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  • American Chemical Society  (1,750)
  • Molecular Diversity Preservation International  (1,428)
  • Blackwell Publishing Ltd
  • 2020-2024  (3,191)
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  • 1
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    Non‐exchangeable stable hydrogen isotope ratios in clay minerals and soil clay fractions: A method test (2022)
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Oxford, UK
    Details
    Publication Date: 2023-01-20
    Description: Stable hydrogen isotope ratios (δ2H values) in structural hydroxyl groups of pedogenic clay minerals are inherited from the surrounding water at the time of their formation. Only non‐exchangeable H preserves the environmental forensic and paleoclimate information (δ2Hn value). To measure δ2Hn values in structural H of clay minerals and soil clay fractions, we adapted a steam equilibration method by accounting for high hygroscopicity. Our δ2Hn values for USGS57 biotite (−95.3 ± SD 0.9‰) and USGS58 muscovite (30.7 ± 1.4‰) differed slightly but significantly from the reported δ2H values (−91.5 ± 2.4‰ and −28.4 ± 1.6‰), because the minerals contained 1.1%–4.4% of exchangeable H. The low SD of replicate measurements (n = 3) confirmed a high precision. The clay separation method including destruction of Fe oxides, carbonates and soil organic matter, and dispersion did not significantly change the δ2Hn values of five different clay minerals. However, we were unable to remove all organic matter from the soil clay fractions resulting in an estimated bias of 1‰ in two samples and 15‰ in the carbon‐richest sample. Our results demonstrate that δ2Hn values of structural H of clay minerals and soil clay fractions can be reliably measured without interference from atmospheric water and the method used to separate the soil clay fraction. Highlights We tested steam equilibration to determine stable isotope ratios of structural H in clay. Gas‐tight capsule sealing in Ar atmosphere was necessary to avoid remoistening. Our steam equilibration method showed a high accuracy and precision. The clay separation method did not change stable isotope ratios of structural H in clay.
    Description: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100001659
    Keywords: ddc:549 ; controlled isotope exchange technique ; deuterium ; montmorillonite ; soil clay separation ; soil organic matter removal ; steam equilibration ; structural H ; USGS57 biotite ; vermiculite ; δ2H
    Language: English
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  • 2
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    Alkali Metal- and Acid-Catalyzed Interconversion of Goniodomin A with Congeners B and C (2021)
    American Chemical Society
    In:  EPIC3Journal of Natural Products, American Chemical Society, 84(9), pp. 2554-2567, ISSN: 0163-3864
    Details
    Publication Date: 2023-03-13
    Description: Goniodomin A (GDA, 1) is a phycotoxin produced by at least four species of Alexandrium dinoflagellates that are found globally in brackish estuaries and lagoons. It is a linear polyketide with six oxygen heterocyclic rings that is cyclized into a macrocyclic structure via lactone formation. Two of the oxygen heterocycles in 1 comprise a spiro-bis-pyran, whereas goniodomin B (GDB) contains a 2,7-dioxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane ring system fused to a pyran. When H2O is present, 1 undergoes facile conversion to isomer GDB and to an α,β-unsaturated ketone, goniodomin C (GDC, 7). GDB and GDC can be formed from GDA by cleavage of the spiro-bis-pyran ring system. GDA, but not GDB or GDC, forms a crown ether-type complex with K+. Equilibration of GDA with GDB and GDC is observed in the presence of H+ and of Na+, but the equilibrated mixtures revert to GDA upon addition of K+. Structural differences have been found between the K+ and Na+ complexes. The association of GDA with K+ is strong, while that with Na+ is weak. The K+ complex has a compact, well-defined structure, whereas Na+ complexes are an ill-defined mixture of species. Analyses of in vitro A. monilatum and A. hiranoi cultures indicate that only GDA is present in the cells; GDB and GDC appear to be postharvest transformation products.
    Repository Name: EPIC Alfred Wegener Institut
    Type: Article , isiRev
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  • 3
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    Potential erodibility of semi‐arid steppe soils derived from aggregate stability tests (2022)
    Koza, Moritz ; Pöhlitz, Julia ; Prays, Aleksey ; [et al.]
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Oxford, UK
    Details
    Publication Date: 2023-01-26
    Description: Erosion is a severe threat to the sustainable use of agricultural soils. However, the structural resistance of soil against the disruptive forces steppe soils experience under field conditions has not been investigated. Therefore, 132 topsoils under grass‐ and cropland covering a large range of physico‐chemical soil properties (sand: 2–76%, silt: 18–80%, clay: 6–30%, organic carbon: 7.3–64.2 g kg−1, inorganic carbon: 0.0–8.5 g kg−1, pH: 4.8–9.5, electrical conductivity: 32–946 μS cm−1) from northern Kazakhstan were assessed for their potential erodibility using several tests. An adjusted drop‐shatter method (low energy input of 60 Joule on a 250‐cm3 soil block) was used to estimate the stability of dry soil against weak mechanical forces, such as saltating particles striking the surface causing wind erosion. Three wetting treatments with various conditions and energies (fast wetting, slow wetting, and wet shaking) were applied to simulate different disruptive effects of water. Results indicate that aggregate stability was higher for grassland than cropland soils and declined with decreasing soil organic carbon content. The results of the drop‐shatter test suggested that 29% of the soils under cropland were at risk of wind erosion, but only 6% were at high risk (i.e. erodible fraction 〉60%). In contrast, the fast wetting treatment revealed that 54% of the samples were prone to become “very unstable” and 44% “unstable” during heavy rain or snowmelt events. Even under conditions comparable to light rain events or raindrop impact, 53–59% of the samples were “unstable.” Overall, cropland soils under semi‐arid conditions seem much more susceptible to water than wind erosion. Considering future projections of increasing precipitation in Kazakhstan, we conclude that the risk of water erosion is potentially underestimated and needs to be taken into account when developing sustainable land use strategies. Highlights Organic matter is the important binding agent enhancing aggregation in steppe topsoils. Tillage always declines aggregate stability even without soil organic carbon changes. All croplands soil are prone to wind or water erosion independent of their soil properties. Despite the semi‐arid conditions, erosion risk by water seems higher than by wind.
    Description: Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100002347
    Keywords: ddc:631.4 ; climate change ; land use ; soil organic carbon ; soil texture ; water erosion ; wind erosion
    Language: English
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  • 4
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    Vertical SOC distribution and aromatic carbon in centuries old charcoal‐rich Technosols (2022)
    Bonhage, Alexander ; Raab, Thomas ; Schneider, Anna ; [et al.]
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Oxford, UK
    Details
    Publication Date: 2023-01-21
    Description: Charcoal‐rich Technosols on century‐old relict charcoal hearths (RCHs) are the subject of ongoing research regarding potential legacy effects that result from historic charcoal production and subsequent charcoal amendments on forest soil properties and forest ecosystems today. RCHs consist mostly of Auh horizons that are substantially enriched in soil organic carbon (SOC), of which the largest part seems to be of pyrogenic origin (PyC). However, the reported range of SOC and PyC contents in RCH soil also suggests that they are enriched in nonpyrogenic SOC. RCH soils are discussed as potential benchmarks for the long‐term influence of biochar amendment and the post‐wildfire influences on soil properties. In this study, we utilised a large soil sample dataset (n = 1245) from 52 RCH sites in north‐western Connecticut, USA, to quantify SOC contents by total element analysis. The contents of condensed highly aromatic carbon as a proxy for black carbon (BC) were predicted by using a modified benzene polycarboxylated acid (BPCA) marker method in combination with diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) spectroscopy‐based partial least square regression (r2 = 0.89). A high vertical spatial sampling resolution allowed the identification of soil organic matter (SOM) enrichment and translocation processes. The results show an average 75% and 1862% increase in TOC and BPCA‐derived carbon, respectively, for technogenic Auh horizons compared to reference soils. In addition to an increase in aromatic properties, increased carboxylic properties of the RCH SOC suggest self‐humification effects of degrading charcoal and thereby the continuing formation of leachable aromatic carbon compounds, which could have effects on pedogenic processes in buried soils. Indeed, we show BPCA‐derived carbon concentrations in intermediate technogenic Cu horizons and buried top/subsoils that suggest vertical translocation of highly aromatic carbon originating in RCH Auh horizons. Topmost Auh horizons showed a gradual decrease in total organic carbon (TOC) contents with increasing depth, suggesting accumulation of recent, non‐pyrogenic SOM. Lower aliphatic absorptions in RCH soil spectra suggest different SOM turnover dynamics compared to reference soils. Furthermore, studied RCH soils featured additional TOC enrichment, which cannot be fully explained now. Highlights BC to TOC ratio and high resolution vertical SOC distribution in 52 RCH sites were studied. RCH soils non‐BC pool was potentially different to reference soils. RCH soils feature TOC accumulation in the topmost horizon. There is BC translocation into buried soils on RCH sites.
    Description: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100001659
    Keywords: ddc:631.4 ; benzene polycarboxylated acid marker (BPCA) ; black carbon ; charcoal degradation ; charcoal kiln ; pyrogenic carbon ; relict charcoal hearth ; biochar
    Language: English
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  • 5
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    Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticle Nanodevices Based on Fe3O4 Coated by Megluminic Ligands for the Adsorption of Metal Anions from Water (2023)
    American Chemical Society
    Details
    Publication Date: 2023-01-16
    Description: The uptake ability toward arsenic(V), chromium(VI), and boron(III) ions of ad hoc functionalized magnetic nanostructured devices has been investigated. To this purpose, ligands based on meglumine have been synthesized and used to coat magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4) obtained by the co-precipitation methodology. The as-prepared hybrid material was characterized by infrared spectroscopy (IR), X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy combined with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis. Moreover, its magnetic hysteresis properties were measured to evaluate its magnetic properties, and the adsorption kinetics and isothermal models were applied to discern between the different adsorption phenomena. Specifically, the better fitting was observed by the Langmuir isotherm model for all metal ions tested, highlighting a higher uptake in arsenic (28.2 mg/g), chromium (12.3 mg/g), and boron (23.7 mg/g) sorption values if compared with other magnetic nanostructured materials. After adsorption, an external magnetic stimulus can be used to efficiently remove nanomaterials from the water. Finally the nanomaterial can be reused up to five cycles and regenerated for another three cycles.
    Description: Published
    Description: 10775–10788
    Description: 1A. Geomagnetismo e Paleomagnetismo
    Description: JCR Journal
    Repository Name: Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV)
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  • 6
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    Defining Hydrogeological Site Similarity with Hierarchical Agglomerative Clustering (2022)
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Malden, US
    Details
    Publication Date: 2024-02-28
    Description: 〈title xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML"〉Abstract〈/title〉〈p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xml:lang="en"〉Hydrogeological information about an aquifer is difficult and costly to obtain, yet essential for the efficient management of groundwater resources. Transferring information from sampled sites to a specific site of interest can provide information when site‐specific data is lacking. Central to this approach is the notion of site similarity, which is necessary for determining relevant sites to include in the data transfer process. In this paper, we present a data‐driven method for defining site similarity. We apply this method to selecting groups of similar sites from which to derive prior distributions for the Bayesian estimation of hydraulic conductivity measurements at sites of interest. We conclude that there is now a unique opportunity to combine hydrogeological expertise with data‐driven methods to improve the predictive ability of stochastic hydrogeological models.〈/p〉
    Description: 〈p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xml:lang="en"〉〈italic〉Article impact statement〈/italic〉: This article introduces hierarchical clustering as a method for defining a notion of site similarity; the aim of this method is to improve the derivation of prior distributions in Bayesian methods in hydrogeology.〈/p〉
    Description: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100001659
    Description: https://github.com/GeoStat-Bayesian/geostatDB
    Description: https://github.com/GeoStat-Bayesian/exPrior
    Description: https://github.com/GeoStat-Bayesian/siteSimilarity
    Keywords: ddc:551.49 ; hydrogeological sites ; hydrogeological modeling
    Language: English
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  • 7
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    Passive Sampler Derived Profiles and Mass Flows of Perfluorinated Alkyl Substances (PFASs) across the Fram Strait in the North Atlantic (2024)
    American Chemical Society
    In:  EPIC3Environmental Science & Technology Letters, American Chemical Society
    Details
    Publication Date: 2024-01-24
    Repository Name: EPIC Alfred Wegener Institut
    Type: Article , isiRev
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  • 8
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    Toward an adequate level of detail in flood risk assessments (2023)
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Oxford, UK
    Details
    Publication Date: 2024-01-24
    Description: 〈title xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML"〉Abstract〈/title〉〈p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xml:lang="en"〉Flood risk assessments require different disciplines to understand and model the underlying components hazard, exposure, and vulnerability. Many methods and data sets have been refined considerably to cover more details of spatial, temporal, or process information. We compile case studies indicating that refined methods and data have a considerable effect on the overall assessment of flood risk. But are these improvements worth the effort? The adequate level of detail is typically unknown and prioritization of improvements in a specific component is hampered by the lack of an overarching view on flood risk. Consequently, creating the dilemma of potentially being too greedy or too wasteful with the resources available for a risk assessment. A “sweet spot” between those two would use methods and data sets that cover all relevant known processes without using resources inefficiently. We provide three key questions as a qualitative guidance toward this “sweet spot.” For quantitative decision support, more overarching case studies in various contexts are needed to reveal the sensitivity of the overall flood risk to individual components. This could also support the anticipation of unforeseen events like the flood event in Germany and Belgium in 2021 and increase the reliability of flood risk assessments.〈/p〉
    Description: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100001659
    Description: BMBF http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100002347
    Description: Federal Environment Agency http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100010809
    Description: http://howas21.gfz-potsdam.de/howas21/
    Description: https://www.umwelt.niedersachsen.de/startseite/themen/wasser/hochwasser_amp_kustenschutz/hochwasserrisikomanagement_richtlinie/hochwassergefahren_und_hochwasserrisikokarten/hochwasserkarten-121920.html
    Description: https://download.geofabrik.de/europe/germany.html
    Description: https://emergency.copernicus.eu/mapping/list-of-components/EMSN024
    Description: https://data.jrc.ec.europa.eu/collection/id-0054
    Description: https://oasishub.co/dataset/surface-water-flooding-footprinthurricane-harvey-august-2017-jba
    Description: https://www.wasser.sachsen.de/hochwassergefahrenkarte-11915.html
    Keywords: ddc:551.48 ; decision support ; extreme events ; integrated flood risk management ; risk assessment
    Language: English
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  • 9
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    Small lateral air pressure gradients generated by a large chamber system have a strong effect on CO2 transport in soil (2023)
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Oxford, UK
    Details
    Publication Date: 2024-02-09
    Description: 〈title xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML"〉Abstract〈/title〉〈p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xml:lang="en"〉Gas transport in soils is usually assumed to be purely diffusive, although several studies have shown that non‐diffusive processes can significantly enhance soil gas transport. These processes include barometric air pressure changes, wind‐induced pressure pumping and static air pressure fields generated by wind interacting with obstacles. The associated pressure gradients in the soil can cause advective gas fluxes that are much larger than diffusive fluxes. However, the contributions of the respective transport processes are difficult to separate. We developed a large chamber system to simulate pressure fields and investigate their influence on soil gas transport. The chamber consists of four subspaces in which pressure is regulated by fans that blow air in or out of the chamber. With this setup, we conducted experiments with oscillating and static pressure fields. CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 concentrations were measured along two soil profiles beneath the chamber. We found a significant relationship between static lateral pressure gradients and the change in the CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 profiles (R〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 = 0.53; 〈italic toggle="no"〉p〈/italic〉‐value 〈2e‐16). Even small pressure gradients between −1 and 1 Pa relative to ambient pressure resulted in an increase or decrease in CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 concentrations of 8% on average in the upper soil, indicating advective flow of air in the pore space. Positive pressure gradients resulted in decreasing, negative pressure gradients in increasing CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 concentrations. The concentration changes were probably caused by an advective flow field in the soil beneath the chamber generated by the pressure gradients. No effect of oscillating pressure fields was observed in this study. The results indicate that static lateral pressure gradients have a substantial impact on soil gas transport and therefore are an important driver of gas exchange between soil and atmosphere. Lateral pressure gradients in a comparable range can be induced under windy conditions when wind interacts with terrain features. They can also be caused by chambers used for flux measurements at high wind speed or by fans used for head‐space mixing within the chambers, which yields biased flux estimates.〈/p〉
    Description: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100001659
    Keywords: ddc:631.4 ; advective flux ; chamber flux measurements ; static air pressure fields ; wind‐induced pressure pumping
    Language: English
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  • 10
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    Redoxtrons – An experimental system to study redox processes within the capillary fringe (2023)
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Oxford, UK
    Details
    Publication Date: 2023-11-18
    Description: Spatiotemporal characterisation of the soil redox status within the capillary fringe (CF) is a challenging task. Air‐filled porosities (ε), oxygen concentration (O〈sub〉2〈/sub〉) and soil redox potential (EH) are interrelated soil variables within active biogeochemical domains such as the CF. We investigated the impact of water table (WT) rise and drainage in an undisturbed topsoil and subsoil sample taken from a Calcaric Gleysol for a period of 46 days. We merged 1D (EH and matric potential) and 2D (O〈sub〉2〈/sub〉) systems to monitor at high spatiotemporal resolution redox dynamics within self‐constructed redoxtron housings and complemented the data set by a 3D pore network characterization using X‐ray microtomography (X‐ray μCT). Depletion of O〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 was faster in the organic matter‐ and clay‐rich aggregated topsoil and the CF extended 〉10 cm above the artificial WT. The homogeneous and less‐aggregated subsoil extended only 4 cm above the WT as indicated by ε–O〈sub〉2〈/sub〉–EH data during saturation. After drainage, 2D O〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 imaging revealed a fast aeration towards the lower depths of the topsoil, which agrees with the connected ε derived by X‐ray μCT (ε〈sub〉CT_conn〈/sub〉) of 14.9% of the total porosity. However, small‐scaled anoxic domains with O〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 saturation 〈5% were apparent even after lowering the WT (down to 0.25 cm〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 in size) for 23 days. These domains remained a nucleus for reducing soil conditions (E〈sub〉H〈/sub〉 〈 −100 mV), which made it challenging to characterise the soil redox status in the CF. In contrast, the subsoil aeration reached O〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 saturation after 8 days for the complete soil volume. Values of ε〈sub〉CT_conn〈/sub〉 around zero in the subsoil highlighted that soil aeration was independent of this parameter suggesting that other variables such as microbial activity must be considered when predicting the soil redox status from ε alone. The use of redoxtrons in combination with localised redox‐measurements and image based pore space analysis resulted in a better 2D/3D characterisation of the pore system and related O〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 transport properties. This allowed us to analyse the distribution and activity of microbiological niches highly associated with the spatiotemporal variable redox dynamics in soil environments. Highlights: The time needed to turn from reducing to oxidising (period where all platinum electrodes feature E〈sub〉H〈/sub〉 〉 300 mV) condition differ for two samples with contrasting soil structure. The subsoil with presumably low O〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 consumption rates aerated considerably faster than the topsoil and exclusively by O〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 diffusion through medium‐ and fine‐sized pores. To derive the soil redox status based upon the triplet ε–O〈sub〉2〈/sub〉–E〈sub〉H〈/sub〉 is challenging at present in heterogeneous soil domains and larger soil volumes than 250 cm〈sup〉3〈/sup〉. Undisturbed soil sampling along with 2D/3D redox measurement systems (e.g., redoxtrons) improve our understanding of redox dynamics within the capillary fringe.
    Keywords: ddc:631.4 ; environmental monitoring ; incubation experiments ; redox processes ; soil reducing conditions ; undisturbed soil ; X‐ray microtomography
    Language: English
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  • 11
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    The dilemma of analytical method changes for soil organic carbon in long‐term experiments (2023)
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Oxford, UK
    Details
    Publication Date: 2023-11-17
    Description: 〈title xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML"〉Abstract〈/title〉〈sec xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" id="ejss13362-sec-1003" xml:lang="en"〉 〈p xml:lang="en"〉Long‐term experiments (LTEs) have provided data to modellers and agronomists to investigate changes and dynamics of soil organic carbon (SOC) under different cropping systems. As treatment changes have occurred due to agricultural advancements, so too have analytical soil methods. This may lead to method bias over time, which could affect the robust interpretation of data and conclusions drawn. This study aims to quantify differences in SOC due to changes in dry combustion methods over time, using soil samples of a LTE established in 1963 that focuses on mineral and organic fertilizer management in the temperate zone of Northeast Germany. For this purpose, 1059 soil samples, collected between 1976 and 2008, have been analysed twice, once with their historical laboratory method right after sampling, and a second time in 2016 when all samples were analysed using the same elementary analyser. In 9 of 11 soil sampling campaigns, a paired 〈italic toggle="no"〉t〈/italic〉‐test provided evidence for significant differences in the historical SOC values when compared with the re‐analysed concentrations of the same LTE sample. In the sampling years 1988 and 2004, the historical analysis obtained about 0.9 g kg〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉 lower SOC compared with the re‐analysed one. For 1990 and 1998, this difference was about 0.4 g kg〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉. Correction factors, an approach often used to correct for different analytical techniques, could only be applied for 5 of 11 sampling campaigns to account for constant and proportional systematic method error. For this particular LTE, the interpretation of SOC changes due to agronomic management (here fertilization) deviates depending on the analytical method used, which may weaken the explanatory power of the historical data. We demonstrate that analytical method changes over time present one of many challenges in the interpretation of time series data of SOC dynamics. Therefore, LTE site managers need to ensure providing all necessary protocols and data in order to retrace method changes and if necessary recalculate SOC.〈/p〉 〈/sec〉〈sec xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" id="ejss13362-sec-0003" xml:lang="en"〉 〈title〉Highlights〈/title〉 〈p xml:lang="en"〉〈list list-type="bullet" id="ejss13362-list-0001"〉 〈list-item id="ejss13362-li-0001"〉〈p〉A total of 1059 LTE soil samples taken between 1976 and 2008 were re‐analysed for SOC in 2016〈/p〉〈/list-item〉 〈list-item id="ejss13362-li-0002"〉〈p〉Several methodological changes for SOC determination led to significant different SOC concentration in the same sample〈/p〉〈/list-item〉 〈list-item id="ejss13362-li-0003"〉〈p〉Interpretation and time series of LTE soil data suffer from consideration of analytical method changes and poor documentation of the same〈/p〉〈/list-item〉 〈list-item id="ejss13362-li-0004"〉〈p〉Soil archive establishment, thorough method protocols and diligent proficiency testing after soil method changes ameliorate the dilemma〈/p〉〈/list-item〉 〈/list〉〈/p〉 〈/sec〉
    Description: Brandenburger Staatsministerium für Wissenschaft, Forschung und Kultur http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100004581
    Description: Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100004937
    Description: https://doi.org/10.4228/zalf-acge-b683
    Keywords: ddc:631.4 ; Bland–Altman ; carbon stocks ; data trueness ; Deming regression ; method bias ; soil archive ; soil survey
    Language: English
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  • 12
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    Optimised use of data fusion and memory‐based learning with an Austrian soil library for predictions with infrared data (2023)
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Oxford, UK
    Details
    Publication Date: 2023-12-12
    Description: 〈title xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML"〉Abstract〈/title〉〈p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xml:lang="en"〉Infrared spectroscopy in the visible to near‐infrared (vis–NIR) and mid‐infrared (MIR) regions is a well‐established approach for the prediction of soil properties. Different data fusion and training approaches exist, and the optimal procedures are yet undefined and may depend on the heterogeneity present in the set and on the considered scale. The objectives were to test the usefulness of partial least squares regressions (PLSRs) for soil organic carbon (SOC), total carbon (C〈sub〉t〈/sub〉), total nitrogen (N〈sub〉t〈/sub〉) and pH using vis–NIR and MIR spectroscopy for an independent validation after standard calibration (use of a general PLSR model) or using memory‐based learning (MBL) with and without spiking for a national spectral database. Data fusion approaches were simple concatenation of spectra, outer product analysis (OPA) and model averaging. In total, 481 soils from an Austrian forest soil archive were measured in the vis–NIR and MIR regions, and regressions were calculated. Fivefold calibration‐validation approaches were carried out with a region‐related split of spectra to implement independent validations with n ranging from 47 to 99 soils in different folds. MIR predictions were generally superior over vis–NIR predictions. For all properties, optimal predictions were obtained with data fusion, with OPA and spectra concatenation outperforming model averaging. The greatest robustness of performance was found for OPA and MBL with spiking with 〈italic toggle="no"〉R〈/italic〉〈sup〉2〈/sup〉 ≥ 0.77 (N), 0.85 (SOC), 0.86 (pH) and 0.88 (C〈sub〉t〈/sub〉) in the validations of all folds. Overall, the results indicate that the combination of OPA for vis–NIR and MIR spectra with MBL and spiking has a high potential to accurately estimate properties when using large‐scale soil spectral libraries as reference data. However, the reduction of cost‐effectiveness using two spectrometers needs to be weighed against the potential increase in accuracy compared to a single MIR spectroscopy approach.〈/p〉
    Description: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100001659
    Keywords: ddc:631.4 ; data fusion ; independent validation ; infrared spectroscopy ; MBL ; nitrogen ; outer product analysis ; pH ; soil organic carbon ; spiking ; total carbon
    Language: English
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  • 13
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    Importance of catchment hydrological processes and calibration of hydrological‐hydrodynamic rainfall‐runoff models in small rural catchments (2023)
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Oxford, UK
    Details
    Publication Date: 2024-01-19
    Description: 〈title xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML"〉Abstract〈/title〉〈p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xml:lang="en"〉In recent years, many two‐dimensional (2D) hydrodynamic models have been extended to include the direct rainfall method (DRM). This allows their application as a hydrological‐hydrodynamic model for the determination of floodplains in one model system. In previous studies on DRM, the role of catchment hydrological processes (CaHyPro) and its interaction with the calibration process was not investigated in detail. In the present, case‐oriented study, the influence of the spatiotemporal distribution of the processes precipitation and runoff formation in combination with the 2D model HEC‐RAS is investigated. In a further step, a conceptual approach for event‐based interflow is integrated. The study is performed on the basis of a single storm event in a small rural catchment (low mountain range, 38 km〈sup〉2〈/sup〉) in Hesse (Germany). The model results are evaluated against six quality criteria and compared to a simplified baseline model. Finally, the calibrated improved model is contrasted with a calibrated baseline model. The results show the enhancement of the model results due to the integration of the CaHyPro and highlight its interplay with the calibrated model parameters.〈/p〉
    Keywords: ddc:551.48 ; 2D hydrodynamic modeling ; calibration ; direct rainfall modeling ; hydrological processes ; radar data ; runoff formation
    Language: English
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  • 14
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    BODIUM—A systemic approach to model the dynamics of soil functions (2023)
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Oxford, UK
    Details
    Publication Date: 2024-01-26
    Description: 〈title xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML"〉Abstract〈/title〉〈p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xml:lang="en"〉The increasing demand for biomass for food, animal feed, fibre and bioenergy requires optimization of soil productivity, while at the same time, protecting other soil functions such as nutrient cycling and buffering, carbon storage, habitat for biological activity and water filter and storage. Therefore, one of the main challenges for sustainable agriculture is to produce high yields while maintaining all the other soil functions. Mechanistic simulation models are an essential tool to fully understand and predict the complex interactions between physical, biological and chemical processes of soils that generate those functions. We developed a soil model to simulate the impact of various agricultural management options and climate change on soil functions by integrating the relevant processes mechanistically and in a systemic way. As a special feature, we include the dynamics of soil structure induced by tillage and biological activity, which is especially relevant in arable soils. The model operates on a 1D soil profile consisting of a number of discrete layers with dynamic thickness. We demonstrate the model performance by simulating crop growth, root growth, nutrient and water uptake, nitrogen cycling, soil organic matter turnover, microbial activity, water distribution and soil structure dynamics in a long‐term field experiment including different crops and different types and levels of fertilization. The model is able to capture essential features that are measured regularly including crop yield, soil organic carbon, and soil nitrogen. In this way, the plausibility of the implemented processes and their interactions is confirmed. Furthermore, we present the results of explorative simulations comparing scenarios with and without tillage events to analyse the effect of soil structure on soil functions. Since the model is process‐based, we are confident that the model can also be used to predict quantities that have not been measured or to estimate the effect of management measures and climate states not yet been observed. The model thus has the potential to predict the site‐specific impact of management decisions on soil functions, which is of great importance for the development of a sustainable agriculture that is currently also on the agenda of the ‘Green Deal’ at the European level.〈/p〉
    Description: Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100002347
    Description: https://git.ufz.de/bodium/bodium_v1.0
    Keywords: ddc:631.4 ; agriculture ; computational model ; simulation ; soil microbiology ; soil structure ; sustainable soil
    Language: English
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  • 15
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    Temperature and soil moisture change microbial allocation of pesticide‐derived carbon (2023)
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Oxford, UK
    Details
    Publication Date: 2024-03-18
    Description: 〈title xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML"〉Abstract〈/title〉〈p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xml:lang="en"〉Temperature and soil moisture are known to control pesticide mineralization. Half‐life times (DT〈sub〉50〈/sub〉) derived from pesticide mineralization curves generally indicate longer residence times at low soil temperature and moisture but do not consider potential changes in the microbial allocation of pesticide‐derived carbon (C). We aimed to determine carbon use efficiency (CUE, formation of new biomass relative to total C uptake) to better understand microbial utilization of pesticide‐derived C under different environmental conditions and to support the conventional description of degradation dynamics based on mineralization. We performed a microcosm experiment at two MCPA (2‐methyl‐4‐chlorophenoxyacetic acid) concentrations (1 and 20 mg kg〈sup〉−1〈/sup〉) and defined 20°C/pF 1.8 as optimal and 10°C/pF 3.5 as limiting environmental conditions. After 4 weeks, 70% of the initially applied MCPA was mineralized under optimal conditions but MCPA mineralization reached less than 25% under limiting conditions. However, under limiting conditions, an increase in CUE was observed, indicating a shift towards anabolic utilization of MCPA‐derived C. In this case, increased C assimilation implied C storage or the formation of precursor compounds to support resistance mechanisms, rather than actual growth since we did not find an increase in the 〈italic toggle="no"〉tfdA〈/italic〉 gene relevant to MCPA degradation. We were able to confirm the assumption that under limiting conditions, C assimilation increases relative to mineralization and that C redistribution, may serve as an explanation for the difference between mineralization and MCPA dissipation‐derived degradation dynamics. In addition, by introducing CUE to the temperature‐ and moisture‐dependent degradation of pesticides, we can capture the underlying microbial constraints and adaptive mechanisms to changing environmental conditions.〈/p〉
    Description: 〈p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xml:lang="en"〉Changing environmental conditions alter the MCPA degradation dynamics and the allocation of pesticide‐derived carbon to anabolic or catabolic metabolism.〈boxed-text position="anchor" content-type="graphic" id="ejss13417-blkfxd-0001" xml:lang="en"〉 〈graphic position="anchor" id="jats-graphic-1" xlink:href="urn:x-wiley:13510754:media:ejss13417:ejss13417-toc-0001"〉 〈/graphic〉 〈/boxed-text〉〈/p〉
    Description: Collaborative Research Center 1253 CAMPOS (DFG)
    Description: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100001659
    Description: DFG Priority Program 2322 “Soil System”
    Description: Ellrichshausen Foundation
    Description: Research Training Group “Integrated Hydrosystem modeling”
    Description: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5081655
    Keywords: ddc:631.4 ; anabolism ; carbon use efficiency ; catabolism ; effect of soil moisture and temperature ; gene‐centric process model ; MCPA biodegradation
    Language: English
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  • 16
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    Reducing tillage intensity benefits the soil micro‐ and mesofauna in a global meta‐analysis (2022)
    Blackwell Publishing Ltd | Oxford, UK
    Details
    Publication Date: 2024-03-22
    Description: Soil fauna drives crucial processes of energy and nutrient cycling in agricultural systems, and influences the quality of crops and pest incidence. Soil tillage is the most influential agricultural manipulation of soil structure, and has a profound influence on soil biology and its provision of ecosystem services. The objective of this study was to quantify through meta‐analyses the effects of reducing tillage intensity on density and diversity of soil micro‐ and mesofaunal communities, and how these effects vary among different pedoclimatic conditions and interact with concurrent management practices. We present the results of a global meta‐analysis of available literature data on the effects of different tillage intensities on taxonomic and functional groups of soil micro‐ and mesofauna. We collected paired observations (conventional vs. reduced forms of tillage/no‐tillage) from 133 studies across 33 countries. Our results show that reduced tillage intensity or no‐tillage increases the total density of springtails (+35%), mites (+23%), and enchytraeids (+37%) compared to more intense tillage methods. The meta‐analyses for different nematode feeding groups, life‐forms of springtails, and taxonomic mite groups showed higher densities under reduced forms of tillage compared to conventional tillage on omnivorous nematodes (+53%), epedaphic (+81%) and hemiedaphic (+84%) springtails, oribatid (+43%) and mesostigmatid (+57%) mites. Furthermore, the effects of reduced forms of tillage on soil micro‐ and mesofauna varied with depth, climate and soil texture, as well as with tillage method, tillage frequency, concurrent fertilisation, and herbicide application. Our findings suggest that reducing tillage intensity can have positive effects on the density of micro‐ and mesofaunal communities in areas subjected to long‐term intensive cultivation practices. Our results will be useful to support decision making on the management of soil faunal communities and will facilitate modelling efforts of soil biology in global agroecosystems. HIGHLIGHTS Global meta‐analysis to estimate the effect of reducing tillage intensity on micro‐ and mesofauna Reduced tillage or no‐tillage has positive effects on springtail, mite and enchytraeid density Effects vary among nematode feeding groups, springtail life forms and mite suborders Effects vary with texture, climate and depth and depend on the tillage method and frequency
    Description: Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100002347
    Description: https://doi.org/10.20387/bonares-eh0f-hj28
    Keywords: ddc:631.4 ; agricultural land use ; conservation agriculture ; conventional agriculture ; soil biodiversity ; soil cultivation
    Language: English
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    Partial Replacement of Animal Fat with Full-Fat Almond in Broiler Chicken Diets: Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Blood Profile, Cecal-Fecal Microflora Composition, and Foot-Pad Dermatitis (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
    Details
    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of full-fat almonds (FFA) as an alternative protein and fat source for broiler feed on broiler productivity, nutrient digestibility, blood characteristics, cecal-fecal microflora, and foot-pad dermatitis (FPD). A total of 96, one-day-old broiler chickens (Arbor Acres) with initial body weight 41.61 ± 0.36 g were placed in 16 cages. In each trial, four treatments were set up: a basal diet partially replacing animal fat with FFA 0% (Control, CON), a basal diet partially replacing animal fat with FFA 1% (T1), a basal diet partial replacing animal fat with FFA 2% (T2), a basal diet partially replacing animal fat with FFA 4% (T3). The experiment was conducted for a total of 4 weeks. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was higher (p 〈 0.05) in the T3 group of broilers at weeks 0 to 1 than in the CON group of broilers. From weeks 3 to 4, and for the entire experimental period, FCR was lower (p 〈 0.05) in the T3 group of broilers than in the CON and T1 groups of broilers. The apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of the ether extract (EE) was higher (p 〈 0.05) in the T3 group than in the other treatment groups, and AID of crude protein (CP) was higher (p 〈 0.05) in the T3 group than in the CON group. The apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of EE was lower (p 〈 0.05) in the CON group than in the other treatment groups, and the ATTD of CP and energy was higher (p 〈 0.05) in the T3 group of broilers than in the CON group of broilers. The AID and ATTD of total amino acids were higher (p 〈 0.05) in the T3 group than in the other treatment groups. Blood cholesterol levels were lower (p 〈 0.05) in the T3 group of broilers than in the CON and T1 groups of broilers, and higher (p 〈 0.05) in the CON group of broilers than in the T2 and T3 groups of broilers. The amount of E. coli in the cecal and fecal was lower (p 〈 0.05) in the T3 group than in CON and T1 groups. FPD score was higher (p 〈 0.05) in the T3 group of broilers than in the CON group of broilers. In conclusion, replacing a partial of animal fat with at least 4% FFA in broiler diets can increase growth performance and nutrient digestibility in broiler nutrition.
    Electronic ISSN: 2076-2615
    Topics: Biology , Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Purification of Chlorophenol Isomers by Stripping Crystallization Combining Melt Crystallization and Vaporization (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Stripping crystallization (SC) was introduced in this work to purify p-chlorophenol from the p-chlorophenol-rich liquid mixture and to purify m-chlorophenol from the m-chlorophenol-rich liquid mixture, respectively. Essentially, SC combines melt crystallization and vaporization to produce the solid product and the vapor from a liquid mixture via a series of three-phase transformations at reduced pressures during the cooling process. At the end of the SC, only the solid product remained while the liquid mixture was almost eliminated and the produced vapor was removed. A set of differential equations based on the mass and energy balances were proposed to determine the incremental variations of the amounts of remaining liquid, produced solid and produced vapor during the batch SC process. The experimental yield and product purity of the final product obtained from the batch SC experiments were compared with those predicted by the model.
    Electronic ISSN: 1420-3049
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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  • 19
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    Fabrication and Characterization of Waste Wood Cellulose Fiber/Graphene Nanoplatelet Carbon Papers for Application as Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Materials (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Waste wood contains large amounts of cellulose fibers that have outstanding mechanical properties. These fibers can be recycled and converted into highly valuable materials of waste wood. In this study, waste wood cellulose fiber/graphene nanoplatelet (WWCF/GnP) papers were prepared according to the WWCF and GnP contents. Subsequently, the WWCF/GnP papers were varyingly carbonized for their application as electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials such as state-of-the-art electronic equipment malfunction prevention, chip-level microsystem, and micro intersystem noise suppression/reduction. The increase in the GnP content and carbonization temperature enhanced electrical conductivity, thereby generating a greater EMI shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) in the high-frequency X-band. Additionally, the thickness of the WWCF/GnP carbon papers improved the electrical conductivity and EMI SE values. The electrical conductivity of the WWCF/GnP-15 carbon paper obtained at carbonization temperature of 1300 °C was approximately 5.86 S/m, leading to an EMI SE value of 43 decibels (dB) at 10.5 GHz for one sheet. Furthermore, overlapping of the three sheets increased the electrical conductivity to 7.02 S/m, leading to an EMI SE value of 72.5 dB at 10.5 GHz. Thus, we isolated WWCFs, without completely removing contaminants, for recycling and converting them into highly valuable EMI shielding materials.
    Electronic ISSN: 2079-4991
    Topics: Physics
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Effect of Drilling Fluid Invasion on Natural Gas Hydrate Near-Well Reservoirs Drilling in a Horizontal Well (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-29
    Description: Horizontal wells can significantly improve the gas production and are expected to be an efficient exploitation method for the industrialization of natural gas hydrates (NGHs) in the future. However, the near-wellbore hydrate is highly prone to decomposition during the drilling process, owing to the disturbance aroused by the factors such as the drilling fluid temperature, pressure, and salinity. These issues can result in the engineering accidents such as bit sticking and wellbore instability, which are required for further investigations. This paper studies the characteristics of drilling fluid invasion into the marine NGH reservoir with varied drilling fluid parameters via numerical simulation. The effects of the drilling fluid parameters on the decomposition behavior of near-wellbore hydrates are presented. The simulating results show that the adjustments of drilling fluid density within the mud safety window have limited effects on the NGH decomposition, meanwhile the hydrates reservoir is most sensitive to the drilling fluid temperature variation. If the drilling fluid temperature grows considerably due to improper control, the range of the hydrates decomposition around the horizontal well tends to expand, which then aggravates wellbore instability. When the drilling fluid salinity varies in the range of 3.5–7.5%, the increase in the ion concentration speeds up the hydrate decomposition, which is adverse to maintaining wellbore stability.
    Electronic ISSN: 1996-1073
    Topics: Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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  • 21
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    Synthesis of Carbon-Supported PdIrNi Catalysts and Their Performance towards Ethanol Electrooxidation (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs) have shown a high potential to supply energy and contribute to saving the climate due to their bioethanol sustainability and carbon neutrality. Nonetheless, there is a consistent need to develop new catalyst electrodes that are active for the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR). In this work, two C-supported PdIrNi catalysts, that have been reported only once, are prepared via a facile NaBH4 co-reduction route. Their physiochemical characterization (X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS)) results show alloyed PdIrNi nanoparticles that are well dispersed (〈 3 nm) and exist in metallic state that is air-stable apart from Ni and, slightly, Pd. Their electrocatalytic activity towards EOR was evaluated by means of cyclic voltammetry (CV) and chronoamperometry (CA). Even though the physiochemical characterization of PdIrNi/C and Pd4Ir2Ni1/C is promising, their EOR performance has proven them less active than their Pd/C counterpart. Although the oxidation current peak of Pd/C is 1.8 A/mgPd, it is only 0.48 A/mgPd for Pd4Ir2Ni1/C and 0.52 A/mgPd for PdIrNi/C. These results were obtained three times and are reproducible, but since they do not add up with the sound PdIrNi microstructure, more advanced and in situ EOR studies are necessary to better understand the poor EOR performance.
    Electronic ISSN: 2072-666X
    Topics: Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
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  • 22
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    Transdermal Delivery of Macromolecules Using Two-in-One Nanocomposite Device for Skin Electroporation (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Delivery of hydrophilic molecules through the skin using electroporation is a promising alternative approach to intradermal injection. Recently, we developed a two-in-one electrode/reservoir material composed of carbon nanotubes and agarose hydrogel. In this work, we evaluated the potential of the device to achieve non-invasive transdermal drug delivery using skin electroporation. As it involved an electrode configuration different from the literature, critical questions were raised. First, we demonstrated the efficiency of the device to permeabilize the skin of hairless mice, as observed by propidium iodide (PI) uptake in the nuclei of the epidermis cells through macro fluorescence imaging and histology. Application of Lucifer yellow (LY) at different times after unipolar electroporation treatment demonstrated the partial reversibility of the skin permeabilization after 30 min, and as such, that barrier function properties tended to be restored. We uncovered, for the first time to our knowledge, an intrinsic asymmetry of permeation pathways generated in the stratum corneum during treatment. Electrophoresis was here the main driving force for macromolecule delivery, but it competed with passive diffusion through the generated aqueous pathways for smaller molecules. Finally, we validated 4 kDa dextran labelled with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FD4) as a model molecule to optimize the electrical parameters, needed to improve macromolecule delivery.
    Electronic ISSN: 1999-4923
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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  • 23
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    Dissipation Dynamics, Terminal Residues and Dietary Risk Assessment of Two Isomers of Dimethacarb in Rice by HPLC-MS/MS (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Dimethacarb is a carbamate insecticide developed in China that contains 3,5-dimethylphenyl methylcarbamate (XMC) and 3,4-dimethylphenyl methylcarbamate (MPMC) isomers. Dimethacarb has been registered for use in rice in China, but no residue or degradation of dimethacarb in rice has been reported and the maximum residue limits (MRLs) for rice have not been established. A versatile high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) method was developed with modified QuEChERS sample preparation to determine two isomers of dimethacarb in rice. The average recovery of XMC and MPMC in brown rice, rice husk, and rice straw ranged from 71.69 to 100.60%, with spike levels of 0.01 to 1 mg/kg and relative standard deviations (RSDs) of 0.21 to 8.41%. Field experiments showed that the half-lives of XMC and MPMC in rice straw were 4.08 to 4.23 days and 3.48 to 3.69 days, respectively. Final residues of XMC and MPMC in rice husk after 21 days of spraying at six sites ranged from 0.23–2.65 mg/kg and 0.06–1.10 mg/kg, and
    Electronic ISSN: 2304-8158
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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  • 24
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    Comparative Omics Analysis of Brassica napus Roots Subjected to Six Individual Macronutrient Deprivations Reveals Deficiency-Specific Genes and Metabolomic Profiles (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The early and specific diagnosis of a macronutrient deficiency is challenging when seeking to better manage fertilizer inputs in the context of sustainable agriculture. Consequently, this study explored the potential for transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis of Brassica napus roots to characterize the effects of six individual macronutrient deprivations (N, Mg, P, S, K, and Ca). Our results showed that before any visual phenotypic response, all macronutrient deprivations led to a large modulation of the transcriptome and metabolome involved in various metabolic pathways, and some were common to all macronutrient deprivations. Significantly, comparative transcriptomic analysis allowed the definition of a subset of 3282, 2011, 6325, 1384, 439, and 5157 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) specific to N, Mg, P, S, K, and Ca deprivations, respectively. Surprisingly, gene ontology term enrichment analysis performed on this subset of specific DEGs highlighted biological processes that are common to a number of these macronutrient deprivations, illustrating the complexity of nutrient interactions. In addition, a set of 38 biochemical compounds that discriminated the macronutrient deprivations was identified using a metabolic approach. The opportunity to use these specific DEGs and/or biochemical compounds as potential molecular indicators to diagnose macronutrient deficiency is discussed.
    Print ISSN: 1661-6596
    Electronic ISSN: 1422-0067
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
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  • 25
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    Generating Multifunctional Landscape through Reforestation with Native Trees in the Tropical Region: A Case Study of Gunung Dahu Research Forest, Bogor, Indonesia (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Gunung Dahu Research Forest (GDRF) is a 250 ha tropical degraded land reforested by native dipterocarps species. The reforestation success was valued by evaluating the planted trees’ growth performance, their potential timber stock, natural regeneration capacity, soil improvement, biological interdependence, and environmental services. This scientific report used a combination of literature review and also primary data processing to describe the reforestation success within the area. A hilly species of Shorea platyclados showed the best growth performance with its average diameter and height of 43 cm and 23 m, respectively, with its mean diameter annual increment of 2.1 cm/year and the predicted standing stock at 220 m3/ha. Six Shorea species were identified to show their natural regeneration capacity and the occurrence of ectomycorrhizal fruiting bodies, predominantly by the genus Rusula, determined the establishment of biological interdependency at the site. Reforestation improved soil organic matters as revealed by high soil porosity (51,06%–52,32%) and infiltration rate (120–155,33 mm/hr). The reforested landscape also ensures a continuous water supply and provides an economic benefit for the community. Thus, planting native trees for reforesting degraded tropical landscapes is prospective and may deliver multiple benefits in an ecological and economic view.
    Electronic ISSN: 2071-1050
    Topics: Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Conservative Treatment for Childhood and Adolescent Obesity: Real World Follow-Up Profiling and Clinical Evolution in 1300 Patients (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
    Details
    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Limited therapeutic tools and an overwhelming clinical demand are the major limiting factors in pediatric obesity management. The optimal protocol, environment, body mass index (BMI) change targets and duration of obesity-oriented interventions remain to be elucidated. Aims: We aimed to characterize the singularities of follow-up, anthropometric and metabolic evolution of a large cohort of pediatric patients with obesity in a specialized university hospital outpatient obesity unit. Patients and methods: Follow-up duration (up to seven years), attrition rate and anthropometric and metabolic evolution of 1300 children and adolescents with obesity were studied. An individualized analysis was conducted in patients attaining a high level of weight loss (over 1.5 BMI-SDS (standard deviation score) and/or 10% of initial weight; n = 252; 19.4%) as well as in “metabolically healthy” patients (n = 505; 38.8%). Results: Attrition rate was high during the early stages (11.2% prior to and 32.5% right after their initial metabolic evaluation). Mean follow-up time was 1.59 ± 1.60 years (7% of patients fulfilled 7 years). The highest BMI reduction occurred in the first year (−1.11 ± 0.89 SDS, p 〈 0.001 in 72.5% of patients). At the end of the follow-up, improvements in glucose and lipid metabolism parameters were observed (both p 〈 0.05), that were highest in patients with the greatest weight reduction (all p 〈 0.01), independent of the time spent to achieve weight loss. The pubertal growth spurt negatively correlated with obesity severity (r = −0.38; p 〈 0.01) but patients attaining adult height exceeded their predicted adult height (n = 308, +1.6 ± 5.4 cm; p 〈 0.001). “Metabolically healthy” patients, but with insulin resistance, had higher blood pressure, glucose, uric acid and triglyceride levels than those without insulin resistance (all p 〈 0.05). Preservation of the “metabolically healthy” status was associated with BMI improvement. Conclusions: Behavioral management of children with obesity can be effective and does not impair growth but is highly conditioned by high attrition. The best results regarding BMI reduction and metabolic improvement are achieved in the first year of intervention and can be preserved if follow-up is retained.
    Electronic ISSN: 2072-6643
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition , Process Engineering, Biotechnology, Nutrition Technology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    RNA Activation—A Novel Approach to Therapeutically Upregulate Gene Transcription (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
    Details
    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: RNA activation (RNAa) is a mechanism whereby RNA oligos complementary to genomic sequences around the promoter region of genes increase the transcription output of their target gene. Small activating RNA (saRNA) mediate RNAa through interaction with protein co-factors to facilitate RNA polymerase II activity and nucleosome remodeling. As saRNA are small, versatile and safe, they represent a new class of therapeutics that can rescue the downregulation of critical genes in disease settings. This review highlights our current understanding of saRNA biology and describes various examples of how saRNA are successfully used to treat various oncological, neurological and monogenic diseases. MTL-CEBPA, a first-in-class compound that reverses CEBPA downregulation in oncogenic processes using CEBPA-51 saRNA has entered clinical trial for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Preclinical models demonstrate that MTL-CEBPA reverses the immunosuppressive effects of myeloid cells and allows for the synergistic enhancement of other anticancer drugs. Encouraging results led to the initiation of a clinical trial combining MTL-CEBPA with a PD-1 inhibitor for treatment of solid tumors.
    Electronic ISSN: 1420-3049
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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  • 28
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    Antikinetoplastid Activity of Sesquiterpenes Isolated from the Zoanthid Palythoa aff. clavata (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Leishmaniasis and Chagas disease are neglected tropical diseases that cause problems in developing countries. The causative agents, Leishmania spp. and Trypanosoma cruzi, produce a clinical picture that can be fatal for the patient, such as Chagas heart disease, visceral leishmaniasis and megacolon, among others. Current treatments for these diseases are not very effective and highly toxic, since they require very prolonged treatments. The development of innovative, effective and safe drugs to fight infections caused by these parasites remains a challenge. For this reason, in recent years, there has been an increase in the search for new therapies. In this study, the antikinetoplastid activity of 13 sesquiterpene lactones obtained from Palythoa aff. clavata was screened against L. amazonensis, L. donovani and T. cruzi. The results revealed that the sesquiterpene lactones anhydroartemorin (2), cis,trans-costunolide-14-acetate (3) and 4-hydroxyarbusculin A (11) were the most selective against the kinetoplastid species studied. These molecules seem to induce the mechanisms involved in an apoptotic-like death or programmed cell death (PCD) in the kinetoplastids, and since they do not cause necrosis, the inflammatory events associated with this type of cell death will not be triggered.
    Electronic ISSN: 1424-8247
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
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  • 29
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    Effects of Parental Involvement in a Preschool-Based Eye Health Intervention Regarding Children’s Screen Use in China (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: In this digital era, young children spend a considerable amount of time looking at telephone, tablet, computer and television screens. However, preventative eye health behavior education could help avoid and relieve asthenopia. The effects of parental influence on their children’s eye health behavior through the preschool eye health education intervention program were examined. The Health Belief Model was used to develop parental involvement strategy and eye health curriculum. The study was conducted in a large public preschool with five branches in Beijing, China. A total of 248 parent–child pairs participated in the baseline and follow-up surveys, of which 129 were in the intervention group and 119 were in the comparison group. The generalized estimating equation analysis results indicated that parental involvement in preschool-based eye health intervention on screen uses had positive influence on parents’ eye health knowledge, cues to action, and parenting efficacy. The intervention program also had positive effects on the increasing level of children’s eye health knowledge, beliefs, cues to action, self-efficacy, and behaviors. The results supported the implementation of a preschool-based eye health intervention program with parental involvement, which could potentially enhance children’s and parents’ eye health beliefs and practices.
    Print ISSN: 1661-7827
    Electronic ISSN: 1660-4601
    Topics: Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering , Medicine
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  • 30
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    Discovering Customer Purchase Patterns in Product Communities: An Empirical Study on Co-Purchase Behavior in an Online Marketplace (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Marketplace platforms gather and store data on each activity of their users to analyze their customer purchase behavior helping to improve marketing activities such as product placement, cross-selling, or customer retention. Market basket analysis (MBA) has remained a valuable data mining technique for decades for marketers and researchers. It discovers the relationship between two products that are frequently purchased together using association rules. One of the issues with this method is its strict focus on binary relationships, which prevents it from examining the product relationships from a broader perspective. The researchers presented several methods to address this issue by building a network of products (co-purchase networks) and analyzing them with network analysis techniques for purposes such as product recommendation and customer segmentation. This research aims at segmenting products based on customers’ purchase patterns. We discover the patterns using the Stochastic Block Modeling (SBM) community detection technique. This statistically principled method groups the products into communities based on their connection patterns. Examining the discovered communities, we segment the products and label them according to their roles in the network by calculating the network characteristics. The SBM results showed that the network exhibits a community structure having a total of 309 product communities, 17 of which have high betweenness values indicating that the member products play a bridge role in the network. Additionally, the algorithm discovers communities enclosing products with high eigenvector centralities signaling that they are a focal point in the network topology. In terms of business implications, segmenting products according to their role in the system helps managers with their marketing efforts for cross-selling, product placement, and product recommendation.
    Electronic ISSN: 0718-1876
    Topics: Economics
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Electrochemical Determination of Kynurenine Pathway Metabolites—Challenges and Perspectives (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: In recent years, tryptophan metabolism via the kynurenine pathway has become one of the most active research areas thanks to its involvement in a variety of physiological processes, especially in conditions associated with immune dysfunction, central nervous system disorders, autoimmunity, infection, diabetes, and cancer. The kynurenine pathway generates several metabolites with immunosuppressive functions or neuroprotective, antioxidant, or toxic properties. An increasing body of work on this topic uncovers a need for reliable analytical methods to help identify and quantify tryptophan metabolites at physiological concentrations in biological samples of different origins. Recent methodological advances in the fabrication and application of electrochemical sensors promise a rise in the future generation of novel analytical systems. This work summarizes current knowledge and provides important suggestions with respect to direct electrochemical determinations of kynurenine pathway metabolites (kynurenines) in complex biological matrices. Measurement challenges, limitations, and future opportunities of electroanalytical methods to advance study of the implementation of kynurenines in disease conditions are discussed.
    Electronic ISSN: 1424-8220
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Electrical Engineering, Measurement and Control Technology
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    The Expression of RAAS Key Receptors, Agtr2 and Bdkrb1, Is Downregulated at an Early Stage in a Rat Model of Wolfram Syndrome (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Wolfram syndrome (WS) 1 is a rare monogenic neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding WFS1. Knowledge of the pathophysiology of WS is incomplete and to date, there is no treatment available. Here, we describe early deviations in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and bradykinin pathway (kallikrein kinin system, KKS) observed in a rat model of WS (Wfs1 KO) and the modulative effect of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist liraglutide (LIR) and anti-epileptic drug valproate (VPA), which have been proven effective in delaying WS progression in WS animal models. We found that the expression of key receptors of the RAAS and KKS, Agtr2 and Bdkrb1, were drastically downregulated both in vitro and in vivo at an early stage in a rat model of WS. Moreover, in Wfs1, KO serum aldosterone levels were substantially decreased and bradykinin levels increased compared to WT animals. Neither treatment nor their combination affected the gene expression levels seen in the Wfs1 KO animals. However, all the treatments elevated serum aldosterone and decreased bradykinin in the Wfs1 KO rats, as well as increasing angiotensin II levels independent of genotype. Altogether, our results indicate that Wfs1 deficiency might disturb the normal functioning of RAAS and KKS and that LIR and VPA have the ability to modulate these systems.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-4425
    Topics: Biology
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    Estimating the Parameters of Extended Gravity Theories with the Schwarzschild Precession of S2 Star (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: After giving a short overview of previous results on constraining of Extended Gravity by stellar orbits, we discuss the Schwarzschild orbital precession of S2 star assuming the congruence with predictions of General Relativity (GR). At the moment, the S2 star trajectory is remarkably fitted with the first post-Newtonian approximation of GR. In particular, both Keck and VLT (GRAVITY) teams declared that the gravitational redshift near its pericenter passage for the S2 star orbit corresponds to theoretical estimates found with the first post-Newtonian (pN) approximation. In 2020, the GRAVITY Collaboration detected the orbital precession of the S2 star around the supermassive black hole (SMBH) at the Galactic Center and showed that it is close to the GR prediction. Based on this observational fact, we evaluated parameters of the Extended Gravity theories with the Schwarzschild precession of the S2 star. Using the mentioned method, we estimate the orbital precession angles for some Extended Gravity models including power-law f(R), general Yukawa-like corrections, scalar–tensor gravity, and non-local gravity theories formulated in both metric and Palatini formalism. In this consideration, we assume that a gravitational field is spherically symmetric, therefore, alternative theories of gravity could be described only with a few parameters. Specifically, considering the orbital precession, we estimate the range of parameters of these Extended Gravity models for which the orbital precession is like in GR. Then we compare these results with our previous results, which were obtained by fitting the simulated orbits of S2 star to its observed astrometric positions. In case of power-law f(R), generic Yukawa-like correction, scalar–tensor gravity and non-local gravity theories, we were able to obtain a prograde orbital precession, like in GR. According to these results, the method is a useful tool to evaluate parameters of the gravitational potential at the Galactic Center.
    Electronic ISSN: 2218-1997
    Topics: Physics
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    An Adaptive Approach to Derive Sea Ice Draft from Upward-Looking Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs), Validated by Upward-Looking Sonar (ULS) Data (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Moored upward-looking Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs) can be used to observe sea ice draft. While previous studies relied on the availability of auxiliary pressure sensors to measure the instrument depth of the ADCP, we present an adaptive approach that infers instrument depth from ADCP bottom track (BT) mode measurements of error velocity and range. The ADCP-derived ice draft time series are validated with data from adjacent Upward-Looking Sonar (ULS) moorings. We demonstrate that this method can be used to obtain daily mean sea ice draft time series that, on average, are within 20% of ULS-derived draft time series. ULS and ADCP ice draft time series were observed by four moorings in the Laptev Sea and show correlations between 0.7 and 0.9. This new approach is not a substitute for high-frequency, high-precision ULS measurements of ice draft but it provides a low-cost opportunity to derive daily mean ice draft time series accessing existing ADCP data that have not been not used for that purpose to date. This method has the potential to close data gaps and extend existing ice draft time series in all ice-covered regions and supports the validation of sea ice thickness products from satellite missions such as CryoSat-2, SMOS or ENVISAT.
    Electronic ISSN: 2072-4292
    Topics: Architecture, Civil Engineering, Surveying , Geography
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  • 35
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    The Exopolysaccharide Produced by Lactobacillus paracasei IJH-SONE68 Prevents and Ameliorates Inflammatory Responses in DSS–Induced Ulcerative Colitis (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. IBD includes Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). CD can occur in any part of the gastrointestinal tract, whereas UC mainly occurs in the colon and rectum. We previously demonstrated that a novel exopolysaccharide (EPS) produced by a plant-derived bacterium, Lactobacillus paracasei IJH-SONE68, prevents and improves the inflammation in contact dermatitis model mice via oral administration. To evaluate the preventive effect of the EPS against other inflammatory diseases, in the present study, we employed dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC model mice. The stool consistency, hematochezia, and colonic atrophy of the mice were improved by the orally administered EPS. We also evaluated the cytokine transcription. Overexpression of the mouse macrophage inflammatory protein 2 mRNA in the colon as a functional homolog of human interleukin-8 was decreased by the orally administered EPS. However, the expression of interleukin-10, which is known as an anti-inflammatory cytokine, was stimulated in the EPS-administrated group. Based on these results, we conclude that the IJH-SONE68-derived EPS is a promising lead material for the development of drugs useful in treating inflammatory diseases such as UC.
    Electronic ISSN: 2076-2607
    Topics: Biology
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  • 36
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    Effect of Fluoride Ion on the Separation of Fluorite from Calcite Using Flotation with Acidified Water Glass (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: As a common depressant, acidified water glass (AWG) has strong inhibitory effects on fluorite and calcite. The inhibited fluorite is difficult to be recovered, thus resulting in the waste of resources and low flotation efficiency. In this study, the interaction of fluoride ions with fluorite and calcite surfaces was investigated, and its effects of AWG adsorption on mineral surfaces were evaluated. Micro-flotation experiments indicated that the flotation recovery of fluorite is 88.72% after fluoride ion treatment, that is, approximately fourfold with respect to that without fluoride ion modification. The results of solution chemical calculations showed that SiO(OH)3 is the main component to inhibit fluorite, and Si(OH)4 is the main component to inhibit calcite in AWG solution. XPS and ICP-MS results showed that fluoride ions can improve the floatability of fluorite by converting CaSiO3 on the surface of fluorite into CaF2, but the conversion ability of Si(OH)4 on the surface of calcite is weak, which increases the difference in floatability between fluorite and calcite. The above results were further verified by the analysis of flotation foam image and contact angle measurement. After fluorine ion treatment, the contact angle of fluorite increased, and it was more easily adsorbed on the foam. Therefore, the interaction of the fluoride ion with the fluorite surfaces eliminated the adsorption of AWG on fluorite, thereby resulting in the enhanced hydrophobicity of fluorite. Different from the traditional metal ions modification, the idea of anion modification in this paper is expected to be further studied.
    Electronic ISSN: 2075-163X
    Topics: Geosciences
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    Flexible Stannum-Doped SrTiO3 Nanofiber Membranes for Highly Sensitive and Reliable Piezoresistive Pressure Sensors (2021)
    American Chemical Society
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-29
    Print ISSN: 1944-8244
    Electronic ISSN: 1944-8252
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
    Published by American Chemical Society
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    Dielectric Fluids for Power Transformers with Special Emphasis on Biodegradable Nanofluids (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: This review is focused on the research of dielectric fluids, especially commonly used power transformer oils enhanced by nanoparticles, i.e., nanofluids. There are differences between various combinations of base fluids and nanoparticles prepared in different ways. The main goal of this review was to present recent research in this field sorted by the used nanoparticles. Nanofluids based on mineral oils, natural, or synthetic esters were investigated in terms of the nature of nanoparticles, particularly Al2O3, TiO2, Fe2O3, Fe3O4, graphene, fullerene, and others. The combinations of environmentally friendly oils and nanoparticles were presented. Finally, the article focused on the description of current dielectric fluids usable in power transformers and the possibilities of improving new and existing fluids with nanoparticles, especially their physical, dielectric, and chemical properties, but with regard to environmental aspects.
    Electronic ISSN: 2079-4991
    Topics: Physics
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    Characteristics of a Persuasive Educational System: A Systematic Literature Review (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The need to compete for users’ attention and provide them with the best user experience has increased the use of persuasion strategies in modern systems. Currently, Persuasive Systems (PSs) promote healthy behavior for well-being, energy consumption, and learning. Although the educational domain has limited investigation compared to other areas, PSs in education have been shown to be effective in motivating students. This paper summarizes the existing evidence on Persuasive Educational Systems (PESs), emphasizing research on the current design methods, evaluation methods, and characteristics. We follow Kitchenham’s method to perform a systematic literature review about PESs published between 2014 and 2020, with 19 relevant studies selected. We highlight some results from the analysis of selected papers such as persuasion strategies, use of a personalized persuasion technique, study of students’ susceptibility to strategies, integration of gamification mechanisms, and proposed tools to design PES. Moreover, we discuss interesting facts such as the common practice of using more than one tool to design PES, aspects of interaction, persuasion, learning, and the challenges in evaluating persuasive impact. Finally, as the main contribution of the paper we identify the seven necessary characteristics to build a persuasive educational system.
    Electronic ISSN: 2076-3417
    Topics: Natural Sciences in General
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  • 40
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    Correlations for Total Entropy Generation and Bejan Number for Free Convective Heat Transfer of an Eco-Friendly Nanofluid in a Rectangular Enclosure under Uniform Magnetic Field (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: In this paper, focusing on the study of entropy generation (EGN), the convection flow of an eco-friendly nanofluid (N-F) in a rectangular enclosure is studied numerically. The nanoparticles (N-Ps) used are silver N-P, which are obtained in an eco-friendly manner from natural materials. By suspending these N-Ps in an equal mixture of water and ethylene glycol (E-G), the N-F has been prepared. There are two constant-temperature triangular obstacles with height w and base H that are placed on the hot wall. There is a magnetic field (M-F) in the x-direction. To simulate the N-F flow, eco-friendly N-P relations are used, and the equations are solved using the volume control method and the SIMPLE algorithm. The variables include Rayleigh number (Ra), Hartmann number (Ha), H, W, and the volume fraction of silver N-Ps. The effect of these parameters is evaluated on the EGN and Bejan number (Be). Finally, a correlation is expressed for the EGN for a range of variables. The most important results of this paper demonstrate that the addition of silver eco-friendly N-Ps intensifies the EGN so that the addition of 3% of N-Ps enhances the EGN by 3.8%. An increment in the obstacle length reduces the Be barrier while increasing the Ha, which enhances the Be when the convection is strong. Increasing the height of the obstacle intensifies entropy generation.
    Electronic ISSN: 2227-9717
    Topics: Biology , Chemistry and Pharmacology
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    Flavonoids and Omega3 Prevent Muscle and Cardiac Damage in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Animal Model (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Nutraceutical products possess various anti-inflammatory, antiarrhythmic, cardiotonic, and antioxidant pharmacological activities that could be useful in preventing oxidative damage, mainly induced by reactive oxygen species. Previously published data showed that a mixture of polyphenols and polyunsaturated fatty acids, mediate an antioxidative response in mdx mice, Duchenne muscular dystrophy animal model. Dystrophic muscles are characterized by low regenerative capacity, fibrosis, fiber necrosis, inflammatory process, altered autophagic flux and inadequate anti-oxidant response. FLAVOmega β is a mixture of flavonoids and docosahexaenoic acid. In this study, we evaluated the role of these supplements in the amelioration of the pathological phenotype in dystrophic mice through in vitro and in vivo assays. FLAVOmega β reduced inflammation and fibrosis, dampened reactive oxygen species production, and induced an oxidative metabolic switch of myofibers, with consequent increase of mitochondrial activity, vascularization, and fatigue resistance. Therefore, we propose FLAVOmega β as food supplement suitable for preventing muscle weakness, delaying inflammatory milieu, and sustaining physical health in patients affected from DMD.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-4409
    Topics: Biology
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    Genome-Wide Landscape of North-Eastern European Populations: A View from Lithuania (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: There are still several unanswered questions regarding about ancient events in the Lithuanian population. The Lithuanians, as the subject of this study, are of great interest as they represent a partially isolated population maintaining an ancient genetic composition and show genetic uniqueness in European comparisons. To elucidate the genetic relationships between the Lithuania and North-Eastern European and West Siberian populations, we analyzed the population structure, effective population size, and recent positive selection from genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data. We identified the close genetic proximity of Lithuanians to neighboring populations (Latvians, Estonians, Belarusians) and in part with West and South Slavs (Poles, Slovaks, and Slovenians), however, with particular genetic distinctiveness. The estimated long-term Ne values ranged from ~5900 in the Estonian population to ~2400 in the South Russian population. The divergence times between the Lithuanian and study populations ranged from 240 to 12,871 YBP. We also found evidence of selection in 24 regions, 21 of which have not been discovered in previous analyses of selection. Undoubtedly, the genetic diversity analysis of geographically specific regions may provide new insights into microevolutionary processes affecting local human populations.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-4425
    Topics: Biology
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    Performance and Egg Quality of Laying Hens Fed Diets Containing Raw, Hydrobarothermally-Treated and Fermented Rapeseed Cake (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The present study was conducted to investigate how raw rapeseed cake (RRC), hydrobarothermally-treated rapeseed cake (HRC) and fermented rapeseed cake (FRC) fed to laying hens over a period of 12 weeks affected their performance, and the quality, fatty acid (FA) profile and oxidative stability of eggs. A total of 304 Hy-Line Brown laying hens at 36 weeks of age were distributed in a completely randomized design to four treatment groups with 38 replicates per treatment and two hens per replicate. The birds had ad libitum access to feed and water throughout the study. During the experiment, the birds were fed isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets in mash form, with various protein sources. In the control group (C), soybean meal (SBM) was the main source of dietary protein, whereas the experimental groups were fed diets containing 20% of RRC, HRC or FRC. Hydrobarothermal treatment and fermentation decreased the glucosinolate (GLS) content of RC, and fermentation reduced the concentration of phytate phosphorus (PP). In comparison with the RRC group, layers from the HRC and FRC groups were characterized by higher laying performance, comparable with that in group C. Irrespective of its physical form, RC added to layer diets adversely affected eggshell quality in all experimental groups, whereas albumen quality was highest in the FRC group. In comparison with group C, diets containing RRC, HRC and HRC led to a significant decrease in the content of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), an increase in the proportion of n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in the total FA pool in egg yolks, and a decrease in the n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio. The inclusion of RRC, HRC and FRC in layer diets decreased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in egg yolks, relative to group C. Group FCR eggs were characterized by the highest activity of catalase (CAT) and the lowest lipid peroxides LOOH concentration, compared with the remaining groups. The addition of RC to layer diets did not compromise the sensory quality of eggs, and eggs produced in group FRC received the highest overall score. It can be concluded that the inclusion of 20% RRC, HRC and FRC in layer diets does not compromise the sensory quality of eggs and has a beneficial influence on the FA profile and antioxidant potential of egg yolks. The use of FRC is recommended because it contributes to the highest laying performance, superior albumen quality and the highest sensory quality of eggs, relative to RRC and HRC.
    Electronic ISSN: 2076-2615
    Topics: Biology , Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Glasshouse Evaluation of the Black Soldier Fly Waste Product HexaFrass™ as an Organic Fertilizer (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The mass farming of the black soldier fly (BSF; Hermetia illucens L.), to produce insect-based feed for livestock and fish, results in considerable amounts of insect frass, which contains substantial amounts of organic matter and bioavailable nutrients. Insect frass has shown good potential as a soil amendment and organic fertilizer. This study examined the effects of HexaFrass™ on the growth of common vegetables and herbs under glasshouse conditions. In an organically-rich potting mix, HexaFrass™ increased shoot dry weight by an average of 25%, although this effect was variable among test plants. In other trials, application of HexaFrass™ caused an increase in plant growth similar to that obtained by applying chicken manure and a commercial organic fertilizer. Increases in shoot and root dry weight showed quadratic relationships with HexaFrass™ dose, indicating that application of excessive quantities could lead to plant inhibition. Shoot:root dry matter ratio tended to increase with HexaFrass™ dose suggesting there was no specific stimulation or enhancement of root growth. Overall, these results provide further evidence of the potential of insect frass as an effective organic fertilizer for vegetables and herbs.
    Electronic ISSN: 2075-4450
    Topics: Biology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Insight into Molecular Interactions of Two Methyl Benzoate Derivatives with Bovine Serum Albumin (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
    Details
    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The nature and mechanisms of interaction between two selected methyl benzoate derivatives (methyl o-methoxy p-methylaminobenzoate–I and methyl o-hydroxy p-methylaminobenzoate–II) and model transport protein bovine serum albumin (BSA) was studied using steady-state and time-resolved spectroscopic techniques. In order to understand the role of Trp residue of BSA in the I-BSA and II-BSA interaction, the effect of free Trp amino acid on the both emission modes (LE–locally excited (I and II) and ESIPT–excited state intramolecular proton transfer (II)) was investigated as well. Experimental results show that the investigated interactions (with both BSA and Trp) are mostly conditioned by the ground and excited state complex formation processes. Both molecules form stable complexes with BSA and Trp (with 1:1 stoichiometry) in the ground and excited states. The binding constants were in the order of 104 M−1. The absorption- and fluorescence-titration experiments along with the time-resolved fluorescence measurements show that the binding of the I and II causes fluorescence quenching of BSA through the static mechanism, revealing a 1:1 interaction. The magnitude and the sign of the thermodynamic parameters, ΔH, ΔS, and ΔG, determined from van’t Hoff relationship, confirm the predominance of the hydrogen-bonding interactions for the binding phenomenon. To improve and complete knowledge of methyl benzoate derivative-protein interactions in relation to supramolecular solvation dynamics, the time-dependent fluorescence Stokes’ shifts, represented by the normalized spectral response function c(t), was studied. Our studies reveal that the solvation dynamics that occurs in subpicosecond time scale in neat solvents of different polarities is slowed down significantly when the organic molecule is transferred to BSA cavity.
    Print ISSN: 1661-6596
    Electronic ISSN: 1422-0067
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
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    Allelopathic Activity of Strigolactones on the Germination of Parasitic Plants and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Growth (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Strigolactones (SLs) are a prime example of allelochemicals, promoting parasitic plant germination and certain hyphal branching factors associated to the growth of symbiotic arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). However, the study of SLs is complex, and various issues have yet to be studied in depth. This review intends to provide an overview of the works that have been conducted on the identification, isolation, and evaluation of the allelopathic activity of natural canonical and non-canonical SLs on parasitic weeds and AMF growth. These topics were related with their application in agriculture through trap crops, suicidal germination or intercropping strategies. The high applicability of SLs in agriculture, for example, as preventing herbicides for parasitic weed control, has increased the interest for these compounds and the number of research articles published. This review updates and discusses the last findings in this field, with special emphasis in the results published since 2015, using tables and graphs to summarize and discuss that information. The promising results and conclusions obtained from the bioassays herein presented provide a good reason to encourage and support further research works on these natural products, which must also consider the disadvantages or current limitations that SLs present.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-4395
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition , Economics
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    Brainstem and Cortical Spreading Depolarization in a Closed Head Injury Rat Model (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of death in young individuals, and is a major health concern that often leads to long-lasting complications. However, the electrophysiological events that occur immediately after traumatic brain injury, and may underlie impact outcomes, have not been fully elucidated. To investigate the electrophysiological events that immediately follow traumatic brain injury, a weight-drop model of traumatic brain injury was used in rats pre-implanted with epidural and intracerebral electrodes. Electrophysiological (near-direct current) recordings and simultaneous alternating current recordings of brain activity were started within seconds following impact. Cortical spreading depolarization (SD) and SD-induced spreading depression occurred in approximately 50% of mild and severe impacts. SD was recorded within three minutes after injury in either one or both brain hemispheres. Electrographic seizures were rare. While both TBI- and electrically induced SDs resulted in elevated oxidative stress, TBI-exposed brains showed a reduced antioxidant defense. In severe TBI, brainstem SD could be recorded in addition to cortical SD, but this did not lead to the death of the animals. Severe impact, however, led to immediate death in 24% of animals, and was electrocorticographically characterized by non-spreading depression (NSD) of activity followed by terminal SD in both cortex and brainstem.
    Print ISSN: 1661-6596
    Electronic ISSN: 1422-0067
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
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    Retinal Venular Tortuosity Jointly with Retinal Amyloid Burden Correlates with Verbal Memory Loss: A Pilot Study (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Introduction: Retinal imaging is a non-invasive tool to study both retinal vasculature and neurodegeneration. In this exploratory retinal curcumin-fluorescence imaging (RFI) study, we sought to determine whether retinal vascular features combined with retinal amyloid burden correlate with the neurocognitive status. Methods: We used quantitative RFI in a cohort of patients with cognitive impairment to automatically compute retinal amyloid burden. Retinal blood vessels were segmented, and the vessel tortuosity index (VTI), inflection index, and branching angle were quantified. We assessed the correlations between retinal vascular and amyloid parameters, and cognitive domain Z-scores using linear regression models. Results: Thirty-four subjects were enrolled and twenty-nine (55% female, mean age 64 ± 6 years) were included in the combined retinal amyloid and vascular analysis. Eleven subjects had normal cognition and 18 had impaired cognition. Retinal VTI was discriminated among cognitive scores. The combined proximal mid-periphery amyloid count and venous VTI index exhibited significant differences between cognitively impaired and cognitively normal subjects (0.49 ± 1.1 vs. 0.91 ± 1.4, p = 0.006), and correlated with both the Wechsler Memory Scale-IV and SF-36 mental component score Z-scores (p 〈 0.05). Conclusion: This pilot study showed that retinal venular VTI combined with the proximal mid-periphery amyloid count could predict verbal memory loss. Future research is needed to finesse the clinical application of this retinal imaging-based technology.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-4409
    Topics: Biology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Comparison of Strengthening Solutions with Optimized Passive Energy Dissipation Systems in Symmetric Buildings (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The aim of this study is to compare the seismic response of reinforced concrete (RC) symmetric buildings, with a varied number of stories, strengthening with three types of passive energy dissipation systems, as tuned mass dampers, viscous dampers, and friction dampers. The paper presents an overview of design optimization with the object of minimizing certain functions: (i) the maximum displacement at the top of the structures, (ii) the base shear loads, and (iii) the maximum interstory drift. The objective functions were evaluated in three residents’ buildings (a four-story building, a nine-story building, and a sixteen-story building) subjected to seven (real and artificial) seismic recorded accelerograms. For this purpose, 94 nonlinear dynamic analyses were carried out. The effects of each strengthening solution are presented, and from this innovative comparison (optimal design, three different passive energy systems, three different story numbers), further useful results were observed. The outcomes of the study show the effectiveness of a tuned mass damper (TMD) system, and how it might be better for tall and flexible structures than for stiffer structures. However, the response of the pendulum tuned mass damper (TMD) configuration is better than the conventional one because it acts in all directions. The viscous dampers (VDs) provide a significant reduction for mid-rise buildings, while friction dampers (FDs) boost the performance of all structures under seismic action, especially in terms of displacement, and they are more suitable for low-rise buildings.
    Electronic ISSN: 2076-3417
    Topics: Natural Sciences in General
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth as Potential Therapeutic Target in Parkinson’s Disease (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Increasing evidence suggests that the gut microbiota and the brain are closely connected via the so-called gut–brain axis. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a gut dysbiosis in which the small intestine is abundantly colonized by bacteria that are typically found in the colon. Though not a disease, it may result in intestinal symptoms caused by the accumulation of microbial gases in the intestine. Intestinal inflammation, malabsorption and vitamin imbalances may also develop. SIBO can be eradicated by one or several courses of antibiotics but reappears if the predisposing condition persists. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative proteinopathy for which disease modifying interventions are not available. Sporadic forms may start in the gut years before the development of clinical features. Increased gastrointestinal transit time is present in most people with PD early during the course of the disease, predisposing to gut dysbiosis, including SIBO. The role that gut dysbiosis may play in the etiopathogenesis of PD is not fully understood yet. Here, we discuss the possibility that SIBO could contribute to the progression of PD, by promoting or preventing neurodegeneration, thus being a potential target for treatments aiming at slowing down the progression of PD. The direct symptomatic impact of SIBO and its impact on symptomatic medication are also briefly discussed.
    Print ISSN: 1661-6596
    Electronic ISSN: 1422-0067
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
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    Conceptual and Operational Integration of Governance, Financing, and Business Models for Urban Nature-Based Solutions (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Governance, financing, and business models are deeply interlinked and relevant for the successful implementation of urban nature-based solutions (NBS). However, during the definition of urban NBS projects the importance and interrelation of these models are usually neglected. To overcome this limitation, this paper presents an overarching framework (conceptual and operational) and a derived preselection web tool which interrelate governance, financing, and business models for NBS projects. First, based on recent literature, governance, financing, and business models that could be applied to NBS were mapped, and their integration proposed. Later, key contextual factors influencing NBS implementation were identified. They form the basis of a WHAT–WHO–HOW framework that structures the links between specific NBS projects, their implementation context, and the most suitable models. From that framework, and an analysis of 50 successful NBS case studies, a suitability matrix was developed with known models. The matrix allows pairing types of NBS and their initiating actors with suitable financing and governance models. Lastly, a tailored NBS business model canvas was designed to evaluate the business model components. From the overarching framework, the preselection web tool was created to guide decision-making on suitable governance, finance, and business models in the early phases of NBS projects.
    Electronic ISSN: 2071-1050
    Topics: Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Sales Kit Automated Production: An Integrated Procedure for Setup Reduction in Case of High Products Variety (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Nowadays, the demand for personalized goods is increasing, with small batches of customized products. Companies are asked to cope with this need to be more competitive; thus, it is crucial to optimally set up the production process to cope with the demand. Among the products composed of several parts, sales kits occupy a significant role. Sales kits are sets of different components, supplied as a single unit. Automation is usually used to reduce the unit direct production costs for assembled products, and this is especially true for kitting since it has minimum added value, compared to other technologies. The wide range of components leads to frequent reconfiguration of the feeding devices between different products, increasing the setup time. The aim of this work is to provide a model that minimizes the setup times of automatic kitting systems when working with a high variety of products. To reach this goal, we propose to apply the traveling salesman problem (TSP) to the production process by integrating a multi-clustering model, thus increasing its appeal to several applications. This method is applied both to simulations and to a real case study, and proves to be able to provide a good solution in a reasonable time.
    Electronic ISSN: 2076-3417
    Topics: Natural Sciences in General
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    Manufacturing Technologies of Carbon/Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites and Their Properties: A Review (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Over the last few years, there has been a growing interest in the study of lightweight composite materials. Due to their tailorable properties and unique characteristics (high strength, flexibility and stiffness), glass (GFs) and carbon (CFs) fibers are widely used in the production of advanced polymer matrix composites. Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) and Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composites have been developed by different fabrication methods and are extensively used for diverse engineering applications. A considerable amount of research papers have been published on GFRP and CFRP composites, but most of them focused on particular aspects. Therefore, in this review paper, a detailed classification of the existing types of GFs and CFs, highlighting their basic properties, is presented. Further, the oldest to the newest manufacturing techniques of GFRP and CFRP composites have been collected and described in detail. Furthermore, advantages, limitations and future trends of manufacturing methodologies are emphasized. The main properties (mechanical, vibrational, environmental, tribological and thermal) of GFRP and CFRP composites were summarized and documented with results from the literature. Finally, applications and future research directions of FRP composites are addressed. The database presented herein enables a comprehensive understanding of the GFRP and CFRP composites’ behavior and it can serve as a basis for developing models for predicting their behavior.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-4360
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics , Process Engineering, Biotechnology, Nutrition Technology
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    The Role of Public Transport during the Second COVID-19 Wave in Italy (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Lockdown policies applied worldwide to limit the spread of COVID-19, and mainly based on health considerations, have negatively impacted on public transport (PT) usage, suspected as a means for the virus spreading due to difficulties ensuring social distancing. This resulted not only in a setback to sustainable mobility, but also impacting on equity and social exclusion issues. The paper aimed to cover this topic, investigating the conjecture that the spread of the coronavirus is directly correlated to PT usage. A correlation analysis among the daily number of certified coronavirus cases and the PT trips measured in the day in which the contagions occurred was performed within the second wave in Italy. The appropriateness of the case study is twofold because Italy was one of the main European countries with a high mass contagion and because the vaccination campaign had not yet started in Italy. Estimation results show a high correlation (up to 0.87) between COVID-19 contagion and PT trips performed 22 days before. This threshold indicates that quarantine measures, commonly set at two weeks and based only on incubation considerations, were inadequate as a containment strategy, and may have produced a possible slowdown in identifying new cases and hence, in adopting mitigation policies. A cause–effect test was also implemented, concluding that there is a strong causal link between COVID-19 and PT trips. The main issues discussed in this research cover the transportation and the health filed but also laid the groundwork for ethical considerations concerning the right to mobility and social equity. Obtained results could yield significant insights into the context variables that influence the spread of the virus, also helping appropriate definition of restrictive policies, thereby ensuring a sustainable recovery and development of urban areas in the post-pandemic era.
    Electronic ISSN: 2071-1050
    Topics: Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
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    A New Microwave Sensor Based on the Moore Fractal Structure to Detect Water Content in Crude Oil (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: This paper presents a microwave sensor based on a two-ports network for liquid characterizations. The proposed sensor is constructed as a miniaturized microwave resonator based on Moore fractal geometry of the 4th iteration. The T-resonator is combined with the proposed structure to increase the sensor quality factor. The proposed sensor occupies an area of 50 × 50 × 1.6 mm3 printed on an FR4 substrate. Analytically, a theoretical study is conducted to explain the proposed sensor operation. The proposed sensor was fabricated and experimentally tested for validation. Later, two pans were printed on the sensor to hold the Sample Under Test (SUT) of crude oil. The frequency resonance of the proposed structure before loading SUT was found to be 0.8 GHz. After printing the pans, a 150 MHz frequency shift was accrued to the first resonance. The sensing part was accomplished by monitoring the S-parameters in terms of S12 regarding the water concentration change in the crude oil samples. Therefore, 10 different samples with different water percentages were introduced to the proposed sensor to be tested for detecting the water content. Finally, the measurements of the proposed process were found to agree very well with their relative simulated results.
    Electronic ISSN: 1424-8220
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Electrical Engineering, Measurement and Control Technology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Doxycycline Ameliorates the Severity of Experimental Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy in Mice (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: After successful surgeries for patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, the most common cause of retinal redetachment is proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), which causes severe vision impairment and even blindness worldwide. Until now, the major treatment for PVR is surgical removal of the epiretinal membrane, while effective treatment to prevent PVR is still unavailable. Therefore, we investigated the potential of doxycycline, an antibiotic in the tetracycline class, to treat PVR using a mouse model. We used the human retinal pigment epithelial cell line, ARPE-19, for in vitro and in vivo studies to test doxycycline for PVR treatment. We found that doxycycline suppressed the migration, proliferation, and contraction of ARPE-19 cells with reduced p38 MAPK activation and total MMP activity. Intravitreal doxycycline and topical tetracycline treatment significantly ameliorated the PVR severity induced by ARPE-19 cells in mice. PVR increased the expression of MMP-9 and IL-4 and p38 MAPK phosphorylation and modestly decreased IL-10. These effects were reversed by doxycycline and tetracycline treatment in the mouse retina. These results suggest that doxycycline will be a potential treatment for PVR in the future.
    Print ISSN: 1661-6596
    Electronic ISSN: 1422-0067
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
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    One Cut-Point Phase-Type Distributions in Reliability. An Application to Resistive Random Access Memories (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: A new probability distribution to study lifetime data in reliability is introduced in this paper. This one is a first approach to a non-homogeneous phase-type distribution. It is built by considering one cut-point in the non-negative semi-line of a phase-type distribution. The density function is defined and the main measures associated, such as the reliability function, hazard rate, cumulative hazard rate and the characteristic function, are also worked out. This new class of distributions enables us to decrease the number of parameters in the estimate when inference is considered. Additionally, the likelihood distribution is built to estimate the model parameters by maximum likelihood. Several applications considering Resistive Random Access Memories compare the adjustment when phase type distributions and one cut-point phase-type distributions are considered. The developed methodology has been computationally implemented in R-cran.
    Electronic ISSN: 2227-7390
    Topics: Mathematics
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    Assessing Black Locust Biomass Accumulation in Restoration Plantations (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Forests (either natural or planted) play a key role in climate change mitigation due to their huge carbon-storing potential. In the 1980s, the Hellenic Public Power Corporation (HPPC) started the rehabilitation of lignite post-mining areas in Northwest Greece by planting mainly black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.). Today, these plantations occupy about 2570 ha, but the accumulation of Above Ground Biomass (AGB) and deadwood has not been assessed to date. Therefore, we aimed at estimating these biomass pools by calibrating an allometric model for AGB, performing an inventory for both pools and predicting the spatial distribution of AGB. 214 sample plots of 100 m2 each were set up through systematic sampling in a grid dimension of 500 × 500 m and tree dbh and height were recorded. AGB was estimated using an exponential allometric model and performing inventory measurements and was on average 57.6 t ha−1. Kriging analysis reliably estimated mean AGB, but produced errors in the prediction of high and low biomass values, related to the high fragmentation and heterogeneity of the studied area. Mean estimated AGB was low compared with European biomass yield tables for black locust. Similarly, standing deadwood was low (6–10%) and decay degrees were mostly 1 and 2, indicating recent deadwood formation. The overall low biomass accumulation in the studied black locust restoration plantations may be partially attributed to their young age (5–30 years old), but is comparable to that reported in black locust restoration plantation in extremely degraded sites. Thus, black locust successfully adapted to the studied depositions of former mines and its accumulated biomass has the potential to improve the carbon footprint of the region. However, the invasiveness of the species should be considered for future management planning of these restoration plantations.
    Electronic ISSN: 1999-4907
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    First Industrial Scale Process Concept for the Reengineered Pedersen Process within ENSUREAL (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The Pedersen Process was developed at the beginning of the 20th century as an alternative process to the Bayer route for producing alumina Al2O3. A successful operation in an industrial environment took place in Norway from 1925 to 1969. It ended due to economic reasons. Having a smaller environmental footprint (no bauxite residue) and the ability to handle alternative raw materials makes the approach promising for grappling with future challenges in Europe. This paper shows the status of the ongoing European Commission-funded work and the outline of a first industrial process concept.
    Electronic ISSN: 2673-4605
    Topics: Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
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    Low Cost Automated Security Audit System (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: In recent years, a quick transition towards digitization has been observed in most organizations. Along with it, certain inherent problems have appeared, such as the increase in cyber threats. Large organizations are able to adapt easily, but this does not happen with small and medium-sized companies. Currently, there are very few solutions aimed at fulfilling the needs of these small enterprises, so we have worked on a tool for them. Our tool is capable of displaying key, easy-to-interpret information related to each organization’s network assets. To achieve this, we used passive and active analysis techniques and successfully evaluated the viability of using machine learning techniques to get more meaningful information. All of the information obtained is displayed in a simple web application, which is designed to be used by managers in organizations without them needing to handle complex concepts and vocabulary.
    Electronic ISSN: 2673-4591
    Topics: Technology
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    Role of Molecular Weight in Microstructural Transition and Its Correlation to the Mechanical and Electrical Properties of P(NDI2OD-T2) Thin Films (2021)
    American Chemical Society
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-29
    Print ISSN: 0024-9297
    Electronic ISSN: 1520-5835
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Physics
    Published by American Chemical Society
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    Smart Home Automation—Use Cases of a Secure and Integrated Voice-Control System (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Smart home automation is expected to improve living standards with the evolution of internet of things (IoT) that facilitate the remote control of residential appliances. There are, however, several factors that require attention for broader successful consumer adoption. This paper focusses on three key barriers: (i) different underlying technologies requiring an integrated voice-based control for ease of use, (ii) lack of trust due to security and privacy concerns, and (iii) unawareness of the use of machine intelligence by users for exploiting the full potential of smartness. Voice-controlled home environments are possible with cloud-based solutions that are being deployed commercially. However, there are drawbacks due to non-standard voice channels and commands with delays in meeting the required response time for real-time services. Adoption is also required to meet with the expected goals of simplicity, security, and integration. To address these barriers, we propose a model integrating IoT services and wireless technologies for developing a secure smart home automation with a voice-controlled artificial intelligence system. We demonstrate the model’s application in a variety of practical use cases, by implementing a secure and smart voice-based system for an integrated control of several home devices seamlessly.
    Electronic ISSN: 2079-8954
    Topics: Technology
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    Pathogenic Mitochondrial DNA Mutation Load Inversely Correlates with Malignant Features in Familial Oncocytic Parathyroid Tumors Associated with Hyperparathyroidism-Jaw Tumor Syndrome (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: While somatic disruptive mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations that severely affect the respiratory chain are counter-selected in most human neoplasms, they are the genetic hallmark of indolent oncocytomas, where they appear to contribute to reduce tumorigenic potential. A correlation between mtDNA mutation type and load, and the clinical outcome of a tumor, corroborated by functional studies, is currently lacking. Recurrent familial oncocytomas are extremely rare entities, and they offer the chance to investigate the determinants of oncocytic transformation and the role of both germline and somatic mtDNA mutations in cancer. We here report the first family with Hyperparathyroidism-Jaw Tumor (HPT-JT) syndrome showing the inherited predisposition of four individuals to develop parathyroid oncocytic tumors. MtDNA sequencing revealed a rare ribosomal RNA mutation in the germline of all HPT-JT affected individuals whose pathogenicity was functionally evaluated via cybridization technique, and which was counter-selected in the most aggressive infiltrating carcinoma, but positively selected in adenomas. In all tumors different somatic mutations accumulated on this genetic background, with an inverse clear-cut correlation between the load of pathogenic mtDNA mutations and the indolent behavior of neoplasms, highlighting the importance of the former both as modifiers of cancer fate and as prognostic markers.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-4409
    Topics: Biology
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    A Study Protocol to Assess the Respiratory Health Risks and Impacts amongst Informal Street Food Vendors in the Inner City of Johannesburg, South Africa (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The overall unemployment rate in South Africa was impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which led many people to resort to informal work such as street trading opportunities in big cities. However, this work is located in the same cities where air pollution is of concern. Furthermore, literature has indicated the lack of regulation of the informal trading sector as compared to the formal sector. An analytical cross-sectional study is proposed to be conducted amongst all of the informal food street vendors (indoor/inside buildings and outdoor/street pavements stalls) in the inner city of Johannesburg, South Africa. By adopting a total sampling method of 746 vendor stalls, this study’s key focus is on inhalation as an occupational exposure. In addition, the study aims to assess the respiratory risk factors amongst informal food street vendors’ stalls and their impact on vendors’ respiratory health. The risk factors to be assessed include the five common air pollutants: street vendor’s infrastructure; socioeconomic factors; personal behavior such as tobacco smoking and handwashing practices; wearing of respiratory protective equipment; and vendors’ exposure duration. The data collection will follow three phases using quantitative methods. In the pre-assessment phase, it will include a pilot study to test the walkthrough survey checklist and the respiratory symptoms and diseases questionnaire. The assessment phase includes a total of eight area samples, which will be taken in a 1-day event over four yearly seasons, as well as thirty personal samples taken in winter over an 8-h work shift. The post-assessment phase will be the development of a risk impact assessment and a risk management model. The study is essential for healthy occupational conditions as indicated in the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act (no. 85 of 1993) and the Regulations governing general hygiene requirements for food premises, the transport of food, and related matters (no. R638 of 22 June 2018).
    Print ISSN: 1661-7827
    Electronic ISSN: 1660-4601
    Topics: Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering , Medicine
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Exploring the Effects of Contextual Factors on Residential Land Prices Using an Extended Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression Model (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
    Details
    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: A spatial and temporal heterogeneity analysis of residential land prices, in general, is crucial for maintaining high-quality economic development. Previous studies have attempted to explain the geographical evolution rule by studying spatial-temporal heterogeneity, but they have neglected the contextual information, such as school district, industrial zone, population density, and job density, associated with residential land prices. Therefore, in this study, we consider contextual factors and propose a revised local regression algorithm called the contextualized geographically and temporally weighted regression (CGTWR), to effectively address spatiotemporal heterogeneity, and to creatively extend the feasibility of importing the contextualization into the GTWR model. The quantitative impact of contextual information on residential land prices was identified in Shijiazhuang (SJZ) city from 1974 to 2021. Empirical analyses demonstrated that school district and industrial zone factors played important roles in residential land prices. Notably, the distance from a residential area to an industrial zone was significantly positively correlated with residential land prices. In addition, a positive relationship between school districts and residential land prices was also observed. Finally, the R2 value of the CGTWR model was 92%, which was superior to those of ordinary least squares (OLS, 76%), geographically weighted regression (GWR, 85%), contextualized geographically weighted regression (CGWR, 86%), and GTWR (90%) models. These evaluation results indicate that the CGTWR algorithm, which incorporates contextual information and spatiotemporal variation, could provide policy makers with evidence for understanding the nature of varying relationships within a land price dataset in China.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-445X
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
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    Parental Book-Reading to Preterm Born Infants in NICU: The Effects on Language Development in the First Two Years (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-29
    Description: Background: After preterm birth, infants are at high risk for delays in language development. A promising intervention to reduce this risk is represented by the exposure to parental voices through book-reading in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU). This study investigated the possible advantages of book-reading to preterm neonates during their NICU stay on their subsequent language development. Methods: 100 families of preterm infants were recruited. The parents of 55 preterm infants (Reading Group) received a colored picture-book on NICU admission and were supported to read to their neonate as often as possible and to continue after hospital discharge. Forty-five infants (Control Group) were recruited before the beginning of the intervention. Infant language development was assessed with the Hearing and Language quotients of the Griffith Mental Development Scale at the corrected ages of 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months. Results: Regardless of group membership, Hearing and Language mean quotients decreased between 9 and 18 months; nevertheless, this decrease was considerably reduced in the Reading group, compared to the Control Group. Conclusions: Reading in NICUs represents a suitable intervention that could positively influence language development and parent-infant relationships in preterm children. The study findings support its implementation as a preventive measure.
    Print ISSN: 1661-7827
    Electronic ISSN: 1660-4601
    Topics: Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering , Medicine
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    Targeting Cancer Stem Cells by Dietary Agents: An Important Therapeutic Strategy against Human Malignancies (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: As a multifactorial disease, treatment of cancer depends on understanding unique mechanisms involved in its progression. The cancer stem cells (CSCs) are responsible for tumor stemness and by enhancing colony formation, proliferation as well as metastasis, and these cells can also mediate resistance to therapy. Furthermore, the presence of CSCs leads to cancer recurrence and therefore their complete eradication can have immense therapeutic benefits. The present review focuses on targeting CSCs by natural products in cancer therapy. The growth and colony formation capacities of CSCs have been reported can be attenuated by the dietary agents. These compounds can induce apoptosis in CSCs and reduce tumor migration and invasion via EMT inhibition. A variety of molecular pathways including STAT3, Wnt/β-catenin, Sonic Hedgehog, Gli1 and NF-κB undergo down-regulation by dietary agents in suppressing CSC features. Upon exposure to natural agents, a significant decrease occurs in levels of CSC markers including CD44, CD133, ALDH1, Oct4 and Nanog to impair cancer stemness. Furthermore, CSC suppression by dietary agents can enhance sensitivity of tumors to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In addition to in vitro studies, as well as experiments on the different preclinical models have shown capacity of natural products in suppressing cancer stemness. Furthermore, use of nanostructures for improving therapeutic impact of dietary agents is recommended to rapidly translate preclinical findings for clinical use.
    Print ISSN: 1661-6596
    Electronic ISSN: 1422-0067
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
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    Near-Surface Air Temperature Retrieval Using a Deep Neural Network from Satellite Observations over South Korea (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Air temperature (Ta), defined as the temperature 2 m above the land’s surface, is one of the most important factors for environment and climate studies. Ta can be measured by obtaining the land surface temperature (LST) which can be retrieved with the 11- and 12-µm bands from satellite imagery over a large area, and LST is highly correlated with Ta. To measure the Ta in a broad area, we studied a Ta retrieval method through Deep Neural Network (DNN) using in-situ data and satellite data of South Korea from 2014 to 2017. To retrieve accurate Ta, we selected proper input variables and conditions of a DNN model. As a result, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, Normalized Difference Water Index, and 11- and 12-µm band data were applied to the DNN model as input variables. And we also selected proper condition of the DNN model with test various conditions of the model. In validation result in the DNN model, the best accuracy of the retrieved Ta showed an correlation coefficient value of 0.98 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 2.19 K. And then we additional 3 analysis to validate accuracy which are spatial representativeness, seasonal analysis and time series analysis. We tested the spatial representativeness of the retrieved Ta. Results for window sizes less than 132 × 132 showed high accuracy, with a correlation coefficient of over 0.97 and a RMSE of 1.96 K and a bias of −0.00856 K. And in seasonal analysis, the spring season showed the lowest accuracy, 2.82 K RMSE value, other seasons showed high accuracy under 2K RMSE value. We also analyzed a time series of six the Automated Synoptic Observing System (ASOS) points (i.e., locations) using data obtained from 2018 to 2019; all of the individual correlation coefficient values were over 0.97 and the RMSE values were under 2.41 K. With these analysis, we confirm accuracy of the DNN model was higher than previous studies. And we thought the retrieved Ta can be used in other studies or climate model to conduct urban problems like urban heat islands and to analyze effects of arctic oscillation.
    Electronic ISSN: 2072-4292
    Topics: Architecture, Civil Engineering, Surveying , Geography
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    Assessment of Aerosol Mechanisms and Aerosol Meteorology Feedback over an Urban Airshed in India Using a Chemical Transport Model (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The direct aerosol-radiative effects in the WRF-Chem model account for scattering/absorption of solar radiation due to aerosols, while aerosol–cloud interactions result in modifying wet scavenging of the ambient concentrations as an indirect aerosol effect. In this study, impact of aerosol on meteorological parameters, PM10 and ozone concentrations are analysed which revealed (i) that a net decrease in shortwave and longwave radiation by direct feedback results in decrease in temperature up to 0.05 K, (ii) that a net increase due to longwave and shortwave radiation when both direct and indirect effects are taken together results in an increase in temperature up to 0.25 K (where the mean of temperature is 33.5 °C and standard deviation 2.13 °C), (iii) a marginal increase in boundary layer height of 50 m with increase in temperature with feedbacks, (iv) overall net increase in radiation by direct and indirect effect together result in an increase in PM10 concentration up to 12 μg m−3 (with PM10 mean as 84.5 μg m−3 and standard deviation 28 μg m−3) and an increase in ozone concentration up to 3 μg m−3 (with ozone mean as 29.65 μg m−3 and standard deviation 5.2 μg m−3) mainly due to net increase in temperature. Furthermore, impact of sensitivity of different aerosol mechanisms on PM10 concentrations was scrutinized for two different mechanisms that revealed underestimation by both of the mechanisms with MOSAIC scheme, showing less fractional bias than MADE/SORGAM. For the dust storm period, MOSAIC scheme simulated higher mass concentrations than MADE/SORGAM scheme and performed well for dust-storm days while closely capturing the peaks of high dust concentrations. This study is one of the first few to demonstrate the impact of both direct and indirect aerosol feedback on local meteorology and air quality using a meteorology–chemistry modelling framework; the WRF-Chem model in a tropical urban airshed in India located in semi-arid climatic zone. It is inferred that semi-arid climatic conditions behave in a vastly different manner than other climatic zones for direct and indirect radiative feedback effects.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-4433
    Topics: Geosciences
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    THz Range Low-Noise SIS Receivers for Space and Ground-Based Radio Astronomy (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: We report on research in the field of low-noise receiving systems in the sub-terahertz (THz) range, carried out in recent years, aimed at developing receivers with quantum sensitivity for implementation in space and ground-based radio telescopes. Superconductor-Insulator-Superconductor (SIS) mixers based on high-quality tunnel junctions are the key elements of the most sensitive sub-THz heterodyne receivers. Motivations and physical background for technology improvement and optimization, as well as fabrication details, are described. This article presents the results of the SIS receiver developments for the 211–275 GHz and 790–950 GHz frequency ranges with a noise temperature in the double sideband (DSB) mode of approximTELY 20 K and 200 K, respectively. These designs and achievements are implemented in the development of the receiving systems for the Russian Space Agency mission “Millimetron”, and for the ground-based APEX (Atacama Pathfinder EXperiment) telescope.
    Electronic ISSN: 2076-3417
    Topics: Natural Sciences in General
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    Improvement of Forage Nutritive Quality of Alfalfa and Red Clover through Plant Breeding (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Alfalfa and red clover are important perennial legumes for the production of high-quality fodder. The improvement of the forage quality of legumes is one of the strategic goals of breeding programs. Variation in quality traits (protein content (CP), neutral detergent fiber content (NDF), and acid detergent fiber content (ADF)) and relative feed value (RFV) among seven cultivars and 39 elite breeding populations of alfalfa and red clover was evaluated in the study. Significant differences were determined among the investigated cultivars/populations. Alfalfa populations L-8, 10, 12, 15, and 20 were characterized by a high CP content (up to 23.47%) and/or low NDF and ADF contents. The highest CP content in red clover was recorded in population CD-18 (21.89%), while the lowest NDF and ADF contents were determined in populations CD-19 and CD-4, respectively. High RFV was determined in alfalfa populations L-10, 12, 20, 15, 16, 8, 11, and 17 (prime fodder), and in red clover populations CD-4, 8, 16, 14, and 19 (premium-quality fodder). The identified superior alfalfa and red clover populations will be used to improve the nutritional value of forage crops in our breeding program, which will lead to the release of novel cultivars with improved forage quality.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-4395
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition , Economics
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    Affordable Use of Satellite Imagery in Agriculture and Development Projects: Assessing the Spatial Distribution of Invasive Weeds in the UNESCO-Protected Areas of Cuba (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The effective and regular remote monitoring of agricultural activity is not always possible in developing countries because the access to cloud-based geospatial analysis platforms or expensive high-resolution satellite images are not always available. Herein, using paid high-resolution satellite images first and then free medium-resolution satellite images, we aimed to develop a cost-free, affordable method for regularly mapping the spatial distribution of sicklebush (Dichrostachys cinerea), an archetypal allochthonous invasive plant in Cuba that is becoming impossible to control owing to its rapid growth in areas planted with sugar cane in the Trinidad-Valle de los Ingenios area (Cuba), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Two types of images were used (WorldView-2 and Landsat-8); these were subjected to supervised classification, with accuracy values of 88.7% and 93.7%, respectively. Vegetation cover was first derived from the purchased WorldView-2 image, and this information was then used as the training field to obtain spectral signatures from the Landsat-8 free image so that Landsat images may be regularly used to monitor D. cinerea infestations. The results obtained in the spatial distribution map for sicklebush in the Landsat-8 images had an overall reliability of 93.7% and a Kappa coefficient reliability of 91.9%. These values indicate high confidence in the results, which suggests that sicklebush has invaded 52.7% of the total 46,807.26-ha area of the Trinidad-Valle de los Ingenios. This process proved extremely effective and demonstrated the benefits of using high-resolution spatial images from which information can be transferred to free satellite images with a larger pixel size.
    Electronic ISSN: 2077-0472
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
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    Ectomycorrhizal Fungal Strains Facilitate Cd2+ Enrichment in a Woody Hyperaccumulator under Co-Existing Stress of Cadmium and Salt (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Cadmium (Cd2+) pollution occurring in salt-affected soils has become an increasing environmental concern in the world. Fast-growing poplars have been widely utilized for phytoremediation of soil contaminating heavy metals (HMs). However, the woody Cd2+-hyperaccumulator, Populus × canescens, is relatively salt-sensitive and therefore cannot be directly used to remediate HMs from salt-affected soils. The aim of the present study was to testify whether colonization of P. × canescens with ectomycorrhizal (EM) fungi, a strategy known to enhance salt tolerance, provides an opportunity for affordable remediation of Cd2+-polluted saline soils. Ectomycorrhization with Paxillus involutus strains facilitated Cd2+ enrichment in P. × canescens upon CdCl2 exposures (50 μM, 30 min to 24 h). The fungus-stimulated Cd2+ in roots was significantly restricted by inhibitors of plasmalemma H+-ATPases and Ca2+-permeable channels (CaPCs), but stimulated by an activator of plasmalemma H+-ATPases. NaCl (100 mM) lowered the transient and steady-state Cd2+ influx in roots and fungal mycelia. Noteworthy, P. involutus colonization partly reverted the salt suppression of Cd2+ uptake in poplar roots. EM fungus colonization upregulated transcription of plasmalemma H+-ATPases (PcHA4, 8, 11) and annexins (PcANN1, 2, 4), which might mediate Cd2+ conductance through CaPCs. EM roots retained relatively highly expressed PcHAs and PcANNs, thus facilitating Cd2+ enrichment under co-occurring stress of cadmium and salinity. We conclude that ectomycorrhization of woody hyperaccumulator species such as poplar could improve phytoremediation of Cd2+ in salt-affected areas.
    Print ISSN: 1661-6596
    Electronic ISSN: 1422-0067
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
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    Albumin from Erythrina edulis (Pajuro) as a Promising Source of Multifunctional Peptides (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Multifunctional peptides, capable of acting on different body systems through multiple mechanisms of action, offer many advantages over monofunctional peptides, including lower adverse side effects and costs. Erythrina edulis (pajuro) is a legume with a large number of high-quality proteins, of which their potential as a source of antioxidant peptides has been recently reported. In this study, the behavior of these proteins under a sequential enzymatic hydrolysis with digestive and microbial enzymes was investigated by evaluating the multi-functionality of the hydrolyzates. The albumin hydrolyzates obtained after the action of pepsin, pancreatin, and Alcalase showed antioxidant, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-IV inhibitory activities. The radical scavenging properties of the hydrolyzate could be responsible for the potent protective effects observed in FeSO4-induced neuroblastoma cells. The findings support the role of pajuro protein as an ingredient of functional foods or nutraceuticals for health promotion and the prevention of oxidative stress, hypertension, and metabolic alteration-associated chronic diseases.
    Electronic ISSN: 2076-3921
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
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    Effect of Strain Rate and Silica Filler Content on the Compressive Behavior of RTM6 Epoxy-Based Nanocomposites (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The aim of this paper is to investigate the effect of strain rate and filler content on the compressive behavior of the aeronautical grade RTM6 epoxy-based nanocomposites. Silica nanoparticles with different sizes, weight concentrations and surface functionalization were used as fillers. Dynamic mechanical analysis was used to study the glass transition temperature and storage modulus of the nanocomposites. Using quasi-static and split Hopkinson bar tests, strain rates of 0.001 s−1 to 1100 s−1 were imposed. Sample deformation was measured using stereo digital image correlation techniques. Results showed a significant increase in the compressive strength with increasing strain rate. The elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio showed strain rate independency. The addition of silica nanoparticles marginally increased the glass transition temperature of the resin, and improved its storage and elastic moduli and peak yield strength for all filler concentrations. Increasing the weight percentage of the filler slightly improved the peak yield strength. Moreover, the filler’s size and surface functionalization did not affect the resin’s compressive behavior at different strain rates.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-4360
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics , Process Engineering, Biotechnology, Nutrition Technology
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    Deciphering Evolutionary Dynamics and Lineage Plasticity in Aggressive Prostate Cancer (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: This Special Issue focuses on the molecular mechanisms involved in therapeutic resistance, lineage plasticity, and phenotypic reprogramming leading to prostate cancer recurrence and, ultimately, lethal disease [...]
    Print ISSN: 1661-6596
    Electronic ISSN: 1422-0067
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
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    Grants for Local Community Initiatives as a Way to Increase Public Participation of Inhabitants of Rural Areas (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Increasing the participation of inhabitants in the activities of local authorities has been one of the topics in the discussion on sustainable development for a long time. In rural development, there is also a demand for increasing the participation of inhabitants. This is possible thanks, among other things, to tools that enhance bonds in local communities, encompassing processes based on the mechanisms of the co-creation and co-production of public services, or various forms of participation in the decision-making processes of self-government. In Poland, some regional self-governments (voivodeships) have introduced solutions based on a system of grants for small local communities (villages/sołectwa) linked to deliberative participation, co-creation, and co-production processes. The goal of this article is thus to analyse the design, operation, and scale of grant mechanisms implemented by regional authorities for local communities in Poland’s rural areas (sołectwa). The first stage of the research process was a review of the literature, followed by analysis of the existing solutions and mechanisms for supporting small local communities in individual regions of Poland by financing or co-financing projects that engage inhabitants in the co-creation and co-production of public goods or services. Based on this, the key assumptions considered when creating this type of mechanism of support by voivodeship self-governments were determined. A subsequent stage of research involved analysing the case study of a solution introduced in 2016 by the Łódź regional self-government. The research results indicate that the analysed grant system model stimulates local communities that were previously passive/excluded by other programmes and that, as a result of the stable conditions of a grant contest, the process of “learning” and “imitating” the actions of the communities that succeeded occurs. The research results indicate that the proposed system of grants, which is conditionally based on the participation and co-operation of the inhabitants, seems to be an effective means of activating communities. The findings also point to features that could determine the success of the introduced grant model, such as its simplicity, limiting the bureaucracy (partially limiting the influence of local authorities on who obtains grants), and the transparency of the procedure.
    Electronic ISSN: 2077-0472
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
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    Energy-Optimal Siting of Decentralized Water Recycling Systems (2021)
    American Chemical Society
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-29
    Print ISSN: 0013-936X
    Electronic ISSN: 1520-5851
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
    Published by American Chemical Society
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    Establishment of a Rapid Detection System for ISG20-Dependent SARS-CoV-2 Subreplicon RNA Degradation Induced by Interferon-α (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Inhaled nebulized interferon (IFN)-α and IFN-β have been shown to be effective in the management of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We aimed to construct a virus-free rapid detection system for high-throughput screening of IFN-like compounds that induce viral RNA degradation and suppress the replication of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We prepared a SARS-CoV-2 subreplicon RNA expression vector which contained the SARS-CoV-2 5′-UTR, the partial sequence of ORF1a, luciferase, nucleocapsid, ORF10, and 3′-UTR under the control of the cytomegalovirus promoter. The expression vector was transfected into Calu-3 cells and treated with IFN-α and the IFNAR2 agonist CDM-3008 (RO8191) for 3 days. SARS-CoV-2 subreplicon RNA degradation was subsequently evaluated based on luciferase levels. IFN-α and CDM-3008 suppressed SARS-CoV-2 subreplicon RNA in a dose-dependent manner, with IC50 values of 193 IU/mL and 2.54 μM, respectively. HeLa cells stably expressing SARS-CoV-2 subreplicon RNA were prepared and treated with the IFN-α and pan-JAK inhibitor Pyridone 6 or siRNA-targeting ISG20. IFN-α activity was canceled with Pyridone 6. The knockdown of ISG20 partially canceled IFN-α activity. Collectively, we constructed a virus-free rapid detection system to measure SARS-CoV-2 RNA suppression. Our data suggest that the SARS-CoV-2 subreplicon RNA was degraded by IFN-α-induced ISG20 exonuclease activity.
    Print ISSN: 1661-6596
    Electronic ISSN: 1422-0067
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
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    DNA Methylation and Type 2 Diabetes: Novel Biomarkers for Risk Assessment? (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Diabetes is a severe threat to global health. Almost 500 million people live with diabetes worldwide. Most of them have type 2 diabetes (T2D). T2D patients are at risk of developing severe and life-threatening complications, leading to an increased need for medical care and reduced quality of life. Improved care for people with T2D is essential. Actions aiming at identifying undiagnosed diabetes and at preventing diabetes in those at high risk are needed as well. To this end, biomarker discovery and validation of risk assessment for T2D are critical. Alterations of DNA methylation have recently helped to better understand T2D pathophysiology by explaining differences among endophenotypes of diabetic patients in tissues. Recent evidence further suggests that variations of DNA methylation might contribute to the risk of T2D even more significantly than genetic variability and might represent a valuable tool to predict T2D risk. In this review, we focus on recent information on the contribution of DNA methylation to the risk and the pathogenesis of T2D. We discuss the limitations of these studies and provide evidence supporting the potential for clinical application of DNA methylation marks to predict the risk and progression of T2D.
    Print ISSN: 1661-6596
    Electronic ISSN: 1422-0067
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
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    Mixed Temperature-Moisture Signal in δ18O Records of Boreal Conifers from the Permafrost Zone (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Global climatic changes have been observed for all natural biomes, with the greatest impact in the permafrost zone. The short series of direct observations of air temperature and precipitation from meteorological stations for this territory make it difficult to use them in studies of the impact of climate change on forest and forest-tundra ecosystems, but only longer series of gridded data expand the temporal-spatial resolution of this analysis. We compared local and gridded air temperature, precipitation and vapor pressure deficit (VPD) data, analyzed the trends of their changes over the last century for three sites in the permafrost zone (YAK and TAY in Russia, and CAN in Canada), and estimated the effect of their variability on oxygen isotopes in the tree-ring cellulose (δ18Ocell) of three different species (Larix cajanderi Mayr, Larix gmelinii Rupr. Rupr and Piceaglauca (Moench) Voss). Climate trend analysis showed strong changes after the 1980s, and even more pronounced from 2000 to 2020. We revealed that δ18Ocell-YAK showed mixed signals of the July temperature (r = 0.49; p = 0.001), precipitation (r = −0.37; p = 0.02) and vapor pressure deficit (VPD) (r = 0.31; p = 0.02), while δ18Ocell-CAN captured longer March–May (r = 0.37, p = 0.001) and July (r = 0.32, p 〈 0.05) temperature signals as well as spring VPD (r = 0.54, p = 0.001). The δ18Ocell-TAY showed a significant correlation with air temperature in July (r = 0.23, p = 0.04) and VPD in March (r = −0.26, p = 0.03). The obtained eco-hydrological relationships indicate the importance of temperature and moisture to varying degrees, which can be explained by site- and species-specific differences.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-4433
    Topics: Geosciences
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    Reaction Mechanism of ZrB2-ZrC Formation in Ni-Zr-B4C System Analyzed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The reaction mechanism of ZrB2-ZrC formation in a 30% Ni-Zr-B4C system under argon was revealed by using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicated that the reaction mechanism in the Ni-Zr-B4C system was complex. Initially, NixZry and NixBy intermetallics were formed via solid-state diffusion reactions between Ni, B4C and Zr. Then, the eutectic reaction between Ni2B and Ni4B3 lead to the formation of Ni-B liquid. The free C atoms dissolved into the Ni-B liquid to form a Ni-B-C ternary liquid, and then part of the Zr powder dissolved into the surrounding Ni-B-C ternary liquid to form Ni-Zr-B-C quaternary liquid. Finally, ZrB2 and ZrC formed and precipitated out of the saturated liquid. The eutectic liquid plays an important role during the formation of ZrB2-ZrC.
    Electronic ISSN: 1996-1944
    Topics: Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
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    Peptide Specific Nanoplastic Detection Based on Sandwich Typed Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
    Details
    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Recently, various waste microplastics sensors have been introduced in response to environmental and biological hazards posed by waste microplastics. In particular, the detrimental effects of nano-sized plastics or nanoplastics have been reported to be severe. Moreover, there have been many difficulties for sensing microplastics due to the limited methodologies for selectively recognizing nanoplastics. In this study, a customized gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) based localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) system having bio-mimicked peptide probes toward the nanoplastics was demonstrated. The specific determination through the oligo-peptide recognition was accomplished by chemical conjugation both on the LSPR chip’s 40~50 nm Au NPs and sandwiched 5 nm Au NPs, respectively. The peptide probe could selectively bind to polystyrene (PS) nanoplastics in the forms of fragmented debris by cryo-grinding. A simple UV-Vis spectrophotometer was used to identify the LSPR sensing by primarily measuring the absorbance change and shift of absorption peak. The sandwich-binding could increase the LSPR detection sensitivity up to 60% due to consecutive plasmonic effects. In addition, microwave-boiled DI water inside of a styrofoam container was tested for putative PS nanoplastics resource as a real accessible sample. The LSPR system could be a novel protocol overcoming the limitations from conventional nanoplastic detection.
    Electronic ISSN: 2079-4991
    Topics: Physics
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Can Public Procurement Requirements for Railway Transport Promote Economic and Social Sustainability in South Africa? (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: When considering sustainability from a socioeconomic and environmental point, the South African public transport industry was not an integral part of such planning until the last decade. Various well-intended and well-defined public procurement and environmental regulatory policies and instruments were put in place over the years, however, they appear to be failing in achieving the goals of local job creation and alleviation of unemployment. This exploratory literature review study of various public documents, regulatory instruments, and review reports aims to evaluate current knowledge pertaining to the current level of sustainable transport from a life-cycle approach, in support of overall sustainable goals in South Africa. The research set out to assess the status of public procurement in the revitalising of public rail freight transport towards identifying areas of excellence that could be used to address under-performance in other areas. The documentary analysis found various areas where the public procurement policies within South Africa, which aims to promote local participation, are facing difficulties due to lack of access to modern technology as well as inadequate skills levels to be able to partake in the ventures. In exploring South African challenges and current solutions, the article recommends a holistic and integrated approach to provide for a sustained manufacturing and service supply stream within the local railway transport environment.
    Electronic ISSN: 2071-1050
    Topics: Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
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    Support Induced Effects on the Ir Nanoparticles Activity, Selectivity and Stability Performance under CO2 Reforming of Methane (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The production of syngas (H2 and CO)—a key building block for the manufacture of liquid energy carriers, ammonia and hydrogen—through the dry (CO2−) reforming of methane (DRM) continues to gain attention in heterogeneous catalysis, renewable energy technologies and sustainable economy. Here we report on the effects of the metal oxide support (γ-Al2O3, alumina-ceria-zirconia (ACZ) and ceria-zirconia (CZ)) on the low-temperature (ca. 500–750 °C) DRM activity, selectivity, resistance against carbon deposition and iridium nanoparticles sintering under oxidative thermal aging. A variety of characterization techniques were implemented to provide insight into the factors that determine iridium intrinsic DRM kinetics and stability, including metal-support interactions and physicochemical properties of materials. All Ir/γ-Al2O3, Ir/ACZ and Ir/CZ catalysts have stable DRM performance with time-on-stream, although supports with high oxygen storage capacity (ACZ and CZ) promoted CO2 conversion, yielding CO-enriched syngas. CZ-based supports endow Ir exceptional anti-sintering characteristics. The amount of carbon deposition was small in all catalysts, however decreasing as Ir/γ-Al2O3 〉 Ir/ACZ 〉 Ir/CZ. The experimental findings are consistent with a bifunctional reaction mechanism involving participation of oxygen vacancies on the support’s surface in CO2 activation and carbon removal, and overall suggest that CZ-supported Ir nanoparticles are promising catalysts for low-temperature dry reforming of methane (LT-DRM).
    Electronic ISSN: 2079-4991
    Topics: Physics
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Fat of the Gut: Epithelial Phospholipids in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) comprise a distinct set of clinical symptoms resulting from chronic inflammation within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Despite the significant progress in understanding the etiology and development of treatment strategies, IBD remain incurable for thousands of patients. Metabolic deregulation is indicative of IBD, including substantial shifts in lipid metabolism. Recent data showed that changes in some phospholipids are very common in IBD patients. For instance, phosphatidylcholine (PC)/phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC)/PC ratios are associated with the severity of the inflammatory process. Composition of phospholipids also changes upon IBD towards an increase in arachidonic acid and a decrease in linoleic and a-linolenic acid levels. Moreover, an increase in certain phospholipid metabolites, such as lysophosphatidylcholine, sphingosine-1-phosphate and ceramide, can result in enhanced intestinal inflammation, malignancy, apoptosis or necroptosis. Because some phospholipids are associated with pathogenesis of IBD, they may provide a basis for new strategies to treat IBD. Current attempts are aimed at controlling phospholipid and fatty acid levels through the diet or via pharmacological manipulation of lipid metabolism.
    Print ISSN: 1661-6596
    Electronic ISSN: 1422-0067
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Effect of Osmotic Pretreatment Combined with Vacuum Impregnation or High Pressure on the Water Diffusion Coefficients of Convection Drying: Case Study on Apples (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The paper presents water diffusion coefficients as providing a significant contribution to the creation of a comprehensive database and knowledge of weight variation during the drying process of raw plant materials that is used for modelling the technological process and designing innovative products. Dehydration is one of the most widely used methods for improving the stability and durability of fruit and vegetables because it reduces water activity and microbial activity, and minimises the physical and chemical changes during storage. The considerable impact of pressure on heat exchange and weight during the convection drying process of osmotically pretreated apples is demonstrated. The course of the drying curves and the drying rate is determined by the use of pressures of 0.02 and 500 MPa. Varied pressure applied during osmotic impregnation significantly influences the value of the diffusion coefficient: the average determined for the entire course of the drying curve and the average determined in the intervals of the reduced water content. The lowest values of the average water diffusion coefficient are obtained for apples preboiled under overpressure conditions and, at the same time, the determined diffusion coefficients in the water content are characterised on the drying curve by a clearly decreasing course until the reduced water content reaches approximately 0.2.
    Electronic ISSN: 2304-8158
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Patient Satisfaction Determinants of Inpatient Healthcare (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The aim of the study was to analyse and evaluate the determinants influencing the overall satisfaction of patients with inpatient healthcare in the conditions of the Czech Republic. A total of the 1425 patients, who experienced hospitalisation and agreed to participate, were questioned in the study. A research questionnaire was used to obtain data on satisfaction with hospitalisation. The subject of the research consisted of the indicators related to the following factors: (i) satisfaction with the hospital, clinic, room and meals; (ii) satisfaction with medical staff—nurses, physician expertise and other staff; (iii) the quality of the treatment provided; (iv) satisfaction with leaving the hospital. The formulated statistical hypotheses were evaluated through structural equation modelling. The results of the analyses brought interesting findings. Satisfaction with medical staff is the most significant factor which has a positive effect on satisfaction with hospitalisation. Physician expertise (with trust and good communication skills) is more important for patients than satisfaction with nurses or other staff. The results obtained from the study represent valuable information for policymakers, regional healthcare plans, as well as for managers of hospitals.
    Print ISSN: 1661-7827
    Electronic ISSN: 1660-4601
    Topics: Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering , Medicine
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Calibration of Low-Cost NO2 Sensors through Environmental Factor Correction (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Low-cost air quality sensors (LCSs) have become more widespread due to their low cost and increased capabilities; however, to supplement more traditional air quality networks, the performance of these LCSs needs to be validated. This study focused on NO2 measurements from eight Clarity Node-S sensors and used various environmental factors to calibrate the LCSs. To validate the calibration performance, we calculated the root-mean-square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), R2, and slope compared to reference measurements. Raw results from six of these sensors were comparable to those reported for other NO2 LCSs; however, two of the evaluated LCSs had RMSE values ~20 ppb higher than the other six LCSs. By applying a sensor-specific calibration that corrects for relative humidity, temperature, and ozone, this discrepancy was mitigated. In addition, this calibration improved the RMSE, MAE, R2, and slope of all eight LCS compared to the raw data. It should be noted that relatively stable environmental conditions over the course of the LCS deployment period benefited calibration performance over time. These results demonstrate the importance of developing LCS calibration models for individual sensors that consider pertinent environmental factors.
    Electronic ISSN: 2305-6304
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    COVID-19 and the New Normal of Organizations and Employees: An Overview (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The COVID-19 pandemic has hit organizations and employees in every sector worldwide in unprecedented ways. It became extremely difficult for organizations and employees across sectors to operate under increased mobility restrictions. The pandemic effectively disrupted previous operational models and imbued changes such as telework and digital adoption that are pervasive and may potentially last beyond the pandemic. Amid these circumstances, it was essential to ask how organizations and employees will sustain themselves in the post-COVID-19 ”new normal”. Although so much research is conducted about COVID-19, there is no comprehensive view of the changes at the meso (organizational) and micro (individual) levels. This article aims to explain this using the emergency-learning-institutionalization-new normal (ELIN) framework, which is based on the timeline of the pandemic. The article aims to bring forth the overall trends in how organizations and employees are adapting to the pandemic, the lessons they have learned, and how they will change and adapt in a post-COVID-19 “new normal”. We have analyzed existing policy papers, articles published in business, public administration, nonprofit journals, and other studies to achieve this. We find an increasing trend towards the adoption of telework and digital tools at both meso- and micro-levels. The effective implementation of telework policies and digital transformation plans at the meso-level will ensure the sustainability of organizations and jobs in the new normal. Although these trends vary across sectors and within and across countries, there is an overall increase in the flexibility of organizations and employees in adopting new solutions, making them more open to innovation. The article makes important recommendations for organizations to make these transitions more sustainable in the medium and long term.
    Electronic ISSN: 2071-1050
    Topics: Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
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    Healthy People and Interested Students: Medical and Pharmacy Students’ Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Public Health (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Little is known about health professions students’ awareness and attitudes regarding public health in the United States. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess medical and pharmacy students’ knowledge and interest in the Healthy People initiative as well as perceptions of public health content in their curricula. An electronic survey was distributed in March 2021 in seven schools across Ohio; participation was incentivized through a USD 5 donation to the Ohio Association of Foodbanks to aid in COVID-19 relief efforts (maximum USD 1000) for each completed survey. A total of 182 medical students and 233 pharmacy students participated (12% response rate). Less than one-third of respondents reported familiarity with Healthy People and correctly identified the latest edition. However, nearly all respondents agreed public health initiatives are valuable to the American healthcare system. Almost all students expressed a desire to practice interprofessionally to attain public health goals. Both medical and pharmacy students recognized core public health topics in their curricula, and nearly 90% wanted more information. These findings indicate that the majority of medical and pharmacy students in Ohio believe public health initiatives to be important, yet knowledge gaps exist regarding Healthy People. This information can guide curricular efforts and inform future studies of health professions students.
    Electronic ISSN: 2226-4787
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Life Cycle Assessment of a Vapor Compression Cooling System Integrated within a District Cooling Plant (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: In standard district cooling (DC) plants, central chillers produce cold energy for space cooling throughout the district network. In recent times, the integration of the vapor compression system, which includes the functionalities of vapor compression chillers (VCC), and thermal energy storage (TES) tanks in the DC setup, has gained more implementation across the globe. This is due to the possibility of load shifting by using the VCC to produce chilled water for charging the TES tanks during off peak periods. Since the environmental implications of various energy intensive systems are largely determined by the amount of material and energy consumed throughout their life cycle, it is critical to conduct a sustainability assessment of these systems in terms of environmental contributions, and suggest design options to reduce these impacts. A cradle to grave life cycle assessment (LCA) model is created in response to these issues and in order to meet the project’s objectives. The life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) results of the analysis reveal that the carbon footprint per 1 RTh of the produced chilled water is estimated at 0.72 kg CO2 eq/RTh. The operation phase of the system’s life cycle accounted for the most impact, about 98%, with other life cycle phases having negligible contributions. In substantiating the study’s investigation, the environmental performance based on several design options were discussed and compared to the case study. Among the several scenarios considered, incorporating the Sweden mix technology provided the case study with the most significant environmental savings, of about 94%.
    Electronic ISSN: 2071-1050
    Topics: Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
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    Factors Influencing Changes in Food Preparation during the COVID-19 Pandemic and Associations with Food Intake among Japanese Adults (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The primary aim of this study was to evaluate factors associated with changes in food-preparation practices during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Japan and its associations to food-group intake. To examine this, a cross-sectional online survey was conducted in July 2020. Participants were 2285 adults aged 20–69 years who resided in any of 13 prefectures in Japan where specific COVID-19 regulations had been implemented. Self-reported changes in food-preparation practices when compared to the pre-COVID-19 pandemic period were measured as “increased” (24.6%), “decreased” (7.3%), and “no change” (68.1%), respectively. Stepwise logistic regression analyses indicated that participants who increased the time and effort for food preparation were younger in age, partially working remotely, experiencing reduced household income due to COVID-19, but highly concerned the importance of diet. On the other hand, participants whose household income decreased, and household economic status worsened, as well as those whose importance of diet deteriorated due to COVID-19 were more likely to decrease time and effort for cooking. Although the increased group were more likely to prepare meals with raw ingredients, the decreased group showed higher frequency of using takeout. These results indicated major determinants of changes in time spending on food preparation in consequence of COVID-19, and highlighted essential targets for future nutrition education.
    Electronic ISSN: 2072-6643
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition , Process Engineering, Biotechnology, Nutrition Technology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Intestinal Microbiota as a Contributor to Chronic Inflammation and Its Potential Modifications (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: The gut microbiota is a crucial factor in maintaining homeostasis. The presence of commensal microorganisms leads to the stimulation of the immune system and its maturation. In turn, dysbiosis with an impaired intestinal barrier leads to accelerated contact of microbiota with the host’s immune cells. Microbial structural parts, i.e., pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), such as flagellin (FLG), peptidoglycan (PGN), lipoteichoic acid (LTA), and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), induce inflammation via activation of pattern recognition receptors. Microbial metabolites can also develop chronic low-grade inflammation, which is the cause of many metabolic diseases. This article aims to systematize information on the influence of microbiota on chronic inflammation and the benefits of microbiota modification through dietary changes, prebiotics, and probiotic intake. Scientific research indicates that the modification of the microbiota in various disease states can reduce inflammation and improve the metabolic profile. However, since there is no pattern for a healthy microbiota, there is no optimal way to modify it. The methods of influencing microbiota should be adapted to the type of dysbiosis. Although there are studies on the microbiota and its effects on inflammation, this subject is still relatively unknown, and more research is needed in this area.
    Electronic ISSN: 2072-6643
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition , Process Engineering, Biotechnology, Nutrition Technology
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    Sound Propagation Modelling for Manned and Unmanned Aircraft Noise Assessment and Mitigation: A Review (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: This paper addresses one of the recognized barriers to the unrestricted adoption of Unmanned Aircraft (UA) in mainstream urban use—noise—and reviews existing approaches for estimating and mitigating this problem. The aircraft noise problem is discussed upfront in general terms by introducing the sound emission, propagation, and psychoacoustic effects. The propagation of sound in the atmosphere, which is the focus of this paper, is then analysed in detail to isolate the environmental and operational factors that predominantly influence the perceived noise on the ground, especially looking at large-scale low-altitude UA operations, such as in the envisioned Urban Air Mobility (UAM) concepts. The physics of sound propagation are presented, considering all attenuation effects and the anomalies due to Doppler and atmospheric effects, such as wind, thermal inversion, and turbulence. The analysis allows to highlight the limitations of current mainstream aircraft noise modelling and certification approaches and, in particular, their inadequacy in addressing the noise of UA and, more generally, UAM vehicles. This finding is important considering that, although reducing noise at the source has remained a priority for manufacturers to enable the scaling up of UAM and drone delivery operations in the near future, the impact of poorly considered propagation and psychoacoustic effects on the actual perceived noise on the ground is equally important for the same objective. For instance, optimizing the flight paths as a function of local weather conditions can significantly contribute to minimizing the impact of noise on communities, thus paving the way for the introduction of full-scale UAM operations. A more reliable and accurate modelling of noise ground signatures for both manned and unmanned low-flying aircraft will aid in identifying the real-time data stream requirements from distributed sensors on the ground. New developments in surrogate sound propagation models, more pervasive real-time sensor data, and suitable computing resources are expected to both yield more reliable and effective estimates of noise reaching the ground listeners and support a dynamic planning of flight paths.
    Electronic ISSN: 2073-4433
    Topics: Geosciences
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Understanding the High Creep Resistance of MRI 230D Magnesium Alloy through Nanoindentation and Atom Probe Tomography (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-29
    Description: Due to their low density, magnesium alloys are very appealing for light-weight constructions. However, the use of the most common magnesium alloy, AZ91 (Mg 9 wt.% Al, 1 wt.% Zn), is limited to temperatures below 150 °C due to creep failure. Several alloys with an improved creep resistance have been developed in the past, for example the alloy MRI 230D or Ca-alloyed AZ91 variants. However, there is an ongoing discussion in the literature regarding the mechanisms of the improved creep resistance. One factor claimed to be responsible for the improved creep resistance is the intermetallic phases which form during casting. Another possible explanation is an increased creep resistance due to the formation of precipitates. To gain more insight into the improved creep resistance of MRI 230D, nanoindentation measurements have been performed on the different phases of as-cast, creep-deformed and heat-treated samples of MRI 230D and Ca-alloyed AZ91 variants. These nanoindentation measurements clearly show that the intermetallic phase (IP) of the alloy MRI 230D does not lose strength during creep deformation in contrast to the Ca-alloyed AZ91 variants. High-temperature nanoindentation measurements performed at 200 °C clearly show that the intermetallic phases of the MRI 230D alloy maintain their strength. This is in clear contrast to the Ca-alloyed AZ91 variants, where the IP is significantly softer at 200 °C than at room temperature. Atom probe measurements have been used to gain insight into the differences in terms of chemical composition between the IPs of MRI 230D and the Ca-alloyed AZ91 variants in order to understand the dissimilar behaviour in terms of strength loss with increasing temperature.
    Electronic ISSN: 2075-4701
    Topics: Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
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    Antimicrobial Activity of a Novel Cu(NO3)2-Containing Sol–Gel Surface under Different Testing Conditions (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: In this study, assessment of the antimicrobial activity of a novel, plasma-cured 2.5% (w/v) Cu(NO3)2-containing sol–gel surface was performed. In contrast to state-of-the-art sol–gel coatings, the plasma curing led to a gradient in cross-linking with the highest values at the top of the coating. As a result, the coating behaved simultaneously hard, scratch-resistant, and tough, the latter due to the more flexible bulk of the coating toward the substrate. Further, the diffusion and permeation through the coating also increased toward the substrate. In our study, tests according to ISO 22196 showed antibacterial activity of the 2.5% (w/v) Cu(NO3)2-containing sol–gel surface against all bacterial strains tested, and we expanded the testing further using a “dry” evaluation without an aqueous contact phase, which confirmed the antimicrobial efficacy of the 2.5% (w/v) Cu(NO3)2-containing sol–gel surface. However, further investigation under exposure to soiling with the addition of 0.3% albumin, used to simulate organic load, led to a significant impairment in the antibacterial effect under both tested conditions. Furthermore, re-testing of the surface after disinfection with 70% ethanol led to a total loss of antibacterial activity. Our results showed that besides the mere application of an antimicrobial agent to a surface coating, it is also necessary to consider the future use of these surfaces in the experimental phase combining industry and science. Therefore, a number of tests corresponding to the utilization of the surface should be obligative on the basis of this assessment.
    Electronic ISSN: 1996-1944
    Topics: Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
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    Antifungal and Aflatoxin-Reducing Activity of β-Glucan Isolated from Pichia norvegensis Grown on Tofu Wastewater (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Yeast can be isolated from tofu wastewater and the cell wall in the form of β-glucan can act as a natural decontaminant agent. This study aimed to isolate and characterize native yeast from tofu wastewater, which can be extracted to obtain β-glucan and then identify the yeast and its β-glucan activity regarding antifungal ability against Aspergillus flavus and aflatoxin-reducing activity towards aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and B2 (AFB2). Tofu wastewater native yeast was molecularly identified, and the growth observed based on optical density for 96 h and the pH also measured. β-glucan was extracted from native yeast cell walls with the acid-base method and then the inhibition activity towards A. flavus was tested using the well diffusion method and microscopic observation. AFB1 and AFB2 reduction were identified using HPLC LC-MS/MS. The results showed that the native yeast isolated was Pichia norvegensis with a β-glucan yield of 6.59%. Pichia norvegensis and its β-glucan showed an inhibition zone against Aspergillus flavus of 11.33 ± 4.93 and 7.33 ± 3.51 mm, respectively. Total aflatoxin-reducing activity was also shown by Pichia norvegensis of 26.85 ± 2.87%, and β-glucan of 27.30 ± 1.49%, while AFB1- and AFB2-reducing activity by Pichia norvegensis was 36.97 ± 3.07% and 27.13 ± 1.69%, and -glucan was 27.13 ± 1.69% and 32.59 ± 4.20%, respectively.
    Electronic ISSN: 2304-8158
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Codh/Acs-Deficient Methanogens Are Prevalent in Anaerobic Digesters (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Methanogens are archaea that grow by producing methane as a catabolic end product and thrive in diverse anaerobic habitats, including soil, sediments, oil reservoirs, digestive tracts, and anaerobic digesters. Methanogens have typically been classified into three types—namely, hydrogenotrophic, acetoclastic, and methylotrophic methanogens. In addition, studies have found methanogens that require both hydrogen/CO2 and organics, such as acetate, for growth. Genomic analyses have shown that these methanogens lack genes for carbon monoxide dehydrogenase/acetyl-CoA synthase (Codh/Acs), one of the oldest enzymes that catalyzes the central step in the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway. Since these methanogens have been found dominant in such habitats as digestive tracts and anaerobic digesters, it is suggested that the loss of Codh/Acs confers ecological advantages on methanogens in these habitats. Comparisons in genomes of methanogens suggest the possibility that these methanogens have emerged recently in anaerobic digesters and are currently under the process of prevalence. We propose that an understanding of the genetic and ecological processes associated with the emergence and prevalence of these methanogens in anaerobic digesters would offer novel evolutionary insights into microbial ecology.
    Electronic ISSN: 2076-2607
    Topics: Biology
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Building Typification in Map Generalization Using Affinity Propagation Clustering (2021)
    Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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    Publication Date: 2021-10-28
    Description: Building typification is of theoretical interest and practical significance in map generalization. It aims to transform an initial set of buildings to a subset, while maintaining the essential distribution characteristics and important individual buildings. This study focuses on buildings located in residential suburban or rural areas and generalizes them to medium or small scale, for which the typification process can be viewed as point-similar object selection that generates exemplars in local building clusters. From this view, we propose a novel building typification approach using affinity propagation exemplar-based clustering. Based on a sparse graph constructed on the input building set, the proposed approach considers all buildings as potential cluster exemplars and keeps passing messages between those objects; thus, high-quality representative objects (i.e., exemplars) of the initial building set can be obtained and further outputted as the typified result. Experiments with real-life building data show that the proposed method is superior to the two existing representative methods in maintaining the overall distribution characteristics. Meanwhile, the importance of each individual building and the constraints of the road network can be embedded flexibly in this method, which gives some advantages in terms of preserving important buildings and the local structural distribution along the road, etc.
    Electronic ISSN: 2220-9964
    Topics: Architecture, Civil Engineering, Surveying , Geosciences
    Published by Molecular Diversity Preservation International
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