bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of orbital angular momentum of optical vortex beams with complex wandering perturbations
Authors: Li Yan-song , Chen Jun , Fu Gang-kun , Du Hao-bo , Wang Hai-long , Shi Yan , Zhao Chun-liu , Jin Shang-zhong
Published: July 2022

This work investigates how independent perturbations and cross-correlation perturbations affect optical vortex beams. Theoretical and experimental results show that both perturbations cause the intensity, average orbital angular momentum (OAM), and the OAM spectrum of the vortex beam to vary periodically with the perturbation direction, but with different periods. When the beam is subjected to independent perturbations, the average OAM changes periodically with

θ

in every

π

/

2

; when the beam is subjected to cross-correlation perturbations, the average OAM varies with

θ

in every

π

. The results of this work provide a method to control the OAM and regulate low-coherence vortex beams in turbulent environments.
Terahertz metasurface with multiple BICs/QBICs based on a split ring resonator
Authors: Zhang Xingyuan , Shi Wenqiao , Gu Jianqiang , Cong Longqing , Chen Xieyu , Wang Kemeng , Xu Quan , Han Jiaguang , Zhang Weili
Published: July 2022

Bound state in the continuum (BIC) refers to the trapped state in the radiation continuum of a system. In the terahertz band, BIC provides a unique and feasible method to design devices with ultra-high quality factor (Q factor) and to achieve intense terahertz-matter interaction, which is of great value to terahertz science and technology. Here, multiple BICs protected by the resonance symmetry in the terahertz metasurface consisting of metallic split ring resonators (SRR) is demonstrated. The evolution from the BIC to the quasi-BIC (QBIC) is induced by changing the gap width of the SRRs. The proposed BICs are experimentally demonstrated and analyzed by the coupled mode theory along with the numerical simulation. It is found that the leakage behavior of these QBICs is strongly affected by the intrinsic Ohmic loss in the SRRs while it is quite robust to the tilted incidence.
Application of the TDFA window in true optical time delay systems
Authors: Frankis Henry C. , Xie Yanran , Das Ranjan , Chen Keru , Rufenacht Hermann , Lamontagne Guillaume , Bradley Jonathan D. B. , Knights Andrew P.
Published: July 2022

Recent advances in silicon photonic components operating in the thulium-doped fiber amplifier (TDFA) wavelength regime around 2-µm have shown that these wavelengths hold great promise for on-chip photonic systems. Here we present our work on characterizing a Mach-Zehnder interferometer coupled silicon photonic ring resonator operating in the TDFA window for optical time delay applications. We describe the optical transmission and variable time delay properties of the resonator, including a detailed characterization and comparison of the directional coupler and Mach-Zehnder interferometer base components at both 1930 and 1550 nm wavelengths. The results show tuning of a ring from a 190-ps peak time delay at a resonant extinction ratio of 5.1-dB to a 560-ps peak time delay at an extinction ratio of 11.0-dB, in good agreement with optical models of the device. These results demonstrate significant promise towards the future application of TDFA band devices in optical time delay systems.
Non-scanning SISO terahertz 3D imaging based on data-driven
Authors: Liang Chuanying , Luo Chenggao , Deng Bin , Zeng Yang , Wang Hongqiang , Gan Fengjiao
Published: July 2022

In this paper, a forward-looking three-dimensional (3D) imaging method based on data-driven approach is proposed. The proposed method adopts a single-input-single-output (SISO) terahertz radar to obtain the one-dimensional range profile of the target. The 3D image is then retrieved from the range profile using the multi-layer perception (MLP) algorithm. Simulations and experiments are carried out to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method.
Modeling for extracavity-pumped terahertz parametric oscillators
Authors: Wang Zecheng , Fan Shuzhen , Chen Xiaohan , Zhang Xingyu , Cong Zhenhua , Liu Zhaojun , Qin Zengguang , Ming Na , Guo Quanxin , Guo Liyuan
Published: July 2022

This paper presents a modeling method for extracavity-pumped terahertz parametric oscillators (TPO) based on stimulated polariton scattering, in which the pumping beam is from a different laser, and the Stokes beam oscillates in its cavity. After suitable approximations and assumptions, the average THz wave amplitude in the nonlinear crystal is expressed as a function of the fundamental and Stokes wave amplitudes. Then the rate equation for the Stokes wave is obtained based on the Stokes wave increment within a cavity roundtrip timescale. After solving the Stokes wave rate equation, the Stokes wave temporal evolution is considered as a known parameter, and the properties of the residual fundamental and terahertz waves are obtained by numerically solving the coupled wave equations. This modeling method is applied to an extracavity-pumped TPO based on MgO:LiNbO3 crystal. The simulation results are basically consistent with the experimental results. The main reasons causing the deviations of the simulation results from the experimental results are analyzed. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time to perform the modeling for extracavity-pumped Q-switched TPOs.
Correlations between incident and emission polarization in nanowire-particle coupled junctions
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Li Pan , Zhang Meng , Wang Dong , Yang Longkun , Guan Zhiqiang , Li Zhipeng
Published: July 2022

Plasmonic nanostructures with subwavelength confinement are of great importance for the development of integrated nanophotonic circuits and devices. Here, we experimentally investigate how the polarization of the emitted light from nanowire-particle junction relies on the incident polarization. We demonstrate that the correlations can be effectively modulated by the particle position relative to the wire. By varying the wire-particle gap with only several nanometers, the nanowire-particle junction can be changed from polarization maintainer to rotator. Then, by moving the particle along the wire within half of the surface plasmon polariton (SPP) beat, the polarization behaviors can be tuned from positive to negative correlation. The mechanism can be well understood by the hybridization of wire-particle coupled mode and propagating SPP modes, which is verified by finite-difference time-domain simulations. These findings would provide a new degree of freedom for manipulating light polarization at the nanometer scale and additional flexibility for constructing nanophotonic devices.
Approach for faster signal processing in ϕ-OTDR systems based on the directional measurement of fiber slice interaction
Authors: Zabihi Mohammadmasoud , Krebber Katerina
Published: July 2022

Recently, fully distributed fiber sensors such as C-OTDR and ϕ-OTDR systems have drawn considerable attention from researchers. These sensors are ideal for industrial use because of their wide dynamic range, good spatial resolution, and high accuracy. However, for distributed acoustic sensors (DAS), the agility of sensor response, processing time, and data stacking have been significant challenges. These limitations are exacerbated in seismology applications for which we must record data for several hours or even several days. In this study, based on the interaction between scattering disks in a sensing fiber, we presented a new signal processing approach for heterodyne DAS systems. This approach can lead us to a direct measurement without the requirement of using or creating bulky functions in our computer interface. These measurements are easy to implement either in machine-level or high-level programming languages. We demonstrated that the speed of a DAS system can be increased while system parameters suffer only minor or no degradation. This processing idea provided us with a signal-to-noise ratio that was 1.5 dB higher than a conventional method; moreover, it increased the speed by ∼40%.
The ciliopathy protein CCDC66 controls mitotic progression and cytokinesis by promoting microtubule nucleation and organization
Authors: Batman Umut , Deretic Jovana , Firat-Karalar Elif Nur
Published: July 2022

Precise spatiotemporal control of microtubule nucleation and organization is critical for faithful segregation of cytoplasmic and genetic material during cell division and signaling via the primary cilium in quiescent cells. Microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) govern assembly, maintenance, and remodeling of diverse microtubule arrays. While a set of conserved MAPs are only active during cell division, an emerging group of MAPs acts as dual regulators in dividing and nondividing cells. Here, we elucidated the nonciliary functions and molecular mechanism of action of the ciliopathy-linked protein CCDC66, which we previously characterized as a regulator of ciliogenesis in quiescent cells. We showed that CCDC66 dynamically localizes to the centrosomes, the bipolar spindle, the spindle midzone, the central spindle, and the midbody in dividing cells and interacts with the core machinery of centrosome maturation and MAPs involved in cell division. Loss-of-function experiments revealed its functions during mitotic progression and cytokinesis. Specifically, CCDC66 depletion resulted in defective spindle assembly and orientation, kinetochore fiber stability, chromosome alignment in metaphase as well as central spindle and midbody assembly and organization in anaphase and cytokinesis. Notably, CCDC66 regulates mitotic microtubule nucleation via noncentrosomal and centrosomal pathways via recruitment of gamma-tubulin to the centrosomes and the spindle. Additionally, CCDC66 bundles microtubules in vitro and in cells by its C-terminal microtubule-binding domain. Phenotypic rescue experiments showed that the microtubule and centrosome-associated pools of CCDC66 individually or cooperatively mediate its mitotic and cytokinetic functions. Collectively, our findings identify CCDC66 as a multifaceted regulator of the nucleation and organization of the diverse mitotic and cytokinetic microtubule arrays and provide new insight into nonciliary defects that underlie ciliopathies.
Estimates and correlates of district-level maternal mortality ratio in India
Authors: Goli Srinivas , Puri Parul , Salve Pradeep S. , Pallikadavath Saseendran , James K. S.
Published: July 2022

Despite the progress achieved, approximately one-quarter of all maternal deaths worldwide occur in India. Till now, India monitors maternal mortality in 18 out of its 36 provinces using information from the periodic sample registration system (SRS). The country does not have reliable routine information on maternal deaths for smaller states and districts. And, this has been a major hurdle in local-level health policy and planning to prevent avoidable maternal deaths. For the first time, using triangulation of routine records of maternal deaths under the Health Management Information System (HMIS), Census of India, and SRS, we provide Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) for all states and districts of India. Also, we examined socio-demographic and health care correlates of MMR using large-sample and robust statistical tools. The findings suggest that 70% of districts (448 out of 640 districts) in India have reported MMR above 70 deaths—a target set under Sustainable Development Goal-3. According to SRS, only Assam shows MMR of more than 200, while our assessment based on HMIS suggests that about 6-states (and two union territories) and 128-districts have MMR above 200. Thus, the findings highlight the presence of spatial heterogeneity in MMR across districts in the country, with spatial clustering of high MMR in North-eastern, Eastern, and Central regions and low MMR in the Southern and Western regions. Even the better-off states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Gujarat have districts of medium-to-high MMR. In order of their importance, fertility levels, the sex ratio at birth, health infrastructure, years of schooling, postnatal care, maternal age and nutrition, and poor economic status have emerged as the significant correlates of MMR. In conclusion, we show that HMIS is a reliable, cost-effective, and routine source of information for monitoring maternal mortality ratio in India and its states and districts.
Measurement of market (industry) concentration based on value validity
Authors: Kvålseth Tarald O.
Published: July 2022

As measures of concentration, especially for market (industry) concentration based on market shares, a variety of different measures or indices have been proposed. However, the various indices, including the two most widely used ones, the concentration ratio and the Herfindahl-Hirschman index (HHI), lack an important property: the value-validity property. An alternative index with this and other desirable properties is introduced. The new index makes it permissible to properly assess the extent of the concentration and make order and difference comparisons between index values as being true representations of the real concentration characteristic (attribute). Computer simulation data and real market-share data are used in the analysis. It is shown that the new index has a close functional relationship with theHHIindex and has a firm theoretical relationship with market power as measured by the price-cost margin. Corresponding modifications to existing merger guidelines are presented.
Formulation of substrates with agricultural and forestry wastes for Camellia oleifera Abel seedling cultivation
Authors: Zhou Fei , Wang Nianjin , Zhang Jinping , Yao Xiaohua , Zhang Tiantian , Zhang Xiaofeng , Zhan Lingyan , Li Jieman
Published: July 2022

Five Camellia oleifera Abel seedling substrates were prepared using the conventional formula, but with the peat substituted by the composts of Camellia oleifera shell, pine chips, palm fiber residues, chicken manure, and sheep manure. The physical and chemical properties of the prepared substrates before and after seedling cultivation were determined and their effects on the growth of Camellia oleifera seedling were analyzed. It was found that the survival rates of the one-year-old seedlings produced from stem cuttings on all substrates at 6 months were greater than 97.5%. As compared with the conventional substrate, the substrates formulated with the composts were able to promote the seedling growth based upon height, ground diameter, root length and root volume measurement. The substrate prepared with the compost of Camellia oleifera shell+ palm fiber residue+ chicken manure (A3), vermiculite and perlite (6:3:1) was the most optimal, which gave 100% seedling survival rate, the greatest seedling height, and the largest ground diameter. In particular, the ground diameters and 26.67% of the seedling heights reached the grade 1 standard for two-year-old seedlings.
Causal factors affecting gross motor function in children diagnosed with cerebral palsy
Authors: MacWilliams Bruce A. , Prasad Sarada , Shuckra Amy L. , Schwartz Michael H.
Published: July 2022

Background

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a complex neuromuscular condition that may negatively influence gross motor function. Children diagnosed with CP often exhibit spasticity, weakness, reduced motor control, contracture, and bony malalignment. Despite many previous association studies, the causal impact of these impairments on motor function is unknown.

Aim

In this study, we proposed a causal model which estimated the effects of common impairments on motor function in children with spastic CP as measured by the 66-item Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66). We estimated both direct and total effect sizes of all included variables using linear regression based on covariate adjustment sets implied by the minimally sufficient adjustment sets. In addition, we estimated bivariate effect sizes of all measures for comparison.

Method

We retrospectively evaluated 300 consecutive subjects with spastic cerebral palsy who underwent routine clinical gait analysis. Model data included standard information collected during this analysis.

Results

The largest causal effect sizes, as measured by standardized regression coefficients, were found for selective voluntary motor control and dynamic motor control, followed by strength, then gait deviations. In contrast, common treatment targets, such as spasticity and orthopedic deformity, had relatively small effects. Effect sizes estimated from bivariate models, which cannot appropriately adjust for other causal factors, substantially overestimated the total effect of spasticity, strength, and orthopedic deformity.

Interpretation

Understanding the effects of impairments on gross motor function will allow clinicians to direct treatments at those impairments with the greatest potential to influence gross motor function and provide realistic expectations of the anticipated changes.
High prevalence of sexual infection by human papillomavirus and Chlamydia trachomatis in sexually-active women from a large city in the Amazon region of Brazil
Authors: dos Santos Leonardo Miranda , de Souza Josiellem Damasceno , Mbakwa Hilary Acha , Nobre Akim Felipe Santos , Vieira Rodrigo Covre , Ferrari Stephen Francis , Rodrigues Anderson Raiol , Ishikawa Edna Aoba Yassui , Guerreiro João Farias , de Sousa Maísa Silva
Published: July 2022

Background

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Chlamydia trachomatis are the most prevalent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) worldwide, and are associated cervical cancer and pelvic inflammatory disease, respectively. However, 80% of women testing positive are asymptomatic. In the Amazon region, young women, in particular, are widely exposed to the infections and their consequences.

Objectives

Determine the prevalence of sexual infection by HPV and C. trachomatis in young, sexually-active women treated at a university health program in a large city of the Brazilian Amazon region.

Methods

We amplified the L1 gene of HPV. We amplified ompA gene of C. trachomatis by nested PCR, and the study participants filled in a questionnaire on their social, epidemiological, and reproductive health characteristics. The data were analyzed using the Odds Ratio, to evaluate the degree of association of these variables with the observed infections.

Results

The prevalence of infection by HPV was 15.5% (47/303). This infection was recorded in 32.2% of the women of less than 25 years of age (OR:3.02 [CI95%] = 1.32–6.92; p = 0.014), 17.9% of the single women (OR: 2.41 [CI95%] = 1.22–4.75; p = 0.014), 23.8% of the women that reported having first sexual intercourse at less than 15 years of age (OR: 2.22 [CI95%] = 1.16–4.23; p = 0.021), 20% of those that reported having had more than one sexual partner during their lifetime (OR: 3.83 [CI95%] = 1.56–9.37; p = 0.003), and in 28.3% that use oral contraceptives (CI95% = 1.33–5.43; p = 0.008). The prevalence of sexual infection by C. trachomatis was 4.6% (14/303), and this bacterium was present in 16.1% of the young women of less than 25 years of age (OR: 2.86 [CI95%] = 1.33–5.43; p = 0.008).

Conclusions

We found a high prevalence of HPV in young, unmarried women who started their sex lives early, who had several sexual partners in their lives and who used oral contraceptives. The prevalence of C. trachomatis was high only in young women. Our data are in accordance with other studies in Brazil and in the world and may serve to base the formulation of diagnostic and screening measures for these infections in women in the Amazon.
Alterations in the molecular composition of COVID-19 patient urine, detected using Raman spectroscopic/computational analysis
Authors: Robertson John L. , Senger Ryan S. , Talty Janine , Du Pang , Sayed-Issa Amr , Avellar Maggie L. , Ngo Lacey T. , Gomez De La Espriella Mariana , Fazili Tasaduq N. , Jackson-Akers Jasmine Y. , Guruli Georgi , Orlando Giuseppe
Published: July 2022

We developed and tested a method to detect COVID-19 disease, using urine specimens. The technology is based on Raman spectroscopy and computational analysis. It does not detect SARS-CoV-2 virus or viral components, but rather a urine ‘molecular fingerprint’, representing systemic metabolic, inflammatory, and immunologic reactions to infection. We analyzed voided urine specimens from 46 symptomatic COVID-19 patients with positive real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests for infection or household contact with test-positive patients. We compared their urine Raman spectra with urine Raman spectra from healthy individuals (n = 185), peritoneal dialysis patients (n = 20), and patients with active bladder cancer (n = 17), collected between 2016–2018 (i.e., pre-COVID-19). We also compared all urine Raman spectra with urine specimens collected from healthy, fully vaccinated volunteers (n = 19) from July to September 2021. Disease severity (primarily respiratory) ranged among mild (n = 25), moderate (n = 14), and severe (n = 7). Seventy percent of patients sought evaluation within 14 days of onset. One severely affected patient was hospitalized, the remainder being managed with home/ambulatory care. Twenty patients had clinical pathology profiling. Seven of 20 patients had mildly elevated serum creatinine values (>0.9 mg/dl; range 0.9–1.34 mg/dl) and 6/7 of these patients also had estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) <90 mL/min/1.73m2 (range 59–84 mL/min/1.73m2). We could not determine if any of these patients had antecedent clinical pathology abnormalities. Our technology (Raman Chemometric Urinalysis—Rametrix®) had an overall prediction accuracy of 97.6% for detecting complex, multimolecular fingerprints in urine associated with COVID-19 disease. The sensitivity of this model for detecting COVID-19 was 90.9%. The specificity was 98.8%, the positive predictive value was 93.0%, and the negative predictive value was 98.4%. In assessing severity, the method showed to be accurate in identifying symptoms as mild, moderate, or severe (random chance = 33%) based on the urine multimolecular fingerprint. Finally, a fingerprint of ‘Long COVID-19’ symptoms (defined as lasting longer than 30 days) was located in urine. Our methods were able to locate the presence of this fingerprint with 70.0% sensitivity and 98.7% specificity in leave-one-out cross-validation analysis. Further validation testing will include sampling more patients, examining correlations of disease severity and/or duration, and employing metabolomic analysis (Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry [GC-MS], High Performance Liquid Chromatography [HPLC]) to identify individual components contributing to COVID-19 molecular fingerprints.
Clinical safety and efficacy of bispecific antibody in the treatment of solid tumors: A protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria , Balibegloo Maryam , Saghazadeh Amene , Rezaei Nima
Published: July 2022

Background

Cancers are among the most common causes of mortality and morbidity. Recently, bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) have been used for cancer treatment. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis will be to determine the safety and efficacy of BsAbs in the treatment of solid tumors.

Methods

We will search five electronic databases, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, and CENTRAL, in addition to Clinical-Trials.gov and metaRegister of controlled trials and backward and forward citation searching of included studies. Eligible studies will be controlled clinical trials evaluating safety and/or efficacy of BsAbs in adult patients with solid tumors. The primary outcomes will be the incidence of safety and efficacy measures. Title and/or abstract screening, full text reviewing, data collection, and quality assessment will be done by two reviewers. We will use The Cochrane Collaboration’s risk of bias tool 2 (RoB2) to assess the quality of included studies. If I-square heterogeneity was greater than 40%, we will implement random effect model. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression will be undertaken if applicable. The metaprop command of STATA will be used to calculate frequency of AEs. Funnel plot, Egger’s and Peter’s tests will be utilized to evaluate publication bias in case of including at least ten studies. We will use sensitivity analysis to evaluate the effects of funding sources and continuity correction on effects size.

Conclusions

The findings of the present study will provide information on safety and efficacy of BsAbs for physicians and researchers in the management of solid tumors.

Trial registration

Registration on PROSPERO CRD42021227879 Also, important protocol amendments will be stated on PROSPERO registration.
The Primal Archetypal and Mythical Crone in Toni Morrison’s Portrayals of the Elder Woman
Authors: López-Ramírez Manuela
Published: July 2022

Morrison’s portrayals of the elderly woman resonate with images of the wise mythical Crone, a universal image embedded in our consciousness. In pre-patriarchal societies, elder women, Crones, were associated with both life and death. The advent of patriarchy changed how aging females were perceived and their societal roles. They were diabolized, disempowered, and regarded as useless and invisible. However, Morrison’s Crones are strong life forces, and an active valuable part of their communities. Morrison revalues their traditional maternal domestic roles, and motherhood and household become, respectively, a transgressive act and a site of resistance and power. With their ancestral spiritual/supernatural/healing properties, her Crones are ancestor figures and moral beacons for their communities. In her oeuvre, Morrison reassesses and reclaims the primordial pre-patriarchal crone archetype to empower and honor old black women and their contributions to the black community.
Invisibles, vulnerables, pero resilientes: Mujeres migrantes en situación de sinhogarismo y estrategias de supervivencia femeninas
Authors: Penya i Guilarte Mariona , Maranillo-Castillo Laura
Published: July 2022

Las mujeres en situación de sinhogarismo son cada vez más, aunque sus situaciones están más invisibilizadas debido a que sobreviven más frecuentemente distintas formas ocultas de sinhogarismo. El objetivo de este estudio es complejizar los conocimientos sobre las estrategias de supervivencia que las mujeres usan para evitar una situación de calle a través de sus propias vivencias. Para este fin se utilizan las Producciones Narrativas, una metodología surgida de las epistemologías feministas y se parte de un marco teórico basado en la ética de los cuidados y la interseccionalidad. Se co-construyen seis Producciones Narrativas con cinco mujeres migrantes en situación de exclusión residencial en Barcelona. Estas nos muestran que, a través de habilidades relacionales tradicionalmente asociadas a una ética femenina, muchas mujeres consiguen evitar la situación de sin techo, «aguantando» muchas situaciones de violencia. Por otro lado, también usan estrategias relacionales basadas en el apoyo mutuo y la ética de los cuidados –que describen como fortalezas femeninas– para tejer redes de soporte y revertir las situaciones de exclusión. Finalmente, y a través de una mirada interseccional, también se evidencia cómo ser migrante condiciona estas vivencias y estrategias, e influye en su causa y también en su mantenimiento. Todos estos resultados tienen implicaciones que de tenerse en cuenta podrían mejorar las vidas de las mujeres que sobreviven estas situaciones, que pasan por tener en cuenta los distintos tipos de sinhogarismo así como las trayectorias diferenciales de las mujeres tanto en dispositivos de atención como en la prevención del sinhogarismo.
Externally Silylated RH-MCM-48 from Rice Husk Silica with
Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide for Multifunctional Applications
Authors: Suyanta S. , Mudasir M. , Nugroho W. , Fajariatri K.
Published: July 2022

Rice husk silica has been used as a raw material for the sonochemical synthesis of MCM-48
(RH-MCM-48). Silylation on the outer surface of RH-MCM-48 using trimethylchlorosilane before
removal of the template to prevent the formation of iron oxide in the outer of RH-MCM-48. The
impregnation of Fe3+ into the externally silylated-RH-MCM-48 porous system was done by optimizing
the concentration of Fe3+, contact time and temperature. The XRD pattern, N2 adsorption/desorption
isotherms and TEM images showed that RH-MCM-48 has an ordered Ia3d cubic mesostructure with
high specific surface area and narrow porous size distribution. FTIR spectra confirmed the successful
implementation of external silylation. Moreover, DR-UV-vis spectra, EPR spectra and magnetization
curve show that the impregnation of Fe3+ into the externally silylated-RH-MCM-48 pores produce a
superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles formed inside the pores and induces partial isomorphic
substitution of Si4+ by Fe3+ on the wall pores.
Cellulose Nanofibrils Production from Sugarcane Bagasse: A Comparative
Study between Low Energy Selective Oxidation Method and Stone Milling Fibrillation
Authors: Giang Nguyen Chau , Duc Vu Minh
Published: July 2022

Sugarcane bagasse (SCB), an abundant agro-industrial residue in Vietnam, was used as a raw material
to produce cellulose nanofibrils (CNF). First, SCB pulp was obtained from the raw material of bagasse
using a two-fraction method, soda treatment followed by bleaching with Javel solution. Then, the
SCB pulp was converted into nano-sized cellulose fibers by subjected to low energy, economical
treatment of TEMPO-mediated oxidation. A traditional mechanical method of fibrillation SCB pulp,
stone grinding was done for comparison, the produced nanocellulose is referred to as MeSCB. The
nanocellulose fibers refer as TOSCB obtained from the TEMPO oxidation process were characterized
in terms of carboxyl content, morphology, crystallinity and thermal stability. The degree of fibrillation
and the dimension of the two obtained nanocelluloses was determined by applying FE-SEM
observations combined with an image processing application, ImageJ. The results show that the MeSCB
were much less nanofibrillated than the corresponding TOSCB material but less toxic.
Quantum Computational, Structural and Molecular Docking Analysis of 3,3,5,5-Tetramethyl-2-pyrrolidone: A DFT Approach
Authors: Jeyavijayan S. , Ramuthai M. , Murugan Palani
Published: July 2022

The work focused on 3,3,5,5-tetramethyl-2-pyrrolidone (TM-2-P) to be a potential candidate for breast cancer diagnosis based on density functional theory (DFT) and molecular docking calculations. The DFT used to predict the molecular geometries, molecular electrostatic potential and electronic properties with B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) method. The geometrical parameters (bond angle and bond length) from DFT model are correlated with experimental values. The computed and experimental vibrational assignments have been determined by FT-IR and FT-Raman. To determine the charge transfer of molecule, the frontier orbital analysis has been utilized. The molecular interaction and chemical reactivity of the molecule are calculated by using the molecular electrostatic potential maps. The molecular docking calculation has been performed to obtain the biochemical activities of TM-2-P against the breast cancer studies.
Zinc(II) Complexes of Schiff Bases Derived from Bis-(2-hydrazino-1,3,4-thiadiazole-5-
yl)Arene/Alkanes: Synthesis, Spectral Characterization and Biological Properties
Authors: Vishwkarma Arti , Srivastava A.K. , Pandey O.P. , Sengupta S.K.
Published: July 2022

A novel series of zinc(II) complexes of type [ZnL(H2O)2], has been synthesized by the reaction of
zinc(II) acetate dihydrate with Schiff bases (H2L) derived from bis-(2-hydrazino-1,3,4-thiadiazole-5-
yl)arene/alkanes and 2-hydroxynaphthaldehyde/3,5-dichlorosalicyldehyde in presence of a base. The
structures of all the zinc complexes were proposed by elemental analysis and spectroscopic data (IR,
1H, 13C NMR). TGA investigations were carried out to confirm the presence of coordinated water
molecules in the zinc complexes. The powder crystal structure of one particular zinc complex has
been analyzed by XRD diffraction method and SEM studies have been carried out to investigate the
surface morphology. The biological studies reveal that the synthesized zinc complexes possess good
antimicrobial properties against different species of pathogenic fungi and bacteria.
Thermal Studies of Aqueous Free-base Porphyrin and
Metalloporphyrins of Trivalent and Tetravalent Metal Ions
Authors: Gokakakar S.D. , Salker A.V.
Published: July 2022

The free-base porphyrin and metalloporphyrins of Fe (monomer), Fe (dimer) and Sn (tin) were
synthesized and purified by dry column chromatography. Aqueous free-base porphyrin and
metalloporphyrins were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy and high-resolution
mass spectrometry. Further, these synthesized porphyrins were subjected to TG-DSC anlysis from
room temperature to 800 ºC. It was observed that each porphyrin has a characteristic first decomposition
temperature and their thermal stabilities varied from 360-432 ºC. Since, these aqueous porphyrins are
highly hygroscopic in nature, their number of waters of crystallization were determined.
Antibacterial Investigation and Structural Study on Few ortho-Mercapto-azo
Compounds by Spectroscopic Techniques and DFT Calculation
Authors: Karim Murshida , Ahmed Nizamuddin
Published: July 2022

An efficient method has been applied for the synthesis of bivalent ortho-mercapto-azo compounds by
using green reduction, condensation using ionic liquid and green debenzylation. These greener steps
provide the benefits like higher yields, shorter reaction times and simple work-up. Density functional
theory (DFT) calculation and XRD analysis proved the ionic nature of these compounds as
2-arylbenzo-1-thia-2,3-diazol-2-ium (BTD+) bromide due to intramolecular cyclization between
electrophilic sulfur atom and ortho-azo group. Some extent of LUMO orbital is present in electrophilic
sulfur atom in BTD+ bromides. These sulfenyl bromides were also found to be active against antibacterial
strains.
Recent Developments of Palladium-Catalyzed C(sp3)/C(sp2)-H Bond
Functionalizations Assisted by 8-Aminoquinoline Bidentate Directing Group
Authors: Paira Moumita
Published: July 2022

Recently growing demand for cleaner, direct even more regioselective reaction sequences, the formation
of carbon-carbon or carbon-heteroatom bonds through C-H activation has developed as a unique
methodology. Since the pioneering work of Daugulis on the use of the 8-aminoquinoline auxiliaries as
removable bidentate directing groups in palladium-catalyzed C-H bond activations has emerged as a
ground breaking strategy for the construction of carbon-carbon or carbon-heteroatom bonds. Hence,
this review intends to cover most of the recent advances on 8-aminoquinoline directed
palladium-catalyzed C(sp3)/C(sp2)–H bonds functionalizations and highlighted the synthesis of
C-branched glycosides.
Production of Biodiesel from Soybean Oil in Less Time and at Low Temperature
Authors: Choudhary Rajan , Kumar Anuj , Ellapani Vijay Nag , Trinayan Baruah , Loganathan Muruganandam , Ravy Lakshmi , Vijayaparthasarathi Vijayakumar , Baburao Amit Mahindrakar , Shanthakumar Subramaniam , Ponnamma Deepalekshmi , Sadasivuni Kishor Kumar , Swamiappan Sasikumar
Published: July 2022

The heterogeneous catalyst plays an important role in the production of biodiesel at industrial level. In
present work, the utilization of wollastonite as a heterogeneous catalyst is attempted to explore its
non-biomedical application. Wollastonite was synthesized by using the auto combustion method and
L-alanine was used as a fuel for combustion. The X-ray diffraction pattern reveals the phase purity of
wollastonite. The Fourier transform infrared spectra of the calcined precursor show the presence of
characteristics functional groups in wollastonite. To evaluate the catalytic ability of the prepared
wollastonite, transesterification reaction of soybean oil with methanol was performed. Following the
reaction, the biodiesel, glycerol and the catalyst were separated by centrifugation. Optimization of the
percentage of catalyst used in biodiesel production was done by using various quantities of catalyst
during the transesterification reaction and subjecting the produced biodiesel to gas chromatography. It
can be concluded that combined alkali metal oxide and silica in wollastonite has assisted in production
of biodiesel (82.6%) in a less time and at a low temperature.
Green-Synthesis, Characterization and the Biological Evolution of ZnSnO3
Authors: Bhaskaralakshmi Y.V. , Swapna P. , Babu B. Kishore , Rao Y. Srinivasa
Published: July 2022

Nanostructured zinc stannate binary semiconducting metal nanoparticles are having considerable
attention owing to their special and unique properties rendering them suitable for a wide range of
variety applications. In the quest to further improve the physico-chemical properties, an interest in
ternary complex oxides has become noticeable in recent times. Zinc stannate nanoparticles or zinc tin
oxide (ZTO) is a class of ternary oxides, which are known for their stable properties under extreme
conditions, higher electron conductivity and mobility compared to its binary counterparts and other
interesting optical properties. Among the different methods of synthesizing ZTO nanostructures, the
autoclave method is an attractive green technique, which is carried out at low temperatures. In this
work, we summarized the conditions leading to the growth of ZTO nanostructures using the
hydrothermal method, evaluated few of its antimicrobial applications and compared with reported
literature.
Green and Low-Cost Synthesis of TiO2 Nanoparticles for Methanol Detection
Authors: Karthik M. , Ashwath Narayana , Sundar Raj M.
Published: July 2022

TiO2 nanoparticles synthesis using Ficus benghalensis leaf extract via green synthesis approach, were
characterized using XRD, FTIR, EDAX analysis and SEM. The present study explores the use of
as-synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles for the detection of methanol by spin-coating as-synthesized TiO2
nanoparticles (~ 100 nm thickness) over n-type Si substrate as an active material with Au sputtered
electrodes (~ 60 nm). The change in resistivity and electrical conductivity when exposed to the analyte
clearly evidenced the detection at low operating temperature is recorded. The response curve of transient
resistance vs. time was recorded at different working temperatures (50-200 ºC) and the device tested
multiple times exhibited the same behaviour affirming the reproducibility with stability of thin film
sensor is reported.
Liquid-Liquid Extraction and Transport of Amino Acids through
Membrane by Cucurbit[6]uril and its Derivatives
Authors: Sharma Komal , Malviya Maina , Joshi Shital , Sharma Uma
Published: July 2022

Molecular recognition phenomenon of cucurbit[6]uril (R1) and its derivatives perhydroxy cucurbit[6]uril
(R2), diphenylcucurbit[6]uril (R3) and hemicucurbit[6]uril (R4) towards aliphatic amino acids was
studied. This article highlights the use of these macrocyclic receptors having variations in structure
and shape for extraction and transport of amino acids using liquid membrane system. These receptors
interact with amino acids by ion-dipole interaction. The observed sequence in supported liquid
membrane (SLM) experiments for transport efficiency of different receptors for amino acids is serine
> arginine > lysine > glycine by R1, arginine ≈ serine > glycine > lysine by R2, serine > glycine >
lysine > arginine by R3 and glycine > arginine > lysine > serine by R4. In bulk liquid membrane (BLM)
experiments the sequence of extraction and transport efficiency observed for amino acids using receptor
R4 is glycine > lysine > serine ≈ arginine. Receptor R2 containing hydroxyl group at the outer surface
of cucurbituril, increases ion dipole interaction between receptor and substrate and receptor R4 having
flexible cavity, emphasized better transport efficiency. Various parameters such as pH, time,
concentration of amino acids and receptors were studied for extraction and transport of amino acids.
Preparation and Characterization of Cellulose Acetate and Cellulose Nitrate
Prepared from Cellulose Extracted from Calamagrostis intermedia
Authors: Manzano Vela Dennis Renato , Novillo Logroño Fernando Augusto
Published: July 2022

The main purpose of this research work is to prepare and characterize cellulose nitrate and cellulose
acetate from cellulose extracted from Calamagrostis intermedia. Cellulose nitrate was prepared by
nitration with a sulfonitric mixture, while cellulose acetate was prepared with acid and acetic anhydride.
In both cases, an FTIR analysis was performed. Optical microscopy was applied to the prepared
semi-synthetic compounds, showing crystalline networks corresponding to well-defined polymeric
chains. Finally, the cellulose acetate was subjected to viscometry in order to determine the molecular
weight of the prepared polymer, tending a value of 220.34 × 103 g/mol. The results highlighted the
feasibility of preparation of such polymers from a non-conventional source and the strategies for
characterization and preparation at laboratory level.
Berberine Loaded Magnetic Nanoparticles for Breast Cancer
Therapy on MDA-MB-231 Cells Lines
Authors: Madhulatha A. Venkata Satya , Darwin C. Ronald
Published: July 2022

Berberine is an alkaloid naturally-derived from Berberis aristata and a family Berberidaceae exhibits
a broad spectrum of pharmacological benefits, including antiviral and anticancer properties. The recent
development of nanomedicine is an art of delivering drugs to the target-site by improving their safety
and efficacy. In present study, four berberine-loaded magnetic nanoparticles (BBR/MNPs) were prepared
using a modified co-precipitation method with calcination. The resulting BBR/MNPs were characterized
by FTIR, XRD, HRSEM, zeta potential, VSM, loading efficiency, stability and in vitro release studies.
The most proven magnetic nanoparticles formulation type in dissolution was followed by in vitro
anticancer studies on MDA-MB-231 cells. XRD, FTIR and TGA results proved that the formed
BBR/MNPs were ordered in their structure with iron, silanol groups and berberine moieties. The
HRSEM reported the average particle size of MNPs varies from 100 to 250 nm after loading with
berberine also had a regular spherical shape. The value of the zeta potential was -9 mV and 15 mV at
pH 6 for bare MNPs and BBR/MNPs, respectively. Loading efficiency and stability were good at
BBR/MCM-41MNP. The saturated magnetization (Ms) value of Fe-MCM-41 MNP (81.76 emu/g)
was obtained by VSM analysis. In vitro dissolution studies of four BBR/MNPs at a three different pH
5.5, 6.5, 7.4 including BBR/MCM-41 MNP were 86%, 84% and 82%, respectively. In vitro anticancer
studies with BBR/MCM-41-MNP on treated MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells in comparison to
standard doxorubicin. The MTT assay confirmed the cytotoxic effect of BBR/MCM-41-MNP in vitro.
The resulting data were statistically analyzed using one-way Anova analysis with N = 3 replicates.
The IC50 values (mean standard deviation) of BBR, BBR/MCM-41 MNP and standard doxorubicin
were obtained as 16.754 ± 0.651, 6.750 ± 0.048, 4.955 ± 0.042 μg/mL with significant p < 0.0001.
The best result was BBR/MCM-41 MNP with an average particle size 50 nm, which showed good
drug loading efficiency and size stability above 7 days. Drug release was maximal (86%) at pH 5.5.
The MTT-assay confirmed that BBR/MCM-41MNP exhibited more cytotoxicity on MDA-MB-231
cells than BBR, MCM-41MNP. The IC50 of BBR/MCM-41 was closed that of standard doxorubicin.
The BBR/MCM-41MNP showed the optimum drug release with potent anticancer activity along with
magnetic targeting.
Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties of
Morus alba Linn. with Reference to its SARS-CoV-2 Inhibiting Potential
Authors: Alom Shahnaz , Ali Farak , Rezzak Ali Sheikh , Ahmed Abdul Baquee
Published: July 2022

Morus alba Linn. is a plant with varieties of phytochemicals and commonly known as Mulberry tree
or Nuni (in Assamese). Mulberry is a perennial and woody plant, belongs to the family Moraceae
consider as a native plant of China. In Assam, the leaves of mulberry tree are out most important in
horticulture department for feeding purpose. A literature survey was done out by using key words
such as Morus alba, or mulberry tree or phytoconstituents, or pharmacological activities, or ethnobotany
on the search engine namely Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholars, PubMed. The purpose of this
article is to forward a solid review about the plant profile, method of extraction, phytochemicals
constituents and pharmacological activities in reference to SARS-CoV-2. All the parts of Morus alba
are phytochemically rich but highest number can be found in fruits and leaves. Fruits of Morus alba
contains various class of phytochemicals such as alkaloids, anthocyanins, stillbenoids, flavones. Owing
to presence of this compounds, it exhibits various pharmacological. Its leaves, fruits and root bark
containing flavonoids, anthocyanins, alkaloids and stilbenoids, possess various pharmacological
properties. Resveratrol is one of the most important compounds found in M. alba which possess
SARS-CoV-2 inhibiting potential. Still there are some gaps remain in exploring whole plants parts
and successive studies of toxicity.
The impact of obstructive sleep apnea on quality of life in children with asthma
Authors: Garina Lisa Adhia , Yunus Faisal , Timan Ina Susianti , Nalapraya Widhy Yudistira , Supriyatno Bambang
Published: July 2022

Background In children with asthma, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a comorbidity of concern. The presence of OSA has been associated with asthma exacerbations and decreased quality of life. Leukotriene played a role in tonsil hypertrophy which is one of the risk factors for OSA.

Objective To evaluate the influence of OSA on quality of life in children with asthma.

Methods This cross-sectional study in asthmatic children aged 7?15 years was conducted from August 2020 to June 2021 at government elementary and primary high schools in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. Asthma was diagnosed by peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and OSA was diagnosed by polysomnography. Leukotriene was examined by an ELISA method and quality of life assessed by the Pediatric Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (PAQLQ).

Results Using the ISAAC questionnaire distributed through teachers to parents, 206 (6.9%) of 2,964 children stated that they had been diagnosed with asthma, 80 of whom were included in our study. Subjects’ mean age was 12 (SD 2) years and most were male. Intermittent asthma and history of allergy was dominant. Thirty-two children had OSA, mostly mild OSA. The mean level of leukotriene was not different between asthmatic children with and without OSA. The percentage of PEFR in asthmatic children with OSA was significantly lower than in those without OSA. The total PAQLQ score in asthmatic children with OSA and all PAQLQ domains were significantly lower  than in those without OSA.

Conclusion Obstructive sleep apnea in children with asthma is significantly associated with decreased peak expiratory flow rate and lower quality of life.