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The global understanding of selenium (Se) in plant biology mainly comes from the fields of medicine and animal science, while the research on Se in plant biology in the field of plant science lags behind. This paper summarized the physiological functions of Se in plants. These studies indicate that Se can promote plant seed development and growth and plant photosynthesis, increase plant economic yield and quality, and enhance plant antioxidant capacity and resistance to stress. However, its effects have a "dual" character, and its concentration or dosage range is very narrow. At appropriate concentrations, Se has an important impact on the physiological processes of plants and is a beneficial element for many plants to maintain health and good growth and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abiotic stresses such as drought and heat continue to impact crop production in a warming world. This review distinguishes seven inherent capacities that enable plants to respond to abiotic stresses and continue growing, although at a reduced rate, to achieve a productive yield. These are the capacities to selectively take up essential resources, store them and supply them to different plant parts, generate the energy required for cellular functions, conduct repairs to maintain plant tissues, communicate between plant parts, manage existing structural assets in the face of changed circumstances, and shape-shift through development to be efficient in different environments. By illustration, we show how all seven plant capacities are important for reproductive success of major crop species during drought, salinity, temperature extremes, flooding, and nutrient stress. Confusion about the term 'oxidative stress' is explained. This allows us to focus on the strategies that enhance plant adaptation by identifying key responses that can be targets for plant breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nitrogen- and water-use efficiency (NUE and WUE) reflect the capacity of plants to take up and utilize resources in the environments. Although N deposition and drought are known to affect plant growth and persistence, it remains elusive how plants adjust NUE, WUE and their relationship to adapt to the concurrent N deposition and drought under the context of global change. We conducted a field experiment in a temperate grassland in Inner Mongolia, in which N addition (10 g m–2 yr−1), drought (reduced 66% precipitation during growing season) and their combination were manipulated, and we explored the responses of both instantaneous (NUEINST and WUEINST) and long-term (NUELT and WUELT) WUE and NUE for six common plant species (Leymus chinensis, Stipa baicalensis, Thermopsis lanceolata, Potentilla bifurca, Thalictrum squarrosum, Klasea centauroide). Results: Across all the six species, NUEINST decreased and WUEINST increased with both N addition and drought; NUELT decreased with both N addition and drought, while WUELT decreased with N addition and increased with drought. A significant interactive effect between N addition and drought was detected, in that, drought weakened the negative effect of N addition on WUELT and NUELT, and N addition weakened the negative effect of drought on NUELT, but enhanced the positive effect of drought on WUELT. As a consequence, drought caused a trade-off between NUE and WUE, and N addition brought forth positive correlation between NUE and WUE. Meanwhile, the relationship between NUE and WUE varied among the species of different functional groups. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that NUE, WUE and their relationship play an important role in determining their responses and adaptability to changes in soil nitrogen and water availability induced by N deposition and drought. Our results shed light on the antagonistic, synergetic and neutral effects between nitrogen deposition and drought on resource use efficiency, and further clarified the different adaptability among species of different functional groups, which will conduce to a comprehensive understanding on the role of NUE and WUE in plant persistence and coexistence in grassland ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: This study aims at identifying Cu accumulators from Elsholtzia and uncovering the rhizospheric mechanisms for improving the phytoremediation of Cu-contaminated soils. Methods: The Cu accumulation capacities of ten Elsholtzia species were investigated in Cu-polluted soil, and two species with the largest differences in Cu accumulation capacities were selected to verify the results and to analyze their rhizospheric response characteristics (e.g., changes in Cu availability and rhizospheric bacterial community) to Cu stress in soils spiked with 0, 250, and 500 mg kg−1 Cu. Results: These 10 Elsholtzia species showed various Cu accumulation capacities (Cu bioconcentration factors: 0.55–1.86 in shoots, 1.13–5.27 in roots), and most of them showed the potential for Cu phytostabilization. Among them, E. eriocalyx and E. winitiana could both tolerate up to 500 mg kg−1 Cu in soils but showed high- and low-Cu-accumulating capacities, respectively. Rhizospheric analysis indicated that specific rhizobacteria recruited by E. eriocalyx and E. winitiana were responsible for their differential Cu uptake. Several different plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (e.g., Sphingomonas, Gemmatimonas, Devosia, and Flavisolibacter) might contribute to the plant vitality of E. eriocalyx under Cu stress. Moreover, the dominant Sphingomonas was responsible for the higher Cu accumulation in E. eriocalyx plants. However, the dominance of several rhizobacteria in the Planctomycetes phylum might participate in Cu immobilization, thus decreasing Cu uptake by E. winitian. Conclusion: This study identifies novel Elsholtzia species resources for the phytoremediation of Cu-contaminated soils and improves our understanding of the roles of rhizobacteria in regulating the Cu accumulation capacities of plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a bottom-up approach to the assessment of model performance and costs of a proton-exchange-membrane electrolysis considering cell, stack and process levels. The cell voltage is modelled dependent on current density and detailed models for stack, investment and hydrogen costs are developed. Taking into account current research on PEM electrolysis, such as the use of thinner membranes or low precious metal loading on the electrodes, allows the prediction of next generation's efficiency and costs. By comparison of a current and next-generation PEM electrolysis, the effectiveness of individual development steps was assessed and remaining space for efficiency and cost improvement was identified. This can help to prioritize and to focus on development steps which are most effective. In the next generation, efficiency will be increased even at higher current density operation. Thus, specific stack costs will drop to less than half of present day costs which is decisive to achieve lower hydrogen production costs in the next generation. Specific installed costs and hydrogen production costs of the current and next generation are calculated for plant sizes up to 100 MW DC and reveal significant cost decrease for plant capacities up to 25 MW DC while only changing slightly for capacities larger than this. Costs are always subject to uncertainties due to model assumptions and boundary conditions that need to be defined. Uncertainties and the sensitivities of the model are estimated and assessed to provide an indication of the actual cost range. Main cost model uncertainties are identified to arise from membrane electrode and stack assembly costs, civil engineering and construction surcharge as well as the electrical system. Hydrogen costs are dominated by operating costs and therefore are highly sensitive to the annual operating hours and the electricity price, which have a greater impact on the hydrogen costs than the model assumptions for capital costs. • A bottom-up approach to model the performance and costs of a PEM electrolysis is introduced. • Based on the current research and development, the performance and costs of a next-generation PEM electrolysis are predicted. • I–V curves as well as stack, installation and hydrogencosts for plant sizes up to 100 MW DC are calculated and discussed. • Cost uncertainties and most sensitive model assumptions are discussed and quantified to assess the accuracy of the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agro-Environment Science is the property of Journal of Agro-Environment Science Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The leaf maximum rate of carboxylation (Vcmax) is a key parameter of plant photosynthetic capacity. The accurate estimation of Vcmax is crucial for correctly predicting the carbon flux in the terrestrial carbon cycle. Vcmax is correlated with plant traits including leaf nitrogen (Narea) and leaf photosynthetic pigments. Proxies for leaf chlorophyll (Chlarea) and carotenoid contents (Cararea) need to be explored in different ecosystems. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between leaf maximum rate of carboxylation (scaled to 25°C; Vcmax25) and both leaf Narea and photosynthetic pigments (Chlarea and Cararea) in winter wheat in a farmland ecosystem. Our results showed that Vcmax25 followed the same trends as leaf Chlarea. However, leaf Narea showed smaller dynamic changes before the flowering stage, and there were smaller seasonal variations in leaf Cararea. The correlation between leaf Vcmax25 and leaf Chlarea was the strongest, followed by leaf Cararea and leaf Narea (R² = 0.69, R² = 0.47 and R² = 0.36, respectively). The random forest regression analysis also showed that leaf Chlarea and leaf Cararea were more important than leaf Narea for Vcmax25. The correlation between leaf Vcmax25 and Narea can be weaker since nitrogen allocation is dynamic. The estimation accuracy of the Vcmax25 model based on Narea, Chlarea, and Cararea (R² = 0.75) was only 0.05 higher than that of the Vcmax25 model based on Chlarea and Cararea (R² = 0.70). However, the estimation accuracy of the Vcmax25 model based on Chlarea and Cararea (R² = 0.70) was 0.34 higher than that of the Vcmax25 model based on Narea (R² = 0.36). These results highlight that leaf photosynthetic pigments can be a predictor for estimating Vcmax25, expanding a new way to estimate spatially continuous Vcmax25 on a regional scale, and to improve model simulation accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the processing of raw agricultural materials from the primary sector, large quantities of by-products with high chemical energy content are produced. Some of these are olive mill wastewater (OMW), cheese whey (CW), and liquid cow manure (LCM). Anaerobic digestion is a promising, environmentally friendly process for the energy valorization of agro-industrial and livestock by-products. The purpose of this study was the mathematical modeling of anaerobic digestion in batch systems, aiming to quantify possible synergies occurring between complementary substrates. The analysis was based on using biochemical methane potential data to predict the optimum hydraulic retention time (HRT) under steady-state conditions of continuous systems, for different substrate ratios. The objective function for HRT optimization was based on maximizing the process profit and included technoeconomic parameters, allowing the comparison of the different substrate ratios that can be used in the feedstock. The co-digestion with a mixture ratio of OMW:LCM equal to 70:30 proved very satisfactory for the sustainability of the process, exhibiting a maximum net profit of 16 €/m3 reactor /d for a plant capacity of 10 m3 feed /d. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel method is proposed to find the suitable locations for large-scale PV farms. • The method ranks suitable locations by determining sequential optimum locations. • Criteria weights are adjusted based on PV plant capacity. • The land of cost is included as a criterion in the decision process. Effective and sustainable climate-friendly policies to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in line with the 2020 European Green Deal are necessary. Accordingly, renewable energies assumed a critical role, rendering the site selection of these systems very crucial. The present study proposes a novel approach to the site selection of large-scale photovoltaic (PV) plants using a combination of analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and geographic information system (GIS). In the study, the weights of criteria used for selecting solar PV panels are adjusted according to the installed capacity of the PV plant. The land of cost is included as a criterion in the AHP for the first time in PV plant site selection. Besides, a novel method called optimality-based site growing (OBSG) is introduced to further analyze the suitable sites obtained from GIS simulations and to determine the most suitable locations of PV farms. The proposed method is demonstrated with a case study of Türkiye, and the results show that the method effectively determines the most suitable locations for large-scale PV plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By 2050, the predicted global population is set to reach 9.6 billion highlighting the urgent need to increase crop productivity to meet the growing demand for food. This is becoming increasingly challenging when soils are saline and/or deficient in phosphorus (P). The synergic effect of P deficiency and salinity causes a series of secondary stresses including oxidative stress. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) production and oxidative damage in plants caused either by P limitation or by salt stress may restrict the overall plant performances leading to a decline in crop yield. However, the P application in adequate forms and doses could positively impact the growth of plants and enhances their tolerance to salinity. In our investigation, we evaluated the effect of different P fertilizers forms (Ortho-A, Ortho-B and Poly-B) and increasing P rates (0, 30 and 45 ppm) on the plant's antioxidant system and P uptake of durum wheat (Karim cultivar) grown under salinity (EC = 3.003 dS/m). Our results demonstrated that salinity caused a series of variations in the antioxidant capacity of wheat plants, at both, enzymatic and non-enzymatic levels. Remarkably, a strong correlation was observed between P uptake, biomass, various antioxidant system parameters and P rates and sources. Soluble P fertilizers considerably enhanced the total plant performances under salt stress compared with control plants grown under salinity and P deficiency (C+). Indeed, salt-stressed and fertilized plants exhibited a robust antioxidant system revealed by the increase in enzymatic activities of Catalase (CAT) and Ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and a significant accumulation of Proline, total polyphenols content (TPC) and soluble sugars (SS) as well as increased biomass, Chlorophyll content (CCI), leaf protein content and P uptake compared to unfertilized plants. Compared to OrthoP fertilizers at 45 ppm P, Poly-B fertilizer showed significant positive responses at 30 ppm P where the increase reached + 18.2% in protein content, + 156.8% in shoot biomass, + 93% in CCI, + 84% in shoot P content, + 51% in CAT activity, + 79% in APX activity, + 93% in TPC and + 40% in SS compared to C+. This implies that PolyP fertilizers might be an alternative for the suitable management of phosphorus fertilization under salinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The comparative adaptability of the species Bruguiera gymnorrhiza from the southern districts of Kerala viz., Kollam, Alappuzha, Cochin and Thrissur was assessed in-vitro. B. gymnorrhiza being a salt-sensitive plant must be carefully analyzed before restoration practices. Without efficient ROS scavenging, the plant will not be able to survive the salinity fluctuation, there should be an equilibrium between both. The study reveals the adaptability of mangroves to salt tolerance assessed through secondary metabolites and enzymatic activity for the promotion of antioxidant activity with respect to salinity fluctuation from the four districts. The presence of secondary metabolites was further confirmed by GC-MS analysis. The plant thrived better in optimum salinity, and the highest phenolic content was obtained from Kollam. The antioxidant activity of DPPH and Fe2+ was higher in the Alappuzha sample and the ABTS+ was higher in the leaf sample collected from Thrissur. Methyl Commate B was reported for the first time in mangroves and from the species B. gymnorrhiza. Being a novel identification, it would pave the way for the medicinal use of the species and the SEM-EDX results reveal the high sequestration capacity of the plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) represent a microbial community that exerts growthpromoting capabilities in plants by various mechanisms. Among the PGPR genera, Pseudomonas spp. deserves special attention. It is due to its characteristic traits, like the production of phytohormones and siderophores, solubilization of minerals and phosphates, and plant protection from biotic and abiotic stress. These PGPR properties depend on the microorganism and its plant counterpart. The use of microbial strains as bioinoculants must consider the physiological and economic aspects of the process, and the plant growth stimulating effect has to be checked and proved. This study aimed to explore the PGP capacity of Pseudomonas putida 1046 strain in a model plant system of the economically important corn culture (Zea mays). The effect of the strain's metabolic status on the plant germination capacity was evaluated. Bacterial cultures, grown 16 h and 48 h, were explored for the treatment of the corn seeds at three experimental concentrations: 0.1, 0.2, and 0.4%, and monitoring of their germination capacity through the growth indicators length of the radicle, length of the coleoptile, and the number of lateral roots. The data obtained outline the positive effect of Pseudomonas putida 1046 on the germination capacity of corn when applied at 0.2% concentration. The in vitro treatment of the model plants with 0.2% suspension resulted in a 22.87%-28.33% increase in the length of the radicle, a 35.96%-49.56% increase in the length of the coleoptile, and a 5.41-16.67% increase in the number of the lateral roots. High values of the vigour index (2125 for 16 h and 2721 for 48 h culture) were also registered. The strain's ability to produce siderophores of hydroximate type and exhibit phosphate solubilizing activity is proved. The optimal treatment parameters of the corn seeds comprise the application of 0.2% suspension of 16 h grown Pseudomonas putida 1046 strain for five days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this study was to reveal the nutritional value and antioxidant activity of 34 edible flowers that grew in Yunnan Province, China, through a comprehensive assessment of their nutritional composition and antioxidant indices. The results showed that sample A3 of Asteraceae flowers had the highest total flavonoid content, with a value of 8.53%, and the maximum contents of vitamin C and reducing sugars were from Rosaceae sample R1 and Gentianaceae sample G3, with values of 143.80 mg/100 g and 7.82%, respectively. Samples R2 and R3 of Rosaceae were the top two flowers in terms of comprehensive nutritional quality. In addition, the antioxidant capacity of Rosaceae samples was evidently better than that of three others, in which Sample R1 had the maximum values in hydroxyl radical (·OH) scavenging and superoxide anion radical (·O2−) scavenging rates, and samples R2 and R3 showed a high total antioxidant capacity and 2,2-diphenyl-1-pyridylhydrazine (DPPH) scavenging rate, respectively. Taken together, there were significant differences in the nutrient contents and antioxidant properties of these 34 flowers, and the comprehensive quality of Rosaceae samples was generally better than the other three families. This study provides references for 34 edible flowers to be used as dietary supplements and important sources of natural antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to optimize the experimental conditions for the ultrasonic assisted extraction of phenolic compounds from chicory leaves, a five level five factor central composite design response surface methodology was used. Total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were selected as the response and 48 experiments were performed using five independent variables; time (min), HCl concentration (mol/L), temperature (ºC), liquid/solid ratio (mL/g) and methanol concentration (%). As a result of optimization, optimum conditions, for maximum total phenolic content were determined as temperature 73 ºC, time 69 min, methanol 84%, HCl concentration 0.57 mol/L and liquid/solid ratio 33.97 mL/g. The optimum conditions, for maximum antioxidant capacity were temperature 73 ºC, time 69 min, methanol 85%, HCl concentration 0.47 mol/L and liquid/solid ratio 33.99 mL/g. The total phenolic content of white chicory extract obtained as a result of extraction under optimum conditions was determined as 33.5±0.5 mg GAE/g dried plant and antioxidant capacity as 7.2±0.1 mg TE/g dried plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In this work, some of the necessary equipment for an ethanol dehydration plant is designed to meet the country's demand. Objective: To design the heat exchangers and adsorption columns needed for 100 hL/d ethanol dehydration plant. Materials and Methods: The consumption of steam and cooling water was determined, with Aspen Hysys v10.0. The methodology for the design of the heat exchangers in Aspen EDR was established and the adsorption columns with zeolite 3A were dimensioned using equations reported in the consulted bibliography. Results and Discussion: For the maximum capacity of the plant, 100 hL/d, 248.68 kg/h of steam and 6221 kg/h of cooling water are consumed. The design of seven heat exchangers was obtained; all of them meet the requirements of the allowable pressure drop and the fouling or obstruction factor. In the case of the adsorption columns the result was that the height is 3.5 m and a diameter of 0.3 m. Conclusions: With the Aspen EDR tool heat exchangers design for the specified operating conditions were done in a simple way. Adsorption column with synthetic zeolite 3A produce dehydration ethanol with the required quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Plant extracts are important sources of natural bioactive compounds, commonly used in the pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical industries. Phytochemical and antioxidant screening of plant extracts provides valuable information about their potential use. In the case of polyphenol-rich plant raw materials for external use, it is extremely important to test the ability of active substances to permeate the skin. Aim of the research: To determine the polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity of horse chestnut, butcher's broom, and mountain arnica glycerol-water extracts and to assess the diffusion capacity of plant extracts from hydrogel formulations. Material and methods: The content of polyphenols was determined using a spectrophotometric method. Antioxidant properties were analysed using DPPH-EPR assay and the FRAP method. The pharmaceutical availability of the extracts in the hydrogels was tested using a simplified model of human skin represented by a cellulose dialysis membrane. Results and conclusions: The total polyphenol content in the extracts was highest in horse chestnut, followed by butcher's broom and mountain arnica, whereas the arnica extract had the highest flavonoid content. The obtained results indicate that the extracts have high antioxidant potential, which can be ranked as follows: A. montana > A. hippocastanum > R. aculeatus. The pharmaceutical availability analysis showed that the extract from A. hippocastanum is released most efficiently. Analyses of the kinetics of active substance release from hydrogel formulations have proven to be a useful tool for assessing the efficacy of semi-solid products. Tested plant extracts can be used as polyphenol-rich natural materials with antioxidant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated the regulatory roles of different vias of silicon (Si) applications on soybean biochemical, physiological, and growth responses and their effectiveness in salt stress remediation. The key mechanisms for improving growth and potassium (K+), ion homeostasis, proline content, and the enzymatic antioxidant capacity of salt-affected soybean plants (50 and 100 mmol NaCl L−1) were investigated when potassium silicate was supplied in different vias (non-Si application, foliar spraying at 20 mmol L−1, nutrient solution addition at 2.0 mmol L−1, and co-application of foliar spraying at 20 mmol L−1 and nutrient solution addition at 2.0 mmol L−1). Salt stress sharply decreased soybean growth by increasing Na+ uptake and lipid peroxidation (LPO) content in the roots and leaves. Alternatively, soybean growth, K+/Na+ ratio, proline content, and enzymatic antioxidant activity were reduced under moderate and high salinity conditions. However, different vias of Si application increased soybean tolerance to salinity stress by drastically decreasing Na+ uptake and LPO concentration, increasing K+ concentration, K+/Na+ ratio, and proline accumulation, upregulating enzymatic antioxidant activity, and increasing plant growth. As compared to other exogenous application methods, co-application foliar spraying with a nutrient solution of Si produced enhanced results. Furthermore, foliar spraying of Si is an efficient method for salt stress remediation. The present study indicated that Si improved soybean growth by enhancing K+ and proline content, and that antioxidant capacity could be used as a mitigation strategy against salinity stress-related damages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper investigated the phytochemical content and antioxidant activity of poplar buds (Populus nigra L.), turmeric (Curcuma longa) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) extracts. Proximate composition, total polyphenols, ß-carotene, vitamin E, minerals and antioxidant capacity were tested for all selected plants. The proximate analysis of selected plants showed that poplar buds had a higher content of crude protein, fat and fiber than turmeric and ginger. The extract of poplar buds had a significantly higher content of total polyphenols (87.20 mg of gallic acid/g) and vitamin E (210.53 μg/g) than in the extract of turmeric and ginger. The polyphenol content was found to be in the order: poplar buds>turmeric> ginger. The beta carotene content was significantly higher in poplar buds (2.99 μg/g) than in turmeric (1.67 μg/g). Regarding mineral content, turmeric showed the highest content in iron and copper; ginger showed the highest content in manganese and poplar buds had the highest content in zinc. Moreover, poplar buds possessed the highest antioxidant capacity both on vitamin C and E calibration curve, evidencing the rich content in such antioxidants. Therefore, based on the valuable nutritional composition confirmed through this study, poplar buds, turmeric and ginger can be recommended as phytogenic feed additives for poultry nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effects of nitrogen (N) fertilisation levels on structural, productive and morphogenetic traits, chlorophyll content, tiller number (TN) and macronutrient uptake capacity of three Panicum maximum cultivars (BRS Zuri, BRS Quênia and BRS Tamani). The experiment was laid out in a completely randomised design with five N doses (0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg dm−3). The concentration of chlorophyll increase linearly with increasing N doses in BRS Zuri. There was a significant interaction effect between cultivars and N doses on forage mass (FM), forage yield (FY), TN and the uptakes of nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and sulfur. The BRS Zuri had the highest FY and FM independent of the applied N dose. In the dose range of 200 and 400 mg dm−3 of N, there was no increase in the productive performance of BRS Tamani and BRS Quênia, which were similar to each other. N fertilisation increased TN. Higher N doses in the soil translated into greater N uptake by the grasses. Nitrogen application to the soil can increase the production and structural indices of Panicum maximum cultivars and increases grass growth, but its concentration must consider the productive capacity of the plant for this nutrient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vegetation canopy's height and characteristics directly affect the turbulence that controls the exchange of mass and energy between the vegetation and the surrounding atmosphere. Turbulence also controls the momentum transfer towards the mass-carrying plant canopy and the accompanying atmospheric properties so that vegetation can contribute to pollutant deposition. This study aims to estimate the canopy capacity of oil palms to absorb pollutants based on their momentum transfer, the influence of atmospheric stability dynamics, and rainy and dry periods upon absorbed pollutants from PTPN VI in Jambi province for the period of January to December 2015 used micrometeorological observation data. The results showed that the dry deposition capacity value at the stable, neutral, and unstable atmospheric conditions were 2.06 x 10-3 kg/m², 3.50 x 10-3 kg/m², and 4.35 x 10-3 kg/m², respectively. The stable or unstable conditions affected the momentum transfer through decreasing or increasing turbulence. In stable conditions, the cooling of the atmosphere impacts the turbulence to be restrained. The result also showed that the dry deposition capacity during the dry and rainy periods were 4.5 x 10-3 kg/m² and 2.9 x 10-3 kg/m², respectively. Further, atmospheric conditions tended to be unstable during the dry period, while the rainy period tended to be stable. This research showed that the momentum transfer method can estimate gas type pollutants by vegetation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil pollution is a threat to food security and ecological and human health. Cd is one of the most common pollutants in agricultural soil and, due its human toxicity, one of the most hazardous. Amaranth is a documented hyperaccumulator of Cd and other pollutants, and it is commonly grown in Asia and South America. A considerable amount of amaranth is grown in suboptimal conditions, including nutrient-poor acidic soils. The objective of this experimental study was to examine the capacity of Amaranthus hypochondriacus to extract Cd from a nutrient-poor, acidic substrate that was spiked with different concentrations of Cd (2 and 20 mg kg−1 dw) during a period of 180 days. The plants grown in the substrate that was spiked with 20 mg Cd kg−1 dw did not develop into mature plants, but the plants grown in substrate that was spiked with 2 mg Cd kg−1 dw extracted a significant amount of Cd from the substrate by accumulating it into the above-ground biomass. The Cd levels varied from 113 to 176 mg kg−1 in the stems at the four measuring points, and from 64 to 94 mg kg−1 in the leaves. The concentrations in the plants increased with time and reached a maximal concentration of 176 ± 45 mg kg−1 dw for stems and 94 ± 41 mg kg−1 dw for leaves after 180 days. The mean bioaccumulation factor in the plants was 86 ± 15 after 90 days, 72 ± 12 after 120 days, 105 ± 37 after 150 days, and 99 ± 31 after 180 days, which confirms the previously reported capacity of Amaranthus hypochondriacus to hyperaccumulate Cd. Amaranthus hypochondriacus may, thus, be used to improve ecological and human health by remediating moderately Cd-polluted soils, even in nutrient-poor acidic soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Clean Coal Technology is the property of Clean Coal Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The purpose of this work is to develop proposals for modernizing the design of turbogenerators with a capacity of 200-300 MW in order to increase their power. To increase the power, it is proposed to increase the generator electromagnetic parameters (induction in the magnetic circuit and linear load of the generator). At the same time, the possibility of replacing hydrogen, which cools the generator internal volume, on the air was studied, which is a global trend for turbogenerators of thermal power plants with a capacity of 200-300 MW. A prerequisite was the preservation of the turbogenerator dimensions. The set goals were achieved by changing the geometry of the stator core tooth zone and intensifying cooling. To determine the necessary changes in the tooth zone with a change in the electromagnetic and thermal characteristics of the turbogenerator, a mathematical model was developed that makes it possible to determine by calculation the required dimensions and configuration of the stator slots and gas cooler elements at condition that the permissible thermal characteristics are maintained. The modelling of the stator core was carried out in order to select the dimensions of the slots and channels of axial ventilation for the required mode of the coolers operation, subject to an increase in power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytoremediation technology is an effective method to remove formaldehyde indoors, but the purification capacity and physiological response of plants to formaldehyde under the simultaneous influence of light and CO2 have not been examined in previous studies. In this study, formaldehyde fumigation experiments were conducted on the C3 plants Epipremnum aureum A. and Chlorophytum comosum L., and the crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) plant Dieffenbachia maculate A. The phytoremediation performance and physiological response of plants were studied. The initial concentration of formaldehyde was established at 11.950 ± 1.442 m g ∙ m - 3 ; the light intensities were 448 ± 7 Lx , 1628 ± 22 Lx , and 3259 ± 22 Lx , respectively; and the concentrations of CO2 were 455 ± 29 ppm , 978 ± 50 ppm , 2020 ± 66 ppm , and 3006 ± 95 ppm , respectively. The results indicated that the highest purification rates of formaldehyde by E. aureum, D. maculata, and C. comosum were 55.8%, 43.7%, and 53.2%, respectively. The light intensity had a positive effect on the formaldehyde purification rates of all three plants and positively stimulated peroxidase (POD) activity, while the CO2 concentration had no significant impact on the formaldehyde purification capacity and plants' physiological characteristics. Exposure to formaldehyde inhibited formaldehyde dehydrogenase (FADH) activity and positively stimulated catalase (CAT) activity. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity positively correlated with the formaldehyde purification capacity of plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stability of electricity service mainly depends on two main factors. One of them is the country's power plant capacity and electricity imports. Another factor is the network that delivers electricity to consumers. Recently, consumer electricity production has appeared as a third factor due to the spread of renewable energies. The article focuses on the transformation of the structure of Hungary's electricity sources between 2010 and 2020. We used the concentration indicator to examine the structure of export–import deliveries with neighboring countries. We also analyzed the centralization of Hungary's electricity-generating units and the composition of their fuels. In this article, we examined the increasingly widespread renewable energies, which are replacing the traditional—mainly fossil fuel—energy carriers. The relationship between coal, natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind, water, and bioenergy, as well as net imports, were analyzed using a Pearson correlation matrix. This article concludes that renewable energies will cause further transformation in the future, both in the structure of export–import and power plants. In electricity imports, green power is increasingly preferred. Electricity from renewable sources will account for an increasing share of electricity production. In the future, electricity production based on non-renewables will move toward power plants with low carbon dioxide emissions. On the other hand, it is also moving in the direction of fast-reacting power plants due to weather-dependent renewables. Annual system load peaks will continue to increase year after year in the future, thereby posing additional challenges to electricity generation and the electricity grid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Critical suction ranges for plants upon drought stress are essential for devising precision irrigation schemes in de-desertification measures in arid urban regions. The objective of the current study is to develop a novel framework for drought stress evaluation, considering measured changes in photosynthetic leaf parameters with root zone soil suction. A native grass species Axonopus compressus was grown in three different growth media—bare sand, sand with periodic organic nutrient treatment and sand amended with 5% biochar for 56 days, followed by continued drought. The corresponding grass leaf response of stomatal conductance (SC), quantum photosynthetic efficiency (QPE), effective photochemical quantum yield, i.e. Y(II), and maximum photochemical quantum yield, i.e. (Fv/Fm), were measured. The threshold suction at around 10 kPa for all treatment types indicates the state at which an initial drop in transpiration occurred, marked by significant change in SC, QPE and Y(II). A new terminology termed as "tipping suction" was coined to describe the condition wherein the grass reaches a "life or death state", a stage at which the grass could progress to permanent wilting or return to sustenance. This stage is marked by a rapid decrease of Y(II), and the tipping suction ranging between 55 and 200 kPa is dependent on soil water retention capacity and the plant root biomass. The tipping suction differs from the permanent wilting point wherein complete suppression of Fv/Fm occurred. This study suggests that it is ideal to calculate plant-available water content by considering threshold suction and tipping point for maintaining optimum growth and resist plant mortality, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactose and sodium caseinate were used as wall materials in microencapsulation of fish oil by spray drying. Thyme, rosemary, and laurel extracts were utilized to enhance oxidative stability. Efficiency of antioxidant capacity of plant extracts was compared with BHT. Fish oil encapsulates with rosemary extract exhibited better protection against lipid oxidation (0.36 mmol MDA/kg) than the control group (2.92 mmol MDA/kg) at +4 °C. Hue angle properties of encapsulated fish oil with the laurel extract showed the highest change. The lowest peroxide value (PV) was detected in the 1500 ppm rosemary group (5.13 mEq O2/kg oil) and 250 ppm BHT group (5.90 mEq O2/kg oil) after the spray drying. Also, these groups had the lowest TBARs values during the storage. It was observed that the pAV of CG2 (BHT Control), RE1 (1000 ppm rosemary extract), RE2 (1500 ppm rosemary extract), and LE2 (1500 ppm laurel extract) groups remained below six during 8 months of storage. Volatile components of encapsulated fish oil were the highest in control, thyme and laurel extracts compared to the microcapsules with rosemary extracts in terms of total aldehyde generation. Sensory analysis showed that fresh fish odor was better preserved with rosemary extract compared to other plant extracts. It was concluded that microencapsulation of fish oil with sodium caseinate and lactose as wall material and rosemary and laurel extracts as antioxidants enhanced the oxidative stability of the microcapsules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit losses and wastage are mainly due to postharvest diseases; their control is reduced with pesticides. The excessive use of synthetic fungicides has caused harmful effects on human health and the environment, so it is therefore necessary to reduce their use. The development of new innocuous strategies has led to the use of compounds of natural or biological origin with the capacity to induce the plant defense system, which improves the fruit's response against future pathogen attacks in addition to reducing the incidence of postharvest diseases. These compounds are known as "elicitors". Although the use of molecular tools such as RT-qPCR or the measurement of the enzymatic activity of molecular markers makes it possible to determine the activation of the plant defense system in response to the application of an elicitor compound, in recent years, omics technologies such as the transcriptome, proteome, or metabolome have provided new and interesting information that helps to elucidate the molecular aspects involved in the activation of the plant defense system in response to the application of elicitors. This review summarizes recent advances in molecular aspects, highlighting the contribution of omics technologies to a better understanding of fruit defense mechanisms induced by different elicitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf traits can reflect plant photosynthetic capacity, resource utilization strategy and adaptability to the environment. However, whether species' leaf traits are tightly related to the functioning of their community and how that relationship varies with environmental gradients remain largely unexplored. We measured 6 leaf traits, including petiole fineness (PF), specific leaf area (SLA), leaf area (LA), leaf length–width ratio (LLWR), leaf nitrogen content (LN) and leaf phosphorus content (LP), of 733 populations (415 species) of 19 woody angiosperm communities in the eastern Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau across multiple climatic zones or vegetation types. Through meta-analysis and relative importance analysis, the relationship between leaf traits of species and their community dominance and its change with environments were analyzed. The results showed that species dominance was correlated positively with their LA and LP, suggesting that species with high light interception and resource utilization capacity can easily become dominant species in woody angiosperm communities. Along the altitudinal gradient, the effect of PF and SLA on species dominance increased and changed significantly in their pattern, from positive or nonsignificant in temperate forests to negative in alpine and subalpine shrubs, suggesting that increasing petiole mechanical support and lamina protection cost is a dominant leaf growth strategy in stressful high-altitude environments. Our findings demonstrate that the demand for efficient light acquisition and/or utilization and species adaptability or tolerance to specific environmental stress are key mechanisms by which leaf traits govern community composition and functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the countermeasures against combined sewer overflow (CSO), urban green space (UGS) has been proven effective. However, few studies have examined the effects of UGS on CSO at the municipal scale. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a novel method for estimating the relation of the area of UGS to CSO based on a case study in the Tokyo metropolitan area, which includes 10 sewersheds. This method integrates surface runoff modeling, sewer network analysis, and response analysis for estimating CSO and its response to the UGS proportion in each sewershed. This method is based on public data of topographic features, land-related data, and rainfall characteristics. Specifically, the CSO discharge is estimated to be the difference between the rainwater inflow to a terminal treatment plant and the maximum capacity of the sewer systems in each sewershed. The results revealed that the amount of CSO increases exponentially with the intensity of rainfall. In addition, a response analysis showed that the increase in UGS proportion would mitigate CSO in all sewersheds, particularly in the case where the UGS proportion increased from 5% to 10%. Overall, the present method allows us to estimate CSO in relation to rainfall pattern and the distribution of UGS in a sewershed without actual CSO records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims at developing an approach for modelling and optimizing the operation of a reference alkaline electrolysis unit operating in transient state using orthogonal collocation on finite elements (OCFE). The main goal is to define the set of operating conditions that minimize the processing cost (associated to electricity cost) given a hydrogen yield. Three components of the electrolyzer are considered: the stack of electrolytic cells and two separators that single out the hydrogen and oxygen gas streams. The dynamic behavior is considered for the mass holdup in the separators as well as the energy accumulation for these three components. The associated mathematical model is derived in the paper. Its solving allows characterizing the influence of the transient operating parameters of the system on its working and associated final hydrogen production. Mathematical optimization aims at defining the ideal operating load in order to minimize costs associated to fluctuating price of electricity consumed by the stack given a defined hydrogen yield. The model has been validated according to experimental test runs and operating conditions have been optimized under a proof of concept scenario saving 17% of electricity costs if compared to constant plant capacity. [Display omitted] • A dynamic knowledge-based model for an alkaline water electrolysis unit was created. • OCFE was used to convert the resulting DAE set of equation into an algebraic one. • Optimization was used to determine the evolution of the unit's operating parameters. • The developed approach led to a 17% saving in yearly electricity cost. • The approach seems fit to be integrated in larger dynamic optimization systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Offshore wind farms are a current area of interest in Australia due to their ability to support its transition to renewable energy. Climate reanalysis datasets that provide simulated wind speed data are frequently used to evaluate the potential of proposed offshore wind farm locations. However, there has been a lack of comparative studies of the accuracy of wind speed predictions from different reanalysis datasets for offshore wind farms in Australian waters. This paper assesses wind speed distribution accuracy and compares predictions of offshore wind turbine power output in Australia from three international reanalysis datasets: BARRA, ERA5, and MERRA-2. Pressure level data were used to determine wind speeds and capacity factors were calculated using a turbine bounding curve. Predictions across the datasets show consistent spatial and temporal variations in the predicted plant capacity factors, but the magnitudes differ substantially. Compared to weather station data, wind speed predictions from the BARRA dataset were found to be the most accurate, with a higher correlation and lower average error than ERA5 and MERRA-2. Significant variation was seen in predictions and there was a lack of similarity with weather station measurements, which highlights the need for additional site-based measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the effects of different concentrations of melatonin on physiological and photosynthetic fluorescence characteristics of wheat seedlings. The growth morphology, photosynthetic, fluorescence parameters and antioxidant enzyme activity of wheat seedings treated with different concentrations of melatonin were determined by using Liangxing 99 as experimental material. The results were as follows:(1)0.1 μmol·L-1 melatonin treatment significantly increased the photosynthetic capacity of wheat plants, Chlorophyll a(Chl a), Chlorophyll b(Chl b)and Chlorophyll(a+b)[Chl(a+b)] increased to the maximum value when melatonin concentration was 0.1 μmol·L-1. Chlorophyll fluorescence parameters include parameters of quantum yield of regulated energy dissipation Y(NPQ), the electron transport rate(ETR)and non-photochemical quenching(NPQ)also reached the maximum at 0.1 μmol·L-1. The PS Ⅱ maximum photosynthetic efficiency(Fv/Fm)and maximum photochemical conversion potential(Fv/Fo)decreased with the increase of melatonin concentration. Photochemical quenching(qL)decreased first and then increased with the increase of melatonin.(2)Compared with CK(0 μmol·L-1), low concentration of melatonin treatment significantly decreased peroxidase(POD)activity in wheat and decreased catalase(CAT)activity in wheat leaves, high melatonin concentration significantly increased POD activity in wheat. The content of malondialdehyde(MDA)in wheat roots decreased firstly and then increased with the increase of melatonin concentration. In conclusion, it suggests that appropriate melatonin treatment can promote the growth of wheat and maintain the photosynthetic capacity of wheat at a high level, and can also regulate oxidative stress induced by different concentrations of melatonin in wheat seedlings through POD and CAT. This study laid a foundation for further understanding the regulatory mechanism of melatonin in wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of large-scale nanomaterial production is nowadays a major research topic that requires efficient tools for appropriate decision-making and process simulation is considered among the rational approach to address such difficult issue. The present study deals with process design and economic assessment of Molybdenum Disulfide (MoS2) nanomaterials production at large-scale via solvothermal method basing on our previous bench scale results. The commercial simulator Aspen Plus was used for process modelling and assuming a plant capacity of 100 tonnes/year. The simulation results were used to perform the cost assessment and profitability analysis while taking into account two relevant cases with (Recycle Case) and without recycling of Ethylenediamine and Hydrazine (Base Case). Note that for the technological and economical assessment the effluent treatment system was not taken into account. The total capital investment was estimated to be ca.14.3 M$ for the base case and ca. 17.4 M$ for recycle case, while the total operating costs were about 2945 $ for the base case and 503 $ for the recycle case for the production of 1 kg of MoS2. Thus, in addition to intrinsic advantages associated with the easier preparation and lower environmental impact of solvothermal method, larger production with recycling option can make the process more economically profitable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small hydropower has attracted extensive interest as a clean technology. This study first identified possible sites of small hydropower plants with estimated capacity, and then utilized resources time footprint as a novel way to evaluate the impact of small hydropower plants on the aspects of materials, CO 2 , labor, and land. Resources time footprint is a sustainability indicator that uses a uniform time unit (years). It assesses whether the usage of resources exceeds the amount allocated to different people and generations. The smaller the value of resources time footprint, the more environmentally friendly is the process. Preferential locations for small hydropower in Dan River were specified, with a potential capacity ranging from 273 to 1175 kW. Resources time footprint of copper is 8.9–47.3 times as large as that of steel. Resources time footprint of CO 2 emissions is much smaller than that of other aspects, revealing that small hydropower has a great potential to mitigate the greenhouse effect. The overall resources time footprint decreases with an increase in the installed capacity. The methodology proposed in this study can be used to identify the ideal locations for setting up small hydropower plants in other regions as well. • We used resources time footprint to assess the impact of renewable energy. • We analyzed occupancy of materials, CO 2 emissions, land, and labor of SHP. • We made an initial attempt to apply resources time footprint to site selection. • Overall resources time footprint decreases with an increase in the capacity of SHP. • We identified preferential locations of SHP in Dan River Basin, China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have been identified as important point sources of micropollutants and microplastics into the environment. Existing fourth cleaning steps are designed to remove dissolved micropollutants, however do not target dispersed solids such as microplastics. Therefore, the ability of an Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) and Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) in parallel and serial connection to remove microplastics was investigated and determined. The pilot plants were operated at the municipal WWTP Landau, Germany, a three-step biological waste treatment plant with a capacity of 80,000 population equivalents. A Nile red-based detection method was applied to quantify microplastics. Neither method showed a significant removal of microplastics. To achieve a simultaneous removal of microplastics and dissolved micropollutants, a pilot plant using organosilanes for microplastics' removal was connected in series with the GAC. When added to the water, the organosilanes attach to the microplastics and collect them in agglomerates by chemically binding them in a water-induced sol–gel process. The pilot plant for microplastics' removal was operated with a flow rate of 12 m3/h and a retention time of 10 min; the GAC with 2 m3/h and a retention time of 1 h. An average reduction in micropollutants by 86.2 ± 2.0% and a reduction in microplastics by 60.9 ± 27.5% was reached. Thus, there is an effective reduction in micropollutants and a significant reduction in microplastics. Further optimizations of the pilot plant are expected to result in a more stable and higher removal performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indigo is an economically important dye, especially for the textile industry and the dyeing of denim fabrics for jeans and garments. Around 80,000 tonnes of indigo are chemically produced each year with the use of non-renewable petrochemicals and the use and generation of toxic compounds. As many microorganisms and their enzymes are able to synthesise indigo after the expression of specific oxygenases and hydroxylases, microbial fermentation could offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly manufacturing platform. Although multiple small-scale studies have been performed, several existing research gaps still hinder the effective translation of these biochemical approaches. No article has evaluated the feasibility and relevance of the current understanding and development of indigo biocatalysis for real-life industrial applications. There is no record of either established or practically tested large-scale bioprocess for the biosynthesis of indigo. To address this, upstream and downstream processing considerations were carried out for indigo biosynthesis. 5 classes of potential biocatalysts were identified, and 2 possible bioprocess flowsheets were designed that facilitate generating either a pre-reduced dye solution or a dry powder product. Furthermore, considering the publicly available data on the development of relevant technology and common bioprocess facilities, possible platform and process values were estimated, including titre, DSP yield, potential plant capacities, fermenter size and batch schedule. This allowed us to project the realistic annual output of a potential indigo biosynthesis platform as 540 tonnes. This was interpreted as an industrially relevant quantity, sufficient to provide an annual dye supply to a single industrial-size denim dyeing plant. The conducted sensitivity analysis showed that this anticipated output is most sensitive to changes in the reaction titer, which can bring a 27.8% increase or a 94.4% drop. Thus, although such a biological platform would require careful consideration, fine-tuning and optimization before real-life implementation, the recombinant indigo biosynthesis was found as already attractive for business exploitation for both, luxury segment customers and mass-producers of denim garments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work deals with the optimization of an existing industrial cryogenic air separation plant with respect to exergy efficiency and argon recovery. A previously validated simulation model of the plant was used, and the operating conditions and specifications of the process correspond to those reported in the historical records of an air separation facility in Colombia. The optimization is carried out considering the variation in the historical demand and the installed capacity of the plant, using an elitist nondominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II). As exergy efficiency and argon production goals are in conflict, a Pareto front of optimal solutions is obtained for the assessed variables. It is found that under optimal conditions of the pareto fronts, exergy efficiency and argon recovery can be enhanced up to 30 % and 23 %, respectively, with respect to recommended operating conditions from the plant manual. Also, obtained results indicate that the plant operated with larger air feed flowrates than required for the corresponding specific monthly demands. Under the optimal conditions, the plant could operate with a 58 % average reduction in the specific energy consumption (0.53 kW/Nm3O 2) and larger argon recoveries. This represents a major improvement in the profitability of the operation and its sustainability indicators. [Display omitted] • Multi-objective optimization of an industrial air separation plant was carried out. • Exergy efficiency and argon recovery were optimized under fixed N 2 and O 2 production. • A variable demand with respect to historical records of the plant was considered. • Exergy efficiency and argon recovery generates an optimal pareto front. • Optimal conditions enabled up to 60 % reduction in the specific energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Notwithstanding the long historic journey of Kaplan turbines for hydropower generation, the inner design details like position of guide vane relative to runner, blade pitch to chord ratio amongst others are yet to be investigated in depth let alone being standardized. This dearth widens in small capacity hydropower plants. The current study chooses the blade pitch to chord as research theme to be investigated both experimentally and numerically on a medium-high specific speed Kaplan turbine. Three levels of study are envisaged for obtaining the optimum ratio. The first is the change of blade number with chord fixed, the second is fixing the blade number and changing the chord length and final level of keeping the ratio constant by varying the pitch and chord by identical proportion attempts to clarify the scaling effects. Optimum efficiency in the range of 78%–82% for ratios 1.2 to 2.2 are observed for smaller pitch, smaller chord condition. The scaling study at optimum ratio revealed that increasing the blade pitch distance causes the exit fluid deflection deteriorating the performance. The paper strongly recommends a wider pitch-chord ratio study in higher specific speed Kaplans to get standardized scaling effects with respect to size and achieve universality. • Kaplan turbine with 4 blades,D = 218 mm,1570 rpm,pitch(t)/chord(t) at tip = 1.6 chosen. • 9 cases investigated with blade number 2, 3 and 4; chord length ratio 0.5, 0.75, 1.0 • Efficiency increased by 15% as t/l decreased from 3.2 to 1.6, at fixed chord 'l'. • Small pitch and small chords improved performance by 2–8% at given t/l. • Novel study of scaling effect done on inter-blade space and fluid deflection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Covering: 2010 to 2021 Natural nematicidal metabolites are important sources of nematode control. This review covers the isolation and structural determination of nematicidal metabolites from 2010 to 2021. We summarise chemical structures, bioactivity, metabolic regulation and biosynthesis of potential nematocides, and structure–activity relationship and application potentiality of natural metabolites in plant parasitic nematodes' biocontrol. In doing so, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the potential roles that natural metabolites can play in anti-nematode strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of theoretical and experimental studies of polythermal ortho-para hydrogen conversion process, which allowed identification of several important factors that affect the conversion apparatus operation, are presented. The experiments were conducted on a 20 kg/h pilot hydrogen liquefaction plant. Comparison of the obtained data showed good agreement between theoretical and experimental results throughout the studied area. It was shown that the ortho-para conversion process could be continuous in the 63–34 K temperature range with attainment of equilibrium parahydrogen concentration of 90%. Based on the experimental data, the low-temperature units of the industrial high-pressure hydrogen liquefier were updated, which made it possible to produce 500 kg of liquid parahydrogen per hour and to solve the task of doubling the production capacity of the existing plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foliar water uptake (FWU) is one of the primary water sources for desert plants. Desert plants' water uptake capacity is essential in maintaining the balance of carbon and water. However, there are few studies on FWU capacity in desert plants and the physiological and ecological characteristics that lead to differences in FWU capacity. In order to clarify FWU strategies and the influencing factors of plants in desert ecosystems, this study measured the contact angle, FWU parameters, and hydraulic parameters to explore six desert plants' FWU capacity and the effects of leaf wettability and hydraulic parameters on FWU capacity. The results showed that all six plants had FWU capacity, among which the leaves of Nitraria sibirica Pall. and Halimodendron halodendron (Pall.) Voss had a high foliar water uptake rate (k) and high foliar water uptake accumulation (FWU storage), and the leaves of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. had a high k and low FWU storage. The leaves of Populus euphratica Oliv., Apocynum hendersonii Hook. f., and Alhagi sparsifolia Shap. had a low k and low FWU storage. Additionally, FWU capacity was mainly affected by stomatal regulation compared with leaf wettability and leaf structure. The results of this study will help to improve the understanding of the physiological and ecological adaptability of desert plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-gasoline derived from biomass is a clean and renewable energy, which can replace conventional petroleum-derived transport fuels. Here, we developed and evaluated a new catalytic process for the production of a renewable bio-gasoline from corn stover. In this process, corn stover is converted into bio-gasoline via a four-step catalytic conversion: hydrolysis of corn stover to levulinic acid (LA), dehydration of LA to angelica lactone (AL), di-/trimerization of AL to AL dimer and trimer and hydrogenation of AL dimer and trimer to bio-gasoline. Techno-economic analysis of a plant with a production capacity of 10,000 t/yr bio-gasoline was performed based on the integrated bio-gasoline production process using corn stover as feedstock. The results indicated that the price of target product as well as raw materials had great influence on this process. The return on investment of this process was estimated to be 15.8%, which maintained a break-even point when this process was operating at only 39% of the designed capacity. The results demonstrated that this technology provided an economically attractive and sustainable pathway in the conversion of waste biomass to bio-gasoline. Schematic of the integrated process for the bio-alkanes production from corn stover [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The zinc‐ion battery (ZIB) has attracted wide attention due to its environmental protection, abundant reserves, and desirable theoretical capacity. However, the application of ZIBs is limited by the dendrite growth and side reactions on the Zn anode. Herein, a boron microparticles and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) composite modified layer (B‐PVDF) is constructed on the surface of a Zn anode, and a Zn anode with hydrophobic coating is obtained (B‐PVDF@Zn). The hydrophobic PVDF modified layer prevents the direct contact between H2O molecules and Zn anode, while boron microparticles guide the flux of Zn2+; thus, dendrite growth and side reactions are concurrently inhibited. And B‐PVDF@Zn//B‐PVDF@Zn symmetric battery maintains a stable overpotential (<45 mV) after 1050 h at a current density of 1 mA cm−2 with a planting capacity of 1 mAh cm−2. The capacity retention rate of B‐PVDF@Zn//V2O5 is 62.1% after 400 cycles, which shows improved cycle stability. The research proves the feasibility of the hydrophobic modified layer for the stable Zn anode; it supplies a new research idea for the diversity of Zn anode surface design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electric Power Generation Potential of Municipal Solid Wastes (MSW) in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria has been studied in this work. A pilot study on waste generation activities in Galadimawa District of Abuja was carried out and the results were applied to the metropolis as a whole due to the observed similarities in the demographics of Galadimawa and other Districts in the metropolis. The city of Abuja presently has an annual MSW generation rate of 973,557 tons with a per capita generation of 0.77 kg/day. Waste fractions for the metropolis were also analysed and discounting materials that have recycling value, energy bearing fractions of organic and textile wastes were found to be 59.5%. This translates to 579266.42 tons per annum and with an aggregate higher heating value (HHV) of 15.84 MJ/kg for this fraction, this approximates to about 9.2 x 109 MJ/annum of realisable energy. Using a typical waste-to-energy (WTE) plant efficiency of 44% it is seen that Abuja's MSW can support a power generating plant with a capacity of 128 MW. This potential far exceeds the energy being presently delivered to Abuja city from the national grid which is about 80 MW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bottlenecks are the core elements that limit the maximum capacity of a printing plant. Printing production process is complex and has obvious industry attributes. In the process of promoting an intelligent printing plant, exact identification of printing workshop bottleneck processes can effectively help enterprises to find production shortboard. However, there is lack of methods to identify printing production bottlenecks. This paper first uses PlantSimulation software to simulate the printing production process, based on the production data of a domestic packaging printing enterprise. Then, based on genetic algorithm (GA), printing production scheduling with the goal of minimizing the maximum production time is optimized. Under the optimal scheduling condition, in terms of the machine workload (MW), the average uninterrupted active duration (AUAD), and the machine utilization rate (MUR), this paper adopts the multi -attribute decision method to identify the bottleneck of the workshop. The bottleneck equipment and bottleneck processes are determined, and the reasons for the bottleneck is analyzed. Finally, the carton production line is used to verify the proposed method. The bottleneck process is thus optimized in printing production line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]