bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing Practical Models of Complex Salts for Molten Salt Reactors
Authors: Besmann Theorore M. , Schorne-Pinto Juliano
Published: June 2021

olten salt reactors (MSRs) utilize salts as coolant or as the fuel and coolant together with fissile isotopes dissolved in the salt. It is necessary to therefore understand the behavior of the salts to effectively design, operate, and regulate such reactors, and thus there is a need for thermodynamic models for the salt systems. Molten salts, however, are difficult to represent as they exhibit short range order that is dependent on both composition and temperature. A widely useful approach is the modified quasichemical model in the quadruplet approximation that provides for consideration of first and second nearest neighbor coordination and interactions. Its use in the CALPHAD ap-proach to system modeling requires fitting parameters using standard thermodynamic data such as phase equilibria, heat capacity, and others. Shortcoming of the model is its inability to directly vary coordination numbers with composition or temperature. Another issue is the difficulty in fitting model parameters using regression methods without already having very good initial values. The proposed paper will discuss these issues and note some practical methods for the effective genera-tion of useful models.
Customer Churn - Prevention Model – Prediction Model
Authors: Grijalba Facundo Julian Eduardo
Published: June 2021

The strategy of any organization is based on the growth of its customer base, and one of 5 its principles is that selling a product to an existing customer is much more profitable than acquiring 6 a new customer. However, this approach has several opportunities for improvement, since it usu- 7 ally has a totally reactive approach, which does not give opportunity to the areas specialized in 8 customer experience and recovery, to give an effective response for that moment, since the customer 9 is gone at the time of the intervention. This happens because usually a diagnostic analysis of cus- 10 tomers who have stopped buying products or services in a defined period, commonly three (3) pe- 11 riods or months, is performed. This paper challenges the way to face this problem, and proposes 12 the development of a complete solution, which does not focus exclusively on the prediction of 13 churn, as is usually done in the state of the art research, but to intervene in different interactions 14 that can be carried out with customers. The above focused not only to prevent customer churn, but 15 to generate an added value of continuous improvement in sales processes, increase customer pene- 16 tration, leading to an improvement in customer experience and consequently, an increase in cus- 17 tomer loyalty.
A Virtual Reality System for Improved Image-based Planning of Complex Cardiac Procedures
Authors: Deng Shujie , Wheeler Gavin , Toussaint Nicolas , Munroe Lindsay , Bhattacharya Suryava , Sajith Gina , Lin Ei , Singh Eeshar , Chu Ka Yee Kelly , Kabir Saleha , Pushparajah Kuberan , Simpson John M , Schnabel Julia A , Gomez Alberto
Published: June 2021

The intricate nature of congenital heart disease requires understanding of complex, patient-specific three-dimensional dynamic anatomy of the heart, from imaging data such as three-dimensional echocardiography for successful outcomes from surgical and interventional procedures. Conventional clinical systems use flat screens and therefore display remains two-dimensional, which undermines the full understanding of the three-dimensional dynamic data. Additionally, control of three-dimensional visualisation with two-dimensional tools is often difficult, so used only by imaging specialists. In this paper we describe a virtual reality system for immersive surgery planning using dynamic three-dimensional echocardiography , which enables fast prototyping for visualisation such as volume rendering, multi-planar reformatting, flow visualisation, and advanced interaction such as three-dimensional cropping, windowing, measurement, haptic feedback, automatic image orientation, and multi-user interactions. The available features were evaluated by imaging and non-imaging clinicians, showing that the virtual reality system can help improve understanding and communication of the three-dimensional echocardiography imaging and benefit congenital heart disease treatment.
Betulin, a Newly Characterized Compound in Acacia Auriculiformis Bark, is a Multi-target Protein Kinase Inhibitor
Authors: Ahmadu Augustine A. , Delehouzé Claire , Haruna Anas , Mustapha Lukman , Lawal Bilqis A. , Udobre Aniefiok , Baratte Blandine , Triscornia Camilla , Autret Axelle , Robert Thomas , Bulinski Jeannette Chloë , Rousselot Morgane , Simoes Eugénio Mélanie , Dimanche-Boitrel Marie-Thérèse , Petzer Jacobus P. , Legoabe Lesetja J. , Bach Stéphane
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this work is to investigate the protein kinase inhibitory activity of constituents from ethyl acetate soluble fraction of Acacia auriculiformis stem bark. Column chromatography, gel filtration and NMR spectroscopy were used to purified and characterized betulin from the extract. Betulin which is a known inducer of apoptosis was screened against a panel of 16 disease-related protein kinases. Betulin was shown to inhibit Abelson murine leukemia viral oncogene homolog 1 (ABL1) kinase, casein kinase 1epsilon (CK1epsilon), glycogen synthase kinase 3alpha/β (GSK-3alpha/β), Janus kinase 3 (JAK3), NIMA Related Kinase 6 (NEK6) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 kinase (VEGFR2) and with activity in µM range. The effect of betulin on the cell viability of doxorubicin-resistant K562R chronic myelogenous leukemia cells was then verified to underline its putative use as anti-cancer compound. Betulin was shown to modulate the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway similarly to imatinib mesylate, a well-known inhibitor of ABL1 kinase. The interaction of betulin and ABL1 was studied by molecular docking showing an interaction of the inhibitor with the ATP binding pocket. Altogether, these data demonstrate that betulin is a multi-target inhibitor of protein kinases, an activity that can contribute to the anticancer properties of the natural compound and notably for treatment of leukemia.
Inhibition of Indigoidine Synthesis as a High-throughput Colourimetric Screen for Antibiotics Targeting the Essential Mycobacterium tuberculosis Phosphopantetheinyl Transferase PptT
Authors: Brown Alistair S , Owen Jeremy G , Jung James , Baker Edward N , Ackerley David F
Published: June 2021

A recently-validated and underexplored drug target in Mycobacterium tuberculosis is PptT, an essential phosphopantetheinyl transferase (PPTase) that plays a critical role in activating enzymes for both primary and secondary metabolism. PptT possesses a deep binding pocket that does not readily accept labelled coenzyme A analogues that have previously been used to screen for PPTase inhibitors. Here we report on the development of a high throughput, colorimetric screen that monitors the PptT-mediated activation of the non-ribosomal peptide synthetase BpsA to a blue pigment (indigoidine) synthesising form in vitro. This screen uses unadulterated coenzyme A, avoiding analogues that may interfere with inhibitor binding, and requires only a single-endpoint measurement. We benchmark the screen using the well-characterised Library of Pharmaceutically Active Compounds (LOPAC1280) collection, and show that it is both sensitive and able to distinguish weak from strong inhibitors. We further show that the BpsA assay can be applied to quantify the level of inhibition and generate consistent EC50 data.
Medical Waste Management during COVID-19 Situation: Perspective Towards Safe Environment
Authors: JINDAL MANOJ KUMAR , Sar Dr. Santosh Kumar
Published: June 2021

The situation in the world of pandemics is rapidly changing, and the second wave of COVID-19 has put a lot of pressure on the government and private sector, which are primarily responsible for controlling the situation. COVID-19 positive cases have increased in recent months relative to last year, and the number of patients admitted to hospitals has also increased, despite the fact that few of them were denied admission due to shortage of beds. Normal people who experience any symptoms immediately isolate themselves and begin taking the COVID medications prescribed by medical personnel and their team. During these times, all domestic people tossed the wrappers and boxes of medicines into the regular trash can, and the waste was handed over to the waste collector, who treated it like any other domestic waste and disposed of it using open dumping or other methods. The goal of this perspective is to suggest the collections of these types of waste from domestics, and protect the natural resources like water, soil, and even living beings like animals from pollution (from the effect of SARS-CoV-2). The main challenge for environmental waste management agencies is determining who has COVID positive and which houses generate these types of waste; thus, proposed strategy may be beneficial to the long-term sustainability of natural resources and animals.
Customer Churn - Prevention Model – Unsupervised Classification
Authors: GRIJALBA FACUNDO JULIAN
Published: June 2021

The strategy of any organization is based on the growth of its customer base, and one of 6 its principles is that selling a product to an existing customer is much more profitable than acquiring 7 a new customer. However, this approach has several opportunities for improvement, since it usu- 8 ally has a totally reactive approach, which does not give opportunity to the areas specialized in 9 customer experience and recovery, to give an effective response for that moment, since the customer 10 is gone at the time of the intervention. This happens because usually a diagnostic analysis of cus- 11 tomers who have stopped buying products or services in a defined period, commonly three (3) pe- 12 riods or months, is performed. This paper challenges the way to face this problem, and proposes 13 the development of a complete solution, which does not focus exclusively on the prediction of 14 churn, as is usually done in the state of the art research, but to intervene in different interactions 15 that can be carried out with customers. The above focused not only to prevent customer churn, but 16 to generate an added value of continuous improvement in sales processes, increase customer pene- 17 tration, leading to an improvement in customer experience and consequently, an increase in cus- 18 tomer loyalty.
Customer Churn - Prevention Model – Recomendation Engine
Authors: GRIJALBA FACUNDO JULIAN
Published: June 2021

The strategy of any organization is based on the growth of its customer base, and one of 5 its principles is that selling a product to an existing customer is much more profitable than acquiring 6 a new customer. However, this approach has several opportunities for improvement, since it usu- 7 ally has a totally reactive approach, which does not give opportunity to the areas specialized in 8 customer experience and recovery, to give an effective response for that moment, since the customer 9 is gone at the time of the intervention. This happens because usually a diagnostic analysis of cus- 10 tomers who have stopped buying products or services in a defined period, commonly three (3) pe- 11 riods or months, is performed. This thesis work challenges the way to face this problem, and pro- 12 poses the development of a complete solution, which does not focus exclusively on the prediction 13 of churn, as is usually done in the state of the art research, but to intervene in different interactions 14 that can be carried out with customers. The above focused not only to prevent customer churn, but 15 to generate an added value of continuous improvement in sales processes, increase customer pene- 16 tration, leading to an improvement in customer experience and consequently, an increase in cus- 17 tomer loyalty.
SARS-CoV-2 Origin: An Affair of Codons?
Authors: Romeu Antonio Ramón , Ollé Enric
Published: June 2021

The furin cleavage site, with an arginine doublet (RR), is one of the clues of the SARS-CoV-2 origin. This furin-RR is encoded by the CGG-CGG sequence. Because arginine can be encoded by six codons, in a previous work we found that in SARS-CoV-2, CGG was the minority arginine codon (3%). Also, analyzing the RR doublet from a large sample of furin cleavage sites of several kinds of viruses, we found that none of them were encoded by CGG-CGG. Here, we come back to the core of the matter, but from the perspective that in the human genome, in contrast, CGG is the majoroty arginine codon (21%). Here, we highlighted that the 6 arginine codons provide genetic markers to a traceability on the RR origin in the furin site, as well as, to weigh the probability of the theories about the origin of the virus.
Supporting Restoration Decisions through Integration of Tree-Ring and Modeling Data: Reconstructing Flow and Salinity in the San Francisco Estuary over the Past Millennium
Authors: Hutton Paul H , Meko David M , Roy Sujoy B
Published: June 2021

This work presents updated reconstructions of watershed runoff to San Francisco Estuary from tree-ring data to AD 903, coupled with models relating runoff to freshwater flow to the estuary and salinity intrusion. We characterize pre-development freshwater flow and salinity conditions in the estuary over the past millennium and compare this characterization with contemporary conditions to better understand the magnitude and seasonality of changes over this time. This work shows that the instrumented flow record spans the range of runoff patterns over the past millennium (averaged over five, ten, twenty and one hundred years), and thus serves as a reasonable basis for planning-level evaluations of historical hydrologic conditions in the estuary. Over annual timescales we show that, although median freshwater flow to the estuary has not changed significantly, it has been more variable over the past century compared to pre-development flow conditions. We further show that the contemporary period is generally associated with greater spring salinity intrusion and lesser summer-fall salinity intrusion relative to the pre-development period. Thus, salinity intrusion in summer and fall months was a common occurrence under pre-development conditions and has been moderated in the contemporary period due to the operations of upstream reservoirs, which were designed to hold winter and spring runoff for release in summer and fall. This work also confirms a dramatic decadal-scale hydrologic shift in the watershed from very wet to very dry conditions during the late 19th and early 20th centuries; while not unprecedented, these shifts have been seen only a few times in the past millennium. This shift resulted in an increase in salinity intrusion in the first three decades of the 20th century, as documented through early records. Population growth and extensive watershed modification during this period exacerbated this underlying hydrologic shift. Putting this shift in the context of other anthropogenic drivers is important in understanding the historical response of the estuary and in setting salinity targets for estuarine restoration. By characterizing the long-term behavior of San Francisco Estuary, this work supports decision-making in the State of California related to flow and salinity management for restoration of the estuarine ecosystem.
Life After Oil – Teaching Indonesia’s Energy transition
Authors: Hernandez Ariel Macaspac , Prakoso Yudhi Timor Bimo
Published: June 2021

Indonesia is an interesting case study for students of sustainable development and sustainable energy due to its ability to connect the multiple “worlds” it has become part of. Indonesia is an important bridge to Muslim countries, the voice of the Global South in the G20 and a main pillar of the 134-country-strong G77. Indonesia’s development trajectory is also key to the achievement of the Paris Climate Agreement as well as of the 2030 Agenda. Students can learn from how Indo-nesia address contradictions that would have been unsurmountable for other countries. Indone-sia’s energy transition offers helpful lessons, because of its aspiration to become a developed country by 2045. This goal is only possible when a country is able to effectively address barriers and caveats to sustainable energy. It is interesting how Indonesia focuses on silver linings and come up with pragmatic solutions to energy-related issues. This is followed by the “teaching guide,” which provides recommendations how the lessons from Indonesia can be embedded into a learning experience. The “learning activation approach” is introduced, which encourages stu-dents to systematically reflect on the complexity of selected contexts and understand this com-plexity by looking at the technical issues and processes that allow decision-making.
Through 40.000 Years of Human Presence in Southern Europe: The Italian Case Study
Authors: Aneli Serena , Caldon Matteo , Saupe Tina , Montinaro Francesco , Pagani Luca
Published: June 2021

The Italian Peninsula, a natural pier across the Mediterranean Sea, witnessed intricate population events since the very beginning of human occupation in Europe. In the last few years, an increasing number of modern and ancient genomes from the area has been published by the international research community. This genomic perspective started unveiling the relevance of Italy to understand the post-Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) re-peopling of Europe, the earlier phase of the Neolithic westward migrations, and its linking role between Eastern and Western Mediterranean areas after the Iron Age. However many open questions are still waiting for more data to be addressed in full. With this review, we summarize the current knowledge emerging from the available ancient Italian individuals and, by re-analysing them all at once, we try to shed light on the avenues future research in the area should cover. In particular, open questions concern i) the fate of pre-Villabruna Europeans and to what extent their genomic components were absorbed by the post-LGM hunter-gatherers; ii) the role of Sicily and Sardinia before LGM; iii) to what degree the documented genetic structure within the Early Neolithic settlers can be described as two separate migrations; iv) what are the population events behind the marked presence of an Iranian Neolithic-like component in Bronze Age and Iron Age Italian and Southern European samples.
Ten years (2011-2021) of the Regional ADHD Centre-Based Network Project for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Children and Adolescents with ADHD
Authors: Bonati Maurizio , Scarpellini Francesca , Cartabia Massimo , Zanetti Michele
Published: June 2021

Background: The purpose of this article is to update the diagnostic assessment, therapeutic approach, and 12-18 month follow up of patients added in the Italian Lombardy ADHD Register. Methods: Data on patients evaluated by the 18 Regional ADHD Reference Centres in the ten year period from 2011 to April 2021 were analysed. Results: 4091 of 5934 added patients received a diagnosis of ADHD. In 20.3% of cases, there was a family history of ADHD. 2879 children (70.4%) had at least one comorbidity disorder, the most common of which was learning disorder (39%). Nearly all (95.9%) received at least one psychological prescription, 17.9% of them almost one pharmacological treatment, and 15.6% a combination of both. Values of ≥5 of the Clinical Global Impressions- Severity (CGI-S) are more commonly presented by patients with a pharmacological prescription than with a psychological treatment (p < .0001). A significant improvement was reported in half of the patients followed after 1 year, with Clinical Global Impressions- Improvement (CGI-I ≤ 3). In all, 233 of 4091 are 18 year old patients. Conclusion: A ten year systematic monitoring of models of care was a fruitful shared and collaborative initiative in order to promote significant improvement in clinical practice, providing effective and continuous quality of care. The unique experience here reported should spread.
Inhibiting IL-6 During Cytokine Storm in COVID-19: Potential Role of Natural Products
Authors: Nasirzadeh Amirreza , Jafarzadeh Maivan Mohammad hosein , Bazeli Javad , Hajavi Jafar , Yavarmanesh Negar , Zahedi Mohammad , Abounoori Mahdi , Razavi Alireza , Maddah Mohammad Moein , Mortazavi Parham , Moradi Mohammad , Heidarzadeh Siamak , Mardaneh Jalal , Shoeibi Afshin , Alizadehsani Roohallah , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful
Published: June 2021

Plant species with anti-inflammatory properties might play an essential role in combatting COVID-19 via reducing cytokine storms. We aimed to review the extant evidence of the potential therapeutic efficacy of natural products against cytokine storms by inhibiting interleukin-6 (IL-6) as a major pathological mediator. Data were collected following an electronic search in major databases (Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar) and also preprint articles on preprint and medRxiv servers by using a combination of relevant keywords. Seventeen active compounds and medicinal plants were found and reviewed in the present review. Results of both in-vivo and in-vitro experiments conducted on these compounds showed that Phillyrin, SMFM, Qiangzhi decoction, curcumin, Shen-Fu, Forsythia, and Alpha-Mangostin inhibit the production of IL-6. Andrographolide and Liu Shen Wan have an inhibitory effect on releasing this agent, while Ilex Asprella and Deoxy-11,12-didehydroandrographolide and naringin reduce the expression of IL-6. Theaflavin and Cholorogenic acid inhibit the secretion of IL-6, Xuebijing, and Chai-Hu-Gui-Zi-Gan-Jiang-Tang and Lipanpaidu prescription can reduce the serum level of IL-6. These agents also effectively improve infected lungs, increase survival rates, and minimize tissue damage. Medicinal plants and their phytochemical ingredients with down-regulatory effects on the expression of IL-6 have a potential influence on the inhibition of cytokine storms during viral infection caused by COVID-19. Therefore, phytochemicals could be regarded as promising candidates for managing cytokine storm inflammatory responses due to COVID-19 infection.
Students’ Investment Decisions with Intention as an Intervening Variable
Authors: Ummah Afaful , Ahsan Muhamad , Anas Ahmad
Published: June 2021

This quantitative research aimed to determine the factors influencing students’ decisions to invest with intention as an intervening variable using the Partial Least Square (PLS) method through the smartPLS 3.0. The population in this study was UINSA students who already had accounts in GIS UINSA. The research sample of 110 respondents was selected using purposive sampling techniques. The results showed that intention influences students’ investment decisions. Returns and technological advancements influence their investment decision through intention, both directly and indirectly.
Conversely, knowledge, motivation, and capital market training do not affect that, either directly or indirectly. Therefore, knowledge and Islamic capital market training need more attention. It can be done by optimizing the socialization and education about the Islamic capital market by holding seminars, training, webinar and providing facilities and tools that promote the motivation to invest in the Islamic capital market to influence the intention of students to invest.
Radiological Clinical Case of Klippel-Feil Syndrome
Authors: Sorokovikov V. , Seliverstov P. , Pozdeeva N. , Pichugina U. , Safonov V.
Published: June 2021

Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) is a genetically determined anomaly of the cervical spine characterized by the abnormal fusion of vertebrae. The clinical signs are a shortness and a restricted mobility of the neck and a low hairline at the back of the head. KFS is typically associated with many other abnormalities of the skeleton and other systems. The clinical case of KFS first diagnosed in an adult is demonstrated in this review.
Analysis of Placement Conditions on Roads and Characteristics of Railway Crossings in the Republic of Kazakhstan
Authors: Kapskiy D. V. , Kot E. N. , Bogdanovich S. V. , Rybinskiy A. G. , Ibrayev K.
Published: June 2021

Road traffic accidents of vehicles with a rolling stock of railways lead to the most serious consequences. Many level crossings are places of long delays of vehicles both before and after the traffic. In this case and in many others, the intersections of highways with railways sharply limit the capacity of the highway. Level crossings require the utmost attention of the traffic organization, since they must include not only devices for the movement of cars, but also pedestrian and sidings. Despite the fact that the problem of road traffic accidents at level crossings is not new, research and analysis of statistics in this area continues around the world. The paper considers the level crossings on the Republican highways of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Research has been carried out on ways to improve traffic safety at such crossings. The situation at the level crossings of the roads of Republican significance, as well as possible restrictions and regulatory requirements, have been studied in the paper. The paper presents results of a detailed collection of data at the facilities, which will serve as the basis for the development of a detailed program for improving the regulatory and technical base of the road sector in Kazakhstan to improve the safety of  road transport infrastructure, taking into account existing standards. Recommendations are given for the implementation and generalization of advanced international experience in organizing road traffic at railway crossings, which will contribute to the adaptation of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the context of the development of transport and communications.
Model-Based Simulation Approach for Pre-Front End Engineering Design Studies for Subsea Field Architecture Development
Authors: Mnasri Hamdi , Franchek Matthew A. , Wassar Taoufik , Tang Yingjie , Meziou Amine
Published: June 2021

Presented is a model-based methodology identifying subsea field architectures that satisfy prespecified multiphysics constraints. The proposed methodology prioritizes the identified subsea system using a multiobjective optimization approach considering two objective functions, which are minimizing pressure drop reflecting the maximization of production flow rates and minimizing capital expenditures. The architecture solutions produce manifolds positioning and optimal pipeline routing/sizing. A convex combination approach creates the multiobjective optimization criterion enabling weighting among constraints such as hydraulic, topological, structural, and flow assurance, as well as technical issues and financial limitations. The optimization problem is computationally solved using a hybrid method with a global multistart algorithm that combines a scatter search process with a gradient-based local nonlinear problem solver. A case study is provided to test the proposed methodology including the effect of varying the weights among the constraints. This deep-dive analysis demonstrates the potential offered by the proposed methodology, illustrated by the ability to perform several investigations such as wells-grouping analysis and insulation effect on the overall optimization procedure, as well as to provide a tracking tool for flow-assurance factors, namely erosion and corrosion rates along the subsea layout. Hence, we present a demonstration of the capabilities of the proposed model-based subsea field layout optimization procedure.
Development and validation of 107 SNP markers in Todarodes pacificus (Ommastrephidae)
Authors: Li Xiaoling , Hu Xingxing , Lu Huajie , Liu Yang , Wang Congcong
Published: June 2021

Todarodes pacificus is a commercially important squid species; however, there is little information available regarding the population genetics of this species and effective molecular markers are still unavailable. In the present study, 107 novel single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers were developed using Genotyping-by-Sequencing (GBS). The observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.0345 to 0.5862 and 0.0339 to 0.4994, respectively. The polymorphism information content ranged from 0.0333 to 0.3747. Among these SNPs, all loci have been confirmed to fit the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (p > 0.05). The novel SNPs developed in this study will be helpful for the genetic conservation and scientific management of Todarodes pacificus.
High-Efficiency Organogenesis and Evaluation of the Regenerated Plants by Flow Cytometry of a Broad Range of Saccharum Spp. Hybrids (Sugarcane)
Authors: Nogueira Gabriela , Luis Zanderluce , Salles Leila , Pasqual Moacir , Scherwinski-Pereira Jonny
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the organogenic potential of Brazilian sugarcane varieties, in addition to verifying the in vitro multiplication rate and genetic stability by flow cytometry over monthly and consecutive subcultures. Thus, stem apices of twenty-two varieties were collected in the field and taken to the laboratory where external layers of leaves were removed. After disinfection, the achlorophyllous portion was sectioned and placed on MS medium with 5.0 mg L-1 NAA and 0.5 mg L-1 KIN. For multiplication rate assessments, ten varieties were selected and inoculated in of liquid or semi-solid MS medium with 0.10 mg L-1 KIN and 0.20 mg L-1 BAP, and subcultured every 30 days for a period up to 8 months. Genetic stability was verified by flow cytometry every two subcultures. At the end of the experiment, sprouts were rooted and acclimatized in a greenhouse. Regeneration occurred both by direct and indirect organogenesis, and the sugarcane varieties differed significantly in their regeneration capacity and number of adventitious shoots formed. For multiplication, a significant interaction was observed between variety, consistency of the culture medium and number of subcultures. In general, in the first subcultures, the liquid medium gave similar or better results compared with semi-solid medium; however, from the fourth transplanting onward, the semi-solid medium was superior. Morphological variations were verified from the fourth subculture. In addition, in some varieties, small changes in the relative DNA content were detected by flow cytometry. Sprouts of normal-looking sugarcane were successfully rooted and acclimatized after the eighth subculture.
Assessment the Quality of Bottled Drinking Water Through Mamdani Fuzzy Water Quality Index
Authors: Asgari Ghorban , Komijani Ensieh , Seid-Mohammadi Abdolmotaleb , Khazaei Mohammad
Published: June 2021

In this investigation, an innovative index was developed based on the fuzzy inference system for assessing the quality of bottled drinking waters. A method was developed to aggregate the values obtained from the defuzzification step. A total number of 24 quality parameters revealing the characteristics of bottled were in terms of physiochemical, dietary, toxic, and pathogenic aspects were selected as the input parameters. 30 samples were taken from the independent brands found in the Hamadan province retail market to evaluate the bottled water quality index (BWQI). Results show that the values obtained from measuring the parameters are in the range of the standard levels set by national regulations. The BWQI scores obtained from samples were in the range of 61.2–73.8 attributing to the marginal and fair descriptive classes. Sensitivity analysis using the Monte Carlo algorithm reveals that the parameters NO3, Na, hardness, and NO2 have the most impact on the BWQI scores.
Inverse Fuzzy Multigraphs and Planarity with Application in Decision-making
Authors: Borzooei Rajab Ali , Almallah R.
Published: June 2021

Recently, in [3], we defined the concept of inverse fuzzy graph as a generalization of graph, which is able to answer some problems that graph theory and fuzzy graph theory can not explain. Now, in this paper we define the notion of inverse fuzzy multigraph and the concept of planarity on it by using the concepts of intersecting value and inverse fuzzy planarity value. Then we introduce some related theorems which determining upper bounds and lower bounds for the inverse fuzzy planarity value. After that we define the strong (weak) planarity of an inverse fuzzy multigraph and investigate related results. Finally, we give an application of inverse fuzzy multigraphs to decision-making how to reduce the cost of travel tours.
Potential Anti-Fouling Properties of Extracts from the Mediterranean Sponge Ircinia Oros: An Ecotoxicological Screening
Authors: De Marchi Lucia , Pretti Carlo , Cuccaro Alessia , Oliva Matteo , Tardelli Federica , Monni Gianfranca , Magri Michele , Bulleri Fabio
Published: June 2021

The phylum Porifera and their symbionts produce a wide variety of bioactive compounds, playing a central role in their ecology and evolution. In this study, four different extracts (obtained by non-polar and semi-polar extraction methodologies) from the Mediterranean sponge Ircinia oros were tested for their potential antifouling purposes. The evaluation was performed using three different target species, associated with three different endpoints: the marine bacterium Aliivibrio fischeri (inhibition of bioluminescence), the marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum (inhibition of growth) and different development stages of the brackish-water serpulid Ficopomatus enigmaticus (gametes: sperm motion, vitality inhibition and cellular damage; larvae: development; adults: AChE (acetylcholinesterase)-inhibitory activity). Effects of extracts were species-specific and did not vary among different extraction methodologies. In particular, no significant reduction of bioluminescence of A. fischeri was observed for all tested samples. By contrast, extracts inhibited P. tricornutum growth and had toxic effects on different F. enigmaticus’ developmental stages. Obtained results suggest that the proposed test battery can be considered a suitable tool as bioactivity screening of marine natural products.
Dialell Analysis for Morphoagronomic Descriptors in Physalis Angulata L. Hybrids
Authors: Farias José Williano de Souza , Orellana Jonathan Said Tejeda , Batista Edgar dos Santos , Cordeiro Rafael Cruz , Passos Adriana Rodrigues , Silva Luiz Cláudio Costa
Published: June 2021

Physalis angulata L. is an American species with edible fruits that stands out for having high nutritional and pharmaceutical value. The species is found in almost the entire Brazilian territory but the consumption of its fruits is not widespread. Genetic improvement is one of the main factors that can make P. angulata a crop in Brazil. The aim of this work was to evaluate the existence of heterosis and heterobeltiosis for morphoagronomic descriptors, to estimate correlations, and to select the best hybrids in P. angulata in a full diallel with five accession. Twenty plant, fruit and seed descriptors were evaluated, and plant height and total soluble solids showed significant genetic variation. Positive heterobeltiosis for total soluble solids was observed in hybrids Pi x G53, Can x Pi and Can x LG, while negative heterobeltiosis for plant height was observed in G53 x LG, Pi x Laj e Can x Laj hybrids. Heterosis was also observed for both descriptors. Using selection indexes, Can x G53, Can x LG, Pi x G53, Can x Pi and G53 x Pi were selected as the best hybrids, expressing smaller plant height and higher total soluble solids.
Hidden Blood Loss in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Patients Undergoing Posterior Spinal Fusion Surgery: A Retrospective Study of 765 Cases in a Single Center
Authors: Wang Lipeng , Liu Jiangli , Song Xiaoxiao , Luo Muhui , Chen Yongquan
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To investigate Hidden blood loss (HBL) and its potential risk factors in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion surgery and elucidate the influence of HBL on postoperative blood transfusion. Methods: We retrospectively studied 765 patients undergoing posterior spine fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis from January 2014 to December 2018. The patient’s demographics, blood loss related parameters, operation and blood loss information were extracted. The association between patient’s characteristics and HBL was analyzed by Pearson or Spearman correlation analysis. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to determine independent risk factors associated with HBL. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the influence of HBL on postoperative blood transfusion.Results: A total of 765 patients including 128 males and 637 females (age range 10-18 years) were included in this study. The mean amount of HBL was 693.5±473.4 ml, accounting for 53.9% of the total blood loss. In multivariate linear regression analysis, we found that preoperative Hct (p=0.003) and allogeneic blood transfusion (p<0.0001) were independent risk factors for HBL, while tranexamic acid (p=0.003) was negatively related to HBL. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that HBL > 850 ml ( P < 0.001, OR: 8.845, 95%CI: 5.806-13.290) was the independent risk factor for postoperative blood transfusion.Conclusion: a large amount of HBL was incurred in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion surgeries. Allogeneic blood transfusion and preoperative Hct were independent risk factors for HBL, while tranexamic acid was negatively related to HBL. HBL and its influential factors should be taken into account when considering the perioperative transfusion management. These patients with HBL greater than 850 ml should be paid more attention in case of postoperative anemia.Level of evidence: Level III
Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis Contributes to the Development of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Li Naijian , Dai Zhouli , Wang Zhang , Deng Zhishan , Zhang Jiahuan , Pu Jinding , Cao Weitao , Pan Tianhui , Zhou Yumin , Yang Zhaowei , Li Jing , Li Bing , Ran Pixin
Published: June 2021

Background: Dysbiosis of the gut microbiome is involved in the pathogenesis of various diseases, but the contribution of gut microbes to the progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is still poorly understood. Methods: We carried out 16S rRNA gene sequencing and short-chain fatty acid analyses in stool samples from a cohort of 73 healthy controls, 67 patients with COPD of GOLD stages I and II severity, and 32 patients with COPD of GOLD stages III and IV severity. Fecal microbiota from the three groups were then inoculated into recipient mice for a total of 14 times in 28 days to induce pulmonary changes. Furthermore, fecal microbiota from the three groups were inoculated into mice exposed to smoke from biomass fuel to induce COPD-like changes. Results: We observed that the gut microbiome of COPD patients varied from that of healthy controls and was characterized by a distinct overall microbial diversity and composition, a Prevotella-dominated gut enterotype and lower levels of short-chain fatty acids. After 28 days of fecal transplantation from COPD patients, recipient mice exhibited elevated lung inflammation. Moreover, when mice were under both fecal transplantation and biomass fuel smoke exposure for a total of 20 weeks, accelerated declines in lung function, severe emphysematous changes, airway remodeling and mucus hypersecretion were observed. Conclusion: These data demonstrate that altered gut microbiota in COPD patients is associated with disease progression in mice model.
Theoretical Analysis of On-chip Vertical Hybrid Plasmonic Nanograting
Authors: Singh Mandeep
Published: June 2021

a CMOS compatible photonic-plasmonic waveguide with nanoscale optical confinement has been proposed for the infrared (IR)-band applications. The design is based on the multilayer hybrid plasmonic waveguide (Si-SiO2-Au) structure. The 3D-finite element method (FEM) numerical simulation of single slot HPWG confirms 2.5 dB/cm propagation loss and 15 um− 2 confined intensity. Moreover, its application as dual-slot nanograting is studied which shows better propagation length and ultra-low dispersion near the 1550 nm wavelength. Hence, proposed low-dispersion design is suitable for future on-chip nanophotonic components in the IR band.
Effects of Salinity on Gills’ Chloride Cells, Stress Indices and Gene Expression of Asian Seabass (Lates Calcarifer, Bloch, 1790)
Authors: Azodi Maryam , Bahabadi Mahmoud Nafisi , Ghasemi Ahmad , Morshedi Vahid , Mozanzadeh Mansour Torfi , Shahraki Raheleh , Khademzadeh Omid , Hamedi Shirin , Avizhgan Sakineh
Published: June 2021

A two-week research was carried-out to assess water salinity (WS) effects including 0, 15, 35 and 50‰ on osmoregulatory mechanisms and stress indices in Asian sea bass (34.4 g) juveniles. Except for fish reared at 50‰, in the other treatments gradually decreased to the prescribed WS during a 10-day period (-5‰ a day). After 10-day of acclimation period, fish reared at the prescribed WS for two weeks. Fish reared at 15 and 35‰ had higher chloride cell (CC) counts in the interlamellar region. The number of CC in the interlamellar region elevated with increment of WS up to 35‰, but they were pronouncedly reduced in 50‰ group . The diameter of CC in the interlamellar region was not affected by WS. The least nucleus diameter of CC in the interlamellar region was observed in fish reared at 15‰ (P < 0.05). The greatest and the least amounts of serum aspartate aminotransferase content were observed in fish reared at freshwater and 15‰, respectively. Fish reared at 35‰ had the highest serum sodium and potassium contents. Serum chloride content and total osmolality increased with increment of WS (P < 0.05). Serum cortisol and glucose contents gradually increased with elevation of WS up to 35‰, then their contents remarkably decreased. The relative expression of insulin like growth factor-1 in the liver of fish reared at 35‰ was strikingly higher than the other groups. The relative expression of HSP70 gene in fresh water group was pronouncedly elevated compared to other treatments. The relative expression of interleukin-1β in 15 and 35‰ groups was higher than the other groups; however, the relative expression of lysozyme gene in the liver of fish reared at fresh water was pronouncedly lower than the other treatments. The results of this study suggested rearing L. calcarifer at 15‰ closer to the isosmotic point and better provide its welfare.
The Synthetic Opioid Epidemic: A Study Protocol to Determine Whether People Who Use Drugs Can Influence or Shape Public Opinion via Mass Media
Authors: Jozaghi Ehsan , Users VANDU Vancouver Area Network of Drug
Published: June 2021

BackgroundWe are currently witnessing an ongoing drug overdose death epidemic in many nations linked to the distribution of illegally manufactured potent synthetic opioids. While many health policy makers and researchers have focused on the root causes and possible solutions to the current crisis, there has been little focus on the power of advocacy and community action by people who use drugs (PWUDs). Specifically, there has been no research on the role of PWUDs in engaging and influencing mass media opinion.MethodsBy relying on one of the longest and largest peer-run drug user advocacy groups in the world, the Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users (VANDU), newspaper articles, television reports, and magazines that VANDU or its members have been directly involved in will be identified via two data bases (the Canadian Newsstream & Google News). The news articles and videos related to the health of PWUDs and issues affecting PWUDs from 1997 to the end of 2020 will be analyzed qualitatively using Nvivo software.ResultsNot Applicable because it is a study protocol and data has not been collected and analyzed. ConclusionAs our communities are entering another phase of the drug overdose epidemic, acknowledging and partnering with PWUDs could play an integral part in advancing the goals of harm reduction, treatment, and human rights. Trial registrationNot applicable because it uses secondary data.
Water sources aggregate parasites, with increasing effects in more arid conditions
Authors: Titcomb Georgia , Mantas John , Hulke Jenna , Rodriguez Ivan , Branch Douglas , Young Hillary
Published: June 2021

Shifts in landscape heterogeneity and climate can influence animal behavior and movement in ways that profoundly alter disease transmission. Amid accelerating climate and land use changes, it is increasingly important to identify and monitor hotspots of increased animal activity and overlap where disease transmission is likely to occur. Water sources that are foci of animal activity have great potential to promote disease transmission, but there has been very little work to quantify this, nor any comparison across a range of hosts and climatic contexts. In the case of fecal-oral parasites, water resources can aggregate large groups of many different host species in small areas, concentrate infectious material, and function as disease hotspots. This may be exacerbated where water is scarce and for species that require frequent drinking water access. Working in an East African savanna, we show via experimental and observational methods that water sources increase the density of wild and domestic herbivore feces and thus, the concentration of fecal-oral parasites in the environment, by up to two orders of magnitude. Our results show that this effect is amplified in drier areas and following periods of low rainfall, creating dynamic and heterogeneous disease landscapes across space and time. In addition, we show via camera trapping methods that herbivore grazing behaviors that expose them to fecal-oral parasites are often increased at water sources relative to background sites, thereby creating landscape hotspots of potential disease transmission. Critically, this effect varies markedly by herbivore species, with strongest effects observed for two large, water-dependent animals that are of critical concern for conservation and development: elephants and cattle. When water availability is reduced – a global pattern that is increasing amid climate changes and growing anthropogenic water use – risk of parasite exposure may increase substantially, posing multiple threats to critical taxa. These findings are important for understanding shifting parasite dynamics for several threatened wildlife species and for pastoral livelihoods in response to changing water supply due to climate changes.
The Classification of Single Traveling Wave Solutions for the Fractional Coupled Nonlinear SchrÖdinger equation
Authors: Tang Lu , Chen Shanpeng
Published: June 2021

The main purpose of this paper is to study the single traveling wave solutions of the fractional coupled nonlinear SchrÖdinger equation. By using the complete discriminant system method and computer algebra with symbolic computation, a series of new single traveling wave solutions are obtained, which include trigonometric function solutions, Jacobi elliptic function solutions, hyperbolic function solutions, solitary wave solutions and rational function solutions. In order to further explain the propagation of the fractional coupled nonlinear Schr\"{o}dinger equation in nonlinear optics, two-dimensional and three-dimensional graphs are drawn.
Pressure-induced liquid-liquid transition in a family of ionic materials
Authors: Wojnarowska Zaneta , Cheng Shinian , Swadzba-Kwasny Malgorzata , McLaughlin Shannon , Delavoux Yoan , Paluch Marian
Published: June 2021

Liquid−liquid transition (LLT) between two disordered phases of single-component material remains one of the most intriguing physical phenomena. Here, we report a first-order LLT in a series of ionic liquids containing trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium cation [P666,14]+ and anions of different sizes and shapes, providing an insight into the structure-property relationships governing LTT. In addition to calorimetric proof of LLT, we report that ion dynamics exhibit anomalous behavior during the LLT, i.e., the conductivity relaxation times (τσ) are dramatically elongated, and their distribution becomes broader. This peculiar behavior is induced by both isobaric cooling and isothermal compression with the τσ(TLL,PLL) being constant for a given system. The latter observation proves that LLT, in analogy to liquid-glass transition, has an isochronal character. Finally, the magnitude of discontinuity in a specific volume at LLT was examined using the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.