bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Analysis of Early White Quality Protein Maize Inbreds and Derived Hybrids under Low-Nitrogen and Combined Drought and Heat Stress Environments
Authors: Bhadmus Olatunde A. , Badu-Apraku Baffour , Adeyemo Oyenike A. , Ogunkanmi Adebayo L.
Published: December 2021

An increase in the average global temperature and drought is anticipated in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) as a result of climate change. Therefore, early white quality protein maize (QPM) hybrids with tolerance to combined drought and heat stress (CDHS) as well as low soil nitrogen (low-nitrogen) have the potential to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. Ninety-six early QPM hybrids and four checks were evaluated in Nigeria for two years under CDHS, low-nitrogen, and in optimal environments. The objectives of this study were to determine the gene action conditioning grain yield, assess the performance of the early QPM inbred lines and identify high yielding and stable QPM hybrids under CDHS, low-nitrogen and optimal environment conditions. There was preponderance of the non-additive gene action over the additive in the inheritance of grain yield under CDHS environment conditions, while additive gene action was more important for grain yield in a low-nitrogen environment. TZEQI 6 was confirmed as an inbred tester under low N while TZEQI 113 × TZEQI 6 was identified as a single-cross tester under low-nitrogen environments. Plant and ear aspects were the primary contributors to grain yield under CDHS and low-nitrogen environments. TZEQI 6 × TZEQI 228 and the check TZEQI 39 × TZEQI 44 were the highest yielding under each stress environment and across environments. Hybrid TZEQI 210 × TZEQI 188 was the most stable across environments and should be tested on-farm and commercialized in SSA.
Investigation and Computational Analysis of the Sulfotransferase (SOT) Gene Family in Potato (Solanum tuberosum): Insights into Sulfur Adjustment for Proper Development and Stimuli Responses
Authors: Faraji Sahar , Heidari Parviz , Amouei Hoorieh , Filiz Ertugrul , Abdullah  , Poczai Peter
Published: December 2021

Various kinds of primary metabolisms in plants are modulated through sulfate metabolism, and sulfotransferases (SOTs), which are engaged in sulfur metabolism, catalyze sulfonation reactions. In this study, a genome-wide approach was utilized for the recognition and characterization of SOT family genes in the significant nutritional crop potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Twenty-nine putative StSOT genes were identified in the potato genome and were mapped onto the nine S. tuberosum chromosomes. The protein motifs structure revealed two highly conserved 5′-phosphosulfate-binding (5′ PSB) regions and a 3′-phosphate-binding (3′ PB) motif that are essential for sulfotransferase activities. The protein–protein interaction networks also revealed an interesting interaction between SOTs and other proteins, such as PRTase, APS-kinase, protein phosphatase, and APRs, involved in sulfur compound biosynthesis and the regulation of flavonoid and brassinosteroid metabolic processes. This suggests the importance of sulfotransferases for proper potato growth and development and stress responses. Notably, homology modeling of StSOT proteins and docking analysis of their ligand-binding sites revealed the presence of proline, glycine, serine, and lysine in their active sites. An expression essay of StSOT genes via potato RNA-Seq data suggested engagement of these gene family members in plants’ growth and extension and responses to various hormones and biotic or abiotic stimuli. Our predictions may be informative for the functional characterization of the SOT genes in potato and other nutritional crops.
Nuclear Translocation of Soybean MPK6, GmMPK6, Is Mediated by Hydrogen Peroxide in Salt Stress
Authors: Im Jong Hee , Son Seungmin , Ko Jae-Heung , Kim Kyung-Hwan , An Chung Sun , Han Kyung-Hwan
Published: December 2021

The plant mitogen-activated protein kinase (MPK) cascade, a highly conserved signal transduction system in eukaryotes, plays a crucial role in the plant’s response to environmental stimuli and phytohormones. It is well-known that nuclear translocation of MPKs is necessary for their activities in mammalian cells. However, the mechanism underlying nuclear translocation of plant MPKs is not well elucidated. In the previous study, it has been shown that soybean MPK6 (GmMPK6) is activated by phosphatidic acid (PA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which are two signaling molecules generated during salt stress. Using the two signaling molecules, we investigated how salt stress triggers its translocation to the nucleus. Our results show that the translocation of GmMPK6 to the nucleus is mediated by H2O2, but not by PA. Furthermore, the translocation was interrupted by diphenylene iodonium (DPI) (an inhibitor of RBOH), confirming that H2O2 is the signaling molecule for the nuclear translocation of GmMPK6 during salt stress.
Genes Associated with the Flax Plant Type (Oil or Fiber) Identified Based on Genome and Transcriptome Sequencing Data
Authors: Povkhova Liubov V. , Melnikova Nataliya V. , Rozhmina Tatiana A. , Novakovskiy Roman O. , Pushkova Elena N. , Dvorianinova Ekaterina M. , Zhuchenko Alexander A. , Kamionskaya Anastasia M. , Krasnov George S. , Dmitriev Alexey A.
Published: December 2021

As a result of the breeding process, there are two main types of flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) plants. Linseed is used for obtaining seeds, while fiber flax is used for fiber production. We aimed to identify the genes associated with the flax plant type, which could be important for the formation of agronomically valuable traits. A search for polymorphisms was performed in genes involved in the biosynthesis of cell wall components, lignans, fatty acids, and ion transport based on genome sequencing data for 191 flax varieties. For 143 of the 424 studied genes (4CL, C3′H, C4H, CAD, CCR, CCoAOMT, COMT, F5H, HCT, PAL, CTL, BGAL, ABC, HMA, DIR, PLR, UGT, TUB, CESA, RGL, FAD, SAD, and ACT families), one or more polymorphisms had a strong correlation with the flax type. Based on the transcriptome sequencing data, we evaluated the expression levels for each flax type-associated gene in a wide range of tissues and suggested genes that are important for the formation of linseed or fiber flax traits. Such genes were probably subjected to the selection press and can determine not only the traits of seeds and stems but also the characteristics of the root system or resistance to stresses at a particular stage of development, which indirectly affects the ability of flax plants to produce seeds or fiber.
Exploration of Autophagy Families in Legumes and Dissection of the ATG18 Family with a Special Focus on Phaseolus vulgaris
Authors: Quezada-Rodríguez Elsa-Herminia , Gómez-Velasco Homero , Arthikala Manoj-Kumar , Lara Miguel , Hernández-López Antonio , Nanjareddy Kalpana
Published: December 2021

Macroautophagy/autophagy is a fundamental catabolic pathway that maintains cellular homeostasis in eukaryotic cells by forming double-membrane-bound vesicles named autophagosomes. The autophagy family genes remain largely unexplored except in some model organisms. Legumes are a large family of economically important crops, and knowledge of their important cellular processes is essential. Here, to first address the knowledge gaps, we identified 17 ATG families in Phaseolus vulgaris, Medicago truncatula and Glycine max based on Arabidopsis sequences and elucidated their phylogenetic relationships. Second, we dissected ATG18 in subfamilies from early plant lineages, chlorophytes to higher plants, legumes, which included a total of 27 photosynthetic organisms. Third, we focused on the ATG18 family in P. vulgaris to understand the protein structure and developed a 3D model for PvATG18b. Our results identified ATG homologs in the chosen legumes and differential expression data revealed the nitrate-responsive nature of ATG genes. A multidimensional scaling analysis of 280 protein sequences from 27 photosynthetic organisms classified ATG18 homologs into three subfamilies that were not based on the BCAS3 domain alone. The domain structure, protein motifs (FRRG) and the stable folding conformation structure of PvATG18b revealing the possible lipid-binding sites and transmembrane helices led us to propose PvATG18b as the functional homolog of AtATG18b. The findings of this study contribute to an in-depth understanding of the autophagy process in legumes and improve our knowledge of ATG18 subfamilies.
New Approaches on Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) Bioactive Compounds and Their Potential of Pharmacological and Beekeeping Activities: Challenges and Future Directions
Authors: Cucu Alexandra-Antonia , Baci Gabriela-Maria , Dezsi Ştefan , Nap Mircea-Emil , Beteg Florin Ioan , Bonta Victoriţa , Bobiş Otilia , Caprio Emilio , Dezmirean Daniel Severus
Published: December 2021

Known especially for its negative ecological impact, Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed) is now considered one of the most invasive species. Nevertheless, its chemical composition has shown, beyond doubt, some high biological active compounds that can be a source of valuable pharmacological potential for the enhancement of human health. In this direction, resveratrol, emodin or polydatin, to name a few, have been extensively studied to demonstrate the beneficial effects on animals and humans. Thus, by taking into consideration the recent advances in the study of Japanese knotweed and its phytochemical constituents, the aim of this article is to provide an overview on the high therapeutic potential, underlining its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects, among the most important ones. Moreover, we describe some future directions for reducing the negative impact of Fallopia japonica by using the plant for its beekeeping properties in providing a distinct honey type that incorporates most of its bioactive compounds, with the same health-promoting properties.
Problems and Prospects of Improving Abiotic Stress Tolerance and Pathogen Resistance of Oil Palm
Authors: Wei Lu , John Martin Jerome Jeyakumar , Zhang Haiqing , Zhang Ruining , Cao Hongxing
Published: December 2021

Oil palm crops are the most important determinant of the agricultural economy within the segment of oilseed crops. Oil palm growing in their natural habitats are often challenged simultaneously by multiple stress factors, both abiotic and biotic that limit crop productivity and are major constraints to meeting global food demands. The stress-tolerant oil palm crops that mitigate the effects of abiotic stresses on crop productivity are crucially needed to sustain agricultural production. Basal stem rot threatens the development of the industry, and the key to solving the problem is to breed new oil palm varieties resistant to adversity. This has created a need for genetic improvement which involves evaluation of germplasm, pest and disease resistance, earliness and shattering resistance, quality of oil, varieties for different climatic conditions, etc. In recent years, insights into physiology, molecular biology, and genetics have significantly enhanced our understanding of oil palm response towards such stimuli as well as the reason for varietal diversity in tolerance. In this review, we explore the research progress, existing problems, and prospects of oil palm stress resistance-based physiological mechanisms of stress tolerance as well as the genes and metabolic pathways that regulate stress response.
Phytochemical Characterization and Evaluation of Biological Activities of Egyptian Carob Pods (Ceratonia siliqua L.) Aqueous Extract: In Vitro Study
Authors: Darwish Wael Sobhy , Khadr Abada El Sayed , Kamel Maher Abd El Naby , Abd Eldaim Mabrouk A. , El Sayed Ibrahim El Tantawy , Abdel-Bary Hamed Mohamed , Ullah Sami , Ghareeb Doaa Ahmed
Published: December 2021

Ceratonia siliqua (Carob) is an evergreen Mediterranean tree, and carob pods are potentially nutritive and have medicinal value. The present study was carried out to estimate the possible biological activities of phytochemical-characterized carob pod aqueous extract (CPAE). The phytochemical contents of CPAE were determined by using colorimetric methods and HPLC. In addition, the free radical scavenging properties and anti-diabetic, anti-hemolytic, and antimicrobial activities were estimated by using standardized in vitro protocols. The phytochemical analysis revealed that CPAE was rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids, where it contained a significant amount of gallic acid, catechin, and protocatechuic acid. Furthermore, CPAE exhibited strong antioxidant activity where it prevented the formation of 2, 2-Diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl, hydroxyl, and nitric oxide free radicals. Additionally, it had a potent inhibitory effect against digestive enzymes (amylase, maltase, sucrase, and lactase). Moreover, CPAE exhibited anti-Staph aureus, anti-Escherichia coli, anti-Candida albicans, and anti-herpes simplex type I virus (HSV-I). Finally, CPAE protected the erythrocyte membrane from hypotonic solution-induced hemolysis. Altogether, CPAE could be regarded as an interesting source of biologically active antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and antimicrobial preparation for a potential application in pharmaceutical and food supplement fields.
Optimization of Protoplast Isolation from Leaf Mesophylls of Chinese Cabbage (Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis) and Subsequent Transfection with a Binary Vector
Authors: Sivanandhan Ganeshan , Bae Solhee , Sung Chaemin , Choi Su-Ryun , Lee Geung-Joo , Lim Yong-Pyo
Published: December 2021

Chinese cabbage is an important dietary source of numerous phytochemicals, including glucosinolates and anthocyanins. The selection and development of elite Chinese cabbage cultivars with favorable traits is hindered by a long breeding cycle, a complex genome structure, and the lack of an efficient plant transformation protocol. Thus, a protoplast transfection-based transformation method may be useful for cell-based breeding and functional studies involving Chinese cabbage plants. In this study, we established an effective method for isolating Chinese cabbage protoplasts, which were then transfected with the pCAMBIA1303 binary vector according to an optimized PEG-based method. More specifically, protoplasts were isolated following a 4 h incubation in a solution comprising 1.5% (v/v) cellulase, 0.25% (v/v) macerozyme, 0.25% (v/v) pectinase, 0.5 M mannitol, 15 mM CaCl2, 25 mM KCl, 0.1% BSA, and 20 mM MES buffer, pH 5.7. This method generated 7.1 × 106 protoplasts, 78% of which were viable. The gfp reporter gene in pCAMBIA1303 was used to determine the transfection efficiency. The Chinese cabbage protoplast transfection rate was highest (68%) when protoplasts were transfected with the 40 μg binary vector for 30 min in a solution containing 40% PEG. The presence of gusA and hptII in the protoplasts was confirmed by PCR. The methods developed in this study would be useful for DNA-free genome editing as well as functional and molecular investigations of Chinese cabbage.
Cold Plasma Processing on Fruits and Fruit Juices: A Review on the Effects of Plasma on Nutritional Quality
Authors: Fernandes Fabiano A. N. , Rodrigues Sueli
Published: December 2021

This review aims to present the effects of cold plasma technology on the nutritional quality of fruits and fruit juices. This review focuses on the chemical changes induced by plasma on several bioactive compounds, such as sugars, starch, lipids, vitamins, phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and anthocyanins. The main plasma-reacting species that reacts with fruit compounds are presented and discussed. The review presents the mechanisms that lead to the improvement and degradation of the main compounds, showing both the advantages and disadvantages of cold plasma technology.
Implementation of Technical and Technological Progress in Dairy Production
Authors: Gaworski Marek
Published: December 2021

The involvement of people and technical devices is a characteristic feature of technological processes in agriculture. Human access to modernized and more efficient technical equipment determines the differentiation of the proportions of the contributions of human labor and technical equipment to the implementation of production technology on farms. Taking into account the data on manual and machine work inputs, the methodology of determining the technological index level (TL) was presented. The aim of the present study was to present the scope of use of the technological index level to assess the effects of technological progress in the dairy production system, with particular emphasis on cow milking. For the value range of the technological index level (0–100%), changes in the milkman’s work efficiency were presented based on research carried out on farms equipped with milking equipment at different levels of technical advancement. Moreover, the course of changes in electricity and water consumption per liter of milk was determined in association with the technological index level. The issue of simultaneous implementation of various forms of progress was developed based on the example of milking cows with a milking robot. Five categories (ranges) of cows’ milk yield were distinguished and compared with the current yields of cows in the European Union. On this basis, a discussion was initiated on the factors that facilitate and limit the implementation of technical and technological progress in dairy production.
Power Consumption Analysis and Experimental Study on the Kneading and Cutting Process of Licorice Stem in Horizontal Total Mixed Ration Mixer
Authors: Li Wentao , Wen Baoqin , Song Pengxiang , Shi Yameng , Zhang Jie , Li Jingbin , Liang Junpeng , Li Tianyang , Qu Beichuan
Published: December 2021

Aiming at the problems of high-power consumption and insufficient kneading and cutting of roughage in the total mixed ration mixer. In this paper, licorice stems were taken as experimental objects, the horizontal twin-shaft TMR mixer was used to carry out the experimental study. It should be as brief as possible and concise. Through the kneading and cutting process power analysis, determine the influencing factors of kneading and cutting power consumption. The auger speed, processing time and blade type were taken as experimental factors, with standard straw length rate and power consumption as indicators, Box–Behnken test with three factors and three levels was carried out, analysis of variance was performed on the test results, the results show that the significant effect of each factor on the standard grass length is processing time, blade type and auger speed in descending order. The significance of the influence on power consumption from large to small is auger speed, processing time and blade type. The response surface analysis and parameter optimization were carried out, the results show that the auger speed is 20 r/min, the processing time is 29 min, and the blade type is quincunx blade. At this time, the standard straw length was 82.634%; Power consumption 4525.815 kJ, TMR mixer performance reached the best. The results can provide a theoretical basis for the subsequent research and development of TMR mixer.
Optimization, Kinetics, Thermodynamic and Arrhenius Model of the Removal of Ciprofloxacin by Internal Electrolysis with Fe-Cu and Fe-C Materials
Authors: Do Tra Huong , Ha Xuan Linh , Duong Thi Tu Anh , Nguyen Phuong Chi , Hoang Ngoc Bich , Tran Thi Kim Ngan
Published: December 2021

The ciprofloxacin (CIP) removal ability of a Fe-Cu electrolytic material was examined with respect to pH (2–9), time (15–150 min), shaking speed (100–250 rpm), material mass (0.2–3 g/L), temperature (298, 308, 323) and initial CIP concentration (30–200 mg/L). The Fe-Cu electrolytic materials were fabricated by the chemical plating method, and Fe-C materials were mechanically mixed from iron powder and graphite. The results show that at a pH value of 3, shaking time 120 min, shaking speed 250 rpm, a mass of Fe-Cu, Fe-C material of 2 g/L and initial CIP concentration of 203.79 mg/L, the CIP removal efficiency of Fe-Cu material reached 90.25% and that of Fe-C material was 85.12%. The removal of CIP on Fe-Cu and Fe-C materials follows pseudo-first-order kinetics. The activation energy of CIP removal of Fe-Cu material is 14.93 KJ/mol and of Fe-C material is 16.87 KJ/mol. The positive ΔH proves that CIP removal is endothermic. A negative entropy of 0.239 kJ/mol and 0.235 kJ/mol (which is near zero and is also relatively positive) indicated the rapid removal of the CIP molecules into the removed products.
Effects of Chemical Properties and Inherent Mineral Matters on Pyrolysis Kinetics of Low-Rank Coals
Authors: Zhu Ziqi , Cong Rihong , Zhou Lingmei , Zheng Hao , Tu Yanan , Wu Zhengpeng
Published: December 2021

The kinetics during the pyrolysis process depend on both chemical structure and inherent mineral matters in coal, but normally, only one of these components is investigated in literature. In the present work, four low-rank coals were pyrolyzed in a thermogravimetric analyzer at a heating rate of 10 K/min in a constant nitrogen stream at a temperature up to 900 °C to study the pyrolysis behavior and kinetics. Two of the samples were raw coal (R-YL) and clean coal (C-YL) obtained through the washing process. The results showed that the coal-washing process mainly affected the inorganic part (mineral matters) and structure in coal, which did not largely change the chemical properties. The pyrolysis behavior in primary stage (before 550 °C) was mainly affected by the chemical properties of coal, while the pyrolysis behavior in higher temperature also depended on inherent mineral matters. The kinetics of four coals were obtained using the Coats–Redfern (CR) method with five theoretical models. The difference of E value was almost negligible for R-YL and C-YL, also showing that the coal-washing process did not largely change the chemical properties. The higher frequency factor A for clean coal C-YL showed a more porous structure due to the coal-washing process. The apparent activation energy E in the third stage was affected by the thermodynamic property of inherent minerals.
Investigation of the Ambient Temperature Influence on the PEMFC Characteristics: Modeling from a Single Cell to a Stack
Authors: Faddeev Nikita , Anisimov Evgeny , Belichenko Maxim , Kuriganova Alexandra , Smirnova Nina
Published: December 2021

Power supply systems based on air-cooled proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) stacks are becoming more popular as power sources for mobile applications. We try to create a PEMFC model that allows for predicting the PEMFC operation in various climatic conditions. A total of two models were developed and used: the membrane electrode assemble (MEA) model and the PEMFC stack model. The developed MEA model allows to determine the influence of external factors (temperature) on the PEMFC power density. The data obtained using the developed model correlate with experimental data at low ambient temperatures (10–30 °C). The difference between the simulation and experimental data is less than 10%. However, the accuracy of the model during PEMFC operation at high (>30 °C) and negative ambient temperatures remains in doubt and requires improvement. The obtained data were integrated into the air-cooled PEMFC stack model. Data of the temperature fields distribution will help to manage the processes in the PEMFC stack. The maximum temperature is slightly above 60 °C, which corresponds to the optimal conditions for the operation of the stack. The temperature gradient across the longitudinal section is very low (<20 °C), which is a positive factor for the chemical reaction. However, the temperature gradient observed across the cross section of the PEMFC stack is 30 °C. The data obtained will help to optimize the mass-dimensional characteristics of air-cooled proton exchange membrane fuel cell and increase their performance. The synergetic effect between the MEA model and the PEMFC stack model can be successfully used in the selection of materials and the development of a thermoregulation system in the PEMFC stack.
Effect of Three Types of Drying on the Viability of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Foam-Mat Dried Yogurt
Authors: Gallardo-Rivera Claudia , Báez-González Juan G. , García-Alanís Karla G. , Torres-Alvarez Cynthia , Dares-Sánchez Karla , Szymanski Ana , Amaya-Guerra Carlos A. , Castillo Sandra
Published: December 2021

In this research, foaming technology was applied to obtain powdered yogurt from commercial yogurt at lower temperatures than the typical temperatures used during the dehydration process; the viability of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was evaluated after the application of different drying techniques (conventional drying, freeze drying, and vacuum drying). Three different formulas (F1, F2, and F3) based on a foaming agent (albumen), stabilizers (guar gum), and prebiotics sources (inulin and agave syrup) were developed. Foam stability was evaluated at different pH values through optimum time of foam (OTF), medium drainage time (MDT), and drainage volume (DV). Foam expansion (FE) and foam density (FD) were measured. The OTF ranged from 6 to 10 min. The MDT ranged from 4.3 to 27.3 min, depending on pH, while the DV varied from 14.1 to 16.2 mL only in F1. No drainage was evidenced in F2 and F3, showing the best stability. The F2 and F3 produced the best FE and FD values. The dried yogurt with different techniques showed a survival rate (SR) of up to 85% Log-CFU/mL, even with the conventional drying method. Sensorial trials were carried out in reconstituted product, with the freeze-dried yogurt showing higher scores. The foam formulas developed demonstrate the efficacy of both the dehydration of yogurt and the preservation of LAB.
Molten-Salt-Assisted Synthesis of Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Nanosheets Derived from Biomass Waste of Gingko Shells as Efficient Catalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Hong Wei , Wang Xia , Zheng Hongying , Li Rong , Wu Rui , Chen Jun Song
Published: December 2021

Developing superior efficient and durable oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts is critical for high-performance fuel cells and metal–air batteries. Herein, we successfully prepared a 3D, high-level nitrogen-doped, metal-free (N–pC) electrocatalyst employing urea as a single nitrogen source, NaCl as a fully sealed nanoreactor and gingko shells, a biomass waste, as carbon precursor. Due to the high content of active nitrogen groups, large surface area (1133.8 m2 g−1), and 3D hierarchical porous network structure, the as-prepared N–pC has better ORR electrocatalytic performance than the commercial Pt/C and most metal-free carbon materials in alkaline media. Additionally, when N–pC was used as a catalyst for an air electrode, the Zn–air battery (ZAB) had higher peak power density (223 mW cm−2), larger specific-capacity (755 mAh g−1) and better rate-capability than the commercial Pt/C-based one, displaying a good application prospect in metal-air batteries.
Adaptive Visual Servoing for Obstacle Avoidance of Micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicle with Optical Flow and Switched System Model
Authors: Chiang Ming-Li , Tsai Shun-Hung , Huang Cheng-Ming , Tao Kuang-Tin
Published: December 2021

A vision-based adaptive switching controller that uses optical flow information to avoid obstacles for micro unmanned aerial vehicles (MUAV) is proposed in this paper. To use the optical flow to indicate the distance between the MUAV and the environment, we propose an algorithm with multi-thread processing such that the optical flow information is obtained reliably and continuously in the entire camera field of view. The flying behavior of considered MUAV is regarded as a switching system when considering different flying modes during the mission of obstacle avoidance. By the required flight direction for obstacle avoidance specified by the detected optical flow, an adaptive control scheme is designed to track the required trajectory in switching modes. The simulation result shows the tracking performances of the adaptive control with the switching system. The experiment of the whole system is completed to verify the obstacle avoidance capability of our system.
Combinations of Nanomaterials and Deep Eutectic Solvents as Innovative Materials in Food Analysis
Authors: Santana-Mayor Álvaro , Rodríguez-Ramos Ruth , Socas-Rodríguez Bárbara , Afonso María del Mar , Palenzuela José A.
Published: December 2021

The application of nanotechnology has been an important tool in the development of sustainable analytical procedures which have been developed in agreement with the principles of sustainability and green chemistry. In this sense, such materials have been widely applied in the area of food analysis providing important improvements in terms of specificity, efficiency, and simplicity. Besides, in recent years, the discovery of other innovative materials developed in the framework of green chemistry, such as deep eutectic solvents (DESs), has gained special attention from the scientific community for whom the design and successful application of sustainable strategies is a huge challenge. In this sense, the recent combination of nanomaterials and DESs have resulted in the performance of suitable approaches in the area of food sciences bringing about interesting alternatives in food analysis. The aim of this review article is to revise the application of nanomaterials combined with DESs in food analysis, paying special attention to the synthesis and characterization steps, as well as to the performance of the most recent approaches developed in the field for the analysis of food commodities.
Effects of CoMo/γ-Al2O3 Catalysts on Product Hydrocarbon and Phenol Distribution during Hydrodeoxygenation of Oxidized Bio-Oil in a Batch Reactor
Authors: Luo Yan , Pan Hongling , Zhou Xuan , Du Zhicai , Li Guotao , Wu Juan , Zhang Xuefeng , Zhang Chunquan
Published: December 2021

Hydrodeoxygenation is an essential process for producing liquid transportation fuels. In this study, the effects of CoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalysts form and loading ratio on the hydrodeoxygenation upgrading of bio-oil were investigated in a batch reactor. Raw bio-oil was first oxidized with hydrogen peroxides and oxone to obtain the oxidized bio-oil with reduced levels of aldehydes and ketones, increasing the organic liquid yield during hydrodeoxygenation by suppressing the coke formation. CoMo/γ-Al2O3 was selected as the catalyst because of its low cost and commercial availability. The effect of the reduction and sulfidation of CoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalyst on the hydrodeoxygenation of the oxidized bio-oil was compared. The effect of the catalyst loading ratio on bio-oil hydrodeoxygenation using sulfided CoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalysts was also investigated. The research results showed that the sulfided CoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalyst facilitated the formation of hydrocarbons, while the reduced CoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalyst produced more phenols in the organic liquids. Moreover, a high sulfided catalyst loading ratio promoted the formation of hydrocarbons.
Study on Dynamics of a Two-Stage Gear Transmission System with and without Tooth Breakage
Authors: Fu Deyi , Gao Shiqiao , Liu Haipeng
Published: December 2021

This paper studies the dynamics of a two-stage gear transmission system in both the normal state and the fault state with tooth breakage. The torsional vibration model of the two-stage parallel shaft gear was developed by using the lumped parameter method. The time-varying meshing stiffness of the gear transmission system is described by Fourier series which is determined by the periodical meshing characteristics of the gears with both the single-tooth and the double-tooth contacts. By introducing the pulse into the regular time-varying meshing stiffness, the tooth breakage existing in the gear transmission system is mimicked. Based on the numerical simulation of the developed dynamic model, both the time domain analysis and the frequency domain analysis of the gear transmission system under both the normal condition and the tooth breakage are compared accordingly. The influence of the tooth breakage on the dynamic characteristics of the gear transmission system is analyzed comprehensively. Furthermore, based on the developed test bench of a two-stage gear transmission system, the experimental research was carried out, and the experimental results show great agreements with the results of numerical simulation, and thus the validity of the developed mathematical model is demonstrated. By comparing the periodic motion with the chaotic motion, the fault identification for the gear transmission system is verified to be tightly related to its vibration condition, and the control of the vibration condition of the gear transmission system as periodic motion is of great significance to the fault diagnosis.
Underestimation of Heritability across the Molecular Layers of the Gene Expression Process
Authors: Ryu Jihye , Lee Chaeyoung
Published: December 2021

We investigated the extent of the heritability underestimation for molecules from an infinitesimal model in mixed model analysis. To this end, we estimated the heritability of transcription, ribosome occupancy, and translation in lymphoblastoid cell lines from Yoruba individuals. Upon considering all genome-wide nucleotide variants, a considerable underestimation in heritability was observed for mRNA transcription (−0.52), ribosome occupancy (−0.48), and protein abundance (−0.47). We employed a mixed model with an optimal number of nucleotide variants, which maximized heritability, and identified two novel expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs; p < 1.0 × 10−5): rs11016815 on chromosome 10 that influences the transcription of SCP2, a trans-eGene on chromosome 1—whose expression increases in response to MGMT downregulation-induced apoptosis, the cis-eGene of rs11016815—and rs1041872 on chromosome 11 that influences the ribosome occupancy of CCDC25 on chromosome 8 and whose cis-eGene encodes ZNF215, a transcription factor that potentially regulates the translation speed of CCDC25. Our results suggest that an optimal number of nucleotide variants should be used in a mixed model analysis to accurately estimate heritability and identify eQTLs. Moreover, a heterogeneous covariance structure based on gene identity and the molecular layers of the gene expression process should be constructed to better explain polygenic effects and reduce errors in identifying eQTLs.
Recycling of Waste Oils: Technology and Application
Authors: Mannu Alberto , Garroni Sebastiano
Published: December 2021

Reducing the impact of human activity on the environment and, in general, on Earth, represents the most challenging target of the next years [...]
Approaches for Motion Control Interface and Tele-Operated Overhead Crane Handling Tasks
Authors: Yu Zhefan , Luo Jianping , Zhang Han , Onchi Eiji , Lee Seung-Hee
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to identify the effects of different approaches to a motion control interface (MCI) in tele-operated crane handling tasks. In this study, due to the difficulty of applying the actual equipment to the experiment, we presented a prototype system of a tele-operated overhead handling (TOH) crane. Specifically, we investigated participants’ task performance including the accuracy of task completion during unloading, heart rate variation, workload, and the relationships between these factors when four motion control approaches were used: pointing (P), keyboard (K), orientation (O), hand-free gesture (HG). Experiments were conducted with two groups of participants: 21 university students and 11 crane operators used each of the four control methods. A task condition for handling iron blocks was tested. The efficacy of each motion control approach for task performance was evaluated by a within-subject experiment with a novice group. The expert group was used for comparing the task performance and satisfaction in the prototype system with the novices, evaluating whether the prototype system was reproducible for a real setting in the construction site. The results showed that the task completion time, the weight of physical demand, and the overall scores for workload were significantly impacted by the type of motion control: when HG was used, the task completion time increased. Particularly, using HG had the potential to increase the overall workload score, while physical laboriousness was also potentially increased by HG. Conversely, unloading accuracy, heart rate, and mental demand were not affected by motion control approaches. Generally, the expert group spent more time completing the tasks, but they performed better unloading accuracy than the novices in all methods. Ninety-one percent of the experts gave positive feedback on the reproducibility of the prototype system.
Conceptual Process Design, Energy and Economic Analysis of Solid Waste to Hydrocarbon Fuels via Thermochemical Processes
Authors: A. Gabbar Hossam , Aboughaly Mohamed
Published: December 2021

Thermochemical processes use heat and series of endothermic chemical reactions that achieve thermal cracking and convert a wide range of solid waste deposits via four thermochemical processes to hydrocarbon gaseous and liquid products such as syngas, gasoline, and diesel. The four thermochemical reactions investigated in this research article are: incineration, pyrolysis, gasification, and integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC). The mentioned thermochemical processes are evaluated for energy recovery pathways and environmental footprint based on conceptual design and Aspen HYSYS energy simulation. This paper also provides conceptual process design for four thermochemical processes as well as process evaluation and techno-economic analysis (TEA) including energy consumption, process optimization, product yield calculations, electricity generation and expected net revenue per tonne of feedstock. The techno-economic analysis provides results for large scale thermochemical process technologies at an industrial level and key performance indicators (KPIs) including greenhouse gaseous emissions, capital and operational costs per tonne, electrical generation per tonne for the four mentioned thermochemical processes.
Computer-Aided Framework for the Design of Optimal Bio-Oil/Solvent Blend with Economic Considerations
Authors: Chong Jia Wen , Ng Lik Yin , Aboagwa Omar Anas , Thangalazhy-Gopakumar Suchithra , Muthoosamy Kasturi , Chemmangattuvalappil Nishanth G.
Published: December 2021

A major obstacle in utilising pyrolysis bio-oil as biofuel is its relatively low heating value, high viscosity, and non-homogeneity. Solvent addition is a simple yet practical approach in upgrading pyrolysis bio-oil. However, most solvents are often manufactured as specialty chemicals, and thus, this leads to a high production cost of solvents. It is crucial for the designed solvent-oil blend to achieve both fuel functionality and economic targets to be competitive with the conventional diesel fuel. Hence, the objective of this work is to generate feasible solvent candidates by solving this multi-objective optimisation (MOO) problem via a computer-aided molecular design (CAMD) approach. Initially, an optimisation model was developed to identify potential solvents that satisfied the predefined targeted properties. Next, a MOO model was developed via a fuzzy optimisation approach to identify the trade-off between profitability and heating value of the solvent-oil blend. A pricing model was employed to estimate the profitability of the solvent-oil blend. The production of bio-oil in a pyrolysis plant was used to illustrate the applicability of the pricing model. Lastly, phase stability analysis was conducted to ensure the stability and miscibility of the solvent-oil blend. With the developed framework, a promising and cost-effective solvent-oil blend can be generated while displaying optimal biofuel properties.
Concepts and Coefficients Based on John L. Holland’s Theory of Vocational Choice—Examining the R Package holland
Authors: Hartmann Florian , Heine Jörg-Henrik , Ertl Bernhard
Published: December 2021

John L. Holland’s theory of vocational choice is one of the most prominent career theories and is used by both researchers and practitioners around the world. The theory states that people should seek work environments that fit their vocational interests in order to be satisfied and successful. Its application in research and practice requires the determination of coefficients, which quantify its core concepts such as person-environment fit. The recently released R package holland aims at providing a holistic collection of the references, descriptions and calculations of the most important coefficients. The current paper presents the package and examines it in terms of its application for research and practice. For this purpose, the functions of the package are applied and discussed. Furthermore, recommendations are made in the case of multiple coefficients for the same theoretical concept and features that future releases should include are discussed. The R package holland is a promising computational environment providing multiple coefficients for Holland’s most important theoretical concepts.
Enhancement of WEEE Management Practices in MTN Phone Village, Rumukurushi, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Okwu Ogechukwu , Hursthouse Andrew , Viza Evi , Idoko Linus
Published: December 2021

Informal recycling has been a source of challenges to a mobile telephone network (MTN) phone village in Rumukurushi, Port Harcourt, Nigeria, and several locations in developing countries. In order to bring a lasting solution to the menace of informal recycling in this location, the study proposed a new waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) management system. The system comprises the application of two key concepts. The first concept includes limiting the activities of informal recyclers to WEEE collection only. This implies WEEE treatment, dismantling, etc., are carried out by government-approved agencies and experts. The second concept involves the application of the just-in-time (JIT) management concept for managing WEEE. The concept ensures that WEEE is only requested from the recycler or the individuals in possession of it and only on demand. The study adopted a qualitative research approach. Data collection and analysis were achieved via semi-structured phone interviews and thematic analysis, respectively. The outcome of the study limits the activities of the informal recyclers to WEEE collection. Informal recyclers gain revenue from collection. A reduction in the waiting time of workers and WEEE storage space is achieved. This offers safety, efficiency, and an increased productivity. This will help to revolutionise the WEEE management system in the location.
From Tamil Pāṇar to the Bāṇas: Sanskritization and Sovereignty in South India
Authors: Palaniappan Sudalaimuthu
Published: December 2021

Historians include the Bāṇas among the important minor dynasties of South India. They are first mentioned as Bṛhadbāṇas in the Tāḷagunda inscription of the fifth century. Rulers with the Bāṇa name existed up to the sixteenth century in the Tamil country. During their history, they also married into major dynasties like the Cōḻas and claimed to be descendants of a lineage starting from Bali. Many historians have noted the semantic similarity between the term Bṛhadbāṇa and the earlier Tamil bardic Perumpāṇaṉ of the Caṅkam literature. The historians, however, have not explicitly addressed the issues of whether the Bāṇas originated from the Tamil Pāṇar and why they chose to claim Purāṇic Bali to be their progenitor. In the present essay, based on an analysis of Caṅkam texts, and epigraphic data, it is shown first that the Bāṇas must have originated from the Tamil bards. Later, the reasons for the Bāṇas choosing to have Bali as the progenitor of their lineage are explored. It looks like Tamil bardic age values might have played a role in this.
“All the Precious Trees of the Earth”: Trees in Restoration Scripture
Authors: Gore David Charles
Published: December 2021

In Hebrew scripture and the New Testament, trees play a prominent role, most obviously in the first chapters of Genesis and the last chapter of Revelations. Trees also serve as messianic heralds, as life-giving resources, as aesthetic standards of beauty, as exemplars of strength and fame, and as markers and instruments of salvation. Like the Hebrew Bible, the Book of Mormon and other Latter-day Saint scriptures feature prominent references to forests, trees, branches, roots, and seeds. What is unique about the spiritual and cultural landscape invoked by Latter-day Saint scripture? More specifically, what is said about trees and their accoutrements in restoration scripture? While numerous studies have focused on the major thematic tree scenes in the Book of Mormon, the tree of life in the visions of Lehi and Nephi, Zenos’ allegory of the olive tree, and Alma’s discourse on the seed of faith and the tree of righteousness, this paper aims at a broader look at trees in Latter-day Saint scripture. Taking cues from Robert Pogue Harrison’s Forests: The Shadow of Civilization, this paper takes a wide-ranging look at how trees in restoration scripture can help us rhetorically address the ecological dilemmas of our time. When the Gods built us a home, they did so with trees, and when God called on Their people to build a house, God told them to “bring the box tree, and the fir tree, and the pine tree, together with all the precious trees of the earth” to build it (see Abraham 4:11–12 and D&C 124:26–27). Another revelation declares bluntly: “Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees” (D&C 77:9). As eaters of sunshine and exhalers of oxygen, trees have much to teach us about how to live, and trees in restoration scripture specifically contribute to a broader vision of ecological living.
Refashioning Kingship in Manipur in the 18th Century: The Politico-Religious Projects of Garibniwaz and Bhāgyacandra
Authors: Sebastian Rodney
Published: December 2021

In the 18th century, Manipuri kings Garibniwaz and Bhāgyacandra sought to transform the indigenous religious landscape to absorb Vaiṣṇava beliefs and practices due to increasing contact with other Indian states and hostilities with Burma. Garibniwaz aligned himself with the Rāmānandī Vaiṣṇava tradition because he saw it as an effective way to increase his military prowess. He refashioned kingship to portray himself as a warrior king and a devotee of Rāmā. However, he met with resistance from other royal elites for oppressing the indigenous religious practices of Manipur. In contrast, Bhāgyacandra aligned himself with the Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava tradition and established his sovereignty on the basis of being a devotee of Krishna and patron of the indigenous gods. By carefully curating a hybrid religious schema, he was able to refashion Manipur kingship for generations to come. I compare the two strategies of negotiating transculturation and sociopolitical transformation and show that the latter approach proved more successful in the long term because it allowed a more organic unification of religious and political factions.