bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Problems and challenges of power-electronic-based power system stability: A case study of transient stability comparison
Authors: Yang Zi-Qian , Ma Rui , Cheng Shi-Jie , Zhan Meng ,   State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Engineering and Technology, Hubei Electric Power Security and High Efficiency Key Laboratory, School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
Published: December 2020

With the development of power electronic technology and requirement for clean energy, the traditional power systems which are dominated by synchronous generators are gradually changing into the power-electronic-based power systems with diversified power electronic equipment. The power systems are facing a great revolution in their primary equipment, and this has not happened in the past one hundred years. In recent years, with great increasing penetration of power electronic devices into power grids, the large-scale blackouts caused by power electronic devices have been reported, which seriously threatens the safe and stable operation of power systems. Under the above background, in this paper we first introduce several methods of analyzing the traditional power system transient stability from the equal area criterion for the single machine infinite bus system to several Lyapunov function based direct methods for multi-machine systems. Then we introduce some of our recent work on the nonlinear modeling and analysis of a key component of power-electronic-based power systems, voltage source converter (VSC), and propose a multiple machine system model including power electronic equipment and traditional synchronous machines. Finally, we illustrate the transient characteristics of the power electronic devices, and summarize the basic problems and challenges for the transient stability of power-electronic-based power systems. We hope that these basic problems in power-electronic-based power system dynamics including nonlinearity, multi-time-scale, and complexity could arouse the general interest of researchers in the fields of complex systems and statistical mechanics.
Vibration transfer characteristic of gradient-like structure based on magnetorheological fluid
Authors: Zhao Dan , Wang Shuai-Hu , Liu Shao-Gang , Cui Jin , Dong Li-Qiang ,   College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, China
Published: December 2020

In this paper, a gradient-like structure composed of magnetorheological (MR) fluids is proposed, and its vibration transfer characteristic is studied through the modeling, numerical calculation and experimental test. Under the action of an externally applied magnetic field, the MR fluid exhibits the liquid-solid transformation property: the process of transformation between solid and liquid in fact is the change of vibration-transfer impedance. Therefore, based on this property, the gradient-like structure is constructed by controlling the external magnetic field. Based on the wave equation of one-dimensional elastic wave propagation, the wave equation of elastic wave transfer in the gradient-like structure is established. In order to describe the relationship between the complex shear modulus and Lame constant of MR fluid and magnetic field intensity in the wave equation, the equivalent parameter model of MR fluid is established based on the theory of elasticity and viscoelastic materials. Then, the experimental set-up is built to modify this model through experiments. Afterward, the discretization method of continuous medium and transfer matrix method are adopted to solve the wave equation, and the expression of vibration level drop is obtained. Through the numerical calculation, the trend of vibration level drop varying with the frequency of incident elastic wave and the intensity of magnetic field for the gradient-like structure is obtained. Finally, the vibration transfer characteristic of the gradient-like structure is studied experimentally, and the influence of magnetic field intensity on the vibration transfer characteristic of the gradient-like structure is analyzed. The results show that the numerical results are in good accordance with the experimental results, thereby verifying that the numerical model is accurate. And the gradient-like structure has a better attenuation effect on the elastic wave than the MR fluid under the action of a uniform magnetic field, and has an excellent tunable property as well.
Using the past to estimate sensory uncertainty
Authors: Beierholm Ulrik , Rohe Tim , Ferrari Ambra , Stegle Oliver , Noppeney Uta
Published: December 2020

To form a more reliable percept of the environment, the brain needs to estimate its own sensory uncertainty. Current theories of perceptual inference assume that the brain computes sensory uncertainty instantaneously and independently for each stimulus. We evaluated this assumption in four psychophysical experiments, in which human observers localized auditory signals that were presented synchronously with spatially disparate visual signals. Critically, the visual noise changed dynamically over time continuously or with intermittent jumps. Our results show that observers integrate audiovisual inputs weighted by sensory uncertainty estimates that combine information from past and current signals consistent with an optimal Bayesian learner that can be approximated by exponential discounting. Our results challenge leading models of perceptual inference where sensory uncertainty estimates depend only on the current stimulus. They demonstrate that the brain capitalizes on the temporal dynamics of the external world and estimates sensory uncertainty by combining past experiences with new incoming sensory signals.
Subcellular sorting of neuregulins controls the assembly of excitatory-inhibitory cortical circuits
Authors: Exposito-Alonso David , Osório Catarina , Bernard Clémence , Pascual-García Sandra , del Pino Isabel , Marín Oscar , Rico Beatriz
Published: December 2020

The assembly of specific neuronal circuits relies on the expression of complementary molecular programs in presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons. In the cerebral cortex, the tyrosine kinase receptor ErbB4 is critical for the wiring of specific populations of GABAergic interneurons, in which it paradoxically regulates both the formation of inhibitory synapses as well as the development of excitatory synapses received by these cells. Here, we found that Nrg1 and Nrg3, two members of the neuregulin family of trophic factors, regulate the inhibitory outputs and excitatory inputs of interneurons in the mouse cerebral cortex, respectively. The differential role of Nrg1 and Nrg3 in this process is not due to their receptor-binding EGF-like domain, but rather to their distinctive subcellular localization within pyramidal cells. Our study reveals a novel strategy for the assembly of cortical circuits that involves the differential subcellular sorting of family-related synaptic proteins.
Therapeutic genetic variation revealed in diverse Hsp104 homologs
Authors: March Zachary M , Sweeney Katelyn , Kim Hanna , Yan Xiaohui , Castellano Laura M , Jackrel Meredith E , Lin JiaBei , Chuang Edward , Gomes Edward , Willicott Corey W , Michalska Karolina , Jedrzejczak Robert P , Joachimiak Andrzej , Caldwell Kim A , Caldwell Guy A , Shalem Ophir , Shorter James
Published: December 2020

The AAA+ protein disaggregase, Hsp104, increases fitness under stress by reversing stress-induced protein aggregation. Natural Hsp104 variants might exist with enhanced, selective activity against neurodegenerative disease substrates. However, natural Hsp104 variation remains largely unexplored. Here, we screened a cross-kingdom collection of Hsp104 homologs in yeast proteotoxicity models. Prokaryotic ClpG reduced TDP-43, FUS, and α-synuclein toxicity, whereas prokaryotic ClpB and hyperactive variants were ineffective. We uncovered therapeutic genetic variation among eukaryotic Hsp104 homologs that specifically antagonized TDP-43 condensation and toxicity in yeast and TDP-43 aggregation in human cells. We also uncovered distinct eukaryotic Hsp104 homologs that selectively antagonized α-synuclein condensation and toxicity in yeast and dopaminergic neurodegeneration inC. elegans. Surprisingly, this therapeutic variation did not manifest as enhanced disaggregase activity, but rather as increased passive inhibition of aggregation of specific substrates. By exploring natural tuning of this passive Hsp104 activity, we elucidated enhanced, substrate-specific agents that counter proteotoxicity underlying neurodegeneration.
Downregulation of the tyrosine degradation pathway extends Drosophila lifespan
Authors: Parkhitko Andrey A , Ramesh Divya , Wang Lin , Leshchiner Dmitry , Filine Elizabeth , Binari Richard , Olsen Abby L , Asara John M , Cracan Valentin , Rabinowitz Joshua D , Brockmann Axel , Perrimon Norbert
Published: December 2020

Aging is characterized by extensive metabolic reprogramming. To identify metabolic pathways associated with aging, we analyzed age-dependent changes in the metabolomes of long-lived Drosophila melanogaster. Among the metabolites that changed, levels of tyrosine were increased with age in long-lived flies. We demonstrate that the levels of enzymes in the tyrosine degradation pathway increase with age in wild-type flies. Whole-body and neuronal-specific downregulation of enzymes in the tyrosine degradation pathway significantly extends Drosophila lifespan, causes alterations of metabolites associated with increased lifespan, and upregulates the levels of tyrosine-derived neuromediators. Moreover, feeding wild-type flies with tyrosine increased their lifespan. Mechanistically, we show that suppression of ETC complex I drives the upregulation of enzymes in the tyrosine degradation pathway, an effect that can be rescued by tigecycline, an FDA-approved drug that specifically suppresses mitochondrial translation. In addition, tyrosine supplementation partially rescued lifespan of flies with ETC complex I suppression. Altogether, our study highlights the tyrosine degradation pathway as a regulator of longevity.
Cold-induced hyperphagia requires AgRP neuron activation in mice
Authors: Deem Jennifer D , Faber Chelsea L , Pedersen Christian , Phan Bao Anh , Larsen Sarah A , Ogimoto Kayoko , Nelson Jarrell T , Damian Vincent , Tran Megan A , Palmiter Richard D , Kaiyala Karl J , Scarlett Jarrad M , Bruchas Michael R , Schwartz Michael W , Morton Gregory J
Published: December 2020

To maintain energy homeostasis during cold exposure, the increased energy demands of thermogenesis must be counterbalanced by increased energy intake. To investigate the neurobiological mechanisms underlying this cold-induced hyperphagia, we asked whether agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons are activated when animals are placed in a cold environment and, if so, whether this response is required for the associated hyperphagia. We report that AgRP neuron activation occurs rapidly upon acute cold exposure, as do increases of both energy expenditure and energy intake, suggesting the mere perception of cold is sufficient to engage each of these responses. We further report that silencing of AgRP neurons selectively blocks the effect of cold exposure to increase food intake but has no effect on energy expenditure. Together, these findings establish a physiologically important role for AgRP neurons in the hyperphagic response to cold exposure.
Visual mode switching learned through repeated adaptation to color
Authors: Li Yanjun , Tregillus Katherine EM , Luo Qiongsha , Engel Stephen A
Published: December 2020

When the environment changes, vision adapts to maintain accurate perception. For repeatedly encountered environments, learning to adjust more rapidly would be beneficial, but past work remains inconclusive. We tested if the visual system can learn such visual mode switching for a strongly color-tinted environment, where adaptation causes the dominant hue to fade over time. Eleven observers wore bright red glasses for five 1-hr periods per day, for 5 days. Color adaptation was measured by asking observers to identify ‘unique yellow’, appearing neither reddish nor greenish. As expected, the world appeared less and less reddish during the 1-hr periods of glasses wear. Critically, across days the world also appeared significantly less reddish immediately upon donning the glasses. These results indicate that the visual system learned to rapidly adjust to the reddish environment, switching modes to stabilize color vision. Mode switching likely provides a general strategy to optimize perceptual processes.
Fine interaction profiling of VemP and mechanisms responsible for its translocation-coupled arrest-cancelation
Authors: Miyazaki Ryoji , Akiyama Yoshinori , Mori Hiroyuki
Published: December 2020

Bacterial cells utilize monitoring substrates, which undergo force-sensitive translation elongation arrest, to feedback-regulate a Sec-related gene. Vibrio alginolyticus VemP controls the expression of SecD/F that stimulates a late step of translocation by undergoing export-regulated elongation arrest. Here, we attempted at delineating the pathway of the VemP nascent-chain interaction with Sec-related factors, and identified the signal recognition particle (SRP) and PpiD (a membrane-anchored periplasmic chaperone) in addition to other translocon components and a ribosomal protein as interacting partners. Our results showed that SRP is required for the membrane-targeting of VemP, whereas PpiD acts cooperatively with SecD/F in the translocation and arrest-cancelation of VemP. We also identified the conserved Arg-85 residue of VemP as a crucial element that confers PpiD-dependence to VemP and plays an essential role in the regulated arrest-cancelation. We propose a scheme of the arrest-cancelation processes of VemP, which likely monitors late steps in the protein translocation pathway.
An AMPK-dependent, non-canonical p53 pathway plays a key role in adipocyte metabolic reprogramming
Authors: Wang Hong , Wan Xueping , Pilch Paul F , Ellisen Leif W , Fried Susan K , Liu Libin
Published: December 2020

It has been known adipocytes increase p53 expression and activity in obesity, however, only canonical p53 functions (i.e. senescence and apoptosis) are attributed to inflammation-associated metabolic phenotypes. Whether or not p53 is directly involved in mature adipocyte metabolic regulation remains unclear. Here we show p53 protein expression can be up-regulated in adipocytes by nutrient starvation without activating cell senescence, apoptosis, or a death-related p53 canonical pathway. Inducing the loss of p53 in mature adipocytes significantly reprograms energy metabolism and this effect is primarily mediated through a AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway and a novel downstream transcriptional target, lysosomal acid lipase (LAL). The pathophysiological relevance is further demonstrated in a conditional and adipocyte-specific p53 knockout mouse model. Overall, these data support a non-canonical p53 function in the regulation of adipocyte energy homeostasis and indicate that the dysregulation of this pathway may be involved in developing metabolic dysfunction in obesity.
The tricuspid valve also maladapts as shown in sheep with biventricular heart failure
Authors: Meador William D , Mathur Mrudang , Sugerman Gabriella P , Malinowski Marcin , Jazwiec Tomasz , Wang Xinmei , Lacerda Carla MR , Timek Tomasz A , Rausch Manuel K
Published: December 2020

Over 1.6 million Americans suffer from significant tricuspid valve leakage. In most cases this leakage is designated as secondary. Thus, valve dysfunction is assumed to be due to valve-extrinsic factors. We challenge this paradigm and hypothesize that the tricuspid valve maladapts in those patients rendering the valve at least partially culpable for its dysfunction. As a first step in testing this hypothesis, we set out to demonstrate that the tricuspid valve maladapts in disease. To this end, we induced biventricular heart failure in sheep that developed tricuspid valve leakage. In the anterior leaflets of those animals, we investigated maladaptation on multiple scales. We demonstrated alterations on the protein and cell-level, leading to tissue growth, thickening, and stiffening. These data provide a new perspective on a poorly understood, yet highly prevalent disease. Our findings may motivate novel therapy options for many currently untreated patients with leaky tricuspid valves.
Neutralizing SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Poeschla Eric
Published: December 2020

Experiments with hybrid viruses are illuminating how SARS-CoV-2 can escape neutralizing antibodies.
New insights into the mechanism of Schiff base synthesis from aromatic amines in the absence of acid catalyst or polar solvents
Authors: Silva Pedro J.
Published: December 2020

Extensive computational studies of the imine synthesis from amines and aldehydes in water have shown that the large-scale structure of water is needed to afford appropriate charge delocalization and enable sufficient transition state stabilization. These insights cannot, however, be applied to the understanding of the reaction pathway in apolar solvents due their inability to form extensive hydrogen-bonding networks. In this work, we perform the first computational studies of this reaction in nonpolar conditions. This density-functional study of the reaction of benzaldehyde with four closely related aromatic amines (aniline, o-toluidine, m-toluidine and p-toluidine) shows that, although an additional molecule of amine may provide some stabilization of the first transition state even in the absence of a hydrogen bonding network, this is insufficient to achieve high reaction rates. Our computations also show that when an extra proton is added to the spectator amine, the activation energies become so low that even picomolar amounts of protonated base are enough to achieve realistic rates. Additional computations show that those minute amounts of protonated base may be obtained under reaction conditions without the addition of extraneous acid through the auto-protolysis of the amines themselves. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a role for the auto-protolysis of anilines in their extensive reactional repertoire.
Self-Pollinated (Geinotogami) of Uncaria gambir (Hunter) Roxb. Type Udang
Authors: Rizki Muhammad , Dwipa Indra , Zainal Aprizal
Published: December 2020

Aims: The research aimed to study the ability of natural and artificial self-pollinated (Geitonogamy) of gambir.

Study Design: Experimental method consisted of determining the sample plants. Sampling determination was conducted by non probability sampling, purposive sampling.

Place and Duration of Study: This research was conducted in the UPT Experimental Garden of the Faculty of Agriculture, Andalas University, Padang from September 2019 to December 2019

Methodology: an experimental method consisted of determining the sample plants, conducting natural and artificial geitonogamy self-pollinated systems, observing sample plants, collecting data based on the experiment, and sample-testing in the laboratory. Sample determination selected by non-probabilistic sampling with purposive sampling method. Observation included percentage of pollination, percentage of fertilization, number of fruit formed, pollen fertility and sterility

Results: Data observations were analyzed with simple statistics. The results showed that (1) the percentage of pollination through the geitonogamy natural pollination system of udang gambier type was 89.30%, (2) the percentage of fertilization in the geitonogami's own natural pollination system was 10.68% and artificial was 27.5%, (3) the average percentage of pollen fertility was 56.56% and the pollen sterility was 43.44% tested with the bromothymol blue staining method.

Conclusion: Artificial geitonogami self-pollination was potential to develop for gambir cultivation.
Physicochemical and Microbial Evaluation of Selected Residential Borehole Water Samples in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Enemor Victor Henry Azubuike , Okeke Precious Ebuka , Ogbodo Uchechukwu Chibuzo
Published: December 2020

Water is very important to the existence of humans though could also serve as vehicle for pathogenic organisms and dangerous organic and inorganic matters. The physicochemical and microbial analyses of selected borehole water samples in Awka residential areas were conducted with the aim of ascertaining suitability or otherwise for human consumption. The total hardness, pH, alkalinity, some common elements and presence of toxic metals were determined by standard methods of American Public Health Association. The presence of microorganisms in the water samples was also determined. Results of the physicochemical analysis of the borehole water samples showed a mean pH value of 5.52 below the WHO standard of 6.5 - 8.5 and mean total hardness of 150 ppm greater than the WHO standard of 70 ppm. The microelements such as manganese, zinc, lead, selenium, nickel and cadmium were found to be below detectable levels in the water samples. Five bacteria species were isolated and identified in the water samples as Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter aerogenes, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The physicochemical properties and the bacteria load of most of the water samples indicate that they were unfit for human consumption as the samples were outside WHO reference standard for potable water suggesting a need for increased awareness for improved sanitation and hygiene practices in the state.
Production and Quality Evaluation of Local “Madiga” Bread Enriched with Defatted Fluted Pumpkin Seed Flour
Authors: Kabari D. B. Kiin- , Chibor B. S. , Akpoebi S. D.
Published: December 2020

The objective of this work was to produce local (Madiga) bread from the blend of wheat and fluted pumpkin seed flour and to evaluate the nutrient composition and sensory properties of enriched Madiga produced from these flour blends. Defatted fluted pumpkin seed flour was used to substitute wheat flour at the following; (Wheat to Fluted pumpkin seed flour ratio); 100:0 (control), 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40%, 50:50, and labelled as samples A, B, C, D, E, and F, respectively. The ash content ranged from 1.20 – 2.55%, with sample A given significantly lower ash content (1.20%) than those of the enriched Madiga. Significantly higher ash values of 2.55%, 2.44% and 2.39% were recorded in samples E, F and D, respectively. There was no significance in the fat content of samples A and B. Percentage protein ranged from 6.79% – 9.36%. The crude protein content of all the enriched Madiga samples were significantly higher than that of the control, Crude fiber content ranged from 0.91% – 1.82%, with sample C given significantly higher value of 1.82% followed by samples D and F. Control local Madiga gave significantly higher carbohydrate content of 74.31%. The energy value per kcal/100g for samples B, C, D, E and F were 258.62, 284.16, 296.07, 296.96 and 278.81, respectively. Samples B and C received significantly higher value of 4.70 and 4.05, respectively, keeping these samples in the ‘sweet’ to ‘very sweet’ range. Samples B and C received significantly higher overall acceptability and were scored 3.85 and 3.70, respectively. These values were however, not significantly difference from 3.33 and 2.93 as scored in samples D and E, respectively. Substitution of wheat flour with 10, 20 and 30% defatted fluted pumpkin seed flour was effective in producing enriched Madiga bread, thus recommended.
Proximate, Mineral Composition and Phytochemical Screening of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Alafia barteri Oliv. (Apocynaceae)
Authors: Adefisan I. O. , Ebuehi O. A. T. , Odesanmi O. S.
Published: December 2020

Alafia barteri leaves are valued for its efficacy in the traditional medicine system in Nigeria. It has been used over the years for the treatment of various diseases some of which include malaria, sickle cell anaemia, and eye infections. This has necessitated the evaluation of its chemical composition to ensure its safety for human use. This study was undertaken to evaluate the phytochemical constituents, proximate and elemental composition of Alafia barteri leaf. The phytochemicals and proximate analyses were carried out using standard methods. The mineral elements were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The proximate analysis of the leaves showed it contained moisture 8.6%, crude fibre 48.29%, protein 15.84%, carbohydrate 13.13%, lipids 7.23% and ash 6.75%. The mineral analysis of the leaves revealed the presence of the following minerals: calcium (96.2 mg/100 g), manganese (74.8 mg/100 g), iron (46.2 mg/100 g), magnesium (31.05 mg/100 g), potassium (3.3 mg/ 100 g), sodium (2.9 mg/100 g). The phytochemical screening indicated the presence of flavonoids, phenols, tannins, anthraquinones, phlobatannins, cardiac glycosides and steroids. The study revealed the leaves of Alafia barteri to be a potential source of minerals and nutrients needed for human nutrition.
Pattern of Ocular Manifestations among People Living with HIV/AIDS on Highly Active Anti Retroviral Therapy
Authors: Ukponmwan Catherine U. , Oboh Evaristus Oseiwe , Uhumwangho Odarosa M. , Okwara Benson U.
Published: December 2020

Aim: To determine the pattern of ocular manifestations in people living with HIV/AIDS on highly active retroviral therapy (HAART).

Study Design: A descriptive hospital based cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Presidential Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) clinics of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital and Central Hospital, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Between 1st July 2018 and 31st October 2019.

Methodology: Four hundred and fifty one (451) patients living with HIV/AIDS on HAART were the subjects of this study. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used. They all had a comprehensive eye examination done. General examination including their height, weight and blood pressure were done.

Results: There were 451 patients (104 males and 347 females with a male to female ratio of 0.3:1), the age range was 14 to 75 years with a mean age of 46.55 ± 10.77 years. Most of them, 305 (67.6%) were married. A Majority 210 (46.6%) of them had a CD4 count of 500 cells /microliter and more. Ocular morbidity was present in 385 (85.1%) respondents. The most common ocular morbidity was an uncorrected refractive error in 262 patients with presbyopia being the most common type. Other morbidities seen were cataract followed by allergic conjunctivitis and glaucoma. Ocular manifestations of HIV/AIDS occurred in 32 patients (7.1%). The most common was dry eyes in 15 (46.9%) of these patients followed by posterior uveitis secondary to presumed Toxoplasmosis in 9 (28.1%) patients. Other types of HIV associated ocular morbidities seen were conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma, retinal detachment, optic neuritis and Herpes Zoster ophthalmicus.

Conclusion: There is a reduction in the prevalence and a change in the type of ocular manifestations in people living with HIV/AIDS on HAART. They are more prone to developing other ocular morbidities due to their increased lifespan. Eye health care programs should be established for people living with HIV/AIDS.
Multiple Viral Co-infections in a Pediatric Patient of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) - An Unique Case Report
Authors: Kumar Maneesh , Topno Roshan Kamal , Singh Binod Kumar , Madhukar Major , Kamble Bheemarao , Sahoo Ganesh Chandra , Das Pradeep , Pandey Krishna , Singh Alka
Published: December 2020

The occurrence of viral co-infection is always a challenging issue in pediatrics which indicates underestimation of causal viral pathogens. A 6-year-old girl child from Patna had diagnosed a rare case of multi-viral co-infection in February 2020. She was manifested with oblivion along with high-grade fever, weakness, nasal bleed, headache, and body ache. She had altered sensorium with mildly dilated pupils. Her three classical meningeal sign i.e. Kernig's sign, Brudzinski's sign, and nuchal rigidity were found positive. She clinically investigated with a strong suspicion of viral infectivity. Awfully, she was diagnosed with multi-viral co-infection including Japanese Encephalitis, Dengue, Chikungunya, Cytomegalovirus, and Rubella where as HSV and VZV detected borderline. The IgM detection for JE using the CSF sample was found equivocal. The infection was also confirmed by CECT brain scanning. She got proper medication including antiemetic, antipyretic, antiepileptic drugs, antibiotics, anti-viral drugs, and 20% Mannitol for reducing the intra cranial pressure. After medication under proper clinical supervision, she improved completely with any seizures and viral infections. She advised for follow-up after a month. Such occurrences of multi-viral co-infections deserve proper attention and awareness among the healthcare experts about the severity of drugs.
Studies on Immunomodulatory Effect of Casein Phospho Peptide Isolated from Cultured Dairy Product
Authors: Mullaiselvan Indumathi , Kanagaraj Vijayarani , Sekar Saranya , Dharmar Baskaran , Sambandan Rathnapraba
Published: December 2020

Bioactive peptides have been defined as specific protein fragments that have an impact on body functions or conditions and may ultimately influence health. Fermented milk is a dairy product which has abundance of bioactive peptides. In this study, Casein Phospho peptide (CPP) was isolated by enzymatic hydrolysis of fermented milk using trypsin. The molecular weight of the Casein Phospho peptide was 3.5 KDa. The anti-bacterial activity of Casein Phospho peptide was determined using four pathogens such as, Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enterica. Casein phospho peptide formed a zone of inhibition against the pathogens. The bioactive peptides were characterized using Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Casein Phospho peptide had aliphatic amine, acetyl amino I and acetyl amino II functional groups. The HPLC analysis of Casein Phospho peptide revealed that the major amino acid present was L- Glutamic acid and the amino acid present in lesser concentration was Leucine. Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) were isolated from human blood and the cells were treated with Casein Phospho peptide to assess the immunomodulatory effect.

Casein Phospho peptide was able to produce a higher concentration of IL-10 anti-inflammatory cytokines when treated with PBMCs.
The Influence of Lower-Body Training, Upper-Body Training and a Combination of Both on Pain, Functionality and Quality of Life in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients
Authors: Baum K. , Hofmann U. , Bock F.
Published: December 2020

Purpose: Regular physical activities are a keystone in the nonmedical and nonsurgical treatment of knee-osteoarthritis. However, the underlying mechanisms are still regarded as a black-box and a matter of debate. As potential candidates, two groups can be distinguished: First, joint-specific influences such as better biomechanical functioning and improvements in the quality of cartilage. Secondly, more unspecific effectors like anti-inflammatory cytokines and a central modulation of pain perception. In order to distinguish between these two groups the present study compared the training effects of knee-joint surrounding muscles (LBT), upper body muscles (UBT), and the combination of both (WBT).  

Methods: 372 physically inactive, adult knee-osteoarthritic patients of both sexes were enrolled in the multi-centered, controlled, and randomized training intervention. All three exercise groups fulfilled an 8-week circle-training intervention two times per week with a subjective intensity of 4 - 5 for the first five sessions (on a 0 = no effort to 10 = extreme effort scale). From the 6th to the 10th session, intensity was adjusted to 6 – 7 and thereafter to 7 – 8. The single training sessions were as follows. LBT: 4 devices, exercise net time (ENT) 20 min., UBT: 4 devices, ENT12 min., WBT 8 devices, ENT 28 min. Anthropometric data, comorbidities, regular physical activities, actual and former medical treatments, knee specific functionality, pain, stiffness, and health related physical and mental quality of life was evaluated at the beginning, after 4 weeks, and finally after 8 weeks by means of online-questionnaires.

Main Results: Initially, pain and physical function correlated well with the Kellgren-Lawrence grades (p < 0,01). All three training interventions led to significantly increased functionalities (p < 0,0001) and physical qualities of life (p < 0,02). The pain-subscore of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index was significantly reduced (p < 0,004). None of these improvements showed significant differences between groups, although there was a tendency of WBT to be superior to UBT and LBT.

Conclusion: The positive effects of physical training regimens cannot be exclusively attributed to a knee-specific training effect since significant improvements also occurred in the UBT group.
Development and Validation of HPTLC Method for Studying Stress Degradation of Aspirin in Fulvic Acid Inclusion Complex
Authors: Anwer Md. Khalid , Ahmed Mohammed Muqtader , Ansari Mohammad Javed , Aldawsari Mohammed F. , Mirza Mohd. Aamir
Published: December 2020

A new, precise high performance thin layer chromatographic (HPTLC) method for the analysis aspirin (ASP) in inclusion complexes with HPβCD and fulvic acid (FA) was developed and validated as per ICH guidelines. A precoated silica gel aluminium plate 60F-254 and a mixture of solvents, toluene: ethylacetate: formic acid (5:4:1 v/v) were used as stationary and mobile phase, respectively. This developed method was found to give an excellent defined sharp peak at a retention factor (RF) value of 0.52 ± 0.001. The LOQ and LOD values were found 35.29 and 123.54 ng / spot, respectively. The spray dried inclusion complexes of ASP/HPβCD and ASP/FA in the molar ratio 1:1, were subjected for forced degradation under stress conditions, and a significant reduction of ASP degradation were noted in complexed ASP as compared to ASP alone.
Characterization of Bacterial and Fungal Populations Present in the Wastewater Released by the Ogbe Slaughterhouse
Authors: Michael Nwachukwu , Christian Ike , Ogechi Nwachukwu , Ijeoma Eboagwu , Prince Odika , Chimaraoke Onyeabo
Published: December 2020

This work aimed to characterize the bacterial and fungal concentrates present in the wastewater thrown by the Ogbe slaughterhouse. Bacterial and fungal concentrates from Ogbe slaughterhouse wastewater were evaluated at two seasons. Results obtained showed total heterotrophic bacterial count (2.0×105-2.1×105 cfu/mL) and total fungal count (1.5×105-2.0×105 cfu/mL). Bacterial isolates such as Acinetobacter sp. (0.50-3.65%), Citrobacter sp. (3.00-9.13%), Escherichia sp. (2.50-13.69%), Klebsiella sp. (2.50-14.16%), Proteus sp. (2.00-9.13%), and Staphylococcus sp. (11.00-13.69%) were higher in dry season than rainy season. Bacillus sp. (9.13-23.00%), Enterobacter sp. (0.00-3.00%), Micrococcus sp. (6.85-7.50%), Pseudomonas sp. (12.84-25.00%), Salmonella sp. (4.57-5.00%), Serratia sp. (0.00-1.50%) and Streptococcus sp. (4.57-13.00%) were higher in rainy season than dry season. Mould isolates such as Absidia sp., Aspergillus sp., Fusarium sp., Cladosporium sp., Penicillium sp., and Rhizopus sp., were observed in the present study. Apart from Penicillium sp., the percentage occurrence of all the observed mould isolates in wastewater for the seasons were higher than their respective control. Candida sp., Saccharomyces sp., and Torulopsis sp, were among the yeast isolated from wastewater generated from Ogbe abattoir in this study.  The observed isolates become important when their potential risk as pathogens as well as the intensified environmental health hazards they pose to humans living within the abattoir environment are considered.
Event‐triggered adaptive backstepping tracking control for a class of nonlinear fractional order systems
Authors: Kang Shijia , Wang Huanqing , Chen Ming , Liu Peter X. , Li Chengdong
Published: December 2020

This article investigates the problem of event‐trigger based adaptive backstepping control for a class of nonlinear fractional order systems. By introducing an appropriate transformation of frequency distributed model, the fractional‐order indirect Lyapunov method withis obtained. In addition, the event‐triggered adaptive controller is developed by employing the event‐triggered control approach. Meanwhile, by the proposed adaptive control scheme, all the closed‐loop signals are globally uniformly bounded, and the tracking error converges to a small neighborhood of the origin. Finally, simulation results are provided to testify the availability of the presented controller.
Logic operation for differentiation and speciation of Fe3+ and Fe2+ based on two‐dimensional metal–organic frameworks with tunable emissions
Authors: Gao Enjun , Zhu Mingchang , Zhang Ying , Kosinova Marina , Fedin Vladimir P. , Wu Shuangyan
Published: December 2020

A facile sensor for selective differentiation and speciation of Fe2+ and Fe3+, which are closely associated with cellular homeostasis and metabolism, was developed based on newly designed two‐dimensional luminescent metal–organic frameworks (2D LMOFs). All the prepared LMOFs [Ln(TCPB)(DMF)3]n (Ln = Tm, LMOF 1; Yb, LMOF 2; and Lu, LMOF 3; H3TCPB = 1,3,5‐tris(1‐(2‐carboxyphenyl)‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl)benzene) display strong tunable emissions by the adjustable metal–organic coordination interactions. The luminescence of LMOFs 1–3 can be quenched by Fe3+ or oxidation of Fe2+ through H2O2 and recovered via reduction of Fe3+ by ascorbic acid (AA). The mechanism for sensing Fe3+ further demonstrates LMOF 1 with the highest sensitivity and the excellent selectivity. Besides, multiple logic gates were also constructed. This work represents a fast, accurate, and sensitive sensor integrated with logic operation capable of detecting Fe3+ and intelligent discrimination and speciation of Fe2+ and Fe3+. The sensing system based on 2D LMOFs displays a convenient approach for developing sensing platforms with tunable luminescence.
Continuous nonsingular terminal sliding mode control for nonlinear systems subject to mismatched terms
Authors: Zhang Lu , Yang Jun
Published: December 2020

This paper proposes a continuous nonsingular terminal sliding mode (NTSM) control approach for nonlinear systems subject to mismatched terms in order to achieve finite time exact tracking and disturbance rejection. The controller is constructed using a composite method that utilizes a power integrator and combines the output regulation theory, disturbance observation technique, feedback domination, and sliding mode control technique. The performance analysis demonstrates that the proposed continuous NTSM controller can drive the system output to the desired reference signal in a finite time in the presence of mismatched time‐varying disturbances and nonsmoothed nonlinearities in each channel. The finite time Lyapunov theory is utilized to ensure finite‐time convergence of the closed‐loop system. The simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed continuous NTSM controller.
Do stock investors in Mainland China care about corporate sustainability?
Authors: Tsang John K. M. , Kan Andy C. N. , Wong Karen H. Y.
Published: December 2020

Corporate sustainability is an important issue in many parts of the world today. Many studies have pointed out that it will have an impact on share price performance. This article investigates the corporate sustainability aspect of the listed companies in the Mainland China A‐shares market. Our objective is to fill the gap in the previous studies conducted on Western markets and the Mainland China market. The constituent stocks in the Hang Seng (China A) Corporate Sustainability Index (HSCASUS) and the corresponding control stocks in the same industry were taken out and examined. The results of our study indicated that there was no significant relation between the stock return and corporate sustainability for the Mainland China A‐shares market. This research contributes to the promotion of corporate sustainability and provides a reference for the same topic in other emerging countries.
Speech, labor laws at play in student‐athlete activism
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: December 2020

T he increased wave of student activism has forced colleges and universities to tackle a variety of social, legal, and communication challenges. Student‐athletes have played significant roles in marches and demonstrations; boycotts of practices and donor events; and demands to rename buildings, ban fight songs, remove campus monuments, and discipline coaching staff, noted Michael R. Phillips, Partner at McGuireWoods LLP. “These movements have sometimes seemed very sudden, very out of the blue, but in fact they're a continuation of legal battles that have been ongoing for many years in college sports in which student‐athletes have tried to reshape the power dynamics of college sports,” he said.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of (−) and (+)‐Spiroleucettadine and Analogues
Authors: Badart Michael P. , Barnes Emma M. , Cording Andrew P. , Gilmer Selena C. L. , Billinghurst Ian D. , Edupuganti Veera V. Shivaji R. , Lessene Guillaume , Bland Abigail R. , Bower Rebekah L. , Rana Zohaib , Ferguson Scott A. , Opel Reading Helen K. , Cook Gregory M. , Rosengren Rhonda J. , Krause Kurt L. , Gamble Allan B. , Ashton John C. , Hawkins Bill C.
Published: December 2020

A second‐generation enantiospecific synthesis of spiroleucettadine is described. The original reported antibacterial activity was not observed when the experiment was repeated on the synthetic samples; however, significant anti‐proliferative activity was uncovered for both enantiomers of spiroleucettadine. Comparison of the optical rotational data and ORD‐CD spectra of both enantiomers and the reported spectrum from the natural source have not provided a definitive answer regarding the absolute stereochemistry of naturally occurring spiroleucettadine. Efforts then focussed on alteration at the C‐4 and C‐5 positions of the slightly more active (−)‐spiroleucettadine. Ten analogues were synthesised, with three analogues found to possess similar anti‐proliferative profiles to spiroleucettadine against the H522 lung cancer cell line.
N‐cadherin localization in taste buds of mouse circumvallate papillae
Authors: Ikuta Rio , Myoenzono Kanae , Wasano Jun , Hamaguchi‐Hamada Kayoko , Hamada Shun , Kurumata‐Shigeto Mami
Published: December 2020

Taste buds, the receptor organs for taste, contain 50–100 taste bud cells. Although these cells undergo continuous turnover, the structural and functional integrity of taste buds is maintained. The molecular mechanisms by which synaptic connectivity between taste buds and afferent fibers is formed and maintained remain ambiguous. In the present study, we examined the localization of N‐cadherin in the taste buds of the mouse circumvallate papillae because N‐cadherin, one of the classical cadherins, is important for the formation and maintenance of synapses. At the light microscopic level, N‐cadherin was predominantly detected in type II cells and nerve fibers in the connective tissues in and around the vallate papillae. At the ultrastructural level, N‐cadherin immunoreactivity appears along the cell membrane and in the intracellular vesicles of type II cells. N‐cadherin immunoreactivity also is evident in the membranes of afferent terminals at the contact sites to N‐cadherin‐positive type II cells. At channel type synapses between type II cells and nerve fibers, N‐cadherin is present surrounding, but not within, the presumed neurotransmitter release zone, identified by large mitochondria apposed to the taste cells. The present results suggest that N‐cadherin is important for the formation or maintenance of type II cell afferent synapses in taste buds.
Divergent lineages in a semi‐arid mallee species, Eucalyptus behriana, correspond to a major geographic break in southeastern Australia
Authors: Fahey Patrick S. , Fowler Rachael M. , McLay Todd G. B. , Udovicic Frank , Cantrill David J. , Bayly Michael J.
Published: December 2020

Aim

To infer relationships between populations of the semi‐arid, mallee eucalypt, Eucalyptus behriana, to build hypotheses regarding evolution of major disjunctions in the species' distribution and to expand understanding of the biogeographical history of southeastern Australia.

Location

Southeastern Australia.

Taxon

Eucalyptus behriana (Myrtaceae, Angiospermae).

Methods

We developed a large dataset of anonymous genomic loci for 97 samples from 11 populations of E. behriana using double digest restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD‐seq), to determine genetic relationships between the populations. These relationships, along with species distribution models, were used to construct hypotheses regarding environmental processes that have driven fragmentation of the species’ distribution.

Results

Greatest genetic divergence was between populations on either side of the Lower Murray Basin. Populations west of the Basin showed greater genetic divergence between one another than the eastern populations. The most genetically distinct population in the east (Long Forest) was separated from others by the Great Dividing Range. A close relationship was found between the outlying northernmost population (near West Wyalong) and those in the Victorian Goldfields despite a large disjunction between them.

Conclusions

Patterns of genetic variation are consistent with a history of vicariant differentiation of disjunct populations. We infer that an early disjunction to develop in the species distribution was that across the Lower Murray Basin, an important biogeographical barrier separating many dry sclerophyll plant taxa in southeastern Australia. Additionally, our results suggest that the western populations fragmented earlier than the eastern ones. Fragmentation, both west and east of the Murray Basin, is likely tied to climatic changes associated with glacial‐interglacial cycles although it remains possible that major geological events including uplift of the Mount Lofty Ranges and basalt flows in the Newer Volcanics Province also played a role.
Development of Quantitative Ion Character–Activity Relationship Models to Address the Lack of Toxicological Data for Technology-Critical Elements
Authors: Le Faucheur Séverine , Mertens Jelle , Van Genderen Eric , Boullemant Amiel , Fortin Claude , Campbell Peter G.C.
Published: December 2020

Recent industrial developments have resulted in an increase in the use of so-called technology-critical elements (TCEs), for which the potential impacts on aquatic biota remain to be evaluated. In the present study, quantitative ion character–activity relationships (QICARs) have been developed to relate intrinsic metal properties to their toxicity toward freshwater aquatic organisms. In total, 23 metal properties were tested as predictors of acute median effect concentration (EC50) values for 12 data-rich metals, for algae, daphnids, and fish (with and without species distinction). Simple and multiple linear regressions were developed using the toxicological data expressed as a function of the total dissolved metal concentrations. The best regressions were then tested by comparing the predicted EC50 values for the TCEs (germanium, indium, gold, and rhenium) and platinum group elements (iridium, platinum, palladium, rhodium, and ruthenium) with the few measured values that are available. The 8 “best” QICAR models (adjusted r2 > 0.6) used the covalent index as the predictor. For a given metal ion, this composite parameter is a measure of the importance of covalent interactions relative to ionic interactions. Toxicity was reasonably well predicted for most of the TCEs, with values falling within the 95% prediction intervals for the regressions of the measured versus predicted EC50 values. Exceptions included Au(I) (all test organisms), Au(III) (algae and fish), Pt(II) (algae, daphnids), Ru(III) (daphnids), and Rh(III) (daphnids, fish). We conclude that QICARs show potential as a screening tool to review toxicity data and flag “outliers,” which might need further scrutiny, and as an interpolating or extrapolating tool to predict TCE toxicity. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1139–1148. © 2020 SETAC