bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Fish Consumption in Çanakkale
Authors: SAKA Fahri , BULUT Musa
Published: January 2020

Fish plays a key role in human consumption in terms of protein,
mineral, and essential fatty acid contents. Unfortunately, despite its
importance for the human health, there is lack interest on the fish consumption
in Turkey. In this context, this paper aimed to determine the fish consumption
habits in Çanakkale. It is estimated that fish consumption could be higher in
the locations along the coasts of marine and inland waters. Therefore,
consumers living in all districts of the city were surveyed to test this
hypothesis. The questionnaire was carried out to provide an insight into the
fish consumption habits of randomly selected 1056 consumers in Çanakkale.
Socio-economic and demographic structures such as age, gender, educational
status, profession, income level of the consumers were determined. Responses of
the consumers were arranged and analysed by using SPSS and MS-Excel software.
Moreover, fish consumption amount, consumption frequency, preferred fish
species, most consumed fish species were also determined. The results give an
excellent snapshot of fish consumption habits in Çanakkale. Both the most
consumed and the most favourite fish species are identified as Sarda sarda.
Fish consumption frequency was described as 33.3% (352 individuals) for consuming
fish one a week followed by bimonthly frequency (21.9%, 231 individuals) and
monthly frequency (21.5%, 227 individuals). 2.3% (24 individuals) of the
participants noted that they never consume fish. Moreover, the majority of
consumers specified that they consume fish 1-2 kg (39.0%, 312 individuals) and
27.3% (288 individuals) consume fish 0.5-1 kg. Socio-economic and demographic
characteristics of consumers are affecting the fish consumption habits. In the
present study, season, income level, and freshness of fish are found to be
driving force for fish consumption in Çanakkale. Therefore, fish farmers and
sellers are recommended to remain the freshness of fish and to follow the
appropriate fishing season for providing fish to consumers.
The Effect of Post-Heating Time of ZnO Thin Film on the Efficiency of ZnO/Hylocereus polyrhizus DSSC
Authors: Motlan Motlan , Siregar Nurdin
Published: January 2020

The efficiency of hylocereus polyrhizus based Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) has been improved by the ZnO thin-film that was used as a working electrode for DSSC. The ZnO thin-film was improved by varying the post-heating time during the annealing process which was synthesized by a sol-gel spin coating method. The preparation of dye solution was conducted by cutting the hylocereus polyrhizus into small pieces and put into a beaker glass. The hylocereus polyrhizus then was crushed with a mortar until it was soft. In order to obtain the extracted ethanol was added and leaf for 24 hours in a dark room. The extract then was filtered by using filtered paper and put into a container that wrapped an aluminum foil and kept in place to avoid the extract from sun rays. The dye sample is then UV-Vis tested to find the highest absorbance value and wavelength of the sample. The extract solution was used to form the ZnO/dye solar cell where the ZnO thin film dipped into natural dyes solution with the ZnO thin films facing up for 24 hours to let the dye adsorbed by the ZnO thin film. The ZnO thin film was dipped into extract hylocereus polyrhizus function as a working electrode and put together with a platinum counter electrode that separated by Surilyn. The pasting with Surilyn was conducted by pushing the working electrode and counter electrode and heated on a hot plate of the temperature of 70-80oC to perfectly put together. The working electrode which was put together to the platinum counter electrode was injected with liquid electrolytes through a small hole on the platinum counter electrode. Electrical testing is carried out after the DSSC has been assembled by making an electrical circuit between the DSSC with a measuring instrument. The sensitizer value of the hylocereus polyrhizus was 0.652 au, at the wavelength of 538 nm. The maximum power of the DSSC was 0.10030 w/cm2 and the efficiency of 0.0274%.
Response Surface Modeling and Optimization of Polyphenols Extraction from Apple Pomace Based on Nonionic Emulsifiers
Authors: Skrypnik Liubov , Novikova Anastasia
Published: January 2020

The factors affecting the efficiency of micelle-mediated extraction of phenolic compounds from apple pomace was investigated. Higher extraction efficiency by using as a solvent an aqueous solution of Tween 80 in comparison to Triton X-100, Span 20, Tween 20, 70% ethanol, and water was shown. Four independent variables (Tween 80 concentration, time, solvent-to material ratio, and pH) to enhance the recovery of polyphenols from apple pomace was investigated. Applying response surface methodology, the second order polynomial regression equation showing dependence of the yield of polyphenols on the extraction parameters was derived. The adjusted regression coefficient (R2 = 98.73%) and the lack-of-fit test (p > 0.05) showed a good accuracy of the developed model. The difference between observed and predicted values was no more than 3%. The optimal extraction conditions were found to be Tween 80 concentration of 1.14%, time of 65 min, solvent-to-material ratio of 104 mL g−1, pH of 3.8. Under optimal conditions the predicted total phenolic compounds content was 7.75 mg g−1. The obtained apple pomace extracts were characterized in terms of their antioxidant activity. The proposed extraction technology by using Tween 80 aqueous solution as a solvent allows obtaining the extracts with high content of polyphenols which are suitable for the applications in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical products requiring a surfactant to stabilize them.
Prediction of Horizontal Daily Global Solar Irradiation Using Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) in the Castile and León Region, Spain
Authors: Diez Francisco J. , Navas-Gracia Luis M. , Chico-Santamarta Leticia , Correa-Guimaraes Adriana , Martínez-Rodríguez Andrés
Published: January 2020

This article evaluates horizontal daily global solar irradiation predictive modelling using artificial neural networks (ANNs) for its application in agricultural sciences and technologies. An eight year data series (i.e., training networks period between 2004–2010, with 2011 as the validation year) was measured at an agrometeorological station located in Castile and León, Spain, owned by the irrigation advisory system SIAR. ANN models were designed and evaluated with different neuron numbers in the input and hidden layers. The only neuron used in the outlet layer was the global solar irradiation simulated the day after. Evaluated values of the input data were the horizontal daily global irradiation of the current day [H(t)] and two days before [H(t−1), H(t−2)], the day of the year [J(t)], and the daily clearness index [Kt(t)]. Validated results showed that best adjustment models are the ANN 7 model (RMSE = 3.76 MJ/(m2·d), with two inputs ([H(t), Kt(t)]) and four neurons in the hidden layer) and the ANN 4 model (RMSE = 3.75 MJ/(m2·d), with two inputs ([H(t), J(t)]) and two neurons in the hidden layer). Thus, the studied ANN models had better results compared to classic methods (CENSOLAR typical year, weighted moving mean, linear regression, Fourier and Markov analysis) and are practically easier as they need less input variables.
Assessment of Main Cereal Crop Trade Impacts on Water and Land Security in Iraq
Authors: Ewaid Salam Hussein , Abed Salwan Ali , Al-Ansari Nadhir
Published: January 2020

Growing populations, socio-economic development, the pollution of rivers, and the withdrawal of fresh water are all signs of increasing water scarcity, and with 85% of global use, agriculture is the biggest freshwater user. The water footprint (WF) and virtual water (VW) are concepts used recently for freshwater resources assessment. The WF reflects how much, when and where the water was used whereas VW reveals the volume of water embedded in goods when traded. The first goal of this research is to determine the WF per ton and the WF of production (Mm3/yr) of wheat, barley, rice, and maize in Iraq. The second goal is estimating the quantities of the 4 main cereal crops imported into Iraq and assessing the impact on reducing WF and land savings for 10 years from 2007 to 2016. The results showed that the WF per ton was 1736, 1769, 3694, 2238 m3/ton and the WF of production was 5271, 1475, 997, 820 Mm3/yr for wheat, barley, rice, and maize, respectively. The median total VW imported was 4408 Mm3/yr, the largest volume was 3478 Mm3/yr from wheat, and Iraq saved about 2676 Mm3 of irrigated water and 1,239,539 M ha of land by importing crops every year during 2007–2016. The study revealed the significance of better irrigation management methods to decrease the WF through a selection of crops that need less water and cultivation in rain-fed areas, as well as the use of cereal import to conserve scarce water resources, which is crucial both in terms of water resource management and preservation of the environment. The results of this research could be used as a guideline for better water management practices in Iraq and can provide helpful data for both stakeholders and policymakers.
On-Farm Evaluation of Prescription Map-Based Variable Rate Application of Pesticides in Vineyards
Authors: Campos Javier , Gallart Montserrat , Llop Jordi , Ortega Paula , Salcedo Ramón , Gil Emilio
Published: January 2020

Canopy characteristics are crucial for accurately and safely determining the pesticide quantity and volume of water used for spray applications in vineyards. The inevitably high degree of intraplot variability makes it difficult to develop a global solution for the optimal volume application rate. Here, the design procedure of, and the results obtained from, a variable rate application (VRA) sprayer are presented. Prescription maps were generated after detailed canopy characterization, using a multispectral camera embedded on an unmanned aerial vehicle, throughout the entire growing season in Torrelavit (Barcelona) in four vineyard plots of Chardonnay (2.35 ha), Merlot (2.97 ha), and Cabernet Sauvignonn (4.67 ha). The maps were obtained by merging multispectral images with information provided by DOSAVIÑA®, a decision support system, to determine the optimal volume rate. They were then uploaded to the VRA prototype, obtaining actual variable application maps after the application processes were complete. The prototype had an adequate spray distribution quality, with coverage values in the range of 20–40% and exhibited similar results in terms of biological efficacy on powdery mildew compared to conventional (and constant) application volumes. The VRA results demonstrated an accurate and reasonable pesticide distribution, with potential for reduced disease damage even in cases with reduced amounts of plant protection products and water.
Effects of Biochar Application in a Sorghum Crop under Greenhouse Conditions: Growth Parameters and Physicochemical Fertility
Authors: Videgain-Marco María , Marco-Montori Pedro , Martí-Dalmau Clara , Jaizme-Vega María del Carmen , Manyà-Cervelló Joan Josep , García-Ramos Francisco Javier
Published: January 2020

Application of biochar from vine shoots (Vitis vinifera L.) as an organic amendment in the soil is an alternative agricultural management of interest. The behavior of this type of amendment in the soil requires more information to adjust the pyrolysis conditions in order to obtain a high-quality biochar. The aim of this work is determining the influence of the application of this type of biochar on the soil-plant system. For this purpose, an agronomic test was performed in greenhouse pots. A randomized tri-factorial block design was adopted with the following factors: final pyrolysis temperature (400 and 600 °C), application rate (0 wt. % as a control, 1.5 and 3 wt. %) and texture of the growing media (sandy-loam and clay-loam origin). The selected crop was sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench), the development and production of which was evaluated during two complete growing cycles under greenhouse conditions. Application of biochar produced at 400 °C significantly increased plants roots dry weight in the sandy-loam growing substrate (52% compared to the control). Grain production was also significantly affected by biochar application, showing better results after addition of biochar produced at 400 °C. Water holding capacity and K, Ca, and Mg contents were enhanced by biochar addition, with evident effects of the application ratios for some of these variables. The effect on the pH of substrates in the sandy-loam texture was weak; however, a significant decrease was observed after the addition of biochar produced at 600 °C.
In-Field Observation of Root Growth and Nitrogen Uptake Efficiency of Winter Oilseed Rape
Authors: Louvieaux Julien , Leclercq Antoine , Haelterman Loïc , Hermans Christian
Published: January 2020

Field trials were conducted with two nitrogen applications (0 or 240 kg N ha−1) and three modern cultivars of winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) previously selected from a root morphology screen at a young developmental stage. The purpose is to examine the relationship between root morphology and Nitrogen Uptake Efficiency (NUpE) and to test the predictiveness of some canopy optical indices for seed quality and yield. A tube-rhizotron system was used to incorporate below-ground root growth information. Practically, clear tubes of one meter in length were installed in soil at an angle of 45°. The root development was followed with a camera at key growth stages in autumn (leaf development) and spring (stem elongation and flowering). Autumn was a critical time window to observe the root development, and exploration in deeper horizons (36–48 cm) was faster without any fertilization treatment. Analysis of the rhizotron images was challenging and it was not possible to clearly discriminate between cultivars. Canopy reflectance and leaf optical indices were measured with proximal sensors. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was a positive indicator of biomass and seed yield while the Nitrogen Balance Index (NBI) was a positive indicator of above-ground biomass N concentration at flowering and seed N concentration at harvest.
The Use of Computer Records: A Tool to Increase Productivity in Dairy Herds
Authors: Sánchez Zazil , Galina Carlos Salvador , Vargas Bernardo , Romero Juan José , Estrada Sandra
Published: January 2020

The level of adoption of herd management information system veterinary automated management and production control program (VAMPP) Bovine and its impact on productivity of 912 specialized dairy systems with at least 5 years of information recorded was studied. Herds were classified as low (n = 389), medium (n = 343), or high (n = 180) adoption level on the basis of extent and consistency of record keeping for variables related to production, reproduction, and health. For each herd, within-year averages were obtained for six performance traits: age at first calving (AFC), days open (DO), daily milk yield (DMY), productive life (PL), incidence of clinical mastitis (MAST), and incidence of lameness (LAM). These variables were investigated with a generalized linear mixed model that included the fixed effects of the adoption level, follow-up year, and their interaction, adjusted by the fixed effects of herd size, agroecological zone, calendar period, breed group, and the random effects of variation between/within herds. A significant effect of the adoption level over all the variables was observed, except DMY and PL. The follow-up year was significant for all the variables except LAM. There were marked reductions for AFC and DO in the first 4 years of follow-up. AFC was higher and DO shorter in the low compared to medium and high level of adoption herds (p < 0.001). DMY showed a significant increasing trend (p < 0.001), regardless of the adoption level. There was higher MAST and LAM incidence in the higher adoption level (p < 0.05). The economic benefit was estimated through a stochastic simulation model using an approach based in partial budget analysis. For a herd with a medium level of adoption, the change in gross margin (GMMIS $USD) and marginal return rate (MRRMIS %) for the first 5 years of use of the system was estimated. Under these conditions, there was a GMMIS of $6890 and MRRMIS of 163%. Variation of ±10% in DMY and DO caused changes in the GMMIS of ±$1000 and ±$110, respectively, and in MRRMIS ±24% and ±4%, respectively. The trends suggest a positive influence of VAMPP in productive and reproductive traits during the first years of implementation, with less benefit for the low adoption levels.
Citrus Extract Improves the Absorption and Utilization of Nitrogen and Gut Health of Piglets
Authors: Cui Yiyan , Tian Zhimei , Wang Gang , Ma Xianyong , Chen Weidong
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of citrus extract (CE) on plasma free amino acids, intestinal morphology and enzymes activity, fecal nitrogen and phosphorus emissions in piglets. The experiment was performed on 144 weaned piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Large White) divided into three groups. Control (CON), fed a basic diet; Antibiotic (ANTI), fed a basic diet supplemented with 75 g/t chlortetracycline; Citrus extract (CE), fed a basic diet supplemented with 300 mL/t CE. The albumin content of the CE group was significantly higher than the CON group. Compared with the CON and ANTI groups, the CE group had increased concentrations of plasma total essential amino acids and threonine. Compared with the CON group, CE increased the α-aminoadipic acid concentration, while compared with ANTI group, it increased the 3-methylhistidine concentration. Compared with the CON group, the crypt depth of duodenum, jejunum and ileum decreased, and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth of ileum increased in the ANTI and CE groups. CE increased the activity of alkaline phosphatase and lipase in duodenum, and the activity of alkaline phosphatase and trypsin in jejunum. In brief, CE improved the absorption and utilization of nitrogen, intestinal morphology and digestive enzymes activity.
The Skin-Whitening Effects of Ectoine via the Suppression of α-MSH-Stimulated Melanogenesis and the Activation of Antioxidant Nrf2 Pathways in UVA-Irradiated Keratinocytes
Authors: Hseu You-Cheng , Chen Xuan-Zao , Vudhya Gowrisankar Yugandhar , Yen Hung-Rong , Chuang Jing-Yuan , Yang Hsin-Ling
Published: January 2020

Ultraviolet A (UVA)-irradiation induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production mediates excessive melanogenesis in skin cells leading to pigmentation. We demonstrated the depigmenting and anti-melanogenic effects of Ectoine, a natural bacterial osmolyte, in UVA-irradiated human (HaCaT) keratinocytes, and the underlying molecular mechanisms were elucidated. HaCaT cells were pre-treated with low concentrations of Ectoine (0.5–1.5 μM) and assayed for various depigmenting and anti-melanogenic parameters. This pre-treatment significantly downregulated ROS generation, α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) production, and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) expression in UVA-irradiated HaCaT cells. Also, antioxidant heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), NAD(P)H dehydrogenase [quinone 1] (NQO-1), and γ-glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (γ-GCLC) protein expressions were mediated via the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) whose knockdown indeed impaired this effect signifying the importance of the Nrf2 pathway. Ectoine was mediating the activation of Nrf2 via the p38, protein kinase B (also known as AKT), protein kinase C (PKC), and casein kinase II protein kinase (CKII) pathways. The conditioned medium obtained from the Ectoine pre-treated and UVA-irradiated HaCaT cells downregulated the tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein-1 and -2 (TRP-1/-2), cyclic AMP (c-AMP) protein kinase, c-AMP response element-binding protein (CREB), and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) expressions leading to melanoma B16F10 cells having inhibited melanin synthesis. Interestingly, this anti-melanogenic effect in α-MSH-stimulated B16F10 cells was observable only at 50–400 μM concentrations of Ectoine, signifying the key role played by Ectoine (0.5–1 μM)-treated keratinocytes in skin whitening effects. We concluded that Ectoine could be used as an effective topical natural cosmetic agent with depigmenting and anti-melanogenic efficacy.
Dwell Time Estimation Using Real-Time Train Operation and Smart Card-Based Passenger Data: A Case Study in Seoul, South Korea
Authors: Oh Yoonseok , Byon Young-Ji , Song Ji Young , Kwak Ho-Chan , Kang Seungmo
Published: January 2020

Dwell time is a critical factor in constructing and adjusting railway timetables for efficient and accurate operation of railways. This paper develops dwell time estimation models for a Shinbundang line (S line) in Seoul, South Korea using support vector regression (SVR), multiple linear regression (MLR), and random forest (RF) techniques utilizing archived real-time metro operation data along with smart card-based passenger information. In the first phase of this research, the collected data are processed to extract boarding and alighting passenger counts and observed dwell times of each train at all stations of the S line under the current operational environment. In the second phase, we develop SVR, MLR, and RF-based dwell time estimation models. It is found that the SVR-based model successfully estimates the dwell times within 10 s of differences for 84.4% of observed data. The results of this paper are especially beneficial for autonomous railway operations that need constructing and maintaining dynamic railway timetables that require reliable dwell time predictions in real-time.
Multi-Objective Optimal Design of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor for Electric Vehicle Based on Deep Learning
Authors: You Yong-min
Published: January 2020

Recently, a large amount of research on deep learning has been conducted. Related studies have also begun to apply deep learning techniques to the field of electric machines, but such studies have been limited to the field of fault diagnosis. In this study, the shape optimization of a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) for electric vehicles (EVs) was conducted using a multi-layer perceptron (MLP), which is a type of deep learning model. The target specifications were determined by referring to Renault’s Twizy, which is a small EV. The average torque and total harmonic distortion of the back electromotive force were used for the multi-objective functions, and the efficiency and torque ripple were chosen as constraints. To satisfy the multi-objective functions and constraints, the angle between the V-shaped permanent magnets and the rib thickness of the rotor were selected as design variables. To improve the accuracy of the design, the design of experiments was conducted using finite element analysis, and a parametric study was conducted through analysis of means. To verify the effectiveness of the MLP, metamodels was generated using both the MLP and a conventional Kriging model, and the optimal design was determined using the hybrid metaheuristic algorithm. To verify the structural stability of the optimized model, mechanical stress analysis was conducted. Moreover, because this is an optimal design problem with multi-objective functions, the changes in the optimal design results were examined as a function of the changes in the weighting. The optimal design results showed that the MLP technique achieved better predictive performance than the conventional Kriging model and is useful for the shape optimization of PMSMs.
Thermodynamic Efficiency of Water Vapor/Solid Chemical Sorption Heat Storage for Buildings: Theoretical Limits and Integration Considerations
Authors: Kuznik Frédéric , Johannes Kévyn
Published: January 2020

The theoretical limits of water sorbate-based chemical sorption heat storage are investigated in this study. First, a classification of thermochemical heat storage is proposed based on bonding typology. Then, thermodynamics of chemical solid/gas sorption is introduced. The analysis of the reaction enthalpy from the literature indicates that this value is only slightly varying for one mole of water. Using this observation, and with the help of thermodynamic considerations, it is possible to derive conclusions on energy efficiency of closed and open heat storage systems. Whatever the salt, the main results are (1) the energy required for evaporation of water is, at least, 65% of the available energy of reaction, and (2) the maximum theoretical energy efficiency of the system, defined as the ratio of the heat released to the building over the heat provided to the storage, is about 1.8. Considering the data from literature, it is also possible to show that perfectly working prototypes have an energy efficiency about 49%. Based on those results, it is possible to imagine that for the best available material, a perfect thermochemical heat storage system would correspond to 12 times water with a temperature difference about 50 °C. Such solution is definitely competitive, provided that some difficult issues are solved—issues that are discussed throughout this paper.
Transverse Vibration of Functionally Graded Tapered Double Nanobeams Resting on Elastic Foundation
Authors: S. Sari Ma’en , G. Al-Kouz Wael , M. Atieh Anas
Published: January 2020

The natural vibration behavior of axially functionally graded (AFG) double nanobeams is studied based on the Euler–Bernoulli beam and Eringen’s non-local elasticity theory. The double nanobeams are continuously connected by a layer of linear springs. The oscillatory differential equation of motion is established using the Hamilton’s principle and the constitutive relations. The Chebyshev spectral collocation method (CSCM) is used to transform the coupled governing differential equations of motion into algebraic equations. The discretized boundary conditions are used to modify the Chebyshev differentiation matrices, and the system of equations is put in the matrix-vector form. Then, the dimensionless transverse frequencies and the mode shapes are obtained by solving the standard eigenvalue problem. The effects of the coupling springs, Winkler stiffness, the shear stiffness parameter, the breadth and taper ratios, the small-scale parameter, and the boundary conditions on the natural transverse frequencies are carried out. Several numerical examples were conducted, and the authors believe that the results may be interesting in designing and analyzing double and multiple one-dimensional nano structures.
Analysis of Carbon Tetrachloride-Extractable Species from Daxing Bituminous Coal
Authors: Jv Caixia , Li Fenggang , Yan Peng , Fan Mengmeng , Jia Linlin , Zhang Hong , Wei Xianyong , Zong Zhimin
Published: January 2020

Soxhlet extraction (SE), ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE), and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) were carried out on Daxing coal with carbon tetrachloride. The extracted components were analyzed by GC-MS while the residues of the coal after extractions were analyzed by FT-IR spectroscopy. The obtained IR spectra indicated that the functional groups were barely changed in strength for the coal before and after extractions concluding that the macromolecular structures of coal were not destroyed in the extraction processes. XRD diagrams showed the peak around θ = 47 was totally disappeared by all the three extractions, indicating that the graphite-like structural substances in the coal were totally destroyed in the extraction processes. GC/MS analysis showed that: (1) The SE method extracted the least number of substances from the coal; on the other hand, the extracted compounds are largely chlorinated which can be explained by the free radical mechanism. (2) MAE extracted 75 organic compounds of which 53 are oxygen-containing substances. A small portion of non-alkanes (1.19%) was found, which is in contrast to the other two extraction methods. Moreover, a few biomarker compounds were also identified including hexaoxane, 2-methylcholest-3-ene, 6,9,12-tripropylheptadecane, and 17α-21β-28,30-bisnorhopane. (3) The three extraction methods gave totally different extraction patterns for the same coal, highlighting that the extraction method can dominate the outcome of the extracted products. The mechanisms behind these extraction processes are discussed. This study provides a base for the future choice of the extraction methods in terms of outcomes of the extraction products.
Experiment on Cultivation Performance of Plant Fiber-Based Degradable Film in Paddy Field
Authors: Ming Xianglan , Chen Haitao
Published: January 2020

To solve the problems of the damage of weed in paddy field on crop yield and quality, the impact of chemical herbicides on the ecological environment, and the soil pollution caused by plastic film mulching, the field-positioning test was carried out in 2015 to 2017. Taking Daohuaxiang 2 as the test material, three treatments (plant fiber-based degradable film, plastic film, and CK) were setup to investigate the effects of plant fiber-based degradable film on the weed inhibition, warming effect under mulching cultivation, rice yield, rice quality, and economic benefit. The results showed that compared with CK, the plant fiber-based degradable film and plastic film reduced the weed by 85.5% to 87.7% and 78.7% to 81.7%, respectively. Plant fiber-based degradable film mulching cultivation can increase the soil temperature of soil layer 0 to 0.1 m depth. In 2015 to 2017, rice yield with plant fiber-based degradable film increased by 8.71%, 7.53%, and 9.02%, respectively. Plant fiber-based degradable film can significantly reduce the hardness, increase its adhesion, and improve the eating quality of rice. Different films mulching had a certain impact on crop economic benefit. During the developmental stage of the panicle, the plant fiber-based degradable film began to crack, and by the blossom fruit period, the degradation rate reached the grade of 3 or 4. Therefore, the use of plant fiber-based degradable film instead of plastic film can reduce the amount of weed under the membrane and create a more suitable soil temperature, which was conducive to rice yield and quality.
Kudo’s Classification for Colon Polyps Assessment Using a Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Patino-Barrientos Sebastian , Sierra-Sosa Daniel , Garcia-Zapirain Begonya , Castillo-Olea Cristian , Elmaghraby Adel
Published: January 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the world. This disease could begin as a non-cancerous polyp in the colon, when not treated in a timely manner, these polyps could induce cancer, and in turn, death. We propose a deep learning model for classifying colon polyps based on the Kudo’s classification schema, using basic colonoscopy equipment. We train a deep convolutional model with a private dataset from the University of Deusto with and without using a VGG model as a feature extractor, and compared the results. We obtained 83% of accuracy and 83% of F1-score after fine tuning our model with the VGG filter. These results show that deep learning algorithms are useful to develop computer-aided tools for early CRC detection, and suggest combining it with a polyp segmentation model for its use by specialists.
Effect to the Surface Composition in Ultrasonic Vibration-Assisted Grinding of BK7 Optical Glass
Authors: Zhao Pei Yi , Zhou Ming , Liu Xian Li , Jiang Bin
Published: January 2020

Because of the changes in cutting conditions and ultrasonic vibration status, the proportion of multiple material removal modes are of uncertainty and complexity in ultrasonic vibration-assisted grinding of optical glass. Knowledge of the effect of machined surface composition is the basis for better understanding the influence mechanisms of surface roughness, and also is the key to control the surface composition and surface quality. In the present work, 32 sets of experiments of ultrasonic vibration-assisted grinding of BK7 optical glass were carried out, the machined surface morphologies were observed, and the influence law of machining parameters on the proportion of different material removal was investigated. Based on the above research, the effect of surface composition was briefly summarized. The results indicated that the increasing of spindle rotation speed, the decreasing of feed rate and grinding depth can improve the proportion of ductile removal. The introduction of ultrasonic vibration can highly restrain the powdering removal, and increase the proportion of ductile removal. Grinding depth has a dominant positive effect on the surface roughness, whereas the spindle rotation speed and ultrasonic amplitude both have negative effect, which was caused by the reduction of brittle fracture removal.
Spatial Variability in Years of Abrupt Seasonal Temperature Changes and Warming (Cooling) Hiatuses in China from 1951–2018 and the Variation Trends before and after These Years
Authors: Huang Xing , Ma Long , Liu Tingxi , Sun Bolin , Zhou Ying , Chen Yang , Qiao Zixu
Published: January 2020

Abrupt temperature changes and warming (cooling) hiatuses have an impact on the ecological environment. Currently, research findings for the spatial variability in the years of abrupt temperature changes and warming (cooling) hiatuses covering a variety of climate zones, as well as the variation trends before and after these years, are lacking. In the present study, based on the seasonal (monthly) average minimum temperatures, average temperatures, and average maximum temperature data from 622 Chinese meteorological stations during 1951–2018, the spatial variability in the years of abrupt seasonal changes and warming (cooling) hiatuses for these three temperature types in China, as well as the variation trends before and after these years, were analyzed using the Mann-Kendall test. The results are as follows. For most stations in China, the abrupt changes in the three temperature types during each season began to occur over a wide range in the late 1980s and early 1990s, and abrupt changes did not occur at a few stations concentrated south of 30° N. After an abrupt change occurred, the average minimum temperatures and average temperatures both showed significant upward trends, while the average maximum temperatures showed significant downward trends in some regions of southern China. After five to 15 years of temperature increases (decreases) following the abrupt changes, warming (cooling) hiatuses occurred in some areas of China, with the hiatus years occurring between 1989 and 2013. These hiatuses mainly occurred in 1998 and 2007, and in terms of proximity, the stations without warming (cooling) hiatuses were concentrated south of 40° N. After nine to 17 years of warming (cooling) hiatuses, the hiatuses ended at some stations between 2013 and 2017, after which the temperatures again increased rapidly. The periods of warming (cooling) hiatuses were longer in northern China than in southern China. Currently, there are some stations where the hiatuses have not ended, suggesting that the hiatus period is apparently longer than 17 years. The years of abrupt change, no abrupt change, hiatus, no hiatus, end of hiatus, and no end of hiatus, as well as their variation trends before and after these years, have shown strong spatial variability. The results of this study have enriched the research findings on climate change.
Global Monitoring and Characterization of Infrasound Signatures by Large Fireballs
Authors: Pilger Christoph , Gaebler Peter , Hupe Patrick , Ott Theresa , Drolshagen Esther
Published: January 2020

Large meteoroids can be registered in infrasound recordings during their entry into the Earth’s atmosphere. A comprehensive study of 10 large fireball events of the years 2018 and 2019 highlights their detection and characterization using global infrasound arrays of the International Monitoring System (IMS) of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). The study focuses on the observation and event analysis of the fireballs to estimate their respective location, yield, trajectory, and entry behavior. Signal characteristics are derived by applying the Progressive Multi-Channel Correlation method as an array technique. The comparison of the events with a NASA reference database as well as the application of atmospheric propagation modeling allows to draw conclusions about infrasound-based detection capability, localization accuracy, yield estimation, and source characterization. The infrasound technique provides a time- and location-independent remote monitoring opportunity of impacting near-Earth objects (NEOs), either independent or complementary to other fireball observation methods. Additionally, insights about the detection and localization capability of IMS infrasound stations can be gained from using large fireballs as reference events, being of importance for the continuous monitoring and verification of atmospheric explosions in a CTBT context.
Modelling the Optical Properties of Soot Particles under Various Aging Conditions
Authors: Li Kangwei , Yan Mingming , Shen Jiandong , Zhang Xin , Geng Chunmei , Yang Wen , Azzi Merched
Published: January 2020

As atmospheric fresh soot particles age, they become coated with other chemical species. This transforms their physicochemical properties and affects their optical characteristics, which is of great importance to air quality, the environment and climate change. One of the predominantly occurring states of soot particles in the ambient environment is the core-shell mixing state. In this study, we used the core-shell model to calculate the optical absorption, scattering and extinction efficiency, absorption proportion and absorption exponent of coated soot particles. We then investigated the effects of different core sizes (D0), incident wavelengths (λ), coating materials and coating thicknesses on these optical characteristics. Absorption efficiency and absorption proportion of soot particles decreased as the coating became thicker, at core sizes of D0 = 20, 50 and 100 nm and λ = 405, 532 and 781 nm, regardless of the type of coating material. As the coating thickness increased, the absorption exponent (β) of inorganic-coated soot particles tended to rise and then fall, while the β value of organic-coated soot particles kept increasing. Our results advance our scientific understanding of the interaction of optical properties with chemical composition, mixing state, and aging processes of soot particles in the atmosphere.
Physicochemical Characterization and Evaluation of Emulsions Containing Chemically Modified Fats and Different Hydrocolloids
Authors: Kowalska Małgorzata , Woźniak Magdalena , Żbikowska Anna , Kozłowska Mariola
Published: January 2020

The study aims to investigate the physicochemical properties and stability of the dispersion systems containing structured fats as a fatty base. In this work, calf tallow and pumpkin seed oil blends were chemically interesterified at various ratios (9:1, 3:1, 3:2, 3:3, 2:3, and 1:3) to produce structured lipids. Fatty acids composition, polar and nonpolar fraction content, and acid value were determined for the raw fats and interesterified blends. Afterwards, selected blends were applied in emulsion systems. Stability, microstructure, color and texture of emulsions were evaluated. The chemical interesterification had an effect on the modified blends properties, and caused an increase in polar fraction content and acid value, and a decrease in nonpolar fraction content. No effect on the fatty acids composition has been found. The evaluation of the prepared emulsions results allowed us to select two of the most stable and favorable samples—both containing chemically interesterified calf tallow and a pumpkin seed oil blend in a ratio of 1:3 as a fatty base, and xanthan gum or carboxymethylcellulose as a thickener. The obtained dispersions, containing fatty bases with improved physicochemical properties and desirable functionality, can be applied as food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical emulsions.
The Effect of Eating Habits’ Quality on Scholastic Performance in Turkish Adolescents
Authors: Kristo Aleksandra S. , Gültekin Büşra , Öztağ Merve , Sikalidis Angelos K.
Published: January 2020

Evidence associates scholastic performance to quality of eating habits. However, there is limited information on this topic in Turkey, an emerging economy with notable disparities. Our work aimed to evaluate the effect of eating habits quality of high-school students in Turkey, on the Scholastic Aptitude Standardized Examination (TEOG) scores. The study was conducted in 29 different cities in Turkey during the academic year 2016–2017, involving students of ages 14–17 years (up to senior-high school). A dietary habits survey developed and validated for this population was distributed over the internet in February 2017. Apart from students’ TEOG scores, Family Affluence Score (FAS) was used to categorize the students into low, medium, and high financial standing. Eating Habits Score (EHS) was calculated by using a validated scoring system. A working sample of 298 participants was used. Based on our results, we observed that there is a significant positive correlation between EHS, FAS and success rate of students as assessed by TEOG scores. Further research on this subject should be conducted in combination with intervention studies to reveal potential strategies and policies that would enhance positive behavior change as it relates to nutritional habits, aiming at improved scholastic performance and overall health throughout lifespan.
Dehydrogenation of Ethane to Ethylene by CO2 over Highly Dispersed Cr on Large-Pore Mesoporous Silica Catalysts
Authors: Al-Awadi Abdulrhman S. , Al-Zahrani Saeed M. , El-Toni Ahmed Mohamed , Abasaeed Ahmed E.
Published: January 2020

A series of large-pore mesoporous silica (LPMS)-supported CrOx catalysts were synthesized by hydrothermal and impregnation methods and tested for ethane dehydrogenation in the presence of CO2 as an oxidant. To assess the effect of hydrothermal temperature treatment on the characteristics of LPMS support, different hydrothermal temperatures (100–160 °C) were studied and optimized. The optimum support was then loaded with different amounts of chromium (0, 2, 4, 8, and 11 wt % Cr). The obtained catalysts were characterized by different techniques such as XRD, BET, TEM, SEM, XPS, FTIR, and diffuse reflectance UV-Vis spectroscopy. The characterization results indicated that the sample hydrothermally treated at 130 °C exhibited the highest pore volume, a narrow pore size distribution, and a moderate BET surface area. Chromium species with various oxidation states including Cr3+, Cr6+, and α-Cr2O3 were detected in all synthesized Cr(y)/LPMS-130 catalysts. A lower Cr content resulted in the formation of Cr6+, whereas a higher Cr content dominated the α-Cr2O3 on the surface of the catalyst. Among the synthesized catalysts, the Cr(4)/LPMS-130 catalyst showed the highest Cr6+/Cr3+ ratio, indicating a good dispersion of chromium species along with a fine particle size. The ethane conversion and ethylene selectivity were 50.5 and 91.1% for Cr(4)/LPMS-130, respectively. Carbon dioxide was believed to supply enough lattice oxygen to maintain the Cr species at a higher oxidation state and to consume the hydrogen resulting from ethane cracking by a reverse water gas shift reaction.
Electrochemical CO2 Reduction to CO Catalyzed by 2D Nanostructures
Authors: Hiragond Chaitanya , Kim Hwapyong , Lee Junho , Sorcar Saurav , Erkey Can , In Su-Il
Published: January 2020

Electrochemical CO2 reduction towards value-added chemical feedstocks has been extensively studied in recent years to resolve the energy and environmental problems. The practical application of electrochemical CO2 reduction technology requires a cost-effective, highly efficient, and robust catalyst. To date, vigorous research have been carried out to increase the proficiency of electrocatalysts. In recent years, two-dimensional (2D) graphene and transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) have displayed excellent activity towards CO2 reduction. This review focuses on the recent progress of 2D graphene and TMCs for selective electrochemical CO2 reduction into CO.
STIM Protein-NMDA2 Receptor Interaction Decreases NMDA-Dependent Calcium Levels in Cortical Neurons
Authors: Gruszczynska-Biegala Joanna , Strucinska Klaudia , Maciag Filip , Majewski Lukasz , Sladowska Maria , Kuznicki Jacek
Published: January 2020

Neuronal Store-Operated Ca2+ Entry (nSOCE) plays an essential role in refilling endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ stores and is critical for Ca2+-dependent neuronal processes. SOCE sensors, STIM1 and STIM2, can activate Orai, TRP channels and AMPA receptors, and inhibit voltage-gated channels in the plasma membrane. However, the link between STIM, SOCE, and NMDA receptors, another key cellular entry point for Ca2+ contributing to synaptic plasticity and excitotoxicity, remains unclear. Using Ca2+ imaging, we demonstrated that thapsigargin-induced nSOCE was inhibited in rat cortical neurons following NMDAR inhibitors. Blocking nSOCE by its inhibitor SKF96365 enhanced NMDA-driven [Ca2+]i. Modulating STIM protein level through overexpression or shRNA inhibited or activated NMDA-evoked [Ca2+]i, respectively. Using proximity ligation assays, immunofluorescence, and co-immunoprecipitation methods, we discovered that thapsigargin-dependent effects required interactions between STIMs and the NMDAR2 subunits. Since STIMs modulate NMDAR-mediated Ca2+ levels, we propose targeting this mechanism as a novel therapeutic strategy against neuropathological conditions that feature NMDA-induced Ca2+ overload as a diagnostic criterion.
Shockwaves Suppress Adipocyte Differentiation via Decrease in PPARγ
Authors: Cho Wonkyoung , Kim SeoYeon , Jeong Myeongsook , Park Young Mi
Published: January 2020

Adipogenesis is a crucial cellular process that contributes to the expansion of adipose tissue in obesity. Shockwaves are mechanical stimuli that transmit signals to cause biological responses. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of shockwaves on adipogenesis. We treated 3T3L-1 cells and human primary preadipocytes for differentiation with or without shockwaves. Western blots and quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR) for adipocyte markers including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and CCAAT-enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBPα) were performed. Extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels, which are known to affect adipocyte differentiation, were measured. Shockwave treatment decreased intracellular lipid droplet accumulation in primary human preadipocytes and 3T3-L1 cells after 11–12 days of differentiation. Levels of key adipogenic transcriptional factors PPARγ and/or C/EBPα were lower in shockwave-treated human primary preadipocytes and 3T3L-1 cells after 12–13 days of differentiation than in shockwave-untreated cells. Shockwave treatment induced release of extracellular ATP from preadipocytes and decreased intracellular cAMP levels. Shockwave-treated preadipocytes showed a higher level of β-catenin and less PPARγ expression than shockwave-untreated cells. Supplementation with 8-bromo-cAMP analog after shockwave treatment rescued adipocyte differentiation by preventing the effect of shockwaves on β-catenin, Wnt10b mRNA, and PPARγ expression. Low-energy shockwaves suppressed adipocyte differentiation by decreasing PPARγ. Our study suggests an insight into potential uses of shockwave-treatment for obesity.