bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brocchia cinerea essential oil from Brezina (Algerian Sahara): Chemical characterization and antibacterial activity
Authors: A Cheriti , Z Boukhobza , N Boulenouar , H Djeradi , El Hassani M Kacimi , MB Lahreche , Ka Sekkoum
Published: October 2020

The essential oil of wild-growing medicinal specie Brocchia cinerea (Asteraceae) from Brezina (Algerian Sahara) was studied for chemical composition by GC/MS analysis and antibacterial activity. Twenty-nine identified components constituted 94.07% of the oil. The most important major components in the oil were trans-Thujone (36.11 %), Camphor (12.08 %), Santolina triene (11.25 %), 1,8-Cineol (6.98 %) and Cis-Verbenyl acetate (6.33 %), together reaching 72.75% of the total oil which is characterized by the presence of high content of oxygenated monoterpenes. The antibacterial activity of the essential oil was tested using the disc diffusion assay. The results showed that the essential oil of Brocchia cinerea had antibacterial activity against all tested Gram-positive bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Pseudomonas aereginosa). Keywords: Essential Oil; Brocchia Cinerea; GC/MS; Oxygenated Monoterpenes; Antibacterial activity; Sahara;
Analytical Methods for Determination of Certain Sartans and Diuretics
Authors: Sebaiy Mahmoud M , SM El-Adl , MM Baraka , AA Hassan
Published: October 2020

Hypertension is a progressive cardiovascular syndrome with a variety of causes, including cardiovascular risk factors that can lead to changes in heart and blood vessels function and structure. Hypertension is a chronic disease that has negative effects on human health and is the main cause of cardiovascular-disease related deaths. The main objective of the treatment of hypertension is to reduce the overall risk of long-term cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular disease-related mortality, which is closely related to the degree of blood pressure lowering. Antihypertensive drugs describe several classes of compounds with the therapeutic action of preventing, controlling, or treating hypertension. Antihypertensive drug classes differ both structurally and functionally.
Phytochemical and Elemental Evaluation of Chrozophora plicata Leaves, Bannu, KPK, Pakistan
Authors: . Tahir , Ullah Shamsher , Niaz Abdul , Ullah Sajjad
Published: October 2020

The main objective of our current research work is to evaluate and explore the phytochemistry of the methanolic crude extract of Chrozophora plicata leaves and elemental ions analysis by using flame photometer to determine the concentration of alkali and alkaline earth metals ions following wet digestion method. Chrozophora plicata was collected from district Bannu in the month of May 2016. Results obtained from the various activities showed that the Chrozophora plicata leaves methanolic crude extract possess much quantity of flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds which are good scavengers of the free radicals that cause oxidative stress and can be used against cancer, arthritis and diabetes. Important phytochemicals such as flavonoids, phenolic and alkaloids were present in the Chrozophora plicata leaves extract. Furthermore the biologically important ions results also suggest that the powder of the Chrozophora plicata leaves possess a significant composition of Li, Na, K, Ca, Ba ions. The present study results suggest as a whole that the Chrozophora plicata already used in Greek medicine SAFI can be used to design new drugs and natural antioxidants. Keywords: Chrozophora Plicata; Phytochemistry; Elemental ions analysis;
Influence of Metformin Hydrochloride- 250 mg (MFH) tablet on Corrosion Resistance of orthodontic wire made of NiCr alloy in Artificial Saliva
Authors: S Rajendran , S Gowri , Lara B Jaslin , B Kanagamani , A Kavitha , Belciya A Maria , C Muthunayaki , C Pandeeswari , Praveena J Maria , T Umasankareswari , Majellah L Jerald
Published: October 2020

The corrosion resistance of orthodontic wire made of NiCr alloy in artificial saliva, in the absence and presence of Metformin Hydrochloride- 250 mg (MFH) has been evaluated by polarization study and AC impedance spectra. Polarisation study reveals that in the presence of Metformin Hydrochloride- 250 mg (MFH), linear polarisation resistance (LPR) value increases and corrosion current decreases. That is, in presence of Metformin Hydrochloride250 mg (MFH), the corrosion resistance of NiCr alloy in artificial saliva increases. AC impedance study reveals that in the presence of Metformin Hydrochloride- 250 mg (MFH), Charge transfer resistance (Rt) value increases and double layer capacitance value (Cdl) decreases. That is in the presence of Metformin Hydrochloride- 250mg (MFH) the corrosion resistance of NiCr alloy in AS increases. It is concluded that people clipped with orthodontic wire made of NiCr alloy need not vacillate to take Metformin Hydrochloride- 250 mg (MFH) orally. Keywords: Artificial Saliva; Corrosion; Metformin Hydrochloride- 250 mg (MFH); Orthodontic Wires; NiCr Alloy; Electrochemical Studies
Corrosion Inhibition by Flower Extracts - At a Glance
Authors: Susai Rajendran , Prabha A Suriya , N Vijaya , T Umasankareswari , A Krishnaveni , J Jeyasundari , K Kavitha , Sherine H Benita , Devi N Renuga
Published: October 2020

Flower extract are ecofriendly corrosion inhibitors. They have been used to control corrosion of mild steel, copper and aluminium in various media. The mechanistic aspects have been investigated by electrochemical studies such as polarisaiton study and AC impedance spectra. The protective film has been analysed by FTIR, SEM, EDX and AFM. The adsorption isotherms isotherms being obeyed are Langmuir, Temkin and Freundlich adsorption isotherms. The flowers extract primarily function as mixed type of inhibitors. The active principles mainly present in colored flowers are anthocyanins, and carotenoids. They contain polar groups such as hydroxyl, methoxy and ether. These ingredients coordinate with the metal ions on the metal surface through oxygen atom, benzene ring and conjugated double bonds. The protective film formed on the metal surface controls the corrosion process. Keywords: Corrosion Inhibition; Flower Extract; AFM; SEM; FTIR; Isotherms; Green Inhibitors
Field-Control Performance of Direct Current Memory Flux Orthogonal Magnetizing Controllable Reactor
Authors: Guo Jian , Luan Yu , Wang Jiaxu , Wang Shishan
Published: October 2020

Aiming at the condition that the exciting power is bigger when the orthogonal magnetizing controllable reactor adjusts the flux in wide range and there is coupling between the alternate current(AC) magnetic circuit and the direct current (DC) circuit. This paper proposed a kind of orthogonal magnetizing controllable reactor based on DC memory flux. The aluminum nickel cobalt alloy (AlNiCo) magnet with low coercive force and high residual flux density was used so that the DC flux could be online tuned without additional copper loss. This paper designed the new type of orthogonality magnetic structure without coupling between the AC-DC circuit and magnetic circuit. The simulated analysis result shows that this electric reactor realizes the unidirectional control from the DC magnetic circuit to AC magnetic circuit, which makes the inductor of electric reactor controllable more easily. Keywords: DC memory flux; orthogonal magnetizing controllable reactor; AlNiCo;
Incorporating CAD Software and Statistical Tolerancing to Improve DC Motor Brush Contact Design in Automotive Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Applications
Authors: Trinh Huu Nghia , Wilson Terry
Published: October 2020

In Blower DC Brush motors in Automotive HVAC application, the Brush to Commutator interface plays the key role in commutation and corresponding motor function. Conversely the motor to Brush interface also creates several key motor problems. One of the most common and critical problems in DC Brush motor is fluctuation of output characteristics when the Brush to Commutator interface is incorrect [1]. It is important to have a method to minimize this deviation in the contact between Brush and Commutator. The work done in the paper is to improve the deviation in the contact between brush and commutator by incorporating CAD software and statistical tolerancing. Keywords: DC Brush Motor; Brush contact; Statistical Stack up tolerance; CATIA Sketch;
Using Candlestick Charting, Segmentation Pattern Analysis, and GHMethod: Math-Physical Medicine to calculate Effective Glucoses based on Finger-Piercing Glucose Measurement
Authors: Hsu C Gerald
Published: October 2020

This paper describes glucose measurements and their extensive calculation results over a period of 7.5 years based on Finger-Piercing Data (Finger) using both candlestick charting and glucose segmentation pattern analysis. The dataset is provided by the author, who uses his own type 2 diabetes metabolic conditions control, as a case study via the “math-physical medicine” approach of a non- traditional methodology in medical research. Math-Physical Medicine (MPM) starts with the observation of the human body’s physical phenomena (not biological or chemical characteristics), collecting elements of the disease related data (preferring big data), utilizing applicable engineering modeling techniques, developing appropriate mathematical equations (not just statistical analysis), and finally predicting the direction of the development and control mechanism of the disease.
Study the effect of postharvest heat treatment on infestation rate of fruit date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) cultivars grown in Algeria
Authors: Mohamed Marouf Aribi , Mustapha Khali
Published: October 2020

Effect of heat treatment (55°C/20 min) on infestation rate was investigated in Algerian dates (Deglet Nour variety) at Tamar (fully ripe) stage and in dates stored for 5 months at ambient temperature and in cold storage (10°C). Results obtained showed a variable percentage of rate infestation. These rate decreased weakly as the fruit advanced in storage at ambient temperature, whereas, they are less high in heat treated and cold stored dates. Heat treatment did show a significant effect on infestation variation. Deglet Nour dates showed that there was a decrease in rate infestation during storage for either heat treated dates samples. Whereas, rate infestation was weaker in chilled dates comparatively to those stored at ambient temperature. Rate infestation showed a similar trend where a decrease was observed in all samples during storage, particularly in heat treated dates. In all cases, heat treatment seems to benefit reducing rate infestation, whereas a relative stability in rate infestation was noted. Keywords: Postharvest; Heat treatment; Infestation; Date palm; Phoenix dactylifera L.
Layout optimization for offshore wind farms in India using the genetic algorithm technique
Authors: Reddy Narender Kangari , Baidya Roy Somnath
Published: October 2020

Abstract. Wind Farm Layout Optimization Problem (WFLOP) is a critical issue
when installing a large wind farm. Many studies have focused on the WFLOP
but only for a limited number of turbines and idealized wind speed
distributions. In this study, we apply the Genetic Algorithm (GA) to solve
the WFLOP for large hypothetical offshore wind farms using real wind data.
GA mimics the natural selection process observed in nature, which is the
survival of the fittest. The study site is the Palk Strait, located between
India and Sri Lanka. This site is a potential hotspot of offshore wind in
India. A modified Jensen wake model is used to calculate the wake losses. GA is used to produce optimal layouts for four different wind farms at the
specified site. We use two different optimization approaches: one where the
number of turbines is kept the same as the thumb rule layout and another
where the number of turbines is allowed to vary. The results show that
layout optimization leads to large improvements in power generation (up to
28 %), efficiency (up to 34 %), and cost (up to 25 %) compared to the
thumb rule due to the reduction in wake losses. Optimized layouts where both the number and locations of turbines are allowed to vary produce better results in terms of efficiency and cost but also leads to lower installed capacity and power generation. Wind energy is growing at an unprecedented rate in India. Easily accessible terrestrial wind resources are almost saturated, and offshore wind is the new frontier. This study can play an important role while taking the first steps towards the expansion of offshore wind in India.
Ethane measurement by Picarro CRDS G2201-i in laboratory and field conditions: potential and limitations
Authors: Defratyka Sara  M. , Paris Jean-Daniel , Yver-Kwok Camille , Loeb Daniel , France James , Helmore Jon , Yarrow Nigel , Gros Valérie , Bousquet Philippe
Published: October 2020

Abstract. Ethane can be used as a tracer gas to distinguish methane sources, both at the local and global scale. Currently, ethane can be successfully measured using flasks or dedicated in-situ analyzers. In our study, we consider the possibility of using the CRDS Picarro G2201-i instrument, dedicated to isotopic CH4 and CO2, for suitable measurements of ethane:methane ratio in mobile field, near-source conditions. Our work was divided into three steps. First, laboratory tests were run to characterize the instrument in stationary conditions. Then the instrument performance was tested in the field, as part of a controlled release experiment and finally during mobile measurements focused on gas compressor stations. The results from the field are compared with the results from other instruments, dedicated to ethane measurements. Our study clearly shows the potential of using the CRDS G2201-i instrument to determine the ethane:methane ratio in methane plumes in mobile condition with an ethane uncertainty of 50 ppb. Assuming typical ethane to methane ratio ranging between 0 and 0.1 ppb ppb−1 we conclude that the instrument can correctly estimate the “true” ethane to methane ratio within 1-sigma uncertainty in CH4 enhancements of 1 ppm or more as can be found in the vicinity of strongly emitting sites (such as natural gas compressor station).
Land use and land cover change analysis of District Charsadda, Pakistan along Kabul River in 2010 flood: using an advance geographic information system and remote sensing techniques
Authors: Fida Misbah , Hussain Irshad , Tao Wang , Rashid Abdur , Ali Shah Syed Amir
Published: October 2020

Abstract. The objective of this research study was to quantify land use and land cover changes before and after the 2010 flood at District Charsadda, Pakistan. The land use and land cover changes were evaluated with the help of advanced geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing techniques (RST). Moreover, some remedial measures were taken to develop land use/land cover of the area to overcome future problems. Land use and land cover changes were measured by using satellite images. Two instances were compared, i.e. pre-flood and post-flood, to analyze the change in land use/land cover of District Charsadda within 5 Km along the Kabul River. Comparative analysis of pre and post-flood imageries shows drastic changes over the water body, built-up area, agriculture land, and bare land during flood instances. The study area is rural and agricultural land is dominant in the area. We evaluated the percentage of different land uses/land covers within our study area, as agricultural land was about 68.5 %, barren land was about 22.5 %, and the water body was 8.8 % before the flood. After inundation, the water body raised to 16.4 %, bare soil increased to 26.30 %, agriculture land degraded up to 57 %, and settlements (villages) along River Kabul were badly damaged and finished by this flood. Approximately, four villages of District Nowshera, six villages of District Peshawar, and twenty-seven villages of Charsadda District were badly damaged during the 2010 flood.
Deep ice layer formation in an alpine snowpack: monitoring and modeling
Authors: Quéno Louis , Fierz Charles , van Herwijnen Alec , Longridge Dylan , Wever Nander
Published: October 2020

Abstract. Ice layers may form deep in the snowpack due to preferential water
flow, with impacts on the snowpack mechanical, hydrological and
thermodynamical properties. This detailed study at a high-altitude
alpine site aims to monitor their formation and evolution thanks to
the combined use of a comprehensive observation dataset at a daily
frequency and state-of-the-art snow-cover modeling with improved ice
formation representation. In particular, daily SnowMicroPen
penetration resistance profiles enabled us to better identify ice layer
temporal and spatial heterogeneity when associated with traditional
snowpack profiles and measurements, while upward-looking ground
penetrating radar measurements enabled us to detect the water front and
better describe the snowpack wetting when associated with lysimeter
runoff measurements. A new ice reservoir was implemented in the
one-dimensional SNOWPACK model, which enabled us to successfully
represent the formation of some ice layers when using Richards
equation and preferential flow domain parameterization during winter
2017. The simulation of unobserved melt-freeze crusts was also
reduced. These improved results were confirmed over 17
winters. Detailed snowpack simulations with snow microstructure
representation associated with a high-resolution comprehensive
observation dataset were shown to be relevant for studying and modeling
such complex phenomena despite limitations inherent to one-dimensional modeling.
Tropopause-level planetary wave source and its role in two-way troposphere–stratosphere coupling
Authors: Boljka Lina , Birner Thomas
Published: October 2020

Abstract. Atmospheric planetary waves play a fundamental role in driving stratospheric dynamics, including sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) events. It is well established that the bulk of the planetary wave activity originates near the surface. However, recent studies have pointed to a planetary wave source near the tropopause that may play an important role in the development of SSWs. Here we analyze the dynamical origin of this wave source and its impact on stratosphere–troposphere coupling, using an idealized model and a quasi-reanalysis. It is shown that the tropopause-level planetary wave source is associated with nonlinear wave–wave interactions, but it can also manifest as an apparent wave source due to transient wave decay. The resulting planetary waves may then propagate deep into the stratosphere, where they dissipate and may help to force SSWs. Our results indicate that SSWs preceded by both the tropopause and the surface wave-source events tend to be followed by a weakened tropospheric zonal flow several weeks later. However, while in the case of a preceding surface wave-source event this downward impact is found mainly poleward of 60∘ N, it appears to be the strongest between 40 and 60∘ N for SSWs preceded by tropopause wave-source events. This suggests that tropopause wave-source events could potentially serve as an additional predictor of not only SSWs but also their downward impact as well.
Indústria 4.0: barreiras para implantação na indústria brasileira
Authors: Pacchini Athos Paulo Tadeu , Santos José Carlos Da Silva , Logiudice Renato , Lucato Wagner Cezar
Published: October 2020

Nos anos recentes, a grande inovação em processos tem sido a denominada Indústria 4.0, tida como tão impactante quanto a substituição das carroças pelo automóvel no início do século XX. O termo “Indústria 4.0” tem sido considerado como a Quarta Revolução Industrial. Essa nova tendência utiliza os conceitos da internet das coisas (IoT) aliada à automatização industrial, que agrega inteligência à manufatura e um universo de possibilidades para diferentes fabricantes, produzindo de acordo com os requisitos dos clientes. Este artigo visa identificar as barreiras para a implementação da Indústria 4.0 no Brasil, utilizando como base alguns agentes participantes da cadeia de suprimentos da indústria automotiva. Este setor foi escolhido, pois uma de suas características é a de aplicar constantes inovações em sua cadeia produtiva, buscando o melhoramento contínuo da gestão de seus processos. Por meio de estudos de casos, foram feitas entrevistas presenciais semiestruturadas, com algumas empresas e profissionais atuantes na cadeia automotiva. As entrevistas foram realizadas com gestores das áreas de produção e tecnologia da informação em duas montadoras de automóveis e em um fornecedor de primeira camada. Incluiu-se também nesse estudo uma empresa de consultoria na área de segurança da informação que atua naquele setor e um especialista em Indústria 4.0 que atua na área acadêmica, pesquisando a indústria automobilística. Como conclusão deste trabalho foi possível identificar um conjunto das principais barreiras a serem consideradas para a maior eficácia da implementação da Industria 4.0 nas indústrias.
Magnesium Sulfate and Clonidine; Effects on Hemodynamic Factors and Depth of General Anesthesia in Cesarean Section
Authors: Rajabi Mehdi , Razavizade Mohammad-Reza , Hamidi-Shad Maryam , Tabasi Zohreh , Akbari Hossein , Hajian Abbas
Published: October 2020

Background: Making stable hemodynamic and also durable unawareness is a daily challenge in the setting of general anesthesia in women who undergo surgical delivery of neonate and have limitations to receive opioids derivatives. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the effects of magnesium sulfate and clonidine on hemodynamic changes and depth of anesthesia and in mentioned mothers and also in neonatal APGAR index. Methods: Current randomized, double-blind controlled trial study was conducted among a total of 360 pregnant females (38 - 41 weeks of gestation) who underwent elective cesarean section. Participants were randomly divided into three drug-receiving groups (equal 120 members): magnesium sulfate (30 mg/kg), clonidine (3 µg/kg), and placebo (0.9% NaCl). Patients’ blood pressure, heart rate, cerebral state index (CSI) in specific time zones, and also late 24-hour recall were recorded. The CSI is an electroencephalographic monitoring method helping to assess the depth of anesthesia. Neonatal parameters, including APGAR score and umbilical venous blood sampling, were measured. Results: Mean patients’ age was 28 ± 4.5. A significant decreasing and stabilizing effect of magnesium sulfate and clonidine on hemodynamic parameters (blood pressure and heart rate) was revealed (P < 0.001). Evidence implied on deeper anesthesia (lower CSI) among drug receivers comparing to placebo (P < 0.001). None of the participants experienced a late 24-hour recall postoperatively. All neonates were healthy, and no decrease was reported in APGAR score at minutes 1 and 5. Umbilical blood gas analysis showed no signs of acidosis and/or hypoxemia. Conclusions: Adjuvant administration of either magnesium sulfate or clonidine is associated with hemodynamic stability and favorable unawareness in the setting of elective surgical delivery.
Avaliação geoestística de metais potencialmente tóxicos em solos urbanos, Paraná, Brasil
Authors: Monego Maurici Luzia Charnevski Del , Hoffmann Willian Jose , Cicarello Janaína de Fátima Gonzalez Munster , Kummer Larissa
Published: October 2020

Os elementos traços são poluentes comuns nos solos urbanos, tornando importante a avaliação dos mesmos. O objetivo principal deste estudo foi investigar a concentração de elementos traços em solos urbanos na região industrial de Curitiba, no Estado do Paraná, e analisar a aplicabilidade da modelagem geoestatística para a avaliação do impacto ambiental gerado. Para a análise dos elementos traços, foram coletadas amostras de solo até uma profundidade de 20 cm e submetidas a uma digestão ácida, de acordo com o método 3050B. A identificação dos elementos traços foi realizada através da técnica de Espectroscopia de Emissão Óptica. Foi também analisada a textura do solo e os dados foram tratados com a técnica de análise composicional. Para o mapeamento geoestatístico, foi utilizado o software R com o pacote geoR. A variabilidade espacial dos dados amostrados foi analisada previamente, calculando os indicadores estatísticos clássicos. Os resultados indicaram uma distribuição aproximadamente normal do conjunto de dados, o que é desejável. Em seguida, o estimador clássico de Matheron foi usado para calcular o semivariograma experimental para várias direções. Nenhum efeito de anisotropia foi mostrado. O semivariograma foi modelado a três modelos teóricos: esférico, exponencial e gaussiano. Os resultados da validação cruzada do modelo esférico sugeriram que ele seria o melhor modelo entre os três testados. Finalmente, as estimativas dos metais em locais desconhecidos foram obtidas por krigagem ordinária. Em relação aos valores obtidos de metais e os padrões estabelecidos por normativa específica sobre qualidade dos solos, apenas um local teve concentrações de Ni acima do permitido, estando os demais metais adequados. O mapa gerado mostrou claramente a variação espacial dos elementos traços na área estudada. Os resultados são adequados e sugerem que o uso desta metodologia fornece contribuições significativas para a gestão de áreas contaminadas por diferentes elementos traço.
Classificação geotécnica de solos e sustentabilidade: estudo aplicado à região metropolitana de Belo Horizonte
Authors: Silva Bruno Oliveira da , Pereira Eleonardo Lucas , Marques Geraldo Oliveira , Gomes Marlilene Silva
Published: October 2020

Os sistemas de classificação geotécnica de solos são ferramentas imprescindíveis para proposição de soluções de pavimentação racionais e sustentáveis. Por prover os critérios de seleção dos materiais, essas metodologias impactam diretamente na viabilidade técnica, ambiental e econômica dos projetos. O presente artigo apresenta uma análise estatística comparativa entre os sistemas de classificação de solos mais utilizados no Brasil, contrastando os conceitos de classificação da escola rodoviária americana e os procedimentos desenvolvidos nacionalmente, pautados na consideração das particularidades do ambiente tropical. Foram coletadas onze amostras de diferentes unidades pedológicas da Região Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte (RMBH) e realizaram-se ensaios de caracterização TRB/AASHTO e segundo a metodologia MCT/G-MCT. As amostras foram submetidas aos ensaios de caracterização mecânica – CBR/Expansão, Mini-CBR/RIS, Triaxiais de Cargas Repetidas – cujos resultados foram utilizados como parâmetro de comparação com o comportamento previsto pelos métodos classificatórios. Em linhas gerais, constataram-se resultados mais assertivos para os ensaios da metodologia MCT/G-MCT. Foi observado grau de associação significativo entre os parâmetros classificatórios dessa metodologia – sobretudo d’ e índice RIS – e o desempenho mecânico-geotécnico medido. Por outro lado, identificaram-se mecanismos de classificação falhos em relação à metodologia TRB aos solos estudados. Os dados obtidos de Índice de Grupo (IG) e Índice de Plasticidade (IP), importantes parâmetros de classificação dessa metodologia, e a resposta mecânica dos solos avaliados apresentaram baixa inter-relação. Além de se estabelecer comparação semi-quantitativa entre parâmetros classificatórios e mecânicos, o grau de associação entre os mesmos foi quantificado por procedimento estatístico, através do cálculo de coeficiente de correlação de Pearson. Dessa forma, apresenta-se elementos para discussão da adequabilidade e compatibilidade dos sistemas de classificação de solos para fins rodoviários para regiões tropicais.
Análise do potencial energético no estuário Amazônico
Authors: Progênio Mayke Feitosa , Pessoa Francisco Carlos Lira , Blanco Claudio José Cavalcante , Gomes Evanice Pinheiro , Costa Carlos Eduardo Aguiar de Souza , Costa Filho Felipe Antonio Melo da
Published: October 2020

A exploração de energia dos recursos naturais é inevitável, seja ela de uma fonte renovável ou não renovável. Sugere-se, claro, sempre a escolha de fontes de energias renováveis, já que se trata de uma fonte com baixa emissão de CO2, que não depende de combustíveis fósseis e possui baixo impacto ambiental. Neste cenário, a energia maremotriz vem se mostrando como uma fonte de energia promissora, e por este motivo, está sendo alvo de várias pesquisas nos últimos anos. Assim, este trabalho teve por objetivo de realizar a estimativa do potencial de energético das marés em áreas costeiras do Estado do Pará a fim de auxiliar no diagnóstico técnico para projetos de geração de energia elétrica de forma sustentável. Primeiramente foram selecionados os locais com as estações maregráficas disponíveis e que apresentaram viabilidade técnica para geração da energia maremotriz. Após a seleção dos respectivos locais realizou-se a simulação das alturas de marés para então poder estimar o potencial energético dos estuários. Com relação as alturas e amplitudes das marés analisadas, as menores foram nas estações Porto de Belém, Vila do Conde e Cabo Maguari. Já na análise dos dados de maré, de maneira geral, a estação com maior dispersão nos dados foi a Fundeadouro de Salinópolis, o que demostra que estudos das energias de maré para a região merecem maior cautela. Observando as curvas de permanência de maré, as estações que mais se destacaram foram a Ilha dos Guarás, Fundeadouro de Salinópolis e Caeté, apresentando um maior potencial para aproveitamento deste tipo. Também foi possível verificar que a geração anual de energia (mesmo em baixa operação) demonstra que esta fonte de energia é firme e estratégica para suprir a demanda de energia a longo prazo.
Photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants using Trianthema Portulastrum leaf extract based CeO2 nanoparticles
Authors:   Research scholar, PG & Research department of chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Poompuhar College (Autonomous) Melaiyur - 609 107 (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu- 620024, Swetharanyam Swetharanyam
Published: October 2020

Comparison of bio CeO2-Nps prepared using Trianthema Portulastrum leaf extract with chemical CeO2-Nps is of interest. The ultraviolet - visible, x-ray diffraction, HR - TEM, FT - IR, and photoluminescence studies were conducted with CeO2-Nps. UV–Maximum absorptionat 292 nm was completed using UV-visible spectrum. The HR–TEM images showed 38 nm bio CeO2-Nps with spherical morphology. This showed the polycrystalline character of CeO2-Nps similar to XRD data. The presence of metal oxide is confirmed by FT - IR analyses. The CeO2-Nps showed the potential photocatalytic activity for Acid black 1 color degradation after exposure to sunlight. Chem and bio CeO2-Nps have a degradation rate of 86.66 and 94.33%, respectively for acid black 1 dye. The synthesized CeO2-Nps are also evaluated for antibacterial and antioxidant activity. The bio CeO2-Nps has antibacterial activity for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (17 ± 0.56 mm) and Staphylococcus aureus (16 ± 0.24 mm) at low concentrations of 100 μl. The CeO2-Nps bio showed high inhibition of radical DPPH IC50 μg/ml, at 95.17 ± 21. Thus, we show that CeO2-Nps have environmentally friendly properties that are useful for dye degradation with antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.
Link between PON 1 gene mutation and recurrent miscarriage among women exposed to pesticides in North India is insignificant
Authors:   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Georg’s Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, Pandey Akancha
Published: October 2020

Recurrent miscarriage is a loss of disconcerting disorder characterized by RPL (recurrent pregnancy loss) of pregnancy, affecting around 1-2% of couples trying to conceive. Exposure to pesticide affects spontaneous abortion, and infertility in women. Placental oxidative stress is often linked to miscarriage. Therefore, it is of interest to link PON1 (Q1922R) polymorphism with recurrent pregnancy loss. We selected 200 subjects in which 100 patients with RPL having consecutive 2 or more miscarriages and 100 healthy controls from the northern India for this study. Blood samples were collected for DNA isolation and further assessment. Genotyping of the Q1922R polymorphism was completed using the RFLP markers. The digested PCR product size was 99 bp (control). The heterozygous fragments were found to be 66 and 33 bp homozygous mutants. It was observed that allele frequency homozygous (TT) was more prevalent among control than the case groups among the healthy north-Indian population. However, heterozygous group (Tt) was more in cases compared to control groups as well as homozygous mutant was observed high in control in than case (CI-0.3 to 1.3).
The porin AaxA protein model from Chlamydia pneumonia
Authors:   Department of Biochemistry, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai - 600 077, India, Selvaraj Jayaraman
Published: October 2020

Chlamydophila pneumoniae is an intracellular pathogen accountable for various acute respiratory infections. C. pneumoniae has a gene cluster which encodes a putative outer membrane porin (aaxA), arginine decarboxylase (CPn1032 or aaxB) and a putative cytoplasmic membrane transporter (CPn1031 or aaxC). Therefore, it is of interest to document a molecular protein model of porin AaxA from Chlamydia pneumonia to gain structure to functional insight on the protein.
Process optimization of ultrasonication-assisted extraction to obtain antioxidant-rich extract from Spirulina platensis
Authors: Pyne Smriti Kana , Bhattacharjee Paramita , Srivastav Prem Prakash
Published: October 2020

In this study highlights on the optimization of extraction process parameters of total phenolic content and antioxidant activity from Spirulina platensis, through ultrasonication (probe) technology. Especially, optimization of ultrasonication parameters was carried out employing Box-Behnken Design (BBD) and response surface methodology. Alongside the three levels of extraction parameters i.e. solvent volume, extraction time and frequency have been fixed. As responses, the total yield of extract, total phenolic content and DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50) of the extracts were determined. The variability of each response variable was determined by developing multiple linear regressions. The statistical analysis (ANOVA) of developed mathematical models allowed the prediction of the behaviour of the responses, as a function of the variables involved in the process. The optimized extraction conditions were obtained at 58.76 kHz frequency, 10 mL of solvent volume for 6 min. Simultaneously this extract exhibited the highest content of total phenolic content (30.89 mg GAE/g powder), IC50 for DPPH activity (151.27 µg/mL). The extract exhibited an important antioxidant i.e. caffeic acid, which was quantified as 660.72±41.05 µg/g of dry algal powder using HPLC. In spite of fact that, this study offers an alternative method for obtaining natural antioxidants from algae for food and pharmaceutical applications. Keywords: Microalgae; Probe sonication extraction; Total phenolic content; Antioxidant activity
Effect of Control on the Mathematical Model of Hepatitis B Virus with Infective Migrant
Authors: Akinboro Folahan S. , Oluyo T. O. , Kehinde O. O. , Alao S.
Published: October 2020

The transmission dynamics of Hepatitis B Virus in a population with infective immigrant is presented with the inclusion of an optimal control strategy to curtail the spread of the virus. To understand the spread of this infection, we develop a mathematical model with control variables of migrant screening and public sensitization. The optimality system is characterized using Pontryagin’s maximum principle and solve numerically with an implicit finite difference method.  Result of the numerical simulation is presented to illustrate the feasibility of this control strategy. The analysis reveals that combination of both control variables could be the most fruitful way to reduce the incidence of Hepatitis B virus.
Accelerated Ripening Agents and Their Effect on the Quality of Avocado (Persia americana M.) and Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Fruits
Authors: Orisa C. A. , Usoroh C. I. , Ujong A. E.
Published: October 2020

The natural process of fruit ripening is a combination of physiological, biochemical and molecular processes which can be activated or accelerated artificially by using different chemical agents. This study was carried out to examine the effects of three ripening process on the quality of avocado and mango fruits. Freshly unripe mango and avocado fruits were treated with calcium carbide powder, kerosene fumes and ripening in woven polypropylene bags. Calcium carbide treated fruits were stored for 48 hrs and all the samples were fully ripened except avocado fruit. The kerosene fumed fruits were stored for 24 hrs and then exposed to open air for another 24 hrs. Fruits ripened in empty plastic rice got ripened within 4 and 5 days for mango and avocado, respectively. The fruits were then analyzed for their physicochemical properties and sulphide and sulphate distributions using standard methods. The result revealed a decrease in TTA, pH, carbohydrate and vitamin C contents on ripening. On the other hand, moisture and TSS was observed to increase. However, accelerated ripening had no significant (p<0.05) effect on the moisture and vitamin C content of the fruits. Mango samples treated with calcium carbide recorded higher acidity (0.92%) and low pH (3.08) than those treated with kerosene (0.29% and 3.71%, respectively). Sulphide and sulphate distribution of avocado was found to increase after accelerated ripening with kerosene fumes. A decrease for sulphate (outer distribution) and increase for sulphate (inner) and sulphide (outer) was observed for mango fruits. The results also showed that ripening in woven polypropylene had no significant (p<0.05) effect on the TTA of the fruits while pH, moisture and TSS varied significantly (p<0.05) with fruit type. The use of calcium carbide for fruit ripening is not advisable.
Block Wise Spatial Distribution and Mapping of Cationic Micronutrients in Soils of Jhargram District of West Bengal
Authors: Das Shreya , Bag Animesh Ghosh , Chatterjee Nitin , Pal Biplab , Ghosh Debashis , Hazra Gora Chand
Published: October 2020

Aims: This investigation is aimed to conduct a delineation study to know the spatial distribution of available cationic micronutrients (Zn, Cu, Fe and Mn) in red and lateritic soils of Jhargram district of West Bengal and their relationship with soil chemical properties.

Study Design: Spatial distribution.

Place and Duration of Study: Geo-referenced 253 surface soil (0-15 cm depth) samples were collected from eight blocks (Gopiballavpur- 1, Gopiballavpur- 2, Nayagram, Jhargram, Sankrail, Jambani, Binpur- 2 and Binpur- 1) of Jhargram district of West Bengal, India during 2017- 2018.

Methodology: Grid based detailed block wise soil sampling has been carried out in long term crop growing fields of Jhargram district of West Bengal.The collected soil samples were analyzed and their cationic micronutrient status were depicted through nutrient index and fertility maps. Geographical information system (GIS) is an important tool to identify the risk areas. In our study Arc Info GIS has been used to prepare the spatial distribution maps of available cationic micronutrients and soil chemical properties (pH and organic carbon) of different blocks of this district.

Results: The pH, organic carbon content, available Zinc, Copper, Iron and Manganese content in soils were in the range of 3.68-7.6, 0.15-2.01 (%), 0.56-5.52, 2.4-11.76, 31.6-208.4 and 6.32-99.74 mg kg-1, respectively, with the mean value of 4.97,0.64 (%),2.21, 5.75, 114.68 and 41.87 mg kg-1 respectively. The lowest zinc content has been recorded from the soils of Gopiballavpur- 2 block.

Conclusion: The calculated NIV and spatial distribution maps clearly indicated that there is no deficiency of Iron, Manganese and Copper in this region. Zinc status did not resemble with other cationic micronutrient status which was mostly low to medium with some patches of deficiencies. Soil pH has significant positive relation with Iron. Copper has significant positive relation with soil organic carbon.
The Fornberg-Whitham Equation Solved by the Differential Transform Method
Authors: Nayar Helena , Phiri Patrick Azere
Published: October 2020

The Differential Transform Method is a powerful analytical method that can solve nonlinear partial differential equations. Yet, the method cannot be used to solve time-dependent partial differential equations that involve more than one partial derivative with respect to the temporal variable t when they are of the same order, as in the case of the Fornberg-Whitham type equations. In this paper, a new theorem is devised to overcome the aforementioned problem ofthe method, and it has been successfully applied to solve the Fornberg-Whitham equation. The other equations belonging to this group of equations, such as the Camassa-Holm equation and the Degasperi-Procesi equation, may also be solved by this approach.
Assessment of the Functionality of Parent-Teacher Association in Public Secondary Schools in Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Matthew Ige Akindele , Omobola Jegede
Published: October 2020

The study assessed the functionality of the Parent-Teacher Association in Public Secondary Schools in Ondo State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted. The 304 Public Secondary Schools in the state were the main population while 20 secondary schools, 220 government-employed and full-time teachers (males and females) were the targets. 4 questions were raised and 3 hypotheses formulated for the study. Samples were drawn using multi-stage, stratified, and simple-random sampling techniques. Data were collected using a 20-item questionnaire, validated and tested for reliability. Data were analyzed using tables, frequency count, and percentages while the hypotheses were tested using chi-square statistic (x2). It was found among others that there was no significant difference in the perception of principals and teachers, female and male teachers, female and male principals, on the functionality of the Parent-Teacher Association in the schools. It is recommended among others that the government should ensure that the Parent-Teacher Association is made functional and effective in all secondary schools, should be more involved in the administration and financing of schools while there should be an execution of standard projects related to an academic pursuit in schools.
High‐Detectivity Green‐Selective All‐Polymer p–n Junction Photodetectors
Authors: Kang Jinhyeon , Kim Junho , Ham Hyobin , Ahn Hyungju , Lim Soo Yeong , Kim Hyung Min , Kang In‐Nam , Jung In Hwan
Published: October 2020

Currently available wavelength‐selective p–n junction organic photodetectors (OPDs) nearly exclusively use small molecules. In this study, green (G) selective all‐polymer p–n junction OPDs are developed by engineering the π‐conjugation networks and insulating properties of p‐ and n‐type polymers. Enhanced intermolecular ordering of p–n junction blend films compared to pristine polymer films results in superior hole/electron mobilities and low bimolecular recombination in the devices. Notably, similar G absorption ranges and the huge difference in their absorption coefficients between p‐ and n‐type polymers make excellent G selectivity in the p–n junction OPDs. Thus, narrow selectivity with a full width at half maximum of 155 nm toward green light and high detectivity of ≈1013 Jones are achieved in the all‐polymer p–n junction OPDs.
Impacts of global warming on the cropping systems of China under technical improvements from 1961 to 2016
Authors: Jiang Yulin , Yin Xiaogang , Wang Xiaohui , Zhang Li , Lu Zhou , Lei Yongdeng , Chu Qingquan , Chen Fu
Published: October 2020

The multiple cropping systems (MCS) have been crucial for China's food security due to its limited arable land and the increased population for hundreds of years. Global warming has significantly affected MCS in China during recent decades. However, whether global warming has influenced the MCS in China under technical improvement is still uncertain and has received great attention. Thus, the current study aims to evaluate the impacts of global warming within the improvements of crop cultivars on MCS in China and analyze the changes in cropland and actual cropping area during the past five decades. Our results showed that the cumulative temperature above 0 °C for the double‐cropping system (DCS) and triple‐cropping system (TCS), respectively, increased by 400 and 100 °C compared to the values in the 1980s. The northern limit of the DCS shifted Southward, while the northern limit of the TCS moved Northward. The cropland of the single‐cropping system (SCS) and TCS increased while the cropland of the DCS decreased. Specifically, the winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) area, which represents the DCS in northern China, decreased during the past decades. Similarly, the double‐rice (Oryza sativa L.) cropping system area, which represents the TCS in southern China, decreased as it was partly replaced by single‐rice cropping system. Our study indicated that the cropping intensity in China decreased during past decades, and the full use of MCS will lead to high grain production potential in the transition area. The results will be beneficial for optimizing the cropping distribution across China and enhance the food security.
Randomized control trial of oral arginine therapy for children with sickle cell anemia hospitalized for pain in Nigeria
Authors: Onalo Richard , Cooper Peter , Cilliers Antoinette , Vorster Barend C. , Uche Nnebe‐Agumadu , Oluseyi Oniyangi O. , Onalo Victoria D. , Zubairu Yunusa , Ayodele‐Kehinde Alice U. , Damilare Oladimeji M. , Figueroa Janet , Morris Claudia R.
Published: October 2020

Low arginine bioavailability is associated with vaso‐occlusive painful crisis (VOC) severity in sickle cell anemia (SCA) and predicts need for pediatric hospitalization. Intravenous arginine therapy has opioid‐sparing effects and was found to significantly decrease pain scores in children hospitalized with SCA‐VOC in a phase‐two randomized placebo‐controlled trial (RCT). Efficacy of oral arginine is unknown. Our objective was to determine the safety and efficacy of oral arginine therapy in Nigerian children with SCA. A double‐blind RCT of oral L‐arginine‐hydrochloride (100 mg/kg TID) was conducted in children with SCA‐VOC, aged 5‐17 years, hospitalized at two Nigerian sites. The primary outcome measure was analgesic usage, quantified by difference in the mean Analgesic Medication Quantification Scale (MQS). Secondary outcomes included daily pain scores, time‐to‐crisis‐resolution and length‐of‐hospital‐stay. An intention‐to‐treat analysis was performed. Sixty‐eight children (age 5‐17 years, mean 10.6 ± 0.4 years; 56% male), were randomized to receive L‐arginine (35 patients) or placebo (33 patients). The mean total MQS for the arginine group was 73.4 (95% CI, 62.4‐84.3) vs 120.0 (96.7‐143.3) for placebo (P < .001). The mean rate of decline in worst pain scores was faster in the arginine arm vs placebo (1.50 [1.23‐1.77] vs 1.09 [0.94‐1.24] point/d, P = .009). Children receiving arginine had a shorter time‐to‐crisis‐resolution (P = .02), shorter hospital‐stay (P = .002) and experienced no serious adverse event. Pain control was more rapid, total analgesic requirement was significantly reduced, and most notably, time‐to‐crisis‐resolution and length‐of‐hospital‐stay were shorter in children with SCA‐VOC receiving arginine vs placebo. Given the established safety and low cost, oral arginine is a promising adjuvant therapy for SCA‐VOC management.