bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactive Effects of Melatonin and Salicylic Acid on Brassica napus Under Drought Condition
Authors: Ilyas Noshin , Rafique Noman , Aqeel Muhammad , Raja Naveed Iqbal , Shabbir Ghulam , Ajaib Muhammad
Published: August 2022

AIMS:It is imperative to understand the synergetic actions of melatonin (MET) and salicylic acid (SA) in counteracting the negative effects of drought. A pot experiment was performed to investigate the interactive effects of exogenously applied MET and SA on morphology, physiology, and biochemical characteristics of drought stressed canola (Brassica napus). METHODS:Two cultivars (Super canola and Faisal canola) were used. MET (0.1 µM) and SA (0.50 mM) were applied as seed priming, and as foliar spray. Plants were exposed to severe drought stress (45% field capacity) at reproductive stage. RESULTS:Subjecting canola cultivars to drought caused significant reduction in shoot length (19%), plant fresh (15%) and dry (17%) biomass, yield (30%) and photosynthetic attributes (43%). Increased activity of free amino acids (20%), total soluble sugars (5%), and different antioxidant enzymes like catalase (27%), peroxidase (23%), superoxide dismutase (20%) and ascorbate peroxidase (35%) were recorded under drought. Seed priming, and foliar application of MET and SA increased growth and yield of canola cultivars. Priming of seeds with MET as well as synergetic application of MET priming and SA foliar spray were the most effective treatments among all, showing the greatest growth criteria (22% increase in plant height, 46% in fresh and 40% in dry biomass), yield components (49%) and endogenous MET (17%) and SA (16%) activity. Super canola cultivar showed better growth than Faisal canola. CONCLUSION:Study showed that synergetic application of MET and SA has the potential to induce stress resistance and enhance canola plants growth under drought.
5′-tRNAGly(GCC) halves generated by IRE1α are linked to ER stress response
Authors: Yeom Ji-Hyun , Shin Eunkyoung , Ha Yoonjie , Joo Minju , Jin Hanyong , Liu Haifeng , Kim Daeyoung , Kim Yong-Hak , Kim Hak Kyun , Kim Jeongkyu , Kim Hong-Man , Ryu Minkyung , Kim Keun Pil , Hahn Yoonsoo , Bae Jeehyeon , Lee Kangseok
Published: August 2022

Transfer RNA (tRNA) halves (tRHs) have various biological functions. However, the biogenesis of specific 5′-tRHs under certain conditions remains unknown. Here, we report that inositol-requiring enzyme 1α (IRE1α) cleaves the anticodon stem-loop region of tRNAGly(GCC) to produce 5′-tRHs (5′-tRH-GlyGCC) with highly selective target discrimination upon endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. We observed IRE1α expression-dependent 5′-tRH-GlyGCC production in human cancer cells. Levels of 5′-tRH-GlyGCC were positively correlated with the degree of cancer cell proliferation both in vitro and in vivo; this effect required co-expression of two nuclear ribonucleoproteins, HNRNPM and HNRNPH2, which we identified as binding proteins of 5′-tRH-GlyGCC. In addition, 5′-tRH-GlyGCC modulated mRNA isoform biogenesis. Furthermore, under ER stress in vivo, we observed simultaneous induction of IRE1α and 5′-tRH-GlyGCC expression in mouse organs and a distantly related organism, Cryptococcus neoformans. Thus, collectively, our findings indicate an evolutionarily conserved function for IRE1α-generated 5′-tRH-GlyGCC in cellular adaptation upon ER stress.
Redox-dependent Structural Origins of the Temperature Threshold and Sensitivity in the TRPV3 Bio-thermometer
Authors: Wang Guangyu
Published: August 2022

The DNA hairpin with a limited size or strength is sensitive to temperature. However, it is unclear if thermosensitive TRP channels also use the temperature-dependent little hairpin sizes or strengths to govern their temperature thresholds and sensitivity. Here, graph theory was used as a novel tool to test this hypothesis by analyzing the redox- and state-dependent cryo-electron microscopy structures of mouse TRPV3 with or without the Y564A mutation at different temperatures. The results showed that the biggest little hairpin with the minimal topological loop size and strength determines the temperature threshold while a change in the total minimal little hairpin sizes upon a change in the total little hairpin-dependent non-covalent interactions along the channel gating pathway governs the temperature sensitivity. This size- and strength-dependent hairpin thermodynamics may tune the thermal activity and sensitivity of biological macromolecules.
Biodegradable active packaging material containing grape seed ethanol extract and corn starch/к-carrageenan composite film
Authors: Wang Cuntang , An Xuanzhe , Li Ziyu , Lu Yueyi , Gao Zengming , Tian Shengxin
Published: August 2022

A biodegradable packaging film with antioxidant and antibacterial activity was developed by adding grape seed ethanol extract (1%、3%、5% per g of starch) to corn starch/κ-carrageenan (CS/кC) complex film made using the solvent casting method. The κ-carrageenan is a promising film-forming polymer with highly elastic and adhesive properties. The addition of Grape seed ethanol extract (GSE) enhanced the water vapor permeability, break elongation, and opacity of the film, and this is related to the excellent dispersion of GSE in CS/кC film observed by scanning electron microscope, and the formation of intermolecular hydrogen bond between GSE and CS proved by FT-IR. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the CS/кC -5% GSE film has a high glass transition temperature (121.65℃). With the increase of GSE content, it improved the antioxidant capacity (DPPH radical scavenging 26.5% and ABTS radical scavenging 45.0%) and antibacterial activity (Bacteriostatic circle diameter of E. coli 12.78 ± 0.42 mm and S. aureus strains 13.52 ± 0.66 mm) of CS/кC films. Simulated food packaging experiments presented that CS/кC-GSE film significantly reduced the peroxide value of lard (P < 0.05). The above results indicate that the GSE can be used as a food-grade packaging material and has a good application prospect in the food industry.
Provable Lightweight Hybrid Proxy Re-Encryption Scheme without Pairings for Internet of Things
Authors: Abouelkeir Eman
Published: August 2022

Cisco originated a term fog computing which decentralized computing process on the cloud central to be closer to IOT data. Fog computing provides an efficient data storage and processing. Fog computing still suffer from some security and privacy. Security problems solved by proxy re-encryption schemes but it suffers from heavy computational operations because of using so many paring operations in delegation and delegated sides. Parings operations causes heavy computations. This paper suggests a new hybrid proxy re-encryption scheme without parings using both the symmetric and asymmetric cryptography schemes. The security proof of the proposed scheme has been done under Indistinguishability-Chosen Plaintext Attack. The suggested scheme is highly computationally efficient when compared with other schemes in literature.
HuR-induced CDK2 translational enhancement aggravates oral tongue squamous carcinoma
Authors: duan Yangfang , wei Youchun , wang Yunxia
Published: August 2022

Background: Oral tongue squamous carcinoma(OTSC) is an extremely malignant tumor specifically characterized by CDK2-mediated cell cycle perturbation.However,the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. HuR,an ubiquitously expressed member of the embryonic lethal abnormal vision family, participated in various malignent cancer. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the relationship of HuR and CDK2 in OTSC.Materials and methods: SCC25 cell line was sellected in vitro assay for the impact of HuR knockdown on tumor proliferation or CDK2 expression. IHC or mRNA levels of HuR and CDK2 expression were evaluated in malignent or benign lession tissue. Student’s t-test is used for two-group comparisons, and the one-way ANOVA for multiple group comparisons.Results:HuR knockdown reduced SCC25 proliferation, led to cell cycle arrest and dampened the colony formation. Mechanismly, HuR promoted CDK2 translation through binding to 3’untranslated regions. The luciferase activity assay futher authenticated the ARE-mediated HuR regulation on CDK2. Moreover, IHC results indicated that HuR expression exhibited progessive increase in the cases of pathological grade, accompanied by more cytoplasm distribution.Clinal datas demonstrated that the higher expression of HuR and CDK2 indicated poor prognosis and both had positive correlation.Conclusions: our study provides a compelling role of HuR in controlling the progression of OTSC by regulating CDK2 dependent cell cycle. These findings may provide a new therapeutic target for OTSC.
Construction of a ternary staggered heterojunction of ZnO/g-C3N4/AgCl with reduced charge recombination for enhanced photocatalysis
Authors: Chen Haodong , Shu Qing
Published: August 2022

In this study, a series of ternary composite photocatalysts ZnO/g-C3N4/AgCl(x) (x is the amount of AgCl added, x=0.05, 0.1, 0.15 g) were synthesized, and various characterization methods were used to analyze the morphology, structural and photochemical properties of the above samples. The photocatalytic activity of the obtained samples was evaluated by degrading rhodamine B (RhB) and acid orange (AOⅡ) using a xenon light source (500 w) as a simulated light source. The results shown that within 60 min, the degradation rate of ZnO/g-C3N4/AgCl(0.1 g) is 99%, which is much higher than the 38% degradation rate of g-C3N4. After three cycles, the degradation efficiency of RhB and AOII by ZnO/g-C3N4/AgCl(0.1 g) can still reach 91% and 95%, respectively. Based on the electronic structure analysis of DFT calculations, it is found that a staggered heterojunction structure is formed between g-C3N4, ZnO and AgCl. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of the ternary composite is mainly attributed to the efficient separation of charge carriers through the synergistic removal of photogenerated electrons in g-C3N4 by ZnO and AgCl. Radical trapping experiments confirmed that •O2− and h+ were the main active species in the reaction system. As a visible light-responsive catalyst, ZnO/g-C3N4/AgCl can be effectively applied to the degradation of organic dye pollutants and has broad application prospects.
Climate Change Knowledge and Perception among Farming Households in Nigeria
Authors: Madaki Mustapha Yakubu , Muench Steffen , Kaechele Harald , Bavorova Miroslava
Published: August 2022

Nigeria is committed to achieving a 20% unconditional and 45% conditional reduction of GHGs emissions by 2030 through a strong focus on awareness and preparedness for climate change impacts via the mobilization of local communities for climate change mitigation actions. As land use and forestry contribute 38% and agriculture contributes 13% of the country’s GHGs, farmers are among the stakeholders to be aware and prepare for climate change mitigations and adaptations. This study assessed the knowledge of agriculturally related practices associated with climate change and its relation to their climate change perception. 1,080 smallholder farmers were interviewed across six agroecological zones of Nigeria using a semi-structured questionnaire. Results of regression models revealed that most farmers know that deforestation and land clearance by bush burning contributes to climate change. However, many farmers did not know that methane emissions from livestock (enteric fermentation) can cause climate change. Our results further show that the farmers’ perception of climate change is associated with climate change knowledge. Factors affecting the climate change knowledge of farmers include information received from government extension services and environmental NGOs, radio, as well as experiencing extreme weather events. Farmers of dry AEZs were more aware and knowledgeable of the agricultural practices contributing to the changing environment. Increased exposure to climate change events thus appears to elevate the knowledge on the topic. Using extension and environmental NGOs and radio to disseminate climate change information will help further in guiding and shaping farmers’ perceptions towards scientific findings for appropriate actions.
Strength, Durability and Thermal Characteristics of Optimized Green Concrete Developed using Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag and Pond Ash
Authors: Hari M Naga Theera , Maheswaran J. , Chellapandian M. , Arunachelam N.
Published: August 2022

This research work focuses on the experimental investigation of the thermal properties, strength, durability and microstructure analysis of optimized green concrete developed using pond ash and ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS). The objective of the study is to understand the effect of partial replacement of fine aggregate and cement (OPC) using pond ash and GGBS respectively. An optimum mix ratio for the replacement of pond ash and GGBS was determined from the material characterization of 16 trail mixes. Then, the optimized concrete mix was tested for mechanical properties, durability and thermal characterization. Moreover, the microstructure analysis of the optimized mix was performed using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) to overview the chemical constituents, bonding of molecules at interfacial transition zone (ITZ), the effect of elevated temperature, etc. In addition, a detailed multilinear regression analysis was performed and a new equation was proposed to determine the compressive strength of concrete with GGBS and pond ash. The predictions obtained from the proposed analytical equation showed a good match with the test results.
Design of H-shaped MPA using Reptile Search Algorithm based Multilayer Perceptron Neural Network
Authors: Kumar Jakkuluri Vijaya , Shaby S.Maflin
Published: August 2022

In many applications such as aerospace systems, satellites, mobile radar, and other wireless applications, the Microstrip patch antenna (MPA) plays an important role due to its properties like lightweight, low cost of production, and compact structure. Low gain, narrow frequency bandwidth, and high return loss are the shortcomings in these existing MPA design approaches. Moreover, the developed models of the antenna are hard to design and larger size. The antenna's geometrical specifications should be optimized to address this problem. This proposed approach Reptile Search Algorithm (RSA) based Multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural network is employed to design the H-shaped antenna for Ku-band applications. The MLP neural network is employed to calculate the fitness value of the RSA. To train the MLP neural network by using MATLAB software. The experimental and simulation results of the proposed approach shows better performance with 8.89 dB gain, -33.06 dB return loss, and 1.07 VSWR.
Forensic analysis of novel SARS2r-CoV identified in game animal datasets in China shows evolutionary relationship to Pangolin GX CoV clade and apparent genetic experimentation
Authors: Jones Adrian , Massey Steven E , Zhang Daoyu , Deigin Yuri , Quay Steven C.
Published: August 2022

Pangolins are the only animals other than bats proposed to have been infected with SARS-CoV-2related coronaviruses (SARS2r-CoVs) prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Here we examine thenovel SARS2r-CoV we previously identified in game animal metatranscriptomic datasetssequenced by He et al. (2022) and find that sections of the partial genome phylogenetically groupwith Guangxi (GX) pangolin CoVs (GX PCoVs), while the full RdRp sequence groups with bat-SL-CoVZC45. While the novel SARS2r-CoV is found in 6 pangolin datasets, the same CoV isalso found in 10 additional NGS datasets from 5 separate mammalian species and is likelyrelated to contamination by a laboratory researched virus. Absence of bat mitochondrialsequences from the datasets, the fragmentary nature of the virus sequence and the presence of apartial sequence of a cloning vector attached to a SARS2r-CoV read suggests that it has beencloned. We find that NGS datasets containing the novel SARS2r-CoV are contaminated withsignificant Homo sapiens genetic material, and numerous viruses not associated with the hostanimals sampled. We further identify the dominant human haplogroup of the contaminatingH.sapiens genetic material to be F1c1a1, which is of East Asian provenance. The association ofthis novel CoV with both bat CoV and the Guangxi pangolin CoV (GX PCoV) clades is animportant step towards identifying the origin of the GX PCoVs.
Water uptake patterns differ markedly among different sand-fixing plants in Mu Us Sandy Land in Northwest China
Authors: Pei Yanwu , HUANG LAIMING , Shao Ming'an , Zhang Yinglong , Pan Yanhui
Published: August 2022

Aim This study aimed to investigate the seasonal variations and controls of water uptake patterns of different sand-fixing plants in water-limited desert ecosystem. Methods δ2H and δ18O in precipitation water, soil water, groundwater and xylem water were obtained to determine the seasonal changes in water uptake by three representative plant species (P. sylvestris, A. pcdunculata and S. psammophila) in the Mu Us Sandy Land in Northwest China. Results Annually, P. sylvestris, A. pcdunculata and S. psammophila respectively derived of their water from the deep (59.2% moist layer and groundwater), intermediate (57.4% stable and moist layers) and shallow (54.4% active and stable layers) water sources. Seasonally, the three plant species absorbed more than 60% of their water from moist layer and groundwater in the early dry season (June) and then switched over to water sources in active and stable layers (50.1–62.5%) in the rainy season (July–September). From October to November (late dry season), P. sylvestris (54.5–66.2%) and A. pcdunculata (52.9–63.6%) mainly used water from stable and moist layers, while S. psammophila (52.6–70.7%) still predominantly extracted its water from active and stable layers. Conclusions Variations in soil water profile induced by seasonal fluctuations in precipitation and groundwater level and then differences in plant root distribution and water requirement were the main factors affecting seasonal patterns of water use by the three plant species. By analyzing the sources and controls of plant water uptake, this study opened a new door of research on vegetation restoration and water management in water-limited desert regions.
Oil content, fatty acid composition, chemical properties and predicted cetane number in different families and species of non-food oilseed plants in North China
Authors: Zhao Wei-Hua , Xu Ning-Wei , Liu Hui- Juan , Yan Peng , Xie Guang- Hui , Ye Yong- Zhong , Liu Guo-Hou , Wang Ya- Ping , Qin Shuo , Dun Bao-Qing , Xu Xing- You , Han Fen-Xia , Li Gui-Ying
Published: August 2022

Biodiesel is one of the most important bioenergy products. But the feedstock is the bottleneck of its production. In order to mine potential feedstock from the natural resources, a wild survey was conducted in 10 provinces or cities of North China, and 952 seed samples, which came from 587 species of 102 families, were collected for analysis of oil content, oil composition, and chemical properties. The result showed that there are 23 families with the average oil contents higher than 20%, and families of Lauraceae, Magnoliaceae, Celastraceae, Brassicaceae, Labiatae, Sapindaceae are dominant families rich in oil. The fatty acid composition of various vegetable oils is very different, showing the characteristics of different families, genera, and species. Erucic acid was mainly found in the Cruciferae；Pinolenic acid and taxoleic acid was mainly found in the Pinaceae; Oleic acid was mainly found in the Euphorbiaceae. The average iodine value in 81.4% of the families is less than 120 g/100g. Families with an acid value of less than 10 are mainly distributed in Rosaceae, Leguminosae, Cruciferae, Labiatae, Compositae, Liliaceae, Aceraceae, Rhamnaceae, Solanaceae, Cannabaceae, Malvacea, Oleaceae, Cornaceae, Sapindaceae, etc. The saponification value is concentrated between 140 and 220 mg/g in 344 species (62.66%). In 84 species (60.87%), the predicted cetane number is higher than 49, mainly distributed in the families of Rosaceae, Anacardiaceae, Betulaceae, Fagaceae, Oleaceae, Umbelliferae, Theaceae, Celastraceae, etc. These results will help in developing potential biodiesel feedstock, also provide a guide for development of specific oil industry.
Evolution of differences in clinical presentation across epidemic waves among suspected COVID-19 cases who received care at the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS)
Authors: Olaiz Gustavo , Bertozzi Stefano M. , Juárez-Flores Arturo , Borja-Aburto Víctor H. , Vicuña Félix , Ascencio-Montiel Iván J. , Gutierrez Juan Pablo
Published: August 2022

Background. Timely monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 variants is crucial to effectively managing both prevention and treatment efforts. In this paper, we aim to describe demographic and clinical patterns of individuals suspected of COVID-19 during the first three epidemic waves in Mexico to identify changes in those patterns that may reflect differences determined by virus variants. Methods. We conducted a descriptive analysis of a large database containing records for all individuals who sought care at the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) due to COVID-19-like symptoms from March 2020 to October 2021 (4.48 million records). We described the clinical and demographic profile of individuals tested and untested, and among those tested, those with positive and negative results, and the changes in those profiles across the first three epidemic waves. Results. Individuals with COVID-19-like symptoms were older in the first wave and younger in the third one. As the pandemic progressed, an increasing number of individuals sought care for suspected COVID-19. The positivity rate decreased over time but remained well over the recommended 5%. The pattern of presenting symptoms changed over time, with some decreasing over time (dyspnea 40.6% to 14.0%, cough 80.4% to 76.2%--, fever 77.5% to 65.2%, headache 80.3% to 78.5%), and some increasing (odynophagia 48.7% to 58.5%, rhinorrhea 28.6% to 47.5%, anosmia 11.8% to 23.2%, dysgeusia 11.2% to 23.2%). Conclusion. During epidemic surges, the general consensus was that any individual presenting with respiratory symptoms was very likely to be a COVID-19 case. However, symptoms and signs are dynamic, with clinical patterns changing not only with the evolution of the virus but also with demographic changes in the affected population. A better understanding of these changing patterns is needed to improve preparedness for future surges and pandemics.
Y-linked additive variation for quantitative traits in Drosophila simulans
Authors: Fedorka Kenneth , Nielsen Tobias , Baldwin Jaden
Published: August 2022

Drosophila Y-chromosome variation has been shown to influence numerous phenotypes and the expression of hundreds of genes throughout the genome. However, it is currently unknown if Y-chromosome variation can adaptively shape male traits. Previous theoretical work suggests additive variation necessary for adaptive evolution is difficult to maintain among Y-chromosomes within populations, and previous empirical work has revealed only Y-linked epistatic variation, which can impede adaptive evolution. To assess the impact this Y-linked variation may have on adaptive evolution, we established replicate populations in D. simulans containing either multiple Y-chromosome variants (YN populations) or a single Y-chromosome variant (Y1 populations) and estimated male and female heritabilities for sternopleural bristles number, abdominal bristles number, sex comb teeth number, and tibia length; traits previously shown to be influenced by Y-chromosomes. If Y-chromosome variation is additive, we expected YN populations to exhibit greater heritability than Y1. If variation is largely sign epistatic, we expected YN populations to exhibit reduced heritability. To minimize genetic dissimilarities between YN and Y1 populations, autosomal, X-linked, and mitochondrial allele frequencies were homogenized within YN/Y1 replicate pairs. Female heritability estimates served as controls and not expected to differ. We found that male YN populations exhibited greater heritability than Y1 for sternopleural bristle and sex comb tooth number, while female YN and Y1 population estimates showed no difference. These data suggest Y-chromosomes can adaptively shape male traits by contributing additive genetic variation. Further, Y-chromosomes may influence the evolution of sexual dimorphism by shaping male traits shared by both sexes.
Complete resection of recurrent chest desmoid tumor by 3D model reconstruction technology
Authors: Zheng Xing , Wang Wenmin , Wu Zhaohong , Liu Shenghua
Published: August 2022

Desmoid tumor (DT) is a rare, local recurrence, invasive growth benign disease that rarely occurs in the chest wall. Chest wall tumor resection is mainly solution for chest DTs and one of the most challenging operations for thoracic surgeons. This paper introduces a case of recurrent chest DT, which used 3D model reconstruction(3DMR)technology to make preoperative planning and guide surgical resection of tumor. Our result proved that individual operations designed through 3DRM technology can reduce the possible injury caused by surgery and provide a better management of surgery. 3DRM technology has great application potential in the complex thoracic DTs surgery.
Effect of teriparatide on drug treatment of tuberculous spondylitis: An experimental study
Authors: Lee Subum , Seo Ye-Jin , Choi Je-Yong , Che Xiangguo , Kim Hyun-Ju , Eum Seok-Yong , Hong Min-Sun , Lee Sun-Kyoung , Cho Dae-Chul
Published: August 2022

Tuberculous spondylitis often develops catastrophic bone destruction with uncontrolled inflammation. Because anti-tuberculous drugs do not have a role in bone formation, a combination drug therapy with a bone anabolic agent could help fracture prevention and promote bone reconstruction. This study aimed to investigate the influence of teriparatide on the effect of anti-tuberculous drugs in tuberculous spondylitis treatment. We used the virulentMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) H37Rv strain. First, we investigated the interaction between teriparatide and anti-tuberculosis drugs (isoniazid and rifampin) by measuring the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) against H37Rv. Second, we evaluated the therapeutic effect of anti-tuberculosis drugs and teriparatide on our previously developedin vitrotuberculous spondylitis model of an Mtb-infected MG-63 osteoblastic cell line using acid-fast bacilli staining and colony-forming unit counts. Selected chemokines (interleukin [IL]-8, interferon γ-induced protein 10 kDa [IP-10], monocyte chemoattractant protein [MCP]-1, and regulated upon activation, normal T cell expressed and presumably secreted [RANTES]) and osteoblast proliferation (alkaline phosphatase [ALP and alizarin red S [ARS] staining) were measured. Teriparatide did not affect the MIC of isoniazid and rifampin. In the Mtb-infected MG-63 spondylitis model, isoniazid and rifampin treatment significantly reduced Mtb growth, and cotreatment with teriparatide did not change the anti-tuberculosis effect of isoniazid (INH) and rifampin (RFP). IP-10 and RANTES levels were significantly increased by Mtb infection, whereas teriparatide did not affect all chemokine levels as inflammatory markers. ALP and ARS staining indicated that teriparatide promoted osteoblastic function even with Mtb infection. Cotreatment with teriparatide and the anti-tuberculosis drugs activated bone formation (ALP-positive area increased by 705%, P = 0.0031). Teriparatide was effective against Mtb-infected MG63 cells without the anti-tuberculosis drugs (ARS-positive area increased by 326%, P = 0.0037). Teriparatide had no effect on the efficacy of anti-tuberculosis drugs and no adverse effect on the activity of Mtb infection in osteoblasts. Furthermore, regulation of representative osteoblastic inflammatory chemokines was not changed by teriparatide treatment. In thein vitroMtb-infected MG-63 cell model of tuberculous spondylitis, cotreatment with the anti-tuberculosis drugs and teriparatide increased osteoblastic function.
Molecular dynamics simulation of the effect of different factors on aqueous electrolyte supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Wen yu , Gao Wei , Hu Ming hui , Zhang Li sha , Feng Hua jie
Published: August 2022

The effects of temperature, graphene size and electrolyte concentration on the diffusion and structure of aqueous electrolyte of graphene supercapacitor were investigated via molecular dynamics simulation. By studying the average number of hydrogen bonds, the number density distribution, the mean square displacement and the diffusion coefficient, we found that the temperature and concentration have obvious effects on the properties of the system, while the graphene size has little effect on the properties of the system. With increasing concentration of ethylene glycol, the hydrogen bonding network between water molecules is gradually broken, and then the average number of hydrogen bonds between water molecules decreases, while the average number of hydrogen bonds between water and ethylene glycol molecules increases. Ethylene glycol is more capable of forming hydrogen bonds than water molecules. Therefore, the addition of ethylene glycol creates a good protection of the water molecules. This reduces the sensitivity of water molecules to temperature, improves their stability and inhibits their decomposition.
The Effects of Anthropometric Measurements on Radiotherapy Planning in Radiotherapy of Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Koca Timur , Sengun Yasemin , Atak Ece , Aksu Melek Gamze , Tuncel Nina , Korcum Aylin Fidan
Published: August 2022

Background: It was aimed to evaluate the differences and relationship between the anthropometric characteristics of the patients who received radiotherapy in our clinic after breast-conserving surgery due to breast cancer. Methods: A total of 40 patients underwent whole breast and lymph node irradiation after breast-conserving surgery were evaluated according to dosimetric parameters and ​anthropometric variables such as weight, mid-sternum thickness, Haller index, central lung distance (CLD) and breast volume.Results: In internal mammary node (IMN) irradiated patients, lung doses (V5, V10, V20, V30, minimum dose (Dmin) and maximum dose (Dmax)) and contralateral breast doses (Dmax and V5) were significantly higher than the patients not received IMN irradiation. Also, breast size shown to be an important factor; when small and large breast sized patients were compared, ipsilateral lung V10, V20, and V30 values and the Dmin of heart were higher in patients with large breast volume. The V5 value and Dmin of the total lung were higher in the group with a CLD value of 3 cm or less. The contralateral breast Dmax and V5 doses were higher in patients with midsternum thickness above 1.7.Conclusions: In the radiotherapy of breast cancer especially for the patients with nodal treatment volumes, differences in treatment designs could be made according to anthropometric variables. In the evaluation of radiotherapy treatment plans individual features like chest wall shape and breast size should be kept in mind.
Water-soluble dicarboxylic acids, oxoacids and a-dicarbonyls in the tropical aerosols in coastal megacity Mumbai: Molecular characteristics and formation processes
Authors: Alang Ashmeet Kaur , Aggarwal Shankar G. , Singh Khem , Soni Daya , Kawamura Kimitaka
Published: August 2022

Daytime and nighttime PM10 samples were collected during summer (June) and winter (February) at a representative urban site in Mumbai, located on the western coast of Indian subcontinent. Samples were studied for molecular distribution of water-soluble dicarboxylic acids, oxoacids and dicarbonyls as well as total carbon (TC), water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC), inorganic ions along with specific markers (levoglucosan, K+) to better understand sources and formation processes of organic aerosols in Mumbai. The distribution of water-soluble organics was characterised by high abundance of oxalic acid (C2), followed by phthalic (Ph), terephthalic (tPh), azelaic (C9), malonic (C3), and succinic acids (C4). Positive correlation between C2, sulfate and glyoxal (ωC2) suggest secondary production of C2 predominantly via aqueous phase chemistry. C2 also showed positive correlation with K+ and levoglucosan indicating that biomass/biofuel burning is the potential source of diacids in the Mumbai aerosols. In addition, higher average contributions of total diacids to WSOC and OC in winter than in summer suggest that aerosols were aged i.e., photochemically well processed in winter in Mumbai. On the other hand, diurnal change in their ratios is observed with higher ratio in daytime samples than that of previous and succeeding nighttime samples, suggesting diacids are also influenced from local sources in both the seasons. This study demonstrates that biomass burning as well as biogenic sources are important sources influencing the distributions of aerosols in Mumbai.
Optimizing roof bolt properties for a full-height coal seam roadway
Authors: Xing Yuanyuan , Zhang Feifei
Published: August 2022

Using a roadway in a coal mine greatly reduces the cost of mining. Because the coal seam is weaker than the overlying strata, high mine pressures cause large ruptures in roadway sidewalls and these are threats to the support system. Using the “multi-block beam” model, this paper derives equations to analyze the stresses and deformation in the rock and the coal seam, to determine the overburden pressure on a roadway roof and sidewalls and to define the rupture range. On the basis of that analysis and by following the stability principles of geotechnical engineering, the anchoring forces required to maintain sidewall stability are examined. This provides a theoretical basis for determining support parameters. Finally, for a field test, the bolting parameters were calculated after determining the physical and mechanical properties of the rock surrounding a roadway in a working coal mine. A support system was designed using the equations generated for this paper. That system was installed in the mine and the results were good.
Long-term hydroclimatic variability over the semi-arid highlands of Ethiopia in relation to ENSO and IOD teleconnection signals
Authors: Shiferaw Henok , Girma Atkilt , Hadush Kibrom , G.Mariam Haileselassie , Zenebe Amanuel , Yazew Eyasu
Published: August 2022

Studies on global effects of ENSO (El Niño Southern Oscillation) and IOD (Indian Ocean Dipole) to local patterns of rainfall and streamflow (hydroclimatic) variability is limited. The focus of this study is to understand the influence of large-scale indices of ENSO and IOD on hydroclimatic variability of the upper Tekeze basin Giba catchment (GC) where located in the northern highlands of Ethiopia. Modified Mann–Kendall and Pettit tests were used to generally understand the overall trends and expected abrupt changes of rainfall and streamflow in the GC hydroclimate. We also used correlation and multiple regression analysis to oversee the linkages, performance and strengths of SSTs (sea surface temperature) to the local hydroclimate variabilities. Our results show the abrupt changes strongly linked with the El Niño years. We also found ENSO and IOD plays a crucial role in modulating the local hydroclimate variability of GC, and that ENSO plays a more important role than IOD. The main rainfall season JAS (July-August-September) in GC is positively correlated with March to May SST in the western Pacific Ocean, eastern Atlantic Ocean, Northern Atlantic and southwestern Indian Oceans. And, the JAS rainfall is negatively associated with March to May SST in Southeast Indian Ocean which results a decrement in JAS rainfall. The long-term streamflow variations across the study period strongly correlated with rainfall variability in all the stations. This highlights a signature to takeover different decisions at local level of the upper Tekeze basin GC for a better water resources development and management.
Black tea and its theaflavin derivatives firmly inhibit acetylcholinesterase activity, possible implications in cholinergic neurodegenerative or muscular disorder.
Authors: Samanta Tanmoy , Chandran Krishna S , Medda Nandita , Banerjee Amrita , Mitra Adinpunya , De Subrata Kr. , maiti smarajit
Published: August 2022

Background
Over-expression of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), a key enzyme-regulator of neurotransmitter acetylcholine leads to neurodegenerative-disorder, Alzheimer’s-disease/muscular-dysfunction.
Aims
Therefore, inhibition of AChE may restrict these diseases.
Objectives
Presently, black-tea was tested in-vitro/in-vivo on AChE activities.
Methods
Inhibitory-effects on purified-AChE was screened from ten pure tea-phytochemicals viz. epicatechin(EC), epigallocatechin(EGC), catechin-gallate(CG), epicatechin-gallate(ECG), Epigallocatechin-gallate(EGCG), gallocatechin-gallate(GCG), theaflavin(TF), theaflavin-monogallate(TFMG), theaflavin-digallate(TFDG), and gallic-acid.
Results
Among those, TFDG and TFMG showed promising dose-dependent (mixed-type manner.) inhibition of AChE (IC50 = 1.6µM and 3.3µM, respectively). The TF showed moderate inhibitory-effect (IC50 = 29µM). Tea galloyl-ester catechins, ECG/CG/EGCG/GCG inhibited AChE (IC50 = 41, 49, 67and 54 µM, respectively). In-vivo, arsenic-intoxicated (0.6 ppm/4-weeks) rat increase of cerebellum AChE was completely restored by black-tea-extract (TF-rich). Molecular-docking by AutoDock-PatchDock server (binding/stability/kinetic) of AchE (PDBid:4M0E) and the experimental-flavonoids (PubChem-3Dstructures) suggest, TFDG (lowest Atomic-Contact-Energy − 369.87, TFMG, -347.06 kcal/mol) hampers the enzyme catalytic-hydrolytic-action and nucleophilic-attack by SER203 supporting the in-vitro results. Conclusively, the finding is therapeutically beneficial for cholinergic neurodegenerative/muscular disorders.
Endothelial glycocalyx degradation is associated with acute lung injury and prognosis in septic patients
Authors: Zhou Gaosheng , Liu Jingjing , Zhang Hongmin , Wang Xiaoting , Liu Dawei
Published: August 2022

Background: The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between the extent of glycocalyx disruption and sepsis-induced acute lung injury.Methods: In total, 68 patients admitted to the department of critical care medicine of the hospital were enrolled between September 2020 to September 2021. The levels of serum syndecan1 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Clinical parameters and standard laboratory test data were also recorded. Results: Serum syndecan1 levels within 24 h after ICU admission were significantly increased in the sepsis-induced acute lung injury(SALI) group compared with the sepsis non-acute lung injury(NSALI) group (97.12 ± 19.46 vs. 73.50 ± 16.52 ng/mL, p < 0.0001). Serum syndecan1 was moderately negatively correlated with oxygenation index (rs = - 0.593, p < 0.001) in all the patients. Moreover, multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that syndecan1 was also independently associated with ALI risk( OR 0.896 (95% CI 0.836-0.961, p = 0.002). For the SALI diagnosis, the results indicated that syndecan1 (AUC 0.825 ± 0.053, p < 0.0001) was more valuable than other indicators. The AUC for syndecan1 level associated with 28 day mortality was 0.896 (95% CI, 0.817-0.974, p < 0.0001). Patients in the high-level syndecan1 group ( > 90.15 ng/mL) had significantly increased 28 day mortality compared with those in the low-level group ( < 90.15 ng/mL)[log-rank (Mantel-Cox), 14.82, p = 0.0001].Conclusions: serum syndecan1 within 24 h after ICU admission may be a useful biomarker to predict the incidence of SALI, additionally, elevated serum syndecan1 levels may be an important risk factor for mortality in septic patients.
Modified Hybrid Nano Fluid Impact on a MHD Peristaltic wavy Diverging Tube along with connective conditions
Authors: Iftikhar Naheeda , Sadaf Hina
Published: August 2022

This study focuses our attention towards the peristaltic flow of Zinc, Titanium and Copper modified hybrid nanoparticles, water is occupied as a carrier fluid in a cylindrical diverging tube. The projected model presents the study of MHD, wall properties, slip impact and convective boundary conditions on the flow pattern. The governing partial differential equations and the boundary conditions for computation are evolved by using appropriate transformations. The exact solution for the consequential system of nonlinear differential equations is possible to accomplish using the Cauchy Euler’s method. The graphical depiction of velocity and temperature profile using emerging parameters are simulated and examined. The addition of magnetic field in the subjected study shows its distinction in the water flow. Another domain is the addition of heat emission/absorption term in the energy equation to maintain the homogeneous temperature for the water flow. Streamlines pattern is also discussed for modified nano, hybrid nano and nanofluid. We expect the use of these metal nanoparticles in the peristaltic study would be helpful and provide efficient output for drug delivery purposes.
Thermodynamics and Economic Analysis of a Two-Stage Desiccant Cooling (TSDC) System Based on Biomass Heating for a Greenhouse Application
Authors: Mandal Chandan , Ganguly Aritra
Published: August 2022

This paper proposes a novel scheme of biomass regenerated two-stage desiccant-supported greenhouse cooling in the tropical and sub-tropical countries. The system's goal is to provide the ideal thermal environment inside a greenhouse for the growth of different kinds of Orchid. The two-stage desiccant-based cooling is used in the proposed system to obtain a low humidity ratio inside the greenhouse. The desiccant is regenerated using a biomass-based heating system. The first law analysis and the exergy analysis of the system's individual components have been included in the study. The results of the thermal model (greenhouse temperature) have been compared with that of a reference model study available in the literature. With a mean absolute error for the humidity ratio and greenhouse air temperature of 4.3 percent and 4.5 percent, respectively. The model's predictions are in good agreement with the results of the reference model. The performance study of the proposed system reveals that the maximum temperature of the greenhouse air can be limited within the defined values even during July and September, when both the ambient humidity and the temperature are high. The proposed system COPth varies from a minimum of 0.54 to a maximum of 1.02 for a typical hot and humid day of July. The system can exhibit maximum exergy efficiency of 33% in the morning, while the ultimate exergy destruction occurs at the DW1 (39.25%) and regeneration heater (21.69%). The payback period of the proposed system is 8.2 years considering 15 years’ life span.
Incubation pattern of endangered Chubut Steamerduck (Tachyeres leucocephalus) and environmental features: implications for conservation
Authors: Agüero María Laura , Lorenti Eliana , Minardi Graciela , Agu Ariel , Berrier Eloisa , D'Amico Verónica
Published: August 2022

Information of incubation behavior and factors that shape it is important for species which incubation is monoparental and of conservation concern. We assessed incubation pattern of a noteworthy endangered southern South America marine duck species (Tachyeres leucocephalus) in Northern San Jorge Gulf as their core breeding area during 2015, 2016 and 2018. We described the laying and incubation period, characterized nest incubation strategy, and determined the influence of environmental features on its incubation strategy considering that weather conditions have an effect on incubation pattern. Our data showed an upward trend of length of recesses with a downward trend on nest attendance as ambient temperature increases. In this sense, no wonder that during the cooler breeding season of 2015, females of Chubut Steamerducks have spent more time on the nest; in contrast to the warmer spring of 2016 where females have had more and longest recesses, spending less time on the nest. This study is the only one available describing Chubut Steamerduck’s incubation rhythm, and presenting quantified measures of incubation pattern. Our research provides valuable baseline information and contributes to increase knowledge on previously unknown life history features of this flightless, endemic, and vulnerable waterfowl species on the core of its narrow distribution range. It would be important and essential that this information be included on the Interjurisdictional Marine Park management plan, assuring an effective implementation.
Governance Quality and Economic Growth in the Caribbean in Times of COVID-19
Authors: Onafowora Olugbenga A. , Owoye Oluwole
Published: August 2022

This study uses panel-random effects model to investigate the possible impact of COVID-19 pandemic crisis and six governance indicators on economic growth in the Caribbean. The results reveal the existence of a significant negative relationship between all the indicators of governance and pandemic crisis. In addition, we find that several governance indicators, investment, and human capital act as a strong contributor for increasing output growth in the Caribbean economy, while the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, and trade openness are found to be negative. Among the components of governance, voice and accountability, rule of law, political stability and absence of violence, and government effectiveness foster economic growth. Conversely, control of corruption and regulatory quality exert significant negative impact on growth. In general, these results are in conformity with the existing empirical evidence on the relationship between governance and growth. The findings suggest the need for long-term strategies that not only will enhance the quality of governance in these countries, improve the response preparedness of the governments for near future epidemic episodes, accepting the rise of a future pandemic as an inevitability, but also lead to a stable long-term sustainable economic growth. Further, this research may be particularly important for both researchers and policymakers and offers opportunities for future studies on the subject.JEL: F63, O10, C33, C01
WITHDRAWN: The Double Glycoprotein Rabies Virus Strain Shows Increased Propagation Rate and Boosted Immunogenicity.
Authors: Alamdary Ashkan , Gholami Alireza , Azizi Mohammad , Noormohammadi Zahra
Published: August 2022

Background
Rabies is a neurotropic virus that causes about 59000 deaths worldwide annually. The most effective means to control and prevent rabies is prevention through proper pre- and post-exposure vaccination. Glycoprotein (G) is one of five structural proteins of the rabies virus and has a pivotal role in host immunity against the virus. This research has evaluated the results of incorporating an additional copy of the glycoprotein gene in the rabies virus genome on the immunogenicity and propagation rate of the recombinant virus.
Methods
. A PCR amplified copy of the G gene was previously inserted into the genome of the rabies virus PV strain. The recombinant virus glycoprotein expression was compared with the PV strain. The propagation rate of the recombinant virus in cell culture and its immunogenicity in BALB/c mice were assessed. The rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test (RFFIT) was used to analyze the virus-neutralizing antibodies (VNAs) in the mice sera.
Results
The addition of an extra G gene between the G and L genes was verified in the rescued recombinant virus. The virus strain carrying two G (dG) showed significantly higher virus titers and glycoprotein expression levels in cell culture and also induced higher titers of VNAs when applied in mice as an experimental vaccine.
Conclusion
Our results suggest that duplication of the G gene in the PV virus genome between G, and L genes leads to increased G expression level, higher virus propagation rates and improved VNA induction. The recombinant dG strain might be characterized for application in rabies vaccine production, and it can also be used to study different cellular pathways related to the rabies virus cycle.