bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dijital Ekonomi ve Vergilendirme: Trendler ve Zorluklar
Authors: Varnalı Tayfun , Kete Halil
Published: September 2024

Bu çalışma, dijital ekonominin kapsamlı bir analizini sunmak üzere tasarlanmıştır. Makale, dijital ekonominin tanımını, gelişimini, toplumsal ve ekonomik etkilerini, vergilendirme süreçlerindeki zorlukları ve çözüm yollarını detaylı bir şekilde ele almaktadır. Dijital ekonominin tanımı ve kapsamı, büyüme trendleri, elektronik ticaretin uluslararası etkisi, geleneksel ekonomiden farkları ve toplumsal/ekonomik etkileri gibi başlıklar altında derinlemesine incelenmiştir. Vergilendirme süreçlerindeki zorluklar ve çözüm yolları da makalenin önemli bir kısmını oluşturmuştur. Bu çalışmanın amacı, dijital ekonominin genel bir anlayışını sunmak ve vergilendirme süreçlerindeki trendleri ve zorlukları incelemektir. Araştırma, mevcut literatürden derlenmiş bilgileri sentezleyerek dijital ekonominin farklı yönlerini açıklamayı ve tartışmayı amaçlamaktadır. Sonuç olarak, dijital ekonominin hızla değişen yapısının vergilendirme sistemlerini nasıl etkilediği ve bu alandaki gelecek trendlerinin neler olabileceği üzerine önemli bir bakış sunulmuştur.
Yapay Zekâ ve Gümrük İşlemleri: Bir Literatür İncelemesi, Avantaj ve Dezavantajları
Authors: Fındıkçı Ayşe , Kavacık Mustafa
Published: September 2024

Günümüz dünyasında birçok sistemin işleyişinde yapay zekanın rolü önemli ölçüde hissedilmektedir. Genellikle insan zekâsı gerektiren öğrenme, akıl yürütme, problem çözme, algılama gibi görevler artık yapay zekâ ile yapılmaktadır. Büyük veri ve algoritmalara dayalı olarak insanlar gibi düşünmeye ve öğrenmeye dayalı bir şekilde programlanarak işlemektedir. Sağlık, finans, ulaştırma, müşteri hizmetleri, eğlence, perakendecilik ve eğitim gibi birçok sektörde kendisine kullanım alanı bulmaktadır. Yapay zekâ, süreçlerin daha verimli, etkili, akıllı ve güvenli bir şekilde yürütülmesi adına gümrük operasyonlarında da kullanılmaktadır. Bu çalışmada yapay zekanın gümrük işlemlerindeki rolü alan incelemesi şeklinde incelenmiştir. Yapay zekanın içeriği, kullandığı teknolojiler, kullanım alanları, gümrük işlemleri üzerindeki etkileri ve kullanım alanları, avantajları ve dezavantajları ortaya konulmuştur. Yapay zekâ gümrük uygulamalarında kullanılarak, gümrük işlemlerinde gümrük beyannameleri analizinde yapılan hataların en aza indirilmesi ve işlem sürelerinin kısalması, aynı zamanda risk analizi yapılarak kaçakçılığın önüne geçilmesine yardımcı olmaktadır. Bunun yanında yapay zekânın gümrük işlemlerinde daha etkin bir şekilde kullanılması için etik ve gizlilik sorunlarına dikkat edilmesi ve bu konuda yasal düzenlemelerin yapılması gerekmektedir. Yüksek maliyetlerinin düşürülebilmesi için de farklı sektörlerin iş birliği modellerine ihtiyaç duyulacaktır.
Determination of The Stages of Household Food Waste
Authors: Kaya Dilek , Dilek Serkan
Published: September 2024

Although not emphasized much, food waste is one of the most important economic problems in the world and Türkiye. Food waste reduces households' welfare, makes it difficult for low-income groups to access food, and prevents the achievement of sustainable development goals. Despite waste being prohibited in Islam, food waste is common even in Muslim societies. In Türkiye, food waste is higher than in developed countries which are wealthier than it. Despite its importance, the theoretical aspect of food waste has not been sufficiently researched in economics. Food loss can occur during transportation from production to the household or by the household itself. Households reduce their welfare through food waste. Our study aims to determine the stages of food waste in households. As a result of the survey conducted for this purpose, it was revealed that food wastage occurs in three phases: planning, shopping, and consumption. Demographic variables such as age, education level, occupation, and income were found to also influence food wastage. It is believed that our study will pave the way for future research on food wastage and increase awareness about this issue.
Résistances politiques et politisation résiliente : négocier l’Agenda Femmes, Paix et Sécurité et la résolution 2467 au Conseil de sécurité
Authors: Bayet Camille
Published: September 2024

Alors que de nombreux travaux dénoncent la dépolitisation et la technocratisation de l’Agenda Femmes, Paix et Sécurité des Nations Unies, l’exemple de la résolution 2467 du Conseil de sécurité semble dire le contraire. Le politique n’a pas été évincé de la lutte contre les violences sexistes et sexuelles en période de conflit. À l’aide d’une étude sociohistorique des conditions de négociation et de réception de la résolution, cet article révèle une « politisation résiliente » de ce cadre normatif onusien. Les clivages idéologiques, la pression diplomatique exercée par la délégation des États-Unis, ainsi que les contestations de certains États membres et de la société civile après l’adoption de la résolution, sont autant d’indicateurs attestant de la résistance du politique. À l’heure de la « crise des multilatéralismes », ces négociations invitent finalement à repenser les lignes de fractures traditionnelles du Conseil de sécurité.
Narratifs stratégiques dans les espaces diplomatiques multilatéraux : regard sur les débats ouverts du Conseil de sécurité sur l’Agenda Femmes, Paix, Sécurité
Authors: Santoire Bénédicte
Published: September 2024

Cet article étudie les narratifs stratégiques utilisés par les pays postsoviétiques lors des débats ouverts du Conseil de sécurité sur les Femmes, la Paix et la Sécurité (FPS). À partir de l’analyse de 117 communiqués diplomatiques lus dans ces espaces multilatéraux, nous examinons comment ces pays expriment leur identité et leurs intérêts nationaux tout en contribuant activement à l’Agenda FPS mondialement. Nous soutenons que si les narratifs stratégiques systémiques et thématiques sont similaires entre ces pays, les narratifs nationaux démontrent leurs spécificités. Cela est particulièrement visible lorsque les différentes dimensions de l’agenda sont liées aux contextes nationaux, sachant que de nombreux pays postsoviétiques connaissent des conflits prolongés sur leur territoire. Dans l’ensemble, l’article contribue aux travaux sur l’Agenda FPS et ouvre de nouvelles voies de recherche en montrant la pertinence théorique et empirique d’accorder plus d’attention à ces pays qui sont aussi des acteurs importants de l’architecture normative mondiale de l’Agenda FPS.
Vientos nuevos del Sud: La teología argentina del pueblo y el Papa Francisco
Authors: Scannone Juan Carlos
Published: September 2024

Después de la elección del Papa Francisco, en el hemisferio Norte se está sintiendo que el Espíritu Santo sopla fuerte desde el Sud. No se trata solamente de otro estilo, otros gestos u otro lenguaje más asequible, sino también de fuentes teológicas renovadas y hasta ahora menos conocidas. Entre éstas, además del magisterio latinoamericano de Medellín a Aparecida, ocupa un lugar relevante la “teología del pueblo”, reconocida por Gustavo Gutiérrez como una corriente “con características propias” dentro de la teología de la liberación, cuyos primeros promotores fueron Lucio Gera y Rafael Tello. De ahí el interés de vincular rasgos teológico-pastorales del actual Papa con la “teología del pueblo”, para comprenderlo mejor. En este artículo el autor trata, primeramente, de ésta. Luego aborda la cuestión de su inclusión o no dentro de la teología de la liberación latinoamericana. Por último, enfoca los puntos de convergencia entre el enfoque teológico-pastoral del Papa Francisco — en especial, aunque no solamente en su exhortación Evangelii gaudium — y algunos rasgos distintivos de la “teología del pueblo”.
Genetic diversity affects ecosystem functions across trophic levels as much as species diversity, but in an opposite direction
Authors: Fargeot Laura , Poesy Camille , Lefort Maxim , Prunier Jérôme G , Krick Madoka , Verdonck Rik , Veyssière Charlotte , Richard Murielle , Legrand Delphine , Loot Géraldine , Blanchet Simon
Published: September 2024

Understanding the relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning stands as a cornerstone in ecological research. Extensive evidence now underscores the profound impact of species loss on the stability and dynamics of ecosystem functions. However, it remains unclear whether the loss of genetic diversity within key species yield similar consequences. Here, we delve into the intricate relationship between species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem functions across three trophic levels —primary producers, primary consumers, and secondary consumers— in natural aquatic ecosystems. Our investigation involves estimating species diversity and genome-wide diversity -gauged within three pivotal species-within each trophic level, evaluating seven key ecosystem functions, and analyzing the magnitude of the relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functions (BEFs). We found that, overall, the absolute effect size of genetic diversity on ecosystem functions mirrors that of species diversity in natural ecosystems. We nonetheless unveil a striking dichotomy: while genetic diversity was positively correlated with various ecosystem functions, species diversity displays a negative correlation with these functions. These intriguing antagonist effects of species and genetic diversity persists across the three trophic levels (underscoring its systemic nature), but were apparent only when BEFs were assessed within trophic levels rather than across them. This study reveals the complexity of predicting the consequences of genetic and species diversity loss under natural conditions, and emphasizes the need for further mechanistic models integrating these two facets of biodiversity.
Genetic diversity affects ecosystem functions across trophic levels as much as species diversity, but in an opposite direction
Authors: Fargeot Laura , Poesy Camille , Lefort Maxim , Prunier Jérôme G , Krick Madoka , Verdonck Rik , Veyssière Charlotte , Richard Murielle , Legrand Delphine , Loot Géraldine , Blanchet Simon
Published: September 2024

Understanding the relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning stands as a cornerstone in ecological research. Extensive evidence now underscores the profound impact of species loss on the stability and dynamics of ecosystem functions. However, it remains unclear whether the loss of genetic diversity within key species yield similar consequences. Here, we delve into the intricate relationship between species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem functions across three trophic levels —primary producers, primary consumers, and secondary consumers— in natural aquatic ecosystems. Our investigation involves estimating species diversity and genome-wide diversity –gauged within three pivotal species-within each trophic level, evaluating seven key ecosystem functions, and analyzing the magnitude of the relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functions (BEFs). We found that, overall, the absolute effect size of genetic diversity on ecosystem functions mirrors that of species diversity in natural ecosystems. We nonetheless unveil a striking dichotomy: while genetic diversity was positively correlated with various ecosystem functions, species diversity displays a negative correlation with these functions. These intriguing antagonist effects of species and genetic diversity persists across the three trophic levels (underscoring its systemic nature), but were apparent only when BEFs were assessed within trophic levels rather than across them. This study reveals the complexity of predicting the consequences of genetic and species diversity loss under natural conditions, and emphasizes the need for further mechanistic models integrating these two facets of biodiversity.
Disruption of the CRF1 receptor eliminates morphine-induced sociability deficits and firing of oxytocinergic neurons in male mice
Authors: Piccin Alessandro , Allain Anne-Emilie , Baufreton Jérôme M , Bertrand Sandrine S , Contarino Angelo
Published: September 2024

Substance-induced social behavior deficits dramatically worsen the clinical outcome of substance use disorders; yet, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Herein, we investigated the role for the corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 1 (CRF1) in the acute sociability deficits induced by morphine and the related activity of oxytocin (OXY)- and arginine-vasopressin (AVP)-expressing neurons of the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN). For this purpose, we used both the CRF1 receptor-preferring antagonist compound antalarmin and the genetic mouse model of CRF1 receptor-deficiency. Antalarmin completely abolished sociability deficits induced by morphine in male, but not in female, C57BL/6J mice. Accordingly, genetic CRF1 receptor-deficiency eliminated morphine-induced sociability deficits in male mice. Ex vivo electrophysiology studies showed that antalarmin also eliminated morphine-induced firing of PVN neurons in male, but not in female, C57BL/6J mice. Likewise, genetic CRF1 receptor-deficiency reduced morphine-induced firing of PVN neurons in a CRF1 gene expression-dependent manner. The electrophysiology results consistently mirrored the behavioral results, indicating a link between morphine-induced PVN activity and sociability deficits. Interestingly, in male mice antalarmin abolished morphine-induced firing in neurons co-expressing OXY and AVP, but not in neurons expressing only AVP. In contrast, in female mice antalarmin did not affect morphine-induced firing of neurons co-expressing OXY and AVP or only OXY, indicating a selective sex-specific role for the CRF1 receptor in opiate-induced PVN OXY activity. The present findings demonstrate a major, sex-linked, role for the CRF1 receptor in sociability deficits and related brain alterations induced by morphine, suggesting new therapeutic strategy for opiate use disorders.
Disruption of the CRF1 receptor eliminates morphine-induced sociability deficits and firing of oxytocinergic neurons in male mice
Authors: Piccin Alessandro , Allain Anne-Emilie , Baufreton Jérôme , Bertrand Sandrine S , Contarino Angelo
Published: September 2024

Substance-induced social behavior deficits dramatically worsen the clinical outcome of substance use disorders; yet, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Herein, we investigated the role for the corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 1 (CRF
1
) in the acute sociability deficits induced by morphine and the related activity of oxytocin (OXY)- and arginine-vasopressin (AVP)-expressing neurons of the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN). For this purpose, we used both the CRF
1
receptor-preferring antagonist compound antalarmin and the genetic mouse model of CRF
1
receptor-deficiency. Antalarmin completely abolished sociability deficits induced by morphine in male, but not in female, C57BL/6J mice. Accordingly, genetic CRF
1
receptor-deficiency eliminated morphine-induced sociability deficits in male mice.
Ex vivo
electrophysiology studies showed that antalarmin also eliminated morphine-induced firing of PVN neurons in male, but not in female, C57BL/6J mice. Likewise, genetic CRF
1
receptor-deficiency reduced morphine-induced firing of PVN neurons in a CRF
1
gene expression-dependent manner. The electrophysiology results consistently mirrored the behavioral results, indicating a link between morphine-induced PVN activity and sociability deficits. Interestingly, in male mice antalarmin abolished morphine-induced firing in neurons co-expressing OXY and AVP, but not in neurons expressing only AVP. In contrast, in female mice antalarmin did not affect morphine-induced firing of neurons co-expressing OXY and AVP or only OXY, indicating a selective sex-specific role for the CRF
1
receptor in opiate-induced PVN OXY activity. The present findings demonstrate a major, sex-linked, role for the CRF
1
receptor in sociability deficits and related brain alterations induced by morphine, suggesting new therapeutic strategy for opiate use disorders.
Unraveling the Role of Ctla-4 in Intestinal Immune Homeostasis: Insights from a novel Zebrafish Model of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Qin Lulu , Hu Chongbin , Zhao Qiong , Wang Yong , Fan Dongdong , Lin Aifu , Xiang Lixin , Chen Ye , Shao Jianzhong
Published: September 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic and relapsing immune-mediated disorder characterized by intestinal inflammation and epithelial injury. The underlying causes of IBD are not fully understood, but genetic factors have implicated in genome-wide association studies, including CTLA-4, an essential negative regulator of T cell activation. However, establishing a direct link between CTLA-4 and IBD has been challenging due to the early lethality of CTLA-4 knockout mice. In this study, we identified zebrafish Ctla-4 homolog and investigated its role in maintaining intestinal immune homeostasis by generating a Ctla-4-deficient (

ctla-4
-/-

) zebrafish line. These mutant zebrafish exhibit reduced weight, along with impaired epithelial barrier integrity and lymphocytic infiltration in their intestines. Transcriptomics analysis revealed upregulation of inflammation-related genes, disturbing immune system homeostasis. Moreover, single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis indicated increased Th2 cells and interleukin 13 expression, along with decreased innate lymphoid cells and upregulated proinflammatory cytokines. Additionally, Ctla-4-deficient zebrafish exhibited reduced diversity and an altered composition of the intestinal microbiota. All these phenotypes closely resemble those found in mammalian IBD. Lastly, supplementation with Ctla-4-Ig successfully alleviated intestinal inflammation in these mutants. Altogether, our findings demonstrate the pivotal role of Ctla-4 in maintaining intestinal homeostasis. Additionally, they offer substantial evidence linking CTLA-4 to IBD and establish a novel zebrafish model for investigating both the pathogenesis and potential treatments.
Arp2/3 complex activity enables nuclear YAP for naïve pluripotency of human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Meyer Nathaniel Paul , Singh Tania , Kutys Matthew L , Nystul Todd G , Barber Diane L
Published: September 2024

Our understanding of the transitions of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) between distinct stages of pluripotency relies predominantly on regulation by transcriptional and epigenetic programs with limited insight on the role of established morphological changes. We report remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton of hESCs as they transition from primed to naïve pluripotency which includes assembly of a ring of contractile actin filaments encapsulating colonies of naïve hESCs. Activity of the Arp2/3 complex is required for formation of the actin ring, to establish uniform cell mechanics within naïve colonies, to promote nuclear translocation of the Hippo pathway effectors YAP and TAZ, and for effective transition to naïve pluripotency. RNA-sequencing analysis confirms that Arp2/3 complex activity regulates Hippo signaling in hESCs, and impaired naïve pluripotency with inhibited Arp2/3 complex activity is rescued by expressing a constitutively active, nuclear-localized YAP-S127A. Moreover, expression of YAP-S127A partially restores the actin filament fence with Arp2/3 complex inhibition, suggesting that actin filament remodeling is both upstream and downstream of YAP activity. These new findings on the cell biology of hESCs reveal a mechanism for cytoskeletal dynamics coordinating cell mechanics to regulate gene expression and facilitate transitions between pluripotency states.
Automated workflow for the cell cycle analysis of (non-)adherent cells using a machine learning approach
Authors: Hayatigolkhatmi Kourosh , Soriani Chiara , Soda Emanuel , Ceccacci Elena , El Menna Oualid , Peri Sebastiano , Negrelli Ivan , Bertolini Giacomo , Franchi Gian Martino , Carbone Roberta , Minucci Saverio , Rodighiero Simona
Published: September 2024

Understanding the details of the cell cycle at the level of individual cells is critical for both cellular biology and cancer research. While existing methods using specific fluorescent markers have advanced our ability to study the cell cycle in cells that adhere to surfaces, there is a clear gap when it comes to non-adherent cells. In this study, we combine a specialized surface to improve cell attachment, the genetically-encoded FUCCI(CA)2 sensor, an automated image processing and analysis pipeline, and a custom machine-learning algorithm. This combined approach allowed us to precisely measure the duration of different cell cycle phases in non-adherent cells.Our method provided detailed information from hundreds of cells under different experimental conditions in a fully automated manner. We validated this approach in two different Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) cell lines, NB4 and Kasumi-1, which have unique cell cycle characteristics. Additionally, we tested the impact of drugs affecting the cell cycle in NB4 cells. Importantly, our cell cycle analysis system is freely available and has also been validated for use with adherent cells.In summary, this report introduces a comprehensive, automated method for studying the cell cycle in both adherent and non-adherent cells, offering a valuable tool for cancer research and drug development.
Rab11 suppresses neuronal stress signaling by localizing Dual leucine zipper kinase to axon terminals for protein turnover
Authors: Kim Seungmi , Quagraine Yaw , Singh Monika , Kim Jung Hwan
Published: September 2024

Dual Leucine Zipper Kinase (DLK) mediates multiple neuronal stress responses, and its expression levels are constantly suppressed to prevent excessive stress signaling. We found that Wallenda (Wnd), the
Drosophila
ortholog of DLK, is highly enriched in the axon terminals of
Drosophila
sensory neurons in vivo and that this subcellular localization is necessary for Highwire-mediated Wnd protein turnover under normal conditions. Our structure-function analysis found that Wnd palmitoylation is essential for its axon terminal localization. Palmitoylation-defective Wnd accumulated in neuronal cell bodies, exhibited dramatically increased protein expression levels, and triggered excessive neuronal stress responses. Defective intracellular transport is implicated in neurodegenerative conditions. Comprehensive dominant-negative Rab protein screening identified Rab11 as an essential factor for Wnd localization in axon terminals. Consequently,
Rab11
loss-of-function increased the protein levels of Wnd and induced neuronal stress responses. Inhibiting Wnd activity significantly ameliorated neuronal loss and c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling triggered by
Rab11
loss-of-function. Taken together, these suggest that DLK proteins are constantly transported to axon terminals for protein turnover and a failure of such transport can lead to neuronal loss. Our study demonstrates how subcellular protein localization is coupled to protein turnover for neuronal stress signaling.
Mitochondrial respiration atlas reveals differential changes in mitochondrial function across sex and age
Authors: Sarver Dylan C , Saqib Muzna , Chen Fangluo , Wong G William
Published: September 2024

Organ function declines with age, and large-scale transcriptomic analyses have highlighted differential aging trajectories across tissues. The mechanism underlying shared and organ-selective functional changes across the lifespan, however, still remains poorly understood. Given the central role of mitochondria in powering cellular processes needed to maintain tissue health, we therefore undertook a systematic assessment of respiratory activity across 33 different tissues in young (2.5 months) and old (20 months) mice of both sexes. Our high-resolution mitochondrial respiration atlas reveals: 1) within any group of mice, mitochondrial activity varies widely across tissues, with the highest values consistently seen in heart, brown fat, and kidney; 2) biological sex is a significant but minor contributor to mitochondrial respiration, and its contributions are tissue-specific, with major differences seen in the pancreas, stomach, and white adipose tissue; 3) age is a dominant factor affecting mitochondrial activity, especially across most brain regions, different fat depots, skeletal muscle groups, eyes, and different regions of the gastrointestinal tract; 4) age-effects can be sex- and tissue-specific, with some of the largest effects seen in pancreas, heart, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle; and 5) while aging alters the functional trajectories of mitochondria in a majority of tissues, some are remarkably resilient to age-induced changes. Altogether, our data provide the most comprehensive compendium of mitochondrial respiration and illuminate functional signatures of aging across diverse tissues and organ systems.
A Ctnnb1 enhancer transcriptionally regulates Wnt signaling dosage to balance homeostasis and tumorigenesis of intestinal epithelia
Authors: Hua Xiaojiao , Zhao Chen , Tian Jianbo , Wang Junbao , Miao Xiaoping , Zheng Gen , Wu Min , Ye Mei , Liu Ying , Zhou Yan
Published: September 2024

The β-catenin-dependent canonical Wnt signaling is pivotal in organ development, tissue homeostasis, and cancer. Here, we identified an upstream enhancer of Ctnnb1 – the coding gene for β-catenin, named ieCtnnb1 (intestinal enhancer of Ctnnb1), which is crucial for intestinal homeostasis. ieCtnnb1 is predominantly active in the base of small intestinal crypts and throughout the epithelia of large intestine. Knockout of ieCtnnb1 led to a reduction in Ctnnb1 transcription, compromising the canonical Wnt signaling in intestinal crypts. Single-cell sequencing revealed that ieCtnnb1 knockout altered epithelial compositions and potentially compromised functions of small intestinal crypts. While deletion of ieCtnnb1 hampered epithelial turnovers in physiologic conditions, it prevented occurrence and progression of Wnt/β-catenin-driven colorectal cancers. Human ieCTNNB1 drove reporter gene expression in a pattern highly similar to mouse ieCtnnb1. ieCTNNB1 contains a single-nucleotide polymorphism associated with CTNNB1 expression levels in human gastrointestinal epithelia. The enhancer activity of ieCTNNB1 in colorectal cancer tissues was stronger than that in adjacent normal tissues. HNF4α and phosphorylated CREB1 were identified as key trans-factors binding to ieCTNNB1 and regulating CTNNB1 transcription. Together, these findings unveil an enhancer-dependent mechanism controlling the dosage of Wnt signaling and homeostasis in intestinal epithelia.
Brochosomes as an antireflective camouflage coating for leafhoppers
Authors: Wu Wei , Mao Qianzhuo , Ye Zhuangxin , Liao Zhenfeng , Shan Hong-Wei , Li Jun-Min , Zhang Chuan-Xi , Chen Jian-Ping
Published: September 2024

In nature, insects face immense predation pressure, where visual cues play a vital role in predators locating them. To counter this threat, insects employ a variety of nano- and microstructures on their cuticular layer to manipulate and interact with light, enhancing anti-reflective properties and providing camouflage or reducing detectability by predators. Leafhoppers have a unique extra-cuticular coating called brochosome, yet its anti-reflective functions and protein composition remain unclear. Our study demonstrates strong anti-reflective properties of brochosomes, effectively reducing reflectance on the cuticle surface, especially in the ultraviolet spectrum, to improve evasion from visual predators. Furthermore, we identify four novel structural proteins of the brochosome (BSM) for the first time. Inhibiting their synthesis by RNAi alters brochosome morphology, impacting the optical properties of the cuticle surface. Evolutionary origin analysis of BSM suggests that brochosomes likely originated from a process involving duplication–divergence. Our study reveals that leafhoppers employ a unique camouflage strategy by secreting brochosomes as anti-reflection nano-coatings, enabling them to evade natural predators and contributing to their evolutionary success.
Automatic spread factor and position definition for UAV gateway through computational intelligence approach to maximize signal-to-noise ratio in wooded environments
Authors: Cardoso Caio M. M. , Macedo Alex S. , Fernandes Filipe C. , Cruz Hugo A. O. , Barros Fabrício J. B. , de Araújo Jasmine P. L.
Published: September 2024

The emergence of long-range (LoRa) technology, together with the expansion of uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) use in civil applications have brought significant advances to the Internet of Things (IoT) field. In this way, these technologies are used together in different scenarios, especially when it is necessary to have connectivity in remote and difficult-to-access locations, providing coverage and monitoring of greater areas. In this sense, this article seeks to determine the best positioning for the LoRa gateway coupled to the drone and the optimal spreading factor (SF) for signal transmission in a LoRa network, aiming to improve the connected devices signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), considering a suburban and densely wooded environment. Then, multi-layer perceptron (MLP) networks and generalized regression neural networks (GRNN) were trained to predict the signal behavior and determine the best network to represent this behavior. The MLP network presented the lowest RMSE, 2.41 dB, and was selected for use jointly with the bioinspired Grey-Wolf optimizer (GWO). The optimizer proved its effectiviness being able to adjust the number of UAVs used to obtain 100% coverage and determine the best SF used by the endnodes, guaranteeing a higher transmission rate and lower energy consumption.
SpLitteR: diploid genome assembly using TELL-Seq linked-reads and assembly graphs
Authors: Tolstoganov Ivan , Chen Zhoutao , Pevzner Pavel , Korobeynikov Anton
Published: September 2024

Background

Recent advances in long-read sequencing technologies enabled accurate and contiguous de novo assemblies of large genomes and metagenomes. However, even long and accurate high-fidelity (HiFi) reads do not resolve repeats that are longer than the read lengths. This limitation negatively affects the contiguity of diploid genome assemblies since two haplomes share many long identical regions. To generate the telomere-to-telomere assemblies of diploid genomes, biologists now construct their HiFi-based phased assemblies and use additional experimental technologies to transform them into more contiguous diploid assemblies. The barcoded linked-reads, generated using an inexpensive TELL-Seq technology, provide an attractive way to bridge unresolved repeats in phased assemblies of diploid genomes.

Results

We developed the SpLitteR tool for diploid genome assembly using linked-reads and assembly graphs and benchmarked it against state-of-the-art linked-read scaffolders ARKS and SLR-superscaffolder using human HG002 genome and sheep gut microbiome datasets. The benchmark showed that SpLitteR scaffolding results in 1.5-fold increase in NGA50 compared to the baseline LJA assembly and other scaffolders while introducing no additional misassemblies on the human dataset.

Conclusion

We developed the SpLitteR tool for assembly graph phasing and scaffolding using barcoded linked-reads. We benchmarked SpLitteR on assembly graphs produced by various long-read assemblers and have demonstrated that TELL-Seq reads facilitate phasing and scaffolding in these graphs. This benchmarking demonstrates that SpLitteR improves upon the state-of-the-art linked-read scaffolders in the accuracy and contiguity metrics. SpLitteR is implemented in C++ as a part of the freely available SPAdes package and is available at https://github.com/ablab/spades/releases/tag/splitter-preprint.
Analysis of undergraduate cell biology contents in Brazilian public universities
Authors: Mermelstein Claudia , Costa Manoel Luis
Published: January 2017

The enormous amount of information available in cell biology has created a challenge in selecting the core concepts we should be teaching our undergraduates. One way to define a set of essential core ideas in cell biology is to analyze what a specific cell biology community is teaching their students. Our main objective was to analyze the cell biology content currently being taught in Brazilian universities. We collected the syllabi of cell biology courses from public universities in Brazil and analyzed the frequency of cell biology topics in each course. We also compared the Brazilian data with the contents of a major cell biology textbook. Our analysis showed that while some cell biology topics such as plasma membrane and cytoskeleton was present in ∼100% of the Brazilian curricula analyzed others such as cell signaling and cell differentiation were present in only ∼35%. The average cell biology content taught in the Brazilian universities is quite different from what is presented in the textbook. We discuss several possible explanations for these observations. We also suggest a list with essential cell biology topics for any biological or biomedical undergraduate course. The comparative discussion of cell biology topics presented here could be valuable in other educational contexts.
13cRA regulates the differentiation of antler chondrocytes through targeting Runx3
Authors: Zhang Hong‐Liang , Cao Hang , Yang Zhan‐Qing , Geng Shuang , Wang Kai , Yu Hai‐Fan , Guo Bin , Yue Zhan‐Peng
Published: January 2017

Although 13cRA is involved in the regulation of cellular proliferation and differentiation, its physiological roles in chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation still remain unknown. Here, we showed that 13cRA could induce the proliferation of sika deer antler chondrocytes and expression of Ccnd3 and Cdk6. Administration of 13cRA to antler chondrocytes resulted in an obvious increase in the expression of chondrocyte marker Col II and hypertrophic chondrocyte marker Col X. Silencing of Crabp2 expression by specific siRNA could prevent the 13cRA‐induced up‐regulation of Col X, whereas overexpression of Crabp2 showed the opposite effects. Further study found that Crabp2 mediated the regulation of 13cRA on the expression of Runx3 which was highly expressed in the antler cartilage and inhibited the differentiation of antler chondrocytes. Moreover, attenuation of Runx3 expression greatly raised 13cRA‐induced chondrocyte differentiation. Simultaneously, 13cRA could stimulate the expression of Cyp26a1 and Cyp26b1 in the antler chondrocytes. Inhibition of Cyp26a1 and/or Cyp26b1 reinforced the effects of 13cRA on the expression of Col X and Runx3, while overexpression of Cyp26b1 rendered the antler chondrocytes hyposensitive to 13cRA. Collectively, 13cRA may play an important role in the differentiation of antler chondrocytes through targeting Runx3. Crabp2 enhances the effects of 13cRA on chondrocyte differentiation, while Cyp26a1 and Cyp26b1 weaken the sensitivity of antler chondrocytes to 13cRA.
Evaluation of catalyst leaching in silica supported zirconocene alumino hydride catalysts
Authors: Comparán‐Padilla Víctor E. , Pérez‐Berúmen Catalina M. , Cadenas‐Pliego Gregorio , Rodríguez‐Hernández María T. , Collins Scott , Pérez‐Camacho Odilia
Published: January 2017

Zirconocene aluminohydride complexes (e.g. nBuCp2ZrH3AlH2) afford higher MW polyethylene at significantly higher activity than their zirconocene dichloride counterparts (nBuCp2ZrCl2) when activated by methylaluminoxane (MAO). In this work, supported catalysts with different Al:Zr ratios on SiO2, modified with MAO were prepared, and evaluated for their tendency towards leaching in ethylene polymerization, using additional MAO or other alkylaluminum compounds. The extent of catalyst leaching was estimated by comparing kinetic data of filtered versus unfiltered catalysts during ethylene polymerization. Polydispersities and molecular weights of the HDPE obtained using filtered versus unfiltered catalysts were also compared under similar polymerization conditions. Polyethylene morphologies obtained in homogeneous and heterogeneous phase were compared by SEM. Bulk densities of the HDPE were evaluated and related to the leaching in the polymerizations.
Effects of Water Intercalation and Tribochemistry on MoS2 Lubricity: An Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Investigation
Authors: Levita Giacomo , Righi Maria C.
Published: January 2017

To date, no clear conclusion has been reached on the atomistic mechanisms that govern the observed decrease of lubricating capabilities of MoS2 in humid environments. Based on ab initio molecular dynamic calculations, we show that intercalated water molecules hinder the sliding motion of both regular and defective layers considerably, with the velocities decaying exponentially with time. However, in the presence of an applied load and exposed edge terminations, water is rapidly removed from the interface and is adsorbed on the edges either in undissociated form or as OH/H fragments. These outcomes suggest that the interlayer slipperiness can be reduced by the presence of water even in the absence of any chemical oxidation. Our work could help to set up more dedicated experiments to further tackle a technologically relevant issue for the applications of MoS2‐based lubricants.
Selective Hydrogenation of Nitriles to Primary Amines by using a Cobalt Phosphine Catalyst
Authors: Adam Rosa , Bheeter Charles Beromeo , Cabrero‐Antonino Jose R. , Junge Kathrin , Jackstell Ralf , Beller Matthias
Published: January 2017

A general procedure for the catalytic hydrogenation of nitriles to primary amines by using a non‐noble metal‐based system is presented. Co(acac)3 in combination with tris[2‐(dicyclohexylphosphino)ethyl]phosphine efficiently catalyzes the selective hydrogenation of a wide range of (hetero)aromatic and aliphatic nitriles to give the corresponding amines.
Analysis of six ‘neuro‐enhancing’ phenidate analogs
Authors: Klare Helge , Neudörfl Jörg M. , Brandt Simon D. , Mischler Elisabeth , Meier‐Giebing Sigrid , Deluweit Kathrin , Westphal Folker , Laussmann Tim
Published: January 2017

Six collected phenidates, i.e., 4‐methylmethylphenidate, 3,4‐dichloromethylphenidate, ethylphenidate, 3,4‐dichloroethylphenidate, ethylnaphthidate, and N‐benzyl‐ethylphenidate were fully characterized by means of X‐ray, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS/MS), attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) and GC solid‐state IR analysis. Crystallography revealed the exclusive presence of the threo‐configuration. Steric crowding induced by N‐benzyl substitution at the piperidine moiety prompted an adoption of an unexpected axial positioning of substituents on the piperidine moiety in the crystal state as opposed to the exclusive equatorial positioning encountered in N‐unsubstituted phenidate analogues. Gas phase computations of the relative lowest energy conformers confirm that the axial positioning appears to be favoured over the equatorial positioning; in solution, however, equatorial positioning is predominant according to nuclear Overhauser effect experiments. All samples, mainly originating from China, had a good to very good degree of purity indicative of their professional chemical synthesis. Routine analysis of these drugs by GC–MS revealed thermal decomposition of phenidate analogues in the injection port and/or on column to 2‐aryl‐ethyl‐acetates and 2,3,4,5‐tetrahydropyridines. The decomposition pathway was suggested to proceed via a 6‐membered transition state which was supported by density functional theory (DFT) computations. Fragmentation pathways of decomposition products as well as the corresponding electron ionization (EI) mass spectra are provided. The thermal instability might thus render smoking or ‘vaping’ of these drugs a less effective route of administration. The analytical fingerprints of six structurally diverse phenidate analogues provide a helpful reference to forensic chemists in charge of identifying new psychoactive substances. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Silybum marianum cell cultures stably transformed with Vitis vinifera stilbene synthase accumulate t‐resveratrol in the extracellular medium after elicitation with methyl jasmonate or methylated β‐cyclodextrins
Authors: Hidalgo Diego , Martínez‐Márquez Ascensión , Cusidó Rosa , Bru‐Martínez Roque , Palazón Javier , Corchete Purificación
Published: January 2017

The growing demand for t‐resveratrol for industrial uses has generated considerable interest in its production. Heterologous resveratrol production in plant cell suspensions, apart from requiring the introduction of only one or two genes, has the advantage of high biomass yield and a short cultivation time, and thus could be an option for large‐scale production. Silybum marianum is the source of the flavonolignan silymarin. Phenylpropanoid synthesis in cultures of this species can be activated by elicitation with methyl jasmonate and methylated β‐cyclodextrins, with products of the pathway (coniferyl alcohol and some isomers of the silymarin complex) being released into the medium. Given that stilbene synthase shares the same key precursors involved in flavonoid and /or monolignol biosynthesis, we explored the potential of metabolically engineered S. marianum cultures for t‐resveratrol production. Cell suspensions were stably transformed with Vitis vinifera stilbene synthase 3 and the expression of the transgene led to extracellular t‐resveratrol accumulation at the level of milligrams per litre under elicitation. Resveratrol synthesis occurred at the expense of coniferyl alcohol. Production of silymarin was less affected in the transgenic cultures, since the flavonoid pathway is limiting for its synthesis, due to the preferred supply of precursors for the monolignol branch. The fact that the expressed STS gene took excessively produced precursors of non‐bioactive compounds (coniferyl alcohol), while keeping the metabolic flow for target secondary compounds (i.e. silymarin) unaltered, opens a way to extend the applications of plant cell cultures for the simultaneous production of both constitutive and foreign valuable metabolites.
Uterine Perforation by Intra‐uterine Contraceptive Devices and their Laparoscopic Removal
Authors: Zuhair A. , Buckle A. E. R.
Published: January 2017

The clinical features of 14 cases of uterine perforation by an intra‐uterine contraceptive device (IUCD) are described. In all but one instance the device was removed via the laparoscope. Reasons for perforation are discussed and methods of avoiding this complication suggested.
An Assessment of the Side Effects of Switching from One Oral Contraceptive to Another
Authors: Edelman David A. , Kothenbeutel Robert , Levinski Mary Jo , Talwar Prem P.
Published: January 2017

Edelman, D. A., Kothenbeutel, R., Levinski, M. J. and Talwar, P. P. (IFRP, Triangle Park, NC and Planned Parenthood Clinic of Seattle, Seattle, Wash., USA). An assessment of the side effects of switching from one oral contraceptive to another.

Int J Gynaecol Obstet 14: 397–400, 1976.

Side effects associated with three oral contraceptives were evaluated in a study in which women were switched to Norlestrin 1 from either Ovral (64 subjects) or Norinyl 1/50 (26 subjects). In the cycle prior to crossover, breast discomfort was more frequent among Norinyl users than among Ovral users. The prevalence of all other reported side effects was not significantly different for Norinyl and Ovral. The crossover to Norlestrin did not significantly change the numbers of patients reporting side effects. By the end of the third Norlestrin cycle, rates of all side effects were similar for women who were switched from either Ovral or Norinyl.
Pyometra
Authors: Karpathios S. , Prevedourakis C. , Papadias C. , Lolis D.
Published: January 2017

Karpathios, S., Prevedourakis, C., Papadias, C. and Lolis, D. (2nd Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, University of Athens, Athens, Greece). Pyometra.

Int J Gynaecol 14: 477–479, 1976.

Thirteen cases of pyometra without preoperative diagnosis in which vaginal or abdominal surgery was performed, are analysed in the present paper. The histologic examination revealed endocervicitis in all cases, while positive cultures for bacteria were found preoperatively in only eight of the above cases, thus, pyometra was considered to be a symptom of obstruction of the cervical canal.
A Comparison of D & C and Vacuum Aspiration for Performing First Trimester Abortion
Authors: Lean T. H. , Vengadasalam D. , Pachauri Saroj , Miller Eva R.
Published: January 2017

Lean, T. H., Vengadasalam, D., Pachauri, Saroj and Miller, Eva R. (Kandang Kerbau Hospital, Singapore and International Fertility Research Program, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA). A comparison of D & C and vacuum aspiration for performing first trimester abortion.

Int J Gynaecol Obstet 14:481–486, 1976.

In a study of techniques for first trimester abortion conducted at Kandang Kerbau Hospital in Singapore from September 1973 to April 1975, 420 physically healthy gravidas were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups either by D & C or vacuum aspiration. Half of the patients in each group were 6 to 10 menstrual weeks’ gestation and half were 11 to 12 weeks’ gestation. The numbers of women with one or more complications were the same for the two treatment groups, but were significantly less when termination was carried out at 11 to 12 weeks’ gestation. Estimated blood loss was significantly lower for patients treated by VA (32.3 ml) than for patients treated by D & C (39.0 ml) at 6 to 10 weeks’ gestation, but the difference in blood loss was not statistically significant at 11 to 12 weeks’ gestation. Time from insertion to removal of the speculum was significantly less with VA than D & C at 6 to 10 weeks’ gestation but not at 11 to 12 weeks’ gestation. Since vacuum aspiration is at least as safe as D & C, and appears to be more convenient and costeffective, it should on the basis of this experience be accepted over D & C as the standard method for treatment of first trimester abortion.
Transplacental Passage of Diazepam Following Intravenous Injection Immediately Prior to Operative Vaginal Delivery
Authors: Haram Kjell , Sagen Norvald , Brandt Roger D.
Published: January 2017

Haram, K., Sagen, N. and Brandt, R. D. (Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bergen, Norway and Dept. of Experimental Medicine, F. Hoffmann‐La Roche & Co. AG, Basel, Switzerland). Transplacental passage of diazepam following intravenous injection immediately prior to operative vaginal delivery.

Int J Gynaecol Obstet 14: 545–549, 1976.

The early phase of diaplacental transfer of diazepam was studied in 39 women given the drug as a basic anaesthetic for operative vaginal delivery indicated by prolonged second stage of labour (9 cases), breech delivery (19 cases) and intrauterine hypoxia (11 cases). A total dose of 30 mg diazepam (Valium Roche) was injected intravenously over a period of 15 sec and umbilical cord blood was collected immediately after delivery. Diazepam was extracted with diethyl ether and determined by gas chromatography. The concentration of diazepam in cord blood increased from >5–250 ng/ml at 57–60 seconds to 48–1861 ng/ml at 90–100 seconds after completion of the intravenous injection. Thereafter a plateau seemed to be reached but the interindividual variation was still great with values ranging from 45–3034 ng/ml up to 360 seconds. Judged by Apgar score and the clinical course the neonates seemed to be unaffected by the medication administered to the mother.