bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fifteen new species of Sathytes Westwood from China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae), with an updated checklist of world species
Authors: Yin Zi-Wei , Shen Qi
Published: October 2020

The Chinese fauna of the pselaphine genus Sathytes Westwood (Batrisitae: Batrisini) currently includes 20 species. In this paper, 15 new species from various provinces of the country are described: S. alpicola sp. nov. (Xizang), S. australis sp. nov. (Guangdong, Guangxi), S. chayuensis sp. nov. (Xizang), S. chengzhifeii sp. nov. (Yunnan), S. huapingensis sp. nov. (Guangxi), S. linzhiensis sp. nov. (Xizang), S. maoershanus sp. nov. (Guangxi), S. nujiangensis sp. nov. (Yunnan), S. panzhaohuii sp. nov. (Xizang), S. shennong sp. nov. (Hubei), S. tianquanus sp. nov. (Sichuan), S. transversus sp. nov. (Xizang), S. valentulus sp. nov. (Guangxi), S. xingdoumontis sp. nov. (Hubei) and S. xizangensis sp. nov. (Xizang). New collection records are provided for S. longitrabis Yin & Li, 2012, S. tangliangi Yin & Li, 2012 and S. yunnanicus Yin & Li, 2012. Maps showing the distribution of the genus in China, and an updated checklist of the world species are provided.
Development of condenser mathematical model for research and development of ways to improve its efficiency
Authors: Shavdinova Madina , Aronson Konstantin , Borissova Nina
Published: October 2020

The condensing unit is one of the most important elements of the steam turbine of a combined heat and power plant. Defects in elements of the condensing unit lead to disturbances in the steam turbine operation, its failures and breakdowns, as well as efficiency losses of the plant. Therefore, the operating personnel need to know the cause of the malfunction and to correct it immediately. There are no diagnostic models of condensers in the Republic of Kazakhstan at the moment. In this regard, a mathematical model of a condenser based on the methodology of Kaluga Turbine Plant (KTP) has been developed. The mathematical model makes it possible to change the input parameters, plot dependency diagrams, and calculate the plant efficiency indicators. The mathematical model of the condenser can be used to research ways for the improvement of the condensing unit efficiency, for diagnostic purposes of the equipment condition, for the energy audit conduction of the plant, and in the training when performing virtual laboratory research. Using static data processing by linear regression method we obtain that the KTP methodology of condenser calculation is fair at cooling water temperature from 20 °C to 24 °C, but at cooling water temperature from 20 °C to 28 °C, the methodology of JSC "All-Russia Thermal Engineering Institute" (JSC "VTI") is used. One of the ways to increase the condenser efficiency has been proposed. It is the heat transfer augmentation with riffling annular grooves on tubes. This method increases the heat transfer coefficient by 2%, reduces the water subcooling of the heating steam by 0.9 °C, and decreases the cooling area by 2%.
Influência geológica e antrópica na qualidade da água de um córrego no Pantanal Norte, Brasil
Authors: BÃ¼hler Beatriz Ferraz , Oliveira Junior Ernandes Sobreira , Souza Célia Alves de
Published: October 2020

Estudos sobre a qualidade dos recursos hídricos são uma importante ferramenta para a gestão dos ambientes aquáticos. Assim, buscou-se analisar a qualidade da água do córrego Jacobina na região rural de Cáceres/MT, Pantanal Norte, em relação à litologia e ao uso e cobertura da terra do entorno da bacia. Para tanto, a bacia foi compartimentada em alto, médio e baixo cursos e a amostragem compreendeu o período de seca e cheia, característicos do Pantanal. Para o levantamento das unidades geológicas da bacia foi elaborado um mapa temático utilizando imagens de satélite Landsat TM 5 e TM 8. A identificação do uso e cobertura da terra do entorno foi levantada através de visitas in loci com aplicação de questionários nas propriedades rurais que abrangem o córrego. Em cada compartimento um ponto de coleta de água foi adotado. Foram analisadas 25 variáveis limnológicas e o Índice de Qualidade da Água (IQA) foi aplicado. Os resultados demonstraram que em geral, a qualidade da água do córrego Jacobina é 'Ótima' de acordo com os valores obtidos pelo cálculo do IQA e pela apresentação das variáveis que estiveram dentro do que preconiza a legislação vigente do CONAMA 357/05 e 430/11 e MS 2914/11. As características da água do córrego são possivelmente influenciadas pelo material rochoso, em sua maioria calcário, demonstradas pelos parâmetros de Ca2+, Mg2+, alcalinidade e pH. Desta forma, este estudo permitiu relacionar as atividades desenvolvidas no entorno do córrego Jacobina, bem como as características naturais do ambiente como a com a qualidade da água.
New record of podocopid ostracods from Cretaceous amber
Authors: Wang He , Schädel Mario , Sames Benjamin , Horne David J.
Published: October 2020

Burmese Cretaceous amber (∼99 Ma, Myanmar) is famous for the preservation of a wide range of fauna and flora, including representatives of marine, freshwater and terrestrial groups. Here, we report on three ostracod specimens, that came visible as syninclusions to an aquatic isopod. The three specimens represent three different taxa, that were found preserved in a single piece of amber. One of the described specimens was studied using µCT scanning data. On the basis of general carapace morphology we assign all three to the group Podocopida, and (tentatively) its ingroup Cypridocopina. A lack of visibility of more particular diagnostic features such as adductor muscle scars and details of the marginal zone precludes a further identification, but we discuss possible affinities with either the marine-brackish group Pontocypridoidea or the non-marine group Cypridoidea. The taphonomy indicates that the studied ostracods had been subject to limited (if any) post-mortem transport, which could be consistent with marginal marine environments.
ZFPM2-AS1 promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of human non-small cell lung cancer cells involving the JAK-STAT and AKT pathways
Authors: Wang Xiwen , Tang Jun , Zhao Jungang , Lou Bin , Li Li
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Recent studies have determined that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are potential prognostic biomarkers for non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs). The purpose of this study was to analyze the function and associated pathways of zinc finger protein multitype 2 antisense RNA 1 (ZFPM2-AS1) in NSCLC cells.

Methods

We used qRT-PCR to analyze ZFPM2-AS1’s transcription level. Its proliferation, migration, and invasion capacities were determined using MTT, colony forming, wound healing, and transwell assays. We additionally analyzed the correlation between ZFPM2 and immune infiltration using the Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) database, and the protein expression levels using Western blots.

Results

We found that ZFPM2-AS1 expression in NSCLC specimens and cell lines was elevated compared to the control group. ZFPM2-AS1 is an oncogene and independent prognostic predictor of poor survival in NSCLCs, and its expression had a positive correlation with tumor size and lymph node metastasis in our clinical data. MTT, colony forming, wound healing, and transwell assays showed a positive correlation between ZFPM2-AS1 expression and the proliferation, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells in the presence and absence of interferon- (IFN-γ). Using the TIMER database, we hypothesized that ZFPM2 was negatively correlated with ZFPM2-AS1 expression, as well as the immune infiltration levels in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Finally, we found that ZFPM2-AS1 negatively regulated ZFPM2 expression, and had a positive correlation with PD-L1 expression through the JAK-STAT and AKT pathways.

Conclusion

Our study confirmed that ZFPM2-AS1 promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells via the JAK-STAT and AKT pathways. Further research on the ZFPM2-AS1 pathway regulation mechanism is needed.
The Impact of Economic Recession on Teaching and Learning Sciences in Higher Institutions in Bauchi State North Eastern Part of Nigeria
Authors: Dahuwa D. , Abdu M. S. , Bello I. , Alkali B. , Bello A. M. , Jacob E.
Published: October 2020

What many nations like Nigeria need now is a functional and qualitative science education                  that will assist in national development. Science education has been identified to be one of the major bedrocks for the transformation of our national economy, hence must be                        adequately attended. This work was carried out to determine the impact of economic recession on teaching and learning sciences in higher institutions. A survey research design was adopted for the study. While a sampling random was used, using cluster as a sampling technique to select a sample of two hundred and twelve (212) respondents from  Aminu Saleh College of Education, Azare , Bauchi state,Nigeria. The instrument used for the study was questionnaire, the data collected was sorted out and analyzed using frequency distribution table and simple percentage. The problems associated with educational development through teachers, students and management staff were investigated and result pointed out that, all these contributed                 greatly to the aforementioned negative impact economic recession has on educational development. The government, teachers, students and management staff are therefore faced with challenges of maximizing whatever allocated to them to reduce the effect of current recession on education.
Tax Revenue, Tax Reform and Government Expenditure: The Case of Nigerian Economy (1994 – 2017)
Authors: Ndubuisi Chinedu Jonathan , Ezeokwelume Onyekachi Louis , Maduka Ruth Onyinyechi
Published: October 2020

The objective of this study is to empirically investigate the effect of tax revenue and years tax reforms on government expenditure in Nigerian. Tax revenue were explained using custom and excise duties, company income tax, value-added tax and tax reforms explained by the years in which reforms took place measured by dummy variables as proxies. In conducting this research, an annual time series data from central bank statistical bulletins and Federal Inland revenue Service of Nigeria spanning from 1994-2017 were employed. The data were tested for stationarity using the Augmented Dicker-Fuller Unit Root Test and found stationary at first difference. The Johansen co-integration test was also conducted and showed that the variables are co-integrated at the 5% level, which implied that there is a long-run relationship between the variables in the model. The presence of co-integration spurred the use of vector error correction model and VEC granger causality to determine the effects and decision for the study objective. Findings revealed that Customs and Excise Duties has positive (3.96) and significant (-8.38) impact on government expenditure at 5% level of significance (t=8.38>1.96), Company Income Tax has negative (-1.25) and significant (2.98) impact on government expenditure at 5% level of significance (t=2.98>1.96), Value added tax has positive (8.54) and significant (3.90) impact on government expenditure at 5% level of significance (t=3.90>1.96) and Tax reforms periods has negative(-3.52E+12) and significant (8.39) impact on government expenditure at 5% level of significance (t=8.39>1.96). The study thus concluded that tax revenue and tax reforms significantly affect the Nigerian economy with the direction of causation running from government revenue to government expenditure, supporting the revenue-spend or tax-spend hypothesis.  It was recommended while seeking to increase its revenue base via tax should also increase their expenditure profile to create a balance with the tax revenue and every other tax reform should be geared towards this balance.
The Effect of Profitability, Sales Growth and Dividend Policy on Stock Prices
Authors: Purwaningsih Sri
Published: October 2020

Aims: This study aims to analyze the effect of profitability, sales growth and dividend policy on stock prices.

Study Design: The research method used is quantitative research.

Place and Duration of Study: This research sample is a manufacturing industry sub-sector manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) in 2016 - 2018.

Methodology: The analytical method used is the multiple regression test using SPSS.22 analysis tools, namely with a descriptive test, a classic assumption test, a model suitability test, and a regression test.

Results: The results showed that ROA and Dividen Policy had significant positive effect on Stock Prices, But Sales Growth had no effect on Stock Prices.

Conclusion: This shows the interest of investors to invest in shares issued by companies that have good performance. Therefore, companies need to maintain company performance so that their shares remain attractive to investors.
Human Resource Management Practice and Teachers’ Job Satisfaction: The Case Study of East Wollega Zone Secondary Schools, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Wakwoya Fanta
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Human resource management is the most important function in any organization; because it is related with the responsibility of using resources for the purpose of achieving the goals of the organization. Thus, the main purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between Human Resource Management Practice and Teachers’ Job Satisfaction in government Secondary Schools.

Methods: The research design for this study was correlation research. Both quantitative and qualitative research approach was used. Data was collected through questionnaire and interview. Respondents were selected using random sampling technique and a total of 155 respondents were participated. Also, five school principals were purposively selected and participated in the study. The data collected were organized, analyzed, tabulated and interpreted using simple percentages, means, standard deviation, analysis of variance and Pearson correlation.

Results: Major findings of the study are: majority of respondents reported poor teaching staff resource planning (M=2.14, SD=1.18), provision of training and development on various issues was inadequate (M=2.24, SD=1.32), performance appraisal practice was not based on clear and transparent procedures (M=2.05, SD=1.15), a good number of teachers were feeling moderate job satisfaction to the existing work environment (M=3.24, SD=1.35). Correlation analysis indicates significant positive interaction between human resource management and teachers job satisfaction  (r=0.55, p=0.00). 

Discussion: The importance of human resource management was not acknowledged and well understood by the educational leaders. Effective human resource management can improve workforce utilization in schools and it will potentially increase the job satisfaction of teachers. Performance appraisal and supervision activities were taken as the retinue activity in the schools under study .This may have impact on teachers' job satisfaction, self improvement and school goal achievement. Thus, school administration need to design strategic system that invites the school principals in the activities of human resource management.
Benefits of a Biofilm System and Low Ammonia Levels to Decrees the Early Mortality Syndrome in Shrimp Larvae (Litopenaeus vannamei) Infected with (Vibrio parahaemolyticus)
Authors: Reyes Guillermo Galindo
Published: October 2020

The world shrimp aquaculture, has faced several problems, causing severe losses in shrimp hatcheries; between the most critical has been diseases such as early mortality syndrome (EMS) caused by (Vibrio parahaemolyticus). The EMS was initially detected in Asian countries; after, it was disseminated to Mexico and other countries. In Mexico, EMS caused severe economic losses during 2013-2016; and it has not yet been eradicated. Various causes for EMS have been reported; none is entirely accurate, but water quality is essential for successful shrimp aquaculture; therefore, the aim this work was evaluate the ammonia concentration effect on susceptibility to (EMS) on post-larvae (PL-15) shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) infected with (V. parahaemolyticus), using a biofilm system (water with, microalgae, dinoflagellates, protozoa and other planktonic microorganisms). So series of 5 flasks each one were arranged as following: Series S; 900 ml of filtered seawater (FSW) and 10 PL-15 shrimp per flask. Series SB; 840 ml of FSW, 60 ml of biofilm and 10 PL-15 shrimp. Series E; 900 ml of FSW, infected with 2 ml (V. parahaemolyticus) 106 CFU/ ml and 10 PL-15 shrimp. Series EN; fifteen flasks with 900 ml of FSW, 10 PL-15 shrimp, added with NH4Cl (0.535 mg/ml), to get 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 mg/l final ammonia concentration in 5 sub-series of 3 flasks each one. During experiment, ammonia concentration and PL-15 shrimp mortality were evaluated in all flask. Ammonia concentration was higher in series EN than in series E; the same was observed in Series S respect to SB, but at lower values. At end of experiment, mortality in series EN was 90% Vs 60% in E. Similarly, mortality in series S was 10% Vs 0% in SB. This results confirm that the ammonia increases PL shrimp mortality, and biofilm system reduce ammonia and consequently PL-15 shrimp mortality.
Analysis of Organizational Communication on Employees’ Performance: A Case Study of Selected Deposit Banks in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Ibuchi Robinson Amos , H. Inamete Emem Ndah , Esther Chinyem Uzoamaka
Published: October 2020

This work was conducted to investigate performance and structure of Nigerian banks. Based on existing literature, M-form theory was used to explain possible impact of structure variables based on number of bank department, branches and workers on performance that was measured using “profit after tax”. Corporate or business governance variable were measured using number of banks board members as control variable using five banks operating in Nigeria banking sector within fifteen year period that ranged from 2001-2015. The result revealed that the entire structure variables used are positively associated or related to performance. Again, it was noticed that structure variables which are “bank division/department, bank branches” are positively and significantly impacted on banks performance while number of workers positively and insignificantly affected banks performance. Corporate governance variable which was introduced showed that number of members of Directors was equally positive and significant statistically.
Protective Effects of Bi-Herbal Formulation of Aqueous Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina and Gongronema latifolium against Gentamicin Induced Nephrotoxicity and Liver Injury in Rats
Authors: Constance Nwadike , Joy Dike-Ndudim , Nkeiruka Oly-Alawuba , Ahamefula Ezekwe , Chidimma Akanazu , Oluchi Aloy-Amadi
Published: October 2020

The study was carried out to investigate the protective effects of bi-herbal formulation of aqueous extracts of Vernonia amygdalina and Gongronema latifolium against gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity and liver injury in rats. Forty (n=40) male Wistar albino rats were procured and separated into five groups. Groups I and II served as normal control and experimental control respectively. Groups III to V served as test groups. Rats of experimental control (group II) and test groups were induced with lethal dose of gentamicin. Test groups III and IV were placed on herbal formulation of aqueous extracts of V .amygdalina  and G. latifolium respectively, whereas rats in test group V received bi-herbal formulation of aqueous extracts of V. amygdalina and G. latifolium. Nephrotoxic indices such as urea reduced significantly (p<0.05) in test groups (III, IV, and V) when compared to experimental control (group II) and normal control (group I). Creatinine also reduced significantly (p<0.05) in test groups III and V against group II (experimental control), and increased insignificantly (p>0.05) in test group V when compared to normal control (group I). Rats induced with gentamicin had upsurge in liver enzymes indicating possible compromise of hepatocellular integrity but the ameliorating effects of the herbal formulations were seen clearly in test groups in this study as they tried to protect the hepatocellular integrity. The bi-herbal formulation of aqueous extract of 5% v/v each of V. amygdalina and G. latifolium offered the best protection as observed in this study. This study has revealed the protective effects of bi-herbal formulation of aqueous extract of V. amygdalina  and G. latifolium against gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity and liver injury in rats.
Evaluation of the Nutritionally Valuable Mineral Composition of Moringa oleifera Leaf
Authors: Dasat G. S. , Danjuma G. , Chundusu E. S.
Published: October 2020

Moringa plant parts are edible and considered as a highly nutritive vegetable globally. In this study, the essential nutrient elements, solid organic matter content (SOM) and phenolic compound of Moringa oliefera leaf extract obtained from two different zones of Plateau State, Nigeria was determined using standard laboratory procedures. The results obtained revealed that samples (A and B) of leaves of Moringa oleifera contained various quantities of valuable nutritive mineral elements such as chloride (14.49 mg per g and 13.44 mg per g), sodium (13.07 mg per g and 11.85 mg per g), Sulphate (13.07 mg per g and 11.85 mg per g), potassium (2.57 mg per g and 2.28 mg per g), calcium (2.57 mg per g and 2.28 mg per g), magnesium (5.59 mg per g and 5.67 mg per g), respectively while others such as ammonium, phosphate and iron had varying concentrations of valuable nutritional elements. There is no significant difference in the mineral contents of both samples. It also has high percentages of SOM of 81 and 82% in samples A and B as well as phenolics contents of 701.90 µg per g and 641.34 µg per g, respectively. These minerals are vital in the development and maintenance of the human health because the human body needs both macro and micro elements for its metabolism and proper development. Therefore, the Moringa oleifera plant could be an important source of essential elements of the human diet and could resolve some health-related issues due to high content of phenolics which contained antioxidant, anti-bacterial as well as anti-fungal properties.
Assessment of the Nutritional Value of Selected Wild Leafy Vegetables Growing in the Roma Valley, Lesotho
Authors: Tanor Emmanuel B. , Ntlatlapa T’sooana , Magama Sibusisiwe
Published: October 2020

Objective: The study aimed at determining the nutrient content of nine selected wild leafy vegetables growing in Roma Valley of Lesotho as a means to achieve food security, improve nutritional and dietary diversity and address malnutrition in rural communities.

Methodology: The vegetables were analysed for proximate composition, and Ca, Mg, Na, P, K, Fe, Mn, Se, Cu and Zn and vitamin C. Analyses were carried out using standard methods.

Results: The proximate analysis revealed a high in moisture (81.15 - 92.23%) statistically similar (p<0.05), some were rich in protein, vitamin C, Cu, Mn, K and Fe. Chenopodium album has the highest protein (31.53±8.65 mg/100 g) fresh weight (FW); and Rorripa nudiscula (51.4% of RDA). Chenopodium album and Rorripa nudiscula were rich in Ca, 1598.21±15.25 mg/100 g FW and 1508.50±25.40 mg/100 g FW and in Mg, 505.14±35.55 mg/100 g FW and 525.18 mg/100 g FW respectively. The vegetables were rich in K, but low in Na, with Na-to-K ratio < 1.0, indicating that the vegetables could be ideal source of balanced sodium and potassium intake in diet. The vegetables were rich in Cu with ranging from 114.4% of RDA in Hypochaeris radicata to 342.2% of RDA in Chenopodium album. Fe was abundant in Rorripa nudiscula 251.7% of RDA and Chenopodium album 187.8% of the RDA. Mn was abundant in Amaranthus cruentus 557.8% of the RDA, in Chenopodium album or 245.7% of the RDA, in Rorripa nudiuscula, 205.5% of RDA, Amaranthus thunbergii (130.9% of RDA), moderate amounts in Amaranthus caudatus (1.94±0.36 mg/100 g FW or 84.4%) and Amaranthus spinosus (83.5% of RDA). The content of Se was moderate: Rorripa nudiscula (38.3% of RDA). Amaranthus thunbergii (20.50±0.27 µg/100 g FW, 37.3% of RDA), Amaranthus spinosus (34.0% of RDA) and Lactuta serriola (20.7% of RDA). Zn was high in Chenopodium album (117.3% of RDA) moderate in Rorripa nudiscula (35.6% of RDA) Lactuta serriola (23.9% of RDA), Amaranthus spinosus (19.6% of RDA), Amaranthus caudatus (15.9% of RDA). Most of the nutrient were statistically similar at p<0.5.

Conclusion: The nutrient composition indicated that the vegetables could be good source of minerals and vitamin C and could be incorporated in rural household diets to improve nutrition, address malnutrition and food insecurity.
Effect of Different Manure Sources on Soil Chemical Properties, Performance and Yield of Maize on a Degraded Land
Authors: Denton O. A. , Fademi I. O. , Are K. S. , Ojo A. O. , Adeoyolanu O. D.
Published: October 2020

Application of manure for soil amendment plays important roles in reclaiming and improving soil properties of degraded soils. This study assessed the effects of composted and non-composted manures on a degraded soil under continuous maize production. The treatments applied consisted of composted manures in form of cassava based compost (CBM) and verticompost (VC) at the rate of 0, 30, 60 and 120 tons/ha, non-composted manure (NC) applied as poultry manure (PM), and an un-amended control plot. These treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design replicated three times. Soil physical and chemical properties were determined for two consecutive seasons, with maize (SUWAN 1-SYR) planted as test crop. The CBM, VC and PM treatments increased the soil organic carbon content by 18.2, 24.1, and 22.3 % respectively. Corresponding increases observed in cation exchange capacity (CEC) were 13.6, 15.7, and 15.2 %. The comparison of the soil chemical properties measured indicated positive effects from the amendments on the soil properties in the order: CBM < PM < VC.  The maize grain yield of cassava based fertilized plot consistently and significantly was higher than the other treatments in both cropping seasons. However, both the composted and non-composted manures favored improved maize growth and resulted in higher grain yields (4.62 – 6.03 t ha-1) than the un-amended control treatment (3.69 t ha-1). The study therefore showed that the incorporation of manures, whether composted or non-composted, is beneﬁcial to soils, improving one or more essential soil attributes thus reducing soil degradation.
Towards Sustainable Energy: The Requisite Role of Microorganisms in the Production of Biogas and Bioethanol
Authors: Ekwebelem Osmond C. , Ofielu Ekenedirichukwu S. , Dike Obinna V. Nnorom- , Aleke Job C. , Nwachukwu Glory A.
Published: October 2020

Increased energy consumption coupled with the ongoing climate change are urging us to develop more sustainable energy alternatives, including biofuels produced from renewable biomass. Our heavy reliance on fossil-derived fuels has not only gained intense public attention in recent years, but has also prompted us to intensively study the production of sustainable biofuels from renewable energy sources via microbial fermentation.  Owing to the recent advances and availability of state-of-the-art molecular tools, our knowledge about anaerobic microorganisms and their direct and indirect contributions in the production of different biofuels have increased tremendously. Anaerobic microorganisms are mainly utilized for commercial production of biofuels such as; biogas and fuel alcohols from renewable organic matter, while photosynthetic microorganisms convert inorganic carbon and water to potential fuels (e.g. fuel alcohols) and fuel precursors (e.g. biomass, starch, lipids). Although metabolically engineered microorganisms, programmed to redirect renewable carbon sources into desired fuel products, are contemplated as best choices to obtain high volumetric productivity and yield, however, native populations of anaerobic microorganisms are still considered the primary choice for the production of biogas and bioethanol. These anaerobic microorganisms responsible for different degradation pathways and their functions in anaerobic digesters are continuously being updated.  In this review, we discuss the essential role of anaerobic microbes in biogas and bioethanol production via consolidated anaerobic process. Additionally, key enzymatic reactions and microbiota involved in the degradation steps and in the production pathways are specifically highlighted. We also discussed the challenges that still exist for biofuel production from native populations of anaerobic microorganisms and their possible solutions.
Phytopharmacognostic Standardization of the Leaves of Buchholzia coriacea Engler. (Capparidaceae)
Authors: Umoh Romanus A. , Umoh Uwemedimo F. , Johnny Imoh I. , Udoh Anwanabasi E. , Anah Victor U. , Umoh Omodot T. , Elijah Akwaowoh A. , Essienutin Ndifreke S.
Published: October 2020

Buchholzia coriacea Engl. is a medicinal plant belonging to the family Capparidaceae. It has antimicrobial, anthelmintic, antidiabetic and antihypercholesterol activities.  The aim of this study was to employ the quality control parameters in the evaluation of the leaf of B. coriacea. The plant leaves were collected, air dried, pulverized and stored in a clean glass container. Standard procedures were carried out to obtain the microscopic features of the fresh and powdered samples, micromeritic, chemomicroscopy, fluorescence properties, soluble extractive values, moisture contents and ash values.  The results of the microscopic study using fresh and powdered leaf samples revealed the presence of anomocytic stomata on the abaxial surface (hypostomatic) with mean length of 31.8 ± 0.6 cm. The cell shape was polygonal and straight anticlinal cell wall pattern. Results of the micromeritic properties of the powdered sample showed bulk volume of 31.00± 0.70cm, tapped volume of 25.1± 0.20 cm, bulk density of 0.32 ± 0.01g/m, tapped density of 0.39± 0.01g/ml, flow rate of 2.2 ± 0.08g/s, angle of repose of 26.1 ± 1.3 degrees, Carr’s index of 18.9± 1.35 %, Hausner’s ratio of 1.23 ± 0.02, pH of 8.0 when cold and 8.2 when hot for the powdered sample liquid extract. The results of the chemomicroscopic study revealed the presence of lignin, mucilage, calcium oxalate crystals, oil, calcium carbonate, but starch was absent. Results for the ethanol-soluble extractive value was 7 ± 0.00%    , water-soluble extractive value was 14 ± 0.00%   and methanol-soluble extractive value was 3 ± 0.00%  for the powdered samples. Results for the moisture content was 10.3 ± 0.00% , total ash values was 6.3± 0.00% , acid-insoluble ash value was 1 ± 0.00% , water-soluble ash value was 3±0.00%  and sulfated ash values was 7.5 ± 0.00% . In conclusion, the above evaluation methods and parameters there in could be used to identify and authenticate both the fresh and powdered crude drug product of Buchholzia coriacea.
Gantry angle dependent beam control optimization of a traveling wave linear accelerator to improve VMAT delivery
Authors: van Appeldoorn Adriaan A. , Kok Johannes G. M. , Wolthaus Jochem W. H.
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Increased modulation and dynamical delivery of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT), such as volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) with dynamic gantry rotation, continuously variable dose rate (CVDR) and field shapes that change during the beam, place greater demands on the performance of linear accelerators (linac). In this study, the accuracy of the linac beam steering is improved by the application of a new method to determine the gantry‐dependent lookup table.

Methods

An improved method of lookup table creation based on service graphing information from the linac is investigated. This minimizes the impact of magnetic hysteresis due to the previous current in the steering magnets, which is dependent on the previous gantry angle. A software tool, programmed with MATLAB®, is used to calculate and export the new optimal lookup table (LUT).

Results

This method is efficient requiring little clinical machine time or analysis time, and leads to an improved VMAT delivery with a reduction of about 60 percent in beam steering errors. If the surrounding magnetic field is changed, for example, ramping a nearby magnetic resonance imaging system (MRI), the beam steering LUT optimization can be quickly performed.

Conclusion

This study shows an improved linac stability using improved lookup tables. Resulting in a lower number of interruptions, preventing down‐time, and a lower risk of intrafraction motion due to longer treatment times.
Error sensitivity of a log file analysis tool compared with a helical diode array dosimeter for VMAT delivery quality assurance
Authors: Szeverinski Philipp , Kowatsch Matthias , Künzler Thomas , Meinschad Marco , Clemens Patrick , DeVries Alexander F.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Integrating log file analysis with LINACWatch® (LW) into clinical routine as part of the quality assurance (QA) process could be a time‐saving strategy that does not compromise on quality. The purpose is to determine the error sensitivity of log file analysis using LINACWatch® compared with a measurement device (ArcCHECK®, AC) for VMAT delivery QA.

Materials and methods

Multi‐leaf collimator (MLC) errors, collimator angle errors, MLC shift errors and dose errors were inserted to analyze error detection sensitivity. A total of 36 plans were manipulated with different magnitudes of errors. The gamma index protocols for AC were 3%/3 mm/Global and 2%/2 mm/Global, as well as 2%/2 mm/Global, and 1.5%/1.5 mm/Global for LW. Additionally, deviations of the collimator and monitor units between TPS and log file were calculated as RMS values. A 0.125 cm3 ionization chamber was used to independently examine the effect on dose.

Results

The sensitivity for AC was 20.4% and 49.6% vs 63.0% and 86.5% for LW, depending on the analysis protocol. For MLC opening and closing errors, the detection rate was 19.0% and 47.7% for AC vs 50.5% and 75.5% for LW. For MLC shift errors, it was 29.6% and 66.7% for AC vs 66.7% and 83.3% for LW. AC could detect 25.0% and 44.4% of all collimator errors. Log file analysis detected all collimator errors using 1° detection level. 13.2% and 42.4% of all dose errors were detected by AC vs 59.0% and 92.4% for LW using gamma analysis. Using RMS value, all dose errors were detected by LW (1% detection level).

Conclusion

The results of this study clearly show that log file analysis is an excellent complement to phantom‐based delivery QA of VMAT plans. We recommend a 1.5%/1.5 mm/Global criteria for log file‐based gamma calculations. Log file analysis was implemented successfully in our clinical routine for VMAT delivery QA.
Dust‐Sized High‐Power‐Density Photovoltaic Cells on Si and SOI Substrates for Wafer‐Level‐Packaged Small Edge Computers
Authors: Li Ning , Han Kevin , Spratt William , Bedell Stephen , Ren Jinhan , Gunawan Oki , Ott John , Hopstaken Marinus , Cabral Cyril , Libsch Frank , Subramanian Chitra , Shahidi Ghavam , Sadana Devendra
Published: October 2020

Advancement in microelectronics technology enables autonomous edge computing platforms in the size of a dust mote (<1 mm), bringing efficient and low‐cost artificial intelligence close to the end user and Internet‐of‐Things (IoT) applications. The key challenge for these compact high‐performance edge computers is the integration of a power source that satisfies the high‐power‐density requirement and does not increase the complexity and cost of the packaging. Here, it is shown that dust‐sized III–V photovoltaic (PV) cells grown on Si and silicon‐on‐insulator (SOI) substrates can be integrated using a wafer‐level‐packaging process and achieve higher power density than all prior micro‐PVs on Si and SOI substrates. The high‐throughput heterogeneous integration unlocks the potential of large‐scale manufacturing of these integrated systems with low cost for IoT applications. The negative effect of crystallographic defects in the heteroepitaxial materials on PV performance diminishes at high power density. Simultaneous power delivery and data transmission to the dust mote with heteroepitaxially grown PV are also demonstrated using hand‐held illumination sources.
Black Bioceramics: Combining Regeneration with Therapy
Authors: Wang Xiaocheng , Xue Jianmin , Ma Bing , Wu JinFu , Chang Jiang , Gelinsky Michael , Wu Chengtie
Published: October 2020

Bioceramics have been developed from bioinert to bioactive or biodegradable materials in the past few decades. However, at present, traditional bioceramics are still mainly used in bone tissue regeneration and dental restoration. In this work, a new generation of “black bioceramics,” extending the applications from tissue regeneration to disease therapy, is presented. Black bioceramics, through magnesium thermal reduction of traditional white ceramics, including silicate‐based (e.g., CaSiO3, MgSiO3) and phosphate‐based (e.g., Ca3(PO4)2, Ca5(PO4)3(OH)), are successfully synthesized. Due to the presence of oxygen vacancies and structural defects, the black bioceramics possess photothermal functionality while maintaining their initial high bioactivity and regenerative capacity. These black bioceramics show excellent photothermal antitumor effects for both skin and bone tumors. At the same time, they have significantly improved bioactivity for skin/bone tissue repair in vitro and in vivo. These fascinating properties award the black bioceramics with profound applications in both tumor therapy and tissue regeneration, which should greatly promote the scientific relevance and clinical application of bioceramics, representing a promising new direction of cell‐instructive biomaterials.
Organocatalytic Hantzsch Type Reaction Using Aryl Hydrazines, Propiolic Acid Esters and Enals: Enantioselective Synthesis of Paroxetine
Authors: Chen Lu , Zhang Zhi , Zu Liansuo
Published: October 2020

Aryl hydrazines, propiolic acid esters and enals serve as a viable substrate combination for an organocatalytic enantioselective Hantzsch type reaction. The method converts readily available starting materials into important chiral heterocycles with good to excellent yields and enantioselectivities, and has addressed the longstanding scope limitation of the classic Hantzsch reaction in the asymmetric synthesis of 2,6‐unsubstituted hydropyridines. The synthetic utility has been demonstrated by the concise enantioselective synthesis of paroxetine.

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Kontrolle über die optische und katalytische Aktivität gentechnisch hergestellter Proteine mit Ultraschall
Authors: Zhou Yu , Huo Shuaidong , Loznik Mark , Göstl Robert , Boersma Arnold J. , Herrmann Andreas
Published: October 2020

Ultraschall (US) erzeugt mittels Kavitation mechanische Kräfte, die Polymerketten in Lösung dehnen und brechen. Diese Art der Polymer‐Mechanochemie wird für synthetische Polymere, nicht aber für Biomakromoleküle verwendet, obwohl US biokompatibel ist und gemeinhin für die medizinische Therapie sowie für die Bildgebung in vivo eingesetzt wird. Die Möglichkeit, die Aktivität von Proteinen durch US zu kontrollieren, wäre daher ein wichtiger Meilenstein für diese Disziplinen. Hier zeigen wir die ersten Beispiele für die selektive Aktivierung und Deaktivierung von Proteinen durch US. Mit der Verwendung von GFP als Modellsystem zeigen wir modellhaft, wie Proteine mit US‐Empfindlichkeit ausgestattet werden können. Der Einbau von langen und hochgeladenen Domänen ermöglicht eine effiziente Kraftübertragung auf die Proteinstruktur. Dieses Prinzip nutzen wir dann, um die katalytische Aktivität von Trypsin zu aktivieren, indem wir die Freisetzung seines Inhibitors auslösen. Wir erwarten, dass das Konzept des Ein‐ und Ausschaltens der Proteinaktivität durch US als Bauplan für die Fernsteuerung anderer bioaktiver Moleküle dienen wird.
γ‐Glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT)‐Activatable Fluorescence Probe for Durable Tumor Imaging
Authors: Obara Rui , Kamiya Mako , Tanaka Yoko , Abe Atsuki , Kojima Ryosuke , Kawaguchi Tokuichi , Sugawara Minoru , Takahashi Akiko , Noda Tetsuo , Urano Yasuteru
Published: October 2020

γ‐Glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) is overexpressed in several types of cancer. Existing GGT‐targeting fluorescence probes can image these cancers, but the fluorescent hydrolysis product leaks from the target cancer cells during prolonged incubation or fixation. Here, we present a functionalized fluorescence probe for GGT, 4‐CH2F‐HMDiEtR‐gGlu, which is designed to generate an azaquinone methide intermediate during activation by GGT; this intermediate reacts with intracellular nucleophiles to generate a fluorescent adduct that is trapped inside the cells, without loss of the target enzyme activity. Application of the probe to patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) mice enabled in vivo cancer imaging for a prolonged period and was also compatible with fixation and immunostaining of the cancer tissue.
Metallophthalocyanine/polyacrylonitrile nanofibers by solution blow spinning technique for enhanced photocatalytic activity by visible light
Authors: Ergün Anıl Berk , Sevim Altuğ Mert , Kılıç Ali , Gül Ahmet
Published: October 2020

A novel photocatalyst, nano‐sized zinc and cobalt phthalocyanines (MPc), are anchored on polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers in the presence or absence of TiO2 and the process was realized with an innovative solution blow spinning (SBS) method for the first time. Novel nanofiber composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy techniques. According to the SEM micrographs, the immobilization of nano‐Pcs on the surface of PAN nanofibers was uniform and does not involve agglomeration. The MPc/PAN composite yielded nearly complete degradation of methylene blue (MB) of a highly photocatalytic nature. It was also found that the presence of TiO2 on MPc/PAN composite have no effect on photodegradation of MB. Also, the recycling of new photocatalysts required as little change as possible owing to their macroscopic structure and their flexible nature.
Spontaneous Expressive Language Profiles in a Clinically Ascertained Sample of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Thomas Hannah R. , Rooney Tara , Cohen Morgan , Bishop Somer L. , Lord Catherine , Kim So Hyun
Published: October 2020

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have varying degrees of language impairment across multiple domains, which may include deficits in syntactic, pragmatic, and/or semantic skills. The heterogeneity of language profiles within ASD, coupled with the limited scope of existing standardized language measures, makes a comprehensive assessment of language impairments in ASD challenging. The Observation of Spontaneous Expressive Language (OSEL) is a new measure developed to capture children's spontaneous use of language in a naturalistic setting. The current study used the OSEL to examine the patterns of spontaneous expressive language abilities of 87 clinically ascertained children with ASD from 2 to 12 years. As expected, children with ASD were significantly more impaired in their spontaneous use of language compared to typically developing peers. Syntax and narrative skills continued to increase with age from toddler to elementary school years in cross‐sectional comparisons. Pragmatic skills improved form toddler to preschool years but remained stable from preschool to elementary school years. Preliminary data also demonstrated significant improvements in OSEL syntax scores over time for a subset of children followed longitudinally (n = 8). Children with ASD consistently showed more impairments in spontaneous expressive language captured on the OSEL compared to language skills measured by other more structured standardized assessments, despite moderate convergent validity among those measures. Results suggest that impairments in the spontaneous and functional use of expressive language persist into middle childhood for many children with ASD, and a comprehensive assessment approach can lead to more precisely targeted treatment addressing specific language profiles.

Lay Summary

This study aimed to examine the variable language profiles in children with ASD. Children with ASD were shown to have impairments in the structure, meaning, and social use of language. These challenges were captured best by a measure that was created to assess the spontaneous use of language in a naturalistic environment. The results of this study emphasize the importance of a comprehensive assessment of language in ASD to inform treatment. Autism Res 2021, 14: 720–732. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research and Wiley Periodicals LLC
Wo sich Tradition und Präzision treffen
Authors: Hegner‐van Rooden Clementine
Published: October 2020

Für den neuen Firmensitz der Schokoladenmanufaktur Max Felchlin entwickelten Meili, Peter & Partner Architekten und die Ingenieure von Pirmin Jung Schweiz einen fünfgeschossigen Hybridbau. Dabei fallen vor allem die Dachhauben auf: ihr Tragwerk knüpft an traditionelle Zimmermannsarbeiten an und besticht in Ausdruck und Ausführung.
A generalized machine‐learning aided method for targeted identification of industrial enzymes from metagenome: A xylanase temperature dependence case study
Authors: Foroozandeh Shahraki Mehdi , Farhadyar Kiana , Kavousi Kaveh , Azarabad Mohammad H. , Boroomand Amin , Ariaeenejad Shohreh , Hosseini Salekdeh Ghasem
Published: October 2020

Growing industrial utilization of enzymes and the increasing availability of metagenomic data highlight the demand for effective methods of targeted identification and verification of novel enzymes from various environmental microbiota. Xylanases are a class of enzymes with numerous industrial applications and are involved in the degradation of xylose, a component of lignocellulose. The optimum temperature of enzymes is an essential factor to be considered when choosing appropriate biocatalysts for a particular purpose. Therefore, in silico prediction of this attribute is a significant cost and time‐effective step in the effort to characterize novel enzymes. The objective of this study was to develop a computational method to predict the thermal dependence of xylanases. This tool was then implemented for targeted screening of putative xylanases with specific thermal dependencies from metagenomic data and resulted in the identification of three novel xylanases from sheep and cow rumen microbiota. Here we present thermal activity prediction for xylanase, a new sequence‐based machine learning method that has been trained using a selected combination of various protein features. This random forest classifier discriminates non‐thermophilic, thermophilic, and hyper‐thermophilic xylanases. The model's performance was evaluated through multiple iterations of sixfold cross‐validations as well as holdout tests, and it is freely accessible as a web‐service at arimees.com.