bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accumbens cholinergic interneurons dynamically promote dopamine release and enable motivation
Authors: Mohebi Ali , Collins Val L , Berke Joshua D
Published: June 2023

Motivation to work for potential rewards is critically dependent on dopamine (DA) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). DA release from NAc axons can be controlled by at least two distinct mechanisms: (1) action potentials propagating from DA cell bodies in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), and (2) activation of β2* nicotinic receptors by local cholinergic interneurons (CINs). How CIN activity contributes to NAc DA dynamics in behaving animals is not well understood. We monitored DA release in the NAc Core of awake, unrestrained rats using the DA sensor RdLight1, while simultaneously monitoring or manipulating CIN activity at the same location. CIN stimulation rapidly evoked DA release, and in contrast to slice preparations, this DA release showed no indication of short-term depression or receptor desensitization. The sound of unexpected food delivery evoked a brief joint increase in CIN population activity and DA release, with a second joint increase as rats approached the food. In an operant task, we observed fast ramps in CIN activity during approach behaviors, either to start the trial or to collect rewards. These CIN ramps co-occurred with DA release ramps, without corresponding changes in the firing of lateral VTA DA neurons. Finally, we examined the effects of blocking CIN influence over DA release through local NAc infusion of DHβE, a selective antagonist of β2* nicotinic receptors. DHβE dose-dependently interfered with motivated approach decisions, mimicking the effects of a DA antagonist. Our results support a key influence of CINs over motivated behavior via the local regulation of DA release.
A single-cell transcriptome atlas of pig skin characterizes anatomical positional heterogeneity
Authors: Zou Qin , Yuan Rong , Zhang Yu , Wang Yifei , Zheng Ting , Shi Rui , Zhang Mei , Li Yujing , Fei Kaixin , Feng Ran , Pan Binyun , Zhang Xinyue , Gong Zhengyin , Zhu Li , Tang Guoqing , Li Mingzhou , Li Xuewei , Jiang Yanzhi
Published: June 2023

Different anatomical locations of the body skin show differences in their gene expression patterns depending on different origins, and the inherent heterogeneous information can be maintained in adults. However, highly resolvable cellular specialization is less well characterized in different anatomical regions of the skin. Pig is regarded as an excellent model animal for human skin research in view of its similar physiology to human. In this study, single-cell RNA sequencing was performed on pig skin tissues from six different anatomical regions of Chenghua (CH) pigs, with a superior skin thickness trait, and the back site of large white (LW) pigs. We obtained 233,715 cells, representing seven cell types, among which we primarily characterized the heterogeneity of the top three cell types, including smooth muscle cells (SMCs), endothelial cells (ECs), and fibroblasts (FBs). Then, we further identified several subtypes of SMCs, ECs, and FBs, and discovered the expression patterns of site-specific genes involved in some important pathways such as the immune response and extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis in different anatomical regions. By comparing differentially expressed genes of skin FBs among different anatomical regions, we considered TNN, COL11A1, and INHBA as candidate genes for facilitating ECM accumulation. These findings of heterogeneity in the main skin cell types from different anatomical sites will contribute to a better understanding of inherent skin information and place the potential focus on skin generation, transmission, and transplantation, paving the foundation for human skin priming.
Mechanotransductive feedback control of endothelial cell motility and vascular morphogenesis
Authors: Mason Devon E. , Camacho Paula , Goeckel Megan E. , Tobin Brendan R. , Vega Sebastián L. , Wu Pei-Hsun , Johnson Dymonn , Heo Su-Jin , Wirtz Denis , Burdick Jason A. , Wood Levi , Chow Brian Y. , Stratman Amber N. , Boerckel Joel D.
Published: June 2023

Vascular morphogenesis requires persistent endothelial cell motility that is responsive to diverse and dynamic mechanical stimuli. Here, we interrogated the mechanotransductive feedback dynamics that govern endothelial cell motility and vascular morphogenesis. We show that the transcriptional regulators, YAP and TAZ, are activated by mechanical cues to transcriptionally limit cytoskeletal and focal adhesion maturation, forming a conserved mechanotransductive feedback loop that mediates human endothelial cell motility
in vitro
and zebrafish intersegmental vessel (ISV) morphogenesis
in vivo
. This feedback loop closes in 4 hours, achieving cytoskeletal equilibrium in 8 hours. Feedback loop inhibition arrested endothelial cell migration
in vitro
and ISV morphogenesis
in vivo
. Inhibitor washout at 3 hrs, prior to feedback loop closure, restored vessel growth, but washout at 8 hours, longer than the feedback timescale, did not, establishing lower and upper bounds for feedback kinetics
in vivo
. Mechanistically, YAP and TAZ induced transcriptional suppression of RhoA signaling to maintain dynamic cytoskeletal equilibria. Together, these data establish the mechanoresponsive dynamics of a transcriptional feedback loop necessary for persistent endothelial cell migration and vascular morphogenesis.
Mechanotransductive feedback control of endothelial cell motility and vascular morphogenesis
Authors: Mason Devon E. , Goeckel Megan , Vega Sebastián L. , Wu Pei-Hsun , Johnson Dymonn , Heo Su-Jin , Wirtz Denis , Burdick Jason A. , Wood Levi , Chow Brian , Stratman Amber N. , Boerckel Joel D.
Published: June 2023

Vascular morphogenesis requires persistent endothelial cell motility that is responsive to diverse and dynamic mechanical stimuli. Here, we interrogated the mechanotransductive feedback dynamics that govern endothelial cell motility and vascular morphogenesis. We show that the transcriptional regulators, YAP and TAZ, are activated by mechanical cues to transcriptionally limit cytoskeletal and focal adhesion maturation, forming a conserved mechanotransductive feedback loop that mediates human endothelial cell motility
in vitro
and zebrafish intersegmental vessel (ISV) morphogenesis
in vivo
. This feedback loop closes in 4 hours, achieving cytoskeletal equilibrium in 8 hours. Feedback loop inhibition arrested endothelial cell migration
in vitro
and ISV morphogenesis
in vivo
. Inhibitor washout at 3 hrs, prior to feedback loop closure, restored vessel growth, but washout at 8 hours, longer than the feedback timescale, did not, establishing lower and upper bounds for feedback kinetics
in vivo
. Mechanistically, YAP and TAZ induced transcriptional suppression of myosin II activity to maintain dynamic cytoskeletal equilibria. Together, these data establish the mechanoresponsive dynamics of a transcriptional feedback loop necessary for persistent endothelial cell migration and vascular morphogenesis.
An acute microglial metabolic response controls metabolism and improves memory
Authors: Drougard Anne , Ma Eric H , Wegert Vanessa , Sheldon Ryan , Panzeri Ilaria , Vatsa Naman , Apostle Stefanos , Fagnocchi Luca , Schaf Judith , Gossens Klaus , Völker Josephine , Pang Shengru , Bremser Anna , Dror Erez , Giacona Francesca , Sagar Sagar , Henderson Michael X , Prinz Marco , Jones Russell G , Pospisilik John Andrew
Published: June 2023

Chronic high-fat feeding triggers metabolic dysfunction including obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes. How high-fat intake first triggers these pathophysiological states remains unknown. Here, we identify an acute microglial metabolic response that rapidly translates intake of high-fat diet (HFD) to a surprisingly beneficial effect on metabolism and spatial/learning memory. High-fat intake rapidly increases palmitate levels in cerebrospinal fluid and triggers a wave of microglial metabolic activation characterized by mitochondrial membrane activation and fission as well as metabolic skewing toward aerobic glycolysis. These effects are detectable throughout the brain and can be detected within as little as 12 hr of HFD exposure. In vivo, microglial ablation and conditional DRP1 deletion show that the microglial metabolic response is necessary for the acute effects of HFD. 13C-tracing experiments reveal that in addition to processing via β-oxidation, microglia shunt a substantial fraction of palmitate toward anaplerosis and re-release of bioenergetic carbons into the extracellular milieu in the form of lactate, glutamate, succinate, and intriguingly, the neuroprotective metabolite itaconate. Together, these data identify microglia as a critical nutrient regulatory node in the brain, metabolizing away harmful fatty acids and liberating the same carbons as alternate bioenergetic and protective substrates for surrounding cells. The data identify a surprisingly beneficial effect of short-term HFD on learning and memory.
Self-formation of concentric zones of telencephalic and ocular tissues and directional retinal ganglion cell axons
Authors: Liu Wei , Shrestha Rupendra , Lowe Albert , Zhang Xusheng , Spaeth Ludovic
Published: June 2023

The telencephalon and eye in mammals are originated from adjacent fields at the anterior neural plate. Morphogenesis of these fields generates telencephalon, optic-stalk, optic-disc, and neuroretina along a spatial axis. How these telencephalic and ocular tissues are specified coordinately to ensure directional retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axon growth is unclear. Here, we report self-formation of human telencephalon-eye organoids comprising concentric zones of telencephalic, optic-stalk, optic-disc, and neuroretinal tissues along the center-periphery axis. Initially-differentiated RGCs grew axons towards and then along a path defined by adjacent PAX2+ VSX2+ optic-disc cells. Single-cell RNA sequencing of these organoids not only confirmed telencephalic and ocular identities but also identified expression signatures of early optic-disc, optic-stalk, and RGCs. These signatures were similar to those in human fetal retinas. Optic-disc cells in these organoids differentially expressed FGF8 and FGF9; FGFR inhibitions drastically decreased early RGC differentiation and directional axon growth. Through the RGC-specific cell-surface marker CNTN2 identified here, electrophysiologically excitable RGCs were isolated under a native condition. Our findings provide insight into the coordinated specification of early telencephalic and ocular tissues in humans and establish resources for studying RGC-related diseases such as glaucoma.
Morpho-biochemical characterization and molecular marker based genetic diversity of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum(L.) R. Br.)
Authors: Gunguniya Darshanaben F. , Kumar Sushil , Patel Mukesh P. , Sakure Amar A. , Patel Rumit , Kumar Dileep , Khandelwal Vikas
Published: June 2023

Pearl millet is a key food for millions living in semi-arid and arid regions and is a main diet for poorer populations. The genetic diversity existing in the pearl millet germplasm can be used to improve the micronutrient content and grain yield. Effective and organized exploitation of diversity at morphological and DNA levels is the strategy for any crop improvement program. In this study, the genetic diversity of 48 pearl millet genotypes was evaluated for eight morphological traits and eleven biochemical characters. All genotypes were also characterized using twelve SSR and six SRAP markers to evaluate genetic diversity. The significant mean difference between morphological and biochemical traits were detected. The productive tillers per plant varied from 2.65 to 7.60 with a mean of 4.80. The grain yield of genotypes varied more than 3× from 15.85 g (ICMR 07222) to 56.75 g (Nandi 75) with an average of 29.54 g per plant. Higher levels of protein, iron, and zinc contents were found to be present in ICMR 12555 (20.6%), ICMR 08666 (77.38 ppm), and IC 139900 (55.48 ppm), respectively, during the experiment. Substantial variability was observed for grain calcium as it ranged from 100.00 ppm (ICMR 10222) to 256.00 ppm (ICMR 12888). The top eight nutrient-dense genotypes flowered in 34–74 days and had 5.71–9.39 g 1,000 grain weight. Genotype ICMR 08666 was superior for Fe, Zn, K and P. The inter-genotype similarity coefficient at the genetic level, generated using DNA markers, ranged from 0.616 to 0.877 with a mean of 0.743. A combination of morpho-biochemical traits and DNA markers based diversity may help to differentiate the genotypes and diverse genotypes can be used in breeding programs to improve the mineral content in pearl millet.
Predictors of cognitive impairment in patients undergoing ileostomy for colorectal cancer: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Xu Jing , Yang Yuelan , Hu Die
Published: June 2023

Background

Early detection of cognitive impairment in patients undergoing ileostomy for colorectal cancer may help improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Identifying risk factors and clinically accessible factors is crucial for prevention and treatment.

Objective

This retrospective study aimed to identify risk factors for post-operative cognitive impairment in patients undergoing ileostomy for colorectal cancer and to explore potential factors for its prevention and treatment.

Methods

A total of 108 cases were selected and included in the study. Patient data including general characteristics, disease stage, complications, and chemotherapy status were collected, and sleep quality and cognitive function were assessed using questionnaires and follow-up. Patients were randomly divided into training and validation groups. A random forest model was used to rank clinical features based on their contribution to predicting the prognosis of cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI). Nomograms were constructed using the support vector machine–recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) method, and the minimal root-mean-square error (RMSE) values were compared to select the best model. Regression analysis was performed to determine independent predictors.

Results

Significant differences were observed in age, body mass index (BMI), alcohol consumption, frequency of physical activity, comorbidity, and cancer-related anemia (CRA) between the CRCI and non-CRCI groups. Random forest analysis revealed that age, BMI, exercise intensity, PSQI scores, and history of hypertension were the most significant predictors of outcome. Univariate logistic regression analysis of 18 variables revealed that age, alcohol consumption, exercise intensity, BMI, and comorbidity were significantly associated with the outcome of CRCI (p < 0.05). Univariate and multivariate models with P-values less than 0.1 and 0.2, respectively, showed better predictive performance for CRCI. The results of univariate analysis were plotted on a nomogram to evaluate the risk of developing CRCI after colorectal cancer surgery. The nomogram was found to have good predictive performance. Finally, regression analysis revealed that age, exercise intensity, BMI, comorbidity, and CRA were independent predictors of CRCI.

Conclusions

This retrospective cohort study revealed that age, exercise intensity, BMI, comorbidity, CRA, and mobility are independent predictors of cognitive impairment in patients undergoing ileostomy for colorectal cancer. Identifying these factors and potential factors may have clinical implications in predicting and managing post-operative cognitive impairment in this patient population.
The diagnostic value of serum insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7 in gastric cancer
Authors: Liu Can-Tong , Wu Fang-Cai , Zhuang Yi-Xuan , Huang Xin-Yi , Li Xin-Hao , Qu Qi-Qi , Peng Yu-Hui , Xu Yi-Wei , Chen Shu-Lin , Huang Xu-Chun
Published: June 2023

Backgrounds

Early detection might help in reducing the burden and promoting the survival rate of gastric cancers. Herein, we tried to explore the diagnostic value of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7 (IGFBP7) in gastric cancers.

Methods

In this study, we first analyzed the expression levels and prognostic value of IGFBP7 mRNA in gastric cancers from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Then, we recruited 169 gastric cancer patients and 100 normal controls as training cohort, and 55 gastric cancer patients and 55 normal controls as independent validation cohort. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was applied to test the serum levels of IGFBP7. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and the area under the curve (AUC) were applied to evaluation the diagnostic value.

Results

TCGA showed that IGFBP7 mRNA was dysregulated and associated with prognosis in gastric cancer patients. Then, we examined the expression of serum IGFBP7 and found that serum IGFBP7 expressed lower in gastric cancer patients than normal controls both in training and independent validation cohorts (p < 0.0001). In training cohort, with the cutoff value of 1.515 ng/ml, the AUC for distinguishing gastric cancer patients was 0.774 (95% CI [0.713–0.836]) with sensitivity of 36.7% (95% CI [29.5–44.5]) and specificity of 90.0% (95% CI [82.0–94.8]). As for early-stage EJA, the AUC was 0.773 (95% CI [0.701–0.845]) with the sensitivity of 33.3% (95% CI [14.4–58.8]). In independent validation cohort, with the same cutoff value, the AUC reached to 0.758 (95% CI [0.664–0.852]). Similarly, for early-stage gastric cancer diagnosis in the independent validation cohort, the AUC value was 0.778 (95% CI [0.673–0.882]).

Conclusions

This study indicated that serum IGFBP7 might act as a potential early diagnostic marker for gastric cancers.
Exploring forearm muscle coordination and training applications of various grip positions during maximal isometric finger dead-hangs in rock climbers
Authors: Ferrer-Uris Blai , Arias Denisse , Torrado Priscila , Marina Michel , Busquets Albert
Published: June 2023

Background

Maximal isometric finger dead-hangs are used in rock climbing to strengthen finger flexors. Although various grip positions are often used when performing finger dead-hangs, little is known regarding how these grip positions can affect forearm muscle activity. Understanding how forearm muscles are recruited during dead-hangs could help foreseeing the potential for training of different grip positions. The aim of the present study was to explore the training applications of the various grip positions by comparing the activity of forearm muscles during maximal dead-hangs in rock climbers.

Materials & Methods

Twenty-five climbers performed maximal dead-hangs in three climbing-specific grip positions: CRIMP, SLOPE, and SLOPER. We recorded the maximal loads used and the sEMG of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP), the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS), the flexor carpi radialis (FCR), and the extensor digitorum communis (EDC). Individual and global (sum of all muscles) root mean square (RMS) and neuromuscular efficiency (NME) values were computed. Repeated measures analysis were performed to assess grip differences (p < 0.05).

Results

SLOPER showed the largest maximal load values among the three grip positions (p < 0.001,d ≥ 2.772). Greater global (p ≤ 0.044,d ≥ 0.268), FDS (p ≤ 0.005,d ≥ 0.277), and FCR (p < 0.001,d ≥ 1.049) activity was observed for the SLOPER compared to CRIMP and SLOPE, while EDC (p ≤ 0.005,d ≥ 0.505) showed lower activity in the SLOPER compared to the other two grip positions. SLOPER presented the highest global (p < 0.001,d ≥ 0.629), FDP (p < 0.001,d≥ 0.777), FDS (only CRIMPvsSLOPER:p< 0.001,d= 0.140), and EDC NME (p< 0.001,d≥ 1.194). The CRIMP showed greater FDS activity (p= 0.001,d= 0.386) and lower NME (p= 0.003,d= 0.125) compared to SLOPE.

Conclusions

These results revealed that, under maximum intensity conditions, SLOPER could stimulate the FDS and FCR better than the other grip positions at the expense of using greater loads. Similarly, maximum CRIMP dead-hang could better stimulate the FDS than the SLOPE, even when using similar loads.
Ferroptosis-associated gene CISD2 suppresses colon cancer development by regulating tumor immune microenvironment
Authors: Xu Yuanyuan , Tang Qingzhu , Ding Ning , Zhang Tao , Luo Hongbiao
Published: June 2023

Background

Despite the association of ferroptosis with various tumors, the specific mechanism by which it influences colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) microenvironmental equilibrium remains elusive. This study aims to elucidate how ferroptosis affects COAD microenvironmental homeostasis and its potential impact on COAD research.

Objective

By employing genetic screening and single-cell analysis of tumor data, we investigated the role of ferroptosis genes in COAD microenvironmental homeostasis. The genes were correlated with immune cell infiltration in tissue samples and patient outcomes.

Methods

Ferroptosis-associated genes were initially identified through the FerrDb database. Utilizing the tidyverse and Seurat packages, genes with substantial expression differences were extracted, and clustering analysis was performed on the single-cell data. A Venn diagram depicted shared differential genes for ferroptosis and tumors. To screen key ferroptosis genes, further enrichment analysis and immune cell infiltration analysis were conducted. Lastly, human COAD cell lines were employed to overexpress CDGSH iron sulfur domain 2 (CISD2) through cellular assays to validate its function in COAD.

Results

Following screening of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) databases, 414 COAD patient samples and 341 normal samples were included. Through the FerrDb database, 259 ferroptosis genes were identified. Clustering the single-cell data revealed 911 tumor marker genes, of which 18 were ferroptosis genes. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and univariate regression analysis determined that only CISD2 was statistically significantly associated with clinical outcomes. Additionally, CISD2 was found to positively correlate with activated memory T cells and negatively correlate with regulatory T cells (Tregs) and plasma cells in COAD, as well as being significantly associated with several immune-related and cancer-related pathways. CISD2 expression was elevated in most tumors, likely due to cell cycle regulation and immune system activation. Moreover, CISD2 upregulation inhibited COAD cell proliferation and enhanced 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) sensitivity. Our findings indicate, for the first time, that CISD2 governs the cell cycle and stimulates the immune system to impede COAD progression.

Conclusion

By modulating the cell cycle and mediating immune infiltration, CISD2 may inhibit COAD development by influencing tumor immune microenvironment equilibrium, providing valuable insights into the relevance and potential impact of the research results on the COAD research field.
Allelopathic Effects of Conyza canadensis Water Extract on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth
Authors: Wang Xueqin , Chen Jiahui , Li Wendi , Liang Hao , Jiang Lihua , Li Jing
Published: June 2023

In order to investigate the effects of allelo-pathic substances of Conyza canadensis on seed germination and seedlings, this study was designed to explore the allelopathic effects of Conyza canadensis water extract (CCE) on pakchoi, spinach and lettuce. Germination rates of three crops (pakcholi, spinach, and lettuce) during the seed germination, root length, seedling height, and fresh weight of two crops (pakcholi and lettuce) during  the seedling were measured under different concentrations of CCE treatment (20, 40, 60, 80, 100 g/L). The allelopathic effect index was also calculated. The results showed that CCE had a varying degree of inhibitory effect on the germination rate of the seeds of the three crops. Spinach and lettuce have significant allelopathic effects from C. canadensis. At higher concentration of CCE, the germination rate of spinach and lettuce significantly decreased (P<0.01). After germination, the root length, seedling height, and fresh weight of the crop were measured, and the allelopathic effects were also calculated. It was found that the CCE had a significant inhibitory effect on root length, but it showed a promoting effect on seedling height and fresh weight of pakchoi, and CCE had a "low promotion-high inhibition" effect on seedling height and fresh weight of lettuce.
Development of Theme - Based English Learning Model with Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) Approach to Improve Students’ Reading Skills
Authors: Subaedah St. , Bundu Patta , Yahya Muh.
Published: June 2023

This study is a Research and Development (R & D) which aims to (1) describe the needs of Theme-Based English Learning Model Development with CTL Approach to improve students' reading skills, (2) design a prototype of theme-based English learning model development with CTL approach to improve students' reading skills, (3) to measure the validity level of the development of theme-based English learning model with CTL approach to improving students' reading skills, (4) to measure the practicality level of the development of theme-based English learning model with CTL approach to improving students' reading skills, and (5) to measure the effectiveness level of the development of theme-based English learning model with CTL approach to improving students' reading skills. Subject of development of theme-based English learning model with contextual teaching and learning (CTL) approach to improve students' reading skills at SMP Negeri 19 Makassar. The research used a type of research and development (R&D) research that refers to the ADDIE model, Sugiyono (2016: 298). This model consists of five stages, namely Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation and Evaluation. Data collection techniques were carried out using observation, interviews, tests, questionnaires, and documentation techniques. The research instruments used were learning implementation observation instruments, student learning outcomes assessment test instruments, learning device validation instruments and implementation observation sheet validation instruments. The data analysis techniques were carried out by (1) analysing needs, (2) analysing the level of validity, (3) analysing the level of effectiveness, and (4) analysing student and teacher response data. The results of this study indicate that there is a need to develop a theme-based English learning model with a CTL approach to improve students' reading comprehension skills. The validation test results showed that the model book, teaching manual, learning tools and several research questionnaires were declared very valid based on the experts' assessment. Furthermore, the results of the practicality test also stated that this model proved to be very practical based on the results of observations of learning implementation and teacher and student response questionnaires.
Comparative Evaluation of Neem-coated Urea and Nano Urea on the Growth and Physiological Attributes of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn)
Authors: Kumar R. Santhosh Anto , Sharmili K. , Balaganesh B. , Manuel R. Isaac
Published: June 2023

An experimental study was conducted to investigate the effects of nitrogen fertilization on finger millet, with Significant nutrient losses, especially for nitrogen (N) fertilizers, occurring when chemical fertilizers are directly incorporated into the field. These losses primarily result from leaching and volatilization processes under this practice, crops tend to utilize only a fraction of the applied N fertilizers, typically ranging from 30 to 40%. These observations highlight the inefficiency of traditional fertilizer application methods and the need for improved nutrient management strategies to maximize nutrient utilization by crops and minimize environmental impacts. The study was conducted in Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences Coimbatore. The experiment was laid out in Randomized block design (RBD) with seven treatments and replicated three times. The results of the study demonstrated that the treatment combining 50% neem-coated urea (NCU) and 50% nano urea (NU) in addition to phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) (T5) exhibited exceptional performance compared to the other treatments. This particular treatment displayed significant outcomes, including an increase in plant height of (93.7cm), improved leaf area index (3.95), greater total dry matter production (6443 kg/ha), a higher number of tillers (161.24/m2), increased productive tillers (94.2/m2), enhanced grain yield (4350 kg/ha), higher straw yield (5829 kg/ha), improved gross returns (143313 Rs/ha), a net return of (Rs. 88,247/ha), and a benefit-cost ratio of 2.60. On the other hand, the application of (75% Neem coated urea + 25% Nano urea + P and K) can be considered as a second option for obtaining higher yield and economics of growing finger millet.
Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Business and Industry
Authors: Bharadiya Jasmin Praful , Thomas Reji Kurien , Ahmed Farhan
Published: June 2023

The ongoing development of business and the most recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) allow for the many business practices to be improved by the capacity to establish new forms of collaboration, which is a significant competitive advantage. This rapidly developing technology enables to offer brand services and even some new forms of business interactions with consumers and personnel. The digitalization of AI concurrently emphasized for businesses that they need concentrate on their present strategies while also routinely and early pursuing new chances in the market. Not only in business but also in different industry sectors, Al techniques are being used and revolutionized different industry sectors. This review focuses on the application of AI techniques in business and different industries.
Ameliorative Effects of 5-7, Dihydroxy Flavone (Chrysin) on Hippocampus of Wistar Rats with Doxorubicin-induced Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Egwuatu Ifeanyi Anthony , Anyanwu Emeka Godson , Oviosun Augustine , Chukwuebuka Abraham John , Ozoemena Chiadikobi Lawrence , Ugbor Ekene Valentine , Godswill Maduadichie Arinze
Published: June 2023

Concern is increasing regarding the effect of chemotherapy induced cognitive impairment on oncology patients. This sought to investigate the effect of 5-7, dihydroxyflavone on the hippocampus of wistar rats with Doxorubicin induced cognitive impairment. 30 male Wistar rats were procured and acclimatized for 14 days with feed and water, they were divided into six (6) experimental groups of five (5) animals each. Group 1 served as normal control. Group 2 was induced with 2mg/kg of DOX and was untreated. Group 3 received 150mg/kg of Chrysin. Groups 4, 5 and 6 were induced with 2mg/kg of doxorubicin and treated with Chrysin at doses of 50mg/kg, 100mg/kg, and 150mg/kg respectively. The study lasted for 21 days. The body weight of the animals were recorded three (3) times before and after induction and then recorded again at the end of the 21 days treatment. At the end of the experiment, there were significantly increase in body weight. The increase was more pronounce in group 1 and group 2. In the oxidative stress analysis and ELISA analysis on the levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1 & IL-6), there was a significant increase in the levels compared to the control group 1. In the neurobehavioural test, group 6 had a high spontaneous alternation percentage compared to other groups. The treatment with Chrysin significantly had an ameliorative effect on the treated animal groups and in group 3. The result from this work suggest that Chrysin extract had an ameliorative effect on cognitive impairment of the hippocampus.
Covid-19-induced acute kidney injury in critical patients: what does the literature say
/ Lesão aguda induzida pela covid-19 em pacientes críticos: o que diz a literatura?
Authors: Queiroz da Costa Isabela , Vilarim Muniz Marcela , Assunção Ribeiro Kaiomakx Renato
Published: June 2023

Objetivo: identificar por meio da literatura a relação entre lesão renal aguda (LRA) e COVID-19, no paciente crítico. Método: revisão integrativa da literatura, com seleção dos artigos publicados entre 2020 e 2021 nas bases de dados da Biblioteca Virtual da Saúde: LILACS, SCIELO, PUBMED. Por meio dos descritores “Lesão Renal Aguda” AND “Coronavírus-19” AND “Unidade de Terapia Intensiva”. Resultados: o estudo foi composto por um recorte de 12 publicações. Os estudos em geral apontam que a LRA no contexto da COVID-19, é de causa multifatorial, entretanto não há consenso sobre essa afirmativa, uma vez que alguns estudos apontam que a COVID-19 contribui diretamente para novos casos de LRA em pacientes críticos devido à cascata de citocinas presente na patologia, o que não foi confirmado por todos os estudos. Conclusão: esta revisão evidenciou que a LRA é uma complicação presente em pacientes críticos com Covid-19. Os estudos encontrados demonstram que o assunto ainda precisa melhor explorado para que a relação entre o COVID-19 e a LRA seja definitivamente esclarecida.
An automatic data quality approach to assess semantic data from cultural heritage institutions
Authors: Candela Gustavo
Published: June 2023

In recent years, cultural heritage institutions have been exploring the benefits of applying Linked Open Data to their catalogs and digital materials. Innovative and creative methods have emerged to publish and reuse digital contents to promote computational access, such as the concepts of Labs and Collections as Data. Data quality has become a requirement for researchers and training methods based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. This article explores how the quality of Linked Open Data made available by cultural heritage institutions can be automatically assessed. The results obtained can be useful for other institutions who wish to publish and assess their collections.
Black hole horizon edge partition functions
Authors: Grewal Manvir , Law Y. T. Albert , Parmentier Klaas
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We extend a formula for 1-loop black hole determinants by Denef, Hartnoll, and Sachdev (DHS) to spinning fields on any (d + 1)-dimensional static spherically symmetric black hole. By carefully analyzing the regularity condition imposed on the Euclidean eigenfunctions, we reveal an unambiguous bulk-edge split in the 1-loop Euclidean partition function for tensor fields of arbitrary integer spin: the bulk part captures the “renormalized” thermal canonical partition function recently discussed in [1]; the edge part is related to quasinormal modes (QNMs) that fail to analytically continue to a subset of Euclidean modes with enhanced fall-offs near the origin. Since the edge part takes the form of a path integral on Sd−1, this suggests that these are associated with degrees of freedom living on the bifurcation surface in the Lorentzian two-sided black hole geometry. For massive higher spin on static BTZ and massive vector on Nariai black holes, we find that the edge partition function is related to the QNMs with lowest overtone numbers.
Radiotherapy concepts for spinal metastases—results from an online survey among radiation oncologists of the German Society for Radiation Oncology
Authors: Waltenberger Maria , Vogel Marco M. E. , Bernhardt Denise , Münch Stefan , Dobiasch Sophie , Redmond Kristin J. , Lo Simon S. , Acker Güliz , Fehlings Michael G. , Ringel Florian , Vajkoczy Peter , Meyer Bernhard , Combs Stephanie E.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Spinal metastases (SM) are a common radiotherapy (RT) indication. There is limited level I data to drive decision making regarding dose regimen (DR) and target volume definition (TVD). We aim to depict the patterns of care for RT of SM among German Society for Radiation Oncology (DEGRO) members.

Methods

An online survey on conventional RT and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) for SM, distributed via e‑mail to all DEGRO members, was completed by 80 radiation oncologists between February 24 and April 29, 2022. Participation was voluntary and anonymous.

Results

A variety of DR was frequently used for conventional RT (primary: n = 15, adjuvant: n = 14). 30 Gy/10 fractions was reported most frequently. TVD in adjuvant RT was heterogenous, with a trend towards larger volumes. SBRT was offered in 65% (primary) and 21% (adjuvant) of participants’ institutions. A variety of DR was reported (primary: n = 40, adjuvant: n = 27), most commonly 27 Gy/3 fractions and 30 Gy/5 fractions. 59% followed International Consensus Guidelines (ICG) for TVD.

Conclusion

We provide a representative depiction of RT practice for SM among DEGRO members. DR and TVD are heterogeneous. SBRT is not comprehensively practiced, especially in the adjuvant setting. Further research is needed to provide a solid data basis for detailed recommendations.
Besonderheiten und Probleme der Psychopharmakologie im Kindes- und Jugendalter
Authors: Gerlach Manfred , Renner Tobias , Romanos Marcel
Published: June 2023

Die medikamentöse Behandlung von psychischen Erkrankungen im Kindes- und Jugendalter stellt eine besondere klinische und rechtliche Herausforderung dar. Gründe hierfür sind u. a. die häufig notwendigen Off-Label-Anwendungen und bestehende Wissenslücken in Bezug auf die Langzeitwirkungen der verwendeten Neuro‑/Psychopharmaka. In diesem Beitrag werden besondere Voraussetzungen der Therapie mit Neuro‑/Psychopharmaka, wie z. B. die Notwendigkeit der altersgerechten Einbeziehung der Kinder und Jugendlichen in den Entscheidungs- und Aufklärungsprozess sowie der Evaluation der Medikation, die Berücksichtigung biologischer alters- und reifungsabhängiger Faktoren und die besonderen Maßnahmen bei einer Off-Label-Anwendung besprochen. Weiterhin werden allgemeine Probleme bei der Entwicklung und Anwendung von Neuro‑/Psychopharmaka, wie etwa Schwierigkeiten in Bezug auf Wirknachweis, erstattungs- und haftungsrechtliche Fragen bei der Off-Label-Anwendung und die Problematik der Durchführung klinischer Studien im Kindes- und Jugendalter, diskutiert.
Eine seltene Ursache für akute Herzinsuffizienz?
Authors: Marahrens Benedikt , Petrus Dominique Sebastian
Published: June 2023

Hintergrund

Akute Herzinsuffizienz mit Symptomen wie Dyspnoe und Ödemen kann diverse Ursachen haben, in seltenen Fällen auch kardiale Fisteln. Wir präsentieren einen Fall von subakuter Herzinsuffizienz verursacht durch eine erworbene Fistel zwischen Aorta und rechtem Vorhof.

Fallbericht

Ein 48-jähriger Patient stellte sich mit zunehmender Belastungsdyspnoe und Ödemen der unteren Extremitäten seit circa 4 Wochen in der Klinik vor. Echokardiographisch konnte eine Fistel zwischen Aorta und rechtem Atrium nachgewiesen werden. Zum Verschluss wurde er an ein thoraxchirurgisches Zentrum überwiesen.
Magneto-convective flows around two differentially heated cylinders
Authors: Mistrangelo C. , Bühler L. , Brinkmann H-J. , Courtessole C. , Klüber V. , Koehly C.
Published: June 2023

Numerical simulations have been carried out in support of an experimental campaign conducted in the MEKKA laboratory at KIT. The aim is investigating liquid metal heat transfer with an imposed magnetic field in a model geometry relevant for the study of water cooled lead lithium blankets for fusion reactors. In the breeding zone of this blanket concept, cooling pipes are immersed in the liquid metal in which convective motion occurs due to significant temperature gradients. The test-section features a rectangular box containing two horizontal cylinders kept at constant differential temperatures in order to establish a temperature gradient that drives the buoyant flow. A magnetic field$${\textbf{B}}$$Bis applied parallel to gravity. The magneto-convective flow, which results from the presence of electromagnetic forces and temperature gradients in the fluid, is relatively complex, since the liquid metal has to move around the cylinders. For weak magnetic fields, a convective recirculation is fed by a jet-like flow formed by the boundary layers that detach from the pipe walls and recombine behind the obstacles. For sufficiently strong$$\textbf{B}$$B, the thermal field resembles that of a conductive regime with vertical isotherms and the fluid is nearly stagnant in most of the cavity except in layers parallel to magnetic field lines and tangent to the cylinders. The rate of convective heat transfer decreases with an increase of the magnetic field. Numerical simulations complement experimental results and give insight into phenomena that cannot be directly analyzed by means of measured quantities.
Developmental, physiologic and phylogenetic perspectives on the expression and regulation of myosin heavy chains in mammalian skeletal muscles
Authors: Hoh Joseph Foon Yoong
Published: June 2023

The kinetics of myosin controls the speed and power of muscle contraction. Mammalian skeletal muscles express twelve kinetically different myosin heavy chain (MyHC) genes which provides a wide range of muscle speeds to meet different functional demands. Myogenic progenitors from diverse craniofacial and somitic mesoderm specify muscle allotypes with different repertoires for MyHC expression. This review provides a brief synopsis on the historical and current views on how cell lineage, neural impulse patterns, and thyroid hormone influence MyHC gene expression in muscles of the limb allotype during development and in adult life and the molecular mechanisms thereof. During somitic myogenesis, embryonic and foetal myoblast lineages form slow and fast primary and secondary myotube ontotypes which respond differently to postnatal neural and thyroidal influences to generate fully differentiated fibre phenotypes. Fibres of a given phenotype may arise from myotubes of different ontotypes which retain their capacity to respond differently to neural and thyroidal influences during postnatal life. This gives muscles physiological plasticity to adapt to fluctuations in thyroid hormone levels and patterns of use. The kinetics of MyHC isoforms vary inversely with animal body mass. Fast 2b fibres are specifically absent in muscles involved in elastic energy saving in hopping marsupials and generally absent in large eutherian mammals. Changes in MyHC expression are viewed in the context of the physiology of the whole animal. The roles of myoblast lineage and thyroid hormone in regulating MyHC gene expression are phylogenetically the most ancient while that of neural impulse patterns the most recent.
Growth in Sumsets of Higher Convex Functions
Authors: Bradshaw Peter J.
Published: June 2023

The main results of this paper concern growth in sums of a k-convex function f. Firstly, we streamline the proof (from Hanson et al. (Combinatorica 42:71–85, 2020)) of a growth result for f(A) where A has small additive doubling, and improve the bound by removing logarithmic factors. The result yields an optimal bound for $$\begin{aligned} |2^k f(A) - (2^k-1)f(A)|. \end{aligned}$$

|

2
k

f

(
A
)

-

(

2
k

-
1
)

f

(
A
)

|
.

We also generalise a recent result from Hanson et al. (J Lond Math Soc, 2021), proving that for any finite $$A\subset \mathbb {R}$$

A
⊂
R

$$\begin{aligned} | 2^k f(sA-sA) - (2^k-1) f(sA-sA)| \gg _s |A|^{2s} \end{aligned}$$

|

2
k

f

(
s
A
-
s
A
)

-

(

2
k

-
1
)

f

(
s
A
-
s
A
)

|

≫
s

|
A
|

2
s

where $$s = \frac{k+1}{2}$$

s
=

k
+
1

2

. This allows us to prove that, given any natural number $$s \in \mathbb {N}$$

s
∈
N

, there exists $$m = m(s)$$

m
=
m
(
s
)

such that if $$A \subset \mathbb {R}$$

A
⊂
R

, then $$\begin{aligned} |(sA-sA)^{(m)}| \gg _s |A|^{s}. \end{aligned}$$

|

(
s
A
-
s
A
)

(
m
)

|

≫
s

|
A
|

s

.

This is progress towards a conjecture (Balog et al. in Electron J Comb 24(3):Paper No. 3.14, 17, 2017) which states that (1) can be replaced with $$\begin{aligned} |(A-A)^{(m)}| \gg _s |A|^{s}. \end{aligned}$$

|

(
A
-
A
)

(
m
)

|

≫
s

|
A
|

s

.

Developing methods of Solymosi, and Bloom and Jones, and using an idea from Bradshaw et al. (Electron J Comb 29, 2021), we present some new sum-product type results in the complex numbers $$\mathbb {C}$$
C
and in the function field $$\mathbb {F}_q((t^{-1}))$$

F
q

(

(

t

-
1

)

)

.
Care needs of Japanese men for sexual dysfunction associated with prostate cancer treatment
Authors: Hayashi Saeko , Sato Kazuki , Oishi Fumiko , Fukuda Hiromi , Hayama Yuka , Ando Shoko
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Prostate cancer (PC) treatment causes sexual dysfunction (SD) and alters fertility, male identity, and intimate relationships with partners. In Japan, little attention has been paid to the importance of providing care for SD associated with PC treatment. This study is aimed at clarifying the care needs of Japanese men regarding SD associated with PC treatment.

Methods

One-to-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with 44 PC patients to identify their care needs. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Four core categories emerged from the analysis. (1) “Need for empathy from medical staff regarding fear of SD”: patients had difficulty confiding in others about their sexual problems, and medical staff involvement in their SD issues was lacking. (2) “Need for information that provides an accurate understanding of SD and coping strategies before deciding on treatment”: lack of information about SD in daily life and difficulty understanding information from medical institutions, caused men to regret their treatment. (3) “Need for professional care for individuals and couples affected by SD”: men faced loss of intimacy because of their partners’ unwillingness to understand their SD issues or tolerate non-sexual relationships. (4) “Need for an environment that facilitates interaction among men to resolve SD issues”: men felt lonely and wanted to interact with other patients about their SD concerns.

Conclusion

These findings may help form care strategies tailored to these needs and applicable to other societies with strong traditional gender norms.
Meningiomas of the rolandic region: risk factors for motor deficit and role of intra-operative monitoring
Authors: Maiuri Francesco , Corvino Sergio
Published: June 2023

Objective

Meningiomas of the rolandic region are associated to high risk of postoperative motor deficits. This study discusses the factors affecting motor outcome and recurrences from the analysis of a monoinstitutional case series and eight studies from a literature review.

Methods

Data of 75 patients who underwent surgery for meningioma of the rolandic region were retrospectively reviewed. The analyzed factors included tumor location and size, clinical presentation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and surgical findings, brain-tumor interface, extent of resection, postoperative outcome and recurrence. Eight studies from literature on rolandic meningiomas treated with or without intraoperative monitoring (IOM) were reviewed with the aim to define the impact of IOM on the extent of resection and motor outcome.

Results

Among the 75 patients of the personal series, the meningioma was on the brain convexity in 34 (46%), at the parasagittal region in 28 (37%) and at the falx in 13 (17%). The brain-tumor interface was preserved in 53 cases (71%) at MRI and in 56 (75%) at surgical exploration. Simpson grade I resection was obtained in 43% of patients, grade II in 33%, grade III in 15% and grade IV in 9%. The motor function worsened postoperatively in 9 among 32 cases with preoperative deficit (28%) and in 5 among 43 with no preoperative deficit (11.5%); definitive motor deficit was evidenced in overall series at follow-up in 7 (9.3%). Patients with meningioma with lost arachnoid interface had significant higher rates of worsened postoperative motor deficit (p = 0.01) and seizures (p = 0.033). Recurrence occurred in 8 patients (11%). The analysis of the 8 reviewed studies (4 with and 4 without IOM) shows in the group without IOM higher rates of Simpson grades I and II resection (p = 0.02) and lower rates of grades IV resection (p = 0.002); no significant differences in postoperative immediate and long-term motor deficits were evidenced between the two groups.

Conclusions

Data from literature review show that the use of IOM does not affect the postoperative motor deficit Therefore, its role in rolandic meningiomas resection remains to be determined and will be defined in further studies.