bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dry Capture of Low-level CO2 from Public Indoor Spaces using Chemically Modified Carbonaceous Adsorbents - A Review
Authors: Heo Sujeong , Kim Wooram , Lee Tae Jung , Adelodun Adedeji A. , Jo Young Min
Published: March 2021

Although CO2 is prominent as the most important greenhouse gas, responsible for 64% of anthropogenic global warming, it is also a viable indicator for indoor air quality (IAQ). Due to the incessant increase in the human population and residence time indoors, the need to control indoor CO2 levels has become exigent. To this effect, dryphase removal technology via adsorption with zeolites, activated carbons (AC) and activated carbon fibers (ACFs) had sufficed. Chemically modified AC and ACF surfaces through alkali impregnation have been used to improve their selectivity toward CO2 at room temperature. Here we appraise the various methods in the literature and carry out performance evaluation based on the physical and chemical modification induced by the chemical agents and experimental conditions. This study reviews the improved adsorption of low concentration (0.3%) via surface reformation of commercial carbon-based adsorbents, and the highest adsorption capacity was 2.2 mmol/g CO2 at the indoor level, which was achieved by AC pellets doped with ammine functionalities.
Question of national identity as a part of the cultural security of Italy
Authors: Kępka Emilia
Published: March 2021

The research subject discussed in the article is the main conditions of the cultural nationality of The Italian Republic.
In the first part of the text, the notions of spiritual and material cultural heritage and the concept of national identity are described and explained. Next, the problem of Italian national identity is discussed. The Italian Republic is a young state with a strong regional identity and still weak national identity. Italy is inhabited by many ethnic groups, often characterized by diverse cultures and customs. The situation is complicated by the Italian Peninsula’s history, which contributed to the conflict of interest between the north and south. The author analyzes history, language, and religion, searching for common elements determining Italian nationality. Italian society, as mentioned above, has still been searching for its national identity. Unification of the nation is a process that is in progress. It is still a challenge for both the authorities and the citizens.
Finally, the elements of Italian material cultural heritage are characterized, and the domains of cultural heritage and the institutions responsible for their security are described.
Corporate social responsibility on the example of L’Oréal Polska
Authors: Raftowicz Magdalena , Kryk Adriana , Kurtyka-Marcak Izabela
Published: March 2021

The article aims to assess the benefits of implementing the corporate social responsibility (CRS) concept in enterprises and attempts to examine its impact on society and the environment. The analysis of the effectiveness of investments related to CSR was carried out based on literature review and own research (on-line survey) on the example of L’Oréal Polska. The conclusions from the research confirm the existence of numerous profits related to the implementation of CSR initiatives undertaken by the company. Considering own actions in a forward-looking way and taking responsibility for them shows that CSR is a bridge between the present and the future of business. Therefore, the further development of this concept can be forecasted.
Engineering support for the mobility of the Ground Forces of the Russian Federation
Authors: Wysocki Krzysztof
Published: March 2021

The article addresses selected aspects of supporting the mobility of the Ground Forces in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. The experience of contemporary armed conflicts in which Russian forces were involved confirmed the need to maintain subunits, guaranteeing maneuver freedom in the area occupied by the enemy. The study aims to present explanations concerning: the role and tasks of the engineering troops of the Russian Federation in contemporary armed conflicts, characteristics of the currently used methods of performing mine barriers, namely mechanical, electromechanical, explosive, manual, and combined ones. Also, the essence of engineering activities according to the views adopted in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, the content of engineering support for mobility in tactical departments, and the interpretation of basic concepts, and the role of engineering units and subunits in the activities in question are presented. Besides, the executive potential of selected organizational and functional structures of engineering units, their purpose, and the possibility of implementing individual engineering tasks in tactical activities related to maneuvering and displacement are described. In the aspect of the issue of the impact of engineering barriers and destruction on the pace of the enemy’s attack, an analysis of the execution potential and tactics of operations (doctrinal patterns of combat operations) of a potential enemy (the other party and its capability of supporting the mobility of own troops in the implementation of engineering projects related to crossings (paving) in dams, through natural obstacles and areas of destruction as well as demining terrain and objects) was performed.
Public management – the essence and selected concepts
Authors: Wakuła Monika
Published: March 2021

The paper is an attempt to characterise the most significant concepts of public management. The starting point for the considerations is definition of the term “public management”. Next, the author presents directions of the evolution of changes that have been taking place in public sector management. The last part of the paper outlines the assumptions of two modern concepts of public management, i.e., New Public Management and Public Governance.
Personal data in the aspect of IT usage – the end of anonymity
Authors: Zawierucha Katarzyna
Published: March 2021

Information technologies are now a vital element of social life. Their task is to introduce people to a better tomorrow, catch up with the most developed countries, broaden horizons, and increase the standard of living. However, the rapid development of technology, access to data, and the possibility of managing it are still dependent on the human being, who determines whose data, when, and for what purpose it will be obtained and utilized. Nonetheless, indeed, all the data once found on the Internet remains there forever.
Huge data banks are built based on personal data and account profiling. Besides, these banks are strongly guarded and secured with the most modern alarm systems, and only a small group of trained IT specialists has access to them. By information provided on own preferences, purchases made, applications downloaded, shared information, photos, and likes on social networks, one can specify the sexual preferences, education, political and religious views, evaluate assets, or determine the marital status of the user. Even small amounts of information shared reveal the deeply hidden interests of online account users, and the benefits of information technology are designed to share personal information while forgetting about the risks automatically.
Implementation of Japanese business management methods – the case study of a manufacturer of systems and installations for pneumatic, hydraulic, and electro-machinery controls
Authors: Rutkiewicz Krzysztof , Sobczak Weronika
Published: March 2021

Japanese methods, concepts, and management tools enjoy rising popular in the world and in Poland, which is the consequence of the assumptions and practical results achieved thanks to the solutions applied by business entities and organizations. The aim of this study is a comprehensive assessment of conditions and internal determinants of competitiveness, enabling effective implementation of Japanese methods and techniques of production management, in the enterprise under consideration. The hypothesis to verify is the statement that the implementation of Japanese management methods in the examined enterprise increased the economic efficiency of individual production processes and improved its organizational culture. The triangulation method in the form of direct observation analysis of information taken from primary and secondary sources was applied. Also, there was conducted a questionnaire survey, completed with an individual in-depth interview with the company employees (leaders and coordinators) in the field of Japanese production management methods. The possibilities of using Japanese management methods in enterprises are huge. The effectiveness of the implementation of Japanese management methods, concepts, and tools in the studied organization is manifested, among others, in such results as improvement of employees’ working conditions, organized production, increased safety on the premises, organizational culture focused on respect for others, the possibility of personal development, increased efficiency of individual production processes, and reduced waste. Achieving the best production and economic results is possible thanks to experienced and knowledgeable employee teams. Japanese concepts are very strongly oriented towards cooperation between management and employees. Unfortunately, not every employee has a chance to develop, as it is limited to selected senior units. Employees’ knowledge of management methods, concepts, and tools is assessed as low by leaders and coordinators. The lack of participation in training and the lack of knowledge of some employees is the main reason for this claim. In the opinion of managers, young people are more open to change, see knowledge as an essential element in life, strive to learn and get the most out of work. The production plant under investigation should train employees in the methodology they apply. The training should be more practical, thought-provoking, voluntary, and offered with a specific frequency and with certain stages of difficulty. Instead of defining Japanese management methods, concepts, and tools, their effects and their practical meaning should be shown.
El G20 ante la pandemia del COVID-19: agenda, acciones y perspectivas
Authors: Ramos Leonardo , Rubinich Greta
Published: March 2021

El objetivo de este artículo de coyuntura es analizar el rol del G20 ante la pandemia del COVID-19, discutiendo su papel como comité de crisis. Se describe su origen y funcionamiento, a modo de comprender las estructuras institucionales que condicionan su accionar. Se analizan las reuniones de Líderes y de Ministros de Finanzas para enumerar las acciones que el G20 ha tomado hasta el momento.
An Approach of Historical and Economic BRICS Creation in South-South Cooperation Resurgence Landmark in the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Galdino Gabriel
Published: March 2021

In the history of international relations, the association between developing countries occurred on a reduced scale until the mid-twentieth century. This article takes a historical and economic approach about the formation of the movements characterized as South-South Cooperation, including the emergence of the BRICS in the 21st century.
Ionic Conductivities of Molten Alkali Metal Chloride Binary Systems by Equilibrium Molecular Dynamics Simulation: Composition and Temperature Dependence
Authors: WANG Jia , LIU Cheng-Lin
Published: March 2021

Conductivity of molten alkali metal chlorides is the foundation of molten-salt electrolysis process. In the study, equilibrium molecular dynamics was performed to investigate the ionic conductivities of the molten alkali metal chloride binary systems. The calculated values were in good agreement with the experimental results. Simple databases for conductivity have been built based on the verified algorithm. Mathematic expressions of conductivity vs. temperature & composition have also been obtained according to calculated data. Ionic conductivities of these melts exhibited positive dependences on temperature. Adding a smaller alkali metal cation into molten alkali chlorides could improve the conductive performance. With the gradual addition of LiCl, ionic conductivities of molten LiCl-NaCl, LiCl-KCl, LiCl-RbCl, and LiCl-CsCl all increased monotonously. The conductivities of molten NaCl-KCl, NaCl-RbCl, and NaCl-CsCl also increased with the continuous addition of NaCl. The improvement effects of LiCl on ionic conductivities of molten KCl, RbCl, and CsCl are more significant than those of NaCl.
Photocatalytic Performance of Alkaline Activated Graphitic Carbon Nitride Under Blue LED Light
Authors: OUYANG Yong , XU Jianquan , YANG Aiyu , ZHONG Caixia , HU Wenjing , FENG Shenglei , HOU Youpeng
Published: March 2021

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is a metal-free photocatalyst with visible light response. However, the disadvantages limit its application in a wider range, such as its small specific surface areas, fewer active sites, narrow visible light absorption range and high photogenic carrier recombination. In this paper, NaOH was used as activator for alkaline activation of g-C3N4. The phase composition, micromorphology, surface chemical state and optical properties of g-C3N4 after activation were tested. The photocatalytic performance of g-C3N4 over organic dyes was also tested. The results showed that Na+ entered the interlayers of g-C3N4, expanding the spaces between layers. The specific surface area and pore volume of powder were increased. The active sites were increased. The band gap was decreased, and the photogenic carrier recombination was reduced. Alkaline activated g-C3N4 had better adsorption and degradation performance over rhodamine B and methyl orange than inactivated g-C3N4. Therefore, the alkaline activated g-C3N4 promotes its further application in the field of wastewater treatment. This work sheds light on the material modification through a simple method with the aim to efficiently use solar energy.
Die Getriebenen. Immer häufiger berichten Leitmedien über ausländische Tatverdächtige und folgen damit rechtspopulistischen Deutungsmustern
Authors: Hestermann Thomas
Published: March 2021

Berichte über die Straftaten von Eingewanderten und Geflüchteten befeuern die Debatte über die innere Sicherheit und schüren Zweifel, ob Integration überhaupt möglich ist. Seit 2014 wird in Fernsehnachrichten die Staatsangehörigkeit von Tatverdächtigen immer häufiger genannt - aber meist nur dann, wenn sie Ausländer sind. Besonders ausgeprägt ist diese weit überproportionale Gewichtung bei den 2019 untersuchten überregionalen Zeitungen. So entsteht ein mediales Zerrbild, das die Polizeiliche Kriminalstatistik auf den Kopf stellt und den Deutungsmustern ähnelt, die Rechtspopulisten vorgeben.
Strafprozesse im Medienfocus aus Sicht von Richtern und Staatsanwälten
Authors: Kepplinger Hans Mathias , Jost Pablo
Published: March 2021

In einer Befragung von 580 Richtern und Staatsanwälten aus 11 Bundesländern wurden deren konkrete Beobachtungen bei Strafverfahren ermittelt, an denen sie selbst beteiligt waren. Die Analysen zeigen: Medieneinflüsse auf Strafverfahren sind viel häufiger als die Diskussion von spektakulären Verfahren vermuten lassen und sie beruhen vor allem auf der Berichterstattung von Regionalmedien. Bei Richtern und Staatsanwälten löst Medienkritik an ihren Verfahren, die sie für sachlich falsch halten, häufig Ärger aus, der sich auf ihr weiteres Verhalten auswirken kann. Medienberichte können sich auf zwei Wegen auf das Urteil auswirken - direkt durch die Mediennutzung der Richter und Staatsanwälte und indirekt über den Medieneinfluss auf Aussagen von Zeugen und Tatverdächtigen. Dieser indirekte Einfluss ist den meisten, aber nicht allen Richtern und Staatsanwälten bewusst.
Gibbosaverruca weijiai, a new verrucid (Crustacea, Thoracica) species from the Weijia Guyot deep-sea seamount in the West Pacific
Authors: Gan Zhibin , Zhang Dongsheng , Li Xinzheng , Wang Chunsheng
Published: March 2021

A new species of verrucid barnacle, Gibbosaverruca weijiai sp. nov., is described and illustrated based on specimens collected from a deep-sea seamount, Weijia Guyot, in the West Pacific. This is the third barnacle species reported from Weijia Guyot. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by its extremely long caudal appendage. In terms of shell morphology, G. weijiai sp. nov. is most similar to G. gibbosa and G. sulcata but differs from them by the intermediate articular ridges of its movable tergum and scutum, which are distinctly wider than the axial ridges. The COI and 16S rRNA sequences of the holotype of G. weijiai sp. nov. are presented to support future research, and a key to extant species of the genus Gibbosaverruca Young, 2002 is provided.
Perfil dos atletas juniores de handebol das seleções brasileira e sueca
Authors: Martins Mariana Zuaneti , Reis Heloisa Helena Baldy dos
Published: March 2021

Este artigo objetivou comparar o perfil dos atletas juniores do handebol de seleções masculinas do Brasil e da Suécia, buscando compreender os diferentes contextos da modalidade. Para tanto, aplicamos um questionário com questões fechadas para os atletas da categoria Junior da seleção brasileira e sueca, durante o Mundial Junior de Handebol. Nossos resultados indicaram uma diferença na formação destes atletas, considerando o primeiro contato do handebol e a constituição do vínculo federativo, e na existência de remuneração entre atletas. Estes elementos indicam contribuir para que haja um melhor desenvolvimento da modalidade na Suécia, em relação ao Brasil, no período estudado.
Gymnastikhøjskolen i Ollerup, das vivências iniciais a grande performance: um relato de experiência
Authors: Dias de Souza Ana Paula , Ramires Costa Andrize
Published: March 2021

Este estudo teve como objetivo descrever a vivência em um programa de mobilidade acadêmica viabilizado pela International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA). Trata-se de um relato de experiência na escola dinamarquesa de ginástica Gymnastikhøjskolen i Ollerup, em Ollerup, Dinamarca. O intercâmbio teve duração de seis meses no primeiro semestre de 2018, cuja programação incluiu a prática e a realização de performances de ginástica. Dentre aspectos do ensino holístico da escola e a importância da internacionalização para o método ginástico Dinamarquês de Niels Bukh, a vivência agregou na minha formação pessoal e profissional.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Content and Logistics of this Special Edition on Building and Leveraging Ecosystems and Clusters
Authors: Boni Arthur , Gunn Moira
Published: March 2021

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) Director General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus addressed the global media: “WHO has been assessing this outbreak around the clock and we are deeply concerned both by the alarming levels of spread and severity, and by the alarming levels of inaction. We have therefore made the assessment that COVID-19 can be characterized as a pandemic.”1 While the existence, transmissibility, treatment, and potential impact of severe acute respiratory coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 were real questions since the virus was first recognized in December, 2019,2 much of the media coverage was driven by global public health concerns and international/national political posturing. However, it was a different date that catalyzed commercial biotechnology.
Diagnosis and management of toxic shock syndrome after breast reconstructive procedures with silicone implants
Authors: Kim Minseo , Ku Inhoe , Jin Ung Sik
Published: March 2021

Breast implant insertion is one of the most commonly used methods for breast reconstruction after total mastectomy. However, infection is a common postoperative complication of implant insertion. In most cases, these infections can be managed with antibiotics and supportive therapy. However, severe septic conditions, such as toxic shock syndrome (TSS), can sometimes occur. TSS is an extremely rare but life-threatening complication, for which early diagnosis and proper management play a crucial role in determining patients’ outcome. Although only 16 cases of TSS after breast implant insertion have been reported in the literature, most of those cases involved a serious clinical course. The reason for the seriousness of the clinical course of TSS in these cases is that the initial impression and presentation of these patients are nonspecific, and patients can easily be misdiagnosed as having a simple upper respiratory infection, causing the underlying condition to be neglected. Herein, we present two patients who were diagnosed with TSS after receiving breast reconstruction surgery via a silicone implant after total mastectomy. Both patients were misdiagnosed at the initial examination since they showed no local infectious signs on the postoperative wound.
Strategy for salvaging infected breast implants: lessons from the recovery of seven consecutive patients
Authors: Yeo Hyeonjung , Lee Dongkyu , Kim Jin Soo , Eo Pil Seon , Kim Dong Kyu , Lee Joon Seok , Kwon Ki Tae , Lee Jeeyeon , Park Ho Yong , Yang Jung Dug
Published: March 2021

Background In recent years, implant-based breast reconstruction has been performed because of its simplicity, short operation time, and rapid recovery of patients. Several studies have reported treatment methods for implant surgery-related infection, which is a serious complication. The aim of this study was to introduce our strategy for salvaging infected implants and to evaluate its effectiveness.

Methods The authors performed a retrospective study of 145 cases from 132 patients who underwent implant-based breast reconstruction from January 2012 to December 2018. Empirical antibiotics were immediately administered to patients with suspected infections. The patients then underwent salvage treatment including appropriate antibiotics, ultrasonography-guided aspiration, debridement, antibiotic lavage, and implant exchange through a multidisciplinary approach. Patient demographics, operative data, duration until drain removal, adjuvant treatment, and complications were analyzed.

Results The total infection rate was 5.5% (8/145). A longer indwelling catheter period and adjuvant treatment were significantly associated with infection. The salvage treatment showed a success rate of 87.5% (7/8). Seven patients who received early aggressive salvage treatment recovered from infection. One patient with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, who received salvage treatment 11 days after symptom onset, did not respond to drainage and antibiotic treatment. That patient subsequently underwent explantation.

Conclusions In implant-based breast reconstruction, prevention of infection is of the utmost importance. However, if an infection is suspected, proactive empirical antibiotic therapy and collaboration with the necessary departments are required. Through a multidisciplinary approach and proactive early management, swift and appropriate salvage should be performed.
The Justinianic Plague’s Origins and Consequences
Authors: Constantin Georgiana Bianca , Căluian Ionuţ
Published: March 2021

The bubonic plague is an extremely old disease (apparentely from the late Neolitic era). The so-called “Justinianic plague” of the sixth century was the first well-attested outbreak of bubonic plague in the history of the Mediterranean world. It was thought that the Justinianic Plague, along with barbarian invasions, contributed directly to the so-called “Fall of the Roman Empire.”
Biosynthesis of Gold and Silver Nanoparticles and Its Applications
Authors: Afreen Anum
Published: March 2021

The synthesis of nanoparticles is in the limelight in modern nanotechnology. Biosynthesis of nanoparticles by using different methods is currently under exploitation. Nanoparticles can be synthesized by Bacteria, Virus, Fungi, Algae and Plants. Biosynthesis of Nanoparticles is a simple process in which intracellular and extracellular extract of an organism is mix with a metal salt.        Their optical properties are reported to be dependent on the size, which imparts different colors due to absorption in the visible region. Their reactivity, toughness and other properties are also dependent on their unique size, shape and structure. Due to these characteristics, they are suitable candidates for various commercial and domestic applications, which include catalysis, imaging, medical applications, energy-based research, and environmental applications. This review explains the various microorganisms like bacteria, algae, fungi; virus, plants and yeast involved in the synthesis of these Nanoparticles also elucidate the characterization of Nanoparticles and its applications.
Piranhea trifoliata an Amazonian Plant with Therapeutic Action: A Review
Authors: Vieira Lucineide Teixeira , Silva Márcia Pinheiro Da , Júnior José Dobles Dias Dos Reis , Lima Carlos Antônio Couto , Souza Anderson Oliveira
Published: March 2021

The use of medicinal plants reflects the reality of a part of human history. The Brazilian population with limited access to public health programs led to the development and conservation of ethnobotanical knowledge-rich information regarding medicinal plants. However, popular wisdom lacks systematization so that it can correctly use it. Herein we present the Piranhea trifoliata (family Picrondendraceae), an Amazonian plant with a wide variety of molecules with biological effects. The antimalarial effect was the dominant description observed in the studies used for this review, followed by antifungal and antioxidant actions. This review provides a synopsis of the recent literature exploring the extracts from P. trifoliata that could efficiently prevent pathologies associated with cellular maintenance mechanisms during malaria or fungal infection and oxidative stress.
A Systematic Review of Wireless Transmission System
Authors: Aibinu A. M. , Ojo J. A. , Adeyemo I. A. , Folorunso T. A. , Adebayo I. G. , Adeagbo M. A. , Babajide D. O.
Published: March 2021

Wireless transmission of energy has gained immense attention and importance in the heart of researchers over the years. Many attempts to make it a widely used technology have been done. However, this has not been successful or fruitful. Hence, the need for a comprehensive review of the mechanisms and techniques by harmonizing the findings of various researchers cohesively and adeptly. Thus, this review paper presents a comprehensive evaluation of the research works in wireless power transmission from the time of Andre-Marie Ampere in 1826 till date. The transmission mechanism and techniques used were concisely discussed as well as technologies that have incorporated wireless power transmission into their system. The study closes with a conclusive review of the challenges, and limitations faced, the application, advantages, and disadvantages, of wireless power transmission.
Investigation of some Properties of Bio-coal Briquettes Produced using Beniseed (Sesame seed) Stalks as Biomass
Authors: Guusu Harry Iorwuese , Edeoja Alex Okibe , Ibrahim Jacob Sunday
Published: March 2021

This study evaluated the properties of bio-coal briquettes made by blending coal with beniseed (sesame seed) stalks in order to determine the optimum composition. The briquettes were produced using a hydraulic compression machine at 5, 10 and 15 bar applied to coal:biomass compositions of 100:0, 80:20, 60:40, 40:60, 20:80 and 0:100% by weight of mixture and particle sizes of 212, 300 and 600 µm. The physical, ultimate and proximate properties of the briquettes were then measured and analyzed. The results indicated that the optimum composition for producing the briquettes lies between 60:40% and 40:60%. These ranges of composition of briquettes had the lowest ignition time of 57.6s, highest percentage volatile matter of 42.7% and low percentage sulphur content of 0.38%. Furthermore, the 40:60% briquettes had the highest mean calorific value of 26.67 MJ/kg. These indicate good potentials for briquettes using coal and beniseed stalks as an alternative energy source while contributing to a friendly environment and wealth generation.
Evaluation of the Practice of Building Survey for Maintenance of Public Building in South-East Nigeria
Authors: Chima Osuagwu Andrew , Ifeanyichukwu Nkeleme Emmanuel , Nnamdi Amafili Tochukwu , Chukwuemeka Ike Goodluck , Precious-favour Nzeneri Oluchukwu
Published: March 2021

The maintenance of public building is evasive without a conscious practice of  building surveying as it avails the maintenance personal insight  that informs the building maintenance this The research evaluates the practice of building \surveying in South-East Nigeria  and its impact in the maintenance of public buildings. It was pursuit through the use of a structured questionnaire. Public buildings within Abia, Enugu and Imo state of study were studied with the respondent drawn from the users and officials in charge of the maintenance of the building.  A total of 390 questionnaires were administered with 314 returned giving a response rate of 80.5%.  A random sampling technique was adopted and the data was analyzed using a computer based Software SPSS version 21. Result were presented using statistical tools Mean, Relative Importance Index (RII).The result revealed among others that there is  no significant development in the condition of public buildings in South East states. In addition, the problems associates with building maintenance have significantly affected the building conditions in the study area. Proactive and well planned maintenance are recommended as against corrective measure commonly used. Prompt replacement of nonfunctional, aged or malfunctioning building parts. Government should ensure that most of the public buildings have a maintenance policy and there is an effective communication between the maintenance department and the building occupants. Government should ensure that there is a condition survey for the public building adopting the approach of the framework developed in this study.
Plant growth and rhizome shoots of Agave angustifolia in different substrates, with fertigation and benzylaminopurine
Authors: García Raquel Garnica- , Enríquez-del-Valle José Raymundo , Ortiz Gerardo Rodríguez , León Isabel Pérez , Calzada Ricardo Trejo , Morales Isidro
Published: March 2021

The species Agave angustifolia can be propagated asexually with offshoots from rhizomes, bulbils from inflorescence, and through micropropagation to supply the growing demand for quality plant material for new plantations. In this investigation, Agave angustifolia plants of different initial sizes were evaluated for growth and emission of rhizome shoots, after 14 months under different conditions of substrate, fertigation and application of cytokinins. Bulbils were collected from inflorescences of plants at two sites and classified into two size categories: small (≤ 7 cm) and large (> 7 cm). The bulbils were cultured for 14 months in pots with substrates that were mixtures of sand (A), soil (S), and bovine manure (Bm) (%): 1) A + S (0.3: 0.7); 2) A + S + Bm (0.3: 0.525: 0.175); 3) A + S + Bm (0.3: 0.35: 0.35); 4) A + S + Bm (0.3: 0.175: 0.525). The plants in each substrate were separated into groups for application of different types of irrigation: 1) water; 2) 50% Steiner’s nutritive solution, SNS-50%; 3) SNS-50% + 25 mg L-1 of benzylaminopurine.  The results show that the emission of rhizome offshoots was affected by the substrate, type of irrigation and provenance of the plants. The plants in substrates 3 and 4 formed 2.2 rhizome offshoots, which was more than plants in the other substrates. The plants irrigated with water, SNS-50%, and SNS-50% + benzylaminopurine formed 1.1, 1.6 and 1.9 rhizome offshoots, respectively.
Production of tortillas from nixtamalized corn flour enriched with Andean crops flours: Faba-bean (Vicia faba) and white-bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)
Authors: Salazar Diego , Rodas Mayra , Arancibia Mirari
Published: March 2021

This study aims to produce corn nixtamalized tortillas enriched with faba-bean (25%, 50%, 75% w/w) and white-bean (25%, 50%, 75% w/w) flours. Faba-bean and white-bean are Andean crops (AC) rich in protein, carbohydrates, fiber, minerals, vitamins, and gluten-free. Tortillas were characterized in terms of proximal, physicochemical, sensorial, microbiological, and texture properties. Proximal composition shows that corn flour has 14.5 % less protein, 0.83 % less ash, and 1.39 % fatter than faba-bean flour, while in white-bean flour, the fiber content is three times higher. Moisture content was less than 14 %, which guarantees the control shelf-life; gluten content was approximately 5 ppm. Granulometry properties showed that flours have coarser than finesse particles, water absorption capacity showed a range of 60 to 80 g of water for 100 g of flour. In nixtamalized tortillas, high protein content was observed in samples with 25 % of corn and 75 % of two different Andean crops. Enriched tortillas showed lower lipid content, higher dietary fiber, and higher ash content than the control sample. The sensorial analysis showed that the best formulation based on overall acceptability was 25% (w/w) of corn flour and 75% of white-bean flour. The oil content showed that the samples absorbed about 8% of oil during the toasted. The hardness parameter showed that the sample CPB2575: Corn flour (25%) + White-bean flour (75%); was harder than the control. The microbiological evaluation established that the tortillas comply with the normative what indicates the absence of harmful microorganisms to public health. Color parameters showed that samples tend to lightness with a tendency to reddish color in enriched tortillas while in control are greenish. Andean crop flours are one alternative to increase the nutritional value of corn tortillas with acceptable sensorial characteristics.
A preliminary study of multi-mycotoxins contamination in some selected South Africa medicinal plants
Authors: Areo Oluwaseun Mary , Phoku Judith Zanle , Gbashi Sefater , Njobeh Patrick Berka
Published: March 2021

The use of medicinal plants in folklore remedies and as sources of raw materials for pharmaceutical industries is extensively increasing. The problem surrounding the use of such plants rests with the manner in which such plants like other agricultural commodities are contaminated with fungi, some of which are toxigenic, with possible production of mycotoxins in such plants. This study was aimed at investigating the degree of mycotoxin contamination of 36 South African medicinal plants. A multi-mycotoxin extraction method was followed and mycotoxins so extracted were quantified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). High performance liquid chromatographic data revealed the presence of aflatoxins (AFs), ochratoxin A (OTA) and zearalenone (ZEA) 0.03 to 31.46 µg/kg, 0.2 to 10.09 µg/kg and 0.1 to 23.35 µg/kg, respectively. Most of the plants were found to be contaminated with one or two mycotoxins tested for. The use of such contaminated medicinal plants may lead to high risk of mycotoxins consumption which might result to adverse human health problems and therefore represents a special hazard. In view of this, it is crucial to establish and implement fungal and mycotoxin control programmes so as to limit quality loss and exposure of consumers of these products to these hazardous substances that could be accompanied by ill-health.
Use of Modified Atmosphere Packaging to Manage Quality of Green Garlic Leaves during Cold Storage Period
Authors: Akan Selen , Horzum Özge
Published: March 2021

Green garlic leaves are consumed as fresh and cooked in Turkey and in some part of the world such as Asia, America and Africa. This crop could be considered as a promising export product in Turkey’s exportation volume. For this reason, we investigated how different package materials such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and closed polypropylene transparent boxes (CPTB) maintain some quality parameters of green garlic (Allim sativum L.) leaves. For that purpose, garlic leaves were stored at 10 °C and 80±5% relative humidity for 12 days after cutting, pre-cooling and packaging. Weight loss (WL),  soluble solids content (SSC), titratable acidity (TA), chlorophyll content as SPAD reading, visual quality (VQ), color, total phenolic content (TPC) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured at 3, 6, 9 and 12 days during storage period. Our results indicated that both packaging materials significantly maintained (P ≤ 0.05) WL, TA, chlorophyll content, VQ and TPC compared to controls (unpacked samples). Pearson Correlation tests showed that WL, color (L*, b*), TA and TAC could be used as marker to determine storage life of green garlic leaves. In addition, CPTB package is more effective in maintaining quality of green garlic leaves during cold storage.
Cognitive Problems and Their Clinical Assessment in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Contrasting Patient and Provider Views
Authors: Vandenberg Ann E. , Drenkard Cristina , Goldstein Felicia C. , Dunlop‐Thomas Charmayne , Lim S. Sam , Bowling C. Barrett , Plantinga Laura C.
Published: March 2021

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex chronic disease associated with reduced cognitive functioning. Patients with SLE report cognitive symptoms, but cognitive assessment is not routine in SLE and little is known about day‐to‐day cognitive problems and their effect on disease management. As part of a pilot exploring the use of a cognitive functioning report prototype for shared decision‐making in clinical encounters (the Approaches to Positive Patient‐Centered Experiences of Aging in Lupus [APPEAL] Study), we investigated the relevance of cognitive assessments performed using the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Toolbox among patients with SLE.

Methods

We conducted 4 focus groups, 2 with SLE patients (n = 18) and 2 with lupus providers (physicians and nurses; n = 9), addressing cognitive issues and interest in communicating about cognition. We compared how NIH Toolbox cognitive domains (episodic memory, working memory, processing speed, attention and inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility) matched with patient‐ and provider‐identified cognitive problems and needs.

Results

Patients identified all NIH domains with rich experiential examples; providers identified fewer domains and offered less detail. An unanticipated additional domain was prospective memory (i.e., problems with remembering future actions). Use of technologic aids (e.g., smart phone alerts) was mentioned by some patients, but not providers, and represent a potential opportunity for medical care. All participants expressed interest in discussing cognition in clinic.

Conclusion

Cognitive assessment using the NIH Cognitive Toolbox is relevant to this population, with the possible addition of a prospective memory assessment. Cognitive problems and indications of communication gaps suggest the appropriateness of more clinical communication about cognition in the SLE population.
Full and reduced‐order H∞ filtering of Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy time‐varying delay systems: Input–output approach
Authors: El Aiss Hicham , Zoulagh Taha , El Hajjaji Ahmed , Hmamed Abdelaziz
Published: March 2021

This article addresses the issue of delay‐dependent H∞ filtering design for TakagiŮSugeno fuzzy time‐varying delay systems using the input–output approach. A three‐term approximation model has been used to transform the original system into two interconnected subsystems. Since the nonquadratic Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional requires to deal with the membership function's (MF) time derivative, upper‐bound inequalities have been added to the obtained conditions. Based on the scaled small gain theorem, nonquadratic Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional approach and considering the bounds of the MF time‐derivative, the H∞ full‐ and reduced‐order filters are designed and then formulated in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Finally, illustrative examples are presented to demonstrate the validity of the proposed methods.
Effect of Pre‐Extrusion on the Microstructure and Properties of Forged Mg−Al−Zn−Ce Alloy
Authors: Li Zhu-Jin , Wang Jin-Guo , Yan Rui-Fang , Wang Zheng , Ni Tian-Yi , Sun Hanigeer
Published: March 2021

The effects of different morphologies of initial grains obtained by pre‐extrusion under different extrusion hole diameters or different extrusion temperatures on the microstructure and mechanical properties of forged Mg−Al−Zn−Ce alloy are studied. After homogenization treatment of as‐cast Mg−Al−Zn−Ce alloy, β‐Mg17Al12 phase is completely dissolved into the α‐Mg matrix. Then, pre‐extrusion deformation is conducted. Dynamic recrystallization (DRX) occurs during the pre‐extrusion process, and the initial grains with different grain sizes, second‐phase volume fractions, and textures are obtained. The pre‐extruded alloys show a strong basal plane (0001) texture and a monotonous increasing (or decreasing) change. After forging the pre‐extruded alloys, compared with the homogeneous forged alloy, the average grain size of the pre‐extruded‐forged (PEF) alloys is smaller and the texture strength is greatly weakened. As the microstructure of the pre‐extruded alloys, the PEF alloys show a monotonous increase (or decrease) in grain size, the volume fraction of the second phase, and texture strength. It is inferred that the microstructure and texture of PEF alloys evolve based on the microstructure and texture of the pre‐extruded alloys, and their mechanical properties are determined by the evolved microstructure and texture.
Manufactured Flexible Electrodes for Dopamine Detection: Integration of Conducting Polymer in 3D‐Printed Polylactic Acid
Authors: Fontana-Escartin Adrián , Puiggalí-Jou Anna , Lanzalaco Sonia , Bertran Oscar , Alemán Carlos
Published: March 2021

Flexible electrochemical sensors based on electroactive materials have emerged as powerful analytical tools for biomedical applications requiring bioanalytes detection. Within this context, 3D printing is a remarkable technology for developing electrochemical devices, due to no design constraints, waste minimization, and batch manufacturing with high reproducibility. However, the fabrication of 3D printed electrodes is still limited by the in‐house fabrication of conductive filaments, which requires the mixture of the electroactive material with melted of thermoplastic polymer (e.g., polylactic acid, PLA). Herein, a simple approach is presented for preparing electrochemical dopamine (DA) biosensors. Specifically, the surface of 3D‐printed PLA specimens, which exhibit an elastic modulus and a tensile strength of 3.7 ± 0.3 GPa and 47 ± 1 MPa, respectively, is activated applying a 0.5 m NaOH solution for 30 min and, subsequently, poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) is polymerized in situ using aqueous solvent. The detection of DA with the produced sensors has been demonstrated by cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry, and chronoamperometry. In summary, the obtained results reflect that low‐cost electrochemical sensors, which are widely used in medicine and biotechnology, can be rapidly fabricated using the proposed approach that, although based on additive manufacturing, does not require the preparation of conductive filaments.
Pillar[5]arene‐Modified Gold Nanorods as Nanocarriers for Multi‐Modal Imaging‐Guided Synergistic Photodynamic‐Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Song Nan , Zhang Zhijun , Liu Peiying , Dai Dihua , Chen Chao , Li Youmei , Wang Lei , Han Ting , Yang Ying‐Wei , Wang Dong , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: March 2021

Supramolecular approaches have opened up vast possibilities to construct versatile materials, especially those with stimuli‐responsiveness and integrated functionalities of multi‐modal diagnosis and synergistic therapeutics. In this study, a hybrid theranostic nanosystem named TTPY‐Py⊂CP5@AuNR is constructed via facile host–guest interactions, where TTPY‐Py is a photosensitizer with aggregation‐induced emission and CP5@AuNR represents the carboxylatopillar[5]arene (CP5)‐modified Au nanorods. TTPY‐Py⊂CP5@AuNR integrates the respective advantages of TTPY‐Py and CP5@AuNR such as the high performance of reactive oxygen species generation and photothermal conversion, and meanwhile shows fluorescence responses to both temperature and pH stimuli. The successful modification of CP5 macrocycles on AuNRs surfaces can eliminate the cytotoxicity of AuNRs and enable them to serve as the nanocarrier of TTPY‐Py for further theranostic applications. Significantly, in vitro and in vivo evaluations demonstrate that this supramolecular nanotheranostic system possesses multiple modalities including intensive fluorescence imaging (FLI), photoacoustic imaging (PAI), efficient photodynamic therapy (PDT), and photothermal therapy (PTT), indicating its great potential for FLI‐PAI imaging‐guided synergistic PDT‐PTT therapy. Moreover, TTPY‐Py can be released upon activation by the acidic environment of lysosomes and then specifically light up mitochondria. This study demonstrates a new strategy for the design of versatile nanotheranostics for accurate tumor imaging and cancer therapies.
Molecular Origin of Strain‐Induced Chain Alignment in PDPP‐Based Semiconducting Polymeric Thin Films
Authors: Zhang Song , Alesadi Amirhadi , Mason Gage T. , Chen Kai‐Lin , Freychet Guillaume , Galuska Luke , Cheng Yu‐Hsuan , St. Onge P. Blake J. , Ocheje Michael U. , Ma Guorong , Qian Zhiyuan , Dhakal Sujata , Ahmad Zachary , Wang Cheng , Chiu Yu‐Cheng , Rondeau‐Gagné Simon , Xia Wenjie , Gu Xiaodan
Published: March 2021

Donor–acceptor (D–A) type semiconducting polymers have shown great potential for the application of deformable and stretchable electronics in recent decades. However, due to their heterogeneous structure with rigid backbones and long solubilizing side chains, the fundamental understanding of their molecular picture upon mechanical deformation still lacks investigation. Here, the molecular orientation of diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP)‐based D–A polymer thin films is probed under tensile deformation via both experimental measurements and molecular modeling. The detailed morphological analysis demonstrates highly aligned polymer crystallites upon deformation, while the degree of backbone alignment is limited within the crystalline domain. Besides, the aromatic ring on polymer backbones rotates parallel to the strain direction despite the relatively low overall chain anisotropy. The effect of side‐chain length on the DPP chain alignment is observed to be less noticeable. These observations are distinct from traditional linear‐chain semicrystalline polymers like polyethylene due to distinct characteristics of backbone/side‐chain combination and the crystallographic characteristics in DPP polymers. Furthermore, a stable and isotropic charge carrier mobility is obtained from fabricated organic field‐effect transistors. This study deconvolutes the alignment of different components within the thin‐film microstructure and highlights that crystallite rotation and chain slippage are the primary deformation mechanisms for semiconducting polymers.