bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heavy Electron Catalysis of Nuclear Reactions
Authors: Zuppero Anthony , Dolan Thomas J.
Published: December 2024

Our proposed three-body model attempts to understand the transmutations that have been observed in many experiments. The model combines several phenomena to derive the conditions where a binding potential energy and an electron’s Coulomb bond can combine to attract the ions together to form a new nucleus. We hypothesize that heavy electron quasiparticles are created by placing electrons near inflection points of a lattice band diagram and last about one collision time (∼10 fs). They are placed near the inflection point by injection of phonons carrying crystal momentum, which last picoseconds, long enough to create many generations of transient heavy electron quasiparticles. We consider the interaction of two ions, such as a nickel nucleus and a proton, separated by a distance x with an electron of mass m trapped between them. The increase in energy needed to confine the electron (Kinetic Energy of Confinement, KEC) ∝ 1/(mx2) from the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle acts like a repulsive potential. The KEC keeps the ions separated by many picometers, but with a heavy electron that distance can be reduced to tens of femtometers, from where the heavy electron tunnels through the region between reactant ions. The transient shielding by the evanescent electron wavefunction at the nucleus permits the f and R nuclear bond to form, and scatters the electron. The electron may be ejected with much or all of the nuclear binding energy, or the excited compound nucleus may break into stable fragments. The Hamiltonian is H =Te +Ti +Ve +Vb, where Te is the kinetic energy of the electrons, Ti the kinetic energy of the nuclei, Ve the net Coulomb potential, and Vb is the independent binding energy (other than Ve). For example,Vb may be a nuclear binding potential Vnuc, which is zero except at very small x ∼ several fm. We approximate these potentials using a one-dimensional analysis, calculate the approach distances, calculate the threshold electron mass for tunneling to occur, and estimate the tunneling probability for many possible reactions. We compare the 1D model predictions with data from experiments, such as transmutation of Ni into Fe, Cu, and Zn. If we can create many heavy electron quasiparticles, then our model predictions are consistent with transmutation data from many experiments, showing which isotopes are probable and which are improbable.
FCC Vacancies in ZrO2PdD are the Active LANR Site
Authors: Swartz Mitchell R.
Published: December 2024

Active lattice assisted nuclear reaction (LANR) systems emit very narrow bandwidth hyperfine radiofrequency (RF) emission peaks (ca. 327.37 MHz) signaling their LANR activity. This RF frequency is very close to the theoretical Deuteron-Line (DL; 327.348 MHz) proving that D is the fuel. Neither the maser emission, nor the revealing sidebands (superhyperfine structure) appear when the components are electrically driven at subthreshold voltage or when driven in electrical avalanche mode. The RF emission sidebands provide unique information about the conditions of the desired active LANR state.
The Electromagnetic Considerations of the Nuclear Force
Authors: Bowen N. L.
Published: December 2024

This paper explores how the electromagnetic energies of the quarks within the nucleus affect the behavior of the Nuclear Force. By examining the electromagnetic energies and forces, many questions about nuclear behavior can be answered and many insights into the nucleus can be gained. Previous theoretical models for the nuclear force include only the Coulomb electric force of the protons, but with little or no consideration of the electromagnetic characteristics of the quarks. By incorporating the electromagnetic energies and forces into nuclear theory, this model has been able to achieve predictions of binding energy better than any previous model, doing so by using only one variable instead of five. This model unifies the nuclear force to the electromagnetic force.
Basics of Air-Flow Calorimetry
Authors: Ruer Jacques
Published: December 2024

In the Mass Flow Calorimetry method, the heat released by an LENR reactor under test is measured by monitoring the temperature increase of a known flow of fluid passing over it. In the Air Flow Calorimetry method (AFC), the fluid is air. AFC appears to be a relatively simple method to measure the amount of heat produced by an LENR reactor. It is well suited when the LENR reactor surface temperature is high. It is easier to build than mass flow calorimeters using water-cooled or oil-cooled systems. Basically, the calorimeter is designed such that all the heat produced by the device under test is transferred to a known mass flow of cooling air. The accuracy of the method is governed by the control of the heat losses, the mass flow-rate of cooling air, the air heat capacity, the measure of the average air temperatures at inlet and outlet. Transpiration cooling is an efficient design to minimize the heat losses. The AFC method can be applied to reactors of any size and surface temperature. Its use is restricted to the testing of reactors that work continuously, because thermal equilibrium must be reached to make valid measurements. A thorough calibration procedure is essential to minimize the influence of errors on mass flows and temperature differences.
Reduction of the HD/3He Phonon–Nuclear Matrix Element
Authors: Hagelstein Peter L.
Published: December 2024

In the previous work, a relativistic phonon–nuclear interaction was found which mediates transitions between internal nuclear states when a phonon is exchanged. We are of the opinion that this interaction provides a foundation for many of the anomalies reported in experiments in Condensed Matter Nuclear Science. In this work, we report progress toward the development of an approximate calculation of the phonon–nuclear coupling matrix element for HD/3He transitions. A construction consistent with the generalized Pauli principle is given for the dominant 2S configuration of the 3He ground state, and for four molecular HD nuclear wave functions with one unit of angular momentum, which are coupled to consistent with the selection rules for the interaction. A reduction of the spin, isospin, and angular momentum components of the matrix elements was carried out using a brute force Mathematica calculation. With these results it becomes possible to develop an evaluation of the radial integrals needed for a quantification of the phonon–nuclear matrix elements.
Visible Blue-White Scintillation by Energetic Charged Particle Emission From Ni Film Cathode in Light Water Electrolysis at Room Temperature
Authors: Yamada Hiroshi
Published: December 2024

The primary purpose of this study is to establish a simple method producing new convincing evidence for the anomalous emission of an energetic charged particle in the electrolysis at room temperature. Electrolysis of H2O solution is carried out using a Ni film cathode under the DC condition. The scintillator of ZnS(Ag) is positioned in close contact with the rear surface of the thin Ni film cathode to observe the visible scintillation and to recognize the energetic charged particle emission from the Ni film cathode. Using the simple technique, visible scintillation is identified during the electrolysis. The scintillation appears in a very short moment with the color of blue-white. The considerably high count rate of the flash from the scintillator in the electrolysis experiment is obtained comparing with the rate in the control experiment.
Dr. Mahadeva Srinivasan: Research Pioneer in the LENR Field
Authors: Grimshaw Thomas W.
Published: December 2024

Dr. Mahadeva Srinivasan was one of the earliest and most productive researchers in the LENR field. He took an immediate interest in the phenomenon and began research within a day or two after the March 23, 1989 announcement – at a time when he already had more than 30 years of nuclear research experience at India’s Bhabba Atomic Research Center (BARC). He conducted many LENR investigations using several methods, with emphasis on neutron emission and tritium generation as signatures of the effect. After he retired from BARC in 1997, he became very active in the field after a 10-year “silent period”. His main emphasis after 2008 was on promoting LENR research in India. Because of his stature in the nuclear field in India, Dr. Srinivasan was able through his connections and friendships to arrange for LENR research programs and funding at several organizations. He chaired the 16th International Conference on Cold Fusion (ICCF-16) in Chennai in 2011.
Lattice Energy Converter
Authors: Gordon F.E. , Whitehouse H.J.
Published: December 2024

Multiple implementations of a Lattice Energy Converter (LEC) have demonstrated the ability to self-initiate and self-sustain the production of a voltage and current over extended periods of time. A LEC converts the internal energy within the lattice of some materials, such as palladium, or of gases occluded within the lattice, such as hydrogen or deuterium, into ionizing radiation and elec- trical energy. Experiments include tests where the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of the LEC were measured when an external voltage/current was applied, as well as other I-V tests where the spontaneous LEC voltage was measured as a function of tempera- ture and resistance. LEC voltage and current has been shown to increase with increased temperature. The electrical power produced by a LEC is similar to that produced by a nuclear battery however, a LEC does not require radioactive materials. While the energy levels produced to date are several orders of magnitude below those required for most power sources, the calculated flux of ionizing radiation necessary to produce the experimentally measured voltage and current would require the equivalent of several curies of ra- diation. These results have been independently replicated by two individuals. A video of the Lattice Energy Converter presentation, from the 2021 LENR workshop in honor of Dr. Srinivasan, is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4dzTWY_aWM This paper expands on the YouTube video presentation with additional analysis that supports the observed experimental results
Abnormal Absorption of Hydrogen in Nickel at Ambient Temperature With Associated Emission of Neutrons
Authors: Mastromatteo Ubaldo
Published: December 2024

While it is known that nickel at a temperature of a few hundred degrees if in hydrogen can slowly absorb a certain amount of this gas, there is no evidence that this can occur at room temperature and at pressures below 1 bar. On the contrary, by conducting studies and experiments on LENR anomalies in the ARGAL laboratory in Bareggio, Italy, it has been experimentally verified several times that nickel in the form of wire, thin ribbon, foam, if properly covered with a thin layer of palladium, can absorb hydrogen in considerable quantities even at room temperature. Very often the neutron monitoring always active in the lab and close to the active reactor showed a significant rise in the background counts with two distinct peaks in the distribution of n / h (neutrons per hour) as will be better described in the following experiment description.
Recent Progress on Phonon-Nuclear Theoretical Models
Authors: Hagelstein Peter L.
Published: December 2024

Excess heat in the Fleischmann-Pons experiment presents numerous challenges for theorists, the biggest of which is to account for the absence of energetic nuclear particles in amounts commensurate with the energy produced. Our focus has been on the development of such a model, with recent progress reviewed. To account for excess heat production we contemplate a complicated model based on nuclear excitation transfer, subdivision and the down-conversion of keV nuclear quanta to a large number of phonons. The phonon-nuclear interaction that provides the foundation has been derived from a many-nucleon Dirac formalism, and we discuss recent efforts to confirm and improve upon the derivation. The quantification of the models under consideration require the evaluation of phonon-nuclear matrix elements, with recent progress discussed. The first step in the excess heat model involves the excitation transfer of a 24 MeV quantum associated with the D2/4He transition, which motivates a consideration of modeling and connections with experiments showing low-level energetic nuclear emissions. The analogous first step in the case of the 5.5 MeV quantum associated with the HD/3He transition is considered, where there is the possibility of low-level energetic nuclear emission, and where the issue of the availability of near-resonant energy levels can be studied. A nearby level in 137Cs is identified, which suggests a possible mechanism for the acceleration of the decay rate. We have recently revisited the issue of the null reaction, in which a D2/4He transition leads to the production of a compact D2 state from 4He, with the conclusion that this may be important in models for excess heat production and for low-level nuclear emission. Progress on subdivision is reviewed, including connections with experiments showing low-level nuclear emission, and candidates for laboratory tests. The possibility of a new 57Co/57Fe resonant excitation transfer experiment in a near single crystal sample is presented. A numerical approach for the evaluation of the rate for excess heat production in the models under discussion is discussed.
Decay-Instability of Transmuted Chemical Elements Obtained in LENR Experiment
Authors: Klimov A.
Published: December 2024

It is well known that there are chemical element transmutations and its isotope composition transformations in LENR experiments [1], [2]. Time evolution of the transmuted chemical elements and their decay-instability have been studied in this work. New transmuted chemical elements (such as Fe, Cu, Ca…) were obtained from the initial pure cathode material Ni (99.99%) by heterogeneous plasma formation in a plasma-vortex reactor [1], [2]. The chemical compositions of the initial cathode material and the transmuted chemical elements were measured by the EDS method and the ICP-MS method. It was revealed that there is considerable decay-instability of the obtained transmuted chemical elements at the time. This instability is accelerated dramatically by weakly ionized non-equilibrium plasma (WINP) action. It was confirmed that relative concentration of the initial Ni-atoms (cathode material erosion) is not changed, but the relative concentration of the transmuted atoms is dramatically decreased by WINP’s action. The author supposes that the theoretical model of bi-nuclear atom [4] can explain the obtained experimental results. Two-step transmutation method of the new chemical element creation in LENR experiment is proposed in this work at the first time.
Composite Model(s) for Low Energy Nuclear Reactions in the Solid State: II
Authors: Meulenberg A. , Sinha K. P.
Published: December 2024

Three partial models for Low-Energy Nuclear Fusion (LENR) of hydrogen, H, or deuterium, D, are brought together in the context of 30 years of searching for the answer to the source of nuclear fusion without the requisite kinetic energy to overcome a nuclear Coulomb barrier. The earliest of these D+D cold fusion (CF) models is Julian Schwinger’s proposal (1990) to combine, in a single Hamiltonian, the attractive nuclear potential with the repulsive Coulomb potential to reach an excited state of 4He. The second was a pair of papers by Maly and Vavra (M&V) that, a few years later, provided a relativistic quantum mechanical model basis for deep electron orbits. A third was K.P. Sinha’s 1999 model to use a natural electron pairing in a lattice to form charge-polarized D+ D− pairs in a linear defect that is attractive rather than repulsive. Critical in Schwinger’s model is the ability to dissipate nuclear energy before the actual fusion of the nuclei takes place. Critical to M&V’s model is a deep-electron orbit predicted by relativistic quantum mechanics that, if occupied in deuterium, assured nuclear fusion. Critical in Sinha’s model is the ability to free the hydrogen sub-lattice spacing in a linear defect from the encompassing crystal’s lattice spacing. This present paper includes a connection with the more recently developed model (post-2015) of the deep-electron orbits and even more recent information (2019 and 2020) on new PdD phases and on models of properties of the hydrogen “chain”. The importance and connection of each model’s contributions with recent information are highlighted. We are not proposing a specific model supported with detailed calculations. We are suggesting that (aspects of) prior models can be combined to form a unified (composite) model that would be more convincing to the other members of the Condensed Matter Nuclear Science (CMNS) community (and others) than they would be individually.
Influence of annealing temperature on the performance of radio frequency magnetron sputtered Sn-doped Ga2O3 films and its solar-blind photodetector
Authors: XU Yihong , FAN Weihang , WANG Chen ,   Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Technology and Devices, School of Opti-Electronic and Communication Engineering, Xiamen University of Technology, Xiamen 361024, China
Published: December 2024

In this study, Sn-doped Ga2O3 thin films are prepared on sapphire substrate by radio frequency magnetron sputtering at ambient temperature, and then annealed at different temperatures (400–800 ℃) in nitrogen atmosphere. The corresponding metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) solar blind photodetectors (PDs) are prepared based on those films before and after annealing to explore the influence of annealing temperature on the characteristics of the films and device properties. The results show that the as-deposited Sn-doped Ga2O3 film displays amorphous structure. With the increase of annealing temperature, the proportion of OL, Ga3+ and Sn4+ ions in the film increase, and the band gap of the film decreases slightly, indicating that the conductivity of the film is enhanced and the quality of the film is improved. When the annealing temperature increases to 700 ℃, the β-Ga2O3 (\begin{document}${\bar 402} $\end{document}) crystal surface diffraction peak appeares, indicating that the film begins to crystallize. As the annealing temperature increases to 800 ℃, the proportion of OL, Ga3+ and Sn4+ decreases, and the quality and conductive properties of the film deteriorate, which may be attributed to Sn surface segregation and Al diffusion into the film from the substrate. In addition, the average particle size and surface roughness of the film surface increase with annealing temperature increasing, which is consistent with the changing trend of film characteristics. Then, based on Sn-doped Ga2O3 thin films before and after annealing, the MSM solar blind PDs are prepared to explore the influence of annealing temperature on device performance. The quality of the film and its conductive characteristics play a role in regulating the performance of Sn-doped Ga2O3 solar blind PD. The optimal device performance can be obtained when the annealing temperature is 700 ℃, with a low dark current of 89.97 pA, a responsivity of 18.4 mA/W, a light-dark current up to 1264, and the rise/fall time of 0.93 s/0.87 s. In summary, the annealing temperature has an important effect on the characteristics of Sn-doped Ga2O3 films and the performance of solar blind PDs, which has certain guiding significance for the preparation of high-quality Sn-doped Ga2O3 films and high-performance solar blind PDs.
Machine learning-based study of dynamic shrinkage behavior during solidification of castings
Authors: ZHANG Tong , WANG Jiahao , TIAN Shuai , SUN Xuran , LI Ri ,   School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
Published: December 2024

Shrinkage cavities and porosity are the main defects generated in the solidification process of castings. These defects are caused by the alloy’s contraction during solidification, with the final solidified area not being effectively compensated for by the liquid metal, resulting in cavitation defects. Shrinkage cavities and porosity significantly reduce the mechanical properties of castings and shorten their service lives, thus necessitating appropriate process to eliminate them. Utilizing numerical simulation technology can effectively predict the shrinkage of castings during solidification and optimize the process based on simulation results, thereby reducing the occurrence of shrinkage defects, which is a low-cost and high-efficiency method. In this work, a machine learning-driven dynamic mesh model is established to simulate the dynamic shrinkage behavior of castings during solidification. Cellular automata are used to simulate the solidification process of castings, dynamically marking the displacement of boundary points and calculating the displacement of other grids using RBF neural network algorithms and support vector machine algorithms, thereby achieving the dynamic simulation of the solidification process. The model is used to simulate the shrinkage cavity morphology of the Al-4.7%Cu alloy solidification process, and corresponding casting experiments are designed for verification. Comparisons between simulation results and experimental results indicate that this coupled method can effectively capture the casting deformation caused by solidification shrinkage, the evolution of complex solid-liquid interface morphologies, and the deformation of internal grids within the castings. Compared with the experimental results, the simulation results have an error of no more than 2%, providing a new approach for numerically simulating the solidification process.
Sox9 prevents retinal degeneration and is required for limbal stem cell differentiation in the adult mouse eye
Authors: Hurtado Alicia , López-Soriano Víctor , Lao Miguel , Celis-Barroso M Ángeles , Lazúen Pilar , Chacón de Castro Alejandro , Ramírez-Casas Yolanda , Alaminos Miguel , Collinson J Martin , Burgos Miguel , Jiménez Rafael , Carmona F David , Barrionuevo Francisco J
Published: December 2024

Sox9
is a transcription factor with multiple roles during development and in adult organ homeostasis. In the adult eye,
Sox9
expression persists in several cell types, including the retinal pigmented epithelium cells and the Müller glial cells, as well as in the limbal and corneal basal epithelia. To uncover the role of
Sox9
in these cell types, we induced the deletion of the gene in adult mice. We found that, after
Sox9
ablation, mutant mice undergo a severe process of retinal degeneration characterized by the loss of Müller glial cells and complete depletion of the photoreceptors layer. Moreover, by combining single-cell RNA sequencing and
Sox9
lineage tracing, we found that
Sox9
is expressed in a basal limbal stem cell population with the ability to form two types of long-lived cell clones involved in stem cell maintenance and homeostasis. Mosaic analysis of
Sox9
positive and negative cells confirmed that the gene is essential for limbal stem cell differentiation. Our results show that
Sox9
is required for the maintenance of retinal integrity and for limbal stem cell differentiation in the adult mouse eye.
Small-molecule Activation of TFEB Alleviates Niemann-Pick Disease Type C via Promoting Lysosomal Exocytosis and Biogenesis
Authors: Du Kaili , Chen Hongyu , Zhao Mengli , Cheng Shixue , Luo Yu , Zhang Wenhe , Li Dan
Published: December 2024

Niemann–Pick disease type C (NPC) is a devastating lysosomal storage disease characterized by abnormal cholesterol accumulation in lysosomes. Currently, there is no treatment for NPC. Transcription factor EB (TFEB), a member of the microphthalmia transcriptional factors (MiTF), has emerged as a master regulator of lysosomal function, promoting the clearance of substrates stored in cells. However, it is not known whether TFEB plays a role in cholesterol clearance in NPC disease. Here, we show that transgenic overexpression of TFEB, but not TFE3 (another member of MiTF family) facilitates cholesterol clearance in NPC1 cell models. Here we show that pharmacological activation of TFEB by sulforaphane (SFN), a previously identified natural small-molecule TFEB agonist by us, can dramatically ameliorate cholesterol accumulation in human and mouse NPC1 cell models. In NPC1 cells, SFN induces TFEB nuclear translocation and upregulates the expression of TFEB-downstream genes, promoting lysosomal exocytosis and biogenesis. While genetic inhibition of TFEB abolishes the cholesterol clearance and exocytosis effect by SFN. In the NPC mouse model, SFN dephosphorylates/activates TFEB in brain and exhibits potent
in vivo
efficacy of rescuing the loss of Purkinje cells and body weight. Hence, pharmacological upregulating lysosome machinery via targeting TFEB represents a promising approach to treat NPC and related lysosomal storage diseases, and provides the possibility of TFEB agonists ie SFN as potential NPC therapeutic candidates.
Sympathetic motor neuron dysfunction is a missing link in age-associated sympathetic overactivity
Authors: de La Cruz Lizbeth , Bui Derek , Moreno Claudia M , Vivas Oscar
Published: December 2024

Overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system is a hallmark of aging. The cellular mechanisms behind this overactivity remain poorly understood, with most attention paid to likely central nervous system components. In this work, we hypothesized that aging also affects the function of motor neurons in the peripheral sympathetic ganglia. To test this hypothesis, we compared the electrophysiological responses and ion-channel activity of neurons isolated from the superior cervical ganglia of young (12 weeks), middle-aged (64 weeks), and old (115 weeks) mice. These approaches showed that aging does impact the intrinsic properties of sympathetic motor neurons, increasing spontaneous and evoked firing responses. A reduction of M current emerged as a major contributor to age-related hyperexcitability. Thus, it is essential to consider the effect of aging on motor components of the sympathetic reflex as a crucial part of the mechanism involved in sympathetic overactivity.
Automating an insect biodiversity metric using distributed optical sensors: an evaluation across Kansas, USA cropping systems
Authors: Rydhmer Klas , Eckberg James O , Lundgren Jonathan G , Jansson Samuel , Still Laurence , Quinn John E , Washington Ralph , Lemmich Jesper , Nikolajsen Thomas , Sheller Nikolaj , Michels Alex M , Bredeson Michael M , Rosenzweig Steven T , Bick Emily N
Published: December 2024

Global ecosystems and food supply depend on insect biodiversity for key functions such as pollination and decomposition. High-resolution, accurate data on invertebrate populations and communities across scales are critical for informing conservation efforts. However, conventional data collection methodologies for invertebrates are expensive, labor intensive, and require substantial taxonomic expertise, limiting researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. Novel optical techniques show promise for automating such data collection across scales as they operate unsupervised in remote areas. In this work, optical insect sensors were deployed in 20 agricultural fields in Kansas, USA. Measurements were compared to conventional assessments of insect diversity from sweep nets and Malaise traps. Species richness was estimated on optical insect data by applying a clustering algorithm to the optical insect sensor’s signal features of wing-beat frequency and body-to-wing ratio. Species richness correlated more strongly between the optical richness estimate and each of the conventional methods than between the two conventional methods, suggesting sensors can be a reliable indicator of invertebrate richness. Shannon- and Simpson indices were calculated for all three methods but were largely uncorrelated including between conventional methods. Although the technology is relatively new, optical sensors may provide next-generation insight into the spatiotemporal dynamics of invertebrate biodiversity and their conservation.
Base editing of Ptbp1 in neurons alleviates symptoms in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Böck Desirée , Wilhelm Maria , Mumenthaler Jonas , Carpanese Daniel Fabio , Kulcsár Peter I , d‘Aquin Simon , Cremonesi Alessio , Rassi Anahita , Häberle Johannes , Patriarchi Tommaso , Schwank Gerald
Published: December 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a multifactorial disease caused by irreversible progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons (DANs). Recent studies have reported successful conversion of astrocytes into DANs by repressing polypyrimidine tract binding protein 1 (PTBP1), which led to the rescue of motor symptoms in a chemically-induced mouse model of PD. However, several follow-up studies have questioned the validity of this astrocyte to DAN conversion model. In this study, we devised an adenine base editing strategy to downregulate PTBP1 in astrocytes and neurons in a chemically-induced PD mouse model. While PTBP1 downregulation in astrocytes had no effect, we observed that PTBP1 downregulation in neurons of the substantia nigra pars compacta and striatum resulted in the expression of the DAN marker tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in non-dividing neurons, which was associated with an increase in striatal dopamine concentrations and a rescue of forelimb akinesia and spontaneous rotations. Phenotypic analysis using multiplexed iterative immunofluorescence imaging further revealed that most of the TH-positive cells in the striatum co-expressed the dopaminergic marker DAT and the pan-neuronal marker NEUN, with the majority of these triple-positive cells being classified as mature GABAergic neurons. Additional research is needed to fully elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the expression of the observed markers and understand how the formation of these cells contributes to the rescue of spontaneous motor behaviors. Nevertheless, our findings support a model where neuronal, but not astrocytic, downregulation of PTBP1 can mitigate symptoms in PD mice.
Wavenumber-dependent transmission of subthreshold waves on electrical synapses network model of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Chang Iksoo , Chung Taegon , Kim Sangyeol
Published: December 2024

Recent experimental studies showed that electrically coupled neural networks like in mammalian inferior olive nucleus generate synchronized rhythmic activity by the subthreshold sinusoidal-like oscillations of the membrane voltage. Understanding the basic mechanism and its implication of such phenomena in the nervous system bears fundamental importance and requires preemptively the connectome information of a given nervous system. Inspired by these necessities of developing a theoretical and computational model to this end and, however, in the absence of connectome information for the inferior olive nucleus, here we investigated interference phenomena of the subthreshold oscillations in the reference system
Caenorhabditis elegans
for which the structural anatomical connectome was completely known recently. We evaluated how strongly the sinusoidal wave was transmitted between arbitrary two cells in the model network. The region of cell-pairs that are good at transmitting waves changed according to the wavenumber of the wave, for which we named a wavenumber-dependent transmission map. Also, we unraveled that 1) the transmission of all cell-pairs disappeared beyond a threshold wavenumber, 2) long-distance and regular patterned transmission existed in the body-wall muscles part of the model network, and 3) major hub cell-pairs of the transmission were identified for many wavenumber conditions. A theoretical and computational model presented in this study provided fundamental insight for understanding how the multi-path constructive/destructive interference of the subthreshold oscillations propagating on electrically coupled neural networks could generate wavenumber-dependent synchronized rhythmic activity.
Studying turn performance, trunk control, and mobility in acute stroke subjects: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Vasyani Mahima , Nayak Akshatha , Kumar K. Vijaya , Misri Zulkifli , Choezom Pema , Mascarenhas Rinita , Tedla Jaya Shanker , Natarajan Srikant
Published: December 2024

Background

Stroke leads to various impairments like motor deficits, impaired trunk control and restricted mobility. However, rehabilitation professionals often underestimate the fundamental function of turning, which is essential for daily living activities like walking, cooking, or performing household chores. Impaired turning can be attributed to motor deficits post-stroke, resulting in restricted mobility and impaired trunk movement. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the relationship between turn performance, trunk control, and mobility in stroke patients.

Materials and Methods

A total of 63 first-time supratentorial stroke (i.e., anterior circulation stroke) patients aged 18–90 years were recruited for the study. Turn performance was assessed by asking patients to walk for 10 feet comfortably, then take a 180° turn and return to the starting position. In addition, the duration and number of steps were recorded. Following this, the Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) and Stroke Rehabilitation Assessment of Movement (STREAM) were used to assess trunk impairment and mobility, respectively. The group turn performance was analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test with a post hoc Mann–Whitney U test for between-group comparisons. The turn duration and turn steps were correlated with age, trunk control, and mobility using Spearman’s rank correlation. A regression analysis was performed to determine the association of turn performance with age, trunk control, and mobility among stroke patients.

Results

Thirty stroke patients had turning difficulty, and 33 did not. Hence, they were categorized into the turning difficulty (TD) and non-turning difficulty (NTD) groups. When correlated with turn duration and the number of steps taken by the stroke patients while turning, the STREAM and TIS scores revealed a significant negative correlation (p < 0.001). The subjects’ age showed a significant positive correlation with the turn duration and number of steps taken by stroke patients while turning (p < 0.001). A significant association was also found between turn performance and age and trunk control. However, there was no significant association between turn performance and mobility.

Conclusion

The observed associations highlight the complexity of turning ability and trunk control necessary to complete a turn safely. Additionally, with advancing age, turn performance and turning movement are compromised in stroke patients. This indicates that turning difficulty is more pronounced in older individuals with stroke.
A Scale to Measure Impact of Front Line Demonstrations on Food Security and Climate Resilience
Authors: Xavier Chippy , G. Jayalekshmi
Published: December 2024

Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) were established to provide essential agricultural education and support to farmers at the grassroots level. These centers play a crucial role in disseminating advanced agricultural technologies and practices to improve the productivity and sustainability of farming. Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) play a crucial role in agricultural extension programs of KVKs, providing a platform to demonstrate and validate new technologies, practices, and innovations directly in farmers' fields. They are an integral part of agricultural extension services, facilitating the smooth and effective transfer of knowledge and technology from research institutions to the farming community. The present study was conducted to develop a scale to measure the impact of Front Line Demonstrations on food security and climate resilience. We collected 107 statements, out of these 42 statements were selected through relevancy test. Out of 42 statements, 28 statements were retained on the final scale. Reliability and validity of the scale indicates its consistency and precision of the results.
The Effects of Western Culture on Rites of Passage among the Hehe and Bena Societies: Case Study in Iringa Rural District
Authors: Mbinda Carlos Joseph , Ilomo Farles
Published: December 2024

This study investigates how Western culture impacts the rites of passage among the Hehe and Bena communities in the Iringa Rural district, revealing a complex relationship between traditional customs and modern influences. Interviews with community members, including elders and youth, show a strong commitment to cultural preservation despite economic pressures and lifestyle changes. The findings highlight the need to adapt traditional rites by integrating modern elements to maintain relevance for younger generations, fostering cultural evolution. Western media and educational advancements significantly shape local practices, leading to a hybridization of traditions that reflects both resilience and adaptability. The study suggests that cultural preservation efforts, educational programs, and media engagement are vital to sustaining traditional practices within a modern context, offering insights into a balanced approach to cultural development.
In methodology, the study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative research techniques to explore the effects of Western culture on the rites of passage among the Hehe and Bena societies in Iringa Rural. A case study design was utilized to gather data from various sources, including interviews, focus group discussions, and surveys. Respondents, representing different community groups, were selected using both simple random and purposive sampling methods. Data were analyzed using SPSS for quantitative insights and content analysis for qualitative data, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the cultural changes occurring in the region.
Knowledge on the Use of Iron and Folic Acid Supplements and Iron-rich Diet among Pregnant Women in Iringa Municipality, Iringa Region
Authors: Mauya Grace Stephen , Nzali Agnes , Ruheza Sosthenes
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to document knowledge on the use of IFAs and iron-rich diet among pregnant women in Iringa Municipality. The study used both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected from 100 respondents using researcher administered questionnaires and 4 key informants by using interview method. The sample size were selected by using purposive and convenience sampling technique. Qualitative data were analysed by using content analysis technique where data were organized and summarized into different themes and ideas which were express by key respondents.  The findings indicated that 87% of respondents were aware of IFAs and 85% were aware of the sources of iron-rich diet to both maternal and foetal health, 62% became aware during their three months of pregnancies and 55% got information about IFAs from their healthcare’s when visit clinics. The study concluded that most of the respondents were aware of IFAs and iron-rich diet through health workers when visit clinics during three months of pregnancies which is not proper since the supplements should be taken after one month of conceiving in order to prevent a mother from being anaemic and neural tube defects to unborn babies. Therefore, the study recommends that it is essential to implement comprehensive educational campaigns that utilize various media platforms: social media, community workshops, and radio broadcasts, to reach a wider audience.
A Comparative Evaluation of Biostimulants on Growth and Yield of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn.) in the Red Lateritic Region of West Bengal, India
Authors: Karak S. , Thapa U. , Sharma K. , Sarkar D. , Chhaya R. S. , Mitran T.
Published: December 2024

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn.), an ancient crop cultivated in India since 2300 BC, is highly valued in traditional production systems for its role in alleviating malnutrition, with a rich nutritional profile comprising 9.2% protein, 1.29% fat, 76.32% carbohydrates, and the highest calcium (344 mg%) and potassium (408 mg%) content among all cereals and millets. The present experiment entitled on “A Comparative Evaluation of Various Biostimulants on Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn.) Growth and Yield in the Red Lateritic Region of West Bengal” was conducted during kharif season of 2022 at Farmers’ field, Chandrakona, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design replicated thrice consisting of 6 treatments [T1: RDF (Recommended Dose of Fertlizes) + Seaweed Extracts at 0.2%, T2: RDF + Moringa Extracts at 2%, T3: RDF + Protein Hydrolysates & Amino acids at 0.2%) T4: RDF + Fulvic acid substances at 0.2%, T5: RDF + Panchagavya at 3%, T6: RDF (N: P: K- 30:15:15 kg ha-1)].  The objective of this study is to find out the effect of foliar nutrition on growth and yield attribute of Finger millets. The grain and straw yield of finger millet as influenced by different treatments are found to be significant. Foliar spray of nutrition has resulted variable yield differences among the treatments. The highest grain yield 26.19 q.ha-1 and straw yield 34.70 q.ha-1 were recorded by RDF + Protein Hydrolysates & Amino acids at 0.2% followed by T1 with the values of 25.12 q.ha-1  and 31.56 q.ha-1 respectively. From the above investigation it was evident that the foliar application of various biostimulants on finger millets had a positive impact on growth and yield, especially in nutrient-stressed soils. In this context, the present study aims to assess the feasibility and performance of finger millet cultivation with minimal nutrient input and the application of biostimulants in various combinations.
Modeling Diffusion in Functional Materials: From Density Functional Theory to Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Elbaz Yuval , Furman David , Caspary Toroker Maytal
Published: July 2019

Diffusion describes the stochastic motion of particles and is often a key factor in determining the functionality of materials. Modeling diffusion of atoms can be very challenging for heterogeneous systems with high energy barriers. In this report, popular computational methodologies are covered to study diffusion mechanisms that are widely used in the community and both their strengths and weaknesses are presented. In static approaches, such as electronic structure theory, diffusion mechanisms are usually analyzed within the nudged elastic band (NEB) framework on the ground electronic surface usually obtained from a density functional theory (DFT) calculation. Another common approach to study diffusion mechanisms is based on molecular dynamics (MD) where the equations of motion are solved for every time step for all the atoms in the system. Unfortunately, both the static and dynamic approaches have inherent limitations that restrict the classes of diffusive systems that can be efficiently treated. Such limitations could be remedied by exploiting recent advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques. Here, the most promising approaches in this emerging field for modeling diffusion are reported. It is believed that these knowledge‐intensive methods have a bright future ahead for the study of diffusion mechanisms in advanced functional materials.
Jellyfish‐Based Smart Wound Dressing Devices Containing In Situ Synthesized Antibacterial Nanoparticles
Authors: Nudelman Roman , Alhmoud Hashim , Delalat Bahman , Fleicher Sharon , Fine Eran , Guliakhmedova Tammila , Elnathan Roey , Nyska Abraham , Voelcker Nicolas H. , Gozin Michael , Richter Shachar
Published: July 2019

Although the negative consequences of the global phenomenon of jellyfish (JF) swarms are well recognized, the use of their biomass for practical applications is mostly limited to a niche in the Asian food industry. This fact is quite surprising since JF's biomass comprises useful biomaterials such as Q‐mucin glycoprotein and collagen. In this work, the JF biomass, collected from two different species, is used to prepare electrospun scaffolds composed of nanometric “core–shell”‐type fibers, in which adjustment of the electrospinning process parameters can easily control their mechanical, morphological, and chemical properties. This nonwoven scaffold shows excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability, indicating suitability for biomedical research contexts. Performed cell proliferation assays show that the scaffold could support the growth of cardiac cells, fitting the requirement of tissue engineering. Additional incorporation of in situ‐generated silver nanoparticles in these nanofibers produced mats with potent antibacterial properties. Preclinical trials with the resulted mats on porcine wound healing models exhibit fast and complete healing of wounds.
The Analysis of Impedance Spectra for Core–Shell Microstructures: Why a Multiformalism Approach is Essential
Authors: Heath James P. , Harding John H. , Sinclair Derek C. , Dean Julian S.
Published: July 2019

The impedance response of a core–shell microstructure with 80% core volume fraction has been simulated using finite‐element modeling and compared to two equivalent circuits for a wide range of shell permittivity and conductivity values. Different equivalent circuits, corresponding to different variants of the well‐known brick layer model, are applicable for different combinations of material properties in the microstructure. When the shell has a similar conductivity or permittivity to the core, adding a parallel pathway increases the accuracy of the fit by ≈±10%. When both the conductivity and permittivity values of the core and shell regions are different the series circuit is a better fit. This is confirmed by multiformalism impedance analysis, which reveals features in the data that are not apparent using a single formalism. Finally, the conductivity and permittivity values for both the shell and core are extracted from the simulated spectra using all formalisms and compared to the original input values. The accuracy of the extracted values often depends on the impedance formalism used. It is concluded that impedance spectroscopy data must be analyzed using multiple formalisms when considering core–shell microstructures.
A Fluffy Dual‐Network Structured Nanofiber/Net Filter Enables High‐Efficiency Air Filtration
Authors: Liu Hui , Zhang Shichao , Liu Lifang , Yu Jianyong , Ding Bin
Published: July 2019

Particulate matter (PM) pollution has posed a huge health and economic burden worldwide. Most existing air filters used to remove PMs are structurally monotonous, cumbersome, and inevitably suffer from the compromise between removal efficiency and air permeability; developing an advanced air filter that can overcome these limitations is of significance but highly challenging. Herein, a novel strategy to create ultrathin, high‐performance air filters based on fluffy dual‐network structured polyacrylonitrile nanofiber/nets, via a humidity‐induced electrospinning/netting technique, is reported. By tailoring the ejection and phase separation of the charged liquids, this approach causes 2D ultrafine (≈20 nm) nanonets tightly bonded with fluffy pseudo‐3D nanofiber scaffolds to form dual‐network structures, with controllable pore size and stacking density on a large scale. The resultant nanofiber/net filters possess the integrated features of small pore size (<300 nm), high porosity (93.9%), low packing density, combined with desirable surface chemistry (4.3‐D dipole moment), resulting in high‐efficiency PM0.3 removal (>99.99%), low air resistance (only <0.11% of atmosphere pressure), and promising long‐term PM2.5 purification. The synthesis of such materials may provide new insights into the design and development of high‐performance filtration and separation materials for various applications.