bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction of GAT1 with sodium ions: from efficient recruitment to stabilisation of substrate and conformation
Authors: Lazzarin Erika , Gradisch Ralph , Skopec Sophie M.C. , Alves da Silva Leticia , Sebastianelli-Schoditsch Chiara , Szöllősi Dániel , Maier Julian , Sucic Sonja , Roblek Marko , Kanner Baruch I. , Sitte Harald H. , Stockner Thomas
Published: June 2024

The human GABA transporter (GAT1) is a membrane transporter that mediates the reuptake of the neurotransmitter GABA from the synaptic cleft into neurons and glial cells. Dysregulation of the transport cycle has been associated with epilepsy and neuropsychiatric disorders, highlighting the crucial role of the transporter in maintaining homeostasis of brain GABA levels. GAT1 is a secondary active transporter that couples the movement of substrate to the simultaneous transport of sodium and chloride ions along their electrochemical gradients. Using MD simulations, we identified a novel sodium recruiting site at the entrance to the outer vestibule, which attracts positively charged ions and increases the local sodium concentration, thereby indirectly increasing sodium affinity. Mutations of negatively charged residues at the recruiting site slowed the binding kinetics, while experimental data revealed a change in sodium dependency of GABA uptake and a reduction of sodium affinity. Simulation showed that sodium displays a higher affinity for the sodium binding site NA2, which plays a role in stabilisation of the outward-open conformation. We directly show that the presence of a sodium ion bound to NA2 increases the stability of the closed inner gate and restrains motions of TM5. We find that sodium is only weakly bound to NA1 in the absence of GABA, while the presence of the substrate strengthens the interaction due to the completed ion coordinating shell, explaining cooperativity between GABA and sodium.
Metabolic disruption impairs ribosomal protein levels, resulting in enhanced aminoglycoside tolerance
Authors: Shiraliyev Rauf , Orman Mehmet A.
Published: June 2024

Aminoglycoside antibiotics display broad-spectrum activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria by targeting their ribosomes. Herein, we have demonstrated that energy metabolism plays a crucial role in aminoglycoside tolerance, as knockout strains associated with the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) and the electron transport chain (ETC) exhibited increased tolerance to aminoglycosides in the mid-exponential growth phase of
Escherichia coli
cells. Given that aminoglycoside uptake relies on the energy-driven electrochemical potential across the cytoplasmic membrane, our initial expectation was that these genetic perturbations would decrease the proton motive force (PMF), subsequently affecting the uptake of aminoglycosides. However, our results did not corroborate this assumption. We found no consistent metabolic changes, ATP levels, cytoplasmic pH variations, or membrane potential differences in the mutant strains compared to the wild type. Additionally, intracellular concentrations of fluorophore-labeled gentamicin remained similar across all strains. To uncover the mechanism responsible for the observed tolerance in mutant strains, we employed untargeted mass spectrometry to quantify the proteins within these mutants and subsequently compared them to their wild-type counterparts. Our comprehensive analysis, which encompassed protein-protein association networks and functional enrichment, unveiled a noteworthy upregulation of proteins linked to the TCA cycle in the mutant strains during the mid-exponential growth phase, suggesting that these strains compensate for the perturbation in their energy metabolism by increasing TCA cycle activity to maintain their membrane potential and ATP levels. Furthermore, our pathway enrichment analysis shed light on local network clusters displaying downregulation across all mutant strains, which were associated with both large and small ribosomal binding proteins, ribosome biogenesis, translation factor activity, and the biosynthesis of ribonucleoside monophosphates. These findings offer a plausible explanation for the observed tolerance of aminoglycosides in the mutant strains. Altogether, this research has the potential to uncover mechanisms behind aminoglycoside tolerance, paving the way for novel strategies to combat such cells.
Hippocampal-occipital connectivity reflects autobiographical memory deficits in aphantasia
Authors: Monzel Merlin , Leelaarporn Pitshaporn , Lutz Teresa , Schultz Johannes , Brunheim Sascha , Reuter Martin , McCormick Cornelia
Published: June 2024

Aphantasia refers to reduced or absent visual imagery. While most of us can readily recall decade-old personal experiences (autobiographical memories, AM) with vivid mental images, there is a dearth of information about whether the loss of visual imagery in aphantasics affects their AM retrieval. The hippocampus is thought to be a crucial hub in a brain-wide network underlying AM. One important question is whether this network, especially the connectivity of the hippocampus, is altered in aphantasia. In the current study, we tested 14 congenital aphantasics and 16 demographically matched controls in an AM fMRI task to investigate how key brain regions (i.e., hippocampus and visual-perceptual cortices) interact with each other during AM re-experiencing. All participants were interviewed regarding their autobiographical memory to examine their episodic and semantic recall of specific events. Aphantasics reported more difficulties in recalling AM, were less confident about their memories, and described less internal and emotional details than controls. Neurally, aphantasics displayed decreased hippocampal and increased visual-perceptual cortex activation during AM retrieval compared to controls. In addition, controls showed strong negative functional connectivity between the hippocampus and the visual cortex during AM and resting-state functional connectivity between these two brain structures predicted better visualization skills. Our results indicate that visual mental imagery plays an important role in detail-rich vivid AM, and that this type of cognitive function is supported by the functional connection between the hippocampus and the visual-perceptual cortex.
Population clustering of structural brain aging and its association with brain development
Authors: Duan Haojing , Shi Runye , Kang Jujiao , Banaschewski Tobias , Bokde Arun L. W. , Büchel Christian , Desrivières Sylvane , Flor Herta , Grigis Antoine , Garavan Hugh , Gowland Penny A. , Heinz Andreas , Brühl Rüdiger , Martinot Jean-Luc , Martinot Marie-Laure Paillère , Artiges Eric , Nees Frauke , Orfanos Dimitri Papadopoulos , Paus Tomáš , Poustka Luise , Hohmann Sarah , Holz Nathalie , Fröhner Juliane H. , Smolka Michael N. , Vaidya Nilakshi , Walter Henrik , Whelan Robert , Schumann Gunter , Lin Xiaolei , Feng Jianfeng ,   IMAGEN consortium
Published: June 2024

Structural brain aging has demonstrated strong inter-individual heterogeneity and mirroring patterns with brain development. However, due to the lack of large-scale longitudinal neuroimaging studies, most of the existing research focused on the cross-sectional changes of brain aging. In this investigation, we present a data-driven approach that incorporate both cross-sectional changes and longitudinal trajectories of structural brain aging and identified two brain aging patterns among 37,013 healthy participants from UK Biobank. Participants with accelerated brain aging also demonstrated accelerated biological aging, cognitive decline and increased genetic susceptibilities to major neuropsychiatric disorders. Further, by integrating longitudinal neuroimaging studies from a multi-center adolescent cohort, we validated the “last in, first out” mirroring hypothesis and identified brain regions with manifested mirroring patterns between brain aging and brain development. Genomic analyses revealed risk loci and genes contributing to accelerated brain aging and delayed brain development, providing molecular basis for elucidating the biological mechanisms underlying brain aging and related disorders.
Widespread Horizontal Gene Transfer Among Animal Viruses
Authors: Buck Christopher B. , Welch Nicole , Belford Anna K. , Varsani Arvind , Pastrana Diana V. , Tisza Michael J. , Starrett Gabriel J.
Published: June 2024

The initial objective of this study was to shed light on the evolution of small DNA tumor viruses by analyzing
de novo
assemblies of publicly available deep sequencing datasets. The survey generated a searchable database of contig snapshots representing more than 100,000 Sequence Read Archive records. Using modern structure-aware search tools, we iteratively broadened the search to include an increasingly wide range of other virus families. The analysis revealed a surprisingly diverse range of chimeras involving different virus groups. In some instances, genes resembling known DNA-replication modules or known virion protein operons were paired with unrecognizable sequences that structural predictions suggest may represent previously unknown replicases and novel virion architectures. Discrete clades of an emerging group called adintoviruses were discovered in datasets representing humans and other primates. As a proof of concept, we show that the contig database is also useful for discovering RNA viruses and candidate archaeal phages. The ancillary searches revealed additional examples of chimerization between different virus groups. The observations support a gene-centric taxonomic framework that should be useful for future virus-hunting efforts.
Single-cell sequencing provides clues about the developmental genetic basis of evolutionary adaptations in syngnathid fishes
Authors: Healey Hope M , Penn Hayden B , Small Clayton M , Bassham Susan , Goyal Vithika , Woods Micah A , Cresko William A
Published: June 2024

Seahorses, pipefishes, and seadragons are fishes from the family Syngnathidae that have evolved extraordinary traits including male pregnancy, elongated snouts, loss of teeth, and dermal bony armor. The developmental genetic and cellular changes that led to the evolution of these traits are largely unknown. Recent syngnathid genome assemblies revealed suggestive gene content differences and provided the opportunity for detailed genetic analyses. We created a single-cell RNA sequencing atlas of Gulf pipefish embryos to understand the developmental basis of four traits: derived head shape, toothlessness, dermal armor, and male pregnancy. We completed marker gene analyses, built genetic networks, and examined the spatial expression of select genes. We identified osteochondrogenic mesenchymal cells in the elongating face that express regulatory genes bmp4, sfrp1a, and prdm16. We found no evidence for tooth primordia cells, and we observed re-deployment of osteoblast genetic networks in developing dermal armor. Finally, we found that epidermal cells expressed nutrient processing and environmental sensing genes, potentially relevant for the brooding environment. The examined pipefish evolutionary innovations are composed of recognizable cell types, suggesting that derived features originate from changes within existing gene networks. Future work addressing syngnathid gene networks across multiple stages and species is essential for understanding how the novelties of these fish evolved.
Visual information is broadcast among cortical areas in discrete channels
Authors: Yu Yiyi , Stirman Jeffery N , Dorsett Christopher R , Smith Spencer LaVere
Published: June 2024

Among brain areas, axonal projections carry channels of information that can be mixed to varying degrees. Here, we assess the rules for the network consisting of the primary visual cortex and higher visual areas (V1-HVA) in mice. We use large field-of-view two-photon calcium imaging to measure correlated variability (i.e., noise correlations, NCs) among thousands of neurons, forming over a million unique pairs, distributed across multiple cortical areas simultaneously. The amplitude of NCs is proportional to functional connectivity in the network, and we find that they are robust, reproducible statistical measures, and are remarkably similar across stimuli, thus providing effective constraints to network models. We used these NCs to measure the statistics of functional connectivity among tuning classes of neurons in V1 and HVAs. Using a data-driven clustering approach, we identify approximately 60 distinct tuning classes found in V1 and HVAs. We find that NCs are higher between neurons from the same tuning class, both within and across cortical areas. Thus, in the V1-HVA network, mixing of channels is avoided. Instead, distinct channels of visual information are broadcast within and across cortical areas, at both the micron and millimeter length scales. This principle for the functional organization and correlation structure at the individual neuron level across multiple cortical areas can inform and constrain computational theories of neocortical networks.
Visual information is broadcast among cortical areas in discrete channels
Authors: Yu Yiyi , Stirman Jeffery N. , Dorsett Christopher R. , Smith Spencer LaVere
Published: June 2024

Among brain areas, axonal projections carry channels of information that can be mixed to varying degrees. Here, we assess the rules for the network consisting of the primary visual cortex and higher visual areas (V1-HVA). We use large field-of-view two-photon calcium imaging to measure correlated variability (i.e., noise correlations, NCs) among thousands of neurons, forming over a million unique pairs, distributed across multiple cortical areas simultaneously. The amplitude of NCs is proportional to functional network connectivity, and we find that they are robust, reproducible statistical measures, and are remarkably similar across stimuli. We used these NCs to measure the statistics of functional connectivity among tuning classes of neurons in V1 and HVAs. Using an unbiased clustering approach, we identify that there are approximately 60 distinct tuning classes found in V1 and HVAs. We find that NCs are higher between neurons from the same tuning class, both within and across cortical areas. Thus, in the V1-HVA network, mixing of channels is avoided. Instead, discrete channels of visual information are broadcast within and across cortical areas, at both the micron and millimeter length scales. This principle for the functional organization and correlation structure at the individual neuron level across multiple cortical areas can inform and constrain computational theories of neocortical networks.
Altered visual cortex excitatory/inhibitory ratio following transient congenital visual deprivation in humans
Authors: Pant Rashi , Pitchaimuthu Kabilan , Ossandón José , Shareef Idris , Lingareddy Sunitha , Finsterbusch Jürgen , Kekunnaya Ramesh , Röder Brigitte
Published: June 2024

Non-human animal models have indicated that the ratio of excitation to inhibition (E/I) in neural circuits is experience dependent, and changes across development. Here, we assessed 3T Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) and electroencephalography (EEG) markers of cortical E/I ratio in ten individuals who had been treated for dense bilateral congenital cataracts, after an average of 12 years of blindness, to test for dependence on early visual experience. First, participants underwent MRS scanning at rest with their eyes opened and eyes closed, to obtain visual cortex Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA+) concentration, Glutamate/Glutamine (Glx) concentration, and the concentration ratio of Glx/GABA+, as measures of inhibition, excitation, and E/I ratio respectively. Subsequently, EEG was recorded to assess aperiodic activity (1-20 Hz) as a neurophysiological measure of the cortical E/I ratio, during rest with eyes open and eyes closed, and during flickering stimulation. Across conditions, sight recovery individuals demonstrated a significantly lower visual cortex Glx/GABA+ ratio, and a higher intercept and steeper aperiodic slope at occipital electrodes, compared to age-matched sighted controls. In the sight recovery group, a lower Glx/GABA+ ratio was associated with better visual acuity, and Glx concentration correlated positively with the aperiodic intercept in the conditions with visual input. We interpret these findings as resulting from an increased E/I ratio of the visual cortex as a consequence of congenital blindness, which required commensurately increased inhibition after restored visual input provided additional excitation.
Experiencia de Cuidadores y Facilitadores sobre la Implementación Online de GenerationPMTO en Contexto de Pandemia
Authors: Grau Rengifo M. Olaya , Pardo Galarce Débora , Álamo Anich Nicolle , González Suitt Karla , Fernández Sanz Sofía , Cárdenas Sánchez M. Elvira , Banderas Montalva José Miguel , Cantizano Rioseco Luz , Ruiz Leiva Constanza , Correa Molina María Luisa , Perry Mitchell Raúl
Published: June 2024

Esta investigación buscó conocer la experiencia de los participantes —15 cuidadores de niños entre 4 y 12 años de dos escuelas con alto índice de vulnerabilidad en Santiago de Chile y 4 facilitadores — del programa GenerationPMTO en su adaptación a modalidad remota, en contexto de crisis sanitaria causada por COVID-19. Se realizó un estudio cualitativo exploratorio descriptivo, en el cual se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a 15 cuidadores de ambas escuelas participantes del programa, un grupo focal con 4 facilitadoras que implementaron el programa de forma online y una revisión documental de las bitácoras completadas por las facilitadoras luego de cada sesión. La información recolectada fue analizada cualitativamente a través de los procedimientos de codificación abierta de la teoría fundamentada, para luego reunir las perspectivas de ambos grupos en un análisis integrado. Desde la experiencia de los participantes, la adaptación del programa a formato online resultó exitosa, ya que las facilitadoras lograron desarrollar los contenidos y estrategias de la intervención en modalidad virtual y los cuidadores pudieron participar y aprender desde sus casas, siendo esto compatible con el distanciamiento físico (por COVID-19) y con otras actividades de la vida de los cuidadores. Se destacan como desafíos potenciar la participación y cohesión grupal y superar barreras relacionadas con la conexión a Internet inestable y/o lugar físico poco adecuado en algunos hogares para participar. Estos resultados muestran una exitosa adaptación del programa desde la perspectiva de sus participantes, aportando aprendizajes que permitirán mejorar la adaptación de este y otros programas a modalidad virtual.
Experiencias en el Uso de Videojuegos en Gamers Argentinos Adultos
Authors: de la Iglesia Guadalupe
Published: June 2024

El objetivo del estudio fue analizar las experiencias de uso de videojuegos en jugadores (gamers) argentinos estudiando sus características sociodemográficas y analizando una escala de experiencia gamer. La muestra no probabilística accidental estuvo constituida por 201 adultos argentinos mayores de 18 años de población general que utilizaban videojuegos. La mayoría tenía una edad comprendida entre los 25 y 45 años (M = 40,9 años; DE = 15,5; 55,2% mujer; 43,3% varón; 1% no binario; 0,5% otro género). Los análisis estadísticos incluyeron pruebas r de Pearson, t de Student, ANOVAs, 2, Análisis de Clases Latentes y análisis de psicometría clásica. Las características sociodemográficas observadas replicaron las reportadas en otros países. Se identificaron dos clases latentes de gamers: una constituida mayormente por varones, menores de 40 años, que preferían hardcore games y que eran jugadores moderados o intensos; y otra, conformada en mayor medida por mujeres, mayores de 40 años, que preferían los videojuegos casuales y que eran jugadores típicos o moderados. La Escala de Experiencia Gamer presentó apropiadas propiedades psicométricas y quedó conformada por 18 ítems que se agruparon en dos escalas: Experiencias Positivas y Experiencias Negativas. Se observó que las experiencias positivas y negativas no son mutuamente excluyentes, sino que aumentan con el incremento del uso de videojuegos. La edad y el género introducen diferencias en el uso de videojuegos y deberían ser controladas estadísticamente en cualquier análisis realizado en población gamer. Además, siempre debería considerarse todo el espectro de experiencias de usos de videojuegos.
The Profile Characteristics of Muga Silkworm Rearers of the Sonitpur District of Assam, India
Authors: Saikia Dababrata , Saikia Dipankar , Saikia Monimala , Borah Debajit
Published: June 2024

A study was conducted during 2020-2021 to analyze the profile characteristics of 120 muga rearers of the Sonitpur district of Assam. The study revealed that the majority of the respondents (42.50%) belonged to the middle age group. Most of the respondents (47.50%) belonged to the category OBC (Other Backward Class) and had their (35.00%) education up to middle school. Among the respondents, medium-sized (50.00%) family was found to be dominant and farming was their primary occupation with a medium level of income ranging from Rs. 52,000-1,71,000. Regarding the size of operational land holding, the majority (40.83%) of the muga farmers owned operational land holding of 1-2 ha. The majority of the respondents (48.33%) had farming experience between 10-20 years. It was also observed that most of the respondents had a medium level of extension contact (73.33%), medium risk-bearing ability (65.83%), medium decision-making ability (60.83%), and a medium level of marketing orientation (69.17%). As regards training exposure, only 27.50 percent of the respondents had received any training.
Adaptation of Drought Stress by use of Silicon Element in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Reddy Aleti Nitha , Rajeev  , Kumar Prasann
Published: June 2024

Drought stress is a menacing type of abiotic stress caused by low rainfall, high temperature, etc., where water sparsity condition occurs in soil, affecting the process of plant growth and development. Drought stress has become a serious issue that must be considered before it becomes a significant threat to agricultural production. Wheat is India's second most crucial cereal crop; even its production is affected due to prevailing drought conditions in the fields, which causes many physiological, morphological & biochemical changes in the plant, indirectly affecting yield. Many methods are adopted to improve wheat crop efficiency even under drought-stress conditions, such as releasing resistant varieties, following advanced agronomic practices, using elements, etc. Still, the most recent method is to use the silicon element to mitigate the drought stress conditions in wheat crops. Silicon had not been regarded as an essential plant element; However, when applied to plants, it still promotes proper root growth, provides resistance against many diseases, decreases the abiotic stress effect on plants & increases the crop's growth and yield. So, in recent times, many research experiments have been performed in pots & laboratories where silicon is applied to wheat crops in the form of priming, fertilization & foliar spray in different stages of the crop to know its efficiency. Even silicon is also supplied to wheat crops in the form of nanoparticles. In the end, though, the silicon can be sprayed in any form and prevents the harm that drought stress does to wheat crops. Ultimately, Silicon is helping the wheat crop mitigate drought stress and produce better yields by enhancing its growth.
Upholding Seed Quality with Mid-storage Invigoration Treatments in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: A. Monicasri , Palathingal Vidhu Francis , Bastian Dijee , Vijayan Roshni , C.R. Rashmi
Published: June 2024

The groundbreaking research investigated the impact of mid-storage invigoration treatments on seed quality parameters in rice. The experimental design used in the study was Completely Randomized Design with three replications. The experiment was conducted at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Pattambi, Kerala Agricultural University. The objective of the study was to understand the effect of mid-storage invigoration treatments on seed storage under ambient conditions. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of ten different treatments on the quality of seeds, specifically the germination percentage, seed vigour index I, electrical conductivity, and mean germination time. The treatments tested were control- untreated seeds, hydration and dehydration treatment 1l/kg, ascorbic acid 10g/kg, calcium chloride 10g/kg, albizzia leaf powder 2g/kg, neem cake 5g/kg, neem leaf powder 2g/kg, neem oil 2ml/kg, red chilli powder 1g/kg and vayambu leaf powder 2g/kg. The rice variety Jyothi was used. Results showed that all the mid-storage invigoration treatments significantly improved the germination rate of the treated seeds when compared to the control under ambient storage conditions. Neem oil when used showed the highest germination percentage after five months of storage. In the last month of storage, neem oil showed a significantly higher vigour index which was comparable to hydration dehydration treatment and red chilli powder. Germination percentage and seedling vigour index I are positively associated with seed quality. Electrical conductivity and mean germination time are negatively correlated with seed quality. The least electrical conductivity was recorded in hydration dehydration treatment. Neem oil and hydration dehydration treatment had low mean germination time. Based on the research conducted, neem oil, hydration-dehydration, and red chili powder are the most effective treatments for improving the longevity of seeds. These eco-friendly and cost-effective mid-storage invigoration seed treatments can help farmers enhance the quality of their seeds and extend their storage life.
Influence of Fertilizers and Bioinoculants on Growth Parameters of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. L-49
Authors: Rai Ram Kumar , Pandey S. K. , Pandey C. S. , Samaiya R. K. , Upadhyay A. K.
Published: June 2024

The experiment was conducted to study the influence of fertilizers and bioinoculants on growth characteristics of guava cv. L-49 at Fruit Research Station Imaliya, Jawaharlal Nehru Agriculture University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, during 2022-23 and 2023-24 on twelve-year-old guava trees planted at 3.0 m x 3.0 m spacing. The experiment was carried out in factorial RBD with three replications. The data revealed that different levels of nutrients and bioinoculants alone and in combinations significantly influenced the growth parameter.  The maximum increase in plant height (12.16%) & (12.46%), canopy spread E-W (14.15%) & (14.45%), canopy spread N-S (14.33%) & (14.72%) and stem girth (11.19%) & (10.07%) were recorded in N2 (100%RDF), during both years of experimentation respectively. With respect of bioinoculants, the maximum plant height (11.48%) & (11.71%), canopy spread E-W (13.24%) & (13.61%), canopy spread N-S (14.05%) & (14.44%) and stem girth (9.72%) & (8.85%) were observed in B5 (Bactobooster 200 ml), during both years respectively. Among the treatment combinations, T10 (100% RDF + Bactobooster200ml) was found superior with respect of the maximum increase in plant height (12.86%) & (13.09%), in canopy spread E-W (15.77%) & (16.11%), canopy spread N-S (16.16%) & (16.66%) and in stem girth (12.54%) & (11.01%) during both the years of experimentation respectively followed by T15 (75% RDF + Bactobooster 200 ml) and minimum was recorded in control.
Genetic Divergence and Cluster Studies for Different Morphological Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.em.Thell)
Authors: Jafri Syed Kulsoom Fatima , Javed  , Singh Arjit , Yadav Harikant , Bhaiya Raja , Singh Piyusha
Published: June 2024

A field experiment was conducted on 135 wheat (Triticum aestivum L.em.Thell) genotype under timely sown condition, in order to determine the genetic variability and genetic diversity. The experimental findings indicated highly significant differences in genotypes for all 12 morphological traits taken under study. Clustering of genotypes revealed that Cluster VI had highest genotypes followed by cluster VIII, V, II, III. The lowest genotypes were noted in cluster I. The average inter cluster D2 values indicated that the most diverse groups were V and IV followed by cluster IV and I, VI and I. The lowest inter cluster value was found among VIII and V. The genotypes bearing desired values from different clusters can be exploited in future breeding programme for improving the yield and physiological traits. Such differences in genetic component of traits studied can be applied as a new source of variation in other breeding programs and crossing nurseries for wheat improvement.
Indole Acetic Acid (IAA) Mediated Plant Growth Promotion Activity of Fluorescent Pseudomonads and Bacillus spp.
Authors: Arzoo Kahkashan , Balodi Rekha , Erayya  , M Kalmesh, , Kumar J.
Published: June 2024

This investigation was made to study the involvement of IAA in plant growth promotion and vigor of wheat plants induced with plant growth promoting rhizobacteria. Nineteen isolates of fluorescent pseudomonads and 11 isolates of Bacillus spp. were subjected to germination percentage and seedling vigor index test. These parameters were determined according to recommended methods by ISTA (1985). The IAA production from selected bacterial isolates, which were showing the potential function of plant growth promotion were further subjected to quantitative analysis using Salkowski’s reagent (2% of 0.5 M FeCl3 in 34% HClO4) for Colorimetric detection. The vigor index and plant growth were significantly increased in Pfa-65 (43.36%) followed by B-18 (42.58%), Pfa-77 (40.83%), B-24 (40.68), Pfa-37(38.82%) and B-38 (38.52). The maximum concentration of IAA was detected in the isolate B-24(36.66 µg/ml) followed by Pfa-65(36.16 µg/ml), B-18(35.98 µg/ml) and Pfa-77(35.72 µg/ml). A positive correlation was observed between concentration of IAA produced and germination percentage with PGPR treatments (correlation coefficient was 0.94). The correlation coefficient was 0.96 between IAA produced and percent increase in vigor index with the treatments. Our data suggests that IAA, a growth promoting hormone, might be the key factor to promote the plant growth directed by the rhizobacteria
Assessment of Blood Ferritin and Vitamin D Levels in Patients Suffering from Myocardial Infarction to Determine Their Clinical Significance and Prognostic Value of Hematological Markers in Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Meta-analysis
Authors: P J Ashna , Vaidya Kuladeepa Ananda
Published: June 2024

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a major cardiovascular illness that causes death as well as disability on a global scale. Understanding how vitamin D contributes to the pathophysiology, epidemiology, and prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still of interest. Although vitamin D has been recognised as a potentially significant CVD marker, it is still unclear how vitamin D deficiency causes endothelial dysfunction, which in turn causes myocardial infarction and stroke. This review's objective is to present an updated analysis of the research on the fundamental science underlying vitamin D's potential effects on the cardiovascular system.
Ferritin is associated with unfavourable outcomes in individuals with a variety of clinical diseases, assessment for ferritin may be beneficial. Our goal was to carry out the first comprehensive analysis of the correlation between elevated ferritin levels and worse cardiovascular outcomes in individuals suffering from acute myocardial infarction (AMI).In patients with AMI, both low and high ferritin levels were linked to how long they spent in the hospital during their hospital stay and at longer follow-up. Ferritin assessment is a straightforward test that may be used to identify AMI patients at high risk who may benefit from more frequent follow-up and specific therapy. Regarding the state of modern treatments for AMI and heart failure, these findings ought to be validated by extensive clinical trials.
This review also discuss the role of hematological indices: Total white blood cells (WBC) count, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR),eosinophil leucocyte ratio, diffrential lecocyte count, absolute values of WBCs, red cell distribution width (RDW), and platelet indices, such as , mean platelet volume (MPV),platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and platelet distribution width (PDW) etc and its diagnostic and prognostic value in MI and its complications which may shed fresh light on developing new treatment plans on MI patients and help doctors in the diagnosis and prognosis  with or without complications.
Vegetation Indices Based Spatial Water Demand of Rabi Onion Crop
Authors: Adawadkar M. P. , Pimpale A. R. , Wadatkar S. B. , Kale M. U. , Ramteke I. K.
Published: June 2024

There are numerous methods for estimating the water requirements of crops. However, the FAO Penman-Monteith Method has been adopted worldwide but it lacks spatial variability. The accuracy can be improved by adopting VI based method.  Therefore, the present study was planned to investigate the use of vegetation indices (VIs) as a surrogate of crop coefficients in place of tabulated crop coefficients and find the best VI in the case of onion crops which require the amount of water. The study was conducted in 3 districts of Maharashtra i.e. Nashik, Dhule, and Jalgaon where onion is a major rabi crop grown on a large scale, for two consecutive rabi seasons of the year 2020-21 and 2021-22. Multitemporal vegetation indices such as NDVI, NDWI, SAVI, MSAVI2, and RVI were estimated using temporal images of Sentinel 2A satellite during the growth period of onion and week-wise values were obtained by using ERDAS Imagine. Linear regression was applied on VI values versus Kc recommended by MPKV, Rahuri which resulted in linear models. NDWI-Kc model showed the strongest relation with high R2 values. The spatial crop evapotranspiration (ETc) was then calculated by applying this model. For the 2020–21 growing season, the total crop evapotranspiration for onions in Dhule, Jalgaon and Nashik was calculated to be 486.5 mm, 482.7 mm, and 488.7 mm, respectively. Whereas during 2021–22, it was estimated to be 493.7 mm, 473.9 mm, and 477.2 mm, respectively in these districts. For getting water demand crop evapotranspiration values were multiplied by the acreage estimated by remote sensing. Total water demand for rabi onion for the districts Dhule, Jalgaon and Nashik was found to be 70.54 Mm3, 43.8 Mm3 and 693.2 Mm3, respectively and 128.1 Mm3, 33.9 Mm3, and 825.7Mm3 respectively for the years 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively.
Real-virtual Point Cloud Augmentation Method for Test and Evaluation of Autonomous Weapon Systems
Authors: Yeo Saedong , Hwang Gyuhwan , Tae Hyunsung
Published: June 2024

Autonomous weapon systems act according to artificial intelligence-based judgement based on recognition through various sensors. Test and evaluation for various scenarios is required depending on the characteristics that artificial intelligence-based judgement is made. As a part of this approach, this paper proposed a LiDAR point cloud augmentation method for mixed-reality based test and evaluation. The augmentation process is achieved by mixing real and virtual LiDAR signals based on the virtual LiDAR synchronized with the pose of the autonomous weapon system. For realistic augmentation of test and evaluation purposes, appropriate intensity values were inserted when generating a point cloud of a virtual object and its validity was verified. In addition, when mixing the generated point cloud of the virtual object with the real point cloud, the proposed method enhances realism by considering the occlusion phenomenon caused by the insertion of the virtual object.
An Empirical Study on Improving the Accuracy of Demand Forecasting Based on Multi-Machine Learning
Authors: Kim Myunghwa , Lee Yeonjun , Park Sangwoo , Kim Kunwoo , Kim Taehee
Published: June 2024

As the equipment of the military has become more advanced and expensive, the cost of securing spare parts is also constantly increasing along with the increase in equipment assets. In particular, forecasting demand for spare parts one of the important management tasks in the military, and the accuracy of these predictions is directly related to military operations and cost management. However, because the demand for spare parts is intermittent and irregular, it is often difficult to make accurate predictions using traditional statistical methods or a single statistical or machine learning model. In this paper, we propose a model that can increase the accuracy of demand forecasting for irregular patterns of spare parts demanding by using a combination of statistical and machine learning algorithm, and through experiments on Cheonma spare parts demanding data.
A 4 V Operation, Flexible Braille Display Using Organic Transistors, Carbon Nanotube Actuators, and Organic Static Random‐Access Memory
Authors: Fukuda Kenjiro , Sekitani Tsuyoshi , Zschieschang Ute , Klauk Hagen , Kuribara Kazunori , Yokota Tomoyuki , Sugino Takushi , Asaka Kinji , Ikeda Masaaki , Kuwabara Hirokazu , Yamamoto Tatsuya , Takimiya Kazuo , Fukushima Takanori , Aida Takuzo , Takamiya Makoto , Sakurai Takayasu , Someya Takao
Published: September 2011

A sheet‐type Braille display operating at 4 V has been successfully fabricated by integrating organic an static random‐access memory (SRAM) array with carbon nanotube (CNT)‐based actuators that are driven by organic thin‐film transistors (control‐TFTs). The on current of organic control‐TFTs that drive CNT actuators exceeds 3 mA, the mobility exceeds 1 cm2 V−1s−1, and the on/off ratio exceeds 105 at an operational voltage of 3 V. By adjusting the process time for the formation of the aluminum oxide dielectrics, the threshold voltage of the organic TFTs can be systematically controlled. This technique leads to an improved static noise margin of the SRAM and enables its stable operation with a short programming time of 2 ms at a programming voltage of 2 V. As a demonstration of the operation of one actuator with one control‐TFT and SRAM: the displacement of actuator exceeds 300 μm at an operation voltage of 4 V, which is large enough for a blind person to recognize the pop‐up of braille dots. Integrating the SRAM array reduces the frame rate of a 12 dot × 12 dot display from 1/21.6 s to 1/2.9 s.
Deletion and duplication of 11p13‐11p14: Reciprocal aberrations derived from a paternal insertion
Authors: Dolan Michelle , Berry Susan A. , Rubin Karol R. , Hirsch Betsy
Published: September 2011

More than 100 cases of deletions that span 11p13‐11p14 resulting in WAGR syndrome have been reported in the literature. In contrast, reports of duplications spanning this region are extremely rare. We here report on a deletion of 11p13‐11p14 identified in a neonate with severe congenital anomalies including genitourinary abnormalities and aniridia, and the reciprocal duplication identified in his healthy older sibling. Both were derived from a paternal balanced insertion of the 11p region into 18q. The deletion and duplication were characterized by G‐banding, FISH and array CGH, and are estimated to include approximately 5.5–5.8 Mb. This single family report highlights the mild phenotypes that can be associated with duplications of chromosomal regions, even those that are larger than 5 Mb and harbor known disease‐related genes, and highlights the impact of identifying balanced carrier status in a parent for accurate genetic counseling. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Néstor–Guillermo progeria syndrome: A novel premature aging condition with early onset and chronic development caused by BANF1 mutations
Authors: Cabanillas Rubén , Cadiñanos Juan , Villameytide José A.F. , Pérez Mercedes , Longo Jesús , Richard José M. , Álvarez Rebeca , Durán Noelia S. , Illán Rafael , González Daniel J. , López‐Otín Carlos
Published: September 2011

Progeria syndromes are rare disorders that involve premature aging. Mutations in BANF1 have been recently reported to cause a new hereditary progeroid syndrome that we now propose to call the Néstor–Guillermo progeria syndrome (NGPS). We describe herein the clinical features of the first two NGPS patients, who phenocopy features of classic progerias (i.e., Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome or mandibuloacral dysplasia), such as aged appearance, growth retardation, decreased subcutaneous fat, thin limbs, and stiff joints. However, these NGPS patients have a distinctive phenotype. In their early adulthood (32 and 24 years of age), they have no signs of cardiovascular impairment, diabetes mellitus, or hypertriglyceridemia. In contrast, they suffer profound skeletal abnormalities that affect their quality of life. The observed differences are of utmost importance to patients and their families and palliation of osseous manifestations is a priority, given their relatively long lifespan. We define NGPS as a chronic progeria because of its slow clinical course and relatively long survival, despite its early onset. Understanding the differences between progeria syndromes might contribute to the development of treatment strategies for common skeletal conditions, as well as aging itself. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neurodevelopmental outcomes in children with Down syndrome and congenital heart defects
Authors: Visootsak Jeannie , Mahle William T. , Kirshbom Paul M. , Huddleston Lillie , Caron‐Besch Marcia , Ransom Amy , Sherman Stephanie L.
Published: September 2011

Trisomy 21, the chromosomal condition responsible for Down syndrome (DS, OMIM #190685), is the most common identifiable genetic cause of intellectual disability. Approximately half of all children with DS are born with a significant congenital heart defect (CHD), the most common of which is an atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD). As children with comorbid DS and CHD increasingly survive cardiac surgery, characterization of their early developmental trajectories is critical for designing early interventions to maximize individual potential. Herein, the developmental domains (cognitive, language, and motor) of children with DS and AVSD (DS + AVSD, n = 12) were compared to children with DS and a structurally normal heart (DS − CHD, n = 17) using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development III. The DS + AVSD cohort mean age was relatively the same as controls with DS − CHD, 14.5 ± 7.3 months compared with 14.1 ± 8.4 months, respectively. Although the motor domain was the only domain that showed a statistically significant difference between groups (P < 0.05), both cognitive standard scores (P = 0.63) and language composite standard scores (P = 0.10) were lower in the DS + AVSD cases compared with the DS − CHD controls although it is not statistically significant. Since this is the first study to examine the early developmental outcomes of children with DS + AVSD, the findings may be useful for clinicians in providing anticipatory guidance. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Habitat heterogeneity in eelgrass fish assemblage diversity and turnover
Authors: Robinson Clifford L.K. , Yakimishyn Jennifer , Dearden Philip
Published: September 2011

Maintaining habitat diversity and heterogeneity are key ecological elements of marine spatial planning. It is often assumed that patches of the same habitat harbour similar biological diversity. However, if habitat heterogeneity is high then the efficacy of habitats as surrogates of species diversity is weakened.

Beta diversity variation in fish assemblages in eelgrass meadows along the Pacific coast of Canada was analysed using permutational multivariate analysis of variance and tests for dispersion of homogeneity. Variations in species composition were examined at an inter‐regional scale (100 s of km apart) and an intra‐regional scale (10s of km apart) over 7 years. Further, similarity percentage analysis and biological‐environmental modelling were used to identify factors that differentiated among fish assemblages. Beta diversity turnover was also considered by examining for the decay in fish assemblage similarity across gradients in sea surface temperature, salinity, and physical distance between pairs‐of‐meadows using linear regression.

Patches of eelgrass meadows exhibited high fish assemblage dissimilarity at both the intra‐regional and inter‐regional scales; spatial factors accounted for substantially more variation in fish composition than temporal factors. A large number of fish species (20–30) and different suites of environmental factors accounted for the observed high beta diversity variation. Fish composition similarity did not decay consistently within each region with physical distance between meadows or with a change of 1°C in temperature, but Jaccard similarity did decay significantly within each region by 2–4% per part per thousand change in salinity.

It is recommended that marine protected area planners consider the influence of freshwater flow into the coastal ocean and its subsequent impact on environmental gradients, which drives fish assemblage heterogeneity among eelgrass habitat patches.

Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacological effects and pharmacokinetics properties ofRadix Scutellariaeand its bioactive flavones
Authors: Li Chenrui , Lin Ge , Zuo Zhong
Published: September 2011

Radix Scutellariaeis the dried root of the medicinal plantScutellariae baicalensisGeorgi. It exhibits a variety of therapeutic effects and has a long history of application in traditional formulations as well as in modern herbal medications. It has been confirmed that flavonoids are the most abundant constituents and induce these therapeutic effects. Six flavones are proven to be the major bioactive flavones inRadix Scutellariaeexisting in the forms of aglycones (baicalein, wogonin, oroxylin A) and glycosides (baicalin, wogonoside, oroxylin A‐7‐glucuronide). All six flavones are pharmacologically active and show great potential in the treatment of inflammation, cancers and virus‐related diseases. The current review covers the preparation of the herbRadix Scutellariae, quantification of its major bioactive ingredients, and pharmacological effects of the proposed six bioactive flavones. In addition, this review summarizes the pharmacokinetic profiles of the bioactive flavones reported so far that could be used for further improvement of their pharmacokinetic study. Moreover, due to abundant co‐occurring bioactive components inRadix Scutellariae, our review further documents the pharmacokinetic interactions among them. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of zebrafish epidermis
Authors: Chang Wei‐Jen , Hwang Pung‐Pung
Published: September 2011

Zebrafish epidermal ionocytes are analogous to mammalian kidney cells in terms of expression and function of ion transporters. In this review, we summarize current findings about the development of the zebrafish epidermis and demonstrate how the zebrafish regulate stress acclimation through induction of cell differentiation. In addition, cellular homologies between zebrafish epidermal ionocytes and mammalian kidney cells are presented to show the potential of zebrafish epidermis as an in vivo model to study the development and function of mammalian cells. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 93:205–214, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.