bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classifying Grains Using Behaviour-Informed Machine Learning
Authors: Laudari Sudip , Marks Benjy , Rognon Pierre
Published: December 2021

Sorting granular materials such as ores, coffee beans, cereals, gravels and pills is essential forapplications in mineral processing, agriculture and waste recycling. Existing sorting methods are based on the detection of contrast in grain properties including size, colour, density and chemical composition. However, many grain properties cannot be directly detected in-situ, which significantly impairs sorting efficacy. We show here that a simple neural network can infer contrast in a wide range of grain properties by detecting patterns in their observable kinematics. These properties include grain size, density, stiffness, friction, dissipation and adhesion. This method of classification based on behaviour can significantly widen the range of granular materials that can be sorted. It can similarly be applied to enhance the sorting of other particulate materials including cells and droplets in microfluidic devices.
The Association Between Helicobacter Pylori Infection and Erosive Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease; a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Niknam Ramin , Lankarani Kamran Bagheri , Moghadami Mohsen , Taghavi Seyed Alireza , Zahiri Leila , Fallahi Mohammad Javad
Published: December 2021

Background
The association between H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) infection and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a complex and confusing subject, so we designed this study.
Method
In a cross-sectional study, all patients referred for endoscopy due to dyspepsia were enrolled. The diagnosis of erosive GERD was made by endoscopy. Patients with normal esophagus were selected as comparison group. Random gastric biopsies were taken from all participants to diagnose H. pylori infection.
Result
In total, 1916 patients were included in this study, of whom 45.6% had GERD. The mean age (SD) was 42.95 (16.32). Overall, 1442 (75.3%) patients were positive for H. pylori infection. The frequency of H. pylori infection in mild GERD patients was higher than the severe GERD, but this difference was not significant (P=0.214). Except for sociodemographic status (P < 0.001), other variables including gender, age, ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), smoking, and presence of hiatus hernia in patients had no significant association with the frequency of H. pylori infection. According to Robust Poisson regression models analysis, the association of H. pylori (PR 1.026;95%CI 0.990-1.064; P=0.158) and sociodemographic status were not significantly different between the two groups. But smoking, increased BMI, older age, presence of hiatus hernia, and peptic ulcer diseases were significantly associated with GERD compared with the non-GERD group.
Conclusion
In our results, there was no association between H. pylori infection and erosive GERD. Further studies are recommended, especially considering the effects of pathophysiological and other confounding factors on H. pylori and GERD.
De Novo Transcriptome Assembly and Development of EST-SSR Markers for Pterocarpus Santalinus L. f. (Red sanders) , a Threatened and Endemic Timber Tree of India
Authors: Agastikumar Sindhu , Patturaj Maheswari , Samji Aghila , Aiyer Balasubramanian , Munnusamy Aiswarya , Kannan Nithishkumar , Arivazhagan Vijayakumar , Warrier Rekha R , Yasodha Ramasamy
Published: December 2021

The endemic and precious timber Pterocarpus santalinus L. f. (Red sanders) is a drought hardy tree species for conservation in peninsular India due to its high risk of illegal timber harvest. It is only found in Eastern Ghats of India, and has become threatened owing to overexploitation of its valuable timber. The development of genomic resources, particularly simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, is essential for strict implementation of in situ conservation measures and application of DNA information based red sanders genetic resource management. However, a lack of genomic data and efficient molecular markers limit the study of its spatial and temporal population genetic structure, identification of diversity hotspots and tree improvement. The current study aims at comprehensive molecular characterization of red sanders and the somatic chromosome counts, flow cytometry and EST-SSR analyses. The results revealed that red sanders is diploid with 2n=20 and the 2C genome size was 0.7872 ± 0.0561pg for the first time in this species. A total of 3128 EST-SSRs were detected based on 25,854 de novo assembled unigenes from transcriptome data and primer sets designed for 1953 SSRs. Fifty-nine EST-SSR markers were evaluated for polymorphism in the natural populations of red sanders and 13 were found to be suitable for genetic analysis. Two major transcription factor families bHLH and ERF, responsible for abiotic stress and secondary metabolite synthesis were analysed which would provide the foundation for further research on production of medicinally important biocompounds.
Controlling the Twisted Intramolecular Charge-Transfer Character of Pyrene Derivatives Through Solvent Polarity
Authors: Sung Young Mo , Kwon Eun Suk , Maruyama Yusuke Makida , Shin Youngsik , Ihn Soo-Ghang , Kim Jong Soo , Choi Hyeonho , Lee Hyo Sug , Kim Jung-Hwa , Kim Joonghyuk , Sul Soohwan
Published: December 2021

Intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) plays a critical role in determining the photophysical properties of organic molecules, including their luminescence efficiencies. Twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) is a process in which structural change accompanies ICT. Despite significant research, the relationship between TICT and solvent polarity, and its effects on photophysical properties, have been rarely investigated. Herein, we used time-resolved spectroscopy to study TICT in pyrene derivatives that are promising blue organic light emitting diode (OLED) emitter candidates; these derivatives show strong solvent-dependent charge-transfer (CT) behavior. Slight structural changes that do not affect excited state dynamics were observed in nonpolar solvents, while polar solvents were found to affect excited state dynamics and CT characteristics. The TICT behavior of these pyrene derivatives could be modulated through structural modification. Our study provides valuable guidelines for the control of optical properties, including the luminescence efficiencies of OLED emitters that show TICT characteristics.
Transposable elements mediate genetic effects altering the expression of nearby genes in colorectal cancer
Authors: Lykoskoufis Nikolaos , Planet Evarist , Ongen Halit , Trono Didier , Dermitzakis Emmanouil T
Published: December 2021

Transposable elements (TEs) are interspersed repeats that contribute to more than half of the human genome, and TE-embedded regulatory sequences are increasingly recognized as major components of the human regulome. Perturbations of this system can contribute to tumorigenesis, but the impact of TEs on gene expression in cancer cells remains to be fully assessed. Here, we analyzed 275 normal colon and 276 colorectal cancer (CRC) samples from the SYSCOL colorectal cancer cohort and discovered 10,111 and 5,152 TE expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) in normal and tumor tissues, respectively. Amongst the latter, 376 were exclusive to CRC, likely driven by changes in methylation patterns. We identified that transcription factors are more enriched in tumor-specific TE-eQTLs than shared TE-eQTLs, indicating that TEs are more specifically regulated in tumor than normal. Using Bayesian Networks to assess the causal relationship between eQTL variants, TEs and genes, we identified that 1,758 TEs are mediators of genetic effect, altering the expression of 1,626 nearby genes significantly more in tumor compared to normal, of which 51 are cancer driver genes. We show that tumor-specific TE-eQTLs trigger the driver capability of TEs subsequently impacting expression of nearby genes. Collectively, our results highlight a global profile of a new class of cancer drivers, thereby enhancing our understanding of tumorigenesis and providing potential new candidate mechanisms for therapeutic target development.
Physiological microbial exposure has a temporally limited inhibitory effect on lung ILC2 responses to allergens in mice
Authors: Jameson Stephen , Block Katharine , Iijima Koji , Pierson Mark , Walsh Daniel , Tei Rinna , Kucaba Tamara , Xu Julie , Griffith Thomas , McSorley Henry , Kita Hirohito
Published: December 2021

The impact of microbes on restraining the immune response to allergens has been extensively studied and is a key element of the hygiene hypothesis. Lung type 2 innate lymphoid cell responses to airway allergens can be inhibited by administration of a number of microbial products; however, it is unclear whether such an effect would be observed with natural infections and how sustained any observed inhibitory effects would be. To answer these questions, we used a murine model of physiological microbial exposures through cohousing SPF laboratory mice with pet store mice and examined the acute type 2 response to intranasally delivered fungal allergen extract Alternaria alternata. We found laboratory mice cohoused with pet store mice for two weeks display a suppressed ILC2 response to A. alternata which resulted in reduced eosinophilia. By comparison, mice cohoused for at least two months had ILC2 and eosinophil responses similar to SPF mice despite dramatic changes to the composition of the immune cell populations in the lungs. Lung ILC2 in two-month cohoused mice were still sensitive to subsequent inflammatory cues, as administration of poly(I:C) was able to suppress ILC2 activation and eosinophilia equally well in SPF and two-month cohoused animals. These findings suggest ILC2 dynamically respond to their environment and are not easily desensitized long-term.
Serum Markers of Cardiac Complications In a Systemic Sclerosis Cohort
Authors: Tennøe Anders Heiervang , Murbræch Klaus , Didriksen Henriette , Ueland Thor , Palchevskiy Vyacheslav , Weigt Stephen , Fretheim Håvard , Midtvedt Øyvind , Garen Torhild , Brunborg Cathrine , Aukrust Pål , Molberg Øyvind , Belperio John , Hoffmann-Vold Anna-Maria
Published: December 2021

Background: Primary cardiac involvement is one of the leading causes of mortality in systemic sclerosis (SSc), but little is known regarding circulating biomarkers for cardiac SSc. Here, we aimed to investigate potential associations between cardiac SSc and candidate serum markers.Methods: Serum samples from patients of the Oslo University SSc cohort and 100 healthy controls were screened against two custom-made candidate marker panels containing molecules deemed relevant for cardiopulmonary and/or fibrotic diseases. Left (LV) and right ventricular (RV) dysfunction was assessed by protocol echocardiography, performed within three years from serum sampling. Patients suspected of pulmonary hypertension underwent right heart catheterization. Vital status at study end was available for all patients. Descriptive analyses, logistic and Cox regressions were conducted to assess associations between cardiac SSc and candidate serum markers. Results: The 371 patients presented an average age of 57.2 (± 13.9) years. Female sex (84%) and limited cutaneous SSc (73%) were predominant. Association between LV diastolic dysfunction and tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) (OR 0.41, 95%CI 0.21-0.78, p=0.007) was identified. LV systolic dysfunction defined by global longitudinal strain was associated with angiopoietin 2 (ANGPT2) (OR 3.42, 95%CI 1.52-7.71, p=0.003) and osteopontin (OPN) (OR 1.95, 95%CI 1.08-3.52, p=0.026). RV systolic dysfunction, measured by tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, was associated to markers of LV dysfunction (ANGPT2, OPN, and TRAIL) (OR 1.67, 95%CI 1.11-2.50, p=0.014, OR 1.86, 95%CI 1.25-2.77, p=0.002, OR 0.32, 95%CI 0.15-0.66, p=0.002, respectively) and endostatin (OR 1.86, 95%CI 1.22-2.84, p=0.004).Conclusion: ANGPT2, OPN and TRAIL seem to be circulating biomarkers associated with both LV and RV dysfunction in SSc.
Does Community-Based Health Insurance Protect Women from Financial Catastrophe After Cesarean Section? A Prospective Study from a Rural Hospital in Rwanda
Authors: Koch Rachel , Nkurunziza Theoneste , Rudolfson Niclas , Nkurunziza Jonathan , Bikorimana Laban , Irasubiza Holly , Sonderman Kristin , Riviello Robert , Hedt-Gauthier Bethany , Shrime Mark , Kateera Fred
Published: December 2021

BackgroundThe implementation of community-based health insurance in (CBHI) in Rwanda has reduced out of pocket (OOP) spending for the >79% of citizens who enroll in it but the effect for surgical patients is not well described. For all but the poorest citizens who are completely subsidized, the OOP (out of pocket) payment at time of service is 10%. However, 55.5% of the population is below the international poverty line meaning that even this copay can have a significant impact on a family’s financial health. The aim of this study was to estimate the burden of OOP payments for cesarean sections in the context of CBHI and determine if having it reduces catastrophic health expenditure (CHE). MethodsThis study is nested in a larger randomized controlled trial of women undergoing cesarean section at a district hospital in Rwanda. Eligible patients were surveyed at discharge to quantify household income and routine monthly expenditures and direct and indirect spending related to the hospitalization. This was used in conjunction with hospital billing records to calculate the rate of catastrophic expenditure by insurance group. ResultsAbout 94% of the 340 women met the World Bank definition of extreme poverty. Of the 330 (97.1%) with any type of health insurance, the majority (n=310, 91.2%) have CBHI. The average OOP expenditure for a cesarean section and hospitalization was $9.36. The average cost adding transportation to the hospital was $19.29. 164 (48.2%) had to borrow money and 43 (12.7%) had to sell possessions. The hospital bill alone was a CHE for 5.3% of patients. However, when including transportation costs, 15.4% incurred a CHE and including lost wages, 22.6%. ConclusionTo ensure universal health coverage (UHC), essential surgical care must be affordable. Despite enrollment in universal health insurance, cesarean section still impoverishes households in rural Rwanda, the majority of whom already lie below the poverty line. Although CBHI protects against CHE from the cost of healthcare, when adding in the cost of transportation, lost wages and caregivers, cesarean section is still often a catastrophic financial event. Further innovation in financial risk protection is needed to provide equitable UHC.
Peripheral Nerve Defects: Repair Using Autogenous Vein Grafts Filled with PRP and Active Nerve Microtissues and Evaluation by Novel Multimodal Ultrasound Techniques
Authors: Zhu Yaqiong , Peng Nan , Wang Jing , Jin Zhuang , Zhu Lianhua , Wang Yu , Chen Siming , Hu Yongqiang , Zhang Tieyuan , Song Qing , Xie Fang , Yan Lin , Li Yingying , Xiao Jing , Li Xinyang , Jiang Bo , Wang Yuexiang , Peng Jiang , Luo Yukun
Published: December 2021

Background: Developing biocompatible nerve conduits that accelerate peripheral nerve regeneration, lengthening and functional recovery remains a challenge. The combined application of nerve microtissues and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) provides abundant Schwann cells (SCs) and various natural growth factors and can compensate for the deficiency of SCs in the nerve bridge, as well as the limitations of applying a single type of growth factor. Multimodal ultrasound evaluation can provide additional information on the stiffness and microvascular flow perfusion of the tissue. This study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of a novel tissue-engineered nerve graft composed of an autogenous vein, nerve microtissues and PRP in reconstructing a 12-mm tibial nerve defect and to explore the value of multimodal ultrasound techniques in evaluating the prognosis of nerve repair. Methods: In vitro, nerve microtissue activity was first investigated, and the effects on SC proliferation, migration, factor secretion, and axonal regeneration of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) were evaluated by coculture with nerve microtissues and PRP. In vivo, seventy-five rabbits were equally and randomly divided into Hollow, PRP, Micro-T (Microtissues), Micro-T+PRP and Autograft groups. By analysing the neurological function, electrophysiological recovery, and the comparative results of multimodal ultrasound and histological evaluation, we investigated the effect of these new nerve grafts in repairing tibial nerve defects. Results: Our results showed that the combined application of nerve microtissues and PRP could significantly promote the proliferation, secretion and migration of SCs and the regeneration of axons in the early stage. The Micro-T+PRP group and Autograft groups exhibited the best nerve repair 12 weeks postoperatively. In addition, the changes in target tissue stiffness and microvascular perfusion on multimodal ultrasound (shear wave elastography; contrast-enhanced ultrasonography; Angio PlaneWave UltrasenSitive, AngioPLUS) were significantly correlated with the histological results, such as collagen area percentage and VEGF expression, respectively. Conclusion: Our novel tissue-engineered nerve graft shows excellent efficacy in repairing 12-mm defects of the tibial nerve in rabbits. Moreover, multimodal ultrasound may provide a clinical reference for prognosis by quantitatively evaluating the stiffness and microvescular flow of nerve grafts and targeted muscles.
The Research on Perioperative Blood Glucose and Insulin Levels of Patients with Single Insulinoma
Authors: Cong Lin , Jiang Rui , Cheng Xinqi , Hu Yingying , Hong Xiafei , Jiang Jialin , Wu Wenming , Zhao Yupei
Published: December 2021

Background The blood glucose level is an important biochemical parameter for evaluating the resection effectiveness of insulinomas. However, whether other biochemical parameters have better evaluating ability remains unclear. The current study aims to compare the evaluating capability of blood glucose and insulin levels at several aspects, such as the accuracy and response time. Methods Between September 2017 and July 2018, 21 insulinoma patients with single tumor who underwent surgical resection were enrolled. Peripheral venous blood samples were assayed for blood glucose and insulin levels on the day of surgery and at 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 1 day, and 7 days after surgery. The evaluating abilities of blood glucose and insulin levels for resection effectiveness were recorded and compared. Results The evaluating performance of the insulin level was better than that of the blood glucose level (100% for 21 patients vs 82.4% for 17 patients), as well as the response time ( p<0.0001). Furthermore, the insulin level was not effected by intravenous glucose infusion compared to the blood glucose level. Conclusions Comparing with blood glucose level, insulin level is a better parameter for evaluating resection effectiveness of insulinomas with faster response and regardless of perioperative intravenous glucose infusion.
Hysteretic hERG Channel Gating Current Recorded At Physiological Temperature
Authors: Jones David Kelly
Published: December 2021

Cardiac hERG channels comprise at least two subunits, hERG 1a and hERG 1b, and drive cardiac action potential repolarization. hERG 1a subunits contain a cytoplasmic PAS domain that is absent in hERG 1b. The hERG 1a PAS domain regulates voltage sensor domain (VSD) movement, but hERG VSD behavior and its regulation by the hERG 1a PAS domain have not been studied at physiological temperatures. We recorded gating charge from homomeric hERG 1a and heteromeric hERG 1a/1b channels at near physiological temperatures (36 ± 1°C) using pulse durations comparable in length to the human ventricular action potential. The voltage dependence of deactivation was hyperpolarized relative to activation, reflecting VSD relaxation at positive potentials. These data suggest that relaxation (hysteresis) works to delay pore closure during repolarization. Interestingly, hERG 1a VSD deactivation displayed a double Boltzmann distribution, but hERG 1a/1b deactivation displayed a single Boltzmann. Disabling the hERG1a PAS domain using a PAS-targeting antibody similarly transformed hERG 1a deactivation from a double to a single Boltzmann, highlighting the contribution of the PAS in regulating VSD movement. These data represent, to our knowledge, the first recordings of hERG gating charge at physiological temperature and demonstrate that VSD relaxation (hysteresis) is present in hERG channels at physiological temperature.
Neuroprotective Effects of a Combined Therapy With Memantine, Donepezil and Vitamin D in Ovariectomized Female Mice Subjected to Dementia Model
Authors: Vieira Ana Daniela Coutinho , Medeiros Eduarda Behenck , Zabot Gabriel Casagrande , Pereira Nathalia de Souza , Nascimento Natália Baltazar do , Lidio Adrielly Vargas , Scheffer Ândrea Kohlrausch , Rempel Lisienny Campoli Tono , Macarini Bárbara Machado Naspolini , Kucharska Ewa , Rodrigues Matheus Scarpatto , Moreira José Cláudio Fonseca , de Oliveira Jade , Budni Josiane
Published: December 2021

The postmenopausal period is characterized by a decrease in the hormonal supply which is associated with Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Vitamin D is neuroprotective and can be used in combination with pre-existing medications to improve its effects. The objective was to evaluate the effect of vitamin D associated with memantine and donepezil in female mice submitted to ovariectomy (OVX) for 5 months and subjected to an AD-induced dementia model. Animals were divided into 5 groups who received 17 days of treatment and were subjected to behavioral tests. The animals underwent euthanasia at 18th day. OVX groups exhibit reduced levels of E2 and triple treatment group had high levels of vitamin D. The induction of dementia with OVX induced short- and long-term spatial and habituation memories damage. Also, induced reduction of BDNF and IL-4 levels in hippocampus, and increasing levels of TNFα in hippocampus and of IL-1β in hippocampus and frontal cortex of animals, as well as a significant increase on GFAP immunoreactivity. Triple-association treatment reversed the effects of long-term spatial and habituation memories damage, as well as reversed changes in TNFα, IL-1β, IL-4 and GFAP immunoreactivity levels in hippocampus of treated animals. Therapeutic association has beneficial effects on memory and inflammation parameters in female mice subjected to OVX and the AD animal model of dementia.
TLR4 Inhibitor Alleviates Sepsis-Induced Organ Failure by Inhibiting Platelet Mtros Production, Autophagy, and Gpiib/Iiia Expression
Authors: Li Ying , Feng Guo
Published: December 2021

Thrombocytopenia and impaired platelet aggregation are associated with sepsis-induced organ failure. Many studies have shown that mitochondrial ROS, autophagy is related to organ injury in sepsis. However, the relationship between them is unknown. Here, we explored whether Toll Like Receptor 4 inhibitor alleviates sepsis organ failure by inhibiting platelet mitochondrial ROS production, autophagy, and GPIIb/IIIa expression. We found Toll Like Receptor 4 inhibitor TAK242 alleviated LPS-induced acute kidney and lung injury and decrease platelet activation in a mouse model of sepsis mice. In vitro study, inhibiting Toll Like Receptor 4 reduced inward flow of Ca2+ and decreased endogenous mitochondrial ROS production in platelets treated with LPS, and TAK242 inhibited autophagy and NOX expression in LPS treated platelets. Thus, we supposed that Toll Like Receptor 4 inhibitor effectively alleviate lung and kidney injury in a mouse model of sepsis induced by LPS and its effects are related to the inhibition of mouse platelets GPIIb/IIIa, and also can reduce LPS-induced mitochondrial ROS generation related to Ca2+ influx, thus reducing platelet activation. LPS can induce platelet autophagy by generating mitochondrial ROS, which may be the pathophysiological mechanism of organ injury in sepsis.
Efficacy and Safety of VNS Therapy or Continued Medication Management for Treatment of Adults with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Conry Joan , Batson Sarah , Mitchell Stephen , Shankar Rohit , Boggs Jane , Radtke Rodney , Barion Francesca , Murphy Joanna , Danielson Vanessa
Published: December 2021

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) Therapy® is an adjunctive neurostimulation treatment for people withdrug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) who are unwilling to undergo resective surgery, have had unsuccessfulsurgery or are unsuitable for surgery. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted todetermine the treatment effects of VNS Therapy as an adjunct to anti-seizure medications (ASMs) forthe management of adults with DRE.A literature search was performed in August 2020 of the Medline®, Medline® Epub Ahead of Print,Embase, and the Cochrane library databases. Outcomes examined included reduction in seizurefrequency, seizure freedom, ASM load, discontinuations, and serious adverse events (SAEs).Comparators included best medical practice, ASMs, low-stimulation or sham VNS Therapy.Four RCTs and six comparative observational studies were identified for inclusion. Against comparators,individuals treated with VNS had a significantly better odds of experiencing a ≥50% reduction in seizurefrequency (OR: 2.27 [95% CI: 1.47, 3.51]; p=0.0002), a ≥75% reduction in seizure frequency (OR: 3.56[95% CI: 1.59, 7.98]; p=0.002) and a reduced risk for increased ASM load (risk ratio: 0.36 [95% CI: 0.21,0.62]; p=0.0002). There was no difference in the odds of discontinuation or the rate of SAEs betweenVNS versus comparators.This meta-analysis demonstrated the benefits of VNS Therapy in people with DRE, which includedimprovement in seizure frequency without an increase in the rate of SAEs or discontinuations, therebysupporting the consideration of VNS Therapy for people who are not responding to ASMs and thoseunsuitable or unwilling to undergo surgery.
Energy Reduction with Application of Shaft in Water Supply Systems
Authors: Ghorpade Anujkumar , Sinha Abhishek kumar , Kalbar Pradip
Published: December 2021

A Water Transmission Network (WTN) conveying raw water from a source to the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) is often pumped supply. Pumped supply-based networks have more energy consumption, water hammer, and high operation and maintenance compared to gravity systems. The present study reports the application of a Shaft in WTN for improving the efficiency of the pumping system. The Shaft is a hydraulic isolation structure based on a similar hydraulic principle as Break Pressure Tank (BPT). The benefits of using Shaft are quantified based on the two case studies from Maharashtra, India. The impact of Shaft on the WTN is reported using energy grade lines, energy performance indicators, and life cycle energy cost. In addition to the reduction in energy consumption, from the case studies, it is shown that the system’s carrying capacity could be increased by using the Shaft at an appropriate location in WTN. Overall, a Shaft provides operational flexibility to the operators, improving the efficiency of the system.
Heat Stress Prevented the Biomass and Yield Stimulation Caused by Elevated CO2 in Two Well-Watered Wheat Cultivars
Authors: Chavan Sachin G. , Duursma Remko A. , Tausz Michael , Ghannoum Oula
Published: December 2021

To investigate the interactive effects of elevated CO2 and heat stress (HS), we grew two contrasting wheat cultivars, early-maturing Scout and high-tillering Yitpi, under non-limiting water and nutrients at ambient (aCO2, 450 ppm) or elevated (eCO2, 650 ppm) CO2 and 22°C in the glasshouse. Plants were exposed to two 3-day HS cycles at the vegetative (38.1°C) and/or flowering (33.5°C) stage. At aCO2, both wheat cultivars showed similar responses of photosynthesis and mesophyll conductance to temperature and produced similar grain yield. Relative to aCO2, eCO2 enhanced photosynthesis rate and reduced stomatal conductance and maximal carboxylation rate (Vcmax). During HS, high temperature stimulated photosynthesis at eCO2 in both cultivars, while eCO2 stimulated photosynthesis in Scout. Electron transport rate (Jmax) was unaffected by any treatment. eCO2 equally enhanced biomass and grain yield of both cultivars in control, but not HS, plants. HS reduced biomass and yield of Scout at eCO2. Yitpi, the cultivar with higher grain nitrogen, underwent a trade-off between grain yield and nitrogen. In conclusion, eCO2 improved photosynthesis of control and HS wheat, and improved biomass and grain yield of control plants only. Under well-watered conditions, HS was not detrimental to photosynthesis or growth but precluded a yield response to eCO2.
OptiDepthNet : A Real-time Unsupervised Monocular Depth Estimation Network
Authors: Wei Feng , Yin XingHui , Shen Jie , Wang HuiBin
Published: December 2021

With the development of depth learning, the accuracy and effect of the algorithm applied to monocular depth estimation have been greatly improved, but the existing algorithms need a lot of computing resources. At present, how to apply the existing algorithms to UAV and its small robot is an urgent need.Based on full convolution neural network and Kitti dataset, this paper uses deep separable convolution to optimize the network architecture, reduce training parameters and improve computing speed. Experimental results show that our method is very effective and has a certain reference value in the development direction of monocular depth estimation algorithm.
Interactive Assessments of CT (IACT): Digital Interactive Logic Puzzles to Assess Computational Thinking in Grades 3–8
Authors: Rowe Elizabeth , Asbell-Clarke Jodi , Almeda Ma. Victoria , Gasca Santiago , Edwards Teon , Bardar Erin , Shute Valerie , Ventura Matthew
Published: December 2021

Background and Context: The Inclusive Assessment of Computational Thinking (CT) designed for accessibility and learner variability was studied in over 50 classes in US schools (grades 3-8).

Objective: The validation studies of IACT sampled thousands of students to establish IACT’s construct and concurrent validity as well as test-retest reliability.

Method: IACT items for each CT practice were correlated to examine construct validity. The CT pre-measures were correlated with post-measures to examine test-retest reliability. The CT post-measures were correlated with external measures to examine concurrent validity.

Findings: IACT studies showed moderate evidence of test-retest reliability and concurrent validity and low to moderate evidence of construct validity for an aggregated measure of CT, but weaker validity and reliability evidence for individual CT practices. These findings were similar for students with and without IEPs or 504s.

Implications: IACT is the first CT tool for grades 3-8 that has been validated in a large-scale study among students with and without IEPs or 504s. While improvements are needed for stronger validity, it is a promising start.
Culturally-relevant and responsive pedagogy in computing: A Quick Scoping Review
Authors: Leonard Hayley C. , Sentance Sue
Published: December 2021

The underrepresentation of certain groups in computing has led to increasing efforts in the United States (US) to develop computing curricula that is responsive and relevant to a more diverse group of learners. In England, despite a mandatory computing curriculum from age 5, a similar problem is seen in terms of representation in formal Computer Science qualifications as in the US. The current paper used a Quick Scoping Review methodology to identify research that has implemented and evaluated culturally-responsive and relevant K-12 computing curricula, and to understand how they have been designed, the methods used for evaluation, and the factors affecting their success. In total, 12 papers were included in the review and all were from a US setting. Successes included changing learners’ attitudes towards computing and increased learning gains. Key factors in the implementation of the curricula were teacher confidence and understanding of the sociopolitical context of computing, opportunities provided for collaboration and sharing knowledge and opinions, and allowing time for difficult discussions without oversimplifying the issues. The review identifies important lessons to be learned for other countries, including England, aiming to increase the diversity in representation in computing in their schools.
Bad Tools Hurt: Lessons for teaching computer security skills to undergraduates
Authors: Sharman Jonathan , Acemyan Claudia , Kortum Philip , Wallach Dan
Published: December 2021

Understanding why developers continue to misuse security tools is critical to designing safer software, yet the underlying reasons developers fail to write secure code are not well understood. In order to better understand how to teach these skills, we conducted two comparatively large-scale usability studies with undergraduate CS students to assess factors that affect success rates in securing web applications against cross-site request forgery (CSRF) attacks. First, we examined the impact of providing students with example code and/or a testing tool. Next, we examined the impact of working in pairs. We found that access to relevant secure code samples gave significant benefit to security outcomes. However, access to the tool alone had no significant effect on security outcomes, and surprisingly, the same held true for the tool and example code combined. These results confirm the importance of quality example code and demonstrate the potential danger of using security tools in the classroom that have not been validated for usability. No individual differences predicted one’s ability to complete the task. We also found that working in pairs had a significant positive effect on security outcomes. These results provide useful directions for teaching computer security programming skills to undergraduate students.
Análisis fenomenológico interpretativo de la experiencia de hospitalización en personas con diagnóstico de esquizofrenia
Authors: Duque Hansel , Diaz-Granados Aristizábal , Suárez-Colorado Yuly
Published: December 2021

La experiencia de hospitalización en personas con diagnóstico de esquizofrenia puede estar caracterizada por eventos negativos. Se realizó un estudio cualitativo basado en el análisis fenomenológico interpretativo (AFI) para comprender la experiencia de hospitalización en una clínica psiquiátrica. Los participantes fueron tres usuarios que respondieron a entrevistas semiestructuradas, analizadas a través de los lineamientos del AFI. Los resultados indicaron tres temas maestros: la persona en la esquizofrenia, las experiencias previas a la hospitalización, y la hospitalización como una experiencia compleja. El análisis permite considerar la importancia del ingreso voluntario o involuntario en la experiencia de admisión, la angustia e incertidumbre por falta de información, la escasa participación en el proceso de tratamiento, y la percepción de inseguridad dentro de las instituciones de internación. Por otra parte, se hizo mención al rechazo al uso de la contención o aislamiento, la falta de actividades, el énfasis en la medicación, el diagnóstico y los síntomas, así como la actitud deshumanizada de algunos profesionales de la salud mental. Se requiere más investigación respecto a la eficacia de la internación en unidades de salud mental y la superioridad frente a otras alternativas basadas en la comunidad.
QUANTIFICAÇÃO DO DESMATAMENTO NA RESERVA FLORESTAL DE MECUBURI – MOÇAMBIQUE
Authors: MANANZE Sosdito Estevao , SILVA Joao Neves , VASCONCELOS Maria Jose Perestrelo
Published: December 2021

Os desmatamentos nos países em desenvolvimento contribuem com 20 a 25% das emissões globais de dióxido de carbono. O presente estudo teve como objetivo determinar as taxas de desmatamento na reserva florestal de Mecuburi. Com recurso ao software ENVI 4.5, classificaram-se imagens do satélite Landsat de três datas (2002, 2007 e 2011), estimando-se em seguida as taxas de desmatamento entre os anos em estudo. Posteriormente, através da aplicação do modelo GEOMOD do software Idrisi Taiga, produziu-se uma previsão da localização do desmatamento para o ano 2020. No período em análise, a área florestal sofreu uma redução a uma taxa anual bruta de desmatamento de 2165 ha/ano. O desmatamento projetado para 2020 incide na zona norte da reserva. Um projeto REDD na reserva contribuiria para reduzir a desmatamento.
CIRCUITO ESPACIAL DE PRODUÇÃO E LUGAR
Authors: DANTAS Aldo
Published: December 2021

O presente ensaio tem por objetivo frisar a necessidade de se levar em consideração a categoria lugar ao se fazer a análise de um fenômeno econômico tomando-se por base o conceito de circuito espacial de produção. Tomando com pressuposto a ideia de que somente podemos falar em circuito espacial a partir da mobilidade e suas duas faces: a circulação e a comunicação, o texto passa a analisar os fluxos matérias e imateriais levando em consideração a base material que dá sustentação a tais fluxos. Essa base material permite se falar em configuração territorial e singularidade dos lugares, o que nos remete ao que Milton Santas chama de lei do lugar.
AGRONEGÓCIO E PODER POLÍTICO: POLÍTICAS AGRÍCOLAS E O EXERCÍCIO DO PODER NO BRASIL
Authors: LOCATEL Celso Donizete , LIMA Fernanda Laize Silva de
Published: December 2021

As raízes históricas de formação do Brasil estão assentadas sobre bases agrárias e a agricultura sempre teve importância fundamental na economia nacional e na reprodução do poder político no cerne do Estado brasileiro. Nesse sentido, a forma de organização da agricultura e o processo de desenvolvimento brasileiro resultam do sistema de privilégios posto a serviço do capital agromercantil, desde o período colonial. A partir do final da ditadura militar, em 1984, a oligarquia rural brasileira cria a União Democrática Ruralista e passa a ter as campanhas de seus representantes financiadas por empresas dos setores mais lucrativos do agronegócio. De acordo com dados do Departamento Intersindical de Assessoria Parlamentar (2011-2015), 149 deputados federais e 18 senadores integram a bancada ruralista, perfazendo 29% da Câmara e 22% do Senado, na legislatura de 2010-2014. Na legislatura 2015-2018, a bancada ruralista possui 222 parlamentares, sendo 201 deputados e 11 senadores, correspondendo a 39% da câmara e a 13% do Senado,o que garante a aprovação de Projetos e Leis que atendam aos interesses dos agentes hegemônicos do agronegócio brasileiro.
Betula pendula Ssp. distribution and growth in the sub-Carpathian curvature
Authors:   “Marin Dracea” National Institute for Research and Development in Forestry, Harpa Mihai , Dinca Lucian
Published: December 2021

Birch ssp. in the sub-Carpathians curvature can be found in composition with beech and other resinous species, unevenly distributed from the mountain peaks at around 1200 m down to 500-600, mainly from high hills to depressions at 600m, rarely seen on plain sites, crossing different geomorphological structures and overall accounting for 3857.1 ha. The main objective of the paper was to analyze the site and stand characteristics of Betula pendula ssp. Roth. in the subCarpathians curvature as followed: stand structure, stand types and stand site types, soils and different metrics, from growth to yields and its connectivity.The ecological adaptability to climate and soil and early fast growth, makes silver birch fulfill the overall requirements as a pioneer species, mostly naturally regenerated. Birch distribution is highly influenced by stand structure having low proportion in compositions, mean height of 15 m at age 50, and a diameter of 20m. Regarding the site, characteristics are more commonly found on fertile soils, corrugated or fragmented site type with a slope of 20-50° and it is distributed as secondary species in stands, averaging 750m in attitude, ranging from 500 to 1200m, 90% being in mixtures with other species with a mean annual increment of approximately 7 m³/year/ha regardless of stand site type. As an early successional species, it serves as a first colonizer but secondary species and quite often as an ecological instrument to improve the soil characteristics, biodiversity and prevent landslides in certain sites, lacking economic value other than fuel wood or other non-wood products.
Geochemical evaluation of soils, surface and groundwater from natural protected areas from Romania. Case studies.
Authors:   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Stanescu Bogdan Adrian , Cuciureanu Adriana , Catrina Gina Alina , Cernica Georgiana , Kim Lidia
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this article was to present an assessment of the soil and water quality in some protected areas from Romania in order to establish a series of geochemical thresholds on a spatial and temporal scale. The activities and results presented in this article are based on extensive monitoring, being stage results because the monitoring activities will continue, the project is ongoing. Two protected areas, Cheile Nerei -Beusnita National Park and Piatra Craiului National Park were selected. Surface water, groundwater samples, and soil samples were collected in 2019, respectively 2021 from 16 sampling sites situated in both locations. For each sample, twenty quality parameters/indicators were analyzed and the values were compared with in-force legislations. For Arsenic, Copper, and Nitrates parameters have plotted the distribution of the values in each site. In future monitoring activities, the evolution of the parameters will be followed.
Silibinin and Nano-silibinin in Cuprizone Model of Multiple Sclerosis: Behavioral and Biochemical Investigation
Authors: Ahmadi Yasin , Mahboobian Mohammad Mehdi , Mohammadi Mojdeh
Published: December 2021

Objectives:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-lasting demyelinating inflammatory disease
of the central nervous system (CNS). It has been shown that brain tissue in MS is exposed to
oxidative stress during the disease period. Silymarin, a plant-derived flavonoid, can be extracted
from Silybum marianum. The current experiment aimed to explore the effects of silibinin and especially
nano-silibinin on neurobehavioral activity and biochemical antioxidant parameters in the
cuprizone model of demyelination in mice for the first time.

Methods:

Demyelination was induced in mice by oral consumption of cuprizone 0.4%w/w for one
week and then 0.2%w/w for four weeks. Treatment was performed with silibinin or nano-silibinin
(70mg/kg body weight) for four weeks at the same time with cuprizone 0.2%w/w. After neurobehavioral
tests (rotarod, tail flick, and open field), biochemical antioxidant parameters (glutathione
level, superoxide dismutase activity, lipid peroxidation products, and total antioxidant capacity)
were evaluated.

Results:

In this experiment, behavioral tests (rotarod and open field) displayed improvement in
movement dysfunction using silibinin or nano-silibinin. Furthermore, silibinin and more efficiently
nano-silibinin increased antioxidant parameters, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione
(GSH) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and decreased lipid peroxidation.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that silibinin and nano-silibinin can improve movements in the
cuprizone model of demyelination. Moreover, they may prevent cuprizone-induced oxidative
stress. In conclusion, silibinin and more effectively, nano-silibinin, may exhibit therapeutic features
in MS disease.
Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Mutations on Global Travel and the Increasing Number of Re-Infections: A Risk-Assessment Perspective
Authors: Wani Shahid Ud Din , Gautam Surya Prakash , Ali Mohammad
Published: December 2021

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has stunned the world owing to the surreal, unprecedented, and completely unbelievable manner in which it has spread globally within a short span of time. This spread has led to the common combination of variety and has promoted the passage of species blockade and genetic combination of these types of viruses. Despite the short history of the COVID-19 outbreak, with its global spread and frequent mutations, it has impacted the whole world and has become a worrying threat to the society. Scientific reports have disclosed that members of the coronavirus family, such as SARS-CoV, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), HCoV-NL63, HCoV-229E, HCoV-OC43, and HKU1 have infected the humans earlier too and that mutations in these viruses have resulted in the more complex severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In the present review, we have discussed how scientists keep track of the genetic tweaks to SARS-CoV-2 as it spreads globally.

Currently, the only way to prevent more such outbreaks is maintaining social distancing, adhering to the World Health Organization guidelines and de-globalizing the world. Genetic variations/mutations reported to date in coronaviruses hint at their cryptic spread.

Scientists are scouring the viral genome for mutations that might reveal how dangerous the pathogen is or how fast it spreads. Cases have been documented in almost all countries, and the mutations in the virus have created problems for the researchers in formulating effective vaccines. Furthermore, global travel has been severely affected after the new mutants have been detected. Therefore, more scientific investigations are necessary to understand how SARS-CoV-2 is likely to mutate in the future.
role of confucianism in sociopolitics of the Nguyen dynasty in the first half of the 19th century
Authors: Lan Pham Thi
Published: December 2021

The research focuses on how the Nguyen dynasty it became the first to have the largest territory in the history of Vietnam in its nearly 60 years of establishing and reigning over the unified country in the first half of the 19th century. It is seen that in terms of organizing the state apparatus, Gia Long and Minh Mang retained the system of agencies of the previous dynasties and continued reforms to ensure socio-political stability in their governance at that time. The study also clarifies the social role of Confucianism in the Nguyen dynasty, i.e. in the first half of the 19th century, which, in our opinion, is theoretically and practically significant, with the hope of further unraveling the role of Confucianism in that period.
Providing accessible distance learning for students with disabilities in Saudi Arabia
Authors:   Department of Special Education, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia, et al. Alsamiri
Published: December 2021

After the COVID-19 outbreak, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Education transformed the education system from traditional learning to distance learning (DL). The aim of this study is to share the Saudi experience including plans, policies, and programs regarding the use of DL for students at various levels of education. This is the pioneer study from Saudi Arabia, which evaluates DL impact on special students and provides recommendations for such students regarding DL. The Saudi Ministry of Education released one of the most powerful and diverse electronic systems with fully interactive technology options through the following platforms: Madrasati School, the IEN National Education Portal, IEN educational television, and virtual kindergarten. The same platforms are accessible for students with disabilities and we have found that such students can equally benefit from them with some modifications. These modifications are on the individual needs of special students. This article presents the details of various tools and programs available for DL to students in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, we have analyzed the suitability of these programs for special students in our discussion. Finally, we have made our recommendation and provided future directions to improve the DL experience for students with disabilities.