bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A fusion peptide in preS1 and the human protein disulfide isomerase ERp57 are involved in hepatitis B virus membrane fusion process
Authors: Pérez-Vargas Jimena , Teppa Elin , Amirache Fouzia , Boson Bertrand , Pereira de Oliveira Rémi , Combet Christophe , Böckmann Anja , Fusil Floriane , Freitas Natalia , Carbone Alessandra , Cosset François-Loïc
Published: June 2021

Cell entry of enveloped viruses relies on the fusion between the viral and plasma or endosomal membranes, through a mechanism that is triggered by a cellular signal. Here we used a combination of computational and experimental approaches to unravel the main determinants of hepatitis B virus (HBV) membrane fusion process. We discovered that ERp57 is a host factor critically involved in triggering HBV fusion and infection. Then, through modeling approaches, we uncovered a putative allosteric cross-strand disulfide (CSD) bond in the HBV S glycoprotein and we demonstrate that its stabilization could prevent membrane fusion. Finally, we identified and characterized a potential fusion peptide in the preS1 domain of the HBV L glycoprotein. These results underscore a membrane fusion mechanism that could be triggered by ERp57, allowing a thiol/disulfide exchange reaction to occur and regulate isomerization of a critical CSD, which ultimately leads to the exposition of the fusion peptide.
Miro1-dependent mitochondrial dynamics in parvalbumin interneurons
Authors: Kontou Georgina , Antonoudiou Pantelis , Podpolny Marina , Szulc Blanka R , Arancibia-Carcamo I Lorena , Higgs Nathalie F , Lopez-Domenech Guillermo , Salinas Patricia C , Mann Edward O , Kittler Josef T
Published: June 2021

The spatiotemporal distribution of mitochondria is crucial for precise ATP provision and calcium buffering required to support neuronal signaling. Fast-spiking GABAergic interneurons expressing parvalbumin (PV+) have a high mitochondrial content reflecting their large energy utilization. The importance for correct trafficking and precise mitochondrial positioning remains poorly elucidated in inhibitory neurons. Miro1 is a Ca²+-sensing adaptor protein that links mitochondria to the trafficking apparatus, for their microtubule-dependent transport along axons and dendrites, in order to meet the metabolic and Ca2+-buffering requirements of the cell. Here, we explore the role of Miro1 in PV+ interneurons and how changes in mitochondrial trafficking could alter network activity in the mouse brain. By employing live and fixed imaging, we found that the impairments in Miro1-directed trafficking in PV+ interneurons altered their mitochondrial distribution and axonal arborization, while PV+ interneuron-mediated inhibition remained intact. These changes were accompanied by an increase in the ex vivo hippocampal γ-oscillation (30–80 Hz) frequency and promoted anxiolysis. Our findings show that precise regulation of mitochondrial dynamics in PV+ interneurons is crucial for proper neuronal signaling and network synchronization.
The neuronal calcium sensor Synaptotagmin-1 and SNARE proteins cooperate to dilate fusion pores
Authors: Wu Zhenyong , Dharan Nadiv , McDargh Zachary A , Thiyagarajan Sathish , O'Shaughnessy Ben , Karatekin Erdem
Published: June 2021

All membrane fusion reactions proceed through an initial fusion pore, including calcium-triggered release of neurotransmitters and hormones. Expansion of this small pore to release cargo is energetically costly and regulated by cells, but the mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we show that the neuronal/exocytic calcium sensor Synaptotagmin-1 (Syt1) promotes expansion of fusion pores induced by SNARE proteins. Pore dilation relied on calcium-induced insertion of the tandem C2 domain hydrophobic loops of Syt1 into the membrane, previously shown to reorient the C2 domain. Mathematical modelling suggests that C2B reorientation rotates a bound SNARE complex so that it exerts force on the membranes in a mechanical lever action that increases the height of the fusion pore, provoking pore dilation to offset the bending energy penalty. We conclude that Syt1 exerts novel non-local calcium-dependent mechanical forces on fusion pores that dilate pores and assist neurotransmitter and hormone release.
Tracking excess mortality across countries during the COVID-19 pandemic with the World Mortality Dataset
Authors: Karlinsky Ariel , Kobak Dmitry
Published: June 2021

Comparing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic between countries or across time is difficult because the reported numbers of cases and deaths can be strongly affected by testing capacity and reporting policy. Excess mortality, defined as the increase in all-cause mortality relative to the expected mortality, is widely considered as a more objective indicator of the COVID-19 death toll. However, there has been no global, frequently updated repository of the all-cause mortality data across countries. To fill this gap, we have collected weekly, monthly, or quarterly all-cause mortality data from 103 countries and territories, openly available as the regularly updated World Mortality Dataset. We used this dataset to compute the excess mortality in each country during the COVID-19 pandemic. We found that in several worst-affected countries (Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Mexico) the excess mortality was above 50% of the expected annual mortality (Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Mexico) or above 400 excess deaths per 100,000 population (Peru, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Serbia). At the same time, in several other countries (e.g. Australia and New Zealand) mortality during the pandemic was below the usual level, presumably due to social distancing measures decreasing the non-COVID infectious mortality. Furthermore, we found that while many countries have been reporting the COVID-19 deaths very accurately, some countries have been substantially underreporting their COVID-19 deaths (e.g. Nicaragua, Russia, Uzbekistan), by up to two orders of magnitude (Tajikistan). Our results highlight the importance of open and rapid all-cause mortality reporting for pandemic monitoring.
Vasoconstricción cerebral fatal, presentación inusual de una enfermedad inusual
Authors: Bayona Hernán , Valencia María Camila , Peña Angélica , Ramírez Natalia , Martínez Carlos
Published: June 2021

El síndrome de vasoconstricción cerebral reversible se produce por la constricción variable, segmentaria y multifocal, de las arterias cerebrales y, generalmente, es de curso benigno. Se describe el caso de una mujer de 49 años que consultó por cefalea, síntomas visuales y convulsiones; tres días después, presentaba áreas de vasoconstricción en, por lo menos, dos territorios vasculares y dos segmentos de las mismas arterias. Fue internada en la unidad de cuidados intensivos para controlarle la presión arterialy recibir tratamiento médico. Tuvo una evolución tórpida y, en el séptimo día de hospitalización, desarrolló edema cerebral maligno, tras lo cual ocurrió la muerte cerebral. Se inició entonces el plan de donación de órganos y, posteriormente, se practicó una autopsia guiada del cerebro. El estudio de patología descartó vasculitis y reveló áreas de hemorragia en la convexidad cerebral.Se discuten los aspectos más relevantes de los casos con evolución fulminante informados en la literatura científica. El síndrome de vasoconstricción cerebral reversible se asocia con resultados fatales cuando los pacientes tienen una deficiencia neurológica focal, la neuroimagen inicial muestra alteraciones y hay un deterioro clínico rápido. Es importante conocer los factores asociados con un mal pronóstico, y establecer estrategias tempranas de intervención y prevención.
Taxonomic revision of theTemnothorax salviniclade (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), with a key to the clades of New WorldTemnothorax
Authors: Prebus Matthew M.
Published: June 2021

Temnothoraxis a large myrmicine ant genus with a range spanning the northern hemisphere, including the northern half of the Neotropics. Many of the Neotropical species were originally placed in the now defunct genusMacromischa. Recent molecular work has revealed that distinct lineages of NeotropicalTemnothoraxhave arrived by evolutionary convergenceat a morphological syndrome with characteristics that were used to diagnose the former genusMacromischa. One such lineage is thesalviniclade, which in this study is redefined to contain 63 species, 35 of which are described as new. A key to all species of thesalviniclade based on the worker caste is provided; additionally, a worker-based key to all clades of the New World is provided. The following species are redescribed:T. albispinus(Wheeler),T. androsanus(Wheeler),T. annexus(Baroni Urbani),T. augusti(Baroni Urbani),T. aztecus(Wheeler),T. ciferrii(Menozzi & Russo),T. flavidulus(Wheeler & Mann),T. fuscatus(Mann),T. goniops(Baroni Urbani),T. huehuetenangoi(Baroni Urbani),T. ixili(Baroni Urbani),T. leucacanthus(Baroni Urbani),T. nigricans(Baroni Urbani),T. ocarinae(Baroni Urbani),T. pastinifer(Emery),T. pergandei(Emery),T. politus(Smith),T. pulchellus(Emery),T. rugosus(Mackay),T. salvini(Forel),T. schwarzi(Mann),T. skwarrae(Wheeler),T. subditivus(Wheeler),T. tenuisculptus(Baroni Urbani),T. terricola(Mann),T. terrigena(Wheeler),T. torrei(Aguayo). The gynes ofT. ciferrii, T. fuscatus, T. ixili, T. politus, T. rugosus, T. salvini, T. tenuisculptusandT. torreiare described. The males ofT. albispinusandT. fuscatusare described. Lectotypes are designated forT. androsanus, T. annexus, T. augusti, T. aztecus, T. flavidulus, T. fuscatus, T. nigricans, T. pastinifer, T. pergandei, T. politus, T. pulchellus, T. salvini, T. skwarrae, T. subditivus, T. terricola, and T. terrigena. A neotype forTemnothorax salvini obscurior(Forel) is designated, the taxon is raised to species, and a replacement name is designated:T. longicaulisstat. nov., nom. nov.The following species are described as new:T. achiisp. nov.,T. acuminatussp. nov.,T. acutispinosussp. nov.,T. agavicolasp. nov.,T. altinodussp. nov.,T. arbustussp. nov.,T. aureussp. nov.,T. aztecoidessp. nov.,T. bahorucosp. nov.,T. balaclavasp. nov.,T. balneariussp. nov.,T. bisonsp. nov.,T. casanovaisp. nov.,T. fortispinosussp. nov.,T. harlequinasp. nov.,T. hippolytussp. nov.,T. laticrussp. nov.,T. leucacanthoidessp. nov.,T. longinoisp. nov.,T. magnabullasp. nov.,T. misomoschussp. nov.,T. nebliselvasp. nov.,T. obtusigastersp. nov.,T. paraztecussp. nov.,T. parralensissp. nov.,T. parvidentatussp. nov.,T. pilicornissp. nov.,T. quercicolasp. nov.,T. quetzalsp. nov.,T. rutabulafersp. nov.,T. terraztecussp. nov.,T. tuxtlanussp. nov.,T. wettererisp. nov.,T. wilsonisp. nov.,T. xincaisp. nov.
Microbial metagenome-assembled genomes of the Fram Strait from short and long read sequencing platforms
Authors: Priest Taylor , Orellana Luis H. , Huettel Bruno , Fuchs Bernhard M. , Amann Rudolf
Published: June 2021

The impacts of climate change on the Arctic Ocean are manifesting throughout the ecosystem at an unprecedented rate. Of global importance are the impacts on heat and freshwater exchange between the Arctic and North Atlantic Oceans. An expanding Atlantic influence in the Arctic has accelerated sea-ice decline, weakened water column stability and supported the northward shift of temperate species. The only deep-water gateway connecting the Arctic and North Atlantic and thus, fundamental for these exchange processes is the Fram Strait. Previous research in this region is extensive, however, data on the ecology of microbial communities is limited, reflecting the wider bias towards temperate and tropical latitudes. Therefore, we present 14 metagenomes, 11 short-read from Illumina and three long-read from PacBio Sequel II, of the 0.2–3 µm fraction to help alleviate such biases and support future analyses on changing ecological patterns. Additionally, we provide 136 species-representative, manually refined metagenome-assembled genomes which can be used for comparative genomics analyses and addressing questions regarding functionality or distribution of taxa.
Effectiveness of agricultural wastes in soil stabilization
Authors: Dauda Deborah , Dominic Manju
Published: June 2021

Many ways have been sought to improve soils, especially expansive soils which have been problematic to structures and pavements built over them and soil stabilization seems to be one of the effective ways. But soil stabilization in itself is not cost-effective hence the introduction of agricultural wastes being researched on and seen as a cheaper means to be used as stabilizing agents which helps in minimizing the cost of soil stabilization, thereby reducing the problem of waste disposal. Agricultural wastes like Rice Husk Ash, Bagasse Ash, Sugarcane Straw Ash, Saw Dust Ash, Coconut Husk Ash, Millet Husk Ash, Corn Cob Ash, Locust Bean Pod Ash, Cassava Peel Ash and Bamboo Leaf Ash have been experimented with in stabilizing soils and as well, serving as supplementary cementitious materials for cement in concrete production. The strengths of the soils and the concrete stabilized with these wastes were seen to improve significantly and their effectiveness was estimated based on an average optimum value. Agricultural waste processing Industries can be set up to help in the massive production of these natural stabilizers which would lessen the cost of soil stabilization using cement and chemicals and also generally reduce problems that are associated with waste disposal, helping in waste management.
Structural applicability of plastic incorporated concrete
Authors: Saju Aleesha Anna , Smitha K K
Published: June 2021

Modulus of elasticity of concrete indicates the resistance of the material to deflection. The elastic modulus depends on the components of the concrete. When new replacement materials are introduced into the concrete, it is important to evaluate the modulus of elasticity of that concrete as it is used in structural applications. Nowadays plastic waste is used in pavement construction. Incorporation of plastic bottle waste in concrete as a replacement for aggregates is gaining attention. The application of this concrete in structures need to be studied. Evaluation of elastic modulus of plastic aggregate concrete is a first step towards its structural applicability. As an initial step to this study, two grades of normal concrete are prepared and its elastic modulus is evaluated. The result shows similar relation of compressive strength and elastic modulus as per standard code value.
A review on GPRdrone integrated system.
Authors: Nasar Aleena , Hameed Fahmitha , Sulthana P S , Xavier PG Rose Mary
Published: June 2021

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is a widely used technology in many kinds of geological survey. It’s a geological method that uses radar pulse to image the surface. It is a non-intrusive method of surveying the subsurface to investigate underground utilities such as concrete, asphalt, metals, pipes, cable etc. To add onto these properties of GPR, here a drone and several sensors, which will make GPR surveys more efficient and accurate. The GPR is mounted over a drone (DJIM600 Pro) which will give more precision in work and exploring difficult areas. A GPR mounted on a drone enables to see the underground surface of ground without compromising safety and providing more efficient surveying. Also, itcan be used for surveying in unreachable areas and make our job easier. In order to increase the application level of GPR drone integrated system several sensors such as pressure, thermal, humidity, snowfall, rain, gas, infrared sensors are also mounted. In short, GPR drone integrated system with sensors is the easiest and safe solution for geological surveys, archaeological surveys, weather forecasting etc.
Basic parameters of crack resistance ofconventional and damaged reinforced concrete beamsstrengthened by carbon plastic under the action of a high-level load.
Authors: Karpiuk V , Hlibotskyi R.
Published: June 2021

The main results of experimental studies of the fracture resistance of conventional and damaged and brought to the limit state according to I group in the previous experiments of reinforced concrete beams reinforced with fiberglass carbon fiber (СFRP) in the lower stretched zone and at the supporting areas. According to the adopted methodology, a full-scale experiment was performed on a four-factor three-level Box-Bank B4 plan. The tests of the prototypes were carried out according to the scheme of a single-track free-beam, alternately loaded from above, then from below by two concentrated forces without changing its (beam) position. During testing of the test specimens-beams for the action of short-term one-time and small-cycle loads, the formation, development and width of crack opening on their surface were monitored. The width of the openingof normal cracks was determined at the level of the stretched working armature, and the inclined ones -in the middle of the height of the beam in places where it was visually greatest. Due to the adopted methodology, new experimental data were obtained to substantially refine the physical models of the inclined sections of the precast concrete structures by the action of low-cycle reloading of high levels, resulting in the first identified systemic effect on fracturetoughness.
Sustainability of concrete using recycled aggregate: a review
Authors: Khan Mohammad Umar , Dominic Manju
Published: June 2021

Sustainable development is essential to the well-being of our planet, human development, and the continued growth of society. As we know, concrete arethe most commonly used substance in the world, after water. However, recycled concrete is the biggest advantage for us. Nowadays the construction industry also tries to replace the virgin material to reduce the environmental impact, global warming, pollution, etc. The construction activity and old structural building also is an issue for the environment. The reuse and recycle of concrete would therefore also reduce the burden on the environment. So this paper will give a summary of recycled concrete aggregate, their sustain on the environment, properties of the application of recycled aggregate, and the resultant of their properties of recycled concrete aggregate.
Suitability of demolition waste as a landfill liner material – An experimental approach
Authors: Devika B , Hareesh K.V. , Baby Samuel , Shiyas Muhammed
Published: June 2021

Waste management is the term that refers to the collection, processing, recycling, transport and monitoring of waste products. Various methods of waste management like incineration and recycling have been introduced recently. A landfill liner, or composite liner, is a low permeable barrier, which is laid down under engineered landfill sites. Until it deteriorates, the liner retards migration of leachate, and its toxic constituents, into underlying aquifers or nearby rivers, causing spoliation of the local water. The efficient use of low cost, reliable and durable materials is very much essential for modern practices of construction. Demolition waste is the waste debris obtained from destruction of buildings, roads, bridges or other structures. Bentonite is a type of clay that has an ability to swell and gel when dispersed in water which is used in construction, mainly in excavation and foundation works. Dredged marine clay is a type of clay found in coastal regions across the world. This can be obtained from coastal and marine areas with the help of dredgers. This project includes an investigation into the feasibility of combining demolished waste materials with dredged marine clay and bentonite to study the suitability of a landfill liner by experimental approach. When demolished waste was mixed with dredged marine clay, it did not satisfy the conditions required for the landfill but when combining the demolition waste with bentonite, the criteria was satisfied and the perfect mix was obtained.

Keywords— Dredged marine clay, Bentonite, Demolition waste, Landfill, Landfill liner
A review on performance –based specification of durable concrete.
Authors: Prince Goldy , John Elson , George Jessymol
Published: June 2021

Concrete is the most common and widely used building material because of its relatively low cost, flexibility, andadaptability.Recenthistoricalexperienceindicatesthatwithexposedtoaggressivechlorideorcarbonation-induced conditions, the reinforced concrete (RC) structures deteriorate prior to the expected service life. This is because of the general assumption that the concrete must be sufficiently durable if the strength requirements are adequate. The variability of concrete arising from the actual concreting procedures, such asplacement, consolidation, finishing, and curing, does not take this assumption into account. In other words, the concrete cast for compressive strength in the specimens shows no similarity to the concrete in the actual structure. This paper provides a thorough analysis of the advancements that are taking place to achieve the long-term reliability of RC structures based on performance specifications.
Coir fiber as a sustainable material in pavement construction.
Authors: M. Anjaly
Published: June 2021

ABSTRACT

Traffic is increasing day by day due to increased vehicle ownership and infrastructure development. As the modern highway transportation has high speed, high traffic density, heavy load and channelized traffic, bituminous concrete is subjected to various types of distress such as rutting, fatigue cracking and raveling. Fatigue cracking occurs because bituminous layers are weak in tension. Therefore reinforcement of the bituminous mixes is one approach to improve tensile strength. Natural fibers can be used for reinforcing as a substitute for synthetic fibers due to their lower cost, ecological recycling and low specific gravity. Among natural fibers growing attention is being paid to coir fiber due to its easy availability, good wearing resistance and more durable property. Also rutting along wheel path causes vehicle hydroplaning during rainy seasons due to loss of skid resistance. As well as water accumulated over the longitudinal depressions damages bond between binder and aggregates. Therefore there is a need for a durable mix which can increase the service life of pavement thus reduces life cycle cost. This study is about use of coir fiber in pavement construction to improve the performance characteristics of the asphalt mixture being used. Stone matrix asphalt mixture is a rut resistant and durable mix which is reinforced with coir fiber and tested for various performance characteristics. Coir fiber is a sustainable material which can be used for rutting resistant mixture.

  Keywords: Stone matrix asphalt, Coir fiber, rutting
Experimental behaviour of road by using plastic waste
Authors: Vinodhkumar R. , Vinodhkumar P.
Published: June 2021

The use of plastic and related materials is increasing exponentially due to tremendous growth in population, urbanization and changed life style leads to widespread littering of plastic on the landscape. Disposal of waste plastic is a serious problem globally due to their non-biodegradability and hazardous to human healths, since these are not disposed scientifically and thus, create ground and water. If this curse to mankind in the form of waste plastic is used as a boon for mankind by using it as additives in road construction, it will proved to be a best solution over worst road condition. In the present paper techniques has been developed to use plastic waste for construction of bituminous roads and flexible pavements. In general bitumen is used as binder in road construction. Binding properties of this bitumen can be modified by blending it with waste plastic pieces. It can be used for construction purpose. Keywords— Bitumen, Coarse Aggregate, Ductility Test, Flash and Fire Point test, Plastic Waste
Thermal efficiency analysis of buildings with phase change materials.
Authors: Thaha Shabana M , Kuriakose Bennet , Baby Rajesh
Published: June 2021

Increasing global temperature is alarming the need for construction industry to have thermally efficient building materials. Incorporating Phase Change Materials (PCM) in buildings is widely accepted method for reduction in temperature, thereby achieving better thermal efficiency. This paper focuses on the assessment of thermal performance of PCM-incorporated building under tropical climatic condition. The simulation process was carried out using Design Builder Software and the developed building model is validated with the results available in the literature. A parametric study is also performed in order to identify the effect of different parameters like building orientation, window to wall ratio, ceiling height and construction material on the indoor air temperature. The results showed that the maximum reduction was up to 2.76°C.

Keywords- Thermal Efficiency, Tropical climate, PCM
Impacts of Controlled Forest Fires on Soil Properties in Gadchiroli Forest Circle, Central India
Authors: Kamble Rahul
Published: June 2021

Forest is an important ecosystem service to human beings. In recent decades the forest is facing tremendous pressure from anthropogenic activities. One of the activities is the burning of forest floor for easy collection of non-timber forest produce. As a result of this number of incidences of forest fires has increased in the tribal-dominated area of the world. These forest fires have adverse impacts on soil properties which will ultimately in the long term have impacts on the forest ecosystem. Taking into consideration this fact this study was attempted to assess the impacts of controlled forest fires on the physicochemical properties of forest soil in the Gadchiroli forest circle of Central India. To assess the impacts six sampling sites from the forest where identified from the study area where no previous forest fire history was recorded in that season. Initial soil sampling before controlled forest fire was carried out in summer 2019 by quartering method in the topsoil layer (1-5 cm). A controlled forest fire was carried out in the same area. The soil was prepared for soil analysis and analysed by adopting standard methods for bulk density, water holding capacity, pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, and organic matter. Results revealed that forest fires increase the bulk density of soil, at 50% (n = 3) sampling locations water holding capacity got reduced down; whereas, at other half increased in capacity was observed. In the case of soil pH 66% (n = 4) sample reported increased in soil pH and at other reduction in soil pH was recorded. Except at one sampling location electrical conductivity was reduced. A similar trend was also noticed for organic carbon and organic matter. Bulk density and water holding capacity will have long term impacts; whereas, pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon and organic matter will have short term impacts. Furthermore, in those sampling locations where forest fire does not occur in the last 2-3 years organic carbon and organic matter content of the soil is high. Thus, measures to be taken to reduce forest fires activities by incorporating an effective forest fire management system at a place by incorporating fire load management subsystem and fire suppression subsystem.
An investigation of monthly variation of different physicochemical parameters of dairy industry effluent
Authors: Patil Nilam Sarjerao , Kurhekar Jaya Vikas
Published: June 2021

ABSTRACT           Industrialization no doubt enhances the productivity, but also results in release of toxic substances into the environment, creating health hazards. Dairy industry ranks as one of the most polluted industries in India. For cleaning and washing procedures, dairy industry plants generate large volumes of waste water, which is 2.5 times milk volume processed. Dairy effluent contains high load of organic matter. This study was aimed at assessing the monthly variation of different physicochemical parameters of effluent like pH, Temperature, Turbidity, Electrical Conductivity, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Biological Oxygen Demand, Total Solids, Total Dissolved Solids, Total Suspended Solids, Chlorides, Sulfates, Oil & Grease, Proteins, Lipids etc. The pH was recorded for values between 7.3 to 8.2 whereas overall mean value was 7.7±0.37 (S.D.) in all month’s data collected which is ambient for the microbial population to grow. Maximum temperature was reported in May (33°C) while lowest value was reported in December (24°C). Mean value of turbidity was recorded as 762±207 NTU. Maximum EC value was reported in January (650 µS/cm) while minimum value was reported in May (354 µS/cm). BOD values reported were between 268 to 950 mg/lit. Maximum BOD values were reported in August and October while minimum was reported in the month of July. Mean value was recorded at 597±208 mg/lit. COD mean value was recorded at 2184±417 mg/lit. Maximum COD values were observed during August and September while minimum during February to April. TDS was noted down to be between 960 to 1362 mg/lit. TS mean value was around 1412 ± 108 mg/lit. TSS was found to be between 245 to 365 mg/lit during the year 2013-14. Maximum TSS value was reported in November and September while minimum in March. Maximum chloride value was reported in March (562 mg/lit) while minimum in September (256 mg/lit). Mean value of sulfate was 247 ± 98 mg/lit. Mean value for oil and grease was recorded as 163 ± 44 mg/lit. Maximum protein value was reported in November (260 mg/lit) while minimum in the months of May and September (154 mg/lit). Mean value of lipid was recorded to be 600±63 mg/lit indicating obvious variation during batches. The present study has been aimed at procuring dairy industry effluents & characterizing them for different parameters in order to check the fluctuation in organic loads.
A DESIGUALDADE DE GÊNEROS EM LA MAJORITÉ OPPRIMÉE: UM OLHAR BAKHTINIANO
Authors: Melissa Santana Bárbara
Published: June 2021

O presente trabalho se empreende na análise do sujeito feminino na contemporaneidade a partir de um recorte de cena do curta metragem La Majorité Opprimée, dirigido por Eleonore Pourriat e lançado em 2010 na rede social Youtube. É proposta uma análise da realidade social atual em diálogo com a crítica trazida no curta embasada pelos estudos bakhtinianos sobre a linguagem e os conceitos de sujeito, dialogia, enunciado e signo ideológico. Há como objetivo a discussão da formação do sujeito feminino em meio aos embates ideológicos abarcados nos estereótipos relacionados à figura feminina. A metodologia de análise do corpus é a dialética dialógica do Círculo de Bakhtin, partindo da análise do texto, seus níveis sincréticos, verbais e o diálogo destes com as ideologias em dialogia na esfera social.
PARA UMA FILOSOFIA DO ATO: A GÊNESE DO LEGADO BAKHTINIANO
Authors: Ferreira Santos Poliana
Published: June 2021

Resenha da obra: BAKHTIN, Mikhail. Para uma filosofia do ato responsável. Tradução de Valdemir Miotello e Carlos Alberto Faraco. São Carlos: Pedro & João, 2010.
Association of Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio with Clinicopathological Features in Breast Cancer
Authors: Soomro Rufina , Cho Namiya
Published: June 2021

Background: Even with the advances in the diagnosis and treatment of breast malignancy, to date breast cancer is still the number one cause of death in women in Pakistan. Various researches proved that prolonged inflammatory conditions played a part in progression of malignancy, these factors also promote growth leading to poor prognosis. This study shows the analysis of peripheral blood neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in breast malignancy and its association with disease characteristics

Methods: The cross-sectional study was done in Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi. Pakistan.  A total of 2059 female patient population with breast cancer hit the criteria. The patients were asked to undergo a complete blood count with leukocyte differential preoperatively. Patients’ complete data was collected preoperatively including specimen-related histopathology reports. Patients excluded were those with clinical evidence of ongoing active infection/sepsis, any blood disorders, any previous or ongoing inflammatory or autoimmune diseases, and steroid therapy.

Results: No association was seen between the NLR with the age, grade, and luminal subtypes. However, NLR had a significant association with the size and stage of the disease. With an increase in NLR, the stage increased.

Conclusion: The study identifies the usefulness of the NLR ratio, which in the future can be used as a diagnostic adjunct in the preoperative workup of patients with breast malignancy.
The Effect of T3 versus T4 Thoracoscopic Sympathectomy on Hyperhidrosis
Authors: Mesery Karim Mohamed El , Ghoneim Ahmed Emadeldeen , Taha Abd Elhady Mohamed , Elnasr Mohamed Mahmoud Abo
Published: June 2021

Background: Primary hyperhidrosis is a disorder characterized by excessive sweating. However, surgical therapy is the most effective treatment for patients with primary hyperhidrosis. In between all different surgical approaches, video assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) sympathectomy has been considered as a safe and minimally invasive procedure for palmer and axillary hyperhidrosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of T3 vs. T4 sympathectomy regarding postoperative complications, recurrence and compensatory hyperhidrosis (CH) on 6 months follow up.

Methods: This prospective randomized study was conducted over 20 patients undergoing VATS sympathectomy diagnosed with palmar hyperhidrosis and failed medical treatment and undergoing thoracoscopic sympathectomy. Patients were divided randomly into two groups; group A (T3 sympathectomy) and group B (T4 sympathectomy).

Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding the degree of treatment success, compensatory hyperhidrosis after one month and after 6 months. There was non-significant difference between the two groups regarding the recurrence, late postoperative complications and satisfaction.

Conclusions: Video-assisted T3 or T4 sympathectomy is a safe and effective procedure for treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis and T3 or T4 sympathectomy had no difference regarding to dryness and Compensatory Hyperhidrosis in follow-up for 6 months. Both techniques were effective for treating palmar hyperhidrosis with high rates of success and no recurrence for 6 months.
Addressing the Broken Wire Issue during the Assembly Manufacturing of QFN Leadframe Device
Authors: Narvadez Raymond Albert A. , Folio Freddie B. , Gomez Frederick Ray I. , Pulido Jonathan C.
Published: June 2021

The integrity of the assembly wirebond process’ 2nd bond poses a big challenge for semiconductor manufacturing of quad-flat no-leads (QFN) devices, particularly on multiple wires on a lead. These devices are vulnerable to induce or obtain broken wire at heel defect. This type of defect is an abnormality in the formation of the stitch, mostly a crack or fracture seen on the facade of the stitch. Normally, it happens when there is too much vibration or transfer of ultrasonic generator (USG) power combined with high bonding force on 2nd bond. In the case of leads with common wires, broken wire at heel could also happen through excessive USG application resulting to transfer of resonance on adjacent wires. This paper presents a better understanding and analysis done to provide an adequate and appropriate solution to broken wire at heel issue.
Diastereospecific Synthesis of Tetrahydroisoquinolines via Radical Cyclization: Application in the Synthesis of ent‐Tadalafil
Authors: Chiu Wei‐Jung , Lin Yan‐Liang , Barve Indrajeet J. , Sun Chung‐Ming
Published: June 2021

An enantioselective synthesis of 1‐substituted tetrahydroisoquinolines from L–Dopa methyl ester through intramolecular aryl radical cyclization is demonstrated. The strategy consists of bromination of (S)‐2‐amino‐3‐(2‐bromo‐4,5‐dimethoxyphenyl)propanoate followed by condensation with various aldehydes to afford bromoimidate ester. Aryl radicals generated from bromoimidate ester under the radical generating conditions (nBu3SnH/AIBN) cyclizes via 6‐endo mode to afford cis‐1‐substituted tetrahydroisoquinolines exclusively in 99% ee. The utility of this synthetic protocol is demonstrated in the synthesis of (6S, 12aS) Tadalafil (5 steps, 21%, 99% ee).

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Enantioselective Construction of 5‐6‐5 Tricyclic Lactone Framework Bearing a Quaternary Bridgehead Carbon via Rh‐Catalyzed Asymmetric [2+2+2] Cycloaddition of Enediynes
Authors: Yasui Takeshi , Nakazato Yuya , Kurisaki Koutarou , Yamamoto Yoshihiko
Published: June 2021

Herein, we report a Rh‐catalyzed asymmetric [2+2+2] cycloaddition of ene‐yne‐yne enediynes to generate enantio‐enriched tricyclic cyclohexadienes bearing a quaternary bridgehead carbon. We found that the Rh‐Phanephos complex is an appropriate catalyst for the cycloaddition of enediynes bearing an unsubstituted propiolate terminus, whereas Rh‐biaryl bisphosphine catalysts, which have been widely used for asymmetric cycloadditions of alkynes and alkenes, are not applicable for the reaction of such enediynes. Several control experiments suggest that the reaction using the Rh‐Phanephos complex exclusively proceeds via a rhodacyclopentadiene intermediate, unlike when using a Rh‐biaryl bisphosphine complex that can form a rhodacyclopentadiene intermediate as well as a rhodacyclopentene intermediate in a substrate‐dependent manner.

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Light‐Harvesting Supramolecular Phosphors: Highly Efficient Room Temperature Phosphorescence in Solution and Hydrogels
Authors: Garain Swadhin , Garain Bidhan Chandra , Eswaramoorthy Muthusamy , Pati Swapan K. , George Subi J.
Published: June 2021

Solution phase room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) from organic phosphors is seldom realized. Herein we report one of the highest quantum yield solution state RTP (ca. 41.8 %) in water, from a structurally simple phthalimide phosphor, by employing an organic–inorganic supramolecular scaffolding strategy. We further use these supramolecular hybrid phosphors as a light‐harvesting scaffold to achieve delayed fluorescence from orthogonally anchored Sulforhodamine acceptor dyes via an efficient triplet to singlet Förster resonance energy transfer (TS‐FRET), which is rarely achieved in solution. Electrostatic cross‐linking of the inorganic scaffold at higher concentrations further facilitates the formation of self‐standing hydrogels with efficient RTP and energy‐transfer mediated long‐lived fluorescence.
Site‐Selective C–C Cleavage of Benzocyclobutenones Enabled by a Blocking Strategy Using Nickel Catalysis
Authors: Guo Jing‐Hong , Liu Yu , Lin Xin‐Cheng , Tang Tian‐Mu , Wang Bi‐Qin , Hu Ping , Zhao Ke‐Qing , Song Feijie , Shi Zhang‐Jie
Published: June 2021

Controlling the chemo‐ and regioselectivity of transition‐metal‐catalyzed C−C activation remains a great challenge. The transformations of benzocyclobutenones (BCBs) usually involve the cleavage of C1−C2 bond. In this work, an unprecedented highly selective cleavage of C1−C8 bond with the insertion of alkynes is achieved by using blocking strategy via Ni catalysis, providing an efficient method for synthesis of 1,8‐disubstituted naphthalenes. Notably, the blocking group could be readily removed after the transformation.
Hybrid neutron stars in the mass‐radius diagram
Authors: Cierniak Mateusz , Blaschke David
Published: June 2021

We present a systematic investigation of the possible locations for the special point (SP), a unique feature of hybrid neutron stars in the mass‐radius diagram. The study is performed within the two‐phase approach where the high‐density (quark matter) phase is described by the constant‐sound‐speed (CSS) equation of state (EoS) and the nuclear matter phase around saturation density is varied from very soft (APR) to stiff (DD2 with excluded nucleon volume). Different construction schemes for the deconfinement transition are applied: Maxwell construction, mixed phase construction, and parabolic interpolation. We demonstrate for the first time that the SP is invariant not only against changing the nuclear matter EoS, but also against variation of the construction schemes for the phase transition. Since the SP serves as a proxy for the maximum mass and accessible radii of massive hybrid stars, we draw conclusions for the limiting masses and radii of hybrid neutron stars.
Sodium Butylated Hydroxytoluene: A Functional Group Tolerant, Eco‐Friendly Base for Solvent‐Free, Pd‐Catalysed Amination
Authors: Semeniuchenko Volodymyr , Braje Wilfried M. , Organ Michael G.
Published: June 2021

NaBHT (sodium 2,6‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐methylphenolate), a strong, but hindered and lipophilic base, has been effectively paired with similarly lipophilic, high‐reactivity Pd‐NHC (N‐heterocyclic carbene) catalysts to produce an ideal combination for performing solvent‐free (melt) cross‐coupling amination. The mild nucleophilicity of NaBHT, coupled with the anti‐oxidant properties of its conjugate acid byproduct, BHT means the process seems to have no functional group incompatibilities. Highly effective coupling of base‐sensitive and redox‐active functional groups was observed in all cases with only 0.1–0.2 mol percent catalyst. Comparisons using the standard base for this reaction, KOtBu, led to poor couplings or complete degradation in most applications – only NaBHT works.
Bidentate Disilicate Framework for Bis‐Grafted Surface Species
Authors: Ishizaka Yusuke , Arai Natsumi , Matsumoto Kazuhiro , Nagashima Hiroki , Takeuchi Katsuhiko , Fukaya Norihisa , Yasuda Hiroyuki , Sato Kazuhiko , Choi Jun‐Chul
Published: June 2021

Recent advances in surface organometallic chemistry have enabled the detailed characterization of the surface species in single‐site heterogeneous catalysts. However, the selective formation of bis‐grafted surface species remains challenging because of the heterogeneity of the supporting surface. Herein, we introduce a metal complex bearing bidentate disilicate ligands, −OSi(OtBu)2OSi(OtBu)2O−, as a molecular precursor, which has a silicate framework adjacent to the metal (Pt) center. The grafting of the precursors on silica supports (MCM‐41 and CARiACT Q10) proceeded through a substitution reaction on the silicon atoms of the disilicate ligand, which was verified by the detection of isobutene and tBuOH as the elimination products, to selectively yield bis‐grafted surface species. The chemical structure of the surface species was characterized by solid‐state NMR, and the chemical shift values of the ancillary ligands and 195Pt nuclei suggested that the bidentate coordination sphere was maintained following grafting.
Exploring anchoring performance of defective MgO nanotubes for lithium–sulphur batteries: A density functional theory (DFT) study
Authors: Zhu Tianjiao , Hao Xiaoqian , Wu Qiao , Wang Wenju
Published: June 2021

In recent years, lithium–sulphur batteries have received great attention due to their high theoretical specific capacity. In the exploration of improving battery performance, developing suitable anchoring materials is one of the ways to suppress the shuttle effect which is one of the main problems of lithium–sulphur batteries. In this work, we investigated the anchoring ability of MgO nanotubes (MgONT) and defective MgO nanotubes (MgONTv) to lithium polysulphides (LiPSs) by density functional theory (DFT). The defect formation energy, the HOMO and LUMO of the defective MgONT, the energy difference (ΔE), and the adsorption energy were calculated. The optimized structures of LiPSs adsorbed on the MgONT and MgONTv were also obtained. The calculation results show that MgONTv1 has a strong adsorption effect on LiPSs, and its adsorption energy ranges from −1.78 to −4.51 eV. The adsorption of LiPSs narrows the bandgap of MgONTv. In other words, the conductivity of MgONTv is better than the pristine one. Our study demonstrates that MgONTv has more robust adsorption performance for LiPSs, which is an effective addictive material for the cathode of lithium–sulphur batteries. It can provide a theoretical basis for exploring the application of new one‐dimensional anchoring materials in the cathode of lithium–sulphur batteries.
In‐situ Immobilization of a Polyoxometalate Metal‐Organic Framework (NENU‐3) on Functionalized Reduced Graphene Oxide for Hydrazine Sensing
Authors: Liang Cuiyuan , Wang Xin , Yu Dexin , Guo Wei , Zhang Feng , Qu Fengyu
Published: June 2021

Main observation and conclusion

Detection of hydrazine originated from electrochemical media has recently gained considerable attention in the sensing field. Herein, to improve electron transfer capacity, a polyoxometalate metal‐organic framework (POMOF, NENU‐3) is in‐situ nucleated onto the carboxyl functionalized reduced graphene oxide (CFG) (NENU‐3/CFG, abbreviation N3/CFG). The N3/CFG supported onto carbon cloth electrodes (CCEs) has been investigated for hydrazine detection. The amperometric results display that the POMOF/CFG to hydrazine has a broad linear range (0.09—362.5 μmol/L) and low detection limit (24 nmol/L). In addition, the POMOF/CFG‐based sensors possess good anti‐interference capability, boosted stability and feasibility. Furthermore, when applied to the detection of practical samples, acceptable relative recoveries of 96.26%—107.30% are obtained.
Phoretic colloids close to and trapped at fluid interfaces
Authors: Malgaretti Paolo , Harting Jens
Published: June 2021

The active motion of phoretic colloids leads them to accumulate at boundaries and interfaces. Such an excess accumulation, with respect to their passive counterparts, makes the dynamics of phoretic colloids particularly sensitive to the presence of boundaries and pave new routes to externally control their single particle as well as collective behavior. Here we review some recent theoretical results about the dynamics of phoretic colloids close to and adsorbed at fluid interfaces in particular highlighting similarities and differences with respect to solid‐fluid interfaces.
The impact of corporate social responsibility activities on stakeholders' value co‐creation behaviour
Authors: Mubushar Muhammad , Rasool Shahid , Haider Muhammad Imtiaz , Cerchione Roberto
Published: June 2021

This paper analyses the relationships between corporate social responsible employees, corporate social responsible suppliers and customer value co‐creation behaviour in banking industry. More in detail it aims to investigate the mediating effect of relationship marketing orientation between corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities and customer value co‐creation behaviour. Data collected from 383 banking customers are analysed through smart partial least square (PLS). The results highlight that corporate social responsible employees and suppliers have a positive impact on customer value co‐creation behaviour. Moreover, relationship marketing orientation has a mediating role between CSR activities and customer value co‐creation behaviour.
Differences in how mothers and fathers support children playfulness
Authors: Waldman‐Levi Amiya
Published: June 2021

Conceptual and methodological differences resulted in unclear evidence of whether parents do differ in how they engaged in joint play with their children. The purpose of the study was to examine whether mothers and fathers differed in how they support their child's playfulness through joint play experience. One‐hundred thirty‐two English‐speaking parent–child dyad with predominately married Caucasian parents of typically developing children aged 2 to 5 years participated in the study. Fifteen minutes of joint play video‐recorded observations at home were analyzed using Parent's/Caregiver Support of Children's Playfulness measuring quality and frequency of parental supportive behaviours and the Test of Playfulness measuring child's playfulness. Results indicated mothers displayed a significantly higher quality of support than fathers did. However, the frequency of parental supportive behaviour did not significantly differ between mothers and fathers, and no significant differences were found in children's playfulness.