bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Assessment of the Antimicrobial Efficacy of Chitosan from Scylla serrata Against the Human Pathogens
Authors: B Sangeetha , V Indra , M Abdul Rahim , E Venkadachalam
Published: September 2021

Chitosan, a polysaccharide derivative of chitin forms the structural components in the exoskeletons of
crustacean animals and is also found in the cell walls of fungi. Chitosan is produced primarily from the crab shell
waste through chemical means. The chemical structure of chitosan has been identified and characterized by FT-IR
and XRD. In the current study, the antimicrobial activity of chemically deacetylated chitosan extracts of mud crabs
(Scylla serrata) was evaluated against five human pathogenic isolates viz. Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi,
Klebsiella pneumonia, Bacillus cereus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa using agar disc diffusion method. These were
performed to determine the crystallinity and functional properties of chitosan. The results showed that the
antibacterial effect increased with increasing chitosan concentration. This study showed that chitosan isolated from
crab shell has potential antibacterial activity therefore it can be utilized in the food and pharmaceutical industries,
and that antibacterial activity may be due to functional groups present in the crab shell.
The Last-Surviving Moroccan Dorcas Gazelle (Gazella dorcas massaesyla) Viability Analysis [M’Sabih Talaa Reserve, Morocco]
Authors: Abdeljalil Ait Baamrane Moulay , Mohammed Znari , Said El Mercht , Siham Bellout , Mohamed Naimi
Published: September 2021

The single remnant Moroccan dorcas gazelle (Gazella dorcas massaesyla) has been isolated for more than
five decades in the M’Sabih Talaa reserve, an arid area of west-central Morocco. This population has been subject to
different disturbances, especially poaching and depredation by feral dogs. A five-season line transect survey
revealed that the population size has been halved in less than 15 years with a lower apparent fecundity rate. In the
present work, we carried out a population viability analysis simulating different scenarios using VORTEX software
based on available demographic and life-history data from captive populations,. A sensitivity analysis revealed that
inbreeding depression and possible catastrophic events could have a considerable impact on the population’s
prospects. Scenarios of splitting population into two subpopulations with different management measures
reducing/deleting mortality sources, is proposed. Such scenarios resulted in reducing the consequences of
catastrophic events would significantly mitigate the harmful effects of both inbreeding and environmental
stochasticity. These results may be of a general interest to conservationists dealing with this unique and imperiled
population.
Bacteriological Biodiversity and its Relationship with the Quality of Water in Panvel Lakes (Vishrale, Krishnale and Dewale Lake) at Raigad (Maharashtra), India
Authors: R. S Prajapati Shashikala , S Jadhav Anita
Published: September 2021

This research is carried out to study the bacteriological biodiversity and quality of water during premonsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon in Panvel lakes, Maharashtra, India. Most Probable Number (MPN) count
was carried out by using Mac Conkey’s broth in order to classify the lakes into different categories. Pathogenic
bacteria colonies were isolated from water samples collected from different lakes, by spread plate method. After
incubation, different colonies from incubated plates were picked; purified by repeated sub-culturing before being
examined for gram reaction, microscopically bacteria were identified into positive or negative, cocci or bacilli, rod
or spiral. Biochemical analysis was carried out using different tests. The results were analyzed using Bergey’s
manual of systematic bacteriology. Many different types of bacteria were isolated from water samples that helped in
classifying the lakes and knowing the bacterial loads of each lake.
Evaluation of Oxidative Stress Enzymes of Spawn and Fry of Clarias batrachus (Linn. 1758) Exposed to Artificial UV-B Radiation: A Biomarker Analysis
Authors: Arghya Mandal , Subhas Das , Atanu Patra , Niladri Sekhar Mondal , Apurba Ratan Ghosh
Published: September 2021

The present study investigated the impact of the artificial exposure of UV-B radiation, based on different
time span and intervals, on spawn and fry of Clarias batrachus at the level of oxidative stress enzymes. The spawn
and fry of C. batrachus were exposed for time span of 5 and 10 days at a duration of 5, 10 and 15 min per day. The
specific growth rate (SGR%), weight gain (%WG) and oxidative stress enzymes, i.e., superoxide dismutase (SOD),
catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), protein carbonyl (CP), nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and trypsin were analysed.
The specific growth rate and the per cent weight gain of spawn and fry of C. batrachus were decreased as compared
to control. The results of the oxidative stress enzymes, viz., SOD, CAT, GSH and NOS were decreased in both spawn
and fry of C. batrachus in comparison to control. CP values were increased for both the spawn and fry as compared
to control. Trypsin in spawn and fry decreased gradually. This study has been able to explore the impact of UV -B
exposure on spawn and fry of C. batrachus in regard to these oxidative stress enzymes, which can be established as
biomarkers in monitoring the UV-B radiation pollution. Finally, it infers that the harmful radiations may cause
deterioration in fish health as well as yield, so, UV-B radiation becomes a major concern to the aquaculture industry,
especially, with regard to sustainable fish production.
Assessment of Quality Index of Water by Using Different Physico-Chemical Parameters in Rabale Waterbody, Navi-Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Pooja Singh , S Jadhav Anita
Published: September 2021

Water is a must for all living things. Reservoir and lake water is used for a variety of purposes, including
drinking water, agricultural, commercial, recreational, and aquaculture. However, due to rising population
pressures, which has resulted in rapid urbanization, industrialization, and modern agricultural practices, water
pollution has become a major issue in recent years. The water quality index is a single number that reflects overall
water quality at a specific place and time. To compute, water quality index (WQI) we used Temperature, pH,
Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (B.O.D), Chemical Oxygen Demand (C.O.D), Alkalinity,
Electrical Conductivity, Turbidity, and Chemical Oxygen Demand (C.O.D), Nitrite-Nitrogen, Nitrate-Nitrogen and
Hardness were the physico-chemical parameters investigated in this study. The water quality index is to transform
complicated water quality data into information that the general public can use. The Water Quality Index was
calculated using the Weighted Arithmetic Water Quality Index (WQI). The measured WQI was then used to assess
the water quality in Rabale water body. The water quality index (WQI) of the lake was 49.813, 53.483, and 53.045
during the pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon periods, respectively. When comparing seasonal variations,
WQI values show that water status is fairly good during the pre-monsoon but is low during the monsoon and postmonsoon seasons, thus water from Rabale water body may be used for a variety of industrial purposes.
Evaluation of C-shaped canal configuration in maxillary molars: A retrospective cone-beam computed tomography study
Authors: KÖSE Emre , AK Rüya
Published: August 2021

Objective: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the prevalence of C-shaped canal configuration in maxillary first and second molars according to sex and gender by using CBCT in a Turkish population.

Methods: In this retrospective study, 709 first and 739 second maxillary molars were examined. CBCT images of teeth were examined in different axial sections to determine the presence of C-shaped canal configuration. C-shaped canal configuration was classified into five groups according to the fusion of root canals. Prevalence of C-shaped canal configuration between first and second molars, age groups and genders were compared.

Results: Total of 1448 teeth were evaluated and 3% (43) of them had C-shaped canal configuration. The presence of C-shaped canal configuration was significantly more common in the second molars than the first molars (p = 0.000) No significant difference in the prevalence of C-shaped configuration was observed comparing genders and age groups (p>0.05). Type A and E canal configuration were not detected in first molars.

Conclusion: C-shaped canal configuration is a rare anatomical variation of maxillary molars.

This variation includes fins or isthmuses connecting root canals which create challenges during endodontic treatment. Perceiving the variations with CBCT imaging helps clinicians to understand and treat complex cases without complication. Clinicians should be knowledgeable about the rare variations for better outcomes.
CEMAS DAN RAGU LINTAS JURUSAN STUDI PADA SISWA KELAS XII MIPA
Authors: LISTIOWATTY
Published: September 2021

Choosing a major that will be taken up in college can raise doubts and even anxiety for the final year high school students. Various factors trigger this doubt and anxiety, especially for choosing across majors. Crossing-major is the decision to choose a field of science to be pursued in higher education, which is different from the field of study at the high school level. This study was intended to describe the psychological dynamics of students who decided to cross majors. This study used a case study-based qualitative descriptive model. The case study was chosen so that this study obtained more detailed and in-depth data from the participants. The data collection techniques used observation and interviews. The results of the analysis indicate the existence of emotional aspects related to anxiety and doubt experienced by students when choosing a further education major, which is caused by parents, family environmental conditions, and the surrounding environment.

Memilih jurusan yang akan ditempuh di perguruan tinggi dapat memunculkan keraguan bahkan kecemasan pada siswa tahun terakhir SMA. Ada berbagai faktor yang memicu keraguan dan kecemasan ini, khususnya bila memilih lintas jurusan. Lintas jurusan adalah keputusan memilih bidang ilmu yang akan ditekuni di perguruan tinggi, yang berbeda dengan bidang jurusan di tingkat SMA. Penelitian ini dimaksudkan untuk mendiskripsikan dinamika psikologis siswa yang memutuskan untuk lintas jurusan.  Penelitian ini menggunakan model deskriptif kualitatif berbasis studi kasus. Studi kasus dipilih agar penelitian ini mendapatkan data yang lebih rinci dan mendalam dari subyek partisipan. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah observasi dan wawancara. Hasil analisa menunjukkan adanya aspek emosional berkaitan dengan kecemasan dan keraguan yang dialami siswa ketika memilih jurusan pendidikan lanjut, yang disebabkan sejumlah faktor yaitu orang tua, kondisi lingkungan keluarga dan pengaruh lingkungan sekitar.
EU Inspections of GM Content in Food and Feed: Are They Effective?
Authors: Areal Francisco J. , Riesgo Laura
Published: September 2021

We investigate the effectiveness of inspecting regimes in controlling food and feed products containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) non-compliant with European Commission (EC) regulations (i.e., a food/feed import containing above the 0.9% GM content threshold for food and at or above 0.1% for feed allowed by the EC regulations but not (or incorrectly) labelled or food/feed imports containing unauthorized GMOs). We collate information at the country level from EC official reports on the number of samples and cases of non-compliance identified by official controls conducted by European Member States (MS). We analyze the probability of finding non-compliant food/feed imports for a number of MS countries between 2000 and 2013, by using a hierarchical model, which interlinks the number of samples taken (i.e., inspections) with interceptions of non-compliant products. Results show that the probability of finding imported products non-compliant with EC’s GMO regulations in food and feed varies among MS countries but, in most cases, is relatively high. For instance, for imported food products in 2004, the probability of the rate of intercepting non-compliant food products being above 5% and 10% in France was 99% and 70%, respectively. However, whereas countries such as Sweden, Portugal, and Austria also show a high rate of intercepting non-compliant food, other countries such as Germany and Spain show a very low probability of finding imported food products being non-compliant. For imported feed products, the overall probability of rate of intercepting non-compliant feed products being above 5% and 10% per country and year was even higher than for imported food products (e.g., 100% in the case of Hungary in 2005). The European Union regulation needs to guide MS adequately in order to establish the optimal level of inspections, guaranteeing consumers’ freedom of choice.
Behavior Trajectory Tracking of Piglets Based on DLC-KPCA
Authors: Liu Chengqi , Zhou Han , Cao Jing , Guo Xuchao , Su Jie , Wang Longhe , Lu Shuhan , Li Lin
Published: September 2021

Tracking the behavior trajectories in pigs in group is becoming increasingly important for welfare feeding. A novel method was proposed in this study to accurately track individual trajectories of pigs in group and analyze their behavior characteristics. First, a multi-pig trajectory tracking model was established based on DeepLabCut (DLC) to realize the daily trajectory tracking of piglets. Second, a high-dimensional spatiotemporal feature model was established based on kernel principal component analysis (KPCA) to achieve nonlinear trajectory optimal clustering. At the same time, the abnormal trajectory correction model was established from five dimensions (semantic, space, angle, time, and velocity) to avoid trajectory loss and drift. Finally, the thermal map of the track distribution was established to analyze the four activity areas of the piggery (resting, drinking, excretion, and feeding areas). Experimental results show that the trajectory tracking accuracy of our method reaches 96.88%, the tracking speed is 350 fps, and the loss value is 0.002. Thus, the method based on DLC–KPCA can meet the requirements of identification of piggery area and tracking of piglets’ behavior. This study is helpful for automatic monitoring of animal behavior and provides data support for breeding.
Compost-Based Growing Media Improved Yield of Leafy Lettuce in Pot Culture
Authors: Marutani Mari , Clemente Seanne
Published: September 2021

Compost-based media were examined for effects on plant growth of leafy lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in pot culture. Four types of locally sourced composts were created using different proportions of wood chips from untreated pallets and mixed tropical tree debris, food waste from restaurants, and chicken manure. Compost-based media were prepared by mixing each compost with a commercial peatmoss to create 25, 50, and 100% compost-peatmoss mixtures (by volume). In Trial One, cv. Starfighter had the greatest shoot (leaves/stems) biomass when grown in 100% compost containing wood chips, food waste, and chicken manure. In Trial Two, cvs. Starfighter and New Red Fire were examined. Growing media affected all plant growth parameters including fresh and dry shoots and roots, shoot and root length, and number of leaves. Cultivar affected all except fresh root weight. Interaction effects of growing medium and cultivar type were found for fresh shoot weight, dry root weight, shoot, and root length. Regression analyses indicated increases in amount of compost in growing media increased dry shoot and root weights. Composts containing recyclable organic materials can be an alternative to commercial media in pot culture.
Taxonomic and Functional Distribution of Bacterial Communities in Domestic and Hospital Wastewater System: Implications for Public and Environmental Health
Authors: Selvarajan Ramganesh , Sibanda Timothy , Pandian Jeevan , Mearns Kevin
Published: September 2021

The discharge of untreated hospital and domestic wastewater into receiving water bodies is still a prevalent practice in developing countries. Unfortunately, because of an ever-increasing population of people who are perennially under medication, these wastewaters contain residues of antibiotics and other antimicrobials as well as microbial shedding, the direct and indirect effects of which include the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes and an increase in the evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that pose a threat to public and environmental health. This study assessed the taxonomic and functional profiles of bacterial communities, as well as the antibiotic concentrations in untreated domestic wastewater (DWW) and hospital wastewater (HWW), using high-throughput sequencing analysis and solid-phase extraction coupled to Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS) analysis, respectively. The physicochemical qualities of both wastewater systems were also determined. The mean concentration of antibiotics and the concentrations of Cl−, F− and PO43 were higher in HWW samples than in DWW samples. The phylum Firmicutes was dominant in DWW with a sequence coverage of 59.61% while Proteobacteria was dominant in HWW samples with a sequence coverage of 86.32%. At genus level, the genus Exiguobacterium (20.65%) and Roseomonas (67.41%) were predominant in DWW and HWW samples, respectively. Several pathogenic or opportunistic bacterial genera were detected in HWW (Enterococcus, Pseudomonas and Vibrio) and DWW (Clostridium, Klebsiella, Corynebacterium, Bordetella, Staphylocccus and Rhodococcus) samples. Functional prediction analysis indicated the presence of beta-lactam resistance, cationic antimicrobial peptide (CAMP) resistance and vancomycin resistance genes in HWW samples. The presence of these antibiotic resistance genes and cassettes were positively correlated with the presence of pathogens. These findings show the risk posed to public and environmental health by the discharge of untreated domestic and hospital wastewaters into environmental water bodies.
Non-Antimicrobial Adjuvant Strategies to Tackle Biofilm-Related Staphylococcus aureus Prosthetic Joint Infections
Authors: Pant Narayan , Eisen Damon P.
Published: September 2021

Staphylococcus aureus frequently causes community- and hospital-acquired infections. S. aureus attachment followed by biofilm formation on tissues and medical devices plays a significant role in the establishment of chronic infections. Staphylococcal biofilms encase bacteria in a matrix and protect the cells from antimicrobials and the immune system, resulting in infections that are highly resistant to treatment. The biology of biofilms is complex and varies between organisms. In this review, we focus our discussion on S. aureus biofilms and describe the stages of their formation. We particularly emphasize genetic and biochemical processes that may be vulnerable to novel treatment approaches. Against this background, we discuss treatment strategies that have been successful in animal models of S. aureus biofilm-related infection and consider their possible use for the prevention and eradication of biofilm-related S. aureus prosthetic joint infection.
Materials Inspiring Methodology: Reflecting on the Potential of Transdisciplinary Approaches to the Study of Archaeological Glass
Authors: Fiorentino Sara , Chinni Tania , Vandini Mariangela
Published: August 2021

The contribution that materials science has made to the understanding of ancient glassmaking is unquestionable, as research undertaken in recent decades has extensively demonstrated. Archaeological glass is far from being a homogeneous class of materials, encompassing objects made for different uses, manufactured in different periods and geographic areas, with a variety of tools and working techniques. If all these factors are not adequately considered when approaching the study of ancient glasses from an archaeometric perspective, data obtained by analyses can incur the risk of being less informative or even misinterpreted. Moving from previously performed research, this paper is aimed at reflecting on the potential of synergistic approaches for the study of archeological glasses, based on the interrelation among different disciplines and fostering the integration of archaeological and historical knowledge with data-driven scientific analyses.
Digital Denture Fabrication: A Technical Note
Authors: Dusmukhamedov Shavkat , Lee Chu-Nui , Jeong Seung-Mi , Choi Byung-Ho
Published: September 2021

Fabricating a complete denture in a conventional manner may be complicated and difficult. The purpose of this article was to describe the benefits of a fully digital workflow and fabrication procedure of complete dentures based on digital impressions of edentulous jaws. The digital data for the workflow were acquired using an intraoral scanner and were then used to design the denture base and teeth. The resulting data were exported to a 3D printer or a milling machine for denture fabrication.
Oral Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Systemic Sclerosis: Characterization and Response to a Hyaluronic-Acid-Based Biomaterial
Authors: Stanomir Alina , Mihu Carmen Mihaela , Rednic Simona , Pamfil Cristina , Roman Alexandra , Soancă Andrada , Micu Iulia Cristina , Bulboacă Adriana Elena , Stratul Ștefan Ioan , Popa-Wagner Aurel , Pall Emoke
Published: September 2021

Introduction. As oral mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have not, to date, been isolated from systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients, the aim of this in vitro experiment was to characterize gingival MSCs (SScgMSCs) and granulation tissue MSCs (SScgtMSCs) from SSc and to evaluate their functionality in comparison to healthy MSCs (hMSCs), in normal or hyaluronic acid (HA) culture media. Materials and Methods. Isolated cells were described by immunophenotyping of surface antigen make-up and by trilineage mesenchymal differentiation capacity. Colony-Forming Unit-Fibroblast (CFU-F) test and migration potential evaluated MSC functionality. Results. All types of MSCs displayed positivity for the following surface markers: CD29, CD73, CD90, CD105, CD44, and CD79a. These cells did not express CD34, CD45, HL-DR, and CD14. Isolated MSCs differentiated into osteoblasts, adipocytes, and chondroblasts. The frequency of CFU-F for SScgtMSCs was significantly lower than that of hMSCs (p = 0.05) and SScgMSCs (p = 0.004) in normal medium, and also markedly lower than that of SScgMSCs (p = 0.09) in HA medium. Following HA exposure, both SScgMSCs and SScgtMSCs migrated significantly less (p = 0.033 and p = 0.005, respectively) than hMSCs. Conclusions. A reduced functionality of MSCs derived from SSc as compared to hMSCs was observed. HA in culture medium appeared to significantly stimulate the migration potential of hMSCs.
Heart Rate Variability in Elite Swimmers before, during and after COVID-19 Lockdown: A Brief Report on Time Domain Analysis
Authors: Pla Robin , Bosquet Laurent , McGibbon Katie , Mujika Iñigo , Aubry Anaël
Published: September 2021

Background: Many athletes worldwide have endured home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic, and their opportunities to train were strongly limited. This study describes the impact of lockdown on training volume and heart rate variability (HRV) in elite swimmers. Methods: HRV data of seven elite males were collected each Monday morning over 20 weeks, including 8 weeks of lockdown. The training volume was quantified retrospectively. Results: During the lockdown period (weeks 4–11) swimming was not allowed, and the total training volume was reduced by 55.2 ± 7.5% compared to the baseline volume (from 27.2 to 12.2 training hours). This drop was associated with a decrease in vagal activity (a 9.2 ± 5.4% increase in resting HR and a 6.5 ± 3.4% decrease in the natural logarithm of rMSSD from baseline values). After the lockdown (weeks 12–20), the training volume was gradually increased before attaining 68.8% and 88.2% of the baseline training volume at weeks 15 and 17, respectively. Resting HR and Ln rMSSD returned to baseline values four weeks after the lockdown. Conclusions: The lockdown period induced a decreased training volume which was associated with a decrease in vagal activity. However, HRV values returned to the baseline 4 weeks after the resumption of swimming training.
Comprehensive Review and Future Research Directions on Dynamic Faceted Search
Authors: Mahdi Mohammed Najah , Ahmad Abdul Rahim , Natiq Hayder , Subhi Mohammed Ahmed , Qassim Qais Saif
Published: September 2021

In modern society, the increasing number of web search operations on various search engines has become ubiquitous due to the significant number of results presented to the users and the incompetent result-ranking mechanism in some domains, such as medical, law, and academia. As a result, the user is overwhelmed with a large number of misranked or uncategorized search results. One of the most promising technologies to reduce the number of results and provide desirable information to the users is dynamic faceted filters. Therefore, this paper extensively reviews related research articles published in IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, and the ACM digital library. As a result, a total of 170 related research papers were considered and organized into five categories. The main contribution of this paper is to provide a detailed analysis of the faceted search’s fundamental attributes, as well as to demonstrate the motivation from the usage, concerns, challenges, and recommendations to enhance the use of the faceted approach among web search service providers.
Visualizing Superman: Artistic Strategizing in Early Representations of the Archetypal Man in Comic Books
Authors: Leshem Bar
Published: September 2021

In 1933, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, two Jewish teenagers from Ohio, fashioned an ideal personality called Superman and a narrative of his marvelous deeds. Little did they suspect that several years after conceptualizing the figure and their many vain attempts to sell the story to various comic book publishers, their creation would give rise to the iconic genre of comic book superheroes. There is no doubt that the Superman character and the accompanying narrative led to Siegel and Shuster, the writer and artist, respectively, becoming famous. However, was it only the appealing character and compelling narrative that accounted for the story’s enormous popularity, which turned its creators into such a celebrated pair, or did the visual design play a major part in that phenomenal success? Recent years have seen a burgeoning interest in the comic book medium in several disciplines, including history, philosophy, and literature. However, little has been written about its visual aspect, and comic book art has not yet been accorded much recognition among art historians. Since the integration of storyline and art is what allow the comic book medium to be unique and interesting, I contend that there should be a focus on the art as well as on the narrative of works in comic books. In the present study, I explore the significance of the visual image in the prototype of the Superman figure that Siegel and Schuster sold to DC Comics and its first appearance in the series American Comic Books. I argue that although the popularity of Superman’s first appearance was due to the conceptual ideals that the character embodied, the visual design of the ideal man was also an essential factor in its success. Accordingly, through a discussion of the first published Superman storyline, I emphasize the artistic-visual value of the figure of this protagonist in particular and the comic book medium in general.
Numerical Algorithms for Computing an Arbitrary Singular Value of a Tensor Sum
Authors: Ohashi Asuka , Sogabe Tomohiro
Published: September 2021

We consider computing an arbitrary singular value of a tensor sum: T:=In⊗Im⊗A+In⊗B⊗Iℓ+C⊗Im⊗Iℓ∈Rℓmn×ℓmn, where A∈Rℓ×ℓ, B∈Rm×m, C∈Rn×n. We focus on the shift-and-invert Lanczos method, which solves a shift-and-invert eigenvalue problem of (TTT−σ˜2Iℓmn)−1, where σ˜ is set to a scalar value close to the desired singular value. The desired singular value is computed by the maximum eigenvalue of the eigenvalue problem. This shift-and-invert Lanczos method needs to solve large-scale linear systems with the coefficient matrix TTT−σ˜2Iℓmn. The preconditioned conjugate gradient (PCG) method is applied since the direct methods cannot be applied due to the nonzero structure of the coefficient matrix. However, it is difficult in terms of memory requirements to simply implement the shift-and-invert Lanczos and the PCG methods since the size of T grows rapidly by the sizes of A, B, and C. In this paper, we present the following two techniques: (1) efficient implementations of the shift-and-invert Lanczos method for the eigenvalue problem of TTT and the PCG method for TTT−σ˜2Iℓmn using three-dimensional arrays (third-order tensors) and the n-mode products, and (2) preconditioning matrices of the PCG method based on the eigenvalue and the Schur decomposition of T. Finally, we show the effectiveness of the proposed methods through numerical experiments.
Isolation and Biological Characterization of Homoisoflavanoids and the Alkylamide N-p-Coumaroyltyramine from Crinum biflorum Rottb., an Amaryllidaceae Species Collected in Senegal
Authors: Masi Marco , Koirala Manoj , Delicato Antonella , Di Lecce Roberta , Merindol Natacha , Ka Seydou , Seck Matar , Tuzi Angela , Desgagne-Penix Isabel , Calabrò Viola , Evidente Antonio
Published: September 2021

Crinum biflorum Rottb. (syn. Crinum distichum) is an Amaryllidaceae plant used in African traditional medicine but very few studies have been performed on this species from a chemical and applicative point of view. Bulbs of C. biflorum, collected in Senegal, were extracted with ethanol by Soxhlet and the corresponding organic extract was purified using chromatographic methods. The pure compounds were chemically characterized by spectroscopic techniques (1D and 2D 1H and 13C NMR, HR MS and ECD) and X-ray analysis. Four homoisoflavonoids (1–4) and one alkylamide (5) were isolated and characterized as 5,6,7-trimethoxy-3-(4-hydroxybenzyl)chroman-4-one (1), as 3-hydroxy-5,6,7-trimethoxy-3-(4-hydroxybenzyl)chroman-4-one (2), as 3-hydroxy-5,6,7-trimethoxy-3-(4-methoxybenzyl)chroman-4-one (3) and as 5,6,7-trimethoxy-3-(4-methoxybenzyl)chroman-4-one (4), and the alkylamide as (E)-N-(4-hydroxyphenethyl)-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)acrylamide (5), commonly named N-p-coumaroyltyramine. The relative configuration of compound 1 was verified thanks to the X-ray analysis which also allowed us to confirm its racemic nature. The absolute configurations of compounds 2 and 3 were assigned by comparing their ECD spectra with those previously reported for urgineanins A and B. Flavanoids 1, 3 and 4 showed promising anticancer properties being cytotoxic at low micromolar concentrations towards HeLa and A431 human cancer cell lines. The N-p-coumaroyltyramine (5) was selectively toxic to A431 and HeLa cancer cells while it protected immortalized HaCaT cells against oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide. Compounds 1–4 also inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity with compound 3 being the most potent. The anti-amylase and the strong anti-glucosidase activity of compound 5 were confirmed. Our results show that C. biflorum produces compounds of therapeutic interest with anti-diabetic, anti-tumoral and anti-acetylcholinesterase properties.
Progress in Gene-Editing Technology of Zebrafish
Authors: Li Yanling , Jia Zhipeng , Zhang Shuchao , He Xiaozhen
Published: September 2021

As a vertebrate model, zebrafish (Danio rerio) plays a vital role in the field of life sciences. Recently, gene-editing technology has become increasingly innovative, significantly promoting scientific research on zebrafish. However, the implementation of these methods in a reasonable and accurate manner to achieve efficient gene-editing remains challenging. In this review, we systematically summarize the development and latest progress in zebrafish gene-editing technology. Specifically, we outline trends in double-strand break-free genome modification and the prospective applications of fixed-point orientation transformation of any base at any location through a multi-method approach.
Evaluation of Subjective Feelings of Outdoor Thermal Comfort in Residential Areas: A Case Study of Wuhan
Authors: Li Kun , Xia Tingting , Li Wenya
Published: September 2021

Outdoor thermal comfort in urban residential areas is closely related to the daily lives of their residents. Nine residential communities in Wuhan, a typical city in central China, were selected as the research object. A questionnaire survey, meteorological parameter measurements, and data analyses were used to investigate the influences of factors such as the characteristics of the spatial environments and the types of outdoor activities undertaken by the residents on the levels of comfort. This investigation was expected to provide a reference for improving these levels. The results show that the level of satisfaction of those in areas with building heights of more than 15 stories reached 51%. Wind speeds were higher in medium-density areas while comfort was the highest in residential areas with densities between 22% and 30%. High-quality areas, which benefitted mainly from higher sensations of wind speed, had the highest levels of comfort but the strongest sensations of heat. A positive correlation exists between green areas and comfort. Where the green coverage rate exceeded 70.0%, temperature satisfaction increased to 33.3–66.7%. Areas with impervious paving are negatively correlated to temperature sensations. Areas of 400–625 m2 had levels of temperature satisfaction lower than 21.5%.
The 4P: Preventing Preneoplasia through Patients Partnership
Authors: Virgone Angélique , Badreh Sara
Published: September 2021

The early diagnosis and management of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) represent a unique opportunity to develop strategies that will prevent malignant transformation. Despite a high prevalence, awareness remains low, patient outcomes poor, and quality of life highly affected. How can patient advocacy groups (PAGs) bring more awareness to preneoplasia preceding oral cancers and help patients after the identification of a suspicious oral leukoplakia presented as white patches in the mouth? PAGs are today involved with awareness campaigns, lobbying, and education of both health care systems as well as the survivor and the newly diagnosed. PAGs are a link between the clinician and the patient, making sure that the medical terminology used is explained in layman language and that psychological support is available during and after treatment. This review outlines the actions that could be deployed by PAGs to successfully complete OPMD prevention challenge. The added value of researchers and patient representatives working together is the increased awareness of the problem. To know at which angle to best approach it for encouraging early diagnosis, improved education of disease signs and symptoms will condition effective prevention from the beginning.
Stabilization of Lecitase Ultra® by Immobilization and Fixation of Bimolecular Aggregates. Release of Omega-3 Fatty Acids by Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Krill Oil
Authors: Andrés-Sanz Daniel , Fresan Cristina , Fernández-Lorente Gloria , Rocha-Martín Javier , Guisán Jose M.
Published: September 2021

Lecitase Ultra® solutions are mainly composed of bimolecular aggregates of two open structures of the enzyme. The immobilization and fixation of these bimolecular aggregates onto support surfaces is here proposed as a novel protocol for the immobilization and stabilization of Lecitase. The resulting derivatives of Lecitase aggregates were much more stable than the diluted solutions of the enzyme. The most stable of them was obtained by covalent immobilization of the bimolecular aggregate: 300-fold more stable than the diluted enzyme and 75-fold more stable than open Lecitase adsorbed onto hydrophobic supports. The bimolecular aggregate that adsorbed onto polyethyleneimine-agarose exhibited the best combination of activity and stability for the hydrolysis of krill oil. Omega-3 acids are in the sn-2 position of the krill oil, but they are also released by a phospholipase A1 because of migration issues.
Bio-Inspired Molecular Catalysts for Water Oxidation
Authors: Xiao Dan , Gregg Jennifer , Lakshmi K. V. , Bonitatibus Peter J.
Published: September 2021

The catalytic tetranuclear manganese-calcium-oxo cluster in the photosynthetic reaction center, photosystem II, provides an excellent blueprint for light-driven water oxidation in nature. The water oxidation reaction has attracted intense interest due to its potential as a renewable, clean, and environmentally benign source of energy production. Inspired by the oxygen-evolving complex of photosystem II, a large of number of highly innovative synthetic bio-inspired molecular catalysts are being developed that incorporate relatively cheap and abundant metals such as Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu, as well as Ru and Ir, in their design. In this review, we briefly discuss the historic milestones that have been achieved in the development of transition metal catalysts and focus on a detailed description of recent progress in the field.
Simultaneous Bilateral Femoral and Tibial Lengthening in Achondroplasia
Authors: Shabtai Lior , Jauregui Julio J. , Herzenberg John E. , Gesheff Martin G. , Standard Shawn C. , McClure Philip K.
Published: August 2021

Previous studies on lengthening for achondroplasia have reported bilateral extensive femoral lengthening followed by bilateral extensive tibial lengthening. To decrease trauma on soft tissues and joints, we propose bilateral simultaneous moderate femoral lengthening and moderate tibial lengthening followed by a similar repeat lengthening a few years later. Fifty patients with achondroplasia underwent 65 simultaneous bilateral femoral and tibial lengthening procedures. Segment lengthening amount and adverse events were obtained from medical records. Mean follow-up after bone healing was 35.6 months. Mean tibial lengthening was 52 mm; mean femoral lengthening was 72 mm. Average healing index was 1.4 months/cm for the tibia and 1 month/cm for the femur. Mean duration of treatment with external fixation was 6.7 months (range, 4.4–10.5 months). Thirty-eight (76%) of 50 patients experienced one or more adverse events during lengthening. We observed 78 adverse events, 35 (45%) of which required additional surgical procedures. All resolved by the end of treatment. Mechanical axis deviation improved from a mean of 15 mm medially to 8 mm medially. Simultaneous lengthening of four segments in patients with achondroplasia is a feasible strategy. Compared with isolated femoral or tibial lengthening, distributing the lengthening between the femur and tibia decreases total external fixator time.
Emotional Intelligence and Executive Functions in the Prediction of Prosocial Behavior in High School Students. An InterDisciplinary Approach between Neuroscience and Education
Authors: Espino-Díaz Luis , Fernández-Caminero Gemma , Hernández-Lloret Carmen-María , González-González Hugo , Álvarez-Castillo José-Luis
Published: September 2021

One of the most analyzed variables in educational research is prosocial behavior, given its relevance and its application in favor of a culture of peace, the construction of solid democratic societies and the development of social justice. For this reason, it is necessary to extend the knowledge of predictors of prosocial behavior so that they can be transferred to teaching practice. The research reported here was carried out using a quantitative methodology through a survey, based on data collection instruments, whose data were treated statistically by means of descriptive, correlational and predictive analyses. The results obtained suggest that emotional intelligence has a strong predictive capacity for prosocial behavior while executive functions show a mild-moderate predictive behavior. In the conclusions and discussion, we provide a series of arguments on some of the results obtained in contrast with previous literature, as well as incorporating limitations of the study and prospects for future research.
Malondialdehyde, an Oxidative Stress Marker in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mohideen Khadijah , Sudhakar Uma , Balakrishnan Thayumanavan , Almasri Mazen A. , Al-Ahmari Manea Musa , Al Dira Hajar Saeed , Suhluli Malath , Dubey Alok , Mujoo Sheetal , Khurshid Zohaib , Raj A. Thirumal , Patil Shankargouda
Published: September 2021

Objective: To qualitative and quantitatively review published literature assessing the oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Methodology: Pubmed (MeSH), Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Willey Online Library, Cochrane, and Cross Reference were searched for studies assessing MDA levels in OSCC samples. Results: From the 1008 articles identified, 849 were excluded based on title and abstract screening due to duplication and irrelevance to the topic of interest. Full-text assessment of the remaining 159 articles led to the inclusion of only 46 articles that satisfied the selection criteria. Of these, only 26 studies had data compatible for quantitative analysis. The MDA levels in OSCC groups are significantly increased (p < 0.00001) in plasma, serum, and saliva samples in the majority of the studies evaluated. In contrast, MDA levels in OSCC tissue samples are significantly attenuated (p < 0.00001) compared to healthy controls, supported by fewer studies. Conclusions: The augmented MDA levels in plasma, serum, and saliva samples of the OSCC reflect the heightened oxidative stress level accurately. Further studies are required to understand the attenuated MDA levels in the tissue samples of OSCC. Correlation analysis between MDA levels with established clinicopathological prognostic markers could aid in formulating oxidative stress-based prognostication and treatment planning.
Corrosion of Stainless Steel by Urea at High Temperature
Authors: Galakhova Anastasiia , Kadisch Fabian , Mori Gregor , Heyder Susanne , Wieser Helmut , Sartory Bernhard , Burger Simon
Published: September 2021

The corrosion mechanism of stainless steel caused by high temperature decomposition of aqueous urea solution has been investigated. The relationship between aqueous urea solution, its thermal decomposition products and the corrosion mechanism of stainless steel is studied by FTIR spectroscopy, SEM and stereo microscopy. The corroded steel samples, together with deposits, were obtained from the injection of aqueous urea solution on the steel plate at high temperatures. Uniform corrosion underneath the deposits was proposed as the main driver for corrosion of the steel samples. At the crevices, corrosion due to the used geometry and due to high temperature cycling could play an acceleration role as well.
Approximated Mixed-Integer Convex Model for Phase Balancing in Three-Phase Electric Networks
Authors: Montoya Oscar Danilo , Grisales-Noreña Luis Fernando , Rivas-Trujillo Edwin
Published: September 2021

With this study, we address the optimal phase balancing problem in three-phase networks with asymmetric loads in reference to a mixed-integer quadratic convex (MIQC) model. The objective function considers the minimization of the sum of the square currents through the distribution lines multiplied by the average resistance value of the line. As constraints are considered for the active and reactive power redistribution in all the nodes considering a 3×3 binary decision variable having six possible combinations, the branch and nodal current relations are related to an extended upper-triangular matrix. The solution offered by the proposed MIQC model is evaluated using the triangular-based three-phase power flow method in order to determine the final steady state of the network with respect to the number of power loss upon the application of the phase balancing approach. The numerical results in three radial test feeders composed of 8, 15, and 25 nodes demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed MIQC model as compared to metaheuristic optimizers such as the genetic algorithm, black hole optimizer, sine–cosine algorithm, and vortex search algorithm. All simulations were carried out in MATLAB 2020a using the CVX tool and the Gurobi solver.
DNA Barcoding for Scorpion Species from New Valley Governorate in Egypt Reveals Different Degrees of Cryptic Speciation and Species Misnaming
Authors: Mohammed-Geba Khaled , Obuid-Allah Ahmad Hamed , El-Shimy Naser Abdellatif , Mahbob Mohamed Abd El-Moez , Ali Rouwaida Saadawy , Said Shimaa Mohamed
Published: September 2021

(1) Background: Scorpions (Arthropoda: Arachnida) represent a diverse group of invertebrates, accounting for a significant proportion of earth’s predators and ecosystems’ modulators. Surviving mostly in hardly reachable nests, and representing key hazards to human health, they attracted major interest for characterizing their eco-, morpho-, and genotypes. (2) Methods: Four scorpion species were collected from the New Valley governorate in Upper Egypt, where a high level of scorpionism and related neurological symptoms are found, that were Leiurus quinquestriatus, Androctonus amoreuxi, Orthochirus innesi, Buthacus leptochelys. They were DNA barcoded, genetically and phylogenetically analyzed through PCR amplification and sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene hypervariable 5′ region. (3) Results: New, morphologically authenticated scorpion barcodes could be added to the barcoding databases. However, several discrepancies and barcode database inadequacies could be revealed. Moreover, taxon-specific patterns for nitrogenous bases’ distribution could be identified, resulting in a significantly high percentage of COI barcode guanine in scorpionids, in comparison to araneids and opilions. (4) Conclusions: For a group of animals where both cryptic speciation and a high risk of human envenomation are evident, the findings of the current study strongly recommend continuous and comprehensive research efforts dealing with morphogenetic authentication for different species of scorpions.
Size- and Time-Dependent Aerosol Removal from a Protective Box during Simulated Intubation and Extubation Procedures
Authors: Pirker Luka , Čebašek Metod , Serdinšek Matej , Remškar Maja
Published: September 2021

Because the SARS-CoV-2 virus primarily spreads through droplets and aerosols, a protective box could provide adequate protection by shielding medical professionals during the intubation and extubation procedures from generated droplets and aerosols. In this study, size- and time-dependent aerosol concentrations were measured inside and outside the protective box in the particle size ranging from 14 nm to 20 μm during simulated intubation and extubation procedures. An improved protective box with active ventilation was designed based on a plastic bag with armholes covered with latex sheets that utilizes a supportive frame. Coughing during the intubation and extubation procedure was simulated using an aerosol generator which dispersed the aerosol powder into the protective box. During the intubation and extubation procedure, the concentration of particles increased inside the protective box but, due to the high negative airflow, quickly dropped to background levels. The particle concentration of all measured particle sizes decreased within the same time frame. No leakage of particles was observed through the armhole openings. The presented protective box design provides excellent protection against generated droplets and aerosols. The decrease in concentration does not depend on the particle size. Outside the box, particle concentration did not change with time.
COVID. A New Journal to Affirm the Role of Science between Communication and Social Responsibility
Authors: Novelli Giuseppe
Published: September 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic, a global health, economic, and social tsunami, has profoundly changed the relationship between science and public opinion [...]