bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of functional and bioactive properties of crude gill extract of Tor putitora using different assays
Authors: Rehman Gauhar , Sardar Sumbal , Alkhateeb Mariam Abdulaziz , Mohamed Rania Ali El Hadi , Abd Al Galil Fahd Mohammed , Hamayun Muhammad , Shahjeer Kiran , Iqbal Toheed , Ahmed Nazeer , Nawaz Taufiq , Ullah Rafi
Published: July 2022

For centuries, natural products isolated from animals, plants and microbes have been the centre of attention for the world's scientific community for their role in eradicating and reducing many diseases. The present research work is also performed on the crude gill extract of Tor putitora named TPG‐Ex to analyse its various functional and bioactive properties. A total of five different biological assays were performed. Two assays performed were the free radical scavenging assays having other free radical generators such as DPPH and H2O2. Different concentrations of extract were used in both assays. The maximum scavenging ability in the Antioxidant DPPH assay was 59.42% at 50 μL. In the H2O2 radical scavenging assay, the maximum scavenging ability of TPG‐Ex recorded was 55.46% at a concentration of 50 μL. The antiangiogenic potential of the TPG‐Ex CAM assay was assessed, which also showed maximum inhibition of neovascularisation at a concentration of 80 μL. The antidiabetic potential of TPG‐Ex was also revealed after processing the extract through glucose uptake by yeast cells assay and glucose adsorption assay. TPG‐Ex indicated maximum glucose uptake at a concentration of 20 μg of 56.61%.
Shelf‐life determination of an egg‐based cake, relating sensory attributes microbiological characteristics and physico‐chemical properties
Authors: Moura‐Alves Márcio , Machado Carolina , Silva José A. , Saraiva Cristina
Published: July 2022

The study of sensory, microbiological and physical–chemical properties are important in local products where the level of inspection and quality control are low. The present study aimed to determine the shelf‐life of an egg‐based moist cake, relating sensory, microbiological and physical–chemical properties. Slices of Cavacas de Resende were collected, stored at two different temperatures (7 and 22 °C) and analysed over time (0, 6 h, 1, 2, 4, 7 and 10 days). Salmonella, Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli, were not detected. On 10 days of storage at 22 °C results were above the allowed limit for Staphylococcus aureus. The counts of mesophiles, moulds and yeasts exceeded the allowed limits in the last days of storage at 22 °C. Most of sensory variables presented a positive and highly significant correlation with freshness, with emphasis to brightness (crust and batter), moist, softness and succulence. Hardness and fracturability (both instrumental) showed a highly significant correlation with sensory freshness. Loss of moisture and mould development were main factors for product quality decrease. Better conservation of the product was achieved at 7 °C with a shelf‐life limit of 7 days. At 22 °C, it is recommended to consume the product in 3 days.
Translation and validation of 17‐item Wound‐QoL questionnaire in a Chinese population
Authors: Liu Jin , Li Huijuan , Zhang Peiying , Bai Rui , Fu Xiaojin , Guan Hui , Wen Bing , Ding Yanming , Qi Xin
Published: July 2022

We aimed to translate the 17‐item questionnaire to measure the quality of life of patients with chronic wounds (Wound‐QoL‐17) and verify its reliability and validity in the Chinese population. The standard Chinese version of the Wound‐QoL‐17 was determined through translation, back translation, and cultural adaptation. A total of 121 patients with chronic wounds from the wound center of a tertiary hospital in Beijing were recruited. Through a questionnaire and physical examination, we tested the criterion‐related validity, known group validity, structural validity, internal consistency coefficient (Cronbach's alpha), and test–retest correlation. A new structure of four factors was extracted by exploratory factor analysis, and the cumulative contribution rate was 72.23%. The total score and that of the four factors, which were significantly correlated with the EuroQol Five Dimensions Questionnaire (EQ‐5D) and the Short Form‐36 Health Survey (SF‐36) (P < 0.05), also showed statistically significant differences between patients with different pain grades, with or without wound odour, and between different groups of patients reporting wound changes in the past 2 weeks. Cronbach's alpha was between 0.779 and 0.906, while the test–retest reliability was between 0.532 and 0.802. We concluded that the Chinese Wound‐QoL‐17 has good reliability and validity and is suitable for evaluating the quality of life of patients with chronic wounds.
Environmental fate and behaviour of antibiotic resistance genes and small interference RNAs released from genetically modified crops
Authors: Un Jan Contreras Sandra , Gardner Courtney M.
Published: July 2022

Rising global populations have amplified food scarcity across the world and ushered in the development of genetically modified (GM) crops to overcome these challenges. Cultivation of major crops such as corn and soy has favoured GM crops over conventional varieties to meet crop production and resilience needs. Modern GM crops containing small interference RNA molecules and antibiotic resistance genes have become increasingly common in the United States. However, the use of these crops remains controversial due to the uncertainty regarding the unintended release of its genetic material into the environment and possible downstream effects on human and environmental health. DNA or RNA transgenes may be exuded from crop tissues during cultivation or released during plant decomposition and adsorbed by soil. This can contribute to the persistence and bioavailability in soil or water environment and possible uptake by soil microbial communities and further passing of this information to neighbouring bacteria, disrupting microbial ecosystem services such as nutrient cycling and soil fertility. In this review, transgene mechanisms of action, uses in crops, and knowledge regarding their environmental fate and impact to microbes are evaluated. This aims to encapsulate the current knowledge and promote further research regarding unintended effects transgenes may cause.
Using critical family theorizing and intersectional feminist praxis to navigate reflexive conversations on race and power in academic settings
Authors: Russon Jody M. , Allen Katherine R. , Few‐Demo April L. , Pease Jenene Case
Published: July 2022

Conversations related to racism, antiblackness, and oppression have expanded over the past years in response to the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and many others. As family scholars, we recognize the impact of the legacy of violence against Black and Brown people and are at a point in history where the United States is struggling to address ramifications of unacknowledged race‐based traumas. Critical intersectional feminist praxis suggests conscious dialogue about antiracism is one place in which change can occur. As such, we used critical family theorizing to navigate a four‐part group discussion on addressing antiblackness among Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) faculty and doctoral students. As an exercise in reflexivity, this article translates theory into action through the reflections of four colleagues who had diverse roles in facilitating these conversations. We anchored strategies for interrogating institutional White supremacy through examining antiblackness and intentional engagement of equitable institutional practices.
Policy Uncertainty and Bank Mortgage Credit
Authors: KARA GAZI I. , YOOK YOUNGSUK
Published: July 2022

We document that banks reduce the supply of mortgage loans when policy uncertainty increases in their headquarter states as measured by the timing of U.S. gubernatorial elections. The reduction is larger for term‐limited elections and close elections. We utilize high‐frequency, geographically granular loan‐level data to address an identification problem arising from changing local loan demand: (i) we estimate a difference‐in‐difference specification with state/time or county/time fixed effects; (ii) banks reduce lending outside their home states as well when their home states hold elections; and (iii) we observe important cross‐sectional differences in the way banks with different characteristics respond to policy uncertainty.
STING mediates neuroinflammatory response by activating NLRP3‐related pyroptosis in severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Zhang Li‐Min , Xin Yue , Wu Zhi‐You , Song Rong‐Xin , Miao Hui‐Tao , Zheng Wei‐Chao , Li Yan , Zhang Dong‐Xue , Zhao Xiao‐Chun
Published: July 2022

Long‐term neurological deficits after severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), including cognitive dysfunction and emotional impairments, can significantly impair rehabilitation. Glial activation induced by inflammatory response is involved in the neurological deficits post‐TBI. This study aimed to investigate the role of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING)–nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐like receptor pyrin domain‐containing‐3 (NLRP3) signaling in a rodent model of severe TBI. Severe TBI models were established using weight‐drop plus blood loss reinfusion model. Selective STING agonist ADU‐S100 or antagonist C‐176 was given as a single dose after modeling. Further, NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 or activator nigericin, or caspase‐1 inhibitor VX765, was given as an intracerebroventricular injection 30 min before modeling. After that, a novel object recognition test, open field test, force swimming test, western blot, and immunofluorescence assays were used to assess behavioral and pathological changes in severe TBI. Administration of C‐176 alleviated TBI‐induced cognitive dysfunction and emotional impairments, neuronal loss, and inflammatory activation of glia cells. However, the administration of STING agonist ADU‐S100 exacerbated TBI‐induced behavioral and pathological changes. In addition, STING activation exacerbated pyroptosis‐associated neuroinflammation via promoting glial activation, as evidenced by increased cleaved caspase‐1 and GSDMD N‐terminal expression. In contrast, the administration of C‐176 showed anti‐pyroptotic effects. The neuroprotective effects of C‐176 were partially reversed by the NLRP3 activator, nigericin. Collectively, glial STING is responsible for neuroinflammation post‐TBI. However, pharmacologic inhibition of STING led to a remarkable improvement of neuroinflammation partly through suppressing NLRP3 signaling. The STING–NLRP3 signaling is a potential therapeutic target in TBI‐induced neurological dysfunction.

image
Morphology of the antegonial notch and its utility in the determination of sex on skeletal materials
Authors: Mączka Grzegorz , Kulus Michał , Grzelak Joanna , Porwolik Michał , Dobrzyński Maciej , Dąbrowski Paweł
Published: July 2022

A number of criteria for the assessment of biological sex, which are applied to living or recently deceased individuals, have been developed, such as genetic, chromosomal, gonadal, hormonal, and phenotypic criteria. Features of a metric and descriptive nature are used to assess the sex of skeletal materials. The diagnostic features of the skull are concentrated in the craniofacial region and around the eye sockets. The mandible is a diagnostically important part of the skull, on which a complex of features is visible. These features develop up to the third decade of life. The goal of the research was to assess the suitability of the parameters of the preangular notch, in other words, the length, height, and surface area for sex prediction applied to skeletal materials. The study included computed tomography images of the masticatory system of 194 patients, consisting of 83 females and 111 males, aged from 16 to 93 years. The three straight lines which correspond to the sides of the triangle representing the notch, in addition to its height, were determined and measured digitally. The receiver operating characteristic method was used to assess the usefulness of the studied features for the purposes of sex prediction. The sensitivity of the test ranged from 51.4% to 67% for the parameters of the preangular notch on the right‐hand side, and from 44.4% to 80.2% on the left‐hand side. The most reliable predictive models were obtained for two features (shown in the graphical abstract). However, when taking into account, the specificity and sensitivity of the tests presented here, only the length of side AB (a basal length of the notch) can be regarded as a feature that supports the assessment of sex on the basis of other diagnostic features of the mandible. The size and shape of the preangular notch should be treated as auxiliary features in the assessment of sex. For this reason, it is recommended that they should be applied simultaneously to the set of features described in the section on anthropological standards.
Partitioning of urban networks with polycentric congestion pattern for traffic management policies: Identifying protected networks
Authors: Jiang Shang , Keyvan‐Ekbatani Mehdi , Ngoduy Dong
Published: July 2022

Large‐scale urban networks are usually loaded heterogeneously with a polycentric congestion pattern, resulting in a highly scattered network macroscopic fundamental diagram (NMFD or MFD). Thus, researchers have tried to partition city networks into homogeneous subzones. In this study, a six‐step partitioning algorithm is proposed. The framework allows the NMFD information to be used. It combines traffic variables and geographic connectivity to obtain partitions. The framework includes graph definition, data preprocessing, feature handling, clusters and partitions identification, and boundaries reshaping. Tests on a simplified grid network and the city of the Melbourne road network demonstrate the suitability of the framework for characterizing the traffic states by the partitions. The framework on the missing data scenarios and monocentric and polycentric traffic concentrations scenarios, as well as applying multiple data types, has been challenged. Thereafter, parameter impact analysis demonstrates that manipulation of the parameters enables users to find the desired partitions. Last but not least, a comparison with an existing method also implies the uniqueness and efficiency of the developed framework.
In search of the beat
Authors: Bayne Tim , Williams Iwan
Published: July 2022

Beat perception has received very little attention from either philosophers of mind or philosophers of music. This neglect is unfortunate, for the topic is rich with philosophical interest. This article addresses two questions. The first concerns the nature of our experience of musical beat. Here, we argue that experiences of beat are forms of auditory perception. The second question concerns the nature of musical beat itself: what are beats? We defend a form of anthropocentric realism about beats: beats are mind‐independent properties of sound sequences whose nature can be understood only in relation to our perceptual capacities.
Capillary pathology with prominent basement membrane reduplication is the hallmark histopathological feature of scleromyositis
Authors: Ellezam Benjamin , Leclair Valérie , Troyanov Yves , Bersali Imane , Giannini Margherita , Hoa Sabrina , Bourré‐Tessier Josiane , Nadon Valérie , Drouin Julie , Karamchandani Jason , O'Ferrall Erin , Lannes Béatrice , Satoh Minoru , Fritzler Marvin J. , Senécal Jean‐Luc , Hudson Marie , Meyer Alain , Landon‐Cardinal Océane
Published: July 2022

Aims

We aim to perform ultrastructural and histopathological analysis of muscle biopsies from a large group of systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients, including some with early/mild SSc features, and examine whether capillary pathology differentiates ‘scleromyositis’ (SM) from other auto‐immune myositis (AIM) subsets.

Methods

Muscle biopsies from a total of 60 SM patients and 43 AIM controls from two independent cohorts were examined by electron microscopy, collagen‐4 immunofluorescence (Col4IF) and routine light microscopy.

Results

Ultrastructural examination revealed prominent capillary basement membrane (BM) reduplication (4+ layers in >50% of capillaries) in 65% of SM vs 0% of AIM controls (p < 0.001). In SM cases without prominent BM reduplication, capillary dilation was the most distinctive feature, present in 8% of capillaries in SM vs 2% in controls (p = 0.001). Accumulation of ensheathed pericyte processes was another characteristic feature of SM and closely correlated with the degree of BM reduplication (r = 0.833, p < 0.001). On light microscopy, BM marker Col4IF revealed more frequent capillary enlargement in SM than in controls (84% vs 21%, p < 0.001). SM cases were classified as non‐inflammatory myopathy (36%), non‐specific myositis (33%) or immune‐mediated necrotizing myopathy (31%), but despite this histopathological heterogeneity, prominent BM reduplication remained a constant finding. In the 16 SM patients with early/mild SSc features, 63% showed prominent BM reduplication.

Conclusions

These results show that capillary pathology, and in particular prominent capillary BM reduplication, is the hallmark histopathological feature of SM even in patients with early/mild SSc and support the concept of SM as an organ manifestation of SSc and a distinct subset of AIM.
A single‐nucleotide polymorphism in WRKY33 promoter is associated with the cold sensitivity in cultivated tomato
Authors: Guo Mingyue , Yang Fengjun , Liu Chenxu , Zou Jinping , Qi Zhenyu , Fotopoulos Vasileios , Lu Gang , Yu Jingquan , Zhou Jie
Published: July 2022

Natural variations in cis‐regulatory regions often affect crop phenotypes by altering gene expression. However, the mechanism of how promoter mutations affect gene expression and crop stress tolerance is still poorly understood.

In this study, by analyzing RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐Seq) data and reverse transcription quantitative real‐time PCR validation in the cultivated tomato and its wild relatives, we reveal that the transcripts of WRKY33 are almost unchanged in cold‐sensitive cultivated tomato Solanum lycopersicum L. ‘Ailsa Craig’ but are significantly induced in cold‐tolerant wild tomato relatives Solanum habrochaites LA1777 and Solanum pennellii LA0716 under cold stress.

Overexpression of SlWRKY33 or ShWRKY33 positively regulates cold tolerance in tomato. Variant of the critical W‐box in SlWRKY33 promoter results in the loss of self‐transcription function of SlWRKY33 under cold stress. Analysis integrating RNA‐Seq and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing data reveals that SlWRKY33 directly targets and induces multiple kinases, transcription factors, and molecular chaperone genes, such as CDPK11, MYBS3, and BAG6, thus enhancing cold tolerance. In addition, heat‑ and Botrytis‐induced WRKY33s expression in both wild and cultivated tomatoes are independent of the critical W‐box variation.

Our findings suggest nucleotide polymorphism in cis‐regulatory regions is crucial for different cold sensitivity between cultivated and wild tomato plants.
Exploring Okun's law asymmetry: An endogenous threshold logistic smooth transition regression approach*
Authors: Christopoulos Dimitris , McAdam Peter , Tzavalis Elias
Published: July 2022

Using a novel methodology, we offer new evidence that a threshold relationship exists for Okun's law (the well‐known output–unemployment co‐movement). We use a logistic smooth transition regression (LSTR) model where threshold endogeneity is addressed using copula transformations of the threshold variable. We also suggest a test of the linearity hypothesis against the LSTR model. In line with Okun's insight (and that of the subsequent literature) that the trade‐off can be affected by different margins, we consider several potential threshold variables. We find mainly a combination of structural and policy‐related variables accounts for changes in the Okun's law trade‐off for the United States in recent decades. This conclusion is bolstered by combing these threshold candidates into a single factor. Accordingly, we find that the unemployment gap is increasingly associated with a smaller output gap. Notably, while the Great Recession accelerated that rise, the bulk of the change occurred beforehand.
SNAI2 promotes the malignant transformation of oral leukoplakia by modulating p‐EMT
Authors: Shang Qianhui , Peng Jiakuan , Jiang Yuchen , Qing Maofeng , Zhou Yu , Xu Hao , Chen Qianming
Published: July 2022

Objective

Snail family transcriptional repressor 2 (SNAI2) is a key regulator of partial epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (p‐EMT) and is associated with tumorigenesis. Whether SNAI2 promotes oral leukoplakia (OLK) malignant transformation by modulating p‐EMT is unclear.

Materials and Methods

This study utilized two clinical datasets (GSE26549 and GSE85195) from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, cytological experiments, and a 4‐nitroquinoline 1‐oxide‐induced mice model to explore the role of SNAI2 in OLK malignant transformation.

Results

The clinical cohort found SNAI2, as a risk factor (HR = 2.50, 95% CI: 1.08–5.79, p = 0.033), could promote OLK malignant transformation (p = 0.012). Cytological experiments indicated that SNAI2 overexpression promoted DOK cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and increase the protein expression of p‐EMT relative signatures, whereas SNAI2 silencing has opposite effects. Furthermore, the mice model and clinical datasets demonstrated the expression of SNAI2 and p‐EMT relative signatures were increased with OLK malignant transformation. And SNAI2 was strongly correlated with p‐EMT. Besides, co‐expressed genes of SNAI2 were also enriched in p‐EMT relative biological processes and signaling pathways.

Conclusions

p‐EMT plays a significant role in promoting the OLK malignant transformation. As an important regulator of p‐EMT, SNAI2 could be a target to block the OLK malignant transformation.
Arthroscopic Direct Anterior‐to‐Posterior Suture Suspension Fixation for the Treatment of Posterior Cruciate Ligament Tibial Avulsion Fracture
Authors: Tao Tianqi , Yang Wengbo , Tao Xing , Li Yang , Zhang Kaibin , Jiang Yiqiu , Gui Jianchao
Published: July 2022

Objectives

A posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fracture of the tibial attachment site is a specific type of PCL injury that is difficult and unpleasant to manage. The objective of this study is to report the preliminary results of a newly developed technique: arthroscopic endobutton‐suture fixation using a single tibial tunnel.

Methods

From January 2016 to January 2018, 120 patients with PCL avulsion fracture who met our criteria were recruited. Sixty cases were treated by arthroscopic direct anterior‐to‐posterior suture suspension fixation (endobutton‐suture group), and 60 cases were treated by arthroscopic screw‐suture fixation (screw‐suture group). All radiographic studies were recorded. The curative effect was evaluated by the range of motion (ROM), KT‐2000, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores, Tegner activity scale, and Lysholm scoring system. For statistical analysis the Student t‐test was used.

Results

The average follow‐up duration was 24 months. Findings and difficulties in surgery are the following. The lax anterior cruciate ligament is one of the diagnostic criteria. The anatomic location of PCL avulsion fractures is deep and surrounded by nerves and vessels; thus, operating through this region is difficult. After each tunnel drilling, the debris at the edge of opening needs to be cleaned to avoid obscuring the operator's vision or wearing the sutures. In endobutton‐suture group, ROM improved from 0° preoperatively to 140.0° ± 5.6° at the last follow‐up (P < 0.001). The postoperative KT‐2000 arthrometric data at 90 N were available for all patients. The IKDC score was 23.6 ± 2.6 and 91.4 ± 4.1 pre‐ and postoperatively, respectively. The Tegner score improved from 1.2 ± 0.6 to 7.3 ± 2.3 (p < 0.001). The median Lysholm knee score increased from 40.4 ± 5.2 preoperatively to 90.1 ± 10.1 postoperatively (p < 0.001). The operative time was shorter in the endobutton‐suture group (p < 0.001). The Lysholm knee score in the endobutton‐suture group was lower than that in the endobutton‐suture group (3.1 ± 1.2 vs. 4.2 ± 1.8, p < 0.01). No significant complications were noted in the study.

Conclusions

The arthroscopic direct anterior‐to‐posterior suture suspension fixation is a simple and reliable method that not only provides better clinical outcomes, but also fixes avulsion fragments of any size.
BnaCRCs with domestication preference positively correlate with the seed‐setting rate of canola
Authors: Qin Pei , Gao Jinxiang , Shen Wenhao , Wu Zengxiang , Dai Cheng , Wen Jing , Yi Bin , Ma Chaozhi , Shen Jinxiong , Fu Tingdong , Tu Jinxing
Published: July 2022

Canola (Brassica napus) is an important oil crop worldwide. The seed‐setting rate (SS) is a critical factor in determining its yield, and the development of pistils affects pollination and seed sets. However, research on seed‐setting defects has been limited owing to difficulties in the identification of phenotypes, mutations, and complex genetic mechanisms. In this study, we found a stigma defect (sd) mutant in B. napus, which had no nectary. The SS of sd mutants in the field was approximately 93.4% lower than that of the wild type. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy imaging of sd mutants showed a low density of stigma papillary cells and stigma papillary cell vacuoles that disappeared 16 h after flowering. Genetic analysis of segregated populations showed that two recessive nuclear genes are responsible for the mutant phenotype of sd. Based on re‐sequencing and map‐based cloning, we reduced the candidate sites on ChrA07 (BnaSSA07) and ChrC06 (BnaSSC06) to 30 and 67 kb, including six and eight predicted genes, respectively. Gene analyses showed that a pair of CRABS CLAW (CRC) homeologous genes at BnaSSA07 and BnaSSC06 were associated with the development of carpel and nectary. BnaSSA07.CRC and BnaSSC06.CRC candidate genes were found to be expressed in flower organs only, with significant differences in their expression in the pistils of the near‐isogenic lines. DNA sequencing showed transposon insertions in the upstream region and intron of the candidate gene BnaSSA07.crc. We also found that BnaSSC06.crc exists widely in the natural population and we give possible reasons for its widespread existence.
Phosphate (Pi) stress‐responsive transcription factors PdeWRKY6 and PdeWRKY65 regulate the expression of PdePHT1;9 to modulate tissue Pi concentration in poplar
Authors: Yang Xiaoqing , Zhang Keai , Nvsvrot Tashbek , Zhang Yan , Cai Guanghua , Huang Liyu , Ren Wenyu , Ding Yiwei , Hammond John P. , Shi Lei , Wang Nian
Published: July 2022

Phosphorus (P) is an important nutrient for plants. Here, we identify a WRKY transcription factor (TF) in poplar (Populus deltoides × Populus euramericana) (PdeWRKY65) that modulates tissue phosphate (Pi) concentrations in poplar. PdeWRKY65 overexpression (OE) transgenic lines showed reduced shoot Pi concentrations under both low and normal Pi availabilities, while PdeWRKY65 reduced expression (RE) lines showed the opposite phenotype. A gene encoding a Pi transporter (PHT), PdePHT1;9, was identified as the direct downstream target of PdeWRKY65 by RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq). The negative regulation of PdePHT1;9 expression by PdeWRKY65 was confirmed by DNA–protein interaction assays, including yeast one‐hybrid (Y1H), electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), co‐expression of the promoters of PdePHT1;9 and PdeWRKY65 in tobacco (Nicotiana benthamiana) leaves, and chromatin immunoprecipitation–quantitative PCR. A second WRKY TF, PdeWRKY6, was subsequently identified and confirmed to positively regulate the expression of PdePHT1;9 by DNA–protein interaction assays. PdePHT1;9 and PdeWRKY6 OE and RE poplar transgenic lines were used to confirm their positive regulation of shoot Pi concentrations, under both normal and low Pi availabilities. No interaction between PdeWRKY6 and PdeWRKY65 was observed at the DNA or protein levels. Collectively, these data suggest that the low Pi‐responsive TFs PdeWRKY6 and PdeWRKY65 independently regulate the expression of PHT1;9 to modulate tissue Pi concentrations in poplar.
A new generalization of Rhoades' condition
Authors: Taş Nihal , Özgür Nihal
Published: July 2022

In this paper, our aim is to obtain a new generalization of the well-known Rhoades' contractive condition. To do this, we introduce the notion of an S-normed space. We extend the Rhoades' contractive condition to S-normed spaces and define a new type of contractive conditions. We support our theoretical results with necessary illustrative examples.
Genocchi polynomials as a tool for solving a class of fractional optimal control problems
Authors: Tajadodi Haleh , Jafari Hossein , Ncube Mahluli Naisbitt
Published: July 2022

In this research, we use operational matrix based on Genocchi polynomials to obtain approximate solutions for a class of fractional optimal control problems. The approximate solution takes the form of a product consisting of unknown coefficients and the Genocchi polynomials. Our main task is to compute the numerical values of the unknown coefficients. To achieve this goal, we apply the initial condition of the problem, the Tau and Lagrange multiplier methods. We do error analysis as a means to study the behaviour of the approximate solutions.
Aromaterapia em residentes de emfermagem na pandemia de COVID-19
Authors: Caldas Seixas Paula Helena , De Souza Talarico Juliana Nery , Teresa Turrini Ruth Natalia , Rizzo Gnatta Juliana
Published: July 2022

Objetivo: verificar o efeito da aromaterapia nos sintomas emocionais e fadiga de residentes de Enfermagem que atuavam em hospitais durante a pandemia de COVID-19. Método: estudo piloto do tipo pré e pós intervenção com abordagem quantitativa. Os residentes utilizaram uma sinergia de óleos essenciais (limão siciliano, lavanda, bergamota e tea tree) a 2 %, via cutânea, por três semanas. Foram aplicados o Self-Report Questionnaire-20 (SRQ-20) e o Pictograma de fadiga antes, após a intervenção e três semanas após o término (follow up). Resultados: participaram 15 residentes. As médias dos três momentos do SRQ-20 foram 9,73; 7,00 e 8,13, respectivamente. Houve redução dos sintomas emocionais pós-intervenção (p = 0,026) e no follow up não houve aumento significativo do escore do SRQ-20 (p=0,666). Não houve evidência significativa de mudança de estado do nível de fadiga para as três fases do estudo. Conclusões: o uso da aromaterapia impactou na melhora de sintomas emocionais dos residentes de Enfermagem que atuaram em hospitais durante a pandemia
Generative models based on eigendecomposition for dense ray tracing
Authors: Ramos Oliveira Jorge A. , Castelan Mario , Baltazar Arturo
Published: July 2022

In this work, we present an algorithm capable of emulating ray trajectories that obey the least action principle. The method is based on spectral decomposition of geometric shapes taken from a set of raypaths. As the proposed work relies on shape analysis, it is agnostic on the underlying physics of raypath generation. As such, it is independent of the ray tracing method used to generate the training paths. In cases of mildly heterogeneous media or scenarios with a limited number of geometrical scatters, we show that the algorithm is capable of efficiently populating a given scenario with a dense array of emulated rays whose trajectories are in close agreement with actual rays. We argue that the algorithm also serves as an effective method capable of detecting regions where ray variation is high, such as when possible shadow zones are present.
Developing Critical Reflection Skills in a Formal Coach Education Program
Authors: Vangrunderbeek Hans , De Backer Maarten , McCarthy Liam , Buelens Evi , Ponnet Hans
Published: July 2022

Alongside knowledge and understanding of the sport (what to coach) and strategies to support learning (how to coach), critical reflection is an important feature of high-quality coaching practice. Accordingly, there is a clear need for evidence-based tools and frameworks for appreciating and developing coaches’ critical reflection skills, through coach education programs. The purpose of this study is to share the results of an intervention intended to develop coaches’ critical reflection skills through a formal gymnastics coach education program within the Flemish School for Coach Education (Belgium). A pre–post test design was used to compare the development of written critical reflection skills in 25 gymnastics coaches (14 intervention and 11 control). Statistical analysis of data revealed that the intervention had a significant (p < .01) impact on the quality of coaches’ critical reflection. Coaches exhibited a positive, upward, trajectory from descriptive verbalizations to a deeper level of self-awareness, and greater criticality, along with demonstrating a willingness to adopt alternative ideas/approaches. Findings are discussed in relation to existing research on critical reflection as a feature of coach education. This study offers a unique critical reflection strategy that has the potential to meet the learning development needs of coaches in a formal coach education program.
Does an Adjusted Kinematic Model Predict the Relative Eccentric Force During Nordic Curl?
Authors: da Rocha Maressa , Macedo Maria de C. , Batista Geyson de L. , Moura Viviane , Ferreira Kariny R. , Barbosa Michelle A. , Barbosa Alexandre C.
Published: July 2022

This study aimed to assess the combination of video-based kinematic variables adjusted by intrinsic covariates to predict the relative eccentric force (RelF) during the Nordic curl. The participants (n = 21) performed Nordic curls (3 trials; 3-min rest) on a device measuring the eccentric force. The peaks were normalized by body weight. Kinovea software was used to track angular and linear velocity and acceleration from recorded videos. Two prediction models with multiple linear regression equations associated kinematic, anthropometric, and age variables to adjust the actual RelF. The equations obtained the predicted RelF. The actual RelF was inversely correlated with height (r = −.52), tangential (r = −.50) and centripetal accelerations (r = −.715), and angular velocity (r = −.70). The best prediction models combined angular velocity with age (F2,18 = 15.1, P = .001, r = .792, r2 = .627) and with height (F2,18 = 14.5, P = .001, r = .785, r2 = .616). No differences were observed between actual and predicted values (P = .993−.994), with good levels of agreement and consistency (intraclass correlation coefficient = .77−.78; Cronbach α = .86−.87). Bland–Altman results showed high levels of agreement and low biases. The standard error of measurement and minimal detectable change ranges were 0.46 to 0.49 N/kg and 1.28 to 1.36 N/kg, respectively. Also, the percentage of standard error of measurement was below 10% (7.92%–8.35%). The coefficient of variation analysis returned a 14.54% and 15.13% for each model, respectively. Kinematic analysis offers portability and low cost to current expensive or technical impaired dynamometry-based techniques to assess the RelF.
High-resolution imaging and manipulation of endogenous AMPA receptor surface mobility during synaptic plasticity and learning
Authors: Getz Angela M. , Ducros Mathieu , Breillat Christelle , Lampin-Saint-Amaux Aurélie , Daburon Sophie , François Urielle , Nowacka Agata , Fernández-Monreal Mónica , Hosy Eric , Lanore Frédéric , Zieger Hanna L. , Sainlos Matthieu , Humeau Yann , Choquet Daniel
Published: July 2022

Regulation of synaptic neurotransmitter receptor content is a fundamental mechanism for tuning synaptic efficacy during experience-dependent plasticity and behavioral adaptation. However, experimental approaches to track and modify receptor movements in integrated experimental systems are limited. Exploiting AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) as a model, we generated a knock-in mouse expressing the biotin acceptor peptide (AP) tag on the GluA2 extracellular N-terminal. Cell-specific introduction of biotin ligase allows the use of monovalent or tetravalent avidin variants to respectively monitor or manipulate the surface mobility of endogenous AMPAR containing biotinylated AP–GluA2 in neuronal subsets. AMPAR immobilization precluded the expression of long-term potentiation and formation of contextual fear memory, allowing target-specific control of the expression of synaptic plasticity and animal behavior. The AP tag knock-in model offers unprecedented access to resolve and control the spatiotemporal dynamics of endogenous receptors, and opens new avenues to study the molecular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and learning.
Ultrasensitive point-of-care biochemical sensor based on metal-AIEgen frameworks
Authors: Zhang Jiangjiang , Li Ying , Chai Fengli , Li Qizhen , Wang Dou , Liu Liping , Tang Ben Zhong , Jiang Xingyu
Published: July 2022

Point-of-care (POC) biochemical sensors have found broad applications in areas ranging from clinical diagnosis to environmental monitoring. However, POC sensors often suffer from poor sensitivity. Here, we synthesized a metal-organic framework, where the ligand is the aggregation-induced emission luminogen (AIEgen), which we call metal-AIEgen frameworks (MAFs), for use in the ultrasensitive POC biochemical sensors. MAFs process a unique luminescent mechanism of structural rigidity-enhanced emission to achieve a high quantum yield (~99.9%). We optimized the MAFs to show 10
2
- to 10
3
-fold enhanced sensitivity for a hydrogel-based POC digital sensor and lateral flow immunoassays (LFIA). MAFs have a high affinity to directly absorb proteins, which can label antibodies for immunoassays. MAFs-based LFIA with enhanced sensitivity shows robust serum detection for POC clinical diagnosis.
Through-skull brain imaging in vivo at visible wavelengths via dimensionality reduction adaptive-optical microscopy
Authors: Jo Yonghyeon , Lee Ye-Ryoung , Hong Jin Hee , Kim Dong-Young , Kwon Junhwan , Choi Myunghwan , Kim Moonseok , Choi Wonshik
Published: July 2022

Compensation of sample-induced optical aberrations is crucial for visualizing microscopic structures deep within biological tissues. However, strong multiple scattering poses a fundamental limitation for identifying and correcting the tissue-induced aberrations. Here, we introduce a label-free deep-tissue imaging technique termed dimensionality reduction adaptive-optical microscopy (DReAM) to selectively attenuate multiple scattering. We established a theoretical framework in which dimensionality reduction of a time-gated reflection matrix can attenuate uncorrelated multiple scattering while retaining a single-scattering signal with a strong wave correlation, irrespective of sample-induced aberrations. We performed mouse brain imaging in vivo through the intact skull with the probe beam at visible wavelengths. Despite the strong scattering and aberrations, DReAM offered a 17-fold enhancement of single scattering–to–multiple scattering ratio and provided high-contrast images of neural fibers in the brain cortex with the diffraction-limited spatial resolution of 412 nanometers and a 33-fold enhanced Strehl ratio.
Alkali metal halide–coated perovskite redox catalysts for anaerobic oxidative dehydrogenation of
n
-butane
Authors: Gao Yunfei , Wang Xijun , Corolla Noel , Eldred Tim , Bose Arnab , Gao Wenpei , Li Fanxing
Published: July 2022

Oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) of
n
-butane has the potential to efficiently produce butadiene without equilibrium limitation or coke formation. Despite extensive research efforts, single-pass butadiene yields are limited to <23% in conventional catalytic ODH with gaseous O
2
. This article reports molten LiBr as an effective promoter to modify a redox-active perovskite oxide, i.e., La
0.8
Sr
0.2
FeO
3
(LSF), for chemical looping–oxidative dehydrogenation of
n
-butane (CL-ODHB). Under the working state, the redox catalyst is composed of a molten LiBr layer covering the solid LSF substrate. Characterizations and ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations indicate that peroxide species formed on LSF react with molten LiBr to form active atomic Br, which act as reaction intermediates for C─H bond activation. Meanwhile, molten LiBr layer inhibits unselective CO
2
formation, leading to 42.5% butadiene yield. The redox catalyst design strategy can be extended to CL-ODH of other light alkanes such as
iso
-butane conversion to
iso
-butylene, providing a generalized approach for olefin production.
Design of a lithiophilic and electron-blocking interlayer for dendrite-free lithium-metal solid-state batteries
Authors: Lee Sunyoung , Lee Kyeong-su , Kim Sewon , Yoon Kyungho , Han Sangwook , Lee Myeong Hwan , Ko Youngmin , Noh Joo Hyeon , Kim Wonju , Kang Kisuk
Published: July 2022

All-solid-state batteries are a potential game changer in the energy storage market; however, their practical employment has been hampered by premature short circuits caused by the lithium dendritic growth through the solid electrolyte. Here, we demonstrate that a rational layer-by-layer strategy using a lithiophilic and electron-blocking multilayer can substantially enhance the performance/stability of the system by effectively blocking the electron leakage and maintaining low electronic conductivity even at high temperature (60°C) or under high electric field (3 V) while sustaining low interfacial resistance (13.4 ohm cm
2
). It subsequently results in a homogeneous lithium plating/stripping, thereby aiding in achieving one of the highest critical current densities (~3.1 mA cm
−2
) at 60°C in a symmetric cell. A full cell paired with a commercial-level cathode exhibits exceptionally long durability (>3000 cycles) and coulombic efficiency (99.96%) at a high current density (2 C; ~1.0 mA cm
−2
), which records the highest performance among all-solid-state lithium metal batteries reported to date.
Human-like behavioral variability blurs the distinction between a human and a machine in a nonverbal Turing test
Authors: Ciardo F. , De Tommaso D. , Wykowska A.
Published: July 2022

Variability is a property of biological systems, and in animals (including humans), behavioral variability is characterized by certain features, such as the range of variability and the shape of its distribution. Nevertheless, only a few studies have investigated whether and how variability features contribute to the ascription of humanness to robots in a human-robot interaction setting. Here, we tested whether two aspects of behavioral variability, namely, the standard deviation and the shape of distribution of reaction times, affect the ascription of humanness to robots during a joint action scenario. We designed an interactive task in which pairs of participants performed a joint Simon task with an iCub robot placed by their side. Either iCub could perform the task in a preprogrammed manner, or its button presses could be teleoperated by the other member of the pair, seated in the other room. Under the preprogrammed condition, the iCub pressed buttons with reaction times falling within the range of human variability. However, the distribution of the reaction times did not resemble a human-like shape. Participants were sensitive to humanness, because they correctly detected the human agent above chance level. When the iCub was controlled by the computer program, it passed our variation of a nonverbal Turing test. Together, our results suggest that hints of humanness, such as the range of behavioral variability, might be used by observers to ascribe humanness to a humanoid robot.
Do we really want AI to be human-like?
Authors: Ziemke Tom , Thellman Sam
Published: July 2022

Behavioral variability can be used to make robots more human-like, but we propose that it may be wiser to make them less so.
Antibody-mediated prevention of vaginal HIV transmission is dictated by IgG subclass in humanized mice
Authors: Brady Jacqueline M. , Phelps Meredith , MacDonald Scott W. , Lam Evan C. , Nitido Adam , Parsons Dylan , Boutros Christine L. , Deal Cailin E. , Garcia-Beltran Wilfredo F. , Tanno Serah , Natarajan Harini , Ackerman Margaret E. , Vrbanac Vladimir D. , Balazs Alejandro B.
Published: July 2022

HIV broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) are capable of both blocking viral entry and driving innate immune responses against HIV-infected cells through their Fc region. Vaccination or productive infection results in a polyclonal mixture of class-switched immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies composed of four subclasses, each encoding distinct Fc regions that differentially engage innate immune functions. Despite evidence that innate immunity contributes to protection, the relative contribution of individual IgG subclasses is unknown. Here, we used vectored immunoprophylaxis in humanized mice to interrogate the efficacy of individual IgG subclasses during prevention of vaginal HIV transmission by VRC07, a potent CD4-binding site–directed bNAb. We find that VRC07 IgG2, which lacks Fc-mediated functionality, exhibited substantially reduced protection in vivo relative to other subclasses. Low concentrations of highly functional VRC07 IgG1 yielded substantial protection against vaginal challenge, suggesting that interventions capable of eliciting modest titers of functional IgG subclasses may provide meaningful benefit against infection.
Association of a common genetic variant with Parkinson’s disease is mediated by microglia
Authors: Langston Rebekah G. , Beilina Alexandra , Reed Xylena , Kaganovich Alice , Singleton Andrew B. , Blauwendraat Cornelis , Gibbs J. Raphael , Cookson Mark R.
Published: July 2022

Studies of multiple neurodegenerative disorders have identified many genetic variants that are associated with risk of disease throughout a lifetime. For example, Parkinson’s disease (PD) risk is attributed in part to both coding mutations in the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (
LRRK2
) gene and to a common noncoding variation in the 5′ region of the
LRRK2
locus, as identified by genome-wide association studies (GWAS). However, the mechanisms linking GWAS variants to pathogenicity are largely unknown. Here, we found that the influence of PD-associated noncoding variation on
LRRK2
expression is specifically propagated through microglia and not by other cell types that express
LRRK2
in the human brain. We find microglia-specific regulatory chromatin regions that modulate the
LRRK2
expression in human frontal cortex and substantia nigra and confirm these results in a human-induced pluripotent stem cell–derived microglia model. We showed, using a large-scale clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats interference (CRISPRi) screen, that a regulatory DNA element containing the single-nucleotide variant rs6581593 influences the
LRRK2
expression in microglia. Our study demonstrates that cell type should be considered when evaluating the role of noncoding variation in disease pathogenesis and sheds light on the mechanism underlying the association of the 5′ region of LRRK2 with PD risk.
Neutralizing Antibody Given after Paralysis Onset Reduces the Severity of Paralysis Compared to Nonspecific Antibody-Treated Controls in a Mouse Model of EV-D68-Associated Acute Flaccid Myelitis
Authors: Rudy Michael J. , Frost Joshua , Clarke Penny , Tyler Kenneth L.
Published: July 2022

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) can cause mild to severe respiratory illness and is associated with a poliomyelitis-like paralytic syndrome called acute flaccid myelitis (AFM). Most cases of EV-D68-associated AFM occur in young children who are brought to the clinic after the onset of neurologic symptoms.
Adaptation to a Multiplex Bead Assay and Seroprevalence to Rift Valley Fever N Protein: Nampula Province, Mozambique, 2013-2014
Authors: Rogier Eric , Plucinski Mateusz , Candrinho Baltazar , Moss Delynn M. , Gibbons Aridth , Colborn James , Higgins Jeffrey , Chambe Geraldo , Muchanga Joao , Muguande Olinda , Matsinhe Graca , Mathe Guidion , Doyle Timothy , Zulliger Rose , Saifodine Abu , Montgomery Joel M. , Klena John D. , Priest Jeffrey W.
Published: July 2022

Due to sporadic transmission, human contact with Rift Valley Fever Virus (RVFV) is difficult to ascertain at a population level. Detection of antibodies against RVFV antigens assist in estimating exposure as antibodies remain in the host long after the virus has been cleared.