bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Silico Design, Synthesis, Anti-Microbial and Anti-Tubercular Evaluation of New Series of Benzothiazinone Derivatives Containing Triazolo Thiadiazole Moiety
Authors: Jaiswal Paridhi , Kawathekar Neha , Jain Gourav , Jain Sanjay
Published: July 2021

Tuberculosis has proved harmful to the entire history of mankind from past several decades. Among the strategies for the development of new anti-tubercular lead compounds, Benzothiazinone (BTZ) were studied, with highly selective mechanism of action on DprE1 (Decaprenyl phosphoryl-b-D-ribose 2-epimerase) flavoenzyme. DprE1 is a vital enzyme for cell wall synthesis, plays a crucial role in the formation of D-arabinofuranose, a component of lipo-arabinomannan and arabinogalactam. Formation of covalent and non covalent bond by the interacting ligand with the enzyme causes loss of its catalytic activity which ultimately leads to death of the mycobacterium. The Benzothiazinone derivatives kill the mycobacterium by inhibiting the essential flavoenzyme DprE1. This study involves designing of a series of 16 Benzothiazinone derivatives that binds non covalently to DprE1. These derivatives were subjected to energy minimization and molecular docking studies with Schrodinger software, from which the binding free energy calculations showed that the suggested compounds had better binding affinity with DprE1. Ten compounds were selected for synthesis on the basis of docking score. The synthesized compounds were characterized and evaluated for their antimicrobial and anti-tubercular activity against different strains. Out of 5 evaluated compounds 3 compounds exhibited potent activity against microbial (Staphylococcus Aureus and Escherichia Coli) and tubercular (H37RV) strains. BTZ4 and BTZ10 has shown good activity against anti-microbial strain and BTZ8 has shown good activity against anti-tubercular strain. On the basis of docking results, we concluded that the selected new series of Benzothiazinone hybrid derivatives BTZ4, BTZ7, BTZ8, BTZ9, BTZ10 act on the Enzyme DprE1, against tuberculosis binding protein with PDB ID: 4NCR, as they may have better binding sites and better energy values, when compared with the standard drugs Ampicillin, Isoniazid and Rifampicin. So these derivatives (BTZ4, BTZ8, BTZ10) can be taken as best hit molecule and it could be useful for development of more new antimicrobial and anti-tubercular agents, blocking the mycobacterial cell wall formation.
Seroprevalence of Newcastle Disease Virus in Slaughtered Pigeons from Selected Markets in Zaria, Kaduna State Nigeria
Authors: Ibrahim Abdulhamid Burour , Wada Yusuf , Kamardeen Shamsudeen
Published: July 2021

Newcastle disease (ND) outbreak even in the face of vaccination is a common problem in Nigeria. Three Newcastle disease (ND) panzootic were recorded in the past and one of such was caused by feral pigeon fecal contamination of poultry feed materials. The study was designed to investigate the presence of ND antibodies in pigeons slaughtered in three markets in Zaria Nigeria. A total of 1500 Pigeons sera samples were tested across the selected markets, namely: Sabon-gari, Samaru and Tudun-wada markets. Five hundred blood samples were collected from each market. An overall seroprevalence of 22.33% (335/1500) was recorded in this study. Hemagglutination inhibition test revealed that pigeons from Sabon-gari market had the highest seroprevalence of 29% (145/500). Female pigeons had higher seroprevalence of 27.66% (130/470) compared to male pigeons 19.90% (205/1030). Younger pigeons of < 10 weeks old are more prone to ND infection with a seroprevalence of 34.21% (52/152) compared to pigeons > 10 weeks old 20.99% (238/1348). Also, only in Samaru market was there a significant association between ages (P = 0.00) and sexes (P = 0.00) of pigeons and seroprevalence of ND. Therefore, free routine ND vaccination campaign should be launched in the study areas with more emphases targeting the market species in order to mitigate the epidemic cycle of the virus. Moreover, market poultry farmers should be enlightened on the economic significance of the disease and the need to maintain strict biosecurity measures on their market farms.
Models Comparison And Validation With the Experimental Nano- Scale Silicon Substrate Based Annealed Pt/HfO2/Pt Resistive Random Access Memory Cell
Authors: A Napolean , NM Sivamangai , N Nithya , R Naveenkumar
Published: July 2021

Metal oxide resistive random access memory (RRAM) is a novel device that provides an alternate solution for existing CMOS memory devices. In RRAM, correlate the experimental result with a simulated result by a unique model is a critical task. This work focused on the validation of silicon substrate-based fabricated single layer annealed and electroformed at 80oC ambient temperature (A-80) RRAM cell. The experimental result concludes that the proposed Pt/HfO2/Pt device provides the forming voltage of 3.8 V, Vset = 1.7 V, and Vreset=-0.8 V. Switching results are compared with the simulated result which is working based on non-linear ion drift, Yakopcic and voltage threshold adaptive memristor (VTEAM) models. VTEAM model gives a closure relationship with experimental data and well suited for our fabricated device. Further, the VTEAM model is modified to contribute accurate results and one of the standard model metrics, accuracy is analysed for a modified VTEAM model. Statistical analysis proves that, the mean error percentage of modified VTEAM and VTEAM models against experimental outcomes are 21.4% and 25.3 % respectively
Bromodomain containing 4 (BRD4) as a potential prognostic marker in a pan-cancer analysis of human tumors
Authors: He Yi , Zhang Xudong , Zhu Chunfu , Qin Xihu
Published: July 2021

There is some evidence supporting an association between Bromodomain containing 4 (BRD4) and cancer, but no research using pan-cancer analysis has been conducted previously. We therefore investigated the oncogenic role of BRD4 in 33 tumors from the Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas databases. BRD4 is highly expressed in many tumors, and the prognosis of certain cancers is vitally linked with BRD4 expression. BRD4 expression is associated with CD8+ T-cell infiltration levels in testicular germ cell tumors and head and neck squamous cell carcinomas, and we observed a positive relationship between BRD4 and Tcm (T central memory) and Th(T helper) cells, and a negative relationship pDC (plasmacytoid DC). BRD4 had negative associations with marophages, iDC, Treg, cytotoxic cells, and Th17 cells in multiple tumors. The top 100 genes that are most strongly related to BRD4 were identified, and enrichment analysis indicated that the biological process with the closest relationship was chromatin modifying enzymes, related pathways included the signaling pathways of intracellular receptor, cytokine Signaling in Immune system and regulation of TP53 activity through acetylation. BRD4 is related to biological cell behaviors such as DNA-templated transcription, regulation of histone modification, protein modification by small protein removal and mitotic sister chromatid segregation. As the first study to perform a pan-cancer analysis of BRD4, the present findings will improve the understanding of the oncogenic role of BRD4 in different tumors.
Characterization of Potential Candidate Genes for Grain Size in Wild Emmer Wheat Triticum Dicoccoides
Authors: Shinde Sanket , Dhillon Guriqbal Singh , Kaur Amandeep , Chhuneja Parveen , Sharma Achla , Kaur Satinder
Published: July 2021

There is an incessant need to address food security in staple crops, and the crop yield is positively correlated with grain weight. Grain size, determined by grain length and width, is an essential component of final grain weight in cereals. Wheat wild relatives are the goldmine to harness any trait of interest, including the component traits of grain size. It is crucial to understand the detailed mechanism of grain size formation and unravel underlying genes controlling grain size in these species for their proper utilization in wheat improvement. In this study, gene expression analysis was performed on developing grain in wild tetraploid progenitor Triticum dicoccoides (AABB) to identify candidate genes involved in determining grain size. Four T. dicoccoides accessions were selected, two (pau5228 and pau5322) with higher grain length and weight and two (pau14703 and pau14756) with comparatively smaller grains.Six genes out of the eight genes selected for expression study, viz., GL7, TaGL3, TaGS5, GS3, SRS3, and TaGASR7, were upregulated from 8 days post-anthesis (DPA) to 20 DPA in both the large grain accessions, while TaGW2 gene was upregulated in both small grain accessions. TGW6 was downregulated in all the accessions at all stages of grain development. The results indicated that the selected genes play an essential role in grain size formation by controlling individual morphometric components of grain length and width. Targeted introgression genes controlling grain size components will eventually aid in improving grains yield.
Synergy of nanodiamond-doxorubicin conjugates and PD-L1 blockade effectively turns tumor associated macrophages against tumor cells
Authors: Xu Huazhen , Li Tongfei , Wang Chao , Ma Yan , Liu Yan , Zheng Meiyan , Liu Zhang Jun Yan , Chen Jinbo , Li Ke , Sun Shikuan , Komatsu Naoki , Xu Yonghong , Zhao Li , CHEN XIAO
Published: July 2021

Background: Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) are the most abundant stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment. Turning the TAM against their host tumor cells is an intriguing therapeutic strategy particularly attractive for patients with immunologically “cold” tumors. This concept was mechanistically demonstrated on in vitro human and murine lung cancer cells and their corresponding TAM models through combinatorial use of nanodiamond-doxorubicin conjugates (Nano-DOX) and a PD-L1 blocking agent BMS-1. Nano-DOX are an agent previously proved to be able to stimulate tumor cells’ immunogenicity and thereby reactivate the TAM into the anti-tumor M1 phenotype. Results: Nano-DOX were first shown to stimulate the tumor cells and the TAM to release the cytokine HMGB1 which, regardless of its source, acted through the RAGE/NF-κB pathway to induce PD-L1 in the tumor cells and PD-L1/PD-1 in the TAM. Interestingly, Nano-DOX also induced NF-κB-dependent RAGE expression in the tumor cells and thus reinforced HMGB1’s action thereon. Then, BMS-1 was shown to enhance Nano-DOX-stimulated M1-type activation of TAM both by blocking Nano-DOX-induced PD-L1 in the TAM and by blocking tumor cell PD-L1 ligation with TAM PD-1. The TAM with enhanced M1-type repolarization both killed the tumor cells and suppressed their growth. BMS-1 could also potentiate Nano-DOX’s action to suppress tumor cell growth via blocking of Nano-DOX-induced PD-L1 therein. Finally, Nano-DOX and BMS-1 achieved synergistic therapeutic efficacy against in vivo tumor grafts in a TAM-dependent manner. Conclusions: PD-L1/PD-1 upregulation mediated by autocrine and paracrine activation of the HMGB1/RAGE/NF-κB signaling is a key response of lung cancer cells and their TAM to stress, which can be induced by Nano-DOX. Blockade of Nano-DOX-induced PD-L1, both in the cancer cells and the TAM, achieves enhanced activation of TAM-mediated anti-tumor response.
Evaluation on the characteristics of gut microbiome in polycystic ovary syndrome rats induced by dihydrotestosterone or letrozole
Authors: Zheng Yan-hua , Xu Ying , Ma Hong-xia , Liang Cheng-jie , Yang Tong
Published: July 2021

Background: Etiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is unclear. Recent reports indicated that gut microbiota regulates metabolism and plays a major role in the development of PCOS. The present study aimed to investigate and compare the effects of dihydrotestosterone or letrozole on the gut microbiome in rats.Methods: We used dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or letrozole (LET) to induce PCOS model rats. At the end of the experiment, ovarian morphology, hormonal and metabolic status were investigated in all rats. We analyzed the gut microbiome of rats by deep sequencing the 16S rDNA V3-V4 hypervariable regions. Predictive metagenomics profiling using PICRUST revealed functional alternation of the KEGG pathways in rats.Result: Rats induced by letrozole exhibited endocrine and reproductive characteristics, such as hyperandrogenism, abnormal oestrus cycles or complete acyclic, polycystic ovaries, and obesity. DHT-induced rats were obesity, irregular oestrus cycles, polycystic ovaries, with lower level of HDL-C and lower activity of SOD than controls. The bacterial diversity (Chao1 and Ace) of DHT group was decreased compared with the control group. Furthermore, principal coordinates analysis revealed that DHT and control groups could be distinguished from each other. The DHT group exhibited increased numbers of Firmicutes, Cyanobacteria, Actinobacteria and Saccharibacteria, and decreased Bacteroidetes compared with the control group at the phylum level. Moreover, PICRUST-predicted KEGG pathways related to Carbohydrate metabolism, Amino acid metabolism, Metabolism of terpenoids and polyketides, Metabolism of other amino acids, Replication and repair, Lipid metabolism and Energy metabolism, Translation, Folding, sorting and degradation and Xenobiotics biodegradation and metabolism were significantly elevated in the DHT group. And pathways related to Metabolism of terpenoids and polyketides, Replication and repair, Xenobiotics biodegradation and metabolism, Nucleotide metabolism, Infectious diseases and Excretory system were significantly elevated in the LET group.Conclusion: The findings of the present study indicated that DHT affected the composition and diversity of gut microbial community, and leads to the gut dysbiosis. KEGG function profiles calculated by PICRUST suggested that DHT may affect metabolism of the gut microbiota more directly than letrozle.
A system of continuous training of employees in the field of occupational safety and health used in the implementation of investment projects by construction companies
Authors: Agoshkov A. I. , Kozlova O. V. , Kurochkin P. A. , Sologubova S. V.
Published: July 2021

An analysis of causes of injuries occurred in construction companies that implement large investment construction projects shows that the lack of skills of employees is a factor that determines the likelihood of risk events in the field of occupational safety and health: dangerous behavior of employees, dangerous working conditions created by managers and engineering and technical employees. The lack of competencies is the main cause of major and significant incidents in 10-12 cases out of 100; in 35-40 cases, it is a concomitant cause. The current state of affairs has determined the direction of efforts to achieve and maintain the highest indicators in the field of environmental and industrial safety and labor protection. In particular, JSC "Scientific Research and Design Institute for Gas Processing", LLC "SIBUR", JSC "Gazpromneft" and LLC "Gazprom Pererabotka Blagoveshchensk" are improving the safety of construction production through training of employees. The article presents the results of the study on developing required skills in employees of construction organizations at construction sites when implementing large investment construction projects.
The issues of psychosocial risk assessment and management: Russian and foreign experience
Authors: Lyubimkina T. A. , Ivanova S. V.
Published: July 2021

: Career stress, psychological harassment and bullying are crucial health and safety issues. A large number of studies have been devoted to the influence of these factors on workers; however, there are no effective practical solutions to minimize them. It is difficult to obtain objective information during the practical assessment of the situation in the workplace. The article compares modern methods used for assessing occupational psychosocial risks in Russia and abroad. The basis of the Russian regulatory framework for the assessment and management of psychosocial risks is state standard GOST R 55914-2013 “Risk Management. Guidelines for psychosocial risk management in the workplace”. This document suggests using a number of foreign methods. In world practice, questionnaires and surveys are the most common and economically acceptable methods that are used to collect information about psychosocial hazards in the workplace. The methods of observation, sociometry, interviewing, case study and stress management are used. The article provides an analytical overview of various methods developed by Russian and foreign researchers to conduct surveys of workers in various industries. These methods simplify the collection and analysis of information obtained from specialized Internet resources, which are currently widely used by Western European countries. Due to the fact that the Russian regulatory acts suggest using the foreign methods, it is necessary to adapt them to the Russian conditions and develop domestic methods used in the identification and analysis of psychological and social hazards in the workplace, especially using various Internet platforms. Modern assessment strategies and methods for preventing psychosocial risks are poorly developed. In this regard, it is necessary to study and identify effective ways to assess, eliminate or minimize psychosocial risks.
The influence of the level of illumination of workplaces on working conditions (on the example of the Republic of Kazakhstan)
Authors: Shirvanov R. B.
Published: July 2021

The problem of industrial injuries and occupational diseases of workers is relevant for all countries, including the Republic of Kazakhstan, where more than 200 people die every year and more than 2,000 are injured at workplaces due to hazardous and harmful production factors, including insufficient natural or artificial illumination of workplaces. The aim of the work is to study the level of illumination of workplaces at enterprises of the Republic of Kazakhstan and to establish the influence of this factor on the working conditions. The object of the study is workplaces and employees of one of the largest machine-building plants, where 60 employees were interviewed, and instrumental measurements of illumination levels were performed in two workshops. The questionnaire method and methods for assessing workplaces by the level of illumination were used. The analysis showed that the largest number of surveyed workers (58.4%) were not satisfied with the level of illumination; according to the instrumental measurements of illumination, 40.9% and 46.6% of workplaces were harmful and dangerous. Employees working under harmful conditions are entitled to a number of benefits and compensations. Thus, the creation of rational working conditions, including illumination of workplaces, helps to minimize injuries and occupational diseases and increase the efficiency and productivity of labor.
Predictive assessment of the stability of quarry sides
Authors: Volokhov A. V.
Published: July 2021

The composition of the rocks composing the quarry sides and the approximate slope angles in accordance with the mining and geological conditions are described. The issues of creating observation stations are considered taking into account seasonal temperature fluctuations of the benchmarks. Observation materials are generalized, the degree of danger of deformations is established on the basis of observations of deformation speed. The mining safety control methods are described. The disadvantages of the approach to data processing and analysis are identified. A criterion for mine surveying prediction of the pit wall stability based on the comparison of critical and actual relative deformations is proposed. The purpose of the local forecast of wall deformation is to control the stability of non-working and working slopes of the sides, and to confirm the efficiency of the method used. The predictive assessment was carried out on the shift of working benchmarks on one of the open pits of Transbaikalia. It is suggested monitoring the stability of rocks using oscillograms obtained by seismic equipment.
A study of the impact of climate on the self-growth of limestone quarries
Authors: Galaida K. P. , Talgamer B. L.
Published: July 2021

Small limestone quarries are located everywhere. After mining operations have been completed, they are not recultivated and left for self-growing. In order to assess the process of vegetation cover restoration, field studies were conducted at 6 quarries located in different climatic zones of Eastern Siberia and Abkhazia. A description of the quarries was made, and areas of disturbed land were identified. The impact of various factors on the self-growth was studied, including the mining parameters, the size of quarries, the height of ledges, the width of berms, the angles of slopes, the composition of rocks in the surface layer, the exposure of slopes, and the composition of surrounding plants. The research identified factors that have positive and negative effects on the intensity of self-growth; recommendations for forming non-working boards were provided. Mining operations without the implementation of reclamation measures aimed to create favorable conditions for the self-overgrowing of disturbed lands, impair the process of vegetation restoration and entail long-term erosion processes, despite the favorable conditions of the subtropical climate of Abkhazia. The available solutions for land reclamation in Siberian quarries can be implemented in other climatic zones.
Flotation enrichment of antimony ore using the environmentally friendly reagent-collector KCSb
Authors: Mikheev G. V. , Bogidaev S. A.
Published: July 2021

The problems of extraction and processing of antimony ores are analyzed. The reagent-collector of oxide forms of antimony KCSb is described. It is used to develop operating parameters of the flotation concentration of ore at the Zhipkhosha deposit. The semi-industrial model experiments identified that KCSb is more efficient thatn other known reagents used to enrich antimony oxides. The operating technological conditions of the flotation process were optimized; the use of a collecting reagent indicates the expediency and effectiveness of its use. This fact was confirmed by technical and economic calculations, according to which the profit was up to 30 million rubles per 1 million of processed ore per year. An increase in the resulting product in the form of concentrate was 700–800 tons with 32–36% antimony content, which corresponds to the KSUF-3. This method can be used by antimony deposits containing oxide minerals (10% or more).
COVID-19: не вакциной единой
Authors: Гандель Виктор
Published: July 2021

Новая коронавирусная инфекция, объявленная ВОЗ пандемией COVID-19, поставила задачу поиска средств с целью купирования вызова, брошенного цивилизации в лице нового коронавируса SARS-Cov-2. Дизайн лекарственных препаратов, обладающих противовирусной активностью в отношении нового коронавируса, привел к созданию нескольких препаратов-кандидатов. Одним из первых, по которому состоялось решение о возможности применения как фармакотерапевтического средства, стал ремдесивир, разработанный американской компанией Gilead Sciences Inc. Первоначально препарат был создан в 2009 г. для лечения других вирусных заболеваний, но ожидаемой активности не проявил. Последующие доработка и оценка фармакологической активности осуществлялись с привлечением государственных инвестиций при участии и под контролем Минобороны и некоторых университетских лабораторий США.Клинические испытания, проведенные в разных странах, продемонстрировали перспективность применения ремдесивира для лечения больных с COVID-19, что, однако, не впечатлило ВОЗ, не рекомендовавшую его как средство фармакотерапии при новой коронавирусной инфекции. Минздрав РФ после экспертного анализа включил ремдесивир, наряду с другими препаратами, в список средств, которые могут быть использованы при лечении COVID-19. Исследование особенностей и обстоятельств появления ремдесивира на фармацевтическом рынке позволяет приблизиться к ответу на принципиальный вопрос XXI в.: SARS-Cov-2 – это «дизайн» природы или результат целенаправленной антропогенной активности.
EFEITOS DO MÉTODO DE REEQUILÍBRIO TORACOABDOMINAL SOBRE A FUNÇÃO CARDIORRESPIRATÓRIA DE PREMATUROS COM SÍNDROME DO DESCONFORTO RESPIRATÓRIO
Authors: Carvalho Andreza Marques , Zimpel Sandra Adriana , Costa Cinthia Maria Xavier , Teixeira Raphaela Farias
Published: July 2021

Resumo

Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos do método de reequilíbrio tóraco-abdominal sobre a função cardiorrespiratória de prematuros com Síndrome do Desconforto Respiratório. Métodos: Ensaio clínico não randomizado. Os recém-nascidos participantes do estudo foram divididos em dois grupos. O grupo 1 recebeu os manuseios do método de reequilíbrio tóraco-abdominal: apoio no espaço íleo-costal, apoio abdominal inferior e apoio tóraco-abdominal. O grupo 2 recebeu o tratamento que consistiu no alongamento dos músculos acessórios da respiração e mobilização da cintura escapular. Ambos os grupos foram avaliados antes e após o tratamento. A avaliação foi composta pela verificação da saturação periférica de oxigênio, frequência cardíaca, frequência respiratória e grau de desconforto respiratório a partir do Boletim de Silverman-Andersen. Resultados: Participaram do estudo 14 recém-nascidos. Foi verificado aumento significativo da saturação periférica de oxigênio nos recém-nascidos submetidos ao reequilíbrio tóraco-abdominal (p-valor = 0,04) e aumento significativo da frequência cardíaca nos recém-nascidos que receberam o tratamento de controle (p-valor = 0,01). Não houve diferença estatística na relação intergrupos e nos demais fatores avaliados na análise intragrupos. Conclusão: O método de reequilíbrio tóraco-abdominal produziu efeitos positivos sobre a saturação periférica de oxigênio de recém-nascidos diagnosticados com Síndrome do Desconforto Respiratório, não influenciando nos parâmetros de frequência cardíaca, frequência respiratória e grau de desconforto respiratório. O reequilíbrio tóraco-abdominal não demonstrou superioridade ao tratamento de controle exceto pela saturação periférica de oxigênio.
ANÁLISE DA CORRELAÇÃO ENTRE INDEPENDÊNCIA FUNCIONAL E SATISFAÇÃO COM A TECNOLOGIA ASSISTIVA EM PESSOAS COM LESÃO MEDULAR
Authors: Tannús Rogério Assunção , Ordones Eduarda da Rocha , Guerra Débora Mikaelly Calaça da Silva , Orcino Juliane Leite , Melo Rozany Cristina de Souza , Silva Antonio Márcio Teodoro Cordeiro , Almeida Rogério José de
Published: July 2021

A lesão medular (LM) repercute altamente no nível de incapacidade física. Pessoas com LM que utilizam dispositivo auxiliar de mobilidade tendem a desenvolver maior independência funcional. O objetivo foi avaliar a correlação entre  independência funcional em atividades de vida diária e a satisfação com o uso de tecnologia assistiva (cadeira de  rodas) em pessoas com lesão medular. Trata-se de um estudo transversal analítico com abordagem quantitativa. A amostra foi de 146 participantes com lesão medular traumática com paraplegia e tetraplegia. Para coleta de dados foram utilizados um questionário sociodemográfico, e as escalas Spinal Cord Independence Measure-Self Reported Version (brSCIM-SR) e o Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST.2.0) que permitiram a investigação. A média de idade foi 37,8 anos, com maioria do sexo masculino (82,9%), solteiros (52,7%), escolaridade média (53,4%), acidente de trânsito (50%), arma de fogo (22,6%). Houve predomínio de lesão completa (58,9%) e paraplegia(65,1%). Na brSCIM-SR a média geral foi de 55,3 (±15,8) no domínio do autocuidado de 14,6 (±5,3), respiração/esfíncter 26,4 (±7,4) e mobilidade de 14,3 (±5,5). Na satisfação com a tecnologia assistiva a pontuação total do QUEST 2.0 foi de 3,64 (±0,77),  satisfação com o recurso 3,86 (±0,74) e a prestação de serviços 3,64(±0,77). Identificou-se bom desempenho na média da independência funcional. Além disso, altos níveis de satisfação com a tecnologia assistiva, de forma específica mais com o recurso do que com a prestação de serviços. Não foi encontrada correlação entre a independência funcional e a satisfação do uso de cadeira de rodas.
Iron Ore Tailings: Characterization and Applications
Authors: Carmignano Ottávio , Vieira Sara , Teixeira Ana Paula , Lameiras Fernando , Brandão Paulo Roberto , Lago Rochel
Published: July 2021

Currently, approximately 1.4 billion tons per year of iron ore tailing wastes (IOT) are generated, mainly in Australia, Brazil, and China. This work describes the characterization and application of two typical IOT, i.e., fine and coarse wastes. The physicochemical characterization of these IOT by different techniques such as XRF (X-ray fluorescence), XRD (X-ray diffraction), Mössbauer spectroscopy, and granulometry, indicates for the fine tailing a composition of Fe2O3/FeOOH (10-55%), SiO2 (18-65%) and Al2O3 (up to 15%) with particles of 6-40 μm, whereas the coarse tailing presents 40-150 μm particles with the composition of 8-48% Fe2O3/FeOOH, 30-90% SiO2 and Al2O3 (up to 20%). The main IOT applications discussed in this review are related to civil construction (aggregates for concrete, mortar, Portland cement additives), ceramic industry, geopolymer, synthesis of new materials such as zeolites, mesoporous silica, carbon nanotubes, adsorbents, catalysts for different reactions, in batteries and in fuel cells. It was also carried out an analysis of patents related to IOT applications and the main technological and market barriers that hinder the industrial and commercial uses of these wastes.
Coetzee’s Disgrace: Rape and Escape connection to Bangladeshi perspectives
Authors: Shoukot Mahbuba
Published: July 2021

J.M Coetzee’s Disgrace plot and the Bangladeshi Scenarios are mostly similar; especially in gender discrimination, though the situations and structure of society differ. Surprisingly, this makes me pretty much thoughtful the variances do not make any changes. Gender blindness is everywhere, whether in South Africa or Bangladesh. Women are always the scapegoat by society, religion ethnicity, norms, and rites. They always face violence or hatred in different folds. The essay conveys the forcible sex violations that happened in the novel. The story portrays the two male protagonists who are parallel in the antagonist role as well. Women's roles are used here to show how men prudently play dice to gain power and abduct a woman. Escape from the crime is the easiest way to build a new way out under the male chauvinist regulations
Epistemological ideologies of Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Notes from Underground
Authors: Tasnim Sumaiya
Published: July 2021

Epistemology is a study of knowledge that require much attention. It is essentially considered to be a branch of philosophy which with cognitive science, history and cultural studies. In addition, it helps us study as to why our mind relates to reality and whether it is valid or invalid.
A Stylo- Pragmatic Appraisal of Lawal's Communicative Model Theory
Authors: John Emike Acheoah , Nonyerem Agu Margaret
Published: July 2021

This paper is essentially an appraisal of Lawal’s Communicative Model Theory within the purview of stylistics and pragmatics. Any investigation of the stylistic and pragmatic factors that motivate language use is inevitably immersed in language users’ supremacy over the normative properties of language. One of the factors that promoted scholarly interest in pragmatics is the possibility that significant functional explanations can be given for linguistic facts. Like any study in pragmatics, research in stylistics investigates contextual factors that inform language use; in this regard, the meaning of an utterance – not its grammaticalness – is the major concern. This paper hinges on The Pragma-crafting Theory as a theoretical framework and concludes that although the Communicative Model Theory is bedeviled by its inability to explain certain dimensions of language use, it captures the contextual underpinnings of language use.
Transição energética para a sustentabilidade no Chile e no Brasil: Oportunidades e desafios decorrentes da pandemia por Covid-19
Authors: Poque González Axel Bastián
Published: July 2021

O presente artigo busca explorar, de forma interdisciplinar, a influência da pandemia por Covid-19 na transição energética para a sustentabilidade que experimentam o Chile e o Brasil no século XXI. Subsequentemente, apresentam-se as principais oportunidades e desafios sociais, ambientais e técnicos que determinarão o desenvolvimento dos sistemas elétricos de ambos os países após superada a crise sanitária. Comprova-se a correlação fortemente positiva entre o Produto Interno Bruto (PIB) e a geração de eletricidade em ambos os países no decorrer do presente século. Assim, as quedas experimentadas no PIB o ano 2020 tiveram consequência na produção elétrica. No entanto, as energias renováveis não convencionais solar e eólica continuaram crescendo no seu aporte à produção de eletricidade, e em consequência, foram experimentadas quedas na geração termoelétrica e hidrelétrica. Por último, corrobora-se que nos próximos anos, elementos tais como a agenda mundial para a sustentabilidade, as variações no ciclo da água, a participação e empoderamento cidadão, os custos das tecnologias, a influência da eletricidade no desenvolvimento humano, e os conflitos socioambientais decorrentes da construção de infraestrutura energética serão agentes chave nos setores elétricos do Chile e do Brasil
Evolution of photovoltaic energy system applied to water pumping for irrigation
Authors: Haupenthal Soni Willian , Vilas Boas Marcio Antonio , Cruz Siqueira Jair Antonio , Kazue Tokura Luciene
Published: July 2021

The increase in the price of fossil fuels and the pollution resulting from their burning have encouraged the use of renewable energy to produce electricity, and their applications have increased in recent years mainly for use in irrigation. Photovoltaic projects have been implemented to analyze the feasibility of pumping water. Within this concept, the article aims to present a literature review, linking practical information with existing scientific knowledge, seeking to expand research on the topic and contribute with information on the use of renewable energy for pumping water for irrigation, emphasizing the rationalization water consumption. With the aim of reducing dependence on fossil fuels, seeking solutions to improve the quality of life in the countryside, generating income for agricultural producers with increased productivity. Thus, the efficiency in the use of photovoltaic pumping systems for irrigation was defined, according to the reference bank.
Drilling optimization of petroleum wells
Authors: Sales Rodrigues de Oliveira Lucas , Nascimento Andreas , Zuliani Mantegazini Diunay , Nascimento Nazem
Published: July 2021

The petroleum industry is already demanding lowering exploration costs, which reflects in needs of reducing drilling operational costs, which can be achieved through implementation of more efficiency in operations. Researches have shown that scientist and companies are already experiencing different approaches aiming at boosting drillability. One method not well implemented is variation of flow-rate as a mechanical specific drilling parameter, given its complexity and relation to well integrity. This paper details the influence in flow-rate and related parameters in rate of penetration, showing how DHAP, ECD, Flow-rate and ROP are related to each other. It can be seen that by increasing a flow-rate, an increase in ROP is possible, but that flow-rate changes also influence the down-hole pressure and ECD, what imply in possible downhole differential pressure variation. The higher the down-hole differential pressure, the less will be the implied ROP. All these have influence on drilling efficiency.
Aplicação dos métodos de cálculo aproximado e de Gibbs na determinação das cargas atuantes no bombeio mecânico com hastes
Authors: Moreira de Oliveira Camylla , Romero Oldrich Joel
Published: July 2021

O bombeio mecânico é o método de elevação artificial mais utilizado no mundo e a determinação de seus parâmetros operacionais é de extrema importância para a otimização de seu desempenho. O controle das cargas máximas e mínimas na haste pode garantir um tempo de vida útil maior para as hastes e para todo o sistema de bombeio mecânico (Pons, 2014). A simulação do comportamento da coluna de hastes é o método mais adequado para a descrição deste sistema. Neste trabalho são utilizados o método do cálculo aproximado, e o método de Gibbs para o cálculo dos parâmetros operacionais PPRL – Peak Polished Rod Load, MPRL – Minimum Polished Rod Load e PT – Peak Torque. O método de Gibbs foi aplicado através do software SROD® e os dados reais para o estudo foram obtidos do banco de dados da Petrobras retirados do software TWM® (Total Well Management). É realizada a comparação dos resultados da simulação com duas pressões de sucção diferentes fornecidas pelo software TWM, a pressão de sucção da bomba calculada a partir do teste acústico e a pressão de sucção da bomba calculada a partir da carta dinamométrica. Os resultados mostram que para o método do cálculo aproximado a pressão de sucção da bomba calculada a partir do teste acústico é a mais adequada a ser utilizada, e para a modelagem dinâmica via SROD® a pressão de sucção mais adequada é aquela proveniente da análise da carta dinamométrica.
Emulsões de petróleo bruto: efeito do conteúdo aquoso e da adição de sistemas auto-organizáveis com surfactante
Authors: De Castro Santana Rejane , Castro Freitas Prado Carolina , Ayupe de Souza Mendonça Ricardo
Published: July 2021

Emulsões de petróleo do tipo água-em-óleo (A/O) podem apresentar viscosidade elevada, sendo necessário técnicas que viabilizem sua exploração e escoamento. Como alternativa, propõe-se a adição de microemulsões óleo-em-água (O/A) em emulsões de petróleo A/O. Microemulsões são sistemas termodinamicamente estáveis capazes de alterar a curvatura do filme interfacial da região água/óleo, modificando a estabilidade e viscosidade do sistema. Assim, os objetivos deste trabalho foram a avaliar o efeito do conteúdo aquoso e da incorporação de sistemas auto-organizáveis nas propriedades das emulsões de petróleo bruto. Inicialmente o petróleo foi caracterizado quanto à densidade em diferentes temperaturas. Emulsões de petróleo, com diferentes concentrações (10-50% m/m) de salmoura (27.870 ppm NaCl) foram produzidas e caracterizadas. De acordo com os resultados de tamanho de gotas e de estabilidade cinética, a inversão de fases de emulsão A/O para O/A ocorreu na concentração de 30% (v/v) de salmoura. Todas as emulsões de petróleo apresentaram distribuição do tamanho de gotas do tipo lognormal e comportamento Newtoniano, com viscosidade variando de 25,6 a 46,0 mPa.s. Posteriormente foi avaliada a formação de microemulsão em 42% do diagrama pseudo-ternário composto por água, xileno e surfactante/co-surfactante (Triton/butanol). Microemulsão formada por 10% (m/m) água, 81% (m/m) Triton/butanol e 9% (m/m) xileno e solução de surfactante formada por 10% (m/m) água e 90% (m/m) Triton/butanol foram adicionadas à emulsão A/O de petróleo com 20% (v/v) de salmoura. Observou-se que não houve redução significativa na viscosidade, porém houve redução do tamanho das gotas das emulsões do óleo mostrando o efeito da adição de sistemas auto-organizáveis na microestrutura de emulsões de petróleo.
Proteomic Analyses of Soybean Root Tips During Germination
Authors: Komatsu Setsuko , Oh Myeong W. , Jang Hee Y. , Kwon Soo J. , Kim Hye R. , Ko Jung H. , Woo Sun H. , Nanjo Yohei
Published: July 2021

Plant root systems form complex networks with the surrounding soil environment and are controlled by both
internal and external factors. To better understand the function of root tips of soybean during germination, three proteomic
techniques were used to analyze the protein profiles of root tip cells. Proteins were extracted from the root tips of 4-dayold
soybean seedlings and analyzed using two-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis-based proteomics, SDS-gel based
proteomics, and gel-free proteomics techniques. A total of 121, 862, and 341 proteins were identified in root tips using the
2D gel-based, SDS gel-based, and gel-free proteomic techniques, respectively. The proteins identified by 2D gel-based
proteomic analysis were predominantly localized in the cytoplasm, whereas nuclear-localized proteins were most commonly
identified by the SDS gel-based and gel-free proteomics techniques. Of the 862 proteins identified in the SDS gelbased
proteomic analysis, 190 were protein synthesis-related proteins. Furthermore, 24 proteins identified using the 2Dgel
based proteomic technique shifted between acidic and basic isoelectric points, and 2 proteins, heat shock protein 70.2
and AAA-type ATPase, displayed two different molecular weights at the same isoelectric point. Taken together, these results
suggest that a number of proteins related to protein synthesis and modification are activated in the root tips of soybean
seedlings during germination.
Drugs Against Mycobacterium tuberculosis 3-Isopropylmalate Dehydrogenase Can be Developed Using Homologous Enzymes as Surrogate Targets
Authors: Graczer Eva , Bacso Andras , Konya Denes , Kazi Adrian , Soos Tibor , Molnar Laura , Szimler Tamas , Beinrohr Laszlo , Szilagyi Andras , Zavodszky Peter , Vas Maria
Published: July 2021

3-Isopropylmalate dehydrogenase (IPMDH) from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) may be a target for specific
drugs against this pathogenic bacterium. We have expressed and purified Mtb IPMDH and determined its physicalchemical
and enzymological properties. Size-exclusion chromatography and dynamic light scattering measurements
(DLS) suggest a tetrameric structure for Mtb IPMDH, in contrast to the dimeric structure of most IPMDHs. The kinetic
properties (kcat and Kmvalues) of Mtb IPMDH and the pH-dependence of kcat are very similar to both Escherichia coli (Ec)
and Thermus thermophilus (Tt) IPMDHs. The stability of Mtb IPMDH in 8 M urea is close to that of the mesophilic counterpart,
Ec IPMDH, both of them being much less stable than the thermophilic (Tt) enzyme. Two known IPMDH inhibitors,
O-methyl oxalohydroxamate and 3-methylmercaptomalate, have been synthesised. Their inhibitory effects were
found to be independent of the origin of IPMDHs. Thus, experiments with either Ec or Tt IPMDH would be equally relevant
for designing specific inhibitory drugs against Mtb IPMDH.
A Single-Chain-Variable-Fragment Fluorescence Biosensor Activates Fluorogens from Dissimilar Chemical Families
Authors: Gallo Eugenio , Wienbar Sophia , Snyder Avin C. , Vasilev Kalin V. , Armitage Bruce A. , Jarvik Jonathan W.
Published: July 2021

Current advancements in biological protein discovery utilize bi-partite methods of fluorescence detection where
chromophore and scaffold are uncoupled. One such technology, called fluorogen-activating proteins (FAPs), consists of
single-chain-variable-fragments (scFvs) selected against small organic molecules (fluorogens) that are non-fluorescent in
solution, but highly fluorescent when bound to the scFv. In unusual circumstances a scFv may activate similar fluorogens
from a single chemical family. In this report we identified a scFv biosensor with fluorescence activity against multiple
fluorogens from two structurally dissimilar families. In-vitro analysis revealed highly selective scFv-ligand interactions at
sub-micromolar ranges. Additionally, each scFv-fluorogen complex possesses unique excitation and emission spectra,
which allows broader detection limits from the biosensor. Further analysis indicated that ligand activation, regardless of
chemical family, occurs at a common scFv binding region that proves flexible, yet selective for fluorogen binding. As a
protein reporter at the surface of mammalian cells, the scFv revealed bright signal detection and minimal background.
Additionally, when tagged to a G-protein-coupled receptor, we observed agonist dependent signaling leading to protein
traffic from cell surface to endosomes via multi-color fluorescence tracking. In summary, this report unveils a noncanonical
scFv biosensor with properties of high ligand affinity and multi-channel fluorescence detection, which consequently
offers expanded opportunities for cellular protein discovery.
Thermodynamic Properties of the β-glucosidase from Thermotoga maritima Extend the Upper Limit of Thermophilicity
Authors: Mehmood Muhammad A. , Shahid Izzah , Hussain Khadim , Latif Farooq , Rajoka Muhammad I.
Published: July 2021

Enzymes from thermophilic organisms are believed to be strong candidates for industrial applications due to their ability to withstand temperature-induced enzyme inactivation. The present study demonstrated molecular cloning, over-expression, purification and characterization of β-glucosidase from Thermotoga maritima. The bglA gene with a capacity to encode a 51 kDa enzyme was heterologously expressed in E. coli M15. The enzyme was produced @130 mgL-1 in LB media and @440 mgL-1 in Dubos salt medium accounting 40-47 % of total cellular soluble proteins when lactose was used as an inducer. The enzyme showed a peak activity between pH and temperature range of 5.0-7.0 and 80-100 °C, respectively. The activity was fairly stable up to 140 °C. The turnover rate (kcat) of the enzyme was 187.1±20 s-1, whereas the Km and Vmax values were 0.56 mM and 238±2.4 IU mg-1 protein, respectively. The enzyme was shown to have half-life of 136, 71 and 12.6 h at 80, 90 and 100 °C, respectively. Thermodynamics parameters including melting temperature (130 °C), activation energy for inactivation (36.92 kJmole-1), enthalpy (33.73 kJmole-1), Gibb’s free energy (127.96 kJmole-1) and entropy (-246.46 Jmole-1K-1) have shown that the enzyme have enhanced hydrophobic interactions to prevent its thermal unfolding. These features endorse the industrial applications of the enzyme.
Intrinsically Unstructured Carboxy Terminus of Bacillus Lipase is Essential for its Function
Authors: Khurana Jyoti , Manisha  , Singh Ranvir , Kaur Jagdeep
Published: July 2021

We have identified intrinsically unstructured C-terminus of a Bacillus lipase. In an effort to understand the possible
role of this C-terminus unstructured region, 10, 20 and 30 amino acids were serially deleted from C-terminal region
of the lipase. The catalytic properties of wild type and resulted truncated enzymes were compared. Deletion of 10 amino
acids from C-terminus region resulted in decrease in transcription of lipase, specific enzyme activity and extracellular secretion
of lipase in comparison to wild type while no effect on lipase aggregation was observed. Negligible activity was
observed upon deletion of 20 amino acids. The homology model of the protein demonstrated that the tertiary structure of
the protein was held together by these C-terminus residues due to six critically placed hydrogen bonds. Therefore Cterminus
was essential for the tertiary structure and enzyme activity of lipase. Due to structural flexibility and plasticity
originating from the lack of a definite-ordered 3D structure, such disordered regions might represent a major functional
advantage for proteins.
Exploring Interaction of TNF and Orthopoxviral CrmB Protein by Surface Plasmon Resonance and Free Energy Calculation
Authors: Ivanisenko Nikita V. , Tregubchak Tatiana V. , Saik Olga V. , Ivanisenko Vladimir A. , Shchelkunov Sergei N.
Published: July 2021

Inhibition of the activity of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) has become the main strategy for treating inflammatory
diseases. The orthopoxvirus TNF-binding proteins can bind and efficiently neutralize TNF. To analyze the mechanisms
of the interaction between human (hTNF) or mouse (mTNF) TNF and the cowpox virus N-terminal binding domain
(TNFBD-CPXV), also the variola virus N-terminal binding domain (TNFBD-VARV) and to define the amino acids most
importantly involved in the formation of complexes, computer models, derived from the X-ray structure of a homologous
hTNF/TNFRII complex, were used together with experiments. The hTNF/TNFBD-CPXV, hTNF/TNFBD-VARV,
mTNF/TNFBD-CPXV, and mTNF/TNFBD-VARV complexes were used in the molecular dynamics (MD) simulations
and MM/GBSA free energy calculations. The complexes were ordered as hTNF/TNFBD-CPXV, hTNF/TNFBD-VARV,
mTNF/TNFBD-CPXV and mTNF/TNFBD-VARV according to increase in the binding affinity. The calculations were in
agreement with surface plasmon resonance (SPR) measurements of the binding constants. Key residues involved in complex
formation were identified.