bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Status of Ornamental Fish Diversity of Urpod Beel of Goalpa-ra District, Assam
Authors:   District Fishery Development Office, Goalpara, Assam, India, Sharma Anupam
Published: December 2021

The North Eastern Sates including Assam are very rich in aquatic bio-resources and dominated by several endemic fish resources. The study was conducted from June 2018- July 2019 in two different fish assembling villages viz. Chamaguri (W) and Garokuta (North) of Urpad Beel and fish species were recorded along with their IUCN Conservation status. Alto-gether, 31 ornamental fish species belonging to 16 Genera, 15 Families, and 6 Orders be-longing to orders like Beloniformes, Cypriniformes, Osteoglossiformes, Siluriformes, Sym-branchiformes, Perciformes, Tetradontiformes were recorded. Out of the recorded fish spe-cies, Lepidocephalichthys guntea (Hamilton-Buchanan,1822), Channa gachua (Hamilton, 1822) and Chanda nama (Hamilton, 1822) were assessed as NE, Botia rostrata (Gun-ther,1868) and Channa gachua (Hamilton, 1822), Mystus vittatus ( Bloch, 1794) as VU, Ctenops nobilis (Mc Clelland, 1845) as NT as per IUCN Status 2013. The ornamental fishes are found in the weed assemblage of the Beel including Eichhornia crassipes, Hydrilla verticillate and Ceratophyllum demersum .
Culturally tailored DSMES: A new key for South Asian patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Luo HongXiu , Kuriakose Annah , Thota Geethika , Naveen Mehrotra Naveen
Published: December 2021

South Asians have an exceptionally high risk for developing Type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is very challenging for healthcare providers to successfully manage diabetes and control glucose levels at target due to the unique lifestyle of the South Asian population. Culturally tailored diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) can be more effective in guiding South Asian patients with Type 2 diabetes. Unique considerations to address lifestyle modification for South Asians include a diet that typically consists of a high carbohydrate to lipids/proteins ratio, preference for high glucose index fruits, regular intake of traditional sweets or desserts, late afternoon tea break followed by late dinner, lack of vigorous exercise (yoga or walking being the preferred activity), lack of DSMES knowledge and skills, and poor access to culturally appropriate resources for diabetes care. We present a 38-year-old male diagnosed with diabetes four years ago who showed poor glucose control before our intervention. Our interventions included education on the importance of blood glucose monitoring, exercise, and diet. Based on our experience with this case, we propose the following recommendations for a tailored approach to DSMES for South Asian patients with Type 2 diabetes: make appropriate dietary changes (decrease total daily caloric intake, decrease the percentage of carbohydrates, addlow glucose index fruits and vegetables, avoid late afternoon tea breaks, eat dinner before 8 PM); incorporate appropriate daily physical activity; and monitor blood glucose daily for prompt feedback.
EI-Nino southern oscillation and rainfall varIation over Bangladesh
Authors: AHMED A. S. M. SABBIR , MUNIM A. A. , BEGUM Q. N. , Choudhury A.M.
Published: December 2021

In the present study, an attempt has been made to examine the variations of rainfall over Bangladesh and to find possible correlation with EI-Nino/Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Four stations have been chosen from four different climatic regions of Bangladesh for this purpose, namely  Jessore, Dhaka. Barisal and Srimangal. The regions have been classified according to annual rainfall amounts. The rainfall data for forty three years, (1950-1992) have been analysed. The yearly mean rainfall shows a distinct negative decreasing tendency with the occurrence of ENSO.The seasonal rainfall analysis shows a somewhat better correlation.
A linear model study of the mid-tropospheric ridge and its displacement -inclusion of a surface heat sink
Authors: CHANDRASEKAR A.
Published: December 2021

ABSTRACT. A linear model of the steady response of a stratified fluid to isolated heat sources is used to study the mainlAinence of the mean position of the mid-tropospheric ridge and its displacement. There is evidence from recent observational studies that the winter/spring snow cover over Eurasia is negatively related to the April 500 hPa ridge position along 75~. In our earlier study, we proposed a possible physical mechanism of the southward displacement of the mid-tropospheric ridge. In this study the anomalous cooling associated with the increased snow cover in Eurasia is considered as a heat sink (extending to the surface), north of the tropical heat sources. It is demonstrated that such a surface heat sink can also result in significant southward displacement of the mid-tropospheric ridge.
Storm surge in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea : The problem and its prediction
Authors: DUBE S.K. , RAO A. D. , SINHA P. C. , MURTY T. S. , BAHULAYAN N.
Published: December 2021

India and its neighbourhood is threatened by the possibility of storm surge floods whenever a tropical cyclone approaches. Storm surge disasters cause heavy loss of life and property, damage to the coastal structures and agriculture which lead to annual economic losses in these countries. Thus, the real time monitoring and warning of storm surge is of great concern for this region. The goal of this paper is to provide an overview of major aspects of the storm surge problem in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea, the factors affecting the generation of storm surges and the present state-of-the-art in the numerical storm surge prediction.
Deactivation Study of Electronically Excited Cl(2p1/2) Atoms by Socl2 , Ccl3h, C2h4 , No2 Molecules with Laser Magnetic Resonance (Lmr) Technique
Authors: Rakhymzhan Asylkhan , Koshlyakov Pavel , Dementiev Petr , Aseev Оleg , Chichinin Alexey
Published: December 2021

The method of time-resolved laser magnetic resonance (LMR) has been employed to detect spin-orbital excited chlorine Cl*(≡Cl(2P1/2)) atoms at room temperature. The rate constants for the deactivation of Cl* 11 3 10 cm /molecule , 2 s by SOCl2(0.62 0.2), CCl3H (18 5), C2H4(1.5 0.4) and NO2 (1.5 0.4) are reported. The unknown in literature rate constant for the thermo-neutral reaction of ground state Cl(2P3/2) atoms with SOCl2 were measured. The relative quantum yield of Cl* in photodissociation of SOCl2 is determined to be 0.52 ± 0.03.
Envelope Theorems in Economics: Historical Development and Modern Cost-Benefit Applications
Authors:   School of Economics, Umeå University, Umeå 901 87, Sweden, Löfgren Karl-Gustaf , Li Chuan-Zhong ,   Department of Economics, Uppsala University, Uppsala 751 05, and The Beijer Institute, Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, Stockholm 104 05, Sweden
Published: December 2021

This paper reviews some historical development and modern applications of the envelope theorems in economics from a static to a dynamic context. First, we show how the static version of the theorem surfaced in economics, which had eventually lead to the well-known Shephard’s lemma in microeconomics. Second, we present its dynamic version in terms of the classical calculus of variations and optimal control theory via the optimized Hamiltonian function. Third, we show some applications of the theorem for deriving dynamic cost-benefifit rules with special reference to environmental projects involving the green or comprehensive net national product (CNNP). Finally, we illustrate how to extend the cost-benefifit rules to a stochastic economic growth setting.
In gesprek met Noortje de Boer
Authors: Merz Anna , Welp Pieter
Published: December 2021

In gesprek met Noortje de Boer

In de serie ‘in gesprek met een pas gepromoveerde onderzoeker’ geven we aandacht aan promotieonderzoeken die voor toezichthouders relevant zijn. Hiervoor interviewen we als redactie van het Tijdschrift voor Toezicht (recent) gepromoveerde onderzoekers over hun onderzoek en de betekenis ervan voor het toezicht.

In dit interview spraken Anna Merz en Pieter Welp, redacteuren van het Tijdschrift voor Toezicht, met Noortje de Boer die in 2020 promoveerde aan de Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam op haar onderzoek naar het effect van transparantie op uitvoerende toezichthouders. Zij werkt momenteel bij de vakgroep Public Governance and Management aan de Universiteit Utrecht.
Unification of gift and inheritance taxes and the protection of taxpayers – the inheritors and recipients of donations
Authors: Babiarz Stefan
Published: December 2021

Gift and inheritance tax in the European Union Member States is calculated and charged in numerous ways. In the majority of countries of the European Economic Community it constitutes a separate tax. In several countries it is not charged at all or is part of the income tax. Despite the attempts made by the European Commission to unify the legislation of the Member States in this regard, there has been no success. The article presents the above-mentioned attempts of the European Commission, their results and consequences. It identifies the methods of avoiding a double or even triple taxation on cross-border inheritances or donations. This is of crucial significance also to the Polish citizens who demonstrate higher and higher investment activity in the countries of the European Economic Community and third countries.
Współczesne podejście do terenów zieleni
w mieście a ich utrzymanie i rozwój w Łodzi
Authors: Wróblewski Wiktor , Kroc Tomasz
Published: December 2021

Od początku XXI wieku zmienia się podejście do terenów o pokryciu przyrodniczym. Uznano, że tereny zieleni świadczą różnorodne usługi ekosystemów na rzecz mieszkańców miast. W związku z tym artykuł proponuje klasyfikację terenów zieleni ze względu na usługobiorców i utrzymujących dany ekosystem. Następnie z punktu widzenia urbanistyki dokonano przeglądu instrumentów planistycznych oraz strategicznych mających rozwijać
i podtrzymywać zieloną infrastrukturę miasta jako zaplanowaną sieć. Analiza przypadku dotyczy akt miasta Łodzi.
En komparativ casestudie av hvordan to lærerutdannings-program forbereder lærerstudenter til å undervise i et mangfoldig klasserom
Authors: Fosse Britt Oda , Scheie Janne T.
Published: December 2021

Et økende mangfold i elevpopulasjoner stiller nye pedagogiske og didaktiske krav til lærerutdannere og lærerstudenter. Forskning på lærerstudenters læring på campus indikerer at lærerutdanningene ikke gir studentene tilstrekkelige kvalifikasjoner for å undervise i et mangfoldig klasserom. Det er få studier som ser spesifikt på hvordan lærerutdanningen forbereder lærere til å undervise i et mangfoldig klasserom. Vi ønsker med denne studien å belyse hvordan lærerstudenter forberedes til å undervise i et mangfoldig klasserom ved å sammenligne to lærerutdanningsprogrammer i to euro­peiske land. Vi bruker komparativ case-studie som metode i denne studien. Våre funn viser at de to programmene har forskjellige tilnærminger. Det ene fokuserer på å utvikle lærerstudenters selvbevissthet ved å arbeide med kunst og kultur, det andre fokuserer på effektive metoder for å sikre elevenes læring. I studien hevder vi at interkulturell undervisning og tilpasset opplæring og differensiering er to sider av samme sak og at disse to feltene må slås sammen i lærerutdanningen. Vi argumenterer for at lærer­studentene må få oppgaver som både kan utvikle selvbevissthet og interkulturell sensi­tivitet, samt utvikle strategier for differensiering og tilpasset opplæring. Videre forsk­ning er nødvendig for å finne ut hvordan lærerstudenter kan utvikle profesjonell handlingskompetanse for mangfold på campus, og videre hvordan dette reflekteres i praksis.
Lærerutdanningens undervisningspraksiser på campus
Authors: Jenset Inga Staal , Hatlevik Ida Katrine Riksaasen , Fougt Simon Skov
Published: December 2021

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Perceptions of Generation Y on Social Aspects Involving Sustainable Tourism in Romanian Destinations
Authors:   University of Bucharest, Faculty of Geography, Av. N. Bălcescu, 1, 010041, Bucharest, Romania, PÎRGHIE Tania Florentina , MATEI Elena ,   University of Bucharest, Faculty of Geography, Av. N. Bălcescu, 1, 010041, Bucharest, Romania, COCOȘ Octavian
Published: December 2021

Abstract: Sustainable tourism destination management requires the simultaneous and multidirectional pursuit of interactions. One of these are tourists, which are structured differently, based on socioeconomic and psycho-formative criteria. Taking into account the general features of Generation Y, the study aims at analyzing their perception regarding social aspects demanded in sustainable tourism destinations in the case of Romania. The research is focuses on the survey method, which relies on a semi-structured questionnaire applied online in 2020. The answers were modeled, using data analysis tools or graphics functions in IBM-SPSS v.28. Study findings highlight the interesting social perceptions of Y tourists in Romania (RGY), with an emphasis on their desire for conflict-free destinations, to spend time with friends or family, but also to make carefully chosen friends. The perceptions regarding the acceptance of interactions with hosts varies by their socio-demographic characteristics, depending especially on the issues that require their active involvement. These reveal a predominantly interest on professional services, largely excluding creative activities for the acquisition of local traditions. In conclusion, RGY considers that their social inputs as neutral in the tourist areas. However, more attention should be focused on the management of tourism products, in order to come up with specific offers for a highly skilled, but stressed generation, as well as on finding ways able to boost through motivating solutions the young people's interest for social dimension of the sustainable tourism development.
THE STABILITY OF A FREELY FLOATING SHIP
Authors: Pawłowski M
Published: December 2021

The paper presents the problem of calculating the righting arms (GZ-curve) for a freely floating ship, longitudinally bal- anced at each heel angle. In such cases the GZ-curve is ambiguous, as it depends on the way the ship is balanced. Three cases are discussed: when the ship is balanced by rotating her around the trace of water in the midships, around a normal to the ship plane of symmetry (PS), and around a normal to the initial waterplane, fixed to the ship, identical with the curve of minimum stability. In all these cases the direction of the righting moment in space and area under the GZ-curves, which is the lowest possible, are preserved. Angular displacements (heel and trim) are the Euler's angles related to the relevant reference axis. The most important features of the GZ-curve with free trim are provided. Exemplary calculations illustrate how the way of balancing affects the GZ-curves.
HUMAN FACTOR ANALYSIS OF CONTAINER VESSEL’S GROUNDING ACCIDENTS
Authors: Yildirim U , Ugurlu O , Basar E , Yuksekyildiz E
Published: December 2021

Investigation on maritime accidents is a very important tool in identifying human factor-related problems. This study examines the causes of accidents, in particular the reasons for the grounding of container ships. These are analysed and evaluation according to the contribution rate using the Monte Carlo simulation. The OpenFTA program is used to run the simulation. The study data are obtained from 46 accident reports from 1993 to 2011. The data were prepared by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS). The GISIS is one of the organizations that investigate reported accidents in an international framework and in national shipping companies. The Monte Carlo simulation determined a total of 23.96% human error mental problems, 26.04% physical problems, 38.58% voyage management errors, and 11.42% team management error causes. Consequently, 50% of the human error is attributable to human performance disorders, while 50% team failure has been found.
THE SAFETY OF SHIP BERTHING OPERATIONS AT PORT DOCK – A GAP ASSESSMENT MODEL BASED ON FUZZY AHP
Authors: Hsu Wen-Kai K. , Kao Jui-Chung
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the safety of ship berthing operations at port dock. Based on the features of ship’s berthing operations and the relevant literature, the safety factors (SFs) of ship berthing at port docks are first investigated. A gap assessment model based on Fuzzy AHP is then proposed to assess the perceived differences on those SFs between port marine pilots and shipmasters. Finally, the ships’ berthing operations at Kaohsiung Port in Taiwan were employed to illustrate the model’s practical application. The result may provide practical information for both marine pilots and shipmasters to improve the safety performance of ship berthing operations at port docks.
ANALYTICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION ON THE FREE VIBRATION OF SUBMERGED STIFFENED STEEL PLATE
Authors: Rezvani S S , Kiasat M S
Published: December 2021

The approach developed in this paper applies to vibration analysis of rectangular stiffened plate coupled with fluid. It is obvious that the natural frequencies of a submerged structure are less than those of in vacuum and these are due to the effect of added mass of water to the structure. This paper focuses on the experimental, analytical and numerical solution of natural frequencies of submerged stiffened plate. The analytical solution based on the deflection equation of submerged orthotropic plate, Laplace’s equation and Rayleigh's method in vibration analysis. By used the FEM software the numerical results for natural frequencies are derived. The natural frequencies of the stiffened plate are obtained practically by using Fast Fourier Transformation functions (FFT) in experimental analysis. Experimental results demonstrate the validity of analytical and numerical solution and results.
SHIP MANOEUVRING PREDICTION BASED ON NUMERICAL TOWING TANK TECHNIQUE
Authors: Yao J , Cheng X , Liu Z
Published: December 2021

A practical procedure is proposed in this paper to predict ship manoeuvrability. A three degrees of freedom MMG (Japanese Manoeuvring Mathematical Modelling Group)-type model is established to simulate rudder manoeuver. Propeller thrust and rudder loads are calculated by empirical formulas, whereas the hull forces as well as moment are determined with hydrodynamic derivatives which are derived from CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) computations. An own developed RANS (Reynolds-Averaged Naiver-Stokes) solver on the base of OpenFOAM is applied to simulate a range of PMM (Planar Motion Mechanism) tests and Fourier analyses of the computed results are carried out to obtain the required derivatives. In order to demonstrate the effectivity of the whole procedure and the RANS computations, the US (United States) combatant DTMB 5415 is taken as a sample for an application. Forced motions of surge, sway, yaw and yaw with drift for the bare hull with bilge keels are simulated. Thereafter, simulations of standard rudder manoeuvers, i.e. turning and zigzag, are performed by applying the computed derivatives. The results are compared with available measured data. It has been shown that the present procedure together with the RANS method can be used to evaluate the manoeuvrability of a ship since general good agreements between the simulated results and measured data are achieved.
Simple Coagulation Profile as Predictor of Mortality in Adults Admitted with COVID-19: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Nugroho Johanes , Wardhana Ardyan , Rachmi Dita Aulia , Mulia Eka Prasetya Budi , A'yun Maya Qurota , Septianda Imanita , Maghfirah Irma
Published: December 2021

Context: COVID-19 severe manifestations must be detected as soon as possible. One of the essential poor characteristics is the involvement of coagulopathy. Simple coagulation parameters, including prothrombin time (PT), international normalized ratio (INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and platelet, are widely accessible in many health centers. Objectives: This meta-analysis aimed to determine the association between simple coagulation profiles and COVID-19 in-hospital mortality. Method: We systematically searched five databases for studies measuring simple coagulation parameters in COVID-19 on admission. The random-effects and inverse-variance weighting were used in the study, which used a standardized-mean difference of coagulation profile values. The odds ratios were computed using the Mantel-Haenszel formula for dichotomous variables. Results: This meta-analysis comprised a total of 30 studies (9,175 patients). In our meta-analysis, we found that non-survivors had a lower platelet count [SMD = -0.56 (95% CI: -0.79 to -0.33), P < 0.01; OR = 3.00 (95% CI: 1.66 to 5.41), P < 0.01], prolonged PT [SMD = 1.22 (95%CI: 0.71 to 1.72), P < 0.01; OR = 1.86 (95%CI: 1.43 to 2.43), P < 0.01], prolonged aPTT [SMD = 0.24 (95%CI: -0.04 to 0.52), P = 0.99], and increased INR [SMD = 2.21 (95%CI: 0.10 to 4.31), P = 0.04] than survivors. Conclusions: In COVID-19 patients, abnormal simple coagulation parameters on admission, such as platelet, PT, and INR, were associated with mortality outcomes.
Effect of Cold Dialysis Solution on the Sexual Dysfunction of Patients with Chronic Renal Failure Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Hassanpour Moghaddam Rahele , Nazemian Fatemeh , Rastaghi Sedigheh , Rad Mostafa
Published: December 2021

Background: The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of cold dialysis solution on the sexual dysfunction of patients with chronic renal failure undergoing hemodialysis. Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted with a before and after parallel design among 60 hemodialysis patients diagnosed with sexual dysfunction. The selected subjects were randomly allocated to the two groups of experimental and control (30 per each). Patients in the experimental and control groups underwent hemodialysis for one month using 35.5°C and 37°C dialysis solutions, respectively. Following the procedure, male and female sexual function was assessed in the study groups. Data were collected using the International Index of Erectile Functions, the female sexual function index (FSFI), and a demographic questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using chi-square, Fisher's exact test, Mann-Whitney U test, t-test, paired t-test, and Wilcoxon test at 95% confidence interval. Results: No significant difference was observed between the experimental and control groups regarding male sexual function before and after the intervention (P > 0.05). However, the Mann-Whitney U test indicated a significant difference in the female subjects’ arousal in the experimental group before (3.68 ± 0.38) and after the intervention (3.98 ± 0.46; z = 2.216; P = 0.027). Conclusions: Cold dialysis solution could only increase the sexual arousal of the women in the experimental group, and no changes were observed in other sexual function domains of the male and female patients. Given the short duration of our intervention, it is recommended that further longitudinal studies be performed on larger cohorts of patients in different geographical regions.
George Floyd Jr as a Philosophical Problem
Authors: Curry Tommy J. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: December 2021

The trial of Derek Chauvin, the man who murdered Mr. George Floyd Jr on May 25, 2020, has become a national spectacle. For many Black Americans, it is merely another rehearsal of the injustice that befalls Black men in the United States when they are targeted by police violence. Mr. Floyd was murdered in broad daylight by Chauvin, yet it is Mr. Floyd’s character and temperament that is being depicted as threatening to Chauvin and the reason for his murder. Throughout the discipline of philosophy, the murder of Black men and boys is a topic most philosophy departments avoid and the American Philosophy Association neglects. This lecture argues that philosophy must abandon the martyrdom of the Black male body as the symbolic catalyst of racial change. Philosophy must not only accept that racism is a permanent feature of American society, but that this racism is misandric in that racist violence disproportionately targets Black males for death and dehumanization at levels not seen within other groups.
“Every human action is anthropophagic”
Authors: Guimaraes Renato Silva
Published: December 2021

The Freudian theory and the era of acceleration announced by the Futurist Manifesto arrived in Brazil in 1899 and 1909, respectively. Afterwards the concrete reception of these two significant events became more than the symptomatic revelation of the shocks provoked by industrial modernity and its powerful undercurrent of anxieties. The poet, „clown“, writer and major figure of the Brazilian modernist avant-garde, Oswald de Andrade (1890-1954) absorbed Freud and the Futurist Manifesto at once, re-pragmatized and re-semantized them. Oswald's concept of Cultural Anthropophagy (1928) as a central interpretative strategy, to be exact, an hermeneutic approach is defined by Haroldo de Campos aptly: “Oswald's ‘Anthropophagy’ [...] is the thought of critical devoration of the universal cultural heritage” (Campos,1986). The introduction of the anthropophagic trope inspired by Native Americans’ metaphysics leads the poet to a subversion of the Gestalt/Behavior psychological theories: “The anthropophagic function of the psychological behavior is reduced to two parts: 1) totemiser the external taboos; 2) create a new taboo in exogamic function” (Andrade,1929). From 1928 to 1950 the Anthropophagy approach on the interaction between the individual and the environment gained philosophical consistency. Oswald's thesis is a conceptual alternative that attempted to bring answers through the amplification of our ethical becoming. As an epistemological perspective attentive to the different modes of existence, the proposition of Oswald is a field of transformative practices having the power to overcome the techno-industrial paradigms. I will examine the contribution of Oswald de Andrade to theoretical psychology and to the issues that arise in an “Era of Acceleration” where the symbolic field is replaced by a cybernetic field.
Emergence and function of cortical offset responses in sound termination detection
Authors: Solyga Magdalena , Barkat Tania Rinaldi
Published: December 2021

Offset responses in auditory processing appear after a sound terminates. They arise in neuronal circuits within the peripheral auditory system, but their role in the central auditory system remains unknown. Here, we ask what the behavioral relevance of cortical offset responses is and what circuit mechanisms drive them. At the perceptual level, our results reveal that experimentally minimizing auditory cortical offset responses decreases the mouse performance to detect sound termination, assigning a behavioral role to offset responses. By combining in vivo electrophysiology in the auditory cortex and thalamus of awake mice, we also demonstrate that cortical offset responses are not only inherited from the periphery but also amplified and generated de novo. Finally, we show that offset responses code more than silence, including relevant changes in sound trajectories. Together, our results reveal the importance of cortical offset responses in encoding sound termination and detecting changes within temporally discontinuous sounds crucial for speech and vocalization.
Enhanced specificity mutations perturb allosteric signaling in CRISPR-Cas9
Authors: Nierzwicki Lukasz , East Kyle W , Morzan Uriel N , Arantes Pablo R , Batista Victor S , Lisi George P , Palermo Giulia
Published: December 2021

CRISPR-Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat and associated Cas9 protein) is a molecular tool with transformative genome editing capabilities. At the molecular level, an intricate allosteric signaling is critical for DNA cleavage, but its role in the specificity enhancement of the Cas9 endonuclease is poorly understood. Here, multi-microsecond molecular dynamics is combined with solution NMR and graph theory-derived models to probe the allosteric role of key specificity-enhancing mutations. We show that mutations responsible for increasing the specificity of Cas9 alter the allosteric structure of the catalytic HNH domain, impacting the signal transmission from the DNA recognition region to the catalytic sites for cleavage. Specifically, the K855A mutation strongly disrupts the allosteric connectivity of the HNH domain, exerting the highest perturbation on the signaling transfer, while K810A and K848A result in more moderate effects on the allosteric communication. This differential perturbation of the allosteric signal correlates to the order of specificity enhancement (K855A > K848A ~ K810A) observed in biochemical studies, with the mutation achieving the highest specificity most strongly perturbing the signaling transfer. These findings suggest that alterations of the allosteric communication from DNA recognition to cleavage are critical to increasing the specificity of Cas9 and that allosteric hotspots can be targeted through mutational studies for improving the system’s function.
Sex-specific covariance between metabolic rate, behaviour and morphology in the ground beetle Carabus hortensis
Authors: Yarwood Elisabeth , Drees Claudia , Niven Jeremy E. , Schuett Wiebke
Published: December 2021

Background

Individuals within the same species often differ in their metabolic rates, which may covary with behavioural traits (such as exploration), that are consistent across time and/or contexts, and morphological traits. Yet, despite the frequent occurrence of sexual dimorphisms in morphology and behaviour, few studies have assessed whether and how sexes differ in metabolic trait covariances.

Methods

We investigated sex-specific relationships among resting or active metabolic rate (RMR and AMR, respectively) with exploratory behaviour, measured independently of metabolic rate in a novel environment, body size and body mass, in Carabus hortensis ground beetles.

Results

RMR, AMR and exploratory behaviour were repeatable among individuals across time, except for male RMR which was unrepeatable. Female RMR neither correlated with exploratory behaviour nor body size/body mass. In contrast, AMR was correlated with both body size and exploratory behaviour. Males with larger body sizes had higher AMR, whereas females with larger body sizes had lower AMR. Both male and female AMR were significantly related to exploratory behaviour, though the relationships between AMR and exploration were body mass-dependent in males and temperature-dependent in females.

Discussion

Differences between sexes exist in the covariances between metabolic rate, body size and exploratory behaviour. This suggests that selection acts differently on males and females to produce these trait covariances with potentially important consequences for individual fitness.
The cnidarian parasite Ceratonova shasta utilizes inherited and recruited venom-like compounds during infection
Authors: Americus Benjamin , Hams Nicole , Klompen Anna M. L. , Alama-Bermejo Gema , Lotan Tamar , Bartholomew Jerri L. , Atkinson Stephen D.
Published: December 2021

Background

Cnidarians are the most ancient venomous organisms. They store a cocktail of venom proteins inside unique stinging organelles called nematocysts. When a cnidarian encounters chemical and physical cues from a potential threat or prey animal, the nematocyst is triggered and fires a harpoon-like tubule to penetrate and inject venom into the prey. Nematocysts are present in all Cnidaria, including the morphologically simple Myxozoa, which are a speciose group of microscopic, spore-forming, obligate parasites of fish and invertebrates. Rather than predation or defense, myxozoans use nematocysts for adhesion to hosts, but the involvement of venom in this process is poorly understood. Recent work shows some myxozoans have a reduced repertoire of venom-like compounds (VLCs) relative to free-living cnidarians, however the function of these proteins is not known.

Methods

We searched for VLCs in the nematocyst proteome and a time-series infection transcriptome of Ceratonova shasta, a myxozoan parasite of salmonid fish. We used four parallel approaches to detect VLCs: BLAST and HMMER searches to preexisting cnidarian venom datasets, the machine learning tool ToxClassifier, and structural modeling of nematocyst proteomes. Sequences that scored positive by at least three methods were considered VLCs. We then mapped their time-series expressions in the fish host and analyzed their phylogenetic relatedness to sequences from other venomous animals.

Results

We identified eight VLCs, all of which have closely related sequences in other myxozoan datasets, suggesting a conserved venom profile across Myxozoa, and an overall reduction in venom diversity relative to free-living cnidarians. Expression of the VLCs over the 3-week fish infection varied considerably: three sequences were most expressed at one day post-exposure in the fish’s gills; whereas expression of the other five VLCs peaked at 21 days post-exposure in the intestines, coinciding with the formation of mature parasite spores with nematocysts. Expression of VLC genes early in infection, prior to the development of nematocysts, suggests venoms in C. shasta have been repurposed to facilitate parasite invasion and proliferation within the host. Molecular phylogenetics suggested some VLCs were inherited from a cnidarian ancestor, whereas others were more closely related to sequences from venomous non-Cnidarian organisms and thus may have gained qualities of venom components via convergent evolution. The presence of VLCs and their differential expression during parasite infection enrich the concept of what functions a “venom” can have and represent targets for designing therapeutics against myxozoan infections.
Genome-wide identification, evolution, and expression analysis of the NPR1-like gene family in pears
Authors: Wei Yarui , Zhao Shuliang , Liu Na , Zhang Yuxing
Published: December 2021

The NONEXPRESSOR OF PATHOGENESIS-RELATED GENES 1 (NPR1) plays a master regulatory role in the salicylic acid (SA) signal transduction pathway and plant systemic acquired resistance (SAR). Members of the NPR1-like gene family have been reported to the associated with biotic/abiotic stress in many plants, however the genome-wide characterization of NPR1-like genes has not been carried out in Chinese pear (Pyrus bretschneideri Reld). In this study, a systematic analysis was conducted on the characteristics of the NPR1-like genes in P. bretschneideri Reld at the whole-genome level. A total nine NPR1-like genes were detected which eight genes were located on six chromosomes and one gene was mapped to scaffold. Based on the phylogenetic analysis, the nine PbrNPR1-like proteins were divided into three clades (Clades I–III) had similar gene structure, domain and conserved motifs. We sorted the cis-acting elements into three clades, including plant growth and development, stress responses, and hormone responses in the promoter regions of PbrNPR1-like genes. The result of qPCR analysis showed that expression diversity of PbrNPR1-like genes in various tissues. All the genes were up-regulated after SA treatment in leaves except for Pbrgene8896. PbrNPR1-like genes showed circadian rhythm and significantly different expression levels after inoculation with Alternaria alternata. These findings provide a solid insight for understanding the functions and evolution of PbrNPR1-like genes in Chinese pear.
Determination of Heavy Metals in Soil around Amasoma Community in Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Authors: Assayomo Ebimobowei , Bawo Dorcas Dauta , Dieware Gbe-emi kemepade , Buseri Amaka Mariagoretti , Debekeme Ebikabowei John
Published: December 2021

Aims: Anthropogenic activities such as crude oil exploration and exploitation has led to the suspicion of heavy metals contamination in the study area. This study investigated the concentration of zinc, nickel, lead and cadmium in the soil extracted from the area where Scent Leaf (Ocimum gratissimum) and Pawpaw tree (Carica papaya) are grown in Amassoma community, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.

Study Design: Scent leaf (Ocimum gratissimum) and Pawpaw tree (Carica papaya) soils from where these plants are grown were randomly collected for heavy metal analysis from within Amassoma community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Amassoma, Bayelsa State between March 2019 to September 2019

Methodology:  Scent leaf (Ocimum gratissimum) and Pawpaw tree (Carica papaya) soils were digested and analyzed for heavy metals using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS, model S471096). The method used was wet-ashing method for the analysis.

Results: the concentrations of Lead (Pb), Nickel (Ni), Cadmium (Cd), and Zinc (Zn), in pawpaw soil and scent leaf soil. From the sample data analysis, the average lead (Pb) contents in pawpaw soil and scent leaf soil were 1.283 mg/kg and 1.44 mg/kg respectively. The average Cadmium (Cd) in pawpaw soil and scent leaf soil were 0.256 mg/kg and 0.256 mg/kg respectively. The average Nickel (Ni) compositions in pawpaw soil and scent leaf soil were 4.71 mg/kg and 5.09 mg/kg respectively. While the Average Zinc (Zn) in pawpaw soil and scent leaf soil is 2.280 mg/kg and 2.160 mg/kg respectively. The soil analyzed for heavy metals were below the threshold target values recommended by the WHO.

Conclusion: The Scent leaf (Ocimum gratissimum) and Pawpaw tree (Carica papaya) soils analyzed for heavy metals were below the permissible limit recommended by WHO for soil safety. The result from the present study revealed that there may not be soil contamination as a result of the selected heavy metals, however, It is recommended that caution should be taken in regulating the anthropogenic activities that may tend to elevate the level of heavy metals in the surrounding to prevent contamination of soil over time which could be detrimental to the health of the populace.
Awareness towards Disposal of Unused Medication in District Shaheed Benazirabad Sindh
Authors: Kaloi Ghulam Abbas , Suheryani Imran , Ghoto Muhammad Ali , Mughal Ubed-ur-Rehman , Sultana Razia , Tabassum Rafia , Qureshi Yasmeen , Jamali Jameela , Khan Tooba , Rustamani Fozia
Published: December 2021

Aims: The purpose of this study was to examine level of awareness about proper disposal of unused medicine. It is a growing problem. People directly dispose unused medicines into waste or flush into sink. Finally, these improperly disposed medicines mix with wastewater leach out into sea water, ground water, drinking water and effect human and other forms of life and develop microbial resistance and accidental poising and various societal repercussion. Confusion exists in people about proper disposal of unused medicine. Despite of already available guidelines people very rarely follow proper disposal methods. Particularly in developing countries situation is very alarming. It is well established fact that knowledge and level of awareness play pivotal role for practice of proper disposal methods.

Study Design: This study was a descriptive cross-sectional study.

Methodology: This study was conducted in Nawab Shah and its vicinities: Sakrand, Kaziahamed, Bachalpur, during September 2019 to May 2020. The number of participants were included in the study according Slovin's Formula. The simple random sampling method was used to select participants. The level of awareness about proper disposal of unused medicine of 400 participants was assessed through a well-designed questionnaire. The questionnaires were distributed to the participants at their homes with the help of volunteers. The descriptive statistics were analyzed through latest version of MS excel 2016.

Results: Out of 400, 320 (80%) of the participants admitted have no knowledge for proper disposal of unused medicines. 185 (46.25%) of the participants viewed throwing unused medicines into waste was correct. Whereas 176 (44%) of the participants believed improperly thrown medicines has no effect on environment.

Conclusion: The level of knowledge about proper disposal of unused medicine was found very low in study participants. It is suggested government should incorporate guidelines about the harmful effects of improper disposal of unused medicines in curriculum at primary level of education.
Análise do Potencial de Indicação Geográfica: o caso do Polo Moveleiro de Marco (CE)
Authors: Da Silva Florêncio Márcio Nannini , Santana dos Santos Maraiza , Rodrigues Holanda Francisco Sandro , De Oliveira Junior Antonio Martins
Published: December 2021

O objetivo deste artigo é identificar o potencial do Polo Moveleiro de Marco (CE) para registro por indicação de procedência com base na norma brasileira (NBR 16536) da Associação Brasileira de Normas Técnicas (ABNT) publicada em 2016. A metodologia da pesquisa pautou-se em uma revisão bibliográfica e levantamento de dados junto ao banco de marcas e indicações geográficas brasileiro. Os resultados evidenciaram as características e o potencial do Polo Moveleiro de Marco em função da reputação e notoriedade, delimitação geográfica, signo, alianças, parcerias, análise do produto e cadeia produtiva e estrutura de gestão. Com base nos fatores analisados, percebeu-se que o polo moveleiro possui potencial para obter o registro de Indicação Geográfica (IG), mas ainda é necessário disseminar a cultura de propriedade intelectual entre os empreendedores da região. Sugerem-se recomendações para pesquisas futuras e os atores envolvidos.
A Indicação Geográfica e o Paradoxo do Direito de Propriedade Intelectual no Estado do Pará: desafios e potencialidades do território paraense
Authors: Aguiar Manoel Enio Almeida , Dos Santos Sidnei Cerqueira , Silva Franco Jerfferds dos Santos , De Mello Andrea Hentz
Published: December 2021

A Propriedade Intelectual, no Brasil, é regulamentada pela Lei n. 9.279, de 14 de maio de 1996, conhecida como Lei da Propriedade Industrial (LPI). A mencionada lei regula direitos e obrigações relativos à Propriedade Industrial. É nesse ordenamento que existe a previsão da figura jurídica da Indicação Geográfica (IG). O Estado do Pará é uma unidade federativa extremamente rica em biodiversidades, produtos e serviços que poderiam ter sua origem protegidas pela IG, porém, possui, efetivamente, apenas um registro concedido. O objetivo deste trabalho é demonstrar o paradoxo existente entre a propriedade intelectual e as potencialidades existentes no Estado do Pará. Foram realizados estudos bibliográficos e exploratórios, cujos resultados demonstram que há muitas possibilidades no campo da IG. Conclui-se que esse paradoxo pode ser enfrentado a partir do avanço das articulações de diversos atores na busca pela institucionalização do direito de propriedade intelectual das riquezas distintivas paraenses.
Cenário Tecnológico da Biorremediação de Hidrocarbonetos Assistida pelo Uso de Fungos e Extratos Vegetais: Prospecção Tecnológica
Authors: Cardoso Filho Milton Santos , Gonçalves Odete , De Almeida Santos Camila Rozene , Cordeiro de Oliveira Olívia Maria , Moreira Ícaro Thiago Andrade
Published: December 2021

A presente pesquisa tem como objetivo realizar a prospecção do atual cenário tecnológico no uso de fungos e extratos vegetais nos processos de biorremediação de hidrocarbonetos. Para o desenvolvimento dessa prospecção, foram retiradas informações do banco de dados Web of Science – Espacenet, no Registro Europeu de Patentes (EPO), uma plataforma em nível Europeu que contém as principais informações sobre as patentes depositadas. A pesquisa foi feita por meio da utilização de palavras-chave e dos códigos de indexação B09C1/10 – Microbiologicamente, biologicamente ou usando enzimas e C02F2101/32 – Hidrocarbonetos ou petróleo. Como resultado, foram obtidos: a quantidade de patentes depositadas durantes os anos, quais os principais inventores, que empresas têm desenvolvido novas tecnologias e qual a aplicabilidade dessas invenções. Constatou-se que o desenvolvimento biotecnológico voltado para a biorremediação de áreas impactadas por hidrocarbonetos só obteve maior investimento a partir de 2013, tendo maior destaque para o ano de 2016 com 20 invenções depositadas.
Gestão Estratégica da Propriedade Intelectual: um estudo sobre o Núcleo de Inovação Tecnológica do Instituto Federal Baiano no contexto do novo marco legal da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação (CT&I)
Authors: Souza Sandra Santos , Rocha de Souza André Luis , Ferreira Lima Ângela Maria , Valença Araújo Márcio Luis
Published: December 2021

A pesquisa tem por objetivo analisar as forças, oportunidades, fraquezas e ameaças relacionadas ao Núcleo de Inovação Tecnológica (NIT) do Instituto Federal Baiano (IF Baiano) em face do contexto trazido pelo novo Marco Legal da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação (CT&I) instituído pela Lei n. 13.243/2016. Este trabalho apresenta abordagem qualitativa, de natureza exploratória, e uso de pesquisa documental. Para tanto, foram coletados dados secundários para o diagnóstico das Forças, Oportunidades, Fraquezas e Ameaças – Matriz FOFA (do inglês SWOT). As constatações dos pontos fortes e fracos do NIT/IF Baiano são importantes para auxiliar nas decisões dos gestores e para apoiar ações que favoreçam o incremento da inovação tecnológica. Conclui-se que o setor deve continuar se fortalecendo nas legislações de inovação para o fomento tecnológico e científico com o intuito de obter soluções e benefícios para a sociedade.
Prospecção Tecnológica de Métodos e de Técnicas da Economia Circular Aplicados ao Desenvolvimento Econômico Sustentável
Authors: Sales Gabriel Fernandes , De Carvalho Taís Soares , Da Rosa Tiago Oscar , Do Santos Júnior Elias Lira , De Francisco Antonio Carlos
Published: December 2021

Em consequência dos diversos problemas ambientais enfrentados em todo o mundo, depara-se com a necessidade de desenvolver um ambiente em que haja uma constante harmonia entre a produção/consumo de bens materiais e o meio ambiente. Nesse contexto, a Economia Circular surge como um conceito inovador que visa a desenvolver estratégias para mitigar os efeitos gerados pela antiga economia linear a partir da criação de um ecossistema mais sustentável. O objetivo deste trabalho é realizar um levantamento prospectivo nas bases tecnológicas de patentes EPO, USPTO e INPI, baseado em palavras-chave associadas aos métodos e às técnicas da Economia Circular e sua aplicabilidade. Como resultado, foram encontradas 1.277 patentes em diversas áreas de estudos e de diferentes países. Posteriormente, observou-se um crescimento relevante na concessão de novas patentes ao longo dos últimos anos, motivado pela importância da criação de novas tecnologias que têm como intuito solucionar problemas ambientais que ocorrem em áreas ainda mais específicas.
Política de Inovação, Proteção do Conhecimento e Empreendedorismo: um estudo da relação entre a Universidade Estadual de Londrina e o setor produtivo
Authors: Lobo Junior Mario Cesar , De Souza Baddauy Letícia
Published: December 2021

O presente estudo tem por objetivo apresentar as principais atividades de inovação e pesquisa científica e tecnológica desenvolvidas pela Universidade Estadual de Londrina e sua relação com o setor produtivo, sob a ótica da teoria da Hélice Tríplice. A partir da análise de dados do NIT da universidade, é possível entender quais medidas vêm sendo tomadas para o pleno cumprimento dos compromissos assumidos com a Lei Federal de Inovação. Além disso, observa-se que, apesar de a UEL já estar inserindo a cultura de inovação em sua estrutura, falta uma política de inovação que regulamente suas relações institucionais com as empresas. O artigo ainda conclui que a quebra de barreiras para promoção da inovação precisa ser desenvolvida, antes de tudo, dentro da própria universidade.