bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on resistance of MdMYB gene family in apple
Authors: Wang Chengzhou
Published: March 2024

The growth and development of apples are susceptible to environmental stress. The MdMYB gene family is one of the largest gene families in apples. It is widely involved in various resistance signaling pathways in apples and can interact with a variety of genes. Through anthocyanin synthesis, lignin synthesis, epidermal wax synthesis, Na + / H + pump regulation, hormone interaction, etc., the resistance of plants to abiotic and biotic stresses is improved. The MdMYB gene is regulated by multiple factors. It is regulated by epigenetic factors such as methylation and miRNA before transcription. At the transcriptional level, it is regulated by transcription factors such as MdHY5, MdWRKY11 and MdWRKY41. After translation, it is regulated by ubiquitin ligase, which is involved in MdSIZ, MdMEIL and other proteins. This paper reviews the physiological responses and signaling pathways of MdMYB-mediated apple stress resistance and the gene function regulation mechanism of MdMYB, in order to provide new ideas for the study of apple stress resistance.
A brief review on the history of classic genetics
Authors: Xu Ruizhen
Published: March 2024

As we gain more knowledge about gene, DNA and inheritance, we began to understand that proper control of gene expression is the one of the most important aspects of life. This paper conducts a brief review on the history of classic genetics, helping people gain more knowledge about genes, DNA, and genetics.
Decision-making of football referees behind closed doors: psychological, communicative, and functional factors
Authors: Oboudi Behnam , Dolnego Balint , Glebova Ekaterina , Abdollahi Mohammad Hasan , Geczi Gabor
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to prioritize the effects of COVID-19 and stadiums without spectators on the judgment of football referees, assistant football referees, futsal referees, and beach soccer referees in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches
were used to collect the data. The qualitative section involved interviews with 15 refereeing experts, while the quantitative section involved male and female football referees, futsal referees, and beach soccer referees in Iran (n=339). Following the interviews, a researcherdesigned questionnaire with 14 questions was electronically distributed among the referees. They were asked in general about the impact of the absence of spectators on their performance. To identify the factors and components affecting referees, factor analysis was conducted using SPSS software. Additionally, first- and second-order confirmatory factor analysis (SEM) was performed using LISREL software to validate the components. Finally, the identified factors were ranked using the Friedman test. It was found that stadiums
without spectators benefited young and inexperienced referees, as they were able to judge matches more effectively. The closed doors format also resulted in less psychological pressure on referees, players, and coaches, since there were no spectators to protest mistakes or poor performance.
Ce vers quoi l’on tend
Authors: Raymond Samuel
Published: March 2024

Que veut dire être « hors système » ? Pourquoi certains individus décident-ils de sortir du « système » ? Quelles sont les pratiques qui marquent le chemin vers le hors-système ? Ce texte a pour but de contribuer à répondre à ces questions.
La librairie Racines
Authors: Kinté Garbeau Gabriella , Dupuis-Déri Francis
Published: March 2024

Entrevue avec Gabriella Kinté Garbeau
Nexus Among Online Banking Services, Perceived Value and Consumer’s Post-Adoption Behaviour
Authors: Butt Sadia , Umair Tahira
Published: March 2024

In the present era of the Industry 4.0 revolution, digitalization has transformed the operations of businesses, organizations and the banking industry as well. The success of the banking industry can’t be determined without advancement in ICT and online banking services (ONBS). Hence, banks must acknowledge alterations in Consumer adoption behaviour for the survival and sustainability of business operations in this digital Industry 4.0 era. Therefore, the current study intends to explore the nexus between online-banking service quality (OBSQ), Consumer’s perceived value (CPV) of the service provision, and their post-adoption behaviour intentions (CPBI). This study employs a quantitative approach and cross-sectional design. Data is collected from 278 clients who avail of online banking services from Pakistani Banks through a structured questionnaire. Data is analyzed using SPSS and Hayes process macro to perform mediation regression analysis. Study findings supported the mediation of CPV in OBSQ and CPBI relation. This research contributes to both management and academia, as the induction of digital technology in banking services in Industry 4.0 is imperative to facilitate banking consumers. Management must know factors which influence Consumer’s behaviour and ultimately result in their long-term retention with the same bank.
Enhancing support system: Identifying and addressing service gaps in humanitarian response to Ukrainian refugees in Georgia
Authors:   Department of Social Work, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia, Ihnatenko Kateryna
Published: March 2024

The war in Ukraine changed hundreds of millions of lives. Families have been displaced, communities have been disrupted and the region's social fabric has been significantly altered. The consequences of this conflict extend far beyond geographical boundaries, touching the lives of not only those directly affected by the war but also resonating on a global scale. As we delve into the complexities of this conflict and its aftermath, it becomes clear that understanding its implications requires a comprehensive examination of the multifaceted challenges and transformations that have emerged. This exploration is crucial to shedding light on the experiences of those affected and developing strategies for addressing the far-reaching consequences of the war in Ukraine. More than 180,000 citizens of Ukraine have entered the territory of Georgia since February 24, 2022 (UNHCR, 2023). As of November 2022, around 25,000 remain in Georgia. Around 25% of Ukrainians staying in Georgia are minors. The present study aims to investigate and describe the needs assessment process among refugees with disabilities from Ukraine and gaps in response to this crisis from the volunteering organization in Tbilisi.
Editorial- Launching Enhancing Learning & Teaching in Higher Education (ELTHE): a place to publish and share your own scholarly work and teaching innovations.
Authors: Roger Mathilde , Nolan Sam
Published: March 2024

Welcome to the first edition of Enhancing Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (ELTHE).

In this first edition are six papers from colleagues at Durham University. Five of these papers were presented at the 2022 Durham Learning and Teaching Conference.

We hope you find this new journal a place to publish and share your own scholarly work and to learn about the significant amounts of scholarship taking place across the University and that through learning about this work new collaborations will be possible across disciplines.
(Re)produção dos saberes
Authors: Rocha Leão João Victor , Paixão Farias Wanessa Viviane
Published: March 2024

Pensar em produções artesanais nos faz entrever a importância do fazer humano, a interpretação da natureza e na expressividade dos pensamentos. A materialização da pesquisa teve como lócus a Escola Liceu Artes e Ofícios Mestre Raimundo Cardoso com suas bases no ensino interdisciplinar, pautando a formação dos educandos na valorização da relação sujeito-meio, promovendo diversas atividades que encontram na cultura local. Buscamos compreender a educação pautada em uma perspectiva voltada à transmissão de saberes tradicionais. Foram adotados como procedimentos metodológicos o levantamento bibliográfico e trabalhos de campo exploratórios. Extraímos de seus preceitos, uma visão que relaciona favoravelmente a educação e a valorização cultural da arte, tendo a escola como ponto de fluxo entre os saberes tradicionais e a relação afetiva e experiencial com espaço. Nesse cenário, em um viés geográfico, apontamos o lugar enquanto conceito fundamental para a análise da relação entre escola e comunidade, atuando como uma potência à manutenção do projeto e o seu caráter efetivo no sentido educacional.
politica de cotas da universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro e permanência de corpos negros no espaço universitário- Campus Maracanã
Authors: Abranches Junior Nilton , Reis Tomaz Camila , Da Silva Santos Carolina , Cabral da Silva Rachel
Published: March 2024

O sistema de cotas é uma realidade no processo de acesso de estudantes no Curso de Geografia da Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro - UERJ. É sabido que a UERJ detém o protagonismo na implantação do referido sistema e o curso de Geografia da UERJ é diretamente afetado, quando da promoção de uma transformação no perfil de estudante que chega ao ensino superior. Destarte todo o significado de tal sistema, este artigo tem como objetivo discutir sobre as reconfigurações que ocorreram no processo de ingresso, permanência e conclusão do curso. Para realização deste trabalho foi necessário fazer o levantamento do currículo em vigor para a formação de licenciados e bacharéis de Geografia. Levou-se em consideração também a constituição do corpo docente nesse processo de reconhecimento. Indica-se neste texto possibilidades de permanência criadas a partir dos estudantes. Enquanto resultados apresenta-se um corpo discente predominantemente negro, cursando um currículo onde questões étnico-raciais e suas interseccionalidades estão silenciadas, ficando a cargo de cada professora ou professor incluir em seu programa de curso tal discussão.
Precarização da educação e da atividade docente
Authors: Valentim Anacleto da Silva Wesley
Published: March 2024

O artigo discute o cenário de precarização da educação no Brasil, partindo da experiência cotidiana em escolas públicas paulistas, tanto em sala de aula como nos momentos de formação coletiva de professores. A implementação do Novo Ensino Médio marca a institucionalização da lógica neoliberal no ensino público, baseada na ideia de empreendedorismo. O Estado de São Paulo se torna a representação de um fenômeno nacional que encobre dos estudantes o contexto da crise econômica e a falta de perspectiva de trabalho. Nessa trama, podemos incluir os docentes que sofrem ataques à carreira por parte da Secretaria de Educação, num movimento de diferenciação salarial que beneficia os professores temporários, colocando efetivos e contratados uns contra os outros. Desse modo, a experiência docente se transforma à medida que os professores circulam entre as escolas e não conseguem ter estabilidade na profissão. A carreira vira destino de profissionais de outras áreas que não conseguem se inserir no mercado de trabalho, se tornando uma alternativa à demanda por emprego de toda a sociedade.
Considerações acerca da BNC-Formação e as novas morfologias do trabalho
Authors: Andrade Rodrigo Coutinho
Published: March 2024

Por meio do exame das atuais prescrições curriculares para os cursos superiores de licenciatura, das recomendações internacionais para a formação em todos os níveis de ensino, assim como dos contributos teóricos sobre o tema, observa-se a operação material e imaterial imersa nos novos léxicos e mecanismos gerenciais para a contemplação do atual estágio de reprodução sociometabólica do capital tanto no âmbito estrutural, quanto no corpo superestrutural, demandando para tal um trabalhador maleável e adaptável às novas morfologias do trabalho. Tal conteúdo alcança a educação por meio do controle sistemático dos entes fixos e variáveis, com relativa centralidade sobre o trabalho docente nos últimos para a concreção do currículo prescrito-aferido. Neste sentido, objetivamos analisar as incidências do receituário da frente ampla do capital na BNC-Formação para a consolidação do “professor de novo tipo”. Trata-se de uma pesquisa básica, de caráter explicativo, que se ancora no exame bibliográfico-documental. Como resultado indicamos que análise do documento acima discriminado imputa uma série de predileções pertinentes à adequação do trabalho docente ao princípio gerencial-quantofrênico.
CONFLICT TRANSFORMATION THROUGH DIGITAL MEDIATION: A STUDY OF BRAZIL'S JUDICIARY COURTS
Authors: Curbage Fernanda Alves
Published: March 2024

This study aims to examine the characteristics of online mediation within public systems, focusing on two pivotal elements: the technological progression instigated by the Covid-19 pandemic that led to an almost full digitalisation of Brazil's judicial system and the subsequent implications of an emancipatory conflict transformation. The research engages social constructivist ontological and epistemology of the south as perspectives, thereby conducting an empirical inquiry into the modifications, aspects, and efficacy of mediation across two judicial districts in São Paulo, Brazil, specifically the cities of Piracicaba and Campinas. The paper underscores the role of mediation within the sphere of online dispute resolution (ODR) in Brazil's legal system, serving to enhance access to justice, expedite communicational changes, and address the limitations of digital mediation while ensuring the active involvement of all parties in the proceedings.

Furthermore, the study critically assesses and evaluates the use of mediation as a vital tool in national and international legal systems during the digital judiciary age. To achieve this, a comprehensive re-evaluation of the core principles of mediation is undertaken and juxtaposed with the challenges observed in these regional settings, thus unearthing various topics that necessitate further exploration. In summation, this study offers an insightful understanding of the modalities and regional practices of digital communication in mediation, positing it as a trailblazing approach to enhancing the efficacy of conflict resolution practices and furthering social, cultural, and academic transformation.
A MEDIAÇÃO COMO MECANISMO DE GOVERNANÇA AMBIENTAL E EFETIVIDADE DO ODS 16
Authors: Alves Cardoso Simone , Cirne Thais Brito
Published: March 2024

Segundo os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS), nomeadamente o ODS 16, os Estados devem empenhar-se em promover sociedades pacíficas e inclusivas, o que implica garantir a tomada de decisões responsável, inclusiva, participativa e representativa em todos os níveis. Desse modo, surge a necessidade de adotar mecanismos de resolução de conflitos e construção de consenso que possam dar efetividade ao ODS 16, por meio de uma governança eficaz dos problemas ambientais, que privilegiem soluções inclusivas e criativas. Nessa perspectiva, o artigo defende a mediação como ferramenta hábil para promover a paz por meio da cooperação e do diálogo, com suporte em uma metodologia construtiva que gere consenso na tomada de decisões dos diversos atores envolvidos. Essa abordagem se justifica pois, embora exista uma prática jurisdicional e arbitral em matéria ambiental, ela ainda é escassa e limitada. Isso acontece, dentre outros fatores, porque essa prática nem sempre concretiza um processo de paz inclusivo, em que os agentes direta ou indiretamente envolvidos no conflito, ou que sofrem os reflexos deste, possam participar da tomada de decisão e se empoderar de conhecimento quanto à transformação do conflito ambiental. Assim, a mediação se coloca como um mecanismo válido e necessário para o alcance de uma solução que seja adequada ao caso concreto no contexto dos conflitos ambientais.
MEDIATION IN FAMILY CASES ACROSS THE EU AND BEYOND. IS A NEW HARMONIZED APPROACH TO EUROPE’S POLICY FOR SOLVING FAMILY CONFLICTS NEEDED?
Authors: Radanova Julia
Published: March 2024

This paper seeks to address the question of the need for revising the existing EU policy in the field of family mediation. The author argues there is a necessity for a single EU methodology for managing national and cross-border family disputes through their referral to mediation, which will serve as the basis for the revision of the EU policy in the field of family mediation and will trigger a discussion for the adoption of a new Directive on the subject. This is grounded in the increase in divorce rates in the EU according to the European Parliament, the growing mobility of spouses and the spread of cross- cultural families, all of which lead to a rising number of family disputes occasionally caught between various jurisdictions and applicable laws. Possible revisions aim to set up a unified modus operandi through which national and transnational family disputes are managed across the EU through their referral to mediation, to propose clear guidelines for child inclusion in the mediation process following the requirements of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989), to establish standards for mandatory family mediation for those countries who opt-in for such a model and the professional qualifications for EU family mediators. Such an idea is ambitious in its pursuit to set unified standards on the manner through which family mediation is practiced in the EU, how children are integrated as part of the process, and what unified requirements apply to EU family mediators. The author suggests that the ultimate impact of the above would be to open the discussion for EU policymakers to consider setting up a uniform methodology for family mediation, outlining the specific processes for mandatory family mediation for Member States opting-in in a model and revising the EU mediation policy in the field of family justice.
JUSTIÇA RESTAURATIVA: POSSIBILIDADES DE APLICAÇÃO NO BRASIL
Authors: Saraiva Ivone Hiromi Takahashi
Published: March 2024

Objetiva-se neste artigo abordar o tema da Justiça Restaurativa, apresentando algumas possibilidades para a sua aplicação no Brasil, em convivência harmônica com a Justiça Retributiva. O conceito, os princípios e as modalidades de aplicação da Justiça Restaurativa são a base para a análise da sua utilização no Brasil. A partir de três casos concretos – um no município de São José dos Campos, outro no município de São Caetano do Sul e o terceiro em uma empresa privada – e de algumas decisões do Poder Judiciário brasileiro sobre casos conectados com a Justiça Restaurativa, são avaliadas as possibilidades de sua aplicação em maior escala no país, destacando as vantagens dessa aplicação e as áreas nas quais é mais indicada, assim como os obstáculos existentes.
The right of citizens to attend meetings of collegial authorities
Authors: Rukoleev Vitalii Aleksandrovich
Published: March 2024

This article is devoted to the study of the problems of regulation and prospects for the development of public relations related to the exercise of the right to attend meetings of collegial authorities. The topic is relevant due to the fact that law enforcement practice indicates massive violations of the right to attend meetings of government bodies. The reason lies in the incompleteness of legislative regulation. The legislator provided only basic, declarative norms. In their development, the authorities independently, taking into account their specifics and peculiarities of functioning, develop the procedure and rules for the presence of citizens at meetings. The subject of the study is the provisions of normative legal acts in the field of regulating the presence of citizens at meetings of collegial authorities, as well as judicial practice and existing scientific provisions on the studied issues.  General scientific and special legal methods were used in the work, among which general logical methods of cognition (analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction, generalization), the systematic method, as well as the formal legal method can be distinguished. The scientific novelty is due to the fact that the work reflects the current state of the normative consolidation of the right of citizens to attend meetings of collegial authorities. Based on the results of the study, the author formulated proposals for improving legislation. In particular, to amend article 15 of the Federal Law "On Ensuring Access to Information on the Activities of State Bodies and Local Self-government bodies", providing: firstly, specifying the timing of informing citizens about the meeting appointed by the authority and the name of the sources using which it is necessary to inform, as well as the timing of contacting the authority about the intention to attend the meeting; secondly, to fix the inadmissibility of including in the agenda of one meeting issues containing information of open and limited access; thirdly, to unify the grounds excluding the possibility of attending meetings of authorities.
The scheduling of adolescence with Netrin-1 and UNC5C
Authors: Hoops Daniel , Kyne Robert F. , Salameh Samer , MacGowan Del , Avramescu Radu G. , Ewing Elise , He Alina T. , Orsini Taylor , Durand Anais , Popescu Christina , Zhao Janet M. , Schatz Kelcie C. , Li LiPing , Carroll Quinn E. , Liu Guofa , Paul Matthew J. , Flores Cecilia
Published: March 2024

Dopamine axons are the only axons known to grow during adolescence. Here, using rodent models, we examined how two proteins, Netrin-1 and its receptor, UNC5C, guide dopamine axons towards the prefrontal cortex and shape behaviour. We demonstrate in mice (
Mus musculus
) that dopamine axons reach the cortex through a transient gradient of Netrin-1 expressing cells – disrupting this gradient reroutes axons away from their target. Using a seasonal model (Siberian hamsters;
Phodopus sungorus
) we find that mesocortical dopamine development can be regulated by a natural environmental cue (daylength) in a sexually dimorphic manner – delayed in males, but advanced in females. The timings of dopamine axon growth and UNC5C expression are always phase-locked. Adolescence is an ill-defined, transitional period; we pinpoint neurodevelopmental markers underlying this period.
Transcriptomic atlas of midbrain dopamine neurons uncovers differential vulnerability in a Parkinsonism lesion model
Authors: Yaghmaeian Salmani Behzad , Lahti Laura , Gillberg Linda , Jacobsen Jesper Kjaer , Mantas Ioannis , Svenningsson Per , Perlmann Thomas
Published: March 2024

Midbrain dopamine (mDA) neurons comprise diverse cells with unique innervation targets and functions. This is illustrated by the selective sensitivity of mDA neurons of the substantia nigra compacta (SNc) in patients with Parkinson’s disease, while those in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) are relatively spared. Here we used single nuclei RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) of approximately 70,000 mouse midbrain cells to build a high-resolution atlas of mouse mDA neuron diversity at the molecular level. The results showed that differences between mDA neuron groups could best be understood as a continuum without sharp differences between subtypes. Thus, we assigned mDA neurons to several “territories” and “neighborhoods” within a shifting gene expression landscape where boundaries are gradual rather than discrete. Based on the enriched gene expression patterns of these territories and neighborhoods, we were able to localize them in the adult mouse midbrain. Moreover, because the underlying mechanisms for the variable sensitivities of diverse mDA neurons to pathological insults are not well understood, we analyzed surviving neurons after partial 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesions to unravel gene expression patterns that correlate with mDA neuron vulnerability and resilience. Together, this atlas provides a basis for further studies on the neurophysiological role of mDA neurons in health and disease.
Inhibition of CERS1 in skeletal muscle exacerbates age-related muscle dysfunction
Authors: Wohlwend Martin , Laurila Pirkka-Pekka , Goeminne Ludger J.E. , Lima Tanes , Daskalaki Ioanna , Li Xiaoxu , von Alvensleben Giacomo , Crisol Barbara , Mangione Renata , Gallart-Ayala Hector , Burri Olivier , Butler Stephen , Morris Jonathan , Turner Nigel , Ivanisevic Julijana , Auwerx Johan
Published: March 2024

Age-related muscle wasting and dysfunction render the elderly population vulnerable and incapacitated, while underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we implicate the
CERS1
enzyme of the de novo sphingolipid synthesis pathway in the pathogenesis of age-related skeletal muscle impairment. In humans,
CERS1
abundance declines with aging in skeletal muscle cells and, correlates with biological pathways involved in muscle function and myogenesis. Furthermore,
CERS1
is upregulated during myogenic differentiation. Pharmacological or genetic inhibition of
CERS1
in aged mice blunts myogenesis and deteriorates aged skeletal muscle mass and function, which is associated with the occurrence of morphological features typical of inflammation and fibrosis. Ablation of the
CERS1
orthologue
lagr-1
in
C. elegans
similarly exacerbates the age-associated decline in muscle function and integrity. We discover genetic variants reducing
CERS1
expression in human skeletal muscle and Mendelian randomization analysis in the UK biobank cohort shows that these variants reduce muscle grip strength and overall health. In summary, our findings link age-related impairments in muscle function to a reduction in
CERS1
, thereby underlining the importance of the sphingolipid biosynthesis pathway in age-related muscle homeostasis.
The antigenic landscape of human influenza N2 neuraminidases from 2009 until 2017
Authors: Catani João Paulo Portela , Smet Anouk , Ysenbaert Tine , Vuylsteke Marnik , Bottu Guy , Mathys Janick , Botzki Alexander , Cortes-Garcia Guadalupe , Strugnell Tod , Gomila Raul , Hamberger John , Catalan John , Ustyugova Irina V. , Farrell Timothy , Stegalkina Svetlana , Ray Satyajit , LaRue Lauren , Saelens Xavier , Vogel Thorsten U.
Published: March 2024

Human H3N2 influenza viruses are subject to rapid antigenic evolution which translates into frequent updates of the composition of seasonal influenza vaccines. Despite these updates, the effectiveness of influenza vaccines against H3N2-associated disease is suboptimal. Seasonal influenza vaccines primarily induce hemagglutinin-specific antibody responses. However, antibodies directed against influenza neuraminidase (NA) also contribute to protection. Here, we analyzed the antigenic diversity of a panel of N2 NAs derived from human H3N2 viruses that circulated between 2009 and 2017. The antigenic breadth of these NAs was determined based on the NA inhibition (NAI) of a broad panel of ferret and mouse immune sera that were raised by infection and recombinant N2 NA immunization. This assessment allowed us to distinguish at least 4 antigenic groups in the N2 NAs derived from human H3N2 viruses that circulated between 2009 and 2017. Computational analysis further revealed that the amino acid residues in N2 NA that have a major impact on susceptibility to NAI by immune sera are in proximity of the catalytic site. Finally, a machine learning method was developed that allowed to accurately predict the impact of mutations that are present in our N2 NA panel on NAI. These findings have important implications for the renewed interest to develop improved influenza vaccines based on the inclusion of a protective NA antigen formulation.
Cannabinoid Combination Targets NOTCH1-Mutated T-ALL Through the Integrated Stress Response Pathway
Authors: Besser Elazar , Gelfand Anat , Procaccia Shiri , Berman Paula , Meiri David
Published: March 2024

In T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) more than 50% of cases display autoactivation of Notch1 signaling, leading to oncogenic transformation. We have previously identified a specific chemovar of Cannabis that induces apoptosis by preventing Notch1 maturation in leukemia cells. Here, we isolated three cannabinoids from this chemovar that synergistically mimic the effects of the whole extract. Two were previously known, Cannabidiol (CBD) and Cannabidivarin (CBDV); whereas the third cannabinoid, which we termed 331-18A, was identified and fully characterized in this study. We demonstrated that these cannabinoids act through Cannabinoid receptor type 2 and TRPV1 to activate the integrated stress response pathway by depleting intracellular Ca
2+
. This is followed by increased mRNA and protein expression of ATF4, CHOP and CHAC1, which is hindered by inhibiting the upstream initiation factor eIF2α. The increased abundance of CHAC1 prevents Notch1 maturation, thereby reducing the levels of the active Notch1 intracellular domain, and consequently decreasing cell viability and increasing apoptosis. Treatment with the three isolated molecules resulted in reduced tumor size and weight in-vivo and slowed leukemia progression in mice models. Altogether, this study elucidated the mechanism of action of three distinct cannabinoids in modulating the Notch1 pathway, and constitutes an important step in the establishment of a new therapy for treating
NOTCH1
-mutated diseases and cancers such as T-ALL.
Transformation of valence signaling in a striatopallidal circuit
Authors: Lee Donghyung , Liu Lillian , Root Cory M.
Published: March 2024

The ways in which sensory stimuli acquire motivational valence through association with other stimuli is one of the simplest forms of learning. Though we have identified many brain nuclei that play various roles in reward processing, a significant gap remains in understanding how valence encoding transforms through the layers of sensory processing. To address this gap, we carried out a comparative investigation of the olfactory tubercle (OT), and the ventral pallidum (VP) - 2 connected nuclei of the basal ganglia which have both been implicated in reward processing. First, using anterograde and retrograde tracing, we show that both D1 and D2 neurons of the OT project primarily to the VP and minimally elsewhere. Using 2-photon calcium imaging, we then investigated how the identity of the odor and reward contingency of the odor are differently encoded by neurons in either structure during a classical conditioning paradigm. We find that VP neurons robustly encode reward contingency, but not identity, in low-dimensional space. In contrast, OT neurons primarily encode odor identity in high-dimensional space. Though D1 OT neurons showed larger response vectors to rewarded odors than other odors, we propose this is better interpreted as identity encoding with enhanced contrast rather than as valence encoding. Finally, using a novel conditioning paradigm that decouples reward contingency and licking vigor, we show that both features are encoded by non-overlapping VP neurons. These results provide a novel framework for the striatopallidal circuit in which a high-dimensional encoding of stimulus identity is collapsed onto a low-dimensional encoding of motivational valence.
Structure and evolution of Alanine/Serine Decarboxylases and the engineering of theanine production
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhu Biying , Qiao Siming , Dong Chunxia , Wan Xiaochun , Gong Weimin , Zhang Zhaoliang
Published: March 2024

Ethylamine (EA), the precursor of theanine biosynthesis, is synthesized from alanine decarboxylation by Alanine Decarboxylase (AlaDC) in tea plants. AlaDC evolves from Serine Decarboxylase (SerDC) through neofunctionalization and has lower catalytic activity. However, lacking structure information hinders the understanding of the evolution of substrate specificity and catalytic activity. In this study, we solved the X-ray crystal structures of AlaDC from
Camellia sinensis
(CsAlaDC) and SerDC from
Arabidopsis thaliana
(AtSerDC). Tyr
341
of AtSerDC or the corresponding Tyr
336
of CsAlaDC is essential for their enzymatic activity. Tyr
111
of AtSerDC and the corresponding Phe
106
of CsAlaDC determine their substrate specificity. Both CsAlaDC and AtSerDC have a distinctive zinc finger that contributes to the activity and has not been identified in any other Group II PLP-dependent amino acid decarboxylases. Based on the structure comparison and evolution analysis AlaDC or SerDC led us to perform mutation screen of CsAlaDC. The results indicated that the mutation of L110F or P114A in the CsAlaDC dimerization interface significantly improved the catalytic activity by 110% and 59%, respectively. Combining double mutant CsAlaDC
L110F/P114A
with theanine synthetase increased 672% of theanine production in an
in vitro
system. This study provides the structural basis for the substrate selectivity and catalytic activity of CsAlaDC and AtSerDC and sheds light on a new direction for the efficient industrial synthesis of theanine.
Improving SARS-CoV-2 variants monitoring in the absence of genomic surveillance capabilities: a serological study in Bolivian blood donors in October 2021 and June 2022
Authors: Inchauste Lucia , Nurtop Elif , Machicado Lissete Bautista , Roth Yanine Leigue , Gonzales Shirley Lenz , Herrera Maria Luisa , Villafan Katty Mina , Mamani Pedro Mamani , Espinoza Marcelo Ramos , Pavel Suarez Juan Carlos , Garcia Copa Juan Cansio , Zabala Yitzhak Leigue , Cardozo Etzel Arancibia , Gallian Pierre , de Lamballerie Xavier , Priet Stéphane
Published: March 2024

Unlike genomic data, serological data have not been previously leveraged to evaluate the SARS-CoV-2 variants circulation. In Bolivia, sustained genomic surveillance capacities were lacking especially at the beginning of the pandemic. In 2021 and 2022 we estimated the prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in Bolivian blood donors and explored the feasibility of using virus serum neutralization data for variants thought to have circulated to map their circulation across all departments over a year-long follow-up period. Anti-S1 and anti-NCP SARS-CoV-2 IgGs were studied, along with virus neutralization tests for ancestral-D614G, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron BA.1 lineages of SARS-CoV-2. Between 2021 and 2022, the overall prevalence of anti-S1 and anti-NCP antibodies increased reaching values over 90%, demonstrating that a large proportion of the Bolivian population was no longer naïve to the virus. Viral neutralization data, analyzed through multiple approaches, revealed the spread of the Gamma variant up to 2021, particularly impacting northern departments. In 2022, Gamma continued to circulate in southernmost departments of the country and the emergence of Omicron BA.1 was detected. These trends align with publicly available genomic data from neighboring countries. Our serological analyses successfully identified both new antigenic groups, such as Omicron BA.1, and individual variants related to previously circulating groups, such as Delta. The study contributes insights into overall population immunity to SARS-CoV-2 and variant-specific immunity levels across different regions of Bolivia. It also emphasizes the potency of seroprevalence studies in informing public health decisions and underscore their value in capturing the initial phases of emerging epidemics when variant diversity is limited, facilitating timely genomic surveillance setup.
Risk Assessment Using Overpressure and Impulse for Abnormal Explosion of Composite Solid Propellants
Authors: Hwang Gyeong-Seop , Jo Si-Hyeon , Kim Dong-Hee
Published: March 2024

In this study, the risks were investigated by probabilistic analysis of the effects on the person and structure located around the composite solid propellant when it explodes abnormally. Two types of solid propellants of different sizes and three TNT equivalents of composite propellants were applied to empirical correlation to derive incident pressure and impulse. These were used in probit analysis, and the effects on the person and structure were quantitatively analyzed to determine the risk of solid propellant explosion. The larger the propellant and the more the TNT equivalent, the higher the incident pressure and impulse. Moreover, the amount of propellant had a more significant effect on the impulse than the incident pressure. The effects of the incident pressure and impulse on human were observed to be greater in the order of probability of ruptured eardrums, death from head impact, death from whole-body displacement impact, and death from lung damage. Furthermore, the effects on the structure were observed to be greater in the order of probability of breakage of window, minor damage, major damage, and collapse of the building.
Effects of the Mental Health and Social Capital of Firefighters on Quality of Life
Authors: Choi Hee-Chul
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to contribute to the preparation of an action plan for improving the quality of life of firefighters by examining how mental health and social capital as perceived by firefighters affect their quality of life. For this purpose, this study conducted a survey using purposive sampling, targeting 111 firefighting officers in Seoul and Gyeonggi-do. The survey results show that mental health (β = -.475, p < .001) and trust (β = .254, p < .01) and network(β = .248, p < .05) out of the sub-variables of social capital of firefighters have a significant influence on the quality of life. Based on the results, this study suggested various action plans to improve the quality of life of firefighters while supporting their mental health and social capital.
Anticipatory Repair: Reframing Breakage through a Futures Agenda. Interview with Minna Ruckenstein and Sarah Pink
Authors: Ruckenstein Minna , Pink Sarah , Duque Melisa , Callén Blanca
Published: March 2024

In this interview, we wanted to explore the notion of repair beyond the usual materialities and temporalities of the present. Therefore, we proposed a conversation between Minna Ruckenstein and Sarah Pink, in order to rethink repair in the digital realm of algorithms, AI, and robotics; as well as to speculate on future breakages, and thus anticipate the kind of repair we might need. The following pages represent our dialogical reflections about the promises of completeness that underpin technological and innovative design, which are nevertheless continually broken through everyday and organizational practice. We delve into algorithmic and robotic breakages and repairs, and their implications for how we understand the relationship between humans and machines. This leads to critical questions about how STS might contribute to a futures-focused research agenda, and specifically, how it might beneficially account for optimistic and hopeful futures. To advance these questions, Minna and Sarah draw on their extensive trajectories of empirical and conceptual research.
The Construction of Objective Consciousness in Multicultural Society Based on Pesantren
Authors: Qodriyah Khodijatul , Bakri Masykuri , Ghony Djunaidi
Published: March 2024

The discourse on multicultural education remains relevant in contemporary societies, particularly in countries with diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds. The challenges posed by information disruption further emphasize the need to revisit and discuss multicultural education within such contexts. The failure to implement a humanistic religious philosophy exacerbates unity issues within the national framework. This research aims to understand the forms of democratic citizenship in multicultural societies based on pesantren, arising from an objective awareness of diversity. The study adopts a qualitative approach, specifically phenomenology. Data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. Data analysis employed Spradpley's techniques, including domain analysis, taxonomic analysis, componential analysis, and cultural theme analysis. The research findings indicate that democratic citizenship in multicultural societies based on pesantren consists of religious awareness of diversity, national awareness of diversity, and moderate religious views. Religious awareness involves intellectual reflections on religious diversity and beliefs. National identity and participation in national life amid diversity refer to the understanding and awareness of individuals or groups regarding diverse social, cultural, and religious aspects. In this context, a moderate approach to religion involves a collective commitment to maintaining a balanced equilibrium. This necessitates every member of society, regardless of ethnic, cultural, religious, or political background, to listen to and learn from each other and develop the skills to manage and resolve their differences.
Influence of Different Spacings under Varying Fertility Levels on Protein Content, Protein Yield and Available NPK in Soil of Summer Greengram (Vigna radiata L.)
Authors: Chaudhari Priya R. , Patel K. I. , Chaudhari Karuna M. , Saini Yonika
Published: March 2024

The present study highlights the influence of different spacings under varying fertility levels on protein content, protein yield and available npk in soil of summer greengram (vigna radiata l.). Due to its importance in Indian agricultural and ability to provide vital amino acids and protein, food beans are a staple of the Indian diet. In the summer of 2020, a field experiment on loamy sand soil was conducted at the Agronomy Instructional Farm, Chimanbhai Patel College of Agriculture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar. Twelve treatment combinations comprising of four spacings S1 (30 × 10 cm), S2 (30 × 20 cm), S3 (45 × 10 cm) and S4 (45 × 20 cm) and three fertility levels viz., F1 (75% RDF), F2 (100% RDF) and F3 (125% RDF) were evaluated in factorial randomized block design with three replications. The results revealed that significantly higher protein yield (256.10 kg/ha) under 30 × 10 cm spacing as compared to other treatments. Among the fertility levels significantly higher protein content (24.17%), protein yield (260.27 kg/ha) and Higher value of available N and P2O5 status in soil after harvest was observed in treatment (F3) 125% RDF of summer greengram. Thus, from the foregoing results of one year experiment, it can be concluded that for securing higher seed yield, stover yield, protein yield and higher available N, P2O5 in soil after harvest of summer greengram should be sown at 30 cm × 10 cm spacing and fertilized with 100% RDF (20-40-00 N-P2O5-K2O kg/ha) under loamy sand soil.
The Optimization of the Technological Parameters at the Stage of the Decline in the Oil Production
Authors: Bakhshaliyeva S. V.
Published: March 2024

Efficiency of the oil industry in managing complex technological processes associated with oil production. To solve the problem, some problems have been solved. Based on the analysis of mathematical models of gas-lift wells, oil production under optimal conditions was established. A dynamic model of an intermittent gas-lift well was investigated and developed. Certain features, such as field management of gas lift wells and process optimization, are among the key issues. Gas lift wells differ mainly in their characteristics. This may include the depth of the well, the amount of production produced from the well, the pressure in the well, etc. Therefore, during the operation of a well, the characteristics of physical factors constantly change when the well changes, and an identification problem arises. These issues must be taken into account when optimizing gas lift wells.

We can conclude that the operation of gas lift wells is very complex and has several different problems. Despite the variety of tasks, they are part of a single optimization problem.
Tailoring Hydrogen Storage Materials Towards Application
Authors: Dornheim M. , Eigen N. , Barkhordarian G. , Klassen T. , Bormann R.
Published: May 2006

A breakthrough in hydrogen storage technology was achieved by preparing nanocrystalline hydrides using high‐energy ball milling and the use of suitable catalysts/additives. These new materials show fast or in case of Mg‐based hydrides very fast absorption and desorption kinetics within minutes, thus qualifying lightweight Mg‐ or Al‐based hydrides for storage applications. This article summarizes our current understanding of the kinetics of Mg‐based light metal hydrides, describes an approach for a cost‐effective processing technology and highlights some promising new developments in lightweight metal hydride research.
Molecular Modeling Investigations of Dry and Two Water‐Swollen States of Biodegradable Polymers
Authors: Entrialgo‐Castaño M. , Lendlein A. , Hofmann D.
Published: May 2006

Biodegradable polymers have incessantly gained salience in medical technology and regenerative medicine during the past few decades. These biomaterials are used in temporary implant devices, wound sutures and drug delivery systems. The relation between characteristics of a material and its ability to degrade is still not sufficiently understood. Thus, improved biomaterial design is performed by time‐consuming trial and error experimental procedures. Knowledge‐based modeling techniques can provide a more systematic and efficient method.
Statistical Modelling of Fracture in Quasi‐Brittle Materials
Authors: Schicker J. , Pfuff M.
Published: May 2006

Different mesoscale finite element models were applied to damage and fracture of brittle or quasi‐brittle heterogeneous materials. By combining elastic behaviour with local stochastic rupture criteria these models are able to reproduce some of the typical features of damage development and failure of such materials.
The Effect of Grain Size on the Deformation Behaviour of Magnesium Alloys Investigated by the Acoustic Emission Technique
Authors: Bohlen J. , Dobron P. , Meza Garcia E. , Chmelík F. , Lukáč P. , Letzig D. , Kainer K. U.
Published: May 2006

Extruded round bars from magnesium alloys ZM21, ZK30, ZE10 and ZEK100 with various grain sizes were tested in tension and compression. The effect of grain size on the deformation behaviour of the alloys was investigated through the Hall‐Petch relation. In‐situ acoustic emission measurements were conducted during testing to evaluate the mechanisms of plastic deformation. The results are discussed with respect to twinning as one important deformation mechanism in magnesium alloys.
Polyimide Asymmetric Membranes for Hydrogen Separation: Influence of Formation Conditions on Gas Transport Properties
Authors: Shishatskiy S. , Nistor C. , Popa M. , Nunes S. P. , Peinemann K. V.
Published: May 2006

The asymmetric flat sheet membrane was developed for separation of hydrogen from its mixtures with other gases. The composition of the casting solution and conditions of membrane preparation were optimized for the pilot scale membrane production. The resulting membrane have a high hydrogen flux (1 m3(STP)/m2h*bar) and selectivity of H2/CH4 at least 100, the value close to intrinsic selectivity of Matrimid 5218, material used for the asymmetric structure formation. The membrane is stable against mixtures of liquid hydrocarbons and can withstand heating up to 200 °C. The non‐woven fabric used as a support for the asymmetric membrane gives to the membrane excellent mechanical properties and allows to use the membrane in GKSS gas separation modules.
Developments in Membrane Research: from Material via Process Design to Industrial Application
Authors: Abetz V. , Brinkmann T. , Dijkstra M. , Ebert K. , Fritsch D. , Ohlrogge K. , Paul D. , Peinemann K.‐V. , Pereira‐Nunes S. , Scharnagl N. , Schossig M.
Published: May 2006

The aim of this review paper is to give an overview of the research activities of GKSS in the field of polymer based membranes. After summarizing the historic development of membrane science at GKSS, it describes different classes of polymeric materials for membranes, and the characterization of membranes. The design of membrane‐based separation processes followed by examples of applications will also be presented. In the last chapter we will try to give an outlook for the future activities in membrane research.