bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular epidemiology of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales in Thailand, 2016–2018
Authors: Paveenkittiporn Wantana , Lyman Meghan , Biedron Caitlin , Chea Nora , Bunthi Charatdao , Kolwaite Amy , Janejai Noppavan
Published: June 2021

Background

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) is a global threat. Enterobacterales develops carbapenem resistance through several mechanisms, including the production of carbapenemases. We aim to describe the prevalence of Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) with and without carbapenemase production and distribution of carbapenemase-producing (CP) genes in Thailand using 2016–2018 data from a national antimicrobial resistance surveillance system developed by the Thailand National Institute of Health (NIH).

Methods

CRE was defined as any Enterobacterales resistant to ertapenem, imipenem, or meropenem. Starting in 2016, 25 tertiary care hospitals from the five regions of Thailand submitted the first CRE isolate from each specimen type and patient admission to Thailand NIH, accompanied by a case report form with patient information. NIH performed confirmatory identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing and performed multiplex polymerase chain reaction testing to detect CP-genes. Using 2016–2018 data, we calculated proportions of CP-CRE, stratified by specimen type, organism, and CP-gene using SAS 9.4.

Results

Overall, 4,296 presumed CRE isolates were submitted to Thailand NIH; 3,946 (93%) were confirmed CRE. Urine (n = 1622, 41%) and sputum (n = 1380, 35%) were the most common specimen types, while blood only accounted for 323 (8%) CRE isolates. The most common organism was Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 2660, 72%), followed by Escherichia coli (n = 799, 22%). The proportion of CP-CRE was high for all organism types (range: 85–98%). Of all CRE isolates, 2909 (80%) had one CP-gene and 629 (17%) had > 1 CP-gene. New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM) was the most common CP-gene, present in 2392 (65%) CRE isolates. K. pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) and Verona integron-encoded metallo-β-lactamase (VIM) genes were not detected among any isolates.

Conclusion

CP genes were found in a high proportion (97%) of CRE isolates from hospitals across Thailand. The prevalence of NDM and OXA-48-like genes in Thailand is consistent with pattern seen in Southeast Asia, but different from that in the United States and other regions. As carbapenemase testing is not routinely performed in Thailand, hospital staff should consider treating all patients with CRE with enhanced infection control measures; in line with CDC recommendation for enhanced infection control measures for CP-CRE because of their high propensity to spread.
Prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics and its related factors among Chinese residents: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yin Xiaoxv , Mu Ketao , Yang Heping , Wang Jing , Chen Zhenyuan , Jiang Nan , Yang Fengjie , Zhang Guopeng , Wu Jianxiong
Published: June 2021

Background

Self-medication is one of the most common forms of inappropriate use of antibiotics. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics (SMA) in China and evaluate the related factors.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Wuhan, Hubei, China from July 1, 2019 to July 31, 2019. Participants were recruited in public places to answer a structured questionnaire. The information of participants’ social demographic characteristics, antibiotic knowledge and health beliefs were collected. Binary Logistics regression analysis was used to examine the associated factors of SMA.

Results

Of the 3206 participants, 10.32% reported SMA in the past 6 months. Participants who with middle or high perceived barriers to seek health care services showed a higher likelihood of SMA (P < 0.05). Participants who with middle or high perceived threats of self-medication, and who with middle or high self-efficacy to overcome obstacles showed a lower likelihood of SMA (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared with developed countries, the prevalence of SMA in China is still higher. Measures to conduct public health education and improve the accessibility of health services are crucial to decrease the overall self-medication rate in China.
Genome-based therapeutic interventions for β-type hemoglobinopathies
Authors: Karamperis Kariofyllis , Tsoumpeli Maria T. , Kounelis Fotios , Koromina Maria , Mitropoulou Christina , Moutinho Catia , Patrinos George P.
Published: June 2021

For decades, various strategies have been proposed to solve the enigma of hemoglobinopathies, especially severe cases. However, most of them seem to be lagging in terms of effectiveness and safety. So far, the most prevalent and promising treatment options for patients with β-types hemoglobinopathies, among others, predominantly include drug treatment and gene therapy. Despite the significant improvements of such interventions to the patient’s quality of life, a variable response has been demonstrated among different groups of patients and populations. This is essentially due to the complexity of the disease and other genetic factors. In recent years, a more in-depth understanding of the molecular basis of the β-type hemoglobinopathies has led to significant upgrades to the current technologies, as well as the addition of new ones attempting to elucidate these barriers. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to shed light on pharmacogenomics, gene addition, and genome editing technologies, and consequently, their potential use as direct and indirect genome-based interventions, in different strategies, referring to drug and gene therapy. Furthermore, all the latest progress, updates, and scientific achievements for patients with β-type hemoglobinopathies will be described in detail.
Healthy, safe and responsible: the modern female traveller
Authors: Bauer Irmgard L.
Published: June 2021

One-half of all travellers are women; yet, there is a distinct lack of detailed travel health knowledge on topics of unique relevance to women. While there is medical advice relating to stages in the female lifecycle, it neglects women-specific practical aspects despite their ability to harm travellers’ health and cause inconvenience. This paper discusses comprehensively three major aspects of travel as they relate to women. First, it suggests the management of personal hygiene, bodily functions, menstruation and sexual behaviour, and alerts to the limited knowledge on travel mental health issues.

Second, apart from travelling in a female body with its specific demands, being a woman requires special attention to safety and security. Within various travel contexts, women have many opportunities for minimising potential risks.

Finally, guided by travel medicine’s acknowledgment of its role in the concept of responsible travel, this article goes beyond the usual general statements and broad advice and offers detailed and practical suggestions on how the female traveller can contribute to the overall goal of minimising any potential harm to fellow humans and the natural environment. Recognising the scarcity of women-specific travel information, pathways to better education, and a range of suggestions for urgent research facilitate the provision of high-quality travel health care tailored specifically to women’s needs.
Clinical advantages of a newly launched anti-thrombotic PMMA membrane for the nutritional status and dialysis-related symptoms in older chronic dialysis patients: a multicenter pilot study
Authors: Masakane Ikuto , Yamaguchi Ichiro , Matsumoto Yuji , Ataka Ken , Oyama Yuta , Nagaoka Michio , Matsushita Yasushi , Teramura Tomoko , Seino Koji , Amano Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Ai
Published: June 2021

Background

Malnutrition that is associated with inflammation is a key factor of poor outcome in chronic hemodialysis patients, especially in older dialysis patients. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) membrane has been reported to improve the inflammatory status by removing pro-inflammatory cytokines via adsorption. However, older dialysis patients occasionally have multiple uncomfortable dialysis-related symptoms, which decrease their quality of life and survival rate. We investigated whether a new PMMA membrane, Filtryzer NF, can improve malnutrition and dialysis-related symptoms in older hemodialysis patients.

Methods

Patients over 70 years of age who were dialyzed using a polysulfone (PS) membrane were enrolled and randomly allocated into one of two groups: control or NF. In the NF group, the PS dialyzers were changed to NF, whereas in the control group, the PS membrane was continuously used. The primary outcome was the malnutrition–inflammation score (MIS). Secondary outcomes were C-reactive protein, normalized protein catabolism rate, percent of creatinine generation rate, arm circumference, and eight dialysis-related symptoms. The primary and secondary outcomes were measured every 3 months for 1 year.

Results

Fifty-four hemodialysis patients were randomly assigned to the NF group (n = 28) or the control group (n = 26). During the 12-month study period, 11 and 10 patients were withdrawn from the NF and control groups, respectively. There was no significant difference in the MIS between the groups during the study or between the beginning and the end of the study within each group. For the secondary outcomes, there was a significant reduction in the total score of dialysis-related symptoms in the NF group but not in the control group. During the study period, the total dialysis-related symptoms score in the NF group was significantly decreased from 6 (range, 1–16) to 3 (range, 0–11) (median [minimum–maximum], p < 0.05). Other secondary outcomes were not different between the groups or between the beginning and the end of the study.

Conclusions

This study showed no advantage for the nutritional status in older hemodialysis patients using NF compared with PS. However, our results indicated that NF may improve several dialysis-related symptoms. To clarify this clinical finding, large-scale prospective randomized clinical trials are required.

Trial registration

This study was registered with the Clinical Trials Registry of the University Hospital Medical Information Network (registration ID, UMIN000032990).
Homology modelling and analysis of structure predictions of human tumour necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 8
Authors: Oso Babatunde Joseph , Oyewo Emmanuel Bukoye , Oladiji Adenike Temidayo
Published: June 2021

Background

Tumour necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 8 (TNFL8) is a cytokine that plays vital roles in immune activations and inflammatory responses through its interaction with the tumour necrosis factor superfamily member. Despite multiple studies on the involvement of its receptor in the inflammatory response, there is limited information on the molecular characterization and structural elucidation of the cytokine. Considering the significance of the cytokine, the three-dimensional structure of TNFL8 model was generated by homology modelling through the Iterative Threading ASSEmbly Refinement (I-TASSER) server and validated through PROCHECK and Qualitative Model Energy Analysis (QMEAN) servers.

Results

The predicted structure has 90.00% of residues in the most favoured region of the Ramachandran plot while the QMEAN value gives − 3.06. The sequence and structural alignment between the generated model of the cytokine and template (1XU2) reveal that similar active site residues such as ILE-142, THR-175, GLU-178, and PHE-228 could be involved in binding pocket formation. However, docking studies of the 3D model of TNFL8 with eight phytochemicals from the extract ofXylopia aethiopica(Dunal) A. Rich revealed the phytochemical bound to two different binding sites which could be the active regions of the cytokine that could be essential for inhibition. More so, the docking analysis showed most of the phytochemicals have good binding affinity to the cytokine with ellagic acid showing the highest affinity with a binding energy of − 6.58 ± 0.18 kcal/mol.

Conclusion

The proposed model may shed light on the mechanisms of TNFL8 binding and provide insights into the identification of potential molecular targets for the development of the novel compound for the regulation of the functional activities of the cytokine.
Correlation Between Plasma Catecholamines, Weight, and Diabetes in Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma
Authors: Krumeich Lauren N , Cucchiara Andrew J , Nathanson Katherine L , Kelz Rachel R , Fishbein Lauren , Fraker Douglas L , Roses Robert E , Cohen Debbie L , Wachtel Heather
Published: June 2021

Context

Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PCC/PGL) are neuroendocrine tumors with discrete catecholamine profiles that cause incompletely understood metabolic and physiologic changes.

Objective

The objective was to evaluate relationships between plasma catecholamines, body weight, and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). We hypothesized that individual catecholamines would correlate negatively with weight and glucose control.

Design

A retrospective cohort study was performed (1999-2020). Wilcoxon rank-sum tests compared nonparametric, continuous variables; mixed-effect linear modeling (MEM) evaluated relationships between catecholamines and weight or HbA1c. The median study duration was 54.2 months [interquartile range (IQR) 19.0-95.1].

Setting

Tertiary academic hospital.

Patients

360 patients were identified prospectively by referral to our center for management or surveillance of PCC/PGL. The median age was 59 years (IQR 45-67) and 56.4% (n = 203) were female.

Main outcome measures

The primary and secondary outcomes were weight and HbA1c, respectively.

Results

On multivariable MEM, norepinephrine (P < 0.0005) negatively correlated with weight when all catecholamines and their derivatives were tried in the model, and normetanephrine (P < 0.0005) correlated when only metanephrines were included. In the surgical cohort (n = 272), normetanephrine decreased postoperatively and was inversely associated with weight (P < 0.0005). Elevated norepinephrine or normetanephrine at the study termination, indicative of metastatic and/or recurrent disease (MRD), correlated with weight loss. Norepinephrine and normetanephrine (P < 0.0005) directly correlated with HbA1c.

Conclusion

Plasma norepinephrine and its metabolite directly correlate with HbA1c and inversely correlate with weight in PCC/PGL. After resection, declining normetanephrine levels correlate with improving HbA1c despite an increase in patient body weight. Persistently elevated catecholamines and decreasing weight are observed in MRD.
Secretin as a Satiation Whisperer With the Potential to Turn into an Obesity-curbing Knight
Authors: Schnabl Katharina , Li Yongguo , U-Din Mueez , Klingenspor Martin
Published: June 2021

The obesity pandemic requires effective preventative and therapeutic intervention strategies. Successful and sustained obesity treatment is currently limited to bariatric surgery. Modulating the release of gut hormones is considered promising to mimic bariatric surgery with its beneficial effects on food intake, body weight, and blood glucose levels. The gut peptide secretin was the first molecule to be termed a hormone; nevertheless, only recently has it been established as a legitimate anorexigenic peptide. In contrast to gut hormones that crosstalk with the brain either directly or by afferent neuronal projections, secretin mediates meal-associated brown fat thermogenesis to induce meal termination, thereby qualifying this physiological mechanism as an attractive, peripheral target for the treatment of obesity. In this perspective, it is of pivotal interest to deepen our as yet superficial knowledge on the physiological roles of secretin as well as meal-associated thermogenesis in energy balance and body weight regulation. Of note, the emerging differences between meal-associated thermogenesis and cold-induced thermogenesis must be taken into account. In fact, there is no correlation between these 2 entities. In addition, the investigation of potential effects of secretin in hedonic-driven food intake, bariatric surgery and chronic treatment using suitable application strategies to overcome pharmacokinetic limitations will provide further insight into its potential to influence energy balance. The aim of this article is to review the facts on secretin’s metabolic effects, address prevailing gaps in our knowledge, and provide an overview on the opportunities and challenges of the therapeutic potential of secretin in body weight control.
World Literature as a Speculative Literary Totality: Veselovsky, Auerbach, Said, and the Critical-Humanist Tradition
Authors: Etherington Ben
Published: June 2021

This essay revisits critical-humanist approaches to literary totality that have largely been sidelined during the recent revival of world literature studies. While there has been no shortage of defenses of close reading in the face of distant reading and other positivist approaches, this essay argues that it is precisely the hermeneutic attention to particular works that has allowed critical humanists to think about literary practice within the most encompassing purview. For those in this tradition, “world literature” can never be a stable object but is a speculative totality. The essay discusses three exemplary critical concepts that assume a speculative epistemology of literary totality: Alexander Veselovsky’s “historical poetics,” Erich Auerbach’s “Ansatzpunkt,” and Edward Said’s “contrapuntal reading.” Each, it is argued, is grounded in the distinctive qualities of literary experience, a claim for which Theodor Adorno’s account of speculative thinking serves as a basis.
ПРЕВЕНТИВНАЯ ИДЕНТИФИКАЦИЯ РАЙОНОВ СОЦИАЛЬНОЙ НАПРЯЖЕННОСТИ
Authors: Shangutov Oleg A. , Shangutov Anton O.
Published: June 2021

Актуальность исследования обусловлена обострением военно-политических и социально-экономических условий в стране и мире, что потребовало разработки новых способов повышения эффективности функционирования органов государственной власти при решении задач обеспечения государственной и общественной безопасности.

Цель – разработка метода превентивной идентификации районов социальной напряженности на основе пороговых моделей коллективного поведения.

В результате проведенного исследования разработан соответствующий метод позволяющий прогнозировать динамику социальных явлений на основе учета таких объективных параметров как: неравенство доходов населения, уровень доверия граждан к лицам и институтам, представляющим интересы государства, пороговое поведение населения. Для практической реализации данного метода разработана программа для ЭВМ.

Выводы. Представленный метод превентивной идентификации районов социальной напряженности обладает широкими прикладными возможностями применения и значительным потенциалом дальнейшей модернизации.
Phenotypic characters and identification CYPs (Cyclophilin) gene in Cucumis melo L. cv. Gama Melon Parfum
Authors: WIBOWO WIKO ARIF , MARYANTO SIGIT DWI , DARYONO BUDI SETIADI
Published: June 2021

Abstract. Maryanto SD, Wibowo WA, Daryono BS. 2021. Phenotypic characters and identification CYPs (Cyclophilin) gene in Cucumis melo L. cv. Gama Melon Parfum. Biodiversitas 22: 3007-3014. Cucumis melo L. cv. Gama Melon Parfum is a new cultivar with a very strong fragrance as its main character. As a new cultivar with unique characters, it is necessary to characterize phenotype and molecular related to the fragrant aroma. The research aimed to study the phenotypic of the fruit of C. melo cv. Gama Melon Parfum (F3) and to identify the CYPs gene as one of the genes that act in encoding volatile compounds. Analysis of qualitative characters was based on International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI) and Plant Variety Protection (PVP), phenotypic characters in melons observed by abiding the Rules for Registration of Varieties from the Indonesian Minister of Agriculture Decree No. 700/Kpts/OT.320/D/12/2011, while analysis of quantitative characters was using the ANOVA methods and software PKBT-STAT-2. The methods of molecular characterization included RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis used Reverse Transcriptase-PCR, amplification of DNA target used PCR, visualization of DNA target used electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing. Analysis of the in silico approach was carried out on the CuGenDB Melon database. Analysis of protein sequences and classification was obtained from InterPro. Phylogeny analysis using MEGA-X Software. The results were 18 qualitative characters and 11 quantitative characters were stable and uniform, whereas the molecular characterization of the genes was predicted Cyclophilin with peptidylprolyl isomerase (PPIase) activity and located in chromosome 1 (17059021-17058899).
LFMTS-assisted reflection interference elimination method for a coherent same-wavelength bidirectional optical communication system
Authors: Wang You , Li Wei
Published: June 2021

We propose a novel reflection interference (RI) elimination method using a linear frequency modulated training sequence (LFMTS). Three LFMTSs and the signal are mixed in the electrical domain before being modulated onto an external cavity laser, and then utilized in reconstructing the RI. In the digital signal processing of the receiver, two LFMTSs identify the time mismatch between the signal and the RI, while the third is for carrier recovery of the RI. Simulations were carried out to investigate the impact of critical factors on the RI elimination, including the time mismatch, the bandwidth limitation, the laser linewidth and the frequency difference between lasers. Experiments were carried out on a 21-GBaud QPSK system to prove that the RI can be eliminated. Both simulations and experiments have proved the effectiveness of the proposed method in respect of RI elimination.
Raman enhancement properties of Ag nano-islands with SiO2 microsphere arrays prepared by self-assembly technology and the thin-film annealing method
Authors: Junfan Chen , Hongxian Chen , Jie Zhang , Yong Zhu
Published: June 2021

Combining self-assembly technology and the thin-film annealing method, annealed Ag nano-islands (Ag NIs) with SiO2 microsphere (MS) arrays were prepared as surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate in this paper. A “top-binding” model was established to analyze the effect of SiO2 MS at different annealing temperatures and different Ag film thickness. The corresponding comparative analysis with and without MS templates have been carried on. We simulated the electric field enhancement, coupling enhancement spectrum and the optical focus function of SiO2 MS. Characterization and experiments showed that the use of a SiO2 MS array as a dewetting template can well regulate the size and morphology of Ag NIs. Among them, SiO2 MS-Ag-20 can achieve the most uniform particle size at an annealing temperature of 873.15 K. According to the UV-Vis absorption spectrum, it had an active SERS analytical enhancement factor (AEF) of ∼3.91×105 and good SERS reproducibility (relative standard deviation, RSD = 0.113) for R6G when the wavelength was 532 nm.
Analysis of codon usage bias of classical swine fever virus
Authors: Patil Sharanagouda S. , Indrabalan Uma Bharathi , Suresh Kuralayanapalya Puttahonnappa , Shome Bibek Ranjan
Published: June 2021

Background and Aim: Classical swine fever (CSF), caused by CSF virus (CSFV), is a highly contagious disease in pigs causing 100% mortality in susceptible adult pigs and piglets. High mortality rate in pigs causes huge economic loss to pig farmers. CSFV has a positive-sense RNA genome of 12.3 kb in length flanked by untranslated regions at 5' and 3' end. The genome codes for a large polyprotein of 3900 amino acids coding for 11 viral proteins. The 1300 codons in the polyprotein are coded by different combinations of three nucleotides which help the infectious agent to evolve itself and adapt to the host environment. This study performed and employed various methods/techniques to estimate the changes occurring in the process of CSFV evolution by analyzing the codon usage pattern.

Materials and Methods: The evolution of viruses is widely studied by analyzing their nucleotides and coding regions/ codons using various methods. A total of 115 complete coding regions of CSFVs including one complete genome from our laboratory (MH734359) were included in this study and analysis was carried out using various methods in estimating codon usage bias and evolution. This study elaborates on the factors that influence the codon usage pattern.

Results: The effective number of codons (ENC) and relative synonymous codon usage showed the presence of codon usage bias. The mononucleotide (A) has a higher frequency compared to the other mononucleotides (G, C, and T). The dinucleotides CG and CC are underrepresented and overrepresented. The codons CGT was underrepresented and AGG was overrepresented. The codon adaptation index value of 0.71 was obtained indicating that there is a similarity in the codon usage bias. The principal component analysis, ENC-plot, Neutrality plot, and Parity Rule 2 plot produced in this article indicate that the CSFV is influenced by the codon usage bias. The mutational pressure and natural selection are the important factors that influence the codon usage bias.

Conclusion: The study provides useful information on the codon usage analysis of CSFV and may be utilized to understand the host adaptation to virus environment and its evolution. Further, such findings help in new gene discovery, design of primers/probes, design of transgenes, determination of the origin of species, prediction of gene expression level, and gene function of CSFV. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study on codon usage bias involving such a large number of complete CSFVs including one sequence of CSFV from India.
Decolourization of Congo Red Dye using Solar/H2O2 Process
Authors: Raja R. , Venis A. Rose , Selvan R. Tamil , Mohandas T.
Published: June 2021

The Congo red dye was decolourized by advanced oxidation process using solar/H2O2 method and the
effect of various parameters on decolourization like pH, H2O2 concentration, dye concentration, solar
light intensity, additives, COD and TOC removal studies and kinetic studies were investigated. The
photodegradation process was done by exposing dye solutions with the concentration of 100 mg/L treated
with 50% H2O2 to sunlight with the lux intensity range of 60,000-90,000 lux. The best possible pH 2
with an optimal H2O2 concentration of 1000 mM to achieve 100% decolourization within the period of
5 h. The kinetic studies done on H2O2 concentration also proved that the high solar light intensity leads
to higher decolourization and low solar light intensity leads to lesser decolourization. Addition of
additives like H2PO4
– and Cl– leads to a decrease in the rate of decolourization. The removal of COD
and TOC removal was found to be 83.26% and 5.18%, respectively.
Acaricidal and Repellence of R. appendiculatus, and GC-MS Chemical Content of Essential Oils from Three South African Ethno-Veterinary Plants
Authors: Mkolo N.M. , Gumede B.T. , Magano S.R. , Olaokun O.O.
Published: June 2021

The advancement of the livestock farming in sub-Saharan Africa is restricted by tick infestation. With conventional pesticides posing a threat to human and the environment, natural products are alternative anti-tick source. This study characterized the essential oils from Tithonia diversifolia, Lavandula angustifolia and Cymbopogon citratus leaves by GC-MS and, for acaricidal and repellence of R. appendiculatus. GC-MS analysis detected various chemical compounds, some of the isolated compounds have anti-tick properties. The repellence of T. diversifolia essential oil at 5% v/v was the weakest against adult ticks. All essential oils at 15% v/v paralysed nymph after 20 mins, with C. citratus after 24 h causing high mortality of nymph and adult ticks. Exposure to L. angustifolia did not achieve 50% mortality after 24 h. All essential oils caused complete inhibition of moulting of engorged larvae. The study demonstrated that the essential oils of the ethno-veterinary plants may be a source of anti-ticks agents.
Progress in the Applications of Raman Spectroscopy in Microbial Identification
Authors: Emin Adil
Published: June 2021

After more than 40 years of development, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has become
a powerful and mature analytical tool. It has been widely used in surface science, materials science,
biomedicine, drug analysis, food safety, environmental testing, etc. SERS technology has
molecular-level detection accuracy, which can effectively amplify signals and has obvious advantages
in realizing trace substance detection. In present article, a comprehensive review of the SERS technology
and related applications in microbial identification is carried out, and its future research hotspots and
development directions are discussed.
Disposal Method of Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaic Panels: A Case Studies in Malaysia
Authors: Ho S.M. , Ng S.N. , Munaaim M.A.
Published: June 2021

Previous studies have highlighted that fossil fuel accounted for the largest share of total energy
consumption in worldwide if compared to renewable energy. However, it has many disadvantages
such as emission of carbon dioxide gas, contributes to global warming, creates pollution, contributes
to acid rain and unsafe. Nowadays, many solar power plants have been built in order to replace fossil
fuel. Solar energy has bright future due to some advantages such as pollution free, cheap renewable
energy, easy install solar cell panel and less maintenance. Solar photovoltaic development has
remarkably grown since the early 2000s. Because an average panel lifetime is 30 years, 17,000 tonnes
of solar panel wastes are anticipated in the year 2030 in Malaysia. As the solar photovoltaic market
increases, so will the volume of decommissioned photovoltaic panels. Growing photovoltaic panel
waste represents a new environmental challenge, but also miraculous opportunities to create value and
pursue new solar photovoltaic end-of-life industries economic route.
Effective Photocatalytic Degradation of Nitrobenzene by Magnetite Modified Titania Composite
Authors: Kunarti E.S. , Roto R. , Sutarno S. , Budi I.S. , Mardiansyah M.
Published: June 2021

Magnetic photocatalyst of magnetite modified titania composite Fe3O4/TiO2 was prepared by
co-precipitation and sol-gel methods followed by calcination at 450 ºC. The produced material was
confirmed by XRD, FTIR spectrophotometer, vibrating sample magnetometer and transmission electron
microscope. The solid material was tested as a photocatalyst for degradation of nitrobenzene under UV
light irradiation. The progress of degradation of nitrobenzene was monitored by using a UV-visible
spectrophotometer. The photodegradation of nitrobenzene could be best realized at a medium pH of 7
and 120 min of irradiation. The reaction rate constant of nitrobenzene degradation catalyzed by TiO2
and Fe3O4/TiO2 solids were found to be 0.0058 min-1 and 0.0092 min-1, respectively. The photocatalyst
was recoverable by use of a magnetic bar and reusable.
Synthesis, DFT and Bio-Potential Activities of Mn(II) and Hg(II) Complexes
with Bidentate (E)-N′[(E)-3-Phenylallylidene]benzene-1,2-diamine
Authors: Selvarani R. , Balasubramaniyan S. , Rajasekar K. , Thairiyaraja M. , Meenakshi R.
Published: June 2021

A new bidentate Schiff base (E)-N′[(E)-3-phenylallylidene]benzene-1,2-diamine derived from the
condensation of o-phenylenediamine and cinnamaldehyde and its Mn(II) and Hg(II) complexes were
synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, molar conductance, magnetic moment, electronic
spectra, IR, far-IR and NMR (1H & 13C) spectral studies. The elemental analysis and these metal
proposed the metal:ligand stoichiometry and molecular formulae of the metal complexes. The molar
conductance and electrochemical property indicates monomeric, neutral nature and redox properties
of the metal complexes. The UV-visible spectral study supports the octahedral geometry for Mn(II)
complex and square planar geometry for Hg(II) complex and further confirmed by magnetic moment.
IR spectral data examined the coordination mode but far-IR is useful to identify the metal-ligand
vibrations. The geometry, magnetic property and unsymmetrical nature of these metal complexes
corroborated by NMR (1H & 13C) spectra. The DFT of Mn(II) complex studied and the structure
optimized by B3LYP/Lan L2DZ using Gaussian 09W. Quantum chemical calculations were done by
Mullikan population analysis, HOMO-LUMO and molecular electrostatic potential. The in vitro
biological screening effects of the investigated complexes were tested against some bacteria and fungus
by agar-well diffusion method. The results indicated that Mn(II) and Hg(II) complexes exhibit potentially
active than the Schiff base which was further confirmed by pharmacokinetics study. The antioxidant
activity of Schiff base and its Mn(II) complex was examined by radical scavenging DPPH method.
Influence of Reaction Conditions in the Selective Hydrogenation of
Isophorone to 3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexanone over NiC Composite Catalyst
Authors: Hansda Kamala Mandy , Mahato Anupama , Singh Purnima , Das Ajit , Mahata Nagendranath
Published: June 2021

NiC composite catalyst was synthesized by carbon deposition over skeletal Raney nickel by exploiting
methane decomposition reaction and applied in the hydrogenation of isophorone. Nickel content in
the composite catalyst was ascertained by atomic emission spectroscopy. Influence of operating variables
(agitation, solvent, temperature, H2 pressure and isophorone concentration) on the hydrogenation of
isophorone over the NiC composite catalyst was investigated. Ethyl acetate was observed to be an
excellent solvent for the reaction in terms of both isophorone conversion as well as
3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexanone selectivity. The catalytic reaction was observed to be 0.06 order with
respect to isophorone and 0.82 order with respect to H2.
Some Organotellurium(IV) Complexes of 1-Methyl-3-(p-tolylimino)indolin-2-one Schiff Base
Authors: Kumar Manish , Verma K.K. , Garg Sapana
Published: June 2021

Six new hexa-coordinated organotellurium(IV) complexes of type RTeCl3·NMeIPT and
R2TeCl2·NMeIPT (R = 4-hydroxyphenyl, 4-methoxyphenyl or 3-methy-4-hydroxyphenyl; NMeIPT(L)
= Schiff base (1-methyl-3-(p-tolylimino)indolin-2-one) derived from condensation of 4-methylisatin
and p-toluidine) have been synthesized and characterized by different spectral studies like elemental
analyses, molar conductance, infrared, mass spectrometry, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and UV-visible
spectroscopy. On the basis of spectroscopic data, it is evident that Schiff base behaves as NO donor
bidentate ligand via azomethine nitrogen atom and oxygen atom from carbonyl group for all the
tellurium(IV) complexes. The results showed that all the organotellurium(IV) complexes possess
distorted octahedral geometry. Geometry of the all organotellurium(IV) complexes was optimized
and their theoretical quantum mechanical parameters were calculated. This computational study also
suggests octahedral geometry for complexes. The antimicrobial activity of NMeIPT and all the
organotellurium(IV) complexes were screened against bacteria i.e. Xanthomonas campestris and
Bacillus cereus and fungi i.e. Fusarium oxysporum, Candida albicans and Sclerotinia sclerotium.
Identification, Isolation and Origin of Potential Dimer Impurities of
Dichlorphenamide: A Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor Drug (Antiglaucoma)
Authors: Reddy T. Purendar , Dussa Nageshwar , Mamidi Srinivas , Panasa Mahesh , Chavakula Ramadas , Padma M.
Published: June 2021

Present work describes the identification, isolation and characterization of two new process related
dimeric impurities of dichlorphenamide (1). During the synthesis of dichlorphenamide, the formation
of two new dimeric impurities namely 2,3-dichloro-5-(3,4-dichloro-5-sulfamoyl-phenyl)sulfonylbenzenesulfonamide
(2) (1,1Œ-dichlorphenamide dimer) and 2,3-dichloro-5-(2,3-dichloro-5-sulfamoylphenyl)
sulfonyl-benzenesulfonamide (3) (1,3Œ-dichlorphenamide dimer) was observed. In addition,
origin and the strategies adapted to control these potential dimer impurities were also described. These
impurities have a substantial impact on the quality of the drug substance as well as drug product.
Enhancing the Performance and Recyclability of Polyaniline/TiO2 Hybrid Nanocomposite by
Immobilizing with Zein/Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Composites for Removal of Anionic Dyes
Authors: Gelaw Tadesse Bassie , Sarojini Balladka Kunhana
Published: June 2021

Fabrication of a stable, recyclable and eco-friendly photocatalyst for dye treatment is vital in sustaining
a clean ecosystem. In this regard, polyaniline/TiO2 (PANI/TiO2) photocatalyst was immobilized by
zein/hydroxyethyl cellulose (zein/HEC) adhesive to enhance recyclability and catalytic activity. The
blending of zein/HEC/PANI/TiO2 photocatalyst involves in situ oxidative polymerization, followed
by immobilization with zein/HEC functionalized composites. The PANI/TiO2 composite was
successfully grafted with the adhesive through physicochemical interaction, as evidenced by field
emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)
and powder X-ray diffractometer (XRD). The simultaneous thermal analysis (STA) results show that
the photocatalyst has the best thermal stability relative to PANI and PANI/TiO2 in the recommended
range of dye degradation temperature. The effect of external factors like TiO2 nanoparticle proportion,
pH of the solution and catalyst dosage was studied in response to dye degradation capacity. The synthesized
catalyst is efficient to degrade methyl orange in a wide range of pH. The kinetics of the catalysis
reaction obeys the first order kinetics. The maximum degradation efficiency achieved was 97.9% and
84.3% in the presence and absence of light, respectively. The catalyst was easily recovered by decantation
and its catalytic efficacy was more than 94% after 5 cycles. Hence, it is a promising alternative for
decolourizing anionic dyes from wastewater.
A Novel Reverse Phase HPLC Method for the Quantification of Potential Genotoxic
Impurities in Doripenem Monohydrate: A Broad-Spectrum Carbapenem Antibiotic Drug
Authors: Yerra Sudhakar , Babu P.N. Kishore , Sreenivasulu B. , Sharma Hemant Kumar , Naidu K. Mohana , Rao B. Venkateswara
Published: June 2021

A novel sensitive gradient reverse phase high performance liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) method
has been developed and validated for the quantification of potential genotoxic impurities in doripenem
monohydrate (DORIBAX) drug substance, namely mono-p-nitrobenzyl malonate, 1β-methyl bicyclic
ketoester, desilylated β-keto ester, 1β-methyldiazoazetidinone, deprotected doripenem side chain,
N-protected mercapto alcohol, protected doripenem and doripenem side chain. The analysis performed
on Alliance Waters e2695 separation module on C18 (250 × 4.6) mm, 5 μm (make: Inertsil) column,
oven temperature maintained at 40 ºC and UV detection at 270 nm. The separation was accomplished
using buffer (pH 6.0 ± 0.05) and acetonitrile in the ratio of 98:2 v/v as mobile phase-A and acetonitrile
as mobile phase-B, flow rate: 1.0 mL/min and injection volume: 50 μL. The proposed method was
validated as per ICH guidelines in terms of limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ),
linearity, precision, accuracy and specificity.
Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of Novel Oxadiazole
Functionalized Pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine Derivatives
Authors: Bhukya Bhadru , Guguloth Hanmanthu
Published: June 2021

A series of novel oxadiazole functionalized pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine derivatives (6a-n)was synthesized
using 6-thiophenyl-4-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridin-3-amine (1) through reaction with
2-bromoethyl acetate, followed by hydrazine hydrate to afford hydrazide derivatives (5). These
compounds were further treated with aromatic acids in the presence of phosphoryl chloride and obtained
oxadiazole functionalized pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine derivatives (6a-n). All the synthesized compounds
6a-n were screened for anticancer activity against four cancer cell lines such as HeLa - cervical cancer
(CCL-2); COLO 205-colon cancer (CCL-222); HepG2-liver cancer (HB-8065); MCF7-breast cancer
(HTB-22). Compounds 6i, 6m and 6n were found to have more prominent anticancer activity at
micromolar concentration.
Green Mediated Synthesis of Macroporous Hierarchical CeO2 Nanoparticles
using Mimosa pudica Leaf Extract for Humidity Sensing Application
Authors: Kulkarni Narasimha , Navindagi M.C. , Murali Krishna M.V.S. , Kushnoore Shashikant
Published: June 2021

Metal oxide nanoparticles are popular candidates for chemiresistive sensors application. Cerium oxide
(CeO2) based semiconducting gas sensors have gained rapid interest in recent years. In this study, an
environment-friendly green synthesis approach was employed for the synthesis of macroporous CeO2
nanoparticles using Mimosa pudica leaf extract. Later the performance of CeO2 nanoparticles for
humidity sensor is demonstrated. X-ray diffraction studies revealed the cubic fluorite crystal structure
with no impurities, scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed the macroporous morphology of
CeO2 hierarchical nanoparticles. Humidity sensing properties were studied using interdigitated electrode
coated with CeO2 nanoparticles. The results showed the sensing response of 0.5 times for 10% RH
(relative humidity) and seven times for 90% RH. The response and recovery times were found to be as
low as 12 s and 15 s, respectively. The experimental results provided an environment-friendly approach
for the synthesis of CeO2 particles and revealed promising results in humidity sensing application.
Metabolite Profiling of Different Tissues of Barleria dinteri through the GC-MS Analysis
Authors: Gololo Sechene S. , Semenya Chepape J. , Olivier Mutendela T. , Sethoga Lesibana J. , Mathe Emelinah H. , Maseko Rejoice B.
Published: June 2021

Barleria dinteri is a medicinal plant with distribution in the Limpopo, Gauteng and Mpumalanga
provinces of South Africa as well as in Botswana, Swaziland and Namibia with exclusive specific
habitation on limestone-rich soil. The plant species is used by traditional healers for wound healing
and treatment of some intestinal tumours, as well as to relieve joint pains and toothache. The present
study was aimed at the metabolite profiling of the different tissues (branches, flowers, leaves, roots) of
Barleria dinteri using GC-MS analysis. Different extracts of the plant parts samples were subjected to
GC-MS analysis and detected compounds were compared for presence amongst the different tissues.
The results of the study revealed that all different parts (branches, flowers, leaves and roots) of B.
dinteri, possess compounds that are detectable through GC-MS analysis with most compounds detected
in the aerial parts, particularly the flowers. The results of the current study could serve as a basis for
the possible plant parts substitution of the roots of B. dinteri with the aerial parts and the exploration
of the pharmacological properties of the flowers for sustainable uses of the plant species for medicinal
purposes.
Cloud Point Extraction and Spectrophotometric Studies for the Extraction of
Nigrosin and Aniline Blue Dyes using Mixed Micelles of TBAB and Triton X-114
Authors: Radhakrishna D. , Suneetha D. , Shyamala P.
Published: June 2021

The extractions of two anionic dyes viz. nigrosin and aniline blue by cloud point extraction method
using mixed micelles of tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB) and Triton X-114 were conducted. To
get the greatest extraction efficiency, pH of the solution, surfactant concentration, concentration of
electrolyte, equilibrium temperature and time were optimized. A linear calibration curve in the range
of 0.567-9.07 mg/L (nigrosin) and 0.982-19.645 mg/L (aniline blue) was obtained. Limit of detection were
found to be 2.45 ng/L and 2.008 ng/L for nigrosin and aniline blue dyes, respectively. Thermodynamic
parameters were also calculated to establish the feasibility of the process. This method was then used
to determine the dyes in tap and sea water samples. The extraction efficiency was explained in terms
of dye surfactant interaction as shown by observed spectral changes between anionic dye and cationic
surfactant followed by solubilization of the complex in non-ionic surfactant.
Ion-Solvent Interaction Behaviour of Lithium Perchlorate in N,N-Dimethylacetamide and its Binary Mixtures with 2-Aminoethanol: FTIR Vibrational and NMR Spectroscopy Study
Authors: Kumar Suresh , Singh Narender , Anand Hardeep
Published: June 2021

FTIR vibrational spectra and NMR spectra were studied for different electrolytic concentrations of lithium perchlorate (LiClO4) in pure N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMA) and its binary mixtures with 2-amino ethanol (AE) of the different salt concentration ranges from 0.25 to 1.0 M with a molar ratio of LiClO4:AE:DMA (4:4:4). The 13C NMR and FTIR studies have been used to investigate the behaviour of O=C-N deformation vibration and change in chemical shift. Study revealed that the Li+ ions coordinate to the nitrogen atom of NH4 + structure and O of the C=O group of DMA. The interaction between Li+ ions and solvent molecules was confirmed by the carbonyl stretch symmetric ring deformation bands in DMA. From both studies it was found that the intensity increases, band split and chemical shift values of C atom of C=O of amide group also change with the increase in the concentrations of LiClO4 in binary mixtures of AE + DMA, indicating a strong coordination between Li+ ions and DMA.
Impact of Pandemic on Women Health Indicators in a Tertiary Health Centre of Bihar
Authors: Hans Punit , Sinha Anjana , Kumar Uday
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND This study was conducted to analyse the impact of pandemic on healthcare, evaluate the negative psychological behaviour towards health professionals and study the effect of Covid-19 infection on hospital avoiding attitude of female patients. METHODS This was a case-control study conducted in Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Patna Medical College and Hospital, Patna, Bihar. Study period was from 01st April 2020 to 30th September 2020. All the patients except Covid-19 positive cases, coming to Gynaecology Outpatient Department (GOPD), antenatal care (ANC) and labour room emergency (LRE) were included in the study. Patients who were seen from April 2019 to September 2019, total of 20,961 were in ‟pre Covid-19ˮ control group, while patients seen from April 2020 to September 2020, a total of 8,859 were in ‟during Covid-19” case group. Records of all health parameters for patients were reviewed, and then divided into two groups as patient input indicators and healthcare efficiency indicators. Number of patients visiting GOPD, ANC and admitted in LRE comprised patient input indicators (implying hospital avoiding attitude) while delivery rate, dilation and evacuation (D & E) rate, stillbirth rate and mortality rate comprised healthcare efficiency indicators. RESULTS Overall patients visiting the hospital dropped down from 21,361 to 8859 (by 58.5 %); GOPD patients reduced by 74 % while total ANC patients reduced by 44 %; and total LRE admissions reduced by 35.3 %. CONCLUSIONS Despite increased health professionals (workdays) per patient in LRE, mortality rate and still birth rate increased by 60.2 % and 23 % respectively indicating worsening of efficiency which is direct hidden negative psychological impact of pandemic immediately calling for the need of positive counselling and proper psychiatric care of both the health professionals and patients. KEY WORDS Covid-19, Pandemic, Still Birth Rate