bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The N501Y spike substitution enhances SARS-CoV-2 transmission
Authors: Weaver Scott , Liu Yang , Liu Jianying , Plante Kenneth , Plante Jessica , Xie Xuping , Zhang Xianwen , Ku Zhiqiang , An Zhiqiang , Scharton Dionna , Schindewolf Craig , Menachery Vineet , Shi Pei-Yong 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Beginning in the summer of 2020, a variant of SARS-CoV-2, the cause of the COVID-19 pandemic, emerged in the United Kingdom (UK). This B.1.1.7 variant increased rapidly in prevalence among sequenced strains, attributed to an increase in infection and/or transmission efficiency. The UK variant has 19 nonsynonymous mutations across its viral genome including 8 substitutions or deletions in the spike protein, which interacts with cellular receptors to mediate infection and tropism. Here, using a reverse genetics approach, we show that, of the 8 individual spike protein substitutions, only N501Y exhibited consistent fitness gains for replication in the upper airway in the hamster model as well as primary human airway epithelial cells. The N501Y substitution recapitulated the phenotype of enhanced viral transmission seen with the combined 8 UK spike mutations, suggesting it is a major determinant responsible for increased transmission of this variant. Mechanistically, the N501Y substitution improved the affinity of the viral spike protein for cellular receptors. As suggested by its convergent evolution in Brazil and South Africa, our results indicate that N501Y substitution is a major adaptive spike mutation of major concern.
The association of online search interest with polio cases and vaccine coverage: an infodemiological and ecological study
Authors: Layug Elbert John V. , Espiritu Adrian I. , Calotes–Castillo Loudella V. , Jamora Roland Dominic G 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Achievement of universal eradication of paralytic poliomyelitis has remained a challenge. Despite the general decline in cases, multiple outbreaks attributed to poor vaccination still occur. Noncompliance from vaccination can be improved through education on various media platforms. In the internet age, online health-seeking behavior plays a significant role in this regard. Hence, our study investigated the association between global online search interest in polio with the number of polio cases and vaccination coverage.Methods: This infodemiological and ecological study utilized Google Trends’ search volume index (SVI) for “polio” and the World Health Organization data on the number of polio cases (PC) and vaccine coverage rate (VCR) per country between 2006 to 2019. Associations between SVI for “polio” with PC and with VCR were evaluated.Results: From the years 2006 to 2019, the global inquiry for this term was highest (i.e., SVI at 100) last October 2018. There is a direct correlation between the SVI for “polio” and PC while there is an inverse relationship between SVI and VCR per country per year. Both relationships have weak- to moderate strength of associations. Based on our models, a one-unit increase in the SVI leads to a 3.8% increase in the number of polio cases. On the other hand, a one-unit increase in the SVI leads to a 0.01% decrease in the VCR. Conclusions: Dynamic changes in global SVIs for polio may reflect fluctuations in the number of polio cases and rates of vaccine coverage. Our study brings into light the largely untapped and potential use of online search behavior for polio to anticipate changes in PC and VCR in real-time.
Effects of various nitrogen regimes on the ability of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) to suppress littleseed canarygrass (Phalaris minor Retz.)
Authors: Xu Gaofeng , Shen Shicai , Zhang Yun , Clements David Roy , Yang Shaosong , Dong Liyao , Zhang Fudou 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Littleseed canarygrass (Phalaris minor Retz.) is one of the most troublesome invasive weeds infesting winter crops in Yunnan Province, China. Our previous study found that rapeseed (Bassica napus L.) was a logical candidate crop to control littleseed canarygrass in agroecosystems. Nitrogen (N) could impact plant community composition by altering competitive interactions, however, the effects of different N regimes on weed control efficacy of rapeseed were unknown. Here, we report the effects of different N regimes on the competitiveness of rapeseed with littleseed canarygrass and accompanying differences in photosynthetic characteristics. Results: The results showed that the rapeseed yield and its control efficacy on littleseed canarygrass were significantly affected (P<0.05) under different N regimes, and the control efficacy of littleseed canarygrass by rapeseed increased first and then decreased with the increase of basal nitrogen rates, while increasing topdressing N rates increased control efficacy of littleseed canarygrass by rapeseed. In fact, yield and weed control efficacy of rapeseed was most ideal when both basal and top-dressing N was 90 kg·ha-1. We also found that N significantly impacted the competitive ability of rapeseed to littleseed canarygrass and rapeseed had the highest competitive ability when both basal and top-dressing N was 90 kg·ha-1. With the increase of basal nitrogen rates, competitive balance index (CB) of rapeseed increased initially but decreased beyond an optimal level. CB continually increased with increasing of topdressing N rates. Our research also showed level and period of N application had a significant effect (P<0.01) on the photosynthetic rate (Pn) and chlorophyll content (Chl) of both rapeseed and littleseed canarygrass. Under the same N application regime, the Pn and Chl of littleseed canarygrass were higher than that of rapeseed in December, while the Pn and Chl of rapeseed was higher than that of littleseed canarygrass in February. Our study indicated that photosynthetic characteristics of rapeseed and littleseed canarygrass in different growth stages differ in their sensitivity to N regimes, creating a dynamic competitive relationship. Conclusions: Together, our results demonstrated that optimal application of fertilizer N could help rapeseed produce higher yields and greater weed control efficacy, suggesting that future modeling or experimental studies on utilizing crops to control invasive weeds should carefully consider both timing and placement of N.
Application of Virtual Reality on Non-drug Behavioral Management of&nbsp;Short-term Dental Procedure in Children
Authors: Ran Longkuan , Zhao Nan , Fan Lin , Zhou Pinping , Zhang Chao , Yu Cong 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Backgroud: The inherent characteristics of immersion, imagination, and interactivity in Virtual Reality,it may be suitable for non-drug behavior management of children in dental clinics.The purpose of this trial was to measure the role of virtual reality distraction on the behavior management of short-term dental procedure in Children.Methods: A randomized clinical trial design carried out on 120 children aged between 4 and 8 years to make clear the comparative efficacy of virtual reality and Tell-Show-Do in improve behavioral management of dental procedure.The levels of operative anxiety and pain were assessed using, respectively, Children’s Fear Survey Schedule-Dental Subscale, Visual Analogue Score. Frankl Behavior Rating Scale was tested before and during dental procedure.The length of dental procedure was compared between the two groups after treatment.Results: The average anxiety and behavioral score of virtual reality group were significant reduced than that of control. The decrease score of anxiety score of virtual reality group and control group were IQR 8(7,11) and 5(5,7),p <0.05. The compliance scores of control group in the treatment time were 3(2,3),the same in virtual reality intervention were 3(3,4), p =0.02. We observed a significant reduction in pain by using Virtual Reality distraction(p<0.05). Comparing the length of dental procedure, we found that VR group(19.02±5.32) had shorter treatment time than the control group(27.80±10.40)Conclusion: The use of virtual reality could significantly reduce the anxiety and pain of children , length of dental procedure and improve the compliance of children undergoing short-term dental procedure without adverse reaction.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry :ChiCTR2000029802. Registered on 14th Feb, 2020.
Dynamics based on analysis of public data for spreading of disease
Authors: Lima Leonardo S. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The stochastic model for epidemic spreading of the novel coronavirus disease based on the data set supported by the public health agencies in countries as Brazil, EUA and India is investigated. We perform the numerical analysis using the stochastic differential equation in Itô’s calculus (SDE) for the estimating of novel cases daily as well as analytical calculations solving the correspondent Fokker-Planck equation for the density probability distribution of novel cases, P(N(t); t). Our results display that the model based in the Itô diffusion fits well to the results due to uncertain in the official data and to the number of tests realized in the populations of each country.
Uncertainty assessment of kernel based approaches on scour depth modeling in downstream of ski-jump bucket spillways
Authors: Ghasemlounia Redvan , Saghebian Seyed Mahdi 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
From the hydraulic structures designer's point of view, the scour depth accurate estimation in downstream of spillways is so important. In this study, the scour depth was assessed downstream of ski-jump bucket spillways using two kernel based approaches namely Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Kernel Extreme Learning Machine (KELM). In the model developing process, two states were tested and the impacts of dimensional and non-dimensional parameters on model efficiency were assessed. The best applied model dependability was investigated via Monte Carlo uncertainty analysis. In addition, the model accuracy was compared with some available semi-theoretical formulas. It was observed that the applied models were more successful than available formulas. The sensitivity analysis results showed that q (unit discharge of spillway) variable in the state 1 and q2/[gYt3] (g is gravity acceleration and Yt is tail water depth) variable in the state 2 were the most significant parameters in the modeling process. Comparison among applied methods and one other intelligence approach showed that KELM was more successful in predicting process. The obtained results from uncertainty analysis indicated that the KELM model had an allowable degree of uncertainty in the scour depth modeling.
Superintending Scenedesmus and Chlorella sp. with lead and cobalt tolerance governed via stress biomarkers
Authors: Kashyap Mrinal , Anand Vishal , Ghosh Atreyee , Kiran Bala 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
In this study, Scenedesmus sp. and Chlorella sp. were exposed to 100, 150, 200 mg/L of lead and 10, 50, 100 mg/L of cobalt for 10 days. The chlorophyll content at Pb (200 mg/L) was found to be 2.35 ± 0.15 μg/mL in Scenedesmus sp. and 2.58 ± 0.02 μg/mL in Chlorella sp. on the 10th day. Scenedesmus sp. and Chlorella sp. exposed to Co (100 mg/L) showed a decline in chlorophyll content (0.83 ± 0.09 μg/mL and 0.74 ± 0.08 μg/mL) respectively. Furthermore, Scenedesmus sp. and Chlorella sp. exposed to 100 mg/L of lead showed the highest lipid peroxidation measured using malonaldehyde (MDA) (10.60 μmol/g and 6.24 μmol/g), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (49.04 U/mL and 49.32 U/mL) and catalase (CAT) (237.74 nmol/min/mL and 373.48 nmol/min/mL) activity, respectively. Scenedesmus sp. and Chlorella sp. exposed to 200 mg/L of lead showed elevated MDA (4.89 μmol/g and 5.14 μmol/g), SOD (32.05 U/mL and 37.80 U/mL) and CAT (121.78 nmol/min/mL and 160.46 nmol/min/mL) activity, respectively. Scenedesmus sp. and Chlorella sp. showed a high tolerance for 100 mg/L of lead and 10 mg/L of cobalt. As the concentration of lead and cobalt was increased, cell growth declined and elevated levels of stress biomarkers were observed. This study helps to understand plant tolerance levels and presents their candidature for treating wastewater with high lead and cobalt content.
Application of immobilized mycelium-based pellets for the removal of organochlorine compounds: a review
Authors: Pereira J. C. V. , Serbent M. P. , Skoronski E. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Organochlorines have diverse structures and applications and are included in the list of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) due to their toxicity and environmental persistence. The reduced capacity of conventional wastewater treatment plants to remove these compounds encourages the development of cost-effective and efficient remediation approaches. Fungal biotechnology can contribute to the development of these technologies through their enzymatic machinery but faces several drawbacks related to the use of dispersed mycelium. In this sense, investigations concerning the degradation of organochlorines using immobilized fungi demonstrated an increase in contaminant removal efficiency compared with degradation by free cells. Despite this interest, the mechanisms of immobilized fungi have not been comprehensively reviewed. In this paper, recent advances of laboratory and field studies in organochlorine compounds removal by fungi are reviewed, focusing on the role of immobilization techniques. Firstly, the mechanisms of organochlorines bioconversion by fungi and the factors affecting enzyme activity are elucidated and discussed in detail. Then, the main targeted compounds, fungi, technics, and materials used for immobilization are discussed, as well as their advantages and limitations. Furthermore, critical points for future studies of fungi immobilization for organochlorine removal are proposed.
Phosphorus recovery and recycling from model animal wastewaters using materials prepared from rice straw and corn cobs
Authors: Ding Yifan , Sabatini David A. , Butler Elizabeth C. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Anthropogenic loss of phosphorus to surface waters not only causes environmental problems but depletes valuable phosphorus reserves. In this study, magnesium amended biochars and magnesium silicate, synthesized from corn cobs and rice straw, respectively, were evaluated for phosphorus uptake including the effects of pH and alkalinity. The overall goal was to close the phosphorus loop by recovering phosphorus from animal waste and reusing it as fertilizer. After phosphorus uptake, spent materials were tested for phosphorus release using modified soil tests representing different soil pH and alkalinity conditions. In experiments using model animal wastewaters containing both ammonia and bicarbonate alkalinity, dissolved phosphorus was removed by struvite (MgNH4PO4·6H2O) formation, whereas in deionized water, dissolved phosphorus was removed by adsorption. Alkalinity in the model animal wastewaters competed with phosphate for dissolved or solid-associated magnesium, thereby reducing phosphorus uptake. Spent materials released significant phosphorus in waters with bicarbonate alkalinity. This work shows that abundant agricultural wastes can be used to synthesize solids for phosphorus uptake, with the spent materials having potential application as fertilizers.
The Role of Spiritual Health Experience with Intensity and Duration of Labor
Pain While Childbearing and Postpartum
Authors: Dehestani Hanieh , Tayebi Naeimeh , Moshfeghy Zeinab , Akbarzadeh Marzieh 
Published: March 2021

Background:
The birth of a child is one of the most important events in a mother's life. The use of religious beliefs and spirituality is often considered as a constructive coping strategy in improving the psychological health of individuals.

Objective:
The present study aimed to examine the role of spiritual health experience with intensity and duration of labor pain during childbearing and postpartum.

Materials and Methods:
In a cross-sectional study, a total of 200 pregnant women who were 37-42 weeks pregnant and referred to Shiraz
Medical Hospital for delivery were selected by nonprobability convenience sampling method. Personal and Midwifery Information Questionnaire and Ellison-Paloutzian Spiritual Health Questionnaire were used for data collection. These questionnaires were completed by interviews. Data analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Descriptive test was used for data description and Chi-square test was used for data analysis. The significance level in all testes was set at < 0.05.

Results:
There is a significant negative relationship between the variable of spiritual health and duration of the admission stage until the full opening of the cervix in primipara and multipara. But there is no significant relationship between the variables of complete opening of the cervix to fetal delivery and fetal delivery to placental delivery and maternal spiritual health.

Conclusion:
This study increases our knowledge about spiritual health strategies to prevent labor pains and promote mental health in pregnant women. Midwives should be sensitive to the spiritual health of pregnant women and integrate this element into maternal care.
Preparation and Characterization of Liposomes Double-loaded with Amphotericin B and Amphotericin B/hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex
Authors: Tran Thi H. Yen , Vu Thi T. Giang , Pham Thi M.H. 
Published: March 2021

Background:
Amphotericin B (AMB) is water-insoluble polyene, which has a broad
spectrum of antifungal activity. The hydrophobic drug only exits in the phospholipid bilayer, leading
to a low-drug liposomal loading capacity.

Objectives:
This study is designed to prepare water-soluble inclusion complex (IC) between AMB
and cyclodextrin (CD) to formulate liposomal vesicles, double-loaded with drug molecules in the
phospholipid bilayer and AMB/CD IC in the aqueous core.

Methods:
Water-soluble AMB/CD IC was prepared by pH adjustment of the aqueous media and
consequently characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential scanning
calorimetry (DSC). Liposomes double-loaded with AMB were formulated by the thin-film hydration
method and accordingly evaluated for vesicle size, polydispersity index, entrapment efficiency,
zeta potential, and in vitro drug leakage.

Results:
Hydroxypropyl β cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) better solubilized AMB than both α-CD and β-
CD e.g., the concentration of water-soluble AMB/HP-β-CD IC could reach 465 μg/mL. Both DSC
and SEM data illustrated that the drug no longer existed in its crystalline form, in AMB/HP-β-CD
IC. Liposomes double-loaded with hydrophilic AMB/HP-β-CD IC and hydrophobic AMB had a diameter
of 270 nm, polydispersity index less than 0.27, and zeta potential ca.-42.8 mV. Moreover, liposomes
double-loaded with AMB enhanced drug-liposomal loading capacity by 25%, less leaked
drug in phosphate buffer pH 7.4 at 37°C in comparison to liposomes loaded with only hydrophobic
AMB.

Conclusion:
Liposomes double-loaded with AMB and AMB/HP-β-CD IC increased drug-encapsulation
ability and in vitro stability, suggesting potential drug delivery systems.
Game Experience and Learning Effects of a Scoring-Based Mechanic for Logistical Aspects of Pediatric Emergency Medicine: Development and Feasibility Study
Authors: Zhang Cevin , Baalsrud Hauge Jannicke , Härenstam Karin Pukk , Meijer Sebastiaan 
Published: March 2021

Background
Using serious games for learning in operations management is well established. However, especially for logistics skills in health care operations, there is little work on the design of game mechanics for learning engagement and the achievement of the desired learning goals.

Objective
This contribution presents a serious game design representing patient flow characteristics, systemic resource configurations, and the roles of the players based on a real Swedish emergency ward. The game was tested in a set of game-based learning practices in the modalities of a physical board game and an online multiplayer serious game that implemented the same game structure.

Methods
First, survey scores were collected using the Game Experience Questionnaire Core and Social Presence Modules to evaluate the experience and acceptance of the proposed design to gamify real processes in emergency care. Second, lag sequential analysis was applied to analyze the impact of the game mechanics on learning behavior transitions. Lastly, regression analysis was used to understand whether learning engagement attributes could potentially serve as significant predicting variables for logistical performance in a simulated learning environment.

Results
A total of 36 students from courses in engineering and management at KTH Royal Institute of Technology participated in both game-based learning practices during the autumn and spring semesters of 2019 and 2020. For the Core Module, significant differences were found for the scores for negative affect and tension compared with the rest of the module. For the Social Presence Module, significant differences were found in the scores for the psychological involvement – negative feelings dimension compared with the rest of the module. During the process of content generation, the participant had access to circulating management resources and could edit profiles. The standard regression analysis output yielded a ΔR2 of 0.796 (F14,31=2725.49, P<.001) for the board version and 0.702 (F24,31=2635.31, P<.001) for the multiplayer online version after the learning engagement attributes.

Conclusions
The high scores of positive affect and immersion compared to the low scores of negative feelings demonstrated the motivating and cognitive involvement impact of the game. The proposed game mechanics have visible effects on significant correlation parameters between the majority of scoring features and changes in learning engagement attributes. Therefore, we conclude that for enhancing learning in logistical aspects of health care, serious games that are steered by well-designed scoring mechanisms can be used.