bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PQN-59 antagonizes microRNA-mediated repression during post-embryonic temporal patterning and modulates translation and stress granule formation in C. elegans
Authors: Carlston Colleen , Weinmann Robin , Stec Natalia , Abbatemarco Simona , Schwager Francoise , Wang Jing , Ouyang Huiwu , Ewald Collin Y. , Gotta Monica , Hammell Christopher M.
Published: November 2021

microRNAs (miRNAs) are potent regulators of gene expression that function in a variety of developmental and physiological processes by dampening the expression of their target genes at a post-transcriptional level. In many gene regulatory networks (GRNs), miRNAs function in a switch-like manner whereby their expression and activity elicit a transition from one stable pattern of gene expression to a distinct, equally stable pattern required to define a nascent cell fate. While the importance of miRNAs that function in this capacity are clear, we have less of an understanding of the cellular factors and mechanisms that ensure the robustness of this form of regulatory bistability. In a screen to identify suppressors of temporal patterning phenotypes that result from ineffective miRNA-mediated target repression, we identifiedpqn-59, an ortholog of human UBAP2L, as a novel factor that antagonizes the activities of multiple heterochronic miRNAs. Specifically, we find that depletion ofpqn-59can restore normal development in animals with reducedlin-4andlet-7-family miRNA activity. Importantly, inactivation ofpqn-59is not sufficient to bypass the requirement of these regulatory RNAs within the heterochronic GRN. Thepqn-59gene encodes an abundant, cytoplasmically-localized, unstructured protein that harbors three essential “prion-like” domains. These domains exhibit LLPS propertiesin vitroand normally function to limit PQN-59 diffusion in the cytoplasmin vivo. Like human UBAP2L, PQN-59’s localization becomes highly dynamic during stress conditions where it re-distributes to cytoplasmic stress granules and is important for their formation. Proteomic analysis of PQN-59 complexes from embryonic extracts indicates that PQN-59 and human UBAP2L interact with orthologous cellular components involved in RNA metabolism and promoting protein translation and that PQN-59 additionally interacts with proteins involved in transcription and intracellular transport. Finally, we demonstrate thatpqn-59depletion reduces protein translation and also results in the stabilization of several mature miRNAs (including those involved in temporal patterning). These data suggest that PQN-59 may ensure the bistability of some GRNs that require miRNA functions by promoting miRNA turnover and, like UBAP2L, enhancing protein translation.
The SAGA core module is critical during Drosophila oogenesis and is broadly recruited to promoters
Authors: Soffers Jelly H. M. , Alcantara Sergio G-M , Li Xuanying , Shao Wanqing , Seidel Christopher W. , Li Hua , Zeitlinger Julia , Abmayr Susan M. , Workman Jerry L.
Published: November 2021

The Spt/Ada-Gcn5 Acetyltransferase (SAGA) coactivator complex has multiple modules with different enzymatic and non-enzymatic functions. How each module contributes to gene expression is not well understood. DuringDrosophilaoogenesis, the enzymatic functions are not equally required, which may indicate that different genes require different enzymatic functions. An analogy for this phenomenon is the handyman principle: while a handyman has many tools, which tool he uses depends on what requires maintenance. Here we analyzed the role of the non-enzymatic core module duringDrosophilaoogenesis, which interacts with TBP. We show that depletion of SAGA-specific core subunits blocked egg chamber development at earlier stages than depletion of enzymatic subunits. These results, as well as additional genetic analyses, point to an interaction with TBP and suggest a differential role of SAGA modules at different promoter types. However, SAGA subunits co-occupied all promoter types of active genes in ChIP-seq and ChIP-nexus experiments, and the complex was not specifically associated with distinct promoter types in the ovary. The high-resolution genomic binding profiles were congruent with SAGA recruitment by activators upstream of the start site, and retention on chromatin by interactions with modified histones downstream of the start site. Our data illustrate that a distinct genetic requirement for specific components may conceal the fact that the entire complex is physically present and suggests that the biological context defines which module functions are critical.
Some novel antileishmanial compounds inhibit normal cell cycle progression of Leishmania donovani promastigotes and exhibits pro-oxidative potential
Authors: Amlabu Wandayi Emmanuel , Amisigo Cynthia Mmalebna , Antwi Christine Achiaa , Awandare Gordon Akanzuwine , Gwira Theresa Manful
Published: November 2021

In the midst of numerous setbacks that beclouds the fight against leishmaniasis; a neglected tropical disease, the search for new chemotherapeutics against this disease is of utmost importance. Leishmaniasis is a disease closely associated with poverty and endemic in Africa, Asia, southern Europe and the Americas. It is caused by parasites of the genus Leishmania and transmitted by a sandfly vector. In this study, we evaluated the antileishmanial potency of eighteen pathogen box compounds and elucidated their biosafety and possible mechanisms of action against Leishmania donovani promastigotes and amastigotes in vitro. IC50s range of 0.12±0.15 to >6.25 μg/ml and 0.13±0.004 to >6.25μg/ml were observed for the promastigotes and amastigotes, respectively. We demonstrated the ability of some of the compounds to cause cytocidal effect on the parasites, induce increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), disrupt the normal parasite morphology and cause the accumulation of parasites at the DNA synthesis phase of the cell cycle. We recommend a further in vivo study on these compounds to validate the findings.
A size and space structured model of tumor growth describes a key role for protumor immune cells in breaking equilibrium states in tumorigenesis
Authors: Atsou Kevin , Anjuère Fabienne , Braud Véronique M. , Goudon Thierry
Published: November 2021

Switching from the healthy stage to the uncontrolled development of tumors relies on complicated mechanisms and the activation of antagonistic immune responses, that can ultimately favor the tumor growth. We introduce here a mathematical model intended to describe the interactions between the immune system and tumors. The model is based on partial differential equations, describing the displacement of immune cells subjected to both diffusion and chemotactic mechanisms, the strength of which is driven by the development of the tumors. The model takes into account the dual nature of the immune response, with the activation of both antitumor and protumor mechanisms. The competition between these antagonistic effects leads to either equilibrium or escape phases, which reproduces features of tumor development observed in experimental and clinical settings. Next, we consider on numerical grounds the efficacy of treatments: the numerical study brings out interesting hints on immunotherapy strategies, concerning the role of the administered dose, the role of the administration time and the interest in combining treatments acting on different aspects of the immune response. Such mathematical model can shed light on the conditions where the tumor can be maintained in a viable state and also provide useful hints for personalized, efficient, therapeutic strategies, boosting the antitumor immune response, and reducing the protumor actions.
Drivers and social implications of Artificial Intelligence adoption in healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Frank Darius-Aurel , Elbæk Christian T. , Børsting Caroline Kjær , Mitkidis Panagiotis , Otterbring Tobias , Borau Sylvie
Published: November 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact people worldwide–steadily depleting scarce resources in healthcare. Medical Artificial Intelligence (AI) promises a much-needed relief but only if the technology gets adopted at scale. The present research investigates people’s intention to adopt medical AI as well as the drivers of this adoption in a representative study of two European countries (Denmark and France,N= 1068) during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results reveal AI aversion; only 1 of 10 individuals choose medical AI over human physicians in a hypothetical triage-phase of COVID-19 pre-hospital entrance. Key predictors of medical AI adoption are people’s trust in medical AI and, to a lesser extent, the trait of open-mindedness. More importantly, our results reveal that mistrust and perceived uniqueness neglect from human physicians, as well as a lack of social belonging significantly increase people’s medical AI adoption. These results suggest that for medical AI to be widely adopted, people may need to express less confidence in human physicians and to even feel disconnected from humanity. We discuss the social implications of these findings and propose that successful medical AI adoption policy should focus on trust building measures–without eroding trust in human physicians.
Modified Liu estimators in the linear regression model: An application to Tobacco data
Authors: Babar Iqra , Ayed Hamdi , Chand Sohail , Suhail Muhammad , Khan Yousaf Ali , Marzouki Riadh
Published: November 2021

Background

The problem of multicollinearity in multiple linear regression models arises when the predictor variables are correlated among each other. The variance of the ordinary least squared estimator become unstable in such situation. In order to mitigate the problem of multicollinearity, Liu regression is widely used as a biased method of estimation with shrinkage parameter ‘d’. The optimal value of shrinkage parameter plays a vital role in bias-variance trade-off.

Limitation

Several estimators are available in literature for the estimation of shrinkage parameter. But the existing estimators do not perform well in terms of smaller mean squared error when the problem of multicollinearity is high or severe.

Methodology

In this paper, some new estimators for the shrinkage parameter are proposed. The proposed estimators are the class of estimators that are based on quantile of the regression coefficients. The performance of the new estimators is compared with the existing estimators through Monte Carlo simulation. Mean squared error and mean absolute error is considered as evaluation criteria of the estimators. Tobacco dataset is used as an application to illustrate the benefits of the new estimators and support the simulation results.

Findings

The new estimators outperform the existing estimators in most of the considered scenarios including high and severe cases of multicollinearity. 95% mean prediction interval of all the estimators is also computed for the Tobacco data. The new estimators give the best mean prediction interval among all other estimators.

The implications of the findings

We recommend the use of new estimators to practitioners when the problem of high to severe multicollinearity exists among the predictor variables.
Identification and verification of grain shape QTLs by SNP array in rice
Authors: Chen Junxiao , Liu Kai , Zha Wenjun , Zhou Lei , Li Ming , Xu Huashan , Li Peide , Chen Zhijun , Yang Guocai , Chen Pingli , Li Sanhe , You Aiqing
Published: November 2021

Grain shape strongly influences the economic value and grain yield of rice. Thus, identifying quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for grain shape has been a longstanding goal in rice genetic research and breeding programs. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers are ubiquitous in the rice genome and are more abundant and evenly distributed on the 12 rice chromosomes than traditional markers. An F2population was genotyped using the RICE6K SNP array to elucidate the mechanisms governing grain shape. Thirty-five QTLs for grain shape were detected on 11 of 12 chromosomes over 2 years. The major QTL clusterqGS7was detected in both years and displayed strong genetic effects on grain length and width, showing consistency withGL7/GW7. Some minor QTLs were also detected, and the effects of four QTLs on seed size were then validated using BC1F6populations with residual heterozygous lines in each QTL region. Our findings provide insights into the molecular basis of grain shape as well as additional resources and approaches for producing hybrid high-yield rice varieties.
IFNγ suppresses the expression of GFI1 and thereby inhibits Th2 cell proliferation
Authors: Sarkar Murshed H. , Yagi Ryoji , Endo Yukihiro , Koyama-Nasu Ryo , Wang Yangsong , Hasegawa Ichita , Ito Toshihiro , Junttila Ilkka S. , Zhu Jinfang , Kimura Motoko Y. , Nakayama Toshinori
Published: November 2021

While IFNγ is a well-known cytokine that actively promotes the type I immune response, it is also known to suppress the type II response by inhibiting the differentiation and proliferation of Th2 cells. However, the mechanism by which IFNγ suppresses Th2 cell proliferation is still not fully understood. We found that IFNγ decreases the expression of growth factor independent-1 transcriptional repressor (GFI1) in Th2 cells, resulting in the inhibition of Th2 cell proliferation. The deletion of theGfi1gene in Th2 cells results in the failure of their proliferation, accompanied by an impaired cell cycle progression. In contrast, the enforced expression of GFI1 restores the defective Th2 cell proliferation, even in the presence of IFNγ. These results demonstrate that GFI1 is a key molecule in the IFNγ-mediated inhibition of Th2 cell proliferation.
Brucella abortus S19 GFP-tagged vaccine allows the serological identification of vaccinated cattle
Authors: Chacón-Díaz Carlos , Zabalza-Baranguá Ana , San Román Beatriz , Blasco José-María , Iriarte Maite , Salas-Alfaro Dariana , Hernández-Mora Gabriela , Barquero-Calvo Elías , Guzmán-Verri Caterina , Chaves-Olarte Esteban , Grilló María-Jesús , Moreno Edgardo
Published: November 2021

Bovine brucellosis induces abortion in cows, produces important economic losses, and causes a widely distributed zoonosis. Its eradication was achieved in several countries after sustained vaccination with the live attenuated Brucella abortus S19 vaccine, in combination with the slaughtering of serologically positive animals. S19 induces antibodies against the smooth lipopolysaccharide (S-LPS), making difficult the differentiation of infected from vaccinated bovines. We developed an S19 strain constitutively expressing the green fluorescent protein (S19-GFP) coded in chromosome II. The S19-GFP displays similar biological characteristics and immunogenic and protective efficacies in mice to the parental S19 strain. S19-GFP can be distinguished from S19 and B. abortus field strains by fluorescence and multiplex PCR. Twenty-five heifers were vaccinated withS19-GFP (5×109 CFU) by the subcutaneous or conjunctival routes and some boosted with GFP seven weeks thereafter. Immunized animals were followed up for over three years and tested for anti-S-LPS antibodies by both the Rose Bengal test and a competitive ELISA. Anti-GFP antibodies were detected by an indirect ELISA and Western blotting. In most cases, anti-S-LPS antibodies preceded for several weeks those against GFP. The anti-GFP antibody response was higher in the GFP boosted than in the non-boosted animals. In all cases, the anti-GFP antibodies persisted longer, or at least as long, as those against S-LPS. The drawbacks and potential advantages of using the S19-GFP vaccine for identifying vaccinated animals in infected environments are discussed.
Low numeracy is associated with poor financial well-being around the world
Authors: Bruine de Bruin Wändi , Slovic Paul
Published: November 2021

Numeracy refers to the ability to use numbers, including converting percentages (e.g., 10%) into absolute frequencies (e.g., 1 in 10). Studies have suggested that numeracy is correlated to financial outcomes, suggesting its relevance to financial decisions. However, almost all research on numeracy has been conducted in high-income countries in Europe and North America. Our analyses suggest that low numeracy is much more common in low-income countries, thus potentially threatening the financial well-being of the world’s poorest. We analyzed data from the Lloyd’s Register Foundation World Risk Poll, which assessed basic numeracy in 141 countries, including 21 low-income, 34 lower middle income, 43 upper middle income, and 43 high-income countries. Numeracy was associated with being among the poorest 20% of one’s country, and with difficulty living on one’s income, even after accounting for income, education, and demographics. These findings underscore the importance of worldwide numeracy education.
Physical restraint of dementia patients in acute care hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cohort analysis in Japan
Authors: Okuno Takuya , Itoshima Hisashi , Shin Jung-ho , Morishita Tetsuji , Kunisawa Susumu , Imanaka Yuichi
Published: November 2021

Introduction

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has caused unprecedented challenges for the medical staff worldwide, especially for those in hospitals where COVID-19-positive patients are hospitalized. The announcement of COVID-19 hospital restrictions by the Japanese government has led to several limitations in hospital care, including an increased use of physical restraints, which could affect the care of elderly dementia patients. However, few studies have empirically validated the impact of physical restraint use during the COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to evaluate the impact of regulatory changes, consequent to the pandemic, on physical restraint use among elderly dementia patients in acute care hospitals.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we extracted the data of elderly patients (aged > 64 years) who received dementia care in acute care hospitals between January 6, 2019, and July 4, 2020. We divided patients into two groups depending on whether they were admitted to hospitals that received COVID-19-positive patients. We calculated descriptive statistics to compare the trend in 2-week intervals and conducted an interrupted time-series analysis to validate the changes in the use of physical restraint.

Results

In hospitals that received COVID-19-positive patients, the number of patients who were physically restrained per 1,000 hospital admissions increased after the government’s announcement, with a maximum incidence of 501.4 per 1,000 hospital admissions between the 73rd and 74th week after the announcement. Additionally, a significant increase in the use of physical restraints for elderly dementia patients was noted (p = 0.004) in hospitals that received COVID-19-positive patients. Elderly dementia patients who required personal care experienced a significant increase in the use of physical restraints during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

Understanding the causes and mechanisms underlying an increased use of physical restraints for dementia patients can help design more effective care protocols for similar future situations.
NEW IPA CRITERIA FOR AGITATION IN COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
Authors: Cummings J.
Published: November 2021

The International Psychogeriatric Association (IPA) recently formed an Agitation Definition Working Group (ADWG) to craft a consensus definition of agitation in order to advance basic and clinical research. The provisional definition created by this international group of experts on the neuropsychiatric aspects of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) defines agitation as a clinical syndrome distinct from other conditions such as psychosis or depression. Patients must meet criteria for cognitive impairment and exhibit behaviors such as excessive activity and verbal or physical aggression severe enough to produce disability in social, or interpersonal functions, or activities of daily living. These symptoms should not be attributable to other psychiatric or medical disorders, suboptimal environment, or drug effects. Future validation studies are needed to confirm or revise the definition. This definition will facilitate clinical trials and other types of clinical and translational research.
THE ROAD AHEAD TO CURE AND PREVENT ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE: IMPLEMENTING PREVENTION INTO PRIMARY CARE
Authors: Fougère B. , Vellas B. , Delrieu J. , Sinclair A.J. , Wimo A. , Herman C.J. , Fillit H. , Gauthier S. , Oustric S.
Published: November 2021

Most old adults receive their health care from their primary care practitioner; as a consequence, as the population ages, the manifestations and complications of cognitive impairment and dementia impose a growing burden on providers of primary care. Current guidelines do not recommend routine cognitive screening for older persons by primary care physicians, although the vast majority recommend a cognitive status assessment and neurological examination for subjects with a cognitive complaint. Also, no clinical practice guidelines recommend interventions in older adults with cognitive impairment in primary care settings. However, primary care physicians need to conduct a review of risks and protective factors associated with cognitive decline and organize interventions to improve or maintain cognitive function. Recent epidemiological studies have indicated numerous associations between lifestyle-related risk factors and incidental cognitive impairment. The development of biomarkers could also help in diagnosis, prognosis, selection for clinical trials, and objective assessment of therapeutic responses. Interventions aimed at cognitive impairment prevention should be pragmatic and easy to implement on a large scale in different health care systems, without generating high additional costs or burden on participants, medical and social care teams.
A INCLUSÃO DE ALUNOS COM TEA NO ENSINO COMUM: RELATOS DE EXPERIÊNCIAS DE AEE NUMA ESCOLA PÚBLICA
Authors: Andrade Francisco Ari , Rebouças Aline de Oliveira , Oliveira Renata Tavares de
Published: November 2021

O presente estudo apresenta o relato de uma prática docente inclusiva de alunos diagnosticados com Transtorno do Espectro Autismo - TEA, por meio do Atendimento Educacional Especializado – AEE, numa escola pública municipal de Fortaleza. O desenvolvimento desse estudo se deu a partir da observação da vivência em sala de aula, no processo de escolarização de sujeitos portadores de TEA. Respeitando os princípios éticos da pesquisa acadêmica, de cunho qualitativo, o estudo se desenvolveu com as seguintes abordagens: estudo bibliográfico, documental e análise das vivências em sala de aula. As informações foram analisadas como estudo de caso. A relevância desse estudo está em possibilitar uma compreensão de como se dá o processo ensino aprendizagem de alunos portadores de TEA, numa sala de aula do ensino fundamental, destacando-se a prática docente colaborativa à inclusão educacional.
Testes de aderência aplicados à distribuição da profundidade de trinca em tubos do gerador de vapor de uma planta nuclear PWR
Authors: Francisco Alexandre Santos , Simões Tiago
Published: November 2021

Tubos do gerador de vapor de plantas nucleares são inspecionados periodicamente como uma estratégia de gestão de risco e segurança. O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar o modelo distribuição de probabilidade que melhor se ajusta à profundidade das trincas detectadas na inspeção periódica em tubos do gerador de vapor. Para tal, aplicaram-se ostestes de aderência de Kolmogorov-Smirnov e de Anderson-Darling aos dados da profundidade de trinca, verificando os modelos de distribuição normal, log-normal, de Weibull, e exponencial. Usaram-se os conjuntos de dados obtidos de inspeções realizadas em duas paradas de uma planta nuclear . Os testes de aderência permitiram mostrar que os dados da profundidade de trinca são melhor ajustados ao modelo de distribuição de Weibull.
Breve historización de las revistas digitales de cultura y literatura en Argentina: el caso No Retornable
Authors: Vigna Diego
Published: November 2021

Este artículo busca caracterizar la aparición y evolución de la revista No Retornable, nacida en 2005, como caso representativo de las publicaciones colectivas digitales dedicadas a la literatura y la cultura que fueron poblando el campo de producción argentino desde la primera década del siglo. El contexto de la poscrisis 2001 en Argentina marcó, en simultáneo, la desaparición de revistas culturales paradigmáticas y la aparición de otras digitales que consolidaron las mutaciones técnicas y simbólicas hoy tan discutidas. La hipótesis es que, junto a otras revistas y blogs pioneros, No Retornable marcó el pulso de la expansión digital de publicaciones periódicas (que hoy utilizan al blog como formato de publicación) operando como espacio transicional entre las lógicas de producción, edición y publicación de las revistas impresas y las formas dinámicas, tanto de producción como de circulación y recepción, que impusieron los formatos web. No Retornable buscó un nuevo modo de visibilizar autores y de renovar la producción crítica, pero también llegó a representar los obstáculos que encuentran los objetos digitales para resistir al tiempo: este trabajo propone un análisis de caso que ilustra la tensión entre el ciclo vital de las revistas y el problema del archivo como signo de época.
Formas del tabú y el secreto familiar en La resistencia, de Julián Fuks
Authors: Di Meglio Estefanía
Published: November 2021

El presente artículo analiza formas lingüísticas de la negación y del silencio en la autoficción La resistencia (2018), de Julián Fuks, como mecanismos de distanciamiento frente al trauma de la última dictadura argentina y el exilio. Este distanciamiento se da tanto a nivel de la Historia con mayúscula como a nivel familiar: el hijo mayor de la familia en la novela ha sido adoptado en el contexto del régimen militar, antes del destierro en Brasil. De allí que la pregunta por el origen de ese integrante de la familia se convierta en tabú, puesto que podría ser hijo de desaparecidos. Por otra parte, también rigen los silencios con respecto a la historia de militancia política por parte del padre y la madre. Así, a la dificultad de hablar de lo traumático se yuxtaponen otros aspectos que profundizan esa problemática de la representación: el tabú y el secreto familiar. Por lo tanto, el discurso se convierte en síntoma ya que a la vez que niega y elide como forma de distanciamiento ante el horror, exhibe parte de lo traumatizante.
Multiple shoot induction and regeneration of Vanilla borneensis Rolfe - a critically endangered orchid of Assam, India
Authors: Hasnu Sneha , Tanti Bhaben
Published: November 2021

In the present investigation, a micropropagation protocol has been developed for Vanilla borneensis Rolfe – a critically endangered orchid through multiple shoot regeneration. Through in vitro multiple shoot regeneration from both nodal and shoot tip explants, maximum (100%) shoot induction was observed. The minimum time required for shoot bud induction was observed from the shoot tip (5–7 days) on medium supplemented with BAP (4.44 mM) + KIN (2.32 mM) as compared to the nodal explants. Maximum multiple shoot regeneration was observed from nodal explants on the medium supplemented with BAP (4.44 mM) + TDZ (6.82 mM). However, maximum shoot length was observed on the medium supplemented with BAP (4.44 mM) + 15% CW and the number of nodes (5.27±0.33) per shoot after 90 days. Maximum (80-100%) of root initiation was observed in almost all the concentrations of NAA. The shortest time of root initiation was found on the medium supplemented with NAA (5.37 mM). Further, acclimatization period was found to be 15 days with 70% acclimatization while 60% of survivability was observed in the field condition. This efficient micropropagation method of V. borneensis could be successfully used for mass propagation as well as conservation of the critically endangered wild orchid.
Eine neue „Poesie des Anthropozäns“? Zu einer versuchten Weiterführung von „nature writing“ in den Lyrikbänden Marion Poschmanns Nimbus (2020) und Esther Kinskys Schiefern (2020) unter Berücksichtigung von Heideggers existentialontologischem Ansatz: „das Seyn ins Recht setzen“
Authors: Wolting Stephan
Published: November 2021

Im folgenden Beitrag geht es um die Darstellung von Grundlagen der innerhalb der deutschsprachigen Gegenwartsliteratur relativ jungen Konzeption des nature writing am Beispiel zweier Lyrikbände von Marion Poschmann Nimbus und Esther Kinsky Schiefern. Es wird der Frage nachgegangen, inwieweit in diesen Werken eine Weiterentwicklung des „Schreibens aus Naturerfahrung zu beobachten ist. Innerhalb der hier vorgeschlagenen Lesart steht weniger der Naturbegriff als eine Form des Seinsbegriff, der sich an Heideggers Existentialontologie orientiert bzw. anlehnt, im Mittelpunkt des Interesses. Abschließend wird der Frage nachgegangen, ob es sich tatsächlich um eine neue „Poesie des Anthropozäns“ handelt, wie es für Poschmanns Werk behauptet worden ist.
Antropoceniczne życie po życiu – żywe maszyny, syntetyczna biologia i koniec natury
Authors: Witek Michał
Published: November 2021

Postulowane nadejście „epoki antropocenu” oraz szeroko dyskutowany w humanistyce „koniec natury”, a także wiążące się z tą koncepcją podejścia teoretyczne takie jak naturo-kultura i techno-natura otwierają pole do redefinicji pojęć: „życie”, „maszyna” czy „biologia”. Widoczne jest to zarówno na gruncie nauk przyrodniczych w podejściach transdyscyplinarnych takich jak tzw. syntetyczna biologia, jak i w sztuce eksperymentalnej. Celem tego tekstu jest przyjrzenie się złożonemu problemowi „żywych maszyn” i „syntetycznego życia” w kontekście spekulatywnego i krytycznego potencjału sztuki i postulowanej epoki antropocenu w pracach Alexandry D. Ginsberg. Głównym problemem jest namysł nad wizją roli „żywychmaszyn” i „syntetycznego życia” w epoce niepewności i niekontrolowanych zmian środowiska.
Wątki ekologiczne w prozie modernistów
Authors: Piechota Dariusz
Published: November 2021

U schyłku XIX wieku wraz z narastającymi nastrojami dekadenckimi, pesymistyczną filozofią Schopenhauera, krytyką wielkich aglomeracji przemysłowych w literaturze pojawiły się utwory, w których moderniści zaczęli dostrzegać destrukcyjny wpływ cywilizacji przemysłowej na środowisko naturalne. Przestrzeń miasta utożsamiana była z demoralizującym siedliskiem zła, a jej wizerunek często opisywano w konwencjiturpistycznej. Unoszący się dym z kominów fabryk, rzeki zatrute toksycznymi substancjami pochodzącymi z fabryk stały się symptomem nadchodzącej katastrofy ekologicznej. Moderniści poszukiwali zatem azylu w utopiach agrarnych, w których to życie człowieka zostało wpisane w odwieczny porządek panujący w naturze.Coraz częściej do głosu dochodziły marzenia o powrocie do epoki preindustrialnej. Utwory modernistów odczytywane dzisiaj z perspektywy ekokrytycznej okazują się niezwykle aktualne. Uchwycony kres cywilizacji europejskiej wydaje się mieć szerszy wymiar, gdyż w katastroficznych wizjach pisarze dostrzegli kruchość egzystencji nie tylko człowieka, ale również świata natury.
Fake it Till You Make it: The Trouble with the Global East Category
Authors: Szcześniak Magda
Published: November 2021

The article engages in a discussion with Martin Müller’s article In Search of a Global East through the categories of class and class distinction. While recognizing the potential political value of the “Global East” project, the author questions the ideological mechanisms which naturalize the stereotype of “Eastness as forsakenness.” As she points out, one of the effects of the “political and epistemological pro-ject” of the North–South divide (as well as stereotypical categorizations of the East) is obscuring the internal class dynamics of Northern, Southern and Eastern societies. In contrast, introducing class analysis – which includes exami-ning such practices as producing and buying counterfeits of original, luxury-brand commodities – allows us to uncover similar patterns of class distinction and reproduction across global capitalist societies of the North, South and East, and perhaps also to forge solidarities amongst classes which are regularly oppressed by the dominant global capitalist order.
Martin Müller’s “Global East”: The Next Episode in Central Europe’s Failed Quest to Be Something Other than it Is
Authors: Leszczyński Adam
Published: November 2021

Central Europeans have very rich language for describing their own countries in unflattering manner and very, very long tradition of doing so. In this article author proposes a hypothesis for unusually low collective self-esteem. It is deeply rooted in the region’s peripheral relation with the West. It is a by-product of a yawning gap between rich, powerful, industrialized West and stagnant Central Europe. Müller’s “Global East” is, from this perspective, one of the (many) attempts to overcome region’s peripheral status.
Extracto hidroalcohólico de cúrcuma (Curcuma longa L.) como indicador en titulación ácido base de alimentos
Authors: García-Elizalde Argelia , García-Elizalde Grecia
Published: November 2021

La curcumina es un pigmento amarillo brillante presente en los rizomas de cúrcuma. Este pigmento es un ácido débil Brönsted-Lowry que vira de amarillo a rojo al cambiar el pH de ácido a básico. Se elaboró y evaluó un extracto hidroalcohólico de cúrcuma (EHC) como indicador de titulación de un ácido débil con una base fuerte frente a fenolftaleína. Los rizomas de cúrcuma se desinfectaron deshidrataron y maceraron en etanol-agua. Se titularon series de alícuotas de yogurt natural, refresco sabor limonada y jugo fresco de piña. Empleando EHC, los porcentajes de acidez mostraron repetibilidad. El estimado de acidez del yogurt utilizando EHC mostró elevada desviación estándar. La prueba de probabilidad exacta de Fisher (asumiendo p = 0.05) arrojó igualdad de medianas de acidez en refresco y jugo de piña, pero no para yogurt. En consecuencia, el EHC elaborado aporta estimaciones precisas de acidez y similares a las obtenidas con fenolftaleína para refresco sabor limonada y jugo fresco de piña.
Precarity in the Time of COVID-19: Aging Housing and Aging Population in Cuba
Authors: Burke Nancy J.
Published: November 2021

In January 2020 the Cuban government launched a rapid and comprehensive multisectoral response to the threat posed by SARS-CoV-2. This response built upon the strengths of the nation’s public health infrastructure, including an expansive health professional workforce experienced with prior epidemics (e.g., dengue, HIV, and Ebola). It also revealed the challenges posed by the vulnerabilities of aging and weak municipal infrastructures. Deteriorating housing, poor airflow, and sweltering heat undermined adherence to lockdown measures, putting those over age sixty—an increasingly large proportion of Cuba’s population—at particular risk. I discuss challenges posed by a rapidly graying population, vulnerabilities and increasing inequality stemming from Raul Castro’s 2009 economic reforms, and the island’s struggle to address its precarious housing stock to highlight the severe difficulties sheltering in place posed for the most vulnerable: elderly Cubans living without family support. The COVID-19 pandemic crisis has underscored the multiple forms infrastructure—including pipes, energy grids, and social networks—takes on the island, and the implications infrastructural strain and weakness have for maintenance of the socialist state and its continued provision of universal health care, housing, and nutrition.
Fundamental Boolean network modelling for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia pathways
Authors: Chen Leshi , Kulasiri Don , Samarasinghe Sandhya
Published: November 2021

Background

A novel data‐driven Boolean model, namely, the fundamental Boolean model (FBM), has been proposed to draw genetic regulatory insights into gene activation, inhibition, and protein decay, published in 2018. This novel Boolean model facilitates the analysis of the activation and inhibition pathways. However, the novel model does not handle the situation well, where genetic regulation might require more time steps to complete.

Methods

Here, we propose extending the fundamental Boolean modelling to address the issue that some gene regulations might require more time steps to complete than others. We denoted this extension model as the temporal fundamental Boolean model (TFBM) and related networks as the temporal fundamental Boolean networks (TFBNs). The leukaemia microarray datasets downloaded from the National Centre for Biotechnology Information have been adopted to demonstrate the utility of the proposed TFBM and TFBNs.

Results

We developed the TFBNs that contain 285 components and 2775 Boolean rules based on TFBM on the leukaemia microarray datasets, which are in the form of short‐time series. The data contain gene expression measurements for 13 GC‐sensitive children under therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, and each sample has three time points: 0 hour (before GC treatment), 6/8 hours (after GC treatment) and 24 hours (after GC treatment).

Conclusion

We conclude that the proposed TFBM unlocks their predecessor’s limitation, i.e., FBM, that could help pharmaceutical agents identify any side effects on clinic‐related data. New hypotheses could be identified by analysing the extracted fundamental Boolean networks and analysing their up‐regulatory and down‐regulatory pathways.
The methodological challenge in high‐throughput profiling and quantifying microRNAs
Authors: Chai Mengya , Xiong Xueyang , Wang Huimin , Xu Lida
Published: November 2021

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an essential role in various biological processes and signaling pathways through the regulation of gene expression and genome stability. Recent data indicated that the next‐generation sequencing (NGS)‐based high‐throughput quantification of miRNAs from biofluids provided exciting possibilities for discovering biomarkers of various diseases and might help promote the development of the early diagnosis of cancer. However, the complex process of library construction for sequencing always introduces bias, which may twist the actual expression levels of miRNAs and reach misleading conclusions.

Results

We discussed the deviation issue in each step during constructing miRNA sequencing libraries and suggested many strategies to generate high‐quality data by avoiding or minimizing bias. For example, improvement of adapter design (a blocking element away from the ligation end, a randomized fragment adjacent to the ligation junction and UMI) and optimization of ligation conditions (a high concentration of PEG 8000, reasonable incubation temperature and time, and the selection of ligase) in adapter ligation, high‐quality input RNA samples, removal of adapter dimer (solid phase reverse immobilization (SPRI) magnetic bead, locked nucleic acid (LNA) oligonucleotide, and Phi29 DNA polymerase), PCR (linear amplification, touch‐down PCR), and product purification are essential factors for achieving high‐quality sequencing data. Moreover, we described several protocols that exhibit significant advantages using combinatorial optimization and commercially available low‐input miRNA library preparation kits.

Conclusions

Overall, our work provides the basis for unbiased high‐throughput quantification of miRNAs. These data will help achieve optimal design involving miRNA profiling and provide reliable guidance for clinical diagnosis and treatment by significantly increasing the credibility of potential biomarkers.
Effects of temperature and moisture content of logs on size distribution of black spruce chips produced by a chipper-canter at two cutting widths
Authors: Elloumi Imen , Hernández Roger E. , Cáceres Claudia B. , Blais Carl
Published: November 2021

Four matched groups of black spruce logs were processed with a chipper-canter at temperatures of 20, 0, -10, and -20 °C. Each log was transformed at two moisture contents (MC, green and air-dried) using two cutting widths (CW, 12.7 and 25.4 mm). Mean MC for each CW was assessed from a sample of the obtained chips. Knot characteristics were measured on the cant surfaces after log processing. Chip size was assessed by thickness (Domtar classifier) and width/length (Williams classifier). The results showed that the chip size was significantly affected by the CW and temperature, and in a lesser degree by the chip MC. The weighted mean chip thickness (WCT) increased with the CW. As temperature decreased below 0 °C, WCT and accepts decreased, while proportions of fines and pin chips increased. Chips obtained from green logs were thinner compared to air-dried logs when processed at the coldest temperature (minus 20 °C). The number and size of knots had an important impact on chip size, particularly on WCT. Multiple regressions were developed to predict WCT. Results showed the potential benefits of measuring log temperature and knot features to reduce chip thickness variation during fragmentation and thus improving chip size uniformity.
Energy performance of a rotary burner using pellets prepared from various alternative biomass residues
Authors: Trnka Juraj , Holubčík Michal , Kantová Nikola Čajová , Jandačka Jozef
Published: November 2021

Alternative biomass makes up a considerable portion of the waste from biomass processing in forestry and agriculture. The aim of this work was to create pellets from several sources of alternative biomass, e.g., lawn clippings, corn husks, linden leaves, and pine needles, which were compared to pure wood pellets. Analysis of the fuel properties focused on their chemical composition, thermogravimetric analysis, calorific values, and ash melting temperatures. The power and emission parameters of the fuels were determined via an automatic pellet boiler. The primary issues in the combustion of the alternative biomass types were low calorific values, increased emissions, high ash contents, and low ash melting temperatures. The two primary options for solving these problems are the production of fuel mixtures with wood or the use of new combustion technologies. This work also dealt with the combustion of alternative biomass via a rotary burner. The results showed an increase in the ash content of the alternative biomass, which also led to the burner occasionally going out due to clogging with the accumulation of ash and sintering. Based on the results, only pellets from pine needles and corn husks can be recommended for further use.
Manufacture of Mikania micrantha vinegar and investigation of its repellent activity for Forcipomyia taiwana
Authors: Liu Suling , Hu Chenghsin , Lu Kuntsung
Published: November 2021

Crude vinegar was prepared from Mikania micrantha plants using a steel kiln. The ether-extracted vinegar and acidic, phenolic, and neutral fractions were obtained by the partition method. The fundamental properties of crude vinegar, including its fractions applied to repel biting midges (Forcipomyia taiwana), were investigated. Results indicated that the crude vinegar had a moisture content of 91%, Gardner color value of 11.2, a reddish-brown color, specific gravity of 1.0164, pH of 5.36, organic acid content of 2.50%, and soluble tar content of 0.78%. In ether-extracted vinegar of M. micrantha, the acidic component was the major ingredient, followed by the neutral, phenolic, and nitrogenous components. The main organic compounds of the acidic, phenolic, nitrogenous, and neutral components were acetic acid, phenol, 3-pyridinol, and 2-furanmethanol, respectively. The results also demonstrated that the crude vinegar, ether-extracted vinegar, and the phenolic and neutral fractions effectively repelled biting midges, with absolute repellent times of 49, 87, 83, and 99 min, respectively. The repellent activity of ether-extracted vinegar and the phenolic and neutral fractions of M. micrantha vinegar on biting midges was higher than that of a commercial repellent agent (named Dinling) with absolute repellent time of 61 min.
Decaying hardwood associated fungi showing signatures of polyethylene degradation
Authors: Perera Prameesha , Deraniyagala Anushi Suwanethya , Mahawaththage Maduri Piumi Sashikala , Herath Harshini , Rajapakse Chandima Shashikala Kumari , Wijesinghe Priyanga , Attanayake Renuka Nilmini
Published: November 2021

The involvement of wood decay fungi and the importance of their enzymes in polyethylene degradation is well documented. Therefore, decay-resistant hardwood associated fungi should be better degraders with their versatile enzymatic systems. In the current study, decaying hardwood associated fungi were isolated and their ability to degrade low-density polyethylene (LDPE) was assessed. Thirty-three isolates were identified by sequencing the internal transcribed spacer region of nuclear ribosomal DNA. Randomly selected isolates were tested for laccase producing abilities. Three species were selected to test their potentials in LDPE sheet degradation. Fungi were incubated in Czapek-Dox broth containing 20-micron LDPE sheets at room temperature for 60 days. The biodegradation signatures were assessed by analyzing the changes in structural characteristics of LDPE using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), percent reduction of tensile properties, and weight loss. FTIR analysis revealed changes in certain functional groups compared with the control, indicating chemical changes resulting from the treatment. LDPE sheets incubated with fungi showed cracks and holes under SEM analysis, percent reduction in tensile properties, and weight loss, which are the signatures of degradation. This study revealed that the hardwood decaying basidiomycetes, Phlebiopsis flavidoalba, Schizophyllum commune, and Phanerodontia chrysosporium have the potential for in vitro LDPE degradation.
Cellulose powder functionalized with phenyl biguanide: Synthesis, cross-linking, metal adsorption, and molecular docking
Authors: Hamed Othman , Qaisi Majdi , Abushqair Ibrahim , Berisha Avni , Dagdag Omar , Janem Alaa , Azzaoui Khalil , Al-Kerm Rana , Al-Kerm Rola , Hammouti Belkheir
Published: November 2021

A cellulose polymer functionalized with an amine chelating agent was designed and synthesized in a three-step process that involved oxidizing cellulose powder into dialdehyde cellulose, reacting cellulose dialdehyde with phenyl biguanide to create an imine linkage between the two reactants, and reducing the imine linkage to an amine. The cellulose amine polymer was cross-linked with glycerol digycidyl ether and evaluated as an adsorbent of toxic metal ions from wastewater. The adsorption efficiency of the cross-linked cellulose amine polymer toward Pb(II) and Cu(II) was evaluated as a function of the adsorbent dose, pH, time, temperature, and initial ion concentration. The cross-linked cellulose amine polymer showed an excellent efficiency toward over 15 metal ions present in a real sample of sewage. Thermodynamic analysis showed a spontaneous adsorption of metal ions on the polymer at room temperature. Monte Carlo and Molecular Dynamic simulations showed that the Cu(II) and Pb(II) ions adsorbed onto the cellulose amine polymer surface in a considerable amount, which agreed with the experimental and thermodynamic data. The negative free energy value confirmed the spontaneity of the adsorption process. As such, cross-linked cellulose amine polymers could be a promising alternative to current commercial adsorbents.