bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of a Macronutrient-Based Diet and Time-Restricted Feeding (16:8) on Body Composition in Physically Active Individuals—A 14-Week Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Isenmann Eduard , Dissemond Joshua , Geisler Stephan
Published: September 2021

The number of people suffering from being overweight or obese has risen steadily in recent years. Consequently, new forms of nutrition and diets were developed as potential solutions. In the last years, the time-restricted feeding and continuous energy restriction via macronutrient-based diets were increasingly popular. Both diets were exclusively studied separately. A comparison of the two diets for people with a high body mass index despite regular physical activity has not yet been studied in detail. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of these two diets on body composition and adherence. For this study, a total of 42 subjects (m = 21, f = 21) with a BMI above 25 were recruited from a local fitness gym. After a two-week familiarisation period, one of the two diets was followed over 14 weeks. Dietary behaviour was monitored throughout the period with a food diary. The primary measurement parameters were body weight, lean body mass, fat mass, body mass index, and waist and hip circumference. In addition, adherence was assessed and calculated by food diary and questionnaire. In total, the data of 35 participants (m = 14, f = 21) were analysed. Significant reductions in body weight, fat mass, body mass index, and waist and hip circumference were observed in both groups (p < 0.05). No significant change could be observed in lean body mass in either category. No group and gender differences were detected in any of the primary parameters. For the secondary parameters, a significantly higher adherence was observed in the time-restricted feeding group (p < 0.05). In addition, it can be assumed that an adherence of 60–70% cannot lead to positive changes in body composition. In conclusion, there were no differences between the two diets on the primary parameters. However, it seemed that time-restricted feeding can be better implemented in everyday life, and an adherence of more than 70% is required for both diets to prove effective.
Reef Structural Complexity Influences Fish Community Metrics on a Remote Oceanic Island: Serranilla Island, Seaflower Biosphere Reserve, Colombia
Authors: Castaño Diana , Morales-de-Anda Diana , Prato Julián , Cupul-Magaña Amílcar Leví , Echeverry Johanna Paola , Santos-Martínez Adriana
Published: September 2021

Serranilla is a protected island of the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve, far from dense human population. These characteristics could help sustain structurally complex coral reefs, often associated with higher biodiversity, abundance, and biomass of reef-associated organisms, including reef fish. However, the multiple threats present in Serranilla, including intense illegal fishing, can impact coral ecosystems generally and also specific key groups, such as the parrotfish, in particular. During the “Seaflower Research Expedition 2017”, we assessed how structural habitat complexity influences reef fish assemblages. In addition, we explored differences in parrotfish species (family: Scaridae) between Serranilla and San Andrés, the most populated island in the Archipelago. On Serranilla, we found that habitat structure, rugosity, and coral cover accounted for up to 66% of variation in reef fish diversity, abundance, and biomass, with values being higher on more complex reefs. Parrotfish species differed between the islands, with larger species supporting higher biomasses at Serranilla, by comparison with San Andrés; however, the abundance, biomass, and lengths of parrotfish species were low in both areas compared with those reported from other protected Caribbean reefs. Our study indicates that despite the evident relationship between structurally complex habitats and reef fish, other threats in Serranilla could be affecting parrotfish populations, such as illegal fishing, a widespread activity in the area.
Recent Advances in the Control of Helminths of Domestic Animals by Helminthophagous Fungi
Authors: Araújo Jackson Victor , Braga Fabio Ribeiro , Mendoza-de-Gives Pedro , Paz-Silva Adolfo , Vilela Vinícius Longo Ribeiro
Published: September 2021

This review describes the advances acquired and proven in the use of helminthophagous fungi in the control of gastrointestinal helminth parasites in domestic animals. Old and well-known premises about parasitic epidemiology and the factors that can interfere with the best performance of biological control are mentioned. Some of the most promising fungi are Duddingtonia flagrans from the predatory fungi group and Pochonia chamydosporia and Mucor circinelloides from the ovicidal fungi group. These fungi produce resistance spores called chlamidospores. Bioverm® and BioWorma®, based on the fungus D. flagrans, are available as commercial. Biotechnological products such as nanoparticles and obtaining primary and secondary metabolites have already been obtained from these fungi. Because they have different mechanisms of action, ovicidal and predatory fungi, when used together, can present a complementary and synergistic action in the biological control of helminths. Therefore, future research in the search for new formulations, the association of fungi from different groups, extraction of new molecules, and nanoparticles of these fungi in the control of helminths in various domestic animals are desired.
Investigation of Bufavirus and Parvovirus 4 in Patients with Gastro-Enteritis from the South-East of France
Authors: Simo-Fouda Francis , Thirion Laurence , Nougairède Antoine , Luciani Léa , Driouich Jean-Sélim , Petit Paul Rémi , Delaunay Pascal , Charrel Remi N.
Published: September 2021

Bufavirus (BuV) and human parvovirus 4 (PARV4) belong to the Parvoviridae family. We assessed BuV and PARV4 DNA presence by real-time PCR analysis in stool, blood and respiratory samples collected in patients from Marseille and Nice, two large cities in the South-East of France. Bu-V DNA was detected in diarrheic stool samples from 92 patients (3.6% of 2583 patients), particularly men and adults, and patients from the nephrology and the infectious disease departments. Among the patients with a BuV-positive stool sample and for whom at least one blood sample was available (n = 30 patients), BuV DNA was detected also in 3 blood samples. In contrast, BuV DNA was not detected in any of the respiratory samples from 23 patients with BuV-positive stool. BuV detection rate was comparable in stool samples from patients with and without diarrhea. We did not detect PARV4 DNA in any of the stool specimens (n = 2583 patients). Our results suggest that PARV4 fecal–oral transmission is rare or non-existent in the South-East of France while BuV circulates with a relatively high rate in this area.
Parasites Circulating in Wild Synanthropic Capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris): A One Health Approach
Authors: Uribe Manuel , Hermosilla Carlos , Rodríguez-Durán Arlex , Vélez Juan , López-Osorio Sara , Chaparro-Gutiérrez Jenny J. , Cortés-Vecino Jesús A.
Published: September 2021

Capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) are affected by a wide range of protozoan and metazoan-derived parasitic diseases. Among parasites of free-ranging capybaras are soil-, water-, food- and gastropod-borne parasitosis, today considered as opportunistic infections in semiaquatic ecosystems. The overlapping of the capybara’s natural ecological habitats with human and domestic animal activities has unfortunately increased in recent decades, thereby enhancing possible cross- or spillover events of zoonotic parasites. Due to this, three synanthropic wild capybara populations in the Orinoco Basin were studied for the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasite infections. A total of forty-six fecal samples were collected from free-ranging capybaras in close proximity to livestock farms. Macroscopical analyses, standard copromicroscopical techniques, coproELISA, PCR, and phylogenetic analysis revealed thirteen parasite taxa. In detail, the study indicates stages of five protozoans, four nematodes, one cestode, and three trematodes. Two zoonotic parasites were identified (i.e., Plagorchis muris, and Neobalantidium coli). The trematode P. muris represents the first report within South America. In addition, this report expands the geographical distribution range of echinocoelosis (Echinocoleus hydrochoeri). Overall, parasitological findings include two new host records (i.e., P. muris, and Entamoeba). The present findings collectively constitute baseline data for future monitoring of wildlife-derived anthropozoonotic parasites and call for future research on the health and the ecological impact of this largest semiaquatic rodent closely linked to humans, domestic and wild animals.
Semaphorin 3A—Glycosaminoglycans Interaction as Therapeutic Target for Axonal Regeneration
Authors: Pérez Yolanda , Bonet Roman , Corredor Miriam , Domingo Cecilia , Moure Alejandra , Messeguer Àngel , Bujons Jordi , Alfonso Ignacio
Published: September 2021

Semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) is a cell-secreted protein that participates in the axonal guidance pathways. Sema3A acts as a canonical repulsive axon guidance molecule, inhibiting CNS regenerative axonal growth and propagation. Therefore, interfering with Sema3A signaling is proposed as a therapeutic target for achieving functional recovery after CNS injuries. It has been shown that Sema3A adheres to the proteoglycan component of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and selectively binds to heparin and chondroitin sulfate-E (CS-E) glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). We hypothesize that the biologically relevant interaction between Sema3A and GAGs takes place at Sema3A C-terminal polybasic region (SCT). The aims of this study were to characterize the interaction of the whole Sema3A C-terminal polybasic region (Sema3A 725–771) with GAGs and to investigate the disruption of this interaction by small molecules. Recombinant Sema3A basic domain was produced and we used a combination of biophysical techniques (NMR, SPR, and heparin affinity chromatography) to gain insight into the interaction of the Sema3A C-terminal domain with GAGs. The results demonstrate that SCT is an intrinsically disordered region, which confirms that SCT binds to GAGs and helps to identify the specific residues involved in the interaction. NMR studies, supported by molecular dynamics simulations, show that a new peptoid molecule (CSIC02) may disrupt the interaction between SCT and heparin. Our structural study paves the way toward the design of new molecules targeting these protein–GAG interactions with potential therapeutic applications.
The Use of Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Pharmaceutical Advertisements in Televised and Print Formats as a Teaching Tool in a Pharmacy Curriculum
Authors: Suryanarayanan Asha
Published: September 2021

The overall goal of this study was to employ direct-to-consumer advertisements (DTCAs) as a teaching tool in a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) curriculum. The objectives of this pilot study were to investigate the following questions: 1. Do DTCAs generate student curiosity about the advertised drug and associated disease? 2. Can DTCAs help students understand and reinforce various pharmacological aspects of the drug? 3. How do students perceive DTCAs? A DTCA-based teaching tool was employed in a pharmacology course taken by P2 (second professional year) PharmD and final year (U4) Bachelor of Science (BS) in Pharmacology–Toxicology students. A voluntary online survey was administered to students to determine the effectiveness of this tool. Survey data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. 70–85% of responding students indicated that this teaching tool was an effective visual aid for learning pharmacology and correlating the drug to disease state, mechanism of action, and adverse effects. Moreover, themes identified from the qualitative analysis suggest that this teaching tool may be useful to enhance patient counseling skills in students. The initial implementation of this DTCA-based teaching tool proved to be successful, and a similar approach can be easily implemented in other pharmacotherapy and laboratory courses. Further studies are needed to determine if this approach can improve patient counseling skills.
Using Technology to Enhance Teaching and Learning in Pharmacy Education
Authors: Kebodeaux Clark D. , Mak Vivienne
Published: September 2021

It was a privilege to serve as guest editors in Pharmacy for the Special Issue ‘Technology-Enhanced Pharmacy Teaching and Learning Strategies’ [...]
Reimagining Pharmacy Education through the Lens of a Choose Your Own Adventure Activity—A Qualitative Evaluation
Authors: Scott Devin , Cernasev Alina , Kiles Tyler Marie
Published: September 2021

Background: Successful pharmacy curricula expose students to a variety of teaching and assessment methods to prepare students for clinical practice. However, development of clinical decision-making skills is often challenging for learners. To meet this need, the Choose Your Own Adventure (CYOA) Patient Case Format was developed to enhance traditional paper patient cases by integrating problem-based and case-based learning to improve pharmacy student learning. The objectives of this evaluation were to qualitatively evaluate the CYOA case format. The qualitative assessment of the student pharmacist’s learning experience utilizing this novel patient case format was used to formulate a template for extrapolation to other disease states. Methods: Focus groups were conducted with second year Pharm.D. students enrolled at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) College of Pharmacy. The focus groups were conducted in Fall 2020, beginning the week after they were exposed to the CYOA case format. The corpus of data was analyzed thematically to identify themes using inductive coding. To establish the validity of this evaluation, the team met to assess the consistency of the data reduction methods and guard against methodological issues that could influence and affect coding decisions. Results: Participants were recruited until thematic saturation was achieved. Out of 25 participants, 23 participants provided demographic information, with 74% identifying as female. Thematic analysis identified three themes: (1) “It was just fun!” (2) Empowering Pharmacy Students through Groupwork: “Collaboration [is] going to be vital” and (3) Meeting the Need for Real-Life Scenarios: “This is a real person.” Conclusions: The data highlight that there are numerous advantages of adopting the CYOA format for delivering applied pharmacotherapy content. The CYOA format presents students with a realistic scenario that is fun and engaging and challenges students to justify their decisions regarding patient care in a structured group environment.
Design and Simulation of Terahertz Perfect Absorber with Tunable Absorption Characteristic Using Fractal-Shaped Graphene Layers
Authors: Maghoul Amir , Rostami Ali , Gnanakulasekaran Nilojan , Balasingham Ilangko
Published: September 2021

Graphene material, due to its unique conductivity and transparency properties, is utilized extensively in designing tunable terahertz perfect absorbers. This paper proposes a framework to design a tunable terahertz perfect absorber based on fractal triangle-shaped graphene layers embedded into dielectric substrates with the potential for spectral narrowing and widening of the absorption response without the need for geometric manipulation. In this way, the absorption cross-section spectra of the suggested configurations are achieved over the absorption band. First, the defection impact on the single-layer fractal triangle-shaped graphene structure inserted in insulators of the absorber is evaluated. Then, a flexible tunability of the absorbance’s peak is indicated by controlling the Fermi energy. By stacking fractal graphene sheets as a double graphene layer configuration in both the same and cross-states positioning, it is demonstrated that the absorption characteristics can be switched at 6–8 THz with a stronger amplitude, and 16–18 THz with a lower intensity. The impact of changing the Fermi potentials of embedded graphene layers is yielded, resulting in a plasmonic resonance shift and a significant broadening of the absorption bandwidth of up to five folds. Following, the absorption spectra related to the fractal triangle-shaped structures consist of a multi-stage architecture characterized by a spectral response experiencing a multiband absorbance rate and an absorption intensity of over 8 × 106 nm2 in a five-stage perfect absorber. Ultimately, the variations of the absorbance parameter and plasmonic mode under rotating the graphene sheet are explored for single and double fractal triangle-shaped perfect configurations on the absorption band. The presented mechanism demonstrates the tunability of the absorption spectrum in terms of narrowing or broadening and switching the plasmonic resonance by configuring multi-stage structures that can employ a broad range of applications for sensory devices.
Classical Chaos Described by a Density Matrix
Authors: Kowalski Andres Mauricio , Plastino Angelo , Gonzalez Gaspar
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a reference to the semiclassical model, in which quantum degrees of freedom interact with classical ones, is considered. The classical limit of a maximum-entropy density matrix that describes the temporal evolution of such a system is analyzed. Here, it is analytically shown that, in the classical limit, it is possible to reproduce classical results. An example is classical chaos. This is done by means a pure-state density matrix, a rather unexpected result. It is shown that this is possible only if the quantum part of the system is in a special class of states.
Regional Heritability Mapping of Quantitative Trait Loci Controlling Traits Related to Growth and Productivity in Popcorn (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Mafra Gabrielle Sousa , de Almeida Filho Janeo Eustáquio , do Amaral Junior Antônio Teixeira , Maldonado Carlos , Kamphorst Samuel Henrique , de Lima Valter Jário , dos Santos Junior Divino Rosa , Leite Jhean Torres , Santos Pedro Henrique Araujo Diniz , de Oliveira Santos Talles , Bispo Rosimeire Barboza , de Oliveira Uéliton Alves , Pinto Vitor Batista , Viana Alexandre Pio , Correa Caio Cezar Guedes , Ahmar Sunny , Mora-Poblete Freddy
Published: September 2021

The method of regional heritability mapping (RHM) has become an important tool in the identification of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) controlling traits of interest in plants. Here, RHM was first applied in a breeding population of popcorn, to identify the QTLs and candidate genes involved in grain yield, plant height, kernel popping expansion, and first ear height, as well as determining the heritability of each significant genomic region. The study population consisted of 98 S1 families derived from the 9th recurrent selection cycle (C-9) of the open-pollinated variety UENF-14, which were genetically evaluated in two environments (ENV1 and ENV2). Seventeen and five genomic regions were mapped by the RHM method in ENV1 and ENV2, respectively. Subsequent genome-wide analysis based on the reference genome B73 revealed associations with forty-six candidate genes within these genomic regions, some of them are considered to be biologically important due to the proteins that they encode. The results obtained by the RHM method have the potential to contribute to knowledge on the genetic architecture of the growth and yield traits of popcorn, which might be used for marker-assisted selection in breeding programs.
Biology, Ecology and Management of the Invasive Navua Sedge (Cyperus aromaticus)—A Global Review
Authors: Shi Boyang , Osunkoya Olusegun O. , Chadha Aakansha , Florentine Singarayer K. , Dhileepan Kunjithapatham
Published: September 2021

Navua sedge (Cyperus aromaticus (Ridley) Mattf. & Kukenth) is an invasive perennial sedge, native to tropical Africa, which is threatening many natural ecosystems and agroecosystems, especially in northern Queensland, Australia. Crop and pasture production have been impacted by Navua sedge and it is also directly causing reductions in dairy and beef production in affected regions. This review documents the biology, ecology and potential management options to minimise the spread and impact of Navua sedge. The weed reproduces both sexually (seeds) and vegetatively (via underground rhizomes). Its tiny seeds can be spread easily via wind, water, vehicles, farm machinery and animals, whilst the rhizomes assist with establishment of dense stands. The CLIMEX model (which uses distribution and climate data in native and novel ranges) indicates that in Australia, Navua sedge has the potential to spread further within Queensland and into the Northern Territory, New South Wales and Victoria. Several management strategies, including mechanical, chemical and agronomic methods, and their integration will have to be used to minimise agricultural production losses caused by Navua sedge, but most of these methods are currently either ineffective or uneconomical when used alone. Other management approaches, including biological control and mycoherbicides, are currently being explored. We conclude that a better understanding of the interaction of its physiological processes, ecological patterns and genetic diversity across a range of conditions found in the invaded and native habitats will help to contribute to and provide more effective integrated management approaches for Navua sedge.
Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity of a Halophyte from the Asturian Coast (Spain): Limonium binervosum (G.E.Sm.) C.E.Salmon
Authors: Sánchez-Hernández Eva , Buzón-Durán Laura , Langa-Lomba Natalia , Casanova-Gascón José , Lorenzo-Vidal Belén , Martín-Gil Jesús , Martín-Ramos Pablo
Published: September 2021

The work presented herein deals with the characterization and valorization of a halophyte from the cliffs of the Asturian coast: Limonium binervosum (G.E.Sm.) C.E.Salmon (rock sea-lavender). Its biomass and hydromethanolic extracts were studied by elemental and thermal analysis, infrared spectroscopy and gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy. Tetradecanoic acid/esters and 1,2-tetradecanediol were identified in its flower extract, while the leaf extract was rich in linolenic and linoleic acids and their esters, hexadecanoic acid and its esters, and phytol. Both flower and leaf hydromethanolic extracts contained eicosane, sitosterol and tocopherols in significant amounts. With a view to its valorization, the antimicrobial activity of these extracts was investigated against three apple tree and grapevine phytopathogens. Both the hydroalcoholic extracts and their main constituents, alone or in combination with chitosan oligomers (COS), were tested in vitro. A remarkable antibacterial activity was observed for the conjugated complexes of the flower extract with COS, both against Xylophilus ampelinus (MIC = 250 μg·mL−1) and Erwinia amylovora (MIC = 500 μg·mL−1), and complete inhibition of the mycelial growth of Diplodia seriata was found at concentrations <1000 μg·mL−1. In view of these results, this extremophile plant can be put forward as a promising source of bioactive metabolites.
In Vitro Propagation and Acclimatization of Banana Plants: Antioxidant Enzymes, Chemical Assessments and Genetic Stability of Regenerates as a Response to Copper Sulphate
Authors: Elyazid Doaa M. Abou , Salama Abdel-Moety , Zanaty Abdel Fattah M. El , Abdalla Neama
Published: September 2021

Developing a successful protocol for banana in vitro culture is a guarantee for the mass propagation of pathogen-free, high-quality, true-to-type planting materials with low production costs. The current work aimed to investigate the influence of increasing copper levels in an MS medium on endophytic bacterial contamination; shoot multiplication; rooting and the acclimatization of in vitro cultured banana; minerals and chlorophyll content; antioxidant enzymes activity; electrolyte leakage; and the genetic stability of banana regenerants. Four different concentrations of copper sulphate (0.025 as a control, and 30, 60, and 120 mg L−1) were examined. The growth of the endophytic bacteria was inhibited at 60 mg L−1 of copper sulphate which recorded zero contamination, without a significant difference at 120 mg L−1. However, 0.025 mg L−1 of copper sulphate was optimal for the maximum shoot number and shoot length (10 shoots and 6 cm, respectively) without significant differences at 30 mg L−1. The root length of banana plantlets was significantly enhanced at 30 mg L−1 of copper sulphate but without significant differences to the control, regarding the number of roots (9.92 cm and 3.80 roots, respectively). In vitro plants were acclimatized successfully at 30 mg L−1 of copper sulphate with 100% survival. The uptake of minerals, antioxidant enzyme activity and electrolyte leakage was improved because of the copper sulphate, but the chlorophyll level decreased. RAPD profiling showed polymorphism in only one plant treated with 60 mg L−1 of copper sulphate, with an average of 1.8%. The genome template stability percentage was almost 100% for all treated plants.
Chemical Diversity and Therapeutic Effects of Essential Oils of Aniba Species from the Amazon: A Review
Authors: da Trindade Rafaela C. S. , Xavier Júlia Karla A. M. , Setzer William N. , Maia José Guilherme S. , da Silva Joyce Kelly R.
Published: September 2021

Lauraceae families have great diversity in the world’s tropical regions and are represented mainly by aromatic shrubs and trees with significant production of essential oils (EOs). This work presents a review of the EO chemical profiles from specimens of Aniba, including their seasonal variations, geographical distributions, and biological activities in the Amazon biome. Based on the survey, 15 species were reviewed, representing 167 oil samples extracted from leaves, twig barks, and woods. Brazilian Amazon was the most representative geographic area in the number of specimens, highlighting the locations Belém, (Pará state, PA) (3 spp., 37 samples), Santarém (PA) (3 spp., 10 samples), Carajás (PA) (3 spp., 7 samples), and Manaus (Amazonas state, AM) (3 spp., 16 samples). The main compound classes identified in oils were benzenoids and phenylpropanoids, represented by 1-nitro-2-phenylethane, benzyl salicylate, benzyl benzoate and methyleugenol, along with terpenoids, especially monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, such as linalool, α-phellandrene, β-phellandrene, β-selinene, and spathulenol. The EOs from Aniba showed considerable variation in the chemical profiles according to season and collection site. The hierarchical cluster analysis classified the samples into two main groups according to chemical composition. This review highlights its comprehensive and up-to-date information on history, conservation, traditional uses, chemosystematics, pharmacological potential of Aniba species.
Characterisation of a 4A QTL for Metribuzin Resistance in Wheat by Developing Near-Isogenic Lines
Authors: Bhattarai Rudra , Liu Hui , Siddique Kadambot H. M. , Yan Guijun
Published: September 2021

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production is constantly affected by weeds in the farming system. Chemical-based weed management is widely practiced; broad-spectrum herbicides such as metribuzin have been successfully used to control weeds in Australia and elsewhere of the world. Breeding metribuzin-resistant wheat through genetic improvement is needed for effective control of weeds. Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) mapping efforts identified a major QTL on wheat chromosome 4A, explaining up to 20% of the phenotypic variance for metribuzin resistance. The quantitative nature of inheritance of this QTL signifies the importance of near-isogenic lines (NILs), which can convert a quantitative trait into a Mendelian factor for better resolution of the QTL. In the current study, NILs were developed using a heterogeneous inbred family method combined with a fast generation-cycling system in a population of Chuan Mai 25 (resistant) and Ritchie (susceptible). Seven pairs of NILs targeting the 4A QTL for metribuzin resistance were confirmed with a molecular marker and phenotyping. The resistant allele from the resistant parent increased metribuzin resistance by 63–85% (average 69%) compared with the susceptible allele from the susceptible parent. Segregation analysis in the NIL pairs for thousand grain weight (TGW) (g), biomass per plant (kg), tillers per plant, plant height (cm), yield per plant, and powdery mildew visual score (0–9) indicated that these traits were linked with metribuzin resistance. Similarly, TGW was observed to co-segregate with metribuzin resistance in most confirmed NILs, signifying that the two traits are controlled by closely linked genes. The most contrasting NILs can be further characterised by transcriptomic and proteomic analyses to identify the candidate genes responsible for metribuzin resistance.
Structural Characteristics of Ion Holes in Plasma
Authors: Aravindakshan Harikrishnan , Kakad Amar , Kakad Bharati , Yoon Peter H.
Published: September 2021

Ion holes refer to the phase-space structures where the trapped ion density is lower at the center than at the rim. These structures are commonly observed in collisionless plasmas, such as the Earth’s magnetosphere. This paper investigates the role of multiple parameters in the generation and structure of ion holes. We find that the ion-to-electron temperature ratio and the background plasma distribution function of the species play a pivotal role in determining the physical plausibility of ion holes. It is found that the range of width and amplitude that defines the existence of ion holes splits into two separate domains as the ion temperature exceeds that of the electrons. Additionally, the present study reveals that the ion holes formed in a plasma with ion temperature higher than that of the electrons have a hump at its center.
Effect of Two- and Three-Dimensionally Designed Guide Vanes with Different Camber Length on Static Pressure Recovery of a Wall-Mounted Axial Fan
Authors: Kim Yong-In , Choi Yong-Uk , Jeong Cherl-Young , Lee Kyoung-Yong , Choi Young-Seok
Published: September 2021

This study was based on a numerical effort to use the motor support (prop) as a guide vane when the motor of a wall-mounted axial fan was located at the fan outlet while maintaining the structural and spatial advantage. The design for the guide vane followed two- and three-dimensional methods. The inlet vane angle, meridional length (total), and meridional length with a vane angle of zero (0) degrees (linear) were considered as design variables. At the design and some low flow rate points, the 2D design offered the most favorable performance when the meridional length with a vane angle of zero (0) degrees (linear) was 30% based on total length, and was the worst for 70%. The 3D design method applied in this study did not outperform the 2D design. In the 2D design concept, averaging the flow angle for the entire span at the design flow rate could ensure a better pressure rise over a more comprehensive flow rate range than weighting the flow angle for a specific span. In addition, the numerical results were validated through an experimental test, with an important discussion of the swirl (dynamic pressure) component. The influence of the inlet motor and turbulence model are presented as a previous confirmation.
Effect of Combined Hydrophilic Activation on Interface Characteristics of Si/Si Wafer Direct Bonding
Authors: Li Dongling , Cui Xiaohan , Du Mao , Zhou Ying , Lan Fenfen
Published: September 2021

Wafer direct bonding is an attractive approach to manufacture future micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) and microelectronic and optoelectronic devices. In this paper, a combined hydrophilic activated Si/Si wafer direct bonding process based on wet chemical activation and O2 plasma activation is explored. Additionally, the effect on bonding interface characteristics is comprehensively investigated. The mechanism is proposed to better understand the nature of hydrophilic bonding. The water molecule management is controlled by O2 plasma activation process. According to the contact angle measurement and FTIR spectrum analysis, it can be concluded that water molecules play an important role in the type and density of chemical bonds at the bonding interface, which influence both bonding strength and voids’ characteristics. When annealed at 350 °C, a high bonding strength of more than 18.58 MPa is obtained by tensile pulling test. Cross sectional SEM and TEM images show a defect-free and tightly bonded interface with an amorphous SiOx layer of 3.58 nm. This amorphous SiOx layer will induce an additional energy state, resulting in a lager resistance. These results can facilitate a better understanding of low-temperature hydrophilicity wafer direct bonding and provide possible guidance for achieving good performance of homogenous and heterogenous wafer direct bonding.
Numerical Simulation of the Novel Coronavirus Spread in Commercial Aircraft Cabin
Authors: Zhang Mengya , Yu Nu , Zhang Yao , Zhang Xin , Cui Yu
Published: September 2021

Passengers carrying the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in a commercial aircraft cabin may infect other passengers and the cabin crew. In this study, a cabin model of the seven-row Airbus A320 aircraft is constructed and meshed for simulating the SARS-CoV-2 spread in the cabin with a virus carrier using the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling tool. The passengers’ infection risk is also quantified with the susceptible exposure index (SEI) method. The results show that the virus spreads to the ceiling of the cabin within 50 s of the virus carrier’s normal breathing. Coughing makes the virus spread to the front three rows with a higher mass fraction. While the high mass fraction areas always stay on the same side of the aisle as the virus carrier, the adjacent passengers and the passengers in the back two rows are affected more than the others when the virus carrier breathes normally. Spread patterns under the carrier’s two breath conditions, normal breath and cough, were numerically simulated.
Approximation Possibilities of Fuzzy Control Surfaces for Purpose of Implementation into Microcontrollers
Authors: Olejár Martin , Marko Dušan , Lukáč Ondrej , Harničárová Marta , Valíček Jan
Published: September 2021

The main contribution of the paper is the simplification of the computational process of fuzzy control of a mobile robot controlled by a microcontroller. We present a way to implement this control method with a reduced computation time of control actions and memory demand. Our way to accomplish this, was to replace the fuzzy controller with the approximation of its resulting control surfaces. In the paper, we use the previously presented approximation by the table and describe other methods of approximation of the control area through polynomial and exponential function. We tested all approximation methods in simulations and with a real mobile robot. Based on the measured trajectory of the EN20 mobile robot, we found that approximation through the table is the most accurate in terms of the fuzzy surface but delivers noticeable oscillations of mobile robot control in real conditions. Polynomial and exponential functions fuzzy surface approximations were less accurate than the table, but provide smoother control based on robot trajectories and are much more appropriate in terms of microcontroller implementation due to lower demand on memory.
An Assessment of Air Quality within Facilities of Municipal Solid Waste Management (MSWM) Sites in Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Raza Syed Turab , Hafeez Sana , Ali Zulfiqar , Nasir Zaheer Ahmad , Butt Muhammad Moeen , Saleem Irfan , Wu Jianping , Chen Zhe , Xu Yunjian
Published: September 2021

The pollutants emission during the process of municipal solid waste management (MSWM) is of great concern due to its hazardous effect on the environment and living organisms. An assessment of the air quality of MSWM sites was made after having 16 repetitive visits at solid waste disposal sites and transfer stations of Lahore during wet and dry seasons. Pollution parameters such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and greenhouse gases (GHG) were measured along with meteorological parameters. PM2.5 measurement was made by using particle counter Dylos and TSI’s Dust Trak. Both of these instruments were positioned simultaneously at the source site and downwind (50 m). CH4 and meteorological parameters were measured by Aeroqual 500 series, while the Extech CO220 monitor was used to measure CO2 concentration. An assessment of air quality showed the levels of their mean values as CH4 and CO2 ranged between 1.5–13.7 ppm and 443.4–515.7 ppm, respectively. The PM2.5 ranged between 127.1 and 307.1 µg/m3 at sources and 172.3 and 403.8 µg/m3 downwind (50 m). GHG showed lower levels than the proposed limit value, which could not cause any health issues, while PM2.5 was 6–10 times higher than the Pak-EPA established standards. Higher pollutant concentration was recorded in the dry season than the wet season. Regression analysis was performed to predict correlation of PM2.5 with GHG and meteorological parameters. GHG as well as meteorological parameters also exhibited a correlation with PM2.5. It was estimated that the ambient air of such sites is not safe for public health. So, it is necessary to use safe practices for MSWM and its emission control to prevent nearby communities and the environment.
An Upper Limit to O2 Evolution as Test for Radical and Nonradical Mechanisms for the Fenton Reaction
Authors: Kremer Mordechai L.
Published: September 2021

The origin of an upper limit to the amount of O2 evolved in the rapid reaction between Fe2+ and H2O2 was investigated at a high concentration of H2O2. Using a nonradical model, including the formation of a primary Fe2+–biperoxy complex with a diminished rate of formation of the active intermediate FeO2+, agreement has been reached for the first time with the experimental data obtained by Barb et al. A limited formation of O2 requires that a finite concentration of H2O2 should be present in the reaction mixture when [Fe2+] falls to zero. It has been shown that in Barb et al.’s model the condition for such a state ([Fe2+] = 0, [H2O2] > 0) does not exist. Free radical based models fail as mechanisms for the Fenton reaction.
Interfacial Mass Transfer in Trichloroethylene/Surfactants/ Water Systems: Implications for Remediation Strategies
Authors: Valletti Nadia , Budroni Marcello A. , Lagzi Istvan , Marchettini Nadia , Sanchez-Dominguez Margarita , Rossi Federico
Published: September 2021

The fate of dense non-aqueous phase liquids (DNAPLs) in the environment and the consequential remediation problems have been intensively studied over the last 50 years. However, a scarce literature is present about the mass transfer at the DNAPL/water interface. In this paper, we present a fast method for the evaluation of the mass transfer performance of a surfactant that can easily be employed to support an effective choice for the so-called enhanced remediation strategies. We developed a lab-scale experimental system modelled by means of simple ordinary differential equations to calculate the mass transfer coefficient (K) of trichloroethylene, chosen as representative DNAPL, in the presence and in the absence of two ethoxylated alcohols belonging to the general class of Synperonic surfactants. Our findings revealed that it exists an optimal surfactant concentration range, where K increases up to 40% with respect to pure water.
Synthesis and Characterization of New Cyclam-Based Zr(IV) Alkoxido Derivatives
Authors: Alves Luis G. , Martins Ana M.
Published: September 2021

In this study, new mono- and di-alkoxido zirconium(IV) complexes supported by tetradentate dianionic cyclam ligands were synthesized and characterized. These compounds were obtained by reaction of the parent Zr(IV) dichlorido species with one or two equivalents of the corresponding lithium alkoxido, whereas (3,5-Me2Bn2Cyclam)Zr(OPh)2 was prepared by protonolysis of the orthometallated species (3,5-Me-C6H4CH2)2Cyclam)Zr with phenol. The solid-state molecular structures of (Bn2Cyclam)ZrCl(OtBu) and (4-tBuBn2Cyclam)Zr(OiPr)2 show a trigonal prismatic geometry around the metal centers. (Bn2Cyclam)Zr(SPh)(OtBu) and (Bn2Cyclam)ZrMe(OiPr) were prepared by reaction of (Bn2Cyclam)ZrCl(OR) (R = iPr, tBu) with one equivalent of LiSPh or MeMgCl, respectively. The reactions of (Bn2Cyclam)Zr(OiPr)2 and (4-tBuBn2Cyclam)Zr(OiPr)2 with carbon dioxide suggested the formation of species that correspond to the addition of four CO2 molecules.
The Leniency of Personal Bankruptcy Regulations in the EU Countries
Authors: Walter György , Krenchel Jens Valdemar
Published: September 2021

Discussions on personal bankruptcy regulations are usually focused on the controversial effects of leniency on society, economy, financial markets, entrepreneurship, and labour supply. However, the methodology of measuring leniency has been limited to one-time legislative changes or some elements of the US personal bankruptcy system. In contrast, we create a composite index of personal bankruptcy legislations. We calculate the composite index for 25 EU countries and the US as a benchmark, validate the results, and rank the countries according to the leniency of their personal bankruptcy systems. We analyse the index scores by region, law origin, and the age of the regime. We conclude that the systems show high heterogeneity and cannot be clustered by region or legal origin assumed based on former studies. However, there is a strong association between leniency and the age of legislation. Results indicate that personal bankruptcy policies in the EU are usually launched as creditor-friendly and are later shifted to a more lenient direction.
Data-Driven Interpolation of Sea Surface Suspended Concentrations Derived from Ocean Colour Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Vient Jean-Marie , Jourdin Frederic , Fablet Ronan , Mengual Baptiste , Lafosse Ludivine , Delacourt Christophe
Published: September 2021

Due to complex natural and anthropogenic interconnected forcings, the dynamics of suspended sediments within the ocean water column remains difficult to understand and monitor. Numerical models still lack capabilities to account for the variabilities depicted by in situ and satellite-derived datasets. Besides, the irregular space-time sampling associated with satellite sensors make crucial the development of efficient interpolation methods. Optimal Interpolation (OI) remains the state-of-the-art approach for most operational products. Due to the large increase of both in situ and satellite measurements more and more available information is coming from in situ and satellite measurements, as well as from simulation models. The emergence of data-driven schemes as possibly relevant alternatives with increased capabilities to recover finer-scale processes. In this study, we investigate and benchmark three state-of-the-art data-driven schemes, namely an EOF-based technique, an analog data assimilation scheme, and a neural network approach, with an OI scheme. We rely on an Observing System Simulation Experiment based on high-resolution numerical simulations and simulated satellite observations using real satellite sampling patterns. The neural network approach, which relies on variational data assimilation formulation for the interpolation problem, clearly outperforms both the OI and the other data-driven schemes, both in terms of reconstruction performance and of a greater ability to recover high-frequency events. We further discuss how these results could transfer to real data, as well as to other problems beyond interpolation issues, especially short-term forecasting problems from partial satellite observations.
Micro-Motion Parameter Extraction for Ballistic Missile with Wideband Radar Using Improved Ensemble EMD Method
Authors: Zhu Nannan , Hu Jun , Xu Shiyou , Wu Wenzhen , Zhang Yunfan , Chen Zengping
Published: September 2021

Micro-motion parameters extraction is crucial in recognizing ballistic missiles with a wideband radar. It is known that the phase-derived range (PDR) method can provide a sub-wavelength level accuracy. However, it is sensitive and unstable when the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is low. In this paper, an improved PDR method is proposed to reduce the impacts of low SNRs. First, the high range resolution profile (HRRP) is divided into a series of segments so that each segment contains a single scattering point. Then, the peak values of each segment are viewed as non-stationary signals, which are further decomposed into a series of intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) with different energy, using the ensemble empirical mode decomposition with the complementary adaptive noise (EEMDCAN) method. In the EEMDCAN decomposition, positive and negative adaptive noise pairs are added to each IMF layer to effectively eliminate the mode-mixing phenomenon that exists in the original empirical mode decomposition (EMD) method. An energy threshold is designed to select proper IMFs to reconstruct the envelop for high estimation accuracy and low noise effects. Finally, the least-square algorithm is used to do the ambiguous phases unwrapping to obtain the micro-curve, which can be further used to estimate the micro-motion parameters of the warhead. Simulation results show that the proposed method performs well with SNR at −5 dB with an accuracy level of sub-wavelength.
A Simple Printed Cross-Dipole Antenna with Modified Feeding Structure and Dual-Layer Printed Reflector for Direction Finding Systems
Authors: Anim Kyei , Park Bonghyuk , Lee Hui Dong , Jang Seunghyun , Kong Sunwoo , Jung Young-Bae
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a simple printed cross-dipole (PCD) antenna to achieve a right-hand circular polarization (RHCP) at the L/S-band for direction finding (DF) systems is presented. The radiating part of the antenna consists of two printed dipoles that interlock with each other and are mounted orthogonally on a dual-layer printed reflector. To connect the feedlines of the dipole elements to the antenna’s feed network, which is located on the backside of the reflector, a through-hole signal via (THSV) is employed as the signal interconnection instead of the mainstream approach of using coaxial bead conductor. This feeding technique provides a degree of freedom to control the impedance of the signal path between the feedlines and the feed network in the numerical simulation for improved matching conditions. The proposed THSV extending through the dual-layer printed reflector is more reliable, durable, and mechanically robust to stabilize the matching conditions of the fabricated antenna in contrast to the coaxial-based approach that is more susceptible to impedance mismatch due to solder fatigue. Thus, the proposed PCD antenna offers advantages of broadband, flexible impedance matching, and fabrication ease. The antenna exhibits an impedance bandwidth (IBW) of 59% (1.59–2.93 GHz), a 3-dB axial ratio bandwidth (ARBW) of 57% (1.5–2.7 GHz), and a peak of 7.5 dB within the operating frequency band.