bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unlocking Urban Animal Response to Reduced Human Activity during COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Basak Sayantani M. , Mahony Declan T. O` , Lesiak Maciej , Basak Arpan Kumar , Ziółkowska Elżbieta , Kaim Dominik , Hossain Md Sarwar , Wierzbowska Izabela A.
Published: October 2021

The interrelations between human activity and animal populations are of increasing interest due to the emergence of the novel COVID-19 across the world. Anthropogenic impacts of the pandemic on animals in urban-suburban environments, at this stage, are largely unknown. In this study, temporal and spatial aspects of urban animal response to the COVID-19 lockdown were assessed using animal-vehicle collisions (AVC) data. We used AVC and traffic data over two six-month periods in 2019 and 2020 (January to June) from southern Poland, which included lockdown months. Our analysis of 1741 AVC incidents involving 21 animal species revealed that COVID-19 related lockdown did not significantly impact AVC rates even though traffic levels were reduced, suggesting that animals increased utilisation of urban-suburban interfaces in response to reduced human activity. Given the high incidence and diversity of species involved in AVC in this study, we emphasise the importance of data integrity and mitigation measures to minimise this human wildlife conflict.
Spatio-temporal prediction of the population size at Tehran urban areas using BirnbaumSaunders Markov random fields
Authors: Khaledi Majid Jafari , Bourbour Sara , Safarkhanloo Helia
Published: October 2021

For implementing an intelligent urban management, it is necessary and inevitable to know the population size in different areas of Tehran city and identify how they change over time. Population and housing census data can determine the spatio-temporal distribution of the people and how it evolves. However, census will not be implemented across the country in 2021, like a previous manner, due to issues related to the coronavirus pandemic and its prevalence. From this perspective, the prediction of the population size is significant in different regions of Tehran for the year 2021. This paper focuses on developing a statistical learning model for predicting the population growth rate of Tehran urban areas. To be more specific, since the growth rates data are spatially correlated, skewed to the right, and positive, a Birnbaum- Saunders Markov random field (BSMRF) is proposed. We adopt a Bayesian framework for the parameter estimation and spatial prediction and use Markov chain Monte Carlo methods to sample from the posterior distribution. Then, the results are compared with the traditional models.
Evaluation of Skeletal Muscle Activity During Foot Training Exercises Using Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Kanayama Tomoyuki , Nakase Junsuke , Mochizuki Takafumi , Asai Kazuki , Yoshimizu Rikuto , Kimura Mitsuhiro , Kinuya Seigo , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki
Published: October 2021

The foot exercises “rock-paper-scissors” and “towel gathering” are widely used in patients with lower limb disorders; however, there are no detailed reports on muscle activity during such training. We quantitatively evaluated the difference in skeletal muscle activity between the two exercises using positron emission tomography. Eight university student athletes were included. Four participants each were assigned to the foot rock-paper-scissors and towel gathering groups. Participants in each group underwent continuous training for 15 min. They received an intravenous injection of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose and retrained for 15 min, following which they rested for 45 min. Regions of interest were defined in 25 muscles. The standardized uptake value (SUV) in the trained limb was compared with that in the non-trained control limb. SUVs increased in four skeletal muscles (tibialis anterior, peroneus brevis, extensor hallucis brevis, and abductor hallucis) in the rock-paper-scissors group, and in four muscles (flexor digitorum longus, extensor hallucis brevis, extensor digitorum brevis, and quadratus plantae) in the towel gathering group. Thus, foot rock-paper-scissors and towel gathering affected skeletal muscles related to the medial longitudinal arch and toe grip strength, respectively. Given that the two exercises target different skeletal muscles, they should be taught and implemented according to their respective purposes.
Serial and Parallel Convolutional Neural Network Designs for NFDM Signals
Authors: Zhang Wen Qi , Chan Terence , V. Shahraam Afshar
Published: October 2021

Two conceptual convolutional neural network designs are proposed for directly decoding NFDM signals with the consideration of hardware implementation. A serial network is designed for small network size suitable for small user applications and a parallel network is designed for speed suitable for places such as data centres. In the numerical demonstrations, the serial design only occupies 0.5 MB of memory space while the parallel design occupies 128 MB of memory but allow parallel computing. Both network designs were trained with simulated data and able to reach more than 99.9% accuracy.
Stack-ZDPD: A Novel Encoding Scheme for Mass Spectrometry Data
Authors: Wang Jinyin , Lu Miaoshan , Wang Ruiming , An Shaowei , Xie Cong , Yu Changbin
Published: October 2021

As the pervasive, standardized format for interchange and deposition of raw mass spectrometry (MS) proteomics and metabolomics data, text-based mzML is inefficiently utilized on various analysis platforms due to its sheer volume of samples and limited read/write speed. Database-developed solution guarantees the efficiency of random file reading, but nevertheless the efforts in compression and third-party software support are insufficient, while most research on compression algorithms rarely provides flexible random file reading scheme. Under the premise of ensuring the efficiency of decompression, we propose an encoding scheme “Stack-ZDPD” that is optimized for storage of raw MS data, designed for the format “Aird”, a computation-oriented format with fast accessing and decoding time, where the core compression algorithm is “ZDPD”. Stack-ZDPD reduces the volume of data stored in mzML format by around 80% or more, depending on the data acquisition pattern, and the compression ratio is approximately 30% compared to ZDPD for data generated using Time of Flight technology. Our approach is available on Airdpro, for file conversion and the Java-API Aird SDK, for data parsing.
Effect of β-Resin and Oxygen Functional Group of Binderless Coke on Mechanical Properties of High-Density Carbon Blocks According to Molding Pressure
Authors: Park Seungjoo , Lee Seon Ho , Lee Song Mi , Jung Doo-Hwan
Published: October 2021

High-density carbon blocks have excellent mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties. In particular, these blocks are applied in various fields while maintaining excellent physical properties even in harsh environments. In this study, binderless coke manufactured under certain conditions was used to form green bodies (GBs) under various pressure conditions of 50 to 250 MPa, and the bodies were carbonized to form a high-density carbon block (CB). Then, the effect of the β-resin and oxygen functional groups of binderless coke on the mechanical properties of the high-density carbon block according to molding pressure was considered. When molding at a pressure of under 200 MPa, the ratio of O and C (O/C) has a greater effect, and the larger the O/C, the higher the mechanical properties. On the other hand, when molding at a high pressure of 250 MPa, the β-resin content has a greater effect and steadily increases when the β-resin content is low and when the mechanical properties are sufficiently reduced. In particular, in the case of CB-N7A3–250, which has the highest β-resin content of 3.7 wt%, the density was 1.79 g/cm3, the flexural strength was 106 MPa, and the shore hardness was 99 HSD.
Leveraging Data Science Tools and Algorithms to Unveil New Insights on Historical Research Data: A Case of Insect Morphometrics
Authors: Salifu Daisy , Ibrahim Eric Ali , Tonnang Henri
Published: October 2021

The move towards open access and re-use of scientific research data is rapidly being embraced by the research community as best practice. Many research institutions are adopting a set of global data policy guiding principles to make data Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable (FAIR). This study is product of good research data stewardship of open access and re-use. We explored the use and application of advanced data science with machine learning tools and algorithms on historical data of insect morphometrics that were previously analyzed using conventional statistical methods, principal component analysis and canonical variate analysis. Herein, we assess the predictive performance of four machine learning classifiers; K-nearest neighbor (KNN), random forest (RF), support vector machine (the linear, polynomial and radial kernel SVMs) and artificial neural networks (ANNs) on the historical data of fruit fly morphometrics. KNN and RF performed poorly with overall model accuracy lower than “no-information rate” (NIR) (p-value>0.1). The SVM models had a predictive accuracy of >95% and Kappa >0.78 with accuracy significantly higher than NIR, p<0,001; while ANN model had a predictive accuracy of 96% and Kappa of 0.83 with accuracy also greater than NIR. We conclude that SVM and ANN models could be used to discriminate fruit fly species based on wing vein and tibia length measurements or any other morphologically similar pest taxa. These algorithms could be used as candidates for developing an integrated and smart application software for insect discrimination and identification.
Quantitative Evaluation of Human Lens Epithelial Cell Viability and Cytolysis by Distilled Water Ex Vivo
Authors: Zhang Wen-Wen , Zhang Rong-Pei , Liu Ya-Jun , He Zi-Fang , Zhang Si , Xie Zheng-Gao
Published: October 2021

Purpose: To investigate the role of distilled water (DW) in isolated human lens epithelial cells (LECs) viability and lysis ex vivo.Methods: After immersion in DW or balanced salt solution (BSS) for 1-, 2-, and 3-minutes, respectively, the cell viability of LECs was quantitatively evaluated. In addition, the capsule samples soaked in DW or BSS for 1-, 2-, and 3-minutes were combined with rinse for 1 minute to analyze the difference of LECs shedding percentage in each subgroup. The histopathological changes of the samples after treating were observed.Results: The percentage of LECs shed in DW immersion combined with rinse was significantly higher than in DW immersion alone (p all <0.001). In the subgroup soaked in DW for 3 minutes, the death number, mortality, and the percentage of cell shedding of LECs was the most (p all <0.001). The histopathological changes showed that the cell destruction in the DW subgroup for 1-, 2-, and 3-minutes, and the transmission electron microscope results showed that the cells were partially detached from the capsule in the DW 3 minutes subgroup.Conclusions: Soaking in the DW can cause LECs death, and DW immersion combined with rinse was an effective method to remove LECs. The histopathology changes of treated DW suggested cellular necrosis was one type of LECs death mechanism.
Implication of High Variance in Germplasm Characteristics
Authors: Yu Ju-Kyung , Chang Sungyul , Han Gyung Deok , Kim Seong-Hoon , Ahn Jinhyun , Park Jieun , Kim Yooha , Kim Jaeyoung , Chung Yong Suk
Published: October 2021

The beauty of conserving germplasm is the securement of genetic resources with numerous important traits, which could be utilized whenever they need to be incorporated into current cultivars. However, it would not be as useful as expected if proper information was not given to breeders and researchers. In this study, we demonstrated that there is a large variation, both among and within germplasm, using a low-cost image-based phenotyping method; this could be valuable for improving gene bank screening systems and for crop breeding. Using the image analyses of 507 accessions of buckwheat, we identified a wide range of variations per trait between germplasm accessions and within an accession. Since this implies a similarity with other important agronomic traits, we suggest that the variance of the presented traits should be checked and provided for better germplasm enhancement.
What’s the Cut-Point?: A Systematic Investigation of Tau PET Thresholding Methods
Authors: Weigand Alexandra June , Maass Anne , Eglit Graham , Bondi Mark
Published: October 2021

Background: Tau positron emission tomography (PET) is increasing in popularity for biomarker characterization of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and recent frameworks rely on tau PET cut-points to stage individuals along the AD continuum. Given the lack of standardization in tau PET thresholding methods, this study sought to systematically canvass and characterize existing studies that have derived tau PET cut-points and then directly assess different methods of tau PET thresholding in terms of their concurrent validity.Methods: First, a literature search was conducted in PubMed to identify studies of AD and related clinical phenotypes that used the Flortaucipir (AV-1451) tau PET tracer to derive a binary cut-point for tau positivity. Of 540 articles screened and 47 full-texts reviewed, 23 cohort studies met inclusion criteria with a total of 6,536 participants. In a 2x2x2 design that systematically varied region (temporal meta-ROI and entorhinal cortex), analytic method (receiver-operating characteristics and 2 standard deviations above comparison group), and criterion/comparison variable (amyloid-beta positivity or cognitive diagnosis), a sample from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative yielded eight different tau PET cut-points. Results: For the systematic review, notable variability in sample characteristics, preprocessing methods, region of interest, and analytic approach were observed, which were accompanied by discrepancy in proposed tau PET cut points. The empirical follow-up indicated the cut-point derived based on 2 standard deviations above a cognitively unimpaired group in the temporal meta-ROI best differentiated tau positive and negative groups on cerebrospinal fluid phosphorylated tau, Mini-Mental State Examination score, and delayed memory performance. Conclusions: Given the impact of discrepant thresholds on tau positivity rates, biomarker staging, and eligibility for future clinical treatment trials, recommendations are offered to standardize cut-point derivations as additional tau PET tracers are developed and implemented in AD studies.
Cyclic Peptide D7 Promotes Osteogenesis and Inhibits Osteoclastogenesis by Regulating Redox Balance of Bone Remodeling
Authors: Cui Zichen , Feng Changgong , Chen Jiazheng , Wang Yi , Feng Dianjie , Cheng Yifan , Li Ziqing , Sun Shui
Published: October 2021

BackgroundMilitary training usually causes excessive physical burden to the bones and joints of soldiers, which in turn disturbs the balance of bone homeostasis and eventually induces bone metabolic diseases. In our previous studies, a cyclic peptide D7 in was characterized through phage display technology from the peptide phage display library (Ph.D.‑C7C) and was proven to enhance the adhesion, expansion, and proliferation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on the biomaterial scaffold. However, we found that cyclic peptide D7 also has a certain affinity for mouse calvarial osteoblast precursor cells (OPCs) and bone marrow-derived monocytes/macrophages (BMMs). To investigate whether D7 can protect physiological bone remodeling and maintain bone homeostasis, we elucidated the mechanisms by which D7 promotes osteogenesis and inhibits osteoclastogenesis. MethodsThe affinity of D7 peptide towards calvarial OPCs and BMMs was investigated using fluorescence cytochemistry. The roles of D7 in osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis by regulating redox balance was confirmed by cell counting kit-8, special stain assays (alkaline phosphatase stain, alizarin red stain and tartrate‐resistant alkaline phosphatase stain), fluorescence cytochemistry, western blotting, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. ResultsThe results demonstrated that D7 promoted the osteogenesis of calvarial OPCs by upregulating the expression of osteogenic differentiation factors. In contrast, D7 inhibited osteoclast differentiation and resorption by downregulating the expression of osteoclast phenotype marker. We further identified that these phenomenons may be due to the suppressive effect of D7 on reactive oxygen species production and the enhancing effect on antioxidant expression in both OPCs and BMMs, thereby regulating the redox balance of bone remodeling.Conclusions﻿Cyclic peptide D7 could maintain bone homeostasis by regulating redox balance and provide a potential approach to strengthen the skeletal fitness of soldiers and prevent the occurrence of bone metabolic diseases.
The role of lncRNAKCNQ1OT1/miR-301b/Tcf7 Axis in Cardiac Hypertrophy
Authors: e mingyao , Ren Feifei , Liu Guohong , Yu Yanhua , Li Haiyan , Shen Chao , Sha Chunyan
Published: October 2021

Cardiac hypertrophy, acting as a pathologic progress of chronic hypertension and coronary disease. Increasing evidence indicates that lncRNA potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily q member 1 overlapping transcript 1 (KCNQ1OT1) may led to MI. Recent studies showed, miR-301b level was evidently decreased in heart failure patients. To explore the regulate effect of lncRNAKCNQ1OT1 and miR-301b in cardiac hypertrophy, gain-and-lose function assays were tested. Notably, lncRNAKCNQ1OT1 overexpression causes a significant result as cardiac hypertrophy. Furthermore, lncRNAKCNQ1OT1 sponge microRNA-301b. The results showed that miR-301b exhibited lower expression in cardiac hypertrophy model, indicating that it may exert anti-hypertrophic role. Furthermore, the BNP and β-MHC expression increased, as well as cardiomyocyte surface area, with Ang II treatment, while the effect was repealed by miR-301b. Moreover, the protein expression of Tcf7 was down-regulated or up-regulated by miR-301b or AMO-301b. As displayed by luciferase reporter assay, miR-301b binds to 3’UTR of Tcf7. Briefly, we aimed to elucidate a down-regulate role of miR-301b in cardiac hypertrophy, as to provide potential therapeutic strategies.
Characterization of Cutaneous and Subcutaneous Neoplasms in Canines and Malignancy Prediction Using B-Mode Ultrasonography, Doppler, and ARFI Elastography
Authors: Cruz Igor Cezar Kniphoff , Carneiro Rafael Kretzer , Nardi Andrigo Barboza , Uscategui Ricardo Andrés Ramirez , Bortoluzzi Eduarda Mazzardo , Feliciano Marcus Antônio Rossi
Published: October 2021

Background
Cutaneous and subcutaneous neoplasms are highly prevalent in dogs, ranging from benign to highly aggressive and metastatic lesions. The diagnosis is obtained through histopathology, however it is an invasive technique that may take a long time to obtain the result, delaying the beginning of the adequate treatment. Thus, there is a need for non-invasive tests that can help in the early diagnosis of this type of cancer. The aim of this study was to verify the accuracy of ultrasonography methods to predict malignancy in cutaneous and subcutaneous canine neoplasms. In addition, we aim to propose an ultrasonography evaluation protocol and perform the neoplasms characterization using these three proposed techniques.
Results
Twenty-one types of specific neoplasm were diagnosed, and using B-mode, we verified the association between heterogeneous echotexture, invasiveness, presence of hyperechoic spots, and cavity areas with malignancy. An increased pulsatility was verified in malignant neoplasms using Doppler (cut-off value >0.93). When using the elastography, malignancy was associated with non-deformable tissues and shear wave velocity >3.52 m/s. Evaluation protocols were proposed associating 4, 5, 6, or 7 malignancy predictive characteristics, and characterization was done for all tumors with at least two cases.
Conclusions
We concluded that ultrasonography methods are promising and effective in predicting malignancy in these types of tumors, and the association of methods can increase the specificity of the results.
Efficacy and Sagittal Parameters of Debridement and Bone Grafting using Internal Fixation in the Treatment of Kyphotic Cervical Tuberculosis: A Case Series
Authors: Luan Haopeng , Liu Kai , Deng Qiang , Sheng Weibin , Maimaiti Maierdan , Guo Hailong
Published: October 2021

Background: To evaluate the efficacy of debridement and bone grafting using internal fixation in the treatment of kyphotic cervical tuberculosis, and analyze the changes of pre-operation and post-operation sagittal parameters, which related to the surgical indications.Methods: Clinical and radiographic data of patients with kyphotic cervical TB treated by debridement and BGIF at our hospital from January 2010 to December 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. The sagittal parameters of the cervical vertebra at the pre-operation, post-operation, and last follow-up were documented and were compared. Results: Eighteen patients of simple anterior approach debridement and fusion with internal fixation (group A), and 5 patients underwent anterior debridement and fusion, combined with posterior internal fixation (group AP). In the comparison of preoperative sagittal parameters, significant improvement after surgery was observed in both groups, included Cobb angle, SCA, C2-C7SVA, and CG-SVA (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in T1 Slope, NT, and TIA (P > 0.05).Conclusions: In the treatment of kyphotic cervical TB, the characteristics of the lesion, the degree of kyphosis and spinal cord nerve compression damage can be presented clearly by the radiographic sagittal parameters, which does a favor to individualize the choice of surgical approach safely and effectively.
DFT study adsorption of Hydroxychloroquine for treatment COVID-19 by Al, Si and Si-C doping on carbon nanotube surface: A drug delivery simulation
Authors: Al-Sawaff Zaid H. , Dalgic Serap Senturk , Kandemirli Fatma , Monajjemi Majid , Mollaamin Fatemeh
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study is to investigate the potential and capability of Al-CNT, Si-CNT, and SiC-NT to detect and adsorb Hydroxychloroquine (C18H26ClN3O) molecular. For this purpose, we considered different configurations for adsorbing Hydroxychloroquine drug on the surface of Al-CNT, Si-CNT, and SiC-NT nanocluster. All considered configurations are optimized using DFT theory at the 6-31G** basis set and M062x level of theory, and then from optimized structures, for each nanoparticle, we selected four stable models for the adsorption of Hydroxychloroquine from (O, N, N, and Cl) sites on the surface the selected nanoparticles. The calculated results indicate that the distance between nanocluster and drug from N site is lower than from all other locations sites for all investigated nanoparticles, and adsorption of Hydroxychloroquine from N site is more favorable especially for the Al-CNT nanotube. The adsorption energy, hardness, softness, and fermi energy results reveal that the interaction of Hydroxychloroquine with Al-CNT is stronger than Si-CNT, and SiC-NT. The results clarify that SiC-NT and Si-CNT are not suitable for Hydroxychloroquine drug adsorption because of the low values of Eads, but Al-CNT is an encouraging adsorbent for this drug as Eads of Hydroxychloroquine/Al-CNT complexes are (-45.07, -15.78, -45.15, -93.53) kcal/mol in the gas phase, and (-43.02, -14.43, -43.86, -88.97) kcal/mol for aqueous solution. The energy gap of the Hydroxychloroquine/Al-CNT system is in the range of 2.32 to 3.84 eV. which is in the range of Al-CNT (2.68). Besides, the HOMO-LUMO orbitals and electrostatic potential (ESP) plots results show that the maximum positive charge is located around the nanocluster surface and the most negative charge is located around the adsorption position and Hydroxychloroquine drug surface. As well, the appropriate and spontaneous interaction between Hydroxychloroquine drug and all nanoparticles was confirmed by investigating the quantum chemical molecular descriptors and solvation Gibbs free energies of all atoms. Al-CNT can be used as an amperometric sensor to detect the Hydroxychloroquine drug molecule. Thus, we propose that the Al-CNT can be a promising candidate as a drug delivery vehicle for Hydroxychloroquine drug molecules.
Tissue and Serum Thioredoxin System and miR-21, miR-23a/b and let-7a as Potential Biomarkers for Brain Tumor Progression
Authors: KILIÇ NEDRET , Boyacioglu Ozge , Saltoglu Gamze Turna , Bulduk Erkut Baha , Kurt Gokhan , Korkusuz Petek
Published: October 2021

Thioredoxin system and miRNAs are potential targets for both cancer progression and treatment. However, role of miRNAs and their relation between the expression profile of thioredoxin system in brain tumor progression remains unclear. Thus, in this study we aimed to determine the expression profiles of redox components Trx-1, TrxR-1 and PRDX-1, and oncogenic miR-21, miR-23a/b and let-7a and oncosuppressor miR-125 in different brain tumor tissues and their association with increasing tumor grade. We studied Trx-1, TrxR-1 and PRDX-1 mRNA expression levels by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and protein levels by Western blot and miR-23a, miR-23b, miR-125a, miR-21 and let-7a miRNA expression levels by qRT-PCR in 16 glioma, 15 meningioma, 5 metastatic and 2 benign tumor samples. We also examined Trx-1, TrxR-1 and PRDX-1 protein levels in serum samples of 36 brain tumor patients and 37 healthy volunteers by ELISA. We found that Trx-1, TrxR-1 and PRDX-1 presented high mRNA expression but low protein expression in low-grade brain tumor tissues whereas they showed higher protein expression in sera of patients with low-grade brain tumors. miR-23b, miR-21, miR-23a and let-7a were highly expressed in low-grade brain tumor tissues and positively correlated with the increase in thioredoxin system activity. Our findings showed that Trx-1, TrxR-1 and PRDX-1 and miR-21, miR-23a/b, and let-7a might be used for brain tumor diagnosis in the clinic. Further prospective studies including molecular pathway analyses are required to validate the miRNA/thioredoxin system regulatory axis in brain tumor progression.
Statistical Analysis Supports UTR（untranslated region）Deletion Theory in SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Xu Zhaobin , Sun Yinghui , Yang Dongying , Wang Liyan
Published: October 2021

The statistical analysis found that the mortality rate of COVID-19 infection experienced a significant decline in the early stage of the epidemic. We suspect that the sharp deterioration of virus toxicity is related to point mutation and the deletion of the untranslated region of the virus genome. Through sequence analysis of mega-genome data, we found that the genome length of COVID-19 was deleted, which mainly occurred in the untranslated regions at both ends. Sequence similarity analysis further indicated that short UTR length strain emerged by deleting strain with long sequence length. This process is irreversible; the genome with a short sequence length could not restore to the long sequence length. By studying the relationship between genome length and mortality, we found a good correlation between them statistically, which demonstrated that the deletion of the untranslated region of the virus significantly affected the toxicity of the virus. We extracted the viral genome length of patients with different symptoms from the GISAID database for analysis to confirm this relationship. It discovered that the viral genome length of hospitalized patients was significantly more extensive than that of asymptomatic patients. In contrast, the viral genome length of asymptomatic patients was considerably longer than that of ordinary patients with symptoms. To further prove this idea, we performed a genome-level mutation scanning to systematically evaluate the influence of mutations at each position on virulence. After Pearson correlation analysis and chi-square investigation, UTR deletion was the primary driving force in alternating virus virulence. All those statistical evidence support the UTR deletion theory in SARS-COV-2. In the end, we proposed a mathematical model to explain why its UTR deletion was not continuous, which indicated humans could not eliminate SARS-COV-2 in a short time without robust intervention procedures.
Effect of Gamma Rays on Zn/Cu Doped Strontium Borate Glass System for Dosimetric Applications
Authors: Mohammed Eman , Gafar Sameh
Published: October 2021

Two alkali metal strontium borate glass systems containing Cu2+ or Zn2+ ions (0.15 mol. %) have been prepared by the conventional melt annealing method, then some of their dosimetric measurements have been performed. The two glass systems were checked by ultraviolet-visible light measurement, where Cu2+ ions reveal a sharp peak in the UV region at 320 nm as Cu+ and a broad visible band at ~ 735 nm as Cu2+. However, Zn2+ ions reveal two sharp peaks at 290 & 300 nm related to its divalent state (Zn2+). Upon γ-rays, glass is sensitive to the absorbed dose in the range 0.4 to 15 kGy, revealing its light absorption. A gradual decrease in optical absorbance intensity and DC electrical conductivity was detected with the progressive irradiation. While, a gradual increase in optical energy band gap (Eopt) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) was observed. The presence of transition metal ions (TM) with a variable configuration helps to trap the radiolytic electrons or holes during the color center recovery rates. All the dosimetry characteristics of EPR spectrum, UV-Vis spectrophotometer has high color stability and excellent short-term and long-term stability of the studied glass dosimeters, revealing its applications in medical sterilization and food irradiation processing.
Mangifera indica as propolis source: what exactly do bees collect?
Authors: Bankova Vassya
Published: October 2021

Objective

The mango tree Mangifera indica is known as one of the botanical sources of propolis in Tropical regions. There are two different materials which bees can collect from a mango tree to produce propolis: the resin of the tree bark, and the latex found on the fruits. We performed the study of the chemical profile of mango resin in comparison with propolis in order to clarify its importance as propolis source.

Results

We compared the chemical profiles (by GC-MS analysis of ethanol extracts after silylation) of the resin and samples of propolis: of stingless bees (3 Vietnames, 2 Indonesian), and one of Apis mellifera from Thailand. In the resin and all propolis samples, 25 compounds were identified: fatty acids, cardanols (alk(en)yl phenols), cardols, anacardic acids, triterpene alcohols and ketones, cycloartane type triterpenic acids. All samples have the same qualitative composition but there are important quantitative differences. Considering literature data on mango latex, we conclude that bees of different species, make use of the two propolis sources offered by mango: bark resin and fruit latex, in different proportions. We also confirmed for the first time the presence of alk(en)yl phenols and anacardic acids in the tree bark resin of mango.
PARP dependent acetylation of N4-cytidine in RNA appeared in UV-damaged chromatin
Authors: Svobodová Alena Kovaříková , Stixová Lenka , Kovařík Aleš , Bártová Eva
Published: October 2021

Posttranscriptional RNA modifications, including the presence of methyl-6-adenosine (m6A), methyl-5-cytosine (m5C), or pseudo-uridine (Ψ), are known for over many years, but their functional properties have not been fully elucidated yet. Similarly, the regulatory role of N4-cytidine (ac4C) acetylation in RNA must be explored. Here, we observed PARP-dependent accumulation of ac4C RNA at UVA-microirradiated chromatin, which appears 2-5 minutes after genome injury, simultaneously with m6A RNAs but with distinct kinetics. When m6A RNAs disappeared from the lesions, the high level of ac4C RNA was maintained up to 20 minutes after genome injury. Surprisingly, the process of ac4C RNA accumulation at DNA lesions was not accompanied by the recruitment of acetyltransferase NAT10 to UVA-induced DNA lesions. This process was PARP dependent, and data show how epitranscriptomic features can contribute to DNA damage repair.
Risk factors, clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, management and treatment of patients with anaphylaxis in Tehran
Authors: Mohsenzadeh Azam , Sohrabi Fatemeh , Movahedi Masoud , Parvaneh Nima , Shariat Mansoureh , Gharagozlou Mohammad , Sabooteh Toomaj
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Recent studies have evaluated the risk factors, clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, management and treatment of anaphylaxis in different populations, but the results of various studies are contradictory. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors, clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, management and treatment of anaphylactic patients referred to the Children's Medical Center of Tehran during the years 2015-2016.Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 30 patients with anaphylaxis were studied. The study population included all patients who had been diagnosed with anaphylaxis without age limitation and during the period from 2015 to 2016 to undergo serum beta-tryptase examination were referred to the laboratory of the Children's Medical Center of Tehran. The sampling method was census-based and the information was collected through a pre-designed questionnaire by examining patient files or telephone contacts with patients. After collecting data, the data were entered into SPSS 22 software and analyzed statistically. Finally, P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: In our study, we investigated 30 patients with anaphylaxis, an average age of 25±15 years (range 2 to 60 years) among which 13 (43%) were men and 17 (57%) women.The most important cause of anaphylaxis in the studied patients was foods (57%), followed by drugs (20%), unknown (20%) and pollen plants (3%). About 33.7% of patients had allergies to specific allergens. The most routes of exposure with allergens were, oral (56.3%), intravenous (18.7%), unknown (12.6%) and cutaneous (3.1%), respectively. 33.6% of them had positive skin tests. The most common symptoms of anaphylaxis in order of frequency were respiratory (72.9%), cutaneous (48.8%), cardiovascular (18.6%) and gastrointestinal symptoms (6%). Eighty percent of anaphylaxis occurred at home. The most commonly prescribed medications were corticosteroids (83.3%), antihistamine (76%), epinephrine (60%) and beta-agonists (3%). Only 30% of the patients had access to Epipen.Conclusion: According to the results of this study, since most anaphylactic reactions occur in the home and more than one-third of patients had allergic to certain allergens and two-thirds of patients had a history of anaphylaxis, it seems that by providing the necessary training and knowledge to individuals with regard to allergenic substances or allergenic drugs, as well as increased access for patients to Epipen, we can prevent the occurrence and risk of subsequent anaphylaxis in these people.
Leaf Color Changes and Photosynthetic Characteristics of Five Superior Late-deciduous Ginkgo biloba Cultivars
Authors: Zhang Huihui , Yu Ping , Song Min , Li Dalu , Sheng Qianqian , Cao Fuliang , Zhu Zunling
Published: October 2021

Ginkgo biloba, a relict plant, has been popularized and planted in most areas of China for its leaves, timber, and fruits. In the present study, the dynamic changes in leaf color, leaf pigment content during the color change period, and photosynthetic characteristics in different growth periods were studied to explore the coloring mechanism and adaptability of five late-deciduous superior Beijing G. biloba cultivars (LD1–LD5). The results showed that the leaf color change of each superior cultivar was relatively stable, and the discoloration period of LD3 and LD5 was later than that of others. From September to November, the chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and total chlorophyll content in all superior cultivars showed a downward trend, except in LD3, in which the pigment content was slightly higher in October than in September. Except in LD3 and LD4, the ratio of carotene content to total chlorophyll content in other cultivars slightly decreased in October. In May, the photosynthetic capacity of LD5 was stronger than that of other cultivars. The photosynthetic capacity of LD3 was strong in July and October. Our results imply that LD3 and LD5 are suitable for mixed planting with common G. biloba to increase the overall leaf color viewing period. Ginkgo biloba leaves turn yellow in autumn because of both a decrease in the chlorophyll content after leaf senescence and an increase in the Car content during leaf senescence. Although LD5 presented rapid seedling emergence, LD3 grew faster during the vigorous and late growth stages and is thus suitable for agricultural production.
Quantifying Key Internal and External Yield-limiting Factors for Chinese Pear in Smallholder Dominant Areas
Authors: Fu Haoran , Ma Qingxu , Ma Zhengbo , Hu Yingzhao , Liu Fan , Chen Kaijun , Pan Wankun , Tang Sheng , Zhang Xin , Wu Lianghuan
Published: October 2021

Pear (Pyrus spp.) is the third-largest economic crop in China after apples (Malus pumila Mill.) and citrus (Citrus reticulata Blanco), and it is mainly cultivated by smallholders. Currently, the yield of Chinese pear ranks midlevel globally, with only 17.9 t⋅ha−1⋅year−1, which is lower than that of the United States (36.0 t⋅ha−1⋅year−1). However, the factors limiting pear production dominated by smallholders are unclear. We interviewed 75 smallholders about 18 yield-related indicators for pear-typical planting areas. The boundary line model was used to analyze the contribution of internal factors and dominant external factors affecting yield and to simulate strategies for increasing yield through the scenario analysis. The results showed that the average gap between the average and highest attainable yields for smallholders was 10.5 t⋅ha−1⋅year−1 in Luniao County. Among individual yield-limiting factors, chemical fertilizer nitrogen (N) input (13.3%) was the most significant, followed by the soil-available N content (12.0%) and leaf magnesium content (12.0%). Overall, the contribution of all soil factors (42.7%) was the largest compared with the other factor categories. However, the contribution of internal factors could not be ignored and accounted for 25.3% of the total. A scenario analysis showed that comprehensive strategies considering soil, management, and internal factors achieved the largest yield improvement (14%), as did reducing the fertilizer application rate (66%) compared with only using soil or leaf diagnosis methods. Therefore, integrated methods should be considered when developing pear orchard management measures and include soil, management, and internal factors.
Flowering Time and Productivity of Interspecific Grafts Between Pepper Species in Contrasting High Tunnel-sheltered and Open-field Production Environments in Costa Rica
Authors: Vega-Alfaro Andrey , Ramírez-Vargas Carlos , Chávez Germán , Lacayo Fernando , Bethke Paul C. , Nienhuis James
Published: October 2021

The production of sweet peppers (Capsicum annuum) is often constrained in tropical environments by susceptibility to persistent soil-borne diseases, including bacterial wilt (Ralstonia solanacearum). However, the production of sweet peppers in high tunnels using sterile soilless media irrigated with nutrient solution offers the potential to reduce the incidence of bacterial wilt. An additional strategy for disease management is the use of sweet pepper scions grafted onto rootstocks that are resistant to soil-borne pathogens. Two sweet pepper cultivars grown extensively in the tropics, Nathalie and 4212, were used as scions and grafted onto the habanero pepper cultivar Habanero TEC (Capsicum chinense) and the aji pepper cultivar Baccatum TEC (Capsicum baccatum). Two cultivars related to the two rootstocks were prescreened for susceptibility to two virulent strains of bacterial wilt. Graft combinations were grown in two environments, a high tunnel with automatic nutrient solution irrigation of containers filled with sterile coconut fiber and an open field with known high levels of bacterial wilt inoculum. Self-grafted and nongrafted plants of scions were included as checks. The disease susceptibility screening showed that the area under the disease progress curve was consistently low for ‘Habanero TEC’ and ‘Baccatum TEC’ when inoculated with two virulent strains of bacterial wilt, suggesting that habanero pepper cultivars and, to a lesser degree, aji pepper cultivars may be useful as rootstocks in soils with bacterial wilt inoculum. Significant increases in yield, fruit number, and reduced time to flowering were observed in the high tunnel compared with the open-field environment. Individual fruit weight was reduced in the high tunnel compared with the field. Yield, fruit number, fruit weight, and time to flowering were consistent between scions regardless of rootstock. No differences were observed for yield, fruit number, fruit weight, or time to flowering of self-grafted and nongrafted scion checks. In the high tunnel, yield was higher in scions grafted onto ‘Habanero TEC’ compared with self-grafted and nongrafted checks. In the open field, yield and fruit number were highest on scions grafted onto ‘Habanero TEC’. Regardless of graft treatment, high-tunnel production in tropical environments can result in significant increases in yield and fruit number compared with open-field production. No advantage of grafted plants was observed in the high-tunnel production environment. In contrast, in the open-field environment, grafting sweet pepper scions onto pungent habanero rootstocks resulted in a significant increase in yield, fruit number, and fruit size compared with self-grafted and nongrafted checks. The increase was likely attributable to the resistance of habanero pepper cultivars to soil-borne diseases, including bacterial wilt.
How to optimize the absorption of two entangled photons
Authors: Carnio Edoardo , Buchleitner Andreas , Schlawin Frank
Published: October 2021

We investigate how entanglement can enhance two-photon absorption in
a three-level system. First, we employ the Schmidt decomposition to
determine the entanglement properties of the optimal two-photon state to
drive such a transition, and the maximum enhancement which can be
achieved in comparison to the optimal classical pulse. We then adapt the
optimization problem to realistic experimental constraints, where photon
pairs from a down-conversion source are manipulated by local operations
such as spatial light modulators. We derive optimal pulse shaping
functions to enhance the absorption efficiency, and compare the maximal
enhancement achievable by entanglement to the yield of optimally shaped,
separable pulses.
Reflexive Pronoun of the Bidayuh-Somu Language:
Authors: Bunau Eusabinus
Published: October 2021

This research aimed to describe the reflexive pronoun of the language of the Bidayuh-Somu and the English in terms of its formation process. The research data was reflexive pronoun of the Bidayuh-Somu language taken from the dissertation and the English language reflexive pronoun taken from the website. The method of research was comparative, and the technique of data analysis was descriptive. It is found that morphologically, the reflexive pronoun of the Bidayuh-Somu language is formed by attaching the prefix goni- that is derivational to free morpheme. In the English language, the reflexive pronoun is formed by affixing the suffix -self/-selves that is inflectional to free morpheme. The free morpheme, in the case of these two languages, is a personal pronoun. In terms of function, the two morphemes are both class-maintaining. Furthermore, in terms of word meaning, they are unchanged. The complex word the prefix goni- forms is prefixal, while the complex word the suffix -self/-selves forms are suffixal. The importance of comparing the prefix goni- with the suffix -self/-selves is to linguistically provide a description of similarities in terms of the morphological process for reflexive pronoun formation. Although the process of affixation is different, one employs derivational, and the other one applies inflectional. However, the description indicates that the two affixes are similar in terms of duty to reflexive pronoun formation. In the syntactic model of morphology, the use of the two reflexive pronouns is to intensify or emphasize the personal pronoun. They reflect upon the sentences’ subjects or as antecedents of the subjects in sentences.
Culture-Shaped Language of Male and Female Writers:
Authors: Sukendra Irmala
Published: October 2021

This research would like to investigate how the writers of different genders from different cultures (western or American and Asian) reflected the differences in the language they used in their novels. Although gender differences were known to result from cultural differences, less research had been done in terms of contrasting the gender of different cultures, yet to discuss them in terms of gender roles as writers. This present research aimed to explore the role of gender in constructing language to examine gender stereotypes from a linguistic perspective and describe gender differences in language use. It used a library study as its method, which included several steps of reading the material, collecting and listing the swear words and adjectives used, categorizing the choice of words, and analyzing the choices. The research concludes that culture does contribute to the differences in how swear words are expressed, in which Indonesian writers use fewer swear words and avoid using vulgar words and profanity. In other words, gender differences do not affect adjectives used in Bahasa Indonesia.
Depiction of Raden Joko Kaiman as a Superhero Using Barthes’ Semiotics
Authors: Hadiati Chusni , Yulianita Nadia Gitya
Published: October 2021

This research tried to reveal the denotative and connotative meaning of Raden Joko Kaiman in Banyumas culture. Historically, Banyumas regency was founded by Raden Joko Kaiman in 1582. As the founding father of Banyumas regency, Raden Joko Kaiman could be semiotically interpreted as a superhero in the context of Banyumas. Based on Barthes, anything could be a sign. Raden Joko Kaiman in Barthes’ semiotic perspective could function as a sign since this figure could have both denotative and connotative meanings. Barthes’ semiotic theory investigated the process of reading signs and their interpretation by different cultures or societies. Barthes considered sign as both signifier the physical form of the sign as people perceived it through their sense and signified the interpreted meaning. This research was conducted using qualitative research since it collected reliable data and information through reading, comparing, and analyzing text by relating them to Banyumas context. There are four denotative meanings carried by this sign, namely, the son of Raden Harya Banyak Sosro, the godson of Kiai Mranggi, the son-in-law of Adipati Wargautama, and being Adipati Mrapat. Connotatively, Raden Joko Kaiman is interpreted as courage, strong moral codes, tolerance towards pain, and a great sense of responsibility.