bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synapses learn to utilize stochastic pre-synaptic release for the prediction of postsynaptic dynamics
Authors: Kappel David , Tetzlaff Christian
Published: November 2024

Synapses in the brain are highly noisy, which leads to a large trial-by-trial variability. Given how costly synapses are in terms of energy consumption these high levels of noise are surprising. Here we propose that synapses use noise to represent uncertainties about the somatic activity of the postsynaptic neuron. To show this, we developed a mathematical framework, in which the synapse as a whole interacts with the soma of the postsynaptic neuron in a similar way to an agent that is situated and behaves in an uncertain, dynamic environment. This framework suggests that synapses use an implicit internal model of the somatic membrane dynamics that is being updated by a synaptic learning rule, which resembles experimentally well-established LTP/LTD mechanisms. In addition, this approach entails that a synapse utilizes its inherently noisy synaptic release to also encode its uncertainty about the state of the somatic potential. Although each synapse strives for predicting the somatic dynamics of its postsynaptic neuron, we show that the emergent dynamics of many synapses in a neuronal network resolve different learning problems such as pattern classification or closed-loop control in a dynamic environment. Hereby, synapses coordinate themselves to represent and utilize uncertainties on the network level in behaviorally ambiguous situations.
Harnessing the optimization of enzyme catalytic rates in engineering of metabolic phenotypes
Authors: Razaghi-Moghadam Zahra , Soleymani Babadi Fayaz , Nikoloski Zoran
Published: November 2024

The increasing availability of enzyme turnover number measurements from experiments and of turnover number predictions from deep learning models prompts the use of these enzyme parameters in precise metabolic engineering. Yet, there is no computational approach that allows the prediction of metabolic engineering strategies that rely on the modification of turnover numbers. It is also unclear if modifications of turnover numbers without alterations in the host’s transcriptional regulatory machinery suffice to increase the production of chemicals of interest. Here, we present a constraint-based modeling approach, termed Overcoming Kinetic rate Obstacles (OKO), that uses enzyme-constrained metabolic models to predict in silico strategies to increase the production of a given chemical, while ensuring specified cell growth. We demonstrate that the application of OKO to enzyme-constrained metabolic models of Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae results in strategies that can at least double the production of over 40 compounds with little penalty to growth. Interestingly, we show that the overproduction of compounds of interest does not entail only an increase in the values of turnover numbers. Lastly, we demonstrate that a refinement of OKO, allowing also for manipulation of enzyme abundance, facilitates the usage of the available compendia and deep learning models of turnover numbers in the design of precise metabolic engineering strategies. Our results expand the usage of genome-scale metabolic models toward the identification of targets for protein engineering, allowing their direct usage in the generation of innovative metabolic engineering designs for various biotechnological applications.
A Foxf1-Wnt-Nr2f1 cascade promotes atrial cardiomyocyte differentiation in zebrafish
Authors: Coppola Ugo , Saha Bitan , Kenney Jennifer , Waxman Joshua S.
Published: November 2024

Nr2f transcription factors (TFs) are conserved regulators of vertebrate atrial cardiomyocyte (AC) differentiation. However, little is known about the mechanisms directing Nr2f expression in ACs. Here, we identified a conserved enhancer 3’ to the nr2f1a locus, which we call 3’reg1-nr2f1a (3’reg1), that can promote Nr2f1a expression in ACs. Sequence analysis of the enhancer identified putative Lef/Tcf and Foxf TF binding sites. Mutation of the Lef/Tcf sites within the 3’reg1 reporter, knockdown of Tcf7l1a, and manipulation of canonical Wnt signaling support that Tcf7l1a is derepressed via Wnt signaling to activate the transgenic enhancer and promote AC differentiation. Similarly, mutation of the Foxf binding sites in the 3’reg1 reporter, coupled with gain- and loss-of-function analysis supported that Foxf1 promotes expression of the enhancer and AC differentiation. Functionally, we find that Wnt signaling acts downstream of Foxf1 to promote expression of the 3’reg1 reporter within ACs and, importantly, both Foxf1 and Wnt signaling require Nr2f1a to promote a surplus of differentiated ACs. CRISPR-mediated deletion of the endogenous 3’reg1 abrogates the ability of Foxf1 and Wnt signaling to produce surplus ACs in zebrafish embryos. Together, our data support that downstream members of a conserved regulatory network involving Wnt signaling and Foxf1 function on a nr2f1a enhancer to promote AC differentiation in the zebrafish heart.
Spatiotemporal distribution and meteorological factors of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in Hubei province
Authors: Li Hang , Yang Rui , Guan Xuhua , Huang Xiaobo , Jiang Honglin , Tan Liangfei , Xiong Jinfeng , Peng Mingjun , Zhang Tianbao , Yao Xuan
Published: November 2024

Background

Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is a vital rodent-borne disease, and poses a serious public health threat in Hubei province. We aimed to explore the spatiotemporal distribution of HFRS in Hubei province during 2005–2022, and the effects of meteorological factors.

Methods

Data on HFRS cases at the county level in Hubei province during 2005–2022 were obtained from the Chinese Center for Disease Prevention and Control Information System. The monthly meteorological data at the city level was extracted from the China Meteorological Data Sharing Service System from 2016 to 2020. Descriptive analyses, joinpoint regression model, spatial correlation analyses, Geodetector model and autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model were conducted to investigate the epidemic characteristics, temporal trend, spatial distribution, influencing factors of HFRS and predict its trend.

Results

A total of 6,295 cases were reported in Hubei province during 2005–2022, with an average incidence of 6/1,000,000. Most cases were males (74.52%) and aged 40–69 years (71.87%). The monthly HFRS cases showed two seasonal peaks, which were summer (May to June) and winter (November to December). The HFRS incidence remained fluctuating at a low level during 2005–2015, followed an increasing trend during 2015–2018, and then decreased during 2018–2022. Hotspots were concentrated in the center of Hubei province in all 3 periods, including Qianjiang, Tianmen and some counties from Xiangyang, Jingmen and Jingzhou cities. The distribution of HFRS had a positive association with wind speed, while a “V”-shaped correlation with mean temperature, with an explanatory power of 3.21% and 1.03% respectively (both P <0.05). The ARIMA model predicted about 1,223 cases occurred in the next 3 years.

Conclusions

HFRS cases showed seasonal fluctuation and spatial clustering in Hubei province. Central plain areas showed high risk of HFRS. Wind speed and mean temperature had significant effects on the transmission of HFRS in Hubei province. The results alert health authorities to conduct disease-climate surveillance and comprehensive prevention strategies, especially in high-risk counties.
Perception—Action dissociations depend on factors that affect multisensory processing
Authors: Bruno Nicola , Uccelli Stefano
Published: November 2024

Behavioral perception-action dissociations are widely used to test models of high-level vision, but debates concerning their interpretation have underestimated the role of multisensory mechanisms in such tests. Sensorimotor tasks engage multisensory processing in fundamentally different ways than perceptual tasks, and these differences can modulate dissociations in different ways based on task features. To test this idea, we compared perception and action using a well-understood size-contrast effect, the Uznadze illusion, and manipulated both unimodal and crossmodal stimulation as well as conditions that are known to favor or hinder multisensory integration. Results demonstrated that similar or dissociable effects on perception and action can be observed depending on factors that are known to affect multisensory processing. Specifically, such factors can cause a visual task to be affected by the illusion or remain fully unaffected, whereas a visuomotor task can be affected by the illusion, remain immune from the illusion, or, unexpectedly, even show a clear reverse effect. These findings provide a novel perspective on a long standing debate in behavioral cognitive neuroscience.
A novel maximum likelihood based probabilistic behavioral data fusion algorithm for modeling residential energy consumption
Authors: Bhowmik Tanmoy , Iraganaboina Naveen Chandra , Eluru Naveen
Published: November 2024

The current research effort is focused on improving the effective use of the multiple disparate sources of data available by proposing a novel maximum likelihood based probabilistic data fusion approach for modeling residential energy consumption. To demonstrate our data fusion algorithm, we consider energy usage by fuel type variables (for electricity and natural gas) in residential dwellings as our dependent variable of interest, drawn from residential energy consumption survey (RECS) data. The national household travel survey (NHTS) dataset was considered to incorporate additional variables that are not available in the RECS data. With a focus on improving the model for the residential energy use by fuel type, our proposed research provides a probabilistic mechanism for appropriately fusing records from the NHTS data with the RECS data. Specifically, instead of strictly matching records with only common attributes, we propose a flexible differential weighting method (probabilistic) based on attribute similarity (or dissimilarity) across the common attributes for the two datasets. The fused dataset is employed to develop an updated model of residential energy use with additional independent variables contributed from the NHTS dataset. The newly estimated energy use model is compared with models estimated RECS data exclusively to see if there is any improvement offered by the newly fused variables. In our analysis, the model fit measures provide strong evidence for model improvement via fusion as well as weighted contribution estimation, thus highlighting the applicability of our proposed fusion algorithm. The analysis is further augmented through a validation exercise that provides evidence that the proposed algorithm offers enhanced explanatory power and predictive capability for the modeling energy use. Our proposed data fusion approach can be widely applied in various sectors including the use of location-based smartphone data to analyze mobility and ridehailing patterns that are likely to influence energy consumption with increasing electric vehicle (EV) adoption.
Bridging the “know-do” gap to improve active case finding for tuberculosis in India: A qualitative exploration into national tuberculosis elimination program staffs’ perspectives
Authors: Shewade Hemant Deepak , Ravichandran Prabhadevi , Pradeep S. Kiran , Kiruthika G. , Shanmugasundaram Devika , Chadwick Joshua , Iyer Swati , Chowdhury Aniket , Tumu Dheeraj , Shah Amar N. , Vadera Bhavin , Roddawar Venkatesh , Mattoo Sanjay K. , Rade Kiran , Rao Raghuram , Murhekar Manoj V.
Published: November 2024

Background

In 2022, India’s national tuberculosis (TB) elimination program (NTEP) commissioned a national level evaluation of active case finding (ACF) for TB to guide evidence-based strategic planning. As part of this evaluation, based on secondary data analysis we observed that the quality of ACF was suboptimal in 2021. Hence, this study aimed to understand the enablers, barriers, and suggested solutions to improve ACF for TB in India from NTEP staff (provider) perspective.

Methods

This was a descriptive qualitative study involving key informant interviews from six districts and eight states, conducted between February and August 2023. We purposively selected key state- district- and sub-district-level program managers and implementers who were experienced and vocal. The interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim by research interns and investigators. Two investigators independently did manual descriptive thematic analysis, and a third investigator resolved inconsistencies. The themes and categories emerged by collating together the results of the coding process.

Results

A total of 34 key informant interviews were conducted and of these, four were repeat interviews. Adequate budgets for ACF including incentives, performance review mechanism, engagement of all stakeholders, adopting a community friendly approach, use of rapid diagnostic tests and digitalization were the perceived enablers. In some states ACF was implemented in general population (not restricted to high-risk population) following directives at state level. There were limited mechanisms to ensure ACF quality indicators were met before disbursing incentives and cross-verification of the aggregate ACF care cascade numbers that were reported in Ni-kshay (electronic TB information management system under NTEP). In addition to the state and district level implementers having limited understanding of concepts around ACF (quality indicators, number needed to screen and yield), we also inferred the presence of a ‘know-do’ gap for many activities under ACF. The suggested solutions were around capacity building and quality improvement strategies.

Conclusion

The existing national ACF guidance should be revised to emphasize capacity building, need to carry out ACF in high-risk (not general) population, quality control-linked incentives, and regular implementation monitoring of the activities. This should contribute towards better coverage and improved quality translating into better ACF outcomes.
Myroides species, pathogenic spectrum and clinical microbiology sight in Mexican isolates
Authors: Colín-Castro Claudia Adriana , Ortiz-Álvarez Jossue Mizael , Hernández-Pérez Cindy Fabiola , Hernández-Durán Melissa , García-Hernández María de Lourdes , Martínez-Zavaleta María Guadalupe , Becerra-Lobato Noé , Cervantes-Hernández Mercedes Isabel , Rosas-Alquicira Graciela , Cerón-González Guillermo , Méndez-Sotelo Braulio Josué , García-Contreras Rodolfo , Franco-Cendejas Rafael , López-Jácome Luis Esaú
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Myroides is a bacterial genus of opportunistic bacteria responsible for diverse infections including in the skin and soft tissues, urinary tract, cardiovascular system, and bacteremia, although the incidence of its reported infections is low, it is increasing, likely due the use of better bacterial identification methods, but also perhaps due an increase in its prevalence. In addition, their pathogenic role is limited in terms of reporting their microbial physiology, so the present work provides information in this regard in addition to the information that is available in the international literature.

Objective

To describe the microbiological and genetic characteristics of seven different Myroides spp. clinical strains and comment on their phylum, pathogenic and resistance characteristics.

Methods

Seven Myroides spp., strains associated with infections were included from 1/January/2012 to 1/January/20 and identified by miniaturized biochemistry and MALDI-ToF. Susceptibility tests were performed according to CLSI recommendations by broth microdilution. Whole genome sequencing was performed for each strain and bioinformatics analysis were performed.

Results

Strains were identified at genus level by two methodologies. Our results revealed that likely four strains belong to the species Myroides odoratimimus, while the other two may be undescribed ones. Remarkably, all isolates harbored several genes encoding antibiotic resistance determinants for ß-lactams, aminoglycosides and glycopeptides and in concordance, presented high levels of resistance, against these antibiotics (AK and GN both 100%, ATM, CAZ and FEP 100%, e.g.); moreover, the presences of carbapenemases were evidenced by meropenem (mCIM) and imipenem (CARBA NP) degrading activity in six isolates and two strains possessed plasmids harboring mainly ribosomal RNA genes, tRNAs and genes encoding proteins with unknown functions.

Conclusions

Our study increases the knowledge about the biology of this understudied genus and highlights the potential of Myroides to emerge as a broader cause of recalcitrant opportunistic infections.
Quality of life, physical symptoms, and psychological symptoms according to the status of chronic vestibulopathy
Authors: Han Sang-Yoon , Lee Sang-Yeon , Suh Myung-Whan , Lee Jun Ho , Park Moo Kyun
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Symptomatic vestibulopathy impairs patients’ lives. However, few studies have explored the lives of patients with compensated or asymptomatic vestibulopathy. This study investigated the quality of life (QOL), psychological health, and physical function of patients with vestibulopathy.

Materials and methods

Using the eighth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database, we included individuals with data on demographic factors, diabetes, hypertension, dizziness experiences, pure-tone audiometry, video head impulse test (vHIT), Health-related Quality of Life Instrument with 8 Items, General Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale, stress, and walking and sitting times. Participants were classified into the following groups: an uncompensated group with abnormal vHIT result and chronic dizziness, a compensated group with abnormal vHIT result and a history of dizziness, an asymptomatic group with abnormal vHIT result and no history of dizziness, and a normal group without abnormal vHIT result or a history of dizziness.

Results

Uncompensated vestibulopathy was more common in older individuals and women. The uncompensated group showed impairments in climbing stairs (P < 0.001), pain (P < 0.001), vitality (P = 0.001), working (P < 0.001), depression (P < 0.001), sleep (P = 0.001), happiness (P = 0.002), anxiety (P = 0.006), and stress (P = 0.003). The compensated group showed deficits in pain (P < 0.001), work (P = 0.006), sleep (P = 0.001), and happiness (P = 0.001). The asymptomatic group had no deficits in QOL, psychological health, or physical function. These tendencies were similar after controlling for age and gender.

Conclusion

Vestibulopathy with a history of dizziness has a long-lasting impact on QOL and emotional status, even after compensation. Uncompensated vestibulopathy has a significant effect on QOL and mental health. Notably, though, the compensated group also showed a reduction in QOL. Appropriate interventions for each category of patients should be provided based on their impaired functions.
Genetic background of high myopia in children
Authors: Šenk Urh , Čižman Bernard , Writzl Karin , Tekavčič Pompe Manca
Published: November 2024

Objective

High myopia is a significant risk factor for irreversible vision loss and can occur in isolation or as a component of various syndromes. However, the genetic basis of early-onset high myopia remains poorly understood. We aimed to identify the causative genetic variants for high myopia in a cohort of Slovenian children.

Methods

The study included children referred to a tertiary paediatric ophthalmology centre at the University Eye Clinic in Ljubljana between 2010 and 2022. The participants met the following inclusion criteria: age ≤ 15 years and high myopia ≤-5.0 D before the age of 10 years. Genetic analysis included exome sequencing and/or molecular karyotyping. Participants were categorized based on clinical presentation: high myopia with systemic involvement, high myopia with ocular involvement, and isolated high myopia.

Results

Genetic analysis of 36 probands revealed a genetic cause of high myopia in 22 (61.1%) children. Among those with systemic involvement (50.0%), genetic causes were identified in 13 out of 18 children, with Stickler’s and Pitt-Hopkins being the most common syndromes. Among cases of high myopia with ocular involvement (38.9%), a genetic cause was found in 8 out of 14 probands, including (likely) pathogenic variants in genes related to retinal dystrophies (CACNA1F, RPGR, RP2, NDP). The non-syndromic ARR3- associated high myopia was identified in the isolated high myopia group.

Conclusions

A genetic cause of high myopia was identified in 61.1% of children tested, demonstrating the value of genetic testing in this population for diagnosis and proactive counseling.
Educator’s role in preventing ageism
Authors: Mihevc Špela , Grušovnik Mušič Anja , Rotar Pavlič Danica
Published: November 2024

Aims

This study aims to contribute to a better understanding of the educator’s role in imparting knowledge to healthcare students regarding ageism in Slovenia.

Methods

Educators in Slovenian secondary nursing schools and in medical and health science faculties were asked to evaluate their practical experience in working with older people, their knowledge of gerontology and working with older people, and their attitude toward working with older people using an online questionnaire. They were also asked to rate their opinion about ageism on a Likert scale, along with reasons for ageism, skills that would help reduce ageism, their opinion about trainees’ attitudes toward older people, and their assessment of certain facts about planning training. The reliability of the questionnaire was tested using Cronbach’s alpha. The Kruskal‒Wallis test, Mann‒Whitney U test, and independent samples t-test were used to determine differences between the groups.

Results

The participants fully agree that the knowledge imparted could contribute to reducing age discrimination among healthcare students. Those that responded that their gerontological knowledge is good had significantly higher ranked responses regarding the reasons for ageism. On average, they agreed with the statements about planning their teaching activities and facilitating the acquisition of knowledge.

Conclusions

Ageism is a challenge for modern society that requires a comprehensive approach to prevent and combat this form of discrimination. Awareness-raising, education, and policy change can create a fairer and more respectful society for all generations. Educators are insufficiently aware of their role in preventing ageism. Practitioners recognize it when they work directly with students. There are opportunities to update curricula and teaching methods.
Effect of Soret diffusion on the growth of spherical crystals in supercooled alloy melts under oscillatory flow
Authors: Liu Xiaoxia , Fan Hailong , Shan Yanyan
Published: November 2024

The growth of spherical crystals in binary alloy melts with thermal diffusion effects under oscillatory flow is investigated analytically. Using the multiple scale method, we derive approximate analytical solutions for both the crystal interface growth rate and the solute concentration. Our results demonstrate that the Soret effect significantly influences both the solute concentration near the crystal interface and the crystal growth rate. Specifically, with a positive Soret coefficient, the growth rate of spherical crystals in a binary dilute alloy melt decreases as the coefficient increases, while the solute concentration near the interface increases. In contrast, with a negative Soret coefficient, the growth rate of the spherical crystals increases as the coefficient decreases, and the solute concentration near the interface decreases. Additionally, the presence of oscillatory flow markedly promotes the grain refinement induced by the Soret effect.
Gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI for the detection of liver metastases from melanoma
Authors: Chung Hyun Jung , Seo Nieun , Han Kyunghwa , Bae Heejin , Chung Yong Eun , Jung Minkyu , Park Mi-Suk
Published: November 2024

Purpose

We aimed to assess imaging findings and detection sensitivity for melanoma liver metastases on gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with melanoma liver metastasis who underwent gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI. Two abdominal radiologists independently evaluated signal characteristics of liver metastases on morphologic imaging (precontrast T1- and T2-weighted imaging), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), dynamic imaging, and hepatobiliary phase (HBP). Imaging findings were compared according to detection on HBP and the primary site of the melanoma using logistic regression with the generalized estimating equation (GEE). Detection sensitivity for metastases was compared among different MR imaging sets using logistic regression with GEE.

Results

A total of 67 patients with 254 liver metastases were included (44 women; mean age ± standard deviation, 65.6 ± 13.0 years). On HBP, 76.0% of metastases were detected, and 55.5% (141/254) showed hypointensity. Most of the metastases that were not detected on HBP originated from ocular melanomas (98.4%, 60/61), ≤1 cm (90.2%, 55/61) and showed T1 hyperintensity (98.4%, 60/61). Metastases from non-ocular melanomas more frequently showed T1 hypointensity, T2 hyperintensity, diffusion restriction, arterial enhancement, and HBP hypointensity than those from ocular melanomas (Ps ≤ 0.019). The detection sensitivity of HBP (76.0%) was significantly higher than DWI (65.7%, P = 0.006), but lower than morphologic imaging (98.8%, P < 0.001) and dynamic imaging (97.6%, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The detection sensitivity of HBP for melanoma liver metastasis was 76.0%, which was lower than that of morphologic or dynamic imaging. HBP of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI has little advantage in detecting melanoma liver metastases.
Adaptation of Candida albicans to specific host environments by gain-of-function mutations in transcription factors
Authors: Morschhäuser Joachim
Published: November 2024

The yeast Candida albicans is usually a harmless member of the normal microbiota in healthy persons but is also a major fungal pathogen that can colonize and infect almost every human tissue. A successful adaptation to environmental changes encountered in different host niches requires an appropriate regulation of gene expression. The zinc cluster transcription factors are the largest family of transcriptional regulators in C. albicans and are involved in the control of virtually all aspects of its biology. Under certain circumstances, mutations in these transcription factors that alter their activity and the expression of their target genes confer a selective advantage, which results in the emergence of phenotypically altered variants that are better adapted to new environmental challenges. This review describes how gain-of-function mutations in different zinc cluster transcription factors enable C. albicans to overcome antifungal therapy and to successfully establish itself in specific host niches.
Psicologia e Saúde Mental: O Espaço Escolar e a Inserção de Crianças e Adolescentes com Transtorno do Espectro Autista
Authors: Oliveira Vittória Nórcio de , Córdova Zolnei Vargas Ernesta de , Alves Cristiane da Silva Vieira , Souza Rosimeri Vieira da Cruz de
Published: November 2024

A psicologia tem com proposta de ação desempenhar um papel crucial na inserção de crianças e adolescentes autistas no ambiente escolar. Por vezes as contribuições podem incluir o desenvolvimento de estratégias para promover a inclusão, fornecer apoio emocional e educacional, além de facilitar a compreensão das necessidades específicas desses alunos. As abordagens e técnicas psicológicas buscam criar ambientes escolares mais acessíveis e adaptados, promovendo uma educação inclusiva e respeitando a diversidade neurocognitiva. Neste sentido a pesquisa buscou compreender o papel da psicologia e suas atribuições no espaço escolar e como ocorre a inserção das crianças e adolescentes com Transtorno do Espectro Autista, visando a saúde mental destes. Além disso, buscou-se compreender a família frente ao diagnóstico do TEA, bem como investigar em conteúdos literários, metodologias pedagógicas nos espaços escolares. Por meio desta pesquisa literária, foi possível levantar recortes por meio de pesquisas anteriores sobre o tema em questão. A metodologia da pesquisa foi de caráter qualitativo, onde o estudo da pesquisa foi através de uma revisão da bibliografia de outras pesquisas anteriores realizadas e que contemplem o referido tema.
The Conflicting Categorization of Kings and Chiefs in Ghana
Authors: Adjei Justis Sir Dennis
Published: November 2024

This article aims to explore the historical development and contemporary role of the chieftaincy institution in Ghana, highlighting its enduring significance and adaptability. The institution of chieftaincy has been with the people of Ghana for centuries. Chiefs, now known as traditional rulers, are distinct from political rulers. The laws of Ghana require chiefs to maintain neutrality by forbidding their engagement in active politics. Chiefs are royals who have been validly nominated, elected, or selected by their respective kingmakers to be enstooled or enskinned according to the relevant customary law and usage. When Europeans came to Africa to trade, chiefs governed independent states, each with its own laws, courts, police, and military. The chieftaincy institution is organized hierarchically, ranging from the lowest rank to the apex, and among the Asantes, the Asantehene is the apex. Before 1901, when the British colonized the Asantes, the Asantehene served as the political, executive, and legislative head of the people of the Asante Kingdom.
The Asante Kingdom covers the Ashanti Region, Ahafo Region, parts of the Bono and Bono East Regions, and a paramountcy each in Ghana’s Eastern and Oti Regions. The traditional capital of the Asante Kingdom, Kumasi, was initially at Kwaman. In the 1670s, Chief Osei Tutu from the Oyoko Abohyen Dynasty became the chief of Kwaman after succeeding his late uncle Nana Obiri Yeboah, who reigned from 1640 to 1680 and united all the Asante chiefdoms, which were independent and had their political autonomy. The occupants of the Golden Stool are designated as kings and have held the title to this day. Although the British succeeded in changing the name of some kings to paramount chiefs, they failed to change the name of the royals responsible for the nomination, election or selection of a person to be enstooled or installed as an Asantehene, paramount chief or chief, who are still called the kingmakers.
Keywords: Asante Kingdom; Asantehene; enstooled; fetish-priest; Gold Coast; golden stool; kingmakers; Oyoko clan; paramount chief; traditional ruler.
Estudos de léxico em línguas de sinais
Authors: Sousa Alexandre Melo de , Quadros Ronice Müller de
Published: November 2024

O texto constitui uma apresentação da seção temática Estudos de léxico em línguas de sinais, organizada pelos professores Alexandre Melo de Sousa (UFAL) e Ronice Müller de Quadros (UFSC). No primeiro momento, os autores destacam quatro trabalhos que têm relação com as investigações sobre o léxico em Libras: a) Referenciais para o ensino de Língua Brasileira de Sinais como primeira língua na Educação Bilíngue de Surdos: da Educação Infantil ao Ensino Superior; b) Projeto Inventário Nacional de Libras; c) Dicionário visual da Língua de Sinais de Várzea Queimada – CENA; d) Gramática da Libras. No segundo momento, os autores apresentam cada um dos 11 artigos que compõem a seção temática.
Lack of B-RAF Mutations in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Al Sheikh Ali M. , Gunduz Mehmet , Gunduz E. , Tamamura R. , Beder L. , Tominaga S. , Onoda T. , Yamanaka N. , Grenman R. , Shimizu K. , Nagai N. , Nagatsuka H.
Published: November 2024

B-RAF is one of the most commonly mutated oncogenes in human cancer. However, the mutation status of B-RAF has not been established completely in HNSCC. We have analysed the mutation status of the kinase domain of the B-RAF gene (exons 11 and 15) in 91 Japanese HNSCC patients as well as 12 HNSCC cell lines. DNA was extracted and amplified by PCR. Mutations were then analysed by SSCP mutation detection method. Since V600EB-RAF constitutes 90 % of the mutations identified in B-RAF in human cancers, we also used MASA analysis to specifically detect this mutation in exon 15 of B-RAF. Using both methods, no mutation was found in both exon 11 and 15 in all patients and cell lines. Mu tations are absent or rare in the kinase domain of B-RAF in Japanese HNSCC. However, more studies are still needed to determine its usefulness as a target for molecular therapy in these patients.
THE EXAMINATION OF PERINATAL TOXICOSIS CAUSED BY THE FUMONISIN B1 MYCOTOXIN IN NEWBORN PIGLETS
Authors: TÓTH A. , TORNYOS G. , KOVÁCS-ZOMBORSZKY Melinda , VETÉSI F.
Published: November 2024

Three pregnant sows were fed a diet mixed with Fusarium moniliforme fungal culture from the 107th day of pregnancy. Two of the sows were given 300 mg fumonisine B1 toxin daily for a further 7 days after parturition, i.e. 14-16 days in total, while the third sow was given this dosage only until parturition, i.e. for a period of 7 days. Directly following parturition and before the first suckling two piglets from each sow were slaughtered. Subsequently after 24 hours two more piglets which had had access to colostrum were taken from each sow, slaughtered and processed, followed by two more per sow on the 7th day after parturition. The results obtained appear to corroborate that fumonisin B1 toxin present in a F.moniliforme culture fed to sows in the advanced stages of pregnancy can harm foetuses while still in the uterus. Of the disorders characteristically caused by this toxin, pulmonary oedema of particular severity was observed in the piglets slaughtered immediately after parturition, before suckling could take place. These disorders could still be observed in piglets slaughtered 24 hours after parturition and on the 7th day. No change indicating pulmonary oedema was observed in the lungs of the piglets of the third sow, slaughtered on the 7th day.
Female-based urban poverty in parts of Sehore city, India
Authors: Siddiqui Farheen , Parveen Shahnaz
Published: November 2024

Female-based urban poverty has been a widely researched topic fitting into the pursuit of gender equality since the Beijing 1995 Conference for Women. However, the criteria for measuring female-based urban poverty assume a direct role in reducing various urban poverty manifestations amongst females. Nevertheless, standard domains such as economic and educational statuses show some noticeable characteristics in smaller townships located in the low-urbanised states of India. The city under concern—Sehore Municipal Council (M.C. hereafter)—furnishes an example of an emerging urban area in a low-urbanised state of Madhya Pradesh (27.6% of the urban population compared to the national average of 31.16%) where domain-wise spatial manifestations of female-based urban poverty are noticeable. In addition to the financial aspect of urban poverty, the study attempts to identify local area determinants related to the socio-economic and the cultural environment of Sehore M.C., using standard variables and indicators for the spatial manifestation of female-based urban poverty through a GIS-based multi-criteria decision-making technique of the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). Female-based urban poverty in Sehore M.C., lying within the urban sphere of influence of two metro cities of Bhopal and Indore, is analysed across six domains of economic, educational, social, health, lack of decision-making and time poverty, for 17 selected localities across four wards. Out of the six selected domains, the economic poverty domain turns out to be the strongest, while time poverty is the least dominant. The present model of female-based urban poverty may apply to similar newly urbanising areas falling within the ambit of metro cities in India.
European funds and the dynamics of economic growth among EU regions: A spatial modelling approach
Authors: Kisiała Wojciech , Stępiński Bartosz
Published: November 2024

Contemporary development policy concentrates predominantly on reducing noticeable economic differences in a spatial system, and an important role in this respect is played by EU Cohesion Policy. Owing to the considerable scale of financial exposure of Cohesion Policy, the assessment of effectiveness of the implemented measures and their greater reliance on evidence are of major significance. Despite numerous attempts to empirically verify the effects of EU funds spending, the problem remains unresolved, and the results of recent studies lead frequently to ambiguous conclusions.
The article aims to verify the β-convergence process in EU regions in the years 2007–2015 allowing for the impact of the received EU funds and the spatial effects determining economic growth. In the research, use was made of a covergence approach consisting in the regression modelling of per capita GDP growth. Spatial econometrics methods were applied, by adding variables determining spatial interactions that can influence the economic growth rate to the specification of the estimated models.
The estimated econometric models show that in the years 2007–2015 EU funds positively affected economic growth. At the same time, the process of reducing economic disparities between EU regions was observed. Moreover, the existence of spatial effects for a dependent variable was confirmed. The results also show that the value of the EU funds received in the surrounding area generally did not translate into the dynamics of growth in a given location. The research presented is one of the few in which spatial interaction was verified by using weights matrices based on contiguity, distance, flows and affiliation.
The territorial nature and power of human capital in urban development processes from the perspective of the path dependence concept
Authors: Przygodzki Zbigniew , Adamus Jagoda
Published: November 2024

Knowledge and human capital are gaining importance as determinants of urban and regional development on a global scale. We can observe a simultaneous increase in the mobility of human capital, the availability of knowledge, and an increase in the importance of location. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as glocalisation. Mobile and highly valuable human capital are being territorialised. From the city’s point of view, is this an opportunity or a threat? The question can be asked whether the territorialisation of human capital has an impact on the durability of urban development. It is not obvious whether it helps to develop competitive potential and competitive advantages of an area only temporarily or in the long term. An analysis using elements of the path dependency theory can provide answers to these questions. It considers both the complexity of the research subject and the evolutionary nature of development processes. Therefore, the fundamental question of this article is whether the territorialisation of human capital affects the durability of urban development. The main findings of the study show that both the size of a city and the rate of demographic growth affect the choice of the type of development path. Cities with high demographic growth rates and complex development strategies enter reactive paths. This type of path guarantees the durability of development processes.
DNA sequencing reveals higher taxonomic diversity of coralline algae (Corallinales and Hapalidiales, Rhodophyta) in the tropical western North Atlantic that complicates ecological studies
Authors: Giorgi Aurora , Monti Matteo , Maggioni Davide , Gabrielson Paul W. , Steneck Robert S. , Kocot Kevin , Olson Julie B.
Published: November 2024

Understanding of non-geniculate coralline algal (NGCA) diversity, prevalence, and distribution in the tropical western North Atlantic is currently limited by reliance on morphological and anatomical features that are inadequate for species identifications. Reef surveys from two study sites, the Florida Keys (Florida, USA) and Roatán (Honduras), provided prevalence data for the main benthic organisms as well as relative abundance for NGCA genera. NGCA collected during these surveys and from additional sites and depths were identified using DNA sequences from two plastid genes, psbA and rbcL, and two nuclear genes, SSU and LSU, and supported by morphological and anatomical descriptions. Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic analyses, along with species delimitation and genetic distance methods, resolved 11 genera within two orders. Within the Corallinales, the genera Dawsoniolithon, Porolithon and Spongites each had one species, Harveylithon and Lithophyllum had two, Titanoderma three, Hydrolithon four, Neogoniolithon eight, and an unknown genus within the subfamily Neogoniolithoideae had 11 putative species. Within the Hapalidiales, the genera Phymatolithon and Roseolithon each had one species. This study reinforces the inability of morphological and anatomical features to distinguish NGCA species in the tropical western North Atlantic, resulting in substantial underestimations of species richness and diversity.
Critical Aesthetics Between American Pragmatism and the Frankfurt School
Authors: Henning Bethany
Published: November 2024

The publication of Art as Experience in 1934 marked a theoretical turning point away from the disinterested spectatorship of Kant towards an aesthetics of everyday life. Dewey’s major claim therein is that “aesthetic experience” is privileged and ought to be taken as paradigmatic for all experience because it is controlled by an affective unity that he calls “pervasive quality” which harmonizes thought and action with its social and environmental context. In 1935 Walter Benjamin argued that pre-industrial works of art have an “aura” that exerts an affective lure on consciousness, and that the remnants of this aura in the post-industrial age may lead to the abandonment of critical thought and seduce the masses into the sway of fascism. This paper considers John Dewey’s aesthetic theory in light of the critical perspective developed by his contemporaries in the Frankfurt School. I will consider whether Dewey’s reliance on the qualitative dimension of experience undermines the critical reflection that, theoretically, prevents the “aestheticization of politics” that leads to the spread of fascism, and propose that pragmatist aesthetics would benefit from greater tolerance for the “negativity” exemplified by the critical theorists.
Optimization design of a two-step microreactor with spiral structure for high-performance catalytic reactions
Authors: Chen Xinkun , Chen Xueye
Published: November 2024

In order to enhance the efficiency of diphenyldimethoxysilane preparation in microreactors, this study utilized the computational fluid dynamics simulation based on the finite element method to explore the impact of the internal structural parameters of the spiral two-step microreactor (STMR) on the reaction outcomes, with the aim of optimizing its structure for high-performance catalytic reactions. By designing a microreactor based on the Archimedean spiral shape and introducing two ribbed obstacles, the structure was optimized through adjusting the relevant ratios. The effects of different-sized structures and obstacles within the reaction zone and non-reaction zone on the product concentration and reaction results were discussed. The results demonstrate that lower obstacle heights and smaller aspect ratios (P = 2:7, R = 5:6) are beneficial for improving the reaction efficiency and product concentration. This study offers a theoretical foundation for microreactor design and is anticipated to further drive the development of microreactor technology.
Is Blood Thicker than Water? The Impact of Player Agencies on Player Salaries: Empirical Evidence from Five European Football Leagues
Authors: Sage Felix , Prinz Joachim
Published: November 2024

In this article, we analyze how different representation models of professional football players affect their salaries in salary negotiations. We distinguish between self-representation, representation by relatives and representation by player agencies. Based on the principal agent theory and against the background of asymmetric information, we hypothesize that the self-representation model has the most lucrative effect on salaries. Furthermore, we argue that the number of players represented by an agency has a negative effect on salaries. To test our hypotheses, we use a unique panel dataset containing 3,775 players from the top five European leagues over five collection dates. In addition to market values and salaries, we also include individual and team performance. Furthermore, we use information on the different representation models and, in the case of player agencies, information on the particular agency. In our study, we found no significant effect of the representation model on the salary of professional football players, which challenges the justification of agencies in general.
Revolts and the Persian Great Kings: Active Involvement or Careful Abstention?
Authors: Belogiannis Orestis
Published: November 2024

Revolts against the Persian Great Kings remain a largely contentious issue in Achaemenid studies, several aspects of which are however left unexplored. One such example is the question of the role of the Persian sovereign himself in this conflict: Was he actively implicated or did he adopt a more passive stance? This study aims to provide an answer to this question by systematically examining in a chronological order all the attested rebellions that have broken out in opposition to the incumbent Persian sovereign. Although on the surface level the attitude of the Achaemenid monarchs greatly varied, through this study a more coherent picture emerges, as it gradually becomes clear that the policy of the Persian sovereigns when facing an internal threat to their authority depended on the objective of the rebel themselves: Secession from the empire and the formation of an independent state or usurpation of the imperial throne.
Luteolin alleviates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by regulating cell pyroptosis
Authors: Yu Fei , Wang Guangxue , Chen Xingyi , Zhang Yanfei , Yang Cheng , Hu Hui , Wei Liang
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to clarify the roles and underlying mechanisms of luteolin in the progression of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI).

Methods

A mouse model of CIRI was established using the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) method, after which luteolin was administered. Subsequently, neuronal apoptosis and pyroptosis were measured and the brain tissues of each group were subjected to RNA sequencing.

Results

Luteolin alleviated MCAO-induced brain infarction, apoptosis, and pyroptosis. RNA sequencing identified 3,379, 2,777, and 3,933 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the MCAO vs sham, MCAO vs MCAO + luteolin, and MCAO + luteolin vs sham groups, respectively. The identified DEGs showed enrichment in multiple processes, including pattern specification, forebrain development, anion transport, leukocyte migration, regulation of cell–cell adhesion, and positive regulation of the response to external stimuli, as well as the calcium, PI3K-AKT, JAK-STAT, NF-kappa B, IL-17, cAMP, cGMP-PKG, and Wnt signaling pathways. In addition, Ccl2 and Angpt2 interacted more with the other top 30 DEGs with high interaction weights. Finally, RT-qPCR results showed that MCAO induction significantly up-regulated the expression of Stoml3, Eomes, and Ms4a15 and down-regulated Nms, Ttr, and Avpr1a; however, luteolin could partially reverse the expression caused by MCAO.

Conclusion

Luteolin can alleviate brain infarction, apoptosis, and pyroptosis in CIRI, and may improve MCAO-induced CIRI by targeting the identified DEGs and their enriched pathways.