bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weed Management through Imidazolinones in Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan L.)
Authors: Kumar Amit , Dhaka A.K. , Kumar Satish , Vats Akshay Kumar , . Harender
Published: June 2021

Background: Pulse crops are commonly known as poor man’s meat. Pigeon pea is second most important pulse crops of India after chickpea. Weeds are amongst prime biotic factors limiting pigeon pea yield and can cause seed yield losses up to 80 per cent. Promising result of weed control by pendimethalin was documented in pigeon pea. Also Imazethapyr is applied as pre and post emergence to control grasses and broad leaved weeds in other pulse crops but limited research was undertaken in pigeon pea. Therefore, current experiment focused to compare the effect of imidazolinones alone and in combination in pigeon pea. Methods: To control weeds in pigeon pea, pre and post-emergence of imidazolinones alone and in combination with pendimethalin was applied. Nutrient content, nutrient uptake, productivity and economics of pigeon pea were worked out. Conclusion: Among herbicidal treatments, the highest nutrient content, nutrient uptake, productivity, net returns and benefit cost ratio in pigeon pea were observed in the pre-emergence application of pendimethalin + imazethapyr @ 1000 + 75 g ha-1. Therefore, this treatment may be an effective and profitable alternative to the existing manual and costlier recommendation (two hoeing at 25 and 45 DAS) of weed control in pigeon pea in Haryana locality.
Environmental impacts on the design and arts environment for industry 3.0 cotton roller ginning process
Authors: Iyer Vijayan Gurumurthy
Published: June 2021

The past five decades have been characterised by passage of the environmental impact assessment (EIA) legislation dealing with the environment, including legislation on the control of land, air and water pollution, solid and hazardous waste management, resource conservation and recovery, and soil and ground water and surface water remediation. The aim of this research is to investigate and discuss coronavirus and byssinosis disease impact assessment. Sustainable development is the artistic idea that science and humanities must live and meet their needs without compromising the efficacy and efficiency of future generations to meet their own needs. Prediction and assessment of environmental impacts (effects) on the design and arts environment for industry 3.0 cotton roller ginning process is provided. Sustainable design and arts are discussed in this research work. EIA of conventional design and arts is also investigated. Sustainable design and arts environment for cotton ginning process is presented. The case study and check of strengthening of agricultural extension through sustainable entrepreneurship is discussed in this article.

 

Keywords: Agriculture, arts, cotton, design, environment, entrepreneurship, ginning, sustainability.
The role of graphic design in the COVID-19 global outbreak
Authors: Atasoy Seda Nur
Published: June 2021

Many studies have been performed in the field of graphic design to prevent and monitor the coronavirus disease global outbreak, which emerged in Wuhan City, China, and has been announced as a pandemic by the World Health Organisation. Graphic Design has always taken a stand towards positive thinking by enhancing creative reactions to the challenging conditions (conditions in which there is no physical human connection, movement is restricted, concerns increase, etc.) that human beings have faced up so far and has supported the idea of the world that is trying to heal. The aim of this study is to examine the communication power that graphic design has created during the pandemic process by inspecting the current works of a common language which has been put forward as a graphic language in order to be united in the name of graphic design, both in the information charts of the coronavirus in the name of graphic design and in this troubled process of the world. In this study, the reaction, contribution and support, which have been developed by Graphic design for the COVID-19 pandemic process, were examined and samples were presented from designers by examining illustrations, posters, infographics, graphic products and so on, which have been made around the world. In addition to this, creative problem solutions and the role of graphic design have also been explored for solving these problems.

 

Keywords: Graphic design, COVID-19, coronavirus, outbreak, epidemic.
Art and logo design
Authors: Pascu Nicoleta Elisabeta , Adir Victor , Adir George
Published: June 2021

This paper aims to present a research study concerning the graphics and symbols in logo design exhibited in an art program dubbed ‘Golden Ages of Art Nouveau and Art Deco’. It was important for us to understand these trends, their characteristics and graphics, to create many times beautiful masterpieces of art. We have noticed a lot of differences between these two art movements related to symbols, signs and colours which were used. It was ‘a special art travel’ to study, theoretically and practically, the field of logo design connected to these ages. Starting from our research study, we have tried to make ‘a basket’ of features which characterises each trend. We have tried to explain the diversity of elements used as an art graphic design focused on logos. And, of course, we have tried to create logos using the features of Art Nouveau and Art Deco.

 

Keywords: Art Nouveau, Art Deco, logo design, feature, symbols, colours.
The Flipped Classroom: An Overview of its Impact on Economics Learning
Authors: Purba Selvita Eka Eviana , Kristiani Kristiani , Sangka Khresna Bayu , Hussain Omar Khadeer
Published: June 2021

The flipped classroom is a type of blended learning that has been widely applied at various levels of education, from elementary to higher, but there have been few studies on its use in Economics education. The purpose of this article is to provide a brief overview of the impact and effectiveness of the flipped classroom on Economics learning. The research methodology used is a literature study with analysis of several articles about the flipped classroom, which concludes with the research objectives. The study results show that the effects of the flipped classroom can enhance students’ self-reliant and active learning, increase collaboration, and improve learning outcomes. The article provides advice for educators, especially in the field of Economics education, on use of the flipped classroom to maximise student learning. The study conclusion, which compares the flipped classroom learning model in general, shows that the flipped classroom learning model is effective for use in the learning process because students have studied the material before going to class, meaning the teacher no longer dominates the classroom situation and teacher- student interactions become better and more enjoyable. 
An improved hazard assessment chart for rock falls in near vertical blocky rock environments
Authors: Sengani Fhatuwani , Francois Mulenga
Published: June 2021

The purpose of the study was to perform rockfall stability analysis and develop an improved rockfall hazard matrix chart using the R518 road in Limpopo as the case study. The study entailed structural mapping, wedge simulation using stereonet plots. The RocFall software was then used to identify the parameters that influence the occurrence of rockfall. The software was also used to monitor the variations in the kinetic energy of rolling, bouncing or falling rocks. The effects of the initial height and velocity of falling rocks on the final destination of fragments were also explored. Results showed that the selected area along the R518 road consists of joints and bedding planes. These features weaken the rock mass and create wedges that can potentially fall. Simulations with RocFall, on the other hand, indicated that slope height, vegetation density, slope angle, the velocity of the falling rock largely contribute to the extent that the broken rock could reach. From the empirical and numerical findings, an improved rockfall hazard rating chart was proposed. The chart was found to be suitable for the rating of level of rockfall hazard along highways and roads.
A study on the effect of pore and particle distributions on the soil water characteristic curve of compacted loess
Authors: Wang Yu , Li Tonglu , Zhao Chenxi , Hou Xiaokun , Li Ping , Zhang Yaguo
Published: June 2021

Compacted loess soil is used as a geo-material in many engineering projects such as building foundations and highway embankments. Water infiltration characteristics and post settlement of the compacted loess in large construction projects of Northwest China have received increasing attention from researchers and investors. These behaviors are closely related to the soil water characteristics. This study aims to investigate the soil water characteristic curves (SWCCs) of compacted loess soil with different dry densities and to reveal the responsible micro-mechanisms for soil water characteristics. Loess soil collected from the new district of Yan'an City, China, is prepared into five dry density groups. The SWCC of each group in the suction range of 0–100,000 kPa is measured using the filter paper method (FPM). Two-dimensional (2D) images and the pore size distribution (PSD) curves of the specimens are tested by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the mercury pressure method (MIP), respectively. The results of this study highlight that the compaction behavior mainly influences the pores with a radius ( r ) in the range of 1–10 μm, and has no influence on the pores of r < 0.5 μm. The particle shapes among the five dry densities groups are similar. The characteristics of the PSD curves of the compacted loess soil correspond well to the SWCCs. The suction of the SWCCs increases with increasing dry density in the lower suction range of 0–100 kPa. In contrast, suction among the five dry density groups is almost identical in the suction range exceeding 100 kPa. The results of the study are helpful to understand the SWCC and microstructure characteristics of compacted loess with different dry densities.
Subchronic Exposure to a Glyphosate-Based Herbicide Causes Dysplasia in the Digestive Tract of Wistar Rats
Authors: Serra Fernanda de Maria , Parizi José Luiz Santos , Mello Gisele Aparecida Sales , Sato Grace Mitiko Rosati Hori , Patrão Isabela Bocardi , Chagas Pedro Henrique Nahas , Mello Fabíola de Azevedo , Nai Gisele Alborghetti
Published: June 2021

Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBH) are the most widely used herbicide for treatment of crops in the world. The digestive tract is one of the first systems exposed to pesticides, and damage to this system can affect the general health of individuals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of subchronic inhalation and oral exposure to GBH on the digestive tract in rats. Six groups of Wistar rats (male and female) were exposed to nebulization with three concentrations of GBH [3.71 x 10− 3 grams of active ingredient per hectare (g.a.i./ha), 6.19 x 10− 3 g.a.i./ha, and 9.28 x 10− 3 g.a.i./ha] administered orally or by inhalation for 75 days. Bone marrow cells, smears of the tongue and fragments of the tongue, oesophagus, stomach and intestine were collected for histopathological analysis. Congestion, inflammation, an increase in the number of mast cells and nucleoli-organizing regions were detected in the tongue in the groups exposed to GBH. Females had a higher number of mast cells in the tongue than males. Animals in the groups exposed to higher concentrations of GBH showed dysplasia in the oesophagus and small and large intestine regardless of sex. Gastric changes were not observed. Animals exposed to GBH showed increased micronucleus formation. Our data indicate that GBH causes oral allergies and dysplastic lesions in the oesophagus and small and large intestine and has genotoxic potential.
Waste converting through by-product synergy: an insight from three-echelon supply chain
Authors: Wang Lei , Zhang Qin , Zhang Minhui , Wang Hai
Published: June 2021

By-product synergy (BPS) is an innovative method to convert waste into valuable by-products effectively. Based on a three-echelon supply chain composed of an upstream manufacturer, a processing plant with limited processing capacity, and a downstream manufacturer, this study derives the production quantity and waste disposal decisions of the upstream and downstream manufacturers as well as the optimal transfer price decision of the processing plant. Moreover, we assess the environmental performance of BPS. Analytical results suggest that the upstream manufacturer’s production quantity and waste disposal decisions and the processing plant’s transfer price decision are threshold dependent on the processing plant’s capacity, whereas the downstream manufacturer's production quantity decision is threshold dependent on the processing plant’s capacity and price of raw materials. BPS is beneficial for all members of the supply chain to increase profit. The production promotion and cost-saving effects ensure that the supply chain members maximize their profit. However, BPS does not always have a positive effect on the environment; when the processing plant’s capacity and price of raw materials are below the threshold, implementing BPS results in a win-win situation of economic and environmental benefits.
Evaluation of rockfalls at a historical settlement area in the Ihlara valley (Cappadocia, Turkey) using different methods
Authors: Sari Mehmet
Published: June 2021

Rockfalls are one of the most dangerous natural events in hilly terrains. This study presents the results of an investigation program to analyze the possibility of a rockfall from a slope to nearby residential buildings in a historical settlement area. Various rockfall analysis techniques were implemented in the study for this purpose. The kinematical analysis revealed the potential of different structurally controlled modes of failure in the slope, especially wedge type and block toppling were the most significant ones. Finite element analysis suggested a stable slope considering the safety factor of 2.19 for the existing geological and geotechnical conditions of the studied slope case. A possible rockfall trajectory was determined and located as an input in the 2D rockfall program based on the field measurements. Different shapes and sizes of blocks were used in the rigid body model for a more realistic numerical simulation of rockfall events. According to the 2D model results, there was no danger of rockfall for the investigated downslope buildings. However, to stay on a safe side, a suitable control measure with a specified dimension was proposed to manage rockfalls in the study area.
A YY1 phosphorylation switch in brown adipose tissue orchestrates energy homeostasis.
Authors: Díaz-Hirashi Zyanya , Gao Tian , Scaffidi Chiara , Fey Monika , Murray Susan , Low Audrey , Pushkareva Olga , Rizkallah Raed , Deplancke Bart , Verdeguer Francisco
Published: June 2021

Whole-body energy homeostasis is influenced by anabolic and catabolic cellular programs, which depend on environmental and nutritional cues. Adipose tissue plays a predominant role in the physiological regulation of energy balance by either storing or consuming energy through brown adipose tissue thermogenesis. It is however not clearly understood how brown adipose tissue balances catabolic and anabolic states. We show here that the transcription factor YY1 senses energetic state through a post-translational S120 phosphorylation switch. Adrenergic signaling leads to YY1 dephosphorylation which directly activates thermogenesis and a catabolic gene program while its phosphorylation maintains an anabolic program. Mechanistically, YY1 dephosphorylation increases chromatin binding at distal genomic loci respective to the transcription start site but remains constitutively bound to TSS. This mode of transcriptional control influences the activating and repressive function of YY1 and regulates catabolism/anabolism. We show that YY1 interacts with PPP1R3B, a regulatory subunit of the phosphatase PP1 and that in vivo knockdown of PPP1R3B protects against diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance. Our results uncover a novel transcriptional mechanism of metabolism orchestrated by YY1 phosphorylation switch and identifies PPP1R3B as a regulator of energy balance.
Cys-SH based Quantitative Redox Proteomics of Salt Induced Response in Sugar Beet Monosomic Addition Line M14
Authors: Li Jinna , Ji Meichao , Zhang Tingyue , Yang Chao , Liu He , Chen Sixue , Li Hongli , Li Haiying
Published: June 2021

Background: Salt stress is a major abiotic stress that limits plant growth, development and productivity. Studying the molecular mechanisms of salt stress tolerance may help to enhance crop productivity. Sugar beet monosomic addition line M14 exhibits tolerance to salt stress. Results: In this work, the changes in the BvM14 proteome and redox proteome induced by salt stress were analyzed using a multiplex iodoTMTRAQ double labeling quantitative proteomics approach. A total of 80 proteins were differentially expressed under salt stress. Interestingly, 42 potential redox-regulated proteins showed differential redox change under salt stress. A large proportion of the redox proteins were involved in photosynthesis, ROS homeostasis and other pathways. For example, ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase activase changed in its redox state after salt treatments. In addition, three redox proteins involved in regulation of ROS homeostasis were also changed in redox states. Transcription levels of eighteen differential proteins and redox proteins were profiled. Conclusions: The results showed involvement of protein redox modifications in BvM14 salt stress response and revealed the short-term salt responsive mechanisms. The knowledge may inform marker-based breeding effort of sugar beet and other crops for stress resilience and high yield.
LaOx Modified MnOx Loaded Biomass Activated Carbon and its Enhanced Performance for Simultaneous Abatement of NO and Hg0
Authors: Yi Lei , Xie Jinke , Li Caiting , Shan Jian , Liu Yingyun , Lv Junwen , Li Mi , Gao Lei
Published: June 2021

A battery of agricultural straw derived biomass activated carbons supported LaOx modified MnOx (LaMn/BACs) was prepared by a facile impregnation method and then tested for the efficiency of simultaneous abatement of NO and Hg0. 15%LaMn/BAC manifested excellent removal efficiency of Hg0 (100%) and NO (86.7%) at 180 °C, which also exhibited splendid resistance to SO2 and H2O. The interaction between Hg0 removal and NO removal was explored, thereinto Hg0 removal had no influence on NO removal, while NO removal preponderated over Hg0 removal. The inhibitory effect of NH3 was greater than the accelerative effect of NO and O2 on Hg0 removal. The physicochemical characterization of related samples were characterized by SEM, XRD, BET, H2-TPR, NH3-TPD and XPS. After incorporating suitable LaOx into 15%Mn/BAC, the synergistic effect between LaOx and MnOx contributed to the improvement of BET surface area and total pore volume, the promotion of redox ability, surface active oxygen species and acid sites, inhibiting the crystallization of MnOx. 15%LaMn/BAC has the best catalytic oxidation activity at low temperature. That might be answerable for superior performance and preferable tolerance to SO2 and H2O. Finally, the principle of catalytic oxidation was also discussesed in this article.
Data-driven catalyst optimization for stereodivergent asymmetric synthesis of α-allyl carboxylic acids by iridium/boron hybrid catalysis
Authors: Chen Hongyu , Yamaguchi Shigeru , Morita Yuya , Nakao Hiroyasu , Zhai Xiang-Ning , Shimizu Yohei , Mitsunuma Harunobu , Kanai Motomu
Published: June 2021

Asymmetric catalysis enabling divergent control of multiple stereocenters remains challenging in synthetic organic chemistry. While machine learning-based optimization of molecular catalysis is an emerging approach, data-driven catalyst design to achieve stereodivergent asymmetric synthesis producing multiple reaction outcomes, such as constitutional selectivity, diastereoselectivity, and enantioselectivity, is unprecedented. Here, we report the straightforward identification of asymmetric two-component iridium/boron hybrid catalyst systems for α-C-allylation of carboxylic acids. Structural optimization of the chiral ligands for iridium catalysts was driven by molecular field-based regression analysis with a dataset containing overall 32 molecular structures. The catalyst systems enabled selective access to all the possible isomers of chiral carboxylic acids bearing contiguous stereocenters. This stereodivergent asymmetric catalysis is applicable to late-stage structural modifications of drugs and their derivatives.
The Orthodontic Treatment Scheme for Primary Failure of Eruption Patient without PTH1R Mutation
Authors: Wang Yuhui , Pan Jie , Liu Shangfeng , Liu Yuehua
Published: June 2021

Primary failure of eruption (PFE) is observed as a defect in the tooth eruption mechanism with the heterozygous mutations of parathyroid hormone receptor gene (PTH1R). The present study reported 2 families suffered from nonsyndromic tooth eruption disorder in successive generations. Genetic analysis and standardized assessments, including clinical and radiographic examinations, of the dental condition of all patients were performed to give a clear understanding of the disease. The mutation of PTH1R was detected in patient II-1 (Family I) by PCR and sanger sequencing. Sequencing analysis reviewed heterozygous presence of c.439C>T in exon 2 of PTH1R. According to the UniprotKB database, PTH1R is highly conserved among several mammalian species. RNA-seq was performed to further analyze the role of PTH1R in tooth development and eruption. It showed that during tooth development, the expression of PTH1R decreased in the early stage of tooth development in rat and mouse. However, the mutations of PTH1R were not detected in 2 patients from family II. With extensive analysis of the radiographs and physical examination, we attempted to use orthodontic methods to create enough room for tooth eruption, which shows therapeutic result to the submerged tooth. The results suggested new orthodontic scheme for the PFE patient without PTH1R mutation. Both clinical and genetic diagnosis should be considered in the treatment planning.
Improved electrochemical conversion of CO2 to multicarbon products by using molecular doping
Authors: WU Huali , Li Ji , Qi Kun , Zhang Yang , Petit Eddy , Wang Wensen , Flaud Valerie , Onofrio Nicolas , Rebiere Bertrand , Huang Lingqi , Salameh Chrystelle , Lajaunie Luc , Miele Philippe , Voiry Damien
Published: June 2021

The conversion of CO2 into desirable multicarbon products such as ethylene and ethanol via the carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR) hold promise to achieve a circular carbon economy. The develop of such a technology is currently hampered by the lack of catalysts, which can drive the reaction at industrially relevant current densities with high efficiency and selectivity. Here, we report a novel strategy for increasing the conversion of CO2 into hydrocarbon molecules with two or more carbon atoms (C2+) by modifying the surface of bimetallic silver-copper (Ag-Cu) catalyst with aromatic heterocycles such as thiadiazole and triazole derivatives. By combining operando Raman and X-ray absorption spectroscopy with electrocatalytic measurements and analysis of the reaction products, we identified that the electron withdrawing nature of functional groups orients the reaction pathway towards the production of C2+ species such as ethanol and ethylene and enhances the reaction rates on the surface of the catalyst. As a result, we achieve a maximum Faradaic efficiency for the formation of C2+ of ≈ 80% and full-cell energy efficiency of 20.3% with a specific current density of 261.4 mA cm-2 for C2+ using functionalized Ag-Cu electrodes, compared to only 33.8% and 70.6 mA cm-2 for the pristine Ag-Cu electrodes. We anticipate that our strategy can further be extended in order to improve the selectivity of the reaction towards the production of specific multicarbon molecules.
Complex small-world regulatory networks emerge from the 3D organisation of the human genome
Authors: Brackley Chris , Gilbert Nick , Michieletto Davide , Papantonis Argyris , Pereira Maria , Cook Peter , Marenduzzo Davide
Published: June 2021

The discovery that overexpressing one or a few critical transcription factors can switch cell state suggests that gene regulatory networks are relatively simple. In contrast, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) point to complex phenotypes being determined by hundreds of loci that rarely encode transcription factors and which in- dividually have small effects. Here, we use computer simulations and a simple fitting-free polymer model of chromosomes to show that spatial correlations arising from 3D genome organisation naturally lead to stochastic and bursty transcription as well as complex small-world regulatory networks (where the transcriptional activity of each genomic region subtly affects almost all others). These effects require factors to be present at sub-saturating levels; increasing levels dramatically simplifiies networks as more transcription units are pressed into use. Consequently, results from GWAS can be reconciled with those involving overexpression. We apply this pan-genomic model to predict patterns of transcriptional activity in whole human chromosomes, and, as an example, the effects of the deletion causing the diGeorge syndrome.
The Bird Community in a Coastal Wetland in East China and Its Spatial Responses to a Wind Farm
Authors: Cheng Yinrui , Zha Yong , Zhang Wenmin , Wei Geng , Tong Chuan , Du Dandan
Published: June 2021

Coastal wetlands in East China are essential stopover places for birds along the East Asian-Australian Flyway. However, numerous wind turbines have been built in or near these wetlands in recent years, which might disturb the bird community in the area. Therefore, investigating the bird community and its responses to wind farms in coastal wetlands of East China is of great significance for bird conservation. In the spring and autumn of 2019 and 2020, we investigated the bird community in the Rudong coastal wetland in East China using point counts. We determined 4 geographical factors at each census point, i.e., distance to the wind farm boundary (DW), distance to the suburbs, distance to the sea, and vegetation area, and analysed the relationship between bird number and DW through partial correlation analysis. A total of 11 orders and 103 species of birds, including 4 endangered species, were observed during our survey. Charadriiformes was the dominant taxon in the wetland, and Calidris alpina was the most common species in both spring and autumn. Passeriformes exhibited high species richness but low numbers. The results of partial correlation analysis indicated that birds’ responses to the wind farm varied depending on their dominance and category: dominant and subdominant birds tended to avoid the wind farm, whereas rare birds tended to approach them; aquatic birds were alert to the wind farm, whereas terrestrial birds better adapted to them. We concluded that the dominant aquatic birds, including the endangered species Calidris tenuirostris, were most negatively impacted by the wind farm; the occasional birds and rare aquatic birds might be disturbed by wind farm but not significantly so; and the rare terrestrial birds were least disturbed by or even benefited from the wind farm.
Tissue Accumulation of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Mediates Muscle Hyperalgesia in a Mouse Model
Authors: Suzuki Kazuaki , Tsuchiya Masahiro , Yoshida Shinichiro , Ogawa Kazumi , Chen Weijian , Kanzaki Makoto , Takahashi Tadahisa , Fujita Ryo , Li Yuqing , Yabe Yutaka , Aizawa Toshimi , Hagiwara Yoshihiro
Published: June 2021

Background: Accumulation of uric acid during muscular trauma is potentially a causative factor of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) involved in the development of muscle hyperalgesia. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), DNA-based reticular structures to capture DAMPs, play a central role in the onset of pain in gout attacks associated with hyperuricemia; however, their association with muscle hyperalgesia due to overuse injuries remains unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of NETs via the elevation of local uric acid level in muscle nociception.Methods: The triceps surae muscles (TSMs) in the unilateral hindlimb of mice were repeatedly stimulated with electrical pulses to induce excessive muscle contraction, and the contralateral TSM was used as a control. In addition to mechanical nociceptive thresholds, tissue uric acid levels, neutrophil recruitment, protein amount, and histological distribution of citrullinated histone 3 (citH3), a major marker of NETs, were investigated. Furthermore, whether neutrophil depletion, extracellular DNA cleavage (deoxyribonuclease I), and administration of the urate-lowering agent febuxostat, a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, improved muscle hyperalgesia due to NET accumulation was examined. Using a combination of multiphoton imaging analysis and intravital fluorescence staining, we also evaluated the intramuscular distribution of NET accumulation in stimulated TSMs.Results: CitH3 expression upon neutrophil recruitment significantly increased in the stimulated TSMs tissues with an increase in tissue uric acid levels. However, neutrophil depletion and extracellular DNA cleavage prevented the increase in uric acid levels in damaged muscle tissues. Furthermore, febuxostat administration significantly improved muscle hyperalgesia, with decreases not only in citH3 and tissue uric acid levels, but also in neutrophil recruitment. Interestingly, the intramuscular distribution of NETs in the stimulated TSM was predominantly observed in the myofascial region.Conclusions: Our findings suggest that NET accumulation caused by excessive muscle contraction was strongly associated with the pathogenesis of muscle hyperalgesia. Further, the mechanism underlying induction of locally recruited neutrophils forming NETs was increased tissue uric acid levels, which potentially plays a significant role in creating a vicious circle of muscle pain.
In Search of Traces of the Mandrake Myth – The Etymological, Historical, and Ethnobotanical Roots of Its Vernacular Names
Authors: Dafni Amots , Blanché Cesar , Khatib Salekh Aqil , Petanidou Theodora , Aytaç Bedrettin , Pacini Ettore , Kohazurova Ekaterina , Geva-Kleinberger Aharon , Shahvar Soli , Dajic Zora , Klug Helmut W. , Benítez Guillermo
Published: June 2021

Background: Mandrake (Mandragora spp.) is perhaps the most famous medicinal plant in western cultures since Biblical times and throughout written history. In many cultures, mandrake is related to magic and witchcraft, which and is said to have a psychosomatic effect (especially when mandrake contains narcotic compounds) in addition to the pharmacological influence, as occurs with other narcotic magical plants. Due to its unique properties and related myths, it is not surprising that this plant has many names in many languages.Methods: This paper presents an attempt to reconstruct the etymological, ethnobotanical, and historical and folkloristic roots of 296 vernacular names of Mandragora sp. in forty-two languages. We used the plant’s morphological data, philology, myths and legends, medicinal properties and uses, as well as historical evidence and folkloric data, to explain meaning, origin, migration, and history of the plant’s names.Results: The names were classified into the following main categories: Derivatives of mandragora (20 languages), alraun (7) and of yabroukh (5). The salient groups of the plant’s vernacular names are related to: Anthropomorphism (33 names in 13 languages); Similarity to other plants (29/9); Supernatural agents (28/9); Narcotic effects (21/8); Leaves, fruits, and seeds (21/8); Aphrodisiac properties (17/10); Use of a dog (15/9); Gallows (14/5); Black magic, sorcery, witchcraft (13/8), and Medicinal use (11/7). Conclusions: This frequency distribution of the mandrake’s vernacular names reflects its widespread reputation as related to the Doctrine of Signatures, beliefs in its supernatural, natural, and mythic powers, and to a lesser extent, its uses in magic and medicine. A spatiotemporal analysis of the mandrake’s names supports the old idea that the pulling ceremonies for this plant originated in the Near East and that various other myths related to this plant may have originated in different places and periods.
High-Accuracy Parameter Estimation for Damped Signal via Three Weighted DFT Samples
Authors: Xu Haitao , Du Ying , Zhou Shengxi , Fan Hongwei , Zhang Xuhui
Published: June 2021

Recently, accurate parameter estimation of the damped complex exponential plays an increasingly important role in the field of precise measurement. However, the estimation variance of interpolation-based algorithms for the parameter estimation cannot be asymptotic to the Crámer-Rao lower bound (CRLB). This paper originally proposes a generalized, fast, and the accurate two-iteration estimator (TIE) based on the discrete Fourier transform (DFT). It can be operated by an arbitrary window (symmetric or asymmetric window). Theoretical estimation variances of the frequency and the damping factor for arbitrary windows are derived, respectively. Furthermore, extensive computer simulations are performed to compare the performance of the TIE with other state-of-the-art algorithms in the literature. The results support the theoretical findings and verify that high-accuracy parameter estimation can be ensured by the proposed algorithm. More importantly, the estimation variances returned by the TIE with the rectangle window exactly track the CRLB for a damped single tone.
Temporal and spatial topography of cell proliferation in cancer
Authors: Gaglia Giorgio , Kabraji Sheheryar , Argyropoulou Danae , Dai Yang , Wang Shu , Bergholz Johann , Coy Shannon , Lin Jia-Ren , Jeselsohn Rinath , Metzger Otto , Winer Eric , Dillon Deborah , Zhao Jean , Sorger Peter , Santagata Sandro
Published: June 2021

Proliferation is a fundamental trait of cancer cells but is poorly characterized in tumors by classical histologic methods. We use multiplexed tissue imaging to quantify the abundance of multiple cell cycle regulating proteins at single-cell level and develop robust multivariate proliferation metrics. Across cancers, the proliferative architecture is organized at two distinct spatial scales: large domains, and local niches enriched for specific immune lineages. A subset of tumor cells express cell cycle regulators in canonical patterns consistent with unrestrained proliferation, a phenomenon we refer to as “cell cycle coherence”. By contrast, the cell cycles of other tumor cell populations are skewed toward a specific phase or characterized by non-canonical (incoherent) marker combinations. Coherence varies across space, with changes in oncogene activity, and with therapeutic intervention, and is associated with aggressive behavior. Multivariate measures capture clinically significant features of cancer proliferation, a fundamental step in enabling more precise use of anti-cancer therapies.
Accurate Prediction of Acute Pancreatitis Severity based on Genome-Wide Cell free DNA Methylation Profiles
Authors: Sun Hong-Wei , Dai Sheng-Jie , Kong Hong-Ru , Yang Fang-Yuan , Dai Ju-Qing , Jin Yue-Peng , Shi Keqing
Published: June 2021

BackgroundPatients with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) have a high mortality, thus early diagnosis and interventions are critical for improving survival. However, conventional tests are limited in acute pancreatitis (AP) stratification. We aimed to assess AP severity by integrating the informative clinical measurements with cell free DNA (cfDNA) methylation markers.MethodsOne hundred and seventy-five blood samples were collected from 61 AP patients at multiple time points, plus 24 samples from healthy individuals. Genome-wide cfDNA methylation profiles of all samples were characterized with reduced representative bisulfite sequencing. Clinical blood tests covering 93 biomarkers were performed on AP patients within 24 hours. SAP predication models were built based on cfDNA methylation and conventional blood biomarkers separately and in combination. ResultsWe identified 565 and 59 cfDNA methylation markers informative for acute pancreatitis and its severity. These markers were used to develop prediction models for AP and SAP with area under the receiver operating characteristic of 0.92 and 0.81, respectively. Twelve blood biomarkers were systematically screened for a predictor of SAP with a sensitivity of 87.5% for SAP, and a specificity of 100% in mild acute pancreatitis, significantly higher than existing blood tests. An expanded model integrating 12 conventional blood biomarkers with 59 cfDNA methylation markers further improved the SAP prediction sensitivity to 92.2%.ConclusionsWe have demonstrated accurate prediction of SAP by the integration of conventional and novel blood molecular markers, paving the way for early and effective SAP intervention through a non-invasive rapid diagnostic test.
Natural mineral modulated single atom catalyst for effective water treatment
Authors: Dong Xiongbo , Chen Zitong , Tang Aidong , Dionysiou Dionysios , Huaming Yang
Published: June 2021

Single atom catalysts (SACs) have been growing as an emerging “hot” topic in environmental remediation. Their performance can be rationally optimized via modulating spatial coordination configuration and porous structure of SACs, which is still challenging. Herein, a novel Si, N co-coordinated cobalt SACs (p-CoSi1N3@D) with 3D freestanding architecture was tailored via employing natural mineral (diatomite) as Si source and porous template. Theoretical calculations and experimental analysis reveal that Si substitution dramatically decreases electronegativity of CoN4 moieties and thus accelerates interaction and electron transfer between peroxymonosulfate and Co single atom center. Moreover, p-CoSi1N3@D inherits hierarchically porous architecture of diatomite, providing more accessible cobalt sites and open diffusion channels for peroxymonosulfate and contaminants in water treatment applications. Thanks to optimal coordination structure and porous architecture, p-CoSi1N3@D can serve as highly active catalyst toward peroxymonosulfate activation, with a turn-over frequency of 299.8 min− 1 for bisphenol A degradation, surpassing those of catalysts with transition metal SACs or oxides in disclosed literature. This work provides a novel vision for development of SACs towards wastewater reclamation.
Hunting alters viral transmission and evolution
Authors: Fountain-Jones Nicholas , Kraberger Simona , Gagne Roderick , Gilbertson Marie , Trumbo Daryl , Charleston Michael , Salerno Patricia , Funk W. Chris , Crooks Kevin , Logan Ken , Alldredge Mat , Dellicour Simon , Baele Guy , Didelot Xavier , Vandewoude Sue , Carver Scott , Craft Meggan
Published: June 2021

Hunting can fundamentally alter wildlife population dynamics, but the consequences of hunting on pathogen transmission and evolution remain poorly understood. Here we present a study that leverages a unique landscape-scale experiment coupled with pathogen transmission tracing, network simulation and phylodynamics to provide insights into how hunting shapes viral dynamics in puma (Puma concolor). We show that removing hunting pressure enhances the role of males in transmission, increases the viral population growth rate and the role of evolutionary forces on the pathogen compared to when hunting was reinstated. Changes in transmission could be linked to short term social changes while the male population increased. These findings are supported through comparison with a region with stable hunting management over the same time period. This study shows that routine wildlife management can have impacts on pathogen transmission and evolution not previously considered.
The Impact of Traditional Conservation Practices on Species Composition and Diversity Patterns of Sacred Swamps in the Central Western Ghats, India
Authors: Hegde Narasimha , Gunaga Shrikanth Vasudev , Joosten Hans
Published: June 2021

Sacred forests are of immense value for their ecosystem functions. Traditional indigenous conservation practices have helped maintaining biological diversity over centuries and have resulted in the preservation of some of the best patches of natural vegetation.
Exclusive taxa find refuge in the micro-climatic conditions of sacred groves and many rare species are found here. Ten sacred swamps and ten non-sacred swamps in the central Western Ghats region, India, with a similar distance from roads, village settlements, or commercial orchards and with nearly the same size, were compared with regard to their species composition, floristic structure, diversity, occurrence of amphibians, odonates and birds.
In the sacred swamps, 122 plant species from 99 genera and 58 families occur against 83 species from 72 genera and 47 families in the non-sacred swamps. Tree stem density was 277 individuals/ha in sacred swamps against 158.4 in non-sacred swamps. Average basal area was 47.57 m 2 /ha in sacred swamps and only 14.60 m 2 /ha in non-sacred swamps. Sacred swamps have higher number of endemic species (28%) when compared to non-sacred swamps. We conclude that the traditional belief system of treating the swamps as sacred has helped to protect these ecologically important forests.
LINC00659 Regulates Colorectal Cancer Migration and Invasion by Targeting miR-485-5p/HOXC13 Axis
Authors: Yang Haojie , Fu Jihong , Jiao Guangyang , Zhu Yilian , Han Yilin , Yang Yiheng , Xia Yubin , Han Changpeng , Wang Zhenyi
Published: June 2021

BackgroundLong noncoding RNA LINC00659 has been reported to be involved in the carcinogenesis and progression of colorectal cancer. However, the molecular mechanism remains ambiguous.MethodsIn this study, we found that HOXC13 expression was closely related with colorectal cancer and positively correlated with LINC00659 via bioinformatics analysis and clinical validation experiment. Meanwhile, miR-485-5p was identified as an overlapped target miRNA. To further dissect whether miR-485-5p and HOXC13 were involved in LINC00659 mediated colorectal cancer progression, we first established human in vitro models and demonstrated that LINC00659 could directly bind with miR-485-5p and knockdown of LINC00659 upregulated the expression of miR-485-5p. In addition, knockdown of LINC00659 inhibited the expression of HOXC13 by targeting miR-485-5p. Finally, we analyzed the effect of LINC00659/miR-485-5p/HOXC13 axis on tumor growth. Both animal model and in vitro model confirmed the anti-tumor effect of knockdown of LINC00659, which could suppress the colorectal cancer cell viability, migration and invasion by targeting miR-485-5p/HOXC13 axis. Results1. LINC00659 and HOXC13 are highly expressed in colorectal cancer cells.2. miRNA-485-5p is lowly expressed in colorectal cancer cells.3. LINC00659/miR-485-5p/HOXC13 axis is important for colorectal cancer cells.4. LINC00659 promotes tumor growth by sponging miR-485-5p.ConclusionsOur study uncovered a novel mechanism of LINC00659 in the progression of colorectal cancer and provided a potential strategy for the treatment and diagnose of colorectal cancer.
Long Noncoding RNA LINC00958 Suppresses Apoptosis and Radiosensitivity of Colorectal Cancer Through Targeting miR-422a
Authors: Liang Hong , Zhao Qiuyan , Zhu Zhonglin , Zhang Chao , Zhang Hui
Published: June 2021

Background: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been elucidated to participate in the development and progression of various cancers. In this study, we aim to explore the underlying functions and mechanisms of LINC00958 in colorectal cancer. Methods: LINC00958 expression in colorectal cancer tissues was examined by qRT-PCR. The associations between LINC00958 expression with clinical characteristics and prognosis were evaluated. The biological functions of LINC00958 were detected by CCK-8, MTT, colony formation and Flow cytometric analyses. RNA-pull down, RIP and luciferase reporter assays were used to confirm the regulation of LINC00958 on miR-422a. Rescue experiments were performed to detect the effects of miR-422a on the roles of LINC00958. Results: LINC00958 was upregulated in colorectal cancer tissues and cell lines; high LINC00958 level was significantly associated with tumor differentiation, T stage and TNM stage, and also predicted poor prognosis. Cell experiments showed that LINC00958 promoted cell proliferation and suppressed apoptosis and the sensitivity of radiotherapy in vitro, and promoted cell growth in vivo. Bioinformatics analysis predicted the binding site of miR-422a on LINC00958. Mechanistically, RNA-pull down, RIP and luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that LINC00958 specially targeted miR-422a. In addition, we provided evidence that miR-422a suppressed MAPK1 expression through directly binding to the 3’-UTR of MAPK1, thereby inhibiting cell proliferation and enhancing apoptosis and the radiosensitivity. Furthermore, miR-422a rescued the roles of LINC00958 on promoting MAPK1 expression and cell proliferation and decreasing apoptosis and the radiosensitivity. Conclusions: LINC00958 promoted MAPK1 expression and cell proliferation and suppressed apoptosis and the radiosensitivity through targeting miR-422a, highlighting a potential biomarker for the prognosis and treatment of colorectal cancer.
Quadruple Recombination Events Discovered in Hepatitis E Virus
Authors: Shen Hao , Liu Shuning , Ding Min , Gu Haixia , Chang Ming , Li Yanshuang , Wang Hua , Shen Hongxing
Published: June 2021

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) can infect humans, pigs, and many other animals, but the recombination of HEV has rarely been reported. In the present study, phylogenetic and recombination analyses were performed on 557 complete HEV genomes in GenBank. A potentially significant quadruple recombination event was identified by recombination detection analysis. The recombinant progeny virus HEV_32_Manchester_301214 was produced by recombination between the major parent HEPAC-44 and the minor parent HE-JA15-1335, thereby reflecting inter-genotype recombination. HEV_32_Manchester_301214 and HEPAC-44 belong to genotype 3, while HE-JA15-1335 belongs to genotype 1, and these three strains have all been separated from humans. Three breakpoints of the four recombination events occurred in the ORF2 region, while another occurred in the ORF1 region. This quadruple recombination event was confirmed by phylogenetic analysis. The genotype, host and the recombination regions of the three strains were analyzed. These results of the analyses provide valuable suggestions for future research on HEV diversity.
Gene therapy with hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell for monogenic disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tucci Francesca , Galimberti Stefania , Naldini Luigi , Valsecchi Maria G , Aiuti Alessandro
Published: June 2021

To provide an assessment of the safety of ex-vivo gene therapy (GT) with hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC), we reviewed in a systematic manner the literature on monogenic diseases to describe survival, genotoxicity and engraftment of gene corrected HSPC, across vector platforms and diseases. From 1995 to 2020, 55 trials for 14 diseases met inclusion criteria and 406 patients with primary immunodeficiencies (55.2%), metabolic diseases (17.0%), haemoglobinopathies (24.4%) and bone marrow failures (3.4%) were treated with gammaretroviral vector (γRV) (29.1%), self-inactivating γRV (2.2%) or lentiviral vectors (LV) (68.7%). The pooled overall incidence rate of death was 0.9 per 100 person-years of observation (PYO) (95%CI = 0.37–2.17). There were 21 genotoxic events out of 1504.02 PYO. All these events occurred in γRV trials (0.99 events per 100 PYO, 95%CI = 0.18–5.43) for primary immunodeficiencies. Pooled rate of engraftment was 86.1% (95%CI = 66.9–95.0%) for γRV and 99.0% (95%CI = 95.1–99.8%) for LV HSPC-GT (p = 0.002). A comprehensive meta-analysis on HSPC-GT showed stable reconstitution of haematopoiesis in most recipients with superior engraftment and safer profile in patients receiving LV-transduced HSPC.