bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Percepção ambiental de alunos do ensino fundamental no município de Nova Palma, RS
Authors: Garlet Juliana , Dorow Thais Scotti do Canto
Published: April 2021

O estudo da percepção ambiental torna-se importante, para que seja possível a compreensão das interrelações entre o homem e o ambiente que o cerca. Assim, o objetivodeste estudo é avaliar a percepção ambiental de alunos do Ensino Fundamental da EscolaMunicipal Cândida Zasso, de Nova Palma - RS. Para a análise, utilizou-se um questionárioconstituído por 13 questões sobre ambiente e educação, sendo 12 de múltipla escolha e umadiscursiva. Através dos resultados, constatou-se que, de maneira geral, as séries avaliadasapresentaram boa percepção ambiental na maioria das questões, com pequenas diferenças de percepção entre as séries. Os estudantes compreendem a necessidade de preservarem oambiente onde vivem; porém, necessitam de meios mais eficientes que os façam compreender aimportância da mudança de hábitos e atitudes, para uma melhor qualidade de vida. Assim, osresultados deste estudo demonstram a relevância de se trabalhar a Educação Ambiental a partirda realidade escolar, iniciando pelos conceitos mais básicos de preservação, para que os jovenspercebam a importância de pequenas atitudes na preservação ambiental.
Experiências ambientais de uma prática pedagógica interdisciplinar na Vila de Itaúnas, Conceição da Barra, ES
Authors: Demoner Rosiane Lima
Published: April 2021

O presente artigo relata experiência pedagógica realizada na instituição pública de ensino “EMEF. Eloy Miranda”, localizada no município de Fundão, no Estado do Espírito Santo, com os alunos do 7ª ano, tendo início no ano de 2010 e continuidade em 2011. Objetivou-se propiciar aos alunos reconhecimento e vivências de experiências pedagógicas e ambientais, para problematizar os principais pontos de fragilidade e de potencialidade, assim como as formas de resistências assumidas na atualidade e na vida cotidiana dos sujeitos que acompanharam e ainda estão vivenciando as causas dos impactos decorrentes do desmatamento e do uso indevido do solo. Para realizar o trabalho foi desenvolvido um diagnóstico social, cultural e ambiental realizado por meio um estudo de campo envolvendo a cidade de Fundão e a Vila de Itaúnas, sendo registradas as conversas e entrevistas com os moradores locais num Diário de Campo, contemplando de forma interdisciplinar. A experiência pedagógica possibilitou aos alunos conhecer na Vila de Itaúnas os reflexos dos desastres ambientais e refletir suas atuais ações/atitudes para que os desastres ambientais e sociais do seu município sejam minimizados, além de propiciar a interação com a sabedoria popular, explorando a sensibilidade do contato direto dos alunos e a vivencia de uma nova cultura, história e saberes construídos ao longo dos anos. E decorrente a importância da transversalidade de saberes, atualmente inserida no Projeto Político Pedagógico da escola.
Interações sociais, comunicação e desenvolvimento rural de agricultores familiares
Authors: Jeronimo Carlos Enrique de Medeiros , Araújo Ana Beatriz Alves de
Published: April 2021

Este artigo analisa as interações sociais e o desenvolvimento de agricultores familiares sob a ótica de contribuições que o processo de comunicação pode trazer ao desenvolvimento, onde o embasamento teórico principal é o da comunicação para a mudança social. A pesquisa se baseia em dados coletados na Rede Xique Xique. Um dos objetivos propostos é verificar se, ao longo do tempo, a coletividade entre agricultores familiares seria reforçada ou se, ao contrário, haveria tendência à individualização. Outro objetivo é identificar se extensionistas e representantes de sindicato estão integrados à rede de relacionamentos dos produtores assentados. Parte-se das hipóteses de que existe uma rede consistente de interações sociais que inclui atores de diversos setores da sociedade local e também de que os agricultores familiares têm avançado no processo de emancipação.
L’entretien en tant qu’interaction : qu’en est-il du chercheur?
Authors: St-Denis Karine , Richard Stéphane
Published: April 2021

Mener des projets de recherche auprès d’intervenants d’urgence aux vécus professionnels souffrants demande empathie et respect de la part des chercheurs, et ce, d’autant plus lors des entretiens de recherche. Cet article rend compte des réflexions de deux chercheurs sur la nature, les limites et les conséquences de cette interaction. À partir de nos vécus de recherche auprès de pompiers, d’ambulanciers-paramédics et de travailleurs sociaux, nous montrerons, premièrement, que l’entretien est une interaction qui demande d’être à l’écoute des rites d’interaction et des marqueurs de fragilisation de la présentation de soi des participants. Deuxièmement, nous nous intéresserons aux conséquences, pour le chercheur, de cette exposition répétée à la souffrance d’autrui lors des entretiens, de la retranscription, et de l’analyse. Nous conclurons par la présentation d’outils interdisciplinaires que nous avons utilisés, au mieux, pour nommer, baliser et diminuer les impacts de ces interactions d’entretien parfois fort prenantes et humainement difficiles.
Mitogenomics of five Olidiana leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Coelidiinae) and their phylogenetic implications
Authors: Wang Xianyi , Wang Jiajia , Dai Ren-Huai
Published: April 2021

Similar morphological characteristics and limited molecular data of Olidiana resulted in their unknown phylogenetic statuses and equivocal relationships. To further understand the genus Olidiana, we sequenced and annotated five Olidiana complete mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes). Our results show that Olidiana mitogenomes range from 15,205 bp to 15,993 bp in length and include 37 typical genes (13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs, and 2 rRNAs) and a control region. Their nucleotide composition, codon usage, features of control region, and tRNA secondary structures are similar to other members of Cicadellidae. We constructed the phylogenetic tree of Cicadellidae using the maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) methods based on all valid mitogenome sequences. The most topological structure of the obtained phylogenetic tree is consistent. Our results support the monophyletic relationships among 10 subfamilies within Cicadellidae and confirm Iassinae and Coelidiinae to be sister groups with high approval ratings. Interestingly, Olidiana was inferred as a paraphyletic group with strong support via both ML and BI analyses. These complete mitogenomes of five Olidiana species could be useful in further studies for species diagnosis, evolution, and phylogeny research within Cicadellidae.
Pre- and post-partum variation in wool cortisol and wool micron in Australian Merino ewe sheep (Ovis aries)
Authors: Sawyer Gregory , Fox Dylan Russell , Narayan Edward
Published: April 2021

An individual merino sheep’s output of wool production is influenced by synergistic interactions of sheep genetics, climate, farm management, and nutrition available to the whole flock. The price paid to the producer for this wool commodity is determined via numerous tested parameters and /or subjective appraisal of the raw greasy wool. This research investigated the level of variation in wool cortisol (a physiological stress biomarker) and wool micron (MIC) in Merino ewes (Ovis aries), pre-partum and post-lambing (lactation/lambs at foot), using maiden ewe (n = 38) managed in an outdoor paddock in a commercial farm. The key findings of this study are; (1) wool quality indicators showed a significant variation between pre- and post- parturition including significant reduction in MIC and (2) there was a negative correlation between wool cortisol levels and wool micron pre-parturition (rs = − 0.179,p < 0.05). This relationship between wool cortisol and wool micron was positive (rs = + 0.29,p < 0.05) during post-parturition suggesting that ewes with lambs at foot ended up with finer wool (reduction in fibre diameter) but they also maintained high levels of wool cortisol. Furthermore, the comfort factor, curvature, standard deviation and spin fineness of the wool were also significantly reduced post-parturition. The results of this study show that metabolic resources partitioning in ewe associated with pregnancy and lambing can result in a reduction in wool quality indices. The activity of the HPA-axis is attenuated during late gestation and parturition as a maternal adaptation; however, the results of our study show that wool cortisol remained similar between pre- and post- lambing. This result indicates that environmental stressors that may have been operating on farm (e.g., cold winter period) could influence on maternal physiological stress response however the exact level of influence of environment conditions on ewe stress levels and productivity traits (e.g., lambing success and wool quality) warrants further investigation. In conclusion, the use of top-knot wool sampling in combination with wool cortisol analysis provides researchers with a convenient method to quantify wool quality and physiological stress simultaneously under commercial sheep production.
Beneficial effects of an intergenerational exercise intervention on health-related physical and psychosocial outcomes in Swiss preschool children and residential seniors: a clinical trial
Authors: Minghetti Alice , Donath Lars , Zahner Lukas , Hanssen Henner , Faude Oliver
Published: April 2021

Background

Intergenerational exercise possesses the potential to becoming an innovative strategy for promoting physical activity in seniors and children. Although this approach has gained attraction within the last decade, controlled trials on physical and psychosocial effects have not been performed yet.

Methods

Sixty-eight healthy preschool children (age: 4.9 y (SD 0.7)) and 47 residential seniors (age: 81.7 y (7.1)) participated in this five-armed intervention study. All participants were assigned to either an intergenerational (IG), peer (PG) or a control group (CON). Children were tested on gross motor skills (TGMD-2), jump performance and handgrip strength. Social-emotional skills questionnaires (KOMPIK) were assessed by kindergarten teachers. Seniors performed the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), including gait speed. Arterial stiffness parameters were also examined. Questionnaires assessing psychosocial wellbeing were filled in with staff. IG and PG received one comparable exercise session a week lasting 45 minutes for 25-weeks. CON received no intervention. Measurements were performed before and after the intervention.

Results

In children: IG improved all measured physical parameters. When adjusted for baseline values, large effects were observed in favor of IG compared to CON in TGMD-2 (Cohen’s d=0.78 [0.33;1.24]) and in handgrip strength (d = 1.07 [0.63;1.51]). No relevant differences were found in KOMPIK between groups (−0.38<d≤0.14). In seniors: IG showed moderate to very large improvements in all main physical performance (0.61<d≤2.53) and psychosocial parameters (0.89<d≤1.20) compared to CON.

Conclusion

IG children showed large benefits in motor skills compared to CON while IG seniors benefit especially in psychosocial wellbeing and functional mobility necessary for everyday life. Intergenerational exercise is comparable and in certain dimensions superior to peer group exercise and a promising strategy to integratively improve mental health as well as physical fitness in preschool children and residential seniors.
Transcriptomics analysis reveals the effect of Broussonetia papyrifera L. fermented feed on meat quality traits in fattening lamb
Authors: An Xuejiao , Zhang Shengwei , Li Taotao , Chen Nana , Wang Xia , Zhang Baojun , Ma Youji
Published: April 2021

To date, utilization of feed grains is increasing, which competes for human food. It is imperative to develop and utilize unconventional feed materials. Broussonetia papyrifera L. (B. papyrifera) is a good feeding material with high crude protein, crude fat, and low crude fiber, which is widely distributed in China. In this study, 12 Dorper ♂×Hu ♀  crossbred weaned male lambs were seleted into four groups based on the feed that ratio of the B. papyrifera fermented feed in the total mixed diet (0%, 6%, 18%, and 100%), to character the lambs’ longissimus dorsi (LD) fatty acids, morphology and transcriptome. Results showed that the muscle fiber’s diameter and area were the smallest in the 100% group. The highest content of beneficial fatty acids and the lowest content of harmful fatty acids in group 18%. RNA-seq identified 443 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the LD of lambs from 4 groups. Among these genes, 169 (38.1%) were up-regulated and 274 (61.9%) were down-regulated. The DEGs were mostly enriched in in fatty acid metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, and PPAR signaling pathways. Our results provide knowledge to understand effect of different ratios of B. papyrifera fermented feed on sheep meat quality traits, also a basis for understanding of the molecular regulation mechanism of B. papyrifera fermented feed affecting on sheep meat quality.
Ambient ozone pollution at a coal chemical industry city in the border of Loess Plateau and Mu Us Desert: characteristics, sensitivity analysis and control strategies
Authors: Yin Manfei , Zhang Xin , Li Yunfeng , Fan Kai , Li Hong , Gao Rui , Li Jinjuan
Published: April 2021

In this study, ambient ozone (O3) pollution characteristics and sensitivity analysis were carried out in Yulin, a city in the central area of the Loess Plateau during 2017 to 2019 summer. O3 concentrations increased for 2017 to 2019. Correlation and statistics analysis indicated high temperature (T > 25 °C, low relative humidity (RH < 60%), and low wind speed (WS < 3 m/s) were favorable for O3 formation and accumulation, and the O3 pollution days (MDA8 O3 > 160 µg/m3) were predominantly observed when the wind was traveling from the easterly and southerly. O3 concentration in urban area of Yulin was higher than that in background. The pollution air masses from Fenwei Plain increase the level and duration of O3 pollution. In order to clarify the formation mechanism and source of O3, online measurements of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were conducted from 7 July to 10 August in 2019. The average of VOCs concentration was 26 ± 12 ppbv, and large amounts of alkenes followed by aromatics, characteristic pollutants of the coal chemical industry, were detected in the ambient air. To further measure the sensitivity, the observation-based model (OBM) simulation was conducted. Empirical Kinetic Modeling Approach (EKMA) plot and relative incremental reactivity (RIR) value indicated Yulin located on VOCs-limited regime. That implied a slight decrease of NOx may increase O3 concentration. When the emission reduction ratio of anthropogenic VOCs/NOx higher than 1:1, the O3 will decrease. O3 control strategies analysis shows that the O3 targets of 5% and 10% O3 concentration reductions are achievable through precursor control, but more effort is needed to reach the 30% and 40% reduction control targets.
Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals key insights into male sterility in Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge
Authors: Yu Yan , Jiang Yuanyuan , Wang Long , Wu Yichao , Liao Jinqiu , Zhong Mingzhi , Yang Ruiwu , Chen Xingfu , Li Qingmiao , Zhang Li
Published: April 2021

Background

Large-scale heterosis breeding depends upon stable, inherited male sterility lines. We accidentally discovered a male sterility line (SW-S) in the F1progeny of a Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge from Shandong, China (purple flowers) crossed with a S. miltiorrhiza f. alba from Sichuan, China (white flowers). We sought to provide insights into the pollen development for male sterility in S. miltiorrhiza.

Methods

The phenotypic and cytological features of the SW-S and fertile control SW-F were observed using scanning electron microscopy and paraffin sections to identify the key stage of male sterility. Transcriptome profiles were recorded for anthers at the tetrad stage of SW-S and SW-F using Illumina RNA-Seq.

Results

The paraffin sections showed that sterility mainly occurred at the tetrad stage of microspore development, during which the tapetum cells in the anther compartment completely fell off and gradually degraded in the sterile line. There was little-to-no callose deposited around the microspore cells. The tetrad microspore was shriveled and had abnormal morphology. Therefore, anthers at the tetrad stage of SW-S and fertile control SW-F were selected for comparative transcriptome analysis. In total, 266,722,270 clean reads were obtained from SW-S and SW-F, which contained 36,534 genes. There were 2,571 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in SW-S and SW-F, of which 63.5% were downregulated. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis indicated that the differentially expressed genes were enriched in 56 functional groups (GO terms); of these, all DEGs involved in microgametogenesis and developmental maturation were downregulated in SW-S. These results were confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR. The two GO terms contained 18 DEGs, among which eight DEGs (namely: GPAT3, RHF1A, phosphatidylinositol, PFAS, MYB96, MYB78, Cals5, and LAT52) were related to gamete development. There were 10 DEGs related to development and maturation, among which three genes were directly related to pollen development (namely: ACT3, RPK2, and DRP1C). Therefore, we believe that these genes are directly or indirectly involved in the pollen abortion of SW-S. Our study provides insight into key genes related to sterility traits in S. miltiorrhiza, and the results can be further exploited in functional and mechanism studies.
Nutritional Value of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) Meat
Authors: Abdel- Mobdy H. E. , Abdel-Aal H. A. , Souzan S. L. , Nassar A. G.
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this study was to figure out catfish meat's chemical composition, mineral content, amino acid composition, and fatty acid profile. Moisture, protein, lipid, and ash content were measured at 71.30%, 19.03%, 8.10%, and 1.5%, respectively. Catfish meat had higher levels of calcium, phosphorus, and iron, with 304.82, 279.45 and 17.03 mg/100 g, respectively. The essential amino acid content was 41.81 g/100g protein. Oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acids were the most common fatty acids present in catfish meat. Oleic acid made up more than a third of the fatty acid content in catfish meat. Because of its high oleic acid content, catfish meat should be considered because it has been linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
A Study on the Socioeconomic Profile of Self Help Groups Established under NRLM in the Jammu Region
Authors: Ashok Kalla , Peshin Rajinder , Manjunath K. V. , Kumar Rakesh , Sharma Rakesh
Published: April 2021

National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) scheme was launched in 2011 with an agenda to reach out and mobilise seventy million below poverty line (BPL) households into self-managed self-help groups (SHG) and federal institutions and support them through livelihood collectives. In order to understand the profile characteristics of SHGs established under this scheme, the study was conducted in purposively selected Jammu and Samba districts in the Jammu region. Out of a total of 670 SHGs set up till 2017, a sample of 20 SHGs, 10 from each purposively selected Dansal block of Jammu district and Ghagwal block of Samba district were selected employing random sampling technique without replacement. Data collection was done by personal interview method with a semi structured interview schedule. The results revealed that all the respondents were female and majority were married belonging to the scheduled castes, with a nuclear family type having an average formal education upto 5th standard. It is also understood that there is a significant relationship between the education levels of the respondents with their caste and group membership. The study also found that majority of the respondents engaged into self help groups under NRLM belonging to the below poverty line category.
Pheromones -Psychosexual Stimulants
Authors: Malankar Anand , Sawarkar Sudhir
Published: April 2021

In the quest of understanding the phenomenon of sexual attraction and sex appeal between opposite sex, there are various elements that are responsible like Physical attraction, Smell, body Odor, Voice Pitch and Facial Features. The Physical attraction may be the oldest way of understanding sex appeal, however new studies are uncovering various other unexpected factors like smell, voice pitch, and facial expressions as an important aspect of sexual arousal. The role of smell influence on sexual attraction and other behavioral aspect is crucial because humans can smell around 10,000 different aromas knowingly, however there are array of insensible aromas that we are not aware off which we are smelling day in and day out. They are responsible for behavior. The effects of pheromones on psychosexual behavior on human have been studied to great extent however there is limited understanding on exact role of pheromone communication and its mechanism. Pheromones are commonly used in perfumery as fixative. However, the usage of pheromones would mean more effective as real sexual fascination, execution of this tactic will have paradigm shift in perfumery industry which is a great approach to move from monarchy of art to scientific acquaintance. This review is an attempt of compiling the findings from key researches related to use of Pheromones in humans and few animals. We have further discussed the role of pheromones, their molecular aspects and impact on behavioral and physiological aspects. Our study indicates that pheromones are strong psycho-sexual stimulant in animals and humans, commercially many attempts have been made to prove their significance. There is tremendous scope to explore the potential of Pheromones in reenergizing human sexual life which is greatly impacted due to stress, fatigue and age factor.
Application of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Chances and Challenges
Authors: Manne Ravi , Kantheti Sneha C.
Published: April 2021

Use of Artificial intelligence (AI) has increased in the healthcare in many sectors. Organizations from health care of different sizes, types and different specialties are now a days more interested in how artificial intelligence has evolved and is helping patient needs and their care, also reducing costs, and increasing efficiency. This study explores the implications of AI on healthcare management, and challenges involved with using AI in healthcare along with the review of several research papers that used AI models in different sectors of healthcare like Dermatology, Radiology, Drug design etc.
Creosote Bush (Larrea tridentata) Phytochemical Traits and its Different uses: A Review
Authors: Herrera-Medina R. E. , Álvarez-Fuentes G. , Contreras-Servín C. , García-López J. C.
Published: April 2021

Creosote bush (Larrea tridentata) is a perennial shrub present in Chihuahuan, Sonoran and Mojave deserts it contains diverse metabolites; among them lignans are the most important, one of the most studied is nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), this shrub has been studied for more than seventy years due to its great variety uses. The bactericidal effect of creosote bush has been well documented, as the fungicide, nematicide, protozoa and viral effect. It has been used as an antioxidant to preserve meat in canned food. Recently research has been done on NDGA effects on anti-carcinogenic cells. There is scarce information about the use of creosote bush in livestock production. Some studies in sheep and broilers are available. The results of these research indicate that creosote bush could be used to improve productive variables in livestock and have an intestinal effect on bacteria.
SIR Model Parameters Estimation with COVID-19 Data
Authors: Roberty Nilson C. , Araujo Lucas S. F. de
Published: April 2021

Based on the SIR model that divides the population into susceptible, infected and removed individuals, data about the evolution of the pandemic compiled by the Johns Hopkins University Center for Systems Science and Engineering (JHUCSSE) are integrated into the numerical system solution. The system parameters Rate of Contact β, Basic Reproduction Number R0 and Removal Rate γ, also named Rate of Decay, are determined according to a ridge regression approach and a mobile statistical scheme with different averages. Data is automatically downloaded from https://raw.githubusercontent.com/CSSEGISandData/COVID-19. The main Python libraries used are Numpy, Pandas, Skit-Learn, Requests and Urllib.
Principal Component Factor Analysis of Some Development Factors in Southern Nigeria and Its Extension to Regression Analysis
Authors: Eze Nnaemeka Martin , Asogwa Oluchukwu Chukwuemeka , Eze Chinonso Michael
Published: April 2021

This study was conducted to evaluate some development factors in Southern Nigeria in order to ascertain common factors that explained the interrelationships among them and identify best cities for recommendation. A total sample of 250 cities from different states in three geopolitical zones in Southern Nigeria was used in this study and 11 development factors were considered. Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) of (> 0.5) was computed to test the sampling adequacy; Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity (Significant at 0.001) was conducted to test whether the correlation between the variables are sufficiently large for factor analysis; correlation matrix was computed to confirm the inter-item correlation. In this analysis, principal component factor analysis was the factor extraction method. Varimax rotation technique was used for factor rotation. The result showed that three new factors with eigenvalues greater than 1 were successfully constructed. The three new factors accounted for 71.63% of total variance in the dataset and assigned as the common factors influencing sustainable development in Southern Nigeria. The communalities results ranging from 0.32-0.88 depicted that factor model was adequate. The results of factor analysis were extended to multiple regression analysis. The multiple regression model was fitted using development scores as dependent variable and rotated factors as independent variables. The coefficient of determination,, for the regression model was 99% and this shows that the model is adequate to evaluate the Southern Nigerian cities. The higher the estimated development scores, the better a city. Tolerance and VIF values showed that there was no multicollinearity in the regression model.
Energetic Analysis of Rice Processing Plant: A Case Study of Hisar District in Haryana
Authors: Sharma Parmod , Yadvika . , Verma Kanishk , Yadav Y. K. , Ravi .
Published: April 2021

A study was conducted to find out electrical and manual energy use pattern in post harvest rice processing operation in modern rice Plant at Hisar district of Haryana. Planting capacity of rice Plant is 200 tons per day and Plant operated 20 hours in one day. The processing operation adopted in modern rice Plant viz, parboiling, drying, polishing & dehusking, sorting & grading and packaging. In processing of rice, modern rice Plant utilized total electrical and manual energy were 64965.5 and 987.84 MJ/day. It was found that the electrical energy consumption of Plant in parboiling 10010.88, drying 16663.80, polishing & dehusking 22936.32, sorting & grading 14445.09 and packaging 1054.18 MJ/day were required. Operation wise manual energy used during the parboiling & drying 235.2, polishing & dehusking 188.16, sorting & grading 94.08 and packaging 470.40 MJ/day.
Energy Assessment of Rice- Wheat Cropping Systems in Agro-Climatic Zone-1 of Haryana State
Authors: Sharma Parmod , Yadvika . , Verma Kanishk , Yadav Y. K. , Ravi .
Published: April 2021

The aim of study to examined the operation-wise and source wise energy use in wheat and rice crop production.  Present study was conducted in four districts of Haryana namely Kurukshetra, Karnal, Kaithal and Sonipat, which are situated at the bank of Yamuna canal and comes under agro climatic zone-1. In this study total 1080 farmers from 120 villages in different categories (360 from each group) were interviewed and information on various input in wheat and rice crop production was collected during winter and rainy seasons consecutive two years i.e. 2018-19 and 2019-20. Based on the collected information, all the cultural practices in wheat and rice crop production were identified and converted into energy by using standard energy equivalents. Results showed that total operation-wise energy expenditure by large, medium and small farmer's was 43693.82, 42557.21 and 41915.70 MJ/ha respectively in rice crop production. In case of wheat crop cultivation total operation-wise energy consumed by large, medium and small farmer's was 26472.74, 26576.39 and 25644.18 MJ/ha respectively. In both the crop production irrigation and fertilizer share more than 75 % of the total energy.  Fertilizer alone accounted approximately 40 % 0f total energy followed by irrigation and it was also estimated that large group farmer's consumed more energy as compared to medium and small categories farmers in cultivation of rice and wheat crop. Total source-wise energy expenditure  by large, medium and small farmer's was 39402.40, 36579.49 and 36332.21.70 MJ/ha  respectively in rice crop production. In case of wheat crop cultivation total source-wise energy consumed by large, medium and small farmer's was 19969.47, 20486.03 and 20180.73 MJ/ha respectively. From the study it was concluded that energy consumption has a positive relationship with the yield.
Adaptive event‐triggered consensus control of multi‐agent systems with prescribed performance and input quantization
Authors: Wang Wei , Ma Hui , Basin Michael V. , Liang Hongjing
Published: April 2021

This paper focuses on the adaptive fuzzy event‐triggered consensus control problem for multi‐agent systems (MAS) with prescribed performance and input quantization. Based on a prescribed performance function and an input quantization decomposition method, a new adaptive fuzzy event‐triggered consensus protocol is presented. The instances in the event‐triggered mechanism are triggered only when the event‐triggered error exceeds a specified threshold, which can save limited communication resources. It is demonstrated that the event‐triggered control protocol ensures that all signals in the MAS are semi‐globally uniformly ultimately bounded. As a result, the consensus tracking errors converge to prescribed limits. Finally, simulation examples are provided to validate effectiveness of the proposed event‐triggered control methods.
An Inorganic/Organic S‐Scheme Heterojunction H2‐Production Photocatalyst and its Charge Transfer Mechanism
Authors: Cheng Chang , He Bowen , Fan Jiajie , Cheng Bei , Cao Shaowen , Yu Jiaguo
Published: April 2021

Inspired by natural photosynthesis, constructing inorganic/organic heterojunctions is regarded as an effective strategy to design high‐efficiency photocatalysts. Herein, a step (S)‐scheme heterojunction photocatalyst is prepared by in situ growth of an inorganic semiconductor firmly on an organic semiconductor. A new pyrene‐based conjugated polymer, pyrene‐alt‐triphenylamine (PT), is synthesized via the typical Suzuki–Miyaura reactions, and then employed as a substrate to anchor CdS nanocrystals. The optimized CdS/PT composite, coupling 2 wt% PT with CdS, exhibits a robust H2 evolution rate of 9.28 mmol h−1 g−1 with continuous release of H2 bubbles, as well as a high apparent quantum efficiency of 24.3%, which is ≈8 times that of pure CdS. The S‐scheme charge transfer mechanism between PT and CdS, is systematically demonstrated by photoirradiated Kelvin probe measurement and in situ irradiated X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses. This work provides a protocol for preparing specific S‐scheme heterojunction photocatalysts on the basis of inorganic/organic coupling.
Structure‐Guided Design of G‐Protein‐Coupled Receptor Polypharmacology
Authors: Kampen Stefanie , Duy Vo Duc , Zhang Xiaoqun , Panel Nicolas , Yang Yunting , Jaiteh Mariama , Matricon Pierre , Svenningsson Per , Brea Jose , Loza Maria Isabel , Kihlberg Jan , Carlsson Jens
Published: April 2021

Many diseases are polygenic and can only be treated efficiently with drugs that modulate multiple targets. However, rational design of compounds with multi‐target profiles is rarely pursued because it is considered too difficult, in particular if the drug must enter the central nervous system. Here, a structure‐based strategy to identify dual‐target ligands of G‐protein‐coupled receptors is presented. We use this approach to design compounds that both antagonize the A2A adenosine receptor and activate the D2 dopamine receptor, which have excellent potential as antiparkinson drugs. Atomic resolution models of the receptors guided generation of a chemical library with compounds designed to occupy orthosteric and secondary binding pockets in both targets. Structure‐based virtual screens identified ten compounds, of which three had affinity for both targets. One of these scaffolds was optimized to nanomolar dual‐target activity and showed the predicted pharmacodynamic effect in a rat model of Parkinsonism.
Highly Efficient Electrofluorescence Material Based on Pure Organic Phosphor Sensitization**
Authors: Wang Jiaxuan , Liang Baoyan , Wei Jinbei , Li Zhiqiang , Xu Yincai , Yang Tong , Li Chenglong , Wang Yue
Published: April 2021

Pure organic room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials are considered as potential candidates for replacing precious metal complexes to fabricate highly efficient organic light‐emitting devices (OLEDs). However, applications of the reported RTP materials in OLEDs are seriously impeded by their low photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) in a thin film state. To overcome these obstacles, we established a new strategy to construct highly efficient OLEDs based on a pure organic RTP material sensitized fluorescence emitter by selecting benzimidazole‐triazine molecules (PIM‐TRZ), 2,6‐di(phenothiazinyl)naphthalene (β‐DPTZN), and 5,6,11,12‐tetraphenylnaphthacene (rubrene) as host, phosphor sensitizer, and fluorescent emitter, respectively. The perfect combination of host, phosphorescent sensitizer, and fluorescent emitter in the emitting layer ensure the outstanding performance of the devices with an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 15.7 %.
Controllable Cu0‐Cu+ Sites for Electrocatalytic Reduction of Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Yuan Xintong , Chen Sai , Cheng Dongfang , Li Lulu , Zhu Wenjin , Zhong Dazhong , Zhao Zhi‐Jian , Li Jingkun , Wang Tuo , Gong Jinlong
Published: April 2021

Cu‐based electrocatalysts facilitate CO2 electrochemical reduction (CO2ER) to produce multi‐carbon products. However, the roles of Cu0 and Cu+ and the mechanistic understanding remain elusive. This paper describes the controllable construction of Cu0‐Cu+ sites derived from the well‐dispersed cupric oxide particles supported on copper phyllosilicate lamella to enhance CO2ER performance. 20 % Cu/CuSiO3 shows the superior CO2ER performance with 51.8 % C2H4 Faraday efficiency at −1.1 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode during the 6 hour test. In situ attenuated total reflection infrared spectra and density functional theory (DFT) calculations were employed to elucidate the reaction mechanism. The enhancement in CO2ER activity is mainly attributed to the synergism of Cu0‐Cu+ pairs: Cu0 activates CO2 and facilitates the following electron transfers; Cu+ strengthens *CO adsorption to further boost C−C coupling. We provide a strategy to rationally design Cu‐based catalysts with viable valence states to boost CO2ER.
Room‐Temperature Synthesis of a Hollow Microporous Organic Polymer Bearing Activated Alkyne IR Probes for Nonradical Thiol‐yne Click‐Based Post‐Functionalization
Authors: Park Jong In , Jang June Young , Ko Yoon‐Joo , Lee Sang Moon , Kim Hae Jin , Jang Hye‐Young , Ko Kyoung Chul , Son Seung Uk
Published: April 2021

This work shows that hollow microporous organic polymer (H‐MOP‐A) with activated internal alkynes as IR probes can be prepared by template synthesis based on acyl Sonogashira‐Hagihara coupling at room temperature. The H‐MOP‐A is a versatile platform in the main chain PSM based on nonradical thiol‐yne click reaction. Moreover, an IR peak of internal alkynes in the H‐MOP‐A is very intense and could be utilized in the monitoring of thiol‐yne click‐based main chain PSM. The functionalized H‐MOP‐A with carboxylic acids (H‐MOP‐CA) showed efficient adsorption toward Ag+ ions. The resultant H‐MOP‐CA‐Ag showed excellent performance in the CO2 fixation to α‐alkylidene cyclic compounds.
Variations in the venous supply of the floor of the oral cavity: Assessment of relative hemorrhage risk during surgery
Authors: Katsumi Yuji , Takagi Ristuo , Ohshima Hayato
Published: April 2021

There is little anatomical evidence about the venous plexus in the floor of the oral cavity, although venous injury can elicit late postoperative bleeding after oral surgery and it is difficult to identify the exact location of such an injury. The aim of this study was to assess the relative risk for venous injury during surgery. We investigated the course patterns of the venous plexus in the floor of the oral cavity and analyzed their relationships to those of the arteries using 23 human cadavers (41 halves) in the anatomy course at Niigata University during 2016–2018. The venous plexus in the floor of the oral cavity comprised the perforating submental vein, the vena comitans of the hypoglossal nerve, the vena comitans of the submandibular duct, the vena comitans of the lingual nerve, the sublingual vein, and the deep lingual vein. Individual variations of this plexus include duplications or absences of some veins. There is a high incidence of a submental branch running above the mylohyoid or perforating submental artery in the sublingual fossa among individuals with the perforating submental vein piercing the mylohyoid muscle, whereas the sublingual artery has a high incidence there when there is no perforating submental vein. The course patterns of arteries in the floor of the oral cavity can be predicted by estimating the course patterns of the submental veins. The course patterns of the submental veins or veins associated with the nerves and submandibular duct need to be carefully considered during surgery.
Ultrasensitive Detection of Surface‐Confined Redox Molecules by Mediation‐Based Amplification
Authors: Mayall Robert M. , Marenco Armando J. , Kilgore Madison , Birss Viola I. , Creager Stephen E.
Published: April 2021

Trace‐level quantification of redox molecules on electrode surfaces is of great importance in multiple fields, including in electrocatalysis and sensing. Using the classical ferrocene/ferrocyanide redox‐mediation‐based electrochemical amplification method as a proof of concept, ferrocene‐terminated alkanethiols, embedded in alkanethiol‐based self‐assembled monolayers, were quantified at levels approaching 10−14 mol cm−2 (ca. 60 molecules per square micron) by combining experimental (cyclic voltammetry) and computational (digital simulation of voltammetric behavior) approaches. Quantification at these ultra‐low ferrocene surface coverages was achieved via simulated calibration curves of the ferrocyanide oxidation peak potential vs log(ferrocene thiol surface coverage) that extend the limit for immobilized ferrocene quantification by more than an order of magnitude relative to the smallest amount that can be reliably quantified by integration of the ferrocene oxidation/reduction peaks in a supporting electrolyte by monolayer cyclic voltammetry. The simulations provide important clues regarding which monolayer property changes could be expected to further extend the detection limit of immobilized redox molecules.
Heptacene: Synthesis and Its Hole‐Transfer Property in Stable Thin Films
Authors: Miyazaki Takaaki , Watanabe Motonori , Matsushima Toshinori , Chien Ching‐Ting , Adachi Chihaya , Sun Shih‐Sheng , Furuta Hiroyuki , Chow Tahsin J.
Published: April 2021

Heptacene (1) has been produced via a monoketone precursor, 2, which was prepared from 1,2,4,5‐tetrabromobenzene in nine steps in a total yield of 10 %. Compound 2 was converted to 1 quantitatively by heating at 202 °C. Heptacene exhibited high thermal stability in the solid state without any observable change over two months. To investigate the potential value of 1 as a material for p‐type organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs), top‐contact OFET devices were fabricated by vacuum deposition of 1 onto a hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS)/SiO2/Si substrate. The best hole mobility performance was 2.2 cm2 V−1 s−1. This is the first report of stable heptacene being used in an effective device and examined for its charge carrier properties.
Accessing Improbable Foldamer Shapes with Strained Macrocycles
Authors: Urushibara Ko , Ferrand Yann , Liu Zhiwei , Katagiri Kosuke , Kawahata Masatoshi , Morvan Estelle , D'Elia Ryan , Pophristic Vojislava , Tanatani Aya , Huc Ivan
Published: April 2021

The alkylation of some secondary amide functions with a dimethoxybenzyl (DMB) group in oligomers of 8‐amino‐2‐quinolinecarboxylic acid destabilizes the otherwise favored helical conformations, and allows for cyclization to take place. A cyclic hexamer and a cyclic heptamer were produced in this manner. After DMB removal, X‐ray crystallography and NMR show that the macrocycles adopt strained conformations that would be improbable in noncyclic species. The high helix folding propensity of the main chain is partly expressed in these conformations, but it remains frustrated by macrocyclization. Despite being homomeric, the macrocycles possess inequivalent monomer units. Experimental and computational studies highlight specific fluxional pathways within these structures. Extensive simulated annealing molecular dynamics allow for the prediction of the conformations for larger macrocycles with up to sixteen monomers.
A Structure‐Activity Relationship Study of Bimodal BODIPY‐Labeled PSMA‐Targeting Bioconjugates
Authors: Stemler Tobias , Hoffmann Caroline , Hierlmeier Ina M. , Maus Stephan , Krause Elmar , Ezziddin Samer , Jung Gregor , Bartholomä Mark D.
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to identify a high‐affinity BODIPY peptidomimetic that targets the prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA) as a potential bimodal imaging probe for prostate cancer. For the structure‐activity study, several BODIPY (difluoroboron dipyrromethene) derivatives with varying spacers between the BODIPY dye and the PSMA Glu‐CO‐Lys binding motif were prepared. Corresponding affinities were determined by competitive binding assays in PSMA‐positive LNCaP cells. One compound was identified with comparable affinity (IC50=21.5±0.1 nM) to Glu‐CO‐Lys‐Ahx‐HBED‐CC (PSMA‐11) (IC50=18.4±0.2 nM). Radiolabeling was achieved by Lewis‐acid‐mediated 19F/18F exchange in moderate molar activities (∼0.7 MBq nmol−1) and high radiochemical purities (>99 %) with mean radiochemical yields of 20–30 %. Cell internalization of the 18F‐labeled high‐affinity conjugate was demonstrated in LNCaP cells showing gradual increasing PSMA‐mediated internalization over time. By fluorescence microscopy, localization of the high‐affinity BODIPY‐PSMA conjugate was found in the cell membrane at early time points and also in subcellular compartments at later time points. In summary, a high‐affinity BODIPY‐PSMA conjugate has been identified as a suitable candidate for the development of PSMA‐specific dual‐imaging agents.
Addressing racial/ethnic disparities in cancer clinical trials: Everyone has a role to play
Authors: Habr Dany , Ferdinand Roxanne
Published: April 2021

Cancer disproportionately impacts racial/ethnic minority groups, yet they remain underrepresented in cancer clinical trials. This commentary highlights strategies for consideration by the pharmaceutical industry to ensure diversity in therapeutic clinical trials that reflects known incidence and burden of cancer and allows appropriate interpretation of risk/benefit with emerging therapies.
Recent Progress on Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction with Earth‐abundant Single‐atom Reactive Sites
Authors: Guan Xiangjiu , Mao Samuel S. , Shen Shaohua
Published: April 2021

Photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction represents a promising means of solar‐fuel production through conversion of CO2 feedstock. Suitable reactive sites are crucially important for ensuring high efficiency and good selectivity of target products. The construction of single‐atomic reactive sites with earth‐abundant materials on the surface of semiconductor can provide an efficient and cost‐effective route of photocatalytic reaction, demonstrating great potential for photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction. Herein, we give a short review on the mechanism of photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction, single‐atom reactive sites and the constructing strategies, recent progress and future perspectives of single‐atom reactive sites with earth‐abundant materials for photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction.
Assessment of the factors affecting the weathering properties of Pigment Yellow 74 in decorative paint
Authors: Nikam Pramod , Haramagatti Chandrashekara R. , Joshi Amit
Published: April 2021

Color or shade fading is one of the major issues observed in decorative paints. Here we have carried out a systematic artificial weathering study using QUV and ATLAS weathering test chambers for Pigment Yellow 74 (PY 74). Pigment dispersion of PY 74 received from three different manufacturers are prepared. Various factors, such as the processing parameter, for example, grinding temperature (with and without cooling water circulation during the processing of pigment dispersion), with respect to paints the factors such as primers and clear base paints of different batches, and as for the ATLAS and QUV weatherability test concerned, test panels of different lots, and multiple QUV chambers are evaluated. The color difference was recorded at regular time intervals for the panels exposed to ATLAS and QUV test of 1000 hours using color spectrophotometer. A significant color difference was recorded for the panels coated with paints based on pigment dispersion prepared using PY 74 from different manufacturers, and the difference in grinding temperature. These results show the importance of process parameters such as grinding temperature on weathering properties, and systematic testing approaches for QUV/ATLAS for the pigments from different manufacturers.
Azulene‐Substituted Donor‐Acceptor Polymethines and 1,6’‐Bi‐, 1,6′;3,6′′‐Ter‐, and Quinqueazulenes via Zincke Salts: Synthesis, and Structural, Optical, and Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Shoji Taku , Yamazaki Akari , Ariga Yukino , Uda Mayumi , Ando Daichi , Sasahara Nichika , Kai Naohito , Ito Shunji
Published: April 2021

Azulene‐substituted donor‐acceptor polymethines, bi‐, ter‐, and quinqueazulenes composed of the 1,6′‐biazulene unit have been successfully prepared from corresponding Zincke salts. The synthesis of polymethines through the reaction of Zincke salts with several amines, followed by a Knoevenagel reaction with malononitrile, was accomplished in moderate to high yields (40–92 %). Meanwhile, the reaction of Zincke salts with secondary amines and the subsequent sequential condensation‐cyclization with cyclopentadienide ions, so‐called Ziegler‐Hafner method, produced the corresponding 1,6′‐biazulenes, 1,6′;3,6′′‐terazulenes, and quinqueazulene, respectively. The structural, optical, and electrochemical properties of the azulene‐substituted donor‐acceptor polymethines, bi‐, ter‐, and quinqueazulenes were revealed by single‐crystal X‐ray structure analysis, UV/vis spectroscopy, voltammetry analysis, spectroelectrochemistry, and theoretical calculations. These results suggested that the substituents on the azulene ring and their substitution positions directly affect their reactivities, optical and electrochemical properties.