bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and Analysis of Deleterious SNPs of Human GSR Gene: Their Effects on Structure and Functions of Associated Protein and Other Diseases
Authors: Vyas Bharti , Bhowmik Ratul , Akhter Mymoona , Ahmad Farhan Jalees
Published: November 2021

Hereditary glutathione reductase deficiency, caused by mutations of the GSR gene, is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by decreased glutathione disulfide (GSSG) reduction activity and increased thermal instability. This study implemented computational analysis to screen the most likely mutation that might be associated with hereditary glutathione reductase deficiency and other diseases. Using ten online computational tools, the study revealed 4 nsSNPs among the 17 nsSNPs identified as most deleterious and disease associated. Structural analyses and evolutionary confirmation study of native and mutant GSR proteins using the HOPE project and ConSruf. HOPE revealed more flexibility in the native GSR structure than in the mutant structure. The mutation in GSR might be responsible for changes in the structural conformation and function of the GSR protein and might also play a significant role in inducing hereditary glutathione reductase deficiency. LD and haplotype studies of the gene revealed that the identified variations rs2978663 and rs8190955 may be responsible for obstructive heart defects (OHDs) and hereditary anemia, respectively. These interethnic differences in the frequencies of SNPs and haplotypes might help explain the unpredictability that has been reported in association studies and can contribute to predicting the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs that make use of GSR.
Exogenous Foliar Melatonin Improves Cotton (Gossypium Hirsutum L.) Physio-Biochemical Characteristics Under the Synergetic Effects of Low Temperature and Salinity Stress
Authors: Fu Yuanyuan , Hamani Abdoul Kader Mounkaila , Sun Wenjun , Wang Hongbo , Amin Abubakar Sunusi , Wang Xingpeng , Qin Anzhen , Gao Yang
Published: November 2021

Low temperature and soil salinization during cotton sowing and seedling have adverse effects on cotton productivity. Finding an alternative for reducing the low temperature and salt induced damages during the seedling stage of cotton is a challenge for agricultural researchers nowadays. The physiological mechanism of exogenously applied melatonin (MT) on cotton seedlings under low temperature and salt stress is still unclear. The experiment in a phytotron was comprised with two temperature levels of 15°C and 25°C, and 5 MT treatments of 0, 50, 100, 150, 200 µM, and two salinity levels of 0 and 150 mM NaCl stress. Compared with the control treatments (non-salinity stress under 15°C and 25°C), the coupled stress of salt and low temperature reduced cotton seedlings’ biomass and net photosynthetic rate (Pn), aggravated the membrane damage, reduced the potassium (K+) content and increased the sodium (Na+) accumulation in the leaves and roots. Compared with the NaCl-stressed treatment alone, the exogenous foliar applications of 50-150µM MT significantly increased the biomass and gas exchange parameters of cotton seedlings under the coupled salt and low temperature stress conditions. The exogenously applied MT at 50-150µM under the coupled effect of salt and low temperature stress conditions decreased the degree of membrane damage and regulated the activities of the protective enzymes, ion homeostasis, ion transport and absorption of cotton seedlings. The pairwise correlation analysis of each parameter by MT shows that the parameters with higher correlation with MT at 15°C are mainly malondialdehyde (MDA), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT). The most relevant parameters at 25℃ are K+ concentration in leaves (K+-L), K+ concentration in root (K+-R), Na+ concentration in leaves (Na+-L), Na+ concentration in root (Na+-R), Na+ uptake in-root surface (Na+-uptake), K+ ion translocation (K+-translocation). Stepwise linear regression of the above parameters found that MT is more related to MDA at 15°C, and MT is more related to Na+-L at 25°C.
Production of Phenylpyruvic Acid by Engineered L-Amino Acid Deaminase from Proteus Mirabilis
Authors: Liu Jia , Gao Cong , Yang Bin , Song Wei , Hu Guipeng , Liu Liming , Wu Jing
Published: November 2021

Objectives
This study aimed to develop an efficient enzymatic strategy for the industrial production of phenylpyruvate (PPA) from L-phenylpyruvic acid (L-Phe).
Results
L-amino acid deaminase from Proteus mirabilis (L-pmAAD) was expressed in E. coli BL21(DE3) and modified to release product inhibition by employing conformational dynamics engineering. Based on structural analysis, two residues (E145A/L341A) were identified for reducing interactions between the product and enzyme and increasing flexibility of the protein, thereby facilitating the product release. The mutant M2E145A/E341A exhibited a 3.84-fold reduction in product inhibition and a 1.35-fold increase in catalytic efficiency in comparison to the wild type. Finally, 81.2 g/L PPA production with a conversion of 99.6% was obtained in a 5-L bioreactor.
Conclusion
The engineered catalyst can significantly reduce product inhibition and facilitate the effective industrial synthesis of PPA.
Deubiquitinating enzyme USP48 mediates pyroptosis and meliorates immune evasion in tumors by stabilizing GSDME expression
Authors: yunshan wang , Ren Yidan , Feng Maoxiao , Liu Xiaoyan , Hao Xiaodong , Li Juan , Li Peilong , Gao Jie , Qi Qiuchen , Du Lutao , Wang Chuanxin
Published: November 2021

Pyroptosis is a kind of programmed cell death, which is characterized by the activation of inflammatory caspase and the cleavage of gasdermin proteins. It is widely involved in the occurrence and development of tumors. Studies have shown that ubiquitin related proteins play a key regulatory role in many biological processes. However, the role and molecular mechanism of ubiquitin-related proteins in pyroptosis have not been well identified. Here, using CRISPR-Cas9 screening, we identified a deubiquitinating enzyme (USP48) that has the most significant regulatory effect on cell pyroptosis. USP48 stabilizes GsderminE (GSDME) expression by causing deubiquitination of it, thereby achieving its regulatory effect on pyroptosis. USP48 prevents the degradation of GSDME by inhibiting K63-linked ubiquitination at positions K120 and K189 of GSDME. Clinical tissue testing confirmed that the expression of USP48 has a significant positive correlation with GSDME and pyroptosis-related factors. GSDME plays a crucial role in the regulation of cell pyroptosis by USP48. The single-cell sequencing results showed that the functions of T cells and tumor-associated macrophages in the tumor microenvironment are inhibited to varying degrees after USP48 gene knockout. Finally, the tumor formation experiment in mice confirmed that overexpression of USP48 could effectively improve the therapeutic effect of PD-1 inhibitors. These findings define a pyroptosis regulation pathway and indicate that activation of the pharmacological activity of USP48 may provide an effective strategy to sensitize cancer cells to pyroptosis-related immunotherapeutic resistance.
Spatio-Temporal Distribution of Shallow Very-Low-Frequency Earthquakes between December 2020 and January 2021 in Kumano-Nada, Nankai Subduction Zone, Detected by A Permanent Seafloor Seismic Network
Authors: Yamamoto Yojiro , Ariyoshi Keisuke , Yada Shuichiro , Nakano Masaru , Hori Takane
Published: November 2021

We estimate the hypocenter locations and the centroid moment tensor solutions of the shallow very-low-frequency earthquake (sVLFE) activity that occurred in the Kumano-nada region of the Nankai Trough megathrust zone in central Japan from December 2020 to January 2021. Using seafloor observation data, we examined the detailed spatio-temporal distribution of the sVLFE activity. During this episode, the activity area was within the vicinity in which the sVLFE activity has been observed in the past and can be divided into two major parts. The sVLFE activity started from the eastern side and remained there for the first 5 days and then migrated to the western side via secondary expansion. The eastern active area is located just below the outer ridge and coincides with the location where the paleo-Zenith Ridge is subducted. The western activity area is centered between the outer wedge and the outer ridge with the primary active area being at the outer wedge. Comparing the activity in the eastern and western areas, the eastern side is more active, but the individual moment releases on this side are smaller than those on the western side. This may indicate a difference in the fluid pressure along the plate boundary between the eastern and western areas. After the second expansion of the active area, we observed several migration patterns within the expanded area with a faster velocity than those of the initial and second expansions. The direction of these migrations is opposite to that of the first and second expansions. This indicates that the fluid pressure and/or stress level in the sVLFE generation region changed with time within this episode. Furthermore, many waveforms with sVLFE characteristics were observed at only one or a few observation points near the trough axis in the middle to latter half of January 2021. This indicates the occurrence of small-scale sVLFEs in the vicinity of the trough axis at the end of this sVLFE episode.
Crystal Structural, Morphological and Gamma Ray Shielding (γ-S) Efficiency of PVA/PAAm/PAA Polymer Blend Loaded With Silver Nanoparticles via Casting Method
Authors: Abdali Karar
Published: November 2021

Cost, weightiness, vacuum, and absorption power of the matters applied for radiological preservation are significant points which challenge scientists and researchers to preparation and improve suitable γ-S materials. A perfect γ-S is one which can absorb, attenuate, or prevent the ultimate part of incident γ-radiation. The major purpose of this study is to evaluation the effect of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) additions on the γ-S characteristics of polyvinyl alcohol PVA, polyacrylamide PAAm and polyacrylic acid PAA polymeric blend (PB). In the current research, PVA/PAAm/PAA (70:20:10) wt./wt.% matrix PB with 0, 0.03, 0.06 and 0.08 wt% of AgNPs were synthesized via Petri dish casting technique as a polymer nanocomposites (PNCs). The specimen were categorized as h0,h1,h2 and h3 depending on the addition of AgNPs. Crystal structure involves X-ray diffraction (X-ray), the Fourier transformation infrared spectrum (FT-IR), ultraviolet-visible light spectrum (UV-V) and optical microscopy (OPM) were studied. The coefficients of attenuation were also computed utilizing caesium (Cs137) source. Results showed which increasing of AgNPs from 0% to 0.08% leads to increasing in the attenuation coefficient values and decreasing the ratio of radiation counts (N/Nₒ), also 0.08% of AgNPs loaded is the essential optimum consist of this additive. The γ-S properties conducted using γ-rays has explained which PNCs with 8% of AgNPs and only 0.090 cm thickness, can attenuate 80% of the γ- ray.
Cognitive Network Reconstruction in Opioid Users Compared To Non-Users: Topological Analysis of Cognitive Function Through Graph Model and Centrality Measures
Authors: Gharahi Elnaz , Soraya Shiva , Ahmadkhaniha Hamidreza , Sadeghi Bahman , Haghshenas Mandana , Bozorgmehr Ali
Published: November 2021

Cognitive dysfunction related to opioid use disorder (OUD) requires investigation of the interconnected network of cognitive domains through behavioral experiments and graph data modeling. Here, we conducted n-back, selective and divided attention, and Wisconsin card sorting tests and then reconstructed the interactive cognitive network of subscales or domains for opioid users and non-users to identify the most central cognitive functions and their connections using graph model analysis. Then, each network was analyzed topologically based on the betweenness and closeness centrality measures. Results from the opioid users’ network show that in the divided attention module, the reaction time and the number of commission errors were the most central subscales of cognitive function. Whereas in non-users, the number of correct responses and commission errors were the most central cognitive measure. These findings corroborate that opioid users show impaired divided attention as higher reaction time and errors in performing the tasks. Divided attention is the most central cognitive function in both OUD subjects and non-users, although differences were observed between the subscales of the two groups. Therefore, divided attention is a promising target for future cognitive therapies, treatments and rehabilitation as its improvement may lead to an enhancement of overall cognitive domain performance.
Burnout among German oncologists: A cross-sectional study in cooperation with the Arbeitsgemeinschaft Internistische Onkologie Quality of Life Working Group
Authors: Helaß Madeleine , Haag Georg Martin , Bankstahl Ulli Simone , Gencer Deniz , Maatouk Imad
Published: November 2021

Purpose
Oncologists are at an increased risk of developing burnout, leading to negative consequences in patient care and in professional satisfaction and quality of life. This study was designed to investigate exhaustion and disengagement among German oncologists and assess the prevalence of burnout among oncologists within different professional settings. Furthermore, we wanted to examine possible relations between sociodemographic factors, the oncological setting, professional experience and different aspects of burnout.
Methods
In a cross-sectional study design, an Internet-based survey was conducted with 121 oncologists between April and July 2020 using the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, which contains items on exhaustion, disengagement, and burnout. Furthermore, sociodemographic data of the participants were assessed. The participants were members of the Working Group Medical Oncology (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Internistische Onkologie) within the German Cancer Society.
Results
The survey showed a burnout prevalence of 43.8%, which correlated with age and professional experience; that is, the prevalence is particularly high among younger oncologists. Exhaustion is closely related to employment status; that is, it was significantly higher among employed oncologists. There were remarkably low levels of disengagement among oncologists, highlighting the own demand to fulfill job requirements despite imminent or actual overburdening in daily work.
Conclusion
More support is necessary to mitigate the professional stressors in the healthcare system. To ensure quality medical care, employees should be offered preventive mental health services early in their careers.
OCT4 Promotes Ovarian Cancer Progression by Regulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway
Authors: Xie Weiwei , Yu Jun , Yin Yujia , Zhang Xiaoqian , Zheng Xiaocui , Wang Xipeng
Published: November 2021

Background: Octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4) is a key stem cell transcription factor involved in the development of various cancers. The role of OCT4 in ovarian cancer (OC) progression and its molecular mechanism are not fully understood.Methods: First, immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays of ovarian normal tissues, OC samples, and metastatic tissues were performed to reveal the OCT4 expression profiles. We knocked down OCT4 in two OC cell lines (SKOV3 and A2780) using a lentiviral vector and performed in vitro and in vivo experiments. OCT4 was silenced to assess the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OC cells using CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing, and Transwell asssays. In addition, a nude tumor mouse model was used for the in vivo study. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that OCT4 influenced protein expression in the phosphoinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mTOR pathway and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins by Western blotting and immunofluorescence (IF) assays.Results: OCT4 expression was significantly upregulated in OC samples and metastatic tissues. OCT4 silencing notably inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OC cells in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the expression of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and p-mTOR was downregulated after OCT4 knockdown. EMT in OC samples was enhanced by OCT4.Conclusions: Our study shows that OCT4 promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OC cells by participating in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling axis, suggesting that it could serve as a potential therapeutic target for OC patients.
hnRNPH1 recruits PTBP2 and SRSF3 to cooperatively modulate alternative pre-mRNA splicing in germ cells and is essential for spermatogenesis and oogenesis
Authors: Yuan Shuiqiao , Feng Shenglei , Li Jinmei , Wen Hui , Liu Kuan , Gui Yiqian , Wen Yujiao , Wang Xiaoli
Published: November 2021

Coordinated regulation of alternative pre-mRNA splicing is essential for germ cell development. However, the molecular mechanism underlying that control alternative mRNA expression during germ cell development remains poorly understood. Herein, we showed that hnRNPH1, an RNA-binding protein, is highly expressed in the reproductive system and localized in the chromosomes of meiotic cells but excluded from the XY body in pachytene spermatocytes and recruits the splicing regulators PTBP2 and SRSF3 and cooperatively regulates the alternative splicing of the critical genes that are required for spermatogenesis. Conditional knockout Hnrnph1 in spermatogenic cells caused many abnormal splicing events that affect genes related to meiosis and communication between germ cells and Sertoli cells, characterized by asynapsis of chromosomes and impairment of germ-Sertoli communications, ultimately leading to male sterility. We further showed that hnRNPH1 could directly bind to SPO11 and recruit the splicing regulators PTBP2 and SRSF3 to regulate the alternative splicing of the target genes cooperatively. Strikingly, Hnrnph1 germline-specific mutant female mice were also infertile, and Hnrnph1-deficient oocytes exhibited a similar defective synapsis and cell-cell junction as shown in Hnrnph1-deficient male germ cells. Collectively, our data reveal an essential role for hnRNPH1 in regulating pre-mRNA splicing during spermatogenesis and oogenesis and support a molecular model whereby hnRNPH1 governs a network of alternative splicing events in germ cells via recruiting PTBP2 and SRSF3.
WITHDRAWN: Curved Diffraction Patterns of 2D-Cross-Grating Experiments ---Double Slit Still Has Much to Offer
Authors: peng hui
Published: November 2021

Young’s double slit experiments represent the mystery of quantum mechanics. To explore the mystery, varieties of the single slit, double slit, cross-double slit and 1D-grating experiments were performed, which show the universal phenomena that the interference/diffraction patterns are curved, expanded and inclined. In this article, we show novel phenomena that the diffraction patterns of the 2D-cross-grating experiments can be curved, expanded and inclined simultaneously and continuously. Those experiments provide comprehensive data for developing/testing a theoretical model.
Trace Amounts of Antibiotic Altered Metabolomic and Microbial Profiles of Weaned Pigs Infected with a Pathogenic E. coli­­­­­­­
Authors: Kim Kwangwook , Jinno Cynthia , Ji Peng , Liu Yanhong
Published: November 2021

Background: Our previous study has shown that supplementation of trace amounts of antibioticexacerbated the detrimental effects of enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) infection and delayed the recovery of pigs that may be associated with modified metabolites and metabolic pathways. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore the impacts of trace levels of antibiotic (carbadox) on host metabolic profiles and colon microbiota of weaned pigs experimentally infected with ETEC F18. Results: The multivariate analysis highlighted a distinct metabolomic profile of serum and colon digesta between trace amounts of antibiotic (TRA) and label-recommended dose antibiotic (REC) on d 5 post-inoculation (PI). The relative abundance of metabolomic markers of amino acids, carbohydrates, and purine metabolism were significantly differentiated between the TRA and REC groups (q < 0.2). In addition, pigs in REC group had the highest (P < 0.05) relative abundance of Lactobacillaceae and tended to have increased (P < 0.10) relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae in the colon digesta on d 5 PI. On d 11 PI, pigs in REC had greater (P < 0.05) relative abundance of Clostridiaceae compared with other groups, whereas had reduced (P < 0.05) relative abundance of Prevotellaceae than pigs in control group.Conclusions: Trace amounts of antibiotic resulted in differential metabolites and metabolic pathways that may be associated with its slow responses against ETEC F18 infection. The altered gut microbiota profiles by label-recommended dose antibiotic may contribute to the promotion of disease resistance in weaned pigs.
Effects of continuum of care in maternal health services on adverse birth outcome in Northwest Ethiopia: a prospective follow up study
Authors: Zelka Muluwas Amentie , Yalew Alemayehu Worku , Debelew Gurmesa Tura
Published: November 2021

Background

Globally, around 4 million of babies were died within the first month and more than 3 million were stillbirth. Of them, 99% of newborn deaths and 98% of stillbirth occur in developing countries. Despite give a priority for maternal health services, adverse birth outcomes are still major public health problems and big challenge in Ethiopia particularly in study area. Hence, to overcome those challenges, a continuum of care (COC) is core key strategies. Despite that study conduct on effectiveness of COC in maternal health services was scare in developing countries and not done in study area. We aimed to assess effectiveness of continuity of care on reduction of adverse events and determinants of adverse birth outcomes.
Methods

Community and health facility linked prospective follow-up study design was employed from March 2020 to January 2021 in Northwest Ethiopia. A multistage sampling technique was used to recruit 2,198 pregnant women. Data were collected by using semi-structured and pretested interviewer questionnaire. Collected data were coded, entered, cleaned and analyzed by using STATA 14. Mixed-effect model was used to identify community and individual level factors of adverse birth outcomes. Finally, propensity score matching (PSM) was applied to determine effectiveness of COC in maternal health services.
Results

Magnitude of adverse birth outcome was 26.8%: stillbirth (2.7%), neonatal mortality rate (3.1%) and neonatal morbidity (6.8%). Risk factors significantly associated were being poor household wealth index (AOR = 3.3), pregnant related complication during pregnancy (AOR = 3.29), labour and childbirth (AOR = 6.08), immediately after childbirth (AOR = 5.24), offensive odder amniotic fluid (AOR = 3.04) and history of stillbirth (AOR = 4.2). Whereas, women receive IFA during pregnancy (AOR = 0.44), initiate BF within 1hour (AOR = 0.22) and immunizing newborn within postnatal period (AOR = 0.33) were protective factors. As treatment effect, completion of COC in MHS via time dimension (β = -0.03), completion of key services of MHS (β = -0.04) and completion of COC in MHS via space dimension (β = -0.02) were associated with a significant reduction in the likelihood of perinatal death
Conclusions

The results suggested that neonatal and perinatal mortality rate were high as compared with national and international target. Completion of COC in MHS is an effective strategy in reduction perinatal death. Efforts should be made to strengthening COC of MHS and also encourage IFA supplementation, immunizing and early initiation of BF for newborn were strongly recommended.
A Hierarchical Congestion Control Method in Clustered Internet of Things
Authors: Mokhtari Sadaf , Barati Hamid , Barati Alli
Published: November 2021

Internet of things (IoT) is a modern technology where data can be transmitted to any things (human, animal, or object) over communications networks, whether Internet or intranet. Congestion occurs when the input data rate to the node, higher than the output data rate of node. Congestion control in computer network modulates traffic entry into a network in order to avoid congestive. This paper suggests a method for congestion control in the internet of things in two phases. The first phase is intra-cluster congestion control, which uses two parameters congestion score (CS) and buffer empty space (BES) to congestion avoidance. In this phase based on these two parameters, 9 states are defined to determine the congestion status of each node, and based on these 9 states the appropriate decision is made to the node. The second phase is inter-clusters congestion control. In this phase, after determined cluster head priority, the parameters of back off timer (BFT), waiting time to receive acknowledgment (WTTRACK), sequence number (SEQ) and retransmission counter (RC) are used for congestion control. The proposed congestion control method is simulated by NS-2 software. A comparison between the performance of proposed method and conventional methods shows that applying proposed method results in a significant improvement in average congestion score (CS), packet lost rate, energy consumption and end-to-end delay.
RECOVARI – Efficacy and Safety of Massage on Surgical Stress in Colorectal Cancer Patients: Study Protocol for A Randomized Controlled, Three-Arm Parallel Group, Clinical Trial
Authors: Werthmann Paul Georg , Cysarz Dirk , Naumann Johannes , Dijk Monique van , Huber Roman , Lederer Ann-Kathrin , Kienle Gunver Sophia
Published: November 2021

• Background: Patients’ physiological stress reactions to surgery have been ameliorated by refining surgical techniques, and improving pain therapy. Moreover, another way to reduce stress could be the use of Rhythmical embrocation (RE), a type of bodily massage applied with soft strokes, which has been shown to reduce the subject’s pulse rate and blood pressure. This trial will investigate whether RE is effective to reduce stress, and what effects it exerts on sleep quality, nausea and vomiting, pain, medication consumption, mood, mobility, and length of hospital. Furthermore, the occurrence of complications associated with RE will be established. • Methods: A randomized controlled, three-arm parallel group trial will include 60 patients with colorectal cancer scheduled for surgery, randomized into three different intervention groups: (1) RE performed by professionals, (2) RE performed by students; and (3) empathic conversation. The intervention will be performed twice daily over four consecutive postoperative days. Before and after the intervention days, heart rate variability (primary outcome) will be established overnight as a measure of stress. The patients will fill out questionnaires on pain, sleep, nausea/vomiting and well-being. Possible complications from RE will be recorded daily. Vital signs, medication and surgery data will be retrieved from the patient record. Nursing students will be interviewed about job satisfaction, empathy and their identification with RE.• Discussion: Massage has been shown to have stress relieving effects. However, it’s effectiveness in clinical settings is rarely investigated. With the postoperative setting we investigate massage in a situation of high physiological stress. Reduction of stress perioperatively has shown to reduce complications and improve recovery. With heart rate variability we include a physiologic, objective parameter to supplement them against the questionnaire responses of patients. Massage might reduce stress in stressful situations in healthcare and contribute to a better outcome of these patients. Trial registration: The trial has been registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) under the ID DRKS00023407 on 2nd November 2020. The trial was approved by the ethics committee of the University Medical Center Freiburg under the number 356/20 on 20th October 2020.
Assessment of Ecological Environment Quality in Kolkata Urban Agglomeration, India
Authors: Maity Sukamal , Das Subhasis , Pattanayak Jhumarani Maity , Bera Biswajit , Shit Pravat Kumar
Published: November 2021

The global ecosystem has been significantly disrupted on various spatiotemporal scales over the last three decades due to human activities. Geospatial technology can quickly, effectively, and quantitatively to evaluate the spatiotemporal change of eco-environmental quality (EEQ). The present study is focused on novel approach of Remote Sensing based Ecological Index (RSEI), using Landsat Imagery data to assess environmental conditions and changes pattern. Four ecological indicators were prepared in the year 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020 of Kolkata urban agglomeration (KUA) to evaluate the ecological environmental condition. The principal component analysis (PCA) and spatial autocorrelation analysis can relate all indicators with each other’s and RSEI. Out study indicated, greenness and wetness have a positive effect on EEQ of the province, but both dryness and heat have a negative effect. However, it should be noted that greenness has a greater impact on the eco-environment than the other three indicators. Based on the RSEI values, we have categorized the environmental standards of the study area into four groups - very good (0.81 - 1.00), good (0.61 - 0.80), acceptable (0.41 - 0.60), poor (0.21 - 0.40), and very poor (0.00 - 0.20), where high values ​​indicate that environmental quality is stable and healthy for living organisms and low values ​​indicate relatively unstable and threatening conditions of the environment. The status of RSEI showed that 9.02%, 12.29%, 12.79% and 37.23% of an area was under poor to very poor condition in the year of 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020 respectively. Good to very good condition of RSEI values was increased from 19.12% to 34.074% during 1990 to 2010, but declined of RSEI value 9.47% during 2010 to 2020 due to urban expansion. Here, Moran's I values fund that 0.265, 0.543, 0.396 and 0.367 in the year 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020 respectively. The result of Moran’s I values indicate that clustering nature. The present study can helpful for the decision making of ecological management guided by planners and policy makers.
Protective effect of resveratrol against hexavalent chromium-induced genotoxic damage in Hsd:ICR male mice
Authors: Nicolás-Méndez Tonancy , Kacew Sam , Ortiz-Muñiz Alda Rocío , Mendoza-Núñez Víctor Manuel , García-Rodríguez María del Carmen
Published: November 2021

It is well-established that exposure to hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] induces genotoxic damage. The aim of this study was to examine the ability of resveratrol to counteract hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)]-induced genetic damage, as well as possible pathways that may be associated with this protection. Hsd:ICR male mice were divided into groups of 5 each and treated as follows: a) control 1, distilled water; b) control 2, ethanol 30%; c) resveratrol, 50 mg/kg by gavage; d) CrO3, 20 mg/kg intraperitoneally; and e) resveratrol in addition to CrO3 (resveratrol+CrO3), with resveratrol administered 4 hr prior to CrO3. The frequency of micronuclei (MN) and cytotoxicity were measured in peripheral blood at 0, 24, 48 and 72 hr, while 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG, 7,8-dihydro-8-oxodeoxyguanosine) adduct repair levels, endogenous antioxidant system biomarkers and apoptosis at 48 hr after treatments. Resveratrol administration increased activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT). CrO3 treatment elevated GPx and CAT activities. Resveratrol reduced the frequency of Cr(VI)-induced rise in MN and without significant effect on levels of 8-OHdG adduct when administered alone, suggesting that this polyphenol-mediated cellular repair does not involve 8-OHdG adduct formation. Concomitant administration of resveratrol and Cr(VI)-resulted in return of activities of SOD, GPx and CAT to control levels accompanied by decreased glutathione levels suggesting that the endogenous antioxidant system might play an important role in resveratrol-mediated inhibition of Cr(VI)-induced oxidant toxicity. The increase in apoptotic cell number in resveratrol+CrO3 group as well as diminished necrosis further affirms that resveratrol effectively blocked the actions of Cr(VI).
Gain Compression of n-MESFET for High Power Applications in MIMO
Authors: Soma Umamaheshwar
Published: November 2021

In this paper, a new n-type recessed Metal semiconductor field effect transistor (MESFET) with GaAs/ SiC materials is designed for high power applications in Multi Input Multi Output (MIMO) systems. Based on electrical characteristics of MESFET, a SPICE model of the proposed device is developed. For power switches, the power MESFETs are used. The feasibility of the technology is validated by the electrical measurements of the device. The operational technology has been shown by the characterizations done on the proposed device. To optimize the electrical performance, the contact resistance technique has to be enhanced. In this work, the output power and Gain compression of proposed n-channel MESFET at 100 MHz and 1 GHz for high input power is obtained. The output power at fundamental frequency of operation for high input power is also obtained.
Boosting higher secret key rate in quantum key distribution over mature telecom components
Authors: Wang Tao , Huang Peng , Li Lang , Zhou Yingming , Zeng Guihua
Published: November 2021

Secret key rate is a core performance indicator in implementing quantum key distribution, which directly determines the transmission rate of enciphered data. Here we demonstrate a high-key-rate quantum key distribution system over mature telecom components. The entire framework of quantum key distribution over these components is constructed. The high-rate low-noise Gaussian modulation of coherent states is realized by a classical electro-optic IQ modulator. High-baud low-intensity quantum signals are received by a commercial integrated coherent receiver under the shot-noise limit. A series of digital signal processing algorithms are proposed to achieve accurate signal recovery and key distillation. The system has yield a secret key rate of 10.37 Mbps, 1.61 Mbps, 337.82 kbps, and 58.06 kbps under the standard telecom fiber of 20 km, 50 km, 70 km, and 100 km, respectively. Our results represent the achieved highest secret key generation rate for quantum key distribution using continuous variables at a standard telecom wavelength. Moreover, it breaks the isolation between quantum communication and classical optical communication in terms of components, and opens the way to a high-speed and cost-effective formation of metropolitan quantum secure communication networks.
All-ﬁbre heterogeneously-integrated frequency comb generation
using silicon core ﬁbre
Authors: Sohanpal Ronit , Ren Haonan , Shen Li , Deakin Callum , Heidt Alexander , Hawkins Thomas , Ballato John , Gibson Ursula , Peacock Anna , Liu Zhixin
Published: November 2021

Originally developed for metrology, optical frequency combs are becoming increasingly pervasive in a wider range of research topics including optical communications, spectroscopy, and radio or microwave signal processing. However, application demands in these ﬁelds can be more challenging as they require compact sources with a high tolerance to temperature variations that are capable of delivering ﬂat comb spectra, high power per tone, narrow linewidth and high optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR). To date, there has not been a frequency comb technology that is able to simultaneously achieve all these requirements. This work reports the generation of a ﬂat, high power frequency comb in the telecom band using a 17-mm fully-integrated silicon core ﬁbre (SCF) as a parametric mixer. Our all-ﬁbre, cavity-free source combines the materials beneﬁts of planar waveguide structures with the advantageous properties of ﬁbre platforms to achieve a 30 nm bandwidth comb source containing 143 tones with <3 kHz linewidth, 12 dB ﬂatness, and >30 dB OSNR over the entire spectral region. The unique combination of technical features oﬀered by this SCF-based source opens a path towards a new class of high-performance frequency comb generators for communications and signal processing applications.
Bone Defects in Tibia Managed by the Bifocal Versus Trifocal Bone Transport Technique
Authors: Abulaiti Alimujiang , Liu Yanshi , Cai Feiyu , Liu Kai , Abula Abulaiti , Maimaiti Xiayimaierdan , Ren Peng , Yusufu Aihemaitijiang
Published: November 2021

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and determine the differences, if any, between trifocal and bifocal bone transport technique in the reconstruction of long segmental tibial bone defects caused by infection using a monolateral rail external fixator. Methods: A total of 53 consecutive patients with long segmental tibial bone defects caused by infection and treated by monolateral rail external fixator in our department were retrospectively collected and analyzed from January 2013 to April 2019, including 39 males and 14 females with an average age of 38.8±12.4 years (range 19 to 65 years). 32 patients were treated by bifocal bone transport (BFT) technique, and the other 21 patients were managed by trifocal bone transport (TFT) technique. The demographic data, operation duration, docking time, external fixation time, and external fixation index were documented and analyzed. Difficulties that occur during the treatment were classified according to Paley. The clinical outcomes were evaluated by the Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov criteria (ASAMI) at the last clinical visit.Results: All patients achieved an infection-free union finally, and there was no significant difference between the two groups in demographic data and both ASAMI bone and functional scores (P>0.05). The mean defect size and operation duration in TFT (9.4±1.5 cm, 161.9±8.9 minutes) were larger than that in BFT (7.8±1.8 cm, 122.5±11.2 minutes) (P<0.05). The mean docking time, external fixation time, and external fixation index in TFT (65.9±10.8 days, 328.0±57.2 days, 34.8±2.1 days/cm) were all less than those in BFT (96.8±22.6 days, 474.5±103.2 days, 60.8±1.9 days/cm) (P<0.05). Difficulties and complications were more prevalent in the BFT group, while less in the TFT group (P<0.05). Conclusions: Both the trifocal and bifocal bone transport technique in the reconstruction of long segmental tibial bone defects caused by infection using a monolateral rail external fixator achieve satisfactory clinical outcomes. The trifocal bone transport technique can significantly decrease the docking time, external fixation time, external fixation index, difficulties, and complications compared with the bifocal bone transport technique.
Actively Tunable and Polarization-independent Toroidal Resonance in Hybrid Metal-Vanadium Dioxide Metamaterial
Authors: shu chang , Zhang Chen , Ye Yulong , Lin Tongqing
Published: November 2021

Actively tunable and polarization-independent toroidal resonance in hybrid metal-vanadium dioxide metamaterial is proposed and demonstrated numerically in terahertz regime. Simulation results illustrate that a toroidal dipolar resonance is excited by hybrid metal and vanadium dioxide resonator and insensitive with polarization angle of incident plane wave, calculated scattered powers verify the toroidal resonance is strengthened. A novel modulation of resonance strength in proposed toroidal metamaterial is obtained as the phase transition process of vanadium dioxide and contrary to former hybrid metal-vanadium dioxide toroidal metamaterials. The theoretical fitting results reveal that physical mechanism of active modulation in resonance strength can be attributed to the variation of overall damping rate caused by tuning conductivity of vanadium dioxide.
Multi-locus phylogenetic analyses uncover species boundaries and reveal the occurrence of two new entomopathogenic nematode species, Heterorhabditis ruandica n. sp. and Heterorhabditis zacatecana n. sp.
Authors: Machado Ricardo A.R. , Bhat Aashaq Hussain , Abolafia Joaquín , Muller Arthur , Bruno Pamela , Fallet Patrick , Arce Carla C.M. , Turlings Ted C.J. , Bernal Julio S. , Kajuga Joelle , Waweru Bancy , Toepfer Stefan
Published: November 2021

Species of the nematode genus Heterorhabditis are important biological control agents against agricultural pests. The taxonomy of this group is still unclear as it currently relies on phylogenetic reconstructions based on a few genetic markers with little resolutive power, specially of closely related species. To fill this knowledge gap, we sequenced several phylogenetically relevant genetic loci and used them to reconstruct phylogenetic trees, to calculate sequence similarity scores, and to determine signatures of species- and population-specific genetic polymorphism. In addition, we revisited the current literature related to the description, synonymisation, and declaration as species inquirendae of Heterorhabditis species to compile taxonomically relevant morphological and morphometric characters, characterized new nematode isolates at the morphological and morphometrical level, and conducted self-crossing and cross-hybridization experiments. The results of this study show that the sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (COI) gene provide better phylogenetic resolutive power than the sequences of nuclear rRNA genes and that this gene marker can phylogenetically resolve closely related species and even populations of the same species with high precision. Using this gene marker, we found two new species, Heterorhabditis ruandica n. sp. and Heterorhabditis zacatecana n. sp. A detailed characterization of these species at the morphological and morphometric levels and nematode reproduction assays revealed that the threshold for species delimitation in this genus, using COI sequences, is 97% to 98%. Our study illustrates the importance of rigorous morphological and morphometric characterization and multi-locus sequencing for the description of new species within the genus Heterorhabditis, serves to clarify the phylogenetic relationships of this important group of biological control agents, and can inform future species descriptions to advance our efforts towards developing more tools for sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture.
El río entre llamas
Authors: Galindo Cruz Pablo
Published: November 2021

Ensayo académico.
Los modos del habitar humano
Authors: Alvira Rafael
Published: November 2021

Ensayo académico
Influence of laser pulse on plane waves propagating in a thermoelastic medium with micro-temperature under the DPL model
Authors: Jahangir Adnan , Dar Adiya , Othman Mohamed I. A.
Published: November 2021

In this paper, estimation is made to investigate the influence of thermal loading due to laser pulse on elastic waves. The material through which the waves are propagating is homogeneous and isotropic in nature. Heat conduction through the media is analyzed by the model proposed by dual-phase-lag theory (DPL). The governing non-dimensional equations are solved by using the approximated harmonic solution. The expression for the field variables is obtained generally and represented graphically for a particular medium.
State-of-the-Art: Exosomes in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Dang Yan , Zhang Shutian , Wang Yongjun , Zhao Guiping , Chen Chuyan , Jiang Wei
Published: November 2021

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Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a high prevalence and mortality rate globally. To date, the
progression mechanisms of CRC are still elusive. Exosomes (~100 nm in diameter) correspond to a
subset of extracellular vesicles formed by an array of cancerous cells and stromal cells. These particular
nanovesicles carry and transmit bioactive molecules, like proteins, lipids, and genetic materials,
which mediate the crosstalk between cancer cells and the microenvironment. Accumulating
evidence has shown the decisive functions of exosomes in the development, metastasis, and therapy
resistance of CRC. Furthermore, some recent studies have also revealed the abilities of exosomes
to function as either biomarkers or therapeutic targets for CRC. This review focuses on the
specific mechanisms of exosomes in regulating CRC progression and summarizes the potential clinical
applications of exosomes in the diagnosis and therapy of CRC.
Thiophene Ring-Opening Reactions IV. Facile Generation of Novel Ethyl
4-hydroxy-6-thioxonicotinate-1,3,4-thiadiazoline Hybrids
Authors: Abadleh Mohammed M. , Abdullah Ahmad H. , Zahra Jalal A. , Sabri Salim S. , Awwadi Firas F. , El-Abadelah Mustafa M.
Published: November 2021

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A set of triethylammonium 4-oxo-6-pyridinethiolate–1,3,4-thiadiazoline hybrids (3a-e)
were prepared via the reaction of ethyl 2-chloro-6-cyclopropyl-3- nitro-4-oxothieno[2,3-b]pyridine-
5-carboxylate (2) with the appropriate thiobenzoyl- hydrazide (1a-e) in acetonitrile and triethylamine.
These hybrids were readily converted, under neutral mild conditions, into the corresponding
4-hydroxy-6-thioxopyridine –thiadiazoline hybrids (5a-e). The structures of the latter set are
supported by HRMS, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectral data and further confirmed by single-crystal
X-ray diffraction studies. Alkylation of these hybrids in the presence of triethylamine occurred
exclusively at the 6-thioxosulfur, yielding the respective 6-sulfanyl derivatives (6a-c).
Grammatical mistakes of Albanian students in learning English as a foreign language
Authors: Spahiu Isa , Kryeziu Naim
Published: November 2021

Making mistakes is an unavoidable element of learning and teaching a foreign language. Because there are virtually always exceptions to the "rules," English can be tough to master. This study focuses on the most prevalent grammatical errors made by Albanian students during the EFL (English as a foreign language) learning process, as well as the sources of these errors, in order to consider them while teaching English grammar. The purpose of this study is to find out to what extent Albanian EFL students to be successful in the use of prepositions, and how much impact their mother tongue has on their errors. Being aware of such mistakes in teaching and learning English grammar for communicative purpose may help the teacher in choosing the right teaching option that would pose fewer difficulties and problems to their learners and therefore, enhance students learning of English grammar. In this study, the terms error and mistake are used interchangeably to refer to the generation of incorrect forms in learners' linguistic output. It has been highlighted that the effect of the learners' native language is responsible for many of the errors.