bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrophysiology and Morphology of Human Cortical Supragranular Pyramidal Cells in a Wide Age Range
Authors: Barzó Pál , Szöts Ildikó , Tóth Martin , Csajbók Éva Adrienn , Molnár Gábor , Tamás Gábor
Published: November 2024

The basic excitatory neurons of the cerebral cortex, the pyramidal cells, are the most important signal integrators for the local circuit. They have quite characteristic morphological and electrophysiological properties that are known to be largely constant with age in the young and adult cortex. However, the brain undergoes several dynamic changes throughout life, such as in the phases of early development and cognitive decline in the aging brain. We set out to search for intrinsic cellular changes in supragranular pyramidal cells across a broad age range: from birth to 85 years of age and we found differences in several biophysical properties between defined age groups. During the first year of life, subthreshold and suprathreshold electrophysiological properties changed in a way that shows that pyramidal cells become less excitable with maturation, but also become temporarily more precise. According to our findings, the morphological features of the three-dimensional reconstructions from different life stages showed consistent morphological properties and systematic dendritic spine analysis of an infantile and an old pyramidal cell showed clear significant differences in the distribution of spine shapes. Overall, the changes that occur during development and aging may have lasting effects on the properties of pyramidal cells in the cerebral cortex. Understanding these changes is important to unravel the complex mechanisms underlying brain development, cognition and age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Parvalbumin interneuron ErbB4 controls ongoing network oscillations and olfactory behaviors in mice
Authors: Hu Bin , Geng Chi , Guo Feng , Liu Ying , Wang Ran , Chen You-Ting , Hou Xiao-Yu
Published: November 2024

Parvalbumin (PV)-positive interneurons modulate the processing of odor information. However, less is known about how PV interneurons dynamically remodel neural circuit responses in the olfactory bulb (OB) and its physiological significance. This study showed that a reinforced odor discrimination task up-regulated the activity of ErbB4 kinase in mouse OB. ErbB4 knock-out in the OB impaired dishabituation of odor responses and discrimination of complex odors, whereas odor memory or adaptation had no alteration in mice. RNAscope analysis demonstrated that ErbB4-positive neurons are localized throughout the OB, whereas within the internal and external plexiform layers, ErbB4 mRNA are largely expressed in PV-positive interneurons. ErbB4 knock-out in PV interneurons disrupted odor-evoked responses of mitral/tufted cells, and led to increased power in the ongoing local field potential in awake mice. We also found a decrease in the frequency of miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents and deficits in stimulus-evoked recurrent and lateral inhibition onto mitral cells, suggesting broad impairments in inhibitory microcircuit following PV-ErbB4 loss. Similarly, ErbB4 ablation in OB PV interneurons disrupted olfactory discrimination and dishabituation in mice. These findings provide novel insights into the role of PV-ErbB4 signaling in inhibitory microcircuit plasticity, ongoing oscillations, and OB output, which underlies normal olfactory behaviors.
Transcriptional pattern enriched for synaptic signaling is associated with shorter survival of patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer
Authors: Bhattacharya Arkajyoti , Stutvoet Thijs S , Perla Mirela , Loipfinger Stefan , Jalving Mathilde , Reyners Anna KL , Vermeer Paola D , Drapkin Ronny , de Bruyn Marco , de Vries Elisabeth GE , de Jong Steven , Fehrmann Rudolf SN
Published: November 2024

Bulk transcriptomic analyses of high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) so far have not uncovered potential drug targets, possibly because subtle, disease-relevant transcriptional patterns are overshadowed by dominant, non-relevant ones. Our aim was to uncover disease-outcome-related patterns in HGSOC transcriptomes that may reveal novel drug targets.Using consensus-independent component analysis, we dissected 678 HGSOC transcriptomes of systemic therapy naïve patients—sourced from public repositories—into statistically independent transcriptional components (TCs). To enhance c-ICA’s robustness, we added 447 transcriptomes from non-serous histotypes, low-grade serous, and non-cancerous ovarian tissues. Cox regression and survival tree analysis were performed to determine the association between TC activity and overall survival (OS). Finally, we determined the activity of the OS-associated TCs in 11 publicly available spatially resolved ovarian cancer transcriptomes.We identified 374 TCs, capturing prominent and subtle transcriptional patterns linked to specific biological processes. Six TCs, age, and tumor stage stratified patients with HGSOC receiving platinum-based chemotherapy into ten distinct OS groups. Three TCs were linked to copy-number alterations affecting expression levels of genes involved in replication, apoptosis, proliferation, immune activity, and replication stress. Notably, the TC identifying patients with the shortest OS captured a novel transcriptional pattern linked to synaptic signaling, which was active in tumor regions within all spatially resolved transcriptomes.The association between a synaptic signaling-related TC and OS supports the emerging role of neurons and their axons as cancer hallmark-inducing constituents of the tumor microenvironment. These constituents might offer a novel drug target for patients with HGSOC.
Sequence action representations contextualize during rapid skill learning
Authors: Dash Debadatta , Iwane Fumiaki , Hayward William , Salamanca-Giron Roberto , Bonstrup Marlene , Buch Ethan , Cohen Leonardo G
Published: November 2024

Activities of daily living rely on our ability to acquire new motor skills composed of precise action sequences. Early learning of a new sequential skill is characterized by steep performance improvements that develop predominantly during rest intervals interspersed with practice, a form of rapid consolidation. Here, we ask if the millisecond level neural representation of an action performed at different locations within a skill sequence contextually differentiates or remains stable as learning evolves. Optimization of machine learning decoders to classify sequence-embedded finger movements from MEG activity reached approximately 94% accuracy. The representation manifolds of the same action performed in different sequence contexts progressively differentiated during rest periods of early learning, predicting skill gains. We conclude that sequence action representations contextually differentiate during early skill learning, an issue relevant to brain-computer interface applications in neurorehabilitation.
A distributed brain response predicting the facial expression of acute nociceptive pain
Authors: Picard Marie-Eve , Kunz Miriam , Chen Jen-I , Coll Michel-Pierre , Vachon-Presseau Etienne , Wager Tor D , Rainville Pierre
Published: November 2024

Pain is a private experience observable through various verbal and non-verbal behavioural manifestations, each of which may relate to different pain-related functions. Despite the importance of understanding the cerebral mechanisms underlying those manifestations, there is currently limited knowledge of the neural correlates of the facial expression of pain. In this functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, noxious heat stimulation was applied in healthy volunteers and we tested if previously published brain signatures of pain were sensitive to pain expression. We then applied a multivariate pattern analysis to the fMRI data to predict the facial expression of pain. Results revealed the inability of previously developed pain neurosignatures to predict the facial expression of pain. We thus propose a facial expression of pain signature (FEPS) conveying distinctive information about the brain response to nociceptive stimulations with minimal or no overlap with other pain-relevant brain signatures associated with nociception, pain ratings, thermal pain aversiveness, or pain valuation. The FEPS may provide a distinctive functional characterization of the distributed cerebral response to nociceptive pain associated with the socio-communicative role of non-verbal pain expression. This underscores the complexity of pain phenomenology by reinforcing the view that neurosignatures conceived as biomarkers must be interpreted in relation to the specific pain manifestation(s) predicted and their underlying function(s). Future studies should explore other pain-relevant manifestations and assess the specificity of the FEPS against simulated pain expressions and other types of aversive or emotional states.
Body mass and growth rates predict protein intake across animals
Authors: Talal Stav , Harrison Jon F , Farington Ruth , Youngblood Jacob P , Medina Hector E , Overson Rick , Cease Arianne J
Published: November 2024

Organisms require dietary macronutrients in specific ratios to maximize performance, and variation in macronutrient requirements plays a central role in niche determination. Although it is well recognized that development and body size can have strong and predictable effects on many aspects of organismal function, we lack a predictive understanding of ontogenetic or scaling effects on macronutrient intake. We determined protein and carbohydrate intake throughout development on lab populations of locusts and compared to late instars of field populations. Self-selected protein:carbohydrate targets declined dramatically through ontogeny, due primarily to declines in mass-specific protein consumption rates which were highly correlated with declines in specific growth rates. Lab results for protein consumption rates partly matched results from field-collected locusts. However, field locusts consumed nearly double the carbohydrate, likely due to higher activity and metabolic rates. Combining our results with the available data for animals, both across species and during ontogeny, protein consumption scaled predictably and hypometrically, demonstrating a new scaling rule key for understanding nutritional ecology.
The E3 ubiquitin ligase RNF220 maintains hindbrain Hox expression patterns through regulation of WDR5 stability
Authors: Wang Huishan , Liu Xingyan , Liu Yamin , Yang Chencheng , Ye Yaxin , Yu Xiaomei , Sheng Nengyin , Zhang Shihua , Mao Bingyu , Ma Pengcheng
Published: November 2024

The spatial and temporal linear expression of Hox genes establishes a regional Hox code, which is crucial for the antero-posterior (A-P) patterning, segmentation, and neuronal circuit development of the hindbrain. RNF220, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, is widely involved in neural development via targeting of multiple substrates. Here, we found that the expression of Hox genes in the pons was markedly up-regulated at the late developmental stage (post-embryonic day E15.5) in Rnf220-/- and Rnf220+/- mouse embryos. Single-nucleus RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis revealed different Hox de-repression profiles in different groups of neurons, including the pontine nuclei (PN). The Hox pattern was disrupted and the neural circuits were affected in the PN of Rnf220+/- mice. We showed that this phenomenon was mediated by WDR5, a key component of the TrxG complex, which can be polyubiquitinated and degraded by RNF220. Intrauterine injection of WDR5 inhibitor (WDR5-IN-4) and genetic ablation of Wdr5 in Rnf220+/- mice largely recovered the de-repressed Hox expression pattern in the hindbrain. In P19 embryonal carcinoma cells, the retinoic acid-induced Hox expression was further stimulated by Rnf220 knockdown, which can also be rescued by Wdr5 knockdown. In short, our data suggest a new role of RNF220/WDR5 in Hox pattern maintenance and pons development in mice.
Exposure to live saprophytic Leptospira before challenge with a pathogenic serovar prevents severe leptospirosis and promotes kidney homeostasis
Authors: Kundu Suman , Shetty Advait , Gomes-Solecki Maria
Published: November 2024

Previous studies demonstrated that Leptospira biflexa, a saprophytic species, triggers innate immune responses in the host during early infection. This raised the question of whether these responses could suppress a subsequent challenge with pathogenic Leptospira. We inoculated C3H/HeJ mice with a single or a double dose of L. biflexa before challenge with a pathogenic serovar, Leptospira interrogans serovar Copenhageni FioCruz (LIC). Pre-challenge exposure to L. biflexa did not prevent LIC dissemination and colonization of the kidney. However, it rescued weight loss and mouse survival thereby mitigating disease severity. Unexpectedly, there was correlation between rescue of overall health (weight gain, higher survival, lower kidney fibrosis marker ColA1) and higher shedding of LIC in urine. This stood in contrast to the L. biflexa unexposed LIC challenged control. Immune responses were dominated by increased frequency of effector T helper (CD4+) cells in spleen, as well as significant increases in serologic IgG2a. Our findings suggest that exposure to live saprophytic Leptospira primes the host to develop Th1 biased immune responses that prevent severe disease induced by a subsequent challenge with a pathogenic species. Thus, mice exposed to live saprophytic Leptospira before facing a pathogenic serovar may withstand infection with far better outcomes. Furthermore, a status of homeostasis may have been reached after kidney colonization that helps LIC complete its enzootic cycle.
Derivation and internal validation of prediction models for pulmonary hypertension risk assessment in a cohort inhabiting Tibet, China
Authors: Tang Junhui , Yang Rui , Li Hui , Wei Xiaodong , Yang Zhen , Cai Wenbin , Jiang Yao , Zhuo Ga , Meng Li , Xu Yali
Published: November 2024

Individuals residing in plateau regions are susceptible to pulmonary hypertension (PH) and there is an urgent need for a prediction nomogram to assess the risk of PH in this population. A total of 6603 subjects were randomly divided into a derivation set and a validation set at a ratio of 7:3. Optimal predictive features were identified through the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression technique, and nomograms were constructed using multivariate logistic regression. The performance of these nomograms was evaluated and validated using the area under the curve (AUC), calibration curves, the Hosmer–Lemeshow test, and decision curve analysis. Comparisons between nomograms were conducted using the net reclassification improvement (NRI) and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) indices. NomogramI was established based on independent risk factors, including gender, Tibetan ethnicity, age, incomplete right bundle branch block (IRBBB), atrial fibrillation (AF), sinus tachycardia (ST), and T wave changes (TC). The AUCs for NomogramI were 0.716 in the derivation set and 0.718 in the validation set. NomogramII was established based on independent risk factors, including Tibetan ethnicity, age, right axis deviation, high voltage in the right ventricle, IRBBB, AF, pulmonary P waves, ST, and TC. The AUCs for NomogramII were 0.844 in the derivation set and 0.801 in the validation set. Both nomograms demonstrated satisfactory clinical consistency. The IDI and NRI indices confirmed that NomogramII outperformed NomogramI. Therefore, the online dynamic NomogramII was established to predict the risks of PH in the plateau population.
Kynurenine monooxygenase blockade reduces endometriosis-like lesions, improves visceral hyperalgesia, and rescues mice from a negative behavioural phenotype in experimental endometriosis
Authors: Higgins Ben , Simitsidellis Ioannis , Zheng Xiaozhong , Collins Frances , Homer Natalie ZM , Denham Scott G , Simpson Joanna P , Millar Mike , Boswell Lyndsey , Lee Hee Y , Kim Yeon G , Park Kyung H , Park Larry C , Sweeney Patrick J , Feraille Gerard , Taddei Alessandro , Chagras David , Alvarez Thierry , Webster Scott P , Horne Andrew , Saunders Philippa TK , Mole Damian J
Published: November 2024

Endometriosis is a common and debilitating neuro-inflammatory disorder that is associated with chronic pain. Definitive diagnosis is based on the presence of endometrial-like tissue (lesions) in sites outside the uterus. Kynurenine monooxygenase (KMO) is a mitochondrial enzyme of tryptophan metabolism that regulates inflammation and immunity. Here, we show that KMO is expressed in epithelial cells in human endometriosis tissue lesions and in corresponding lesions in a mouse model of endometriosis. In mice, oral treatment with the potent KMO inhibitor KNS898 induced a biochemical state of KMO blockade with accumulation of kynurenine, diversion to kynurenic acid and ablation of 3-hydroxykynurenine production. In the mouse model of endometriosis, KMO inhibition improved histological outcomes and endometriosis pain-like behaviours, even when KNS898 treatment commenced one week after initiation of lesions. Taken together, these results suggest that KMO blockade is a promising new non-hormonal therapeutic modality for endometriosis.
ECO_CARE Fieldtrip on the Rio Negro (municipality of Novo Airão, Comunidade Tiririca) and academic collaboration with indigenous women, traditional people and Master’s students
Authors: Poto Margherita Paola , Parola Giulia
Published: November 2024

This report summarises the activities undertaken by the ECOCARE team during the week of November 3 to November 4, focusing on fieldwork on the Rio Negro, specifically in the municipality of Novo Airão and the Comunidade Tiririca. Additionally, the team organised a meeting with the indigenous women of the Amarn organization and an academic activity on storytelling and emotional literacy with the Master’s students of the Postgraduate Program in Law at the UFAM, emphasizing a hands-on approach to learning and mutual exchange of knowledge.The activities were part of a broader initiative to foster meaningful partnerships and enhance educational opportunities through direct interaction with indigenous communities and academic partners. This initiative aligns with our ongoing commitment to support indigenous scholarship and integrate it within academic frameworks, thereby enriching the educational experiences of all participants.
Examining the interplay between mental health indicators and quality of life measures among first-year law students: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Muntean Rаul-Ioаn , Stefanica Valentina , Rosu Daniel , Boncu Alexandru , Stoian Iulian , Oravitan Mihaela
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This research explores the intricate relationships between mental health indicators (depression, stress, and anxiety) and various dimensions of quality of life among first-year law students. The study aims to understand how affective valence, mood states, physical activity, body image perception, and social relations influence mental health outcomes.

Methods

Data were collected from 75 first-year law students (46 females, 29 males), a group predominantly composed of young adults with limited financial means, living in various housing situations, primarily within urban environments, and generally reporting low levels of physical activity. Standardized questionnaires were used to assess mental health and quality of life, including the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 Items (DASS-21), Feeling Scale (FS), Exercise-Induced Feeling Inventory (EIFI), Modified Baecke Physical Activity Questionnaire (MBPAQ), World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF), and Contour Drawing Rating Scale (CDRS). Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and regression analysis were employed to analyze the data.

Results

The analysis revealed significant correlations between depression (mean = 5.97, SD = 4.21), stress (mean = 7.81, SD = 4.80), and anxiety (mean = 6.17, SD = 4.58) with affective valence (p < 0.05), mood states (p < 0.05), physical activity (p < 0.05), body image perception (p < 0.05), and social relations quality (p < 0.05). Additionally, mood states (mean = 20.73, SD = 10.60), physical activity (mean = 8.43, SD = 1.35), body image perception (mean = 4.21, SD = 1.91), and social relations quality (mean = 12.46, SD = 2.33) were identified as significant predictors of mental health outcomes (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

These findings underscore the complex interplay between mental health indicators and various dimensions of quality of life, emphasizing the necessity for a comprehensive approach to mental health care. By identifying these predictors, we have gained a clearer understanding of the factors that impact mental health in this specific population. The insights gained highlight the value of interventions aimed at improving mood, increasing physical activity, enhancing body image, and strengthening social connections. These targeted strategies could effectively address mental health issues and promote well-being among law students. Future research should further investigate these relationships and develop tailored interventions to better support students’ mental health. This study contributes to understanding the complex interplay between mental health and quality of life, offering a foundation for both practical interventions and future research.
Protein profile changes during priming explants to embryogenic response in Coffea canephora: identification of the RPN12 proteasome subunit involved in the protein degradation
Authors: Carrillo-Bermejo Evelyn A. , Brito-Argáez Ligia , Galaz-Ávalos Rosa M. , Barredo-Pool Felipe , Loyola-Vargas Víctor M. , Aguilar-Hernández Victor
Published: November 2024

Plant somatic embryogenesis encompasses somatic cells switch into embryogenic cells that can later produce somatic embryos with the ability to produce plantlets. Previously, we defined in vitro culture settings for the somatic embryogenesis process of Coffea canephora that comprise adequate plantlets with auxin plus cytokinin followed by cut-leaf explant cultivation with cytokinin, producing embryos with the ability to regenerate plantlets. Here, we confirmed that cultivating cut-leaf explants with cytokinin is sufficient to promote somatic embryos proliferation and the high yield of somatic embryos in the protocol requires adequate plantlets with auxin plus cytokinin. Two-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis gels reveal auxin-plus cytokinin-dependent regulated proteins in plantlets with up and down abundance. Chitinase A class III, proteins involved in the metabolism and folding of proteins, photosynthesis, antioxidant activity, and chromatin organization were identified. The RPN12 protein, which is a subunit of the proteasome 26S, has an abundance that is not associated with transcript changes, suggesting post-translational regulation.
Potential of epicatechin as antioxidant and antiaging in UV-induced BJ cells by regulating COL1A1, FGF-2, GPX-1, and MMP-1 gene, protein levels, and apoptosis
Authors: Widowati Wahyu , Wargasetia Teresa Liliana , Rahardja Fanny , Tih Fen , Onggowidjaja Philips , Tjokropranoto Rita , Zahiroh Fadhilah Haifa , Azis Rizal , Priyandoko Didik , Surakusumah Wahyu , Hadiprasetyo Dhanar Septyawan
Published: November 2024

Background

Oxidative stress caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light on the skin can damage deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and cause keratinocytes to undergo apoptosis. Endogenous antioxidants which play a role in trapping free radicals are also unable to overcome excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body due to UV exposure, so exogenous antioxidants are needed. Polyphenolic compounds extracted from natural ingredients such as flavonoids, quercetin, and epicatechin have quite strong antioxidant activity. This is influenced by the chemical structure of these compounds which are rich in hydroxyl groups and aromatic groups. This structure allows the compound to become an electron donor so that it can neutralize free radicals. In vitro research was used to see the potential effectiveness of epicatechin as an antiaging and antioxidant. The study aims to confirm the potential of epicatechin as an antiaging by in vitro assay.

Methods

The viability test of epicatechin on human skin fibroblast (BJ) cells was carried out using the water-soluble tetrazolium (WST) assay. BJ cells were UV-induced as a cell model of premature aging. Epicatechin 6.25, 12.5, and 25 µg/mL were administered to UV-induced BJ cells. The gene expression of Collagen I Alpha 1 (COL1A1), matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2), and glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPX-1) were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Elastin (ELN), hyaluronidase (HAase), cyclooxigenase-2 (COX-2), 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OhdG), and melatonin (MT) protein levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The apoptosis of BJ cells was analyzed using flow cytometry.

Results

Treatment with epicatechin increased relative gene expression including COL1A1 (5.94), FGF-2 (8.34), and GPX-1 (8.09), and also decreased MMP-1 (2.90) relative gene expression compared to the UV-induced BJ cells. Epicatechin also increased levels of ELN (107.7 ng/mg protein) and MT (830 ng/mg protein) levels compared to the UV-induced BJ cells. Epicatechin treatment decreased levels of HAase (505.96 ng/mg protein), COX-2 (33.69 ng/mg protein), and 8-OHdG (97.87 ng/mg protein) compared to the UV-induced BJ cells. Epicatechin also succeeded in maintaining the percentage of live cells and reducing apoptosis, necrotic of UV-induced skin fibroblast cells.

Conclusions

Epicatechin has the potential to be an antiaging agent by in vitro assay.
Seroprevalence and silent infection rate during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic among children and adolescents in Western Pomerania: a multicenter, cross-sectional study—the COVIDKID study
Authors: Vollmer Marcus , Kuthning Daniela , Gramenz Jana , Scholz Arevik , Michael Robin , Wittmann Nico , Gesser Udo , Niesytto Christian , Vogler Antje , Tuxhorn Vanda , Lenschow Ute , Lange Anja , Linnemann Kristina , Lode Holger , Kaderali Lars , Meyer-Bahlburg Almut
Published: November 2024

Background

Limited data on SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in rural areas of northern Germany necessitate comprehensive cohort studies. We aimed to evaluate the seroprevalence, silent infection (SI) rates and risk factors for infections among children and adolescents in Western Pomerania from December 2020 to August 2022.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, serum or plasma samples from children and adolescents (6 months to 17 years) were collected during routine blood draw. SARS-CoV-2 specific antibodies (S1 and nucleocapsid) and their neutralizing capacity were analyzed using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent and neutralization assays. Socio-demographic data and information about SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination were obtained. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infections and SI.

Results

A total of 1,131 blood samples were included into the study. Overall, SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was 25.1%, strongly influenced by the pandemic course, predominant virus variants, age and approval of vaccination. SI rate was 5.4% (95%-CI [3.7%–6.8%]) among unvaccinated and undiagnosed children over the entire study period with highest rates among adolescents. Main risk factor despite the time at risk for silent infections was an infected household member (Odds ratio = 9.88, 95%-CI [4.23–22.9], p < 0.001). Factors associated with overall infections (known and silent) also include the infection of a household member (Odds ratio = 17.8, 95%-CI [10.7–29.6], p < 0.001).

Conclusions

We believe that the introduction of governmental measures and systematic test strategies in schools strongly impacted on the SI rate, as we suspect that asymptomatic cases have already been identified, resulting in surprisingly low SI identified in our study.
Determination of the Biochemical Compositions of Stored Expressed Human Breast Milk of Healthy Lactating Mothers
Authors: Onwuchekwa Chigozie Oriaku , Eghafona Nosakhare Odeh , Okojie Rachel Obhade , Kalu Emeka Iche , Ike Nmesoma Makuo , Enwere Bright Ihechukwu , Bello-Hassan Maryam , Emmanuel Prince Ozioma
Published: November 2024

Aims: This study is aimed at determining the biochemical compositions and immunological components of expressed human breast milk (HBM) gotten from healthy lactating mothers stored under varying low temperatures.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, University of Benin, Benin, Edo State; and Quick Diagnostic Centre, Umuahia, Abia State. It was a three (3) months study.
Methodology: Sixty (60) samples of expressed HBM were collected from healthy lactating mothers (at varying ages) in Abia State, Nigeria. Employing basic biochemical analyses, the quantification of total protein, glucose, and triacylglycerol levels, in addition to the confirmation tests of vitamin, minerals, and immune cells etc, were carried out.
Results: The findings of this study demonstrated that triacylglycerol levels were constantly higher than glucose and protein level and this clearly was manifested across the ages of the lactating mothers (15 - 25 years, 26 - 35 years, and 36 - 45 years). Under room temperature and varying refrigeration, the changes in the biochemical compositions in the expressed HBM were also evaluated.
Conclusion: From our findings, expressed HBM shows good nutritive profile with various bioactive factors that are essential for supporting infant growth, and immunity. Although references demonstrated that storage conditions can impact the nutritional value of expressed HBM, the result of this study was suggestive of expressed HBM having the ability to retain good amount of its bioactive compounds when refrigerated to 24 hours, ensuring that microbial infestations were properly controlled.
Comprehensive Review of Crop Water Requirement Estimation Techniques: Approaches, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Dixit Sakshi , Singh Vikas K. , Shivam  , Ankit  , Roshan Vipin Kumar , Tiwari Sarvda Nand , Mathur Akanksha , Akram Mo , Ali Khwahiz
Published: November 2024

In order to meet the growing demand for water, water scarcity is a significant issue that needs attention. Agriculture crops are not getting enough water because of this problem. Consequently, figuring out how much water a given crop needs requires using the right method. Accurate crop water requirements must be measured in order to schedule irrigation effectively, which in turn leads to efficient crop water management. To restore the lost moisture and promote the best possible growth for plants, irrigation is used. Water management and irrigation scheduling fundamentally depend on an accurate calculation of the crop's crop water requirements (ETc). Accurate evapotranspiration measurements are necessary for effective irrigation water management. Evapotranspiration (ET), a process that measures the amount of water lost from soil and crops through transpiration and evaporation processes, respectively, is dependent on a variety of meteorological factors. A significant factor in determining crop water requirements and irrigation schedules is reference evapotranspiration. There exist multiple theories and methodologies for estimating reference evapotranspiration, ranging from empirical to physical based.  Reference Evapotranspiration is referred to the idea behind ET is to calculate ET based on a reference surface that is comparable to a deep surface of green grass that is consistently growing, completely covering the surface with enough water, and looking stable. The goal of irrigation futures is to choose a suitable model for estimating reference crop evapotranspiration. In order to calculate the amount of water needed for a crop, multiply ETo by the crop coefficient (Kc), which is dependent on the phases and length of a crop's growth. Regression, fuzzy logic, Penman-Monteith, Blaney-Criddle, Hargreaves, ANN and WNN, and other conventional and non-traditional methods are used to estimate ETo.
Effects of Inoculating Symbiotic Microorganisms on Acacia mangium Grown on Coconut Fiber
Authors: Philippe Guety Thierry , Jeanne Bongoua-Devisme Affi , Boidi Hien Marie-Paule , Kone Brahima
Published: November 2024

The ability of Acacia mangium to grow on degraded soils, thanks to its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, makes it a very important species in agroforestry and in the restoration of impoverished soils. However, all the experiments on Acacia mangium, whether inoculated or not, have only been carried out on a single type of substrate, i.e. soil. The aim was to determine whether inoculation significantly increased the biomass and height growth of Acacia mangium grown on coconut fiber. The experimental design comprised 5 treatments (Ta, T, M, R, and MR) with 5 replicates. Characterizing the coconut fiber and the dry biomass of Acacia mangium above ground and roots consisted of determining the content of elements such as P, K, Ca, Mg, and N. The number of nodules was also counted The results showed that inoculation (M, R and, MR) had no significant effect on the height growth and biomass of Acacia mangium. Non-inoculated (Ta and T) plants showed greater growth, probably due to the richness of nutrients (N, P) in the coconut fiber. The presence of nodules in the non-inoculated plants indicates the presence of indigenous strains in the coconut fiber. Double inoculation (mycorrhizae/rhizobia) significantly stimulated the growth and nodulation of Acacia mangium. Double inoculation also increased substrate fertility, which had a positive effect on plant growth. The Glomus-Bradyrhizobium combination appeared to be the most effective in improving the growth and nodulation of Acacia mangium.
Impact of Maleic Hydrazide Foliar Application on In situ Germination, Seed Yield and Seed Quality Parameters in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Dasanal Kiran , Deshpande V K , Uppar D S , Motagi B N , Bhat Ramesh S
Published: November 2024

In the 2023 kharif season, a field experiment was conducted at the All India Coordinated Research Project on Groundnut, Main Agricultural Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka. The study aimed to investigate the impact of foliar application of maleic hydrazide on in situ germination, seed yield, and seed quality parameters in groundnut (cv. Dh 86). The findings indicated that foliar spray of maleic hydrazide @ 3000 ppm resulted in lower in situ germination (24.64%), higher yield attributes like pod yield per plant(9.35 g), kernel yield per plant (6.67 g), shelling percentage (71.47%), hundred seed weight(39.65 g) and sound mature kernel (96%) and lower seed quality parameters like germination (66%), root length (13.50 cm), shoot length (8.13 cm), mean seedling length(21.63 cm), seedling dry weight (332 mg) and seedling vigour index I &II (1428 & 21912) as compared to control. Indicating induction of dormancy through foliar spray of maleic hydrazide.
Heterobimetallic Zn2+/Co2+ Monocarboxylates as Precursors for ZnO Microparticles Doped with Cobalt and its Photocatalytic Activity in Methyl Orange Oxidation
Authors: Correa Hélder Inocêncio Ferreira , Ramalho Jr Ralf Ricardo , Oliveira Adhimar Flávio , Lisboa Fabio da Silva
Published: November 2024

In this work, zinc oxide microparticles doped with cobalt were prepared from two novel layered heterobimetallic monocarboxylates as precursors to obtain uniform shape and size oxide particles, aiming for a photocatalytic removal of methyl orange. Both monocarboxylates produced ZnO doped with Co2O3 after calcination at 700 or 900 °C, in 7 or 12 hours. The particles formed by the laurate precursor presented rectangular prisms shaped, while those formed from stearate were sphere-like particles. All particles ranged from 0.1 to 0.9 μm size, with a direct bandgap of 2.2 to 2.6 eV and an indirect bandgap of 0.25 to 1.70 eV. The ZnO/Co prepared presented photocatalytic activity on methyl orange photodegradation. The solid prepared by the laurate precursor showed a photodegradation rate of 0.00185 min-1, while the one obtained from the stearate precursor presented a photodegradation rate of 0.00860 min-1, eight times greater. These results show that the material may be very useful in removing dyes from water samples. Copyright © 2024 by Authors, Published by BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Crossing Boundaries: Analysing Corruption Dynamics At Nigeria-Benin Border Points
Authors: Uzomah Ngozi L.
Published: November 2024

This study explores the dynamics and characteristics of border corruption at five key crossing points along the Nigeria-Benin border: Seme, Ilara, Hunbe, Owode-Apa, and Idiroko. A pilot survey conducted in June 2023 informed the theoretical framework, followed by a comprehensive nine-week field study from August to October 2023, involving 1,032 participants, including traders, crossers, commuters, smugglers, migrants, motorists and local community members. Data collection methods included questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and non-participatory observations, providing an in-depth understanding of participants' experiences with corruption. The findings reveal a significant gender disparity, with 63.37% of participants being male, and indicate that corruption predominantly involves traders (29.27%) and crossers (24.42%). A notable prevalence of smuggling (49.03%) and immigration-related corruption (22.10%) suggests systemic collusion between customs officers, immigration officers and clients across these borders. The study identifies seven primary causes of border corruption: weak accountability (78%), high tariffs and lack of transparency (73%), lack of probity (64%), administrative corruption and nepotism (61%), generational transfer of corruption (58%), low automation levels (53%), and informal social networks (51%). Furthermore, the research underscores the interplay between coercion and collusion, with officials often extorting bribes while allowing illicit activities to proceed unchecked. Notably, social networks play a crucial role in facilitating corrupt transactions, as traders frequently establish ongoing relationships with border agents to ensure smoother operations. The research highlights that both traders and officials benefit from these corrupt practices, undermining government efforts to regulate trade and manage border security. The study emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to enhance transparency and accountability in border management processes, thereby addressing the entrenched corruption that undermines the integrity of cross-border activities in Nigeria
Physiological and pathological high frequency oscillations in focal epilepsy
Authors: Cimbalnik Jan , Brinkmann Benjamin , Kremen Vaclav , Jurak Pavel , Berry Brent , Gompel Jamie Van , Stead Matt , Worrell Greg
Published: August 2018

Objective

This study investigates high‐frequency oscillations (HFOs; 65–600 Hz) as a biomarker of epileptogenic brain and explores three barriers to their clinical translation: (1) Distinguishing pathological HFOs (pathHFO) from physiological HFOs (physHFO). (2) Classifying tissue under individual electrodes as epileptogenic (3) Reproducing results across laboratories.

Methods

We recorded HFOs using intracranial EEG (iEEG) in 90 patients with focal epilepsy and 11 patients without epilepsy. In nine patients with epilepsy putative physHFOs were induced by cognitive or motor tasks. HFOs were identified using validated detectors. A support vector machine (SVM) using HFO features was developed to classify tissue under individual electrodes as normal or epileptogenic.

Results

There was significant overlap in the amplitude, frequency, and duration distributions for spontaneous physHFO, task induced physHFO, and pathHFO, but the amplitudes of the pathHFO were higher (P < 0.0001). High gamma pathHFO had the strongest association with seizure onset zone (SOZ), and were elevated on SOZ electrodes in 70% of epilepsy patients (P < 0.0001). Failure to resect tissue generating high gamma pathHFO was associated with poor outcomes (P < 0.0001). A SVM classified individual electrodes as epileptogenic with 63.9% sensitivity and 73.7% specificity using SOZ as the target.

Interpretation

A broader range of interictal pathHFO (65–600 Hz) than previously recognized are biomarkers of epileptogenic brain, and are associated with SOZ and surgical outcome. Classification of HFOs into physiological or pathological remains challenging. Classification of tissue under individual electrodes was demonstrated to be feasible. The open source data and algorithms provide a resource for future studies.
Soft Microreactors for the Deposition of Conductive Metallic Traces on Planar, Embossed, and Curved Surfaces
Authors: Konda Abhiteja , Rau Advaith , Stoller Michael A. , Taylor Jay M. , Salam Abdul , Pribil Gabriel A. , Argyropoulos Christos , Morin Stephen A.
Published: August 2018

Advanced manufacturing strategies have enabled large‐scale, economical, and efficient production of electronic components that are an integral part of various consumer products ranging from simple toys to intricate computing systems; however, the circuitry for these components is (by and large) produced via top‐down lithography and is thus limited to planar surfaces. The present work demonstrates the use of reconfigurable soft microreactors for the patterned deposition of conductive copper traces on flat and embossed two‐dimensional (2D) substrates as well as nonplanar substrates made from different commodity plastics. Using localized, flow‐assisted, low‐temperature, electroless copper deposition, conductive metallic traces are fabricated, which, when combined with various off‐the‐shelf electronic components, enabled the production of simple circuits and antennas with unique form factors. This solution‐phase approach to the patterned deposition of functional inorganic materials selectively on different polymeric components will provide relatively simple, inexpensive processing opportunities for the fabrication of 2D/nonplanar devices when compared to complicated manufacturing methods such as laser‐directed structuring. Further, this approach to the patterned metallization of different commodity plastics offers unique design opportunities applicable to the fabrication of planar and nonplanar electronic and interconnect devices, and other free‐form electronics with less structural “bloat” and weight (by directly coating support elements with circuitry).
Solution‐Based Processing of Optoelectronically Active Indium Selenide
Authors: Kang Joohoon , Wells Spencer A. , Sangwan Vinod K. , Lam David , Liu Xiaolong , Luxa Jan , Sofer Zdeněk , Hersam Mark C.
Published: August 2018

Layered indium selenide (InSe) presents unique properties for high‐performance electronic and optoelectronic device applications. However, efforts to process InSe using traditional liquid phase exfoliation methods based on surfactant‐assisted aqueous dispersions or organic solvents with high boiling points compromise electronic properties due to residual surface contamination and chemical degradation. Here, these limitations are overcome by utilizing a surfactant‐free, low boiling point, deoxygenated cosolvent system. The resulting InSe flakes and thin films possess minimal processing residues and are structurally and chemically pristine. When employed in photodetectors, individual InSe nanosheets exhibit a maximum photoresponsivity of ≈5 × 107 A W−1, which is the highest value of any solution‐processed monolithic semiconductor to date. Furthermore, the surfactant‐free cosolvent system not only stabilizes InSe dispersions but is also amenable to the assembly of electronically percolating InSe flake arrays without posttreatment, which enables the realization of ultrahigh performance thin‐film photodetectors. This surfactant‐free, deoxygenated cosolvent approach can be generalized to other layered materials, thereby presenting additional opportunities for solution‐processed thin‐film electronic and optoelectronic technologies.
Duvelisib, an oral dual PI3K‐δ,γ inhibitor, shows clinical and pharmacodynamic activity in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and small lymphocytic lymphoma in a phase 1 study
Authors: O'Brien Susan , Patel Manish , Kahl Brad S. , Horwitz Steven M. , Foss Francine M. , Porcu Pierluigi , Jones Jeffrey , Burger Jan , Jain Nitin , Allen Kerstin , Faia Kerrie , Douglas Mark , Stern Howard M. , Sweeney Jennifer , Kelly Patrick , Kelly Virginia , Flinn Ian
Published: August 2018

Duvelisib (IPI‐145), an oral, dual inhibitor of phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase (PI3K)‐δ and ‐γ, was evaluated in a Phase 1 study in advanced hematologic malignancies, which included expansion cohorts in relapsed/refractory (RR) chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)/small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) and treatment‐naïve (TN) CLL. Per protocol, TN patients were at least 65 years old or had a del(17p)/TP53 mutation. Duvelisib was administered twice daily (BID) in 28‐day cycles at doses of 8‐75 mg in RR patients (n = 55) and 25 mg in TN patients (n = 18.) Diarrhea was the most common nonhematologic AE (TN 78%, RR 47%); transaminase elevations the most frequent lab‐abnormality AE (TN 33.3%, RR 30.9%); and neutropenia the most common ≥grade 3 AE (RR 44%, TN 33%). The overall response rates were 56.4% for RR patients (1.8% CR, 54.5% PR) and 83.3% for TN patients (all PRs); median response duration was 21.0 months in RR patients but was not reached for TN patients. Based upon phase 1 efficacy, pharmacodynamics, and safety, duvelisib 25 mg BID was selected for further investigation in a phase 3 study in RR CLL/SLL.
Supramolecular assembly of hydrogen bonding, ESR studies and theoretical calculations of Cu(II) complexes
Authors: Morgan Sh.M. , Diab M.A. , El‐Sonbati A.Z.
Published: August 2018

A series of copper(II) complexes were synthesized by the reaction of copper(II) chlorid with 1‐phenyl‐3methyl‐(3‐dervitives phenylhydrazo)‐5‐pyrazolone (HLn) yields 1:1 and 1:2 (M:L) complexes depending on the reaction conditions. The elemental analysis, spectral (IR, 1H NMR, UV‐Vis and ESR), conductance and magnetic measurements were used to characterize the isolated complexes. The IR spectral data indicate that the metal ions are coordinated through the oxygen of the keto and nitrogen of hydrazone groups. The UV‐Vis spectra, magnetic moments and ESR studies indicate square planar geometry for Cu(II) complexes (1–3) by NO monobasic bidentate and the two monobasic trans bidentate in octahedral geometry for Cu(II) complexes (4–6). It is found that the change of substituent affects the theoretical calculations of Cu(II) complexes. Molecular docking was used to predict the binding between the ligands (HLn) and the receptors of prostate cancer mutant (2Q7K), breast cancer mutant (3HB5), crystal structure of E. coli (3T88) and crystal structure of S. aureus (3Q8U). The molecular and electronic structures of Cu(II) complexes and quantum chemical calculations were studied. According to intramolecular hydrogen bond leads to increasing of the complexes stability.
The proton conductivities of two silver‐thiophene‐2‐carboxylate coordination polymer and the relationship between the dimensionality and properity
Authors: Du Jun , Sun Xingyu , He Yuanchun , Yu Yang , Zheng Xiaofeng , Tian Laijin , Liu Zhe
Published: August 2018

Two 1D tpa complexes [Ag(tpa)(2‐apy)]n (1) and {[Ag(3‐apy)]·(tpa)·(H2O)}n (2) have been obtained from higher dimensional silver complex reaction systems and characterized. The complexes of 1 and 2 exhibit superprotonic conductivities with 3.27 × 10−2 S·cm−1 and 2.25 × 10−2 S·cm−1 respectively, in the same order of magnitude with that of the 1D 2,5‐tpa complex. The structures and topological analyses show the relative positions of substituents in neutral ligands affect the existence modes of tpa ligands, influencing the topological results and distributions of proton conduction sites, which do not affect the proton conductivities of the complexes dramatically. Instead, the dimensionalities of the complexes are closely related to the proton conductivities, indicating that in high humidity, abundant hydrogen‐bond networks are formed in pores and between main frameworks of the proton conductive compounds and influence the performance.