bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dielectric and Optical Spectroscopy of New Poly-Crystalline Ceramic for device Applications
Authors: Parida Rajani K , Bhattacharjee Sourav , Mohanty Bhagyashree , Nayak Nimai C , Parida Bichitra Nanda
Published: February 2021

The polycrystalline double perovskite Li2GdFeTiO6 was synthesized through solid-state mixed oxide method and its preliminary crystal structure was investigated by XRD technique. The structure of the material was identified to be tetragonal with space group P4bm using POWD and MATCH software. The morphology of the sample was investigated through a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the average grain size was found 3.82 µm using intercept technique. The investigation of the perovskite phase and various vibrational modes were carried out through FTIR spectroscopic technique. The band gap (Eg = 1.73 eV) and visible light sensitivity of the material were identified by UV-Visible spectroscopic operation carried in the range 200–700 nm. The dielectric and related properties were investigated as a function of frequency and temperature using an impedance analyzer (LCR meter). Room temperature dielectric investigation suggests it may be useful for storage application. The transport activities investigated through conductivity, impedance and modulus technique illustrate the significant influence of grains on transportation of charges.
Response of Fungal Communities to Fire in a Subtropical Peatland
Authors: Tian Jianqing , Wang Hongjun , Vilgalys Rytas , Ho Mengchi , Flanagan Neal , Richardson Curtis J
Published: February 2021

Purpose: Wildfire, an increasing disturbance in peatlands, could dramatically change carbon stocks and reshape plant/microbial communities, with long-lasting effects on peatland functions. Soil fungi are important in controlling the belowground carbon and nutrient cycling in peatlands; however, the impact of altered fire regimes on these fungi is still unclear. Methods: Here we assessed fungal abundance, composition, and diversity across four soil depths (0–5 cm, 6–10 cm, 11–15 cm, 16–20 cm) under low-intensity and high-intensity fire in a subtropical peatland in the southeastern USA. Results: Low-intensity fire significantly increased fungal Shannon diversity and the saprotrophic fungal composition in the 0–5 cm soil layer immediately and then retracted within 2 years. Such hump-shaped pattern, however, were not observed in deeper soils. The dominant fungal class Archaeorhizomycetes declined initially and then returned to pre-low-intensity fires levels at 0–5 cm depths. Time since low-intensity fire was a primary driver of fungal composition in the 0–10 cm soil depth, while geographical distance among sites affected the deeper soils (11–20 cm). The fungal Shannon diversity failed to recover to the unburned state even after 30 years after high-intensity fire, especially in 6–20 cm soil depths. Stratification patterns of the fungal community was diminished by high-intensity fire. Soil properties (either phenolics or carbon) were the primary drivers in shaping fungal community reassembly after high-intensity fire across all soil depths. Conclusion: Collectively, the fungal communities seem to be highly resilient to low-intensity fire, but not to high-intensity fire in our shrub bog peatlands.
Long Term Surgical Outcome for Persistent Pupillary Membranes With Associated Ocular Abnormalities: a Retrospective Case Series Study
Authors: Huang Yu-Te , Lin Hui-Ju
Published: February 2021

Background: Deprivation amblyopia is a great concern in hyperplastic persistent pupillary membranes (PPM) which blocked visual axis. Other ocular abnormality may accompany and further hinder the visual development of the infants.We evaluate the long-term visual prognosis and complications in patients with dense PPM and other associated abnormalities treated with early surgical intervention and timely visual rehabilitation.Methods: Medical records of patients with surgical removal of PPM from 2000-2020 and also receiving visual rehabilitation were retrospectively reviewed. Besides visual axis blocked PPM, patients combined with other amblyopic risk factors or ocular abnormalities were included.Due to preparation for subsequent lens extraction if an underlying cataract was present, the surgical settings including the instruments and wound direction were similar to cataract surgery. All patients were enrolled in a visual rehabilitation program as soon as possible. The results including sex, age, timing of operation, initial and final visual acuity, refractive errors, and complications were recorded.Results: Seven cases of five patients were included in this case series. Mean age at surgery was 42.3 ± 21.1 months (range, 5 to 66 months) and the post-operative follow-up period was 4.9 years (range, 1.2 to 8.2 years).The patient age at time of surgery ranged from 2.5 months to 2.5 years (mean, 14 months). Mean postoperative follow-up was 5.3 years (range, 2.5-8 years). There were no intra-operative and post-operative complications. Final BCVA varied with a mean value of 0.29 logMAR (range, 0 to 1 logMAR). An associated ocular abnormality of ametropia and strabismus led to the best visual prognosis.Conclusions: In patients with PPM, there were no significant complications in any patient using our technique. The surgical settings are easier to handle and more familiar with pediatric surgeons. Besides deprivation with patching, early PPM intervention and timely visual rehabilitation achieve the best visual prognosis in patients associated with risk of ametropic and strabismic amblyopia.Trial registration: This retrospective, interventional case series study was conducted at China Medical University Hospital between April 1, 2000 and April 31, 2020. (IRB number: CMUH109-REC2-069)
Activity based Deubiquitinase profiling reveals OTUB1 from oryza sativa Hydrolyzes Linear Ubiquitin Chains by Bi-modal Activation
Authors: Lu Lining , Wang Jiawei , Mei Ziqing , Wang Feng
Published: February 2021

Met1 type ubiquitination and deubiquitination are involved in the regulation of many fundamental processes such as inflammation and innate immunity, and their interference by pathogens can suppress immune responses in human cells. However, no plant-derived deubiquitinases (DUBs) against Met1 ubiquitin chains have been reported. Using a dehydroalanine (DHA)-bearing Met1 diubiquitin (Met1-diUb) suicide probe, synthesized in one-pot, we identified OTUB1 from Oryza sativa (OsOTUB1) and uncovered its preference for Met1 ubiquitin chains. Also, by resolving the apo structure of OsOTUB1 and its complex with Ub or Met1-diUb, we demonstrated that OsOTUB1 hydrolyses Met1 ubiquitin chains by activation of both the distal and proximal ubiquitin, which is different from OTULIN and expands our mechanistic understanding of the DUB-mediated hydrolysis of Met1 ubiquitin chains. Through large-scale sequence alignment and hydrolysis experiments, two sites in the S1' pocket of the OTUB subfamily (OTUBs) were found to determine the hydrolytic ability of OTUBs against Met1 ubiquitin chains, regardless of species. Furthermore, by analyzing the species distribution of OTUBs capable of hydrolyzing Met1 ubiquitin chains, we found that whereas this activity does not exist in metazoans, it is conserved in green plants (Viridiplantae). This discovery may inform studies of the differentiation between primitive plants and animals.
Heat transfer mode shift to adiabatic thermalization in near-critical carbon dioxide under terrestrial conditions
Authors: Parahovnik Anatoly , Peles Yoav
Published: February 2021

Heat transfer via acoustic waves is referred to as adiabatic thermalization or the piston effect. Until now, adiabatic thermalization was believed to be a secondary effect that mostly occurs under microgravity conditions and is readily overpowered by mixing due to gravitational forces. However, this work revealed that in microsystems, adiabatic thermalization is a dominant heat transfer mechanism. A substantial shift in thermalization modes from vaporization to acoustic waves was observed through critical opalescence temperature measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2). The contribution of the piston’s effect increased from 4.3–77.6% when the reduced pressure increased from 0.86 to 0.99. The findings are used to explain the observed heat transfer enhancement that occurred concurrently with the reduction in the void fraction. Revealing the nature of the piston effect to enhance heat transfer will advance copious technological fields like space exploration, fusion reactors, data centers, electronic devices, and sensing technology.
Functional Capacity Predictors in Breast Cancer Women: a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Costa Ana João Silva , Rodrigues Margarida , Carneiro Ismael , Vaz Inês Machado , Almeida Miguel P. , Joaquim Ana , Antunes Pedro , Alves Alberto , Viamonte Sofia
Published: February 2021

Purpose: Functional capacity (FC) declining has been poorly evaluated and characterized in women with breast cancer (BC). It is expected that FC declining may have an impact on survival, and also compromise quality of life and independence. This study aimed to evaluate the FC of women with BC and identify predictors of obtained results. Methods: A cross-sectional study including women with BC consecutively referred for a physical medicine and rehabilitation consult between October and December 2019. Glittre-ADL Test (TGlittre), maximal respiratory pressure tests [maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximum expiratory pressure (MEP)] and Modified Fatigue Impact Scale were used in order to assess FC, respiratory muscle strength and fatigue, respectively. Age, professional status, smoking habits, comorbidities, body mass index, duration and status of disease, previous and ongoing treatments were also registered. Results: A total of 42 women with non-metastatic BC were enrolled with a disease duration of 11.50 months (71), mostly in stage II (53.60%) and under hormone therapy (38.10%). TGlittre performance time was 3.13 minutes (8.72). TGlittre performance time correlated with MIP (r = -0.373; p <0.01) and MEP (r = -0.414; p = 0.007) values and age (r = 0.711; p < 0.010). Patients with CV and endocrine comorbidities had higher TGlittre time values (p <0.01 and p = 0.019, respectively). Age was the only statistically significant predictor (p=0.041) of TGlittre variation.Conclusions: Women with BC presented decreased FC with mean values ​​of TGlittre duration higher than those described in the literature in healthy subjects.
Development of the Technology of Soft Camembert-type Cheese with Flowery rind in Morocco
Authors: NORA HAMDAOUI , Mohamed MOUNCIF , Zakariae MENNANE , Abdeloudoude OMARI , Mustapha MEZIANE
Published: February 2021

Camembert is a French cheese characterized by a soft paste and a flowery rind. Morocco imports camembert cheese paste as a raw material. Today, Moroccan cheese manufacturers are looking to uncover the secrets associated with making Camembert cheese including the ones facilitating the smooth running of the stages of its manufacture. In Morocco, this type of cheese is scarce, not fully enumerated and no studies have been conducted on it as of yet. This is why we tried to manufacture this type of cheese in the laboratory to valorize it in Morocco due to its growing importance in the international market. The objective of this work is the optimization of the production of soft cheese with a flowery rind such as Camembert, while determining the quantity of microorganisms used for the fermentation of milk. Four types of industrial ferments with pre-established doses were used in addition to rennet. Fifteen cheese samples were made. The physico-chemical parameters checked during the manufacturing tests were fat content, pH and titratable acidity. The results show that the production of cheese requires the use of milk of good microbiological quality as well as the selection of specific ferments depending on the type of cheese to make. The best amount of the ferments used to make Camembert-type cheese during this work is: from 0.6% to 0.8% mesophilic if the viability rate is more than 3.73 x102, 0.3 % to 0.4% thermophilic if the viability rate is more than 3.95 x 103, 1% to 5% yeast if the viability rate is more than 2.60 x 103 , and 2% to 10% mesophilic if the viability rate is more than 3.30 x 103. The most effective dose formula is two doses of Mesophiles for one dose of Thermophile. Or two doses of Penicillium Candidum mold for one dose of Geotrichum Candidum yeast. The microbiological quality of the milk used in this work and the cheese produced during this work is generally acceptable and conforms to Moroccan standards. During each Camembert production, whey quantity was measured. Cheese yield was determined by measuring cheese portions before and after ripening from a known quantity of milk. The sensory properties of dairy products are defined by their appearance, texture and flavor and are ultimately evaluated by tasting panels from the Agronomic and Veterinary Institute of Rabat.
Key Genes Associated With Prognosis and Metastasis of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhong Tingting , Jiang Zeying , Wang Xiangdong , Wang Honglei , Song Meiyi , Chen Wenfang , Yang Shicong
Published: February 2021

Background: Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is a tumor with frequent hematogenous metastasis and is usually resistant with radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The mechanism of ccRCC metastasis still needs to be illustrated.Material and methods: The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of three gene expression profiles (GSE85258, GSE105288 and GSE22541) downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were analyzed by GEO2R analysis, and co-expressed DEGs among them were sorted out by the online Venn drawing tool. The co-expressed DEGs were then investigated using Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis and hub genes would be screened out based on protein-protein interaction network (PPI) established by STRING. After survival analysis performed on UALCAN website, possible key genes would be selected and then verified in ccRCC cell lines and ccRCC tissues (n=40). Statistical analysis of the above results was conducted using GraphPad Prism (Version 8.1.1).Results: 104 co-expressed DEGs were sorted from the three profiles. KEGG pathways revealed that these genes were enriched in the extracellular matrix (ECM)-receptor interaction, focal adhesion and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Survival analysis showed that among 17 hub genes, patients with higher expression of Procollagen C-Endopeptidase Enhancer (PCOLCE), Prolyl 4-Hydroxylase Subunit Beta (P4HB), Collagen Type VI Alpha 2 (COL6A2), and Collagen Type VI Alpha 3 (COL6A3) had a worse survival than those with lower expression. In vitro, the mRNA expression level of PCOLCE, P4HB and COL6A2 were 3 times, and COL6A3 16 times higher in metastatic ccRCC cell line Caki-1 than in corresponding primary cell line Caki-2. Immunohistochemistry results also showed higher expression of these 4 genes in metastatic ccRCC with statistical significance.Conclusion: PCOLCE, P4HB, COL6A2 and COL6A3 are upregulated in metastatic ccRCC and might be related to poor prognosis and distant metastases.
Eyelid Myokymia as a presumed manifestation of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Khan Hashim Ali , Shahzad Muhammad Aamir , Iqbal Junaid , Juwa Sohail Abbas , Khan Qaim Ali , Rehman Munib ur , Iqbal Fatima
Published: February 2021

Purpose
To report the eyelid myokymia in patients recovered from COVID-19 disease.
Methods
A cohort of 15 patients who developed eyelid myokymia during or immediate post-recovery of systemic disease were evaluated. Demographic, clinical characteristics, effect of age, and hospitalization on the disease course were studied. The disease course was evaluated every month for 3 months period.
Results
All, except 2, patients had complete resolution of lid myokymia within 3 months of onset. Mean ± SD myokymia recovery time was 44.1 ± 20.9 Days. Gender had no impact on the duration of disease. Age and duration of hospitalization had a strong positive correlation with myokymia recovery time (r = 0.8, p = 0.001 and r = 0.8, p = 0.01).
Conclusion
Eyelid myokymia may involve COVID-19 patients during or immediately after systemic recovery. While myokymia recovers gradually in all these patients; older age and longer duration of hospitalization are associated with slower recovery.
Locking Plate Alone or in Combination With Cannulated Screws for Hoffa Fractures: a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Li Zhen , Chen Zhenyue , Wang Xiaotan , Li Jingyin , Jing Lizhong , Cao Xuewei
Published: February 2021

Purpose: Locking plate or screws have been used for Hoffa fractures; however, evidence to support the effectiveness of the procedure remains scarce. The present study aimed to determine the efficacy of distal femur condyle locking plate（DFCLP）alone or in combination with cannulated screws for Hoffa fractures.Methods: In this cohort study, 13 patients with isolated Hoffa fractures were enrolled during the study period (May 2014 to February 2019) and retrospectively analyzed. Patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation by DFCLP alone or in combination with cannulated screws followed by early active rehabilitation postoperatively. The primary outcome was evaluated with Knee Society Score (KSS), the range of movement (ROM), International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scoring system and the stability of the fixation site of the patients during the 24-month follow-up period.Results: A total of 13 patients completed the 24-month follow-up assessment and achieve bone re-union at Hoffa fracture sites. The average follow-up period was 24.5months (ranging from 24 to 28 months), and the average time to healing was 3.5 months (ranging from 3 to 4 months). The mean ROM was determined as 119°, the mean KSS was 87.9, and the mean IKDC score was 84.2. It is worth mentioning that 2 patients suffered from knee joint stiffness and osteoarthritis during the 24 months follow-up. Eleven patients (84.6%) achieved satisfactory knee joint function through early postsurgical rehabilitation.Conclusion: In patients with Hoffa fractures, treatment with DFCLP alone or in combination with cannulated screws followed by early active rehabilitation resulted in great stability and satisfactory functional results after 24 months.
TMK-based cell surface auxin signaling activates cell wall acidification in Arabidopsis
Authors: Yang Zhenbiao , Lin Wenwei , Tang Wenxin , Takahashi Koji , Ren Hong , Pan Songqin , Zheng Haiyan , Gray William , Xu Tongda , Kinoshita Toshinori
Published: February 2021

The phytohormone auxin controls a myriad of processes in plants, at least in part through its regulation of cell expansion. The "acid growth hypothesis" has been proposed to explain auxin-stimulated cell expansion for five decades, but the mechanism underlying auxin-induced cell wall acidification is poorly characterized. Auxin induces the phosphorylation and activation of the plasma membrane (PM) H+-ATPase that pumps protons into the apoplast, yet how auxin activates its phosphorylation remains elusive. Here, we show that the transmembrane kinase (TMK) auxin signaling proteins interact with PM H+-ATPases and activate their phosphorylation to promote cell wall acidification and hypocotyl cell elongation in Arabidopsis. Auxin induced TMK's interaction with H+-ATPase on the plasma membrane within 1-2 minutes as well as TMK-dependent phosphorylation of the penultimate Thr residue. Genetic, biochemical, and molecular evidence demonstrates that TMKs are required for auxin-induced PM H+-ATPase activation, apoplastic acidification, and cell expansion. Thus, our findings reveal a crucial connection between auxin and PM H+-ATPase activation in regulating apoplastic pH changes and cell expansion via TMK-based cell surface auxin signaling.
A Network Pharmacology Approach and Molecular Docking Technology to Uncover the Potential Molecular Mechanism of Astragalus -Scorpion on Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wu Litong , Chen Ying , Chen Minjing , Yang Yueqin , Che Zuzhao , Li Qixin , You Xujun , Fu Wei
Published: February 2021

Objective: To investigate the molecular mechanism of Astragalus-Scorpion in the treatment of prostate cancer by network pharmacology and molecular docking technology. Methods: Using TCMSP, BATMAN-TCM, TCMID and Swiss TargetPrediction Databases to retrieve the active ingredients and corresponding targets of Astragalus-Scorpion. The targets related to prostate cancer were retrieved through GeneCards, so as to obtain the common targets of Astragalus-Scorpion and prostate cancer. The common targets were input into the STRING database for protein interaction analysis. Cytoscape software was used to construct the active “ingredient-target-disease” network, and GO and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed on the common targets. To screen the core ingredients and targets that play therapeutic roles, Autodock software was used for molecular docking verification. Results: 27 active ingredients, 340 potential targets related to active ingredients, 898 targets related to disease and 122 common targets were screened from Astragalus-Scorpion totally. The core targets of PPI network were JUN, AKT1, IL6, MAPK1 and RELA, while the core active ingredients in the active ingredient-target-disease network were quercetin, kaempferol, formononetin, 7-o-methylisomucronulatol and calycosin.762 GO entries and 154 pathways were obtained by enrichment analysis totally. The molecular docking results showed that quercetin binds to AKT1 and RELA, kaempferol to AKT1, and formononetin to RELA, all of which were stable. Conclusion: Quercetin, kaempferol and others in the Astragalus-Scorpion can regulate multiple signaling pathways such as PI3K-Akt signaling pathway by binding to targets such as AKT1 related to prostate cancer, inhibit the proliferation of tumor to play a role for prostate cancer.
Local Steroid Treatment: An Effective Procedure for Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis, Including Complicated Cases
Authors: Ertürk Taha Furkan , Çakır Özgür , Bayrak Büşra Yaprak , Güneş Abdullah , Aydemir Selahattin , Utkan Nihat Zafer
Published: February 2021

Purpose To evaluate the effectiveness of treatment with topical and intralesional steroids for idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) and to compare with surgical methods.Methods Data was retrospectively collected from records. Intralesional steroid injection and topical steroid administration, hereafter referred to as local steroid treatment (LST) were applied in Group 1. Surgery (local excision, wide excision and mastectomy) was performed in Group 2. In Group 1 changes in lesion sizes were recorded and factors complicating treatment were identified. The Numeric Pain Rating Scale was used to determine subjective pain. LST and surgery were compared with regard to: pain before and after the treatment; complication rate; recurrence rate; and treatment cost.Results There were 38 and 48 patients in Group 1 and Group 2, respectively. In the LST group 72 lesions were present and 70 of 72 (97%) responded completely to treatment. Pre-treatment median maximum diameter was 23.50 (15.25-35.25) mm, which regressed to 16 (12-25) mm after the first session. While the pre-treatment pain scores of Group 1 and Group 2 were similar (p=0.756), there was a significant difference in the post-treatment pain scores (p<0.001). No recurrence occurred in any patients in Group 1, while recurrence developed in 15 (31.2%) patients in Group 2 (p<0.001).Conclusion LST is a treatment for IGM that is cheap, with high efficiency, negligible recurrence, and has good esthetic outcome. Our results suggest that LST should be the first-line treatment option for all IGM patients, including complicated cases.
Lexical parafoveal previewing predicts reading speed
Authors: Pan Yali , Frisson Steven , Jensen Ole
Published: February 2021

While reading is an essential human skill, the neuronal mechanisms supporting proficient reading are not well understood. In spite of the reduced visual acuity, parafoveal information plays a critical role in natural reading. However, it is debated whether words are previewed parafoveally at the lexical level. This is a key dispute for competing models on reading. We found neural evidence for lexical parafoveal previewing by combining a novel rapid invisible frequency tagging (RIFT) approach with magnetoencephalography (MEG) and eye-tracking. In a silent reading task, target words were tagged (flickered) subliminally at 60 Hz. The tagging responses measured when fixating on the pre-target word reflected parafoveal previewing of the target word. We observed stronger tagging responses during pre-target fixations when followed by low compared to high lexical frequency targets. Moreover, this lexical previewing predicted individual reading speed. Our findings demonstrate that reading unfolds in the fovea and parafovea simultaneously to support fluent reading.
Rural Populations of Alagoinhas and Herpetofauna: Knowledge, Uses and Interactions
Authors: Campos Fabisson Lima , Neto Ernani Machado de Freitas Lins , Costa-Neto Eraldo Medeiros , Ferreira Felipe
Published: February 2021

Background: Brazil has one of the greatest diversity of species of herpetofauna in the world. Associated with this diversity of species, rural communities in Brazil have developed a vast knowledge about these animals. Methods: The present research aimed to characterize the knowledge and influence of the socioeconomic variables of the population in the interaction between humans and herpetofauna of the rural area of the municipality of Alagoinhas. The free list method and semistructured questionnaire was used to list the species of the herpetofauna known by the informants. Results: A total amount of 39 species of amphibians and reptiles was cited by the informants. These interact with residents in the categories of food use, magical-religious purposes, medicine, pets and in conflicting relationships. Conclusion: Regarding the results of socioeconomic variables influencing knowledge, time of residence, gender, the location of the community, education level, explained the knowledge associated with the reptiles. For amphibians, time of residence and gender explained the knowledge associated.
WITHDRAWN: Optimization of Seed Germination, Callus Induction, and Secondary Metabolites Production in Allium Jesdianum: Elicitation by Methyl Jasmonate and Putrescine
Authors: Yazdanian Esmat , Golkar Pooran , Vahabi Mohammad Reza , Taghizadeh Marzieh
Published: February 2021

Allium jesdianum is considered as the most important genera of the Liliaceae family with various pharmacological properties. The present study was carried out to determine the best pre-germination treatment in A. jesdianum. The highest seed germination (58.33%) was observed at chemical treatment including the combination of α-naphthaleneacetic acid (1 mgL− 1) and benzyl aminopurine (3 mgL− 1) on Murashige and Skoog (MS) media. The highest callus induction (86.7%) was observed at MS/2 media, which was supplemented by NAA (1 mgL− 1) and BAP (3 mgL− 1) from hypocotyl explants. Two elicitors including methyl jasmonate (MeJ) (0, 25, 50, and 100 µM) and putrescine (Pu) (0, 0.5, and 1 mM) were used to investigate their effects on lipid peroxidation, callus growth traits, total phenolics content (TPC), the contents of total flavonoids (TFD), total flavonols (TFL), anthocyanin, total chlorophyll, total carotenoids and on antioxidant activity through DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) method under callus culture. The results showed the superiority of MeJ over Pu for increasing the secondary metabolites and antioxidant activity in callused of A. Jesdianum, compared to the control. The highest TPC (6.02 mg GAEg− 1 FW), TFD (0.52 mg QEg− 1 FW), and TFL (0.39 mg QEg− 1 FW) were observed under 50 µM of MeJ. Meanwhile, the highest value for anthocyanin (8.99 µ mol g− 1 FW) was achieved at 25 µM of MeJ. The highest DPPH activities were observed at 50 and 100 µM of MeJ. Putrescine (0.5 mM) elicitation showed only superiority for callus growth rate (0.53 mm day− 1) and carotenoids (0.045 mg g− 1 DW). In this study, effective seed germination and elicitation of A. Jesdianum callus cultures were developed for the first time. Thus, new protocols could be suitable for future studies in biotechnological aspects of this medicinal plant.
Salivary oxytocin after play with parents predicts behavioral problems in preschool children
Authors: Torres Nuno , Martins Daniel , Monteiro Ligia , Santos António J. , Vaughn Brian E. , Veríssimo Manuela
Published: February 2021

Background: Oxytocin (OXT) has attracted research interest for its potential involvement in many of the behavioural problems observed in childhood. Due to its logistical advantages, saliva is an attractive fluid to quantify neuropeptides in children. Salivary OXT has been suggested as a potential biomarker for psychopathology during childhood. However, several questions still remain about the extent to which, and under what conditions, concentrations of OXT in saliva can be reliably measured and are related to behavioural problems in preschool age children.Methods: Seven samples of saliva from 30 preschool children (17 girls) were collected in five different days at their homes. Three of the samples were collected by the children's parents at baseline daily routine conditions, and four of the samples were collected by researchers during two home-visits: before and after two 15-minute dyadic play sessions (one with mothers and one fathers) between each individual parent and the child. Oxytocin concentrations were quantified by Radioimmunoassay with prior extraction. Children's behavioural problems were assessed by the Caregiver-Teacher Report Form (C-TRF) questionnaire, completed by the child's’ preschool teacher.Results: Salivary OXT measured in baseline samples collected by the parents could not predict any of the behavioural problems measured by the C-TRF. However, when collected by the researchers, salivary OXT before playing with parents correlated negatively with the C-TRF depression and anxiety subscales. Additionally there was a richer and stronger pattern of negative correlations between the salivary OXT measured after playing with parents and the depression, opposition, externalization and total problem scales of the C-TRF. Furthermore, salivary OXT was unlikely to be reliably measured using single sampling, but acceptable reliabilities were achieved when averaging several samples. Finally, the salivary OXT evoked after an episode of play with parents showed better reliabilities than collected at baseline.Conclusion: measurements of OXT evoked after positive affect interactions with parents seem to capture aspects of the OXT system in young children that are relevant for understanding the role of this system in children’s social behaviour.
A turn-on fluorescent sensor based on coffee-grounds carbon dots for the detection of sodium cyclamate
Authors: Chen Junzhe , Du Haiying , Xu Yifeng , Ma Boyu , Zheng Zhihong , Li Pengchan , Jiang Yuqiu
Published: February 2021

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were synthesized by coffee-grounds as carbon source under hydrothermal carbonization treatment for the first time. The obtained CQDs showed a strong emission at the wavelength of 460 nm, with an optimum excitation of 370 nm, and enrichment of the surface functional groups(-OH, -NH2). Sodium cyclamate in an aqueous solution and the CQDs could form a core-shell structure by hydrogen-bonding and van der waals bonding to enhance the fluorescent emission. Cyclohexyl sulfamate forms cyclohexyl sulfamate in an aqueous solution and then undergoes dehydration and condensation with the hydroxyl groups on the carbon quantum dots, and finally sodium cyclamate forms a core-shell structure around the carbon quantum dots.环己基氨基磺酸盐在水溶液中形成环己基氨基磺酸盐，然后与碳量子点上的羟基进行脱水和缩合，最后环甜酸钠在碳量子点周围形成核-壳结构。Cyclohexyl sulfamate form a cyclohexyl sulfamic acid in an aqueous solution followed by dehydration condensation with hydroxyl groups on the carbon quantum dots, cyclamate final core-shell structure is formed in the peripheral carbon quantum dot,
Enhancement in Adhesive and Thermal Properties of Bio-based Epoxy Resin by Using Eugenol Grafted Cellulose Nanocrystals
Authors: Tariq Tariq Aziz , Zheng Jieyuan , Jamil Muhammad Imran , Fan Hong , Ullah Roh , Iqbal Mudassir , Ali Amjad , Khan Farman Ullah , Ullah Asmat
Published: February 2021

Bio-based epoxy resins are being used due to their green chemistry. They have better properties than petroleum-based epoxy resins. Recently, environment friendly nanomaterials have been used for different industrial applications. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are among the best naturally occurring materials. Therefore, the surface of cellulose nanocrystals are modified by eugenol-based silane coupling agent (EBSCA). Chemical composition and surface morphologies of CNCs were analyzed and characterized by FTIR, AFM, SEM, TEM and 1H-NMR. The SEM and AFM results confirmed eugenol-based silane coupling agent was successfully grafted on cellulose nanocrystals. Modified CNCs demonstrated an excellent tensile strength (2190 MPa) and modulus (16.00 MPa), as well as storage modulus (1622 MPa) exhibited by 1wt% modified cellulose nanocrystals composites. Additionally, modified CNCs displayed hydrophobic behavior (CA=102 ± 2°). The corresponding modified CNCs have significant applications in combination of high stiffness and strength to the epoxy resins. This study lays a foundation towards full bio-based, environment friendly polymers fabrication and consumptions most desirable in adhesive and mechanical industrial fields.
The Electronic, Magnetic and Optical Properties of Ba2MUO6  Compounds With (M=Ni, Co, Cd and Zn): DFT Calculation 
Authors: Kadiri Abdelmajid , Arejdal Mestapha , Abbassi Abderrahman
Published: February 2021

In this present paper, the electronic, magnetic and optical properties of the double Perovskites Ba2MUO6 with (M=Ni, Co, Cd and Zn) are investigated in the framework of the Generalized Gradient Approximation (GGA), employing the Full Potential-Linearized Augmented Plane Wave (FP-LAPW) method as implemented in the Wien2K package. The only method used to study these three types of the properties of these compounds is Density Functional Theory (DFT) approach. Thanks to this method, several of the detailed results related to the three studied properties of these compounds are determined; specifically, the optimization of parameters of structures, the band structures, the electronic densities of states (DOS), reflectivity, transmittance and absorbance. Finally, the comparison between these results obtained in this theoretical study and the experimental values makes it clear that they are virtually in good agreement with each other.
Multimedia Computational Offloading for 5G Mobile Edge Computing
Authors: D Adhimuga Sivasakthi , Raja Gunasekaran
Published: February 2021

Due to the tremendous growth of smartphone users with their massive usage of faster response, delay sensitive applications lead to high traffic demands, still not yet been met by current researchers. Thus, the ever-increasing computational demands are managed through computational offloading, which offload intensive workloads to the small cells having functionality similar to the resource-rich providers namely edge server. With the use of edge server, the heavily loaded computations get executed outside of the mobile device which results in minimization of mobile energy consumption and latency. Mobile edge computing is an emerging paradigm of commercial infrastructure for computational offloading, which enhances the power of smart mobile devices. Generally, edge provides cloud services and resources to the nearest proximity of users with radio access in fifth-generation (5G) networks for low latency, prompt response, and filtering. But, the frequent network failure automatically degrades the performance. Hence in this paper, we integrate the functionalities of Edge Server with Pico cells (ESP) for efficient traffic management and also propose a distributed Multi hop Mesh Middle layer (MMM) architecture for seamless communication with high resilience, minimal latency, and reduction of energy consumption. Generally, a pico cell is a distributed antenna system, an alternative to a repeater used to extend wireless services to 100 users. We developed an Ant Social based Vector (ASV) optimization algorithm for an intelligent offload decision, which paves the way for backhaul routing conflicts. Simulation results of Cloud Sim show that offloading tiny devices integrated with significant additional computational capabilities would satisfy all the demands from each network within a 15ms delay.
Purification Effect Evaluation of the Designed New Volcanic Soil Adsorption Material Containing Bioreactor for Eutrophic Water Treatment
Authors: Fu Huiling , Ding Linxian , Zhai Jingyu , Wang Xue-song
Published: February 2021

To investigate the purification effect of the new adsorption material containing bioreactor and the critical role of non-culture (VBNC) bacteria in eutrophication ecosystem, major water quality parameters and microbial community were determined and analyzed in prepared eutrophic water for 2 years monitoring. The results showed that removal rates of total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN), chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) ranged of 90.7% - 95.9%, 84.5% - 92.4%, 87.9% - 95.8% and 68.3% - 82.7%, respectively, indicating the designed bioreactor possessed high efficiency in eutrophic water treatment. Although the bioreactor had been operated for 2 years, water from treatment group was more clearer and odorless than control group, exhibiting the long service life of the bioreactor. Stopping operation in August caused the removal rates of major water quality parameters significantly decrease (p < 0.05), revealing stopping operation and high temperature in Summer exerted dual effect on the bioreactor, whereas the impact could be minimized when the bioreactor was running. According to most probable number (MPN) method, the total bacteria under +Rpf treatment were higher than under -Rpf treatment, implying Rpf could resuscitate VBNC bacteria in eutrophication ecosystem. Nine VBNC bacteria were isolated based on the BLAST results of 16S rRNA gene, and these bacteria might contribute to eutrophic water treatment based on their functions, such as phosphorus-collecting and denitrification. Those results provided new insights for engineering technology innovation and had benefit in eutrophic water treatment.
Dynamic molecular pockets on diffusion channel for efficient production of polymer-grade propylene
Authors: Li Dan , Zeng Heng , Wang Ting , Xie Mo , Wei Rong-Jia , Xie Xiao-Jing , Zhao Yifang , Lu Weigang
Published: February 2021

Size-based molecular sieving works well for rigid molecules with complete exclusion of larger ones, yet interaction-induced molecular sieving may offer unusual separation capability for molecules with matching physicochemical properties. Here we report a MOF material (XXU-3) featuring one-dimension channels with embedded molecular pockets opening to C3H6 and C3H8 at substantially different pressures. The dynamic nature of the pockets is revealed by single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformation upon exposure of the activated XXU-3 to C3H6 or C3H8 atmosphere. Breakthrough experiments demonstrate that XXU-3 is not only capable of separating C3H6 from C3H8 with record-high C3H6 productivity, but also the first MOF material realizing polymer-grade C3H6 production in a single adsorption-desorption cycle from an equimolar C3H6/C3H8 mixture. The underlying separation mechanism, namely orthogonal-array dynamic molecular sieving, is an exemplary strategy for both large separation capacity and fast adsorption-desorption kinetics. This work presents an ideal design for next-generation sieving materials and it holds great potential for applications in adsorptive separation.
Subgap Dynamics of Double Quantum Dot Coupled Between Superconducting and Normal Leads
Authors: Baran Bartłomiej , Taranko Ryszard , Domański Tadeusz
Published: February 2021

Dynamical processes induced by the external time-dependent fields can provide valuable insight into the characteristic energy scales of a given physical system. We investigate them here in a nanoscopic heterostructure, consisting of the double quantum dot coupled in series to the superconducting and the metallic reservoirs, analyzing its response to (i) abrupt bias voltage applied across the junction, (ii) sudden change of the energy levels, and imposed by (iii) their periodic driving. We explore subgap properties of this setup which are strictly related to the in-gap quasiparticles and discuss their signatures manifested in the time-dependent charge currents. The characteristic multi-mode oscillations, their beating patters and photon-assisted harmonics reveal a rich spectrum of dynamical features that might be important for designing the superconducting qubits.
WITHDRAWN: Microscopic Reaction Mechanism of Formic Acid Generated During Pyrolysis of Cellulosic Insulating Paper
Authors: Zheng Hanbo , Yang Enchen , Li Xufan , Yang Tao , Wang Zijian , Feng Yongji
Published: February 2021

Cellulosic insulating paper is the component part of the insulation in power transformers. Under thermal stress inside the transformer, cellulosic insulating paper degrades to generate formic acid that will dissolve in insulating oil. In addition, the generation of formic acid further accelerates the aging process of insulating paper. This study took cellulose molecule with DP of 2 that was composed of D-glucose as the research object, the ReaxFF reaction force field was used to simulate the high temperature thermal aging process of cellulose. This study obtained the main reaction pathways of cellulose pyrolysis to generate formic acid. During the pyrolysis process, the number of formic acid molecules presented short-term fluctuations, which was the phenomenon of disappearance and regeneration of formic acid molecules. The combined element tracing method obtained three pathways of cellulose pyrolysis to generate formic acid: 1) The ether group oxygen atom O5(O'5) and C1(C'1) form a carbonyl group to generate formic acid. 2) Dehydrogenation of the primary alcohol hydroxyl group and the attached C atom form a carbonyl group to generate formic acid. 3) Dehydrogenation of the secondary alcohol hydroxyl group and the attached C atom form a carbonyl group to generate formic acid. Statistics found that the generation of formic acid molecules mainly come from the first pathway. The pre-exponential factor and activation energy of the calculated pyrolysis model were consistent with the experimental results. This study designed the accelerated thermal aging experiment of oil-paper insulation. The silanization derivatization method was used to detect the formic acid generated by the aging of insulating paper, which further verified the feasibility of formic acid as an index for evaluating the aging of cellulosic insulating paper.
Molecular Characterization of Chikungunya Virus Isolates From Two Localized Outbreaks During 2014-2019 in Kerala, India
Authors: Balakrishnan Anukumar , Thounaojam Asia Devi , Babu Aishwarya , Koshy Jijo , L Nikhil T , Purushottaman Sugunan Attayur
Published: February 2021

After the 2005-2009 chikungunya epidemic, intermittent outbreaks were reported in many parts of India. The outbreaks were caused by either locally circulating strains or imported viruses. Virus transmission route can be traced by complete genome sequencing studies. We investigated two outbreaks in the year 2014 and 2019 in Kerala, India. The chikungunya virus (CHIKV) was isolated from the samples and whole genome was sequenced for a 2014 isolate and a 2019 isolate. The phylogenetic tree revealed that the isolates formed a separate group with 2019 isolate from Pune, Maharashtra and belonged to the East/ Central/ South African (ECSA) genotype, Indian subcontinent sub lineage of Indian Ocean Lineage (IOL). A novel mutation at amino acid position 76 of E2 gene was observed in the group. The phylogenetic results suggest that the outbreaks might have caused by a virus, which has been circulating in India since 2014. Furthermore a detailed study is necessary to find out the evolution of CHIKV in India.
microRNA-30c attenuates fibrosis progression and vascular dysfunction in systemic sclerosis model mice
Authors: Kanno Yosuke , Shu En , Niwa Hirofumi , Seishima Mariko , Ozaki Kei-ichi
Published: February 2021

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by the fibrosis of skin and visceral organs, and peripheral circulatory disturbance. We recently demonstrated that α2-antiplasmin (α2AP) is elevated in SSc dermal fibroblasts and SSc model mice, and is associated with fibrosis progression and vascular dysfunction. In the present study, we predicted that α2AP could be a target of microRNA-30c (miR-30c) using TargetScan online database, and investigated the effect of miR-30c on the pathogenesis of SSc using a bleomycin-induced SSc model mice. miR-30c attenuated α2AP expression, and prevented the pro-fibrotic changes (increased dermal thickness, collagen deposition, myofibroblast accmulation) and the vascular dysfunction (the reduction of vascular endothelial cells (ECs) and blood flow) in the skin of SSc model mice. Furthermore, miR-30c suppressed pulmonary fibrosis progression in the SSc model mice. These findings suggest that miR-30c exerts the anti-fibrotic and anti-angiopathy effects on SSc model mice, and might provide a basis for clinical strategies for SSc.
Proper Border Length Can Improve Soil Water Distribution, Promote Grain Yield of Winter Wheat, and Potentially Save Water Resources
Authors: Yan Feilong , Shi Yu , Yu Zhenwen
Published: February 2021

With water resources becoming scarcer and a growing demand for increased food supplies, there is an urgent need to maximize the efficiency of irrigation systems. We aimed to find a suitable border length to reduce the quantity of irrigation water through a traditional border irrigation system and, thus, alleviate groundwater depletion in Huang-Huai-Hai Plain (3HP). A 2-year experiment (2017–2019) was conducted in 3HP, which three border lengths were tested: 15 m (L15), 25 m (L25), and 35 m (L35); supplementary irrigation was implemented during jointing and anthesis, inflow cutoff was set at 90%, and set a control treatment without irrigation (CK). The results showed that L25 significantly improved soil water distribution after irrigation, and increased soil water consumption compared with L15 and L35. The the dry matter accumulation post-anthesis was also higher in L25 than in the other treatments, as well as the WUE. The correlation analysis of soil water content after irrigation with yield confirmed that L25 was more conducive to high grain yield. Hence, under these test conditions, the irrigation field treatments with a border length of 25 m were considered the most efficient, given that these allow the reduction of the amount of water necessary for irrigation without compromising grain yield of winter wheat.