bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occurrence of
Prototheca
Microalgae in Aquatic Ecosystems with a Description of Three New Species, Prototheca fontanea, Prototheca lentecrescens, and Prototheca vistulensis
Authors: Jagielski Tomasz , Iskra Mateusz , Bakuła Zofia , Rudna Joanna , Roeske Katarzyna , Nowakowska Julita , Bielecki Jacek , Krukowski Henryk
Published: October 2022

The study investigates the occurrence of very rare and poorly studied microalgae of the genus
Prototheca
, potentially pathogenic to humans and animals, in different water environments. Given the potential hazard to human and animal health from exposure to water-inhabiting protothecae, the prevalence of the algae in aquatic habitats deserves an insightful examination.
Kinopus chlorellivorus
gen. nov., sp. nov. (Vampyrellida, Rhizaria), a New Algivorous Protist Predator Isolated from Large-Scale Outdoor Cultures of
Chlorella sorokiniana
Authors: Zhang Hanwen , Patterson David J. , He Yue , Wang Hongxia , Yuan Danni , Hu Qiang , Gong Yingchun
Published: October 2022

The vampyrellids (Vampyrellida, Rhizaria) are a major group of predatory amoebae that have attracted significant attention because of their diversity of feeding strategies. The crucial roles they play in important processes such as suppressing soil disease and controlling aquatic algae, and as microbial contaminants in outdoor large-scale algal cultures, have also received increasing attention.
Bifidobacterium animalis Promotes the Growth of Weaning Piglets by Improving Intestinal Development, Enhancing Antioxidant Capacity, and Modulating Gut Microbiota
Authors: Pang Jiaman , Liu Yisi , Kang Luyuan , Ye Hao , Zang Jianjun , Wang Junjun , Han Dandan
Published: October 2022

In the modern swine industry, weaning is a critical period in the pig’s life cycle. Sudden dietary, social, and environmental changes can easily lead to gut microbiota dysbiosis, diarrhea, and a decrease in growth performance.
SETD6 Regulates E2-Dependent Human Papillomavirus Transcription
Authors: Jose Leny , Androphy Elliot J. , DeSmet Marsha
Published: October 2022

Human papillomaviruses (HPV) cause cervical, anogenital, and oral cancers. Brd4 plays an important role in the HPV life cycle. SETD6 was recently shown to methylate Brd4. The current study demonstrates that methylation of Brd4 by SETD6 in HPV-episomal cells is required for the activation of viral transcription. This study illustrates a novel regulatory mechanism involving E2, Brd4, and SETD6 in the HPV life cycle and provides insight into the multiple roles of Brd4 in viral pathogenesis.
Immediate Early Proteins of Herpes Simplex Virus Transiently Repress Viral Transcription before Subsequent Activation
Authors: Dunn Laura E. M. , Birkenheuer Claire H. , Dufour Rachel , Baines Joel D.
Published: October 2022

HSV-1 transcription during productive replication is believed to comprise a series of activation steps leading to a specific sequence of gene expression. Here, we show that virion components and IE gene products ICP0, ICP4, and ICP22 first repress viral gene transcription to various degrees before subsequently activating specific gene subsets.
Whole-Genome Sequences of
Bacillus
and
Paenibacillus
sp. Strains Isolated from Honey in Japan
Authors: Okumura Kayo , Okamoto Mariko , Takamatsu Daisuke
Published: October 2022

Knowledge about bacterial species in bee environments is essential for maintaining healthy honeybee colonies. Therefore, we performed whole-genome sequence analysis on bacteria isolated from honey harvested in Japan. This study reports the genomic sequences of the five bacterial strains identified.
Whole-Genome Sequence of Aneurinibacillus migulanus TP115, a Potential Fish Probiotic Isolated from Oreochromis niloticus Gut
Authors: Paul Sulav Indra , Rahman Ashikur , Rahman M. Mahbubur
Published: October 2022

We report the whole-genome sequence of a promising fish probiotic,
Aneurinibacillus migulanus
TP115, which was isolated from the gut of Nile tilapia (
Oreochromis niloticus
). The
de novo
assembly resulted in an estimated chromosome size of 5,556,554 bp, with 5,576 open reading frames.
Characterization of a Novel Complete-Genome Sequence of a Galliform Chaphamaparvovirus from a Free-Range Laying Chicken Clinically Diagnosed with Spotty Liver Disease
Authors: Sarker Subir
Published: October 2022

This study reports a novel complete genome of galliform chaphamaparvovirus 4, which was detected in the bile of a free-range laying chicken diagnosed with spotty liver disease. The genome was 4,367 bp in length, enclosed by two identical inverted terminal repeats. The detection of this novel chaphamaparvovirus represents a notable concern for the poultry industry in Australia.
Biological Control of Melon Continuous Cropping Obstacles: Weakening the Negative Effects of the Vicious Cycle in Continuous Cropping Soil
Authors: Ku Yongli , Li Wenqiang , Mei Xueli , Yang Xiangna , Cao Cuiling , Zhang Huimei , Cao Le , Li Minglei
Published: October 2022

The soil environment, crop growth and fruit quality of melons are negatively affected by long-term continuous cropping. It is important to study the mechanism of continuous cropping obstacles and their biological control.
A Novel Widespread MITE Element in the Repeat-Rich Genome of the
Cardinium
Endosymbiont of the Spider
Oedothorax gibbosus
Authors: Halter Tamara , Hendrickx Frederik , Horn Matthias , Manzano-Marín Alejandro
Published: October 2022

Cardinium
bacteria, a widespread symbiont lineage found across insects and nematodes, have been linked to reproductive manipulation of their hosts. However, the study of
Cardinium
has been hampered by the lack of comprehensive genomic resources.
Modified Zakharov–Kuznetsov Equation for Describing Low-Frequency Nonlinear Perturbations in Plasma of the Dusty Moon Exosphere
Authors: Kassem A. I. , Kopnin S. I. , Popel S. I. , Zelenyi L. M.
Published: October 2022

The nonlinear equation is obtained describing the dynamics of nonlinear wave structures in the dusty plasma above the illuminated surface of the Moon in the case of low frequencies and pancake-like shape of wave packet in the direction along the external magnetic field. This equation is the modified Zakharov–Kuznetsov equation. The analytical formula for the one-dimensional soliton solution is derived. The analysis of the stability of one-dimensional soliton solution was performed.
Tag7–Mts1 Complex Activates Chemotaxis of Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Ivanova O. K. , Sharapova T. N. , Romanova E. A. , Sashchenko L. P. , Yashin D. V. , Georgiev G. P.
Published: October 2022

One of the basic features of immune system is the ability to sustain balance between activation and suppression of effector lymphocytes. In this process a key role belongs to the subpopulation of cells called regulatory T cells (Treg). Many cancer and autoimmune diseases are caused by malfunctions of Treg, and investigation of this subpopulation is important for development of new therapeutic approaches. In this study, we demonstrate that regulatory T cells can migrate along the concentration gradient of Tag7–Mts1 complex, and also they produce agents that induce blood cells migration.
Should we treat concussion pharmacologically?
Authors: McCrory P
Published: October 2022

This article has been retracted. See the retraction notice for details. The PDF is retained for transparency.
H3.3K27M mutation is not a suitable target for immunotherapy in HLA-A2+patients with diffuse midline glioma
Authors: Immisch Lena , Papafotiou George , Popp Oliver , Mertins Philipp , Blankenstein Thomas , Willimsky Gerald
Published: October 2022

Diffuse midline glioma is the leading cause of solid cancer-related deaths in children with very limited treatment options. A majority of the tumors carry a point mutation in the histone 3 variant (H3.3) creating a potential HLA-A*02:01 binding epitope (H3.3K27M26-35). Here, we isolated an H3.3K27M-specific T cell receptor (TCR) from transgenic mice expressing a diverse human TCR repertoire. Despite a high functional avidity of H3.3K27M-specific T cells, we were not able to achieve recognition of cells naturally expressing the H3.3K27M mutation, even when overexpressed as a transgene. Similar results were obtained with T cells expressing the published TCR 1H5 against the same epitope. CRISPR/Cas9 editing was used to exclude interference by endogenous TCRs in donor T cells. Overall, our data provide strong evidence that the H3.3K27M mutation is not a suitable target for cancer immunotherapy, most likely due to insufficient epitope processing and/or amount to be recognized by HLA-A*02:01 restricted CD8+T cells.
Synthesis of an optically transparent poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-based thermally gelling material
Authors: Fitzpatrick Scott D. , Mazumder Mohammad Abu Jafar , Fitzpatrick Lindsay E. , Muirhead Ben , Boyd Shelley R. , Rambarran Talena , Sheardown Heather
Published: October 2022

Restrictive barriers and efficient clearance mechanisms make delivery of therapeutics to the back of the eye particularly challenging. An optically transparent, thermally gelling copolymer scaffold that can simply be mixed with an active pharmaceutical ingredient of choice and injected directly into the vitreous chamber has been designed. The poly( N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm)-based copolymer possesses a lower critical solution temperature near body temperature. Incorporating acrylic acid and poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate into the polymer at optimized ratios modulates the lower critical solution temperature to transition the aqueous copolymer solution into a volume-consistent gel, which does not expel water, a common challenge with PNIPAAm-based materials. The addition of acryloyloxy dimethyl-γ-butyrolactone to the copolymer enables the polymer to slowly degrade and be cleared from the body. Herein, the synthesis and characterization of the novel copolymer scaffolds are described. A detailed report is provided on the intraocular biocompatibility profile as assessed via in vivo imaging techniques, histology, and immunostaining. Overall, the scaffolds were well tolerated in the rodent eye for the duration of the 17-day experiment.
Evaluating cardiac oxygen limitation as a mechanism for female-biased mortality in coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch)
Authors: Little A.G. , Prystay T.S. , Hardison E.A. , Dressler T. , Kraskura K , Cooke S.J. , Patterson D.A. , Hinch S.G. , Eliason E.J.
Published: October 2022

Female-biased mortality has been consistently reported in Pacific salmon during their adult upriver migration. We collected coho salmon ( Oncorhynchus kisutch (Walbaum, 1792)) upon arrival at their spawning grounds to test whether females are more prone to cardiac oxygen limitations following exercise stress. We used a surgical approach to periodically sample arterial and venous blood over 48 h following recovery from a chase protocol to induce maximum metabolic rate. We found no significant differences in arterial or venous partial pressures of O2 between males and females. Female salmon had significantly elevated plasma cortisol levels but there were no effects of sex on either plasma lactate or K+. Our data show that female coho salmon do not suffer oxygen limitations to the spongy myocardium after a single exercise event at moderate temperatures (14 °C)—at least not when arriving to their spawning grounds. This study found no clear support for a cardiac oxygen limitation underlying elevated female mortality in Pacific salmon. Neither, however, does our study design nor specific findings allow us to rule out cardiac limitations in these fish. Future work should address whether potential oxygen limitations to the spongy myocardium at high temperatures or oxygen limitations to the compact myocardium via coronary blood flow contribute to female-biased mortality earlier on the migratory route.
Synthesis and SEM analysis of Cu2NiX2 chalcogenide semiconductors
Authors: Guliyeva Kh. M. , Mursakulov N. N. , Aliyeva N. A. , Aliyev Y. I.
Published: October 2022

New chalcogenide semiconductors Cu2NiSSe, Cu2NiSeTe and Cu2NiTe2 with functional properties with partial substitutions Cu [Formula: see text] Ni, S [Formula: see text] Se [Formula: see text] Te are synthesized. An analysis of the morphology and microcomposition of these compositions was carried out. The studies were carried out on a scanning electron microscope (SEM). During the analysis, it was found that the compositions were obtained in the form of polycrystals of sufficiently high purity determined by the percentage of elements in the samples. The formation of crystallites was determined depending on the metal and chalcogen atoms in the compositions. It has been established that the crystallites of the samples synthesized under vacuum conditions in these compositions have a size of [Formula: see text]m.
Travelling wave solutions of the third-order KdV equation using Jacobi elliptic function method
Authors: Haider Jamil Abbas , Asghar Saleem , Nadeem Sohail
Published: October 2022

For the purpose of constructing the exact periodic solutions of nonlinear wave equations, it has been proposed to use a method known as the Jacobi elliptic function expansion method. This method is more general than the hyperbolic tangent function expansion method. It has been demonstrated that the periodic solutions obtained using this method contain both solitary wave solutions and shock wave solutions in some instances.
Smooth Nonlinearity Generation with lnCosh and Realization of Chaotic Oscillator
Authors: Shukla Garima , Paul Sajal K.
Published: October 2022

In this work, a new cubic-like smooth nonlinearity is generated by modifying Chua’s piecewise-linear segmental nonlinear function using logarithmic cos-hyperbolic function implementation. A logarithmic cos-hyperbolic function possessing smooth symmetric nonlinear characteristics is implemented through CMOS-based circuit design using the current mode approach. The nonlinear design is then incorporated in a new third-order chaotic oscillator configuration to produce chaotic oscillations. This chaotic circuit is tuned to develop different attractors through the bifurcation parameter. Moreover, the dynamics of chaos such as antimonotonicity and coexistence of attractors are also depicted in circuit simulation by tuning various controlling parameters. Additionally, some numerical analyses are performed on this dynamic system to justify the existence of chaoticity and attractors’ development. This design has been optimized for low-voltage and moderately high dominant frequency of oscillations. Simulations are done using 180-nm CMOS technology in Cadence Virtuoso. Experimental results are presented to verify the workability of the proposed chaotic system.
A RERNN-SGO Technique for Improved Quasi-Z-Source Cascaded Multilevel Inverter Topology for Interfacing Three Phase Grid-Tie Photovoltaic System
Authors: Bhavani M. , Manoharan P. S.
Published: October 2022

In this manuscript, a proficient control strategy-based improved Quasi-Z-Source Cascaded Multilevel Inverter (QZS-CMI) topology for interfacing photovoltaic (PV) system is proposed. The control strategy is joint execution of both recalling-enhanced recurrent neural network (RERNN) and Shell Game Optimization (SGO), therefore it is called RERNN-SGO technique. The major intention of proposed system determined the photovoltaic system efficiency and maximize the power extraction. The interface among load and PV dc source is to accomplish by the QZSI. At first, the objective function is determined depending on the control constraint and parameters, like current, voltage, modulation index, power. These parameters are utilized to propose RERNN-SGO method. The RERNN-SGO method is used to improve the power delivery, voltage profile and minimum power oscillation for power distribution with load. The maximal power delivered the load is to ensure the artificial intelligence (AI) strategy with the help of maximal power point tracking (MPPT). To regulate shoot through duty ratio and modulation load, the proposed AI method is used. The proposed system is inspired on MATLAB/Simulink site, and then efficiency is related with existing systems under various load conditions. The efficiency of proposed system in Case 1 and Case 2 is 87.363% and 85.3904%.
The Kähler different of a 0-dimensional scheme
Authors: Long Le Ngoc
Published: October 2022

Given a 0-dimensional scheme [Formula: see text] in the projective [Formula: see text]-space [Formula: see text] over a field [Formula: see text], we are interested in studying the Kähler different of [Formula: see text] and its applications. Using the Kähler different, we characterize the generic position and Cayley–Bacharach properties of [Formula: see text] in several certain cases. When [Formula: see text] is in generic position, we prove a generalized version of the Apéry–Gorenstein–Samuel theorem about arithmetically Gorenstein schemes. We also characterize 0-dimensional complete intersections in terms of the Kähler different and the Cayley–Bacharach property.
Explicit solutions from Darboux transformation for the two-component nonlocal Hirota and Maxwell–Bloch system
Authors: Yan Shu , Li Chuanzhong
Published: October 2022

Based on the two-component Hirota and Maxwell–Bloch (H-MB) system, which describes the propagation of ultra-short pulses in erbium-doped nonlinear optical fibers, we derive two kinds of two-component nonlocal H-MB (NH-MB) systems by choosing suitable symmetries, namely [Formula: see text]-symmetric two-component NH-MB system and reverse space-time two-component NH-MB system. Then the explicit solutions of these two systems are obtained by the Darboux transformation.
Inclusion of a perfect fluid term into the Einstein–Hilbert action
Authors: Minguzzi E.
Published: October 2022

Here, I introduce a method to obtain the stress-energy tensor of the perfect fluid by adding a suitable term to the Einstein–Hilbert action. This term has the physical interpretation of pressure and variation should be understood with respect to the metric. In this derivation, velocity potentials are not needed.
Viscous generalized Chaplygin gas model in Brans–Dicke theory
Authors: Kapse D. V.
Published: October 2022

The Kantowski–Sachs cosmological model for viscous generalized Chaplygin gas has been investigated in the Brans–Dicke theory of gravitation. To determine the solutions of field equations, we have considered the power-law relation for the average scale factor. We have computed some cosmological parameters and discussed their physical importance. Furthermore, we have discussed the nature of statefinder and [Formula: see text] diagnostics in our model. It is also worth noting that the conclusions of the cosmological parameter are consistent with modern observational data.
Some convergence results using a new iteration process for generalized nonexpansive mappings in Banach spaces
Authors: Temir Seyit , Korkut Öznur
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we introduce a new iterative process for approximation fixed points. We show the stability of our proposed iteration process. We prove some weak and strong convergence theorems for generalized [Formula: see text]-nonexpansive mappings in the framework of uniformly convex Banach spaces. We also provide an example of a generalized [Formula: see text]-nonexpansive mapping to show numerically that our iteration is faster than various prominent iteration processes.
North American Midcontinent Pennsylvanian cyclothems and their implications
Authors: Heckel Philip H.
Published: October 2022

Cyclothems are stratigraphic sequences deposited during glacial-eustatic transgressive–regressive inundations of land. Major cyclothems are most complete on lower shelves and become separated by exposure surfaces higher on the shelf. Minor cyclothems extend only onto lower shelves or are parasequences reflecting a reversal of sea level during general phases of transgression or regression. In Midcontinent North America, highstand condensed intervals of major cyclothems are conodont-rich black shales correlated eastwards into the Illinois and Appalachian basins. The number of cyclothems decreased by loss of lesser cyclothems across these basins, signifying an eastwards increase in their depositional elevations. Generalized palaeogeographical maps show that facies successions developed across these basins during a single major interglacial transgression and regression. The control of glacial eustasy by the interaction of Earth's orbital parameters, along with radiometric dating, allows subdivision of the cyclothem succession into
c.
400 kyr groupings, which reflect the longest eccentricity cycle and facilitates global correlation. Delineation of the basinward extents of regression from the disappearance of exposure surfaces elucidates the history of basin-margin development. Major cyclothems that underwent reversals of general sea-level trend display ‘splays’ of lesser cycles onto the higher shelf. Geochemical cycles ‘nested’ within deepest-water shales on low shelves appear as thin nearshore facies between exposure surfaces at their high-shelf shorelines.
Teacher Attitudes & Beliefs in Computer Science (T-ABC): Development & Validation of a Teacher Survey Instrument
Authors: Ronan Darcy , Erdil D. Cenk , Brylow Dennis
Published: October 2022

Instrument development is an important step towards unlocking the analytical power of teacher attitudes and beliefs towards Computer Science (CS). Teacher dispositions have strong empirical and theoretical ties to teacher motivation, professional choices, and classroom practices. To determine consensus desirable attitudes and beliefs, we analyzed 17 key documents produced by 12 national and international organizations associated with CS and the CS education reform movement. An analysis of 98 relevant coded segments yielded four dispositional targets: an equity orientation, a teacher growth mindset, and key beliefs regarding (career) outcomes and epistemology of CS. Statements crafted for these targets as well as self-efficacy were reviewed through an expert panel (N = 5) and a pilot study (N = 22) before the T-ABC was administered to elementary teachers in a large grant-funded outreach project (N = 772). Psychometric analysis demonstrates high reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.89) and satisfactory extraction and loading onto a three factor model, with CS beliefs, growth mindset, and self-efficacy as major factors. Identification and measurements of teacher dispositions enables further analysis of how teacher beliefs may support or hinder effective practice in CS instruction, how teacher populations may differ, and how identified dispositions may change with exposure to various CS learning experiences.
Performance Improvement of Lithium Metal Batteries Enabled By LiBF3CN as a New Electrolyte Additive
Authors: Chae Oh B. , Adiraju Venkata A. K. , Lucht Brett L.
Published: October 2022

A newly synthesized electrolyte additive, lithium trifluoro(cyano) borate (LiBF3CN), has been investigated for electrochemical performance improvement of lithium metal batteries. The LiBF3CN has a structure where one fluorine atom of BF4
− is substituted with a cyano group (−CN) prepared by the reaction of boron trifluoride etherate with lithium cyanide. The electrochemical performance in symmetric Li/Li cells and NCM523/Li cells is significantly improved upon the incorporation of LiBF3CN as an electrolyte additive into a carbonate-based electrolyte. Extensive characterization of the deposited lithium metal reveals that a thin (≈20 nm) and robust SEI composed of LiNxOy, Li3N and Li2O is formed by the reductive decomposition of the LiBF3CN additive, which plays an important role in decreasing the resistance and stabilizing lithium deposition/stripping. The insight into the substitution effect of a functional group obtained from this work provides guidance for the design of new electrolyte additives.
Electrodeposition of Ni–B Alloy Film: Effect of Current Density and Heat Treatment on Micro-Mechanical Property
Authors: Jiang Yiming , Chen Chun-Yi , Kurioka Tomoyuki , Luo Xun , Yamane Daisuke , Mizoguchi Masanori , Kudo Osamu , Maeda Ryu , Sone Masato , Chang Tso-Fu Mark
Published: October 2022

Ni–B alloy films are prepared by electrodeposition with a Watt’s bath-based electrolyte. The B content decreases from 14.3 at% to 2.8 at% as the current density increases from 1 A dm−2 to 4 A dm−2. For applications in miniaturized electronics, the micro-scale mechanical property is evaluated by micro-compression test using micro-pillar type specimens. As-deposited Ni–B alloy films exhibit high mechanical strengths and ductility. The Ni–B alloy films are heat treated to evaluate the thermal stability. After the heat treatment, strengthening and formation of an intermetallic compound, Ni3B, are confirmed. The deformation behavior of the micro-pillars changes from ductile to brittle after the 250 °C heat treatment, and the compressive strength of the Ni–B alloy film having the B content of 2.8 at% reaches 5.52 GPa due to the precipitation strengthening mechanism by the Ni3B.
Improving Li Anode Reversibility in Li–S Batteries by ZnO Coated Separators Using Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Blanga Shalev , Yemini Reut , Teblum Eti , Tsubery Merav , Taragin Sarah , Noked Malachi
Published: October 2022

Lithium-sulfur batteries (LSB) are considered a very attractive alternative to lithium-ion batteries due to their high theoretical capacity and low cost of the active materials. However, the realization of LSB is hostage to many challenges associated with the cathode and anode response to the electrochemical conditions inside the battery cell. While working with LSB, elemental sulfur undergoes multielectron reduction reactions until it is reduced to Li2S. The intermediate long chain lithium-polysulfide (LiPS) species are soluble, hence diffuse through the electrolyte solution from the cathode side to the anode. This “shuttle” phenomenon considered to be one of the main issues of LSB. Most effort in investigating LSB focused on the cathode side while only few considered the importance of the lithium anode reversibility and the separator role in preventing the “shuttle” phenomenon. In the current work, we use Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) to successfully coat a standard polypropylene separator with an additional layer of metal oxides thin film. We show that surface treatment of the separator facilitated improved electrochemical response, and suppressed the shuttling of LiPS to the anode.
Preparation and Electrochemical Properties of Carbon-Coated LiMn0.6Fe0.4PO4 Cathode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Xiong Yonglian , Wei Ying , Rong Wenyi , Shang Jin , He Kepiao , Yi Ting , Fan Yongsheng
Published: October 2022

The LiMn
x
Fe1−x
PO4/C (x = 0.5, 0.6, and 0.7) cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries were synthesized by polyethylene glycol (PEG) 400 as the carbon source via a combination of wet ball-milling and high-temperature solid-state reaction. The analysis results of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) indicate that the as-prepared LiMn0.6Fe0.4PO4/C sample has a single-phase orthorhombic olivine structure, and the majority of particle sizes range from 100 to 200 nm with a ∼2–3 nm carbon coating layer. The electrochemical measurements demonstrate that the obtained LiMn0.6Fe0.4PO4/C composite possesses preferable Li-ion storage properties, and the discharge capacity of 137.7 mAh g−1 at 1 C rate, which is 83.6% of that at 0.1 C rate. The composite also exhibits outstanding cycling stability, with a capacity retention of 98.2% after 100 cycles at 0.2 C rate. And the differential capacity analysis (dQ/dV) reveals that the dominating degradation of LiMn0.6Fe0.4PO4/C is caused by the Mn2+ /Mn3+ redox capacity loss which is located at ∼4.12/3.96 V, whether during the charge or discharge process. Moreover, the LiMn0.6Fe0.4PO4/C sample delivers excellent high-temperature performance (45 °C), with improved reversible capacity and capacity retention of 148.7 mAh g−1 and 99.3% after 80 cycles at 0.5 C rate, respectively.
Impact of combination of short lecture and group discussion on the learning of physiology by nonmajor undergraduates
Authors: Asem Elikplimi K. , Rajwa Bartek
Published: October 2022

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of group discussion on the learning of mammalian physiology by nonmajor undergraduate students. Combining traditional lectures with group discussions increased the active participation of students in class and improved their learning of physiology, as measured by the results of in-semester and final examinations. The active learning technique benefited all class ranks on average.
Carotid body hyperexcitability underlies heat-induced hyperventilation in exercising humans
Authors: Gibbons Travis D. , Dempsey Jerome A. , Thomas Kate N. , Ainslie Philip N. , Wilson Luke C. , Stothers Tiarna A. M. , Campbell Holly A. , Cotter James D.
Published: October 2022

Physical activity is the most common way humans increase their core temperature, and excess breathing in the heat can limit heat tolerance and performance, and may increase the risk of heat-related injury. Dose-dependent increases in carotid body tonic activity and sensitivity with core heating provide compelling evidence that carotid body hyperexcitability is the primary cause of heat-induced hyperventilation during exercise.
Peripheral hypercapnic chemosensitivity in trained and untrained females and males during exercise
Authors: Mann Leah M. , Chan Jason S. , Angus Sarah A. , Doherty Connor J. , Thompson Benjamin P. , Foster Glen E. , Hughson Richard L. , Dominelli Paolo B.
Published: October 2022

The hypercapnic chemoresponse to transient CO2 showed an increase during acute physical activity; however, this response did not persist with further increases in intensity and was not different between participants of different aerobic fitness. Males and females show a differing response to CO2 during exercise when compared with an iso-V̇co2. Our results suggest that adaptations that lead to increased aerobic fitness do not impact the hypercapnic ventilatory response but there is an effect of sex.
Acupuncture and Related Therapies for Chronic Urticaria: A Critical Overview of Systematic Reviews
Authors: Shi Yun-Zhou , Cao Wei , Li Chun-Xiao , Xiao Xian-Jun , Huang Ying , Zhang Lei-Xiao , Zou Zi-Hao , Chen Si-Jue , Yang Qian , Wang Lu , Hao Ping-Sheng , Gao Zi-Ping , Li Ying
Published: October 2022

Background. Chronic urticaria (CU) can severely impair the quality of life. Acupuncture and related therapies have been widely used in the treatment of CU in China. This study aimed to summarize and critically evaluate the methodological and reporting quality of relevant systematic reviews (SRs) and present objective and comprehensive evidence on the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture and related therapies for CU. Methods. Eight electronic databases were searched from inception to October 2021 for SRs examining acupuncture and related therapies for CU, and gray literature was manually searched. Two authors independently identified SRs and extracted data. The methodological and reporting quality of these SRs were assessed by the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR 2) tool and preferred reporting items for SRs and meta-analyses (PRISMA, 2020), respectively. In addition, the risk of bias in systematic reviews (ROBIS) was used to evaluate the risk of bias. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework was applied to evaluate the quality of evidence for outcome measures. Results. In total, 23 SRs, including a total of 11 outcome indicators, were published before October 2021. The AMSTAR-2 results showed that the methodological quality of all SRs was critically low; items 2, 3, 7, 9, 10, and 16 were found to have particularly low quality. For PRISMA, the reporting quality of the included SRs was unsatisfactory, and major reporting flaws were observed in the search strategy, synthesis method, certainly assessment, reporting biases, registrations, and financial support of the included SRs. For ROBIS, 22 SRs (95.65%) had a high risk of bias. Among the 55 outcomes assessed using the GRADE framework, there were 3 (5.45%) outcomes with moderate-quality evidence, 6 (10.91%) outcomes with low-quality evidence, and 46 (83.64%) outcomes with very low-quality evidence. We found the moderate quality of evidence indicating that the total effective rate and curing rate of the acupuncture group were higher than those of the western medicine group, and the recurrence rate was lower than that of the western medicine group. Conclusions. Acupuncture and related therapies for the treatment of CU are supported by low-quality evidence-based medicine. However, considering the poor quality of these SRs, we suggest that studies with more rigorous designs, larger sample sizes, and higher methodological and reporting quality are necessary to provide stronger evidence. Registration. The protocol for this study has been registered (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021259131).
How PTV Vissim Has Been Calibrated for the Simulation of Automated Vehicles in Literature?
Authors: Beza Abebe Dress , Zefreh Mohammad Maghrour , Torok Adam , Mekonnen Anteneh Afework
Published: October 2022

Recently, in the literature, microscopic simulation is one of the most attractive methods in impact assessment of automated vehicles (AVs) on traffic flow. AVs can be divided into different categories, each having different driving characteristics. Hence, calibrating microscopic simulators for different AV categories could be challenging in AVs’ impact assessment. The PTV Vissim microscopic traffic simulation software has been calibrated for simulating diverse types of AVs in a large body of literature. There are two main streams of studies in literature adapting AVs' driving behaviors in Vissim following either internal (i.e., adjusting the parameters of the Vissim's default driving behavior models) or external (i.e., adapting AVs' behavior through external VISSIM interfaces) modeling approaches. The current paper investigates how the PTV Vissim has been internally calibrated for the simulation of different types of AVs and compares the calibrated values in the literature with default values introduced in the recent version of PTV Vissim. In the present paper, the reviewed studies are partitioned into two main categories according to the characteristics of the studied AVs, the studies focused on autonomous automated vehicles (AAVs) and the ones focused on cooperative automated vehicles (CAVs). Our findings indicate that the literature expects a lower value for parameters including standstill distance (CC0), headway time (CC1), following variation (CC2), the threshold for entering “following” (CC3), negative/positive following thresholds (CC4/CC5), speed dependency of oscillation (CC6), oscillation acceleration (CC7), safety distance reduction factor (SDRF), and minimum headway front/rear (MinHW) for AVs than conventional vehicles (CVs). Besides, the literature expects higher values for parameters including standstill acceleration (CC8), acceleration at 80 km/h (CC9), looking distances, and maximum deceleration for cooperative braking (MaxDCB) for AVs. When cautious AVs are introduced, deterring effects are expected in the literature (e.g., higher CC0). Moreover, CAVs can have higher looking distance values compared with AAVs.
Exponential Stability for an Opinion Formation Model with a Leader Associated with Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Somjaiwang Dussadee , Sa Ngiamsunthorn Parinya
Published: October 2022

This paper studies the dynamics of an opinion formation model with a leader associated with a system of fractional differential equations. We applied the concept of

α

-exponential stability and the uniqueness of equilibrium to show the consensus of the followers with the leader. A sufficient condition for the consensus is obtained for both fractional formation models with and without time-dependent external inputs. Moreover, numerical results are provided to illustrate the dynamical behavior.
Genetic, Structural, Physicochemical, and Molecular Epidemiological Landscape of Three New Mutations Found in the Spike (S) Protein of Highly Transmissible Sri Lankan Delta Variant Sub‐lineage AY.28: A222V, A701S, and A1078S
Authors: Gunawardana Dilantha
Published: October 2022

Recently, three new mutations were identified in Sri Lanka in the spike protein of the rapidly spreading delta variant of the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus identified by the sublineage AY.28. They were A222V, A701S, and A1078S. The primary focus here is on the A701S mutation that is (1) found in the immediate vicinity of the S1/S2 cleavage site (PRRAR∗SV) that separates S1 and S2 subunits of the spike protein; (2) has high structural disorder of the region spanning Serine‐701 (Ser‐701), which promotes a longer flexible loop forming a better substrate; (3) collapses a loose, short, unstable, tripeptide beta strand (ENS), which is likely to assist the host proteases to cleave the S1‐S2 interface easily than when an alanine is present. The same A701S mutation is found in at least 10 other strains of SARS‐CoV‐2 found in India, USA (East and West Coasts), and China, which classifies this mutation as geographically widespread and convergent in etiology. Conversely, the A1078S mutation is a highly present (>60 strains) mutation in terms of the SARS‐CoV‐2 coronaviruses, while the highly abundant A222V mutation is inferred by the genetic code, structural and topological features, and placement (in a beta strand) to be an innocuous, conservative mutation. The critical nature of S1/S2‐dependent cleavage of S1 and S2 subunits of the spike protein makes the A701S mutation one of significance not just for possible higher virus transmission but also for subsequent fates such as viral load and vaccine effectivity against the delta variant.
Static Mechanical Properties and Microscopic Analysis of Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Ultra‐High Performance Concrete with Coarse Aggregate
Authors: Liu Shengbing , Zhang Yonglei
Published: October 2022

An orthogonal test was conducted to investigate the effect of hybrid fiber on the mechanical properties of ultra‐high performance concrete (UHPC‐CA) with coarse aggregate . It was used to design and manufacture 144 test specimens for compressive strength, flexural tensile strength, static compressive elastic modulus test, and SEM microscopic test. Considering the mass replacement rate of coarse aggregate (10%, 15%, 20%, and 30%), the steel fiber volume rate (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5%), and the polypropylene fiber volume rate (0%, 0.05%, 0.10%, and 0.15%). The results show that the volume fraction of steel fiber has the greatest impact on compressive strength and flexural tensile strength, followed by the mass substitution rate of coarse aggregate, and the volume fraction of polypropylene fiber has the smallest impact. For the elastic modulus under static compression, the mass substitution rate of coarse aggregate has the greatest impact, followed by the volume fraction of steel fiber and polypropylene fiber. Based on the analysis of compressive properties, flexural tensile properties, and elastic modulus, the optimal mix ratio is recommended as follows: coarse aggregate 15%, steel fiber 1.5%, and polypropylene fiber 0.10%. Finally, three kinds of strength parameters are predicted based on the back propagation (BP) neural network system. The absolute value of the relative error between the predicted strength and the experimental value is less than 5%, which indicates that the prediction model proposed in this paper can provide a reference for the multiobjective optimization of the mix proportion of hybrid fiber ultra‐high performance concrete.
Association of Interleukin-17F Polymorphism and Mortality Predictors with the Risk of COVID-19
Authors: El-Desoky Manal M. , Tharwat Samar , Mostafa Nora , Hewidy Asem A. , Elmorsey Rehab A. , Abdelhafez Mona S. , El-Ashry Amira H. , Elhendawi Mona M. , Fathy Aya Ahmed , Hisham Fatma Azzahraa
Published: October 2022

Background. Th-17 cells, a proinflammatory subset of CD4 T lymphocytes, have been suggested as a possible cause of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19)-related immunological injuries. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between IL-17F (rs763780) polymorphism and the susceptibility to and outcomes of COVID-19 infection and to determine the clinical and laboratory predictors of COVID-19 death. Methods. This case-control study included 132 COVID-19 patients and 135 healthy age- and sex-matched controls. The participants were tested for IL-17F rs763780 polymorphism via TaqMan-based genotyping and for the expression of IL-17 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. This study also investigated the predictors for COVID-19 mortality. Results. A non-statistically significant association was observed between IL-17F alleles and genotypes with COVID-19 (

P
=
0.309

,

P
=
0.138

, respectively). Moreover, no significant difference in the IL-17F genotypes was observed between non-survivors and survivors (

P
=
0.482

). In the multivariate analysis, the participants with the following characteristics had 17.7-, 11.2-, 8-, and 17.9-fold higher odds of exhibiting in-hospital mortality, respectively: (1) hypertension, (2) age of >57 years, (3) WBC count of >12.6 × 103/mm3, and (4) D-dimer of >0.9 ng/ml. The ROC curve analysis showed that IL-17 at a cutoff point of >46 pg/ml was a perfect discriminator of COVID-19 patients from control subjects (AUC = 1.0). Conclusion. The findings indicate that the IL-17F H161R variant does not influence the risk of COVID-19. However, the IL-17 level is a perfect discriminator of COVID-19 infection. Hypertension, age of >57 years, white blood cell count of >12.6 × 103/mm3, and D-dimer of >0.9 ng/ml are the independent predictors for death among COVID-19 patients.
Hsa_circ_0097271 Knockdown Attenuates Osteosarcoma Progression via Regulating miR-640/MCAM Pathway
Authors: Sun Peng , Yang Xuan
Published: October 2022

Background. The dysregulation of circular RNAs (circRNAs) participates in the malignant progression of multiple cancers, including osteosarcoma (OS). However, the role of circ_0097271 in OS development remains unclear. We thus aimed at unveiling the functional role and mechanism of circ_0097271 in OS. Methods. The expressions of circ_0097271, miR-640, and MCAM in OS were analyzed by qPCR. Cell proliferation and migration were inspected by CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay, and Transwell assay. Circ_0097271’s role in vivo was assayed by establishing animal models. The predicted binding relationship between miR-640 and circ_0097271 or MCAM was verified by dual-luciferase reporter or RIP assay. Results. Circ_0097271’s expression was enhanced in OS samples and cells. The knockdown of circ_0097271 restrained OS cell growth and migration, and its downregulation also blocked solid tumor growth in vivo. Circ_0097271 targeted miR-640 and negatively modulated miR-640 expression. MiR-640 was poorly expressed in OS, and its depletion recovered OS cell growth and migration that were repressed by circ_0097271 knockdown. MiR-640 bound to MCAM 3’UTR and thus suppressed MCAM expression. MCAM knockdown repressed OS cell growth and migration, while additional miR-640 depletion partially abolished the anticancer effects of MCAM knockdown in OS cells. Conclusion. Circ_0097271 is an oncogenic driver and contributes to OS development via targeting the miR-640/MCAM pathway, which provides a potential opinion for OS treatment.
Antibacterial and Antioxidant Properties of Extracts of Yucca Baccata, a Plant of Northwestern Mexico, against Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Morales-Figueroa Gloria-Guadalupe , Pereo-Vega Gabriel Darío , Reyna-Murrieta Manuel Everardo , Pérez-Morales Rosalva , López-Mata Marco Antonio , Sánchez-Escalante José Jesús , Tapia-Rodriguez Melvin R. , Ayala-Zavala J. Fernando , Juárez Josué , Quihui-Cota Luis
Published: October 2022

Introduction. Bacterial agents and oxidative reactions are involved in health and food preservation issues, and Yucca baccata (Y. baccata) can be a source of compounds with practical applications in both areas, but its investigation remains limited. Materials and Methods. Butanolic (YBE) and aqueous (YAE) extracts were obtained from the stem of Y. baccata. The total saponin, phenolic, and flavonoid contents were analyzed in the YBE and YAE. The antioxidant capacity of the extracts was determined by the DPPH, TEAC, FRAP, and ORAC assays. Seven Gram‐positive and five Gram‐negative pathogenic bacteria strains were used to determine the MIC and MBC. Results. Saponin contents were 30% and 1.81% (w/w) in the YBE and YAE, respectively. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents in the extracts were 29.5 μg GAEmg-1 (2.95%) and 5.58 μg GAEmg-1 (0.56%) in the YBE and 69.92 μg QEmg-1 (7.0%) and 1.65 μg QEmg-1 (0.165%) in the YAE. The antioxidant capacity values of YBE were 29.18 μg TEmg-1, 121.8 μg TEmg-1, 33.41 μg TEmg-1, and 156.84 μg TEmg-1 by the DPPH, TEAC, FRAP, and ORAC assays, respectively. YAE had lower antioxidant values than YBE (P < 0.05). Values of 80 mgmL-1 and 100 mgmL-1 were estimated for MIC and MBC of YBE against the Gram‐positive bacteria. Values of 100 mgmL-1 and 120 mgmL-1 for MIC and MBC of YBE were estimated against the Gram‐negative bacteria. No MIC and MBC were obtained for YAE. Conclusion. YBE exhibited higher antioxidant activity than YAE. Apparently, antibacterial properties of the YBE tended to be higher than those of the YAE.
In-Service Power Transformer Life Time Prospects: Review and Prospects
Authors: Mharakurwa Edwell. T.
Published: October 2022

Power transformers are essential assets in power system networks that must be meticulously monitored throughout their operational life cycle. Given that a substantial percentage of in-service power transformers around the world have reached the end of their projected technical lifespan, utilities are adopting various transformer condition-based maintenance strategies to minimize potentially devastating equipment failure. Thus, further usage of aging fleet of power system assets can be improved by gaining a better understanding of life threatening factors. In-service power transformers and their auxiliary components are susceptible to a variety of operational risks, which can compromise their performance and efficiency, thus resulting in devastating failures, financial losses, and power outages. Hence, it is necessary to investigate transformer life time issues so as to fully grasp the operational and performance status in order to reduce failures and operating costs. This paper presents a unified framework of attributes pertaining to life time issues for transformer operation evaluation together with a summary of recent findings in order to explore the current status and progress of this rapidly progressing field. The failure statistics analysis is presented first, followed by an examination of the transformer’s insulation degradation and aging mechanism. Furthermore, emphasis was on detailing the commonly adopted models and strategies in transformer condition evaluation, fault diagnostics, and remnant life estimation. Despite significant advancements in ascertaining transformer health diagnosis and prognosis technologies, including test accuracy, quick, precise fault localization, and fault type classification, there are still several shortcomings that require additional research, and thus future research perspectives are also discussed.