%, 66%, and 73%, respectively. Moreover, the removal rates by unplanted CW were found to be 62%, 58%, and 55%, respectively. The results indicated that the HSFCW planted with Phragmites has an effective pathway to remove high concentrations of PAHs.
Breather’s Properties within the Framework of the Modified Korteweg–de Vries Equation
Authors: Didenkulova Ekaterina , Pelinovsky Efim
Published: April 2020

We study a breather’s properties within the framework of the modified Korteweg–de Vries (mKdV) model, where cubic nonlinearity is essential. Extrema, moments, and invariants of a breather with different parameters have been analyzed. The conditions in which a breather moves in one direction or another has been determined. Two limiting cases have been considered: when a breather has an N-wave shape and can be interpreted as two solitons with different polarities, and when a breather contains many oscillations and can be interpreted as an envelope soliton of the nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLS).
A New Multiteam System (MTS) Effectiveness Model
Authors: Turner John , Baker Rose , Ali Zain , Thurlow Nigel
Published: April 2020

Team effectiveness models in the literature are primarily concentrated on traditional teams, with few involving the multiteam system (MTS) level of analysis in the model. Teams achieve their goals by managing both teamwork (e.g., interpersonal, effective, motivational, cognitive) and taskwork (e.g., strategy, goal setting, project management) activities. When MTSs are involved, multiple teams manage their own teamwork and taskwork activities, while leadership must be in place to coordinate these activities within and between teams in order to achieve the organization’s goal (the MTS’s goal). This research study conducted a systematic review of current team effectiveness frameworks and models. A narrative-based method for theorizing was utilized to develop a new MTS team effectiveness framework. This research contributes to the MTS literature by providing a new formula for team effectiveness at both the team level (team effectiveness formula) and the MTS level (MTS team effectiveness formula). This research aids managers, practitioners, and researchers by providing a tool that accounts for all levels and temporal processes.
Development and Application of Extraction Methods for LC-MS Quantification of Microcystins in Liver Tissue
Authors: Baliu-Rodriguez David , Kucheriavaia Daria , Palagama Dilrukshika S. W. , Lad Apurva , O’Neill Grace M. , Birbeck Johnna A. , Kennedy David J. , Haller Steven T. , Westrick Judy A. , Isailovic Dragan
Published: April 2020

A method was developed to extract and quantify microcystins (MCs) from mouse liver with limits of quantification (LOQs) lower than previously reported. MCs were extracted from 40-mg liver samples using 85:15 (v:v) CH3CN:H2O containing 200 mM ZnSO4 and 1% formic acid. Solid-phase extraction with a C18 cartridge was used for sample cleanup. MCs were detected and quantified using HPLC-orbitrap-MS with simultaneous MS/MS detection of the 135.08 m/z fragment from the conserved Adda amino acid for structural confirmation. The method was used to extract six MCs (MC-LR, MC-RR, MC-YR, MC-LA, MC-LF, and MC-LW) from spiked liver tissue and the MC-LR cysteine adduct (MC-LR-Cys) created by the glutathione detoxification pathway. Matrix-matched internal standard calibration curves were constructed for each MC (R2 ≥ 0.993), with LOQs between 0.25 ng per g of liver tissue (ng/g) and 0.75 ng/g for MC-LR, MC-RR, MC-YR, MC-LA, and MC-LR-Cys, and 2.5 ng/g for MC-LF and MC-LW. The protocol was applied to extract and quantify MC-LR and MC-LR-Cys from the liver of mice that had been gavaged with 50 µg or 100 µg of MC-LR per kg bodyweight and were euthanized 2 h, 4 h, or 48 h after final gavage. C57Bl/6J (wild type, control) and Leprdb/J (experiment) mice were used as a model to study non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The Leprdb/J mice were relatively inefficient in metabolizing MC-LR into MC-LR-Cys, which is an important defense mechanism against MC-LR exposure. Trends were also observed as a function of MC-LR gavage amount and time between final MC-LR gavage and euthanasia/organ harvest.
Chagas Disease and Healthcare Rights in the Bolivian Immigrant Community of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Aith Fernando Mussa Abujamra , Forsyth Colin , Shikanai-Yasuda Maria Aparecida
Published: April 2020

Chagas disease (CD) poses a major public health challenge for the Americas and non endemic regions around the world. This study discusses the legal framework surrounding access to healthcare for CD for Bolivian migrants living in São Paulo, Brazil. While recent guidelines stipulating care for CD exist, there is a lack of legal provisions to ensure they are regularly implemented. Bolivian migrants in SP have specific needs, including language differences and a high level of mobility. Interviews were conducted with ten participants representing public health institutions or organizations working with the Bolivian migrant community. Additionally, a review was conducted of legal, official, and health policy documents pertaining to rights of Bolivian migrants in SP. Although the right to healthcare is constitutionally guaranteed for all, in practice, immigrants, especially those without documentation, encounter barriers to initiating treatment for CD. Providing the primary health care system (SUS) card would not only improve access to healthcare for Bolivian migrants, but also provide a potential pathway toward regularization of status. The approval of clinical protocols and therapeutic guidelines for CD (2018) represents an opportunity to improve care for all Brazilians with CD. Programs with multidisciplinary teams should be developed taking into account the specific social and cultural needs of this population.
Foundations of Finsler Spacetimes from the Observers’ Viewpoint
Authors: Bernal Antonio N. , Javaloyes Miguel A. , Sánchez Miguel
Published: April 2020

Physical foundations for relativistic spacetimes are revisited in order to check at what extent Finsler spacetimes lie in their framework. Arguments based on inertial observers (as in the foundations of special relativity and classical mechanics) are shown to correspond with a double linear approximation in the measurement of space and time. While general relativity appears by dropping the first linearization, Finsler spacetimes appear by dropping the second one. The classical Ehlers–Pirani–Schild approach is carefully discussed and shown to be compatible with the Lorentz–Finsler case. The precise mathematical definition of Finsler spacetime is discussed by using the space of observers. Special care is taken in some issues such as the fact that a Lorentz–Finsler metric would be physically measurable only on the causal directions for a cone structure, the implications for models of spacetimes of some apparently innocuous hypotheses on differentiability, or the possibilities of measurement of a varying speed of light.
Generalised Uncertainty Relations for Angular Momentum and Spin in Quantum Geometry
Authors: Lake Matthew J. , Miller Marek , Liang Shi-Dong
Published: April 2020

We derive generalised uncertainty relations (GURs) for orbital angular momentum and spin in the recently proposed smeared-space model of quantum geometry. The model implements a minimum length and a minimum linear momentum and recovers both the generalised uncertainty principle (GUP) and extended uncertainty principle (EUP), previously proposed in the quantum gravity literature, within a single formalism. In this paper, we investigate the consequences of these results for particles with extrinsic and intrinsic angular momentum and obtain generalisations of the canonical so ( 3 ) and su ( 2 ) algebras. We find that, although SO ( 3 ) symmetry is preserved on three-dimensional slices of an enlarged phase space, corresponding to a superposition of background geometries, individual subcomponents of the generalised generators obey nontrivial subalgebras. These give rise to GURs for orbital angular momentum while leaving the canonical commutation relations intact except for a simple rescaling, ħ → ħ + β . The value of the new parameter, β ≃ ħ × 10 − 61 , is determined by the ratio of the dark energy density to the Planck density, and its existence is required by the presence of both minimum length and momentum uncertainties. Here, we assume the former to be of the order of the Planck length and the latter to be of the order of the de Sitter momentum ∼ ħ Λ , where Λ is the cosmological constant, which is consistent with the existence of a finite cosmological horizon. In the smeared-space model, ħ and β are interpreted as the quantisation scales for matter and geometry, respectively, and a quantum state vector is associated with the spatial background. We show that this also gives rise to a rescaled Lie algebra for generalised spin operators, together with associated subalgebras that are analogous to those for orbital angular momentum. Remarkably, consistency of the algebraic structure requires the quantum state associated with a flat background to be fermionic, with spin eigenvalues ± β / 2 . Finally, the modified spin algebra leads to GURs for spin measurements. The potential implications of these results for cosmology and high-energy physics, and for the description of spin and angular momentum in relativistic theories of quantum gravity, including dark energy, are briefly discussed.
Validity of Reference Time Intervals in Noise Indicators for Aircraft Noise Policy in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Thu Lan , Yamada Ichiro , Yano Takashi , Makino Koichi , Ohya Masaharu
Published: April 2020

Many decibel-based noise indicators are used in noise policy to evaluate aircraft sound in the environment. Among those, day–evening–night-weighted sound pressure level ( L den ), day–night-weighted sound pressure level ( L dn ), and nighttime average sound pressure level ( L night ) are the most widely used. However, the designation of reference time intervals (e.g., day, evening, and night) differs depending on the country’s lifestyle and culture. A dataset—extracted from socio-acoustic surveys conducted in Vietnam (2005–2019)—was analyzed to investigate temporal patterns of the Vietnamese lifestyle and changes in L den , L dn , and L night when temporal interval segmentations in these indicators were adjusted. Traffic congestion hours, go-to-bed time, and wake-up time in southern Vietnam were approximately one hour later than those in northern and central Vietnam. Further, a small-scale and Internet-based questionnaire survey on Vietnamese life rhythms was conducted to examine Vietnamese people’s daily behaviors. These data were compared with the relevant data of Japanese individuals, extracted from the Survey on Time Use and Leisure Activities of Japan. Differences in sleeping times and mealtimes were found between Japanese and Vietnamese data. We suggest an appropriate reference time interval for aircraft noise policy in Vietnam, referring to the current national and international noise standards and regulations.
RNAseq Reveals the Contribution of Interferon Stimulated Genes to the Increased Host Defense and Decreased PPR Viral Replication in Cattle
Authors: Tirumurugaan Krishnaswamy , Pawar Rahul , Dhinakar Raj Gopal , Thangavelu Arthanari , Hammond John , Parida Satya
Published: April 2020

Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) is known to replicate in a wide variety of ruminants causing very species-specific clinical symptoms. Small ruminants (goats and sheep) are susceptible to disease while domesticated cattle and buffalo are dead-end hosts and do not display clinical symptoms. Understanding the host factors that influence differential pathogenesis and disease susceptibility could help the development of better diagnostics and control measures. To study this, we generated transcriptome data from goat and cattle peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) experimentally infected with PPRV in-vitro. After identifying differentially expressed genes, we further analyzed these immune related pathway genes using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) and selected candidate genes were validated using in-vitro experiments. Upon PPRV infection, we identified 12 and 22 immune related genes that were differentially expressed in goat and cattle respectively. In both species, this included the interferon stimulated genes (ISGs) IFI44, IFI6, IFIT1, IFIT2, IFIT3, ISG15, Mx1, Mx2, OAS1X, RSAD2, IRF7, DDX58 and DHX58 that were transcribed significantly higher in cattle. PPRV replication in goat PBMCs significantly increased the expression of phosphodiesterase 12 (PDE12), a 2′,5′-oligoadenylate degrading enzyme that contributes to the reduced modulation of interferon-regulated gene targets. Finally, a model is proposed for the differential susceptibility between large and small ruminants based on the expression levels of type-I interferons, ISGs and effector molecules.
Nipah Virus: Past Outbreaks and Future Containment
Authors: Soman Pillai Vinod , Krishna Gayathri , Valiya Veettil Mohanan
Published: April 2020

Viral outbreaks of varying frequencies and severities have caused panic and havoc across the globe throughout history. Influenza, small pox, measles, and yellow fever reverberated for centuries, causing huge burden for economies. The twenty-first century witnessed the most pathogenic and contagious virus outbreaks of zoonotic origin including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), Ebola virus, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and Nipah virus. Nipah is considered one of the world’s deadliest viruses with the heaviest mortality rates in some instances. It is known to cause encephalitis, with cases of acute respiratory distress turning fatal. Various factors contribute to the onset and spread of the virus. All through the infected zone, various strategies to tackle and enhance the surveillance and awareness with greater emphasis on personal hygiene has been formulated. This review discusses the recent outbreaks of Nipah virus in Malaysia, Bangladesh and India, the routes of transmission, prevention and control measures employed along with possible reasons behind the outbreaks, and the precautionary measures to be ensured by private–public undertakings to contain and ensure a lower incidence in the future.
Unveiling the Hidden Rules of Spherical Viruses Using Point Arrays
Authors: Wilson David P.
Published: April 2020

Since its introduction, the Triangulation number has been the most successful and ubiquitous scheme for classifying spherical viruses. However, despite its many successes, it fails to describe the relative angular orientations of proteins, as well as their radial mass distribution within the capsid. It also fails to provide any critical insight into sites of stability, modifications or possible mutations. We show how classifying spherical viruses using icosahedral point arrays, introduced by Keef and Twarock, unveils new geometric rules and constraints for understanding virus stability and key locations for exterior and interior modifications. We present a modified fitness measure which classifies viruses in an unambiguous and rigorous manner, irrespective of local surface chemistry, steric hinderance, solvent accessibility or Triangulation number. We then use these point arrays to explain the immutable surface loops of bacteriophage MS2, the relative reactivity of surface lysine residues in CPMV and the non-quasi-equivalent flexibility of the HBV dimers. We then explain how point arrays can be used as a predictive tool for site-directed modifications of capsids. This success builds on our previous work showing that viruses place their protruding features along the great circles of the asymmetric unit, demonstrating that viruses indeed adhere to these geometric constraints.
Simplified Analysis for Multiple Input Systems: A Toolbox Study Illustrated on F-16 Measurements
Authors: Csurcsia Péter Zoltán , Peeters Bart , Schoukens Johan , De Troyer Tim
Published: April 2020

This paper introduces a nonparametric, nonlinear system identification toolbox called SAMI (simplified analysis for multiple input systems) developed for industrial measurements of vibro-acoustic systems with multiple inputs. It addresses the questions related to the user-friendly (semi-)automatic processing of multiple-input, multiple-output measurements with respect to the design of an experiment and the analysis of the measured data. When the proposed toolbox is used, with minimal user interaction, it is easily possible (a) to decide whether the underlying system is linear or not, (b) to decide whether the linear framework is still adequate to be used, and (c) to tell an inexperienced user how much can be gained using an advanced nonlinear framework. The toolbox is illustrated on openly accessible F-16 ground vibration testing measurements.
A Computer Aided Approach for River Styles—Inspired Characterization of Large Basins: The Magdalena River (Colombia)
Authors: Nardini Andrea , Yepez Santiago , Zuniga Lislie , Gualtieri Carlo , Bejarano Maria Dolores
Published: April 2020

This paper addresses the geomorphic characterization and classification of large rivers in a framework of scarce information. This is inspired by the River Styles Framework with some modifications that make the process more straightforward and accessible to practitioners and more applicable to large basins, while reducing the subjective, expert-based inputs, as the process is now more systematic. To this aim, it utilizes innovative criteria and some computer-aided procedures and tools based on GIS, Excel and Python. This approach sheds light on the character and the behavior of rivers, which is key to informing planning, management and restoration. The application to the Magdalena River (Colombia) illustrates the characterization and classification process and the type of results, which ultimately highlight the great geomorphic diversity of that river. The process is applicable to many other rivers worldwide.
Implementation of a Local Time Stepping Algorithm and Its Acceleration Effect on Two-Dimensional Hydrodynamic Models
Authors: Yang Xiyan , An Wenjie , Li Wenda , Zhang Shanghong
Published: April 2020

The engineering applications of two-dimensional (2D) hydrodynamic models are restricted by the enormous number of meshes needed and the overheads of simulation time. The aim of this study is to improve computational efficiency and optimize the balance between the quantity of grids used in and the simulation accuracy of 2D hydrodynamic models. Local mesh refinement and a local time stepping (LTS) strategy were used to address this aim. The implementation of the LTS algorithm on a 2D shallow-water dynamic model was investigated using the finite volume method on unstructured meshes. The model performance was evaluated using three canonical test cases, which discussed the influential factors and the adaptive conditions of the algorithm. The results of the numerical tests show that the LTS method improved the computational efficiency and fulfilled mass conservation and solution accuracy constraints. Speedup ratios of between 1.3 and 2.1 were obtained. The LTS scheme was used for navigable flow simulation of the river reach between the Three Gorges and Gezhouba Dams. This showed that the LTS scheme is effective for real complex applications and long simulations and can meet the required accuracy. An analysis of the influence of the mesh refinement on the speedup was conducted. Coarse and refined mesh proportions and mesh scales observably affected the acceleration effect of the LTS algorithm. Smaller proportions of refined mesh resulted in higher speedup ratios. Acceleration was the most obvious when mesh scale differences were large. These results provide technical guidelines for reducing computational time for 2D hydrodynamic models on non-uniform unstructured grids.
Effect of Intermittent Aeration in a Hybrid Vertical Anaerobic Biofilm Reactor (HyVAB) for Reject Water Treatment
Authors: Sivalingam Vasan , Dinamarca Carlos , Janka Eshetu , Kukankov Sergey , Wang Shuai , Bakke Rune
Published: April 2020

Water from anaerobic sludge dewatering (reject water that is recycled to the inlet main process treatment) from the Knarrdalstrand municipal wastewater treatment plant in Porsgrunn, Norway, contains 2.4 g/L of total chemical oxygen demand (TCOD) and 550 mg/L NH4-N (annual average). The high concentration of ammonium causes disturbances in the mainstream physical and chemical processes, while only a small fraction of the organics is biodegradable. A pilot-scale hybrid vertical anaerobic biofilm (HyVAB) reactor combining anaerobic and aerobic treatment was tested for reject water treatment to reduce process disturbances. The pilot HyVAB was prepared for the study with continuous aeration of the aerobic part of the reactor for 200 days, while two intermittent aeration schemes were applied during the three-month test period. Ammonium removal efficiency increased from 8% during the continuous aeration period to 50% at the end of the test when a short (7 min) aeration cycle was applied. COD removal was close to 20%, which was mainly obtained in the anaerobic stage and not significantly influenced by the aerations schemes. Simultaneous partial nitrification and denitrification were established in the biofilm that alternated between aerobic and anoxic conditions. The observed high ammonium removal is explained by two alternative shortcut processes via nitrite. The lack of biodegradable organics in the aerated stage suggests that most of the nitrogen removal was via the anammox pathway (autotrophic denitrification). The HyVAB, combining an anaerobic sludge bed and an intermittently aerated biofilm, appears to be an efficient process to treat high ammonium containing reject water.
Shear-Thinning Fluid Flow in Variable-Aperture Channels
Authors: Lenci Alessandro , Longo Sandro , Di Federico Vittorio
Published: April 2020

Non-Newtonian fluid flow in a single fracture is a 3-D nonlinear phenomenon that is often averaged across the fracture aperture and described as 2-D. To capture the key interactions between fluid rheology and spatial heterogeneity, we adopt a simplified geometric model to describe the aperture variability, consisting of adjacent one-dimensional channels with constant aperture, each drawn from an assigned aperture distribution. The flow rate is then derived under the lubrication approximation for the two limiting cases of an external pressure gradient that is parallel/perpendicular to the channels; these two arrangements provide upper and lower bounds to the fracture conductance. The fluid rheology is described by the Prandtl–Eyring shear-thinning model. Novel closed-form results for the flow rate and hydraulic aperture are derived and discussed; different combinations of the parameters that describe the fluid rheology and the variability of the aperture field are considered. The flow rate values are very sensitive to the applied pressure gradient and to the shape of the distribution; in particular, more skewed distribution entails larger values of a dimensionless flow rate. Results for practical applications are compared with those valid for a power-law fluid and show the effects on the fracture flow rate of a shear stress plateau.
Assessment of Flood Risk Exposure for the Foshan-Zhongshan Region in Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Zhang Qi , Jian Wei , Lo Edmond Yat Man
Published: April 2020

Floods have caused 20% of the worldwide economic losses resulting from catastrophe events over 2008 to 2018. In China, the annual flood economic losses have exceeded CNY 100 billion from 1990 to 2010, which is equivalent to 1% to 3% of China’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This paper presents a rainfall-runoff model coupled with an inundation estimation to assess the flood risk for a basin within the Foshan-Zhongshan area of the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region in China. A Hydrologic Engineering Center’s Hydrologic Modeling System (HEC-HMS) model was constructed for the crisscrossing river network in the study basin where the West and North Rivers meet, using publicly accessible meteorological, hydrological and topographical datasets. The developed model was used to analyze two recent flood events, that in July 2017 with large upstream river inflows, and in June 2018 with high local rainfall. Results were further used to develop the needed river rating curves within the basin. Two synthetic events that consider more severe meteorological and hydrological conditions were also analyzed. These results demonstrate the capability of the proposed model for quick assessment of potential flood inundation and the GDP exposure at risk within the economically important PRD region.
A Performance Prediction Model for Pumps as Turbines (PATs)
Authors: Fontanella Stefania , Fecarotta Oreste , Molino Bruno , Cozzolino Luca , Della Morte Renata
Published: April 2020

In recent years, the interest towards the use of pumps operating as turbines (PATs) for the generation of electrical energy has increased, due to the low cost of implementation and maintenance. The main issue that inhibits a wider use of PATs is the lack of corresponding characteristic curves, because manufacturers usually provide only the pump-mode performance characteristics. In the PAT selection phase, the lack of turbine-mode characteristic curves forces users to expend expensive and time-consuming efforts in laboratory testing. In the technical literature, numerous methods are available for the prediction of PAT turbine-mode performance based on the pump-mode characteristics, but these models are usually calibrated making use of few devices. To overcome this limit, a performance database called Redawn is presented and the data collected are used to calibrate novel PAT performance models.
Predicting Purchase Intention of Hybrid Electric Vehicles: Evidence from an Emerging Economy
Authors: Tanwir Nurul Syafiqah , Hamzah Muhammad Iskandar
Published: April 2020

Dependence on energy-intense transportation systems could escalate the chances of environmental degradation. A shift of transportation modes from conventional vehicles to energy-efficient vehicles is a viable method of mitigating the rate of carbon emissions; however, the adoption rate of environment-friendly vehicles is still low globally and vital to explore. This study aims to investigate the determinants that influence individuals’ intention to purchase hybrid vehicles, through the development of a research model based on the Theory of Planned Behavior, integrated with environmental knowledge as an additional variable. Data were collected from 256 car users across Malaysia’s metropolitan city. The findings augment the rich theoretical basis of the Theory of Planned Behavior by incorporating environmental knowledge as a supplementary variable in assessing individuals’ behaviour in the sustainable transportation domain, which constitutes the novelty value of this study. The outcomes imply the need for governments and practitioners to execute appropriate approaches in nurturing public’s motivation in adopting energy-efficient cars, so that the adoption rate of pro-environmental vehicles can be increased. Overall, this study infers that the adoption of hybrid vehicles is viable if individuals are properly provided with sufficient awareness and education, which subsequently builds trust, empowerment, and confidence in owning these vehicles.
Colophon, content and preface
Authors: Higgins A.K.
Published: April 2020

The East Greenland Caledonides extend from 70° to 81°30′N, and have been the subject of a series of regional mapping programmes between 1968 and 1998. The entire orogen is now covered by five published 1:500 000 geological map sheets. The six papers in this bulletin concern a variety of topics relating mainly to Kronprins Christian Land (79°–81°30′N) and the Kong Oscar Fjord region (72°–75°N). The paper by Smith et al. on Lower Palaeozoic stratigraphy proposes amendments to several stratigraphical units that occur in Kronprins Christian Land and nearby Lambert Land. In the Kong Oscar Fjord region, two new formations are defined for quartzite and limestone/dolostone units that crop out in foreland windows, and the Lower Palaeozoic succession of the fjord region of East Greenland is formally placed in the Kong Oscar Fjord Group. The second paper by Smith et al. describes and formally defines the Neoproterozoic Rivieradal Group of Kronprins Christian Land. The paper by Higgins et al. analyses the thinskinned fold-and-thrust belt that marks the transition between foreland and orogen in Kronprins Christian Land, and presents a balanced cross-section restoration. The two geochronological papers by Thrane report the results of ion microprobe zircon analyses from orthogneisses in the Charcot Land window (72°N), and results of reconnaissance Pb-Pb dating by the stepleaching method.The final paper by Higgins & Leslie reviews the history of geological research in the Eleonore Sø and Målebjerg areas of the Kong Oscar Fjord region (72°–75°N). Recognition that the two areas are part of the Caledonian foreland implies that the two thrust sheets structurally overlying the Eleonore Sø and Målebjerg windows have large displacements (~ 100 km each), and that the 'stockwerke' concept of the orogen that focused on in situ vertical movements can finally be laid to rest.
Lower Palaeozoic stratigraphy of the East Greenland Caledonides
Authors: Smith M. Paul , Rasmussen Jan Audun , Robertson Steve , Higgins A.K. , Leslie A. Graham
Published: April 2020

The Lower Palaeozoic stratigraphy of the East Greenland Caledonides, from the fjord region of North-East Greenland northwards to Kronprins Christian Land, is reviewed and a number of new lithostratigraphical units are proposed. The Slottet Formation (new) is a Lower Cambrian quartzite unit, containing Skolithos burrows, that is present in the Målebjerg and Eleonore Sø tectonic windows, in the nunatak region of North-East Greenland. The unit is the source of common and often-reported glacial erratic boulders containing Skolithos that are distributed throughout the fjord region. The Målebjerg Formation (new) overlies the Slottet Formation in the tectonic windows, and comprises limestones and dolostones of assumed Cambrian–Ordovician age. The Lower Palaeozoic succession of the fjord region of East Greenland (dominantly limestones and dolostones) is formally placed in the Kong Oscar Fjord Group (new). Amendments are proposed for several existing units in the Kronprins Christian Land and Lambert Land areas, where they occur in autochthonous, parautochthonous and allochthonous settings.
The Neoproterozoic Rivieradal Group of Kronprins Christian Land, eastern North Greenland
Authors: Smith M. Paul , Higgins A.K. , Soper N.J. , Sønderholm Martin
Published: April 2020

The Rivieradal Group, formally defined here, is confined to the Vandredalen thrust sheet of the Caledonian orogen in Kronprins Christian Land, eastern North Greenland. It comprises a succession of Neoproterozoic siliciclastic sediments that represent the fill of a half-graben basin. The syn-rift Rivieradal Group is overlain by post-rift sediments of the Hagen Fjord Group. The latter succession is present in both the thrust sheet and the Caledonian foreland to the west. In the foreland, where the Rivieradal Group is not represented, the Hagen Fjord Group disconformably overlies Palaeoproterozoic–Mesoproterozoic sandstones of the Independence Fjord Group.
The Caledonian thin-skinned thrust belt of Kronprins Christian Land, eastern North Greenland
Authors: Higgins A.K. , Soper N.J. , Smith M. Paul , Rasmussen Jan A.
Published: April 2020

Kronprins Christian Land in the extreme north of the East Greenland Caledonides, exposes a thin-skinned thrust belt up to 50 km wide developed in Ordovician–Silurian platform limestones and dolostones of the Iapetus passive margin. This thrust belt is characterised by a series of SSW–NNE-trending and east-dipping Caledonian thrusts with westward displacements of generally a few kilometres each. It passes westwards into undisturbed autochthonous foreland. Based on a line and area restoration, total displacement along a well-exposed WNW–ESE section through the thrust belt amounts to 17.6 km, which represents a shortening of 45% in the line of section. Biostratigraphic control in the limestone and dolostone succession is based on conodonts and macrofossils. The alteration colours of the conodonts provide estimates of maximum burial temperatures, which show that the thickness of the overlying thrust sheets ranged from about 6 to 12.5 km from west to east across the thrust belt. Since the estimated former thickness of the Vandredalen thrust sheet above the thin-skinned parautochthonous thrust belt is insufficient to yield the temperatures attained, higher thrust sheets must once have extended across the region.
Cubic B-spline Least-square Method Combine with a Quadratic Weight Function for Solving Integro-Differential Equations
Authors: Al-Humedi Hameeda O. , Jameel Zahraa Adnan
Published: April 2020

In this article, a numerical scheme was implemented for solving the integro-differential equations (IDEs) with the weakly singular kernel by using a new scheme depend on the cubic B-spline least-square method and a quadratic B-spline as a weight function. The numerical results are in suitable agreement with the exact solutions via calculating L2 and L∞ norms errors. Theoretically, we discussed the stability evaluation of the current method using the Von-Neumann method, which explained that this technique is unconditionally stable.
SELECCIÓN DE MAÍCES CRIOLLOS PARA SU APLICACIÓN EN LA INDUSTRIA CON BASE EN SU VALOR AGREGADO
Authors: Gaytán-Martínez Marcela , Figueroa-Cárdenas Juan de D. , Reyes-Vega María de la L. , Morales-Sánchez Eduardo , Rincón-Sánchez Froylán
Published: April 2020

En los últimos años se ha incrementado el estudio, mejoramiento y cultivo de maíces nativos (Zea mays L.), con la finalidad de orientarlos hacia un uso final específico y así aumentar su valor en beneficio de los productores. El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo determinar el posible uso final de seis maíces criollos de razas diferentes (Bolita, Elotes Cónicos, Cónico Norteño, Pepitilla, Pinto y Zapalote), de acuerdo con sus características físicas, químicas, térmicas y de calidad nixtamalera. Las características físicas determinadas fueron: peso de cien granos, dureza, índice de flotación, cristalinidad y tamaño de gránulo de almidón, porcentaje de endospermo, pericarpio y germen; las químicas: proteínas, cenizas y lípidos; las térmicas: entalpía, temperatura de gelatinización y viscosidad relativa; y las de calidad nixtamalera: rendimiento y textura para masa y tortilla. Se aplicó un análisis por componentes principales para definir cuáles maíces tienen un uso final específico en la industria. Con esta metodología se encontró que la accesión de la raza Bolita cumplió con las características necesarias para ser destinada a la industria de las botanas, la accesión de la raza Cónico Norteño a la industria de las harinas instantáneas; las accesiones de las razas Cónico Norteño, Zapolote y Pepitilla a la industria de la masa y la tortilla; las accesiones de las razas Pinto y Elotes Cónicos a la industria de la molienda seca.
CARACTERÍSTICAS FÍSICOQUÍMICAS Y CALIDAD DEL POZOLE DEL MAÍZ CACAHUACINTLE PROCESADO MEDIANTE TRES MÉTODOS
Authors: Vázquez-Carrillo María Gricelda , Santiago-Ramos David
Published: April 2020

El pozole es un platillo típico de México, elaborado con granos de maíz (Zea mays L.) suave, nixtamalizado en forma tradicional y hervido hasta que el grano forma una estructura parecida a una flor (grano floreado). En el altiplano se usa el maíz Cacahuacintle para el pozole. En el método comercial se nixtamaliza el grano con cal e hidróxido de sodio, se elimina el pedicelo mecánicamente, se blanquea (20 h) con metabisulfito de sodio y ácido acético, y finalmente el consumidor lo hierve hasta que se esponja y florea. Un método alternativo consiste en nixtamalizar el maíz con las cantidades óptimas de hidróxido de calcio y de potasio, en blanquear con metabisulfito de potasio durante un tiempo corto, y florear el grano. Los objetivos de esta investigación fueron: 1) Evaluar la calidad del pozole del maíz Cacahuacintle con los métodos tradicional, comercial y alternativo. 2) Determinar el efecto de estos métodos en la composición química del nixtamal, del grano blanqueado y del grano floreado (pozole). El maíz Cacahuacintle estudiado se cultivó en el ciclo primavera-verano 2011, en Nativitas, Estado de México. Las variables estudiadas (físicas, químicas y de procesamiento) se analizaron con un diseño completamente al azar. Los granos de maíz Cacahuacintle fueron muy suaves y de gran tamaño. Con el método alternativo se alcanzó el mayor volumen de floreado y sus rosetas fueron tan luminosas como las del método comercial. El pozole tuvo menos sodio (Na) que el del método comercial; los contenidos de calcio (Ca) y potasio (K) disminuyeron en los tres métodos, respecto al nixtamal y al blanqueado. Con el proceso alternativo se redujo en 76 % el tiempo de procesamiento y se mantuvo mejor la calidad nutricional del pozole, debido a sus mayores contenidos de lisina, triptófano y calcio, y por la reducción de sodio. El nixtamal del método tradicional registró la mayor humedad, pero requirió el mayor tiempo para florear, y tuvo la menor calidad de grano floreado. En los tres métodos y en diferentes etapas del proceso de elaboración del pozole, los contenidos de almidón y cenizas aumentaron, en tanto que la amilosa, la proteína, los lípidos y el triptófano disminuyeron.
PROPUESTA PARA INTEGRAR UN PATRÓN HETERÓTICO DE MAÍZ DE GRANO AMARILLO PARA LA ZONA DE TRANSICIÓN DE MÉXICO. I. MÉTODO Y FORMACIÓN DE POBLACIONES
Authors: Ramírez-Díaz José L. , Vidal-Martínez Víctor A. , Ledesma-Miramontes Alejandro , Chuela-Bonaparte Margarito , Peña-Ramos Alfonso , Ruiz-Corral J. Ariel , Ron-Parra José
Published: April 2020

Se han desarrollado híbridos comerciales de maíz (Zea mays L.) para la zona de transición de México (1900 a 2200 m de altitud), en los cuales se ha combinado germoplasma generado independientemente en las regiones del subtrópico y de los Valles Altos; sin embargo, no existe una estrategia combinada de mejoramiento genético que sea específica para la zona de transición. Los objetivos de esta investigación fueron: a) Presentar una estrategia de mejoramiento para integrar un patrón heterótico de maíz de grano amarillo para la zona de transición de México, y b) Describir la formación de poblaciones que conforman el patrón heterótico para esa zona. La estrategia para el primer objetivo incluye el método de mejoramiento y los tipos de híbridos a formar; para el segundo, en seis localidades de la región Centro-Occidente de México, se evaluaron cruzas dialélicas hechas entre poblaciones de origen tropical y templado de maíz de grano amarillo; se efectuó la conversión de progenitores de grano blanco a amarillo; y se establecieron ensayos de híbridos comerciales de grano amarillo y de familias de medios hermanos de grano amarillo con germoplasma de Valles Altos y de la zona de transición, en Tepatitlán, Jal. Se concluyó que la metodología propuesta para la integración de patrones heteróticos y de variedades mejoradas para la zona de transición de México, técnicamente presenta más ventajas que el enfoque actual del Programa de Maíz del INIFAP. Se confirmó que el germoplasma templado puede hacer contribuciones importantes en el rendimiento de grano y precocidad para esa zona, por lo que ese germoplasma se utilizó como fuente en la conversión de la línea de grano blanco a amarillo “LPC1A-9R-1-1”. Las familias que integraron la población INIFAP Amarillo Dentado-3 tuvieron mayor tolerancia al acame y más sanidad de mazorca, con un ciclo de madurez similar al Criollo Amarillo Zamorano, el mejor criollo amarillo de la región.
COMPORTAMIENTO AGRONÓMICO DE POBLACIONES F2 DE HÍBRIDOS DE TOMATE (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Hernández-Leal Enrique , Lobato-Ortiz Ricardo , García-Zavala J. Jesús , Reyes-López Delfino , Méndez-López Alonso , Bonilla-Barrientos Olga , Hernández-Bautista Aurelio
Published: April 2020

Casi toda la semilla de tomate (Solanum lycopersicum L.) que se utiliza para siembras comerciales en México proviene de empresas extranjeras, por lo que el costo de dicha semilla es muy alto. Esta situación provoca que en ocasiones el pequeño productor siembre semilla de generaciones tempranas (F2 y F3) de híbridos, con la posible pérdida de rendimiento y calidad de fruto. En este trabajo se evaluó el rendimiento de fruto por planta (PTF), componentes de rendimiento y algunos caracteres de calidad de siete híbridos de tomate tipo Saladette de crecimiento indeterminado, y sus respectivas generaciones F2, bajo un diseño experimental de bloques completos al azar con cuatro repeticiones, en plantas crecidas en condiciones de invernadero e hidroponía. El análisis de varianza de contrastes de los promedios F1 vs. F2 detectó diferencias significativas para la variable PTF en cinco de los siete genotipos (‘Sun 7705’, ‘Moctezuma’, ‘Cuauhtémoc’, ‘Reserva’ y ‘Cid’). En las variedades ‘Espartaco’ y ‘Loreto’ las diferencias no fueron significativas, es decir, la reducción del rendimiento en las generaciones F2 fue mínima, lo cual sugiere que la depresión endogámica de una generación F2 depende particularmente de la constitución genética de las líneas que hayan dado lugar al híbrido comercial. Para las variables número total de frutos, contenido de sólidos solubles totales, firmeza y longitud de fruto y pH del jugo del fruto, de manera general y para la mayoría de los genotipos se observó que no hubo diferencias estadísticas entre los promedios de las generaciones F1 y F2, lo cual indica que la magnitud de estas características, algunas de ellas de calidad, se mantiene en individuos segregantes F2.
PROTECCIÓN ANTIFÚNGICA Y ENRIQUECIMIENTO ANTIOXIDANTE DE FRESA CON ACEITE ESENCIAL DE HOJA DE CANELA
Authors: Silva-Espinoza Brenda A. , Ortega-Ramírez Luis A. , González-Aguilar Gustavo A. , Olivas Isela , Ayala-Zavala Jesús F.
Published: April 2020

Los frutos de fresa (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) son apreciados por su contenido de compuestos antioxidantes, pero son susceptibles al ataque por hongos. Un extracto natural que ha mostrado poseer capacidad antifúngica y antioxidante es el aceite de hoja de canela (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) (AHC), el cual podría contemplarse como una opción para disminuir el crecimiento de hongos y aumentar el nivel de antioxidantes en fresas. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el efecto del tratamiento con AHC para el control de hongos y sobre la capacidad antioxidante del fruto. Se midió el desarrollo de hongos, contenido de fenoles, flavonoides totales, capacidad antioxidante y nivel de agrado (olor y sabor) de frutos de fresa tratadas con emulsiones de AHC (Testigo, 0.0005, 0.0025 y 0.005 g mL-1) y almacenadas durante 9 d a 10 ºC. Se observó una inhibición significativa (P ≤ 0.05) del ataque por hongos por efecto de los tratamientos con AHC, y la concentración de 0.005 g mL-1 fue la más efectiva; además incrementó los contenidos de fenoles (78 %) y de flavonoides totales (35 %), y con ello elevó la capacidad antioxidante de los frutos, medida con las técnicas de DPPH• (52 %), TEAC (32 %) y ORAC (25 %), en comparación con los frutos testigo. El olor y sabor de las fresas testigo y las tratadas con 0.0005 g mL-1 de AHC agradaron moderadamente; las fresas tratadas con 0.0025 g mL-1 ni agradaron ni desagradaron, mientras que las tratadas con 0.005 g mL-1 desagradaron moderadamente. Por tanto, la aplicación del AHC parece ser un tratamiento viable para reducir el daño por hongos e incrementar las propiedades antioxidantes de frutos de fresa, aunque afecta moderadamente el nivel de agrado.