In this paper, the problem of load transportation and robust mitigation of payload oscillations in uncertain tower-cranes is addressed. This problem is tackled through a control scheme based on the philosophy of activ...In this paper, the problem of load transportation and robust mitigation of payload oscillations in uncertain tower-cranes is addressed. This problem is tackled through a control scheme based on the philosophy of active-disturbance-rejection. Here, a general disturbance model built with two dominant components: polynomial and harmonic, is stated. Then, a disturbance observer is formulated through state-vector augmentation of the tower-crane model. Thus, better performance of estimations for system states and disturbances is achieved. The control law is then formulated to actively reject the disturbances but also to accommodate the closed-loop system dynamics even under system uncertainty. The proposed control schema is validated via experimentation using a small-scale tower-crane,and compared with other relevant active disturbance rejection control(ADRC)-based techniques. The experimental results show that the proposed control scheme is robust under parametric uncertainty of the system, and provides improved attenuation of payload oscillations even under system uncertainty.展开更多
This work applies stress tensors inversions and quantification of fracture patterns along the Mesa de Los Santos, in the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia, to better understand the potential fluid flow. It thus contribut...This work applies stress tensors inversions and quantification of fracture patterns along the Mesa de Los Santos, in the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia, to better understand the potential fluid flow. It thus contributes to the conceptual hydrogeological model. The area was subdivided into three blocks, separated by the NW Potreros and the Los Santos faults, having minor inner faults of different orientations. This separation facilitates the analysis of the fractures measured in the field, which in general show high dip angles and a conjugate geometry in the northern block, tension fractures(Mode I) in the central block, and a random distribution in the southwestern block. WinTensor treatment of slickensides yielded a maximum horizontal stress(SHmax) of 111o, which coincides with the WNW-ESE tensor observed from the conjugate and tension joints. We then used Frac Pa Q to generate interpolation maps of fracture intensity and density. The maps show the highest values in the central block and the lowest in the northern block,where the precipitation is higher, causing intensive rock weathering and homogenization of the fracture planes. Although the highest values of connectivity by line are found to the south of the mesa, we suggest the possibility of greater flow from the recharge zone(NE) along bedding planes and open NW-SE fractures.展开更多
Background and Objective: HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are very widespread in the world, however, less than 20% of the people affected are diagnosed and treated. This study aimed to determi...Background and Objective: HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are very widespread in the world, however, less than 20% of the people affected are diagnosed and treated. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HIV, HCV and HBV co-infections in pregnant women at Bangui Community University Hospital and the cost of screening. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving consenting pregnant women who came for antenatal care was performed. HIV, HCV antibodies and HBV antigens were detected using Exacto Triplex<sup>?</sup> HIV/HCV/HBsAg rapid test, cross-validated by ELISA tests. Sociodemographic and professional data, the modes of transmission and prevention of HIV and both hepatitis viruses were collected in a standard sheet and analyzed using the Epi-Info software version 7. Results: Pregnant women aged 15 to 24 were the most affected (45.3%);high school girls (46.0%), and pregnant women living in cohabitation (65.3%) were the most represented. Twenty-five (16.7%) worked in the formal sector, 12.7% were unemployed housewives and the remainder in the informal sector. The prevalence of HIV, HBV, and HCV viruses was 11.8%, 21.9% and 22.2%, respectively. The prevalence of co-infections was 8.6% for HIV-HBV, 10.2% for HIV-HCV, 14.7% for HBV-HCV and 6.5% for HIV-HBV-HCV. All positive results and 10% of negative results by the rapid test were confirmed by ELISA tests. The serology of the three viruses costs 39,000 FCFA (60 Euros) by ELISA compared to 10,000 FCFA (15.00 Euros) with Exacto Triplex<sup>?</sup> HIV/HCV/AgHBs (BioSynex, Strasbourg, France). Conclusion: The low level of education and awareness of hepatitis are barriers to development and indicate the importance of improving the literacy rate of women in the Central African Republic (CAR). Likewise, the high prevalence of the three viruses shows the need for the urgent establishment of a national program to combat viral hepatitis in the CAR.展开更多
The Sudanian-Sahelian zone of the Far-North Cameroon faces an extreme climate challenge resulting in increased vulnerability to erosion, soil degradation, and the effects of climate change, impacting soil fertility an...The Sudanian-Sahelian zone of the Far-North Cameroon faces an extreme climate challenge resulting in increased vulnerability to erosion, soil degradation, and the effects of climate change, impacting soil fertility and agricultural yields. The objective of this study was to analyze agricultural practices, challenges related to climate change and soil degradation, as well as the solutions adopted by farmers to address these issues. To achieve this, 600 farmers from the six departments of the region were interviewed. The results highlight the significant impact of climatic conditions on soil health, agricultural activities, and food security. Farmers identified various indicators of soil degradation, including agricultural yields, bioindicator plants, plant growth, soil fauna, and root density. The main causes of soil degradation are associated with practices such as deforestation, intensive agriculture, the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, overgrazing, and the effects of climate change. The impacts of this degradation are multiple, including soil fertility loss, reduced agricultural yields, deforestation, reduced biodiversity, income loss, water resource pollution, and food insecurity. In response to these challenges, farmers have adopted sustainable soil management practices, including crop rotation, intercropping, fallowing, the use of organic fertilizers, and the adoption of conservation agriculture. To effectively address these challenges, concerted collaboration between farmers, civil society organizations, and government authorities is imperative to develop sustainable and effective solutions against soil degradation in the region.展开更多
This work is focused on the determination of the optimal reaction conditions to synthesize the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride([EMIM][Cl]) and assess its suitability for the pretreatment of rice husk...This work is focused on the determination of the optimal reaction conditions to synthesize the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride([EMIM][Cl]) and assess its suitability for the pretreatment of rice husk. The modified UNIFAC(UNIversal quasi-chemical Functional-group Activity Coefficients)approach for ionic liquids is used to develop a thermodynamic model that describes the reactive system methylimidazole(MIM), chloroethane(C_(2)H_(5)Cl) and [EMIM][Cl]. The model allows to study the phase equilibria coexistence(vapor–liquid equilibria and solid–liquid equilibria) and yields the theoretically optimal conditions to synthesize the ionic liquid. The model predictions are validated with the available experimental and reported data. By implementing the developed model, a simple way to synthesize ionic liquid [EMIM][Cl] was found allowing to study its influence on the structure and morphology of pretreated rice husk. The lignocellulosic materials involved in this study are characterized by their composition, enzymatic digestibility, scanning electron microscopy, and crystallinity. Compared to untreated material, [EMIM][Cl]-pretreated rice husk produces cellulose that can be efficiently enzymatic hydrolyzed with high sugar yields. This work offers a suitable methodology to include the synthesis and thermodynamics of the solvent media within the design of low-cost ionic liquids for lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment.展开更多
Pathological dry skin is a disturbing and intractable healthcare burden,characterized by epithelial hyperplasia and severe itch.Atopic dermatitis(AD)and psoriasis models with complications of dry skin have been studie...Pathological dry skin is a disturbing and intractable healthcare burden,characterized by epithelial hyperplasia and severe itch.Atopic dermatitis(AD)and psoriasis models with complications of dry skin have been studied using single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq).However,scRNA-seq analysis of the dry skin mouse model(acetone/ether/water(AEW)-treated model)is still lacking.Here,we used scRNA-seq and in situ hybridization to identify a novel proliferative basal cell(PBC)state that exclusively expresses transcription factor CUT-like homeobox 1(Cux1).Further in vitro study demonstrated that Cux1 is vital for keratinocyte proliferation by regulating a series of cyclin-dependent kinases(CDKs)and cyclins.Clinically,Cux1+PBCs were increased in patients with psoriasis,suggesting that Cux1+PBCs play an important part in epidermal hyperplasia.This study presents a systematic knowledge of the transcriptomic changes in a chronic dry skin mouse model,as well as a potential therapeutic target against dry skin-related dermatoses.展开更多
The present study aims to develop multilayer barrier-bioactive hybrid sol-gel coatings from a mixture of the silane precursors tetraethylorthosilicate(TEOS)and glycidoxypropyltriethoxysilane(GPTMS)deposited on the Ele...The present study aims to develop multilayer barrier-bioactive hybrid sol-gel coatings from a mixture of the silane precursors tetraethylorthosilicate(TEOS)and glycidoxypropyltriethoxysilane(GPTMS)deposited on the Elektron 21 magnesium alloy.The purpose of the inner layer(barrier coating)was to provide corrosion protection to the magnesium alloy,whereas the outer layer(bioactive coating)was doped with different Ca and Mg contents to produce a bioactive material.The coatings were characterised using scanning electron microscopy(SEM)and their corrosion behaviour was evaluated by anodic polarisation and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy after immersion in simulated body fluid(SBF)at 37±0.5°C.The experimental results showed that the multilayer coatings increased the corrosion resistance of the alloy up to three orders of magnitude during immersion in SBF solution.On the other hand,the presence of Ca and Mg in the bioactive coating promoted the growth of apatite-like phases.However,an increment of salt content favoured the formation of porous coatings,which allowed the access of the electrolyte to the substrate leading to their rapid deterioration.Despite the latter,this research endorses the premise that the TEOS-GPTMS hybrid system represents a promising alternative to produce bifunctional barrier-bioactive coatings.展开更多
Due to metal leaching and poor catalyst stability, the chemical industry's fine chemical and pharmaceutical sectors have been historically reluctant to use supported transition metal catalysts to manufacture fine ...Due to metal leaching and poor catalyst stability, the chemical industry's fine chemical and pharmaceutical sectors have been historically reluctant to use supported transition metal catalysts to manufacture fine chemicals and active pharmaceutical ingredients. With the advent of new generation supported metal catalysts and flow chemistry, we argue in this study, this situation is poised to quickly change. Alongside heterogenized metal nanoparticles, both single-site molecular and single-atom catalyst will become ubiquitous. This study offers a critical outlook taking into account both technical and economic aspects.展开更多
Background:Species turnover(β-diversity)along elevational gradients is one of the most important concepts in plant ecology.However,there is a lack of consensus about the main driving mechanisms of treeβ-diversity at...Background:Species turnover(β-diversity)along elevational gradients is one of the most important concepts in plant ecology.However,there is a lack of consensus about the main driving mechanisms of treeβ-diversity at local scales in very diverse ecosystems(e.g.,Andean mountains),as well as how the sampling effect can alterβ-diversity estimations.Recently,it has been hypothesized that patterns of change inβ-diversity at local scales along elevational gradients are driven by sampling effects stemming from differences in the size of the species pool rather than by underlying community assembly mechanisms.Thus,we aim to evaluate the relative extent to which sampling effects,such as species pool size,grain size,and tree size cut-off,determine species sorting,and thus,the variability ofβ-diversity at local scales along elevational gradients in the northwest of Colombia.Results:Using 151-ha permanent plots spread out along a 3000m elevational gradient,we used standardizedβ-deviation to assess the extent to which either sampling effects or the community assembly mechanisms determine the changes in species composition at local scales.Standardizedβ-deviation was measured as the difference between the observed and nullβ-diversity divided by the standard deviation of the nullβ-diversity.We found that the magnitude of change in localβ-deviation along the elevational gradient was significant and dependent on the employed spatial grain size and tree size cut-off.However,β-deviation increased with elevation in all sampling designs,which suggests that underlying community assembly mechanisms play a key role in shaping localβ-diversity along the elevational gradient.Conclusions:Our findings suggest that grain size enlargement and the inclusion of trees with small diameters will improve our ability to quantify the extent to which the community assembly mechanisms shape patterns ofβ-diversity along elevational gradients.Overall,we emphasize the scale-dependent nature of the assessment ofβ-diversity.Likewise,we call for the need of a new generation of enlarged forest inventory plots along gradients of elevation in tropical forests that include small individuals to improve our understanding about the likely response of diversity and function to global change.展开更多
Experimental mole fraction solubility of lamotrigine(LTG)in ternary aqueous mixtures of two ionic liquids(ILs),1-hexyl and 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide,[HMIm][Br]and[OMIm][Br]were reported at several temperatur...Experimental mole fraction solubility of lamotrigine(LTG)in ternary aqueous mixtures of two ionic liquids(ILs),1-hexyl and 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide,[HMIm][Br]and[OMIm][Br]were reported at several temperatures T=(293.15 to 313.15)K.The van’t Hoff and(Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff,E-Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff,e-NRTL,UNIQUAC and Wilson)models were used to correlate the solubility data.The comparison of the models with temperature and solvent composition dependencies shows that the Wilson model has the minimum ARD which are relatively close to those obtained from Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff and E-Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff models and maximum ARD belonged to the UNIQUAC model.The order of ARDs for these models is:Wilson b Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff,E-Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff b e-NRTL b UNIQUAC.Moreover,the apparent thermodynamic functions,Gibbs free energy,enthalpy and entropy of dissolution and mixing were calculated based on the van’t Hoff and Gibbs free energy equations.The strong LTG-ILs interactions and enthalpic contribution of the dissolution process resulted from the calculated thermodynamic functions.展开更多
Teak(Tectona grandis L.f.)plantations are increasingly being established in tropical regions to meet a rising demand for its highly valued timber.Teak plantations have been established in the Atlantic Coastal Plain re...Teak(Tectona grandis L.f.)plantations are increasingly being established in tropical regions to meet a rising demand for its highly valued timber.Teak plantations have been established in the Atlantic Coastal Plain region of Colombia,a region climatically suitable for teak growth by having a monsoon climate with a unimodal precipitation pattern.Tree diameter at breast height(DBH,1.3 m above ground)and mean top height,periodically measured over a 17-year period in 44 permanent sampling plots of size 0.06 and 0.10 ha,were used in this study.A stochastic differential equation(SDE),along with a Bertalanffy–Richards-type height growth model,was used to model and estimate top height growth of teak plantations in Colombia.Environmental noise and height measurement errors were explicitly considered as the main uncertainty sources of mean top height growth.The best model for estimating mean top height,based on statistical performance and biological rationale,had the asymptote defined as a local parameter and the growth rate and shape specified as global parameters.This model outperformed its counterpart that had the growth rate specified as a local parameter and asymptote and shape as global parameters.The selected model also outperformed alternative approaches such as the mixed-effects model,generalized algebraic difference approach,and the dummy variable method.Estimated trajectories for the mean top height of teak in Colombia are biologically sound based on the measured height series and previous studies in Latin America.Results suggest that most of the uncertainty associated with the mean top height growth of teak plantations in Colombia was largely explained by environmental noise.The best estimated model using the SDE approach can be useful for predicting height growth and evaluating site productivity of teak plantations in Colombia and in neighbouring countries with biophysical characteristics similar to those where teak has been planted in Colombia.展开更多
Biochemical characteristics, antimicrobial and quorum quenching activity of the extract of the “Carciofo di Montoro”, a typical ecotype of Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus of the Campania region (Southern Italy) wer...Biochemical characteristics, antimicrobial and quorum quenching activity of the extract of the “Carciofo di Montoro”, a typical ecotype of Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus of the Campania region (Southern Italy) were studied, to consider it as potential reserve of bioactive constituents useful for food industry and beneficial for managing and preventing several chronic illnesses in humans. The extract exhibited a good polyphenol content (528 μg GAE/g) and antioxidant activity (EC50 less than 5 mg). Ultra pressure liquid chromatography (UPLC) revealed high amount of chlorogenic acid, cynarin and epicatechin. The extract showed antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylocccus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis and Bacillus cereus pathogen strains. Finally, quorum quenching activity was demonstrated. The variety Carciofo di Montoro could represent a good source of health-promoting polyphenols, encouraging a nutraceutical use of such ecotype, for several phyto-pharmaceutical applications.展开更多
文摘In this paper, the problem of load transportation and robust mitigation of payload oscillations in uncertain tower-cranes is addressed. This problem is tackled through a control scheme based on the philosophy of active-disturbance-rejection. Here, a general disturbance model built with two dominant components: polynomial and harmonic, is stated. Then, a disturbance observer is formulated through state-vector augmentation of the tower-crane model. Thus, better performance of estimations for system states and disturbances is achieved. The control law is then formulated to actively reject the disturbances but also to accommodate the closed-loop system dynamics even under system uncertainty. The proposed control schema is validated via experimentation using a small-scale tower-crane,and compared with other relevant active disturbance rejection control(ADRC)-based techniques. The experimental results show that the proposed control scheme is robust under parametric uncertainty of the system, and provides improved attenuation of payload oscillations even under system uncertainty.
基金the financial backing provided by the Universidad Industrial de Santander through project 2534 “Estudio Integral del Agua en la Mesa de Los Santos”。
文摘This work applies stress tensors inversions and quantification of fracture patterns along the Mesa de Los Santos, in the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia, to better understand the potential fluid flow. It thus contributes to the conceptual hydrogeological model. The area was subdivided into three blocks, separated by the NW Potreros and the Los Santos faults, having minor inner faults of different orientations. This separation facilitates the analysis of the fractures measured in the field, which in general show high dip angles and a conjugate geometry in the northern block, tension fractures(Mode I) in the central block, and a random distribution in the southwestern block. WinTensor treatment of slickensides yielded a maximum horizontal stress(SHmax) of 111o, which coincides with the WNW-ESE tensor observed from the conjugate and tension joints. We then used Frac Pa Q to generate interpolation maps of fracture intensity and density. The maps show the highest values in the central block and the lowest in the northern block,where the precipitation is higher, causing intensive rock weathering and homogenization of the fracture planes. Although the highest values of connectivity by line are found to the south of the mesa, we suggest the possibility of greater flow from the recharge zone(NE) along bedding planes and open NW-SE fractures.
文摘Background and Objective: HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are very widespread in the world, however, less than 20% of the people affected are diagnosed and treated. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HIV, HCV and HBV co-infections in pregnant women at Bangui Community University Hospital and the cost of screening. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving consenting pregnant women who came for antenatal care was performed. HIV, HCV antibodies and HBV antigens were detected using Exacto Triplex<sup>?</sup> HIV/HCV/HBsAg rapid test, cross-validated by ELISA tests. Sociodemographic and professional data, the modes of transmission and prevention of HIV and both hepatitis viruses were collected in a standard sheet and analyzed using the Epi-Info software version 7. Results: Pregnant women aged 15 to 24 were the most affected (45.3%);high school girls (46.0%), and pregnant women living in cohabitation (65.3%) were the most represented. Twenty-five (16.7%) worked in the formal sector, 12.7% were unemployed housewives and the remainder in the informal sector. The prevalence of HIV, HBV, and HCV viruses was 11.8%, 21.9% and 22.2%, respectively. The prevalence of co-infections was 8.6% for HIV-HBV, 10.2% for HIV-HCV, 14.7% for HBV-HCV and 6.5% for HIV-HBV-HCV. All positive results and 10% of negative results by the rapid test were confirmed by ELISA tests. The serology of the three viruses costs 39,000 FCFA (60 Euros) by ELISA compared to 10,000 FCFA (15.00 Euros) with Exacto Triplex<sup>?</sup> HIV/HCV/AgHBs (BioSynex, Strasbourg, France). Conclusion: The low level of education and awareness of hepatitis are barriers to development and indicate the importance of improving the literacy rate of women in the Central African Republic (CAR). Likewise, the high prevalence of the three viruses shows the need for the urgent establishment of a national program to combat viral hepatitis in the CAR.
文摘The Sudanian-Sahelian zone of the Far-North Cameroon faces an extreme climate challenge resulting in increased vulnerability to erosion, soil degradation, and the effects of climate change, impacting soil fertility and agricultural yields. The objective of this study was to analyze agricultural practices, challenges related to climate change and soil degradation, as well as the solutions adopted by farmers to address these issues. To achieve this, 600 farmers from the six departments of the region were interviewed. The results highlight the significant impact of climatic conditions on soil health, agricultural activities, and food security. Farmers identified various indicators of soil degradation, including agricultural yields, bioindicator plants, plant growth, soil fauna, and root density. The main causes of soil degradation are associated with practices such as deforestation, intensive agriculture, the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, overgrazing, and the effects of climate change. The impacts of this degradation are multiple, including soil fertility loss, reduced agricultural yields, deforestation, reduced biodiversity, income loss, water resource pollution, and food insecurity. In response to these challenges, farmers have adopted sustainable soil management practices, including crop rotation, intercropping, fallowing, the use of organic fertilizers, and the adoption of conservation agriculture. To effectively address these challenges, concerted collaboration between farmers, civil society organizations, and government authorities is imperative to develop sustainable and effective solutions against soil degradation in the region.
基金the research program of Universidad de Bogotá Jorge Tadeo Lozano 703-12-15 for financial support。
文摘This work is focused on the determination of the optimal reaction conditions to synthesize the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride([EMIM][Cl]) and assess its suitability for the pretreatment of rice husk. The modified UNIFAC(UNIversal quasi-chemical Functional-group Activity Coefficients)approach for ionic liquids is used to develop a thermodynamic model that describes the reactive system methylimidazole(MIM), chloroethane(C_(2)H_(5)Cl) and [EMIM][Cl]. The model allows to study the phase equilibria coexistence(vapor–liquid equilibria and solid–liquid equilibria) and yields the theoretically optimal conditions to synthesize the ionic liquid. The model predictions are validated with the available experimental and reported data. By implementing the developed model, a simple way to synthesize ionic liquid [EMIM][Cl] was found allowing to study its influence on the structure and morphology of pretreated rice husk. The lignocellulosic materials involved in this study are characterized by their composition, enzymatic digestibility, scanning electron microscopy, and crystallinity. Compared to untreated material, [EMIM][Cl]-pretreated rice husk produces cellulose that can be efficiently enzymatic hydrolyzed with high sugar yields. This work offers a suitable methodology to include the synthesis and thermodynamics of the solvent media within the design of low-cost ionic liquids for lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment.
基金supported by Technological Innovation 2030-Major Projects of Brain Science and Brain-like Research(Grant No.:2022zD0206200)the Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.:31872796,82030108 to W.Yang,32071102 to P.Yu)+3 种基金the National Major Special Project on New Drug Innovation of China(Grant No.:2018ZX09711001-004-005)the key research and development program of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region(Grant No.:2019BFH02003)Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities of China(Grant No.:2016QNA7002 to P.Yu)Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation(Grant No.:LR16H090001 to W.Yang).
文摘Pathological dry skin is a disturbing and intractable healthcare burden,characterized by epithelial hyperplasia and severe itch.Atopic dermatitis(AD)and psoriasis models with complications of dry skin have been studied using single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq).However,scRNA-seq analysis of the dry skin mouse model(acetone/ether/water(AEW)-treated model)is still lacking.Here,we used scRNA-seq and in situ hybridization to identify a novel proliferative basal cell(PBC)state that exclusively expresses transcription factor CUT-like homeobox 1(Cux1).Further in vitro study demonstrated that Cux1 is vital for keratinocyte proliferation by regulating a series of cyclin-dependent kinases(CDKs)and cyclins.Clinically,Cux1+PBCs were increased in patients with psoriasis,suggesting that Cux1+PBCs play an important part in epidermal hyperplasia.This study presents a systematic knowledge of the transcriptomic changes in a chronic dry skin mouse model,as well as a potential therapeutic target against dry skin-related dermatoses.
基金the Vicerrectorìa de Investigación y Extension of the Universidad Industrial de Santander,Colombia(grant number 2508)for the financial support of the present work
文摘The present study aims to develop multilayer barrier-bioactive hybrid sol-gel coatings from a mixture of the silane precursors tetraethylorthosilicate(TEOS)and glycidoxypropyltriethoxysilane(GPTMS)deposited on the Elektron 21 magnesium alloy.The purpose of the inner layer(barrier coating)was to provide corrosion protection to the magnesium alloy,whereas the outer layer(bioactive coating)was doped with different Ca and Mg contents to produce a bioactive material.The coatings were characterised using scanning electron microscopy(SEM)and their corrosion behaviour was evaluated by anodic polarisation and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy after immersion in simulated body fluid(SBF)at 37±0.5°C.The experimental results showed that the multilayer coatings increased the corrosion resistance of the alloy up to three orders of magnitude during immersion in SBF solution.On the other hand,the presence of Ca and Mg in the bioactive coating promoted the growth of apatite-like phases.However,an increment of salt content favoured the formation of porous coatings,which allowed the access of the electrolyte to the substrate leading to their rapid deterioration.Despite the latter,this research endorses the premise that the TEOS-GPTMS hybrid system represents a promising alternative to produce bifunctional barrier-bioactive coatings.
文摘Due to metal leaching and poor catalyst stability, the chemical industry's fine chemical and pharmaceutical sectors have been historically reluctant to use supported transition metal catalysts to manufacture fine chemicals and active pharmaceutical ingredients. With the advent of new generation supported metal catalysts and flow chemistry, we argue in this study, this situation is poised to quickly change. Alongside heterogenized metal nanoparticles, both single-site molecular and single-atom catalyst will become ubiquitous. This study offers a critical outlook taking into account both technical and economic aspects.
基金The project “Bosques Andinos” was funding by Helvetas Swiss development organizationdeveloped by Medellín Botanical Garden “Joaquín Antonio Uribe”.
文摘Background:Species turnover(β-diversity)along elevational gradients is one of the most important concepts in plant ecology.However,there is a lack of consensus about the main driving mechanisms of treeβ-diversity at local scales in very diverse ecosystems(e.g.,Andean mountains),as well as how the sampling effect can alterβ-diversity estimations.Recently,it has been hypothesized that patterns of change inβ-diversity at local scales along elevational gradients are driven by sampling effects stemming from differences in the size of the species pool rather than by underlying community assembly mechanisms.Thus,we aim to evaluate the relative extent to which sampling effects,such as species pool size,grain size,and tree size cut-off,determine species sorting,and thus,the variability ofβ-diversity at local scales along elevational gradients in the northwest of Colombia.Results:Using 151-ha permanent plots spread out along a 3000m elevational gradient,we used standardizedβ-deviation to assess the extent to which either sampling effects or the community assembly mechanisms determine the changes in species composition at local scales.Standardizedβ-deviation was measured as the difference between the observed and nullβ-diversity divided by the standard deviation of the nullβ-diversity.We found that the magnitude of change in localβ-deviation along the elevational gradient was significant and dependent on the employed spatial grain size and tree size cut-off.However,β-deviation increased with elevation in all sampling designs,which suggests that underlying community assembly mechanisms play a key role in shaping localβ-diversity along the elevational gradient.Conclusions:Our findings suggest that grain size enlargement and the inclusion of trees with small diameters will improve our ability to quantify the extent to which the community assembly mechanisms shape patterns ofβ-diversity along elevational gradients.Overall,we emphasize the scale-dependent nature of the assessment ofβ-diversity.Likewise,we call for the need of a new generation of enlarged forest inventory plots along gradients of elevation in tropical forests that include small individuals to improve our understanding about the likely response of diversity and function to global change.
基金a postdoctorate grant(693118)of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences,Iran for supporting this work.
文摘Experimental mole fraction solubility of lamotrigine(LTG)in ternary aqueous mixtures of two ionic liquids(ILs),1-hexyl and 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide,[HMIm][Br]and[OMIm][Br]were reported at several temperatures T=(293.15 to 313.15)K.The van’t Hoff and(Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff,E-Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff,e-NRTL,UNIQUAC and Wilson)models were used to correlate the solubility data.The comparison of the models with temperature and solvent composition dependencies shows that the Wilson model has the minimum ARD which are relatively close to those obtained from Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff and E-Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff models and maximum ARD belonged to the UNIQUAC model.The order of ARDs for these models is:Wilson b Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff,E-Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff b e-NRTL b UNIQUAC.Moreover,the apparent thermodynamic functions,Gibbs free energy,enthalpy and entropy of dissolution and mixing were calculated based on the van’t Hoff and Gibbs free energy equations.The strong LTG-ILs interactions and enthalpic contribution of the dissolution process resulted from the calculated thermodynamic functions.
基金The sabbatic and travel expenses of the lead author for the 2019 Southern Mensurationists meeting in AshevilleNorth CarolinaSeptember 15–17,were funded by the National University of Colombia。
文摘Teak(Tectona grandis L.f.)plantations are increasingly being established in tropical regions to meet a rising demand for its highly valued timber.Teak plantations have been established in the Atlantic Coastal Plain region of Colombia,a region climatically suitable for teak growth by having a monsoon climate with a unimodal precipitation pattern.Tree diameter at breast height(DBH,1.3 m above ground)and mean top height,periodically measured over a 17-year period in 44 permanent sampling plots of size 0.06 and 0.10 ha,were used in this study.A stochastic differential equation(SDE),along with a Bertalanffy–Richards-type height growth model,was used to model and estimate top height growth of teak plantations in Colombia.Environmental noise and height measurement errors were explicitly considered as the main uncertainty sources of mean top height growth.The best model for estimating mean top height,based on statistical performance and biological rationale,had the asymptote defined as a local parameter and the growth rate and shape specified as global parameters.This model outperformed its counterpart that had the growth rate specified as a local parameter and asymptote and shape as global parameters.The selected model also outperformed alternative approaches such as the mixed-effects model,generalized algebraic difference approach,and the dummy variable method.Estimated trajectories for the mean top height of teak in Colombia are biologically sound based on the measured height series and previous studies in Latin America.Results suggest that most of the uncertainty associated with the mean top height growth of teak plantations in Colombia was largely explained by environmental noise.The best estimated model using the SDE approach can be useful for predicting height growth and evaluating site productivity of teak plantations in Colombia and in neighbouring countries with biophysical characteristics similar to those where teak has been planted in Colombia.
文摘Biochemical characteristics, antimicrobial and quorum quenching activity of the extract of the “Carciofo di Montoro”, a typical ecotype of Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus of the Campania region (Southern Italy) were studied, to consider it as potential reserve of bioactive constituents useful for food industry and beneficial for managing and preventing several chronic illnesses in humans. The extract exhibited a good polyphenol content (528 μg GAE/g) and antioxidant activity (EC50 less than 5 mg). Ultra pressure liquid chromatography (UPLC) revealed high amount of chlorogenic acid, cynarin and epicatechin. The extract showed antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylocccus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis and Bacillus cereus pathogen strains. Finally, quorum quenching activity was demonstrated. The variety Carciofo di Montoro could represent a good source of health-promoting polyphenols, encouraging a nutraceutical use of such ecotype, for several phyto-pharmaceutical applications.