bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CRISPR-Cas9 knockdown of ESR1 in preoptic GABA-kisspeptin neurons suppresses the preovulatory surge and estrous cycles in female mice
Authors: Clarkson Jenny , Yip Siew Hoong , Porteous Robert , Kauff Alexia , Heather Alison K , Herbison Allan E
Published: December 2023

Evidence suggests that estradiol-sensing preoptic area GABA neurons are involved in the preovulatory surge mechanism necessary for ovulation. In vivo CRISPR-Cas9 editing was used to achieve a 60–70% knockdown in estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) expression by GABA neurons located within the regions of the rostral periventricular area of the third ventricle (RP3V) and medial preoptic nuclei (MPN) in adult female mice. Mice exhibited variable reproductive phenotypes with the only significant finding being mice with bilateral ESR1 deletion in RP3V GABA neurons having reduced cFos expression in gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons at the time of the surge. One sub-population of RP3V GABA neurons expresses kisspeptin. Re-grouping ESR1-edited mice on the basis of their RP3V kisspeptin expression revealed a highly consistent phenotype; mice with a near-complete loss of kisspeptin immunoreactivity displayed constant estrus and failed to exhibit surge activation but retained pulsatile luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion. These observations demonstrate that ESR1-expressing GABA-kisspeptin neurons in the RP3V are essential for the murine preovulatory LH surge mechanism.
Single-cell characterization of human GBM reveals regional differences in tumor-infiltrating leukocyte activation
Authors: Schmassmann Philip , Roux Julien , Dettling Steffen , Hogan Sabrina , Shekarian Tala , Martins Tomás A , Ritz Marie-Françoise , Herter Sylvia , Bacac Marina , Hutter Gregor
Published: December 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) harbors a highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) which influences glioma growth. Major efforts have been undertaken to describe the TME on a single-cell level. However, human data on regional differences within the TME remain scarce. Here, we performed high-depth single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) on paired biopsies from the tumor center, peripheral infiltration zone and blood of five primary GBM patients. Through analysis of >45,000 cells, we revealed a regionally distinct transcription profile of microglia (MG) and monocyte-derived macrophages (MdMs) and an impaired activation signature in the tumor-peripheral cytotoxic-cell compartment. Comparing tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells with circulating cells identified CX3CR1high and CX3CR1int CD8+ T cells with effector and memory phenotype, respectively, enriched in blood but absent in the TME. Tumor CD8+ T cells displayed a tissue-resident memory phenotype with dysfunctional features. Our analysis provides a regionally resolved mapping of transcriptional states in GBM-associated leukocytes, serving as an additional asset in the effort towards novel therapeutic strategies to combat this fatal disease.
Identification of CFAP52 as a novel diagnostic target of male infertility with defects of sperm head-tail connection and flagella development
Authors: Jin Hui-Juan , Ruan Tiechao , Dai Siyu , Geng Xin-Yan , Yang Yihong , Shen Ying , Chen Su-Ren
Published: December 2023

Male infertility is a worldwide population health concern. Asthenoteratozoospermia is a common cause of male infertility, but its etiology remains incompletely understood. No evidence indicates the relevance of CFAP52 mutations to human male infertility. Our whole-exome sequencing identified compound heterozygous mutations in CFAP52 recessively cosegregating with male infertility status in a non-consanguineous Chinese family. Spermatozoa of CFAP52-mutant patient mainly exhibited abnormal head-tail connection and deformed flagella. Cfap52-knockout mice resembled the human infertile phenotype, showing a mixed acephalic spermatozoa syndrome (ASS) and multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella (MMAF) phenotype. The ultrastructural analyses further revealed a failure of connecting piece formation and a serious disorder of ‘9+2’ axoneme structure. CFAP52 interacts with a head-tail coupling regulator SPATA6 and is essential for its stability. Expression of microtubule inner proteins and radial spoke proteins were reduced after the CFAP52 deficiency. Moreover, CFAP52-associated male infertility in humans and mice could be overcome by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The study reveals a prominent role for CFAP52 in sperm development, suggesting that CFAP52 might be a novel diagnostic target for male infertility with defects of sperm head-tail connection and flagella development
Perceptuel dialektologi og sproglig variation i Danmark
Authors: Bøegh Kristoffer Friis , Hansen Inger Schoonderbeek , Svendsen Mette-Marie Møller
Published: December 2023

Denne artikel undersøger sprogbrugeres opfattelser af og holdninger til sproglig variation i Danmark. Vi anvender hvad vi kalder ‘tegn-et-kort-metoden’ (på engelsk: the draw-a-map task), en perceptuel-dialektologisk undersøgelsesmetode som bruges til at afdække hvilke geografiske og sociale sproglige varieteter der opleves som fremtrædende for sprogbrugere. Vi benytter desuden en videreudvikling af samme metode som går ud på at benytte GIS-software, dvs. et geografisk informationssystem, til at aggregere data fra respondenters individuelle tegn-et-kort-besvarelser, dvs. håndtegnede sprogkort, og yderligere udforske mønstre i det empiriske materiale og visualisere resultaterne. I tillæg til en metodepræsentation fremlægger vi resultater fra et tegn-et-kort-eksperiment vi udførte med en respondentgruppe bestående af universitetsstuderende i Aarhus. Vi præsenterer og diskuterer en række kortvisualiseringer baseret på GIS-analyse af forskellige delmængder af vores århusianske tegn-et-kort-data, og vi gransker desuden holdningskommentarer og metasproglige beskrivelser fra respondenternes sprogkort. Artiklen giver et indblik i hvordan perceptuel dialektologi kan bruges til at belyse nye aspekter af, og dermed bidrage til yderligere at nuancere, det sprogideologiske billede tidligere forskning har tegnet af sociolingvistisk sprogforandring i det senmoderne Danmark.
To nye dialektordbøger fra Nordvestjylland
Authors: Arboe Torben
Published: December 2023

I afsnit 1 omtales kort traditionen mht. dialektordbøger i Danmark, i afsnit 2 beskrives en mindre, allerede udgivet ordbog over dialekten i Thy, Thy-udtaleordbog (2020, 192 s.), i afsnit 3-4 en større, generel ordbog over thybomålet (ca. 800 s. i A4-format), som forventes klar til udgivelse i 2023. Afsnit 2: Udtaleordbogen gengiver udtaleformer, som de er noteret i dels dialektale digtsamlinger fra 1930’erne og frem, dels dialektale ordlister mv. modtaget senere. Første del af udtaleordbogen er ordnet alfabetisk efter dialektordene, anden del alfabetisk efter de rigsdanske ord, der er brugt som oversættelse af dialektordene. Afsnit 3: Den generelle ordbog bygger på en stor ordsamling (ca. 17.000 kartotekssedler) fra især ét sogn i Nordthy med fonetisk gengivelse af udtalen af de enkelte ord, nuanceret oversættelse til rigsdansk, eksempelsætning(er), faste ordforbindelser, talemåder, oplysninger om sprogbrugen mv. Denne ordsamling blev først indtastet i en database, Thybasen, og derpå via excel-ark overført til word-filer som grundlag for en leksikografisk redaktion af ordene med opdeling i dels homonymer, dels underbetydninger i de enkelte artikler. På flere kartotekssedler er tegnet skitser af de ting, der omtales; de gengives via en professionel tegner som illustrationer i ordbogen. Afsnit 4: Nærmere om behandlingen af centrale fonetiske særtræk (vestjysk stød mv.) i den generelle Thy-ordbog.
LIA-korpusa – eldre talemålsopptak for norsk og samisk gjort tilgjengelege
Authors: Hagen Kristin , Vangsnes Øystein A.
Published: December 2023

This paper presents the results from the project Language Infrastructure made Accessible (LIA) which had as its main goal to digitize and make accessible old recordings of spoken Norwegian and Sámi from various archives, first and foremost from the four partner institutions University of Oslo, University of Bergen, The Norwegian University of Science and Technology, and UiT The Arctic University of Norway. The infra­structures resulting from the project can be summarized as 1) a file depot of Norwegian dialect recordings, 2) three corpora of spoken Norwegian and one for North Sámi, 3) various language technology resources such as an openly available tree bank, a morphological taggar and a parser for Norwegian dialects, upgrading of the corpus interface Glossa and more. The paper exemplifies how the corpus can be utilized.
Response of nine triticale genotypes to different salt concentrations at the germination and early seedling stages
Authors: Ramadan Ebrahim , Freeg Haytham A. , Shalaby Nagwa , Rizk Mosa S. , Ma Jun , Du Wenhua , Ibrahim Omar M. , Alwutayd Khairiah M. , AbdElgawad Hamada , Jo Ick-Hyun , El-Tahan Amira M.
Published: December 2023

Salinity stress poses a major challenge to agricultural productivity worldwide, and understanding their responses at the early growth stage is vital for devising strategies to cope with this stress. Therefore, to improve triticale productivity, this study investigated the salinity stress tolerance of different salt-tolerant triticale genotypes aiming to cultivate them on saline soils. To this end, salinity stress impacts on nine triticale genotypes, i.e., Zhongsi 1084, Gannong No. 2, Gannong No. 4, Shida No. 1, C6, C16, C23, C25 and C36 at germination and early seedling stages was evaluated. Each genotype was subjected to six treatments inducing control, 40, 80, 120, 160, and 200 mM NaCl treatments to study their effect on seedling and termination traits of the nine genotypes. Compared to the overall mean seedling vigor index, the seedling vigor index was higher in the genotypes Zhongsi 1084 and C6 (39% and 18.1%, respectively) and lower in Gannong No.2 (41%). Increasing NaCl concentrations negatively affected germination and seedling traits. Compared to other genotypes, Zhongsi 1084 had the highest mean germination rate, germination vigor index, germination percentage, mean daily germination and germination energy. It also showed the lowest relative salt injury. The relative salt injury was higher in the genotype Shida No. 1 than those in Gannong No. 2, Gannong No. 4, Shida No. 1, C16, and C36 genotypes. All genotypes exhibited desirable mean germination time except for line C6. High significant positive correlations were observed among germination rate, germination vigor index, germination percentage, mean daily germination, seedling vigor index, and root length. Principal component analysis (PCA) grouped the most desirable genotypes into two clusters. Our study determined salt stress tolerance of nine triticale genotypes at germination and early seedling stages. to select salt-tolerant genotypes that can be cultivated on saline soil or after salt irrigation.
Creación de perfil para investigador en ORCID
Authors: Acevedo Saavedra Maribel , Vilches Vargas Ricardo
Published: December 2023

Contribuir a la Comunidad UC en la creación y/o actualización de su perfil de investigador en ORCID. Para lograr esto se realizan de manera sistemática talleres a la comunidad universitaria para dar a conocer las funcionalidades de ORCID en el ámbito de la investigación académica y en el marco de la Ciencia Abierta. Aplicando una metodología de trabajo práctico se enseñó la conexión del perfil ORCID a los docentes y la vinculación de este perfil en el Repositorio UC.
Descubre revistas académicas de tu interés y aprende buenas prácticas para publicar
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Bibliotecas UC
Published: December 2023

Este documento se enmarca en el proyecto macro: "Construyendo las bases para la Ciencia Abierta en la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Proyecto de Innovación en la Educación Superior, InES, Ciencia Abierta." El objetivo de este material fue entregar criterios y metodología para identificar revistas pertinentes a las áreas y temas de investigación. Con este fin, se proporcionan una serie de elementos para facilitar la identificación de revistas de corriente principal, como fueron dar a conocer bases de datos y herramientas bibliométricas para seleccionar revistas donde publicar. Finalmente, se persigue dar a conocer herramientas adicionales que faciliten la investigación y la publicación académica.
Indexación en DOAJ: beneficios y buenas prácticas
Authors: Gascón Barcaza Catalina , Ortiz Vásquez Humberto , Vilches Vargas Ricardo
Published: December 2023

Esta actividad se desarrolla en el contexto del macro proyecto "Construyendo las bases para la Ciencia Abierta en la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile". Proyecto de Innovación en la Educación Superior, InES, Ciencia Abierta. Este material fue diseñado para cumplir con tres objetivos, el primero, dar a conocer las ventajas y beneficios asociados a la indexación en DOAJ para las revistas académicas. En segundo lugar, reconocer buenas prácticas recomendadas por DOAJ para la gestión y en tercer lugar, identificar la relación entre la indexación de revistas académicas en DOAJ y los principios de la ciencia abierta.
Zotero. Citas y bibliografías en un clic
Authors: Anguita González José
Published: December 2023

Este documento se crea en el contexto del proyecto macro titulado: "Construyendo las bases para la Ciencia Abierta en la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Proyecto de Innovación en la Educación Superior, InES, Ciencia Abierta". El objetivo de este texto fue introducir en las características básicas de Zotero, software libre, gratuito, multiplataforma, colaborativo y multilingüe, como gestor de referencias bibliográfico como apoyo en la investigación y publicación académica.
Estudio sobre certificaciÃ³n de repositorios
Authors: Arnes Jennifer , HernÃ¡ndez Morales Irene , Jara Merino Gabriela , Rivera Cornejo Marcela , Valeria ChandÃ­a Yanina
Published: December 2023

Este estudio se enmarca en el contexto de desarrollo del proyecto: ConstrucciÃ³n de roadmap de ecosistema digital para la ciencia abierta, enmarcado en el macro proyecto: Construyendo las bases para la ciencia abierta en la Pontificia Universidad CatÃ³lica de Chile. Durante el proceso de revisiÃ³n bibliogrÃ¡fica sobre ecosistema de ciencia abierta fue posible detectar una recomendaciÃ³n no tecnolÃ³gica como es la certificaciÃ³n de Repositorios Institucionales, este proceso es reconocido por su exhaustividad en la revisiÃ³n y validaciÃ³n de las capacidades no solo funcionales sino tambiÃ©n de gobernanza inherentes a la gestiÃ³n de un Repositorio. Uno de los objetivos que persigue la certificaciÃ³n es cumplir con el criterio de â€œconfiabilidadâ€ en consonancia con la comunidad de usuarios y los organismos financiadores. La abundante documentaciÃ³n existente en temas de certificaciÃ³n recomienda para las instituciones principiantes en este tema "la autoevaluaciÃ³n" ya que este es una instancia enriquecedora para la instituciÃ³n al estudiar internamente sus capacidades en cuanto entorno organizacional y la gestiÃ³n de tecnologÃ­as y metadatos. De esta manera, permite detectar fortalezas y debilidades que se pueden corregir/actualizar antes de comenzar la etapa de certificaciÃ³n formal.
Variación temporal en la composición de hongos micorrizógenos arbusculares en un bosque templado
Authors: Peralta-Valencia Ariadna Lizeth , Castillo-Argüero Silvia , Hernández-Cuevas Laura Verónica , Vázquez-Santos Yasmin
Published: December 2023

El estudio de la composición de los hongos micorrizógenos arbusculares (HMA) permite analizar patrones temporales de estos microorganismos en distintos ecosistemas, así como identificar especies tolerantes a los cambios ambientales. El objetivo fue evaluar si existen cambios a lo largo del tiempo en la composición de los HMA en un bosque templado mexicano. Se recolectaron muestras de suelo (300 g) en ocho parcelas a dos altitudes diferentes durante 2015, 2017 y 2019, en la temporada lluviosa y seca. Las esporas de HMA se extrajeron con la técnica de tamizado húmedo y gradiente de sacarosa. Se usó el índice de Jaccard para calcular la similitud de especies entre años. Se construyó un diagrama de Venn para conocer el número de especies compartidas y exclusivas, y un clúster de dos vías para determinar el agrupamiento de las especies. Se realizó un análisis de correspondencia canónica (CCA) para relacionar la composición de HMA y los factores abióticos. Se registraron 38 especies de HMA, agrupadas en 15 géneros y 6 familias. Se encontraron especies presentes en los tres años y ambas temporadas: Acaulospora delicata, Acaulospora laevis, Acaulospora mellea, Funneliformis geosporus, Funneliformis mosseae y Rhizophagus fasciculatus. El CCA mostró influencia de la temperatura, materia orgánica y pH en la composición de HMA. Estas especies tienen un potencial uso para la restauración o reforestación debido a su capacidad de tolerar los cambios en las condiciones ambientales. En conclusión, la composición de HMA es sujeta a los cambios temporales a lo largo de los años
Biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo en jabalí (Sus scrofa) del Noroeste de la Península Ibérica
Authors: García-Muñoz Javier , Portillo-Moreno Ángel , Solomando González Juan Carlos , Fernández-Casado David , Martínez-Morcillo Salomé , Míguez-Santiyán María Prado , Soler-Rodríguez Francisco , López-Beceiro Ana , Fidalgo-Álvarez Luis Eusebio , Pérez-López Macos
Published: December 2023

La existencia en el medio ambiente de compuestos químicos contaminantes constituye una amenaza tanto para los seres vivos como para el conjunto del ecosistema. Por ello, la Ecotoxicología está desarrollando nuevas herramientas, como el empleo de biomarcadores, con el objetivo de evaluar el efecto de estos agentes contaminantes. Muchos estudios hablan sobre el papel de los indicadores de estrés oxidativo como posibles parámetros de gran utilidad en el ámbito de la contaminación ambiental. Sin embargo, los estudios centrados en fauna salvaje, y más concretamente en el jabalí (Sus scrofa), son escasos, a pesar de la amplia distribución geográfica de este ungulado, lo cual permitiría su empleo como bioindicador en programas de biomonitorización ambiental. En el presente trabajo se determinaron los niveles de dos biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo, malondialdehído (MDA) y glutatión reductasa (GR), en el tejido renal de jabalíes procedentes del noroeste de España. Además, se evaluó la influencia del sexo en los valores obtenidos. Los valores medios globales fueron de 1.811 ± 0.426 nmoles/mg de proteína para el MDA, y 0.079 ± 0.019 picomol/min/mg de proteína para la actividad GR. Con respecto a la influencia del factor sexo, en los niveles de MDA se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas, presentando unos niveles de estrés oxidativo superiores los machos con respecto a las hembras. Estos resultados constituyen una línea base de los niveles de biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo en especies de caza mayor, con la finalidad de que sean empleados en futuros estudios de biomonitorización
The influence of adhesive material properties on the impact strength of adhesive block connections
Authors:   Lotnicza Akademia Wojskowa, Dywizjonu 303, nr 35, 08-530 Dęblin, Poland, Komorek Andrzej , Godzimirski Jan , Imiłowski Szymon
Published: December 2023

Adhesive connections are becoming increasingly popular in the construction of aircraft and other means of transport. Today, bonding is mainly used in the construction of helicopter fuselages, wings or lifting rotors. The increased popularity of bonding is forcing designers to seek new and improve research methods as well as enhancing the existing test methods which specify the static, fatigue or impact strength of joints. A variety of tests are used to determine the strength of structures, although new ones are constantly being sought so as to be applied more quickly and without specialised equipment. Current testing standards are also being modified in order to speed up and simplify the testing process, resulting in safer structures that use adhesive bonds. The aim of the research presented in this paper was to test whether there is a relationship between the mechanical properties of adhesive materials and the impact strength of adhesive block joints with a cylindrical top element. Steels S235, Raex 400 and PA6 aluminium alloy were used for the manufacture of the samples. From each material, 10 samples were prepared with upper elements of different diameters, namely: 17.8 mm, 12.6 mm and 8.9 mm. A pendulum hammer was used to determine the strength of the adhesive bond against dynamic load application. For the sake of the research, the authors used a modified PN-EN ISO 9653 with a mounted hammer equal to the maximum energy of 15 J. Lower failure energy was characteristic of samples made from material with a lower value of Young's modulus (dural) and from steel with a lower yield strength. The connection failure energy grew with increasing the joint area, which was approximately parabolic.
Extent of Participation of Schools’ Stakeholders to School-initiated Activities: A Convergent Parallel Approach
Authors: Jaso Gemma G. , Moleño Roleen B.
Published: December 2023

This study determined the relationship between socio-demographic conditions and extent of stakeholders’ participation to school-initiated activities using convergent parallel mixed method research design. Data was gathered from 756 respondents and nine informants. Results showed that most stakeholders have two to three students in school with six or more children already not in school, belonging between poor to low income family, and father and mother have educational attainment of low to average. The extent of their participation was high. There was a significant slight positive relationship between the number of children enrolled in school and their participation. Monthly family income, father and mother educational attainment, and level of participation all had a slight negative relationship. However, only the number of children enrolled in school and the monthly family income had a substantial impact on the level of stakeholder participation. On the basis of their experiences in carrying out their socio-demographic conditions and participation in various school-initiated activities, the themes of sense of belongingness, time management, and economic vs family welfare were developed. When questioned about situations in which socio-demographic circumstances influenced their level of engagement in various school-initiated activities, the themes of responsibility and commitment, shared participation and volunteerism, and school intervention and communication emerged.
Facial Analysis of the Igbo Ethnic Group of Nigeria for the Evaluation of Sexual Dimorphism
Authors: Fewehinmi Hakeem Babatunde , Okoh Peter Done , Oghenemavwe Loveday Ese , David Lekpa Kingdom , Amadi Michael Anozie , Oparaocha Chile A. , Ebieto Celestine Ebieto , Bobbo Khadija A. , Asiwe Nicholas
Published: December 2023

Background: Facial analysis defines the measurement of soft tissue in the face used in forensics, anthropology, artistic design, and facial reconstruction. The study aims to evaluate the sexual differences in facial parameters among the Igbo ethnic group of Nigeria.

Methods: 400 (200 males and 200 females) subjects of Igbo origin volunteered for the study. Each subject's frontal view photographs were taken in the Natural Head Position (NHP) and analyzed using Pro-Image Facial Software Version 2 to evaluate the nasal width, nasal height, mouth width, facial width, facial height, inner canthal distance, and outer canthal distance. Data obtained were analyzed with IBM SPSS (version 23) and independent T-test as an inferential statistic.

Results: The result showed that NW was (M=5.16±0.65, F=5.34±0.53, t=-2.91, p=0.00), NH was (M=5.61±0.62, F=5.26±0.57, t=5.92, p=0.00), MW was (M=6.64±0.7, F=6.54±0.71, t=1.46, p=0.14), FW was  (M=16.17±1.31, F=15.07±2.04, t=6.39, p=0.00), FH was (M=16.63±1.11, F=16.08±1.31, t=4.36, p=0.00), En was (M=4.62±0.46, F=4.31±0.47, t=6.75, p=0.00) and Ex was (M=12.23±0.86, F=12.16±1.01, t=0.82, p=0.41).

Conclusion: The nasal width and Height, facial width and height, and inner canthal distance show gender differences among the Igbo ethnic group of Nigeria. This study will have a practical application in Forensics, Anthropology, Artistic and Industrial design, and to medical professionals involved in facial reconstruction.
Assessing Environmental and Feed Quality in Southeast Livestock Production
Authors: Nwosu Ijeoma L. , Ogbulie Jude N. , Chikwendu Chinwe I. , Mike-Anosike Enuma E.
Published: December 2023

Livestock production has thrived and sustained the livelihood of farmers while reducing poverty and improving the economy of developing nations. It has also contributed largely to the spread of pathogenic bacteria. This study evaluated the bacterial quality of air, water, soil, feed samples, and hand swabs in Aba, Umuahia, Mbaise, and Okigwe in Southeastern Nigeria. Air, water, soil, feeds, and hand swabs were sampled using standard microbiology laboratory procedures. Air samples were expressed in CFU/plate/hour while water, soil, feed and hand swabs were expressed in CFU/ml. Total heterotrophic bacterial count (THBC), total coliform count (TCC), and total potential pathogenic bacterial count (TPPBC) were all analyzed by growing the samples on general purpose, differential, and selective media after serial dilution respectively. Isolates were confirmed by subjecting them to biochemical tests. The highest THBC, TPPBC, and TCC values were obtained in the Aba pig farm, cow abattoir, and poultry farms respectively while Mbaise recorded the lowest values for THBC, TPPBC, and TCC. A total of 1531 bacterial isolates were obtained in all the four cities. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella enterica, Streptococcus poygenes, Vibrio cholerae and Shigella sp. were isolated. Escherichia coli had the highest total percentage distribution (16.9%; 259/1531) in all four cities and Shigella sp (4.8%; 74/1531) was the least distributed. Of the four cities studied, Aba farm had the highest percentages of E. coli (31.66%; 82/259), K. pneumoniae (31.19%;68/218), P. aeruginosa (30.28%; 43/142), E. aerogenes (31.85%; 43/135) and S. pyogenes (36.57%; 49/134). Among the bacterial isolates, Streptococcus enterica had the highest percentage values (42.38%; 64/151) while Shigella sp had the lowest percentage values (12.16%; 9/74). Overall, the bacterial burden in all the farms in the four cities, especially Aba was very high; thorough surveillance by health workers should be encouraged to help reduce the spread of bacteria and bacterial infections among livestock farms.
The Environmental Benefits of Using Sugarcane Bagasse in Cement Mortars
Authors: Passoli Abelim , Datchossa Tiambo Abbas , Lare Douti , Olodo Emmanuel
Published: December 2023

The promotion of ecological and renewable materials is gaining more and more interest. Some authors even maintain that the use of plant biomass helps to protect the environment, without giving any supporting values. The aim of this study is firstly to show how much carbon dioxide is saved by not burning sugar cane bagasse (SCB). Secondly, it highlights the structural advantages of using sugarcane bagasse in construction. To do this, we collected the carbon composition of sugarcane bagasse from the literature and evaluated the amount of carbon dioxide emitted during combustion using the carbon-to-carbon dioxide conversion equation. We then formulated an F0 control mortar. Volume fractions of this control mortar are replaced by sugarcane bagasse. For 0%, 3% and 6% rates of sugarcane bagasse, we obtained F0, F3 and F6 respectively.

The results of this study show that the use of sugarcane bagasse in the mortar makes it possible to lighten the loads on the structural elements while improving the flexural strength of the mortar for a rate of 3% of sugarcane bagasse. In addition, the combustion equation shows that, in the best-case scenario, one kilogram of burnt sugarcane bagasse releases 1.77 kg of carbon dioxide. Using mortar reinforced with sugarcane bagasse therefore helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These mortars can also be used as infill elements such as joists.
Molecular Frameworks of Nitrogen Response in Plants: A Review
Authors: Jose Elizabeth , Soni K. B.  , Alex Swapna , Shalini Pillai P.  , Beena R.  , Stephen Roy
Published: December 2023

Nitrogen is a crucial element for all living organisms especially plants which rely on substantial nitrogen quantities to sustain their growth and productivity. Crop production is greatly influenced by nitrogen consumption efficiency and a significant amount of nitrogen fertilizers is used to increase yield. Approximately half of N fertilizers are not utilized by the crops and are lost to the environment by polluting water sources or by releasing pollutants into the atmosphere. From the rhizosphere, plants absorb nitrogen in the form of nitrate (NO3-), ammonium (NH4+), or organic nitrogen (amino acids and urea). Plants exhibit an array of sensing and adaptive mechanisms to respond to the diverse nitrogen nutrition conditions which include morphological and physiological responses. Two primary systems govern nitrogen uptake in plants: the High-affinity transport system (HATS) and the Low-affinity transport system (LATS). Nitrate transporters fall into two categories, Nitrate Transporter 1 (NRT1) and Nitrate Transporter 2 (NRT2) transporters, Chloride Channel Family (CLC) transporters and Slow Anion Associated Channel Homologs (SLAC/SLAHs). The ammonium transporter family includes Ammonium Transporter 1 (AMT1) and Ammonium Transporter 2 (AMT2) transporters. The uptake of organic nitrogen is facilitated through amino acid and urea uptake and transport systems. In fluctuating environmental conditions, plants employ nitrogen response mechanisms to fine-tune homeostasis. A comprehensive understanding of these regulatory mechanisms holds the potential to yield valuable insights for the development of crops with enhanced nitrogen use efficiency.
Revitalizing Agriculture Extension Services for Millets: A Comprehensive Review of Strategies, Challenges, and Innovations
Authors: Jaiswal Neelam , Meghalatha Kammara , Nishad Toran Lal , Khan Azlan , Jatav Dileep Kumar
Published: December 2023

This review paper highlights the importance of millets in addressing agrarian and nutritional challenges and the need to revitalize millet agriculture extension services. The paper discusses the nutritional, environmental, and economic significance of millets and the common challenges faced by millet farmers, such as low yields, pest and disease management, and market access. The review also defines and explains the role of agricultural extension services in promoting millet farming practices and discusses traditional and contemporary extension approaches, such as farmer training, knowledge-sharing platforms, and digital technology. The paper evaluates the effectiveness of government policies and programs aimed at supporting millet cultivation and provides case studies of regions or communities where successful millet extension services have made a significant impact. The review concludes that revitalizing millet agriculture extension services is crucial for promoting sustainable millet farming practices and improving the livelihoods of millet farmers. By embracing millets as a staple crop, we can enhance agricultural diversity, mitigate the impact of climate change, and foster sustainable food systems.
Microbiological and Epidemiological Aspects of Endocarditis Caused by Rothia spp.: A Systematic Review
Authors: Norberg Antonio Neres , Norberg Paulo Roberto Blanco Moreira , Manhães Fernanda Castro , Mangiavacchi Bianca Magnelli , Filho Renato Mataveli Ferreira , Arêas Juliana Toledo Campos , Rodrigues Sabrina Jorge , Souza Davyson Gerhardt de , Veríssimo Igor Villas Silva Gazeta , Viana Kelen Salaroli , Boechat Julio Cesar dos Santos
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim: Rothia, a genus comprising pleomorphic Gram-positive bacteria found in the human oral, intestinal, and skin microbiota, is recognized as an opportunistic pathogen. Case reports of Rothia spp. endocarditis in the scientific literature are scarce, with limited knowledge of relevant data on Rothia endocarditis and clinical aspects of its treatment. The objective of this literature review is to compile clinical aspects of endocarditis caused by Rothia species, analyzing results and clinical practices to elucidate the most important risk factors, comorbidities, prognostic factors, and appropriate antibiotic treatment options.

Methods: Employing the PRISMA model, a systematic review was conducted utilizing PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar databases, encompassing articles published from 1978 to November 2023. Pertinent aspects were systematically recorded and summarized for subsequent analysis.

Results: Rothia dentocariosa (48.69%), Rothia mucilaginosa (22.37%), Rothia aeria (14.47%), and Rothia kristinae (14.47%) were recognized as the agents of endocarditis cases. Patients exhibited an average age of 48.5 years, with a notable male preponderance (71.6%). Clinical manifestations of Rothia spp. endocarditis presented similar features compared to other Gram-positive bacterial endocarditis cases. The mortality rate was notably lower than observed in other infectious endocarditis instances (11.84%). Predominant risk factors included preexisting cardiovascular diseases (50%), followed by odontological procedures, caries, and precarious oral hygiene (17.1%), immunocompromised status (14.47%), injectable illicit drug use (11.84%), and diabetes (9.21%). Embolic events were documented in 35.53% of patients, predominantly in Central Nervous System (28.95%). Mycotic aneurysms were identified in 6.58% of cases. Resistance to antibiotics was identified in only 13.16% of strains causing endocarditis, although certain strains displayed characteristics indicative of multidrug resistance.

Conclusion: Despite its rarity, Rothia spp. endocarditis exhibits clinical parallels with endocarditis caused by other Gram-positive bacteria, but with a comparatively lower mortality rate. Challenges in identifying Rothia spp. species based on cultural and microscopic characteristics, associated to early resolution in antibiotic therapy, seems to contribute to the underreporting of endocarditis caused by these bacteria.
Housing Status, Cancer Care, and Associated Outcomes Among US Veterans
Authors: Decker Hannah C. , Graham Laura A. , Titan Ashley , Kanzaria Hemal K. , Hawn Mary T. , Kushel Margot , Wick Elizabeth
Published: December 2023

Importance

Cancer is a leading cause of death among older people experiencing homelessness. However, the association of housing status with cancer outcomes is not well described.

Objective

To characterize the diagnosis, treatment, surgical outcomes, and mortality by housing status of patients who receive care from the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health system for colorectal, breast, or lung cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study identified all US veterans diagnosed with lung, colorectal, or breast cancer who received VA care between October 1, 2011, and September 30, 2020. Data analysis was performed from February 13 to May 9, 2023.

Exposures

Veterans were classified as experiencing homelessness if they had any indicators of homelessness in outpatient visits, clinic reminders, diagnosis codes, or the Homeless Operations Management Evaluation System in the 12 months preceding diagnosis, with no subsequent evidence of stable housing.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The major outcomes, by cancer type, were as follows: (1) treatment course (eg, stage at diagnosis, time to treatment initiation), (2) surgical outcomes (eg, length of stay, major complications), (3) overall survival by cancer type, and (4) hazard ratios for overall survival in a model adjusted for age at diagnosis, sex, stage at diagnosis, race, ethnicity, marital status, facility location, and comorbidities.

Results

This study included 109 485 veterans, with a mean (SD) age of 68.5 (9.7) years. Men comprised 92% of the cohort. In terms of race and ethnicity, 18% of veterans were Black, 4% were Hispanic, and 79% were White. A total of 68% of participants had lung cancer, 26% had colorectal cancer, and 6% had breast cancer. There were 5356 veterans (5%) experiencing homelessness, and these individuals more commonly presented with stage IV colorectal cancer than veterans with housing (22% vs 19%; P = .02). Patients experiencing homelessness had longer postoperative lengths of stay for all cancer types, but no differences in other treatment or surgical outcomes were observed. These patients also demonstrated higher rates of all-cause mortality 3 months after diagnosis for lung and colorectal cancers, with adjusted hazard ratios of 1.1 (95% CI, 1.1-1.2) and 1.3 (95% CI, 1.2-1.4) (both P < .001), respectively.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this large retrospective study of US veterans with cancer, homelessness was associated with later stages at diagnosis for colorectal cancer. Differences in lung and colorectal cancer survival between patients with housing and those experiencing homelessness were present but smaller than observed in other settings. These findings suggest that there may be important systems in the VA that could inform policy to improve oncologic outcomes for patients experiencing homelessness.
First Domino in the Structural Collapse of Perovskite CsPbI3 and Its Stabilizing Strategies
Authors: Guo Zhendong , Fu Jiayuan , Chen Gaoyuan , Liu Feng , Yu Chao , Lu Ruifeng , Yin Wan‐Jian
Published: December 2023

The retention of the photoactive phase is vital for inorganic CsPbI3 perovskite solar cells; however, the atomic‐level knowledge is currently elusive, leading to trial‐and‐error methods in experiments. In this study, proves that the kinetic process dominates the lifetime of CsPbI3, while the energetic difference, which is conventionally thought to be a dominant factor, only plays a secondary role. The defect—iodine vacancy (VI) can significantly lower the kinetic barriers and act as the seed of structural collapse in the corner‐sharing octahedral structure. Inspired by this, the success of B‐ and X‐site doping as well as strain engineering for stabilizing CsPbI3 arising from the suppression of VI are explained. Through comprehensively investigating thirty‐two and fifteen kinds of passivators substituting on the Pb and I site, respectively, on reducing the VI concentration and inhibiting its diffusion, proposed that the trivalent lanthanide cations, especially La3+ on Pb site, and highly electronegative anions with a small size on I site are proper doping candidates to enhance the stability of perovskite CsPbI3. The results provide a universal picture and guidance for engineering all‐inorganic perovskite CsPbI3 for elevated stability with the focus on inhibiting iodine vacancies.
Engineered Cell‐Laden Armor Unit‐Mimicking Bioceramic Granules for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Wu Yuangang , Xing Zhengyi , Zhao Rui , Chen Siyu , Shang Tieliang , Liu Zhanhong , Geng Mengyu , Ma Jun , Zhu Xiangdong , Zeng Yi , Yang Xiao , Shen Bin , Zhang Xingdong
Published: December 2023

Bioceramic granules have been used as fillers for the repair of various bone defects, but structural instability leads to susceptibility to displacement or dislodgement in practice. Armor unit is a concrete block placed along the breakwater to resist waves and protect the dike. Inspired by this, an armor unit‐mimicking (AU) bioceramic granule by three‐dimentional (3D) printing is developed, and combine it with adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) overexpressing fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) to construct tissue‐engineered bone. In vitro results show that AU granules and FGF23 transfection synergistically promote osteogenic differentiation of ADSCs. For the repair of beagle femoral metaphyseal defects, the implanted AU granules are stacked and interlocked to form an impact‐resistant porous scaffold. With the assistance of ADSCsFGF23, AU granules exhibit enhanced new bone formation and host bone maintenance. Taken together, these findings demonstrate the potential of 3D‐printed AU granules in combination with FGF23‐overexpressing ADSCs as a novel bone void filler for ease of handling and enhanced bone regeneration.
The “Pudding Effect” to Promote Solar‐Driving Water Purification
Authors: Mingot Júlia , Lanzalaco Sonia , Àgueda Alba , Torras Juan , Armelin Elaine
Published: December 2023

The use of solar energy (natural) and synthetic solar absorber hydrogels (SAHs) for purification of brackish water represent a challenge. Here in, this work reports the unexpected effect achieved for water desalination when combining a small content of conducting polymer (CP), poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), doped with poly(styrene sodium sulfonate) (PSS), with a well‐known thermosensitive polymer, poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm). Less than 10% of CP is enough to achieve an evaporation rate of 3.45 ± 0.36 KMH, compared to the gel without the ionic polymer (1.75 ± 0.08 KMH). Furthermore, this work proves that the presence of alginate polysaccharide (ALG), which is a conventional reinforcement molecule applied to reach a stable entangled scaffold, is greatly favorable in compositions with 5 wt% of doped CP, reaching even a higher evaporation rate (4.50 ± 0.30 KMH). These results seem to be caused by a shrinkage effect named by the authors: “pudding effect.” The highly stable hydrogel double network demonstrated to have enough mechanical integrity for the hand manipulation of the gel in successive solar water evaporation cycles. Thus, the new system (with or without ALG) is a promising SAH candidate for self‐portable water desalinators for domestic uses. The hydrogel preparation can be performed in one‐pot reactor to customer up‐scale size necessities.
Injectable Plasma‐Treated Alginate Hydrogel for Oxidative Stress Delivery to Induce Immunogenic Cell Death in Osteosarcoma
Authors: Živanić Milica , Espona‐Noguera Albert , Verswyvel Hanne , Smits Evelien , Bogaerts Annemie , Lin Abraham , Canal Cristina
Published: December 2023

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is a source of cell‐damaging oxidant molecules that may be used as low‐cost cancer treatment with minimal side effects. Liquids treated with cold plasma and enriched with oxidants are a modality for non‐invasive treatment of internal tumors with cold plasma via injection. However, liquids are easily diluted with body fluids which impedes high and localized delivery of oxidants to the target. As an alternative, plasma‐treated hydrogels (PTH) emerge as vehicles for the precise delivery of oxidants. This study reports an optimal protocol for the preparation of injectable alginate PTH that ensures the preservation of plasma‐generated oxidants. The generation, storage, and release of oxidants from the PTH are assessed. The efficacy of the alginate PTH in cancer treatment is demonstrated in the context of cancer cell cytotoxicity and immunogenicity–release of danger signals and phagocytosis by immature dendritic cells, up to now unexplored for PTH. These are shown in osteosarcoma, a hard‐to‐treat cancer. The study aims to consolidate PTH as a novel cold plasma treatment modality for non‐invasive or postoperative tumor treatment. The results offer a rationale for further exploration of alginate‐based PTHs as a versatile platform in biomedical engineering.
Bioengineered Tubular Biliary Organoids
Authors: Elci Bilge Sen , Nikolaev Mikhail , Rezakhani Saba , Lutolf Matthias P.
Published: December 2023

Liver organoids have emerged as promising in vitro models for toxicology, drug discovery, and disease modeling. However, conventional 3D epithelial organoid culture systems suffer from significant drawbacks, including limited culture duration, a nonphysiological 3D cystic anatomy with an inaccessible apical surface, and lack of in vivo‐like cellular organization. To address these limitations, herein a hydrogel‐based organoid‐on‐a‐chip model for the development functional tubular biliary organoids is reported. The resulting constructs demonstrate long‐term stability for a minimum duration of 45 d, while retaining their biliary organoid identity and exhibiting key cholangiocyte characteristics including transport activities, formation of primary cilia, and protective glycocalyx. Additionally, tubular organoids are susceptible to physical and chemical injury, which cannot be applied in such resolution to classical organoids. To enhance tissue‐level complexity, in vitro formation of a perfusable branching network is induced using a predetermined geometry that faithfully mimics the intricate structure of the intrahepatic biliary tree. Finally, cellular complexity is augmented through co‐culturing with vascular endothelial cells and fibroblasts. The models described in this study offer valuable opportunities for investigating biliary morphogenesis and elucidating associated pathophysiological mechanisms.
NNMT/1‐MNA Promote Cell‐Cycle Progression of Breast Cancer by Targeting UBC12/Cullin‐1‐Mediated Degradation of P27 Proteins
Authors: Ma Yilei , Huang Xucheng , Wang Yanzhong , Lei Yinjiao , Yu Jinwei , Yu Shaobo , Gao Yuzhen , Yang Jun , Zhao Feng , Yu Haitao , Zeng Jin , Chu Yadong , Yang Min , Li Guoli , Xie Xinyou , Zhang Jun
Published: December 2023

Cell cycle dysregulation is a defining feature of breast cancer. Here, 1‐methyl‐nicotinamide (1‐MNA), metabolite of nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase(NNMT) is identified, as a novel driver of cell‐cycle progression in breast cancer. NNMT, highly expressed in breast cancer tissues, positively correlates with tumor grade, TNM stage, Ki‐67 index, and tumor size. Ablation of NNMT expression dramatically suppresses cell proliferation and causes cell‐cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase. This phenomenon predominantly stems from the targeted action of 1‐MNA, resulting in a specific down‐regulation of p27 protein expression. Mechanistically, 1‐MNA expedites the degradation of p27 proteins by enhancing cullin‐1 neddylation, crucial for the activation of Cullin‐1‐RING E3 ubiquitin ligase(CRL1)—an E3 ubiquitin ligase targeting p27 proteins.  NNMT/1‐MNA specifically up‐regulates the expression of UBC12, an E2 NEDD8‐conjugating enzyme required for cullin‐1 neddylation. 1‐MNA showes high binding affinity to UBC12, extending the half‐life of UBC12 proteins via preventing their localization to lysosome for degradation. Therefore, 1‐MNA is a bioactive metabolite that promotes breast cancer progression by reinforcing neddylation pathway‐mediated p27 degradation. The study unveils the link between NNMT enzymatic activity with cell‐cycle progression, indicating that 1‐MNA may be involved in the remodeling of tumor microenvironment.
Fluid Ferroelectric Filaments
Authors: Máthé Marcell T. , Perera Kelum , Buka Ágnes , Salamon Péter , Jákli Antal
Published: December 2023

Freestanding slender fluid filaments of room‐temperature ferroelectric nematic liquid crystals are described. They are stabilized either by internal electric fields of bound charges formed due to polarization splay or by external voltage applied between suspending wires. The phenomenon is similar to those observed in dielectric fluids, such as deionized water, except that in ferroelectric nematic materials the voltages required are three orders of magnitudes smaller and the aspect ratio is much higher. The observed ferroelectric fluid threads are not only unique and novel but also offer measurements of basic physical quantities, such as the ferroelectric polarization and viscosity. Ferroelectric nematic fluid threads may have practical applications in nano‐fluidic micron‐size logic devices, switches, and relays.