bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lack of HPV in pterygium with no evidence of autoinoculation and the role of cytokines in pterygium with dry eye
Authors: Uthaithammarat Lita , Kasetsuwan Ngamjit , Chongpison Yuda , Kasetsuwan Pimpetch , Reinprayoon Usanee , Nilyanimit Pornjarim , Poovorawan Yong
Published: February 2021

This study evaluated human papillomavirus’s (HPV) role in pterygium pathogenesis, its autoinoculation from genitalia to ocular surface, potential cytokines involved, and crosstalk cytokines between pterygium and dry eye (DE). This cross-sectional study enrolled 25 healthy controls (HCs) and 116 pterygium patients. Four subgroups of pterygium and DE were used in cytokine evaluations. Conjunctival and pterygium swabs and first-void urine samples (i.e., genitalia samples) were collected for HPV DNA detection using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Tear cytokines interleukin (IL)-6, IL-18, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in tears were evaluated. No HPV DNA was detected in conjunctival or pterygium swabs. No association was found between HPV DNA in urine samples and that from conjunctival or pterygium swabs. Tear VEGF levels were significantly higher in pterygium patients than in HCs, with no markedly different levels between primary and recurrent pterygia. Tear IL-6, IL-18, and tear VEGF were significantly higher in participants with DE, regardless of pterygium status. In conclusion, HPV infection was not a pathogenic factor of pterygia. The hypothesis of HPV transmitting from the genitals to ocular surfaces was nullified. Tear VEGF was involved in both pterygia and DE, whereas tear IL-6 and IL-18 played roles only in DE.
Heart-related mortality after postoperative breast irradiation in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ in the contemporary radiotherapy era
Authors: Lim Yu Jin , Koh Jaemoon
Published: February 2021

Although radiation-induced cardiotoxicity has been addressed, its prognostic relevance to modern radiotherapy (RT) techniques is unclear. This study assessed the impact of adjuvant RT on heart-related deaths in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ. Patients who underwent adjuvant RT after breast-conserving surgery between 1988 and 2008 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Kaplan‒Meier and competing risks analyses were conducted after propensity score-matching according to tumor laterality. A total of 41,526 propensity-matched patients were identified (n = 20,763 for either left- or right-sided tumor). In the analysis of the cumulative incidence of heart-related mortality events, there was a greater risk increment in the left-sided group over the first to second decades after RT in patients aged ≤ 50 years (P = 0.048). Competing risks analysis of the young patients showed that left-sided RT was associated with higher heart-related mortality rates (Grey’s test, P = 0.049). The statistical significance remained after adjusting for other covariates (subdistribution hazard ratio 2.35; 95% confidence interval 1.09‒5.10). Regarding the intrinsic effect of modern RT techniques, further strategies to reduce heart-related risks are needed for young patients. Close surveillance within an earlier follow-up period should be considered for these patients in clinics.
Differences in milk metabolites in Malnad Gidda (Bos indicus) cows reared under pasture-based feeding system
Authors: Ashokan M. , Ramesha Kerekoppa P. , Hallur Sweta , Karthikkeyan Gayathree , Rana Ekta , Azharuddin N. , Raj S. Reshma , Jeyakumar S. , Kumaresan A. , Kataktalware Mukund A. , Das D. N. , Keshava Prasad T. S.
Published: February 2021

The milk and milk products from cows reared under grazing system are believed to be healthier and hence have high demand compared to milk from cows reared in the non-grazing system. However, the effect of grazing on milk metabolites, specifically lipids has not been fully understood. In this study, we used acetonitrile precipitation and methanol:chloroform methods for extracting the milk metabolites followed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) run to identify the different metabolites between the milk of grazing and non-grazing early lactating Malnad Gidda cows. Various carbohydrates, amino acids, nucleosides and vitamin derivatives were found to be differentially abundant in grazing cows. A total of 35 metabolites were differentially regulated (fold change above 1.5) between the two groups. Tyrosyl-threonine, histidinyl-cysteine, 1-methyladenine, l-cysteine and selenocysteine showed fold change above 3 in grazing cows. The lipid profile of milk showed a lesser difference between grazing and non-grazing cows as compared to polar metabolites. To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest inventory of milk metabolomics data of an Indian cattle (Bos indicus) breed. We believe that our study would help to emerge a field of Nutri-metabolomics and veterinary omics research.
Choosing source of microorganisms and processing technology for next generation beet bioinoculant
Authors: Szymańska Sonia , Sikora Marcin , Hrynkiewicz Katarzyna , Tyburski Jarosław , Tretyn Andrzej , Gołębiewski Marcin
Published: February 2021

The increase of human population and associated increasing demand for agricultural products lead to soil over-exploitation. Biofertilizers based on lyophilized plant material containing living plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPM) could be an alternative to conventional fertilizers that fits into sustainable agricultural technologies ideas. We aimed to: (1) assess the diversity of endophytic bacteria in sugar and sea beet roots and (2) determine the influence of osmoprotectants (trehalose and ectoine) addition during lyophilization on bacterial density, viability and salt tolerance. Microbiome diversity was assessed based on 16S rRNA amplicons sequencing, bacterial density and salt tolerance was evaluated in cultures, while bacterial viability was calculated by using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. Here we show that plant genotype shapes its endophytic microbiome diversity and determines rhizosphere soil properties. Sea beet endophytic microbiome, consisting of genera characteristic for extreme environments, is more diverse and salt resistant than its crop relative. Supplementing osmoprotectants during root tissue lyophilization exerts a positive effect on bacterial community salt stress tolerance, viability and density. Trehalose improves the above-mentioned parameters more effectively than ectoine, moreover its use is economically advantageous, thus it may be used to formulate improved biofertilizers.
Cannabis sativa L. may reduce aggressive behaviour towards humans in shelter dogs
Authors: Corsetti Sara , Borruso Simona , Malandrucco Livia , Spallucci Valentina , Maragliano Laura , Perino Raffaella , D’Agostino Pietro , Natoli Eugenia
Published: February 2021

Among the phytocomplex components of Cannabis sativa L., cannabidiol (CBD) has a recognised therapeutic effect on chronic pain. Little is known about the veterinary use of CBD in dogs. Even less is known on the effects of CBD on dog behaviour, especially in shelters. The purpose of this study was to determine if CBD affects stress related behaviour in shelter dogs. The sample consisted of 24 dogs divided into two groups that were created by assigning the dogs alternately: 12 dogs were assigned to the treatment group and 12 to the control group. Extra virgin olive oil, titrated to 5% in CBD was given to treated group; the placebo consisted of olive oil only, dispensed daily for 45 days. Behavioural data were collected using the ‘focal animal’ sampling method with ‘all occurrences’ and ‘1/0’ methods for 3 h: before (T0), after 15 days (T1), after 45 days of treatment (T2) and after 15 days from the end of the treatment (T3). Treated dogs showed reduced aggressive behaviour toward humans following the treatment (Friedman Test: χ2 = 13.300; df = 3; N = 12; p = .004; adj. sig. p = 0.027), but the difference in the decrease of aggressive behaviour between the two groups was not significant (Mann–Whitney U test, T2–T0: Z = − 1.81; N = 24; p = 0.078). Other behaviours indicative of stress, such as displacing activities and stereotypes, did not decrease. Despite some non-significant results, our findings suggest that it is worth doing more research to further investigate the effect of CBD on dog behaviour; this would be certainly valuable because the potential for improving the welfare of dogs in shelters is priceless.
Melanoma treatment via non-specific adhesion of cancer cells using charged nano-clays in pre-clinical studies
Authors: Abduljauwad Sahel N. , Ahmed Habib-ur-Rehman , Moy Vincent T.
Published: February 2021

The incidence of malignant melanoma has rapidly increased in the last two decades. There are many challenges associated with the current conventional therapies, including tumour size and location, the specificity of treatments, tumour resistance, non-mutually exclusive mutations, drug resistance, and many adverse side effects. Due to conventional therapies having several limitations, we have explored an alternative therapy such as nano-clays; nano-sized natural materials originating from clay fraction of the soil. Recently, clay nanoparticles have increasingly been used as a drug carrier for cancer treatment due to their high absorption, ability to engulf microbes, and low toxicity. In this study, we evaluated the effects of a nano-clays mix on melanoma cell proliferation and cell viability in vitro and melanoma growth in vivo xenograft animal model. The in vitro study revealed that nano-clay treatments significantly reduced melanoma cell proliferation and cell viability in a dosage-dependent manner. The in vivo tumour xenograft model demonstrated that nano-clay mix treatment led to significantly reduced tumour size and weight, decreased tumour cell mitosis, and induced tumour necrosis. These processes owe to the most probable changes in the membrane potential of the cancer cells once nano-clays bind with the former through the high non-specific adhesion characteristic of the cancer cells. As the data suggest an important role of nano-clays as an inhibitor of melanoma cell proliferation and survival, these prove to be a natural and effective medicine for the treatment of melanoma. The proven compatibility of nano-clays with the human cells with little side-effects makes them a highly preferred choice for the treatment of melanoma and probably other types of cancers.
Ecophysiological traits differentially modulate secondary metabolite accumulation and antioxidant properties of tea plant [Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze]
Authors: Hazra Anjan , Saha Shrutakirti , Dasgupta Nirjhar , Kumar Rakesh , Sengupta Chandan , Das Sauren
Published: February 2021

Owing to the diverse growing habitats, ecophysiology might have a regulatory impact on characteristic chemical components of tea plant. This study aimed to explore natural variations in the ecophysiological traits within seasons and the corresponding multifaceted biochemical responses given by the gene pool of 22 tea cultivars. Leaf temperature and intercellular carbon concentration (Ci), which varies as a function of transpiration and net photosynthesis respectively, have significant impact on the biochemical traits of the leaf. Occurrence of H2O2, in leaves, was associated to Ci that in turn influenced the lipid peroxidation. With the increment of Ci, total phenolics, epicatechin gallate (ECG), reducing power, and radical scavenging activity is lowered but total catechin and non-gallylated catechin derivatives (e.g. epicatechin or EC, epigallocatechin or EGC) are elevated. Leaf temperature is concomitantly associated (p ≤ 0.01) with phenolics, flavonoids, proanthocyanidin, tannin content, reducing power, iron chelation and free radical scavenging activities. Increased phenolic concentration in leaf cells, conceivably inhibit photosynthesis and moreover, gallic acid, thereafter conjugated to catechin derivatives. This study shed light on the fundamental information regarding ecophysiological impact on the quality determining biochemical characteristics of tea, which on further validation, might ascertain the genotype selection paradigm toward climate smart cultivation.
Symptoms and pathogens diversity of Corn Fusarium sheath rot in Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Wang Wei , Wang Bo , Sun Xiaofang , Qi Xiaobo , Zhao Conghao , Chang Xiaoli , Khaskheli Muhammad Ibrahim , Gong Guoshu
Published: February 2021

To elucidate the symptoms and pathogens diversity of corn Fusarium sheath rot (CFSR), diseased samples were collected from 21 county-level regions in 12 prefecture-level districts of Sichuan Province from 2015 to 2018 in the present study. In the field, two symptom types appeared including small black spots with a linear distribution and wet blotches with a tawny or brown color. One hundred thirty-seven Fusarium isolates were identified based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis (EF1-α), and Koch’s postulates were also assessed. The results identified the isolates as 8 species in the Fusarium genus, including F. verticillioides, F. proliferatum, F. fujikuroi, F. asiaticum, F. equiseti, F. meridionale, F. graminearum and F. oxysporum, with isolation frequencies of 30.00, 22.67, 15.33, 7.33, 6.00, 5.33, 3.33 and 1.33%, respectively. Fusariumverticillioides and F. proliferatum were the dominant and subdominant species, respectively. Two or more Fusarium species such as F. verticillioides and F. proliferatum were simultaneously identified at a mixed infection rate of 14.67% in the present study. The pathogenicity test results showed that F. proliferatum and F. fujikuroi exhibited the highest virulence, with average disease indices of 30.28 ± 2.87 and 28.06 ± 1.96, followed by F. equiseti and F. verticillioides, with disease indices of 21.48 ± 2.14 and 16.21 ± 1.84, respectively. Fusarium asiaticum, F. graminearum and F. meridonale showed lower virulence, with disease indices of 13.80 ± 2.07, 11.57 ± 2.40 and 13.89 ± 2.49, respectively. Finally, F. orysporum presented the lowest virulence in CFSR, with a disease index of 10.14 ± 1.20. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of F. fujikuroi, F. meridionale and F. asiaticum as CFSR pathogens in China.
Chemical and thermal stabilization of CotA laccase via a novel one-step expression and immobilization in muNS-Mi nanospheres
Authors: Pose-Boirazian Tomás , Eibes Gemma , Barreiro-Piñeiro Natalia , Díaz-Jullien Cristina , Lema Juan M. , Martínez-Costas Jose
Published: February 2021

A methodology that programs eukaryotic or bacterial cells to encapsulate proteins of any kind inside micro/nanospheres formed by muNS-Mi viral protein was developed in our laboratory. In the present study such “in cellulo” encapsulation technology is utilized for immobilizing a protein with an enzymatic activity of industrial interest, CotA laccase. The encapsulation facilitates its purification, resulting in a cost-effective, one-step way of producing immobilized enzymes for industrial use. In addition to the ability to be recycled without activity loss, the encapsulated protein showed an increased pH working range and high resistance to chemical inactivation. Also, its activity was almost unaffected after 30 min incubation at 90 °C and 15 min at the almost-boiling temperature of 95 °C. Furthermore, the encapsulated laccase was able to efficiently decolorate the recalcitrant dye RB19 at room temperature.
Transformation and functional verification of Cry5Aa in cotton
Authors: Zhao Shihao , Wang Feng , Zhang Qiuping , Zou Jiayi , Xie Zhangshu , Li Kan , Li Jingyi , Li Bo , He Wen , Chen Jinxiang , He Yunxin , Zhou Zhonghua
Published: February 2021

Most of the cotton bollworm-resistant genes applied in cotton are more than 20 years and they all belong to Cry1Ab/c family, but the insect-resistant effects of Cry5Aa on cotton were rarely reported. The possible risk of resistance is increasing. The study synthesized a novel bollworm-resistant gene Cry5Aa artificially based on preferences of cotton codon. The new gene was transferred to cotton through the method of pollen tube pathway. The transgenic strains were identified by kanamycin test in field and laboratory PCR analysis. Meanwhile, an insect resistance test was conducted by artificial bollworm feeding with transgenic leaves and GK19 was used as a control in this study. Results showed that rate of positive transgenic strains with kanamycin resistance in the first generation (T1), the second generation (T2) and the third generation (T3) respectively were 7.76%, 73.1% and 95.5%. However, PCR analysis showed that the positive strain rate in T1, T2 and T3 were 2.35%, 55.8% and 94.5%, respectively. The resistant assay of cotton bollworm showed that the mortality rate of the second, third and fourth instar larva feed by the transgenic cotton leaves, were 85.42%, 73.35% and 62.79%, respectively. There was a significant difference between transgenic plant of Cry5Aa and GK19 in insect resistance. Finally, we also conducted the further analysis of gene expression patterns, gene flow and the effect on non-target pest in the study. The results showed that Cry5Aa gene had less environmental impact, and Cry5Aa has been transferred successfully and expressed stably in cotton. Therefore, the novel bollworm resistance gene can partially replace the current insect-resistance gene of Lepidoptera insects.
Periodontal evaluation of palatally impacted maxillary canines treated by closed approach with ultrasonic surgery and orthodontic treatment: a retrospective pilot study
Authors: Grenga Camilla , Guarnieri Rosanna , Grenga Vittorio , Bovi Mauro , Bertoldo Serena , Galluccio Gabriella , Di Giorgio Roberto , Barbato Ersilia
Published: February 2021

Aim of this study is the evaluation of the periodontal status of impacted canines treated by closed approach with ultrasonic surgery and orthodontic treatment compared with contralateral spontaneously erupted teeth. The periodontal conditions of the teeth adjacent to the canines (lateral incisors and first premolar) were also considered. 17 patients (9 females and 8 males; mean age: 15.2 years) with unilateral palatal impaction of maxillary canine were selected. All patients were treated by closed-flap surgery with ultrasonic instruments. Periodontal status was evaluated by assessing probing depth (PD), gingival recession and width of keratinized tissue (KT) 4.6 months after the end of the orthodontic treatment, on average. Test group was composed by impacted elements and adjacent teeth and control group by contralateral spontaneously erupted canines and adjacent teeth. Student's t-test was used to compare test and control group values of PD and width of KT. Significance threshold for Student's t-test was set at p < 0.05. The average probing depth values show no significant clinical differences between the test and control groups. Probing depths recorded at the mesiovestibular and distopalatal sides of the impacted canine were statistically significant compared to the control elements (p < 0.05). No gingival recession was detected on the treated canines. The measurement of KT did not differ significantly between the test and the control groups. In conclusion, the ultrasonic surgery for disinclusion associated with a closed approach and orthodontic traction allows the alignment of an impacted palatal canine without damaging the periodontium.
Central serous chorioretinopathy in active endogenous Cushing’s syndrome
Authors: Brinks Joost , van Haalen Femke M. , van Rijssen Thomas J. , Biermasz Nienke R. , Meijer Onno C. , Pereira Alberto M. , Boon Camiel J. F. , van Dijk Elon H. C.
Published: February 2021

Multiple case series have provided evidence for a relatively high incidence of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) in patients with active Cushing’s syndrome (CS). We describe the ophthalmological status in detail of consecutive patients with active endogenous CS (either de novo or recurrent active endogenous CS) in this prospective cohort study. All patients underwent complete ophthalmological examination, including multimodal imaging, which was performed shortly after establishing the diagnosis of active CS in hypercortisolemic state. Eleven CS patients (4 men, 7 women) with active hypercortisolism were included. Abnormalities reminiscent of (subclinical) CSC were found in 3 patients. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) revealed macular subretinal fluid in 1 patient, who was diagnosed as having active CSC and was successfully treated with half-dose photodynamic therapy. Two other patients showed CSC-like abnormalities: an unilateral pseudovitelliform lesion on OCT and hyperfluorescent changes on fluorescein angiography in one patient, and unilateral leakage on fluorescein angiography in the other patient. Mean subfoveal choroidal thickness on enhanced depth imaging OCT was 270 ± 40 μm (range, 178 – 357 μm). Retinal abnormalities resembling (subclinical) CSC may be more common than previously thought in patients with active CS, and may exist even in patients without visual complaints. Clinicians should have a low threshold for ophthalmological evaluation in case of a CS patient with visual symptoms since there may be therapeutic opportunities to prevent vision loss.
Evaluation of retinal pigment epithelium changes in serous pigment epithelial detachment in age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Miura Masahiro , Makita Shuichi , Yasuno Yoshiaki , Iwasaki Takuya , Azuma Shinnosuke , Mino Toshihiro , Yamaguchi Tatsuo
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study was to quantitatively evaluate retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) changes in serous pigment epithelial detachment (PED) among patients with age-related macular degeneration by means of prototype multi-contrast optical coherence tomography (OCT), which is capable of simultaneous collection of OCT angiography, polarization-sensitive OCT, and standard OCT images. We evaluated 26 eyes of 21 patients with serous PED. RPE-melanin OCT images were calculated from the multi-contrast OCT dataset and compared with near-infrared autofluorescence images. An active RPE lesion was defined as an area of thickened RPE-melanin (≥ 70 μm; RPE70) on RPE-melanin OCT. Each PED area was divided into peak and slope regions. RPE70 area ratios were compared with the maximum PED height, PED area, PED volume, and slope area ratio (area of slope region/area of whole PED). RPE-melanin OCT images were consistent with near-infrared autofluorescence images. The RPE70 area ratio in the slope region was significantly negatively correlated with the slope area ratio. Development of active RPE lesions in the slope region was correlated with the PED configuration. Multi-contrast OCT is useful for objective evaluation of changes in the RPE in patients with age-related macular degeneration.
Hydrodynamics can determine the optimal route for microswimmer navigation
Authors: Daddi-Moussa-Ider Abdallah , Löwen Hartmut , Liebchen Benno
Published: February 2021

As compared to the well explored problem of how to steer a macroscopic agent, like an airplane or a moon lander, to optimally reach a target, optimal navigation strategies for microswimmers experiencing hydrodynamic interactions with walls and obstacles are far-less understood. Here, we systematically explore this problem and show that the characteristic microswimmer-flow-field crucially influences the navigation strategy required to reach a target in the fastest way. The resulting optimal trajectories can have remarkable and non-intuitive shapes, which qualitatively differ from those of dry active particles or motile macroagents. Our results provide insights into the role of hydrodynamics and fluctuations on optimal navigation at the microscale, and suggest that microorganisms might have survival advantages when strategically controlling their distance to remote walls.
Assessment of emerging polar organic pollutants linked to contaminant pathways within an urban estuary using non-targeted analysis
Authors: Overdahl Kirsten E. , Sutton Rebecca , Sun Jennifer , DeStefano Noelle J. , Getzinger Gordon J. , Ferguson P. Lee
Published: February 2021

Non-targeted analysis of polar organic pollutants using high resolution/accurate mass (HR/AM) mass spectrometry has been conducted in waters of San Francisco (SF) Bay to assess occurrence of emerging contaminants and inform future monitoring and management activities.
Multi-mode luminescent color self-evolution in one phosphor with energy storage activity for high-level information safety
Authors: Wang Zhenbin , Ma Zhidong , Liu Weisheng , Zhou Hui , Wang Wenxiang , Sang Jika , Zhao Shanshan , Wang Zhaofeng
Published: February 2021

A design strategy for multi-mode luminescent color self-evolution in calcium aluminate (CaAl2O4) with co-doping Eu2+/Mn2+/Er3+/Nd3+.
Rhodium-catalyzed annulation of pyrrole substituted BODIPYs with alkynes to access π-extended polycyclic heteroaromatic molecules and NIR absorption
Authors: Zhou Bixiang , Guo Mengjie , Pan Qingjie , Zhou Mingbo , Xu Ling , Rao Yutao , Wang Kaisheng , Yin Bangshao , Zhou Jie , Song Jianxin
Published: February 2021

A series of π-extended BODIPY derivatives fused with an indolizine scaffold were prepared smoothly via rhodium-catalyzed C–H functionalization/annulation. These fluorophores show significantly red-shifted absorption, reaching to the near infrared (NIR) region.
Reversible fluorescence modulation through the photoisomerization of an azobenzene-bridged perylene bisimide cyclophane
Authors: Ouyang Guanghui , Bialas David , Würthner Frank
Published: February 2021

An azobenzene-bridged perylene bisimide cyclophane was designed and synthesized, which showed reversible fluorescence intensity switching under light-irradiation due to cooperative adjustments of PBI–PBI and PBI–Azo interactions.
Electrospun collagen core/poly-l-lactic acid shell nanofibers for prolonged release of hydrophilic drug
Authors: Huang Wan-Ying , Hibino Toshiya , Suye Shin-ichiro , Fujita Satoshi
Published: February 2021

A hydrophilic drug was encapsulated in nanofibers with hydrophobic shell using core–shell electrospinning. Drug–polymer miscibility affected the crystallinity of drug-loaded nanofibers. Our results propose a way to prolong the release of hydrophilic drugs from nanofibers.
Investigation of interactions between binding residues and solubility of grafted humanized anti-VEGF IgG antibodies expressed as full-length format in the cytoplasm of a novel engineered E. coli SHuffle strain
Authors: Sangpheak Kanyani , Waraho-zhmayev Dujduan , Haonoo Korakod , Torpaiboon Sarun , Teacharsripaiboon Tarin , Rungrotmongkol Thanyada , Poo-arporn Rungtiva P.
Published: February 2021

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are one of the fastest-growing areas of biopharmaceutical industry and have been widely used for a broad spectrum of diseases.
Thymol derivatives with antibacterial and cytotoxic activity from the aerial parts ofAgeratina adenophora
Authors: Zhang Mei , Ouyang Jin-Kui , Xu Qiao-Lin , Liu Shao-Bo , Qian Tao , Dong Li-Mei , Tan Jian-Wen
Published: February 2021

Eight thymol derivatives including three new ones (1–3) were obtained from the aerial parts ofAgeratina adenophora, with most of them, in particular1and5, showing notablein vitroantimicrobial and cytotoxic activity.
Enhancing room-temperature NO2 gas sensing performance based on a metal phthalocyanine/graphene quantum dot hybrid material
Authors: Jiang Wenkai , Chen Xinwei , Wang Tao , Li Bolong , Zeng Min , Yang Jianhua , Hu Nantao , Su Yanjie , Zhou Zhihua , Yang Zhi
Published: February 2021

A high performance gas sensor based on a metal phthalocyanine/graphene quantum dot hybrid material was fabricated for NO2 detection at room-temperature.
Form-stable phase change composites based on nanofibrillated cellulose/polydopamine hybrid aerogels with extremely high energy storage density and improved photothermal conversion efficiency
Authors: Tan Yunlong , Du Xiaosheng , Du Zongliang , Wang Haibo , Cheng Xu
Published: February 2021

Novel form-stable composite phase change materials were fabricated by impregnating n-octacosane into nanofibrillated cellulose/polydopamine hybrid aerogels.
Correction: In-chain functionalized syndiotactic 1,2-polybutadiene by a Ziegler–Natta iron(iii) catalytic system
Authors: Liang Shanshan , Zhang Huaqiang , Cong Rixin , Liu Heng , Wang Feng , Hu Yanming , Zhang Xuequan
Published: February 2021

Correction for ‘In-chain functionalized syndiotactic 1,2-polybutadiene by a Ziegler–Natta iron(iii) catalytic system’ by Shanshan Liang et al., RSC Adv., 2019, 9, 33465–33471, DOI: 10.1039/C9RA06499K.
Palladium-catalyzed remote para-C–H activation of arenes assisted by a recyclable pyridine-based template
Authors: Chen Xiaoxi , Fan Shuai , Zhang Meng , Gao Yuzhen , Li Shangda , Li Gang
Published: February 2021

An unprecedented pyridine-based para-directing template (DT) assisted, Pd-catalyzed remote para-C–H alkenylation of three classes of arenes is reported herein.
Engineering Sr-doping for enabling long-term stable FAPb1−xSrxI3 quantum dots with 100% photoluminescence quantum yield
Authors: Gualdrón-Reyes Andrés F. , Macias-Pinilla David F. , Masi Sofia , Echeverría-Arrondo Carlos , Agouram Said , Muñoz-Sanjosé Vicente , Rodríguez-Pereira Jhonatan , Macak Jan M. , Mora-Seró Iván
Published: February 2021

The Pb substitution in quantum dots (PQDs) with lesser toxic metals has been widely searched to be environmentally friendly, and be of comparable or improved performance compared to the lead-perovskite.
Polysaccharide-tackified composite hydrogel for skin-attached sensors
Authors: Zheng Xinyu , Gao Yang , Ren Xiuyan , Gao Guanghui
Published: February 2021

Flexible and conductive hydrogels have been widely used in the field of flexible wearable sensors.
sp2carbon-conjugated covalent organic frameworks: synthesis, properties, and applications
Authors: Li Xinle
Published: February 2021

sp2carbon-conjugated COFs (sp2c-COFs) featuring an unparalleled combination of sp2carbon linkages, extended π-conjugation, high crystallinity, permanent porosity, unique optoelectronic properties, and extraordinary chemical stability, have garnered enormous attention recently.
High-resolution mining of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease conformational space: supercomputer-driven unsupervised adaptive sampling
Authors: Jaffrelot Inizan Théo , Célerse Frédéric , Adjoua Olivier , El Ahdab Dina , Jolly Luc-Henri , Liu Chengwen , Ren Pengyu , Montes Matthieu , Lagarde Nathalie , Lagardère Louis , Monmarché Pierre , Piquemal Jean-Philip
Published: February 2021

We provide an unsupervised adaptive sampling strategy capable of producing μs-timescale molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of large biosystems using many-body polarizable force fields (PFFs).
Evaluation and Management of Severe Tinnitus: An Evidence-Based Case Report
Authors: Zitelli Lori
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Tinnitus is reported by millions of Americans and is significantly problematic for many people. Commonly, individuals suffering from tinnitus report disturbances in the areas of sleep, hearing, emotional well-being, and so forth. This case report presents the evaluation and treatment of an adult female with severe tinnitus and multiple relevant comorbidities. This case includes the onset, evaluation, and management of significantly bothersome tinnitus in a 60-year-old woman. Tinnitus was first reported after she was treated with an Epley maneuver intended to resolve benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. An evaluation of tinnitus (including a comprehensive audiometric evaluation, an assessment of the impact of tinnitus on her life, and psychoacoustic measures of tinnitus perception) was completed. The tinnitus was reported to have a severely negative impact on her overall health, mental state, and quality of life.

Method

This patient opted to manage her tinnitus with a combination of pharmaceuticals, sound therapy, and education (the latter two in the form of tinnitus retraining therapy).

Results

The course of her active treatment spanned approximately 18 months, and, at the completion of her treatment, she demonstrated significant improvements in all areas of her life that had been impacted by tinnitus. She has become an active advocate for tinnitus management and has made herself available as a resource for other individuals who are struggling to cope with intrusive tinnitus.

Conclusion

Tinnitus retraining therapy is a treatment option that may significantly improve the quality of life of individuals suffering from severely bothersome tinnitus.
A study on the salinization of coastal water of Sidi Boughaba Lake (Ramsar site 1980) in Morocco using the characteristic reports
Authors: Najy Mohamed , Lachhab Mohamed , Ech-chafay Hassan , Talbi Fatima Zahra , Achhar Abderrahman , Belghyti Driss
Published: February 2021

The Lake Sidi Boughaba is a Ramsar site (1980) located on the Atlantic coast of north-west Morocco. It is oriented NNE - SSW and located in a secondary interdunal depression formed in a complex of the main wetlands of Morocco. The waters of this lake are deteriorating in quality, with increasing salinization. To identify the processes and chemical reactions that govern salinization, the main major elements as well as the pH, electrical conductivity and salinity were monitored during the winter and summer seasons of the years, 2016-2017 in 6 sites distributed throughout the year. The interpretation of the analysis data is carried out using the correlation of the major elements with the chlorides, the Piper diagram and the variation of the ionic ratios Na/Cl, SO4/Cl, Mg/Ca and the calculation of the saturation index. The saturation index is calculated by the software PHREEQC 2.8, used for modelling the state of saturation of minerals. The results of these analyzes revealed a variety of origins and processes of salinization of the waters. The hydro chemical study shows that the waters are brackish too salty; they are characterized by sodium chloride facies. This remarkable transition is mainly due to the intense evaporation that accentuates the mineralization. The values of the saturation index of the chemical minerals show the under saturation the anhydrite of the gypsum and the halite, on the other hand, the saturation or even supersaturation by the calcite and dolomite. The characteristic ratios of the chemical composition of waters show that salinity has two main origins: ion exchange between rock-water and marine influence by aerosols and sea spray.
Physico-chemical study of raw wastewater from Outat El Haj city, Morocco
Authors: Ech-Chafay Hassan , Najy Mohamed , Talbi Fatima Zahra , Elghazouany Abdellatif , Lachhab Mohamed , Belghyti Driss
Published: February 2021

The climatic changes that the middle Moulouya region of Morocco has undergone in recent years, demographic growth and the development of urbanization have led to a significant decrease in the reserves of water that can be mobilized for domestic and agricultural uses. This deficit, between availability and need for water, will only increase with the increasing needs of the water consuming sectors. The main objective is to follow the physical-chemical evolution of raw wastewater in the city of Outat El Haj. Sampling took place over 12 months (2014-2015). The physical-chemical study of urban discharges from the city of Outat El Haj made it possible to define the pollution ratio per inhabitant between 17 and 21 mg/hab.day with BOD5 concentration between 525 mg/l and 2125 mg/l and pH values near neutrality. The ratio COD/BOD5 is from 1.92 to 2.04, shows the biodegradability of effluents, and may be treated by a biological system such as stabilization ponds as found nationwide. The values of the physical-chemical obtained are above the wastewater discharge standards recommended by the WHO and and the Moroccan standards. At the end of this research, it turned out that wastewater from the city of Outat El Haj is of lousy quality to very bad.
New evidence from NARDL model on CO2 emissions: Case of Morocco
Authors: Chikri Hassan , Moghar Adil , Kassou Manar , Hamza Faris
Published: February 2021

The main objective of this study is to examine the effect of sickle energy consumption, renewable energy, and forest area on the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) in Morocco. Many studies have abord this subject using a different approachs, most of which have used econometric models such as Vector Autoregressive (VAR) Error Correction Model (ECM) and Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL). In this study, we opted for the Non-linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model. The data used covers the period from 1990 to 2018 (annual data). The results of our model are significant and prove the asymmetric effects of the explanatory variables on CO2 emissions.
Heat integration applied on low thermal energy system: Building complex case study
Authors: Khalid Ibaaz , Moha Cherkaoui , Mohamed Cherkaoui , Khadija Annaba
Published: February 2021

The tertiary-building sector is one of the most important energy consumers in the Morocco, especially thermal energy. Its intensive use of energy is highly related to the building’s inefficient processes. The Moroccan strategy for energy efficiency aims mainly to save 12% of energy consumption by 2020 and 15% by 2030, which reinforce the appearance of many energy saving alternatives ranging from sensitization and construction laws to engineering applications. The present paper addresses the problem of the building complex energy efficiency in order to improve its performance thermally. The proposed approach in this work is based on the pinch technology which is a technique widely used to integrate and optimize the energy of thermal systems and which has demonstrated its successfulness for industrial process. The simulation results reveals that the potential thermal energy saving reaches 21.16%, with heat exchange network design initially proposed to clearly show the potential recovered. Based on the composite curves (CCs), the problem table algorithm (PTA) and the grand composite curve (GCC), the pinch point temperature is turned out to be 15°C with 316,99 kW of hot utility. The obtained results reveal that the proposed pinch technology perform its effectiveness not only in the industrial sector but also in the building-tertiary.
Information technology as a tool to improve the efficiency of the housing market
Authors: Ermilova Mariia , Laptev Sergey
Published: February 2021

Information technologies are increasingly entering our lives, absorbing almost all industries. The housing market is no exception. This is especially important within the framework of increasing the efficiency of operations in the housing market while simultaneously reducing a certain list of risks and additional costs. Evaluating the experience of several developed countries, we can conclude that information technologies have significantly improved the state of the market and its financing. In Russia, in contrast to foreign countries, the existing information infrastructure of the housing market is ineffective. This has an impact on the quality of financing for the industry, does not fully provide all the opportunities available in world practice. In addition, the reduction in funding for the industry does not allow the construction of higher quality housing, which would have a significant impact on the environment. The study used methods of modeling, systems analysis, induction. The results of the study made it possible to show the influence of the information infrastructure of the housing market on making decisions on the construction or purchase of residential real estate. In addition, the influence of a developed information infrastructure on financing the housing market in the context of the digital transformation of the economy was determined.
Optimization of costs for innovations of industrial enterprises Western Ukraine in ensuring sustainable environmental development
Authors: Hyk Vasyl
Published: February 2021

The structural transformations taking place in the world economy are due to the transition from the «industrial economy» to the «knowledge economy», which is characterized by the dominance of intellectual capital and innovation. It is determined that an important condition for sustainable economic development of the country and increasing competitiveness is the effective implementation of innovation. The purpose of the study is to determine the optimal cost structure for innovation and its impact on sales revenue. Within this framework, attention is focused on the use of elements of economic and mathematical modeling. The scientific novelty is to develop a model that will substantiate the relationship between the studied indicators of innovation costs, will allow to predict the amount of income from sales and ensure the achievement of its optimal value. It is established that the proposed multiple linear regression quite clearly describes the initial data and can be used for prediction. The practical significance of the obtained results lies in the applied orientation of the approaches, the use of which improves the management of innovation costs and increases the level of reliability of economic information of industrial enterprises of Ukraine and as a result will improve the environmental situation. The study will assess the impact of economic entities on the environment and preserve the natural resource potential in order to achieve sustainable economic development.
Informal micro-enterprises: What impact does the business environment have on the decision of formalization?
Authors: Rahou El hassania , Taqi Ahmed
Published: February 2021

This work studies the impact of the perception of the constraint imposed by the business environment on the disposition of Moroccan informal micro-enterprises to move to the formal sector. We test the hypothesis that this disposition to formalize is based on a profit maximization model consisting in comparing the advantages and costs of setting up in the formal and informal sectors. Using data collected from 100 informal micro-entrepreneurs and using step-by-step logistic regression, we find that the decision of microenterprises to structure themselves is dependent on the socio-economic characteristics of the country in question (macroeconomic context, legal and business regulations, etc.). In addition, we find that the desire for formalization is negatively impacted by perceptions linked to the unavailability of basic infrastructure (electricity, water, telephone, etc.), access to finance, access to premises, access to public contracts, access to information as well as the burden of administrative procedures. These results suggest that improving the business environment and general governance could further drive microenterprises to take the step towards formal entrepreneurship, thus providing a broader tax base and other benefits to society in the future.
Indicators for monitoring and assessment of Environmental management systems in ports
Authors: Housni Farah , Maurady Amal , Barnes Philip , Boumane Abderrazak , Britel Mohamed Reda
Published: February 2021

Ports are no longer content with being the connection of ocean and land transportation, of which they are keys in international logistics and supply chains. Ports have also become industrial production areas. As ports continue to evolve as production areas, they are becoming significant sources of water pollution, solid waste, and noise and air pollution. Due to this increase in environmental impacts, the majority of the world ports have made commitments to development of proactive procedures for a sustainable development by adopting an environmentally responsible approach to preserve and protect the environment. This is despite the need of a diagnostic tool which allows monitoring and evaluation of the progress of environmental management in the different sectors of the port. The present study evaluated the different activities and environmental aspects related to the shipping industry and identified the main indicators to assess and develop an environmental management system (EMS) in order to achieve sustainable development.
A symbiosis between renewable energy and tourism: The case ofDnipro region in Ukraine
Authors: Shevchenko Hanna , Petrushenko Mykola
Published: February 2021

Transition economies have less ambition to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals in comparison with developed economies. However, if to compare the benchmarks under Goal 9 “Affordable and clean energy” for Ukraine with the trends of its energy balance, the satisfaction of the relevant ambitions is possible only with a comprehensive approach. Purpose of the study is to analyse the multifaceted innovative intersectoral cooperation and inclusion of energy-tourism projects in the regional socio-economic and ecological programs, in accordance with the reference benchmarks under SDGs in Ukraine. The paper has outlined an approach to activation the relationship between renewable energy and tourism sphere, on the example of solar power plants in the Dnipro region. Implementation of the proposed, in the study, part of the regional program will create opportunities: for tourism sphere – improving the tourist image of the region, increasing in the number of domestic tourists, creating new jobs, increasing in volume of tourist services, increasing in revenues from tourism to regional and local budgets; for renewable energy sphere: also improving an image and information policy, increasing in number of future customers, generating additional income, improving indicators of social and environmental effectivness. The proposals set out in the paper will serve in the future as basis for the development of the ideas of energy-tourism symbiosis within the European Green Deal.
Food Waste reuse as a feed for organic chicken: A case study
Authors: Mechkirrou Latifa , Arabi Mourad , Ouhssine Mohammed , Afilal Mohamed El Amine
Published: February 2021

Since the food system will inevitably produce food waste, it is recommended that it be captured and recycled for more efficient use rather than being disposed of as solid household waste. Therefore, it is advantageous to promote food waste as poultry feed. In order to study the feeding feasibility of a poultry Lab- Prepared Feed (LPF) based on kitchen food waste as well as their nutritional value, the tests were carried out near Taza city on an organic chicken farm, in Eastern Morocco. The results of consumption indices concerning organic chickens treated only by Lab-Prepared Feed showed average values of 1.18 and 1.17 for tests 1 and 2 successively. According to the results obtained, the tests proved the feeding feasibility of a Lab-Prepared Feed (LPF), it appears to be a good substitute for commercial foods. The study may help to ensure the recovering of food waste materials as a new poultry feed substitute.
Thermodynamic model of a single stage H2O-LiBr absorption cooling
Authors: Ghatos Siham , Taha Janan Mourad , Mehdari Abdessamad
Published: February 2021

Due to the dangerous ecological issues and the cost of the traditional energy, the use of sustainable power source increased, particularly solar energy. Solar refrigeration and air conditioner such as, absorption solar systems denote a very good option for cooling production. In present work, an absorption machine that restores the thermal energy produced by a flat plate solar collector in order to generate the cooling effect was studied. For the seek of good performances, it is necessary to master the modeling of the absorption group by establishing the first and second laws of the thermodynamic cycle in various specific points of the cycle. The main objective was to be able to finally size different components of the absorption machine and surge the coefficient of performance at available and high heat source temperature. A model were developed using a solver based on Matlab/Simulink program. The obtained results were compared to the literature and showed good performances of the adopted approach.