bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Tetraplex qPCR for the Molecular Identification and Quantification of Human Enteric Viruses, NoV and HAV, in Fish Samples
Authors: Filipa-Silva Andreia , Nunes Mónica , Parreira Ricardo , Barreto Crespo Maria Teresa
Published: May 2021

Human enteric viruses such as norovirus (NoV) and hepatitis A virus (HAV) are some of the most important causes of foodborne infections worldwide. Usually, infection via fish consumption is not a concern regarding these viruses, since fish are mainly consumed cooked. However, in the last years, raw fish consumption has become increasingly common, especially involving the use of seabass and gilthead seabream in dishes like sushi, sashimi, poke, and carpaccio. Therefore, the risk for viral infection via the consumption of raw fish has also increased. In this study, a virologic screening was performed in 323 fish specimens captured along the Portuguese coast using a tetraplex qPCR optimised for two templates (plasmid and in vitro transcribed RNA) to detect and quantify NoV GI, NoV GII and HAV genomes. A difference of approximately 1-log was found between the use of plasmid or in vitro transcribed RNA for molecular-based quantifications, showing an underestimation of genome copy-number equivalents using plasmid standard-based curves. Additionally, the presence of NoV genomic RNA in a pool of seabass brains was identified, which was shown to cluster with a major group of human norovirus sequences from genogroup I (GI.1) by phylogenetic analysis. None of the analysed fish revealed the presence of NoV GII or HAV. This result corroborates the hypothesis that enteric viruses circulate in seawater or that fish were contaminated during their transportation/handling, representing a potential risk to humans through raw or undercooked fish consumption.
A Tunnel under an In-Pit Mine Waste Dump to Improve Environmental and Landscape Recovery of the Site
Authors: Rebbah Rania , Duarte Joana , Djezairi Omar , Fredj Mohamed , Baptista João Santos
Published: May 2021

By adopting the green mining concept, the mining industry seeks to respond to the current societal objective of supplying the mineral raw materials necessary for economic development while minimising the ecological footprint. To accomplish environmental recovery simultaneously with mineral exploitation, as well as to take advantage of mine waste, this study proposes a new solution that includes the construction of a tunnel to access the mining area. The concept, developed with topographical and geological data, was tested for the Bled El Hadba phosphate deposit. The extraction volumes were estimated by considering all the technical and legal aspects of the exploitation. The results showed that the best location for the tunnel is on the non-mineralised bottom of the mine and placed after ore removal. The tunnel is then progressively covered by mine tailings as it is extended. This concept is applicable to sub-horizontal ore deposits. We show that the solution is feasible and allows full site recovery at the end of the open-pit mining phase.
Insights into Layered Oxide Cathodes for Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Yang Julia H. , Kim Haegyeom , Ceder Gerbrand
Published: May 2021

Layered intercalation compounds are the dominant cathode materials for rechargeable Li-ion batteries. In this article we summarize in a pedagogical way our work in understanding how the structure’s topology, electronic structure, and chemistry interact to determine its electrochemical performance. We discuss how alkali–alkali interactions within the Li layer influence the voltage profile, the role of the transition metal electronic structure in dictating O3-structural stability, and the mechanism for alkali diffusion. We then briefly delve into emerging, next-generation Li-ion cathodes that move beyond layered intercalation hosts by discussing disordered rocksalt Li-excess structures, a class of materials which may be essential in circumventing impending resource limitations in our era of clean energy technology.
Recent Advances in bis-Chalcone-Based Photoinitiators of Polymerization: From Mechanistic Investigations to Applications
Authors: Giacoletto Nicolas , Dumur Frédéric
Published: May 2021

Over the past several decades, photopolymerization has become an active research field, and the ongoing efforts to develop new photoinitiating systems are supported by the different applications in which this polymerization technique is involved—including dentistry, 3D and 4D printing, adhesives, and laser writing. In the search for new structures, bis-chalcones that combine two chalcones’ moieties within a unique structure were determined as being promising photosensitizers to initiate both the free-radical polymerization of acrylates and the cationic polymerization of epoxides. In this review, an overview of the different bis-chalcones reported to date is provided. Parallel to the mechanistic investigations aiming at elucidating the polymerization mechanisms, bis-chalcones-based photoinitiating systems were used for different applications, which are detailed in this review.
Solubility Determination, Hansen Solubility Parameters and Thermodynamic Evaluation of Thymoquinone in (Isopropanol + Water) Compositions
Authors: Ghazwani Mohammed , Begum M. Yasmin , Alam Prawez , Alqarni Mohammed H. , Yusufoglu Hasan S. , Shakeel Faiyaz
Published: May 2021

This article studies the solubility, Hansen solubility parameters (HSPs), and thermodynamic behavior of a naturally-derived bioactive thymoquinone (TQ) in different binary combinations of isopropanol (IPA) and water (H2O). The mole fraction solubilities (x3) of TQ in various (IPA + H2O) compositions are measured at 298.2–318.2 K and 0.1 MPa. The HSPs of TQ, neat IPA, neat H2O, and binary (IPA + H2O) compositions free of TQ are also determined. The x3 data of TQ are regressed by van’t Hoff, Apelblat, Yalkowsky–Roseman, Buchowski–Ksiazczak λh, Jouyban–Acree, and Jouyban–Acree–van’t Hoff models. The maximum and minimum x3 values of TQ are recorded in neat IPA (7.63 × 10−2 at 318.2 K) and neat H2O (8.25 × 10−5 at 298.2 K), respectively. The solubility of TQ is recorded as increasing with the rise in temperature and IPA mass fraction in all (IPA + H2O) mixtures, including pure IPA and pure H2O. The HSP of TQ is similar to that of pure IPA, suggesting the great potential of IPA in TQ solubilization. The maximum molecular solute-solvent interactions are found in TQ-IPA compared to TQ-H2O. A thermodynamic study indicates an endothermic and entropy-driven dissolution of TQ in all (IPA + H2O) mixtures, including pure IPA and pure H2O.
The Nitric Oxide (NO) Donor Sodium Nitroprusside (SNP) and Its Potential for the Schizophrenia Therapy: Lights and Shadows
Authors: Zoupa Elli , Pitsikas Nikolaos
Published: May 2021

Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric disorder affecting up to 1% of the worldwide population. Available therapy presents different limits comprising lack of efficiency in attenuating negative symptoms and cognitive deficits, typical features of schizophrenia and severe side effects. There is pressing requirement, therefore, to develop novel neuroleptics with higher efficacy and safety. Nitric oxide (NO), an intra- and inter-cellular messenger in the brain, appears to be implicated in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. In particular, underproduction of this gaseous molecule is associated to this mental disease. The latter suggests that increment of nitrergic activity might be of utility for the medication of schizophrenia. Based on the above, molecules able to enhance NO production, as are NO donors, might represent a class of compounds candidates. Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) is a NO donor and is proposed as a promising novel compound for the treatment of schizophrenia. In the present review, we intended to critically assess advances in research of SNP for the therapy of schizophrenia and discuss its potential superiority over currently used neuroleptics.
Viscoelasticity and Solution Stability of Cyanoethylcellulose with Different Molecular Weights in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Li Qian , Li Yuehu , Jin Zehua , Li Yujie , Chen Yifan , Zhou Jinping
Published: May 2021

Water-soluble cellulose ethers are widely used as stabilizers, thickeners, and viscosity modifiers in many industries. Understanding rheological behavior of the polymers is of great significance to the effective control of their applications. In this work, a series of cyanoethylcellulose (CEC) samples with different molecular weights were prepared with cellulose and acrylonitrile in NaOH/urea aqueous solution under the homogeneous reaction. The rheological properties of water-soluble CECs as a function of concentration and molecular weight were investigated using shear viscosity and dynamic rheological measurements. Viscoelastic behaviors have been successfully described by the Carreau model, the Ostwald-de-Waele equation, and the Cox–Merz rule. The entanglement concentrations were determined to be 0.6, 0.85, and 1.5 wt% for CEC-11, CEC-7, and CEC-3, respectively. All of the solutions exhibited viscous behavior rather than a clear sol-gel transition in all tested concentrations. The heterogeneous nature of CEC in an aqueous solution was determined from the Cox–Merz rule due to the coexistence of single chain complexes and aggregates. In addition, the CEC aqueous solutions showed good thermal and time stability, and the transition with temperature was reversible.
GC-MS Studies on Derivatization of Creatinine and Creatine by BSTFA and Their Measurement in Human Urine
Authors: Begou Olga , Weber Kathrin , Beckmann Bibiana , Tsikas Dimitrios
Published: May 2021

In consideration of its relatively constant urinary excretion rate, creatinine (2-amino-1-methyl-5H-imidazol-4-one, MW 113.1) in urine is a useful endogenous biochemical parameter to correct the urinary excretion rate of numerous endogenous and exogenous substances. Reliable measurement of creatinine by gas chromatography (GC)-based methods requires derivatization of its amine and keto groups. Creatinine exists in equilibrium with its open form creatine (methylguanidoacetic acid, MW 131.1), which has a guanidine and a carboxylic group. Trimethylsilylation and trifluoroacetylation of creatinine and creatine are the oldest reported derivatization methods for their GC-mass spectrometry (MS) analysis in human serum using flame- or electron-ionization. We performed GC-MS studies on the derivatization of creatinine (d0-creatinine), [methylo-2H3]creatinine (d3-creatinine, internal standard) and creatine (d0-creatine) with N,O-bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA) using standard derivatization conditions (60 min, 60 °C), yet in the absence of any base. Reaction products were characterized both in the negative-ion chemical ionization (NICI) and in the positive-ion chemical ionization (PICI) mode. Creatinine and creatine reacted with BSTFA to form several derivatives. Their early eluting N,N,O-tris(trimethylsilyl) derivatives (8.9 min) were found to be useful for the precise and accurate measurement of the sum of creatinine and creatine in human urine (10 µL, up to 20 mM) by selected-ion monitoring (SIM) of m/z 271 (d0-creatinine/d0-creatine) and m/z 274 (d3-creatinine) in the NICI mode. In the PICI mode, SIM of m/z 256, m/z 259, m/z 272 and m/z 275 was performed. BSTFA derivatization of d0-creatine from a freshly prepared solution in distilled water resulted in formation of two lMate-eluting derivatives (14.08 min, 14.72 min), presumably creatinyl-creatinine, with the creatininyl residue existing in its enol form (14.08 min) and keto form (14.72 min). Our results suggest that BSTFA derivatization does not allow specific analysis of creatine and creatinine by GC-MS. Preliminary analyses suggest that pentafluoropropionic anhydride (PFPA) is also not useful for the measurement of creatinine in the presence of creatine. Both BSTFA and PFPA facilitate the conversion of creatine to creatinine. Specific measurement of creatinine in urine is possible by using pentafluorobenzyl bromide in aqueous acetone.
Facile Synthesis of Sponge-Like Porous Nano Carbon-Coated Silicon Anode with Tunable Pore Structure for High-Stability Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Song Shugui , Li Jingcang , Zheng Anqi , Yang Yongqiang , Yin Kuibo
Published: May 2021

To address the challenge of the huge volume expansion of silicon anode, carbon-coated silicon has been developed as an effective design strategy due to the improved conductivity and stable electrochemical interface. However, although carbon-coated silicon anodes exhibit improved cycling stability, the complex synthesis methods and uncontrollable structure adjustment still make the carbon-coated silicon anodes hard to popularize in practical application. Herein, we propose a facile method to fabricate sponge-like porous nano carbon-coated silicon (sCCSi) with a tunable pore structure. Through the strategy of adding water into precursor solution combined with a slow heating rate of pre-oxidation, a sponge-like porous structure can be formed. Furthermore, the porous structure can be controlled through stirring temperature and oscillation methods. Owing to the inherent material properties and the sponge-like porous structure, sCCSi shows high conductivity, high specific surface area, and stable chemical bonding. As a result, the sCCSi with normal and excessive silicon-to-carbon ratios all exhibit excellent cycling stability, with 70.6% and 70.2% capacity retentions after 300 cycles at 500 mA g−1, respectively. Furthermore, the enhanced buffering effect on pressure between silicon nanoparticles and carbon material due to the sponge-like porous structure in sCCSi is further revealed through mechanical simulation. Considering the facile synthesis method, flexible regulation of porous structure, and high cycling stability, the design of the sCCSi paves a way for the synthesis of high-stability carbon-coated silicon anodes.
Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Cell Culture in a Microfluidically Controlled Environment with a Static Molecular Gradient of Polyphenol
Authors: Szafran Roman G. , Gąsiorowski Kazimierz , Wiatrak Benita
Published: May 2021

To study the simultaneous effect of the molecular gradient of polyphenols (curcumin, trans-resveratrol, and wogonin) and biological factors released from tumor cells on apoptosis of adjacent cells, a novel microfluidic system was designed and manufactured. The small height/volume of microfluidic culture chambers and static conditions allowed for establishing the local microenvironment and maintaining undisturbed concentration profiles of naturally secreted from cells biochemical factors. In all trials, we observe that these conditions significantly affect cell viability by stimulating cell apoptosis at lower concentrations of polyphenols than in traditional multiwell cultures. The observed difference varied between 20.4–87.8% for curcumin, 11.0–37.5% for resveratrol, and 21.7–62.2% for wogonin. At low concentrations of polyphenols, the proapoptotic substances released from adjacent cells, like protein degradation products, significantly influence cell viability. The mean increase in cell mortality was 38.3% for microfluidic cultures. Our research has also confirmed that the gradient microsystem is useful in routine laboratory tests in the same way as a multiwell plate and may be treated as its replacement in the future. We elaborated the new repetitive procedures for cell culture and tests in static gradient conditions, which may become a gold standard of new drug investigations in the future.
Species Diversity and Secondary Metabolites of Sarcophyton-Associated Marine Fungi
Authors: Liu Yuanwei , Palaniveloo Kishneth , Alias Siti Aisyah , Sathiya Seelan Jaya Seelan
Published: May 2021

Soft corals are widely distributed across the globe, especially in the Indo-Pacific region, with Sarcophyton being one of the most abundant genera. To date, there have been 50 species of identified Sarcophyton. These soft corals host a diverse range of marine fungi, which produce chemically diverse, bioactive secondary metabolites as part of their symbiotic nature with the soft coral hosts. The most prolific groups of compounds are terpenoids and indole alkaloids. Annually, there are more bio-active compounds being isolated and characterised. Thus, the importance of the metabolite compilation is very much important for future reference. This paper compiles the diversity of Sarcophyton species and metabolites produced by their associated marine fungi, as well as the bioactivity of these identified compounds. A total of 88 metabolites of structural diversity are highlighted, indicating the huge potential these symbiotic relationships hold for future research.
The Peptide Functionalized Inorganic Nanoparticles for Cancer-Related Bioanalytical and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Li Xiaotong , Jian Minghong , Sun Yanhong , Zhu Qunyan , Wang Zhenxin
Published: May 2021

In order to improve their bioapplications, inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) are usually functionalized with specific biomolecules. Peptides with short amino acid sequences have attracted great attention in the NP functionalization since they are easy to be synthesized on a large scale by the automatic synthesizer and can integrate various functionalities including specific biorecognition and therapeutic function into one sequence. Conjugation of peptides with NPs can generate novel theranostic/drug delivery nanosystems with active tumor targeting ability and efficient nanosensing platforms for sensitive detection of various analytes, such as heavy metallic ions and biomarkers. Massive studies demonstrate that applications of the peptide–NP bioconjugates can help to achieve the precise diagnosis and therapy of diseases. In particular, the peptide–NP bioconjugates show tremendous potential for development of effective anti-tumor nanomedicines. This review provides an overview of the effects of properties of peptide functionalized NPs on precise diagnostics and therapy of cancers through summarizing the recent publications on the applications of peptide–NP bioconjugates for biomarkers (antigens and enzymes) and carcinogens (e.g., heavy metallic ions) detection, drug delivery, and imaging-guided therapy. The current challenges and future prospects of the subject are also discussed.
Optical Constants and Structural Properties of Epitaxial MoS2 Monolayers
Authors: Ermolaev Georgy A. , El-Sayed Marwa A. , Yakubovsky Dmitry I. , Voronin Kirill V. , Romanov Roman I. , Tatmyshevskiy Mikhail K. , Doroshina Natalia V. , Nemtsov Anton B. , Voronov Artem A. , Novikov Sergey M. , Markeev Andrey M. , Tselikov Gleb I. , Vyshnevyy Andrey A. , Arsenin Aleksey V. , Volkov Valentyn S.
Published: May 2021

Two-dimensional layers of transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have been widely studied owing to their exciting potential for applications in advanced electronic and optoelectronic devices. Typically, monolayers of TMDs are produced either by mechanical exfoliation or chemical vapor deposition (CVD). While the former produces high-quality flakes with a size limited to a few micrometers, the latter gives large-area layers but with a nonuniform surface resulting from multiple defects and randomly oriented domains. The use of epitaxy growth can produce continuous, crystalline and uniform films with fewer defects. Here, we present a comprehensive study of the optical and structural properties of a single layer of MoS2 synthesized by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) on a sapphire substrate. For optical characterization, we performed spectroscopic ellipsometry over a broad spectral range (from 250 to 1700 nm) under variable incident angles. The structural quality was assessed by optical microscopy, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy through which we were able to confirm that our sample contains a single-atomic layer of MoS2 with a low number of defects. Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopies revealed that MBE-synthesized MoS2 layers exhibit a two-times higher quantum yield of photoluminescence along with lower photobleaching compared to CVD-grown MoS2, thus making it an attractive candidate for photonic applications.
Achieving Ultra-High Performance Concrete by Using Packing Models in Combination with Nanoadditives
Authors: Díaz Jesús , Gálvez Jaime C. , Alberti Marcos G. , Enfedaque Alejandro
Published: May 2021

This paper describes the packing models that are fundamental for the design of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and their evolution. They are divided into two large groups: continuous and discrete models. The latter are those that provide the best method for achieving an adequate simulation of the packing of the particles up to nanometric size. This includes the interaction among the particles by means of loosening and wall coefficients, allowing a simulation of the virtual and real compactness of such particles. In addition, a relationship between virtual and real compactness is obtained through the compaction index, which may simulate the energy of compaction so that the particles are placed in the mold. The use of last-generation additives allows such models to be implemented with water–cement (w/c) ratios close to 0.18. However, the premise of maximum packing as a basic pillar for the production of UHPC should not be the only one. The cement hydration process affected by nanoadditives and the ensuing effectiveness of the properties in both fresh and hardened states according to the respective percentages in the mixture should also be studied. The characterization tests of the aggregates and additions (dry and wet compactness, granulometry, density and absorption) have been carried out in order to implement them numerically in the polydisperse packing model to obtain the compactness of the mixture. Establishing fixed percentages of nanoadditives in the calculation of the mixture’s compactness. The adequate ratio and proportion of these additions can lead to better results even at lower levels of compactness. The compressive strength values obtained at seven days are directly proportional to the calculated compactness. However, at the age of 28 days, better results were obtained in mixes with lower cement contents, fewer additions and lower compactness. Thus, mixes with lower cement contents and additions (silica fume and limestone filler) with a compactness of φ = 0.775 reached 80.1 MPa of strength at 7 days, which is lower than mixes with higher cement contents and number of additions (SF, limestone filler and nanosilica), which achieved a compactness of φ = 0.789 and 93.7 MPa for compressive strength. However, at 28 days the result was reversed with compressive strengths of 124.6 and 121.7 MPa, respectively.
Studies on the Physical Properties of TiO2:Nb/Ag/TiO2:Nb and NiO/Ag/NiO Three-Layer Structures on Glass and Plastic Substrates as Transparent Conductive Electrodes for Solar Cells
Authors: Hrostea Laura , Lisnic Petru , Mallet Romain , Leontie Liviu , Girtan Mihaela
Published: May 2021

In this paper, the physical properties of a new series of multilayer structures of oxide/metal/oxide type deposited on glass and plastic substrates were studied in the context of their use as transparent conductive layers for solar cells. The optical properties of TiO2/Ag/TiO2, TiO2:Nb/Ag/TiO2:Nb and NiO/Ag/NiO tri-layers were investigated by spectrophotometry and ellipsometry. Optimized ellipsometric modeling was employed in order to correlate the optical and electrical properties with the ones obtained by direct measurements. The wetting surface properties of single layers (TiO2, TiO2:Nb and NiO) and tri-layers (TiO2/Ag/TiO2 TiO2:Nb/Ag/TiO2:Nb and NiO/Ag/NiO) were also studied and good correlations were obtained with their morphological properties.
Adiponectin Gene Variant rs3774261, Effects on Lipid Profile and Adiponectin Levels after a High Polyunsaturated Fat Hypocaloric Diet with Mediterranean Pattern
Authors: de Luis Roman Daniel Antonio , Primo David , IZaola Olatz , Gómez Emilia , López Juan Jose
Published: May 2021

The role of ADIPOQ gene variants on metabolic improvements after weight change secondary to different hypocaloric diets remained unclear. We evaluate the effect of rs3774261 of ADIPOQ gene polymorphism on biochemical improvements and weight change after high polyunsaturated fat hypocaloric diet with a Mediterranean dietary pattern for 12 weeks. A population of 361 obese subjects was enrolled in an intervention trial with a calorie restriction of 500 calories over the usual intake and 45.7% of carbohydrates, 34.4% of fats, and 19.9% of proteins. The percentages of different fats was; 21.8% of monounsaturated fats, 55.5% of saturated fats, and 22.7% of polyunsaturated fats. Before and after intervention, an anthropometric study, an evaluation of nutritional intake and a biochemical evaluation were realized. All patients lost weight regardless of genotype and diet used. After 12 weeks with a similar improvement in weight loss (AA vs. AG vs. GG); total cholesterol (delta: −28.1 ± 2.1 mg/dL vs. −14.2 ± 4.1 mg/dL vs. −11.0 ± 3.9 mg/dL; p = 0.02), LDL cholesterol (delta: −17.1 ± 2.1 mg/dL vs. −6.1 ± 1.9 mg/dL vs. −6.0 ± 2.3 mg/dL; p = 0.01), triglyceride levels (delta: −35.0 ± 3.6 mg/dL vs. 10.1 ± 3.2 mg/dL vs. −9.7 ± 3.1 mg/dL; p = 0.02), C reactive protein (CRP) (delta: −2.3 ± 0.1 mg/dL vs. −0.2 ± 0.1 mg/dL vs. −0.2 ± 0.1 mg/dL; p = 0.02), serum adiponectin (delta: 11.6 ± 2.9 ng/dL vs. 2.1 ± 1.3 ng/dL vs. 3.3 ± 1.1 ng/dL; p = 0.02) and adiponectin/leptin ratio (delta: 1.5 ± 0.1 ng/dL vs. 0.3 ± 0.2 ng/dL vs. 0.4 ± 0.3 ng/dL; p = 0.03), improved only in AA group. AA genotype of ADIPOQ variant (rs3774261) is related with a significant increase in serum levels of adiponectin and ratio adiponectin/leptin and decrease on lipid profile and C-reactive protein (CRP).
Biometrics Assessment of Cluster- and Berry-Related Traits of Muscadine Grape Population
Authors: Campbell Jiovan , Sarkhosh Ali , Habibi Fariborz , Ismail Ahmed , Gajjar Pranavkumar , Zhongbo Ren , Tsolova Violeta , El-Sharkawy Islam
Published: May 2021

In this study, biometrics assessment of flower structure, cluster-, and berry-related traits were evaluated in a population of 90 muscadine grape genotypes for three consecutive years. This population consisted of 21 standard cultivars, 60 breeding lines, and 9 Vitis x Muscadinia hybrids (VM hybrids). Cluster length (CL) and width (CWI) characteristics exhibited slight differences among the population, with a range estimated at 7.1 and 4.6 cm, respectively. However, cluster weight (CWE), number of berries/cluster (N.B/C), and cluster compactness (CC) traits showed more diversity between individuals with a calculated range of 205.6 g, 32.6 B/C, and 24.1, respectively. Interestingly, all berry-related traits greatly varied between individuals, excluding the number of seeds/berry (N.S/B) character. The N.S/B trait displayed a narrow range of 5.6 seeds within the population. However, characters of berry length (BL), width (BWI), weight (BWE), the weight of seeds/berry (W.S/B), firmness (FF), and dry scar pattern (SP) demonstrated a wide estimated range of 21.2 mm, 21.7 mm, 25.4 g, 0.71 g, 0.21 N, and 82%, respectively. Normal distribution analysis for each trait suggested different distribution patterns extended between unimodal to multimodal behavior. Hierarchical mapping analysis was able to classify the population into several clades based on physical cluster- and berry-related attributes. The PCA suggested that hermaphroditic (perfect) flower structure is associated with compact clusters exhibiting small berries in size and weight (i.e., muscadine genotypes suitable for wine production). However, female flower structure is associated with clusters displaying large berries in size and weight (i.e., muscadine genotypes appropriate for fresh consumption). These patterns occurred independently of cluster size and weight characters. This research is the first study evaluating muscadine biometrics characters at a population level, providing valuable information for market demand and muscadine breeding programs.
Modeling of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) Yield and Control Insecticide Exposure in a Semi-Arid Region
Authors: Carvalho Messias de , Halecki Wiktor
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the adaptability of different genotypes of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) in the edaphoclimatic conditions of a semi-arid region. In the experimental design, a completely randomized split-plot (2 × 8), with 3 repetitions (blocks) was used. The experiment comprised 7 new genotypes and 1 local genotype as the first main factor and application of insecticide as a secondary factor. Two-factor analysis of variance (two-way ANOVA) determined the differences between the treated and untreated plots. The results obtained in the experiment showed that the introduced genotypes V3 (IT07K-181-55), V7 (H4), and V5 (IT97K-556-4M) adapted well to the edaphoclimatic conditions of the study area and their yields were respectively 1019, 1015, and 841 kg/ha of grains in treated plots and 278, 517 and 383 kg/ha in untreated plots. Multivariate analysis revealed that the most important parameter was the germination rate. Finally, the best yield was obtained with the genotype V3 (IT07K-181-55), subjected to the use of insecticide, and with the V7 (H4) genotype in untreated plants. The findings presented in this research should be useful in crop system agricultural programs, particularly in the terms of selection of cultivating systems suitable for high-yielding cowpea.
Application of Trehalose and Salicylic Acid Mitigates Drought Stress in Sweet Basil and Improves Plant Growth
Authors: Zulfiqar Faisal , Chen Jianjun , Finnegan Patrick M. , Younis Adnan , Nafees Muhammad , Zorrig Walid , Hamed Karim Ben
Published: May 2021

Trehalose (Tre) and salicylic acid (SA) are increasingly used to mitigate drought stress in crop plants. In this study, a pot experiment was performed to study the influence of Tre and SA applied individually or in combination on the growth, photosynthesis, and antioxidant responses of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) exposed to drought stress. Basil plants were watered to 60% or 100% field capacity with or without treatment with 30 mM Tre and/or 1 mM SA. Drought negatively affected growth, physiological parameters, and antioxidant responses. Application of Tre and/or SA resulted in growth recovery, increased photosynthesis, and reduced oxidative stress. Application of Tre mitigated the detrimental effects of drought more than SA. Furthermore, co-application of Tre and SA largely eliminated the negative impact of drought by reducing oxidative stress through increased activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase, as well as the accumulation of the protective osmolytes proline and glycine betaine. Combined Tre and SA application improved water use efficiency and reduced the amount of malondialdehyde in drought-stressed plants. Our results suggested that combined application of Tre and SA may trigger defense mechanisms of sweet basil to better mitigate oxidative stress induced by drought stress, thereby improving plant growth.
Efficient Production of 3′-Sialyllactose by Single Whole-Cell in One-Pot Biosynthesis
Authors: Li Zhongkui , Chen Xiangsong , Ni Zhijian , Yuan Lixia , Sun Lijie , Wang Yu , Wu Jinyong , Yao Jianming
Published: May 2021

Sialyllactose (SL) is one of the most important acidic oligosaccharides in human milk, which plays an important role in the health of infants. In this work, an efficient multi-enzyme cascade was developed in a single whole cell to produce 3′-SL. We constructed two compatible plasmids with double cloning sites to co-express four genes. Different combinations were assessed to verify the optimal catalytic ability. Then, the conversion temperature, pH, and stability under the optimal temperature and pH were investigated. Moreover, the optimal conversion conditions and surfactant concentration were determined. By using the optimal conditions (35 °C, pH 7.0, 20 mM polyphosphate, 10 mM cytidine monophosphate (CMP), 20 mM MgCl2), 25 mL and 4 L conversion systems were carried out to produce 3′-SL. Similar results were obtained between different volume conversion reactions, which led the maximum production of 3′-SL to reach 53 mM from 54.2 mM of sialic acid (SA) in the 25 mL system and 52.8 mM of 3′-SL from 53.8 mM of SA in the 4 L system. These encouraging results demonstrate that the developed single whole-cell multi-enzyme system exhibits great potential and economic competitiveness for the manufacture of 3′-SL.
A Eulerian Multi-Fluid Model for High-Speed Evaporating Sprays
Authors: Keser Robert , Battistoni Michele , Im Hong G. , Jasak Hrvoje
Published: May 2021

Advancements in internal combustion technology, such as efficiency improvements and the usage of new complex fuels, are often coupled with developments of suitable numerical tools for predicting the complex dynamic behavior of sprays. Therefore, this work presents a Eulerian multi-fluid model specialized for the dynamic behavior of dense evaporating liquid fuel sprays. The introduced model was implemented within the open-source OpenFOAM library, which is constantly gaining popularity in both industrial and academic settings. Therefore, it represents an ideal framework for such development. The presented model employs the classes method and advanced interfacial momentum transfer models. The droplet breakup is considered using the enhanced WAVE breakup model, where the mass taken from the parent droplets is distributed among child classes using a triangular distribution. Furthermore, the complex thermal behavior within the moving droplets is considered using a parabolic temperature profile and an effective thermal conductivity approach. This work includes an uncertainty estimation analysis (for both spatial and temporal resolutions) for the developed solver. Furthermore, the solver was validated against two ECN Spray A conditions (evaporating and non-evaporating). Overall, the presented results show the capability of the implemented model to successfully predict the complex dynamic behavior of dense liquid sprays for the selected operating conditions.
Design of Polymer-Embedded Heterogeneous Fenton Catalysts for the Conversion of Organic Trace Compounds
Authors: Horn Christoph , Ihmann Stephanie , Müller Felix , Pospiech Doris , Borchert Konstantin B. L. , Hommel Rolf , Qin Kaite , Licha Kai , Allertz Peter J. , Drache Marco
Published: May 2021

Advanced oxidation processes are the main way to remove persistent organic trace compounds from water. For these processes, heterogeneous Fenton catalysts with low iron leaching and high catalytic activity are required. Here, the preparation of such catalysts consisting of silica-supported iron oxide (Fe2O3/SiOx) embedded in thermoplastic polymers is presented. The iron oxide catalysts are prepared by a facile sol–gel procedure followed by thermal annealing (calcination). These materials are mixed in a melt compounding process with modified polypropylenes to stabilize the Fe2O3 catalytic centers and to further reduce the iron leaching. The catalytic activity of the composites is analyzed by means of the Reactive Black 5 (RB5) assay, as well as by the conversion of phenol which is used as an example of an organic trace compound. It is demonstrated that embedding of silica-supported iron oxide in modified polypropylene turns the reaction order from pseudo-first order (found for Fe2O3/SiOx catalysts), which represents a mainly homogeneous Fenton reaction, to pseudo-zeroth order in the polymer composites, indicating a mainly heterogeneous, surface-diffusion-controlled process.
New Refrigerant Molecules from Structure Optimization
Authors: Rosero Cristhian R. , Espinel P. Sebastián , Tuza Pablo V.
Published: May 2021

In the present work, various objective functions were formulated and optimized using the mixed integer nonlinear programming and the generalized reduced gradient nonlinear method from the solver tool of Microsoft® Excel 2016, respectively. The CH3FO2, C2H4F2O, CH2F2O2, CH2F2O, C3H4F2, and the C2H2F2O molecules were found to meet structural feasibility constraints and physical properties from refrigerant molecules and have not previously been reported in the literature. These new refrigerants present global warming potential values similar to that from the R-134a and Freon 12 refrigerants and null ozone depletion potential. Moreover, these molecules are normally flammable, as similar as to R-134a refrigerant. The CH3FO2, C2H4F2O, CH2F2O2, C2H2F2O, and CH2F2O show toxicity values similar to R-134a and Freon 12 refrigerants.
Validation of Novel Lattice Boltzmann Large Eddy Simulations (LB LES) for Equipment Characterization in Biopharma
Authors: Kuschel Maike , Fitschen Jürgen , Hoffmann Marko , von Kameke Alexandra , Schlüter Michael , Wucherpfennig Thomas
Published: May 2021

Detailed process and equipment knowledge is crucial for the successful production of biopharmaceuticals. An essential part is the characterization of equipment for which Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is an important tool. While the steady, Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) k − ε approach has been extensively reviewed in the literature and may be used for fast equipment characterization in terms of power number determination, transient schemes have to be further investigated and validated to gain more detailed insights into flow patterns because they are the method of choice for mixing time simulations. Due to the availability of commercial solvers, such as M-Star CFD, Lattice Boltzmann simulations have recently become popular in the industry, as they are easy to set up and require relatively low computing power. However, extensive validation studies for transient Lattice Boltzmann Large Eddy Simulations (LB LES) are still missing. In this study, transient LB LES were applied to simulate a 3 L bioreactor system. The results were compared to novel 4D particle tracking (4D PTV) experiments, which resolve the motion of thousands of passive tracer particles on their journey through the bioreactor. Steady simulations for the determination of the power number followed a structured workflow, including grid studies and rotating reference frame volume studies, resulting in high prediction accuracy with less than 11% deviation, compared to experimental data. Likewise, deviations for the transient simulations were less than 10% after computational demand was reduced as a result of prior grid studies. The time averaged flow fields from LB LES were in good accordance with the novel 4D PTV data. Moreover, 4D PTV data enabled the validation of transient flow structures by analyzing Lagrangian particle trajectories. This enables a more detailed determination of mixing times and mass transfer as well as local exposure times of local velocity and shear stress peaks. For the purpose of standardization of common industry CFD models, steady RANS simulations for the 3 L vessel were included in this study as well.
Selected Grain-Size and Geochemical Analyses of the Loess-Paleosol Sequence of Pécel (Northern Hungary): An Attempt to Determine Sediment Accumulation Conditions and the Source Area Location
Authors: Makó László , Molnár Dávid , Runa Boglárka , Bozsó Gábor , Cseh Péter , Nagy Balázs , Sümegi Pál
Published: May 2021

The loess-paleosol profile near the settlement of Pécel has a notable size among the loess-paleosol sequences of the Northern Carpathian territories. Therefore, comprehensive sedimentological examinations were performed to understand the profile and the information preserved in it. The past periodicity and intensity of winds were showed by particle composition studies (GSI, U-ratio). At least two source areas can be presumed based on geochemical indices (CIA, CIW, Rb/Sr, Zr/Rb). Based on the characteristics of the chemical composition of sulphide minerals (P, S, Pb, Ni, As sulphides), the lower 10 m of the profile was supposed to be transported from the NW direction (Buda Thermal Karst, Börzsöny, Cserhát). Sufficient information is not yet available in order to determine the source area of the upper 10 m. By using the mentioned indexes, major developing and weathering horizons also could be identified.
Effect of the Assimilation Frequency of Radar Reflectivity on Rain Storm Prediction by Using WRF-3DVAR
Authors: Liu Yuchen , Liu Jia , Li Chuanzhe , Yu Fuliang , Wang Wei
Published: May 2021

An attempt was made to evaluate the impact of assimilating Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) reflectivity together with Global Telecommunication System (GTS) data in the three-dimensional variational data assimilation (3DVAR) system of the Weather Research Forecast (WRF) model on rain storm prediction in Daqinghe basin of northern China. The aim of this study was to explore the potential effects of data assimilation frequency and to evaluate the outputs from different domain resolutions in improving the meso-scale NWP rainfall products. In this study, four numerical experiments (no assimilation, 1 and 6 h assimilation time interval with DWR and GTS at 1 km horizontal resolution, 6 h assimilation time interval with radar reflectivity, and GTS data at 3 km horizontal resolution) are carried out to evaluate the impact of data assimilation on prediction of convective rain storms. The results show that the assimilation of radar reflectivity and GTS data collectively enhanced the performance of the WRF-3DVAR system over the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region of northern China. It is indicated by the experimental results that the rapid update assimilation has a positive impact on the prediction of the location, tendency, and development of rain storms associated with the study area. In order to explore the influence of data assimilation in the outer domain on the output of the inner domain, the rainfall outputs of 3 and 1 km resolution are compared. The results show that the data assimilation in the outer domain has a positive effect on the output of the inner domain. Since the 3DVAR system is able to analyze certain small-scale and convective-scale features through the incorporation of radar observations, hourly assimilation time interval does not always significantly improve precipitation forecasts because of the inaccurate radar reflectivity observations. Therefore, before data assimilation, the validity of assimilation data should be judged as far as possible in advance, which can not only improve the prediction accuracy, but also improve the assimilation efficiency.
EL MINDFULNESS EN DEPORTISTAS Y ATLETAS
Authors: García-Álvarez Aída Dinorah , Suarez-Jiménez Rosario del Carmen , Rebollo-Meza Jorge
Published: May 2021

Los deportistas y atletas se encuentran en constante entrenamiento y formación para desarrollarse y destacar en distintas disciplinas, esto a su vez requiere de gran esfuerzo físico y psicológico debido a que los atletas y deportistas deben competir unos contra otras incontables veces a lo largo de su carrera, creando así de alguna forma una constante presión en “destacar” y “ser el mejor”, dando como resultado un estrés igualmente constante. Por esta razón es necesario llevar a cabo sesiones de mindfulness, las cuales pueden variar en distintas técnicas. El mindfulness busca imponer la creencia de que es necesario cambiar las emociones, sensaciones y pensamientos usuales que crean este estrés y se les enseña a los deportistas y atletas a crear una intención positiva a fin de mejorar su rendimiento deportivo haciendo énfasis en el control del pensamiento y el uso del auto diálogo, esto propone el relacionar los estados internos propios como el sentir y pensar de una forma distinta, no pretendiendo cambiarlos o eliminarlos, sino tomándolos como una manera de relacionarlos con dichos estados, siendo esto denominado como la Atención Plena. De igual forma la aplicación del mindfulness disminuye la probabilidad de presentar diversos trastornos psicológicos, como pueden ser el neuroticismo, alexitimia, ansiedad, depresión, somatización, hostilidad, impulsividad, vulnerabilidad a enfermedades psiquiátricas, adicciones, agresividad e impulsividad.
Manutenção em geradores síncronos:com ênfase em aspectos elétricos
Authors: Borges Daniela Freitas , Rodrigues Kamila Matias , da Silva Maria Clara Alves , Jesus Aurea Messias de , da Silva Ana Paula Santos , Silva Agaone Donizete , Abrão Maria Eugênia Garcia , Rezende João Nilton Alves
Published: May 2021

O gerador de energia elétrica é um dos principais equipamentos dentro do Sistema Elétrico de Potência. Ele é o responsável por transformar energia mecânica em energia elétrica. Manutenções são todas as ações voltadas para que um equipamento possa funcionar em perfeito estado. Essas manutenções são divididas em categorias. Por se tratar de um equipamento de suma relevância, que está ligado na maioria das vezes em ON GRID, ao Sistema Interligado Nacional, por vezes fornecendo o abastecimento de energia elétrica para usuários terceiros, é indispensável a sua confiabilidade. Neste contexto, o presente artigo apresenta as principais manutenções preventivas realizadas em máquinas geradoras de energia elétrica e a importância dessas manutenções. Com a finalidade de demonstrar e comparar dados de testes de Índice de Absorção e Índice de Polarização, resistência de isolamento, surge test e medição de resistência ôhmica. Os testes apresentados contribuíram significativamente na verificação da confiabilidade e disponibilidade em uma máquina geradora de energia elétrica, presente em uma usina com geração térmica ON GRID.
Pengaruh Konsentrasi Pupuk Organik Cair Dan Takaran Pupuk Kandang Sapi Terhadap Pertumbuhan Dan Hasil Tanaman Selada (Lactuca sativa L.) Varietas Grand Rapids
Authors: Hanipah Hanipah , Hadirocmat Nurdin , Hidayat Odang
Published: May 2021

The aim of this experiment was to study the effect of concentration liquid organic fertilizer and doses cow manure on the growth and yield of grand rapids variety of lettuce, carried out in the practice of Tanjungsari Sumedang SMK PPN, located at an altitude of 850 meters above sea level. The experiment starts from June 2018 to August 2018. The experimental design used was a Randomized Design facto pattern group consisting of two factors and repeated three times. The first factor is liquid organic fertilizer nasa (p) with 5 levels: p1 = 0 ml / liter of water, p2 = 1 ml / liter of water, p3 = 2 ml / liter of water, p4 = 3 ml / liter of water, p4 = 4 ml / liter of water. The second factor is cow manure (k) consisting of 4 levels, namely: k1 = 0 ton / ha, k2 = 5 ton / ha, k3 = 10 ton / ha, k4 = 15 ton / ha. The results of the experiment show: There was no interaction between liquid organic fertilizer    and cowshed fertilizer on observations of plant height, number of leaves, weight per plant, weight per sample, weight per plot and root volume in lettuce. The treatment of liquid organic fertilizer at concentrations of p3 (3,0 ml/liter of water) showed the best results on plant height, number of leaves, and yield of weight per plot and significantly different from observations of weight per plant and root volume. Cow manure showed no significant effect on all plant height, number of leaves, weight per plant, weight per sample, weight per plot and root volume in lettuce.