bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles by Using Rosmarinus officinalis Extract and Their Application for Methylene Bleu and Crystal Violet Dyes Degradation under Sunlight Irradiation
Authors: Al-Garni Tahani , A.Y. Abduh Naaser , Al-Kahtani Abdullah , Aouissi Ahmed
Published: April 2021

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized using Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract at 80 ° C (ZnO-80) and 180 ° C (ZnO-180). The biosynthesized ZnO NPs were characterized and their photocatalytic activity was evaluated for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) and crystal violet (CV) under sunlight irradiation. The results of the characterizations by XRD, TEM and SEM showed that the size of the NPs of ZnO-80 was smaller than that of ZnO-180 which exhibited flakier agglomerated spherical structures. Photocatalytic tests showed ZnO-80 which was prepared by a cheap and easy procedure compared to ZnO-180 effectively degrades MB and CV dyes under sunlight. The superior performance of ZnO-80 over ZnO-180 can be explained by the differences in their textural properties. This is because ZnO-80 has a smaller crystallite size, a specific surface area and a higher pore volume than ZnO-180. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyzes revealed that both samples contained an adsorbed carboxylate group (COO-), and accordingly a mechanism was proposed for the formation of ZnO NPs that include the carboxyl group.
$alpha$-Geodesical Skew Divergence
Authors: Kimura Masanari , Hino Hideitsu
Published: April 2021

The asymmetric skew divergence smooths one of the distributions by mixing it, to a degree determined by the parameter $\lambda$, with the other distribution. Such divergence is an approximation of the KL divergence that does not require the target distribution to be absolutely continuous with respect to the source distribution. In this paper, an information geometric generalization of the skew divergence called the $\alpha$-geodesical skew divergence is proposed, and its properties are studied.
Fatigue Improvement of AlSi10Mg Fabricated by Laser-Based Powder Bed Fusion through Heat-Treatment.
Authors: Sajadi Felix , Tiemann Jan-Marc , Bandari Nooshin , Cheloee Darabi Ali , Mola Javad , Schmauder Siegfried
Published: April 2021

This study aims to identify an optimal heat-treatment parameter set for an additively manufactured AlSi10Mg alloy in terms of increasing the hardness and eliminating the anisotropic microstructural characteristics of the alloy in as-built condition. Furthermore, the influence of these optimized parameters on the fatigue properties of the alloy investigated. In this respect, microstructural characteristics of an AlSi10Mg alloy manufactured by Laser-Based Powder Bed Fusion in non-heat-treated and heat-treated conditions were investigated. Their static and dynamic mechanical properties were evaluated, and fatigue behavior was explained by a detailed examination of fracture surfaces. Much of the microstructure in the non-heat-treated condition was composed of columnar grains oriented parallel to the build direction. Further analysis revealed a high fraction of pro-eutectic α-Al. Through heat-treatment, the alloy was successfully brought to its peak-hardened condition, while eliminating the anisotropic microstructural features. Yield strength and ductility increased simultaneously after heat-treatment, which is due to the relief of residual stresses, preservation of refined grains, and introduction of precipitation strengthening. The fatigue strength, calculated at 10^7 cycles, improved as well after heat-treatment and finally detailed fractography reviled that a more ductile fracture mechanism has happened in the heat-treated condition compared to the non-heat-treated condition.
Influence Factors Psychological and Stigma During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Literature Review
Authors: Susanto Joko , Glorino Rumambo Pandin Moses
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Corona Virus Disease 2019 causes health problems in the world in the form of a health crisis that results in psychological problems as fear and anxiety. The purpose of this study to determine the factors that influence psychological and stigma during the Covid-19 pandemic.Methods: This study is a literature review with five databases (Scopus, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and ProQuest), studies design used a cross-sectional or quasi-experimental, with a date of March 2021. The Center for Review and Dissemination and the JBI Guide are used to measure the Quality and Prism checklist for guide reviews. A feasibility study based on title, abstract, full text, and research methodology. The data analysis used narrative analysis based on the research findings.Results: Eleven articles met the predefined review inclusion criteria. Research is base on related factors psychology, related factors stigma, and factors related to psychological and stigma. Most of the factors associated with psychological conditions and stigma have a quasi-experimental and cross-sectional design. Participants averaged over a thousand for each study and discussed psychology factors related to the stigma. Conclusion: Factors related to psychological are age, education, symptoms and health conditions, gender, information, economy, exposure duration, and social support, while factors related to stigma are environment, history of comorbid diseases, discrimination, and public perceptions.
CdTe X/γ-ray Detectors With Different Contact Materials
Authors: Gnatyuk Volodymyr , Maslyanchuk Olena , Solovan Mykhailo , Brus Viktor , Aoki Toru
Published: April 2021

Different contact materials along with optimization of the deposition techniques expand the possibilities to obtain high performance room temperature CdTe-based X/γ-ray detectors. The heterostructures with ohmic (MoOx) and Schottky (MoOx, TiOx, TiN, and In) contacts, created by DC reactive magnetron sputtering and vacuum thermal evaporation, as well as In/CdTe/Au diodes with a p-n junction, formed by laser-induced doping, were developed and investigated. Depending on the pre-treatment of the surface of semi-insulating p-CdTe crystals, deposition of a MoOx film formed an ohmic or Schottky contact. Based on the calculations and IV characteristics of the fabricated Mo-MoOx/р-CdTe/MoOx-Mo, In/CdTe/MoOx-Mo, Ti-TiOx/р-CdTe/MoOx-Mo, and Ti-TiN/р-CdTe/MoOx-Mo Schottky-diode detectors, the current transport processes were described in the models of the carrier generation-recombination within the space-charge region (SCR) at low bias voltages, and space-charge limited current at higher voltages, respectively. The energies of generation–recombination centers, density of trapping centers, and carrier lifetimes were determined. A sharp increase in the reverse current in the Mo-MoOx/р-CdTe/MoOx-Mo, Ti-TiOx/р-CdTe/MoOx-Mo, and Ti-TiN/р-CdTe/MoOx-Mo heterostructures at high bias was discussed in frames of the Poole–Frenkel emission model. Nanosecond laser irradiation of the In electrode, pre-deposited on the p-CdTe crystals, resulted in an increase in the voltage range, corresponding to the carrier generation-recombination in the SCR, in the IV characteristics of the In/CdTe/Au diodes. Such In/CdTe/Au p-n junction diodes demonstrated high energy resolutions (7%@59.5 keV, 4%@122 keV, and 1.6%@662 keV).
Pengembangan Media Pembelajaran IPA Pokok Bahasan Mata Manusia Berbasis Android
Authors: Billah Arif , Sarwanto Sarwanto
Published: April 2021

Studi lapangan dan literatur merekomendasikan bahwa dibutuhkan media pembelajaran pokok bahasan mata manusia yang menyajikan tujuan pembelajaran, materi, evaluasi dan penilaiannya, serta mendukung terjadinya proses pembelajaran mandiri, interaktif, dan menyenangkan. Metode penelitian pengembangan ini menggunakan langkah-langkah: potensi dan masalah, pengumpulan data, desain produk, validasi desain, revisi desain, uji coba produk, revisi produk, uji coba pemakaian, revisi produk, dan produksi masal. Produk penelitian ini adalah aplikasi android ”Alat Optik Mata Manusia”. Karakteristik produk ini adalah: (1) memuat tujuan pembelajaran, materi, simulasi, latihan soal, dan evaluasi; (2) menu materi memuat: bagian-bagian mata, proses melihat, dan gangguan mata; (3) terdapat lima submenu simulasi yang interaktif dan komunikatif; (4) materi diuraikan melalui teks dan gambar full color; (5) terdapat evaluasi dengan penilaiannya; (6) dapat digunakan secara mandiri dan dapat mengulang-ulang materi yang diinginkan; dan (7) dapat digunakan dimanapun dan kapanpun. Kriteria kelayakan produk adalah ”sangat baik” dengan nilai 4,60; kriteria kepraktisan ”sangat baik” dengan nilai 4,51; dan kriteria keefektivan ”tinggi” dengan n-gain 0,76 sedangkan nilai rerata aktivitas siswa adalah 89,02 % dengan kriteria ”sangat baik”.
Studi Literatur: Peningkatan Oral Activity dan Hasil Belajar Kognitif melalui Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Search, Solve, Create and Share (SSCS) Materi Sistem Ekskresi pada Manusia
Authors: Widyati Fasaila Nadif , Irawati Hani
Published: April 2021

Dominansi pendekatan pembelajaran teacher center menyebabkan oral activity siswa dan hasil belajar kognitif siswa rendah pada materi sistem ekskresi. Penerapan model pembelajaran SSCS diharapkan dapat meningkatkan oral activity  dan hasil belajar kognitif siswa. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui peningkatan oral activity dan hasil belajar kognitif siswa melalui model pembelajaran SSCS pada materi sistem ekskresi berdasarkan studi literatur. Jenis penelitian ini merupakan penelitian studi literatur. Artikel ilmiah sebagai data penelitian berasal dari jurnal nasional, prosiding dan repository. Validasi artikel dilakukan dengan pertimbangan artikel ilmiah bersifat open access, kualitas metodologi penelitian, kualitas penyajian data dan pembahasan, kecukupan data yang relevan, referensi mutakhir. Teknik pengumpulan data dengan cara koding definisi dan format penyajian data dalam tabel. Teknik analisis data menggunakan analisis deskriptif. Berdasarkan studi literatur menunjukkan bahwa model pembelajaran SSCS dapat meningkatkan oral activity dan hasil belajar kognitif siswa. Hal ini diketahui melalui analisis data artikel ilmiah relevan terdapat pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap peningkatan oral activity dan hasil belajar kognitif. Oral activity siswa terlihat dalam penerapan model pembelajaran SSCS pada tahapan solve dan share. Model pembelajaran SSCS mendukung siswa mengembangkan kemampuan berpikir sehingga perolehan hasil belajar kognitif siswa meningkat. Selain itu, model pembelajaran SSCS dapat diterapkan pada materi sistem ekskresi.
Seasonal variation in the quality parameters of milk from an extensive, small family farm
Authors:   Department of Animal Breeding and Product Quality Assesment, Poznań University of Life Science, Złotniki, ul. Słoneczna 1, 62-002 Suchy Las, Poland, Czyżak-Runowska Grażyna , Wójtowski Jacek ,   Department of Animal Breeding and Product Quality Assesment, Poznań University of Life Science, Złotniki, ul. Słoneczna 1, 62-002 Suchy Las, Poland, Bielińska-Nowak Sylwia ,   Department of Animal Breeding and Product Quality Assesment, Poznań University of Life Science, Złotniki, ul. Słoneczna 1, 62-002 Suchy Las, Poland, Wojtczak Janusz ,   Department of Animal Breeding and Product Quality Assesment, Poznań University of Life Science, Złotniki, ul. Słoneczna 1, 62-002 Suchy Las, Poland, Markiewicz-Kęszycka Maria ,   School of Agriculture & Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
Published: April 2021

This research aimed to determine the hygienic quality, physicochemical properties and technological suitability of milk obtained in an extensive, small family farm in western Poland in the spring-summer (grazing) and autumn-winter (indoor) seasons. The farm was operated in the traditional manner where animals spend 7/24 on the pasture in the spring-summer season. The study was performed on forty-eight samples of bulk tank milk collected once a week over one year from 17 cows of the old local Polish black and white lowland breed. Milk was tested for somatic cell count, total bacterial count, basic composition, density, vitamin C content, rennet coagulation time, pH and colour in the CIE L*a*b* system. In the autumn-winter season, a higher somatic cell count, higher protein, fat and lactose levels, longer coagulation time and lower colour parameter a* values were found compared with the spring-summer period. However, no differences as regards the colour parameters L* and b* and vitamin C content were observed between the seasons. Highly significant negative correlations between the colour of the milk and the total bacterial count and somatic cell count were found (P ≤ 0.01). High somatic cells count in studied milk highlights that mastitis and milking hygiene are still a challenging task in small family farms.
Preparation of mare's colostrum and milk sample for 2-DE separation without acetone precipitation
Authors:   Department of Physiology, Cytobiology and Proteomics, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland, Cichy Aleksandra , Dratwa-Chałupnik Alicja ,   Department of Physiology, Cytobiology and Proteomics, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland, Medeńska Weronika ,   Department of Physiology, Cytobiology and Proteomics, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland, Ożgo Małgorzata ,   Department of Physiology, Cytobiology and Proteomics, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland, Pikuła Ryszard ,   Department of Monogastric Animal Sciences, Laboratory of Horse Breeding and Animalotherapy, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 33, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland
Published: April 2021

Before electrophoretic separation is performed, the samples must be dissolved in a lysis buffer (necessary to keep proteins dissolved and unbound during proteomic analyses during for a separation of proteins on polyacrylamide gels). The first step in preparing samples for proteomic analyses is their precipitation using e.g. acetone. The aim of precipitation is to obtain proteins from the sample and to remove the compounds interfering with 2-D electrophoresis. Due to difficulties in dissolving some colostrum and mare's milk samples in buffer lysis electrophoretic separation of this biological material was performed without acetone precipitation of proteins. To assess the effectiveness of the applied method, after two-dimensional separation of proteins (2-DE), the obtained gels were stained and archived. The preparation of mare's colostrum and milk samples for proteomic analyses, consisting of defatting, then precipitation of caseins and separation 2-DE, which was not preceded by precipitation of the samples with acetone, resulted in the loss of many protein spots which made it impossible to identify them later using the mass spectrometer.
Modified Stoppa Approach: Beyond Acetabular Fractures
Authors: Rizkallah Maroun , Bernardeau Anais , Upex Peter , Moreau Pierre Emmanuel , Abid Hichem , Jouffroy Pomme , Riouallon Guillaume
Published: April 2021

Cases:

We used the modified Stoppa approach in a 17-year-old man with a retained bullet in his acetabular fossa. The acetabular hole was used to irrigate the hip joint. We also used this approach in a 29-year-old woman with right hip pain and limping to remove an isolated tenosynovial giant cell tumor (“localized pigmented villonodular synovitis”) in the acetabular fossa expanding through the acetabulum.

Discussion:

We believe that this approach should become more familiar because it offers a simple alternative for treating acetabular pathologies mainly involving the acetabular fossa, sparing patients the hazards of capsulotomy, trochanteric osteotomy, dislocation, and traction and fluid pressure in hip arthroscopy.
Distal Clavicle Physeal Separation Mimicking an Acromioclavicular Joint Separation
Authors: Aebischer Andrea S. , Sarai Harminder , Wall Christopher J.
Published: April 2021

Case:

A 9-year-old boy sustained a right distal clavicle physeal separation with superior and posterior displacement through the periosteum. He was treated surgically with open reduction, Kirschner wire fixation, and periosteal repair and had an excellent outcome.

Conclusion:

Distal clavicle fractures are rare in children, and acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) separations are exceedingly rare. Differentiating between the 2 is often difficult radiographically and clinically. Our case represents a Type IV distal clavicle fracture but could be confused with an ACJ separation. Surgical treatment was successful.
ANALISA TEMPORAL SEBARAN SUHU PERMUKAAN LAUT TAHUN 2018 HINGGA 2020 DENGAN DATA CITRA TERRA MODIS
Authors: Azizah Aulia , Wibisana Hendrata
Published: April 2021

ABSTRACTSea surface temperature (SPL) information is the most important water quality parameter in the ocean, especially in coastal areas. Remote sensing technology with Terra Modis satellite data is used for periodic monitoring of SPL changes. The purpose of this study was to analyze the temporal distribution of SPL on the coast of Malang, East Java. The data used are SPL data from Terra-MODIS satellite sensors in May 2018, 2019 and 2020. Analysis of the data used is descriptive analysis which includes temporal analysis of SPL based on SPL fluctuations in graphical form. The results showed that the temporal variation of the 2018-2020 SPL on the coast of Malang tends to increase. The SPL value in 2018 varies between 25 ° C - 26 ° C while in 2019 it varies between 26 ° C - 27 ° C and in 2020 it ranges between 30 ° C - 31 ° C. The highest average SPL value from 2018 - 2020 is in 2020 with a temperature of 30.58 ° C. In an effort to model sea surface temperatures used calculations using mathematical models. From the results obtained it can be concluded that the most optimal mathematical model is derived from the wavelength of 667 nm on May 23, 2020 with the equation model y = -0,498ln (x) + 27,936 which results in a correlation value of R = 0.6561.Keywords: sea surface temperature, terra modis, satellite, mathematical models.ABSTRAKInformasi suhu permukaan laut (SPL) merupakan parameter kualitas perairan yang paling penting di lautan terutama kawasan pesisir. Teknologi penginderaan jauh dengan data satelit Terra-MODIS digunakan untuk pemantauan perubahan SPL secara berkala. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah menganalisis sebaran temporal SPL di pesisir pantai Malang, Jawa Timur. Data yang digunakan adalah data SPL dari sensor satelit Terra Modis bulan Mei 2018, 2019 dan 2020. Analisis data yang digunakan adalah analisis deskriptif yang meliputi analisis SPL secara temporal berdasarkan fluktuasi SPL dalam bentuk grafik. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa variasi temporal SPL tahun 2018-2020 di pesisir Malang cenderung mengalami peningkatan. Nilai SPL tahun 2018 bervariasi antara 25°C – 26°C sedangkan tahun 2019 bervariasi antara 26°C – 27°C dan tahun 2020 berkisar antara 30°C – 31°C. Nilai SPL rata-rata tertinggi dari tahun 2018 – 2020 berada pada tahun 2020 dengan suhu 30,58°C. Dalam upaya memodelkan suhu permukaan laut digunakan perhitungan dengan menggunakan model matematika. Dari hasil yang diperoleh dapat disimpulkan bahwa model matematis yang paling optimal berasal dari panjang gelombang 667 nm pada tanggal 23 Mei 2020 dengan model persamaan y = -0,498ln(x) + 27,936 yang menghasilkan nilai korelasi R = 0,6561.Kata Kunci: suhu permukaan laut, terra modis, satelit, model matematis.
Generative Capacity of Probabilistic Protein Sequence Models
Authors: McGee Francisco , Novinger Quentin , Levy Ronald , Carnevale Vincenzo , Haldane Allan
Published: April 2021

Potts models and variational autoencoders (VAEs) have recently gained popularity as generative protein sequence models (GPSMs) to explore fitness landscapes and predict the effect of mutations. Despite encouraging results, quantitative characterization and comparison of GPSM-generated probability distributions is still lacking. It is currently unclear whether GPSMs can faithfully reproduce the complex multi-residue mutation patterns observed in natural sequences arising due to epistasis. We develop a set of sequence statistics to comparatively assess the accuracy, or “generative capacity”, of three GPSMs: a pairwise Potts Hamiltonian, a vanilla VAE, and a site-independent model, using natural and synthetic datasets. We show that the generative capacity of the Potts Hamiltonian model is the largest; the higher order mutational statistics generated by the model agree with those observed for natural sequences. In contrast, we show that the vanilla VAE’s generative capacity lies between the pairwise Potts and site-independent models. Importantly, our work measures GPSM generative capacity in terms of higher-order sequence covariation and provides a new framework for evaluating and interpreting GPSM accuracy that emphasizes the role of epistasis.
Multi-objective Water Resources Optimum Allocation Scheme Based on Improved Standard Cuckoo Searching Algorithm (ISCSA)
Authors: Zhou Ke
Published: April 2021

The standard cuckoo searching algorithm(SCSA)is a population intelligent optimization algorithm, which is also a new heuristic searching algorithm. The advantages of SCSA (such as convenient operation, heuristic searching, etc.) make it easy to find the optimal solution and maintain wider searching range. However, SCSA also has some drawbacks, such as long searching time, easy to fall into local optimum. In order to solve the problems existed in SCSA, in this paper, the improved standard cuckoo searching algorithm (ISCSA) was studied, which includes chaotic initialization and Gaussian disturbed algorithm. As a case study, taking economic, social and ecological benefits as the objective function, the multi-objective water resources optimal allocation models were constructed in Xianxiang Region, China. The ISCSA was applied to solve the water allocation models and the multi-objective optimal water supply scheme for Xinxiang region was obtained. The water resources optimal allocation schemes in the planning level year (2025) for 12 water supply sub-regions were predicted. The desirable eco-environment and benefits were achieved using the studied methods. The results show that the ISCSA has obvious advantages in the solution of water resources optimal allocation and planning.
Understanding the mechanisms generating outcomes in a Danish peer support intervention for socially vulnerable people with type 2-diabetes: a realist evaluation
Authors: Garn Stine Dandanell , Glümer Charlotte , Villadsen Sarah Fredsted , Malling Gritt Marie Hviid , Christensen Ulla
Published: April 2021

Background: Despite increasing use and positive effects of peer support interventions, little is known about how they produce outcomes. Thus, it is essential not only to measure outcomes, but also to identify the mechanisms by which they are generated. Using a realist evaluation approach, we aimed to identify the mechanisms generating outcomes in a Danish peer support intervention for socially vulnerable people with type 2-diabetes (peers). By investigating how the peers interacted in the intervention, we further examined how peers’ individual contextual factors facilitated or hindered the mechanisms in operation.
Methods: We used a multi-method case-study design (n=9). Data included semi-structured interviews with four key groups of informants (peer, peer supporter, project manager and a diabetes nurse) for each case (n=25). Furthermore, we collected survey data from peers both before and after participation (n=9). The interview data were analysed using a systematic text condensation, and the Intervention-context-actor-mechanism-outcome framework was used to structure the analysis.
Results: We identified two groups of mechanisms that improved diabetes self-management and the use of healthcare services (outcomes): ‘perceived needs and readiness’ and ‘encouragement and energy’. However, the mechanisms only generated the intended outcomes among peers with a stable occupation and financial situation, a relatively good health condition, and sufficient energy (all defined as contextual factors). Independent of these contextual factors, ‘experience of social and emotional support’ was identified as a mechanism within all peers that increased self-care awareness (defined as output). Dependent on whether the contextual factors facilitated or hindered the mechanisms to generate outcomes, we categorised the peers into those who achieved outcomes and those who did not.
Conclusions: We identified two groups of mechanisms that improved the peers’ diabetes self-management and use of healthcare services. The mechanisms only generated the intended outcomes if peers’ individual contextual factors facilitated an active interaction with the elements of the intervention. However, independent of these contextual factors, a third group of mechanisms increased self-care awareness among all peers. We highlight the importance of contextual awareness of the target groups in the design and evaluation of peer support interventions for socially vulnerable people with type 2-diabetes.
Trial registration : ClinicalTrials.gov, Retrospective Registration (01/20/2021), registration number NCT04722289, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04722289?term=The+Together+on+Diabetes+Intervention+-+a+Realist+Evaluation%2C&draw=2&rank=1
Keywords: Complex Intervention, Realist evaluation, Mechanisms, Context, Peer support, Diabetes self-management, Healthcare services, Inequality
Central corneal thickness measurements in phakic, pseudophakic, and aphakic children with ultrasound pachymetry and different non-contact devices
Authors: Farvardin Majid , Shamsi Anis , Norouzpour Amir , Jalalpour Mohammad-Hasan
Published: April 2021

Aims: Evidence for choosing a satisfactory device for central corneal thickness (CCT) measurement in children particularly pseudophakic and aphakic ones is insufficient. The aim of this study is to compare four differently-measured CCTs obtained using ultrasound pachymetry (UP), Pentacam, partial coherence interferometry (PCI), and specular microscopy (SM) in phakic, pseudophakic, and aphakic children and assess the agreement between the six pairs of the methods. Methods: Children with history of cataract surgery at age six or younger and phakic children were recruited into this study. CCT was measured using UP (Optikon 2000, Rome, Italy), Pentacam (Oculus Inc, Wetzlar, Germany), PCI (IOLMaster 700, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Jena, Germany), and SM (Topcon SP-3000P; Topcon Corporation, Japan).Results: One-hundred two eyes (53 phakic, 29 pseudophakic, and 20 aphakic eyes) were included. The mean ages (±SD) of phakic, pseudophakic, and aphakic cases were 9.75 (±3.3), 9.9 (±2.3), and 8.2 (±2.8) years respectively. The mean CCTs (±SE) for phakic children using Pentacam, PCI, UP, and SM were 549.7 (±5.0), 546.5 (±4.5), 565.9 (±5.5), and 506.2 (±4.4) mm respectively, for pseudophakic cases were 570.1 (±6.4), 565.0 (±6.1), 571.9 (±6.3), and 524.3 (±6.3) mm respectively, and for aphakic participants were 635.3 (±14.2), 635.4 (±14.5), 649.0 (±13.5), and 589.1 (±13.3) mm respectively. Conclusion: Compared to Pentacam and PCI, SM underestimated CCT particularly in phakic and pseudophakic children, whereas UP slightly overestimated CCT especially in phakic and aphakic children. Furthermore, Pentacam and PCI had the closest agreement. By contrast, SM had the poorest agreement with the other three methods.
The Constraint of the Eco-Friendly Rooftop PV System Implementation Based on the Techno-economic and Regulatory Impact Analysis: Case Study of The Ontowiryo Mosque in Purworejo, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Suparwoko Suparwoko - , Qamar Fadhil Ahmad
Published: April 2021

Background: The government is optimistic that Indonesia is able to be energy independent because Indonesia has a variety of energy sources that can be utilized for the benefit of the nation and state, both fossil and non-fossil energy sources, including solar energy through solar power system. The solar power system or photovoltaic system is an eco-friendly option usually applied to meet the need for energy due to its lower carbon footprint when compared to fossil-fueled power plants. This research was, therefore, used to conduct a techno-economic and regulatory impact analysis on a rooftop photovoltaic system installed in a mosque in Purworejo, Indonesia under a net metering mechanism. Result: The installation was aimed at reducing entire carbon emission from the annual energy usage which is an equivalent of 4 tons of carbon dioxide. The research shows that the economic feasibility of the photovoltaic systems, measured by the Net Present Value (NPV) of the electricity bill saving are negative values for all the configurations based on the type and number of panels. This low financial attractiveness was observed to be due to several unsupportive regulations such as subsidized electricity tariff, minimum grid electricity usage limit, and less-rewarding net metering scheme. The research also suggests that the abolishment of the minimum usage limit was discovered to have incurred the greatest increase of NPV to the photovoltaic system designed to entirely supply the load demand while the implementation of a higher electricity tariff caused the highest increase of NPV for the photovoltaic systems with partial supply scenario. Conclusion: Finally, it is financially unfeasible to install a photovoltaic system on the mosque rooftop at the current electricity tariff, costs of components, and regulations implemented concerning the adoption of the system. As a constraint, the power regulation in Indonesia should be reviewed significantly to support any buildings of worship to develop their opportunities for managing energy systems independently. The potential implication is that they would be able to contribute their social economic role in supporting their really crucial community daily life energy. This approach is in line with the government policy and strengthening the sustainable development goals.
Emissions inventory for road transport in India in 2020: Framework and post facto policy impact assessment
Authors: Singh Namita , Mishra Trupti , Banerjee Rangan
Published: April 2021

India's growing population and economic development lead to an increase in transport emissions. Quantification of emissions at frequent intervals is required to assess the emission levels and impact of control policies implemented. Implemented policies affect the fleet configuration over time. Therefore, in the present paper, an age-wise emission analysis framework was developed for the road transport sector with updated fleet characteristics corresponding to the vehicles' age. The results show that fuel consumption is estimated to be 92 (87–95) Mt, and total CO2, CO, PM, and NOx vehicle emissions are estimated to be 274 (265–292) Tg, 4463 (3253–6676) Gg, 164 (119–250) Gg, and 2378 (2191–3045) Gg, respectively for the reference year 2020. The study contributes by developing an inventory for the fleet of 2020 used as a benchmark to compare past emissions inventories, evaluate control policies, estimate state-wise vehicle emissions inventories, and identify significant emitters in the fleet. Sensitivity analysis indicates the considerable variation in total emissions resulting from different age-mix of vehicles. Among the investigated policies, advancement in emission norms followed by fuel efficiency improvement in vehicles led to a substantial reduction in gaseous pollutants. Based on the inventory results, suitable policies are suggested for India's future fleet, and the need for country-level fleet characteristics data is recommended.
A randomized controlled study of anterior lumbar plexus combined with parasacral sciatic nerve block under the guidance of ultrasound and nerve stimulator in elderly patients undergoing hip arthroplasty
Authors: Wu Wei , Bu Wen-hao , Huang Hai-bin , Mao Ying , Tan Yong-xing
Published: April 2021

Objectives: To explore the clinical application of anterior lumbar plexus combined with parasacral nerve block under the dual guidance of ultrasound and nerve stimulator in elderly hip arthroplasty.Methods: Forty elderly patients aged from 65 to 85 years old who underwent unilateral hip arthroplasty (Except for revision of hip joint) were randomly divided into two groups (n=20 in each group): ultrasound-guided anterior lumbar plexus combined with parasacral sciatic nerve block group (group A) and ultrasound-guided anterior lumbar plexus block group (group B). Both groups were assisted with sedation with different doses of dexmetopyrimidine and analgesia with different doses of sufentanil. Because the orthopaedic team of our hospital performed hip arthroplasty with mature technique and fixed operation time, the onset time of block in group An and B, heart rate and blood pressure at admission (T0), skin incision (T1), half hour after skin incision (T2) and skin suture(T3), intraoperative dosage ofdexmedetomidine and sufentanil, postoperative 1, 4, 8, 16, 24hVAS score and the first time of getting out of bed were recorded.Results: the heart rate and blood pressure at T1, T2 and T3 in group A were significantly lower than those in group B (P < 0.05). The amount of sufentanil used during operation in group), A was significantly lower than that in group B (P < 0.05). The postoperative scores of 1,4,8,16 and 24hVAS in group), A were significantly lower than those in group B (P < 0.05), and the time of getting out of bed for the first time after operation was shorter than that in group B (P < 0.05).Conclusion: compared with simple anterior lumbar plexus block, anterior lumbar plexus combined with parasacral sciatic nerve block in elderly patients with hip arthroplasty can make the intraoperative circulation more stable, the intraoperative dosage of opioids significantly reduced and the effect of early postoperative analgesia is better. it can also shorten the time for patients to get out of bed for the first time.
Age-related ceRNA networks and the mRNA/protein correlation in Drosophila ageing
Authors: Yang Deying , Yuan Ya , He Zhi , Tu Jianbo , Wang Siqi , Li Jiamei , Zhang Pu , Mao Xueping , Fan Xiaolan , Li Diyan , Zeng Bo , Ni Qingyong , Li Yan , Zhang Mingwang , Yan Taiming , Yang Mingyao
Published: April 2021

Background

As Drosophila is a classic model organism, understanding of the regulatory networks has great significance in revealing the genetic mechanisms of ageing and human diseases. Competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA)-mediated regulation is an important mechanism of circular RNA (circRNA) and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) regulation in ageing and age-related disease. However, extensive analyses of the multi-omics (circRNA/miRNA/mRNA, lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA, and mRNA/protein) characteristics of adult Drosophila ageing have not been reported. Our results determine the ceRNA networks and the mRNA/protein correlations of key differentially expressed genes in adult Drosophila aging, and provide a solid foundation for understanding mechanisms of human ageing and ageing-related diseases.
Results

Here, differentially expressed circRNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs) between 7 and 42 day old Drosophila were screened and identified. Then, the differentially expressed mRNAs, circRNAs, miRNAs, lncRNAs, and proteins between day 7 and day 42 were used to analyse fly age-related circRNA/miRNA/mRNA and lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA networks and the mRNA/protein correlation in Drosophila ageing. Several key ceRNA networks were identified, such as the circ_0006913/miR-985-3p/Abl, circ_0009500/miR-14-5p/SERCA, XLOC_100429/miR-14-5p/SERCA, and XLOC_100429/miR-14-5p/Vha100-4 networks. Subsequently, 16 pairs of differentially expressed interacting mRNAs/proteins were found, including 10 pairs with the same expression trends and 6 pairs with the opposite expression trends. Furthermore, real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to verify the expression level of those genes.
Conclusions

The discovery of these ceRNA networks and the mRNA/protein correlations in adult Drosophila ageing will provide new information for research on human ageing and age-related disease.
Coherent optical communications using coherence-cloned Kerr soliton microcombs
Authors: Geng Yong , Zhou Heng , Han Xinjie , Cui Wenwen , Zhang Qiang , Liu Boyuan , Guang-Wei Deng , Zhou Qiang , Qiu Kun
Published: April 2021

Dissipative Kerr soliton microcomb has been recognized as a promising on-chip multi-wavelength laser source for fiber optical communications, as its comb lines possess frequency and phase stability far beyond the independent lasers. In the scenarios of coherent optical transmission and interconnect, a highly beneficial but rarely explored target is to re-generate a Kerr soliton microcomb at the receiver side as local oscillators that conserve the frequency and phase property of the incoming data carriers, so that to enable coherent detection with minimized optical and electrical compensations. Here, by using the techniques of pump laser conveying and two-point locking, we implement re-generation of a Kerr soliton microcomb that faithfully clones the frequency and phase coherence of another microcomb sent from 50 km away. Moreover, leveraging the coherence-cloned soliton microcombs as carriers and local oscillators, we demonstrate terabit coherent data interconnect, wherein traditional digital processes for frequency offset estimation is totally dispensed with, and carrier phase estimation is substantially simplified via slowed-down phase estimation rate per channel and joint phase estimation among multiple channels. Our work reveals that, in addition to providing a multitude of laser tones, regulating the frequency and phase of Kerr soliton microcombs among transmitters and receivers can significantly improve optical coherent communication in terms of performance, power consumption, and simplicity.
Direct Biotic Plant–soil Feedback Promotes Dodonaea Viscosa Growth in a Dry-hot Valley, China
Authors: Wang Xuemei , Yan Bangguo , Shi Liangtao , Liu Gangcai
Published: April 2021

Biotic plant-soil feedback has been widely studied, and may be particularly important in resource-poor areas. However, the roles of soil nutrient cycling in affecting plant growth in this process still remained unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the roles of soil biota in regulating nutrient cycling by conducting a two-phase feedback experiment in a dry-hot valley, with a conditioning phase during which there were Dodonaea viscosa or no D. viscosa growing in the soil, and a feedback phase in which the effect of the conditioned soil biota on D. viscosa performance was measured. The growth of D. viscosa significantly reduced soil N after the conditioning phase. However, D. viscosa showed a positive plant-soil feedback. In the feedback phase, the D. viscosa conditioned soil promoted the stem diameter, leaf area, and leaf dry mass content of D. viscosa. Total biomass was also significantly higher in D. viscosa conditioned soil than that in not conditioned soil. In contrast, soil sterilization had a negative effect on the growth of D. viscosa, with a significant reduction in plant biomass, especially in D. viscosa conditioned soil, and soil sterilization significantly increased the root: shoot biomass ratio and litter mass. Furthermore, we showed that although the biota-driven changes in enzyme activities correlated with the leaf N and P amount especially P amount, the enzyme activity was not the main reason to promote D. viscosa growth in the conditioned soil.
A Novel Entomopathogenic Actinobacteria Mediated Silver Nanoparticles Characterization and Their Insecticidal, Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Activities
Authors: Raguvaran Krishnan , Kalpana Manickam , Manimegalai Thulasiraman , Balakrishnan Rengasamy , Maheswaran Rajan
Published: April 2021

Nanomaterials were highly inspired in the field of nanotechnology especially bio synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have effectively attracted worldwide that helps to improve in the field of medical science and human health. Actinabacteria mediated nanoparticle were widely used to control insect pests, treatment of antibiotic resistant bacteria, cancer and other diseases due to their potential pharmacological properties compared with other chemical drugs. The present investigation an entomopathogenic actinobacteria Actinokineospora fastidiosa was isolated and synthesis of AgNPs and tested their mosquito larvicidal, antibacterial and anticancer activity. Moreover, the outcome of biosynthesized AgNPs was characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and zeta potential analysis. The characterized AgNPs showed a potent larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus the obtained LC50 values is 9.86 ppm, 8.50 ppm and 8.29 ppm respectively. However, at 25 ppm concentration, AgNPs showed highest ovicidal activity (100 %, 100 % and 97.77 % against A. aegypti, A. stephensi and C. quinquefasciatus respectively) and oviposition deterrence activity was 100 %, 100 % and 98.66 % were achieved against A. aegypti, A. stephensi and C. quinquefasciatus respectively. The enzymes of α, β esterase and Glutathione-S-transferase level were increased due to detoxification process against AgNPs. The histopathological results of AgNPs showed series damage in epithelial cells and brush border cell of mosquito larval gut. In addition, actinobacterial mediated AgNPs was tested against different human pathogenic bacteria. The obtained results showed biosynthesized AgNPs revealed remarkable antibacterial activity against all tested pathogens. The lowest mortality was observed on non-target organisms of Artemia salina at highest concentration of AgNPs. Finally, in vitro toxicity study showed that biosynthesized AgNPs potential anticancer activity and induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in human cervical cancer (HeLa) cell line at an inhibitory concentration (IC50) range 42.37 μg/mL. Therefore, it can be concluded that biosynthesized AgNPs using a novel stains Actinokineospora fastidiosa potentially influenced the vector mosquito and bacterial diseases management and pharmacological applications in eco-friendly manner.
Silencing of Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Receptors and Potassium Channels May Inhibits the Invasion and Migration of Breast Cancer
Authors: Cosan Didem Turgut , SOYOCAK Ahu , ÇALIŞ İbrahim Uğur
Published: April 2021

Molecular receptor signaling mechanisms play an important role in many pathophysiological processes, including breast cancer. The spread of cancer from peripheral tissue to distant organs by metastasis is the cause of death of most breast cancer patients. For that reason, the most important step in the treatment of cancer is to prevent metastasis. Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors and potassium channels play role of cancer cell migration, invasion and they may interact with each other in the progression of cancer. In this study, it was aimed to determine the effects of combined silencing of receptors and channels on the invasion and migration of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and their interactions on cells. We examined the expression levels of S1P1, S1P3, Kv1.3, and Kv10.1 in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines by qRT-PCR. The effects of migration and invasion of breast cancer cells were determined through invasian and wound healing assays. It was observed that high invasion and lateral motility in cells decreased with the combined silencing of S1P1, S1P3, Kv1.3 and Kv10.1 in both cell types. It has been determined that silencing the receptors and channels together is more effective than silencing individually. Our data demonstrated the roles of S1P receptors and potassium channels were associated with invasion and migration signaling pathway. Therefore, these are might be possible therapeutic target for breast cancer metastasis.
Overexpression of ZmDHN11 could enhance transgenic yeast and tobacco tolerance to osmotic stress
Authors: Ju huining , Li daxing , Li Dequan , Yang Xinghong , Liu Yang
Published: April 2021

Late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins are widely assumed to play crucial roles in environmental stress tolerance, but their function has remained obscure. Dehydrins are group II LEA proteins, which are highly hydrophilic plant stress proteins. In the present study, a novel group II LEA protein, ZmDHN11 was cloned and identified from maize. The expression of ZmDHN11 was induced by high osmotic stress, low temperature, salinity and ABA (abscisic acid). The ZmDHN11 protein specifically accumulated in the nuclei and cytosol. Further study indicated that ZmDHN11 is phosphorylated by the casein kinase CKII. ZmDHN11 protected the activity of LDH under water deficit stress. The overexpression of ZmDHN11 endows transgenic yeast and tobacco with tolerance to osmotic stress.
High Performance Liquid Chromatography – Ultraviolet Method for the Determination of Fludioxonil Fungicide Residues: Application on Rice Grains Cultivated in Pakistan
Authors: Khalid Aneeqa , Ali Saeeda Nadir , Qayoom Amtul , Iqbal Sajid , Ansari Sadia , Awan Zahoor Ul Hussain , Kishwar Farah , Daniel Philippe
Published: April 2021

An analytical method was developed and validated for the determination of fludioxonil in rice samples. Rice samples for the study were collected from different regions of Pakistan. The method was based on safe and cost-effective extraction of fludioxonil from rice grains using acetone and methanol (1:1), efficient clean-up through homogenous mixture of acidic aluminum (12 g) and activated charcoal (1 g) followed by liquid chromatographic determination with UV detection. Quantification was performed on Prospher Star C18 (5 µm, 25 x 0.46 cm) column maintaining the temperature 40ºC and detector wavelength 212 nm using mobile phase 50:50 v/v methanol-water (pH 3.3) employing flow rate 1.0 mL.min-1 and 20 µL injection volume. The method showed linearity with correlation coefficient greater than 0.998. The proposed method was precisely validated for rice sample of all regions, showing recoveries higher than 98%. Rice samples collected from Badin, Multan, Hyderabad, Lahore, Jahania and Sarghoda was found to have fludioxonil residues 0.046, 0.045, 0,043, 0.040, 0.024 and 0.016 mg.kg-1 respectively, all below the maximum residual limit (MRL) level i.e. 0.05 mg.kg-1 whereas samples collected from Khanewal and Gularchi showed fludioxonil residue above MRL i.e 0.065 and 0.058 mg.kg-1 respectively. However, fludioxonil residues was not detected in rice sample collected from city Makhdumpur.