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The aim of this study was to synthesize and investigate the in vitro antifungal properties of 23 cinnamyl Schiff bases. In addition, cytotoxic effects of such cinnamyl Schiff bases against human lung, kidney or red blood cells were also checked. The compounds were synthesized in a single‐step, 2 min of reaction under microwave irradiation produced up to 97% yield. Six of the 23 cinnamyl Schiff bases possessed antifungal activities against strains of Candida, Aspergillus, Fonsecaea and, particularly, Cryptococcus species. Indeed, cinnamyl Schiff bases 1 and 23 exhibited minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values more than twofold lower than fluconazole (FCZ) against all the Cryptococcus neoformans strains (MIC = 1·33, 1·4 and 5·2 µg ml−1, respectively) and Cryptococcus gattii strains (MIC = 5·3, 2·8 and 9·2 µg ml−1, respectively) (12 strains of each species) while cinnamyl Schiff base 11 was as potent as FCZ against all strains from both Cryptococcus species. No significant cytotoxic effects were observed for Schiff bases against human lung, kidney or red blood cells, all presenting selective indexes higher than 10. In conclusion, this study revealed cinnamyl Schiff bases, especially 1 and 23, as new lead anticryptococcal agents for the discovery of novel antifungal drugs. Significance and Impact of the Study: The occurrence and severity of fungal infections have increased in recent decades due to resistance to available antifungal drugs and the appearance of new emerging pathogens. Thus, the search for new antifungal agents is mandatory. From a series of 23 cinnamyl Schiff bases, two compounds (1 and 23) were interrogated as new anticryptococcal agents without significant cytotoxicity against human lung, kidney or red blood cells. In turns, these new Schiff bases are lead compounds for the discovery of novel antifungal drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ambiguity Dilution of Precision (ADOP) is a well-known scalar measure that can be used to infer the strength of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) model of the carrier phase ambiguities involved in precise relative GNSS positioning. Odijk and Teunissen (2008a) derived closed-form expressions for single-baseline GNSS models that allow verifying the factors affecting the ambiguity resolution as well as the probability of its correct resolution as integer values. However, this weighted-ionosphere ADOP closed form assumes that the standard deviation of the ionosphere delay is dependent on a function associated with the baseline length. This means that a baseline of the same length at different locations around the world and in different moments in time would have the same standard deviation, which in practice is not true. This becomes even worse in regions like Brazil, where the ionospheric anomalies are more intense and frequent, especially in periods of high solar activity. In this work, a new method for calculating the ionospheric delay standard deviation that considers the ionospheric scintillation S4 index is proposed to improve the closed-form ADOP performance. Experiments with a baseline of 280 m located in Presidente Prudente, Brazil (magnetic latitude of around −13°), were carried out. The results showed that in periods of both weak and strong ionospheric scintillation, the introduction of S4 into the ionospheric delay standard deviation was beneficial for ADOP. The average improvement of the ADOP closed form was of around 72% in the analyzed period of weak scintillation and of 35% in the period of strong scintillation. In addition, the results showed that in periods of strong scintillation, relative positioning accuracy is around 100 times worse, up to 30 m, when compared to periods of weak ionospheric scintillation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

γ-Aminobutyric acid is a gamma-amino acid playing a fundamental role in the balance between neuronal excitation and inhibition in the mammalian central nervous system, being involved in several neuronal disorders. In this study, the monoclinic phase of γ-aminobutyric acid was investigated through Raman spectroscopy in the spectral range from 30 to 1700 cm −1 for pressure between 1 atm and 7.1 GPa. A series of phase transitions at ∼0.1, 2.0 and 4.0 GPa was observed during the compression cycle. The modifications in the Raman spectra were interpreted mainly regarding the conformational changes of the molecules in the unit cell. In the phase transition at 4.0 GPa, modifications in the modes associated with both torsion and rocking of NH 3 + were interpreted as a change in the hydrogen-bond network, beyond the conformational change itself. An analysis of sample integrity after the experiment aid to compare the degree of the conformational changes with those observed in phase transitions studied in some α-amino acid crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report details the continued investigation of process variables involved in converting sol-gel-derived, urania-carbon microspheres to ∼820-μm-dia. UC 1-x N x fuel kernels in flow-through, vertical Mo and W crucibles at temperatures up to 2123 K. Experiments included calcining of air-dried UO 3 -H 2 O-C microspheres in Ar and H 2 -containing gases, conversion of the resulting UO 2 -C kernels to dense UO 2 :2UC in the same gases and vacuum, and its conversion in N 2 to UC 1-x N x (x = ∼0.85). The thermodynamics of the relevant reactions were applied extensively to interpret and control the process variables. Producing the precursor UO 2 :2UC kernel of ∼96% theoretical density was required, but its subsequent conversion to UC 1-x N x at 2123 K was not accompanied by sintering and resulted in ∼83–86% of theoretical density. Increasing the UC 1-x N x kernel nitride component to ∼0.98 in flowing N 2 -H 2 mixtures to evolve HCN was shown to be quantitatively consistent with present and past experiments and the only useful application of H 2 in the entire process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-oils are typically produced by pyrolysis processes. Bio-oils can be used directly in a generator to produce electricity or upgraded to produce transportation fuels. Nowadays the interest is that they come out in a biorefinery context. This paper compares bio-oil production within three possible procedures. Targeting the bio-oil product, in virtual biorefinery #1, microalgae is processed by solvent ultrasound-assisted extraction, and lipids follow transesterification; in virtual biorefinery #2, bio-oil comes out from fresh microalgae pyrolysis, and, finally, in virtual biorefinery #3, lipid extraction leftovers proceed for slow pyrolysis. Solvent ultrasound-assisted extraction and slow pyrolysis are tested and measured experimentally using three microalgae as feedstock: Chlorella vulgaris , Nannochloropsis oculata , and Scenedesmus obliquus . These stand-alone processes are analyzed aiming to provide the best option in a virtual biorefinery context. Although very fast/slow pyrolysis produces markedly different products, previous thermogravimetry analysis allowed choosing an adequate pyrolysis temperature. Nevertheless, the influence of temperature, catalyst and nitrogen flow is depicted. The comparison indicators for final remarks relate to final energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Conditions that favor bio-oil production may not be favorable in terms of energy required per mass or energy output. If mass allocation criterion is used lipid extraction followed by slow pyrolysis of the leftovers is advantageous over slow pyrolysis of fresh dry microalgae. Still the fossil energy input largely surpasses the bio-oil energy content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doping and strain engineering are effective tuning approaches for improving the electrochemical performance of materials in batteries and catalytic applications. This work investigates the adsorption and diffusion properties of lithium (Li) atoms on two-dimensional (2D) titanium disulfide (TiS 2) using first-principles calculations. This work also investigates the effects of strain and heteroatom doping with manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), and copper (Cu) on the performance of 2D TiS 2 and the prospects for its use in Li-ion batteries. Compared to other 2D materials such as VS 2 and MoS 2 , our findings reveal that pristine TiS 2 has a strong Li-ion adsorption energy of −2.03 eV, which improves to −2.07 eV and −2.62 eV by strain and doping, respectively. While no noticeable decrease in the diffusion energy barrier of the material is observed due to strain, the substitution of Ti with Co atoms results in a considerable reduction in the energy barrier from 0.19 eV to 0.12 eV. We also observed a dramatic enhancement of the open circuit voltage by ∼ 43% when a tensile strain of 4% is applied, and by ∼ 54% when the Co doping concentration is increased to 22.2%. The results indicate that 2D TiS 2 is a potential contender for battery anodes as well as electrocatalytic applications, with doping and strain engineering further enhancing the properties of the material. [Display omitted] • DFT study of Li-ion adsorption and diffusion on pristine, strained and doped TiS 2. • Doping significantly enhances the adsorption of Li ions on the surface of TiS 2. • TiS 2 doped with Co atoms has a low Li-ion diffusion barrier and a high capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was used to determine the oxygen potentials of fluorite urania-praseodymia (U 1−y Pr y O 2±x ) solid solutions for y = 0.10 and 0.20 between 1000 and 1500 °C. A thermodynamic assessment of U-Pr-O system was performed using the CALPHAD (CALculation of PHAse Diagrams) method. The models well reproduce the TGA measurements and the computed phase relations are in good agreement with those proposed from an X-ray diffraction investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X-ray microcomputed tomography (μCT) was applied in characterizing the internal structures of a number of irradiated materials, including carbon-carbon fibre composites, nuclear-grade graphite and tristructural isotropic-coated fuel particles. Local cracks in carbon-carbon fibre composites associated with their synthesis process were observed with μCT without any destructive sample preparation. Pore analysis of graphite samples was performed quantitatively, and qualitative analysis of pore distribution was accomplished. It was also shown that high-resolution μCT can be used to probe internal layer defects of tristructural isotropic-coated fuel particles to elucidate the resulting high release of radioisotopes. Layer defects of sizes ranging from 1 to 5 μm and up could be isolated by tomography. As an added advantage, μCT could also be used to identify regions with high densities of radioisotopes to determine the proper plane and orientation of particle mounting for further analytical characterization, such as materialographic sectioning followed by optical and electron microscopy. In fully ceramic matrix fuel forms, despite the highly absorbing matrix, characterization of tristructural isotropic-coated particles embedded in a silicon carbide matrix was accomplished using μCT and related advanced image analysis techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

VP03.16: A comparison between ultrasound and MRI for endometrial cancer staging: retrospective study in Hospital Garcia de Orta (2019-2021) There were no statistically significant association between MRI or TVS and intra-operative frozen section findings or final surgical staging (p>0.05 Cohen's Kappa) with a tendency for upstaging patients preoperatively. To compare magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with transvaginal sonography (TVS) staging of endometrial carcinoma (histological type endometrioid). [Extracted from the article]

• The experimental results show that the wall significantly changes the mean pressure distribution around the wing. • The comparisons of the experimental and numerical results indicates that the γ - R e θ SST model is a good choice for junction flow simulations at the preliminary design stage. • The Reynolds Stress models, however, do not show any advantage in predicting the mean pressure field. A junction flow formed between a wing and a wall is ubiquitous in engineering applications and impacts aerodynamic performance and energy consumption. This paper studies the mean pressure field in the junction region around wall-mounted wings with NACA 0012 and NACA 6412 wing section profiles. Mean surface pressure measurements have been performed in the University of New South Wales large aerodynamic wind tunnel at a chord-based Reynolds number of 87,000 and a range of angles of attack spanning 0 - 12 degrees. Results of three-dimensional RANS simulations for both wing profiles using five turbulence models are also presented. The experimental results show that the wall significantly changes the mean pressure distribution around the wing, especially in the region upstream of the boundary layer reattachment point. The γ - R e θ SST turbulence model has a transition predictor for the boundary layer above the airfoil far away from the bottom wall and delivers the most accurate pressure field prediction in the wing-wall junction region. The junction pressure structure is well-captured except the LE stagnation region and the suction side of the trailing edge. The Reynolds Stress models, however, do not show any advantage in predicting the mean pressure field at high angles of attack. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The US Department of Energy is considering a new nuclear fuel that would be less susceptible to ruptures during a loss-of-coolant accident. The fuel would consist of tristructural isotropic coated particles with dense uranium nitride (UN) kernels with diameters of 650 or 800μm. The objectives of this effort are to make uranium oxide microspheres with adequately dispersed carbon nanoparticles and to convert these microspheres into UN spheres, which could be then sintered into kernels. Recent improvements to the internal gelation process were successfully applied to the production of uranium gel spheres with different concentrations of carbon black. After the spheres were washed and dried, a simple two-step heat profile was used to produce porous microspheres with a chemical composition of UC0.07−0.10N0.90−0.93. The first step involved heating the microspheres to 2023K in a vacuum, and in the second step, the microspheres were held at 1873K for 6h in flowing nitrogen. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The interest on sex sorting by flow cytometry on the equine industry has been increasing over the years. In this work, three different tests were performed in order to evaluate the membrane status of sorted stallion spermatozoa: assessment of binding ability to porcine oocytes, evaluation of acrosome integrity after stimulation with A23187, and detection of tyrosine phosphorylation. These evaluations were made after incubation for 0h, 1.5h and 3h in a capacitating medium. Sorted stallion spermatozoa attached similarly to the porcine oocytes, when compared with control samples. Sorted spermatozoa were more prone to undergo acrosome reaction (P <0.05), at the beginning and after 1.5h and 3h of incubation, and also had higher tyrosine phosphorylation of the tail (P <0.001), only at the beginning of the incubation period. Apparently sex sorted stallion spermatozoa are in a more advanced status of membrane destabilization, which could be associated with capacitation, although similar binding ability to porcine oocytes is maintained. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cryptococcosis, a fungal infection that affects both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals, contributes to increasing indices of mortality and morbidity. The development of resistance by Cryptococcus spp., the limited number of commercial antifungal drugs and the various side effects of these drugs cause the treatment of cryptococcosis to be a challenge. The in vitro anticryptococcal activity of nine hydroxyaldimines was evaluated against 24 strains of Cryptococcus spp. Antifungal susceptibility was evaluated using a broth microdilution assay following the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines, using fluconazole as a positive control. Parameters such as the minimum inhibitory concentration and the minimum fungicidal concentration ( MIC and MFC, respectively) were also determined. Antiproliferative activity on the normal cell line VERO was assessed 48 h post-compound exposure to determine the selectivity index ( SI) of the hydroxyaldimines and fluconazole. All hydroxyaldimines were active against Cryptococcus spp. strains. Compounds 3A9 and 3B7 were the most potent against the Cryptococcus gattii and Cryptococcus neoformans strains. Selectivity indices also revealed that 3B10, 3C3, 3D3 and 3D9 are good candidates for in vivo studies. The in vitro anticryptococcal activity of hydroxyaldimines against various strains of C. gattii and C. neoformans indicates the potential of this class of molecules as lead compound for the development of selective and efficient anticryptococcal agents. Significance and Impact of the Study The effectiveness of hydroxyaldimines for inhibition of Cryptococcus spp. growth and their low toxicity against healthy monkey kidney epithelial cells makes them promising lead compounds for the design of new anticryptococcal agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work evaluated the photosensitizing activity of isomeric tetra-cationic porphyrins with peripheral [Pt(bpy)Cl]+ to control the larval population of Aedes aegypti by photodynamic action. The photolarvicidal activity of the tetra-platinated porphyrins at meta and para position (3-PtTPyP and 4-PtTPyP) was evaluated under blue (450 nm), green (525 nm), and red (625 nm) light illumination at 55.0 J cm−2. The meta isomer presented an efficient photolarvicidal activity even at a low concentration (1.2 ppm) in the presence of light, while the para counterpart was inactive regardless of the concentration and illumination. The different responses were related to the improved optical features and higher water solubility of 3-PtTPyP compared to 4-PtTPyP. Additionally, the potential environmental toxicity of 3-PtTPyP was tested in a plant model (Allium cepa test), with no toxicity detected for all used concentrations (1.2 to 12 ppm). Hence, this work reveals that 3-PtTPyP has a great potential to be employed to photodynamically control the insect vector population in an environmentally safe way. [Display omitted] • Isomeric tetra-cationic porphyrins with peripheral [Pt(bpy)Cl]+ were synthesized • Photolarvicidal activity of tetra-platinated porphyrins (3-PtTPyP and 4-PtTPyP) was evaluated • 3-PtTPyP presented an efficient photolarvicidal action against Aedes aegypti larvae • Environmental toxicity of 3-PtTPyP was also tested in a plant model (Allium cepa test) • No phytotoxicity and cytotoxicity were detected [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The extent and nature of the chemical interaction between the outermost coating layer of coated fuel particles embedded in zirconium metal during fabrication of metal matrix microencapsulated fuels were examined. Various particles with outermost coating layers of pyrocarbon, SiC, and ZrC have been investigated in this study. ZrC–Zr interaction was the least substantial, while the PyC–Zr reaction can be exploited to produce a ZrC layer at the interface in an in situ manner. The thickness of the ZrC layer in the latter case can be controlled by adjusting the time and temperature during processing. The kinetics of ZrC layer growth is significantly faster from what is predicted using literature carbon diffusivity data in ZrC. SiC–Zr interaction is more complex and results in formation of various chemical phases in a layered aggregate morphology at the interface. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: At present, the only repeatable means of selecting the sex of offspring is the Beltsville semen sorting technology using flow cytometry (FC). This technology has reached commercial status in the bovine industry and substantial advances have occurred recently in swine and ovine species. In the equine species, however, the technology is not as well developed. To better understand the changes induced in stallion spermatozoa during the sorting procedure, pooled sperm samples were sorted: sperm motility and kinematics were assessed using computer assisted sperm analysis, sperm membrane integrity was assessed using the YoPro-1 assay, while plasmalemmal stability and lipid architecture were assessed using Merocyanine 540/SYTOX green and Annexin-V, respectively. Lipid peroxidation was also investigated with the probe Bodipy581/591–C11. All assays were performed shortly after collection, after incubation and after sex sorting using FC. In order to characterize potential molecular mechanisms implicated in sperm damage, an apoptosis protein antibody dot plot array analysis was performed before and after sorting. While the percentage of total motile sperm remained unchanged, sex sorting reduced the percentages of progressive motile spermatozoa and of rapid spermatozoa as well as curvilinear velocity (VCL). Sperm membranes responded to sorting with an increase in the percentage of YoPro-1 positive cells, suggesting the sorted spermatozoa had a reduced energy status that was confirmed by measuring intracellular ATP content. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Sulphite spent liquor (SSL) is a side product from acidic sulphite pulping of wood, which organic counterpart is composed mainly by lignosulphonates (LS) and sugars. The last are a prominent substrate for the bioprocessing although a previous purification step is necessary to eliminate microbial inhibitors. In this study a fractionation of hardwood SSL (HSSL) has been accomplished employing ion exchange resins in order to separate sugars fraction from concomitant inhibitors: LS, acetic acid, furan derivatives, phenolics, acetic acid and excess of inorganic salts. The fractionation of HSSL has been carried out using two fixed-bed ion exchangers in series (cationic+anionic). The first cation exchange column packed with Dowex 50WX2 resin was able to eliminate free cations and partially separate sugars from high molecular weight LS and furan derivatives. The second anion exchange column packed with Amberlite IRA-96 sorbed remaining LS, phenolics and acetic acid. Overall, the series arrangement under investigation has removed 99.99% of Mg2+, 99.0% of Ca2+, 99.6% of LS, and 100% of acetic acid, whereas the yield of recovered sugars was at least 72% of their total amount in HSSL. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents and discusses a hybrid-mixed stress finite element model based on the use of polynomial wavelets for the physically non-linear analysis of concrete structures. The effective stress and the displacement fields in the domain of each element and the displacements on the static boundary are independently approximated. As none of the fundamental equations is locally enforced a priori, the hybrid-mixed stress formulation enables the use of a wide range of functions. In the numerical model reported here, all approximations are defined using complete sets of polynomial wavelets. These bases present some important features. In one hand, the functions are orthogonal, which is an important issue when implementing hybrid-mixed stress elements as it ensures high levels of sparsity. On the other hand, the polynomial wavelet basis is defined through linear combinations of Legendre polynomials. This fact enables the use of closed-form solutions for the computation of the integrations involved in the definition of all linear structural operators. A simple isotropic damage model is adopted and a non-local integral formulation where the strain energy release rate is taken as the non-local variable is considered. The numerical model is both incremental and iterative and is solved with a modified Newton–Raphson method that uses the secant matrix. Classical benchmark tests are chosen to illustrate the use of the model under discussion and to assess its numerical performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: NO x emission standards are becoming stringiest over the world especially for heavy-duty vehicles. To comply with current and future regulations some vehicle manufacturers are adopting exhaust aftertreatment systems known as Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR). The catalysts are based on Vanadium (Va) and the reductant agent based on ammonia. However, Va is listed on the California Proposition 65 List as potentially causing cancer and alternatives are being studied. This paper presents a model based on neural networks that integrated with a road vehicle simulator allows to estimate NO x emission factors for different powertrain configurations, along different driving conditions, and covering commercial, zeolite and mordenite alternatives as the base monolith for SCR. The research included the experimental study of copper based and iron based zeolites (ZSM5 and Cuban natural mordenite). The response of NO x conversion efficiency was monitored in a laboratory for varying space velocity, oxygen, sulfur, water, NO x and SO2 emulating the conditions of a Diesel engine exhaust along a trip. The experimental data was used for training neural networks and obtaining a mathematical correlation between the outputs and inputs of the SCR system. The developed correlation was integrated with ADVISOR road vehicle simulator to obtain NO x emission factors and to test each SCR system installed on light-duty and heavy-duty vehicles for standardized driving cycles and real measured driving cycles. Despite having lower NO x conversion efficiencies than the CATCO in the ETC/ESC and NEDC cycles, FeZSM5 maintain the Euro regulation level. Therefore FeZSM5 can be a possible candidate as far as pollutants regulation is considered. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In recent years, some research effort has been devoted to the development of non-conventional finite element models for the analysis of concrete structures. These models use continuum damage mechanics to represent the physically non-linear behavior of this quasi-brittle material. Two alternative approaches proved to be robust and computationally competitive when compared with the classical displacement finite element implementations. The first corresponds to the hybrid–mixed stress model where both the effective stress and the displacement fields are independently modeled in the domain of each finite element and the displacements are approximated along the static boundary, which is considered to include the inter-element edges. The second approach corresponds to a hybrid–displacement model. In this case, the displacements in the domain of each element and the tractions along the kinematic boundary are independently approximated. Since it is a displacement model, the inter-element boundaries are now included in the kinematic boundary. In both models, complete sets of orthonormal Legendre polynomials are used to define all approximations required, so very effective p-refinement procedures can be implemented. This paper illustrates the numerical performance of these two alternative approaches and compares their efficiency and accuracy with the classical finite element models. For this purpose, a set of numerical tests is presented and discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper discusses three hybrid-displacement finite element formulations for the simulation of strain localization based on nonlocal damage theory. An isotropic integral nonlocal damage model is chosen. The hybrid finite element formulations adopted in this work are developed from first principles of Mechanics. The first one defines the domain approximations using the Trefftz functions derived for the linear elastic regime. When damage appears the hybrid-Trefftz displacement formulation degenerates into an hybrid-displacement formulation. The second formulation uses an enriched Trefftz basis with the consideration of local Heaviside functions. The third formulation uses orthonormal Legendre polynomials for the domain approximations. A set of benchmark tests is presented and discussed in order to compare the performance and accuracy of the different models. It is shown that the proposed hybrid-Trefftz formulation allows the reproduction of the general behavior of the structure but does not lead to a correct simulation of the strain tensor evolution. The hybrid-displacement formulation that uses orthonormal Legendre polynomials gives coherent results, so it appears to be a promising field of investigation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The aim of the present study was to determine preoperative demographic and transvaginal ultrasound features that can predict the risk of endometrial cancer (EC) in women with endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia (EIN). 24 patients (66,7%) had the final diagnosis of EC and 10 (27,8%) were diagnosed with EIN. The mean age of patients diagnosed with EC was 64,8 years (SD = 9.9) compared to 59,8 years (SD = 8,6) of those with EIN/benign conditions. [Extracted from the article]

Abstract: The conversion efficiency of a catalytic converter, mounted on a vehicle equipped with a 2.8l spark ignition engine, was evaluated under steady state operating conditions. The inlet and outlet chemical species concentration, temperature and air fuel ratio (A/F) were measured as a function of the brake mean effective pressure (BMEP) and engine speed (rpm). Oil temperature, coolant temperature, brake power and spark advance were also monitored. In parallel, a mathematical model for the catalytic converter has been developed. The main inputs of the model are the temperature, flow rate, chemical species mass flow and local A/F ratio as measured at the catalyst inlet section. The main conclusions are: (i) the exhaust gas and substrate wall temperatures at the catalyst outlet increase with BMEP and rpm; (ii) the HC conversion efficiency increases with the value of BMEP up to a maximum beyond which it decreases; (iii) the CO conversion efficiencies typically increase with BMEP; (iv) the NO x conversion efficiency remains nearly constant regardless of BMEP and rpm; (v) except for idle, the NO x conversion efficiency is typically the highest, followed in turn by the CO and HC conversion efficiencies; (vi) conversion efficiencies are lower for idle conditions, which can be a problem under traffic conditions where idle is a common situation; (vii) regardless of rpm and load, for the same flow rate the conversion efficiency is about the same; (viii) the model predictions slightly over estimate the exhaust gas temperature data at the catalyst outlet section with the observed differences decreasing with BMEP and engine speed; (ix) in general, the model predictions of the conversion efficiencies are satisfactory. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The use of numerical models for estimating fuel consumption and emission of HC, CO, NO x and CO2 of gasoline vehicles, under urban driving conditions, is examined. Three models were selected for evaluation: EcoGest, CMEM and ADVISOR. The models were used to simulate a sample of 14 urban trips for two 1999 Ford Taurus vehicles. Trip statistics were monitored on-board of the passenger vehicles across a variety of traffic conditions, using a portable emissions measurement device (PEMS). A key conclusion is that the tested models can be used with relatively high confidence to predict fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. However, results must be viewed with greater caution when it comes to predictions for other pollutants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Currently, oil based fuels are the primary energy source of road transport. The growing need for oil independence and CO2 mitigation has lead to the increasing importance of alternative fuel usage. CO2 is produced not only as the fuel is used in the vehicle (tank-to-wheel contribution), but also upstream, from the fuel extraction to the refueling station (well-to-tank contribution), and the life cycle of the fuel production (well-to-wheel contribution) must be considered in order to analyse the global impact of the fuel utilization. A road vehicle tank-to-wheel analysis tool that may be integrated with well-to-tank models was developed in the present study. The integration in a demonstration case study allowed to perform a life cycle assessment concerning the utilization of diesel and natural gas fuels in a specific network line of a bus transit company operating in the city of Porto, Portugal. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A model to simulate myccorhizal fungi-induced interaction between three plants is presented and discussed. We have constructed this three plant model starting from Thornley’s model for an isolated plant growth. We introduce then a coupling between the three plants, mediated by the hyphae. The role played by microorganisms is focused in phosphorus transfer between plants and this is thus the main ingredient of this extended model. We introduce a criterion of the conservation of the transferred phosphorus masses associated to the fungi action. The results show that the time to saturate the biomass of one of the plants can be reduced, keeping unchanged the saturation time for the others. Another possibility is that the coupling can redistribute the biomass among the plants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An improved genetic algorithm approach, based on a new ranking strategy, has been proposed to conduct multi-objective optimization of chemical engineering problems. New operators have been introduced to enhance the algorithm performance and reduce the computational effort. A Pareto-set filter operator has been implemented to avoid missing Pareto optimal points during the evolutionary process. A niche operator has been adopted to prevent genetic drift, and an elitism operator, to insure the propagation of the best result of each objective function. A fitness function based on each rank population size and rank level has been used to determine the reproduction ratio. Constraints are handled through a fuzzy penalty function method. The algorithm has been applied to a batch free-radical styrene polymerization process in order to maximize the monomer conversion rate and minimize the concentration of initiator residue in the product. The algorithm proved to be robust, handling satisfactorily multi-modal and multidimensional problems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Binary diffusion coefficients for infinitely diluted solutions of citral and d-limonene in supercritical CO2 were measured at 313.15, 323.15 and 333.15 K and pressures ranging from 12 to 20 MPa using the Taylor–Aris dispersion technique. The dependency on pressure, temperature and carbon dioxide density is examined, as well as the hydrodynamic behaviour. The applicability of the following models is evaluated: Dymond, Wilke–Chang, Tyn–Calus, Catchpole–King, Liu–Silva–Macedo, He–Yu–Su, Funazukuri and co-workers. The one-parameter correlation of Liu–Silva–Macedo achieves the best representation; He–Yu–Su is the best purely predictive model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To perform network RTK positioning, a user must receive and apply the information generated from a network. Corrections are generated for the user to consider the atmospheric delays (ionosphere and troposphere) between ther location and the network stations. In order to generate reliable corrections and send them to users, one must resolve the ambiguities in the processing step of the network stations. Ambiguities are the number of integer cycles of the carrier phase in the first data collection epoch and are introduced as parameters to be estimated in the processing. Thus, the ambiguity resolution process becomes a prerequisite for obtaining high accuracy in network RTK positioning. This process can be divided into two steps: estimation and validation. The estimation step aims to obtain the integer values of ambiguities and in the validation step it is inferred if the estimated integer value may or may not be accepted. In this work, the LAMBDA (Least squares AMBiguity Decorrelation Adjustment) method was used to obtain the integer ambiguity estimate and for the validation the Ratio and FF-RT (Fixed Failure Ratio Test) tests were used. The objective of this work was to investigate the performance of the ambiguities validation tests for long baselines. The results showed that the FF-RT test presented the highest fixed ambiguity percentages when compared to the Ratio test in all analyzed periods. Thus, for long baselines positioning, in periods of either weak or strong ionospheric activity, the use of the FF-RT test will cause a greater number of fixed ambiguities to be used in the process of generating the corrections for the user. • Evaluation of ionospheric activity effects on GNSS ambiguity resolution. • Data considering the last solar maximum (2012–2014). • Evaluation at the south crest of the equatorial anomaly in Brazil, one of the most affect countries. • The use of fixed failure rate for the critical value in ratio test improves the number of fixed ambiguities when compared to the commonly used critical value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the pronounced periodicity of large-scale coherent structures in turbulent boundary layers, which are of the order of the boundary layer thickness (δ) and reside in the logarithmic and wake regions. To this end, a series of multi-camera planar particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements are conducted in a streamwise/spanwise and streamwise/wall-normal planes at a friction Reynolds number of Re τ ≈ 2500. The experiments are configured to capture a large field-of-view with velocity fields that cover a streamwise extent in excess of 15 δ. The resulting vector fields reveal large-scale streamwise and spanwise organisation instantaneously, which is often lost when only examining mean statistics. By extracting the dominant streamwise and spanwise Fourier modes of the large-scale motions, a clearer picture of these structural organisations and coherence is presented. A targeted inspection of these dominant modes reveal that these features remain coherent over a significant fraction of the boundary layer thickness in the wall-normal direction, but only a fraction of them have coherence that extends to the wall (wall-coherent). Further, the spatial extents and the population density of these wall-coherent and wall-incoherent modes are characterised, with the former conforming to the attached eddy arguments of Townsend (1976) and the subsequent attached eddy models. Collectively, through the evidence gathered here, we provide a conceptual picture of the representative large-scale structures in turbulent boundary layers, which are likely to have implications on the type of representative structures to be used in structure-based models for these flows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intracranial stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a well established therapeutic modality for the treatment of small brain lesions. Currently, two immobilization methods for that therapeutic modality are widely used: frame-based and frameless. The literature states that both methods are very accurate, but there is no consensus on the equivalence between them. In order to add information about those methods, residual positioning deviations of frame-based and frameless SRS were evaluated and compared. We randomly selected 50 cases of SRS performed in a radiotherapy clinic. That sample represents two groups depending on the clinical indication and lesion volume: 25 frame-based SRS and 25 frameless SRS. Data were collected of each case according to the planning with 6 degrees of freedom. The conventional protocol for frame-based SRS does not make use of IGRT. Therefore, for measures relating to the frame-based SRS a reflective spheres holder was used as an extra accessory. The systematic and random errors of those methods were calculated, assuming a Gaussian distribution confirmed by the Shapiro-Wilk normality test (p < 0.01). The difference between frame-based and frameless SRS systematic errors does not exceed 0.2 mm for translational displacements and 0.2° for rotational displacements. The frameless method has smaller random errors than frame-based in the lateral and vertical translations. The difference in the random errors is smaller than 0.45 mm (translational displacements) and 0.3° (rotational displacements). The Student's t-test did not identify significant difference for any of the samples in question (p > 0.05), therefore, for this study, the methods of immobilization can be considered equivalent. • Difference in systematical errors does not exceed 0.2 mm and 0.2°. • Frameless has smaller statistical errors in the lateral and vertical directions. • Difference in statistical errors is smaller than 0.45 mm and 0.3°. • The Student's t-test did not identify significant difference (p > 0.05). • The methods of immobilization can be considered equivalent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starting from a first principles electronic structure calculation for superconducting antiperovskite MgCNi3 and using a simple Hartree–Fock approximation, we calculate the magnetic moment of transition impurities T in the dilute limit. The calculation shows that Co impurities are non-magnetic and for the remaining ones at least a small moment exists. Experimental studies of the change with concentration of the superconducting temperature Tc may indicate, for non-magnetic impurities, a d-wave behavior of these superconductors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Moringa oleifera tree is found in many tropical areas, and its seed contains up to 40% of good quality edible oil where sterols are also present. In this work a techno-economic study encompassing the coproduction of oil and sterols from M. oleifeira seeds was accomplished using the RSM–COM approach. The oil is produced by subcritical fluid extraction (SFE) while the purification of the associated sterols is accomplished by a patented technology based on distillation. Besides the expenses and investment associated to the SFE, the respective costs and investment for the preliminary drying of biomass and final separation of sterols from bulk oil were also taken into account. Under optimized extraction pressure and time of 350 bar and 1.3 h, respectively, oil cost was estimated to be 2.76   €   k g oil − 1 for a SFE unit comprising two extractors of 1 m 3 capacity. For the coproduction of sterols with 89.4 wt.% purity, the minimum costs were 5.60   €   k g sterols − 1 . The overall annual production under optimum conditions was 558.9 tons of oil and 1.9 tons of sterols, leading the whole integrated process to a net income of 15.87 M € year −1 . In conclusion the proposed combined process is feasible, and this essay opened the way to exploit M. oleifera by subcritical fluid extraction under the scope of biorefinery premises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thermochemical behavior of three raw and respective solvent extracted (ultrasound assisted) microalgae species – CV ( Chlorella vulgaris ), SC ( Scenedesmus obliquus ) and NOc ( Nannochloropsis oculata ) – was studied in order to evaluate their potential as fuels. Thermograms were obtained for four heating rates (5–25 °C/min). The results reveals that (i) for all microalgae thermal degradation processes of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins were observed for temperatures below 450 °C, while the char oxidation occurred for temperatures between 450 and 600 °C; (ii) the raw CV and SC required less energy to initiate the oxidation process than the raw NOc due to the higher amounts of lipids present in the latter microalgae; (iii) the extracted SC and NOc showed a behavior significantly different than the raw SC and NOc in the stages related to the lipids and proteins decomposition; (iv) the FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) spectra obtained for the raw and extracted microalgae showed significant differences in their oil and polysaccharides contents, revealing that ultrasound extraction using a mixture of n-hexane-isopropanol as solvent is adequate to extract these components from the microalgae studied; and (v) the calculated activation energy values are generally similar for the raw and extracted microalgae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several environmental rating methodologies are available worldwide to evaluate and compare the environmental performance of vehicles, which can be useful for consumers decisions and for organizations in the promotion of less pollutant technologies and fuels. This paper presents an overview of vehicle environmental rating methodologies available worldwide. Four of them adopt a life-cycle perspective: Green Score (US), Ecoscore (Belgium), Green Car Rating (UK) and EcoTest (Europe), while VCD (Germany), Eco vehicles rating (Mexico) and Green Vehicle (Australia) only consider the fuel in-use stage. Fuel in-use stages methodologies are good indicators of air quality rankings but would rank a fuel cell hydrogen vehicle on top along with the electric vehicles which does not reflect the carbon footprint of the overall fuel pathways and side effect pollutants. Therefore life cycle based methodologies are worth being further explored. Between the more complete life cycle based methodologies, Green Score and Ecoscore differ in terms of the impact categories considered, stages of the life cycle taken into account, weighting system and geographical application, but both use environmental economics and translate the results into a single indicator 0–100 (best). For this relevant variability of aspects they were selected to be applied to a set of seven real vehicles, comprising internal combustions engines and alternative vehicles, including the alternative fuels hydrogen and biodiesel. The application of methodologies shows that the position of the commercial vehicles obtained in the ranking for both methodologies differs. Internal combustion engine (ICE) has the higher impact in the environment and electric vehicle (EV) scores between the best positions; the position of the fuel cell hybrid electric vehicle (FCHEV) and the biodiesel ICE vary significantly. A sensitivity analysis shows that the US rating has high sensitivity to variations, namely in damage costs and fuel pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gac ( Momordica cochinchinensis Spreng) is a traditional fruit from Southeast Asia whose aril oil has been investigated owing to the remarkable abundance of oil and carotenes (e.g. β-carotene and lycopene). In this context, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) using CO 2 is an option for the exploitation of this raw material. In this work a hybrid approach combining cost of manufacturing (COM) and response surface methodology (RSM) concepts was applied to lab results of SFE of gac oil with the objective of finding the operating conditions that ensure the best technical and economic performance of the process. Upon specifying a SFE commercial process comprising a fruit drying line followed by two extractors of 0.4 m 3 in parallel, the impact of extraction pressure (200–400 bar), temperature (40–60 °C) and time (0.5–2.0 h) on manufacturing costs and productivity was assessed. The best COM for oil extraction was found for 400 bar, 60 °C, and 1.0 h, amounting 8 €   k g oil − 1 . Regarding specifically extraction of carotenes, the best COM was attained for 400 bar, 50 °C, and 1.0 h, amounting 755 €   k g carotenes − 1 . Both production costs are encouraging in relation to current market quotations of gac oil and purified (>90%) carotenes. Finally, a sensitivity analysis to flow rate was accomplished. In the whole, the outcomes of this study support the exploitation of gac oil and naturally occurring carotenes from gac aril through supercritical CO 2 extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consolidation mechanism and resulting properties of the silicon carbide (SiC) matrix of fully ceramic microencapsulated (FCM) fuel form are discussed. The matrix is produced via the nano-infiltration transient eutectic-forming (NITE) process. Coefficient of thermal expansion, thermal conductivity, and strength characteristics of this SiC matrix have been characterized in the unirradiated state. An ad hoc methodology for estimation of thermal conductivity of the neutron-irradiated NITE–SiC matrix is also provided to aid fuel performance modeling efforts specific to this concept. Finally, specific processing methods developed for production of an optimal and reliable fuel form using this process are summarized. These various sections collectively report the progress made to date on production of optimal FCM fuel form to enable its application in light water and advanced reactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The US Department of Energy is developing a new nuclear fuel that would be less susceptible to ruptures during a loss-of-coolant accident. The fuel would consist of tristructural isotropic coated particles with uranium nitride (UN) kernels with diameters near 825μm. This effort explores factors involved in the conversion of uranium oxide–carbon microspheres into UN kernels. An analysis of previous studies with sufficient experimental details is provided. Thermodynamic calculations were made to predict pressures of carbon monoxide and other relevant gases for several reactions that can be involved in the conversion of uranium oxides and carbides into UN. Uranium oxide–carbon microspheres were heated in a microbalance with an attached mass spectrometer to determine details of calcining and carbothermic conversion in argon, nitrogen, and vacuum. A model was derived from experiments on the vacuum conversion to uranium oxide–carbide kernels. UN-containing kernels were fabricated using this vacuum conversion as part of the overall process. Carbonitride kernels of ∼89% of theoretical density were produced along with several observations concerning the different stages of the process. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Premenopausal women undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy for Breast Cancer (BC) treatment have significant bone loss. This high bone mineral density loss can lead to an increased risk of fractures. In this study, there were evaluated parameters involved in osteoporosis when rats were subjected to a chemotherapy regimen (TC) and/or irradiation (IR). Female Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups: control (G1), TC+IR (G2) and IR (G3). The animals were euthanized after 5 months at the end of treatment and their femurs were excised and dissected. Sections of 10μm thick were used for μXRF analysis at the National Laboratory of Synchrotron Light. The uteri of these rats were collected and weighed. The obtained results showed that animals from G2 had a significant reduction (p<0.05) of uterine mass when compared to control. The qualitative analysis performed by μXRF showed that animals from G2 had iron in bone composition of the femurs. This same result was notobserved in animals from G1 and G3 groups. These results suggest that early menopause occurs and osteoporosis begins, probably because of the absence, or reduced, production of estrogen. The presence of iron in the G2 samples in indicates the process of osteoporosis, because according to literature, this ion is competitive with calcium ions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: To investigate the role of the processed autophagy marker light chain 3 (LC3B) protein in sperm survival in stallion semen processing during cooled storage, split ejaculates were diluted in two different extenders, KMT and INRA 96, and LC3B processing and sperm quality evaluated during incubation at 5°C for five days. After 3 days of incubation there was a drop in total motility in both extenders, although the percentage of progressive motile sperm was greater (P <0.05) in samples extended in INRA96. On Day 5 of cooled storage all sperm parameters decreased significantly independent of the extender, however, samples extended in INRA 96 maintained motility values while those extended in KMT had a further decrease in motility compared with data collected on Day 3 of incubation. The percentage of live sperm decreased over the time of incubation, but only in samples incubated in KMT. The extender had a marked effect in LC3B processing during cooled storage. Spermatozoa maintained in KMT extender did not exhibit LC3B processing, while in spermatozoa incubated in INRA96 there was an increase (P <0.01) in LC3B processing after 5 days of cooled storage. Stallion spermatozoa experience LC3B turnover during cooled storage, however, the extent depends on the extender used. Apparently LC3B turnover is associated with enhanced survival. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The chemical composition of the lipophilic extracts of the inner and outer bark fractions of Eucalyptus grandis and Eucalyptus urograndis (E. grandis × Eucalyptus urophylla) cultivated in Brazil and Eucalyptus maidenii, cultivated in Portugal was studied by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The extracts were shown to be mainly composed of triterpenic compounds (along with mono and sesquiterpenes in E. maidenii) followed smaller amounts of fatty acids, fatty alcohols, and aromatic compounds. Triterpenic acids (mainly ursolic, betulinic and oleanolic acids), are particularly abundant in outer barks representing 5.2g/kg, 5.7g/kg and 9.3g/kg in E. urograndis, E. grandis and E. maidenii outer barks, respectively. Although these compounds were found in considerably smaller amounts than those previously reported for Eucalyptus globulus, the total amounts of bark generated every year in South American pulp mills using E. urograndis and E. grandis, as well as the growth potential of E. maidenii plantations, the bark residues from these species are obvious candidates for the extraction of valuable triterpenic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The natural radioactivity of an uranium-anomalous area utilized for agricultural activities in Pedra, Brazil, was monitored. For this, samples from the granite and calcium-silicate amphibole rocks underlying this area and also from samples of the soil derived from these rocks were collected and analyzed by high-resolution gamma spectrometry. The equivalent radium (Raeq) was used as a reference for estimating the rate of the effective equivalent dose. The average, minimum and maximum values for the samples were of 319.2 Bq kg−1 (91.1–758.5 Bq kg−1) for soil; 327.5 Bq kg−1 (36.3–1624.0 Bq kg−1) for granitic rocks and 70,124.5 Bq kg−1 (16,979.6–147,159.0 Bq kg−1) for the calcium-silicate amphibole rocks. An estimation of the external exposition was carried out based on the calculation of the parameters obtained. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The effects of tricyclic antidepressants drugs (TCA) amitriptyline, imipramine and nortriptyline, on purified Electrophorus electricus (L.) acetylcholinesterase (AChE; acetylcholine hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.7) were studied using kinetic methods and specific fluorescent probe propidium. The antidepressants inhibited AChE activity by a non-competitive mechanism. Inhibition constants range from 200 to 400 μM. Dimethylated amitriptyline and imipramine were more potent inhibitors than the monomethylated nortriptyline. Fluorescence measurements using bis-quaternary ligand propidium were used to monitor ligand-binding properties of these cationic antidepressants to the AChE peripheral anionic site (PAS). This ligand exhibited an eight-fold fluorescence enhancement upon binding to the peripheral anionic site of AChE from E. electricus (L.) with KD=7×10−7 M. It was observed that TCA drugs displaced propidium from the enzyme. On the basis of the displacement experiments antidepressant dissociation constants were determined. Similar values for the inhibition constants suggest that these drugs have similar affinity to the peripheral anionic site. The results also indicate that the catalytic active center of AChE does not participate in the interaction of enzyme with tricyclic antidepressants. These studies suggest that the binding site for tricyclic antidepressants is located at the peripheral anionic site of E. electricus (L.) acetylcholinesterase. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The kernel of fully ceramic microencapsulated (FCM) fuel requires a material with high fissile density. For that reason, among others, UN is the appropriate chemical state for low enriched U fuel. The UN kernels are spheres ∼800 μm in diameter made using a sol-gel process. The effect of additives on the chemistry and density of the UN microspheres are investigated in this work. Gadolinium nitrate hexahydrate, Gd 2 O 3 , B, SiO 2 and SiC were incorporated into the sol-gel broth in varying concentrations. It was found that Gd can serve as both a sintering aid and burnable poison when added to the sol-gel broth as a Gd(NO 3) 3 6H 2 O. However, even with the increased theoretical density of the UN microspheres, the U density was still too low for the FCM design that replaces UO 2 pellets in a commercial light water reactor. Silicon carbide and B were also successfully added but produced a lower density final product. Other sol-gel processing variables were investigated. The pour density of the sol-gel feedstock was found to influence the final converted UN kernel density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This work describes the morphology, corrosion resistance, and antibacterial performance of copper coating deposited onto carbon steel by cold gas spray (CGS). Cross-sectional images of the coating showed a dense microstructure, with porosity lower than 1%. XRD analysis revealed no oxides or phases different to pure copper. The results of electrochemical tests demonstrated the efficient barrier properties and the compact microstructure of the coating, which protected the substrate against corrosion in chloride solution for >1000 h. The copper coating was effective as an antimicrobial agent for inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus , with bacterial growth being completely inhibited after 10 min of direct contact between the bacteria and the coating surface. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Copper powders were sprayed onto carbon steel using cold gas spray (CGS). • Copper coatings are dense with low porosity and high adhesion. • Coating resisted to corrosion in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution for ~1100 h. • CGS coatings showed an antibacterial rate of the 100% after 10 min of test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioturbation structures from Ponta das Bicudas in Santiago Island, Cape Verde Archipelagoare located in coarse-grained biocalcirudite sandwiched between basaltic lavas of the Upper Pleistocene Assomada Formation. Four ichnospecies have been identified: Rhizocorallium commune irregulare, Rhizocorallium jenense versum , nov ichnosubsp., Alaichnus kabuverdiensis nov. ichnogen. nov. ichnosp. and cf. Dactyloidites . From a taphonomic point of view, most trace fossil specimens are undergoing throughout intense erosion. Nevertheless, the observations made on their taphonomy and state of preservation allowed i) to reconstruct the original, complete structures of the trace fossils, ii) to evaluate the existence and magnitude of erosional and depositional episodes, and iii) to quantify the reach of erosion on the seafloor sediment. In this context, it was possible to quantify the thickness of sediment being eroded at the final erosional episode, which happened right before the second extrusion episode of volcanic pillow lava, which buried all the traces previously formed: the total interval of sediment eroded was estimated in ca. 1 m. From a palaeoenvironmental point of view, in a synthesis, the traces were produced in a soft to stiffground substrate composed of very coarse-grained biocalcirudite with common rhodolith debris, in a shallow setting (4 to10 m of depth) with moderate wave energy, nearby rocky basalt knobs where corals and red coralline algae crusts were growing. Organisms producing Rhizocorallium commune irregular settled in the seafloor during a first phase of sedimentation, which was followed by an erosional episode. Once sedimentation resumed, specimens of R. jenense versum nov. ichnosubsp. were produced and overlapped with the former ones. Later, a new erosional event erased most of the previous traces, being preserved only the basal imprint of the specimens. This was followed by a rapid sedimentation episode where Alaichnus kabuverdiensis nov. ichnogen. nov. ichnosp. recorded intense bioturbation activity of the bivalve Panopea . Subsequently, under low-energy sedimentation, a new episode of intense bioturbation of the seafloor occurred, resulting in the development of abundant cf. Dactyloidites . Finally, a strong erosional event – probably related to the onset of the second volcanic episode – cut all previous structures before being buried by the overlying, well preserved pillow lava. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]