bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Techno-economic feasibility analyses of grid- connected solar photovoltaic power plants for small scale industries of Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Ahmad Monib , Khattak Abraiz , Kashif Janjua Abdul , Alahmadi Ahmad Aziz , Salman Khan Muhammad , Ullah Nasim
Published: November 2022

The globally soaring energy prices and electricity shortfall are major hurdles in the economic development of Pakistan. To cope with periodic power outages, small and medium enterprise (SME) business owners have to fall back on alternate power sources such as backup generators and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), which further increase the per kWh cost of electricity, power quality issues, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. On the contrary, grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are not only economical and sustainable but support the national power grid to mitigate environmental emissions. This study aims to investigate and compare the techno-economic viability of grid-connected solar photovoltaic power plants for the manufacturing SME sector in four different districts of Punjab, Pakistan. Based on the technical, financial, and environmental indicators, a detailed techno-economic, sensitivity, and GHG emission analysis is conducted using RETScreen Expert software. The research findings clearly show that the proposed solar PV projects for all four locations are technically, financially, and environmentally viable, however, Sargodha as compared to other sites is the most feasible location with the highest capacity factor of 17.8 %, highest internal rate of return 14.9 %, lowest payback period 7.7 years, and least levelized cost of electricity 8.5 ¢/kWh. For validation, the simulation results are compared with performance metrics from PV plants erected in various parts of the world. Applying the same research approach to the whole industrial sector of Punjab recommends adding 13,469 MW of PV capacity to satisfy the industry’s 20446.21 GWh annual energy consumption and to cut emissions by 90,17,581 t CO2 per year. This research work presents guidelines for researchers to evaluate the feasibility of suitable PV technologies for the SME sector thereby helping investors to have a holistic view of potential investment zones.
Multi-objective optimization model of micro-grid access to 5G base station under the background of China’s carbon peak shaving and carbon neutrality targets
Authors: Guo Weishang , Mao Yihua , Chen Yufen , Zhang Xuexing
Published: November 2022

Abstract: a large number of 5G base station are connected, which provides a new possibility for the future low-carbon development of power systems. By encouraging 5G base station to participate in demand response and incorporating it into the Microgrid, it can reduce the power consumption cost of 5G base stations and promote the efficient utilization of renewable energy. Based on the microgrid operation structure, 5G base station and multi-objective problem algorithm, a multi-objective optimization operation model of microgrid access to 5G base station is built. Considering the physical constraints of Microgrid, the objective is to minimize the operating cost and carbon emission. Through the joint dispatching of distributed clean energy generation, micro gas turbine, energy storage system and 5G base station in Microgrid, the comprehensive optimization of system economy and low-carbon benefits can be achieved. In this paper, a microgrid in Beijing is taken as the research object, and the Whale Optimization Algorithm algorithm is used to solve the multiobjective problem. The analysis results show that 5G base station can flexibly respond to microgrid scheduling, which helps microgrid to improve the consumption and utilization efficiency of renewable energy, thus bringing higher economic benefits and low-carbon benefits, and helping China to achieve the goal of carbon peak shaving and carbon neutrality at an early date.
Steady-state thermal hydraulic modelling and turbine trip transient simulation of the NuScale integral pressurised water reactor using the ASTEC code
Authors: Guo Zhexi , Xiao Sicong , Chung Keng Yeow
Published: November 2022

A steady state model of the NuScale reactor has been built using the thermal hydraulic module CESAR of the severe accident code ASTEC. Construction of the model was achieved through iterations based on convergence towards data provided by NuScale pertaining to important operating properties—core temperatures, coolant mass flow rate and secondary steam temperature—at 100% power (160 MW) and also at lower power levels. Good agreement with reference values was achieved to within 3% deviation. With a similar methodology, the previous model was adjusted to give a second steady state model meant to provide conservative initial conditions from which a turbine trip transient simulation would be performed. Sound agreement with literature was achieved, with maximum deviations of less than 1.8% for monitored parameters. Lastly, a turbine trip transient was simulated and compared to reference data from analyses performed with NRELAP5 and RELAP5/SCDAPSIM. The most important system behaviors and event timings are well captured and reproduced, with discrepancies arising from inevitable estimates made due to lack of information.
Mind the miscibility gap: Cation mixing and current density driven non-equilibrium phase transformations in spinel cathode materials
Authors: Gustafsson Olof , Schökel Alexander , Brant William R.
Published: November 2022

Cathode materials that exhibit phase transitions with large structural rearrangements during electrochemical cycling are generally seen as disadvantageous. Large volume changes and lattice mismatches between intermediate phases tend to lead to significant kinetic barriers, as well as strain and particle cracking. In this regard, solid solution reactions are more desirable as they provide lower energy barriers and no miscibility gap between co-existing phases. The high-voltage cathode material LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 is an interesting candidate for high power and rate capability applications, however little is known on how its phase transitions occur on the particle level. In the presented work operando X-ray diffraction was utilized together with detailed peak profile analysis to elucidate the phase transition mechanism dependency on transition metal cation order and current density. When fully disordered, the material was found to undergo a bulk single-phase solid solution reaction between the intermediate phases LiNi0.44Mn1.56O4 and Li0.5Ni0.44Mn1.56O4 followed by a first order phase transition with a coherent interphase between the intermediates Li0.5Ni0.44Mn1.56O4 and Ni0.44Mn1.6O4. When fully ordered and slightly less ordered, two separate first order phase transitions with a coherent interphase between the same intermediate phases were observed. On discharge, the fast kinetics of the transition between Li0.5Ni0.44Mn1.56O4 and LiNi0.44Mn1.56O4 resulted in less strain on the former phase. For all samples the miscibility gap between the intermediate phases narrowed with increased current density, suggesting that the solid solution domain formed at the coherent interphase can be extended when the rate of (de)lithiation exceeds the movement speed of the interphase at the phase transition. This effect was found to be larger with increasing cation disorder. The influence of transition metal ordering on the ability to form solid solutions is in good agreement with computational phase diagrams of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4, showing that disorder is important for promoting and stabilizing solid solutions. These results indicate that the degree of transition metal ordering within the material is of importance for obtaining a material with small lattice mismatches between the involved intermediate phases and for rational design of full solid solution materials.
Do more get more: Monopoly appropriation of labor income in manufacturing companies
Authors: Wei Cui , An-Wei Wan , Kumari Sonia
Published: November 2022

In recent years, the overtime culture has generally emerged in Chinese enterprises (CEs), the length of workers’ working hours has been lengthened, and their intensity has increased. Still, the labor income share has declined, which deserves in-depth analysis. This paper introduces a relative labor intensity indicator to estimate the trend of the labor income share based on the general factor-enhanced CES production function in China. The econometric model is then introduced to analyze in-depth the influencing factors leading to this trend using relevant data from 2001 to 2020. If the elasticity of substitution is less than 1 and capital and labor are complementary, then the labor income share tends to decrease. This is because the relative labor intensity tends to increase while the growth rate of the capital-labor ratio tends to decrease. The empirical results also show that the decrease in labor income share and labor compensation is related to monopoly and the amount of capital input. If the amount of capital input is higher and the degree of monopoly is higher, then the labor income is lower, and the share of labor income is lower. Monopolies and capital intercept most of the value created because of the increased labor intensity, and laborers receive only a small profit.
Natural capital accounting of cultivated land based on three-dimensional ecological footprint model-- A case study of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region
Authors: Zhang Hui , Zhu Dao-Lin , Zhang Yuanjie
Published: November 2022

The fairness of the utilization of cultivated land resources is essential for the balanced development of the region, but there are few researches to analyze it. Against the background of the urgent need for farmland protection and ecological compensation, this paper takes cultivated land as the research object and uses a three-dimensional ecological footprint model to account for and analyze the utilization of natural capital stock and flow of cultivated land in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region from 2009 to 2016 in terms of footprint breadth and depth, so as to provide reference for cultivated land protection, ecological compensation and even coordinated regional ecological-economic development. The results show that from 2009 to 2016, the ecological footprint breadth of cultivated land in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region was generally low and the footprint depth was generally high, and the ecological footprint depth of cultivated land in the region as a whole tended to increase, except for Zhangjiakou and Chengde, which were able to achieve self-sufficiency in flow capital, 85% of the cities showed the phenomenon of depletion of cultivated land flow capital and intensification of stock capital depletion. After 2010, the overall Gini coefficient of the ecological footprint of cultivated land in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei area was less than 0.4, and the use of natural capital from cultivated land was relatively balanced. The study concludes that under the strategic role of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei integration and collaborative development, the equity of natural capital utilization of cultivated land in each city in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region has been improved, but the level of creating and utilizing natural capital flows of cultivated land still needs to be improved, and ecological protection of cultivated land needs to be further strengthened; the excessive depletion of natural capital of cultivated land caused by agricultural production can be used as a reference basis for cross-regional ecological compensation of cultivated land, thus supporting the ecological value of cultivated land. Over-consumption of natural capital from agricultural land caused by agricultural production can be used as a baseline for interregional ecological compensation of agricultural land, thus supporting the realization of the ecological value of agricultural land.
Differential responses of Bactrocera dorsalis and its parasitoids to headspaces of different varieties of tree-attached mango fruits and the associated chemical profiles
Authors: Miano Raphael Njurai , Mohamed Samira A. , Cheseto Xavier , Ndlela Shepard , Biasazin Tibebe Dejene , Yusuf Abdullahi Ahmed , Rohwer Egmont , Dekker Teun
Published: November 2022

Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) is a major pest of fruits and vegetables worldwide with documented losses of up to 100%. Various management techniques including the use of parasitoids, such as Fopius arisanus (Sonan) and Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Ashmead) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) within the context of the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach have been deployed for its control. The effectiveness of parasitoids is well understood, but knowledge of the semiochemicals that mediate their behavior, as well as that of the host fruit fly to tree-attached mangoes, is lacking. Here, we first compared the attractiveness of the above-mentioned fruit fly and its parasitoids to volatiles of different treatments (non-infested physiologically mature unripe and ripe mangoes, mangoes newly exposed to ovipositing B. dorsalis, and mangoes on day 7 and day 9 post-oviposition) of tree-attached Kent, Apple, and Haden mango varieties relative to control (clean air). The fruit fly was significantly more attracted to the mango volatiles (up to 93% of responsive insects) compared to the control (clean air). Fopius arisanus was significantly more attracted to mangoes with ovipositing fruit flies (68–76%) while D. longicaudata was significantly more attracted to day 9 post-oviposited mangoes (64–72%) compared to the control. Secondly, we elucidated the headspace volatile profiles of the non-infested and infested tree-attached mangoes using gas chromatography linked to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The volatiles revealed various types of organic compounds with qualitative and quantitative differences. The majority of the compounds were esters making 33.8% of the total number, followed by sesquiterpenes-16.4%, and monoterpenes-15.4% among others. Most compounds had higher release rates in headspace volatiles of fruit fly-infested mangoes. Lastly, we harvested the infested mangoes and incubated them for puparia recovery. The number of puparia recovered varied according to the mango variety with Apple mango registering 81.7% of the total, while none was recovered from Kent. These results represent the first report of the changes in the headspace components of non-infested and infested tree-attached mangoes and the associated differential responses of the mentioned insects. A follow-up study can reveal whether there is a convergence in olfactomes which is significant when developing baits that selectively attract the fruit fly and not its natural enemies and fill the knowledge gap from an evolutionary ecological perspective.
Underwater vocalizations of Trachemys scripta elegans and their differences among sex–age groups
Authors: Zhou Lu , Zhao Long-Hui , Li Handong , Wang Tongliang , Shi Haitao , Wang Jichao
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to identify underwater vocalizations in red-eared turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans) and assess differences between sexes and ages. We recorded the underwater vocalizations of the red-eared sliders and identified 12 call types through manual visual and aural inspection of the recordings. Similarity analysis verified that manual classification was relatively reliable. The call types of the turtle were described and displayed as spectrograms and waveforms. The turtles produced fewer high-frequency call types than low-frequency types in all recordings. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in the frequencies and duration of the calls of red-eared turtles between different sexes and ages. Males vocalized pulse calls very frequently, whereas a high proportion of high-frequency call types was emitted by the female adult group. The male subadult group emitted higher frequencies of Type A, B, and C calls, which is in accordance with the phenomenon that vocal frequency is often inversely proportional to the turtle size. Some call types produced by red-eared turtles were above the frequency range of their known hearing range. This may have been a by-product of the sound production mechanism or it may have adaptive value in mitigating interference to communication from low-frequency noise common in natural waters in communication The behavioral implications of these vocalizations and whether turtles can hear such high sounds warrant further study.
Vertical evaluation of air quality improvement by urban forest using unmanned aerial vehicles
Authors: Miao Chunping , Cui Aiwei , Xiong Zaiping , Hu Yuanman , Chen Wei , He Xingyuan
Published: November 2022

Urban forest is considered an effective strategy for mitigating urban air pollution via deposition, absorption and dispersion processes. However, previous studies had focused mainly on the deposition effect or removal capacity near the ground, while the net effect of the urban forest on air quality is rarely evaluated in the vertical dimension. In this study, PM2.5 (particulate matter with diameter less than 2.5), PM10 (particulate matter with diameter less than 10 μm), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) concentrations, air temperature, relative humidity, and atmospheric pressure at 0, 2.5, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 60, 80, and 100 m in urban forest, street, and community areas were collected by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with Sniffer4D V2 on overcast and sunny days. The PM, CO, NO2, and O3 concentrations increased with height below 20 m and then slightly decreased with height on an overcast day, whereas SO2 concentrations decreased with height within 20 m. The urban forest increased PM concentrations in the morning of an overcast day, whereas it decreased PM concentrations in the afternoon of the overcast day. The forest obstructed PM dispersion from the canopy when PM concentrations grew lower in the morning, but it hindered PM from deposition when PM concentrations grew higher in the afternoon.
Analysis of nutrient resorption efficiency and homeostasis of four tree species in Kanas natural forest, Xinjiang, China
Authors: Bagedeng  , Xia Guozhu , Lin Tao , Xu Zhonglin , Wang Yao
Published: November 2022

To explore the differences in stoichiometric homeostasis and resorption efficiency of nitrogen (NRE) and phosphorus (PRE) of tree species in Kanas natural forest. We selected four primary tree species: Larix sibirica (LS), Picea obovata (PO), Pinus sibirica (PS), and Betula pendula (BP) and measured concentrations of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) in fresh leaves, leaf litters, and soil. Our findings showed that compared to deciduous species (LS, BP), evergreen species (PO, PS) had higher fresh leaf C concentrations and C: N ratios. As opposed to evergreen plants, deciduous species have higher levels of fresh leaf N concentration, while the P concentration and C: P did not exhibit such a pattern. Mass-based NRE and PRE averaged 52.55 and 49.16%, respectively, with a significant difference among life forms in NRE but no varied in PRE. NRE increased with N concentration in fresh leaves of BP, PO, and LS, NRE decreased with N concentration in leaf litters of all species; PRE increased with P concentration in fresh leaves of all species, PRE decreased with P concentration in leaf litters of LS, PO, and PS. Only NRE of BP and PS and PRE of PS showed significant relationship with soil N and P concentrations, respectively. Neither NRE nor PRE was insignificantly related to mean annual temperature (MAT) for all species. The N concentration of all species showed strict homeostasis corresponding to their being limited by the N element. Only the P concentration of PS and PO and N: P ratio of PS varied with corresponding traits in soil. Overall, our results provide insight into the N and P nutrient use characteristics of tree species in the Kanas natural forest and can provide a scientific basis for regional ecological restoration.
Establishment of transgenic pigs overexpressing human PKD2-D511V mutant
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Xu Saifei , Jin Qiao , Luo Jianing , Gao Ce , Jayaprakash Sakthidasan , Wang Huanan , Zhuang Lenan , He Jin
Published: November 2022

Numerous missense mutations have been reported in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease which is one of the most common renal genetic disorders. The underlying mechanism for cystogenesis is still elusive, partly due to the lack of suitable animal models. Currently, we tried to establish a porcine transgenic model overexpressing human PKD2-D511V (hPKD2-D511V), which is a dominant-negative mutation in the vertebrate in vitro models. A total of six cloned pigs were finally obtained using somatic cell nuclear transfer. However, five with functional hPKD2-D511V died shortly after birth, leaving only one with the dysfunctional transgenic event to survive. Compared with the WT pigs, the demised transgenic pigs had elevated levels of hPKD2 expression at the mRNA and protein levels. Additionally, no renal malformation was observed, indicating that hPKD2-D511V did not alter normal kidney development. RNA-seq analysis also revealed that several ADPKD-related pathways were disturbed when overexpressing hPKD2-D511V. Therefore, our study implies that hPKD2-D511V may be lethal due to the dominant-negative effect. Hence, to dissect how PKD2-D511V drives renal cystogenesis, it is better to choose in vitro or invertebrate models.
Progress and prospectus in genetics and genomics of Phytophthora root and stem rot resistance in soybean (Glycine max L.)
Authors: Chandra Subhash , Choudhary Mukesh , Bagaria Pravin K. , Nataraj Vennampally , Kumawat Giriraj , Choudhary Jeet Ram , Sonah Humira , Gupta Sanjay , Wani Shabir Hussain , Ratnaparkhe Milind B.
Published: November 2022

Soybean is one of the largest sources of protein and oil in the world and is also considered a “super crop” due to several industrial advantages. However, enhanced acreage and adoption of monoculture practices rendered the crop vulnerable to several diseases. Phytophthora root and stem rot (PRSR) caused byPhytophthora sojaeis one of the most prevalent diseases adversely affecting soybean production globally. Deployment of genetic resistance is the most sustainable approach for avoiding yield losses due to this disease. PRSR resistance is complex in nature and difficult to address by conventional breeding alone. Genetic mapping through a cost-effective sequencing platform facilitates identification of candidate genes and associated molecular markers for genetic improvement against PRSR. Furthermore, with the help of novel genomic approaches, identification and functional characterization ofRps(resistance toPhytophthora sojae) have also progressed in the recent past, and more than 30Rpsgenes imparting complete resistance to different PRSR pathotypes have been reported. In addition, many genomic regions imparting partial resistance have also been identified. Furthermore, the adoption of emerging approaches like genome editing, genomic-assisted breeding, and genomic selection can assist in the functional characterization of novel genes and their rapid introgression for PRSR resistance. Hence, in the near future, soybean growers will likely witness an increase in production by adopting PRSR-resistant cultivars. This review highlights the progress made in deciphering the genetic architecture of PRSR resistance, genomic advances, and future perspectives for the deployment of PRSR resistance in soybean for the sustainable management of PRSR disease.
Effects of dietary plant and animal protein sources and replacement levels on growth and feed performance and nutritional status of market-sized turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) in RAS
Authors: Hoerterer Christina , Petereit Jessica , Lannig Gisela , Johansen Johan , Conceição Luis E. C. , Buck Bela H.
Published: November 2022

One part of aquaculture sustainability is reducing the environmental footprint of aquaculture feeds. For European aquaculture, this means finding feed ingredients that are produced within the economic community, and that are not in conflict with human consumption. This is especially challenging when formulating diets for carnivorous fish such as turbot with low tolerance to fishmeal replacement that are both nutritious and economically and environmentally sustainable. Therefore, we investigated the effects of two novel and innovative feed formulation concepts on growth and feed performance and the nutritional status of market-sized turbot in a recirculating aquaculture system. In a 16-week feeding trial, 440 turbot (300 ± 9 g) were fed twice a day with a control diet (CTRL), based on a commercial formulation, and four experimental diets. The experimental diets were designed to investigate the effects of two formulations concepts based on sustainable terrestrial plant proteins (NoPAP) or processed animal proteins (PAP) and of 30% and 60% fishmeal replacement with emerging feed ingredients (fisheries by-products, insect meal and fermentation biomass). Turbot from the CTRL group had a similar growth and feed performance than fish fed the NoPAP30 formulation, with a significant decline of performance in the fish fed both PAP formulations and the NoPAP60. Comparing the two formulation concepts with each other the voluntary feed intake and protein efficiency ratio on tank basis as well as the individual weight gain and relative growth rate was significantly higher in the fish from the NoPAP groups than PAP groups. Furthermore, the apparent digestibility of nutrients and minerals was significantly reduced in the fish fed with the diets with 30% and 60% fishmeal replacement level compared to the fish from the CTRL group. In conclusion, the performance of the fish fed the NoPAP30 formulation concept highlights the potential of the used combination of sustainable ingredients, such as fisheries by-products, insect meal, microbial biomass and plant protein for turbot. Furthermore, this study shows that turbot has a higher tolerance to the incorporation of plant and insect protein than of processed animal protein.
Microbial alteration in marine sediments: Insights from compound-specific isotopic compositions of amino acids in subseafloor environments
Authors: Choi Hyuntae , Choi Bohyung , Chikaraishi Yoshito , Takano Yoshinori , Kim Haryun , Lee Kitack , Lim Dhongil , Shin Kyung-Hoon
Published: November 2022

The proportion of amino acids (AAs) in sediment can be used as an indicator of microbial degradation, which is primarily the product of benthic prokaryote activity. The microbial activity would be reflected with the stable isotope ratio of nitrogen (δ15N) at the time of mineralization and resynthesis of AAs. In this study, the compound-specific isotope analysis of individual AAs was used to investigate δ15N variation associated with microbial processes in marine sediment samples. Our results showed a decrease in AA concentrations in core-top sediment was accompanied by an increase in δ15N values, suggesting large 15N enrichment in buried AAs. Phenylalanine displayed an increase in δ15N from the surface to depths greater than 2 cm, whereas relatively constant δ15N values at depths below 2 cm, suggesting that microbial utilization of phenylalanine varies with depth. Glycine showed the highest relative molar contribution (from 12.1 to 36.4%), with the largest δ15N increase (from 0.8 to 8.7) in deep sediment, implying that such information can serve as a measure of AA diagenesis in sedimentary environments. Our results also indicated that the δ15N values of individual AAs in sediment reflected the microbial alteration of organic matter at water-sediment interfaces and in sub-surface environments. These findings form an important basis for interpreting the δ15N values of AAs in sediment.
Effects of ocean warming and fishing on the coral reef ecosystem: A case study of Xisha Islands, South China Sea
Authors: Zhang Xinyan , Li Yuanchao , Du Jianguo , Qiu Shuting , Xie Bin , Chen Weilin , Wang Jianjia , Hu Wenjia , Wu Zhongjie , Chen Bin
Published: November 2022

Global change has generated challenges for oceans, from individuals to the entire ecosystem, and has raised contemporary issues related to ocean conservation and management. Specifically, coral reef ecosystems have been exposed to various environmental and human disturbances. In this study, the Ecopath with Ecosim model was used to explore the impacts of ocean warming and fishing on Xisha Islands coral reef ecosystem in the South China Sea. The variables in this model included two ocean warming scenarios and three fishing scenarios. The model consisted of 23 functional groups including algae, coral, sea birds, and sharks. Our results showed that by the middle of the century, ocean warming and fishing led to a 3.79% and 4.74% decrease in total catch compared with 2009, respectively. In addition, the combined effects of ocean warming and fishing caused a 4.79% decrease in total catch, and the mean trophic level of catch was predicted to decrease by 6.01% under the SSP585-High fishing scenario. Reducing the fishing effort mitigates the effects of ocean warming on some species, such as large carnivorous fish and medium carnivorous fish; however, under low fishing effort, some functional groups, such as small carnivorous and omnivorous fish, have low biomass because of higher predation mortality.
Glide performance analysis of underwater glider with sweep wings inspired by swift
Authors: Wang Yanhui , Wang Cheng , Yang Ming , Liang Yan , Han Wei , Yang Shaoqiong
Published: November 2022

Underwater glider (UG) is one of the most promising autonomous observation platforms for long-term ocean observation, which can glide through seawater columns by adjusting its buoyancy and attitude. Hydrodynamic shape, especially the wing parameters, has an important influence on the glide performance of UG. In this paper, a sweep wing strategy inspired by the swift wings is proposed to apply pre-adjustable sweep wings for UGs, so as to improve the glide performance in different glide conditions. The approximate model that describes the relationship between the hydrodynamic coefficients of UG and the wing sweep angles is established with computational fluid dynamics method. By importing the approximate models into the dynamic model, the glide performance analysis, including endurance ability and trajectory accuracy, is performed to analyze the effect of the various sweep wings. The analysis results indicate that different sweep angles of wings are required by UG to obtain the optimal ability in gliding range, gliding duration, turn and resisting current, and the sweep wing strategy is useful for UG to improve its performance in observation mission due to the uncertainty of ocean environment.
The impact of initial imperfections on the fatigue assessment of tower flange connections in floating wind turbines: A review
Authors: Zou Tao , Niu Xinbo , Ji Xingda , Li Mingxin , Tao Longbin
Published: November 2022

During the massive manufactures and installations of fixed offshore wind turbines in China, initial imperfections were often found in the inspection. As more and more attentions and efforts of the wind energy sector have been devoted to deep waters with fixed and floating wind turbines (FWTs), the impact of such initial imperfections on fatigue assessment is paramount to the reliable design and safe operation, which warrant rigorous study. This paper presents a comprehensive review of three different initial imperfections and their impacts on the fatigue lifetime of FWTs’ tower flange connections. A brief introduction on FWTs and flange connections is provided at first. This is followed by a detailed discussion of the environmental loadings and fatigue assessment on the flange bolted connections. Finally, a comprehensive review of the state-of-art research on three common initial imperfections, including flatness divergence, bolt loosening and tower inclination, are presented. Their impact on fatigue assessment is further discussed.
Influence of host genotype in establishing root associated microbiome of indica rice cultivars for plant growth promotion
Authors: Singh Arjun , Kumar Murugan , Chakdar Hillol , Pandiyan Kuppusamy , Kumar Shiv Charan , Zeyad Mohammad Tarique , Singh Bansh Narayan , Ravikiran K. T. , Mahto Arunima , Srivastava Alok Kumar , Saxena Anil Kumar
Published: November 2022

Rice plants display a unique root ecosystem comprising oxic-anoxic zones, harboring a plethora of metabolic interactions mediated by its root microbiome. Since agricultural land is limited, an increase in rice production will rely on novel methods of yield enhancement. The nascent concept of tailoring plant phenotype through the intervention of synthetic microbial communities (SynComs) is inspired by the genetics and ecology of core rhizobiome. In this direction, we have studied structural and functional variations in the root microbiome of 10indicarice varieties. The studies on α and β-diversity indices of rhizospheric root microbiome with the host genotypes revealed variations in the structuring of root microbiome as well as a strong association with the host genotypes. Biomarker discovery, using machine learning, highlighted members of classAnaerolineae,α-Proteobacteria, and bacterial genera likeDesulfobacteria,Ca.Entotheonella,Algoriphagus, etc. as the most important features ofindicarice microbiota having a role in improving the plant’s fitness. Metabolically, rice rhizobiomes showed an abundance of genes related to sulfur oxidation and reduction, biofilm production, nitrogen fixation, denitrification, and phosphorus metabolism. This comparative study of rhizobiomes has outlined the taxonomic composition and functional diversification of rice rhizobiome, laying the foundation for the development of next-generation microbiome-based technologies for yield enhancement in rice and other crops.
Delivery of stable ultra-thin liquid sheets in vacuum for biochemical spectroscopy
Authors: Barnard Jonathan C. T. , Lee Jacob P. , Alexander Oliver , Jarosch Sebastian , Garratt Douglas , Picciuto Rose , Kowalczyk Katarzyna , Ferchaud Clement , Gregory Andrew , Matthews Mary , Marangos Jon P.
Published: November 2022

The development of ultra-thin flat liquid sheets capable of running in vacuum has provided an exciting new target for X-ray absorption spectroscopy in the liquid and solution phases. Several methods have become available for delivering in-vacuum sheet jets using different nozzle designs. We compare the sheets produced by two different types of nozzle; a commercially available borosillicate glass chip using microfluidic channels to deliver colliding jets, and an in-house fabricated fan spray nozzle which compresses the liquid on an axis out of a slit to achieve collision conditions. We find in our tests that both nozzles are suitable for use in X-ray absorption spectroscopy with the fan spray nozzle producing thicker but more stable jets than the commercial nozzle. We also provide practical details of how to run these nozzles in vacuum.
Deficiency in ST6GAL1, one of the two α2,6-sialyltransferases, has only a minor effect on the pathogenesis of prion disease
Authors: Makarava Natallia , Katorcha Elizaveta , Chang Jennifer Chen-Yu , Lau Joseph T. Y. , Baskakov Ilia V.
Published: November 2022

Prion diseases are a group of fatal neurodegenerative diseases caused by misfolding of the normal cellular form of the prion protein or PrPC, into a disease-associated self-replicating state or PrPSc. PrPC and PrPSc are posttranslationally modified with N-linked glycans, in which the terminal positions occupied by sialic acids residues are attached to galactose predominantly via α2-6 linkages. The sialylation status of PrPSc is an important determinant of prion disease pathogenesis, as it dictates the rate of prion replication and controls the fate of prions in an organism. The current study tests whether a knockout of ST6Gal1, one of the two mammalian sialyltransferases that catalyze the sialylation of glycans via α2-6 linkages, reduces the sialylation status of PrPSc and alters prion disease pathogenesis. We found that a global knockout of ST6Gal1 in mice significantly reduces the α2-6 sialylation of the brain parenchyma, as determined by staining with Sambucus Nigra agglutinin. However, the sialylation of PrPSc remained stable and the incubation time to disease increased only modestly in ST6Gal1 knockout mice (ST6Gal1-KO). A lack of significant changes in the PrPSc sialylation status and prion pathogenesis is attributed to the redundancy in sialylation and, in particular, the plausible involvement of a second member of the sialyltransferase family that sialylate via α2-6 linkages, ST6Gal2.
Polyanion order controls liquid-to-solid phase transition in peptide/nucleic acid co-assembly
Authors: Gordon-Kim Christella , Rha Allisandra , Poppitz George A. , Smith-Carpenter Jillian , Luu Regina , Roberson Alexis B. , Conklin Russell , Blake Alexis , Lynn David G.
Published: November 2022

The Central Dogma highlights the mutualistic functions of protein and nucleic acid biopolymers, and this synergy appears prominently in the membraneless organelles widely distributed throughout prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms alike. Ribonucleoprotein granules (RNPs), which are complex coacervates of RNA with proteins, are a prime example of these membranelles organelles and underly multiple essential cellular functions. Inspired by the highly dynamic character of these organelles and the recent studies that ATP both inhibits and templates phase separation of the fused in sarcoma (FUS) protein implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases, we explored the RNA templated ordering of a single motif of the Aβ peptide of Alzheimer’s disease. We now know that this strong cross-β propensity motif alone assembles through a liquid-like coacervate phase that can be externally templated to form distinct supramolecular assemblies. Now we provide evidence that structured phosphates, ranging from complex structures like double stranded and quadraplex DNA to simple trimetaphosphate, differentially impact the liquid to solid phase transition necessary for paracrystalline assembly. The results from this simple model illustrate the potential of ordered environmental templates in the transition to potentially irreversible pathogenic assemblies and provides insight into the ordering dynamics necessary for creating functional synthetic polymer co-assemblies.
Frequency-tuned electromagnetic field therapy improves post-stroke motor function: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Weisinger Batsheva , Pandey Dharam P. , Saver Jeffrey L. , Hochberg Arielle , Bitton Adina , Doniger Glen M. , Lifshitz Assaf , Vardi Ofir , Shohami Esther , Segal Yaron , Reznik Balter Shira , Djemal Kay Yael , Alter Ariela , Prasad Atul , Bornstein Natan M.
Published: November 2022

Background and purpose

Impaired upper extremity (UE) motor function is a common disability after ischemic stroke. Exposure to extremely low frequency and low intensity electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) in a frequency-specific manner (Electromagnetic Network Targeting Field therapy; ENTF therapy) is a non-invasive method available to a wide range of patients that may enhance neuroplasticity, potentially facilitating motor recovery. This study seeks to quantify the benefit of the ENTF therapy on UE motor function in a subacute ischemic stroke population.

Methods

In a randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind trial, ischemic stroke patients in the subacute phase with moderately to severely impaired UE function were randomly allocated to active or sham treatment with a novel, non-invasive, brain computer interface-based, extremely low frequency and low intensity ENTF therapy (1–100 Hz, < 1 G). Participants received 40 min of active ENTF or sham treatment 5 days/week for 8 weeks; ~three out of the five treatments were accompanied by 10 min of concurrent physical/occupational therapy. Primary efficacy outcome was improvement on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment – Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) from baseline to end of treatment (8 weeks).

Results

In the per protocol set (13 ENTF and 8 sham participants), mean age was 54.7 years (±15.0), 19% were female, baseline FMA-UE score was 23.7 (±11.0), and median time from stroke onset to first stimulation was 11 days (interquartile range (IQR) 8–15). Greater improvement on the FMA-UE from baseline to week 4 was seen with ENTF compared to sham stimulation, 23.2 ± 14.1 vs. 9.6 ± 9.0,p= 0.007; baseline to week 8 improvement was 31.5 ± 10.7 vs. 23.1 ± 14.1. Similar favorable effects at week 8 were observed for other UE and global disability assessments, including the Action Research Arm Test (Pinch, 13.4 ± 5.6 vs. 5.3 ± 6.5,p= 0.008), Box and Blocks Test (affected hand, 22.5 ± 12.4 vs. 8.5 ± 8.6,p< 0.0001), and modified Rankin Scale (−2.5 ± 0.7 vs. −1.3 ± 0.7,p= 0.0005). No treatment-related adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

ENTF stimulation in subacute ischemic stroke patients was associated with improved UE motor function and reduced overall disability, and results support its safe use in the indicated population. These results should be confirmed in larger multicenter studies.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04039178, identifier: NCT04039178.
Individual differences in processing ability to transform visual stimuli during the mental rotation task are closely related to individual motor adaptation ability
Authors: Ito Tomotaka , Kamiue Masanori , Hosokawa Takayuki , Kimura Daisuke , Tsubahara Akio
Published: November 2022

Mental rotation (MR) is a well-established experimental paradigm for exploring human spatial ability. Although MR tasks are assumed to be involved in several cognitive processes, it remains unclear which cognitive processes are related to the individual ability of motor adaptation. Therefore, we aimed to elucidate the relationship between the response time (RT) of MR using body parts and the adaptive motor learning capability of gait. In the MR task, dorsal hand, palmar plane, dorsal foot, and plantar plane images rotated in 45° increments were utilized to measure the RTs required for judging hand/foot laterality. A split-belt treadmill paradigm was applied, and the number of strides until the value of the asymmetrical ground reaction force reached a steady state was calculated to evaluate the individual motor adaptation ability. No significant relationship was found between the mean RT of the egocentric perspectives (0°, 45°, and 315°) or allocentric perspectives (135°, 180°, and 225°) and adaptive learning ability of gait, irrespective of body parts or image planes. Contrarily, the change rate of RTs obtained by subtracting the RT of the egocentric perspective from that of the allocentric perspective in dorsal hand/foot images that reflect the time to mentally transform a rotated visual stimulus correlated only with adaptive learning ability. Interestingly, the change rate of RTs calculated using the palmar and plantar images, assumed to reflect the three-dimensional transformation process, was not correlated. These findings suggest that individual differences in the processing capability of visual stimuli during the transformation process involved in the pure motor simulation of MR tasks are precisely related to individual motor adaptation ability.
The essential oil from Drimys winteri possess activity: Antioxidant, theoretical chemistry reactivity, antimicrobial, antiproliferative and chemical composition
Authors: Bruna Flavia , Fernández Katia , Urrejola Felipe , Touma Jorge , Navarro Myriam , Sepúlveda Betsabet , Larrazabal-Fuentes María , Paredes Adrián , Neira Iván , Ferrando Matías , Osorio Manuel , Yañez Osvaldo , Bravo Jessica
Published: November 2022

The Mapuche and their ancestors have used D. winteri in traditional medicine. In the present study, the essential oil extract of D. winteri leaves (DW_EO) were characterized chemically and biologically to evaluate its pharmacological activity. In vitro antioxidant activity was assayed, and antitumor activity was evaluated in non-tumor and tumor-cell culture lines. Caenorhabditis elegans was used as a model to evaluate toxicity, and the chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The chemical oil composition was characterized principally of five major terpenes: 4 sesquiterpenes γ-Eudesmol (39.7%), β-Caryophyllene (33.7%), Elemol (25.9%), α-Eudesmol (0.3%) and 1 diterpene Kaunene (0.4%). By quantum calculations, it was determined that all oils have the ability to capture and yield electrons, which is consistent with the moderate antioxidant activity of DW_EO detected in vitro. Furthermore, by molecular docking is estimated that these oils can bind to proteins involved in the production of oxygen radicals. Of these proteins, CYP2C9 could bind energetically, reaching binding energy between −6.8 and −9.2 kCal/mol for the 5 terpenes studied, highlighting among these β-Caryophyllen and γ-Eudesmol. DW_EO has effect against H. pylori (MIC 32 μg/ml), S. aureus (MIC 8 μg/ml), E. coli (MIC 32 μg/ml) and C. albicans (MIC 64 μg/ml), β-Caryophyllen and γ -Eudesmol (MIC 64 μg/ml) and could selectively inhibit the proliferation of epithelial tumor cell lines but showed low against C. elegans (0.39–1.56 μg mL−1). Therefore, DW_EO may be used as a source of bioactive compounds in novel pharmacological treatments for medical application, agronomics, sanitation, and food.
Effect of inulin, galacto oligosaccharides and iron fortification on iron deficiency anemia among women of reproductive age; a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Iqbal Sehar , Ahmed Waqas , Zafar Saira , Farooq Umar , Abid Juweria , Shah Hassan Bin Usman , Akram Sajeela , Ghazanfar Madiha , Ahmad Abdul Momin Rizwan
Published: November 2022

Iron supplementation and fortification are the well-known approaches to treat iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in women of reproductive age. The objective of the current randomized controlled trial (RCT) was to evaluate the cumulative effects of prebiotics and iron fortification among women of reproductive age. For this purpose, a total of 75 iron deficient women of childbearing age were recruited and randomly divided into 5 groups (4 treatment groups and 1 control group). Four different types of fortified wheat flour were prepared using two iron fortificants (NaFeEDTA and FeSO4) and two prebiotics [inulin and galacto oligosaccharides (GOS)], while control group was treated with iron fortified flour without any prebiotics. Blood samples were collected from overnight fasted women on monthly basis up to 90 days. Hematological indices such as Hemoglobin (Hb), Hematocrit, Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count and Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), as well as iron biomarkers including serum iron, ferritin, transferrin, and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) were evaluated for analyses. The results showed a considerable positive improvement in all iron biomarkers as well as hematological indices among the treatment groups (P-value < 0.05), as compared to the control group. A maximum Hb (11.86 ± 0.24 mg/dL) and hematocrit value (35.06 ± 1.32%), was reported in group G3 which was treated with fortified wheat flour at a dose of 963 mg/kg GOS + 15 ppm FeSO4. On the other hand, highest mean values for RBC Count (4.73 ± 0.41 mil/mm3), MCV (81.41 ± 3.21 fL), serum iron (75.62 ± 2.79 μg/dL), serum transferrin (16.82 ± 0.30 mg/dL), and TIBC (403.68 ± 7.27 μg/dL) were observed in G4 group receiving the fortified wheat flour at a dose of 963 mg/kg GOS + 30 ppm FeSO4 level. The study concluded that prebiotic fortification along with iron salts helps to enhance iron absorption among iron deficiency anemic women of reproductive age.