bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Analysis of the Prevalence of Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus in Cattle Populations Based on Detection Methods: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Werid Gebremeskel Mamu , Hemmatzadeh Farhid , Miller Darren , Reichel Michael P. , Messele Yohannes E. , Petrovski Kiro
Published: August 2023

Infectious diseases of cattle, including bovine viral diarrhea (BVD), pose a significant health threat to the global livestock industry. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infections in cattle populations through a systematic review and meta-analysis. PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were systematically searched for relevant articles reporting the prevalence of and associated risk factors in studies published between 1 January 2000 and 3 February 2023. From a total of 5111 studies screened, 318 studies were included in the final analysis. BVDV prevalence in cattle populations was estimated using various detection methods. The analysis detected heterogeneity in prevalence, attributed to detection techniques and associated risk factors. Antibody detection methods exhibited a higher prevalence of 0.43, reflecting the cumulative effect of detecting both active and past infections. Antigen detection methods showed a prevalence of 0.05, which was lower than antibody methods. A prevalence of 0.08 was observed using nucleic acid detection methods. The health status of the examined cattle significantly influenced the prevalence of BVDV. Cattle with bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC) exhibited higher antibody (prevalence of 0.67) and antigen (prevalence 0.23) levels compared to cattle with reproductive problems (prevalence 0.13) or diarrhea (prevalence 0.01). Nucleic acid detection methods demonstrated consistent rates across different health conditions. Age of cattle influenced prevalence, with higher rates in adults compared to calves. Risk factors related to breeding and reproduction, such as natural or extensive breeding and a history of abortion, were associated with increased prevalence. Coinfections with pathogens like bovine herpesvirus-1 or Neospora caninum were linked to higher BVDV prevalence. Management practices, such as commingling, introducing new cattle, and direct contact with neighboring farms, also influenced prevalence. Herd attributes, including larger herd size, and the presence of persistently infected cattle, were associated with higher prevalence. These findings indicated the importance of detection methods and risk factors in BVDV epidemiological studies.
Antibiotics and Lipid-Modifying Agents: Potential Drug–Drug Interactions and Their Clinical Implications
Authors: Spanakis Marios , Alon-Ellenbogen Danny , Ioannou Petros , Spernovasilis Nikolaos
Published: August 2023

Evidence-based prescribing requires taking into consideration the many aspects of optimal drug administration (e.g., dosage, comorbidities, co-administered drugs, etc.). A key issue is the administration of drugs for acute disorders that may potentially interfere with previously prescribed long-term medications. Initiating an antibiotic for an acute bacterial infection constitutes a common example. Hence, appropriate knowledge and awareness of the potential DDIs of antibiotics would lead to proper adjustments, thus preventing over- or under-treatment. For example, some statins, which are the most prescribed lipid-modifying agent (LMA), can lead to clinically important drug–drug interactions (DDIs) with the concurrent administration of antibiotics, e.g., macrolides. This review discusses the clinically significant DDIs of antibiotics associated with co-administrated lipid-lowering therapy and highlights common cases where regimen modifications may or may not be necessary.
Fiber Characteristics and Mechanical Properties of Oxytenanthera abyssinica
Authors: Yu Linpeng , Dai Fukuan , Zhang Kangjian , Jiang Zehui , Xia Mingsong , Wang Youhong , Tian Genlin
Published: August 2023

Unlike the culm hollow structure of most bamboo species, Oxytenanthera abyssinica has a unique solid or semi-solid culm, which may endow it with superior mechanical performance. In this study, the variation in fiber morphology and micro-mechanical properties across the radial regions of bamboo culm was examined by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and nanoindentation. Results showed that the mean values of vascular bundle frequency and fiber tissue proportion were 1.76 pcs/mm2 and 21.04%, respectively, both of which increased gradually from inner to outer. The mean length, diameter, and length-diameter ratio of the fiber were 2.10 mm, 21.54 μm, and 101.41 respectively. The mean indentation modulus of elasticity (IMOE) and hardness were 21.34 GPa and 545.88 MPa. The IMOE exhibited a significant increase from the inner to the middle region, and little change was observed from the middle to the outer region. There were slight fluctuations in hardness along the radial direction. The mean crystallinity and microfibril angle(MFA) of the fibers was 68.12% and 11.26 degrees, respectively. There is a positive correlation between cellulose crystallinity and the IMOE and hardness, while there is a negative correlation between the MFA and the IMOE and the hardness.
Cistus albidus L.—Review of a Traditional Mediterranean Medicinal Plant with Pharmacological Potential
Authors: Raus de Baviera Daniel , Ruiz-Canales Antonio , Barrajón-Catalán Enrique
Published: August 2023

Cistus albidus L. (Cistaceae) is a medicinal plant that has been used therapeutically since ancient times in the Mediterranean basin for its important pharmacological properties. The ability of C. albidus to produce large quantities of a wide range of natural metabolites makes it an attractive source of raw material. The main constituents with bioactive functions that exert pharmacological effects are terpenes and polyphenols, with more than 200 identified compounds. The purpose of this review is to offer a detailed account of the botanical, ethnological, phytochemical, and pharmacological characteristics of C. albidus with the aim of encouraging additional pharmaceutical investigations into the potential therapeutic benefits of this medicinal plant. This review was carried out using organized searches of the available literature up to July 2023. A detailed analysis of C. albidus confirms its traditional use as a medicinal plant. The outcome of several studies suggests a deeper involvement of certain polyphenols and terpenes in multiple mechanisms such as inflammation and pain, with a potential application focus on neurodegenerative diseases and disorders. Other diseases such as prostate cancer and leukemia have already been researched with promising results for this plant, for which no intoxication has been reported in humans.
Arbuscular Mycorrhizae Alter Photosynthetic Responses to Drought in Seedlings of Artemisia tridentata
Authors: Geisler Mathew , Buerki Sven , Serpe Marcelo D.
Published: August 2023

The establishment of Artemisia tridentata, a keystone species of the sagebrush steppe, is often limited by summer drought. Symbioses with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can help plants to cope with drought. We investigated this possible effect on A. tridentata seedlings inoculated with native AMF and exposed to drought in greenhouse and field settings. In greenhouse experiments, AMF colonization increased intrinsic water use efficiency under water stress and delayed the decrease in photosynthesis caused by drought, or this decrease occurred at a lower soil water content. In the field, we evaluated the effect of AMF inoculation on colonization, leaf water potential, survival, and inflorescence development. Inoculation increased AMF colonization, and the seedlings experienced water stress, as evidenced by water potentials between −2 and −4 MPa and reduced stomatal conductance. However, survival remained high, and no differences in water potentials or survival occurred between treatments. Only the percentage of plants with inflorescence was higher in inoculated than non-inoculated seedlings. Overall, the greenhouse results support that AMF colonization enhances drought tolerance in A. tridentata seedlings. Yet, the significance of these results in increasing survival in nature remains to be tested under more severe drought than the plants experienced in our field experiment.
Genetic Diversity of Apple Clonal Rootstocks from the Collection of the Michurinsk State Agrarian University Based on SSR Markers
Authors: Boris Ksenia V. , Trifonova Aya A. , Dubrovsky Maksim L. , Shamshin Ivan N. , Kudryavtsev Aleksander M.
Published: August 2023

The Michurinsk State Agrarian University (Michurinsk SAU) is one of the leading centers for breeding apple clonal rootstocks. A diverse collection of apple rootstocks, founded in 1930s by V.I. Budagovsky, is maintained at the Michurinsk SAU. In the present study, 87 rootstocks from this collection were analyzed using 18 SSR markers to assess their genetic diversity and relatedness. The detected polymorphism level was rather high compared to the previous estimates of apple rootstock genetic variability. A total of 199 alleles were detected with an average of 11.1 alleles per locus. Among the detected alleles, 67 (33.67%) were rare and 43 (21.61%) were unique. The average PIC value was 0.73, and the expected and observed heterozygosity averaged 0.76 and 0.69, respectively. All the studied accessions except two could be identified with the used marker set. Cluster analysis revealed several groups according to the rootstocks’ pedigrees and genetic origin. Furthermore, Structure analysis revealed two main groups of the studied rootstock accessions. No significant differentiation of the studied sample according to dwarfing ability was detected, while weak differentiation was detected according to leaf color. SSR genotyping data can be used for rootstock fingerprinting and pedigree verification and will facilitate collection management. In addition, data on the genetic diversity and structure of the studied collection may be useful for further development of the Michurinsk SAU rootstock breeding program.
Rhizosphere Microbiome and Phenolic Acid Exudation of the Healthy and Diseased American Ginseng Were Modulated by the Cropping History
Authors: Zhang Jiahui , Wei Yanli , Li Hongmei , Hu Jindong , Zhao Zhongjuan , Wu Yuanzheng , Yang Han , Li Jishun , Zhou Yi
Published: August 2023

The infection of soil-borne diseases has the potential to modify root exudation and the rhizosphere microbiome. However, the extent to which these modifications occur in various monocropping histories remains inadequately explored. This study sampled healthy and diseased American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) plants under 1–4 years of monocropping and analyzed the phenolic acids composition by HPLC, microbiome structure by high-throughput sequencing technique, and the abundance of pathogens by quantitative PCR. First, the fungal pathogens of Fusarium solani and Ilyonectria destructans in the rhizosphere soil were more abundant in the diseased plants than the healthy plants. The healthy American ginseng plants exudated more phenolic acid, especially p-coumaric acid, compared to the diseased plants after 1–2 years of monocropping, while this difference gradually diminished with the increase in monocropping years. The pathogen abundance was influenced by the exudation of phenolic acids, e.g., total phenolic acids (r = −0.455), p-coumaric acid (r = −0.465), and salicylic acid (r = −0.417), and the further in vitro test confirmed that increased concentration of p-coumaric acid inhibited the mycelial growth of the isolated pathogens for root rot. The healthy plants had a higher diversity of rhizosphere bacterial and fungal microbiome than the diseased plants only after a long period of monocropping. Our study has revealed that the cropping history of American ginseng has altered the effect of pathogens infection on rhizosphere microbiota and root exudation.
The Maize ZmBES1/BZR1-9 Transcription Factor Accelerates Flowering in Transgenic Arabidopsis and Rice
Authors: Liu Yuan , Zhang Hongwanjun , Feng Wenqi , Lin Xiaolong , Gao Aijun , Cao Yang , Yang Qingqing , Wang Yingge , Li Wanchen , Fu Fengling , Yu Haoqiang
Published: August 2023

In model plants, the BRI1-EMS suppressor 1 (BES1)/brassinazole-resistant 1 (BZR1) transcription factors play vital roles in regulating growth, development, and stimuli response. However, the roles of maize ZmBES1/BZR1 members are largely unknown. In this research, the ZmBES1/BZR1-9 gene was ectopically expressed in Arabidopsis and rice for the phenotyping of flowering. We found that the complementation and overexpression of ZmBES1/BZR1-9 in bes1-D mutant and wild type Arabidopsis both resulted in early flowering that was about 10 days shorter than in the untransformed control under long-day conditions. In addition, there was no difference in the rosette leaf number between all transgenic lines and the control. Subsequently, the ZmBES1/BZR1-9 gene was overexpressed in rice. It was found that overexpression lines of rice exhibited early flowering with heading dates that were 8 days shorter compared with untransformed plants. Moreover, the results of RNA-seq and qRT-PCR showed that five flowering-regulated genes, namely At2-MMP, AtPCC1, AtMYB56, AtPELPK1, and AtPRP10, were significantly up-regulated in all complementary and overexpressing lines of Arabidopsis. Meanwhile, the results of RNA-seq showed that 69 and 33 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were up- and down-regulated in transgenic rice, respectively. Four flowering-related genes, namely OsGA20OX1, OsCCR19, OsBTBN19, and OsRNS4 were significantly up-regulated in transgenic lines. To sum up, our findings demonstrate that ZmBES1/BZR1-9 is involved in controlling flowering and provide insights into further underlying roles of BES1/BZR1s in regulating growth and development in crops.
Light-Induced TaHY5-7A and TaBBX-3B Physically Interact to Promote PURPLE PERICARP-MYB 1 Expression in Purple-Grained Wheat
Authors: Jiang Qinqin , Jiang Wenhui , Hu Ning , Tang Rui , Dong Yuxuan , Wu Hongqi , Liu Tianxiang , Guan Lulu , Zhang Hanbing , Hou Junbin , Chai Guaiqiang , Wang Zhonghua
Published: August 2023

Purple-grained wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is an important germplasm source in crop breeding. Anthocyanin biosynthesis in the pericarps of purple-grained wheat is largely light-dependent; however, the regulatory mechanisms underlying light-induced anthocyanin accumulation in the wheat pericarp remain unknown. Here we determined that anthocyanins rapidly accumulate in the pericarps of the purple-grained wheat cultivar Heixiaomai 76 (H76) at 16 days after pollination under light treatment. Using transcriptome sequencing, differential gene expression analysis, and phylogenetic analysis, we identified two key genes involved in light signaling in wheat: ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 5-7A (TaHY5-7A) and B-BOX-3B (TaBBX-3B). TaHY5-7A and TaBBX-3B were highly expressed in purple-grained wheat pericarps. The heterologous expression of TaHY5-7A partially restored the phenotype of the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) hy5 mutant, resulting in increased anthocyanin accumulation and a shortened hypocotyl. The heterologous expression of TaBBX-3B in wild-type Arabidopsis had similar effects. TaHY5-7A and TaBBX-3B were nucleus-localized, consistent with a function in transcription regulation. However, TaHY5-7A, which lacks a transactivation domain, was not sufficient to activate the expression of PURPLE PERICARP-MYB 1 (TaPpm1), the key anthocyanin biosynthesis regulator in purple pericarps of wheat. TaHY5-7A physically interacted with TaBBX-3B in yeast two-hybrid and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays. Additionally, TaHY5-7A, together with TaBBX-3B, greatly enhanced the promoter activity of TaPpm1 in a dual luciferase assay. Overall, our results suggest that TaHY5-7A and TaBBX-3B collaboratively activate TaPpm1 expression to promote light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis in purple-pericarp wheat.
Determining Genetic Markers and Seed Compositions Related to High Test Weight in Glycine max
Authors: Shea Zachary , Singer William M. , Rosso Luciana , Song Qijian , Zhang Bo
Published: August 2023

Test weight, one of the primary indicators of soybean seed quality, is measured as the amount of soybean seeds in kilograms that can fit into one hectoliter. The price that growers receive for their soybean is dependent on test weight. Over the past 50 years, growers have observed a decreasing trend in test weight. Therefore, it is imperative to understand better the relationship between soybean test weight and other traits to enable breeders to select parental lines with high test weights in breeding programs to ensure the grower’s profitability. The objectives of the study were to identify genetic markers associated with high test weight in soybean and to determine the correlation between high test weight and five important seed composition traits (protein, oil, sucrose, raffinose, and stachyose content). Maturity group IV and V germplasms from the USDA soybean germplasm collection were grown in Blacksburg and Warsaw in Virginia from 2019 to 2021 and were measured for all of the above traits. Results show that test weight values ranged from 62–77 kg/hL over the three years. Multiple single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) significantly associated with high test weight were found on chromosome (Chr.) 15 along with a couple on chromosome 14, and 11 candidate genes were found near these SNPs. Test weight was found to be significantly negatively correlated with oil content, inconsistently correlated with protein content in all environments, and negatively correlated but not significantly with all three sugars except for raffinose in Blacksburg 2019. We concluded that the genes that underlie test weight might be on chromosome 15, and the validated associated SNPs might be used to assist breeding selection of test weight. Breeders should pay special attention to test weight while selecting for high oil content in soybean due to their negative correlation.
Exploring the Heat Shock Transcription Factor (HSF) Gene Family in Ginger: A Genome-Wide Investigation on Evolution, Expression Profiling, and Response to Developmental and Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Jiang Dongzhu , Xia Maoqin , Xing Haitao , Gong Min , Jiang Yajun , Liu Huanfang , Li Hong-Lei
Published: August 2023

Ginger is a valuable crop known for its nutritional, seasoning, and health benefits. However, abiotic stresses, such as high temperature and drought, can adversely affect its growth and development. Heat shock transcription factors (HSFs) have been recognized as crucial elements for enhancing heat and drought resistance in plants. Nevertheless, no previous study has investigated the HSF gene family in ginger. In this research, a total of 25 ZoHSF members were identified in the ginger genome, which were unevenly distributed across ten chromosomes. The ZoHSF members were divided into three groups (HSFA, HSFB, and HSFC) based on their gene structure, protein motifs, and phylogenetic relationships with Arabidopsis. Interestingly, we found more collinear gene pairs between ZoHSF and HSF genes from monocots, such as rice, wheat, and banana, than dicots like Arabidopsis thaliana. Additionally, we identified 12 ZoHSF genes that likely arose from duplication events. Promoter analysis revealed that the hormone response elements (MEJA-responsiveness and abscisic acid responsiveness) were dominant among the various cis-elements related to the abiotic stress response in ZoHSF promoters. Expression pattern analysis confirmed differential expression of ZoHSF members across different tissues, with most showing responsiveness to heat and drought stress. This study lays the foundation for further investigations into the functional role of ZoHSFs in regulating abiotic stress responses in ginger.
Effect of Low Light on Photosynthetic Performance of Tomato Plants—Ailsa Craig and Carotenoid Mutant Tangerine
Authors: Velitchkova Maya , Stefanov Martin , Popova Antoaneta V.
Published: August 2023

The effects of a five-day treatment with low light intensity on tomato plants—Ailsa Craig and tangerine mutant—at normal and low temperatures and after recovery for three days under control conditions were investigated. The tangerine tomato, which has orange fruits, yellowish young leaves, and pale blossoms, accumulates prolycopene rather than all-trans lycopene. We investigated the impact of low light at normal and low temperatures on the functioning and effectiveness of photosynthetic apparatuses of both plants. The photochemical activities of Photosystem I (PSI) and Photosystem II (PSII) were assessed, and the alterations in PSII antenna size were characterized by evaluating the abundance of PSII-associated proteins Lhcb1, Lhcb2, CP43, and CP47. Alterations in energy distribution and interaction of both photosystems were analyzed using 77K fluorescence. In Aisla Craig plants, an increase in thylakoid membrane fluidity was detected during treatment with low light at a low temperature, while for the tangerine mutant, no significant change was observed. The PSII activity of thylakoids from mutant tangerine was more strongly inhibited by treatment with low light at a low temperature while low light barely affected PSII in Aisla Craig. The obtained data indicated that the observed differences in the responses of photosynthetic apparatuses of Ailsa Craig and tangerine when exposed to low light intensity and suboptimal temperature were mainly related to the differences in sensitivity and antenna complexes of PSII.
In Vitro Induction of Interspecific Hybrid and Polyploidy Derived from Oryza officinalis Wall
Authors: Tan Meimei , Chen Ruoxin , Chen Xingran , Shahid Muhammad Qasim , Liu Xiangdong , Wu Jinwen
Published: August 2023

Oryza officinalis Wall is a potential genetic resource for rice breeding; however, its distant genome limits its crossing ability with cultivated rice. The interspecific hybridization of O. officinalis and cultivated rice, establishment of its tissue culture, and induction of polyploidy are ways to improve O. officinalis’s poor crossability. We developed an interspecific hybrid and studied its reproductive pollen development process in this work, and the results showed that abortive pollens (81.94%) and embryo sac abnormalities (91.04%) were the key causes of its high sterility. In order to induce callus formation in interspecific hybrid explants, two different culture media, namely Chu’s N-6 medium (N6) and 1/2 Murashig and Skoog medium (1/2 MS), were employed. Additionally, two plant growth regulators (PGRs), namely 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 6-benzylaminopurine (BA), along with L-proline (Pro) and acid hydrolyzed casein, were utilized in the experiment. The optimal N6 medium, supplemented with 2.0 mg·L−1 2,4-D, produced the highest induction rate (80.56 ± 5.44)%. For callus differentiation and proliferation, the MS medium supplemented with 2.0 mg·L−1 BA + 0.2 mg·L−1 NAA produced the highest differentiation rate (75.00 ± 4.97)% and seedling emergence ratio (28.97 ± 4.67)%. The optimal combination for seedling rooting was the 1/2 MS medium supplemented with 2.0 mg L−1 NAA and 0.2 mg L−1 BA, which produced an average of 13.95 roots per plant. For polyploidy induction in the interspecific hybrid, the concentration of colchicine treatment at 400 mg·L−1 for three days is an ideal protocol. We devised tissue culture and interspecific hybrid polyploidy induction to overcome O. officinalis’ poor crossability and introduce its favorable features into cultivated rice.
Impact Assessment of Lead-Tolerant Rhizobacteria to Improve Soil Health Using Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea) as an Indicator Plant
Authors: Mushtaq Zain , Akhter Adnan , Khan Hafiz Azhar Ali , Anwar Waheed , Hashem Abeer , Avila-Quezada Graciela Dolores , Abd_Allah Elsayed Fathi
Published: August 2023

Due to ongoing human activities, heavy metals are heavily accumulated in the soil. This leads to an increase in the discharge and the quick spread of heavy metal pollution in human settlements and natural habitats, having a disastrous effect on agricultural products. The current experiment was planned to evaluate the effect of lead-tolerant-plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (LTPGPR) on growth, yield, antioxidant activities, physiology, and lead uptake in the root, shoot, and seed of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) in lead-amended soil. Three pre-isolated well-characterized lead-tolerant rhizobacterial strains—S10, S5, and S2—were used to inoculate seeds of Indian mustard grown at three different levels of lead (300 mg kg−1, 600 mg kg−1, 900 mg kg−1) contaminated soil. The experiment was designed following a completely randomized design (CRD) under factorial arrangements. Lead nitrate was used as a source of lead contamination. At harvesting, data regarding growth, physiology, yield per plant, antioxidant activities, malondialdehyde and proline content, and lead uptake in the root, shoot, and seed of Indian mustard were recorded. Results demonstrated that lead contamination at all levels significantly reduced the plant growth, yield, and physiological processes. Plants inoculated with lead-tolerant rhizobacteria showed a significant improvement in plant growth, yield, antioxidant activities, and physiological attributes and cause a valuable reduction in the malondialdehyde contents of Indian mustard in lead-contaminated soil. Moreover, plants inoculated with lead-tolerant rhizobacteria also showed an increment in lead uptake in the vegetative parts and a significant reduction of lead contents in the seed of Indian mustard.
Transcription Factor GmERF105 Negatively Regulates Salt Stress Tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Li Lu , Zhu Zhen , Liu Juan , Zhang Yu , Lu Yang , Zhao Jinming , Xing Han , Guo Na
Published: August 2023

The Ethylene Response Factor (ERF) transcription factors form a subfamily of the AP2/ERF family that is instrumental in mediating plant responses to diverse abiotic stressors. Herein, we present the isolation and characterization of the GmERF105 gene from Williams 82 (W82), which is rapidly induced by salt, drought, and abscisic acid (ABA) treatments in soybean. The GmERF105 protein contains an AP2 domain and localizes to the nucleus. GmERF105 was selectively bound to GCC-box by gel migration experiments. Under salt stress, overexpression of GmERF105 in Arabidopsis significantly reduced seed germination rate, fresh weight, and antioxidant enzyme activity; meanwhile, sodium ion content, malonic dialdehyde (MDA) content, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were markedly elevated compared to the wild type. It was further found that the transcription levels of CSD1 and CDS2 of two SOD genes were reduced in OE lines. Furthermore, the GmERF105 transgenic plants displayed suppressed expression of stress response marker genes, including KIN1, LEA14, NCED3, RD29A, and COR15A/B, under salt treatment. Our findings suggest that GmERF105 can act as a negative regulator in plant salt tolerance pathways by affecting ROS scavenging systems and the transcription of stress response marker genes.
Chemical Composition and In Vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Effects of Volatile Oils Hydrodistilled from Onobrychis carduchorum C.C. Towns., a Kurdish Traditional Plant
Authors: Amin Hawraz Ibrahim M. , Abdoulrahman Kamaran , Sadraddin Azad S. , Smail Heman A. , Jawhar Zanko Hassan , Dilawer Issa Kovan , Armijos Chabaco , Vidari Giovanni
Published: August 2023

The volatile oils hydrodistilled from the aerial parts and roots of O. carduchorum C.C Towns. (Fabaceae) have been chemically characterized for the first time. A total of 43 constituents with an abundance >0.03% were identified and quantified in the two oils by GC/MS and GC/FID analyses. They comprise 38 components (98.58%) of the oil isolated from the aerial parts (OCA) and 34 components (93.33%) of the oil from the roots (OCR). Six constituents, α-pinene (23.11 ± 0.1%), β-elemene (17.33 ± 0.1%), 1,8-cineole (12.15 ± 0.2%), furfural (7.91 ± 0.1%), terpineol-4-ol (6.32 ± 0.2%), and limonene (4.13 ± 0.1%), accounted for about 75% of the total OCA oil. On the other hand, 1,8-cineole (15.79 ± 0.1%), furfural (10.44 ± 0.1%), β-elemene (10.14 ± 0.2%), α-terpineol (7.74 ± 0.1%), linalool (7.45 ± 0.1%), and α-pinene (4.76 ± 0.1%) made up about 60% of the OCR oil. The IC50 values of the scavenging activities of the OCA and OCR oils towards the DPPH radical and H2O2 were 79.8 ± 0.5 and 153.3 ± 0.6 μg/mL and 394.09 ± 0.2 and 311.67 ± 0.4 μg/mL, respectively. In addition, in the MTS assay, the OCA and OCR oils showed significant antiproliferative effects against T47D, MDA-MB-453, BG-1, and A549 human cancer cells that were more powerful than those against two normal human cell lines, HEK-293 and HFF-1. The abundant presence of β-elemene as an antiproliferative component of the two oils suggested the existence of a new chemotype of O. carduchorum.
Polysaccharides as Economic and Sustainable Raw Materials for the Preparation of Adsorbents for Water Treatment
Authors: Díaz Bukvic Gema Díaz , Rossi Ezequiel , Errea María Inés
Published: August 2023

Adsorption processes, due to their technical simplicity and cost-effectiveness, have arisen as one of the most well-known, straightforward solutions to water pollution. In this context, polysaccharides, due to their abundance, biodegradability, and biocompatibility, are appealing raw materials for the design of adsorbents. Moreover, some of them, such as chitosan, can be obtained from organic waste products, and their use additionally contributes to solving another concerning problem: organic waste accumulation. Unfortunately, due to their low adsorption capacities and/or physicochemical properties, native polysaccharides are not suitable for this purpose. However, there are alternatives that can overcome these physical or chemical limitations, often taking advantage of the versatility of their polyhydroxylated structure. In this context, this review aims to present an overview of the advances from 2019 onwards in the design of new adsorbents for water treatment from cellulose, alginate, chitosan, and starch, addressing the two main strategies reported in the literature: the preparation of either polysaccharide-based composites or polysaccharide derivatives. It is important to point out that, herein, special emphasis is placed on the relationship between the chemical structure and the efficiency as adsorbents of the analyzed materials, in an attempt to contribute to the rational design of adsorbents obtained from polysaccharides.
Factor Analysis of the Physical–Mechanical Properties for Geopolymers Based on Brick Dust and Biomass Bottom Ash as Eco-Friendly Building Materials
Authors: Terrones-Saeta Juan María , Luís Ana Teresa , Romero Emilio , Fortes Garrido Juan Carlos , Diaz-Curiel Jesús , Grande José Antonio
Published: August 2023

The production of building materials is unavoidable if the well-being and development of society are to be maintained. However, in manufacturing these materials, significant greenhouse gas emissions and environmental effects are produced. For this reason, and with the aim of reducing the impact of the manufacture of these materials, this work developed a geopolymeric material made up solely of wastes, brick dust and biomass bottom ashes which replaced the traditional ceramic materials. To evaluate the quality of this sustainable geopolymeric material, different groups of specimens were formed with different percentages of both residues, subsequently determining the physical properties of the new-formed geopolymers and guaranteeing they accomplish the prescriptions of the ceramic regulations for construction. In addition, the results of the geopolymer characterisation tests were statistically analysed using factor analysis, with the sole purpose of establishing connections and interdependence between the variables that influence the geopolymerisation process. Thus, it was possible to demonstrate that the combination of brick dust and biomass bottom ashes produced geopolymers with adequate qualities to replace traditional ceramics, as well as that the different combinations of both residues produced feasible materials to be used as ceramics with various characteristics, with two main factors determined by factorial analysis that governed the physical properties of the geopolymer obtained: the percentage of brick dust and the theoretical porosity.
Optimizing Photovoltaic Power Production in Partial Shading Conditions Using Dandelion Optimizer (DO)-Based MPPT Method
Authors: Sajid Injila , Gautam Ayushi , Sarwar Adil , Tariq Mohd , Liu Hwa-Dong , Ahmad Shafiq , Lin Chang-Hua , Sayed Abdelaty Edrees
Published: August 2023

This research proposes the dandelion optimizer (DO), a bioinspired stochastic optimization technique, as a solution for achieving maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in photovoltaic (PV) arrays under partial shading (PS) conditions. In such scenarios, the overall power output of the PV array is adversely affected, with shaded cells generating less power and consuming power themselves, resulting in reduced efficiency and local hotspots. While bypass diodes can be employed to mitigate these effects by redirecting current around shaded cells, they may cause multiple peaks, making MPPT challenging. Therefore, metaheuristic algorithms are suggested to effectively optimize power output and handle multiple peaks. The DO algorithm draws inspiration from the long-distance movement of a dandelion seed, which relies on the force of the wind. By utilizing this bioinspired approach, the DO algorithm can successfully capture the maximum power point (MPP) under different partial shading scenarios, where traditional MPPT algorithms often struggle. An essential contribution of this research lies in the examination of the performance of the proposed algorithm through simulation and real-time hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) results. Comparing the DO algorithm with the state-of-the-art algorithms, including particle swarm optimization (PSO) and cuckoo search (CS), the DO algorithm outperforms them in terms of power tracking efficiency, tracking duration, and the maximum power tracked. Based on the real-time HIL results, the DO algorithm achieves the highest average efficiency at 99.60%, surpassing CS at 96.46% and PSO at 94.74%. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the DO algorithm in enhancing the performance of MPPT in PV arrays, particularly in challenging partial shading conditions.
Process Simulation and Integration of Natural Gas Condensate Recovery Using Ethane–Propane Refrigerant Mixture
Authors: Sun Jin , Zhou Rujin , Wang Li , Zeng Xinye , Hu Shaolin , Yu Haoshui , Jiang Liangliang
Published: August 2023

Separating heavy components from natural gas not only enhances safety, improves pipeline transportation, ensures product quality, and addresses environmental considerations, but it also exerts an influence on global energy trends. Therefore, separating heavy components is necessary and can result in beneficial goods. This article presents a comprehensive study on the process simulation and optimization of the recovery of natural gas condensate via the combined refrigeration of a mixture of ethane and propane as a refrigerant. The optimization objectives include maximizing the recovery of ethane and propane, minimizing energy consumption, and achieving desired product quality targets. A sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the impact of key parameters on process performance. Using Aspen HYSYS software, the influence of the cooler outlet stream temperature and expander outlet stream pressure on the shaft power and profit of a dry gas compressor was analyzed based on the operating conditions of the case plant, which has a processing capacity of 2988 kmol/h. The profitability of the plant is at a maximum when the cooler’s outlet stream temperature is −61 °C and the expander’s outlet stream pressure is 2500 kPa. After optimization, the refrigeration cycle system can reduce the plant’s energy consumption by 1516.4 kW. An optimized process design can lead to enhanced recovery efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and improved profitability in the natural gas industry.
Energy Dissipation of Hydraulic Support Columns under Rockfall Impact Load in Steeply Dipping Coal Seams
Authors: Liu Ming , Luan Bohao , Xiao Yang
Published: August 2023

Rockfall disasters have long restricted the further improvement of the safety level of steeply dipping coal seams (SDCSs). When a rockfall disaster occurs, it causes damage to the hydraulic support and other equipment at the working face. An effective way to carry out protection design is using the law of rockfall migration and energy evolution. Therefore, this study used the polyhedral rockfall migration and its impact process on the hydraulic support equipment of the working face as the research object and analyzed the influence of relevant parameters on the maximum contact deformation, maximum impact force, and energy absorption of the column during the collision and contact between the rockfall and the hydraulic support column. Firstly, with hexahedral rockfall as an example, the migration process of rockfall was simulated using PFC3D software. Secondly, according to the Hertz contact theory, the contact model of the shock process between the rockfall and the hydraulic support column was constructed, and the maximum deformation and maximum impact force of the collision contact between the rockfall and the column were obtained. Finally, the Hamilton principle and the Galerkin discrete method were used to construct the dynamic model of the collision between the rockfall and the column, and the energy evolution law of the shock process between the rockfall and the column was studied. The conclusions of this paper can provide a certain theoretical basis for the prediction of rockfall disasters and the design of rockfall protection devices.
Influence of Hydraulic Parameters on Multi-Stage Pulse Characteristics of Pressurized Pulsed Water Jet
Authors: Zhang Yangkai , Li Qian
Published: August 2023

The multi-stage pulse competition of pressurized pulsed water jet becomes the initial pulse at the head tip, and hydraulic parameters are the key parameters that affect the characteristics of multiple pulses. Based on the ultra-high-speed imaging system, a pressurized pulsed water jet flow field capture system was constructed, and the effects of initial pressure and driving pressure of the pressurized chamber on the characteristics of multi-stage pulses were studied. The experimental results show that as the initial pressure of the booster chamber increases, the jet changes from a discontinuous state to a continuous state, and the multi-level pulse simultaneously changes from dominant multi-pulse to implicit multi-pulse; as the driving pressure increases, the initial spacing between the first pulse and the second pulse increases, and the peak velocity of the initial pulse gradually increases. At the same time, the location of the peak velocity also shifts away from the nozzle as the driving pressure increases. In addition, the peak velocity of the initial pulse is relatively close to the theoretical velocity of the continuous jet under driving pressure conditions.
Investigation on the Electrostatics Saturation of Flow Electrification in the Liquid Hydrogen Transportation
Authors: Liu Bowen , Li Yanzhong , Wang Lei , Ma Yuan
Published: August 2023

Research on the flow electrification characteristic is of paramount importance for ensuring the electrostatic safety of liquid hydrogen transportation systems. However, the discussion about electrostatic saturation in flow electrification has been lacking. To address this gap, a theoretical model governing the process of flow electrification is constructed which couples the charge conservation equation with the Navier-Stokes equations and applies the Neumann boundary conditions at the solid-liquid interface, and the application of this model is validated by existing experimental data with the simulation parameters of At and n being 9.08 × 1012 and 0.85 for liquid hydrogen. A comparison with benzene reveals that benzene almost reaches the electrostatic saturation state after flowing one meter, whereas the flow of liquid hydrogen remains in the linear growth stage. However, with an increase in pipe length, a gradual saturation trend emerges in the curves of streaming current versus flow distance when the flow distance exceeds 10 m. At the outlet, the corresponding streaming current and charge density are approximately 160 pA and 3 μC/m3, respectively, significantly higher than those observed at one-meter flow distance. Furthermore, the influences of pipe radius and flow velocity on the arrival of electrostatic saturation are analyzed, and the results show that increasing both the pipe radius and flow velocity leads to a delay in the arrival of electrostatic saturation and enhances the saturation value of the streaming current. In conclusion, this study thoroughly discusses the development of flow electrification along with the flow distance and the phenomenon of electrostatic saturation in the long-distance flow of liquid hydrogen, which is crucial for the safe transportation of liquid hydrogen over extended distances.
Assessment of Three Recycling Pathways for Waste Cooking Oil as Feedstock in the Production of Biodiesel, Biolubricant, and Biosurfactant: A Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis Approach
Authors: De Feo Giovanni , Ferrara Carmen , Giordano Luana , Ossèo Libero Sesti
Published: August 2023

The management of waste cooking oil (WCO) often poses significant challenges. The improper disposal of WCO results in negative environmental impacts and economic losses. However, from a circular economy perspective, WCO can be recycled and used as a sustainable feedstock for numerous industrial products, replacing virgin vegetable oils. This approach enables the recovery of resources while simultaneously addressing the problem of WCO disposal. By employing a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) approach, the study assesses three alternative recycling pathways for WCO used as a feedstock in the production of (A1) biodiesel, (A2) biolubricant, and (A3) biosurfactant. The aim is to identify the optimal alternative, taking into account environmental, economic, and technical factors. The procedure involved a team of chemical engineers working in the WCO recycling sector who were selected as decision makers. The ‘priority scale’ combined with the Paired Comparison Technique was employed as a weighting method to evaluate the selected criteria. The results revealed that the decision makers considered environmental sustainability as the most crucial evaluation criterion, followed by the economic criterion. In contrast, the aspect of process management was deemed less significant. Among the compared alternatives, utilizing WCO as a feedstock for biosurfactant production was assessed as the optimal WCO recycling solution. This alternative not only demonstrated the lowest coefficient variation but was also deemed the most favourable option. Biolubricant production was determined to be the second-best alternative. The adopted MCDA approach proved to be a reliable and effective tool, enabling the clear identification of the preferred WCO recycling alternative among those assessed. This was achieved through the utilization of the decision makers’ expertise and knowledge.
Charisma of Ascetic Saints in the Hagiography of the 12th Century
Authors: Bozoky Edina
Published: August 2023

In the 11th–12th centuries, extreme ascetic practices reappeared in Western Europe, in particular, the wearing of hauberks and heavy iron chains, associated with penitence and eremitism. This article discusses the charisma of three ascetic saints of the 12th century: Bernard the Penitent (d. 1182), Wulfric of Haselbury (d. 1154/55), and Godric of Finchale (d. 1170). Their hagiographies were written shortly after their death. The authors emphasize that they were revered as holy men already in their lifetime. Their charismatic power was revealed by miracles of healing and prophecy, sometimes in visions. The manifestations of their charisma continued and even increased after their death and were transmitted and spread through their relics. Their mortifications and the signs of their holiness are comparable to those of the stylites and other hermits of Syria of late Antiquity.
The Perspective on Peace-Making of the Contemporary Chinese Buddhist Monk Jinghui 淨慧 (1933–2013)
Authors: An Saiping
Published: August 2023

This paper explores the perspective on peace-making of the contemporary Chinese Buddhist monk Jinghui 淨慧 (1933–2013), whose views have garnered esteem among Chinese Buddhists but have received limited attention from scholars. Jinghui introduced the notion of “Life Chan”, emphasizing the inseparable nature of Buddhist practice and daily living. Building on this concept, he emphasizes that it is incumbent upon Buddhists to remain attentive to a range of real-world issues, among which war and peace loom large as subjects deserving of special focus. In accordance with the principles of Chinese Buddhism regarding the nature of the mind, he posits that wars and conflicts on the global stage stem primarily from the mind, with external societal influences acting as secondary triggers. Therefore, he proposes that the cornerstone of establishing worldwide peace rests in purifying the mind by means of a variety of Buddhist practices. By drawing upon Chinese Chan literatures, he introduces a novel and distinct method to facilitate worldwide peace—a tea ceremony imbued with Chan philosophy. Jinghui claims that such an approach, by nurturing individual peace, will ultimately lead to collective harmony across the globe.
The Devil in the Details: Beelzebul and Social Identity Complexity in Mark 3:20–35
Authors: Otten Jeremy D.
Published: August 2023

While the origin and etymology of the name Beelzebul have received some scholarly attention, very little attention has been given to the more basic question of why the scribes would choose this particular name for their accusations, or why Jesus would shift discussion to speak of Satan. This study examines Mark 3:20–35 through the lens of Social Identity Theory (SIT) and Social Identity Complexity Theory (SIC) to reveal the underlying values and motivations behind the use of the two different names in the challenge and riposte between Jesus and the scribes. The scribes speak of “Beelzebul” as part of their attempt to discredit and even prosecute Jesus according to Deut 13, whereas Jesus’s reference to “Satan” reframes the discussion in light of the cosmic battle between those who do God’s will and the one who opposes it. In so reframing the discussion, he redraws the lines of ingroup and outgroup identity for his hearers and for Mark’s audience.
Miracle in Myth: Nietzsche on Wunder
Authors: Venable Hannah Lyn
Published: August 2023

This paper considers the experience of miracle through the writings of Friedrich Nietzsche. Although he is often considered an anti-religious thinker, I argue that Nietzsche actually puts forth a positive conception of miracle because of its indispensable role in the creation of myth. I walk through Nietzsche’s texts to describe his account of miracle (Wunder) and to demonstrate how it reveals a phenomenological perspective on miracle by placing it and rooting it in human life. Despite his rejection of traditional religion, Nietzsche reminds us that miracles are not an anomaly to human experience, but rather they are the way in which humans are able to embrace and affirm life through participation in myth.