bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of thunderstorms electric field on secondary photons of cosmic ray at large high altitude air shower observatory
Authors: Axikegu  , Zhou Xun-Xiu , Zhang Yun-Feng ,   School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Panzhihua University, Panzhihua 617000, China,   School of Physical Science and Technology, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China,   School of Physics and Engineering Technology, Chengdu Normal College, Chengdu 611130, China
Published: April 2024

Large high altitude air shower observatory (LHAASO) is a complex of extensive air shower (EAS) detector arrays, located on the Mt. Haizi (29°21' N, 100°08' E) at an altitude of 4410 m a. s. l., Daocheng, Sichuan Province, China. The information about primary cosmic rays can be obtained by using data from secondary particles measured at LHAASO, with photons make up the majority among these secondary particles. During thunderstorms, the atmospheric electric field can affect secondary charged particles (mainly positrons and electrons), thus changing the information of photons on the ground. In this work, Monte Carlo simulations are performed to investigate the effects of near-ground thunderstorm electric fields on cosmic ray secondary photons at LHAASO. A simple model with a vertical and uniform atmospheric electric field in a layer of atmosphere is used in our simulations. During thunderstorms, the number and energy of photons are found to significantly change and strongly depend on the electric field strength. In a field of –1000 V/cm (below the threshold of the relativistic runaway electron avalanche (RREA) process), the number of photons is increased by 23%. Also, the spectrum of photons softens, and the increased number of photons with energy less than 2 MeV exceeds 29%. In an electric field of –1700 V/cm (above the threshold of the RREA process), the number of photons experiences exponential growth, with an increase of 279%. The spectrum of photons becomes softer than that at –1000 V/cm, and the increased number with energy less than 2 MeV is more than 361%. It is consistent with the theory of RREA. For these phenomena of photons at LHAASO, the main factor is that the number of positrons and electrons are increased due to the acceleration of negative electric field on electrons, with increase of 65% in –1000 V/cm and 992% in –1700 V/cm, and the spectrum of positrons and electrons soften. Newborn free positrons/electrons may undergo bremsstrahlung and deposit part of their energy into photons, causing the change of number and energy of photons to follow roughly the same pattern as positrons and electrons. The simulation results can provide the information for understanding the variations of the data detected by LHAASO during thunderstorms and the acceleration mechanisms of secondary charged particles caused by an atmospheric electric field.
Ribosome subunit attrition and activation of the p53–MDM4 axis dominate the response of MLL-rearranged cancer cells to WDR5 WIN site inhibition
Authors: Howard Gregory Caleb , Wang Jing , Rose Kristie L , Jones Camden , Patel Purvi , Tsui Tina , Florian Andrea C , Vlach Logan , Lorey Shelly L , Grieb Brian C , Smith Brianna N , Slota Macey J , Reynolds Elizabeth M , Goswami Soumita , Savona Michael R , Mason Frank M , Lee Taekyu , Fesik Stephen , Liu Qi , Tansey William P
Published: April 2024

The chromatin-associated protein WD Repeat Domain 5 (WDR5) is a promising target for cancer drug discovery, with most efforts blocking an arginine-binding cavity on the protein called the ‘WIN’ site that tethers WDR5 to chromatin. WIN site inhibitors (WINi) are active against multiple cancer cell types in vitro, the most notable of which are those derived from MLL-rearranged (MLLr) leukemias. Peptidomimetic WINi were originally proposed to inhibit MLLr cells via dysregulation of genes connected to hematopoietic stem cell expansion. Our discovery and interrogation of small-molecule WINi, however, revealed that they act in MLLr cell lines to suppress ribosome protein gene (RPG) transcription, induce nucleolar stress, and activate p53. Because there is no precedent for an anticancer strategy that specifically targets RPG expression, we took an integrated multi-omics approach to further interrogate the mechanism of action of WINi in human MLLr cancer cells. We show that WINi induce depletion of the stock of ribosomes, accompanied by a broad yet modest translational choke and changes in alternative mRNA splicing that inactivate the p53 antagonist MDM4. We also show that WINi are synergistic with agents including venetoclax and BET-bromodomain inhibitors. Together, these studies reinforce the concept that WINi are a novel type of ribosome-directed anticancer therapy and provide a resource to support their clinical implementation in MLLr leukemias and other malignancies.
Non-Hebbian plasticity transforms transient experiences into lasting memories
Authors: Faress Islam , Khalil Valentina , Hou Wen-Hsien , Moreno Andrea , Andersen Niels , Fonseca Rosalina , Piriz Joaquin , Capogna Marco , Nabavi Sadegh
Published: April 2024

The dominant models of learning and memory, such as Hebbian plasticity, propose that experiences are transformed into memories through input-specific synaptic plasticity at the time of learning. However, synaptic plasticity is neither strictly input specific nor restricted to the time of its induction. The impact of such forms of non-Hebbian plasticity on memory has been difficult to test, hence poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that synaptic manipulations can deviate from the Hebbian model of learning, yet produce a lasting memory. First, we established a weak associative conditioning protocol, where optogenetic stimulation of sensory thalamic input to the amygdala was paired with a footshock, but no detectable memory was formed. However, when the same input was potentiated minutes before or after, or even 24 hours later, the associative experience was converted to a lasting memory. Importantly, potentiating an independent input to the amygdala minutes but not 24 hours after the pairing produced a lasting memory. Thus, our findings suggest that the process of transformation of a transient experience into a memory is neither restricted to the time of the experience nor to the synapses triggered by it; instead, it can be influenced by past and future events.
A novel human pluripotent stem cell-based gene activation system identifies IGFBP2 as a mediator in the production of hematopoietic progenitors in vitro
Authors: Petazzi Paolo , Ventura Telma , Luongo Francesca Paola , McClafferty Heather , May Alisha , Taylor Helen Alice , Shipston Micheal J , Romanò Nicola , Forrester Lesley M. , Menéndez Pablo , Fidanza Antonella
Published: April 2024

A major challenge in the stem cell biology field is the ability to produce fully functional cells from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that are a valuable resource for cell therapy, drug screening and disease modelling. Here we developed a novel inducible CRISPR-mediated activation strategy (iCRISPRa) to drive the expression of multiple endogenous transcription factors important for
in vitro
cell fate and differentiation of iPSCs to haematopoietic progenitor cells and used this to identify a key paracrine role for IGFBP2 in the development of hematopoietic progenitors. We first identified nine candidate transcription factors that we predicted to be involved in blood cell emergence during development, then generated novel gRNAs directed to the transcriptional start site of these transcription factors that could also be detected during scRNAseq. iCRISPRa activation of these endogenous transcription factors resulted in a significant expansion of arterial-fated endothelial cells expressing high levels of IGFBP2 and showed that IGFBP2 remodels the metabolic activity during
in vitro
endothelial to hematopoietic transition. As well as providing fundamental new insights into the mechanisms of haematopoietic cell fate and differentiation, the broader applicability of iCRISPRa provides a valuable tool for studying dynamic processes controlling developmental events as well as for recapitulating abnormal phenotypes characterised by ectopic activation of specific endogenous gene expression in a wide range of systems.
Using normative models pre-trained on cross-sectional data to evaluate intra-individual longitudinal changes in neuroimaging data
Authors: Rehák Bučková Barbora , Fraza Charlotte , Rehák Rastislav , Kolenič Marián , Beckmann Christian , Španiel Filip , Marquand Andre , Hlinka Jaroslav
Published: April 2024

Longitudinal neuroimaging studies offer valuable insight into intricate dynamics of brain development, ageing, and disease progression over time. However, prevailing analytical approaches rooted in our understanding of population variation are primarily tailored for cross-sectional studies. To fully harness the potential of longitudinal neuroimaging data, we have to develop and refine methodologies that are adapted to longitudinal designs, considering the complex interplay between population variation and individual dynamics.We build on normative modelling framework, which enables the evaluation of an individual’s position compared to a population standard. We extend this framework to evaluate an individual’s longitudinal
change
compared to the longitudinal change reflected by the (population) standard dynamics. Thus, we exploit the existing normative models pre-trained on over 58,000 individuals and adapt the framework so that they can also be used in the evaluation of longitudinal studies. Specifically, we introduce a quantitative metric termed
“z-diff”
score, which serves as an indicator of a temporal change of an individual compared to a population standard. Notably, our framework offers advantages such as flexibility in dataset size and ease of implementation.To illustrate our approach, we applied it to a longitudinal dataset of 98 patients diagnosed with early-stage schizophrenia who underwent MRI examinations shortly after diagnosis and one year later.Compared to cross-sectional analyses, which showed global thinning of grey matter at the first visit, our method revealed a significant normalisation of grey matter thickness in the frontal lobe over time. Furthermore, this result was not observed when using more traditional methods of longitudinal analysis, making our approach more sensitive to temporal changes.Overall, our framework presents a flexible and effective methodology for analysing longitudinal neuroimaging data, providing insights into the progression of a disease that would otherwise be missed when using more traditional approaches.
Neural representations of predicted events: Evidence from time-resolved EEG decoding
Authors: Li Ai-Su , Theeuwes Jan , van Moorselaar Dirk
Published: April 2024

Through statistical learning, humans are able to extract temporal regularities, using the past to predict the future. Evidence suggests that learning relational structures makes it possible to anticipate the imminent future; yet, the neural dynamics of predicting the future and its time-course remain elusive. To examine whether future representations are denoted in a temporally discounted fashion, we used the high-temporal-resolution of electroencephalography (EEG). Observers were exposed to a fixed sequence of events at four unique spatial positions within the display. Using multivariate pattern analyses trained on independent pattern estimators, we were able to decode the spatial position of dots within full sequences, and within randomly intermixed partial sequences wherein only a single dot was presented. Crucially, within these partial sequences, subsequent spatial positions could be reliably decoded at their expected moment in time. These findings highlight the dynamic weight changes within the assumed spatial priority map and mark the first implementation of EEG to decode predicted, yet critically omitted events.Utilizing high-temporal-resolution EEG, the dynamic weight changes of assumed spatial priority map were visualized by decoding the spatial position of expected, yet omitted, events at their expected moment in time.
BEND2 is a crucial player in oogenesis and reproductive aging
Authors: Huang Yan , Bucevic Nina , Coves Carmen , Felipe-Medina Natalia , Marcet-Ortega Marina , Nikou Nikoleta , Madrid-Sandín Cristina , Miralles Neus Ferrer , Iborra Antoni , Pendás Alberto M. , Roig Ignasi
Published: April 2024

Reproductive aging, characterized by a decline in female reproductive potential, is a significant biomedical challenge. A key factor in reproductive aging is the depletion of the ovarian reserve, the pool of primordial follicles in the ovary. Recent studies have implicated BEND2, a BEN domain-containing protein family member, in mammalian spermatogenesis. In the testis,
Bend2
expresses two protein isoforms: full-length and truncated. Ablation of both proteins results in an arrested spermatogenesis. Because the
Bend2
locus is on the X chromosome, and the

Bend2
-/y

mutants are sterile,
Bend2
’s role in oogenesis remained elusive.In this study, we employed a novel
Bend2
mutation that completely blocks the expression of the full-length BEND2 protein but allows the expression of the truncated BEND2 isoform. However, this mutation does not confer male sterility, allowing us to investigate BEND2’s role in mice’s oocyte quality, follicular dynamics, and fertility. Our findings demonstrate that full-length BEND2 is dispensable for male fertility, and its ablation leads to impaired oocyte quality, reduced follicular formation, and an accelerated decline in fertility. These results reveal a critical role for BEND2 in oogenesis and provide insights into the mechanisms underlying reproductive aging. Furthermore, these findings hold relevance for the diagnostic landscape of human infertility.
Lineage-specific intersection of endothelin and GDNF signaling in enteric nervous system development
Authors: Poltavski Denise M. , Cunha Alexander T. , Tan Jaime , Sucov Henry M. , Makita Takako
Published: April 2024

Two major ligand-receptor signaling axes – endothelin Edn3 and its receptor Ednrb, and glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and its receptor Ret – are required for migration of enteric nervous system (ENS) progenitors to the hindgut. Mutations in either component cause colonic aganglionosis, also called Hirschsprung disease. Here, we have used Wnt1Cre and Pax2Cre in mice to show that these driver lines label distinct ENS sublineages during progenitor migration and in their terminal hindgut fates. Both Cre lines result in Hirschsprung disease when combined with conditional
Ednrb
or conditional
Ret
alleles. In vitro explant assays and analysis of lineage-labeled mutant embryos show that GDNF but not Edn3 is a migration cue for cells of both lineages. Instead, Edn3-Ednrb function is required in both for GDNF responsiveness, by expanding the Ret
+
population in the Pax2Cre lineage and by supporting Ret function in Wnt1Cre-derived cells. Our results demonstrate that two sublineages of progenitors give rise to the ENS, and that these divergently utilize endothelin signaling to support migration to the hindgut.
Heavy metal levels and human health risk implications associated with fish consumption from the lower Omo river (Lotic) and Omo delta lake (Lentic), Ethiopia
Authors: Kotacho Abiy Andemo , Yimer Girma Tilahun , Sota Solomon Sorsa , Berego Yohannes Seifu
Published: April 2024

This study is the first to determine the levels of heavy metals in commercially important fish species, namely Lates niloticus and Oreochromis niloticus and the potential human health risks associated with their consumption. A total of 120 fish samples were collected from the lower Omo river and Omo delta, with 60 samples from each water source. The fish tissue samples (liver and muscle) were analyzed using a flame atomic absorption spectrometer for nine heavy metals (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn). The human health risk assessment tools used were the target hazard quotient (THQ), the hazard index (HI), and the target cancer risk (TCR). The mean levels of heavy metals detected in the liver and muscle of L. niloticus from the lower Omo river generally occurred in the order Fe > Zn > Pb> Cu > Mn> Cr > Co > Ni and Pb > Cu > Mn > Co > Ni, respectively. The mean levels of metals in the muscle and liver tissues of O. niloticus were in the order Fe > Pb > Zn > Mn > Cu > Cr > Co > Ni and Pb > Zn > Mn > Fe > Cu > Co > Ni, respectively. Similarly, the mean levels of heavy metals detected in the liver and muscle of L. niloticus from Omo delta occurred in the order Fe > Zn > Pb > Cu > Mn > Cr > Co > Ni and Fe > Pb > Zn > Mn > Cu > Co > Cr > Ni, respectively. The mean levels in the muscle and liver tissues of O. niloticus from the Omo delta were in the order Fe > Pb > Zn > Mn > Cu > Cr > Co > Ni and Pb > Fe > Zn > Mn > Co > Cu > Ni, respectively. The study revealed that the THQ values were below 1, indicating that consumption of L. niloticus and O. niloticus from the studied sites does not pose a potential non-carcinogenic health risk. Although the TCR values for Pb in this study were within the tolerable range, it’s mean concentration in the muscle and liver tissues of both fish species from the two water bodies exceeded the permissible limit established by FAO/WHO. This is a warning sign for early intervention, and it emphasizes the need for regular monitoring of freshwater fish. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate the pollution levels and human health risks of heavy metals in fish tissues from lower Omo river and Omo delta for environmental and public health concerns.
Assessment of sealing efficacy, radiopacity, and surface topography of a bioinspired polymer for perforation repair
Authors: Rao Lakshmi Nidhi , Shetty Aditya , Dsouza Neevan , Shetty Heeresh
Published: April 2024

Background

Root perforation repair presents a significant challenge in dentistry due to inherent limitations of existing materials. This study explored the potential of a novel polydopamine-based composite as a root repair material by evaluating its sealing efficacy, radiopacity, and surface topography.

Methods

Confocal microscopy assessed sealing ability, comparing the polydopamine-based composite to the gold standard, mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). Radiopacity was evaluated using the aluminium step wedge technique conforming to ISO standards. Surface roughness analysis utilized atomic force microscopy (AFM), while field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) visualized morphology.

Results

The polydopamine-based composite exhibited significantly superior sealing efficacy compared to MTA (P < 0.001). Radiopacity reached 3 mm aluminium equivalent, exceeding minimum clinical requirements. AFM analysis revealed a smooth surface topography, and FESEM confirmed successful composite synthesis.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates promising properties of the polydopamine-based composite for root perforation repair, including superior sealing efficacy, clinically relevant radiopacity, and smooth surface topography. Further investigation is warranted to assess its clinical viability and potential translation to endodontic practice.
Systematics, distribution patterns and historical biogeography of the Central America wandering spider genus Kiekie Polotow & Brescovit, 2018 (Araneae: Ctenidae)
Authors: Hazzi Nicolas , Hormiga Gustavo
Published: April 2024

Kiekie Polotow & Brescovit, 2018 is a Neotropical genus of Ctenidae, with most of its species occuring in Central America. In this study, we review the systematics of Kiekie and describe five new species and the unknown females of K. barrocolorado Polotow & Brescovit, 2018 and K. garifuna Polotow & Brescovit, 2018, and the unknown male of K. verbena Polotow & Brescovit, 2018. In addition, we described the female of K. montanense which was wrongly assigned as K. griswoldi Polotow & Brescovit, 2018 (both species are sympatric). We provided a modified diagnosis for previously described species based on the morphology of the newly discovered species and in situ photographs of living specimens. We inferred a molecular phylogeny using four nuclear (histone H3, 28S rRNA, 18S rRNA and ITS-2) and three mitochondrial genes (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I or COI, 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA) to test the monophyly of the genus and the evolutionary relationships of its species. Lastly, we reconstruct the historical biogeography and map diversity and endemism distributional patterns of the different species. This study increased the number of known species of Kiekie from 13 to 18, and we describe a new genus, Eldivo which is sister lineage of Kiekie. Most of the diversity and endemism of the genus Kiekie is located in the montane ecosystems of Costa Rica followed by the lowland rainforest of the Pacific side (Limon Basin). Kiekie originated in the North America Tropical region, this genus started diversifying in the Late Miocene and spread to Lower Central America and South America. In that region, Kiekie colonized independently several times the montane ecosystems corresponding to periods of uplifting of Talamanca and Central Cordilleras.
Contrasting effects of increasing dissolved iron on photosynthesis and O2 availability in the gastric cavity of two Mediterranean corals
Authors: Dellisanti Walter , Zhang Qingfeng , Ferrier-Pagès Christine , Kühl Michael
Published: April 2024

Iron (Fe) plays a fundamental role in coral symbiosis, supporting photosynthesis, respiration, and many important enzymatic reactions. However, the extent to which corals are limited by Fe and their metabolic responses to inorganic Fe enrichment remains to be understood. We used respirometry, variable chlorophyll fluorescence, and O2 microsensors to investigate the impact of increasing Fe(III) concentrations (20, 50, and 100 nM) on the photosynthetic capacity of two Mediterranean coral species, Cladocora caespitosa and Oculina patagonica. While the bioavailability of inorganic Fe can rapidly decrease, we nevertheless observed significant physiological effects at all Fe concentrations. In C. caespitosa, exposure to 50 nM Fe(III) increased rates of respiration and photosynthesis, while the relative electron transport rate (rETR(II)) decreased at higher Fe(III) exposure (100 nM). In contrast, O. patagonica reduced respiration, photosynthesis rates, and maximum PSII quantum yield (Fv/Fm) across all iron enrichments. Both corals exhibited increased hypoxia (<50 µmol O2 L−1) within their gastric cavity at night when exposed to 50 and 100 nM Fe(III), leading to increased polyp contraction time and reduced O2 exchange with the surrounding water. Our results indicate that C. caespitosa, but not O. patagonica, might be limited in Fe for achieving maximal photosynthetic efficiency. Understanding the multifaceted role of iron in corals’ health and their response to environmental change is crucial for effective coral conservation.
Exploring exercise-driven exerkines: unraveling the regulation of metabolism and inflammation
Authors: Zhou Nihong , Gong Lijing , Zhang Enming , Wang Xintang
Published: April 2024

Exercise has many beneficial effects that provide health and metabolic benefits. Signaling molecules are released from organs and tissues in response to exercise stimuli and are widely termed exerkines, which exert influence on a multitude of intricate multi-tissue processes, such as muscle, adipose tissue, pancreas, liver, cardiovascular tissue, kidney, and bone. For the metabolic effect, exerkines regulate the metabolic homeostasis of organisms by increasing glucose uptake and improving fat synthesis. For the anti-inflammatory effect, exerkines positively influence various chronic inflammation-related diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis. This review highlights the prospective contribution of exerkines in regulating metabolism, augmenting the anti-inflammatory effects, and providing additional advantages associated with exercise. Moreover, a comprehensive overview and analysis of recent advancements are provided in this review, in addition to predicting future applications used as a potential biomarker or therapeutic target to benefit patients with chronic diseases.
Microbial community structure and carbon transformation characteristics of different aggregates in black soil
Authors: Zhao Danqi , Zhang Wei , Cui Juntao
Published: April 2024

Background

Previous research on whole-soil measurements has failed to explain the spatial distribution of soil carbon transformations, which is essential for a precise understanding of the microorganisms responsible for carbon transformations. The microorganisms involved in the transformation of soil carbon were investigated at the microscopic scale by combining 16S rDNA sequencing technology with particle-level soil classification.

Methods

In this experiment,16S rDNA sequencing analysis was used to evaluate the variations in the microbial community structure of different aggregates in no-tillage black soil. The prokaryotic microorganisms involved in carbon transformation were measured before and after the freezing and thawing of various aggregates in no-tillage black soil. Each sample was divided into six categories based on aggregate grain size: >5, 2–5, 1–2, 0.5–1, 0.25–0.5, <0.25 mm, and bulk soil.

Results

The relative abundance of Actinobacteria phylum in <0.25 mm aggregates was significantly higher compared to that in other aggregates. The Chao1 index, Shannon index, and phylogenetic diversity (PD) whole tree index of <0.25 mm aggregates were significantly smaller than those of in bulk soil and >5 mm aggregates. Orthogonal partial least-squares discrimination analysis showed that the microbial community composition of black soil aggregates was significantly different between <1 and >1 mm. The redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that the organic carbon conversion rate of 0.25–0.5 mm agglomerates had a significantly greater effect on their bacterial community structure. Moreover, humic acid conversion rates on aggregates <0.5 mm had a greater impact on community structure. The linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) analysis and RDA analysis were combined. Bradyrhizobium, Actinoplane, Streptomyces, Dactylosporangium, Yonghaparkia, Fleivirga, and Xiangella in <0.25 mm aggregates were positively correlated with soil organic carbon conversion rates. Blastococcus and Pseudarthrobacter were positively correlated with soil organic carbon conversion rates in 0.25–0.5 mm aggregates. In aggregates smaller than 1 mm, the higher the abundance of functional bacteria that contributed to the soil’s ability to fix carbon and nitrogen.

Discussion

There were large differences in prokaryotic microbial community composition between <1 and >1 mm aggregates. The <1 mm aggregates play an important role in soil carbon transformation and carbon fixation. The 0.25–0.5 mm aggregates had the fastest organic carbon conversion rate and increased significantly more than the other aggregates. Some genus or species of Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria play a positive role in the carbon transformation of <1 mm aggregates. Such analyses may help to identify microbial partners that play an important role in carbon transformation at the micro scale of no-till black soils.
Variational Bayesian phylogenies through matrix representation of tree space
Authors: Bouckaert Remco R.
Published: April 2024

In this article, we study the distance matrix as a representation of a phylogeny by way of hierarchical clustering. By defining a multivariate normal distribution on (a subset of) the entries in a matrix, this allows us to represent a distribution over rooted time trees. Here, we demonstrate tree distributions can be represented accurately this way for a number of published tree distributions. Though such a representation does not map to unique trees, restriction to a subspace, in particular one we call a “cube”, makes the representation bijective at the cost of not being able to represent all possible trees. We introduce an algorithm “cubeVB” specifically for cubes and show through well calibrated simulation study that it is possible to recover parameters of interest like tree height and length. Although a cube cannot represent all of tree space, it is a great improvement over a single summary tree, and it opens up exciting new opportunities for scaling up Bayesian phylogenetic inference. We also demonstrate how to use a matrix representation of a tree distribution to get better summary trees than commonly used maximum clade credibility trees. An open source implementation of the cubeVB algorithm is available from https://github.com/rbouckaert/cubevb as the cubevb package for BEAST 2.
Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation enhances response inhibition and attention allocation in fencers
Authors: Dai Jiansong , Xiao Yang , Chen Gangrui , Gu Zhongke , Xu Kai
Published: April 2024

Background

The aim of this study is to investigate the acute effects of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on reaction time, response inhibition and attention in fencers.

Methods

Sixteen professional female fencers were recruited, and subjected to anodal tDCS and sham stimulation in the primary motor area (M1) one week apart in a randomized, crossover, single-blind design. A two-factor analysis of variance with repeated measures was used to analyze the effects of stimulation conditions (anodal stimulation, sham stimulation) and time (pre-stimulation, post-stimulation) on reaction time, response inhibition, and attention in fencers.

Results

The study found a significant improvement in response inhibition and attention allocation from pre-stimulation to post-stimulation following anodal tDCS but not after sham stimulation. There was no statistically significant improvement in reaction time and selective attention.

Conclusions

A single session of anodal tDCS could improve response inhibition, attention allocation in female fencers. This shows that tDCS has potential to improve aspects of an athlete’s cognitive performance, although we do not know if such improvements would transfer to improved performance in competition. However, more studies involving all genders, large samples, and different sports groups are needed in the future to further validate the effect of tDCS in improving the cognitive performance of athletes.
Variation and interrelationships in the growth, yield, and lodging of oat under different planting densities
Authors: Liu Lingling , Liang Guoling , Liu Wenhui , Ju Zeliang
Published: April 2024

Background

Oat is a dual-purpose cereal used for grain and forage. The demand of oat has been increasing as the understanding of the nutritional, ecological, and economic values of oat increased. However, the frequent lodging during the growing period severely affect the high yielding potential and the quality of the grain and forage of oat.

Methods

Therefore, we used the lodging-resistant variety LENA and the lodging-sensitive variety QY2 as materials, implementing four different planting densities: 2.25×106 plants/ha (D1), 4.5×106 plants/ha (D2), 6.75×106 plants/ha (D3), and 9×106 plants/ha (D4). At the appropriate growth and development stages, we assessed agronomic traits, mechanical characteristics, biochemical compositions, yield and its components. The study investigated the impact of planting density on the growth, lodging, and yield of oat, as well as their interrelationships. Additionally, we identified the optimal planting density to establish a robust crop structure. The research aims to contribute to the high-yield and high-quality cultivation of oat.

Results

We observed that with increasing planting density, plant height, grass and grain yields of both varieties first increased and then decreased; root fresh weight, stem diameter, stem wall thickness, stem puncture strength, breaking strength, compressive strength, lignin and crude fiber contents, and yield components decreased; whereas the lodging rate and lodging coefficient increased. Planting density affects lodging by regulating plant height, height of center of gravity, stem wall thickness, internode length, and root fresh weight of oat. Additionally, it can impact stem mechanical strength by modulating the synthesis of lignin and crude fiber, which in turn affecting lodging resistance. Plant height, height of center of gravity, stem wall thickness, internode length, root fresh weight, breaking strength, compressive strength, lignin and crude fiber content, single-plant weight, grain yield and 1,000-grain weight can serve as important indicators for evaluating oat stem lodging resistance. We also noted that planting density affected grain yield both directly and indirectly (by affecting lodging); high density increased lodging rate and decreased grain yield, mainly by reducing 1,000-grain weight. Nonetheless, there was no significant relationship between lodging and grass yield. As appropriate planting density can increase the yield while maintaining good lodging resistance, in this study, 4.5×106 plants/ha (D2) was found to be the best planting density for oat in terms of lodging resistance and grass and grain yield. These findings can be used as a reference for oat planting.
A siete años de una política de acción afirmativa para el ingreso de mujeres a Ingeniería: Impacto en trayectorias académicas e inclusión en la cultura
Authors: Radovic Darinka , Zúñiga Irigoin Gabriela , Torrent Maluje Catalina , Martinez Salazar Salomé , Celis Guzman Sergio , Gerdzen Hakim Ziomara
Published: April 2024

La baja representación de mujeres en carreras de Ciencia, Tecnología, Ingeniería y Matemáticas (STEM, por su sigla en inglés) es un fenómeno internacional con fuerte presencia en Latinoamérica. Las políticas de acción afirmativa en educación superior han tenido resultados favorables inmediatos para el ingreso, pero queda por dilucidar su impacto en los logros académicos, la permanencia y la inclusión de mujeres en culturas institucionales altamente masculinizadas. Este artículo presenta evidencia empírica de un plan pionero de ingreso de mujeres a un programa de pregrado de Ingeniería en Chile, implementado desde 2014 en una institución de educación superior estatal de alto prestigio. Se aplicaron entrevistas grupales y análisis estadísticos de registros académicos. Los resultados muestran que no hay diferencias significativas en cuanto a la persistencia en el pregrado entre las estudiantes del programa y sus pares. Respecto del rendimiento académico, las diferencias observadas no son significativas al controlar por puntaje de ingreso; es más, las beneficiarias mejoran su rendimiento al avanzar en sus estudios. Este fenómeno tiene efectos en la formación de identidades subjetivas relacionadas con una alta valoración del esfuerzo. Finalmente, se discute sobre las implicancias de estos hallazgos para el desarrollo e implementación de políticas de acción afirmativa en carreras STEM en instituciones de educación superior.
A Rare Case of Chondrolipoma of the Breast
Authors: Agarwal Pooja , Kaushik Nupur , Prakash Shwetank , Singh Himani , Rani Deepa
Published: April 2024

In 1971, Arrigoni MG et al., used the term “hamartoma” for breast lesions in 10 patients who presented with encapsulated breast tumours clinically and grossly resembling fibroadenomas. Hamartomas in breast lesions are very uncommon and include adenolipoma and chondrolipoma. Despite the availability of imaging modalities, it is often difficult to distinguish fibroadenoma from breast carcinoma. Chondrolipoma of the breast is a rare benign mesenchymal tumour composed of adipose and mature cartilaginous tissue, which is often mistaken for malignant lesions in preoperative studies, leading to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Hence, a proper histopathological examination is required for a correct diagnosis. Only eight cases have been reported in the literature. This report presents one such rare case of lump in a 67-year-old female, which was suspected to be a fibroadenoma clinically and radiologically, but was diagnosed as chondrolipoma on histopathological examination. All routine investigations were within normal limits, and a clinical diagnosis of fibroadenoma was made. Mammography was done, comprising fat, soft tissue, and calcific strandings along with coarse calcific specks suggestive of BI-RADS (Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System) Category 3: high probability of being benign.
Assessing Reverse Shock Index as a Survival Predictor for Trauma Patients in Emergency Settings: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Shah Pooja , Shah Arpan , Desai Rutva , Agrawal Anuja
Published: April 2024

ntroduction: Identifying trauma patients with shock is crucial, as early intervention and prompt treatment improve patient prognosis and survival. To address this, the ratio of Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) and Heart Rate (HR), known as the Reverse Shock Index (RSI), is measured. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of RSI calculation in assessing prognosis. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective observational study in which data were retrospectively collected on trauma patients treated in the Emergency Room (ER) at Dhiraj Hospital, Sumandeep Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India, from January 2021 to December 2022. Patients involved in road traffic accidents, fall from a height of ≥6 m, assault, and machinery injuries were included. Upon arrival, vital signs such as HR, SBP, Respiratory Rate (RR), Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), associated injuries, and in-hospital mortality were documented. Any resuscitative procedures required, such as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), intubation, oxygen therapy, chest tube insertion, and blood transfusion, were also recorded. The RSI was calculated for all trauma patients and divided into two groups (RSI <1 and RSI ≥1). The t-test was performed with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI). Results: Out of 363 patients, data from 320 patients were included. Among them, 55 patients (17.2%) had RSI <1, and 265 patients (82.8%) had RSI ≥1. Patients with RSI <1 exhibited lower GCS scores, tachypnoea (RR >29), or bradypnoea (RR <10), along with higher mortality rates. These patients also required resuscitative interventions. Those with RSI <1 experienced more head injuries, thoracic trauma, and maxillofacial injuries (p<0.001). Conclusion: The RSI <1 in trauma patients demonstrated significantly higher predictive accuracy for adverse outcomes, serving as a primary tool for early intervention and aggressive care in the ER.
A Study on the Ex-Situ Conservation and Promotion of Medicinal Plants in Dr. Sushila Tiwari Herbal Garden, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Shravan Pottepaka , Rakesh Modala , Komal Soboro , Panda L. R. Lakshmikanta
Published: April 2024

A study was conducted at the Dr. Sushila Tiwari herbal garden in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, with the aim of scientific documentation and data collection of medicinal plants. The study found there are approximately 126 species present in the herbal garden, trees being the most abundant species followed by shrubs, herbs, climbers and grasses. The major families found in the herbal garden are Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Apocynaceae, Moraceae, Poaceae, and Solanaceae etc. Critically endangered species such as Chlorophytum borivilianum, Endangered species such as Oroxylum indicum, Ginkgo biloba, Cammiphora wightii, Rauvolfia serpentina, and Strychnos lucida. Near threatened species such as Aegle mermelos, were also found in the garden. Herbal gardens are crucial for conserving rare and endangered medicinal plants, while also promoting the utility of commonly available and frequently used medicinal plants among people, beneficiaries and other stakeholders.
Cactaceaes of the Brazilian Semiarid: Source of Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Almeida Leila Magda Rodrigues , Fernandez Luzimar Gonzaga
Published: April 2024

The semiarid region of Brazil stands out as one of the spaces with the highest diversity of plant species in the world, and the Cactaceae family the one that best represents the Brazilian semiarid. However, although there are many species of cacti in Brazil, their chemical potential has yet to be discovered. Given this, the present review aims to record the bioactive metabolites of native cactaceaes or not in Brazil, encompassing a description of its habitat and traditional uses. Compilations of ethnobotanical studies point to the importance of cacti species in the daily life of local cultures. Cactaceaes are used for food, economic, ornamental, and mystical purposes, among others, and stand out for their importance in traditional medicine, used to treat various diseases. Bioactive compounds in this family belong mainly to alkaloid groups, such as betalain, phenolic acids, terpenes and fatty acids. This review displays the relevance of the Cactaceae family in the face of the remarkable production of bioactive compounds.
Media Ethics in the Digital Age
Authors: Nallasamy Anisha , Rajput Manju , Wani Zahid Ahmad , Dar Maryam Khazir , Aakanksha . , Fayaz Sheikh Hibban , S Subiksha , Simon Naveen H
Published: April 2024

The digital revolution has radically transformed the landscape of journalism and broadcasting, offering unparalleled access to information and empowering individuals through citizen journalism on online platforms. However, amidst these advancements, the digital era has brought about numerous intricate ethical issues that require meticulous scrutiny. This paper is dedicated to dissecting and evaluating the profound ethical considerations confronting journalists and broadcasters amidst the digital age's upheaval.
Fertilizers, 1. General
Authors: Scherer Heinrich W. , Mengel Konrad , Kluge Günter , Severin Karl
Published: July 2009

The article contains sections titled:1.Introduction2.Plant Nutrition and Soil Science2.1.Plant Nutrients2.1.1.Definition and Classification2.1.2.Function of Plant Nutrients2.2.Soil Science2.2.1.Soil Classes, Soil Types, and Parent Material2.2.2.Nutrient Retention in Soils2.2.3.Soil pH, Buffer Power, and Liming2.2.4.Soil Water–Plant Relationships2.2.5.Organic Matter of Soils and Nitrogen Turnover2.3.Nutrient Availability2.3.1.Factors and Processes2.3.2.Determination of Available Plant Nutrients in Soils2.4.Physiology of Plant Nutrition2.4.1.Nutrient Uptake and Long‐Distance Transport in Plants2.4.2.Effect of Nutrition on Growth, Yield, and Quality2.5.Nutrient Balance2.5.1.Gains and Losses of Plant Nutrients2.5.2.Alternative Plant Nutrition3.Legal Aspects

Fertilizers are products that improve the levels of available plant nutrients and/or the chemical and physical properties of soil. An overview is given over the chemical and physical aspects of plant nutrition uptake and soil properties. The different categories of fertilizers are discussed, and special interest is given on production processes and analyses, including storage and transportation as well as environmental, legal, and economic aspects.
Biotechnology, 6. Special Applications
Authors: Doelle Horst Werner , Fiechter Armin , van Griensven Martijn , Kasper Cornelia , Pörtner Ralf , Schlegel Günther , Shimizu Sakayu , Stahl Frank , Suck Kirstin , Yamada Hideaki , Zorn Holger
Published: July 2009

The article contains sections titled:1.Mammalian Cell Culture Technology1.1.Introduction1.2.Products from Mammalian Cells1.3.Cell Types1.4.Growth Medium for Cell Culture1.5.Small‐Scale Culture Systems for Routine Use1.6.Types of Bioreactors1.7.Process Strategies1.8.Downstream Processes1.9.Regulatory and Safety Issues2.Tissue Engineering2.1.Application of Tissue Engineering2.2.Principle of Tissue Engineering2.3.Strategies2.4.The Essentials2.5.Cells2.6.Biomatrices2.7.Bioreactors for Tissue Engineering2.8.Growing New from Old3.Biotechnology and Food3.1.Production of Food Additives by Cell Culture Systems3.1.1.Amino Acids3.1.2.Organic Acids3.1.3.Vitamins3.1.4.Sweet Compounds3.1.5.Sugar Alcohols3.1.6.Microbial Saccharides3.1.7.Conjugated Linoleic Acids (CLA)3.1.8.Lactulose3.2.Enzyme‐Catalyzed Processes3.2.1.Starch‐Modifying Enzymes3.2.2.Lipases3.2.3.Pectin‐Degrading Enzymes3.2.4.Chymosin (Aspartic Protease)4.Biotechnology and Health4.1.Individualized Medicine4.2.Clinical Diagnosis as Indicated in Genetic Anomalies in Cancer4.3.Pharmaceutical Development4.4.Define Molecular Mechanisms of Toxicity4.5.Detection of Genetically Modified Organisms
Stability of Second Generation Grubbs’ Alkylidenes to Primary Amines: Formation of Novel Ruthenium‐Amine Complexes
Authors: Wilson Gerald O. , Porter Keith A. , Weissman Haim , White Scott R. , Sottos Nancy R. , Moore Jeffrey S.
Published: July 2009

The stability of second generation Grubbs’ alkylidenes to primary amines relative to the first generation derivatives is investigated. For both Grubbs’ alkylidene derivatives, the tricyclohexylphosphine (PCy3) ligand is displaced by n‐butylamine and diethylenetriamine. However, while displacement of PCy3 in first generation Grubbs’ alkylidene derivatives results in decomposition of the catalyst, the N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligand in second generation derivatives is not displaced by primary amines present in up to 100 equivalents. The result is the formation of new stable ruthenium‐amine complexes. These complexes are characterized and their catalytic activity is evaluated in ring‐closing metathesis (RCM) and ring‐opening metathesis (ROMP) reactions. While the amine complexes evaluated were minimally active in RCM reactions, the ruthenium‐butylamine complex was significantly active in ROMP and exhibited an initiation rate constant that was at least an order of magnitude greater than that of the second generation Grubbs’ alkylidene from which it was synthesized.
Efficient Aerobic Oxidation of Alcohols using a Hydrotalcite‐Supported Gold Nanoparticle Catalyst
Authors: Mitsudome Takato , Noujima Akifumi , Mizugaki Tomoo , Jitsukawa Koichiro , Kaneda Kiyotomi
Published: July 2009

Hydrotalcite‐supported gold nanoparticles (Au/HT) were found to be a highly efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the aerobic oxidation of alcohols under mild reaction conditions (40 °C, in air). This catalyst system does not require any additives and is applicable to a wide range of alcohols, including less reactive cyclohexanol derivatives. This Au/HT catalyst could also function in the oxidation of 1‐phenylethanol under neat conditions; the turnover number (TON) and turnover frequency (TOF) reached 200,000 and 8,300 h−1, respectively. These values are among the highest values compared to those of other reported catalyst systems at high conversion. Moreover, the Au/HT can be recovered by simple filtration and reused without any loss of its activity and selectivity.
Effects of bias combustion on volatile nitrogen transformation
Authors: Zhang Xiaohui , Sun Shaozeng , Sun Rui , Li Xiaoli , Zeng Guang
Published: July 2009

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are among the principal pollutants from coal combustion, which have caused serious environmental issues around the world. Many advanced combustion systems have been developed to reduce NOx emissions. Technologies that combine low NOx burners (LNB) and air staging systems have been widely used as they can control the formation of volatile NOx effectively. In this paper, the process of volatile nitrogen release was simulated using the FG–DVC pyrolysis model, in order to provide reliable reference for designing LNBs and air staging combustion systems. The mechanism of NOx emission from volatile N in a combustion system was studied with CHEMKIN 4.1 package, which demonstrated that noticeable reduction of NOx could be obtained at an equivalence ratio (ER) of 1.22, which was 3–4% and 10–15% higher than that at an ER of 0.77 and 0.39, respectively. Sensitivity study of all basic reactions indicated that NH2 and HCNO radicals are the major inter‐compounds which can reduce NO at bias combustion conditions. Copyright © 2009 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stability of sulfonated polytriazole and polyoxadiazole membranes
Authors: Ponce Mariela Leticia , Roeder Jerusa , Gomes Dominique , Nunes Suzana P.
Published: July 2009

The performance and stability of sulfonated polytriazoles with polymer backbones containing diphenyl ether (S‐DPE‐PT) and hexafluorisopropylidene groups (S‐FPT) were compared, aiming their application as proton conductive membranes for fuel cell. The chemical stability of both membranes were compared and analyzed by infrared spectroscopy after 24 h heating at temperatures up to 250 °C. The superior stability of the fluorinated polytriazole was confirmed. Copyright © 2009 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.