bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of progesterone on the MGMT gene expression in MCF7, HEp-2 and 293 cells
Authors: Nidoieva Z. M. , Latsyshyna A. P.
Published: February 2021

Aims: to investigate the steroid hormone progesterone effect on the human MGMT gene expression at the mRNA and protein levels in cell lines with different expression patterns of the nuclear progesterone receptors and membrane receptor PGRMC1. Methods: cell culture, RNA / protein isolation, cDNA synthesis, real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot analysis. Results: We observe the MGMT gene upregulation by progesterone at both mRNA and protein levels. Conclusions the effect of progesterone on MGMT expression is more complex than direct regulation through the classical nuclear receptor.Keywords: O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), progesterone, nuclear progesterone receptors (nPR), progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1), gene expression regulation.
The key stages of creation and functionality of the sites of war memorial heritage
Authors: Rubin Vladimir Aleksandrovich
Published: February 2021

  The relevance of studying the war memorial heritage consists in the adoption of new norms of the Constitution of the Russian Federation on protection of historical truth, which implies commemoration of the defenders of the homeland, and heroism of the people. The subject of this article is the stages of creation and functionality of the sites of war memorial heritage in time and in space. The object of this research is the war memorial heritage. The author highlights and analyzes six key stages of creation and functionality of the sites of war memorial heritage: motivational-explanatory (grounds for memorialization); procedural-memorial (procedure for perpetuation of the memory); maintenance-protective (repair, restoration, improvement; prevention of unlawful actions (inaction) with regards to the sites of war memorial heritage); mobilization (relocation of a war memorial site); destructive (demolition, damage); constructive-restorative (reconstruction of a site). The scientific novelty consists in comprehension of the key stages of creation and functionality of the sites of war memorial heritage, which is of scientific, theoretical and practical interest for the development of effective cultural strategies in the future. The conclusion is made that the period of creation and functionality of the war memorial sites is characterized by the presence of six key stages. The tangible component of a site can be subjected to destructive processes, including demolition. However, sustainability of the symbolic component allows subsequent regeneration of tangible mediums of the monuments, which is confirmed by constructive-restorative activity. The author underlines the antagonism of the tangible and symbolic components of war memorial heritage, in the context of which tangible is constantly subject to modernization, while symbolic should remain unchanged.  
A NARRATIVE REVIEW ON TRANSFERSOMES: VESICULAR TRANSDERMAL DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR ENHANCED DRUG PERMEATION
Authors: Unnisa Syeda Jabeen , Arvapalli Swarupa , Karunakar B , Reddy PS Rishika , Vaishnavi A , Sharma J V C
Published: February 2021

Transdermal administration of drug is generally limited by the barrier function of the skin vascular system are one of the most controversial method for transdermal delivery of active substance. transdermal drug delivery system is designed to deliver biological active agents through the skin, principally by diffusion for local internal if not systemic effects. The transdermal delivery system was relaunched after the discovery of elastic vesicles like transfersome, ethosome, cubosome, phytosome etc. Transfersomes are a form of elastic or deformable vesicle, which were introduced in the early 1990s. Elasticity is generated by incorporation of edge activator in lipid bilayer structure. Drug absorbed and distributed into organs and tissue and eliminated from the body it must pass through one or more biological membranes at various locations such movement of drug across the membrane is called as drug transport for the drug delivery to cross the body it should pass through the membrane barrier. This concept of drug delivery system was designed in attempt to concentrate the amount of drug in the remaining drug; therefore, the phospholipid-based carrier system is of considerable interest in the era.
ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS AS BYPRODUCT OF BIOETHANOL PRODUCTION FROM AGRO-WASTES
Authors: Manivasagan V , Susmitha K , Prabavathi S , Saranya K , Ramesh Babu N G
Published: February 2021

The present study aims to evaluate the potential of agro wastes such as apple pomace, Grasses, sugarcane bagasse as potential sources of bioethanol production. Bioethanol is the one of the recent increasing biofuels due to its positive impact on the environment and especially towards second generation of biofuels i.e. from non-food biomass. It’s produced from high sugar and starch containing raw materials and lignocellulosic biomass. Lignocellulose may be a complex mixture of carbohydrate that needs an efficient pretreatment for the assembly of fermentable sugar, after hydrolysis are fermented into ethanol. Pretreatment of lignocellulose has received considerable research globally thanks to economic and environmental sustainability of ethanol production. Microbes like Zymomonas mobilis, and Phanerochaete provide sufficient fermentation yield and can be utilized for fermenting lignocellulosic substrate. These microbes are isolated from the feedstock samples in the present study. A suitable media was also designed for the growth of the isolated microorganisms. The antioxidant tests were analyzed on the potential samples using UV-VIS spectrophotometer. Lowering the cost of bioethanol production is one of the biggest challenges currently and can be greatly reduced by utilizing renewable feedstocks. Thus, making bioethanol is more economically competitive compared to fossil fuel.
Validation of the Method for Determination of Melamine and Investigation its Trace in Milk from Vietnam by LC-MS/MS
Authors: Hieu-Tran Quang
Published: February 2021

This work describes a rapid, selective, and sensitive method by using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to detect melamine (MEL) in milk and dairy products. The optimal conditions of liquid chromatographic separation extraction and mass spectroscopy of MEL have also been examined. The linear range for analyte detected by the method was 0.5÷100.0 ng/mL, with correlation coefficients was 0.999.  Mean recoveries of the method in the real samples at three spike levels (low, medium, and high) were within the range of 98.5% ÷102.5% (n =7). LOD, LOQ values of the method were 10 and 30 ng/mL, respectively. The influence of the matrix effect on the accuracy, repeatability, and recovery of the process was insignificant. The proposed method was used to quantify the content of this compound in various real samples, which were collected in Ho Chi Minh City-Vietnam in 2020.
Kumaraswamy Distribution Based on Alpha Power Transformation Methods
Authors: Hozaien H. E. , Dayian G. R. AL , EL-Helbawy A. A.
Published: February 2021

In this paper, the alpha power Kumaraswamy distribution, new alpha power transformed Kumaraswamy distribution and new extended alpha power transformed Kumaraswamy distribution are presented. Some statistical properties of the three distributions are derived including quantile function, moments and moment generating function, mean residual life and order statistics. Estimation of the unknown parameters based on maximum likelihood estimation are obtained. A simulation study is carried out. Finally, a real data set is applied.
Parental Awareness of Accidents Prevention Strategies towards the Physical Wellbeing of Preschool Children in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State
Authors: Amadi G. A. , Azunwena R. N.
Published: February 2021

This study aimed at assessing parental awareness of accidents prevention strategies towards the physical wellbeing of preschool children in Port Harcourt metropolis, Rivers State. A quantitative survey design was used for the study. A non-proportionate stratified random sampling technique was used to select 600 respondents who were parents with children between the ages of 1-6 years old in Port Harcourt local government area. A simple random sampling technique was also used to select 6 towns that participated in the study. Data was collected through a questionnaire and then analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences. Respondents from the study were aware to a high extent that disallowing faulty balconies/rails where little preschoolers are can prevent dangerous falls; living in houses with windows shield will protect preschoolers; disallowing faulty electrical outlets in the home can save preschoolers from accidents; and avoiding careless storage of sharp objects in the home can prevent cuts among preschoolers. They also showed high extent of awareness that teaching preschoolers the dangers of playing around fires; teaching parents the rudiments of safety for preschoolers; teaching preschoolers the dangers of playing with sharp objects, and teaching preschoolers the dangers of playing around pools can help prevent avoidable injuries. The result also showed high extent of awareness that avoiding wrong placing of kerosene stove or gas cylinders within the reach of preschoolers; avoiding smoking in the presence of children can reduce the risk of preschoolers attempting the act of smoking, and parents who are more careful in home arrangement and storage of objects can prevent accidents among preschoolers. This study therefore reveals adequate environmental consciousness by parents; adequate teaching on safety measures and effective behaviour management are significant strategies for home accident prevention among parents for the physical wellbeing of preschool children.
Establishing of Optimum Nutrient Ranges for Canola Leaves Affected by Compost and Zinc by DRIS Analysis
Authors: Sayed Saied El , Hellal Farid , El-Aila H. I.
Published: February 2021

DRIS method is one of the important methods that reflect the status of the nutrients within the plant tissue. Field experiment were carried out at the Research and Production Station of the National Research Centre, Nubaria region, Beheira Governorate, Egypt during 2019/2020 to evaluate leaf nutrient optimum ranges of canola affected by compost addition (0, 2, 4 and 6 ton fed-1) to the soil and foliar application of zinc (0, 50 and 100 ppm) under water regimes at 75 and 40% water holding capacity. A remarkable increase the macronutrient contents due to the addition of compost and had a positive effect, especially with the rates 4 and 6 ton fed-1 + zinc sulfate foliar spraying at a rate of 100 ppm under sufficient and deficit irrigation treatments. Under water stress, in the control treatment as compared to the treatment combination (4 ton/fed compost + 100 ppm Zn), the N index was decreased from (-143.2) to (-76.1) in this time the nitrogen a negative DRIS index indicates that the nutrient level is below the optimum. Phosphorus index was recorded (-98) reduced to (-39.4) and a negative DRIS index indicates that the phosphorus level is below optimum in these treatment combinations. Also, the DRIS index for potassium was recorded (241.2) decrease up to (115.5) and the potassium has a positive DRIS index indicates that the nutrient level is above or near to the optimum. DRIS norms could be used to test the nutritional balance of nutrients in plant and diagnose nutrient requirements through calculating DRIS indices or direct application of physiological diagnosis (PD) chart. 

Objective: The objectives this study to evaluation of canola leaf nutrient optimum ranges affected by organic compost addition to the soil and micronutrient such as of zinc foliar application.
Wetland Medicinal Plants of Eastern Himalayan Highlands of Gasa District, Bhutan
Authors: Tenzin Sangay , Tendar Pema
Published: February 2021

This paper documents the medicinal plant species in wetlands of the Eastern Himalayan Highlands of Gasa District, Bhutan. A random quadrat sampling method was used to assess the presence-absence of species. The study was conducted at Khatoed and Khamaed gewogs (blocks), Gasa District between January and December 2018. Identification of medicinal plant species and families were done in consultation with a botanist at the herbarium in Thimphu and volumes of Flora of Bhutan were referred. Based on the published and authentic scientific literature, information on medical uses of plant parts was collected. A total of 74 species of medicinal plant species in the wetlands, distributed in 69 genera and 43 families have been recorded. The study suggests preserving invaluable wetland medicinal plants and integrating ethno-medicinal practices in our lives.
Determining Urban Identity of a Historical City from Inhabitants’ Perspective: Erzurum, a Case from Asia Minor
Authors: Kulözü-Uzunboy Neslihan
Published: February 2021

Aims: This study aims to explore the urban identity of Erzurum, which has a rich cultural and historical background dates back to 4000 BC, from the perspective of inhabitants. Additionally, the differences between perceptions about urban identity elements of various inhabitants' groups, categorized in terms of age, gender, education level, being a native of Erzurum, and length of residence in Erzurum, are determined.

Study Design: The research was designed as a case-study and pursued an exploratory research approach.

Place and Duration of Study: The study has been conducted in Erzurum, located in Eastern Anatolia, Turkey. Interviews have been conducted with 268 inhabitants of Erzurum between May and June 2015.

Methodology: Within the context of the study, Erzurum's urban identity is determined through its elements that are commonly classified as topographical properties, climate and flora, elements at settlement level, urban equipment, symbolic elements, socio-cultural properties, and socio-economical properties. The present study has been designed as an exploratory case study in which qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques have been used.

Results: This study, through answering its research questions, reveals that, first, environmental identity elements have more significance than social identity elements; second, natural environmental elements as Palandöken Mountain and cold climate, and artificial identity elements as Cumhuriyet Street and the Twin Minaret Madrasa are the most significant identity elements; and, third, differences between the respondents’ age and education helps to explain the differences between their perception on urban identity elements, in the case of Erzurum.

Conclusion: This exploratory case study, departing from the idea that urban identity is a social and cultural phenomenon and unique for each individual and society, explored the urban identity elements from the perspective of the inhabitants of Erzurum. In the end, the importance of determining urban identity based on inter-subjectively built consensus to protect the uniqueness of the cities has been highlighted.
Effect of Conservation Tillage on Yield and Economics of Fodder Crops
Authors: Khan Rajesh , Biswas Saikat , Kundu Champak Kumar , Jana Kalyan
Published: February 2021

In order to find out the efficacy of conservation tillage on yield and economics of fodder crops over conventional tillage in new alluvial zone of West Bengal, a field experiment was conducted at Central Research Farm, Gayeshpur, West Bengal, India during summer season of 2016 and 2017 comprising 3 tillage practices (T1: zero tillage, T2: minimum tillage, T3: conventional tillage) in main plot and 4 fodder crops (C1: maize, C2: sorghum, C3: rice bean, C4: cowpea) in subplot and replicated thrice in a split plot design. Mean data confirmed the superiority of conservation tillage over conventional tillage in improving soil status and thereby, crop performance. Cereal crop maize when grown under zero tillage produced highest green forage yield (42.33 t/ha), dry matter yield (7.84 t/ha). However, regarding crude protein yield, cowpea showed superiority over others specially when grown under zero tillage condition (1.071 t/ha). Mean data also stated that legume crops under conservation tillage remained economically more viable than cereal crops. Specifically, cultivation of cowpea under zero tillage condition was economically most profitable (B:C of 2.21) and therefore can be recommended in this region.
Eco Friendly Management of Fusarium Wilt of Chickpea with Botanicals and Bio Agents in In-vitro
Authors: Nandeesha K. L. , Huilgol Shalini N. , Goudar Geeta D.
Published: February 2021

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the most important pulse crop grown all over India. Chickpea wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri is one of the major disease on chickpea in Northern Karnataka, which is soil and seed borne. Heavy inoculum in the soil and favorable environment condition results in the death of infected plant and therefore total yield loss.In this study, three antagonists, and seven botanicals were studied against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri causing chickpea wilt. In vitro studies found that among the botanicals, turmeric rhizome extract gave maximum per cent inhibition of mycelial growth (26.73%) and least per cent inhibition of mycelial growth (9.96%) was observed in cassia tora at 15 per cent concentration. Among the antagonists, Trichoderma harzianum was effective in per cent inhibition of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri with (76.47%) and Pseudomonas fluorescens found least effective in per cent mycelial inhibition with (34.41%).
Effect of Fipronil + Isoprothiolane against Onion Thrips and Purple Blotch Disease and Its Effect on Parasites and Predators
Authors: Ravikumar M. R. , Ganapathi T. , Rajakumar G. R.
Published: February 2021

Onion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the important vegetable cum condiment crop grown throughout the world. Onion crop is infested by various insect pests and diseases right from seedling to harvesting stage. The experiment was conducted in farmer’s fields of Ranebennur (Haveri–District) to evaluate the bio-efficacy and Phytotoxicity of Fipronil + Isoprothiolane against Thrips and Purple Blotch disease in onion and its effect on parasites and predators during kharif-2018 and rabi-2019 seasons. Amongst the treatments, the formulation Fipronil 5% + Isoprothiolane 28% EC @ 1500 ml/ha was excellent in controlling thrips (2.47/trifoliate leaf) and showed the least severity of purple blotch  (3.02% PDI) followed by Fipronil 5% + Isoprothiolane 28% EC@ 1250 ml/ha (2.85 and 3.25)1000 ml/ha (2.99 and 3.67 % PDI) respectively. The results revealed that amongst the treatments, Fipronil 5% + Isoprothiolane 28% EC @ 1500 ml recorded the highest bulb yield                (21.52 t/ha) which was on par with the 1250 and 1000 ml/ha. The formulation Fipronil 5% + Isoprothiolane 28% EC @ 1000 ml/ha was found to be  cost effective followed by treatment of Fipronil 5% + Isoprothiolane 28% EC @ 1250ml /ha for control of thrips and  prevention of Purple Blotch disease hence which is recommended for  control of thrips and Purple Blotch  disease in onion.
Measuring and Monitoring the Impact of Precision Land Levelling and Arable Cropping Systems on Aggregate Associated Carbon Fractions and Soil Carbon Stock in Sub-tropical Ecosystems
Authors: Naresh R. K. , Kumar Yogesh , Tomar S. S. , Kumar Mukesh , Chandra M. Sharath , Rajput Pradeep , Alam Mohd Shah , Singh Pradeep Kumar
Published: February 2021

The Long term experiment (2009-10 to-2018-19) was conducted to study the effects of precision land levelled (PLL) versus traditional land levelled (TLL) systems on aggregate-associated soil organic carbon (SOC) in a farmers participatory fields under sub-tropical ecosystems (Western Uttar Pradesh) of Indian conditions. The significance of this study mainly focus to determine the suitability of various labile carbon fractions as indicators of soil quality and the stability of aggregates plays a vital role in preserving and long term storing of soil organic carbon by implementing Precision Land Levelling under various arable cropping system. The treatment comprised of sixteen alternative arable cropping systems strategies viz. R-WPLL, R-WTLL, S-WPLL, S-WTLL, R-P-MbPLL, R-P-MbTLL, R-P-OPLL, R-P-OTLL, R-C-OPLL, R-C-OTLL, O-W-MbPLL, O-W-MbTLL, M-W-MbPLL, M-W-MbTLL, M-P-MbPLL, and M-P-MbTLL etc were taken with recommended dose of fertilizers and various observations were recorded. The results indicated that the M-P-MbPLL produced 79.5 kgha-1day-1 productivity and used only 110 cm irrigation water which was 48.1 per cent less than irrigation water used for R-WPLL. The land use efficiency under R-P-MbPLL, R-P-OPLL, R-P-MbPLL, R-C-OPLL and M-P-MbPLL were recorded as 86.2, 85.1, 84.8, 84.6 and 83.9%. However, energy value in terms total input energy and energy productivity were 39.9 and 218.5 GJ ha-1 over existing R-W system (32.9 & 105.7 GJ ha-1). The quantity of water used in the R-C-O, M-W-Mb, M-P-Mb, and O-W-Mb were 46.1, 44.9, 40.1 and 36.3 per cent less than quantity of water used for R-W system. Aggregate-associated SOC contents in 0-15 cm depth were recorded highest SOC at 15-30 cm depth in PLL systems as 9.4% for both M-P-MbPLL and M-W-MbPLL. Highest PON change in arable cropping system (30.9 & 40.1%) was found in O-W-Mb with precision land levelling (T11) plots followed by R-P-O with precision land levelling (T7) plots (26.1 & 35.8%) as compared to R-W and S-W system. The values of LFOC in surface soil were 194.7, 187.9, 176.2, 170.9, 168.5, 150.6, 132.8 and 123.8 mgkg−1 in R-P-O, R-C-O, M-W-Mb, O-W-Mb, M-P-Mb, R-P-Mb, R-W and S-W with precision land levelling treatments. Higher SOC sequestration was observed with precision land leveling along with alternative arable cropping systems with O-W-MbPLL, R-C-OPLL, R-P-OPLL, O-W-MbPLL and M-P-MbPLL respectively. Therefore, PLL systems had greater soil surface aggregation and carbon storage, land levelling did not affect SOC patterns across aggregates, but changed the distribution of aggregate size, reflecting that land levelling mainly influenced soil fertility by altering soil structure.
Influence of Pre-Emergence Weedicides on Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Growth and Yield
Authors: Ganapathi T. , Ravikumar M. R. , Rajakumar G. R.
Published: February 2021

A field experiment was conducted during 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 at Agricultural Research Station, Hanumanamatti to study the effect of chemical herbicides on weed management in turmeric. The treatments consisted of pre emergent application of Alachlor, Butachlor, Pedimethalin, Atrazine and Quizalofop ethyl. The pooled mean results indicated that, pre-emergent application of Alachlor @ 1.50 kg ai / ha + one interculture + one hand weeding (A1IC1HW) recorded the least weed density (13.67, 68.11 monocot weeds and 2.67,12.36 dicot weeds), weed bio-mass (32.33 g, 43.67 g fresh weight of monocot weeds and 5.68 g, 26.05 g fresh weight of dicot weeds, 17.50g, 7.68g dry weight of monocot weeds and 2.34 g, 10.69 g dry weight of dicot weeds), the highest turmeric plant height (11.35 cm, 32.49 cm), number of leaves (4.92, 8.39), leaf length (5.08 cm, 18.91cm), leaf breadth (2.21 cm, 7.25 cm) and number of tillers per plant (1.01, 4.34) at 30 and 60 days after planting respectively. The treatment with Alachlor @ 1.50 kg ai / ha + one interculture + one hand weeding (A1IC1HW) also recorded the highest yield per plot (65.03 kg), rhizome yield/ha (43.36 tonnes) and processed rhizome yield (8.67 t/ha) followed by Pendimethalin @ 1.00 kg ai/ha + one interculture + one hand weeding (P1IC1HW) compared to farmer’s practice (2HW1IC) and unweeded control (WC).
Facing COVID-19 Via Anti-Inflammatory Mechanism of Action: Molecular Docking and Pharmacokinetic Studies of Six Anti-Inflammatory Compounds Derived from Passiflora edulis
Authors: Matondo Aristote , Kilembe Jason T. , Mwanangombo Domaine T. , Nsimba Beaudrique M. , Mawete Dani T. , Gbolo Benjamin Z. , Bongo Gedeon N. , Opota D. O. , Ngbolua Koto-Te-Nyiwa , Tshilanda Dorothée D. , Tshibangu Damien S. T. , Mudogo Virima , Mpiana Pius T.
Published: February 2021

Aim: In the most severe case of the COVID-19, there is an excessive production of proinflammatory cytokines, being the main cause of mortality and morbidity. The present study aims at assessing the potential inhibitor effect of six phytochemicals with anti-inflammatory activity derived from Passiflora edulis, against the SARS-CoV-2 main protease.

Materials and Methods: Virtual screening by molecular docking (Autodock tool) was used to obtain the binding energies of ligand-protein complexes formed between each of the six ligands and the SARS-CoV-2 main protease. The six ligands were then submitted to ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion) and toxicity analyses to understand their pharmacokinetic behavior, using SwissADME, preADMET and pkCSM webservers.

Results: Four high-docking score compounds were identified (both flavonoids) as hits, with the trend: ligand 4 (quercetin, -8.2 kcal/mol ) > ligand 1 (chrysin, -8.0 kcal/mol) > ligand 2 (kaempferol, -7.9 kcal/mol) > ligand 3 (luteolin, -7.7 kcal/mol)> ligand 5 (harmol, -6.7 kcal/mol) > ligand 6 (harmine, -6.4 kcal/mol). The pharmacokinetic behavior of the six ligands revealed that they can be easily absorbed and have good permeability and bioavailability. The toxicity predictions of the six compounds from P. edulis which is an editable fruit confirm that they are safe.

Conclusion: Several approaches are currently being used to tackle the COVID-19. Given the cytokine storm in the most severe case of the COVID-19, we adopted the strategy of combatting the disease by compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory activity. The assessment of the efficiency of six phytochemicals from P. edulis against the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro and their pharmacokinetic profile revealed their potential inhibitor effect against the COVID-19 protein.
Synthesis, Anti-Bacterial and Anti-biofilm Activity of New Iminothiazolidinones
Authors: Gullapelli Kumaraswamy , Maroju Ravichander
Published: February 2021

Aim: Iminothiazolidinones are one of the important classes of heterocyclic compounds and they occupied unique position in medicinal chemistry due to their wide range of biological and pharmaceutical properties. In view this potential activity, it has been planned to synthesize a series of New Iminothiazolidinones on benzimidazole nucleus and to study their biological activity.

Methodology: Iminothiazolidinones and 1,1 dioxide- Iminothiazolidinones were synthesized with a simple and efficient method of cyclic condensation of aryl thiourea containing benzimidazole and thiazole with chloroacetic acid .This method requires mild reaction conditions, simple procedure and gives good yield.

Results: The structures of the synthesized compounds were assessed by Infrared, NMR and Mass spectroscopic methods. The synthesized compounds were screened for their antibacterial and biofilm inhibitory activities against selected multi drug resistant bacterial strains.

Conclusion: In accordance with the results obtained, growth inhibition was found significant with compounds 5d and 5e. Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Vancomycin resistant Enterococcus (VRE), and extended spectrum β‑lactamase (ESBL) producing Klebsiella pneumoniae have shown varied susceptibility towards these compounds. The Biofilm inhibition Concentrations (BFIC) of compounds 5e and 5d are 3.22 ±0.56 and 6.58 ±1.5 µg/mL respectively were noted against MRSA.
Toxicological Assessment of Crops Grown in Soils Amended with Municipal Solid Waste Ash
Authors: Ibrahim G. D. , Nwaichi E. O. , Abu G. O.
Published: February 2021

This study assessed heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni, Fe and Zn) in sites and food crops (beans and groundnuts) harvested from farmland amended with municipal solid waste (MSW) ash. Farmlands with no amendments and crops grown on such soils served as control. Soils and crops samples were collected at full maturity to determine soil levels (mgkg-1), translocation in crops and accumulation index of metals. The crops were separated into roots, leaves and grains before analysis and heavy metals were determined using VGB 210 Atomic Absorption Spectrometer. Mean concentrations (mgkg-1) of studied metals were 0.053±0.03, 0.053±0.01, 648.55±1.07, 168.699±1.05, 36.514±4.66, 339.53±0.12, 232.331±0.69 and 363.482±0.00 in test soils and 0.010±0.10, 0.050±0.01, 83.333±1.00, 38.618±1.03, 2.913±0.00, 163.248±0.22, 41.579±3.01and 82.798±0.28 in control soils for As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Fe and Zn respectively. Observed levels for test soils were significant (p≤0.05) in comparison to those of the control and were highest for Cr, Cu, Ni, Fe and Zn. Metals concentrations in the tissues of beans and groundnut grown on both sites were found to be decreasing in the order roots > leaves > grains. Levels of As, Cr, Cu, Ni and Fe fell below the WHO standard while Cd, Pb and Zn exceeded those set limits. Translocation factors for beans and groundnut cultivated on test site indicated effective translocation of arsenic from soils to the roots. Observed pattern has health implication for raised fodder for animal husbandry in such areas. Similarly, the geo-accumulation index of both test and control sites revealed they were polluted with Zn, Cr, Ni, Cu, Ni, Cu and Fe.
Free breathing VMAT versus deep inspiration breath‐hold 3D conformal radiation therapy for early stage left‐sided breast cancer
Authors: Jensen Christer A , Funderud Marit , Lervåg Christoffer
Published: February 2021

The purpose of the in silico study was to compare free breathing volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) to standard deep inspiration breath‐hold (DIBH) three‐dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) and determine whether the former is a viable option for elderly patients with left‐sided early stage breast cancer. Data from 22 patients with early‐stage left breast carcinoma requiring breast‐only radiation therapy were used for this planning study. The robustness of VMAT plans when using the free breathing method was compared to that of standard 3DCRT plans using the DIBH method. The endpoints for evaluation were the target dose coverage as well as doses to the organs‐at‐risk. The free breathing VMAT plans produced a significantly higher mean dose to the heart and right breast than the DIBH‐3DCRT plans. Free breathing VMAT plans resulted in significantly better target coverage than did 3DCRT using DIBH. The external volume that received more than 40 Gy was significantly smaller in the VMAT plans. Free breathing VMAT is a viable alternative to DIBH 3DCRT in elderly patients with a limited life expectancy and in subjects who are unable to perform DIBH. The choice of treatment should be individualized, and all relevant risks ought to be considered.
Coalition requests buprenorphine training before HHS acts on waiver
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2021

An unprecedented coalition of treatment and recovery organizations has written the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) requesting the development of “improved training platforms to replace waiver training prior to waiver elimination.” The Feb. 18 letter, a copy of which was obtained by ADAW, supports President Biden's goal of increasing access to the use of methadone, naltrexone and buprenorphine. It's buprenorphine, however, that is at issue in this letter.
TeleSimBox: A perceived effective alternative for experiential learning for medical student education with social distancing requirements
Authors: Sanseau Elizabeth , Lavoie Megan , Tay Khoon‐Yen , Good Grace , Tsao Suzana , Burns Rebekah , Thomas Anita , Heckle Tanner , Wilson Meghan , Kou Maybelle , Auerbach Marc
Published: February 2021

Introduction

During the COVID‐19 pandemic the Association of American Medical Colleges recommended that medical students not be involved with in‐person patient care or teaching, necessitating alternative learning opportunities. Subsequently we developed the telesimulation education platform: TeleSimBox. We hypothesized that this remote simulation platform would be feasible and acceptable for faculty use and a perceived effective method for medical student education.

Methods

Twenty‐one telesimulations were conducted with students and educators at four U.S. medical schools. Sessions were run by cofacilitator dyads with four to 10 clerkship‐level students per session. Facilitators were provided training materials. User‐perceived effectiveness and acceptability were evaluated via descriptive analysis of survey responses to the Modified Simulation Effectiveness Tool (SET‐M), Net Promoter Score (NPS), and Likert‐scale questions.

Results

Approximately one‐quarter of students and all facilitators completed surveys. Users perceived that the sessions were effective in teaching medical knowledge and teamwork, though less effective for family communication and skills. Users perceived that the telesimulations were comparable to other distance learning and to in‐person simulation. The tool was overall positively promoted.

Conclusion

Users overall positively scored our medical student telesimulation tool on the SET‐M objectives and promoted the experience to colleagues on the NPS. The next steps are to further optimize the tool.
Outcome of T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma: Focus on near‐ETP phenotype and differential impact of nelarabine
Authors: Morita Kiyomi , Jain Nitin , Kantarjian Hagop , Takahashi Koichi , Fang Hong , Konopleva Marina , El Hussein Siba , Wang Feng , Short Nicholas J. , Maiti Abhishek , Sasaki Koji , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Konoplev Sergej , Ravandi Farhad , Khoury Joseph D. , Jabbour Elias
Published: February 2021

Early T‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (ETP‐ALL/LBL) is characterized by a distinct immunophenotype (CD1a‐negative, CD8‐negative, CD5‐negative or weak‐positive <75%, myeloid/stem‐cell markers positive) and poor clinical outcomes. Near‐ETP ALL is transcriptionally similar to ETP‐ALL but CD5 expression level is not low enough to meet the criteria of ETP immunophenotype. Outcomes of near‐ETP ALL are not well characterized. We reviewed 171 patients with newly‐diagnosed T‐ALL/LBL. Patients were categorized into three groups; ETP (N = 27), near‐ETP (N = 24), and non‐ETP ALL/LBL (N = 120). ETP‐ALL/LBL was associated with a significantly worse survival compared with non‐ETP ALL/LBL: 5‐year overall survival (OS) rates 32% versus 63% (p < .001). Outcome was similar between near‐ETP and non‐ETP ALL/LBL: 5‐year OS rates 56% versus 63% (p = .543). Landmark analysis showed that allogeneic stem cell transplant (allo‐SCT) in first remission was beneficial in ETP‐ALL/LBL (5‐year event‐free survival rates 36% versus 18%, p = .030) but not in near‐ETP or non‐ETP ALL/LBL. Multivariate analysis selected the following as significant independent prognostic factors for OS: age ≥ 60 years (HR 3.11; p = .003); elevated WBC ≥100 × 109/L (HR 2.60; p = .005); and ETP immunophenotype (HR 2.29; p = .010). A survival advantage with adding nelarabine to hyper‐CVAD was observed in non‐ETP ALL (5‐year OS rates 83% versus 38% with hyper‐CVAD plus neralabine versus hyper‐CVAD, p = .003). In conclusion, outcome of ETP‐ALL/LBL was poor and improved with allo‐SCT; outcome of near‐ETP ALL/LBL was similar to non‐ETP ALL/LBL; the addition of nelarabine to hyper‐CVAD improved the survival in non‐ETP ALL only.
Novel unconventional variants expand the allelic spectrum of OPHN1 gene
Authors: Nuovo Sara , Brankovic Vesna , Caputi Caterina , Casella Antonella , Nigro Vincenzo , Leuzzi Vincenzo , Valente Enza Maria
Published: February 2021

Mutations in the OPHN1 gene cause a rare X‐linked recessive neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by intellectual disability, variably associated with cerebellar hypoplasia and distinctive facial appearance. In most of cases so far reported, the identified genomic variants involve the region encoding the central RhoGAP domain of the oligophrenin‐1 protein, and are predicted to result in a complete loss of function. By using a NGS‐based diagnostic approach, we identified three male and a female patients from two unrelated families carrying novel non‐disruptive OPHN1 variants (the in‐frame c.116_127 deletion and the missense c.2129C>T change, respectively), affecting either the BAR domain or the C‐terminus proline‐rich domain of the protein. Clinical and neuroimaging findings in the patients recapitulated the main features of OPHN1‐related syndrome, including developmental delay, intellectual disability, behavioral disorder, dysmorphic features, seizures, cerebellar hypoplasia, and ventriculomegaly. Yet, we observed a wide variability even among affected siblings, confirming the lack of clear genotype–phenotype correlation. Our results expand the allelic spectrum of OPHN1 and illustrate the challenges for clinical interpretation of non‐disruptive variants affecting X‐linked genes.
Effects of diet and age–sex class on the fecal particle size of wild Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata yakui)
Authors: He Tianmeng , Lee Wanyi , Hanya Goro
Published: February 2021

Fecal particle size provides important information on the feeding and digestion of herbivores. Understanding the effects of the potential proximate determinants on fecal particle size helps us interpret this widely used measurement. In folivores, previous studies found that diet composition, dietary toughness, and age–sex‐related factors, such as body size and tooth wear, influenced fecal particle size. However, the role of these factors remains unknown in frugivorous and omnivorous primates. This study aims to clarify how age–sex class and diet influence fecal particle size in omnivorous Japanese macaques in Yakushima. We expected that their variable diet and differences among age–sex classes would cause variations in fecal particle size. We simultaneously documented Japanese macaques' diet, dietary toughness, and fecal particle size in the lowland area of Yakushima in the period from March 2018 to April 2019. Unexpectedly, fecal particle size showed limited differences across months and no difference among age–sex classes. Dietary toughness showed no effects on fecal particle size, while the consumption of fruits showed only a marginally significant negative effect. Our data indicate that the results of chewing were not affected by dietary toughness in our study subjects, while age–sex classes showed no difference in food comminution. This lack of variation might derive from a diet with low dietary toughness. We also found that the physical structure of preferred foods played an important role in fecal particle size variations. These results suggest that food comminution is less variable in frugivorous and omnivorous primates compared to highly specialized species (e.g., geladas). Factors other than what we examined in this study, such as food physical structure and chewing behavior, should also be taken into consideration.
Water cycle algorithm tuned robust fractional‐order Proportional–Integral–Derivative controller for energy optimization and control of nonlinear Multiple Stage Evaporator: A case study of paper mill
Authors: Verma Om Prakash , Yadav Drishti , Pati Smitarani , Kumar Saurav , Gupta Himanshu , Pachauri Nikhil
Published: February 2021

In paper industries, Multiple Stage Evaporator (MSE) is used to concentrate black liquor. Due to the energy intensive nature of MSE, the global energy scenario stresses on optimizing its energy efficiency. Moreover, the necessity of a tight control of product quality demands superior understanding of system dynamics for controller design. This paper presents a robust fractional‐order Proportional–Integral–Derivative (FOPID) controller for concentration control of black liquor in Heptad's effect MSE. First, the steady‐state unknown process parameters are estimated by solving the nonlinear steady‐state model. Thereafter, these optimal process parameters are utilized to simulate the nonlinear dynamic model to obtain the transfer functions. By using these transfer functions, the FOPID controller is designed whose parameters are tuned via Water Cycle Algorithm (WCA). The competence of WCA toward controller tuning is validated by comparing with other optimization techniques (Genetic Algorithm [GA], Simulated Annealing [SA], Particle Swarm Optimization [PSO], and Krill Herd [KH]). Moreover, the performance of the proposed FOPID controller in concentration control, set‐point tracking, and noise suppression is validated by comparing with conventional PID, two‐degree of freedom‐PID (2‐DOF‐PID), and Internal Model Control (IMC) controllers. The results demonstrate that FOPID controller reduces the Integral Square Error (ISE) by 91.05%, 89.81%, and 78.84%, respectively, with respect to PID, 2‐DOF‐PID, and IMC. Also, the proposed FOPID controller improves the system transience with high robustness.
Polymerization of polyaniline under various concentrations of ammonium peroxydisulfate and hydrochloric acid by ultrasonic irradiation
Authors: Zheng Xuefeng , Ali Mohsin M. E. , Arsad Agus , Hassan Azman
Published: February 2021

Effects of various molar ratios of monomer (aniline), oxidant (ammonium peroxydisulfate), and dopant (hydrochloric acid) on the polymerization of polyaniline (PANI) were investigated using direct ultrasonic irradiation technique. The effects of varying molar ratio of dopant and oxidant on the structural stability, morphology, and electrical conductivity of the prepared PANI were studied. Firstly, a scheme derived from electrical conductivity point of view, by varying the molar ratio of ammonium peroxydisulfate (APS). As the molar ratio of APS to aniline (ANI) varied from 0.1 to 1.25, the conductivity of PANI reached a maximum of 0.24 S/cm at a ratio of 1. Thereafter, by fixing the optimized molar ratio of APS and aniline the molar ratio of hydrochloric acid (HCl) was varied. The conductivity of PANI increased with an increase of HCl concentration and reached a maximum of 0.5 S/cm at an HCl concentration of 2 M. Finally, the formation mechanism for polymerization of PANI were discussed using Fourier transform infrared spectra, ultraviolet–visible spectra, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy. The final product is in protonated form, possessing structural stability and electrically conductive.
High‐throughput methods for efficiently building massive phylogenies from natural history collections
Authors: Folk Ryan A. , Kates Heather R. , LaFrance Raphael , Soltis Douglas E. , Soltis Pamela S. , Guralnick Robert P.
Published: February 2021

Premise

Large phylogenetic data sets have often been restricted to small numbers of loci from GenBank, and a vetted sampling‐to‐sequencing phylogenomic protocol scaling to thousands of species is not yet available. Here, we report a high‐throughput collections‐based approach that empowers researchers to explore more branches of the tree of life with numerous loci.

Methods

We developed an integrated Specimen‐to‐Laboratory Information Management System (SLIMS), connecting sampling and wet lab efforts with progress tracking at each stage. Using unique identifiers encoded in QR codes and a taxonomic database, a research team can sample herbarium specimens, efficiently record the sampling event, and capture specimen images. After sampling in herbaria, images are uploaded to a citizen science platform for metadata generation, and tissue samples are moved through a simple, high‐throughput, plate‐based herbarium DNA extraction and sequencing protocol.

Results

We applied this sampling‐to‐sequencing workflow to ~15,000 species, producing for the first time a data set with ~50% taxonomic representation of the “nitrogen‐fixing clade” of angiosperms.

Discussion

The approach we present is appropriate at any taxonomic scale and is extensible to other collection types. The widespread use of large‐scale sampling strategies repositions herbaria as accessible but largely untapped resources for broad taxonomic sampling with thousands of species.
Evaluation of sampling effort required to assess pollen species richness on pollinators using rarefaction
Authors: Nikkeshi Aoi , Hiraiwa Masayoshi K. , Ushimaru Atushi , Hoshizaki Kazuhiko , Makita Akifumi , Mizuki Inoue
Published: February 2021

Premise

Understanding the flower visitation history of individual pollinators is key in the study of pollination networks, but direct tracking is labor intensive and, more important, does not capture information about the previous interactions of an individual. Therefore, a protocol to detect most of the pollen species on the body surfaces of an individual pollinator could elucidate its flower visitation history.

Methods and Results

Under a microscope, we observed 6.0‐µL droplets from a sample solution (1.0 or 3.0 mL) containing pollen grains collected from individuals of six major pollinator functional groups. To clarify how many droplets need to be observed to detect all pollen species within the solution, we examined up to 10 droplets collected from each individual insect. Sample‐based rarefaction curve analyses of the data showed that we could detect ~90% of the pollen species and the plant–pollinator links in the networks by observing six droplets.

Conclusions

The rarefaction curve analysis for pollen‐on‐pollinator studies is a useful preliminary step for minimizing the time and labor required while maximizing the data on the flower visitation history of each individual pollinator and revealing any hidden flower–pollinator interactions.
CRISPR‐Cas12a System for Biosensing and Gene Regulation
Authors: Shi Yuyan , Fu Xiaoyi , Yin Yao , Peng Fangqi , Yin Xia , Ke Guoliang , Zhang Xiaobing
Published: February 2021

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) is a promising technology in the biological world. As one of the CRISPR‐associated (Cas) proteins, Cas12a is an RNA‐guided nuclease in the type V CRISPR‐Cas system, which has been a robust tool for gene editing. In addition, due to the discovery of target‐binding‐induced indiscriminate single‐stranded DNase activity of Cas12a, CRISPR‐Cas12a also exhibits great promise in biosensing. This minireview not only gives a brief introduction to the mechanism of CRISPR‐Cas12a but also highlights the recent developments and applications in biosensing and gene regulation. Finally, future prospects of the CRISPR‐Cas12a system are also discussed. We expect this minireview will inspire innovative work on the CRISPR‐Cas12a system by making full use of its features and advantages.
Total Synthesis of Panaginsene
Authors: Singh Vipin Kumar , Chakraborty Tushar Kanti
Published: February 2021

The total synthesis of panaginsene has been accomplished in 11 linear steps starting from methyl 3,3‐dimethyl‐5‐oxocyclopent‐1‐ene‐1‐carboxylate. The key steps are a Sharpless asymmetric epoxidation and Ti(III)‐mediated reductive epoxide opening‐radical cyclization to construct the chiral quaternary carbon stereocenter followed by a very challenging HWE olefination reaction on an 1,3‐keto aldehyde and a late stage McMurry olefination using low valent titanium to construct the highly constrained angular tetrasubstituted olefin in a five‐membered ring.