bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Born approximation of acoustic radiation force and torque for an arbitrary particle in a zero-order standing Bessel beam
Authors: Zang Yu-Chen , Su Chang , Wu Peng-Fei , Lin Wei-Jun ,   Institute of Acoustics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China,   University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China,   Beijing Deep See Drilling Measurement Engineering Technology Research Center, Beijing 100190, China
Published: February 2022

The calculation of acoustic radiation force and acoustic radiation torque is an important basis for the precise manipulation of particles. It is difficult to directly apply the partial-wave series expansion method based on the classical acoustic scattering theory to the study of complicated models, while pure numerical methods are not conducive to the parametric analyses of the system. Based on the basic principle of Born approximation, the expressions of acoustic radiation force and torque acting on an arbitrary particle located in the center of a zero-order Bessel standing wave field are derived at low frequencies. On this basis, the numerical simulations are systematically performed by taking spherical, spheroidal and cylindrical particles as examples. The effects of inhomogeneity on the acoustic radiation force and torque are also investigated. The simulation results show that the Born approximation method has a high accuracy in the low frequency range. As the frequency increases and the impedance matching between the particle and the fluid becomes worse, the accuracy of Born approximation will gradually decrease. An acoustic radiation torque caused by asymmetry will be exerted on spheroidal and cylindrical particles obliquely positioned in a zero-order Bessel standing wave field. When the particle size is much smaller than the wavelength, the acoustic radiation force is nearly independent of the particle shape, but this is not the case for acoustic radiation torque. Finally, viscous effect of the surrounding fluid is introduced and the expression of acoustic radiation force is corrected accordingly. The study is expected to provide a theoretical guide for the precise manipulation of small particles using standing wave acoustic tweezers in biomedicine and material sciences.
Simulation study on radiation hardness for total ionizing dose effect of ultra-thin shielding layer 300 V SOI LDMOS
Authors: Zhang Shu-Hao , Yuan Zhang-Yi-An , Qiao Ming , Zhang Bo ,   The State Key Laboratory of Electronic Thin Films and Integrated Devices, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China,   Institute of Electronic and Information Engineering of UESTC in Dongguan, Dongguan 523808, China
Published: February 2022

In this work, the linear current degradation mechanism of 300 V silicon-on-insulator laterally double-diffused metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor under total ionizing effect is studied, and a method in radiation-hardness for linear current by introducing an ultra-thin shielding layer is proposed. This new structure is realized with P-type ultra-thin shielding layer implantation under field oxide, in order to prevent the P-type layer from complete surface inversion, thereby truncating the surface current route and mitigating the current degradation effectively. For a laterally double-diffused metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor, linear current degradation can be attributed mainly to holes introduced in the field oxide. In this work, the influence of introduced holes on electrical properties in the transistor oxides under harsh environment is simulated based on device and process simulation software, with optimized layer length, implantation energy, lateral distance and dose window, and the goal of linear current hardness (linear current increment decreasing from 447% in conventional structure to less than 10% in proposed structure) is achieved while maintaining pre-rad and post-rad breakdown voltages above 300 V under total dose of 0–500 krad(Si).
Evidence of episodic positive selection in Corynebacterium diphtheriae complex of species and its implementations in identification of drug and vaccine targets
Authors: Canário Viana Marcus Vinicius , Profeta Rodrigo , Cerqueira Janaína Canário , Wattam Alice Rebecca , Barh Debmalya , Silva Artur , Azevedo Vasco
Published: February 2022

Background

Within the pathogenic bacterial species Corynebacterium genus, six species that can produce diphtheria toxin (C. belfantii, C. diphtheriae, C. pseudotuberculosis, C. rouxii, C. silvaticum and C. ulcerans) form a clade referred to as the C. diphtheria complex. These species have been found in humans and other animals, causing diphtheria or other diseases. Here we show the results of a genome scale analysis to identify positive selection in protein-coding genes that may have resulted in the adaptations of these species to their ecological niches and suggest drug and vaccine targets.

Methods

Forty genomes were sampled to represent species, subspecies or biovars of Corynebacterium. Ten phylogenetic groups were tested for positive selection using the PosiGene pipeline, including species and biovars from the C. diphtheria complex. The detected genes were tested for recombination and had their sequences alignments and homology manually examined. The final genes were investigated for their function and a probable role as vaccine or drug targets.

Results

Nineteen genes were detected in the species C. diphtheriae (two), C. pseudotuberculosis (10), C. rouxii (one), and C. ulcerans (six). Those were found to be involved in defense, translation, energy production, and transport and in the metabolism of carbohydrates, amino acids, nucleotides, and coenzymes. Fourteen were identified as essential genes, and six as virulence factors. Thirteen from the 19 genes were identified as potential drug targets and four as potential vaccine candidates. These genes could be important in the prevention and treatment of the diseases caused by these bacteria.
Soil properties, root morphology and physiological responses to cotton stalk biochar addition in two continuous cropping cotton field soils from Xinjiang, China
Authors: Dong Xiuxiu , Zhang Zhiyong , Wang Shaoming , Shen Zihui , Cheng Xiaojiao , Lv Xinhua , Pu Xiaozhen
Published: February 2022

Long-term and widespread cotton production in Xinjiang, China, has resulted in significant soil degradation, thereby leading to continuous cropping obstacles; cotton stalk biochar (CSB) addition may be an effective countermeasure to this issue, with effects that are felt immediately by root systems in direct contact with the soil. In this study, we assess the effects of different CSB application rates on soil nutrient contents, root morphology, and root physiology in two soil types commonly used for cotton production in the region. Compared with CK (no CSB addition), a 1% CSB addition increased total nitrogen (TN), available phosphorus (AP), and organic matter (OM) by 13.3%, 7.2%, and 50% in grey desert soil, respectively , and 36.5%, 19.9%, and 176.4%, respectively, in aeolian sandy soil. A 3% CSB addition increased TN, AP, and OM by 38.8%, 23.8%, and 208.1%, respectively, in grey desert soil, and 36%, 13%, and 183.2%, respectively, in aeolian sandy soil. Compared with the aeolian sandy soil, a 1% CSB addition increased TN, OM, and AP by 95%, 94.8%, and 33.3%, respectively, in the grey desert soil , while in the same soil 3% CSB addition increased TN, OM, and AP by 108%, 21.1%, and 73.9%, respectively. In the grey desert soil, compared with CK, a 1% CSB application increased the root length (RL) (34%), specific root length (SRL) (27.9%), and root volume (RV) (32.6%) during the bud stage, increased glutamine synthetase (GS) (13.9%) and nitrate reductase (NR) activities (237%), decreased the RV (34%) and average root diameter (ARD) (36.2%) during the harvesting stage. A 3% CSB addition increased the RL (44%), SRL (20%), and RV (41.2%) during the bud stage and decreased the RV (29%) and ARD (27%) during the harvesting stage. In the aeolian sandy soil, 1% CSB increased the RL (38.3%), SRL (73.7%), and RV (17%), while a 3% caused a greater increase in the RL (55%), SRL (89%), RV (28%), soluble sugar content (128%), and underground biomass (33.8%). Compared with the grey desert soil, a 1% CSB addition increased the RL (48.6%), SRL (58%), and RV (18.6%) in the aeolian sandy soil, while a 3% further increased the RL (54.8%), SRL (84.2%), RV (21.9%), and soluble sugar content (233%). The mechanisms by which CSB addition improves the two soils differ: root morphology changed from coarse and short to fine and long in the grey desert soil, and from fine and long to longer in the aeolian sandy soil. Overall, a 3% CSB addition may be a promising and sustainable strategy for maintaining cotton productivity in aeolian sandy soil in the Xinjiang region.
Anatomic Asymmetry of Iliolumbar Artery in Goan Population: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Daniel Ankit Paul , Dias Medora CD , Patil Rajesh T
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Haemorrhage is one of the most common complications in laparoscopic pelvic and para-aortic surgeries thus making variant anatomy of Iliolumbar Artery (ILA) important as it is one of the vessels leading to haemorrhage. Aim: To study variant anatomy of ILA and its morphometric analysis. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was done over a period of five months from January 2020 to May 2020. Twenty- seven-formalin fixed human pelvises were dissected in iliolumbar region in the dissection hall of the Department of Anatomy, Goa Medical College, Bambolim, Goa, India. Point of origin of Iliolumbar Artery (ILA), its length before its branches, distance from the branching of Internal Iliac Artery (IIA) and Common Iliac Artery (CIA) trunk were evaluated. The length of these vessels was measured by using a thread and a vernier caliper (sensitive to 0.1 mm) by following their curves. Results: The ILA was found to originate from IIA (trunk) in twenty-one (38.89%); from posterior division of the IIA in eight (14.81%); at the division of IIA in fifteen (27.78%); from CIA (trunk) in two (3.70%) and was not traceable (was not found branching from IIA) in eight (14.81%) specimen. Mean length of ILA when originating from posterior division of IIA was 1.36±0.44 cm; when originating from IIA (trunk) was 1.53±0.46 cm and when originating at the division of IIA was 1.64±0.67 cm. Mean distance of ILA from IIA if ILA originates from IIA (trunk) was 2.27±0.81 cm and if ILA originates from posterior division of IIA was 1.23±0.57 cm. Mean distance of ILA from CIA (trunk) if ILA originates from IIA (trunk) was 2.53±1.07 cm, if ILA originates from posterior division of IIA was 3.95±1.06 cm. Conclusion: Knowledge of anatomy and variations of the ILA to the modern day laparoscopic surgeons, orthopaedic spine surgeons and vascular surgeons will immensely help in safe surgical outcomes.
Intussusception in Children: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Deshmukh Santoshkumar Nagnath , Sanghvi Zeal Nevil , Pawar Rakesh Ramesh
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Intussusception is one of the most frequent causes of bowel obstruction in infants and toddlers. Due to wide variety of clinical presentations and overlap with other abdominal conditions, the diagnosis of intussusception is often delayed. Delayed diagnosis and treatment leading to gangrene and perforation of the bowel increases the morbidity and mortality of this condition. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and treatment is warranted for better outcome. Aim: To find out the possible aetiological factors, clinical presentation and treatment outcome of intussusception in children. Materials and Methods: A prospective descriptive cohort study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery from October 2018 to November 2020, in which 30 patients with diagnosis of intussusception undergoing either hydrostatic reduction or open surgical intervention were enrolled. Age and sex were the independent variables while surgical outcome was the dependent variable assessed. Results: Thirty patients (males=17 and females=13) of intussusception who had met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Mean age of the patients were 10.8±19.12 months. In 83.33% patients, intussusception was idiopathic, while, pathological lead point was noted in 16.7% patients. Ileo- colic (76.67%) was the most common type of intussusception detected. A 70% patient’s required open surgery while hydrostatic reduction carried out in 30% patients. No mortality was observed in this study. Conclusion: The commonly affected age group was 7 to 12 months. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment while hydrostatic reduction is effective in few properly selected patients.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Medical Education: An Indian Perspective
Authors: Bhardwaj Manisha , Kashyap Surender , Aggarwal Deepak
Published: February 2022

The Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has affected the human race across continents. Besides factories, food supply, transportation and travel industry; the education sector including medical education has also been adversely affected. It has been learned from experience over the last year that the coronavirus is here to stay for longer than expected. To mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical education, new teaching methods and portals are being explored to bridge the gaps in learning across the nation over the last few months. Medical education is a fine blend of theory and practical training which is non negotiable. Online teaching as a sole alternative method for imparting education is being discovered and scrutinised. This article brings up a brief review about merits and barriers of e-learning in medical education in rapidly evolving scenarios from the Indian perspective.
Accuracy of Computed Tomography Pretreatment Staging and Post-treatment Recurrence in Head and Neck Cancers in Rural Western India- A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Pandya Radhika Himanshu , Joshi Parth , Panchal Rushikumar D , Patel Viral
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Cancers of head and neck are the most common in developing countries especially, in India. Multi-disciplinary approach and treatment are required in management of head and neck cancers which include surgeries, radiotherapy techniques and chemotherapy regimens. These can complicate the post-treatment imaging field and contribute to difficulties in image interpretation. Knowledge of these expected post- treatment changes, possible complications and the capability to identify early changes of tumour recurrence is an integral part of post-treatment surveillance and effective management. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of Multi-Detector Computed Tomography (MDCT) in pre-treatment staging, post-treatment response and recurrence in comparison with Positron Emission- Computed Tomography (PET-CT). Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted including 101 patients, undergoing pre- and post-treatment, contrast enhanced CT scan with sections from skull base to base of neck. The pre-treatment imaging of primary tumour was assessed for its Tumour (T) and Node (N) stage with corresponding staging on histopathology. The imaging observations on pre- and post-treatment scans, for outcomes on recurrence, residual disease and cure were considered. Recurrence when suspected on post-treatment CT scan was confirmed with PET-CT or biopsy. The agreement of T and N staging on pre-treatment CT scan with that on histopathology was examined using quadratic weighted kappa. Sensitivity and specificity for detection of post-treatment recurrence on CT scan was determined by measuring true positive rates and true negative rates. Results: An agreement of 0.4 and 0.58 (kappa coefficient) was found between T and N staging on CT and histopathology which suggests fair accuracy of CT in pretreatment staging of head and neck cancers. The CT had a sensitivity and specificity of 88.89% and 100% for detecting recurrence in head and neck cancers in post-treatment neck CT scan in the background of post-treatment imaging changes. Conclusions: MDCT is a good imaging tool in pre-treatment staging of head and neck cancers. It effectively detects recurrence in the background of post-treatment changes. A standard post-treatment evaluation protocol should be followed.
Chemical Analysis of a Traditional Herbal Decoction use in Sri Lanka for Snake Bite Treatments
Authors: Kulatunga W. M. S. S. K. , Arawwawala L. D. A. M. , Herath H. M. D. R.
Published: February 2022

Snake bite is considered as a major occupational health problem in Sri Lanka. A traditional decoction consists of nine medicinal plants clinically proven its efficacy for snake bites. In the present study, an attempt was done to carry out chemical analysis of the decoction. Chemical analyses were carried out for the decoction in terms of (a) phytochemical screening (b) quantification of total phenols and total flavonoids and (c) in vitro antioxidant activities. Present study, revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, steroids and tannins in the decoction. Moreover, total polyphenol and total flavonoid contents of the decoction were 66.03 ± 2.74 mg gallic acid equivalents/g of extract and 18.93 ± 0.90 mg quercetin acid equivalents/g of extract respectively. ORAC value was 3.51 ± 0.23 mg trolox equivalents/g of extract and dose dependent (R2 = 0.9788) DPPH radical scavenging ability was observed. IC50 of the decoction for the DPPH assay was 4.58±0.12 µg/ml. In conclusion, traditional decoction which used to treat snake bites consists of many important phytochemical classes and exhibit potent in vitro antioxidant activity.
Occurrence and Fate of Polychlorinated Biphenylsin Water and Sediments: A Case Study of Bodo River in Ogoni, River State Nigeria
Authors: Ogbuagu J. O. , Ukpai U. E. , Okeke A. P. , Obi E. N.
Published: February 2022

Contamination of water bodies due to the presence of persistent organic pollutant (POPs) has been a major concern in the environment. This study aims at determining the concentration of Polychlorinated Biphenyls Known as PCBs and Heavy Metal in sediments and water samples in Bodo River. Standard Analytical techniques were employed during the sampling process in order to achieve high level of accuracy and precision. The samples were digested and the extracts were collected for GCMS determination of Polychlorinated Biphenyls in the samples collected. The results of the analysis shows that the concentration of Polychlorinated Biphenyls were found to exceed the maximum residue limit of persistent organic pollutant. Therefore it is advised that farmland and borehole connected to the sampling location be evaluated so as to minimize the health risk associated with exposure to Polychlorinated Biphenyls.
Aspiration Level of Undergraduates and Post Graduate Agriculture Students
Authors: Sharma Nedhi Rani , Naberia Seema , Vishal Takre , Venkata Harikrishna Yeragorla
Published: February 2022

The focus on career and career preparation has long been a major component of secondary agricultural education programs. Aspiration can be defined as hope or ambition of achieving something. The occupational choices for agricultural students are many, varied and chosen based. The study was carried out in college of Agriculture, Jabalpur, JNKVV with the total sample of 120, level of occupational aspiration of undergraduate and postgraduate students were determined. The socio personal traits of the Undergraduate(UG) and Postgraduate(PG) result found that majority of the students  enrolled were male for undergraduate and postgraduate, had attended the medium of school as hindi for both UG and PG, nearly half of the respondents fathers were in government services for both UG and PG, both UG and PG graduates majority mothers were housewives, family size was small(55%) for UG and 50.00 per cent medium family size for PG Students, and academic performance, UG and PG students had secured 1st division. The result concluded that in socio personal traits of both the undergraduate and postgraduate students had medium level of occupational aspiration i.e 53.40 and 51.60 respectively.
Hormonal Profile Evaluation in Swiss Male Mice Administered Lambda Cyhalothin and Extracts of Some Local Spices
Authors: Olubunmi Obulor Adetutu , Efioanwan Orlu Eme
Published: February 2022

Aim: This study was aimed at evaluating the hormonal profile of Swiss male mice administered lambda cyhalothin and extracts of some local spices.

Experimental Design: A completely randomized experimental design using standard methods for analysis. 

Location and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in the Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. GPS 4o47'50''N 6o58'49''E The study lasted for 35 days.

Methodology: Forty-two male mice were randomly selected into six (6) groups A-F (n=7/group). Group B were gavage Cyhalothin LCT) alone. Group C, D, and E were gavaged 10 mg/kg/bw of  LCT and 20 mg/kg/bw/day of Tetrepleura tetraptera, Piper guineense, and Xylopia  aethiopica respectively, while group F received 10 mg/kg/bw of LCT together with the combination of the three spices. All animals were allowed access to cool clean water and standard rat pellet ad libitum. Twenty-four hours to the termination of the experiment, feed was withdrawn from the animals. Blood samples for hormonal profile evaluation were collected through ocular puncture between the hours of 7:00 and 9:00am into plain sample tubes according to the approved protocol of blood collection techniques. Analysis for the quantitative determination of all androgens was carried out using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), while statistical analysis was carried out using one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and expressed as their respective units. Where significant differences were found, Pair-wise comparisons conducted with Tukey test using SPSS 20 software.

Results: Result showed a significant (P=0.05) decrease in the concentration of all androgens in group B animals treated with LCT alone. The level of these hormones were also reduced although not as low as the level in group B, with administration of the combination of all three spices in group F. This implies that the consumption of these spices might have had an antagonistic effect on the level of hormone produced when combined. Exposure to lambda cyhalothrin, affects reproductive hormones in males leading to infertility and other reproductive dysfunctions. Using spices such as tetrapleura tetraptera and Piper guineense singly as remedy can ameliorate the toxic effect of insecticide related hormonal changes under the guidance of a doctor or any healthcare professional. However, high and frequent intake of Xylopia aethiopica or the concomitant consumption of these three spices is not advised for males.
Comparison between Total Lymphocyte Count and C-Reactive Protein in Neonate with Meningitis in Neonatal Unit at Benghazi Children Hospital- Libya
Authors: Elgaroushi Negeia Imhamed Ali , Abdalrazi Wafa Saad , Eldgheili Fadwa A. Mansour , Lawgali Mohanad Abdulhadi Saleh
Published: February 2022

Meningitis in newborn continue to be major cause of morbidity and mortality, particular in premature infant.

Incidence is 0.2 to 0.4\1000 live birth and higher in premature infant.

The sign and symptoms of meningitis are not specific and diagnosis depends on laboratory investigation.

Objective: To find the value of CRP in camper with WBC count in cases proved meningitis based on lumber puncture finding.

Design: Retrospective study, cross section study.

Setting: The neonatal intensive care unit at children hospital Benghazi.

Patient and Methods: 50 newborn infant with proved meningitis based on lumber puncture result (exclude all neonate with traumatic sample) treated in unit in period from January 2020 to November 2021 were included in this study.

Epidemiological data and investigation were obtained from the newborn medical chart.

TLC count <5000/cubic mm or>20000/cubic mm were consider abnormal.

CRP >10 consider high

Results: The total number of eligible newborn was 50 (28 males and 22 females) the mean of their age was 14.74 days.

All diagnosed to have meningitis based on Lumber Puncture result.

The TLC range from 3900 to 37000/cu.mm and the mean was 15150/cu.mm.

1 neonate out of 50(2%) had TLC>5000/cu.mm. and 10 neonate (20%) had TLC >20000/cu.mm.

While the remaining 39 (78%) normal range.

CRP range from 2.5 mg/L to as high as 285 mg/L.

33 neonate out of 50 (66%) were >10mg/L

Seventeen out of 50 newborns (34%) CRP were <10mg/L.

Conclusions: Compering with TLC, CRP is more reliable indicator for infection with meningitis and sepsis in neonate.
The Role of Hematological Indices in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Abd-Elfatah Saed Ahmed Mohamed , Mohmaed Allaithy Amany , Naseem Hussien Mohamed , El Said Ayman Mohamed
Published: February 2022

Background: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) including ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and unstable angina - is an umbrella term for life-threatening situations that occur when the blood supply to the heart is altered due to destabilization of a previously stable atherosclerotic plaque. This alteration hinders the heart muscle from functioning properly and even could lead to death. This study aimed to identify the role of hematological indices in patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Methods: This prospective cohort study was carried out on 75 patients; they were divided into 3 groups each of them included 25 patients. Group I represent patients with myocardial infarction (MI), group II represents patients with unstable angina (UA) and control group included 25 subjects. All patients were subjected to complete history taking, clinical examination and routine laboratory investigation. Patients also were subjected to electrocardiography, transthoracic echo Doppler and coronary angiography.

Results: Regarding hematological indices for prediction of MI, the ROC revealed: NLR ≥ 4.45 with sensitivity 96%, specificity 92%, Area under the curve 0. 99 and accuracy 94%. RDW ≥ 14.15 with sensitivity 96% specificity 72%, Area under the curve 0.973 and accuracy 84%. PLR ≥ 88.8 with sensitivity 96%, specificity 96%, Area under the curve 0.994 and accuracy 96%. MPV ≥ 9.65 with sensitivity 68%, specificity 52%, Area under the curve 0.646 and accuracy 60%. PDW ≥ 15.15 with sensitivity 96%, specificity 96%, Area under the curve 0.998 and accuracy 96%.

Conclusions: There is a high demand for a reliable, accessible, noninvasive, and hematological prognostic marker in ACS, which would identify patients of high cardiovascular risk in secondary prevention and tailor the therapy to their needs. The inflammatory processes play a key role in the development of atherosclerosis, destabilization of atherosclerotic plaques and formation of clots on the plaque surface. There is a significance role of NLR, PLR, PDW, MPV, and RDW in the prognosis of ACS.
Bioefficacy of Newer Molecules Insecticides against Tea Mosquito Bug, Helopeltis theivora Waterhouse under Laboratory Condition
Authors: Ranjithkumar R. , Kalaynasundaram M. , Kannan M. , Kennedy J. S. , Chinnamuthu C. R. , Paramaguru P.
Published: February 2022

Aims: Bio-efficacy of newer insecticides against the Tea mosquito bug (TMB) in Tea.

Study Design: CRD

Place and Duration of Study: R&D center, Parry Agro Industries Limited, Murugali Tea Estate, Valparai, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu between September 2019 and September 2021.

Methodology: Field populations of H. theivora were collected and Bouquet bioassay method was used to assess the efficacy. Eleven insecticides with three replications (15 shoots/ replication) and Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was followed. The treatments includes viz.,T1- Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.3ml/lit., T2- Spirotetramate +Imidacoprid 11.01 SC @ 2ml/litre., T3 - Thiacloprid 21.7 SC @ 1ml/lit., T4 - Thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 0.5gm/lit., T5- Spinosad 45 SC @ 0.5ml/lit., T6- Dinotefuran 20 SG @ 0.5g/lit., T7- Emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 0.5g/lit., T8- Buprofezin 25 SC @ 3ml/lit., T9- Sulfaxaflor 21.8 SC @ 1.8ml/lit., T10- Tolfenpyrad 15% EC @ 2ml/lit., and T11- Control (Water). The shoots were sprayed with hand atomizer and observations on the % adult mortality and Feeding puncture/ shoots were recorded at 24, 48 and 72 hours after treatment (HAT). Moribund insects were consider as dead and taken for the count and data were analyzed statistically.

Results: Among all the treatments tested, tolfenpyrad 15% EC after 72 HAT treated tea shoots having less no of feeding punctures (85.33 Nos) and maximum 100 percent adult mortality followed by dinotefuran 20 SG (100.00%), sulfaxaflor 21.8 SC (93.33%), emamectin benzoate 5 SG (90.00%), thiacloprid 21.7 SC (88.33%), spirotetramate + imidacoprid 11.01 SC (81.67%), buprofezin 25 SC (75.00%), thiamethoxam 25 WG (71.67%), chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC(68.33%), spinosad 45 SC (61.67 %). The feeding punctures were maximum in untreated control (167.22 Nos).

Conclusion: The present study revealed the application of Tolfenpyrad 15% EC @ 2ml/lit. is the optimum dose for the effective control of Helopeltis theivora under laboratory conditions.
Performance of a Solar Water Flat Plate Collector Made from Locally Available Materials
Authors: Jaafar Muhammad
Published: February 2022

A solar water heater is one of the ways through which sunlight energy can be harnessed for domestic use. The performance of a typical solar water heater made from locally available materials was determined and in the process a solar water heater is designed, construct and tested on the university of Maiduguri campus. The sunlight energy is absorbed by the collector made up of an aluminum absorber plate enclosed within a transparent cover to prevent the emitted radiation from escaping (greenhouse effects). The absorber is made with fluid carrying tubes to absorb heat and increases the temperature of the water in the tank through theromsyphon principle. Maximum fluid output temperature and the collector temperature of 59  and 70  respectively were obtained on a sunny day. This solar water heater find useful application as a source of hot water for cooking, washing and laundry, and acts as a renewable energy resources in regions where there is abundant sunlight.
Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children- A Case Study from a Tertiary Care Centre in Maharashtra, India
Authors: Kshirsagar V. Y. , Kakkar Nagza
Published: February 2022

Background: A multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is associated with coronavirus disease 2019. Understanding the epidemiology and clinical course of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and its association with Covid-19 is important, given the clinical and public health implications of the syndrome.

Materials and Methods: This was a prospective observational study carried out in the Department of Paediatrics, Krishna Institute Of Medical Sciences, Karad, Maharashtra, India, over a period of 12 months. Thirty three children, between the ages of 1 month-14 years were studied.

Results: Out of the 67 patients admitted to our paediatrics ward during this period with suspected MISC, 33 patients were confirmed to have MIS-C on laboratory investigations. Involvement of a minimum of two systems was noted. The main clinical manifestations were gastrointestinal (abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting and diarrhoea) and dermatological (rash). Fever was present in all 33 cases. The laboratory investigations were indicative of a pro inflammatory state seen in MIS-C. Positive findings on echocardiography were found in majority of cases.

Conclusion: Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children associated with SARS-CoV-2 has become serious public health problem in the paediatric population, with haemodynamic instability and cardiac dysfunction being the main signs, and rapid resolution with anti-inflammatory therapy.
Soft Actuators Made of Discrete Grains
Authors: Eristoff Sophia , Kim Sang Yup , Sanchez‐Botero Lina , Buckner Trevor , Yirmibeşoğlu Osman Doğan , Kramer‐Bottiglio Rebecca
Published: February 2022

Recent work has demonstrated the potential of actuators consisting of bulk elastomers with phase‐changing inclusions for generating high forces and large volumetric expansions. Simultaneously, granular assemblies have been shown to enable tunable properties via different packings, dynamic moduli via jamming, and compatibility with various printing methods via suspension in carrier fluids. Herein, granular actuators are introduced, which represent a new class of soft actuators made of discrete grains. The soft grains consist of a hyperelastic shell and multiple solvent cores. Upon heating, the encapsulated solvent cores undergo liquid‐to‐gas phase change, inducing rapid and strong volumetric expansion of the hyperelastic shell up to 700%. The grains can be used independently for micro‐actuation, or in granular agglomerates for meso‐ and macroscale actuation, demonstrating the scalability of the granular actuators. Furthermore, the active grains can be suspended in a carrier resin or solvent to enable printable soft actuators via established granular material processing techniques. By combining the advantages of phase‐change soft actuation and granularity, this work presents the opportunity to realize soft actuators with tunable bulk properties, compatibility with self‐assembly techniques, and on‐demand reconfigurability.
The Fabrication of Photonic Crystal Microchip with Controllable Wettability and SERS Activity based on Surface Roughness for Trace Organic Compounds Determination
Authors: Chen Huan , Song Chenchen , Peng Zifang , Mao Jian , Zhang Yanhao , Chen Sheng , Zhang Wenfen , Zhang Shusheng , Zhao Wuduo , Ouyang Gangfeng
Published: February 2022

Inspired by the fog collection structure on the back of the desert beetle, the hydrophobic photonic crystal microchip (HPCM) with dual functions of hydrophobic enrichment and surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) activity is fabricated by depositing thin Ag film on the photonic crystals (PC) surface, and this is the first time that the wettability and SERS activity are controlled simultaneously by adjusting surface roughness. A 5 nm thin silver film is deposited on the PC surface of hydrophilic SiO2 to increase surface roughness so that the wettability is transformed from hydrophilicity to hydrophobicity. The hydrophobic surface not only reduces the influence of the “coffee ring” effect but also enriches the samples during analysis. Moreover, due to the sputtering of Ag film, the “hot spots” on the PC surface are increased while the periodic structure of PC remains unchanged. By coupling the photonic bandgap (PBG) of HPCM with Raman laser wavelength, the enhancement factor (EF) reaches 2.3 × 106. The outstanding performance of HPCM is attributed to the synergy between the rough surface and the PBG of PC. The designed HPCM can not only quickly, efficiently, and sensitively detect organic compounds determination, but also has potential application in environmental monitoring.
Strong Piezoelectricity in 3R‐MoS2 Flakes
Authors: Hallil Hamida , Cai Weifan , Zhang Kang , Yu Peng , Liu Sheng , Xu Ran , Zhu Chao , Xiong Qihua , Liu Zheng , Zhang Qing
Published: February 2022

Distinct from conventional 2H‐MoS2, recently synthesized 3R‐MoS2 exhibits a noncentrosymmetric atomic structure of the trigonal “building blocks” and, thus, remarkable piezoelectric characteristics of ultrathin 3R‐MoS2 flakes are predicated theoretically. This paper reveals, for the first time, very high piezoelectricity in 3R‐MoS2 flakes experimentally. Through applying mechanical stress to a 48 nm 3R‐MoS2 flake, a high output power density of 65 mW m‐2 is obtained and is at least one order larger than those from the corresponding monolayer MoS2 flake. With out‐of‐plane lateral piezoresponse force microscopy technique, the two piezoelectric coefficients d33 and d13 are analyzed to be ≈0.9 and ≈1.6 pm V‐1, respectively. These piezoelectric coefficients are not apparently dependent on the flake thickness. The findings suggest that 3R‐MoS2 is of excellent piezoelectric properties and it can be an excellent material for novel piezoelectric devices.
Prenatally detected encephalocele associated with a novel pathogenicTCTN3variant: A case report and literature review
Authors: Huljev Frković Sanda , Vičić Ana , Crkvenac Gornik Kristina , Kulišić Dinko , Stipoljev Feodora
Published: February 2022

Primary cilia are a component of almost all vertebrate cells with a crucial role in sensing and transducing environmental signals during tissue development. Their dysfunction is known as ciliopathies and can manifest with a wide spectrum of clinical disorders. Overlapping features and molecular heterogeneity of ciliopathies make diagnoses distinctly challenging. In this group of diseases, tectonic genes, and their mutations play an important role. We present a first‐trimester fetus with occipital encephalocele and OFD type IV caused byTCTN3compound heterozygous pathogenic variants: c.1423_1429del (p.Arg475Serfs*10) and c.3G>A (initiator codon). A severe arm anomaly was described in our case, with two fingers along the atrophic forearm and polydactyly on other limbs. This could be a new phenotypic characteristic contributing to further understanding ofTCTN3‐related disorders as well as other tectonic proteins in ciliopathy spectrum diseases.
Epigenetic conditioning induces intergenerational resilience to dementia in a mouse model of vascular cognitive impairment
Authors: Belmonte Krystal Courtney D. , Holmgren Eleanor B. , Wills Tiffany A. , Gidday Jeff M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Epigenetic stimuli induce beneficial or detrimental changes in gene expression, and consequently, phenotype. Some of these phenotypes can manifest across the lifespan—and even in subsequent generations. Here, we used a mouse model of vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID) to determine whether epigenetically induced resilience to specific dementia‐related phenotypes is heritable by first‐generation progeny.

Methods

Our systemic epigenetic therapy consisted of 2 months of repetitive hypoxic “conditioning” (RHC) prior to chronic cerebral hypoperfusion in adult C57BL/6J mice. Resultant changes in object recognition memory and hippocampal long‐term potentiation (LTP) were assessed 3 and 4 months later, respectively.

Results

Hypoperfusion‐induced memory/plasticity deficits were abrogated by RHC. Moreover, similarly robust dementia resilience was documented in untreated cerebral hypoperfused animals derived from RHC‐treated parents.

Conclusions

Our results in experimental VCID underscore the efficacy of epigenetics‐based treatments to prevent memory loss, and demonstrate for the first time the heritability of an induced resilience to dementia.
Enhanced Wettability of a PTFE Porous Membrane for a High‐Temperature Stable Lithium‐Ion Battery Separator
Authors: Guo Hongxia , Li Mingye , Li Fan , Zhu Qizhen , Zhao Yao , Wang Feng , Qin Zhenping
Published: February 2022

A hydrophobic poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) porous membrane was modified into a hydrophilic lithium‐ion battery (LIB) separator with a higher affinity to the electrolyte via the hybrid consisting of a cationic fluorocarbon surfactant (FCS), polyethylenimine (PEI), and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), which can be in‐situ biomineralized into SiO2 nanoparticles. The obtained PTFE/FCS‐PEI‐SiO2 separator showed a dynamic electrolyte contact angle, which decreased from 50.3° to 0° within 4 s, along with 215 % of electrolyte uptake. The ionic conductivity and the interfacial resistance were 9.12 mS cm−1 and 228.8 Ω, respectively. In addition, the cell equipped with the separator showed a capacity of 163.7 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.2 C. Notably, the cell with the separator displayed good high‐temperature stability.
Rebuilding limbs, one cell at a time
Authors: Leigh Nicholas D. , Currie Joshua D.
Published: February 2022

Key Findings

New techniques for visualizing and interrogating single cells hold the key to unlocking the underlying mechanisms of salamander limb regeneration.
Conserving unprotected important sites for shorebirds on China's coasts
Authors: Duan Houlang , Yu Xiubo , Xia Shaoxia , Liu Yu
Published: February 2022

The loss of natural wetland habitats along China's coasts has contributed to population declines in waterbirds, especially migratory shorebirds. Identifying important shorebird sites is important for habitat conservation and management. We integrated shorebird survey datasets from multiple sources (bird‐watching websites, survey reports, and published literature) for coastal wetlands in China and used the criterion of 1% of the global or flyway population (hereafter, Ramsar 1% criterion) and priority index Pi to identify conservation priority sites and corresponding prioritization rank. We used gap analysis to identify the conservation status of natural protected areas. Forty‐eight conservation priority sites, where 31 shorebird species met the Ramsar 1% criterion. The prioritization rank was very high priority for six sites, high priority for five sites, and priority for 37 sites. There were 28 conservation priority sites for shorebirds with conservation gaps, and these accounted for 58.33% of all 48 conservation priority sites. Of these unprotected sites, the prioritization ranks were very high priority or high priority for six sites, which were mainly concentrated in Jiangsu province. We recommend prioritizing the protection of these sites by creating new protected areas or incorporating these areas into the existing system.
Reduction in torque ripple by applying an asymmetric rotor to PMSM
Authors: Ito Makoto , Sugimoto Shinji , Takahashi Akeshi , Tamiya Shuichi , Kushida Takatoshi
Published: February 2022

In this study, an asymmetric rotor was developed to reduce the cogging torque and torque ripple regardless of the rotational direction and its driving point. Specifically, the rotor had a linear symmetric structure for bi‐rotation. In addition, a π‐shaped pole rotor was proposed as a new structure to alleviate magnetic saturation at the edge parts of the rotor. Optimal design using the Rosenblock method revealed that the proposed structure can reduce the cogging torque and the torque ripple in a wide range of driving conditions.
Interface Evolution of Solid Oxide Cells between the Electrode and the Interconnect Rib Induced with Applied Current
Authors: Huang Nan , Su Yu , Han Beibei , Guan Wanbing , Singhal Subhash C.
Published: February 2022

Herein, the interface evolution of solid oxide cells (SOCs) on the interfacial contact resistance (ICR) between the electrode and the interconnect rib at different current densities is quantitatively studied using a stainless steel 430 (SUS430)/(La,Sr) (Co,Fe)O3 (LSCF)/SUS430 sandwich structure. To simulate the actual operation of SOCs, different current densities (200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 mA cm−2) are applied to the sandwich structure by an external power supply and a DC electronic load. Experimental results show that, under an isothermal condition for 1012 h and a thermal cycling condition for 15 times, ICR is smaller when the current density is increased. This phenomenon may be due to the softening of the oxide film on the SUS430 interconnect rib and an increase in the contact area between the SUS430 interconnect rib and the electrode LSCF. Additionally, the microstructure, surface roughness, and contact theory are analyzed in detail. The results indicate that interface contact between the electrode and the interconnect rib may be improved with suitable applied current. This work provides the understanding of possible interface evolution of SOCs induced with applied current.
An Unveiled Electrocatalysis Essence of NiCo Hydroxides through in Situ Raman Spectroscopy for Urea Oxidation
Authors: Yang Xu , Zhang Huimin , Yu Binbin , Liu Yan , Xu Wei , Wu Zucheng
Published: February 2022

The electrochemical urea oxidation reaction (UOR) is the performance‐limiting half reaction of urea electrolysis for producing renewable hydrogen energy. Nevertheless, the essence of electrode function mechanism of catalysts remains unclear. Therefore, design and optimization of catalysts are restricted. Herein, an in situ Raman spectroscopy method is employed to directly measure the electrode properties of the NiCo double hydroxides (NiCo DHs) under working conditions. Given definitely evidence, the evolution process of in situ Raman spectra shows that the Ni element is converted to NiOOH under UOR potentials, while the Co dopant is converted to CoOOH and further to higher‐valence CoO2 species. Obviously, the catalytically active phase toward UOR is really a complex NiOOH–CoOOH–CoO2 phase. Accurately matched spectral wavenumbers and electrochemical measurements of the catalytic electrodes explicitly reveal that the addition of Co assuredly reduces the onset potential for electroactive NiOOH formation. The Raman results also indicate effects of the NiO bond elongation and increased disorder caused by Co doping. Herein, an important understanding and new mechanistic perspectives for the electrode reaction process of UOR with NiCo binary catalysts are provided.
Miocene palynology and geochemistry of the Upper Bhuban Formation at Chumukedima, Nagaland (India)
Authors: Raghumani Singh Yengkhom , Singh Wahengbam Ajoykumar , Singh Shoujaijam Priyokumar , Devi Mayanglabam Sapana , Devi Thiyam Priyashwori , Abbott Mark B. , Guruaribam Venus , Kilong Lalminthang
Published: February 2022

In this study, we analysed a rich Miocene palynological assemblage from the Upper Bhuban Formation consisting of 21 genera and 25 species of fungal remains; spores and pollen grains, along with reworked Permian palynomorphs. The latter form a relatively high abundance throughout the studied section. The abundantHammenisporisspp. with fungal remains and geochemical data of clay minerals in the section imply that a warm and humid freshwater with oxic to anoxic continental or near‐shore depositional environment and tropical–subtropical climatic conditions prevailed during the course of sedimentation of the Upper Bhuban Formation. Geochemical studies of four selected Bhuban shale samples have been analysed for major oxide, trace elements, and rare earth elements (REE) and infer a felsic igneous rock under an active continental margin setting, with a moderate chemical to an intense chemical degree of weathering. The Rock‐Eval pyrolysis results suggest that the organic matter composition is primarily type‐III kerogen, with mixed immature and mature hydrocarbon and gas potential.
Field study on the influence of subsurface drainage pipes and envelopes on discharge and salt leaching in arid areas
Authors: Li Hang , Wu Zhe , Yang Haoyu , Wu Jingwei , Guo Chenyao
Published: February 2022

The selection of suitable drainage materials is crucial for the efficient operation of subsurface drainage systems. Previous studies on drainage material selection have focused on anti‐clogging characteristics, and less attention has been given to their effects on the process of soil salt leaching, which is an important consideration in arid and semi‐arid areas. To investigate the influence of subsurface drainage pipes and envelopes on salt leaching and discharge, field leaching experiments under flood irrigation and drip irrigation were conducted in Xinjiang region in China. Results show that the amount of drainage water in treatments that use gravel envelopes is higher than that in treatments that use synthetic envelopes. Meanwhile, the amount of drainage water in treatments that use gravel envelopes decreases the most after 1 year of operation. The synthetic envelope, the interaction between the perforation rate of the drainage pipe and the synthetic envelope significantly influence water and salt discharge. The optimal level of the synthetic envelope used in this study is spun‐bonded non‐woven geotextile, that of the layer number of envelopes is a single layer, and that of the perforation rate of the drainage pipe is 3.0%.