bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roles of Inorganic Oxide Based HTMs towards Highly Efficient and Long-Term Stable PSC—A Review
Authors: Shahinuzzaman M. , Afroz Sanjida , Mohafez Hamidreza , Jamal M. , Khandaker Mayeen , Sulieman Abdelmoneim , Tamam Nissren , Islam Mohammad
Published: August 2022

In just a few years, the efficiency of perovskite-based solar cells (PSCs) has risen to 25.8%, making them competitive with current commercial technology. Due to the inherent advantage of perovskite thin films that can be fabricated using simple solution techniques at low temperatures, PSCs are regarded as one of the most important low-cost and mass-production prospects. The lack of stability, on the other hand, is one of the major barriers to PSC commercialization. The goal of this review is to highlight the most important aspects of recent improvements in PSCs, such as structural modification and fabrication procedures, which have resulted in increased device stability. The role of different types of hole transport layers (HTL) and the evolution of inorganic HTL including their fabrication techniques have been reviewed in detail in this review. We eloquently emphasized the variables that are critical for the successful commercialization of perovskite devices in the final section. To enhance perovskite solar cell commercialization, we also aimed to obtain insight into the operational stability of PSCs, as well as practical information on how to increase their stability through rational materials and device fabrication.
SLAP@g-C3N4 Fluorescent Photocatalytic Composite Powders Enhance the Anti-Bacteria Adhesion Performance and Mechanism of Polydimethylsiloxane Coatings
Authors: Xiong Gang , Zhang Zhanping , Zhang Chen , Qi Yuhong
Published: August 2022

Fluorescent antifouling and photocatalytic antifouling technologies have shown potential in the field of marine antifouling. SLAP@g-C3N4/PDMS (SLAP@CN/PDMS) composite antifouling coatings were designed and prepared using g-C3N4, sky-blue long afterglow phosphor (SLAP), and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The fluorescence emitted by SLAP under dark conditions was used to excite g-C3N4 for fluorescent photocatalysis and to prolong the photocatalytic activity of g-C3N4. Key data were collected by testing and characterization and are presented in this work. The results showed that g-C3N4 was successfully coated on the SLAP surface and formed a heterogeneous structure. After the composite powder was added to the PDMS coating, the coating maintained low surface energy but enhanced the surface roughness of the coating. The experimental results of degraded Rhodamine B (RhB) showed that SLAP prolonged the g-C3N4 photocatalytic activity time. The anti-marine bacterial adhesion performance of the coating was investigated by bacterial adhesion experiments. The results showed that SLAP@CN could effectively improve the anti-bacterial adhesion performance of PDMS coating, in which the anti-bacterial adhesion performance of SLAP@CN-2.5/PDMS was improved by nearly 19 times. This antifouling coating introduces fluorescent antifouling, photocatalytic antifouling, and fluorescence-driven photocatalytic antifouling based on the low surface energy antifouling of silicones and achieves “all-weather” fluorescent photocatalytic antifouling.
Nanostructured PbS-Doped Inorganic Film Synthesized by Sol-Gel Route
Authors: Nicoara Adrian Ionut , Eftimie Mihai , Elisa Mihail , Vasiliu Ileana Cristina , Bartha Cristina , Enculescu Monica , Filipescu Mihaela , Aguado César Elosúa , Lopez Diego , Sava Bogdan Alexandru , Oane Mihai
Published: August 2022

IV-VI semiconductor quantum dots embedded into an inorganic matrix represent nanostructured composite materials with potential application in temperature sensor systems. This study explores the optical, structural, and morphological properties of a novel PbS quantum dots (QDs)-doped inorganic thin film belonging to the Al2O3-SiO2-P2O5 system. The film was synthesized by the sol-gel method, spin coating technique, starting from a precursor solution deposited on a glass substrate in a multilayer process, followed by drying of each deposited layer. Crystalline PbS QDs embedded in the inorganic vitreous host matrix formed a nanocomposite material. Specific investigations such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical absorbance in the ultraviolet (UV)-visible (Vis)-near infrared (NIR) domain, NIR luminescence, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used to obtain a comprehensive characterization of the deposited film. The dimensions of the PbS nanocrystallite phase were corroborated by XRD, SEM-EDX, and AFM results. The luminescence band from 1400 nm follows the luminescence peak of the precursor solution and that of the dopant solution. The emission of the PbS-doped film in the NIR domain is a premise for potential application in temperature sensing systems.
Anisotropic Strain Relaxation in Semipolar (112¯2) InGaN/GaN Superlattice Relaxed Templates
Authors: Li Wenlong , Wang Lianshan , Chai Ruohao , Wen Ling , Wang Zhen , Guo Wangguo , Wang Huanhua , Yang Shaoyan
Published: August 2022

Semipolar (112¯2) InGaN/GaN superlattice templates with different periodical InGaN layer thicknesses were grown on m-plane sapphire substrates using metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). The strain in the superlattice layers, the relaxation mechanism and the influence of the strain relaxation on the semipolar superlattice template were explored. The results demonstrated that the strain in the (112¯2) InGaN/GaN superlattice templates was anisotropic and increased with increasing InGaN thickness. The strain relaxation in the InGaN/GaN superlattice templates was related to the formation of one-dimension misfit dislocation arrays in the superlattice structure, which caused tilts in the superlattice layer. Whereas, the rate of increase of the strain became slower with increasing InGaN thickness and new misfit dislocations emerged, which damaged the quality of the superlattice relaxed templates. The strain relaxation in the superlattice structure improved the surface microtopography and increased the incorporation of indium in the InGaN epitaxial layers.
N-Doped CrS2 Monolayer as a Highly-Efficient Catalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction: A Computational Study
Authors: Qin Zengming , Wang Zhongxu , Li Xiaofeng , Cai Qinghai , Li Fengyu , Zhao Jingxiang
Published: August 2022

Searching for low-cost and highly-efficient oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts is crucial to the large-scale application of fuel cells. Herein, by means of density functional theory (DFT) computations, we proposed a new class of ORR catalysts by doping the CrS2 monolayer with non-metal atoms (X@CrS2, X = B, C, N, O, Si, P, Cl, As, Se, and Br). Our results revealed that most of the X@CrS2 candidates exhibit negative formation energy and large binding energy, thus ensuring their high stability and offering great promise for experimental synthesis. Moreover, based on the computed free energy profiles, we predicted that N@CrS2 exhibits the best ORR catalytic activity among all considered candidates due to its lowest overpotential (0.41 V), which is even lower than that of the state-of-the-art Pt catalyst (0.45 V). Remarkably, the excellent catalytic performance of N@CrS2 for ORR can be ascribed to its optimal binding strength with the oxygenated intermediates, according to the computed linear scaling relationships and volcano plot, which can be well verified by the analysis of the p-band center as well as the charge transfer between oxygenated species and catalysts. Therefore, by carefully modulating the incorporated non-metal dopants, the CrS2 monolayer can be utilized as a promising ORR catalyst, which may offer a new strategy to further develop eligible electrocatalysts in fuel cells.
Breast Milk Retinol Levels after Vitamin A Supplementation at Different Postpartum Amounts and Intervals
Authors: Bezerra Danielle S. , de Melo Andressa T. A. , de Oliveira Kátia C. de A. N. , de Araújo Karoline Q. M. A. , Medeiros Monalisa S. M. de F. , Santos Flávia A. P. S. dos , Medeiros Jeane F. P. , Lima Mayara S. R. , da Silva Ana Gabriella C. L. , Ribeiro Karla Danielly da S. , Dimenstein Roberto , Osório Mônica M.
Published: August 2022

Maternal vitamin A (VA) supplementation in risk areas for Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) was launched to improve the level of this nutrient in nursing mothers and in their breast milk. This longitudinal and randomized study aimed to evaluate the levels of retinol in breast milk after supplementation with VA in varying amounts (200,000 IU or 400,000 IU) and different postpartum intervals. Women were distributed into four intervention groups and given a single 200,000 IU postnatal dosage of VA at time 0 h (postnatal morning) (G200 0H); a single 200,000 IU dosage of VA in week four (G200 4W); 200,000 IU of VA at time 0 h + 200,000 IU of VA 24 h after the first supplementation (G400 24H); and 200,000 IU of VA at time 0 h + 200,000 IU of VA one week after the first supplementation (G400 1W). Breast milk samples were collected over a 12-week period (0 h, 24 h and 1, 4, 12 weeks post-natal). Retinol levels were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The Generalized Estimated Equation (GEE) assessed the different retinol levels. The G200 (0H), G400 (24H), and G400 (1W) groups presented higher retinol levels at 24 h than the G200 (4W) group (p < 0.001). The retinol levels of all groups were similar at times 1, 4 and 12 weeks after delivery (p > 0.05). Maternal VA supplementation increased retinol levels in the colostrum. Different supplementation dosages or postpartum administration times did not result in added benefit to retinol levels in mature breast milk.
Crossbred Sows Fed a Western Diet during Pre-Gestation, Gestation, Lactation, and Post-Lactation Periods Develop Signs of Lean Metabolic Syndrome That Are Partially Attenuated by Spirulina Supplementation
Authors: Lugarà Rosamaria , Renner Simone , Wolf Eckhard , Liesegang Annette , Bruckmaier Rupert , Giller Katrin
Published: August 2022

Excessive dietary intake of fats and sugars (“Western diet”, WD) is one of the leading causes of obesity. The consumption of the microalga Arthrospira platensis (spirulina, Sp) is increasing due to its presumed health benefits. Both WD and Sp are also consumed by pregnant and breastfeeding women. This study investigated if gestating and lactating domestic pigs are an appropriate model for WD-induced metabolic disturbances similar to those observed in humans and if Sp supplementation may attenuate any of these adverse effects. Pigs were fed a WD high in fat, sugars, and cholesterol or a control diet. Half of the animals per diet group were supplemented with 20 g Sp per day. The WD did not increase body weight or adipose tissue accumulation but led to metabolic impairments such as higher cholesterol concentration in plasma, lower IGF1 plasma levels, and signs of hepatic damage compared to the control group. Spirulina supplementation could not reduce all the metabolic impairments observed in WD-fed animals. These findings indicate limited suitability of gestating and lactating domestic pigs as a model for WD but a certain potential of low-dose Sp supplementation to partially attenuate negative WD effects.
Proposal of a Mathematical Model to Monitor Body Mass over Time in Subjects on a Diet
Authors: Soriano Jose M. , Sgambetterra Giovanna , Boselli Pietro Marco
Published: August 2022

Nowadays, slimming diet methodology works within a reduction of body mass using a decrease of dietary energy intake. However, there is no suitable method for understanding the dynamic process of body mass metabolic transformation over time. In the present paper, we have developed a biomathematic model to explain the temporal trend of body mass and its variations of people who have undergone a change in their diet using the solving equation of the model. Data relating to sex, age, body mass, and BMI were collected, and the compartmental model used to interpret the body mass trends was constructed by assuming that the mass results from the sum of the metabolic processes: catabolic, anabolic, distributive. The validation of the model was carried out by variance analysis both on the total and individual data sets. The results confirm that the trend of body mass and its variations over time depends on metabolic rates. These are specific to each individual and characterize the distribution of nutritional molecules in the various body districts and the processes catabolic, anabolic, distributive. Body mass and its variations are justified by the metabolic transformations of the nutritional quantities. This would explain why energetically equal diets can correspond to people of different body mass and that energy-different diets can correspond to people of body mass at all similar.
The Experimental Infection of Goats with Small Ruminant Morbillivirus Originated from Barbary Sheep
Authors: Milovanović Milovan , Dietze Klaas , Joseph Sunitha , Wernery Ulrich , Kumar Ajith , Kinne Joerg , Patteril Nissy Georgy , Hoffmann Bernd
Published: August 2022

Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) is a transboundary contagious disease in domestic small ruminants. Infections with the small ruminant morbillivirus (SRMV) were regularly found in wildlife, with unknown roles in PPR epidemiology. In order to access infection dynamics and virulence, we infected German Edelziege goats intranasally with a SRMV isolate that originated from Barbary sheep from an outbreak in the United Arab Emirates. Six goats were infected with cell culture-isolated SRMV, and two goats were kept in contact. Goats were daily monitored, and clinical score was recorded. EDTA blood, nasal, conjunctival and rectal swab samples were collected for the detection of SRMV genome load and serum for serological analysis. Short incubation period in infected (4 to 5 dpi) as well as in contact goats (9 dpi) was followed by typical clinical signs related to PPR. The highest viral load was detectable in conjunctival and nasal swab samples with RT-qPCR and rapid pen-side test. Specific antibodies were detected at 7 dpi in infected and 14 dpi in contact goats. In general, high virulence and easy transmission of the virus originated from wildlife in domestic goats was observed. The virus isolate belongs to Asian lineage IV, genetically related to Chinese and Mongolian strains.
In Vitro Safety, Off-Target and Bioavailability Profile of the Antiviral Compound Silvestrol
Authors: Schiffmann Susanne , Gunne Sandra , Ulshöfer Thomas , Henke Marina , Roser Luise A. , Schneider Ann-Kathrin , Cinatl Jindrich , Thomas Dominique , Schreiber Yannick , Wagner Pia Viktoria , Grünweller Arnold , Parnham Michael J.
Published: August 2022

We characterized the in vitro safety and bioavailability profile of silvestrol, a compound effective against various viruses, such as corona- and Ebolaviruses, with an EC50 value of about 5 nM. The cytotoxic profile of silvestrol was assessed in various cancer cell lines, as well as the mutagenic and genotoxic potential with Ames and micronuclei tests, respectively. To identify off-target effects, we investigated whether silvestrol modulates G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling pathways. To predict the bioavailability of silvestrol, its stability, permeability and cellular uptake were determined. Silvestrol reduced viability in a cell-type-dependent manner, mediated no off-target effects via GPCRs, had no mutagenic potential and minor genotoxic effects at 50 nM. Silvestrol did not disturb cell barrier integrity, showed low membrane permeability, was stable in liver microsomes and exhibited good cellular uptake. Efficient cellular uptake and increased cytotoxicity were observed in cell lines with a low expression level of the transport protein P-glycoprotein, the known efflux transporter of silvestrol. In conclusion, silvestrol showed low permeability but good cellular uptake and high stability. Cell-type-dependent cytotoxicity seems to be caused by the accumulation of silvestrol in cells lacking the ability to expel silvestrol due to low P-glycoprotein levels.
The Encapsulation of Citicoline within Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Enhances Its Capability to Counteract the 6-Hydroxydopamine-Induced Cytotoxicity in Human Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y Cells
Authors: Margari Andrea , Monteduro Anna Grazia , Rizzato Silvia , Capobianco Loredana , Crestini Alessio , Rivabene Roberto , Piscopo Paola , D’Onofrio Mara , Manzini Valeria , Trapani Giuseppe , Quarta Alessandra , Maruccio Giuseppe , Ventra Carmelo , Lieto Luigi , Trapani Adriana
Published: August 2022

(1) Backgrond: Considering the positive effects of citicoline (CIT) in the management of some neurodegenerative diseases, the aim of this work was to develop CIT-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (CIT-SLNs) for enhancing the therapeutic use of CIT in parkinsonian syndrome; (2) Methods: CIT-SLNs were prepared by the melt homogenization method using the self-emulsifying lipid Gelucire® 50/13 as lipid matrix. Solid-state features on CIT-SLNs were obtained with FT-IR, thermal analysis (DSC) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) studies. (3) Results: CIT-SLNs showed a mean diameter of 201 nm, −2.20 mV as zeta potential and a high percentage of entrapped CIT. DSC and XRPD analyses evidenced a greater amorphous state of CIT in CIT-SLNs. On confocal microscopy, fluorescent SLNs replacing unlabeled CIT-SLNs released the dye selectively in the cytoplasm. Biological evaluation showed that pre-treatment of SH-SY5Y dopaminergic cells with CIT-SLNs (50 µM) before the addition of 40 µM 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) to mimic Parkinson’s disease’s degenerative pathways counteracts the cytotoxic effects induced by the neurotoxin, increasing cell viability with the consistent maintenance of both nuclear and cell morphology. In contrast, pre-treatment with CIT 50 and 60 µM or plain SLNs for 2 h followed by 6-OHDA (40 µM) did not significantly influence cell viability. (4) Conclusions: These data suggest an enhanced protection exerted by CIT-SLNs with respect to free CIT and prompt further investigation of possible molecular mechanisms that underlie this difference.
Enteric Polymer–Based Amorphous Solid Dispersions Enhance Oral Absorption of the Weakly Basic Drug Nintedanib via Stabilization of Supersaturation
Authors: Qin Yuling , Xiao Chuyao , Li Xiaoyue , Huang Jiangeng , Si Luqin , Sun Minghui
Published: August 2022

The pH–induced crystallization of weakly basic drugs in the small intestine limits oral bioavailability. In this study, we investigated the solubilization and inhibitory effects on nintedanib in the presence of enteric polymers (HPMCAS LG, HPMCAS MG, Eudragit L100 55, and Eudragit L100). These polymers provided maintenance of supersaturation by increasing the solubility of nintedanib in PBS 6.8 in a concentration-dependent manner, and the improved ranking was as follows: Eudragit L100 > Eudragit L100 55 > HPMCAS MG > HPMCAS LG. After being formulated into amorphous solid dispersions (ASDs) by a solvent evaporation method, the drug exhibited an amorphous state. The pH shift dissolution results of polymer-ASDs demonstrated that four polymers could effectively maintain the drug supersaturation even at the lowest ratio of nintedanib and polymer (1:1, w/w). Eudragit L100–ASD could provide both acid resistance and the favorable mitigation of crystallization in GIF. In comparison to the coarse drug, the relative bioavailability of Eudragit L100–ASD was 245% after oral administration in rats, and Tmax was markedly delayed from 2.8 ± 0.4 h to 5.3 ± 2.7 h. Our findings indicate that enteric ASDs are an effective strategy to increase the intestinal absorption of nintedanib by improving physiologically generated supersaturation and subsequent crystallization.
Aesthetic Criteria in Fundamental Physics—The Viewpoint of Plato
Authors: Melo Ivan
Published: August 2022

I discuss the role of beauty in physics. Physicists are sometimes described as platonists for their conviction that the fundamental laws are elegant and aesthetic arguments represent an important epistemic tool. After a review of the ideas of Plato and some of the leading figures of modern physics, which suggest that this is indeed the case, I present a list of current aesthetic criteria. I focus on symmetry and unity and demonstrate their increasing relevance in an array of experimentally verified theories. I also deal with an open issue of naturalness as the third criterion. The laws of nature appear increasingly beautiful as we uncover them, and it is important to see if the trend continues in the future.
Prisoners’ Dilemma in a Spatially Separated System Based on Spin–Photon Interactions
Authors: Altintas Azmi Ali , Ozaydin Fatih , Bayindir Cihan , Bayrakci Veysel
Published: August 2022

Having access to ideal quantum mechanical resources, the prisoners’ dilemma can be ceased. Here, we propose a distributed quantum circuit to allow spatially separated prisoners to play the prisoners’ dilemma game. Decomposing the circuit into controlled-Z and single-qubit gates only, we design a corresponding spin–photon-interaction-based physical setup within the reach of current technology. In our setup, spins are considered to be the players’ logical qubits, which can be realized via nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond or quantum dots coupled to optical cavities, and the game is played via a flying photon realizing logic operations by interacting with the spatially separated optical cavities to which the spin qubits are coupled. We also analyze the effect of the imperfect realization of two-qubit gates on the game, and discuss the revival of the dilemma and the emergence of new Nash equilibria.
Photobiomodulation, Cells of Connective Tissue and Repair Processes: A Look at In Vivo and In Vitro Studies on Bone, Cartilage and Tendon Cells
Authors: Shaikh-Kader Asma , Houreld Nicolette Nadene
Published: August 2022

The use of light in the red and near-infrared light spectrum influences cell viability and proliferation in both cell and animal experimental models. In wounded models, photobiomodulation (PBM) at various laser parameters may stimulate or inhibit the tissue repair process by affecting cells important to healing. Connective tissue cells include osteocytes and osteoblasts in bone, chondrocytes and chondroblasts in cartilage, and tenocytes and tenoblasts in tendons. PBM, at various wavelengths, energy densities and power output, has various effects on cell viability, proliferation, migration and gene expression. This narrative review will briefly encapsulate the effectiveness of PBM on connective tissue cells, and its possible role in tissue repair. Relevant journal articles were obtained through PubMed and Google Scholar.
Research of Phase Compensation Methods Based on the Median Reweighted Wirtinger Flow Algorithm
Authors: Cao Yang , Zhang Zupeng , Peng Xiaofeng , Qin Huaijun , Li Wenqing
Published: August 2022

An improved non-convex optimized phase recovery algorithm is used to compensate for wavefront aberrations caused by atmospheric turbulence and pointing errors in the vortex beam. The algorithm is divided into two parts: initialization and iteration. To reduce the effect of outliers, truncation rules are formulated in the initialization phase using the robustness of the sample median to obtain an initial value that is close to the global optimum. The relationship between the results of adjacent iterations is used in the iterations to calculate new weight coefficients, which are applied to the gradient descent to ensure the accuracy of the recovery results. Simulation experiments are carried out for different channel environments and different modes, and the results show that the improved phase recovery algorithm can accurately compensate for distorted wave fronts. The improved algorithm recovers the best results at different turbulence intensities and under the influence of different pointing errors. The recovered Strehl ratio can reach 0.9 and the mode purity can reach 0.92. Single-mode and multi-mode simulations were carried out, and the results show that the improved algorithm is effective and robust.
Transient and Fast Generation of Bose-Einstein-Condensate Macroscopic Quantum Superposition States via Impurity Catalysing
Authors: Li Zhen , Lu Wangjun
Published: August 2022

Macroscopic quantum superposition is an important embodiment of the core of the quantum theory. The engineering of macroscopic quantum superposition states is the key to quantum communication and quantum computation. Thus, we present a theoretical proposal to engineer macroscopic quantum superposition (MQS) states of a Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC) via impurity atoms. We firstly propose a deterministic generation scheme of transient multi-component MQS states of the BEC via impurity catalysing. It is found that the structure of the generated transient multi-component MQS states can be manipulated by the impurity number parity. Then, we illustrate the influence of impurity number parity on MQS states through three aspects: generation of approximately orthogonal continuous-variable cat states, manipulation of non-classicality in phase space, and switching of non-classical degree of BEC states. The influence of the BEC decoherence on the generation of MQS states is discussed by the fidelity between actually generated states and target states. Finally, the results show that the high-fidelity multi-component MQS states of the BEC can be fast generated by increasing the coherent interaction strength between impurities and the BEC in an open system.
Combined Effects of Different Alleles of FLO2, Wx and SSIIa on the Cooking and Eating Quality of Rice
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhao Jiajia , Hu Yaqi , Zhang Yanni , Ying Yining , Xu Feifei , Bao Jinsong
Published: August 2022

The improvement of the cooking and eating quality (CEQ) of rice is one of the major objectives of current rice-breeding programs. A few major genes such as Waxy (Wx) and starch synthase IIa (SSIIa) have been successfully applied in molecular breeding. However, their interactive effects on CEQ have not been fully understood. In this study, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population was constructed by crossing the white-core mutant GM645 with the transparent phenotype of the japonica rice variety Tainung 67 (TN67). GM645 and TN67 contain different alleles of FLOURY ENDOSPERM2 (FLO2), Wx, and SSIIa. The effects of different allele combinations of FLO2, Wx, and SSIIa on the CEQ of rice were investigated. The inbred lines with the mutation allele flo2 had a significantly lower apparent amylose content (AAC), viscosity characteristics except for setback (SB), and gel texture properties compared to those lines with the FLO2 allele. The allelic combination of FLO2 and Wx significantly affected the AAC, breakdown (BD), and gel textural properties, which could explain most of the variations in those rice quality traits that were correlated with AAC. The allelic combination of FLO2 and SSIIa significantly affected the hot paste viscosity (HPV) and pasting temperature (PT). The Wx × SSIIa interaction had a significant effect on the PT. The interaction of FLO2, Wx and SSIIa significantly affected the AAC, cold paste viscosity (CPV), PT, and consistency viscosity (CS). These results highlight the important roles of these quality-related genes in regulating the CEQ of rice and provide new clues for rice-quality improvement by marker-assisted selection.
Zero Discharge of Nutrient Solution to the Environment in a Soilless Greenhouse Cucumber Production System
Authors: Ding Xiaotao , He Lizhong , Li Rongguang , Qian Tingting , Zhang Hongmei , Jin Haijun , Cui Jiawei , Wang Hong , Zhou Qiang , Zou Jun , Hui Dafeng , Jiang Yuping , He Kun , Yu Jizhu
Published: August 2022

With the development of the economy and society, more attention is being paid to energy costs and the potential environmental pollution caused by vegetable cultivation. The aim of this study was to investigate the impacts of zero discharge of nutrient solutions on cucumber growth, leaf photosynthesis, and the yield and quality of cucumber under greenhouse conditions. The results show that zero discharge treatment did not change plant height, stem diameter, internode length, leaf area, net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs), intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci), transpiration rate (Tr), and leaf relative chlorophyll content on the most measurement days. Only Pn and relative chlorophyll content were significantly reduced after 16 days of treatment but soon recovered over time. Cucumber plants can adapt to treatment circumstances over the course of days. Leaf mineral element contents showed significant differences on some treatment days compared to the control, and trace elements of Fe, Mn, Cu, and Mo can be appropriately supplied during the treatment days. The cucumber yield and fruit quality in the zero discharge treatment did not change during the whole experimental period. This study confirmed that the irrigation method of a nutrient solution with zero discharge can be applied in cucumber cultivation practices. The strict management of irrigation strategy, plant growth, and greenhouse climate are very important for zero discharge cultivation. The cultivation method with zero discharge of nutrient solution can reduce the energy costs of disinfection, save water and fertilizers, and reduce the environmental pollution in cucumber cultivation.
Current State of Ammophila arenaria (Marram Grass) Distribution in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, and the Possible Effect of the Grass on the Dune System Dynamics
Authors: Lubke Roy A.
Published: August 2022

The principal aim of this paper is to show that marram grass is not an invasive alien in South Africa although it affects the dune dynamics as a useful pioneer species in the dune successional process. The historical perspective of marram introduction as a dune stabiliser and the studies and conclusions reached from our European Union funded project, INVASS, in the 1990s and early 2000s is presented. Although these studies showed that marram was non-invasive, this was not clearly carried through to the authorities, and the use of the grass as a dune stabiliser was limited without a special permit. This prompted a survey of the current situation of marram on dune sites in the Eastern Cape. Along with earlier (1980s) data on the dunes, 69 relevés with 66 species abundance from sites along the Eastern Cape shoreline were assembled. These data were analysed with Detrended Correspondence Analysis to show the relationships of the samples (relevés) and species in a 2-dimensional scatter diagram. The survey showed that there are four dune sites where marram grass is no longer present, due to either marram being out of its climatic range, erosion of sand under storm conditions which made the habitat unsuitable, or in one case where marram simply disappeared. Marram often remains in other sites where three to five dune pioneer species were recorded. On some dunes, although marram is the most abundant dune pioneer, it is never dominant in the dune environment but has a presence of as much as 75% at any site. The eight pioneer species are widely dispersed on the DCA scatter diagram, while the shrub species characterising the Coastal Scrub are tightly clustered, showing that all the pioneer dune communities behave similarly in the dune successional series. The conclusion from these studies is that marram grass does not always persist in the dune systems. If marram does persist, it does not compete and behaves identically to the indigenous species as a dune pioneer. These studies show that marram grass is a non-invasive species that can be successfully used in dune stabilisation on Cape dunes.
Effect of Thermal Oxygen Aging Mode on Rheological Properties and Compatibility of Lignin-Modified Asphalt Binder by Dynamic Shear Rheometer
Authors: Cai Meng , Zhao Xun , Han Xuanzhen , Du Peng , Su Yi , Cheng Cheng
Published: August 2022

Lignin is abundant in nature. The use of lignin in the asphalt pavement industry can improve pavement performance while effectively optimizing pavement construction costs. The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of lignin on the anti-aging properties of asphalt. Commercial lignin was selected to prepare a lignin-modified asphalt binder. The properties of lignin-modified asphalt were studied by rheological experiments. The high-temperature rheological properties of two kinds of base asphalt and modified asphalt samples with different contents of lignin under three conditions of original, rolling thin film oven (RTFO) aging, and pressure aging vessel (PAV) were tested and analyzed with temperature sweep, frequency sweep, and multiple stress creep recovery (MSCR) tests. By comparing the variation laws of evaluation indicators, such as complex shear modulus G*, phase angle δ, anti-aging index, cumulative strain, and viscous component Gv, we found that lignin could effectively improve the high-temperature stability of base asphalt, but it had a negative impact on the compatibility issues of base asphalt. Meanwhile, lignin played a filling role in the base asphalt, and the increase in viscosity was the fundamental reason for improving the high-temperature stability of the base asphalt. The research results indicated that lignin could effectively improve the anti-aging performance of asphalt and play a positive role in prolonging the service life of pavement.
Fire Resistance Improvement of Fast-Growing Poplar Wood Based on Combined Modification Using Resin Impregnation and Compression
Authors: Cheng Xiaowu , Lu Dong , Yue Kong , Lu Weidong , Zhang Zhongfeng
Published: August 2022

Fast-growing poplar with low wood density has been generally regarded as a low-grade wood species and cannot be used as a building material due to its poor fire resistance. As the fire resistance of wood materials is positively correlated with density, combined treatment using resin impregnation, which imparts thermal resistance, and compression, which improves density, appeared to be a route toward improved combustion performance. Fast-growing poplar wood was modified with a combination of borate-containing phenol–formaldehyde resin impregnation and compression in a transverse direction at varying intensities. The effects of the combined treatment on fire resistance were then examined and discussed. Char residue morphology analysis and microscopic observations were conducted to reveal the effects and mechanism of the combined treatment on fire resistance improvement. The test results showed that fire resistance was greatly improved, including the static and dynamic bending performance at elevated and high temperatures, as well as the combustion performance. The higher the compression ratio was, the better the fire resistance of the modified wood.
Self-Healability of Poly(Ethylene-co-Methacrylic Acid): Effect of Ionic Content and Neutralization
Authors: El Choufi Nadim , Mustapha Samir , Tehrani-Bagha Ali R. , Grady Brian P.
Published: August 2022

Self-healing polymers such as poly(ethylene-co-methacrylic acid) ionomers (PEMAA) can heal themselves immediately after a projectile puncture which in turn lowers environmental pollution from replacement. In this study, the thermal-mechanical properties and self-healing response of a library of 15 PEMAA copolymers were studied to understand the effects of the ionic content (Li, Na, Zn, Mg) and neutralization percentage (13 to 78%) on the results. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and tensile testing were used to study the thermo-mechanical properties of PEMAA copolymers while the self-healing response was studied using the projectile test. Puncture sites were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the healing efficiency was quantitatively measured using the water leakage test. Five different self-healing responses were observed and correlated to ionic content and neutralization. At high neutralization, divalent neutralizing ions (Zn and Mg) that have stronger ionic interactions exhibited brittle responses during projectile testing. PEMAA samples neutralized with Mg and Li at low concentrations had a higher healing efficiency than PEMAA samples neutralized with Zn and Na at low neutralization. The PEMAA copolymers with higher tensile stress and two distinct peaks in the graph of loss factor versus temperature that indicate the presence of sufficient ionic aggregate clusters had improved healing efficiency. By increasing the neutralization percentage from 20% to 70%, the tensile strength and modulus of the samples increased and their self-healability generally increased. Among the investigated samples, the copolymer with ~50% neutralization by Li salt showed the highest healing efficiency (100%). Overall, the strength and elastic response required for successful self-healing responses in PEMAA copolymers are shown to be governed by the choice of ion and the amount of neutralization.
A Fast and Easy Probe Based on CMC/Eu (Ⅲ) Nanocomposites to Detect Acrylamide in Different Food Simulants Migrating from Food-Contacting Paper Materials
Authors: Chen Jiawen , Ye Jun , Zhang Mingming , Xiong Jian
Published: August 2022

The residual acrylamide in food paper packaging can be transferred into water and food, which will cause harmful effects on human beings. In this paper, a rapid and easily available fluorescent probe based on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)/Eu (Ⅲ) nanocomposites was designed to detect the residue acrylamide with high sensibility. The probe could respond in 1 min. The concentration of acrylamide was linearly correlated to the fluorescence intensity of the probe at the emission wavelength of 615 nm in the concentration range of 0.1–100 μmol/L. The limit of detection (LOD) of the probe was 0.085 μg/L, which is lower than the guideline value of the European Union, the U.S. EPA, and the WHO. An experiment was performed to simulate the acrylamide migrating from food-contacting paper materials to different foods, including waterborne food, alcohol beverage, acidic food, and greasy food. The recoveries and RSDs of acrylamide in all samples indicated that the CMC/Eu (Ⅲ) fluorescent probe was efficient for acrylamide detection. The possible mechanism of the probe for acrylamide detection involved both dynamically quenching and static quenching by forming of non-fluorescent substances.
A Multistage Analysis of Asphalt Binder Nanocrack Generation and Self-Healing Behavior Based on Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Xu Haoping , Xu Wenyuan , Zheng Xuewen , Cao Kai
Published: August 2022

In order to study the characteristics and laws of nanocrack generation and self-healing behavior of asphalt materials under tensile action, the molecular dynamics (MD) method was used to simulate the continuous “tensile failure—self-healing” process, and this study remedies the shortcomings of existing experimental and observational methods. It is found that the MD-reproduced formation process of asphalt binder nanocrack contains four stages: “tensile extension”, “nanocrack generation”, “crack adding, expanding and penetrating” and “cracking failure”. The influence of tensile conditions on the tensile cracking simulation of an asphalt binder model was analyzed, and it was found that low temperature and high loading rate would increase the tensile strength of the asphalt binder model. In addition, the MD-reproduced healing process of asphalt binder nanocracks can be divided into four stages: “surface approach”, “surface rearrangement”, “surface wetting” and “diffusion”, which is similar to the healing process of polymers. Finally, from the perspective of energy change, the change rule of dominant van der Waals energy in the self-healing process was studied. Based on the existing research, the influence of damage degree on the healing performance of asphalt binder and its mechanism were further analyzed. The research results further enrich the theoretical research on microlevel cracking and healing of asphalt materials, and have certain theoretical value for the further development of self-healing asphalt materials.
Preparation and Photodegradation Properties of Carbon-Nanofiber-Based Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Mingpan , Wang Fuli , Shi Xinran , Wei Jing , Yan Weixia , Dong Yihang , Hu Huiqiang , Wei Kai
Published: August 2022

In this study, an iron oxide/carbon nanofibers (Fe2O3/CNFs) composite was prepared by a combination of electrospinning and hydrothermal methods. The characterization of Fe2O3/CNFs was achieved via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectroscopy (IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It is shown that when the hydrothermal reaction time was 180 °C and the reaction time was 1 h, the Fe2O3 nanoparticle size was about 90 nm with uniform distribution. The photodegradation performance applied to decolorize methyl orange (MO) was investigated by forming a heterogeneous Fenton catalytic system with hydrogen peroxide. The reaction conditions for the degradation of MO were optimized with the decolorization rate up to more than 99% within 1 h, which can decompose the dyes in water effectively. The degradation process of MO by Fenton oxidation was analyzed by a UV-visible NIR spectrophotometer, and the reaction mechanism was speculated as well.
Experimental Investigation and Optimization of Turning Polymers Using RSM, GA, Hybrid FFD-GA, and MOGA Methods
Authors: Alateyah Abdulrahman I. , El-Taybany Yasmine , El-Sanabary Samar , El-Garaihy Waleed H. , Kouta Hanan
Published: August 2022

The machining of polymers has become widely common in several components of industry 4.0 technology, i.e., mechanical and structural components and chemical and medical instruments, due to their unique characteristics such as: being strong and light-weight with high stiffness, chemical resistance, and heat and electricity insolation. Along with their properties, there is a need to attain a higher quality surface finish of machined parts. Therefore, this research concerns an experimental and analytical study dealing with the effect of process parameters on process performance during the turning two different types of polymers: high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and unreinforced polyamide (PA6). Firstly, the machining output responses (surface roughness (Ra), material removal rate (MRR), and chip formation (λc)) are experimentally investigated by varying cutting speed (vc), feed rate (f), and depth of cut (d) using the full factorial design of experiments (FFD). The second step concerns the statistical analysis of the input parameters’ effect on the output responses based on the analysis of variance and 3D response surface plots. The last step is the application of the RSM desirability function, genetic algorithm (GA), and hybrid FFD-GA techniques to determine the optimum cutting conditions of each output response. The lowest surface roughness for HDPE was obtained at vc = 50 m/min, f = 0.01 mm/rev, and d = 1.47 mm and for PA6 it was obtained at vc = 50 m/min, f = 0.01 mm/rev, and d = 1 mm. The highest material removal rate was obtained at vc = 150 m/min, f = 0.01 mm/rev, and d = 1.5 mm for both materials. At f = 0.01 mm/rev, d = 1.5 mm, and vc = 100 for HDPE, and vc = 77 m/min for PA6, the largest chip thickness ratios were obtained. Finally, the multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA) methodology was used and compared.
Enhancing for Bagasse Enzymolysis via Intercrystalline Swelling of Cellulose Combined with Hydrolysis and Oxidation
Authors: Bai Feitian , Dong Tengteng , Zhou Zheng , Chen Wei , Cai Chenchen , Li Xusheng
Published: August 2022

To overcome the biological barriers formed by the lignin–carbohydrate complex for releasing fermentable sugars from cellulose by enzymolysis is both imperative and challenging. In this study, a strategy of intergranular swelling of cellulose combined with hydrolysis and oxidation was demonstrated. Pretreatment of the bagasse was evaluated by one bath treatment with phosphoric acid and hydrogen peroxide. The chemical composition, specific surface area (SSA), and pore size of bagasse before and after pretreatment were investigated, while the experiments on the adsorption equilibrium of cellulose to cellulase and reagent reuse were also performed. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were employed for microscopic morphology observations and glucose analysis, respectively. The results showed that pretreated bagasse was deconstructed into cellulose with a nanofibril network, most of the hemicellulose (~100%) and lignin (~98%) were removed, and the SSA and void were enlarged 11- and 5-fold, respectively. This simple, mild preprocessing method enhanced cellulose accessibility and reduced the biological barrier of the noncellulose component to improve the subsequent enzymolysis with a high glucose recovery (98.60%).
Obtaining Ultrafine Dispersions of Silver Particles in Poly(vinyl Alcohol) Matrix Using Mechanical Alloying
Authors: Aguiar Deize Basílio dos Santos de , Aguiar Denilson José Marcolino de , Paula Josiane de Fátima Padilha de , Cintho Osvaldo Mitsuyuki
Published: August 2022

Mechanical alloying was performed to obtain a composite material with a homogeneous dispersion of silver particles in a poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix. Silver is a bactericidal material, and PVA is a widely used biocompatible polymer. Therefore, this mix can lead to a potentially functional biomaterial. This study focuses on the combination of both materials, processed by mechanical alloying, which has a promising application potential. The silver (Ag) used was ultrafine, measuring between 200 and 400 nanometers, produced from silver nitrate (AgNO3) redox. The Attritor high–energy, water–cooled ball mill was used to mill PVA for 4 h, at 600 rpm speed rotation and 38:1 power milling. Mechanical alloying was demonstrated to cause particle refinement in PVA with a timespan of 1 h. A slight additional particle decrease occurred for long–time milling. A milling time of 4 h was used to disperse the silver particles in the polymer matrix homogeneously. Hot pressing films were produced from the obtained dispersion powders. The microstructural features were studied using several material characterization techniques. Antimicrobial Susceptibility Tests (AST), conducted in an in–vitro assay, showed a hydrophilic character of the films and a protection against bacterial growth, making the process a promising path for the production of surface protective polymeric films.
A Three-Parameter Weibull Distribution Method to Determine the Fracture Property of PMMA Bone Cement
Authors: Li Lielie , Cao Hekai , Guan Junfeng , He Shuanghua , Niu Lihua , Liu Huaizhong
Published: August 2022

Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) bone cement is an excellent biological material for anchoring joint replacements. Tensile strength ft and fracture toughness KIC have a considerable impact on its application and service life. Considering the variability of PMMA bone cement, a three-parameter Weibull distribution method is suggested in the current study to evaluate its tensile strength and fracture toughness distribution. The coefficients of variation for tensile strength and fracture toughness were the minimum when the characteristic crack of PMMA bone cement was αch∗=8dav. Using the simple equation αch∗=8dav and fictitious crack length Δαfic=1.0dav, the mean value μ (= 43.23 MPa), minimum value ftmin (= 26.29 MPa), standard deviation σ (= 6.42 MPa) of tensile strength, and these values of fracture toughness (μ = 1.77 MPa⋅m1/2, KICmin = 1.02 MPa⋅m1/2, σ = 0.2644 MPa⋅m1/2) were determined simultaneously through experimental data from a wedge splitting test. Based on the statistical analysis, the prediction line between peak load Pmax and equivalent area Ae1Ae2 was obtained with 95% reliability. Nearly all experimental data are located within the scope of a 95% confidence interval. Furthermore, relationships were established between tensile strength, fracture toughness, and peak load Pmax. Consequently, it was revealed that peak load might be used to easily obtain PMMA bone cement fracture characteristics. Finally, the critical geometric dimension value of the PMMA bone cement sample with a linear elastic fracture was estimated.