bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring and Identifying Candidate Genes and Genomic Regions Related to Economically Important Traits in Hanwoo Cattle
Authors: Naserkheil Masoumeh , Manzari Zeinab , Dang Chang Gwon , Lee Seung Soo , Park Mi Na
Published: December 2022

The purpose of the current review was to explore and summarize different studies concerning the detection and characterization of candidate genes and genomic regions associated with economically important traits in Hanwoo beef cattle. Hanwoo cattle, the indigenous premium beef cattle of Korea, were introduced for their marbled fat, tenderness, characteristic flavor, and juiciness. To date, there has been a strong emphasis on the genetic improvement of meat quality and yields, such as backfat thickness (BFT), marbling score (MS), carcass weight (CW), eye muscle area (EMA), and yearling weight (YW), as major selection criteria in Hanwoo breeding programs. Hence, an understanding of the genetics controlling these traits along with precise knowledge of the biological mechanisms underlying the traits would increase the ability of the industry to improve cattle to better meet consumer demands. With the development of high-throughput genotyping, genomewide association studies (GWAS) have allowed the detection of chromosomal regions and candidate genes linked to phenotypes of interest. This is an effective and useful tool for accelerating the efficiency of animal breeding and selection. The GWAS results obtained from the literature review showed that most positional genes associated with carcass and growth traits in Hanwoo are located on chromosomes 6 and 14, among which LCORL, NCAPG, PPARGC1A, ABCG2, FAM110B, FABP4, DGAT1, PLAG1, and TOX are well known. In conclusion, this review study attempted to provide comprehensive information on the identified candidate genes associated with the studied traits and genes enriched in the functional terms and pathways that could serve as a valuable resource for future research in Hanwoo breeding programs.
Revealing a Tipping Point in the Climate System: Application of Symbolic Analysis to the World Precipitations and Temperatures
Authors: Hayata Kazuya
Published: December 2022

Climate variabilities over the period of 80 years (1930–2010) are analyzed by the combined use of divergence measures and rank correlation. First, on the basis of a statistical linguistics procedure, the m-th order differences of the monthly mean precipitations and temperatures on the globe are symbolized according to a binary coding rule. Subsequently, the annual 12-bit binary sequence for a station is divided into twelve 6-bit sequences by scanning it over a year. Computed results indicate that there is an optimal order of differences with which one can reveal the variabilities most distinctly. Specifically, it is found that for the analysis of precipitations, the second differences (m = 2) are most useful, whereas, for the temperatures, the third differences (m = 3) are preferable. A detailed comparison between the information-theoretic and the ranking methods suggests that along with the stability and coherence, owing to its ability to make an appeal to the eyes, the latter is superior to the former.
Synthesis of Core-Shell CeO2/CeF3 Nanoparticles Using Tetrafluoroethane R-134a
Authors: Morozov Oleg A. , Korableva Stella L. , Rakhmatullin Rafail M. , Khadiev Amir R. , Kiiamov Airat G. , Cherosov Mikhail A. , Pudovkin Maksim S. , Gafurov Marat R.
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we report the synthesis, characterization, and optical properties of core-shell CeO2/CeF3 nanoparticles. Fabrication of these composite nanoparticles was carried out by fluorination of CeO2 nanoparticles with tetrafluoroethane R-134a gas at high temperatures (800–1200 °C) in a special vacuum furnace with a tubular graphite heater. The obtained X-ray diffraction spectra (XRD) and luminescence measurements confirm the formation of composite CeO2/CeF3 nanoparticles. Simulation of XRD spectra and calculation of lattice parameters were carried out. A proposed method of synthesis can be used for other rare-earth oxide nanoparticles to fabricate core-shell oxyfluoride nanosized composites that combine the properties of oxide and fluoride nanoparticles.
Colloidal Aqueous Dispersions of Methyl (meth)Acrylate-Grafted Polyvinyl Alcohol Designed for Thin Film Applications
Authors: Bozhilova Silvia , Lazarova Katerina , Ivanova Sijka , Karashanova Daniela , Babeva Tsvetanka , Christova Darinka
Published: December 2022

In this paper, the aqueous copolymer dispersions of methyl (meth)acrylate-grafted poly(vinyl alcohol) are in situ synthesized and studied as a promising platform for the deposition of thin films with advanced applications. A series of dispersions of the varied copolymer structure and composition are obtained at mild reaction conditions by carrying out a redox polymerization at a different monomer-to-PVA ratio and initiator concentration. The obtained colloidal particles are characterized by Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy. The copolymer dispersions are further used for deposition of thin films on silicon substrates. The films are characterized optically through reflectance measurements and non-linear curve fitting. Their suitability for the optical sensing of acetone vapors is confirmed by reflectance measurements before and during their exposure to analyte vapors. The cross sensitivity, sensing repeatability, and recovery of the sensitive films are discussed.
Improvement of the Tribocorrosion Properties of Cemented Carbide (WC-Tic-Co) Samples with PVD Coating
Authors: García José Antonio , Claver Adrián , Marques Mikel , Almandoz Eluxka , Fernández de Ara Jonathan , Palacio José F. , Azkona Ibon
Published: December 2022

This study aims to investigate the improvement of the tribocorrosion properties of WC-TiC-Co substrates by coating them with hard coatings such as AlCrSiN using cathodic arc deposition. WC-TiC-Co is commonly used in the fabrication of machining and cutting tools; however, there are some materials such as titanium or stainless steel that are difficult to work with; furthermore, in aggressive environments or under high temperatures the performance of the machining tools can be affected, and a failure may occur. This coating is intended to ensure the correct performance of the tools in any conditions. The coatings were characterized by glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy (GDOES), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Tribocorrosion, tribology and corrosion tests were performed to evaluate the tribocorrosion properties of the samples. Furthermore, mechanical and adhesive properties of the coating were studied using scratch and nanoindentation tests. The results showed improved tribocorrosion properties in the samples combined with good adhesive and mechanical properties. These results show the possibility of using these coated materials in the most demanding cutting and machining applications.
Sedum Plumbizincicola Derived Functional Carbon for Activation of Peroxymonosulfate to Eliminate Bisphenol A: Performance and Reaction Mechanisms
Authors: Liu Chao , Chen Zhenxiang , Kang Ruiqin , Niu Yongsheng , Su Wenhui , Wang Xiaolong , Tian Dayong , Xu Ying
Published: December 2022

Carbon-based functional materials are deemed to be excellent candidates to adsorb contaminants from wastewater, yet their catalytic roles in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are still ambiguous. Therefore, four functional carbons (SPFCx) were fabricated in this study under various pyrolysis temperatures by using Sedum plumbizincicola (SP) residues (a kind of phytoremediation plant) as the precursors. Notably, SPFC800 exhibited the best adsorption capacity (qe = 26.081 mg g−1) toward bisphenol A (BPA) due to its having the largest specific surface area (121.57 m2 g−1). By injecting peroxymonosulfate (PMS, 5.0 mM), BPA (10 mg L−1) could be completely removed within 70 min. More importantly, the BPA removal was stable and effective even in complex wastewater. Interestingly, radicals played minor roles in the SPFC800/PMS system, while nonradical mechanisms (i.e., 1O2 and electron-transfer regime) were responsible for the BPA elimination, which was verified by quenching tests, solvent exchange experiments (H2O2→D2O), and electrochemical experiments. Overall, this work may provide a facile and green method for BPA contaminated-wastewater purification and promote the application of AOPs in environmental remediation.
Biomechanical Behavior of Different Miniplate Designs for Skeletal Anchorage in the Anterior Open Bite Treatment
Authors: Ielpo Ana Paula Macarani , de Matos Jefferson David Melo , Noritomi Pedro Yoshito , da Rocha Scalzer Lopes Guilherme , Queiroz Daher Antonio , Borges Alexandre Luiz Souto , Nascimento Rodrigo Dias
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the stress distribution and mechanical behavior of miniplate designs to skeletal anchorage for the treatment of anterior open bite in adult patients. A complete hemimaxilla, teeth, brackets, transpalatal bar, and three miniplates were virtually modeled. I-, Y-, and T-shaped miniplates were installed in the area of the alveolar zygomatic crest. The assembly was constricted and three intrusive forces (2, 4, and 6 N) were applied to the maxillary molars and anchorage according to the miniplates. All materials were considered homogeneous, elastic, and linear; the mesh was 1,800,000 hexahedrons with 2,800,000 nodes on average. Displacement, maximum principal stress, and von Mises stress were evaluated according to the shape of the anchorage device and intrusive force. The miniplate configurations resulted in different stress and displacement intensities in the bone tissue and plate; these stresses were always located in the same regions and were within physiological limits. The Y-plate showed the best performance since its application generated less stress in bone tissue with less displacement.
Production of Graphene Stably Dispersible in Ethanol by Microwave Reaction
Authors: Martis Alberto , Fontana Marco , Serrapede Mara , Bianco Stefano , Chiodoni Angelica , Pirri Candido Fabrizio , Bocchini Sergio
Published: December 2022

Graphene is a 2D carbon material with peculiar features such as high electrical conductivity, high thermal conductivity, mechanical stability, and a high ratio between surface and thickness. Applications are continuously growing, and the possibility of dispersing graphene in low-boiling green solvents could reduce its global environmental impact. Pristine graphene can be dispersed in high concentration only in polar aprotic solvents that usually have high boiling points and high toxicity. For this reason, the oxidized form of graphene is always used, as it is easier to disperse and to subsequently reduce to reduced graphene oxide. However, compared to pristine graphene, reduced graphene oxide has more defects and has inferior properties respect to graphene. In this work, the polymerization of (diethyl maleate derivate) on graphene obtained by sonication was performed in a microwave reactor. The obtained material has good stability in ethanol even after a long period of time, therefore, it can be used to deposit graphene by mass production of inks or by casting and easy removal of the solvent. The thermal annealing by heating at 300–400 °C in inert atmosphere allows the removal of the polymer to obtain pristine graphene with a low number of defects.
Fencing Can Alter Gene Flow of Asian Elephant Populations within Protected Areas
Authors: Puyravaud Jean-Philippe , Cushman Samuel A. , Reddy P. Anuradha , Boominathan Durairaj , Sharma Reeta , Arumugam Neelakantan , Selvan Kanagaraj Muthamizh , Mohanraj Nagarathinam , Arulmozhi Sedupathy , Rahim Abdul , Kalam Tamanna , De Rahul , Udayraj Swati , Luis Andrea , Najar Muneer Ul Islam , Raman Kothandapani , Krishnakumar Bawa Mothilal , Goyal Surendra Prakash , Davidar Priya
Published: December 2022

The Asian elephant is mostly confined to mountainous ranges and therefore risks population fragmentation if hard protected area (PA) boundaries near steep slopes prevent movement. We tested whether elephant gene flow is (i) controlled by slope and (ii) affected by the interplay between barriers and slope. We used 176 unique genotypes obtained non-invasively from fresh elephant dung to assess individual-by-individual genetic distance across the Western Ghats of India, a biodiversity hotspot. To assess landscape distance, 36 resistance models were produced by transforming a slope raster. Core areas and corridors were calculated from the raster that provided the best correlation between the genetic and distance matrices. The influence of the closure of PAs on gene flow was examined for one region, the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The best resistance raster obtained by transforming the slope occupancy model was better than Euclidean distance for explaining genetic distance, indicating that slope partially controls gene flow. Fencing elephant PAs on hilly terrain reduces core areas and disrupts corridors. Consequently, hard PA boundaries abutting slopes can fragment elephant populations, but this can be ameliorated by protecting the adjacent flatter terrain.
Metabolite Profile of Athrixia phylicoides DC. (Bush Tea) and Determination of Inhibitory Mechanism against Tyrosinase Enzyme from Mushroom
Authors: Thibane Vuyisile Samuel , Ramphinwa Maanea Lonia , Mchau Godwin Richard Ainamensa , Mudau Fhatuwani Nixwell
Published: December 2022

Athrixia phylicoides DC. (Bush tea) is a shrub harvested in the north-eastern mountain regions of South Africa and belongs to the Asteraceae family. Generally, A. phylicoides is consumed as a hot tea beverage for its associated health benefits. The use of bush tea extracts for beauty enhancement has not been investigated even though several ethnobotanical reports have indicated its usage against skin imperfections. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess plant metabolites of A. phylicoides for their inhibition of tyrosinase from mushroom and determine their inhibitory mechanism. Methanolic extracts (80% v/v) of A. phylicoides were evaluated using a tyrosinase-based TLC (thin-layer chromatography) autography technique. The inhibitory mechanism of active metabolites against the enzyme was determined using Lineweaver–Burk plots. Quercetin and an unknown metabolite with a retention factor (Rf) value of 0.73 inhibited melanogenesis. However, the IC50 value for Quercetin was reported as 51.07 ± 2.43 µg/mL higher than that of kojic acid of 5.22 ± 1.44 µg/mL. Chlorogenic acid was reported to have a similar Rf value as kojic acid, suggesting similarities in polarity and affinity towards the adsorbent material. However, chlorogenic acid with an IC50 value of 15.25 ± 1.18 µg/mL and an inhibitory strength of 2.92 could not inhibit melanogenesis with a similar intensity as kojic acid. The inhibitory mechanism for A. phylicoides extract was reported to be mixed inhibition (competitive/uncompetitive). The IC50 value for A. phylicoides was recorded as 20.65 ± 0.14 µg/mL with an inhibitory strength of 3.96. These results suggest that A. phylicoides extracts could be used against dark spots associated with scarring and ageing through modulation of tyrosinase activity.
Clinical Outcomes and Survival Analysis of Remdesivir as a Treatment Option for Moderate to Severe COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Aboelsaad Iman , Ashmawy Rasha , Mahrous Doaa , Sharaf Sandy , Aly Shahinda , Abdullatif Sara , Fakhry Ayat , Hassan Basma , Khamis Dalia , Aldakhs Alaa , Kamal Ehab
Published: December 2022

Background: Remdesivir is a broad-spectrum antiviral that has been approved as promising medicine worldwide for the fatal pandemic COVID-19 disease. There is a debate over its efficacy, with different studies taking into account a variety of factors. Therefore, we conducted this study to evaluate the primary composite outcome of mortality rate, need for mechanical ventilation (MV), and escalation of care among Remdesivir (RDV) and non-Remdesivir (NoRDV) groups. Methods: Patients with moderate and severe PCR-confirmed COVID-19 infection were observed retrospectively, before and after including RDV in the treatment protocol during the period from August 2020 to February 2021. Result: From the 509 hospitalized patients, 35% received Remdesivir, with 64% being severe patients. The median age in both groups was 59 years old, and there was no significant difference between the two groups regarding gender, baseline characteristics, and comorbidities. In contrast, the median hospital length of stay in the RDV group was lower (8 days) than the NoRDV (9 days), p = 0.004. The composite outcome was 17.7% in the RDV group and 22.2% in the NoRDV group, but the difference was statistically insignificant (p-value 0.289). Adjusted logistic regression demonstrated a non-significant lower association of the composite outcome with RDV use (OR 0.623, 95CI% 0.37–1.02), and a significant reduction occurred in patients <60 years old (OR 0.39, 95%CI 0.17–0.83). However, survival analysis for mortality, MV, and transfer to a higher level revealed insignificant differences in the median time between groups. Subgroup analyses showed that RDV utilization had a non-significant effect on the risk of all three outcomes across different groups. Conclusion: Despite controlling all patient characteristics, treatment with RDV did not improve patient outcomes over other antivirals and standard care. There is an urgent need for further studies to investigate and evaluate new therapeutic approaches or combinations.
Citrate-Capped AuNP Fabrication, Characterization and Comparison with Commercially Produced Nanoparticles
Authors: Memon Abdul , Channa Iftikhar , Shaikh Asif , Ahmad Jabran , Soomro Abdul , Giwa Abdulmoseen , Baig Zenab , Mahdi Wael , Alshehri Sultan
Published: December 2022

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were synthesized using citrate reduction, also known as the Turkevich method. The AuNPs were compared with the commercially available product and later subjected to characterization. The AuNPs were 13 nm in diameter with a 2.7 × 108 M−1cm−1 extension coefficient. The calculated concentration was 5.1 nM through the Beer–Lambert law using UV–vis absorbance spectra. Further detailed characterization was applied, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), elemental analysis using electro and DLS instruments, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), XRD, and Zeta potential. The synthesized AuNPs had a higher UV-absorbance peak of 0.93 in comparison to commercially available nanoparticles at 5.8 identical conditions. The characterization confirmed successful fabrication of colloidal-citrate-capped AuNPs and their dispersed and aggregated state with induced salt concentration. The shape and morphology were confirmed through XRD, showing a face-centered cubic lattice of {111}, confirmed at 38.1 round shape, and a crystalline lattice. AuNPs tend to be applied in sensing, detection, drug delivery, pharmaceuticals, and other applications in the environment and materials. Other applications include environmental contaminant detection, colorimetric sensors, antimicrobial applications, biosensing and drug delivery, tissue engineering, nanomedicines, optoelectronics, and catalysts.
New Metformin–Citric Acid Pharmaceutical Molecular Salt: Improving Metformin Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Verdugo-Escamilla Cristóbal , Alarcón-Payer Carolina , Acebedo-Martínez Francisco Javier , Domínguez-Martín Alicia , Choquesillo-Lazarte Duane
Published: December 2022

Crystal engineering and, more specifically, the development of multicomponent materials has become an effective technique to rationally modify important physicochemical properties of solids, such as solubility and thermal stability. In this work, in order to overcome some of the problems that metformin has as a pharmaceutical, a new metformin base salt with citric acid (MTF–CIT) has been developed, which improves the thermal stability and solubility (two-fold) compared to metformin base (MTF). A complete characterization of the new crystalline form through PXRD, DSC, SCXRD, and FT–IR was conducted to ensure the purity of the new phase and provide a comprehensive view of its physicochemical behavior, thus correlating the improvement in stability and solubility with the crystal structure. The MTF–CIT salt crystallizes in the monoclinic P21/c1 spacegroup with z′ = 1. Intermolecular interactions found in MTF–CIT structure and simulated crystal morphology suggest a steric protection effect on the metformin ion that leads to the enhancement of stability in several orders of magnitude compared with MTF, as well as an improvement in solubility due to the exposition of polar groups in the biggest facets, making this new multicomponent salt a promising pharmaceutical solid.
Aero-TiO2 Prepared on the Basis of Networks of ZnO Tetrapods
Authors: Ciobanu Vladimir , Ursaki Veaceslav V. , Lehmann Sebastian , Braniste Tudor , Raevschi Simion , Zalamai Victor V. , Monaico Eduard V. , Colpo Pascal , Nielsch Kornelius , Tiginyanu Ion M.
Published: December 2022

In this paper, new aeromaterials are proposed on the basis of titania thin films deposited using atomic layer deposition (ALD) on a sacrificial network of ZnO microtetrapods. The technology consists of two technological steps applied after ALD, namely, thermal treatment at different temperatures and etching of the sacrificial template. Two procedures are applied for etching, one of which is wet etching in a citric acid aqua solution, while the other one is etching in a hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) system with HCl and hydrogen chemicals. The morphology, composition, and crystal structure of the produced aeromaterials are investigated depending on the temperature of annealing and the sequence of the technological steps. The performed photoluminescence analysis suggests that the developed aeromaterials are potential candidates for photocatalytic applications.
Recent Progress in Phase Stability and Elastic Anomalies of Group VB Transition Metals
Authors: Wang Yixian , Wu Hao , Liu Yingying , Wang Hao , Chen Xiangrong , Geng Huayun
Published: December 2022

Recently discovered phase transition and elastic anomaly of compression-induced softening and heating-induced hardening (CISHIH) in group VB transition metals at high-pressure and high-temperature (HPHT) conditions are unique and interesting among typical metals. This article reviews recent progress in the understanding of the structural and elastic properties of these important metals under HPHT conditions. Previous investigations unveiled the close connection of the remarkable structural stability and elastic anomalies to the Fermi surface nesting (FSN), Jahn–Teller effect, and electronic topological transition (ETT) in vanadium, niobium, and tantalum. We elaborate that two competing scenarios are emerging from these advancements. The first one focuses on phase transition and phase diagram, in which a soft-mode driven structural transformation of BCC→RH1→RH2→BCC under compression and an RH→BCC reverse transition under heating in vanadium were established by experiments and theories. Similar phase transitions in niobium and tantalum were also proposed. The concomitant elastic anomalies were considered to be due to the phase transition. However, we also showed that there exist some experimental and theoretical facts that are incompatible with this scenario. A second scenario is required to accomplish a physically consistent interpretation. In this alternative scenario, the electronic structure and associated elastic anomaly are fundamental, whereas phase transition is just an outcome of the mechanical instability. We note that this second scenario is promising to reconcile all known discrepancies but caution that the phase transition in group VB metals is elusive and is still an open question. A general consensus on the relationship between the possible phase transitions and the mechanical elasticity (especially the resultant CISHIH dual anomaly, which has a much wider impact), is still unreached.
Facile One-Pot Hydrothermal Synthesis of Hierarchical MoS2/α-MnS Nanocomposites with Good Cycling Performance as Anode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang De-An , Zhao Xishan , Zhu Lin , Wang Qi
Published: December 2022

The design of nanoscale composites with a hierarchical structure can improve the poor cycling performances of transition metal sulfides such as anode materials. The hierarchical MoS2/α-MnS nanocomposites were synthesized by a facile one-pot hydrothermal method in this study, aiming to improve the cycling performance. As an anode material, hierarchical MoS2/α-MnS nanocomposites deliver a high reversible capacity, of 1498 mAh g−1 at a current density of 50 mA g−1; a capacity of ~800 mAh g−1 is maintained over 100 cycles at 300 mA g−1, and a capacity of 907 mAh g−1 is obtained at 1200 mA g−1. Moreover, these capacities increase with the number of cycles, which is mainly owed to the occurring metallic nanoparticles that catalyze the developing polymeric film and enhance the conductivity of the active materials during the electrochemical reactions. The good cycling performances are attributed to the synergistic effects between MoS2 and α-MnS.
Molecular and Phytochemical Variability of Endemic Juniperus sabina var. balkanensis from Its Natural Range
Authors: Rajčević Nemanja , Dodoš Tanja , Janković Smiljana , Janaćković Pedja , Zheljazkov Valtcho D. , Marin Petar D.
Published: December 2022

Juniperus sabina L. var. balkanensis R.P. Adams & Tashev is a recently described endemic variety from the Balkan Peninsula. Its strong sprouting ability and fast vegetative propagation, on one hand, and fragmented distribution, on the other, can lead to lower genetic diversity in local populations and to the differentiation of populations. As there has been no detailed investigation of this variety, we studied Balkan natural populations using phytochemical and molecular markers. Leaf essential oils (EOs) were chosen based on their proven usability in the population studies of Juniperus taxa, while ISSRs (Inter Simple Sequence Repeats) have been used due to their high resolution. In addition, since this variety is best described using molecular markers, the chloroplast trnS-trnG region was amplified from individuals from different populations having different chemotypes. Based on the essential oil profile, three chemotypes could be identified with a difference in their distribution. The analysis of molecular variance showed moderate differentiation of populations and regions, attesting to the start of the separation of three regions in the Balkans: west, east and south. The bioclimatic and environmental parameters and sex of the individual did not influence the EO profile, although some of the compounds present in low-to-medium concentrations showed strong correlation with several bioclimatic parameters.
Traditional Knowledge of Textile Dyeing Plants: A Case Study in the Chin Ethnic Group of Western Myanmar
Authors: Ling Tial C. , Inta Angkhana , Armstrong Kate E. , Little Damon P. , Tiansawat Pimonrat , Yang Yong-Ping , Phokasem Patcharin , Tuang Za Khai , Sinpoo Chainarong , Disayathanoowat Terd
Published: December 2022

Traditional knowledge of the plants used for textile dyeing is disappearing due to the utilization of synthetic dyes. Recently, natural products made from plants have gained global interest. Thus, preserving traditional knowledge of textile dyeing plants is crucial. Here, we documented this knowledge by interviewing 2070 informants from 14 communities of the Chin ethnic group of Myanmar. The Chin communities we interviewed used a total of 32 plant species for textile dyeing from 29 genera in 24 families. Chromolaena odorata, Lithocarpus fenestratus, and L. pachyphyllus were the most important dye species. The most common responses described dyes that were red in color, produced from leaves, derived from tree species, collected from the wild, and used as firewood ash as a mordant to fix the dye to the fabrics. According to the IUCN Red List of threatened species, one species was registered as Data Deficient, 20 species still needed to be categorized, and 11 species were categorized as Least Concern. This study will help re-establish the use of natural dyes, encourage the cultural integrity of the indigenous people, and serve as an example for other communities to preserve their traditional knowledge of plant textile dyes.
As the Goose Flies: Migration Routes and Timing Influence Patterns of Genetic Diversity in a Circumpolar Migratory Herbivore
Authors: Wilson Robert E. , Sonsthagen Sarah A. , DaCosta Jeffrey M. , Sorenson Michael D. , Fox Anthony D. , Weaver Melanie , Skalos Dan , Kondratyev Alexander V. , Scribner Kim T. , Walsh Alyn , Ely Craig R. , Talbot Sandra L.
Published: December 2022

Migration schedules and the timing of other annual events (e.g., pair formation and molt) can affect the distribution of genetic diversity as much as where these events occur. The greater white-fronted goose (Anser albifrons) is a circumpolar goose species, exhibiting temporal and spatial variation of events among populations during the annual cycle. Previous range-wide genetic assessments of the nuclear genome based on eight microsatellite loci suggest a single, largely panmictic population despite up to five subspecies currently recognized based on phenotypic differences. We used double digest restriction-site associated DNA (ddRAD-seq) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence data to re-evaluate estimates of spatial genomic structure and to characterize how past and present processes have shaped the patterns of genetic diversity and connectivity across the Arctic and subarctic. We uncovered previously undetected inter-population differentiation with genetic clusters corresponding to sampling locales associated with current management groups. We further observed subtle genetic clustering within each management unit that can be at least partially explained by the timing and directionality of migration events along with other behaviors during the annual cycle. The Tule Goose (A. a. elgasi) and Greenland subspecies (A. a. flavirostris) showed the highest level of divergence among all sampling locales investigated. The recovery of previously undetected broad and fine-scale spatial structure suggests that the strong cultural transmission of migratory behavior restricts gene flow across portions of the species’ range. Our data further highlight the importance of re-evaluating previous assessments conducted based on a small number of highly variable genetic markers in phenotypically diverse species.
High-Density Genetic Linkage Map of the Southern Blue-ringed Octopus (Octopodidae: Hapalochlaena maculosa)
Authors: Whitelaw Brooke L. , Jones David B. , Guppy Jarrod , Morse Peter , Strugnell Jan M. , Cooke Ira R. , Zenger Kyall
Published: December 2022

Genetic linkage maps provide a useful resource for non-model genomes and can aid in genome reassembly to form more contiguous pseudo-chromosomes. We present the first linkage map of any cephalopod, H. maculosa, composed of 47 linkage groups (LG). A total of 2166 single nucleotide polymorphisms and 2455 presence–absence variant loci were utilised by Lep-Map3 in linkage map construction. The map length spans 2016.62 cM with an average marker distance of 0.85 cM. Integration of the recent H. maculosa genome allowed 1151 scaffolds comprising 34% of the total genomic sequence to be orientated and/or placed using 1278 markers across all 47 LG. The linkage map generated provides a new perspective on HOX gene distribution in octopods. In the H. maculosa linkage map three (SCR, LOX4 and POST1) of six identified HOX genes (HOX1/LAB, SCR, LOX2, LOX4, LOX5, POST1) were located within the same LG (LG 9). The generation of a linkage map for H. maculosa has provided a valuable resource for understanding the evolution of cephalopod genomes and will provide a base for future work.
Burmogonus gen. nov., a New Click Beetle (Coleoptera: Elateridae: Elaterinae) from Mid-Cretaceous Burmese Amber
Authors: Triskova Katerina , Packova Gabriela , Prosvirov Alexander S. , Kundrata Robin
Published: December 2022

The click beetles (Elateridae) originated in the Mesozoic and recently form a relatively large family with approximately 10,000 described species worldwide. However, the Mesozoic, and particularly Cretaceous, click beetle fauna remains very poorly known. Here we describe Burmogonus cretaceus gen. et sp. nov. based on a single, relatively well-preserved, specimen from the mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber. This species can be assigned with confidence to the subfamily Elaterinae, and based on the supra-antennal carinae being incomplete across the head and directed to the labrum, the shape of metacoxal plates, and simple tarsi, we tentatively place it in the tribe Elaterini. We discuss the morphology of a new genus and other Elaterinae described from Burmese amber.
Spatial Distribution of the Taxonomic Diversity of Phytoplankton and Bioindication of the Shallow Protected Lake Borovoe in the Burabay National Natural Park, Northern Kazakhstan
Authors: Barinova Sophia , Krupa Elena , Khitrova Elena
Published: December 2022

The Burabay National Natural Park unites six lakes located among the steppe landscape, with Lake Borovoe being the most visited among them. The phytoplankton of the protected Lake Borovoe was examined in the summer season of 2019, at eight stations, which were defined for the first time as the monitoring sites on the lake surface. Altogether, 72 algae and cyanobacteria species from seven taxonomic phyla were found in the Lake Borovoe phytoplankton during the study period. The most species-rich were three phyla: diatoms, green algae, and cyanobacteria. The average phytoplankton abundance was 3012.6 cells L−1, and biomass was 2383.41 mg L−1. The ecological status of the lake in 2019 was assessed based on the species richness, abundance, biomass, and calculated indices of organic pollution and toxic impact. The statistical mapping, calculated community similarity, correlation, and Redundancy Analysis (RDA) revealed zones affected by human impact. These were located in the lake shores and low-alkaline water with the saprobity index of 1.63–2.00. This is typical for naturally clean lakes, indicating the oligotrophic-to-mesotrophic status of the lake during the study period. The increase in cyanobacteria species in coastal communities can be associated with an increase in the biogenic load on the lake ecosystem in recent times. Therefore, our multivariate analysis allowed us to assess the ecological state of Lake Borovoe, which can be the result of the interaction of many external environmental factors, such as climatic conditions, long-term accumulation of organic substances, the intensity and duration of anthropogenic press, and internal lake processes such as the development of algae communities. The results suggest a tendency for the eutrophication of Lake Borovoe to increase because of pollution coming from the human impact zones on the lake shores.
Detailed Description and Morphological Assessment of Sepia typica (Steenstrup, 1875) (Cephalopoda: Sepiidae)
Authors: Leslie Robin W. , Richardson Anthony J. , Lipiński Marek R.
Published: December 2022

A detailed systematic account of Sepia (Hemisepius) typica, an endemic southern African species of cuttlefish, is presented. An analysis of morphological data (morphometric and meristic characters) suggests that S. typica is a single well-established species without morphs or subspecies. It is, however, highly variable, perhaps more so than other small sepiids from the region, and there are slight, but significant indications of population structure. Therefore, molecular biological studies based upon a large sample could help investigate broad genetic patterns in what morphologically appears to be a single highly variable species.
Morphological Variability of Alveolophora antiqua from a Freshwater Early Miocene Paleolake in the Barguzin Valley (Baikal Rift Zone)
Authors: Usoltseva Marina , Titova Lyubov’ , Hassan Abdulmonem , Rasskazov Sergei , Morozov Alexey
Published: December 2022

Using scanning electron microscopy, the morphology of Alveolophora antiqua (Moisseeva) Moisseeva from the freshwater Early Miocene paleolake in the Barguzin Valley was studied. We extended the species diagnosis relative to features such as spines, structure of areolae, costae, alveolae, rimoportulae and the external opening of rimoportulae and show a wide morphological variability with regard to valve shape (round, oval, ovoid and triangular). The percentage of these shapes varied with the core depth. Oval valves dominated in lower layers, while triangular ones occur in upper layers. We propose that the shape variability of valves might be due a sharp short-term cooling event or polyploidization. The finding of A. antiqua in the Early Miocene deposits of the Barguzin Valley expands both the georaphic and stratigraphic ranges of this species.
Session Initiation Protocol Proxy in a Role of a Quality of Service Control Application in Software-Defined Networks
Authors: Zeman Dalibor , Rezac Filip , Voznak Miroslav , Rozhon Jan
Published: December 2022

This article deals with quality of service (QoS) in internet protocol (IP) telephony by applying software-defined networking (SDN) tools. The authors develop a new design that deterministically classifies real-time protocol (RTP) streams based on data found in session initiation protocol (SIP) using SIP proxy as a mediator, and the concept making this possible is called SDN. Compared to traditional networks, SDN allows us to approach network configuration differently. SDN networks are programmable through software applications running on top of the SDN controller. One of the technologies that might benefit from this concept is IP telephony, which often needs an additional priority management configuration to ensure consistent quality of its real-time media exchange. Typically, a session protocol for real-time communications is SIP, and as such, its infrastructure may be used to classify the traffic in question and take advantage of the centralized approach of SDN networks to distribute the class information across the switching devices. Different approaches and possible applications are discussed in the conclusion. The contribution of this paper lies in the proposal of SDN-based QoS mechanisms. The entire design of the concept was implemented and validated in a laboratory environment. The results clearly demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed approach.
Efficient Staining-Invariant Nuclei Segmentation Approach Using Self-Supervised Deep Contrastive Network
Authors: Abdel-Nasser Mohamed , Singh Vivek Kumar , Mohamed Ehab Mahmoud
Published: December 2022

Existing nuclei segmentation methods face challenges with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) whole slide imaging (WSI) due to the variations in staining methods and nuclei shapes and sizes. Most existing approaches require a stain normalization step that may cause losing source information and fail to handle the inter-scanner feature instability problem. To mitigate these issues, this article proposes an efficient staining-invariant nuclei segmentation method based on self-supervised contrastive learning and an effective weighted hybrid dilated convolution (WHDC) block. In particular, we propose a staining-invariant encoder (SIE) that includes convolution and transformers blocks. We also propose the WHDC block allowing the network to learn multi-scale nuclei-relevant features to handle the variation in the sizes and shapes of nuclei. The SIE network is trained on five unlabeled WSIs datasets using self-supervised contrastive learning and then used as a backbone for the downstream nuclei segmentation network. Our method outperforms existing approaches in challenging multiple WSI datasets without stain color normalization.
Functional and Anatomical Outcomes of Pars Plana Vitrectomy for Epiretinal Membrane in Patients with Uveitis
Authors: Cristescu Irina-Elena , Ivanova Tsveta , Moussa George , Ferrara Mariantonia , Patton Niall , Dhawahir-Scala Felipe , Ch’ng Soon Wai , Mitra Arijit , Tyagi Ajai K. , Lett Kim Son , Jalil Assad
Published: December 2022

Purpose-To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes of vitrectomy and epiretinal membrane (ERM) peeling in patients with uveitis. Secondarily, we evaluated the effect of internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling on surgical outcomes, and of surgery on uveitis activity and, thus, therapeutic regime. Methods-Bicentre, retrospective, interventional case series of 29 eyes of 29 consecutive patients affected by uveitis and ERM, that had undergone pars plana vitrectomy with ERM peel between 2012 and 2020, with a minimum postoperative follow-up (FU) of six-months. Demographic data, best-corrected visual-acuity (BCVA), clinical findings, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and macular optical-coherence-tomography scans were reviewed. Results-The mean (standard deviation) duration of follow-up was 32 (22) months. At six-month FU, mean central-retinal-thickness (CRT) significantly improved (from 456 (99) to 353 (86) microns; p < 0.001), and mean BCVA improved from 0.73 (0.3) to 0.49 (0.36) logMAR (p < 0.001), with only one (3%) patient experiencing worsening of vision. The rate of concomitant cystoid macular edema decreased from 19 (66%) eyes at presentation to eight (28%) eyes at final-FU (p = 0.003). Comparing eyes in which ILM peeling was performed in addition to ERM peeling only, BCVA or CRT reduction were comparable. Only a minority of six (21%) eyes had a worsening in uveitis activity requiring additional medications, whereas most patients resumed the same treatment (52%) or received less treatment (28%) (p = 0.673). Conclusions-Vitrectomy with ERM peeling led to favourable anatomical and functional outcomes in patients with uveitis regardless of whether the ILM is peeled or not. As in most patients, no activation of the uveitis requiring additional medications was noted, we do not recommend changes in anti-inflammatory/immunosuppressive therapy postoperatively.
Effect of Dexamethasone on the Incidence and Outcome of COVID-19 Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CAPA) in Critically Ill Patients during First- and Second Pandemic Wave—A Single Center Experience
Authors: Dubler Simon , Turan Ömer Can , Schmidt Karsten Daniel , rath Peter-michael , Verhasselt Hedda-Luise , Maier Sandra , Skarabis Annabell , Brenner Thorsten , Herbstreit Frank
Published: December 2022

Superinfections with Aspergillus spp. in patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (CAPA: COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis) are increasing. Dexamethasone has shown beneficial effects in critically ill COVID-19 patients. Whether dexamethasone increases the risk of CAPA has not been studied exclusively. Moreover, this retrospective study aimed to identify risk factors for a worse outcome in critically ill COVID-19 patients. Data from 231 critically ill COVID-19 patients with or without dexamethasone treatment from March 2020 and March 2021 were retrospectively analysed. Only 4/169 (6.5%) in the DEXA-group and 13/62 (7.7%) in the Non-DEXA group were diagnosed with probable CAPA (p = 0.749). Accordingly, dexamethasone was not identified as a risk factor for CAPA. Moreover, CAPA was not identified as an independent risk factor for death in multivariable analysis (p = 0.361). In contrast, elevated disease severity (as assessed by Sequential Organ Failure Assessment [SOFA]-score) and the need for organ support (kidney replacement therapy and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation [ECMO]) were significantly associated with a worse outcome. Therefore, COVID-19 treatment with dexamethasone did not increase the risk for CAPA. Moreover, adequately treated CAPA did not represent an independent risk factor for mortality. Accordingly, CAPA might reflect patients’ severe disease state instead of directly influencing outcome.
The Effect of Sound in the Dental Office: Practices and Recommendations for Quality Assurance—A Narrative Review
Authors: Antoniadou Maria , Tziovara Panagiota , Antoniadou Christina
Published: December 2022

Sound is inextricably linked to the human senses and is therefore directly related to the general health of the individual. The aim of the present study is to collect data on the effect of two dimensions of sound, music, and noise from an emotional and functional point of view in the dental office and to perform a thorough review of the relevant literature. We collected articles from the databases PubMed and Google Scholar through keywords that were related to noise and music in healthcare. Important information was also extracted from articles on the web and official websites. Screening of the relevant literature was performed according to accuracy and reliability of the methodology tested. A total of 261 articles were associated to sound and music in healthcare. Ninety-six of them were the most well documented and were thus included in our article. Most of the articles associate noise with negative emotions and a negative impact on performance, while music is associated with positive emotions ranging from emotional state to therapeutic approaches. Few results were found regarding ways to reduce noise in a health facility. If there is a difficulty to find effective methods of reducing the daily noise-inducing sounds in the dental office, we must focus on ways to incorporate music into it as a means of relaxation and therapy.
Information and Agreement in the Reputation Game Simulation
Authors: Kainz Viktoria , Bœhm Céline , Utz Sonja , Enßlin Torsten
Published: December 2022

Modern communication habits are largely shaped by the extensive use of social media and other online communication platforms. The enormous amount of available data and speed with which new information arises, however, often suffices to cause misunderstandings, false conclusions, or otherwise disturbed opinion formation processes. To investigate some of these effects we use an agent-based model on gossip and reputation dynamics with 50 agents, including Bayesian knowledge updates under bounded rationality and up to the second-order theory of mind effects. Thereby, we observe the occurrence of reputation boosts from fake images, as well as the advantage of hiding one’s opinion in order to become a strong information trader. In addition, the simulations show fundamentally different mechanisms for reaching high agreement with others and becoming well-informed. Additionally, we investigate the robustness of our results with respect to different knowledge-update mechanisms and argue why it makes sense to especially emphasize the margins of distribution when judging a bounded quantity such as honesty in a reputation game simulation.