Structural and Morphological Studies on Li2Fe0.5Mn0.5SiO4/C Composite Synthesized Using Polyvinyl Alcohol for Energy Storage Devices.

In this study, we first focus on effects of PVA surfactant on Li2Fe0.5Mn0.5SiO4/C by using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, micro Raman analysis, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope and magnetization measurements. XRD result reveals the formation of new phase (Li2Fe0.5Mn0.5SiO4/C), as a result of embedded carbon, intensity of the peaks was also suppressed. Intensity domination of G-band in micro Raman analysis affirmed that the establishment of graphene formation which was yielded from decomposition of organic materials of both PVA and acetate. Confirmation of Si-O and Si-C bond in the as-prepared material was made by FTIR analyses. A well uniform spherical shaped morphology was observed in both SEM and TEM images. In addition, the TEM picture further demonstrates Li2Fe0.5Mn0.5SiO4/C with average particle size of about 20 nm by PVA introducing.

Characterization of a novel small molecule that potentiates ß-lactam activity against gram-positive and gram-negative pathogens.

In a loss-of-viability screen using small molecules against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strain USA300 with a sub-MIC of a ß-lactam, we found a small molecule, designated DNAC-1, which potentiated the effect of oxacillin (i.e., the MIC of oxacillin decreased from 64 to 0.25 µg/ml). Fluorescence microscopy indicated a disruption in the membrane structures within 15 min of exposure to DNAC-1 at 2× MIC. This permeabilization was accompanied by a rapid loss of membrane potential, as monitored by use of the DiOC2 (3,3'-diethyloxacarbocyanine iodide) dye. Macromolecular analysis showed the inhibition of staphylococcal cell wall synthesis by DNAC-1. Transmission electron microscopy of treated MRSA USA300 cells revealed a slightly thicker cell wall, together with mesosome-like projections into the cytosol. The exposure of USA300 cells to DNAC-1 was associated with the mislocalization of FtsZ accompanied by the localization of penicillin-binding protein 2 (PBP2) and PBP4 away from the septum, as well as mild activation of the vraRS-mediated cell wall stress response. However, DNAC-1 does not have any generalized toxicity toward mammalian host cells. DNAC-1 in combination with ceftriaxone is also effective against an assortment of Gram-negative pathogens. Using a murine subcutaneous coinjection model with 10(8) CFU of USA300 as a challenge inoculum, DNAC-1 alone or DNAC-1 with a sub-MIC of oxacillin resulted in a 6-log reduction in bacterial load and decreased abscess formation compared to the untreated control. We propose that DNAC-1, by exerting a bimodal effect on the cell membrane and cell wall, is a viable candidate in the development of combination therapy against many common bacterial pathogens.

Prolonging the lifetime of wireless sensor networks interconnected to fixed network using hierarchical energy tree based routing algorithm.

This research work proposes a mathematical model for the lifetime of wireless sensor networks (WSN). It also proposes an energy efficient routing algorithm for WSN called hierarchical energy tree based routing algorithm (HETRA) based on hierarchical energy tree constructed using the available energy in each node. The energy efficiency is further augmented by reducing the packet drops using exponential congestion control algorithm (TCP/EXP). The algorithms are evaluated in WSNs interconnected to fixed network with seven distribution patterns, simulated in ns2 and compared with the existing algorithms based on the parameters such as number of data packets, throughput, network lifetime, and data packets average network lifetime product. Evaluation and simulation results show that the combination of HETRA and TCP/EXP maximizes longer network lifetime in all the patterns. The lifetime of the network with HETRA algorithm has increased approximately 3.2 times that of the network implemented with AODV.

An improved Pearson's correlation proximity-based hierarchical clustering for mining biological association between genes.

Microarray gene expression datasets has concerned great awareness among molecular biologist, statisticians, and computer scientists. Data mining that extracts the hidden and usual information from datasets fails to identify the most significant biological associations between genes. A search made with heuristic for standard biological process measures only the gene expression level, threshold, and response time. Heuristic search identifies and mines the best biological solution, but the association process was not efficiently addressed. To monitor higher rate of expression levels between genes, a hierarchical clustering model was proposed, where the biological association between genes is measured simultaneously using proximity measure of improved Pearson's correlation (PCPHC). Additionally, the Seed Augment algorithm adopts average linkage methods on rows and columns in order to expand a seed PCPHC model into a maximal global PCPHC (GL-PCPHC) model and to identify association between the clusters. Moreover, a GL-PCPHC applies pattern growing method to mine the PCPHC patterns. Compared to existing gene expression analysis, the PCPHC model achieves better performance. Experimental evaluations are conducted for GL-PCPHC model with standard benchmark gene expression datasets extracted from UCI repository and GenBank database in terms of execution time, size of pattern, significance level, biological association efficiency, and pattern quality.

Role of ArlRS in autolysis in methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains.

Autolysis plays an essential role in bacterial cell division and lysis with ß-lactam antibiotics. Accordingly, the expression of autolysins is tightly regulated by several endogenous regulators, including ArlRS, a two component regulatory system that has been shown to negatively regulate autolysis in methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) strains. In this study, we found that inactivation of arlRS does not play a role in autolysis of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains, such as community-acquired (CA)-MRSA strains USA300 and MW2 or the hospital-acquired (HA)-MRSA strain COL. This contrasts with MSSA strains, including Newman, SH1000, RN6390, and 8325-4, where autolysis is affected by ArlRS. We further demonstrated that the striking difference in the roles of arlRS between MSSA and MRSA strains is not due to the methicillin resistance determinant mecA. Among known autolysins and their regulators, we found that arlRS represses lytN, while no effect was seen on atl, lytM, and lytH expression in both CA- and HA-MRSA strains. Transcriptional-fusion assays showed that the agr transcripts, RNAII and RNAIII, were significantly more downregulated in the arlRS mutant of MW2 than the MSSA strain Newman. Importantly, provision of agr RNAIII in trans to the MW2 arlRS mutant via a multicopy plasmid induced autolysis in this MRSA strain. Also, the autolytic phenotype in the arlRS mutant of MSSA strain Newman could be rescued by a mutation in either atl or lytM. Together, these data showed that ArlRS impacts autolysis differently in MSSA and MRSA strains.

Forecasting COVID-19 Pandemic Using Prophet, ARIMA, and Hybrid Stacked LSTM-GRU Models in India.

Due to the proliferation of COVID-19, the world is in a terrible condition and human life is at risk. The SARS-CoV-2 virus had a significant impact on public health, social issues, and financial issues. Thousands of individuals are infected on a regular basis in India, which is one of the populations most seriously impacted by the pandemic. Despite modern medical and technical technology, predicting the spread of the virus has been extremely difficult. Predictive models have been used by health systems such as hospitals, to get insight into the influence of COVID-19 on outbreaks and possible resources, by minimizing the dangers of transmission. As a result, the main focus of this research is on building a COVID-19 predictive analytic technique. In the Indian dataset, Prophet, ARIMA, and stacked LSTM-GRU models were employed to forecast the number of confirmed and active cases. State-of-the-art models such as the recurrent neural network (RNN), gated recurrent unit (GRU), long short-term memory (LSTM), linear regression, polynomial regression, autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA), and Prophet were used to compare the outcomes of the prediction. After predictive research, the stacked LSTM-GRU model forecast was found to be more consistent than existing models, with better prediction results. Although the stacked model necessitates a large dataset for training, it aids in creating a higher level of abstraction in the final results and the maximization of the model's memory size. The GRU, on the other hand, assists in vanishing gradient resolution. The study findings reveal that the proposed stacked LSTM and GRU model outperforms all other models in terms of R square and RMSE and that the coupled stacked LSTM and GRU model outperforms all other models in terms of R square and RMSE. This forecasting aids in determining the future transmission paths of the virus.

Onboard Pointing Error Detection and Estimation of Observation Satellite Data Using Extended Kalman Filter.

The satellite communication is embellished constantly by providing information, ensuring security, and enables the communication among huge at a particular time efficiently. The satellite navigation helps in determining the people's location. Global development, natural disasters, change in climatic conditions, agriculture crop growth, etc., are monitored using satellite observation. Hence, the satellite includes detailed information data, and it must be protected confidentially. The field of the satellite is enhanced at an astonishing pace. Satellite data play an important role in this modern world; hence, the onboard-satellite data must secure through the proper selection of error detection and estimation schema. Lightweight deep learning algorithm based on Extended Kalman Filter (KFK) is proposed to detect and estimate onboard pointing error such as an error in attitude and orbit. The Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) is widely used in the satellite system. EKF is utilized in this proposed model to detect the onboard pointing error such as attitude and orbit determination. An autonomous estimation of orbit position is possible through space-borne gravity. The information obtained through the observation of satellite data is compared with the accurate gravity model in detecting the error. The utilization of EKF reduces the dependence of the ground tracking system in satellite determination. The orbital altitude and orbital position are the most important challenges faced in the satellite determination system. The satellite model using the Extended Kalman Filter is an optimum method in estimating the orbital parameters. The errors in the linearization process are detected, and this can be overcome through the proper selection of linear expansion point with the EKF algorithmic model with the Jacobian matrix calculation. The results show that the EKF implementation helps in attaining better accuracy than other methodologies. Its contribution is enormous to many space missions, autonomous rendezvous and docking for manned and unmanned missions (e.g., ISS operations and beyond, in-orbit servicing, and in-orbit refueling), routine satellite OD operations, orbital debris removal systems, Space Situational Awareness (SSA) operations, and others.

Distribution and characterization of plastic debris pollution along the Poompuhar Beach, Tamil Nadu, Southern India.

The present study was carried out to determine the characteristics, distribution, and abundance of plastic debris in 25 sediment samples collected from the Poompuhar beach, southeast coast of India. The result reveals that the mean plastic debris abundance was 42 ± 27 particles/m2 dry weight (dw) (1 SD, n = 25) with higher concentrations in the river mouth. The dominant shapes in the study area were fragment (70.7%), followed by fiber (20.7%), and pellet-shaped (8.6%). The dominant colors of the plastic debris were: white-colored (47%) followed by blue (28%) and green (14%). The study further reveals that the dominant polymer type was polyethylene (PE, 63.4%), followed by nylon (PA, 16.9), polyvinyl chloride (PVC, 15.5%), polypropylene (PP, 3.1%), and polystyrene (PS, 1.1%). In the study area, the main source of plastic debris was from land-based fishing and tourism activities, and rainwater runoff from the Cauvery River.

Microporous Metal-Organic Framework (MOF)-Based Composite Polymer Electrolyte (CPE) Mitigating Lithium Dendrite Formation in All-Solid-State-Lithium Batteries.

Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-based composite polymer electrolytes (CPEs) containing the amine-functionalized, zirconium-based metal-organic framework @silica (UiO-66-NH2@SiO2) and lithium, LiN(CF3SO2)2 salt (LiTFSI) are prepared using a simple hot press method. The electrochemical properties such as compatibility of the electrolyte with the Li metal anode, Li transference number, and ionic conductivity are investigated for the different systems containing different relative concentrations of the additives. The incorporation of UiO-66-NH2@SiO2 in the PEO-LiTFSI matrix not only enhanced ionic conductivity by one order of magnitude but also offered better compatibility and suppressed the formation of lithium dendrites appreciably. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies on post-cycled materials revealed the formation of lithium alkoxide (RO-Li) on the cathode and Li2O on the anode. The coin cell (2032-type) consisting of LiFePO4/CPE/Li with UiO-66-NH2@SiO2 as filler provided a discharge capacity of 151 mA h g-1 at 0.1 C-rate at 60 °C, measurably higher than control experiments utilizing SiO2 and UiO-66-NH2. The notable enhancement of electrochemical properties when incorporating the UiO-66-NH2@SiO2 at the CPE was attributed to formation of more uniform ion conduction pockets and channels within the PEO matrix, facilitated by the presence of the microporous UiO-66-NH2@SiO2. The enhanced distribution of microporous channels, where Li ions are assumed to percolate through within the matrix, is assumed to desirably reduce formation of Li dendrites by increasing diffusion channels and therefore reducing crystallization and growth of dendrites at the electrode surface.

Survival rate of different fixed posterior space maintainers used in Paediatric Dentistry - A systematic review.

PURPOSE: Space Maintainers have long been used for the management of space loss in primary and mixed dentition, but there is a need to have an evidence based approach when selecting the most appropriate space maintainer for space management in children. This systematic review aimed to assess the survival rate of space maintainers in children. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted until October 2017 using PubMed, Scopus, and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases to identify peer- reviewed papers published in English. Search keywords and MeSH headings include "primary dentition" and "Fixed Space maintainers". The inclusion criteria were clinical studies conducted in children less than 12 years of age, who required unilateral or bilateral fixed space maintainer. Retrieved papers were evaluated by four reviewers independently to assess suitability for inclusion in the systematic review and the final decision was made by consensus. Qualities of the included studies were assessed using Quality of Reporting of Observational Longitudinal Research by Oxford Academics and data were extracted for analysis. RESULTS: The search identified a total of 39 papers for screening after removal of duplicate articles. Among the retrieved studies, 23 papers did not satisfy the study inclusion criteria. Consequently, 16 full text articles were retrieved and reviewed. Finally, those 11 papers which fulfilled all the inclusion criteria were selected and reviewed systematically. Most of the clinical trials were assessed as having moderate and low risk of bias. CONCLUSION: There is a wide variation in the survival rate of metal based and resin based space maintainers and also within the metal based space maintainers. There is an inadequate evidence to recommend one best fixed space maintainer due to lack of properly designed studies. Hence, clinical trial comparing different types of metal based space maintainer and resin based space maintainer with longer duration of follow-up must be performed to evaluate its survival rate.

A quinolinol-based small molecule with anti-MRSA activity that targets bacterial membrane and promotes fermentative metabolism.

In a loss-of-viability screen of small molecules against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) USA300, we found a small molecule, designated DNAC-2, which has an MIC of 8 µg ml-1. DNAC-2 is a quinolinol derivative that is bactericidal at 2X MIC. Macromolecular synthesis assays at 2 × MIC of DNAC-2 revealed inhibition of DNA, cell wall, RNA and protein synthesis within fifteen to thirty minutes of treatment when compared to the untreated control. Transmission electron microscopy of DNAC-2-treated cells revealed a significantly thicker cell wall and impaired daughter cell separation. Exposure of USA300 cells to 1 × MIC of DNAC-2 resulted in mislocalization of PBP2 away from the septum in an FtsZ-independent manner. In addition, membrane localization with FM4-64, as well as depolarization study with DiOC2 and lipophilic cation TPP+ displayed membrane irregularities and rapid membrane depolarization, respectively, in DNAC-2-treated cells vs -untreated control. However, DNAC-2 exhibited almost no toxicity toward eukaryotic membranes. Notably, DNAC-2 drives energy generation toward substrate level phosphorylation and the bacteria become more sensitive to DNAC-2 under anaerobic conditions. We propose that DNAC-2 affects USA300 by targeting the membrane, leading to partial membrane depolarization and subsequently affecting aerobic respiration and energy-dependent functional organization of macromolecular biosynthetic pathways. The multiple effects may have the desirable consequence of limiting the emergence of resistance to DNAC-2.

Phenol-photodegradation on ZrO2. Enhancement by semiconductors.

On illumination with light of wavelength 365 nm phenol undergoes degradation on the surface of ZrO(2). The rate of degradation enhances linearly with the concentration of phenol and also the light intensity but decreases with increase of pH. The photonic efficiency of degradation is higher with illumination at 254 nm than with 365 nm. The diffuse reflectance spectral study suggests phenol-sensitized activation of ZrO(2) with 365 nm light. TiO(2), Fe(2)O(3), CuO, ZnO, ZnS, Nb(2)O(5) and CdO particles enhance the photodegradation on ZrO(2), indicating inter-particle charge-transfer. Determination of size of the particles under suspension, by light scattering technique, shows agglomeration of particles supporting the proposition of charge-transfer between particles.

Enhanced phenol-photodegradation by particulate semiconductor mixtures: interparticle electron-jump.

Degradation of phenol on suspended TiO(2), ZnO, CdO, Fe(2)O(3), CuO, ZnS and Nb(2)O(5) particles under UV-A light exhibit identical photokinetic behavior; follow first-order kinetics, display linear dependence on the photon flux and slowdown with increase of pH. All the semiconductors show sustainable photocatalytic activity. Dissolved O(2) is essential for the photodegradation and oxidizing agents like H(2)O(2), Na(2)BO(3), K(2)S(2)O(8), KBrO(3), KIO(3) and KIO(4), reducing agents such as NaNO(2) and Na(2)SO(3) and sacrificial electron donors like hydroquinone, diphenyl amine and trimethyl amine enhance the degradation. However, the photocatalysis is insensitive to pre-sonication. Two particulate semiconductors present together, under suspension and at continuous motion, enhance the photocatalytic degradation up to about four-fold revealing interparticle electron-jump.

A conserved G1 regulatory circuit promotes asynchronous behavior of nuclei sharing a common cytoplasm.

Synthesis and accumulation of conserved cell cycle regulators such as cyclins are thought to promote G1/S and G2/M transitions in most eukaryotes. When cells at different stages of the cell cycle are fused to form heterokaryons, the shared complement of regulators in the cytoplasm induces the nuclei to become synchronized. However, multinucleate fungi often display asynchronous nuclear division cycles, even though the nuclei inhabit a shared cytoplasm. Similarly, checkpoints can induce nuclear asynchrony in multinucleate cells by arresting only the nucleus that receives damage. The cell biological basis for nuclear autonomy in a common cytoplasm is not known. Here we show that in the filamentous fungus Ashbya gossypii, sister nuclei born from one mitosis immediately lose synchrony in the subsequent G1 interval. A conserved G1 transcriptional regulatory circuit involving the Rb-analogue Whi5p promotes the asynchronous behavior yet Whi5 protein is uniformly distributed among nuclei throughout the cell cycle. The homologous Whi5p circuit in S. cerevisiae employs positive feedback to promote robust and coherent entry into the cell cycle. We propose that positive feedback in this same circuit generates timing variability in a multinucleate cell. These unexpected findings indicate that a regulatory program whose products (mRNA transcripts) are translated in a common cytoplasm can nevertheless promote variability in the individual behavior of sister nuclei.

Photodegradation of phenol on Y2O3 surface: synergism by semiconductors.

Under UV light, phenol degrades on the surface of Y(2)O(3), an insulator, and the degradation follows first-order kinetics, depends linearly on the light intensity and slows down with pH. The efficiency of degradation is higher with UV-C light than with UV-A light. While particulate anatase TiO(2), ZnO, ZnS, Fe(2)O(3), CuO, CdO, and Nb(2)O(5) individually photodegrade phenol, each semiconductor shows synergism when present along with Y(2)O(3), indicating electron-transfer from phenol adsorbed on Y(2)O(3) to the illuminated semiconductors.