bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A methodology to assess and improve the physics consistency of an artificial neural network regression model for engineering applications
Authors: Rajasekhar Nicodemus E.
Published: July 2022

In recent times, artificial neural networks (ANNs) have become the popular choice of model for researchers while performing regression analysis between inputs and output. However; in scientific and engineering applications, developed ANN regression model is often found to be inconsistent with the physical laws. This is due to the fact that ANNs are purely based on data and do not have any understanding of underlying physical laws. Alternate ANN frameworks like PGNN (Physics guided neural network) has been proposed in literature which incorporate physics loss function in the overall loss function to partially alleviate this issue. However, these frameworks don’t evaluate the physics consistency of relationship between inputs and output mapped by the ANN model which is the source of all physics inconsistencies. Hence, the present paper presents a methodology to assess and improve the physics consistency of the input output relationship mapped by the ANN regression model. The developed methodology can therefore be used to develop physics consistent ANN regression model. The heart of the methodology is an inferencing algorithm which interprets the input output relationship mapped by the ANN regression model. The inferencing algorithm is based on Taylor series and decomposes the ANN regression model into several region-wise polynomial models. Moreover, the inferencing algorithm can also find regions of singular zones in the ANN model predictions. The region-wise polynomial from inferencing algorithm can be used to assess the physics consistency of the ANN model. In the region of physics inconsistency, additional data points can be added and the ANN model can be re-trained. In cases, where the addition of data points is not possible, a physics based loss function can be used. The developed methodology is illustrated using several datasets. The developed methodology will help engineers and researchers built physics consistent ANN regression models.
Identification of the high-yield monacolin K strain from Monascus spp. and its submerged fermentation using different medicinal plants
Authors: Chen Yu-Pei , Wu Hong-Tan , Hwang Ing-Er , Chen Fang-Fang , Yao Jeng-Yuan , Yin Yiling , Chen Meng-Yun , Liaw Li-Ling , Kuo Yang-Cheng
Published: July 2022

Background

Medical plants confer various benefits to human health and their bioconversion through microbial fermentation can increase efficacy, reduce toxicity, conserve resources and produce new chemical components. In this study, the cholesterol-lowering monacolin K genes and content produced by Monascus species were identified. The high-yield monacolin K strain further fermented with various medicinal plants. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, red pigment and monacolin K content, total phenolic content, and metabolites in the fermented products were analyzed.

Results

Monacolin K was detected in Monascus pilosus (BCRC 38072), and Monascus ruber (BCRC 31533, 31523, 31534, 31535, and 33323). It responded to the highly homologous mokA and mokE genes encoding polyketide synthase and dehydrogenase. The high-yield monacolin K strain, M. ruber BCRC 31535, was used for fermentation with various medicinal plants. A positive relationship between the antioxidant capacity and total phenol content of the fermented products was observed after 60 days of fermentation, and both declined after 120 days of fermentation. By contrast, red pigment and monacolin K accumulated over time during fermentation, and the highest monacolin K content was observed in the fermentation of Glycyrrhiza uralensis, as confirmed by RT-qPCR. Moreover, Monascus-fermented medicinal plants including Paeonia lactiflora, Alpinia oxyphylla, G. uralensis, and rice were not cytotoxic. Only the product of Monascus-fermented G. uralensis significantly exhibited the anti-inflammatory capacity in a dose-dependent manner in lipopolysaccharide-induced Raw264.7 cells. The metabolites of G. uralensis with and without fermentation (60 days) were compared by LC/MS. 2,3-Dihydroxybenzoic acid, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol, and 3-amino-4-hydroxybenzoate were considered to enhance the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ability.

Conclusions

Given that highly homologous monacolin K and citrinin genes can be observed in Monascus spp., monacolin K produced by Monascus species without citrinin genes can be detected through the complementary methods of PCR and HPLC. In addition, the optimal fermentation time was important to the acquisition of antioxidants, red pigment and monacolin K. These bioactive substances were significantly affected by medicinal plants over fermentation time. Consequently, Monascus-fermented G. uralensis had a broad spectrum of biological activities.
Detection storage time of mild bruise’s yellow peaches using the combined hyperspectral imaging and machine learning method
Authors: Li Bin , Yin Hai , Liu Yan-de , Zhang Feng , Yang A.-kun , Su Cheng-tao , Ou-yang Ai-guo
Published: July 2022

To deduce the process of bruise and reduce the number of bruised fruits from the source, the storage time of yellow peaches after bruise should be identified. In order to distinguish the different storage times of mild bruise’s yellow peaches more effectively than current detection methods, the combined hyperspectral imaging and machine learning method was proposed. Firstly, the sample bruise region spectrum was extracted as spectral features, and then, the hyperspectral images were processed by Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and eight single-wavelength images were selected according to the weight coefficient curve of PC1 images, and the gray values of the selected images were calculated as image features. Finally, in order to find the optimal discriminative model, random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) models were built based on spectral features, image features, and spectral features combined with image features, respectively. The results show that the XGBoost models based on spectral features, image features, and spectral features combined with image features are the optimal models with the overall accuracy of 77.50%, 87.50% and 90.00%, respectively. To simplify the model, Competitive Adaptive Reweighted Sampling (CARS) algorithm was used to screen the wavelength of the normalized spectral data, and then they were fused with the image feature data again and the XGBoost model with an overall model accuracy of 95.00% was built. To sum up, the combined hyperspectral imaging and machine learning method can be used to distinguish the different storage times (2 h, 8 h, 24 h and 48 h) of mild bruise’s yellow peaches effectively. It provides a certain theoretical basis for hyperspectral imaging technology in fruit bruise detection.
Nanoparticles for the treatment of glaucoma-associated neuroinflammation
Authors: Lambuk Lidawani , Suhaimi Nurfatihah Azlyna Ahmad , Sadikan Muhammad Zulfiqah , Jafri Azliana Jusnida Ahmad , Ahmad Suhana , Nasir Nurul Alimah Abdul , Uskoković Vuk , Kadir Ramlah , Mohamud Rohimah
Published: July 2022

Recently, a considerable amount of literature has emerged around the theme of neuroinflammation linked to neurodegeneration. Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by visual impairment. Understanding the complex neuroinflammatory processes underlying retinal ganglion cell loss has the potential to improve conventional therapeutic approaches in glaucoma. Due to the presence of multiple barriers that a systemically administered drug has to cross to reach the intraocular space, ocular drug delivery has always been a challenge. Nowadays, studies are focused on improving the current therapies for glaucoma by utilizing nanoparticles as the modes of drug transport across the ocular anatomical and physiological barriers. This review offers some important insights on the therapeutic advancements made in this direction, focusing on the use of nanoparticles loaded with anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective agents in the treatment of glaucoma. The prospect of these novel therapies is discussed in relation to the current therapies to alleviate inflammation in glaucoma, which are being reviewed as well, along with the detailed molecular and cellular mechanisms governing the onset and the progression of the disease.
Guanxi in an age of digitalization: toward assortation and value homophily in new tie-formation
Authors: Au Anson
Published: July 2022

How do people form personal ties? A consensus holds in sociological and social network scholarship that in-person networks are dominated by status homophily and thatguanxinetworks rely extensively on balance. This article argues that social networking sites (SNSs) reconceptualize the character of homophily and tie-formation altogether inguanxinetworks. Drawing on 50 semi-structured interviews with Hong Kong youth from 2017 to 2020, this article examines how the technical capabilities of SNSs and principles ofguanxiculture come together to erode status boundaries, create access to larger networks, and cause spillovers of information and tie strength. As a result, the basis of tie-formation inguanxinetworks on SNSs shifts from balance to assortation and status homophily to value homophily. In this transformed calculus of tie-formation, two typologies of values rise to the fore: substantive values that reflect opinions and interests, as well as structural values that reflect networkability.
Women living with HIV and dual contraceptive use in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ayenew Asteray
Published: July 2022

Background

Despite different preventive strategies that have been implemented in the country, the prevalence of HIV/AIDS is still significantly increasing in Ethiopia. The concurrence of HIV and unintended pregnancy makes the use of dual contraception a back bone for the simultaneous protection against HIV, and unintended pregnancy. As a result, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of dual contraceptive use among women living with HIV in Ethiopia.

Method

We used databases; (PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, African Online Journals, and Hinary), other gray and online repository accessed studies were searched using different search engines. For critical appraisal of studies Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS) was used. The analysis was done using STATA 11 software. The Cochran Q test and I2 test statistics were used to assess the heterogeneity. To detect publication bias funnel plot and Egger’s test were used. The pooled prevalence of dual contraception use and the odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval was presented by using forest plots.

Result

Eleven studies were included in this review, with a total of 4083 women living with HIV in Ethiopia. The pooled prevalence of dual contraception use in Ethiopia was 34.08% (95%CI: 20.77–47.38). Having open partner discussion (OR = 3.96, 95%CI:2.3,6.8), provision of post test counseling (AOR = 4.38, 95%CI:2.93,6.54), disclosed HIV status to sexual partners (OR = 5.9, 95%CI:4.19,8.33), partner involvement in post-test counseling (OR = 3.52, 95%CI:2.37,5.23), and being on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) (OR = 2.9, 95%CI:1.56,5.46) were the determinant factors of dual contraceptive use in Ethiopia.

Conclusion

The overall prevalence of dual contraceptive use among women living with HIV in Ethiopia was low. Having open partner discussion, provision of post-test counseling, disclosed HIV status to sexual partner, partner involvement in post-test counseling, and currently on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) were the associated factors of dual contraceptive use. Therefore, efforts should be made to provide post-test counseling, and initiate partner involvement in post-test counseling. Moreover, promoting open partner discussion, counseling to disclose HIV status to their sexual partner and to start HAART will be helpful in enhancing the use of dual contraceptive method use.
Inflammation-associated premetastatic niche formation
Authors: Deguchi Atsuko , Maru Yoshiro
Published: July 2022

Metastasis remains the leading cause of cancer-related death. In 1889, Stephen Paget originally proposed the theory “seed-and-soil.” Both cancer cell-intrinsic properties (“seed”) and fertile microenvironment (“soil”) are essential for metastasis formation. To date, accumulating evidences supported the theory using mouse models. The formation of a premetastatic niche has been widely accepted as an accel for metastasis. Similar to tumor microenvironment, various types of cells, such as immune cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts are involved in premetastatic niche formation. We have discovered that primary tumors hijack Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling to establish a premetastatic niche in the lung by utilizing the endogenous ligands. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms that underlie inflammation-associated premetastatic niche formation upon metastasis, focusing especially on myeloid cells and macrophages as the cells executing and mediating complicated processes.
Development of scales to measure Lebanese university students’ perceived knowledge about and attitudes about cannabis use: initial psychometric properties
Authors: Mina Anthony , Rahme Clara , Hallit Souheil , Soufia Michel
Published: July 2022

Background

For a long period, cannabis in Lebanon was categorized as an illegal psychoactive substance criminalized by law, despite being the 3rd largest producer of cannabis resin after Morocco and Afghanistan. The current available literature on the topic in Lebanon is scarce, as perceived knowledge towards cannabis use in the general population is not well established, and public health policies are absent. In the context of future legalization of cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes, what is the public’s perception of cannabis perceived knowledge about and attitude against cannabis use? The objectives of this study were to create two scales to assess perceived knowledge towards cannabis use and attitude against cannabis use and check their psychometric properties in a sample of Lebanese university students.

Methods

The study was designed as a cross-sectional study involving 415 Lebanese university students aged between 18 and 30 years. Students were only recruited from one university and were sent an email with a brief description of the study and a link to the questionnaire. The questionnaire items covered perceived knowledge and attitude about cannabis use, recovered and adapted from available literature.

Results

Perceived knowledge items converged over a solution of four factors that had an Eigenvalue over 1, explaining a total of 64% of the variance (factor 1 = perceived knowledge about cannabis quality of life improvement; factor 2 = perceived knowledge about cannabis psychiatric use; factor 3 = perceived knowledge about cannabis risks; factor 4 = perceived knowledge about cannabis neurological use). Attitude items converged over a solution of two factors that had an Eigenvalue over 1, explaining a total of 58.2% of the variance (factor 1 = negative attitude about cannabis use; factor 2 = positive attitude about cannabis use). Good Cronbach’s alpha values were found for the perceived knowledge and attitude scales (α = 0.78 and α = 0.73 respectively). Greater perceived knowledge was found in male participants and in those who have tried cannabis for recreational purposes. Greater perceived knowledge was also associated with stronger attitude about cannabis use and older age. Furthermore, greater mean attitude about cannabis use scores were significantly found in male participants and in those who have tried cannabis for recreational or medicinal purposes.

Conclusion

Primary results showed acceptable psychometric properties for the perceived knowledge towards and attitudes about cannabis use scale. Further studies are needed in order to validate them among the general population and assess more psychometric properties of these scales.
Research recommendations to better understand the potential health impacts of microplastics to humans and aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Thornton Hampton Leah M. , Bouwmeester Hans , Brander Susanne M. , Coffin Scott , Cole Matthew , Hermabessiere Ludovic , Mehinto Alvine C. , Miller Ezra , Rochman Chelsea M. , Weisberg Stephen B.
Published: July 2022

To assess the potential risk of microplastic exposure to humans and aquatic ecosystems, reliable toxicity data is needed. This includes a more complete foundational understanding of microplastic toxicity and better characterization of the hazards they may present. To expand this understanding, an international group of experts was convened in 2020–2021 to identify critical thresholds at which microplastics found in drinking and ambient waters present a health risk to humans and aquatic organisms. However, their findings were limited by notable data gaps in the literature. Here, we identify those shortcomings and describe four categories of research recommendations needed to address them: 1) adequate particle characterization and selection for toxicity testing; 2) appropriate experimental study designs that allow for the derivation of dose-response curves; 3) establishment of adverse outcome pathways for microplastics; and 4) a clearer understanding of microplastic exposure, particularly for human health. By addressing these four data gaps, researchers will gain a better understanding of the key drivers of microplastic toxicity and the concentrations at which adverse effects may occur, allowing a better understanding of the potential risk that microplastics exposure might pose to human and aquatic ecosystems.
Effect of Diabetes on Morbidity and Mortality in Patients With Acromegaly
Authors: Esposito Daniela , Olsson Daniel S , Franzén Stefan , Miftaraj Mervete , Nåtman Jonatan , Gudbjörnsdottir Soffia , Johannsson Gudmundur
Published: July 2022

Context

Diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and death but its effect on outcomes in acromegaly is unknown.

Objective

This work aimed to study whether diabetes affects morbidity and mortality in patients with acromegaly.

Methods

A nationwide (Sweden), observational, matched-cohort study was conducted. Patients diagnosed with acromegaly between 1987 and 2020 were identified in the Swedish National Patient Registry and those with concomitant type 2 diabetes in the National Diabetes Registry and Drug Registry. The risk of overall mortality, and cardiovascular mortality and morbidity were estimated using Cox regression.

Results

The study included 254 patients with acromegaly and concomitant type 2 diabetes (ACRO-DM group) and 532 without diabetes (ACRO group). Mean (SD) age at baseline was 62.6 (11.4) and 60.0 (12.1) years (P = .004) and the mean (SD) duration of acromegaly was 6.8 (8.1) and 6.0 (6.2) years (P = .098) in the ACRO-DM and ACRO groups, respectively. Overall mean follow-up was 9.2 years. The unadjusted overall mortality rate per 1000 person-years was 35.1 (95% CI, 27.2-44.7) and 20.1 (95% CI, 16.5-24.3) in the respective groups. The hazard ratio (HR) for overall mortality adjusted for multiple confounders was 1.58 (95% CI, 1.12-2.23) in the ACRO-DM group compared with the ACRO group. Cardiovascular mortality (HR 2.11; 95% CI, 1.09-4.10) and morbidity (HR 1.49; 95% CI, 1.21-1.82) were also increased in the ACRO-DM group.

Conclusion

The presence of diabetes in patients with acromegaly was associated with increased overall mortality as well as increased cardiovascular mortality and morbidity.
The GH/IGF-1 Axis Is Associated With Intrahepatic Lipid Content and Hepatocellular Damage in Overweight/Obesity
Authors: Dichtel Laura E , Corey Kathleen E , Haines Melanie S , Chicote Mark L , Kimball Allison , Colling Caitlin , Simon Tracey G , Long Michelle T , Husseini Jad , Bredella Miriam A , Miller Karen K
Published: July 2022

Context

Obesity is a state of relative growth hormone (GH) deficiency, and GH has been identified as a candidate disease-modifying target in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) because of its lipolytic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the GH/IGF-1 axis has not been well characterized in NAFLD.

Objective

We aimed to investigate serum GH and IGF-1 levels in relation to intrahepatic lipid content (IHL) and markers of hepatocellular damage and fibrosis in NAFLD.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 102 adults (43% women; age 19-67; BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) without type 2 diabetes. IHL was measured by magnetic resonance spectroscopy; NAFLD was defined by ≥ 5% IHL. Peak-stimulated GH in response to GH releasing hormone and arginine was assessed as was serum IGF-1 (LC/MS).

Results

There was no difference in mean age, BMI, or sex distribution in NAFLD vs controls. Mean (± SD) IHL was higher in NAFLD vs controls (21.8 ± 13.3% vs 2.9 ± 1.1%, P < 0.0001). Mean peak-stimulated GH was lower in NAFLD vs controls (9.0 ± 6.3 vs 15.4 ± 11.2 ng/mL, P = 0.003), including after controlling for age, sex, visceral adipose tissue, and fasting glucose. In a stepwise model, peak-stimulated GH predicted 14.6% of the variability in IHL (P = 0.004). Higher peak-stimulated GH was also associated with lower ALT. Higher serum IGF-1 levels were associated with lower risk of liver fibrosis by Fibrosis-4 scores.

Conclusion

Individuals with NAFLD have lower peak-stimulated GH levels but similar IGF-1 levels as compared to controls. Higher peak-stimulated GH levels are associated with lower IHL and less hepatocellular damage. Higher IGF-1 levels are associated with more favorable fibrosis risk scores. These data implicate GH and IGF-1 as potential disease modifiers in the development and progression of NAFLD.
Histopathology and Genetic Causes of Primary Aldosteronism in Young Adults
Authors: Nanba Kazutaka , Baker Jessica E , Blinder Amy R , Bick Nolan R , Liu Chia-Jen , Lim Jung Soo , Wachtel Heather , Cohen Debbie L , Williams Tracy Ann , Reincke Martin , Lyden Melanie L , Bancos Irina , Young William F , Else Tobias , Giordano Thomas J , Udager Aaron M , Rainey William E
Published: July 2022

Context

Due to its rare incidence, molecular features of primary aldosteronism (PA) in young adults are largely unknown. Recently developed targeted mutational analysis identified aldosterone-driver somatic mutations in aldosterone-producing lesions, including aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs), aldosterone-producing nodules (APNs), and aldosterone-producing micronodules, formerly known as aldosterone-producing cell clusters.

Objective

To investigate histologic and genetic characteristics of lateralized PA in young adults.

Methods

Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded adrenal tissue sections from 74 young patients with lateralized PA (<35 years old) were used for this study. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) was performed to define the histopathologic diagnosis. Somatic mutations in aldosterone-producing lesions were further determined by CYP11B2 IHC-guided DNA sequencing.

Results

Based on the CYP11B2 IHC results, histopathologic classification was made as follows: 48 APAs, 20 APNs, 2 multiple aldosterone-producing nodules (MAPN), 1 double APN, 1 APA with MAPN, and 2 nonfunctioning adenomas (NFAs). Of 45 APAs with successful sequencing, 43 (96%) had somatic mutations, with KCNJ5 mutations being the most common genetic cause of young-onset APA (35/45, 78%). Of 18 APNs with successful sequencing, all of them harbored somatic mutations, with CACNA1D mutations being the most frequent genetic alteration in young-onset APN (8/18, 44%). Multiple CYP11B2-expressing lesions in patients with MAPN showed several aldosterone-driver mutations. No somatic mutations were identified in NFAs.

Conclusion

APA is the most common histologic feature of lateralized PA in young adults. Somatic KCNJ5 mutations are common in APAs, whereas CACNA1D mutations are often seen in APNs in this young PA population.
The Impact of Suppressing Estradiol During Ovarian Stimulation on the Unsupported Luteal Phase: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Dreyer Holt Marianne , Skouby Sven Olaf , Bülow Nathalie Søderhamn , Englund Anne Lis Mikkelsen , Birch Petersen Kathrine , Macklon Nicholas Stephen
Published: July 2022

Context

Supraphysiological sex steroid levels at the follicular-luteal phase transition are implicated as the primary cause of luteal insufficiency after ovarian stimulation (OS) for in vitro fertilization.

Objective

We aimed to determine the impact of suppressing estradiol levels during OS of multiple dominant follicles on the unsupported luteal phase and markers of endometrial maturation.

Methods

At 2 university hospitals, 25 eligible egg donors were randomized to undergo OS using exogenous gonadotropins with or without adjuvant letrozole 5 mg/day. Final oocyte maturation was triggered with a GnRH agonist. No luteal support was provided. The primary outcome was the duration of the luteal phase. Secondary outcomes were luteal phase hormone profiles and the endometrial transcriptomic signature 5 days after oocyte pick up (OPU + 5).

Results

The median (interquartile range [IQR]) luteal phase duration was 8.0 (6.8-11.5) days compared with 5.0 (5.0-6.8) days in the intervention and control group, respectively (P < 0.001). Estradiol levels were effectively suppressed in the letrozole group with a median of 0.86 (0.23-1.24) nmol/L at OPU compared to 2.82 (1.34-3.44) nmol/L in the control group. Median (IQR) progesterone levels at OPU + 5 were 67.05 (15.67-101.75) nmol/L in the letrozole group vs 2.27 (1.05-10.70) nmol/L in the control group (P < 0.001). In the letrozole group, 75% of participants revealed endometrial transcriptomic signatures interpreted as post-receptive. In the control group, 40% were post-receptive and 50% noninformative.

Conclusion

Suppressing estradiol levels in the follicular phase with adjuvant letrozole significantly reduces the disruption of the unsupported luteal phase after OS.
Observational Record and Self-Report of Teacher-Student Performance in High School Lessons
Authors: Bazán-Ramírez Aldo , Velarde-Corrales Néstor Miguel , Rodríguez-Pérez María Elena , Guerrero-Barrios Jorge , Anaya-González Roberta Brita
Published: July 2022

There are different strategies to analyze teacher and student performance when they interact with each other in class. The most used strategies are direct observation and verbal reports. Even though what is observed or reported depends on theoretical frameworks regarding didactic interactions, these must be related to teacher functions such as supervision, providing feedback, and evaluation of student performance. In this study, instruments for observational recording and verbal reports were developed and validated considering teacher functions and their student performance counterparts to compare the degree of correspondence or divergence between data gathered from both strategies. 135 students enrolled in a science class and their teachers participated. The class was taught in a public high school located in center/south Mexico. Classes were videotaped and the corresponding observational records were analyzed. Two months later, verbal reports were administered to students and teachers. Coincidences and differences that were found revealed that observer-observe interaction is conditioned by social norms. These results were interpreted considering the notion of silence as a communicative element.
Evaluation of Anticancer Activity of Schiff bases Derived from Pyridine and their Metal Complexes- A Review
Authors: Induleka R Induleka R , Chandrika P Anushyaveera Chandrika P , Tamilselvi M Tamilselvi M , Ushanandhini S Ushanandhini S , Gowri M Gowri M
Published: July 2022

Cancer is a deadly disease; many treatment strategies are available to cure/ treat cancer. After the metal-based anticancer drug (Cisplatin), metal complexes play a vital role in pharmaceutical science. We aimed to analyze the anticancer activity of pyridine Schiff base complexes. This review article searched the anticancer studies of pyridine Schiff base metal complexes from 2015 to 2021. Information was gathered from the selected studies to analyze and highlight the importance of anticancer agents. A total of sixty six full-length articles were collected and evaluated. On the critical assessment, we found that compared to Schiff base ligand, the metal complexes exhibited excellent activity towards various cancer cell lines (including MCF-7, HeLa, HCT-116, Hepa-2).We identified more complexes that exhibited promising activity against various cell lines and revealed IC50 values equal to or even lower than the reference drug used.
Mathematical Study of Temperature Measurement by Thermocouple in Chemical Processes
Authors: Iskandarov Nabi
Published: July 2022

Processing of oil, gas and gas condensate is one of the most widespread areas of modern chemical-technological processes. Due to the safety of chemical and technological process management, strict requirements have been set for the quality of processes in the oil and gas refining and petrochemical industries. During chemical-technological processes in the oil and gas industry, the fractional composition of the product, the typical boiling point, the octane number of gasoline, the cetane number of diesel fuel, the evaporation temperature, the ignition temperature and other parameters must be determined with special accuracy. This set of characteristics is used in the laboratory assessment of the quality of oil, oil products and gas condensate. Temperature measurements performed during such processes must have maximum accuracy. For this reason, the determination of temperature by thermocouples in the above-mentioned chemical processes has been mathematically studied and evaluated during the research.
Pyrazole and Its Derivatives: An Excellent N-Hetrocycle with Wide Range of Biological Applications (A Review)
Authors: Kumar Munish , Panday Sharad Kumar
Published: July 2022

The pyrazole derivatives have been recognized as a unique heterocyclic molecule exerting broad range of biological activities such as analgesic, anti-viral, anti-histaminic, anti-microbial, anti-tumor, insecticides fungicides, anti-depressant, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory and estrogen receptor (ER) ligand activity etc. Pyrazoles also find applications in agrochemical and pharmaceutical industry. Pyrazoles have different chemical properties which may be attributed due to the effect of particular N-atoms present in pyrazole molecule. N-Atom present at position-2 having non Huckel lone pair is more reactive towards electrophiles while N-atom present at position-1 is unreactive. However, in the presence of strong base, the proton from N-atom at position-1 is abstracted thereby providing pyrazole anion after deprotonation, which in turn increases reactivity towards the electrophiles. There are wide range of drugs available in the market possessing pyrazole nuclei. The present manuscript is aimed to describe major developments achieved till date towards the synthesis and biological applications of pyrazole/pyrazole derivatives and is likely to be beneficial to the researchers working in the area.
Synthesis and Characterization of Spiro Compounds Containing Phenothiazine Moiety and their Anticancer Potential Towards Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Jayanthi K.R.Jayanthi , S.Ravi S.Ravi
Published: July 2022

The 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction is a three-component reaction used for the synthesis of structurally complex and biologically active spiro-heterocycles. In the present work a two steps synthesis of the target compounds (7-22) are presented. 2-acetyl phenothiazine was converted into a chalcone 1 which was treated with various azomethine ylides to yield the compounds 7-22. The diversity in the azomethine ylides was made by using a variety of diones 2a-2d and the different aminoacids 3-6. The anti-cancer activity of the compounds 7-22 was evaluated by testing against breast cancer MCF-7 cell lines by MTT assay. Compounds 7, 12, 16 and 20 exhibited potent anticancer activity against MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines with an IC50 values of 83.08, 84.68, 95.68 and 114.23 µg/ml respectively and non toxic towards normal fibroblast L929 cells. In the Cell cycle analysis of compound 7 arrests the cell cycle in MCF-7 cells.
Electrochemical Performance of Carbon Materials
Authors: P. Nandakumar P. Nandakumar , Sankar K. N. Amba , Ganesh A. Shankar , BA. Anandh BA. Anandh , R. Deepa R. Deepa
Published: July 2022

The surface modification on electrode materials generally improves the electron mobility and surface interactions at carbon materials. Exfoliate graphite has been prepared by the ball milling technique with three different milling time. The graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide were prepared modified Hummers method and carbon quantum dots was prepared using chemical synthesis-pyrolysis technique. The synthesized materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and investigated the electrochemical performances of Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) analysis to understand their specific capacitance.
Gold Reduced Graphene Oxide (rGO) Nanocomposites as a Catalyst for the Reduction of o-nitroaniline
Authors: Rubavathi D Sweetlin Rajula , Deepika R Deepika R
Published: July 2022

Carbon-based nanocomposites are an emerging material which is of great interest due to their extraordinary properties upon the addition of nanoparticles onto it. Herein, we report the in-situ synthesis of gold-rGO nanocomposites by the chemical reduction method using two reducing agents- chitosan and ascorbic acid. Chitosan is a natural polysaccharide polymer which exhibits good adhesion, biocompatibility and biodegradability. The adhesive nature of chitosan enables the binding of gold ions on the chitosan matrix, thereby reducing it. The mechanical properties of the rGO enhances by the addition of chitosan stabilized gold nanoparticles forming a nanocomposite. UV-vis, FT-IR, XRD and FESEM were used to characterize the nanocomposites. The synthesized Au-rGO nano composites with a crystallite size of 64.79 nm were confirmed by X-ray diffraction spectra. The scanning electron microscope image revealed that spherical shaped gold nanoparticles dispersed on the chitosan matrix and graphene sheets. The synthesized gold-rGO nanocomposite exhibits good catalytic activity towards the reduction of o-nitro aniline. The findings of this research could be useful in the development of catalysts for the reduction of organic contaminants in industrial wastewater.
Adoption of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles and Its Prospects for the Future (A Review)
Authors: Habib MD Shehan , Arefin Paroma
Published: July 2022

The consumption of massive quantities of these fossil resources leads to extreme warming, air pollution, and the depletion of the ozone layer. Hydrogen can be the most promising source of renewable energy. Hydrogen fuel cells can produce electricity by allowing chemical gases and oxidants as reactants. The entire technology is environmentally friendly and produces water as a byproduct. The benefits of hydrogen and fuel cells are numerous but will not be fully apparent until they are in widespread use. Hence the usage of hydrogen as fuel in the fleet of cars will boost energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse pollution. For using hydrogen fuel cells in the road transport sector, the viability of the hydrogen energy network needs to be evaluated appropriately, and its tools, manufacturing processes, storage, fuel transport, dispensing, and consumption should be analyzed. This research discusses the key issues of elevated rates of environmental pollution in numerous urban areas and transport fuels efficiency and explores their protection measures utilizing hydrogen energy technology. In this study, the fundamentals, recent development, and prospects have been reviewed to analyze the practicability of consuming hydrogen as the primary fuel in vehicles and Proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) has been used as the main fuel cell technology.
Oxide Based Nanoparticles: A review
Authors: Wati Mukhan , Hudda Komal , Rathee Barkha , Ranga Sweety , Sindhu Ravinder
Published: July 2022

In this report we discussed about the properties of magnetic nanoparticles which are important for the synthesis of nanoparticles of particular use. Various oxide-based nanoparticles can be synthesized depending on the properties which are needed for their applications. Various methods have been presented that offer control over the size, growth of the nanoparticles. Among the methods reported, hydrothermal method probably offers the most promising method for control and scalability.
In silico Study of Solvent Effects on the Intramolecular Hydrogen Bond of Hydroxy Proline
Authors: Cotuá José , Cotes Sandra
Published: July 2022

The hydrogen bond strength and stabilization energy of hydroxyproline–water complexes were investigated by performing density-functional theory calculations. In particular, the hydrogen bond formation between carbonyl groups serving as proton acceptors and amino groups as proton donors in the hydroxyproline–water was examined. Hydroxyproline-water exhibit higher energy of their hydrogen bond when the carbonyl groups of their hydroxyproline moieties acts as a proton acceptor. Furthermore, the infrared spectra of isolated water and hydroxyproline molecules were compared with those of the hydroxyproline–water complexes, and the observed frequency shifts were discussed.
A Comprehensive Review on Medicinal Plants against Lung Cancer
Authors: Pandiyan Balamurugan , Yadav Sangilimuthu Alagar , Karpagavalli M Karpagavalli M , Gayathiri E Gayathiri E , Gnanaselvan Suvathika
Published: July 2022

Lung cancer is a disease with a high probability of occurrence as well as a high mortality rate. Despite the fact that numerous therapies are available, a huge number of patients die each year as a result of cancer. The rising research direction in health care pharmacy paves the way for the development of an effective and side effect-free anticancer medicine. Chemical entities found in plants are extremely useful in cancer studies. Most notary bioactive phytochemicals are preferred because they act differently only on cancer cells exclusively and not normal cells. Carcinogenesis is a multi-step process that involves numerous signaling events. Phytochemicals have a pleiotropic activity which can target these events in a variety of ways, making them an excellent choice for anticancer medication therapy. Efforts are underway to create lead candidates derived from phytochemicals that can reduce the progression of cancer without inducing any side effects. The purpose of this review is to provide information on medicinal plants that have anticancer effect against lung cancer.
Determination of Pesticide Residues in Four Major Spices using UPLC-MS/MS and Optimized QuEChERS Sample Preparation Workflow
Authors: Natarajan Ramesh Babu , Kakkassery Joby Thomas , Raveendran Anaswara , Ravi Amrutha , Mohan Mohit
Published: July 2022

A high sensitivity method for analysis of pesticide residues in four spices, viz. cardamom, cumin, ginger and chillies, using specifically optimized ‘quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe’ (QuEChERS) sample preparation workflow and UPLC-MS/MS, was developed for 53 pesticides commonly used in the cultivation of these spices. Limits of quantification of 0.01 mg/Kg for all pesticides was achieved in the four spice matrices studied. Matrix effects were evaluated in each spice matrix and were found to be uniformly suppressive, with maximum matrix suppression observed in chillies and cumin, followed by cardamom and ginger, necessitating the use of matrix-matched calibration for each spice. The analytical method was validated as per European Union (EU) SANTE/12682/2019 guidelines. The method was then applied to 20 real samples of each spice collected from Indian markets, and regulatory compliance was evaluated against the maximum residue limits established by EU and Codex Alimentarius Commission.
A Study of Metal Complexes of 2-picolinic Acid
Authors: Prema. S Prema. S , Rose. A Leema
Published: July 2022

The metal (II) complexes of picolinic acid are prepared in non- aqueous medium and its complexes are characterized by spectral studies (Infra-red spectroscopy, UV-Visible spectroscopy, 1H-NMR spectroscopy and ESR spectroscopy), conductance, magnetic susceptibility and thermal analysis. On heating, the complexes decompose at temperature above 260C. It revealed that all the complexes were stable. The FT-IR evidenced the C=O, C=N, O-H, C=C, and M-O functionalities of all the metal complexes along with corresponding ligands. Thermogravimetric study showed that there is no water molecule in the complexes. The electrochemical behavior of all metal complexes was investigated. From the electronic spectra the geometries of cobalt, nickel and copper is found to be Octahedral, Octahedral, and Distorted octahedral respectively. The complexes of the ligand are evaluated for anti-microbial activity hostile to fungal and bacterial strains. The nickel (II) complex reveals excellent inhibition again the selected four bacterial strains compare with other complexes.
Dynamic Plastic Deformation Induced by Repetitive Hammering on Cr-Mn Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Triadi Syahwira Taqwa , Selindiana Cherly , Judawisastra Hermawan , Ramelan Aditianto , Suratman Rochim
Published: July 2022

Austenitic stainless steels have advantages, such as high ductility and good corrosion resistance. The cold working process can increase the hardness and strength of the material. However, because a metastable austenite phase occurs in that material, there is a phase change of γ austenite to α’-martensite and ε-martensite, which will reduce the ductility and its corrosion resistance. The strengthening process with dynamic plastic deformation (DPD) can prevent the formation of martensitic phases through repeated impact at high strain rates. This study analyzed microstructures and hardness evaluation on Cr-Mn austenitic stainless steel due to dynamic plastic deformation through the repetitive hammering method. Repetitive hammering with a strain rate of 6,2 s-1 on Cr-Mn austenitic stainless steels was carried out on five specimens with variations in the impact of 50, 100, 150, 250, and 350 times with impact energy of 486 J/cm2, 2.207 J/cm2, 2.569 J/cm2, 6.070 J/cm2, and 11.330 J/cm2 respectively. Microstructure, hardness, and XRD (X-ray diffraction) analyses were carried out on specimens before and after repetitive hammering. Metallography was carried out to observe the microstructure using an optical microscope. The hardness was tested through the Rockwell A hardness test. XRD examination was used to identify the phases formed and indications of nano-twins. The repetitive hammering process up to 350 times has succeeded in increasing hardness from 53.5 HRA to 71.6 HRA. Plastic deformation introduced by repetitive hammering produced slip bands, cross bands, wavy bands, and indication of nano-twins formation and increased the hardness.
GRAIN GROWTH KINETICS OF AUSTENITIC STAINLESS STEEL 316L AND THE RELATIONS BETWEEN GRAIN SIZES AND HARDNESS UNDER ISOTHERMAL CONDITIONS
Authors: Anwar Moch. Syaiful , Pradisti Mayang Gita , Candra Septian Adi , Martides Erie , Mabruri Efendi , Siradj Eddy Sumarno
Published: July 2022

316L austenitic stainless steel was usually used in the nuclear power plant. This steel has an austenitic phase at room temperature, and it can change grain size after exposed at high temperatures. The purpose is to investigate grain growth behavior and hardness of 316L austenitic stainless steel after cold-rolled and annealing at a temperature of 1100 °C with holding times of 0, 900, 1800, 2700, 3600 s. The result shows that the grain growth of 316L austenitic stainless steel occurs normally. Austenite grain size of 316L increases with increasing holding time, resulting in hardness decreases. Grain growth of 316L austenitic stainless steel resulting from the experiment shows no difference significant with the prediction.
EFFECTIVENESS OF THE SEPARATION OF MAGNESIUM AND LITHIUM FROM SEAWATER WITH SODIUM SILICATE PRECIPITATION PROCESS
Authors: Lalasari Latifa Hanum
Published: July 2022

Experiments have been carried out to separate elements of magnesium and lithium from seawater to produce a lithium concentrate product that is free of magnesium through sodium silicate precipitation processes. In this study, the sample used was seawater taken from the Ancol Lagoon Area, North Jakarta. The sea water used contains 0.1674 ppm lithium ions and 1761 ppm magnesium ions with a high Mg/Li ratio of 10521. The seawater containing high levels of magnesium is not suitable as a raw material for for the manufacture of lithium carbonate (battery active ingredient) prior to initial processing. The research variable was the volume of sodium silicate solution added by 10 ml, 20 ml, 30 ml, 40 ml, 50 ml, 60 ml, 70 ml, and 100 ml which were equivalent to 13%, 27% 40%, 53%, 67%. , 80 %, 93%, and 107% stoichiometry of magnesium ion and the technique of adding sodium silicate solution included a single stage and multi-stages. From the experimental results, it can be seen that the most effective addition of sodium silicate is the addition of 80% stoichiometry. The sodium silicate precipitation process succeeded in separating magnesium ions and lithium ions from seawater as indicated by a decrease in the Mg/li ratio from 10521 to 64. The obstacle in this study was that there were still many lithium ions that were also precipitated with magnesium silicate during the precipitation process so that the lithium lost in the filtrate reached 82.26% in the single stage process. Therefore, a multi-stage process was carried out with 6 stages of the process that the addition of sodium silicate for each stage was 1/6 of the volume of sodium silicate solution at single stage optimum conditions. The results obtained from the multi-stage process were able to reduce the lithium ion lost in the filtrate to 76.54%. From the results of the study, it can be concluded that efforts to reduce the percentage of lithium ions lost in the filtrate product need to be carried out through the development of a sodium silicate precipitation process.
The value of superdiverse human-technology entanglements
Authors: Korjonen‐Kuusipuro Kristiina , Wojciechowski Adam
Published: July 2022

Human-technology relations are time and place related processes. Today, it is very common to describe human-technology interaction by stating that technology is ubiquitous and permeating all aspects of our everyday lives. This is often compounded by the fact that technological development has been rapid, and it seems to be accelerating. This speed makes the understanding the effects that technology has on us and our lives challenging or even difficult to realise. These kinds of notions have been repeated for decades already. The point here is not to criticize other scholars, but to argue that to reveal the value of quotidian human-technology entanglements we need to focus on the most mundane parts of our lives, scrutinizing something we do not necessary recall nor take notice of. This has been labelled as the “secret world of doing nothing” by ethnologists Billy Ehn and Orvar Löfgeren (2010) to describe the most mundane activities of our everyday lives.