bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge Management among Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOS) in Nairobi City County, Kenya
Authors: Wasinda Jackline , Kiplang’at Joseph , Chebon Philemon
Published: November 2024

Rationale of Study – Savings and Credit Cooperative (SACCO) movement in Kenya plays a critical role in national development by eradicating poverty amongst citizens. However, the SACCO sector faces numerous challenges which include weak and non-standard processes, shifting markets, rapid product obsolescence, hyper competition and financial upheavals. The aim of this study was to explore the potential of knowledge management as a strategy for achieving competitive advantage among SACCOs in Nairobi City County in Kenya.Methodology – The study was informed by ‘Knowledge-based theory of the firm’ published by Carla Curado in 1959. The theory states that knowledge is the most strategically-significant resource in a firm. Qualitative method was employed in gathering data from three purposively selected SACCOs in Nairobi City County. Purposive sampling was further used to select heads of key departments, records officers, and ICT personnel as respondents in the study. Data was collected through unstructured interviews. The data was analysed thematically.Findings – The study revealed that SACCOs lack structured approaches to manage knowledge. The study concludes that the haphazard knowledge management practices cannot be equated to good knowledge management practices and cannot give SACCOs a competitive advantage. The study also revealed that negative personality traits, unhealthy competition, and lack of mutual trust amongst staff hindered effective knowledge management. It also emerged that operational factors like lack of resources, lack of top management support, and demanding work schedules also affected the ability of staff to share knowledge.Implications – The findings of this study may benefit SACCOs seeking to understand and manage their unique knowledge to remain competitive.Originality – This is an original and empirical study on a subject which is less explored especially in Kenya.
The Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Attaining Kenya’s Vision 2030: A Literature Review
Authors: Kibe Lucy
Published: November 2024

Rationale of Study – Indigenous knowledge (IK) is the traditional knowledge that is exclusive to a culture or society. In the knowledge-based economy, there is need for policy makers to innovatively use indigenous knowledge to realise their development targets. Unfortunately, IK has been abandoned, defamed and suppressed by most people due to either them being ignorant or arrogant. Thus, the role of indigenous knowledge in socioeconomic development remains unexplored. It is not strange, therefore, that the role of indigenous knowledge in the realisation of Kenya’s Vision 2030 is unclear. This study analysed the potential role that IK can play in the realisation of the social and economic pillars of Kenya’s Vision 2030.Methodology – The study was designed as exploratory research. Data was collected through content analysis of the Vision 2030 and the documents of the projects implemented under it.Findings – The findings indicate that IK has been integrated to projects in agriculture, education and tourism. However, the integration of IK in environmental conservation, health, cottage industry, reconciliation and values was inadequate. The challenges inhibiting the adequate integration of IK in these sectors included IK property rights, national policies, role of ICTs, controversial aspects of IK, and the tacit nature of IK.Implications – The government of Kenya and other stakeholders can use the findings of this study to leverage on indigenous knowledge on socio-economic development.Originality – Although this paper relies on existing literature, it nonetheless provides new perspectives to the topic. Hence it is original in terms of context, scope and application.
Mentoring for Sustaining and Maintaining Professionalism in Nigerian Academic Libraries
Authors: Modupe Olayemi Oluwabiyi
Published: November 2024

Rationale of Study – This paper highlights the usefulness of mentoring in sustaining professionalism among academic librarians in Nigeria. The paper identifies who a librarian is, the cardinal elements of a profession, the code of ethics of librarianship and why it is important for librarians to follow the rules and regulations of the profession.Methodology – A quantitative research design was selected for this study to investigate the views of librarians on mentoring for sustaining professionalism in Nigerian academic libraries. The study used questionnaires to collect data which was analysed quantitatively.Findings – The key findings showed that majority of the respondents are into one form of mentoring. Results also showed that there are benefits in mentoring and it should be encouraged and sustained for professional development. The paper concludes that mentoring is a tool needed for building future librarians and required for taking the profession to its expected destination.Implications – The results of the study will help librarians and library associations to appreciation and encourage mentoring in the profession and do all to sustain professionalism through mentoring.Originality – The paper’s contribution to knowledge lies in its evidence to support the position that librarians need mentoring to facilitate productivity and professionalism in academic libraries.
Management and Use of Indigenous Knowledge in Selected Public Institutions in the Nairobi City County, Kenya
Authors: Wamugi Maina Samuel , Nyabuto Kemoni Henry , Mwai Naomi
Published: November 2024

Rationale of Study – The aim of the study was to investigate how indigenous knowledge is managed and used in selected public institutions within Nairobi City County, Kenya. The specific objectives were to establish how indigenous knowledge is acquired from local communities; explore the forms of indigenous knowledge managed and used; examine the indigenous knowledge management and use processes; investigate the challenges and opportunities in the management and use of indigenous knowledge; and recommend how to improve the management and use of indigenous knowledge.Methodology – The researcher adopted a qualitative research approach using a multiple case study design. Data was collected from 16 officers drawn from the National Museum of Kenya, Kenya National Library Service, Kenya National Archives and Documentation Service, and Kenya Medical Research Institute which deal with the management and use of indigenous knowledge in Nairobi City County.Findings – The institutions lacked policies to guide the acquisition of indigenous knowledge from local communities. There were various forms of indigenous knowledge managed and used in the public institutions. However, there were no guidelines for their management and use. The study concluded that although indigenous knowledge plays a significant role, it was neither properly managed nor used. Therefore, there is need to properly harness and manage its use.Implications – The study recommends the formulation of a proper legal framework to guide the management and use of indigenous knowledge. There is also need for adequate allocation of resources, publicity and setting up of more indigenous knowledge repositories.Originality – This paper is based on a Master of Science in Information and Knowledge Management dissertation written at the Technical University of Kenya in 2018.
User satisfaction with bank enterprise human resource planning systems in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Abiola Oseni Mohammed , Michael Olatokun Wole , Mohamed Matimbwa Hadija , David Oladokun Bolaji
Published: November 2024

Rationale of Study – The study evaluated the effectiveness of and user satisfaction with enterprise human resource planning systems by staff of commercial banks in Lagos State, Nigeria, using information, service and system quality constructs.Methodology – A structured questionnaire and interview schedule were used for data collection. The questionnaire was administered to 140 respondents. Collected data were subjected to descriptive statistics, Pearson bivariate correlation, multiple regression, and thematic analysis.Findings – The respondents were highly satisfied with their banks’ service, information, and EHRP system quality. Information, service, and system quality all had significant positive relationships with user satisfaction; however, system quality has the most significant impact. The core challenges with EHRP are inadequate training, user unfriendliness, difficulty navigating, and poor interface design.Implications – The research underscores the need for banks to prioritise system quality improvements, such as enhancing user-friendliness and interface design, to ensure that employees can effectively utilize these systems.Originality – This research offers a novel application of the DeLone and McLean IS Success Model in the context of EHRP systems within the banking sector.
The influence of social media on knowledge-sharing practices among women entrepreneurs in Windhoek, Namibia
Authors: Anna Leonard , Kiana Lucy
Published: November 2024

Rationale of Study – This study investigated the knowledge sharing of entrepreneurs in the realms of social media technology. It explores how social media influences women entrepreneurs' knowledge-sharing and business processes in Windhoek, Namibia.Methodology – The study adopted a qualitative case study design, using semistructured interviews to collect data from female entrepreneurs in Windhoek. Twenty woman entrepreneurs were sampled using snowball sampling. A qualitative content analysis was used to analyse the data.Findings – The study's results show that social media is significant for sharing knowledge and creating and seeking knowledge. Women entrepreneurs apply knowledge shared on social media to advance their business processes and enhance the skills of their workforce. WhatsApp, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram are the most commonly used social platforms. The study also highlights the potential benefits women entrepreneurs gain from using social media, such as cost-effective marketing and advertising platforms, the ability to engage with a broader population and collaborate with fellow entrepreneurs, the ability to get feedback from customers on services and products, which in turn improve customer loyalty, brand identity and reputation.Implications – The findings of this study have practical implications for supporting organisations such as libraries in providing training to business enterprises concerning knowledge management and sharing.Originality – This study adds new insights and perspectives on how women entrepreneurs use information and communication technologies (ICTs) by accentuating social media as a tool for knowledge management in a developing country. The study findings are significant to business enterprises and institutions supporting women entrepreneurs in countries with contexts similar to Namibia’s
Application of ICTs in Transforming Agricultural Extension
Authors: Kilemba Gwademba Goudian , Wambiri Muthee Daniel , Mulongo Masinde Johnson
Published: November 2024

Purpose - The purpose of this study was to investigate how extension service providers employed ICTs in transforming agricultural extension information service delivery in Tana River County, Kenya. The study examined how the application of ICTs can help to transform public extension service delivery thereby improving the farmers’ access to agricultural information.Methodology – Data was collected from 456 farmers in Tana River County in Kenya. The farmers were identified using simple random sampling. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and interview guides. Data analysis was performed using simple descriptive statistics.Findings - The findings revealed that there was limited application of ICTs in the dissemination of agricultural extension information in Tana River County, Kenya. However, where application was prominent, an increase in productivity was noted.Implications – The findings of this study may be used by the County Government of Tana River and the national Government of Kenya to improve agricultural productivity in the country through improved extension services.Originality – The study was an original research conducted in a remote food-insecure county in Kenya. It links agricultural productivity to effective access to extension information services supported by ICTs.
Surgery for bronchiectasis in children living with HIV: A case series from a low- to middle-income country
Authors: Peens-Hough H , Goussard P , Rhode D , Van Wyk L , Janson J
Published: November 2024

Background. Bronchiectasis (BE) in children living with HIV (CLWH) remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in tuberculosis (TB)-endemic low- and middle-income countries. Treatment modalities for BE in CLWH currently focus mainly on prevention of infections and management of symptoms, while surgical management is indicated for a select group. In contrast, surgical management in non-cystic fibrosis BE is well established.
Objectives. To describe the indications for and complications of surgical resection for BE in CLWH, and to identify variables influencing outcome.
Methods. A retrospective medical records review was conducted of all CLWH aged ≤14 years who underwent surgical resection for BE at Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa, between 1 January 2007 and 30 September 2014. The variables collected included immune status, antiretroviral treatment (ART), previous treatment for TB, operative and postoperative complications, and postoperative symptom relief.
Results. Twelve CLWH on ART with symptomatic BE underwent surgical resection. The mean age was 7 years and the mean CD4 count 970 cells/μL. Indications for surgery included recurrent infections, chronic cough and persistent lobar collapse. The most common procedures were left lower lobe lobectomy (42%), left pneumonectomy (17%) and right bilobectomy (17%). Complications were limited to persistent pneumothorax after surgery in one child. There were no deaths. Ten children (83%) showed significant improvement of symptoms at follow-up.
Conclusion. Surgical resection for BE in CLWH can be performed safely with a low complication rate, resulting in significant improvement of symptoms postoperatively.
Pulmonary manifestations of the idiopathic inflammatory myopathies in a South African population
Authors: Hes T , Wong M , Tikly M , Govind N
Published: November 2024

Background. Pulmonary complications cause significant morbidity and mortality in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs).
Objectives. To describe the frequency and spectrum of pulmonary complications in patients with IIMs in South Africa (SA).
Methods. A retrospective records review of adult patients with IIMs or clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis (CADM) presenting with respiratory complaints at a tertiary care facility in SA was performed. Clinical features, results of laboratory and pulmonary function tests (PFTs), radiological findings and treatment were recorded.
Results. Pulmonary complications were documented in 66 patients. Most patients (n=41; 62.1%) had dermatomyositis, 14 (21.2%) had polymyositis, and 3 (4.5%) had CADM. There were 8 patients with overlap syndromes. Dyspnoea and a dry cough were the most common presenting symptoms, in 52 (78.8%) and 36 (54.5%) patients, respectively. Bibasal crackles were noted in 38 patients (57.6%). Interstitial lung disease (ILD), followed by infection and pulmonary hypertension (PH), were documented in 46 (69.7%), 16 (24.2%) and 9 (13.6%) patients, respectively. Nine patients had microbiologically confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis. Patients who were anti-Jo1 antibody positive (n=16) had higher levels of acute inflammatory markers and muscle enzymes compared with the rest of the patients (p<0.0001). Dyspnoea and bibasal crackles were associated with significantly lower baseline and 12-month lung function parameters. Nonspecific interstitial pneumonia was the most common radiological pattern of ILD, present in 25 (62.5%) of the patients with ILD.
Conclusion. ILD was the most prevalent complication in this study of SA patients with IIMs. Pulmonary infections and PH were also significant contributors to morbidity. The presence of dyspnoea and crackles was predictive of lower baseline PFTs in this population.
The promise of rituximab in connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease
Authors: Wong M L
Published: November 2024

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Arsitektur naratif Bajawa Flores berbasis sajak Su'i Uwi
Authors: Rowa Maria Angela , Asharhani Imaniar Sofia , Hibrawan Abdullah
Published: November 2024

Tulisan ini mengulas tentang penerapan narasi sajak Su’i Uwi dalam proses perancangan proyek akademik arsitektur yang berlokasi di Bajawa, Flores. Sajak Su’i Uwi merupakan narasi asal usul etnis Bajawa yang dinyanyikan dalam salah satu prosesi Reba, suatu festival tahunan etnis tersebut. Studi ini mengangkat proyek perancangan resort sebagai upaya mendukung program destinasi wisata prioritas yang berlokasi pada Kabupaten Ngada, terutama berbagai area perkampungan tradisional  yang masih belum banyak dikunjungi. Wisatawan yang akan memulai rute perjalanan dari destinasi Labuan Bajo ke Ende maupun arah sebaliknya akan melewati Kota Bajawa, Ngada tersebut, sehingga meningkatkan relevansi studi ini. Pemahaman terkait narasi sajak Su’i Uwi merupakan bagian dari upaya pengembangan kota yang tidak hanya mengejar peningkatan ekonomi daerah namun juga mempertimbangkan aspek kebudayaan lokal. Studi ini membangun pemahaman terkait narasi sajak Su’i uwi berdasarkan studi literatur, wawancara dengan Mosalaki [tetua] suku pemilik lahan lokasi perencanaan resort di Late, dan observasi daerah setempat sebagai landasan penerapan pendekatan naratif dalam perancangan. Identifikasi mekanisme arsitektur naratif terkait struktur, framing, dan sequence yang dibangun dari sajak Su’i Uwi menjadi bagian dari pengembangan berbagai aspek perancangan resort tersebut. Pemahaman akan pemanfaatan narasi sajak Su’i Uwi dalam proses desain menjadi bagian dari eksplorasi perancangan naratif berbasis aspek lokalitas di masyarakat.
 
This paper examines the utilisation of the Su’i Uwi poetry as the basis of a narrative architectural exploration in Bajawa, Flores. The Su’i Uwi poetry is a narrative originated from the Bajawa ethnic group, which is sung during the Reba ceremonies, a form of annual festival of the area. This study develops the resort design project in support of the tourism destination program in the prioritised Ngada Regency, particularly in the traditional kampungs areas that have not been properly explored. This study is especially timely as travellers en route from Labuan Bajo to Ende, or vice versa, will pass through the town of Bajawa and require support from such resort facility. The utilisation of Su’i Uwi poetry is part of the development efforts that does not only pursue regional economic enhancement but also consider local aspects of culture. This study builds an understanding of the Su’i Uwi narrative through literature reviews, interviews with Mosalaki [the elders] of the land-owning tribe in Late, and field observations as the foundation to explore a narrative approach in architectural design. Identifying the mechanism of narrative architecture related to structure, framing, and sequence derived from the Su’i Uwi poetry expands the discussion of design based on the local culture of the community.
The digital preservation of the Padley Mill as both heritage and knowledge
Authors: Ren Xiang , Doğan Huriye Armağan
Published: November 2024

Architecture is a form of tacit knowledge in which ideas can be learnt from the past, and that body of tacit knowledge can be recorded in order to give relevant guidance to today's productions. This methodological paper presents a timely reflection that seeks to document the digitisation of Padley Mill in the Grindleford Village of the U.K., which was the key design output and built heritage of the late British academic and architect Peter Blundell Jones. The paper starts with a brief review on the current developments on digital reality capture methods in architectural heritage studies, followed by the Padley Mill digital preservation case study via its three work stages utilising LiDAR data and photogrammetry data. It closes with a humanities echo after the historian-designer on the layering and storytelling of the historic environment. The distinction of this paper is it combines and enhances the digital visualisation and storytelling of endangered architectural heritage through 3D LiDAR scanning and digital photogrammetry, promoting further methodological debates in the digital preservation of architectural heritage.
Synaptic connectome of a neurosecretory network in the Drosophila brain
Authors: McKim Theresa H , Gera Jayati , Gayban Ariana J , Reinhard Nils , Manoli Giulia , Hilpert Selina , Helfrich-Förster Charlotte , Zandawala Meet
Published: November 2024

Hormones mediate inter-organ signaling which is crucial in orchestrating diverse behaviors and physiological processes including sleep and activity, feeding, growth, metabolism and reproduction. The pars intercerebralis and pars lateralis in insects represent major hubs which contain neurosecretory cells (NSC) that produce various hormones. To obtain insight into how hormonal signaling is regulated, we have characterized the synaptic connectome of NSC in the adult
Drosophila
brain. Identification of neurons providing inputs to multiple NSC subtypes implicates diuretic hormone 44-expressing NSC as a major coordinator of physiology and behavior. Surprisingly, despite most NSC having dendrites in the subesophageal zone (primary taste processing center), gustatory inputs to NSC are largely indirect. We also deciphered pathways via which diverse olfactory inputs are relayed to NSC. Further, our analyses revealed substantial inputs from descending neurons to NSC, suggesting that descending neurons regulate both endocrine and motor output to synchronize physiological changes with appropriate behaviors. In contrast to NSC inputs, synaptic output from NSC is sparse and mostly mediated by corazonin NSC. Therefore, we additionally determine putative paracrine interconnectivity between NSC subtypes and hormonal pathways from NSC to peripheral tissues by analyzing single-cell transcriptomic datasets. Our comprehensive characterization of the
Drosophila
neurosecretory network connectome provides a platform to understand complex hormonal networks and how they orchestrate animal behaviors and physiology.
Conformational dynamics of a nicotinic receptor neurotransmitter site
Authors: Singh Mrityunjay , Indurthi Dinesh C , Mittal Lovika , Auerbach Anthony , Asthana Shailendra
Published: November 2024

Agonists increase receptor activity by providing net-favorable binding energy to active versus resting conformations of their target sites. We used molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to explore dynamics of the low-to-high affinity conformational change (L→H) at the
Torpedo
α–δ nicotinic acetylcholine receptor neurotransmitter site, using 4 agonists. Alternative conformations were identified in trajectories generated from a single starting structure by matching approximate binding energies calculated
in silico
with exact values measured experimentally
in vitro
. In all simulations, the L→H transition started with a rotation of the agonist about its cationic center (’flip’), followed by a staged downward displacement of loop C (’flop’) and the formation of a compact, hydrophobic and stable high-affinity pocket (’fix’). Agonist rotation and a transient intermediate state are only in simulations but can be confirmed or refuted, for example by time-resolved structures.
TIPE drives a cancer stem-like phenotype by promoting glycolysis via PKM2/HIF-1α axis in melanoma
Authors: Tian Maojin , Yang Le , Zhao Ziqian , Li Jigang , Wang Lianqing , Yin Qingqing , Hu Wei , Lou Yunwei , Du Jianxin , Zhao Peiqing
Published: November 2024

TIPE (TNFAIP8) has been identified as an oncogene and participates in tumor biology. However, how its role in the metabolism of tumor cells during melanoma development remains unclear. Here, we demonstrated that TIPE promoted glycolysis by interacting with pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) in melanoma. We found that TIPE induced PKM2 dimerization, thereby facilitating its translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. TIPE-mediated PKM2 dimerization consequently promoted HIF-1α activation and glycolysis, which contributed to melanoma progression and increased its stemness features. Notably, TIPE specifically phosphorylated PKM2 at Ser 37 in an ERK-dependent manner. Consistently, the expression of TIPE was positively correlated with the levels of PKM2 Ser37 phosphorylation and cancer stem cell markers in melanoma tissues from clinical samples and tumor bearing mice. In summary, our findings indicate that the TIPE/PKM2/HIF-1α signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in promoting cancer stem cell properties by facilitating the glycolysis, which would provide a promising therapeutic target for melanoma intervention.
RAS-p110a signalling in macrophages is required for effective inflammatory response and resolution of inflammation
Authors: Rosell Alejandro , Krygowska Agata A , Pérez Marta Alcón , Cuesta Cristina , Voisin Mathieu-Benoit , de Paz Juan , Sanz-Fraile Héctor , Rajeeve Vinothini , Berral-González Alberto , Carreras-González Ana , Swinyard Ottilie , Gabandé-Rodriguez Enrique , Downward Julian , Alcaraz Jordi , Anguita Juan , García-Macías Carmen , Rivas Javier De Las , Cutillas Pedro , Castellano Esther
Published: November 2024

Macrophages are crucial in the body’s inflammatory response, with tightly regulated functions for optimal immune system performance. Our study reveals that the RAS-p110α signalling pathway, known for its involvement in various biological processes and tumorigenesis, regulates two vital aspects of the inflammatory response in macrophages: the initial monocyte movement and later-stage lysosomal function. Disrupting this pathway, either in a mouse model or through drug intervention, hampers the inflammatory response, leading to delayed resolution and the development of more severe acute inflammatory reactions in live models. This discovery uncovers a previously unknown role of the p110α isoform in immune regulation within macrophages, offering insight into the complex mechanisms governing their function during inflammation. With emerging potential to activate p110α using small molecules, targeting the RAS-p110α pathway could be a promising approach for treating chronic inflammation. This therapeutic prospect holds significant promise for easing inflammatory disorders and improving the quality of life for affected patients.
The protective roles of Eugenol on type 1 diabetes mellitus through NRF2 mediated oxidative stress pathway
Authors: Jiang Yalan , He Pingping , Sheng Ke , Peng Yongmiao , Wu Huilan , Qian Songwei , Ji Weiping , Guo Xiaoling , Shan Xiaoou
Published: November 2024

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), known as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, is characterized by persistent hyperglycemia resulting from damage to the pancreatic β cells and an absolute deficiency of insulin, leading to multi-organ involvement and a poor prognosis. The progression of T1DM is significantly influenced by oxidative stress and apoptosis. The natural compound eugenol (EUG) possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties. However, the potential effects of EUG on T1DM had not been investigated. In this study, we established the streptozotocin (STZ)-induced T1DM mouse model
in vivo
and STZ-induced pancreatic β cell MIN6 cell model
in vitro
to investigate the protective effects of EUG on T1DM, and tried to elucidate its potential mechanism. Our findings demonstrated that the intervention of EUG could effectively induce the activation of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (NRF2), leading to an up-regulation in the expressions of downstream proteins NQO-1 and HO-1, which are regulated by NRF2. Moreover, this intervention exhibited a significant amelioration in pancreatic β cell damage associated with T1DM, accompanied by an elevation in insulin secretion and a reduction in the expression levels of apoptosis and oxidative stress related markers. Furthermore, ML385, an NRF2 inhibitor, reversed these effects of EUG. The present study suggested that EUG exerted protective effects on pancreatic β cells in T1DM by attenuating apoptosis and oxidative stress through the activation of the NRF2 signaling pathway. Consequently, EUG holds great promise as a potential therapeutic candidate for T1DM.
Syngap1 regulates the synaptic drive and membrane excitability of Parvalbumin-positive interneurons in mouse auditory cortex
Authors: Francavilla Ruggiero , Chattopadhyaya Bidisha , Kamda Jorelle Linda Damo , Jadhav Vidya , Kourrich Saïd , Michaud Jacques L , Di Cristo Graziella
Published: November 2024

SYNGAP1 haploinsufficiency-related intellectual disability (SYNGAP1-ID) is characterized by moderate to severe ID, generalized epilepsy, autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing dysfunction and other behavioral abnormalities. While numerous studies have highlighted a role of Syngap1 in cortical excitatory neurons development; recent studies suggest that Syngap1 plays a role in GABAergic inhibitory neuron development as well. However, the molecular pathways by which Syngap1 acts on GABAergic neurons, and whether they are similar or different from the mechanisms underlying its effects in excitatory neurons, is unknown. Here, we examined whether, and how, embryonic-onset
Syngap1
haploinsufficiency restricted to GABAergic interneurons derived from the medial ganglionic eminence (MGE) impacts their synaptic and intrinsic properties in adult primary auditory cortex (A1). We found that
Syngap1
haploinsufficiency affects the intrinsic properties, overall leading to increased firing threshold, and decreased excitatory synaptic drive of Parvalbumin (PV)+ neurons in adult Layer IV A1, whilst Somatostatin (SST)+ interneurons were mostly resistant to
Syngap1
haploinsufficiency. Further, the AMPA component of thalamocortical evoked-EPSC was decreased in PV+ cells from mutant mice. Finally, we found that the selective blocking of voltage-gated D-type K+ currents was sufficient to rescue PV+ mutant cell-intrinsic properties to wild-type levels. Together, these data suggest that
Syngap1
plays a specific role in the maturation of PV+ cell intrinsic properties and synaptic drive, and its haploinsufficiency may lead to reduced PV cell recruitment in the adult A1, which could in turn contribute to the auditory processing alterations found in SYNGAP1-ID preclinical models and patients.
Predictive models for secondary epilepsy in patients with acute ischemic stroke within one year
Authors: Liu Jinxin , He Haoyue , Wang Yanglingxi , Du Jun , Liang Kaixin , Xue Jun , Liang Yidan , Chen Peng , Tian Shanshan , Deng Yongbing
Published: November 2024

Background:

Post-stroke epilepsy (PSE) is a critical complication that worsens both prognosis and quality of life in patients with ischemic stroke. An interpretable machine learning model was developed to predict PSE using medical records from four hospitals in Chongqing.

Methods:

Medical records, imaging reports, and laboratory test results from 21,459 ischemic stroke patients were collected and analyzed. Univariable and multivariable statistical analyses identified key predictive factors. The dataset was split into a 70% training set and a 30% testing set. To address the class imbalance, the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique combined with Edited Nearest Neighbors was employed. Nine widely used machine learning algorithms were evaluated using relevant prediction metrics, with SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) used to interpret the model and assess the contributions of different features.

Results:

Regression analyses revealed that complications such as hydrocephalus, cerebral hernia, and deep vein thrombosis, as well as specific brain regions (frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes), significantly contributed to PSE. Factors such as age, gender, NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores, and laboratory results like WBC count and D-dimer levels were associated with increased PSE risk. Tree-based methods like Random Forest, XGBoost, and LightGBM showed strong predictive performance, achieving an AUC of 0.99.

Conclusions:

The model accurately predicts PSE risk, with tree-based models demonstrating superior performance. NIHSS score, WBC count, and D-dimer were identified as the most crucial predictors.

Funding:

The research is funded by Central University basic research young teachers and students research ability promotion sub-projec t(2023CDJYGRH-ZD06), and by Emergency Medicine Chongqing Key Laboratory Talent Innovation and development joint fund project (2024RCCX10).
A review of advancements in the theory and characterization of soil macropore structure
Authors: Cao Yanwen , Zhang Kai , Liu Shuyu , Wang Yilin
Published: November 2024

Soil has an intricate pore structure, with the macropore structure serving as a pivotal component of gas exchange, liquid flow, and solute transport within the soil matrix. Scientifically understanding the macropore structure is important for the exploration of soil ecological functions. Drawing upon research literature from diverse nations, this study presents a comprehensive summary of past research findings, thoroughly examining the definition and taxonomy of soil macropores. Additionally, we delve into the factors that affect macropore structure, the effects of macropores on soil ecological functions, and the indicators that describe the nature of macropores. Furthermore, the principles, suitability conditions, benefits, and limitations of the widely utilized techniques for characterizing soil macropore structure were outlined, including staining observation, soil water retention curve, mercury intrusion porosimetry, gas adsorption, nuclear magnetic resonance, scanning electron microscopy, and computed tomography (CT). A comparative analysis was conducted to assist scholars in comprehending the theory of soil macropores, facilitating the selection of suitable macropore structure characterization techniques, and enabling the development of collaborative application modes among these techniques. Using the Web of Science core collection database, bibliometric software such as VOSviewer and CiteSpace were employed to explore the research hotspots and trends in CT, which is currently the most popular technique for characterizing soil macropore structure. This analysis offers insights into the future prospects of CT in the field of soil macropore structure characterization techniques. This article is of particular interest to readers engaged in the characterization of soil macropores.
An experimental analysis of graph representation learning for Gene Ontology based protein function prediction
Authors: Vu Thi Thuy Duong , Kim Jeongho , Jung Jaehee
Published: November 2024

Understanding protein function is crucial for deciphering biological systems and facilitating various biomedical applications. Computational methods for predicting Gene Ontology functions of proteins emerged in the 2000s to bridge the gap between the number of annotated proteins and the rapidly growing number of newly discovered amino acid sequences. Recently, there has been a surge in studies applying graph representation learning techniques to biological networks to enhance protein function prediction tools. In this review, we provide fundamental concepts in graph embedding algorithms. This study described graph representation learning methods for protein function prediction based on four principal data categories, namely PPI network, protein structure, Gene Ontology graph, and integrated graph. The commonly used approaches for each category were summarized and diagrammed, with the specific results of each method explained in detail. Finally, existing limitations and potential solutions were discussed, and directions for future research within the protein research community were suggested.
Cultivating a Sustainable Future: Modern Agriculture in Peri-Urban Food Security
Authors: Mukhlis Imam , Suwanan Ahmad Fawaiq , Priambodo Magistyo Purboyo , Munir Syahrul , Cahayati Nila
Published: November 2024

This study aims to explore the phenomenon of food security and identify the contribution of modern agriculture in overcoming food security problems in the peri-urban area of East Java. In recent decades, the development of Jongbiru areas has undergone a rapid transformation into an urban area where industrial development is relatively rapid and large.  This research design is carried out through the Community pilot project development model scheme and FGD with stakeholders in the peri-urban area of East Java, Indonesia. Through the PRA-pilot project approach, this research found challenges faced by the community. Knowledge, skills regarding modern agricultural (particularly in hydroponic), accessibility about their economic viability being the major challenges to faced. The results show there are lot of postive responds from the pilot project. Participants eager to implement the material knowledge by themself at their own home. Further, this PRA have potential for village economic development and support the achievement of the SDGs, such as poverty alleviation, food security, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural innovation. The study also emphasizes the importance of policy and infrastructure support to ensure the initiative's sustainability, which aligns with the literature highlighting the importance of millennial involvement in agricultural innovation.
A Review on Advanced Preservation Techniques for Post-harvest Quality Maintenance of Fruits and Vegetables
Authors: Maurya Hareesh Kumar , Lata Rubee , Mitra Diksha Sangh , Sundar Shyam , Yadav G. C.
Published: November 2024

Fruits and vegetables preservation is critical for reducing post-harvest losses, increasing shelf life, and ensuring year-round availability of seasonal goods. It approach is meant to preserve the nutritional value, taste, texture, and color of fresh food while preventing spoiling caused by microbes, enzymes, and environmental influences. There are three types of preservation methods: physical, chemical, and biological. Refrigeration, freezing, and drying are examples of physical preservation processes, as are heat treatments like pasteurization and canning. Refrigeration reduces microbial growth and enzymatic activity, whereas freezing stops both, allowing fruits and vegetables to be stored for longer periods. Drying procedures include sun-drying, dehydration, vacuum drying, and freeze-drying, all of which remove moisture and restrict microbial activity. Canning is the method of destroying microorganisms with heat and putting them in an airtight container to prevent contamination. Chemical preservation methods include sulphur dioxide, sodium benzoate, and citric acid. Sugar, salt, acids, and spices are food additives used to preserve fruits and vegetables. In Fermentation, microorganisms such as bacteria and yeast convert sugars into acids or alcohol, producing an environment that prevents spoilage organisms from growing. Finally, conclusion preserving fruits and vegetables is an important part of food security and quality management. A combination of traditional and modern technologies, suited to the individual demands of different types of produce, is critical for reducing waste and providing a consistent supply of nutritious foods year-round.
Effect of Seed Treatments on Seed Germination Studies in Ramphal (Annona reticulata L.)
Authors: V Jeevanantham , S Elakkuvan , S Kumar , A Karthikeyan
Published: November 2024

Annona reticulata L., commonly known as bullock's heart, is a tropical fruit-bearing tree belonging to the Annonaceae family. It is prized for its flavourful and nutritious fruit. The plants are used for anti-inflammatory, stress reliever, antimutagenic, curing wounds, anti-anxiety, and spasmolytic properties and have all been used. In this fruit, the seeds are poor due to seed dormancy, and viability is easily lost. To overcome this problem in bullock’s heart, an experiment was laid out in the Floriculture unit, Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu on seed germination studies in Ramphal (Annona reticulata L.). Amongst the different pre-sowing seed treatments, treatment with Gibberellic Acid @ 1000 ppm significantly improved the germination percentage (90.63%) and reduced the number of days taken for initiation of seed germination (17.02 days), days taken for 50 percent of seed germination (22.44 days), span of seed germination (25.09 days) as compared to control. This experiment concluded that Gibberellic Acid @ 1000 ppm treated seeds have better seed germination characteristics.
Influence of Spray Parameters of a UAV Sprayer on Droplet Size in Paddy Spraying
Authors: Kavya T. , Sushilendra  , Shirwal Sunil , Palled Vijayakumar , Sreenivas A. G. , N Ananda
Published: November 2024

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have emerged as promising technologies for agricultural applications, including pesticide spraying in paddy fields. Droplet size is a critical factor influencing the effectiveness and efficiency of pesticide application. This study investigated the impact of various spray parameters of UAV sprayers on droplet size during paddy spraying. The experimental setup involved a UAV equipped with different nozzle types (flat fan nozzle, hollow cone nozzle and spinning disc nozzle), operating at varying forward speeds (2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 m s-l) and spray heights (l, 1.5, 2, 2.5 and 3 m above the crop canopy). The results demonstrated that among the three operational parameters, the type of nozzle had a significant effect on the droplet size, whereas the forward speed and height of the spray were not significantly different. A larger droplet size was obtained for the flat fan nozzle, followed by the hollow cone and spinning disc nozzles. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing UAV sprayer settings to achieve the desired droplet size distributions and improve pesticide application efficiency in paddy fields.
Yeasts
Authors: Lachance Marc‐André , Walker Graeme M
Published: October 2018

Yeasts are a group of eukaryotic microfungi with a well‐defined cell wall whose growth is either entirely unicellular or a combination of hyphal and unicellular reproduction. The approximately 1500 known yeast species belong to two distinct fungal phyla, the Ascomycota and the Basidiomycota. Within each of these phyla, yeasts can be found in several subphyla or classes, reflecting the enormous diversity of their evolutionary origins and biochemical properties. In nature, yeasts are found mainly in association with plants or animals but are also present in soil and aquatic environments. Yeasts grow rapidly and have simple nutritional requirements, for whieh reason they have been used as model systems in biochemistry, genetics and molecular biology. They were the first microorganisms to be domesticated for the production of beer, bread or wine, and they continue to be used for the benefit of humanity in the production of many important health care and industrial commodities, including recombinant proteins, biopharmaceuticals, biocontrol agents and biofuels. The best‐known yeast is the species
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
, which may be regarded as the world's foremost industrial microbe.

Key Concepts

Yeasts share in common a primarily unicellular mode of reproduction.

Yeasts are phylogenetically diverse, being classified in several classes of two fungal phyla.

The concept of yeast is rooted in history and does not always follow logical biological lines.

Yeasts have a rigid cell wall primarily made up of β‐(1–3)‐glucan.

Sexual reproduction in yeasts involves the formation of internally formed ascospores or externally formed basidiospores.

Current yeast classification is based on phylogenetic relationships inferred by gene sequencing.

Yeasts grow in nature primarily in association with the plant–insect interface or with warm‐blooded animals, but also occur in soil and aquatic habitats.

Yeasts serve as important industrial model systems in research.

Yeasts are of great importance in biotechnology. The main products are alcohol, yeast biomass and recombinant proteins.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
is the premier industrial microorganism.

A few yeast species cause infections in humans and other animals, but most yeasts act in an opportunistic manner, in individuals that are immunocompromised.
RNA
Polymerase
II
and Associated Transcription Factors
Authors: Karmakar Saswati , Ponnusamy Moorthy P , Bhaumik Sukesh R , Batra Surinder K
Published: October 2018

Transcription of protein‐coding genes to messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) is a tightly regulated multistep process involving the spatial and temporal recruitment of numerous proteins and protein complexes to the genes. The three main steps of the process are transcription initiation with the formation of the transcription preinitiation complex, elongation, and termination. All these steps involve a protein complex known as RNA polymerase II that interacts with many factors during initiation, elongation and termination to regulate transcription, chromatin structure, mRNA processing and export, and associated deoxyribonucleic acid repair. This article focuses on RNA polymerase II and associated factors during transcriptional initiation and early stage of transcriptional elongation. RNA polymerase II
C
‐terminal domain phosphorylation and its functions in transcription cycle are also described. Further, a brief description of RNA polymerase II holoenzyme complexes is included here.

Key Concepts

Transcription is a multistep process consisting of initiation, elongation and termination for RNA (ribonucleic acid) synthesis.

RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) is a key enzyme/factor in transcription of the protein‐coding genes to messenger RNA (mRNA).

Transcriptional initiation of the protein‐coding genes occurs at the promoter via formation of the preinitiation complex (PIC), an assembly of general transcription factors (GTFs) and RNAPII.

The core elements of the promoter (or core promoter) are involved in formation of PIC for transcriptional initiation.

PIC formation at the core promoter is regulated by gene‐specific factors such as enhancers and repressors.

Shortly after transcriptional initiation, RNAPII pauses at the promoter‐proximal site, and subsequently, it is released following phosphorylation for productive transcriptional elongation.