bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimization of parameters of designed and developed hand-held electrostatic sprayer and its performance evaluation for herbal pesticides
Authors: Patel M K , Kumar A , Kumar P , Jangra A , kumar A 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Electrostatic force field has been exploited in the design and development of a handheld air-assisted electrostatic sprayer for herbal pesticides. Electrostatic spraying is a novel approach for agricultural pesticides applications to increase the mass transfer efficiency, pesticide bio-efficacy, uniform deposition, maximum canopy coverage and liquid pest to reach the hidden areas and underside of the target by reducing the drift of active ingredients of pesticides from the target. A new air-assisted electrostatic sprayer has been designed and developed for small scale farms with a specific focus on rural developing economies. In this work, experiments were carried out with four types of herbal pesticides and one chemical pesticide to evaluate and compare the performance of developed electrostatic sprayer. The results are characterized in terms of depended variable i.e. charge-to-mass ratio by varying independent variables such as applied voltage, air pressure, conductivity and density of liquid. The droplets are charged more than 8 mC/kg with an applied voltage of 1.5 kV at a flow rate of 110 ml/min and air pressure of 40 psi which is more than desirable to achieve the wraparound effect. This nozzle is light weight, highly efficient, reduces pesticide use and human health risks, and eco-friendly.
Monte-Carlo simulations of electrostatic self-charging of tritiated tungsten and beryllium particles
Authors: Dougniaux Grégoire , Sow Mamadou , Peillon Samuel , Grisolia Christian , Gensdarmes Francois 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
The electrostatic self-charging rate of tokamak dust is investigated using Geant4, a toolkit for the simulation of the passage of particles through matter. To do so, the particles geometrical characteristics, the β disintegration energy spectrum and the deepness of tritium infusion are taken into account. The investigated materials are tungsten and beryllium, the plasma facing components (PFC) of ITER, considered as spherical particles from 20 nm to 200 μm in diameter, both tritiated. Two cases of tritium distribution in the particles are examined. On the one hand, tritium is homogeneously distributed over the whole sphere; on the other hand, tritium is homogeneously distributed within the external 100 nm layer of the sphere. The self-charging rate is assessed through the calculation of the particle exiting electron rate. Based on a tritium inventory of 10 GBq/g, relevant for ITER tokamak environment, our results show that, for a single tungsten or beryllium particle of 10 μm in diameter, the self-charging rate when the tritium is homogeneously distributed within the whole sphere is respectively 2.4 and 1.9 positive elementary charges per second. In the configuration where the tritium absorption is confined in the external 100 nm layer, the charge magnitude raises up to 37.1 and 8.4 respectively.
Lightning in other planets
Authors: Helling Christiane 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
More than 4000 planet are known that orbit stars other than our Sun. Many harbor a dynamic atmosphere that is cold enough that cloud particles can form in abundance. The diversity of exoplanets leads to differences in cloud coverage depending on global system parameters. Some planets will be fully covered in clouds, some have clouds on the nightside but are largely cloud-free on the dayside. These cloud particles can easily be charged and lightning discharges will occur in cloudy, dynamic exoplanet atmosphere. Lightning supports a Global Electric Circuit (GCE) on Earth and we argue that exoplanet may develop a GCE in particular if parts of the exoplanet atmospheres can remain cloud free.
A Modified Maxwell Garnett Model: Hysteresis in phase change materials
Authors: Green Nicolas G , Fang Xu 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
The dielectric properties of materials undergoing phase transitions are key to a number of modern and developing technologies, particularly when hysteresis is demonstrated in the response. This paper presents a modified Maxwell Garnett model for analysing electromagnetic hysteresis, using an asymmetric effective medium approximation to describe intermediate states in the phase change, establishing a link between effective medium and hysteresis analysis. The model has few input parameters and provides a phenomenological approach to describing electromagnetic hysteresis in various phase change materials.
Improved light scattering measurement with microscopy data for nanoparticle number-based size distribution
Authors: Caebergs T , Sebaïhi N , Pétry J 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Size is the key feature of nanoparticle properties. Nanoparticle size distribution can be measured by microscopy technique and light scattering posterior to a separation technique. Discrepancies can be observed, especially in the case of polydisperse samples. Microscopy is more precise for size and shape measurement, while light scattering provides better information about concentration. An experiment is set up to investigate the feasibility of bringing comparability of Asymmetrical Flow Field-Flow Fractionation followed by Multi-Angle Light Scattering and AFM measurements. A sample made from a mixture of stock samples is built, after detailed characterisation of the stock samples. By obtaining comparability of MALS and AFM measurements, a new way to calibrate MALS instrument without the need for reference material is opened: using aliquots of the sample itself as a reference.
Cytotoxicity of hyaluronic acid coated chitosan nanoparticles containing nitric oxide donor against cancer cell lines
Authors: Pelegrino M T , Baldi C , Souza A C S , Seabra A B 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
The incidence and mortality rates of all types of cancer have a global burden. The lack of specificity of chemotherapy is one of the major problems in cancer treatment and it is related with moderate to severe adverse effects. CD44 is a protein overexpressed in certain types of cancer cells and can be used as an anchor of attachment for nanoparticles decorated with hyaluronic acid (HA). HA is a natural polymer with high affinity for CD44 receptors. In this work, chitosan nanoparticles (CS NPs) were coated with HA to delivery nitric oxide (NO) donor to cancer cells. NO is a small molecule involved in several physiological processes and it has cytotoxicity against cancer cells. HA-coated and uncoated NO-releasing CS NPs were synthesized and characterized by different techniques. Uncoated and HA-coated NO-releasing CS NPs have hydrodynamic diameters of 142.80 ± 2.22 nm and 170.80 ± 0.14 nm, respectively, polydispersity index of 0.282 ± 0.010 and 0.37 ± 0.04, respectively, and a zeta potential values of + 25.20 ± 0.85 mV and + 15.60 ± 0.15 mV, respectively. As expected, the presence of HA layer on the surface of NO-releasing CS NPs increased hydrodynamic size ca. 20%. The encapsulation efficiency of the NO donor into CS NPs was found to be higher than 90%. The kinetic of NO release from uncoated and HA-coated CS NPs has two distinct phases, an initial burst followed by the establishment of a plateau, with a maximum of NO released at 40 mmol·L−1. At this concentration, NO is expected to have cytotoxic effects. The cytotoxicity of uncoated and HA-coated NO releasing CS NPs showed a concentration-dependent toxicity against human prostatic carcinoma (PC-3) and human uterine cervix carcinoma (HeLa) cell lines. Taken all together, uncoated and HA-coated NO-releasing CS NPs might find important biomedical applications, including cancer in treatment.
Empirical analysis of regulative risk assessment processes of nanomaterials under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and European Union regulation concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and restriction of Chemicals (REACH)
Authors: Miettinen Mirella 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
An empirical analysis of regulative risk assessment processes of nanomaterials under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) was performed. Risk assessment that has regulatory applicability must be based on legally binding norms, and “process” refers here to the approach taken by the regulatory bodies in the U.S. and the EU to implement those norms. Data consisted of the number of notifications/dossiers for the nanomaterials or the substances that contain also nanoform received by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), and decisions of the Agencies. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and classification. The analysis focused on the challenges in detection of nanomaterials and information collection that are the core functions of risk-based regulation and may create dissimilar compliance requirements for companies. The results show that a loophole in detection of nanomaterials and information collection on them exists in the EU under the REACH, and that regulative risk assessment processes performed by the ECHA and EPA under the REACH and the TSCA, respectively, may result in different compliance requirements for companies. The differences arise partly from the legal provisions that determine the authority and obligations of the Agencies, but also from the decision making practices adopted by the Agencies.
Twenty-first century technology of combating wildfire
Authors: De D K , Olawole O C , Joel E S , Ikono U I , Oyedepo S O , Olawole O F , Obaseki O , Oduniyi I , Omeje M , Ayoola A A , Usikalu M R , Omotosho T V , Bolujo E O , Ilo I P 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Wildfire causes havoc and serious destruction of forest resources and wildlife. It also causes occasionally serious damages to human lives and properties. Current technology of fighting wildfire employs fire retardant chemicals, which pollute the environment seriously, and damages both wild and aquatic lives. Based on the new novel technology, it is possible that in the near future the industrial emissions that pollute the environments and cause health problems would be completely captured in frozen solid forms of emissions products. One of these is the frozen carbon dioxide, which is known as dry ice, which would be available than in hundreds of millions of tons in any country. Cost analysis shows that the power and cement industries would significantly benefit by selling the dry ice captured using the technology, just at $0.07 per kg. The present paper discusses the new technology of applying dry ice that would thus be abundantly available in fighting a wildfire. The paper discusses how the new technology would be by far superior to current technology that employs fire retardant chemicals in terms of environmental protection and the cost-effectiveness over the current technology.
Wind energy generation from Nigeria continental shelf: A review
Authors: Attabo A A , Ajayi O O , Oyedepo S O 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
The menace of global warming and increase of green-house gases have motivated many countries to embrace renewable energy sources as an alternative to fossil fuels. Some of the means by which sustainable energy is tapped are solar, biofuel, and wind. Wind energy have been around for quite some time and the power in the wind have been harnessed on land. However, due to some constraints related to land use, visual impacts and turbulence induced by buildings and trees, offshore wind farms have been engaged to provide quality alternative to onshore wind energy. This study reviews various works that have been done in the offshore wind development and tries to make a case for the generation of electricity from this type of renewable energy source to boost the nation’s electricity demand. Work done in offshore energy assessment, wake models, offshore turbine layout, future innovation in offshore wind turbine and Nigeria onshore energy scenario were reviewed. To speed up development of offshore wind energy in Nigeria, recommendation was made for government to invest in wind energy research, industries that operate in the offshore region should be willing to share meteorological data with researchers and tertiary institutions should encourage student to work on “issue-based” projects like proffering solution to the energy deficit crisis in the country.
Issues and Challenges Involved In Green Building Concept Innovations Adoption In Construction Practice
Authors: Amusan Lekan M , Oluwakorede Michael , Clement Oloke , Adegbenjo Adelakun , Rishi Garba 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Green concept is globally creating impact with diverse application at various facet of human endeavour. The concept involved the practice whereby energy is utilized in a way that it would not jeopardise continuity of energy usage in the environment. The aim of this study is to explore the issues and challenges that surround the adoption of green concept in Nigeria focusing on built environment with a view to enhancing the rate of adoption of the concept for an increased healthy environment. The study adopted convenience sampling method to pick the population for the study, which comprised of picking construction companies that engaged on a project that involved green building features. Population frame of 250 professionals that are registered with professional bodies that cut across 20 selected construction firms was used for the study. A structured questionnaire designed in Likert scale of 1 to 5 was distributed among 50 respondents for data collation. The data was later processed using content analysis, descriptive statistics and relative agreement index. Data was collated on parameters that include evaluation of existing issues and challenges involved in green building concept innovations adoption in construction practice, current green concept practice in construction, challenges involved in adoption of green concept in construction, critical issues involved in green concept adoption, drivers for success in the adoption of green concepts in construction, challenges involved in adoption of green concept in construction. Innovative illustrations of integration of green concepts in buildings. Mean Item Score was used with relative agreement index, this was used to rate the perception of respondents on parameters calibrated for respondents to answer. Categorical regression analysis was used to carry out comparative analysis of respondents’ submission on success factors that influences the adoption of green building concept and challenges involved in the adoption of green building. Some other parameters were further explored, they include, innovative approach to sustainable construction practice and perspectives to green building practice. The analysis of the study brought to fore factors to be taken into consideration for effective adoption of green building concept. The challenges such as thought reengineering and philosophical and cultural adjustment need to be further harnessed for people to leave the built environment better than it was met.
Fabrication of P3HT: PCBM bulk heterojunction organic solar cell
Authors: Kesinro R. O. , Boyo A.O. , Akinyemi M. L. , Mola G. T. 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
The fabrication of organic solar cells (OSCs) employing solution processing has proven to be a convenient method to guarantee the fabrication of OSCs at low cost and large-scale production. This manuscript demonstrates the successful fabrication of TFOSC with device structure: poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT: PSS)/poly (3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT): [6, 6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM)/lithium fluoride (LiF)/aluminium (Al) under ambient conditions. An overall power conversion efficiency of 3.25% and charge carrier mobility of 1.22e−2 cm v s−1 was obtained and PEDOT: PSS was beneficial in improving the charge transport processes in the preparation of organic solar cells.
Energy poverty and environmental sustainability in Nigeria: an exploratory assessment
Authors: Nwozor Agaptus , Oshewolo Segun , Ogundele Oluwaseun 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Energy constitutes an indispensable catalyst for sustainable socio-economic development. The imperative of energy security is highlighted by the pervasive energy poverty that characterizes developing countries, especially Nigeria. Despite being a major oil producer and having four refineries, Nigeria imports 90 percent of its domestically needed refined petroleum products. Similarly, Nigeria requires about 98,000 megawatts (MW) to achieve national electricity security. However, its thermal and hydropower stations have a combined installed capacity of only 12,522MW but generate between 3,000MW and 4,000MW and sometimes less than 3,000MW. The electricity challenge is deepened by fluctuations. The implications of this suboptimal power generation include: only 40 percent of Nigeria’s 193 million population have access to electricity, erratic nature of electricity supply and the long hours of power outages. Thus, Nigeria can be categorized as an energy poor country. The major goal of this paper is to assess the link between energy poverty and environmental sustainability given that households must take alternative steps to bridge energy gaps that impact them. It further evaluates the opportunities and barriers to energy security and holds that the untapped potentials, especially among renewable energy resources, hold the key to sustainable energy development to tackle energy poverty in Nigeria.
The Future of Renewable Energy for Electricity Generation in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Adedeji Paul A. , Akinlabi Stephen , Madushele Nkosinathi , Olatunji Obafemi 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Energy transition in the last decade has experienced increased quota of renewable energy in the global energy mix. In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the transition from the fossil fuel to the renewable energy source has been gradual. The state of renewable energy in the region in the next decade is the focus of this study. This study uses a single-layer perceptron artificial neural network (SLP-ANN) to backcast from 2015 to 2006 and forecast from 2016 to 2020 the percentage of renewable energy for electricity generation, exempting the hydropower in the energy mix of the SSA based on historical data. The backcast percentage renewable energy mix was evaluated using known statistical metrics for accuracy measures. The root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute deviation (MAD) and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) obtained were 0.29, 0.18, and 14.69 respectively. The result shows possibility of an increase in the percentage of renewable energy in the electricity sector in the region. In 2020, the percentage of renewable energy in sub-Saharan region is expected to rise to 4.13% with exclusion of the hydropower. With government policies encouraging the growth of the renewable energy as a means of power generation in the region, the predicted percentage and even more can be realized.
Effect of Chemicals and Cations on the Activity of Partially Purified alpha amylase produced by Aspergillus niger
Authors: Atolagbe O M , Ajayi A A , Olasehinde G I 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Amylases are one of the most important enzymes used in the industry. They are responsible for the hydrolysis of starch and glycogen. This research aimed to investigate the effect of cations (Ca2+ and K+) and chemicals (EDTA and HgCl2) on alpha amylase activity. Alpha amylase was produced by Aspergillus niger under submerged fermentation conditions in a basal salt medium. The enzyme was partially purified with activated carbon which gave a 1.57 purification fold. The effects of ethylene diamine tetratacetic acid (EDTA), mercuric chloride (HgCl2), Calcium ion (Ca2+) and Potassium ion (K+) on the partially purified enzymes were then investigated. The enzyme was inhibited to varying degrees by EDTA and HgCl2 with inhibition of approximately 62% and 52% occurred with 8mM of EDTA and HgCl2 respectively, but stimulated by Ca2+ and Potassium ion K+. Activated carbon partially purified alpha amylase produced by A. niger with a high yield. The cations and chemicals had varying effects on the enzyme.
Characteristics of wind turbulence near the boundary layer in Three-North Regions of China
Authors: Li Yan , Guo Haiping , Li Lei 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Based on the daily 10-minute wind observation data of the wind tower in CWERPON from 2013 to 2017, this study analysed the distribution and variation characteristics of wind turbulence in different gradients and periods in wind resource rich regions in NEC, NC and NWC. Results showed that: 1) The average wind speed from ground to 100 m height was 6.7m/s, which increased with the height, and the dominant wind speed was 4.0 m/s. The average wind speed at the height of 10 m, 30 m, 50 m, 70 m and 100 m were 6.0 m/s, 6.4 m/s, 6.7 m/s, 7.0 m/s and 7.5 m/s respectively. The highest and the lowest wind speed frequency occurred at the heights of 10m and 100m layers, which accounted for more than 22.5 % and 12.5 %. Starting from the wind speed of 6.0 m/s, the proportion of lower layers wind speed decreased, while that of high layers wind speed increased. 2) The average
It

decreased from low layers to high layers. Each layer’s
It

decreased gradually with the increasing of wind speed. The
It

values were different among these three regions in the study area, the NEC region was the largest, followed by the NWC, and the
It

value in NC stations were the smallest. Under the wind speed of 3.0-25 m/s and 15.0 m/s, the average
It

of each layer were 0.118 and 0.099 respectively; the maximum values were 0.189 and 0.120 at the height of 10 m in NEC region, and the minimum were 0.082 and 0.063, both of which appeared in the 100 m gradient in NC region and NWC region respectively. 3) The variation ranges of
It

among adjacent layers were different, the lower the layer was, the greater range of change occurred. The differences between the 10-30 m, 30-50 m, 50-70 m were 0.028, 0.013 and 0.003 respectively. 4) Each layer’s
It

corresponded to the variation trend of the air temperature.
It

increased slowly from 06:00, which reached the maximum value around 14:00, and then decreased slowly. 5) The wind turbine reach the C and B turbulence intensity level respectively at the height of 30 m and 10 m in the study area when the average wind speed is lower than 6.0 m/s, and some stations’ wind turbine type in these three regions should be at least A level.
An empirical model to predict glacier area changes in China
Authors: Tian Hongzhen , Yang Taibao , Liu Qinping 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Prediction of glacier changes is crucial for our society to adapt to the ongoing climate change. First, using correlation analysis, we found that a climate index (annual temperature) is significantly correlated with glacier area changes in China. A linear empirical model was then constructed to predict glacier area changes using temperature projections from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). By using a subset of the glacier area change data as training data and the rest as verification data, we confirmed that the ability of the model to predict is reliable. The model requires only simple inputs and is easy to use. It gives a means of obtaining information on glacier area changes in the future for people in other disciplines as well as glaciologists who only need general information concerning glacier area changes in China.