bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manipulation of directional acoustic spin angular momentum density based on gradient-structured waveguides
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Yue , Xu Hua-Feng , Chen Wan-Na , Zhou Nong , Sun Wen-Jun , Wu Hong-Wei ,   School of Mechanics and Photoelectric Physics, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China,   Center for Fundamental Physics, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China
Published: June 2024

In recent years, the discovery of the transverse spin of acoustic wave in a structural acoustic field and acoustic structural surface wave has expanded our knowledge of the basic characteristics of acoustic waves and opened up new avenues for their manipulation. On the structured surface, however, the distribution of acoustic surface waves often presents a uniform distribution, which restricts the local modification of acoustic spin angular momentum and particle manipulation capabilities. In this study, we develop some acoustic waveguides with gradients that are flat, up-convex, and down-concave in order to manipulate the lateral spin distributions of acoustic surface waves. We verify the direction-locking near-field acoustic spin-momentum, explore the pressure field distribution and the spin angular momentum density distribution of a spin acoustic source excited in each of the three gradient structures, and we also show how to manipulate the spin intensity distributions of acoustic surface waves in the gradient waveguides through theoretical analysis and numerical simulation. The numerical calculation results show that when the acoustic surface wave is excited by a clockwise rotating spin source and propagates along the left side of the waveguide, the spin angular momentum density is positive on the upper surface of the structured waveguide and negative on the lower surface. The spin angular momentum distribution and the direction of propagation of acoustic wave are entirely changed when the spin source is rotated counterclockwise. Specifically, an unequal distribution of acoustic spin angular momentum is produced by the upper convex-type waveguide and bottom concave-type waveguide when we convert the flat-type acoustic structure waveguide into a gradient-type waveguide. According to the computation results, the down-concave type waveguide exhibits a stronger density of acoustic spin angular momentum at the end and the acoustic surface waves gather at the end of the constructed waveguide. On the other hand, the waveguide collects acoustic waves close to the structure center when it is an up-convex structural waveguide. The findings can open up new avenues for manipulating particles using acoustic waves, by providing a means for controlling the acoustic spin angular momentum density and improving our understanding of symmetry in acoustic near-field physics.
GABAergic synaptic scaling is triggered by changes in spiking activity rather than AMPA receptor activation
Authors: Gonzalez-Islas Carlos , Sabra Zahraa , Fong Ming-fai , Bülow Pernille , Yong Nicholas Au , Engisch Kathrin , Wenner Peter
Published: June 2024

Homeostatic plasticity represents a set of mechanisms that are thought to recover some aspect of neural function. One such mechanism called AMPAergic scaling was thought to be a likely candidate to homeostatically control spiking activity. However, recent findings have forced us to reconsider this idea as several studies suggest AMPAergic scaling is not directly triggered by changes in spiking. Moreover, studies examining homeostatic perturbations
in vivo
have suggested that GABAergic synapses may be more critical in terms of spiking homeostasis. Here we show results that GABAergic scaling can act to homeostatically control spiking levels. We found that perturbations which increased or decreased spiking in cortical cultures triggered multiplicative GABAergic upscaling and downscaling, respectively. In contrast, we found that changes in AMPAR or GABAR transmission only influence GABAergic scaling through their indirect effect on spiking. We propose that GABAergic scaling represents a stronger candidate for spike rate homeostat than AMPAergic scaling.
Midbrain encodes sound detection behavior without auditory cortex
Authors: Lee Tai-Ying , Weissenberger Yves , King Andrew J , Dahmen Johannes C
Published: June 2024

Hearing involves analyzing the physical attributes of sounds and integrating the results of this analysis with other sensory, cognitive and motor variables in order to guide adaptive behavior. The auditory cortex is considered crucial for the integration of acoustic and contextual information and is thought to share the resulting representations with subcortical auditory structures via its vast descending projections. By imaging cellular activity in the corticorecipient shell of the inferior colliculus of mice engaged in a sound detection task, we show that the majority of neurons encode information beyond the physical attributes of the stimulus and that the animals’ behavior can be decoded from the activity of those neurons with a high degree of accuracy. Surprisingly, this was also the case in mice in which auditory cortical input to the midbrain had been removed by bilateral cortical lesions. This illustrates that subcortical auditory structures have access to a wealth of non-acoustic information and can, independently of the auditory cortex, carry much richer neural representations than previously thought.
Enhancing CRISPR prime editing by reducing misfolded pegRNA interactions
Authors: Zhang Weiting , Petri Karl , Ma Junyan , Lee Hyunho , Tsai Chia-Lun , Joung J Keith , Yeh Jing-Ruey Joanna
Published: June 2024

CRISPR prime editing (PE) requires a Cas9 nickase-reverse transcriptase fusion protein (known as PE2) and a prime editing guide RNA (pegRNA), an extended version of a standard guide RNA (gRNA) that both specifies the intended target genomic sequence and encodes the desired genetic edit. Here, we show that sequence complementarity between the 5’ and the 3’ regions of a pegRNA can negatively impact its ability to complex with Cas9, thereby potentially reducing PE efficiency. We demonstrate this limitation can be overcome by a simple pegRNA refolding procedure, which improved ribonucleoprotein-mediated PE efficiencies in zebrafish embryos by up to nearly 25-fold. Further gains in PE efficiencies of as much as sixfold could also be achieved by introducing point mutations designed to disrupt internal interactions within the pegRNA. Our work defines simple strategies that can be implemented to improve the efficiency of PE.
Post-meiotic mechanism of facultative parthenogenesis in gonochoristic whiptail lizard species
Authors: Ho David V , Tormey Duncan , Odell Aaron , Newton Aracely A , Schnittker Robert R , Baumann Diana P , Neaves William B , Schroeder Morgan R , Sigauke Rutendo F , Barley Anthony J , Baumann Peter
Published: June 2024

Facultative parthenogenesis (FP) has historically been regarded as rare in vertebrates, but in recent years incidences have been reported in a growing list of fish, reptile, and bird species. Despite the increasing interest in the phenomenon, the underlying mechanism and evolutionary implications have remained unclear. A common finding across many incidences of FP is either a high degree of homozygosity at microsatellite loci or low levels of heterozygosity detected in next-generation sequencing data. This has led to the proposal that second polar body fusion following the meiotic divisions restores diploidy and thereby mimics fertilization. Here, we show that FP occurring in the gonochoristic Aspidoscelis species A. marmoratus and A. arizonae results in genome-wide homozygosity, an observation inconsistent with polar body fusion as the underlying mechanism of restoration. Instead, a high-quality reference genome for A. marmoratus and analysis of whole-genome sequencing from multiple FP and control animals reveals that a post-meiotic mechanism gives rise to homozygous animals from haploid, unfertilized oocytes. Contrary to the widely held belief that females need to be isolated from males to undergo FP, females housed with conspecific and heterospecific males produced unfertilized eggs that underwent spontaneous development. In addition, offspring arising from both fertilized eggs and parthenogenetic development were observed to arise from a single clutch. Strikingly, our data support a mechanism for facultative parthenogenesis that removes all heterozygosity in a single generation. Complete homozygosity exposes the genetic load and explains the high rate of congenital malformations and embryonic mortality associated with FP in many species. Conversely, for animals that develop normally, FP could potentially exert strong purifying selection as all lethal recessive alleles are purged in a single generation.
Rate of brain aging associates with future executive function in Asian children and older adults
Authors: Cheng Susan F. , Yue Wan Lin , Ng Kwun Kei , Qian Xing , Liu Siwei , Tan Trevor W.K. , Nguyen Kim-Ngan , Leong Ruth L.F. , Hilal Saima , Cheng Ching-Yu , Tan Ai Peng , Law Evelyn C. , Gluckman Peter D. , Chen Christopher Li-Hsian , Chong Yap Seng , Meaney Michael J. , Chee Michael W.L. , Yeo B.T. Thomas , Zhou Juan Helen
Published: June 2024

Brain age has emerged as a powerful tool to understand neuroanatomical aging and its link to health outcomes like cognition. However, there remains a lack of studies investigating the rate of brain aging and its relationship to cognition. Furthermore, most brain age models are trained and tested on cross-sectional data from primarily Caucasian, adult participants. It is thus unclear how well these models generalize to non-Caucasian participants, especially children. Here, we tested a previously published deep learning model on Singaporean elderly participants (55
−
88 years old) and children (4
−
11 years old). We found that the model directly generalized to the elderly participants, but model finetuning was necessary for children. After finetuning, we found that the rate of change in brain age gap was associated with future executive function performance in both elderly participants and children. We further found that lateral ventricles and frontal areas contributed to brain age prediction in elderly participants, while white matter and posterior brain regions were more important in predicting brain age of children. Taken together, our results suggest that there is potential for generalizing brain age models to diverse populations. Moreover, the longitudinal change in brain age gap reflects developing and aging processes in the brain, relating to future cognitive function.
Introduction
Authors:   University of Tartu, Estonia, Roper Jonathan
Published: June 2024

The first official meeting of the ISFNR’s Committee on Charms, Charmers and Charming took place in Pécs, Hungary, in 2007. But before this ‘historical’ meeting, there were two ‘pre-historical’ meetings of charms scholars held at the Warburg Institute in London, under the auspices of the [British] Folklore Society in 2003 and 2005. In organizing these events practically and financially, I had a great deal of help from Will Ryan, who at that time was both a committee member of the Folklore Society and Academic Librarian at the Warburg Institute. Indeed, without his support and advice, these events would not have taken place.
Obituary
Authors:   Gorky Institute of World Literature, Russian Academy of Sciences, Toporkov Andrey , Chernetsov Alexey ,   Institute of Archaeology, Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: June 2024

On November 2nd, 2023, after a serious illness, William Francis Ryan, an outstanding researcher of Russian magical culture and written tradition, member of the British Academy, Doctor Honoris causa of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and the author of a number of monographs and of dozens of scientific articles, died at the age of 87. W. F. Ryan was involved with the ISNFR Committee on Charms, Charmers and Charming since before it was formally founded, and he participated in international conferences organized by the Commitee, served on the editorial board of the journal Incantatio since the journal’s first issue, and published his wonderful articles in Incantatio, as well as reviews of books written by his colleagues.
Agreement and differences between the equations for estimating muscle and bone mass using the anthropometric method in recreational strength trainees
Authors: Baglietto Nicolás , Albaladejo-Saura Mario , Esparza-Ros Francisco , Vaquero-Cristóbal Raquel
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The interest in estimating muscle mass (MM) and bone mass (BM) has grown in the sporting arena, and more specifically in recreational strength trainees, leading to the creation of different strategies to assess them. The aims were: 1) to investigate the agreement between different MM and BM formulas, and the muscle-bone index (MBI), and to establish the differences between them, in a healthy young adult population; and 2) to analyze if there are differences between males and females in the comparison of MM, BM and MBI formulas.

Methods

This study followed a descriptive cross-sectional design. A total of 130 adult active recreational strength trainees were evaluated according to the procedures described by the International Society for the Advancement in Kinanthropometry (ISAK). Estimations were made in kilograms of MM and BM by following the equations by different authors.

Results

The results showed significant differences between the values obtained by all the MM and BM formulas in the general sample (p < 0.001), and by the majority of formulas for male and female samples. In the general sample, Lin’s coefficient indicated a strong agreement between Kerr, Lee, and Poortmans’ MM estimation equations (concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) = 0.96–0.97). However, when stratifying by sex, this agreement persisted only in males (CCC = 0.90–0.94), in contrast with a lack of agreement observed in females (CCC < 0.90). Discrepancies in bone mass agreement were noted both in the general sample (CCC < 0.15) and when stratified by sex (CCC < 0.12).

Conclusions

In general, differences were found between the values reported by the MM and BM formulas in recreational strength trainees, without an agreement between them. Sex was shown to significantly influence the differences found. The practical implications are that when comparing an individual with reference tables, other studies, or if analyzing an individual’s evolution, the same estimation equation should be used, as they are not interchangeable.
Efectos del cambio climático en la biodiversidad subterránea ibérica: estado del conocimiento y perspectivas_Material Suplementario
Authors: Colado Raquel , Sánchez-Fernández Davi , Pallarés Susana
Published: June 2024

Datos recopilados en los artículos examinados sobre la región de estudio, especies estudiadas (información taxonómica y especificidad por el medio subterráneo), metodología y resultados. Los resultados cuantitativos se muestran como un único valor (ej.: temperatura letal), como una tasa de cambio porcentual entre dos tratamientos de temperatura (%/ºC) o entre dos escenarios climáticos (presente/futuro).
Cariprazine Augmentation in Inadequate Clozapine Response: A Case Series
Authors: Charitha SS Asha , Sobhan Soumya S , Jacob Jibi Achamma , Gopalakrishnan Rajesh , Kuruvilla Anju
Published: June 2024

Managing patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia who do not respond adequately to Clozapine poses a challenge. Cariprazine, with its unique mechanism of action, may be an option for such patients. The additional benefits of using Cariprazine as an augmentation strategy include once-daily dosing, ease of titration, and a favourable side-effect profile. The report outlines the experience of six patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia who did not respond to Clozapine. The addition of Cariprazine was tolerated by all the patients. The majority showed improvement with symptom reduction, and in some cases, the dose of Clozapine could be reduced, thereby decreasing the side-effects of Clozapine.
Gender Roles in Improved Cowpea Varieties Production and Selection Among Farmers in Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Idris Amina Aminu , Tafida Ibrahim , Jackson Daniel Ishaya
Published: June 2024

Gender plays a vital role in agricultural production, especially for cowpea, which is an important crop in Nigeria. The selection of good preferred varieties results in optimum output. The study assessed the gender roles in improved cowpea variety production and its selection among farmers in Kano State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select six (6) Local Government Areas (LGAs) from the three (3) Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) zones in the state. 204 farmers were selected across the six LGAs. The Harvard Analytical Framework and questionnaire were used to collect the data, and descriptive statistics were also used to analyse it. The results from the study revealed that the majority (63%) of adult males are the key actors in all cowpea farm activities, with the exception of the processing of farm products, which is being carried out mainly by the majority (76.6%) of adult females with the assistance of the female youth in the household. Females handled the majority of the income-generating tasks, such as petty trading and the sale of processed cowpea products. Adult males in the study area had more access to and control over the available production resources than adult females, and almost all the respondents benefited from the resources, such as food items, clothing, education, etc. The result further indicated that the constraints faced by both male and female farmers were inadequate training on improved agronomic practices and no proper information on the cowpea varieties. Conclusively, adult males performed most of the cowpea production and selection activities, and females were responsible for the income-generating activities. Therefore, farmers should be adequately trained on the improved cowpea production practices and females be encourage to participate actively in cowpea production activities.
Enhancing the Language Education of Students with Special Needs in Nigeria through Information and Communication Technology (ICT): Challenges and Prospects
Authors: U. Oji Ezekiel , C. Okanume Augusta , C. Nwabueze Chinazom
Published: June 2024

New technologies contribute to the improvement of the learning process, by offering richer sources of language learning materials. We have witnessed in this age the emergence of multimedia programmes and other technologies to help learners with impairments. Computerized assisted instructions, joysticks, communication boards and software packages promote creativity and make learning more interesting even for people with special needs. The aim of this paper is to discuss the role of ICT in enhancing language education for physically challenged learners so as to increase their function abilities. The paper looks at the concept of special education in Nigeria and the advantages of using ICT in special education. It examines ICT resources for learners with hearing impairment, ICT resources visually impaired learners, ICT resources for speech impaired learners and ICT resources for learners with learning disability. It also takes a look at the challenges and prospects of the using of ICT in special education in Nigeria. It recommends among others that to ensure the effective use of ICT in the education of people with special needs giving its role in enhancing teaching and learning, the educational authorities should ensure access to appropriate technology in order to help achieved the educational goals and standards. They should also provide time for the teachers to plan and learn how to integrate the technology. This could be done through in-service and pre-service training of teachers.
Hyperparameter Tuning in Machine Learning: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: A Ilemobayo Justus , Durodola Olamide , Alade Oreoluwa , J Awotunde Opeyemi , T Olanrewaju Adewumi , Falana Olumide , Ogungbire Adedolapo , Osinuga Abraham , Ogunbiyi Dabira , Ifeanyi Ark , E Odezuligbo Ikenna , E Edu Oluwagbotemi
Published: June 2024

Hyperparameter tuning is essential for optimizing the performance and generalization of machine learning (ML) models. This review explores the critical role of hyperparameter tuning in ML, detailing its importance, applications, and various optimization techniques. Key factors influencing ML performance, such as data quality, algorithm selection, and model complexity, are discussed, along with the impact of hyperparameters like learning rate and batch size on model training. Various tuning methods are examined, including grid search, random search, Bayesian optimization, and meta-learning. Special focus is given to the learning rate in deep learning, highlighting strategies for its optimization. Trade-offs in hyperparameter tuning, such as balancing computational cost and performance gain, are also addressed. Concluding with challenges and future directions, this review provides a comprehensive resource for improving the effectiveness and efficiency of ML models.
Management of Orobanche in Mustard
Authors: J. R. Patel, , D. M. Patel, , J. S. Desai,
Published: June 2024

An experiment was conducted during rabi season in 2017-18, 2019-20 and 2021-22 (three years) at Agronomy Instructional Farm, Chimanbhai Patel College of Agriculture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat, India having loamy sand soil to study the management of Orobanche in mustard. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design and four replications with nine treatments. On three years pooled results rewarded that for securing higher yield and net return keeping mustard crop weed-free (removal of all weeds including Orobanche) but under laborer scarce situation, advised to carry out a directed spray of glyphosate 25 g active ingredient/ha at 25-30 DAS and 50 g a.i./ha at 50-55 DAS on Orobanche. Further, weed-free (Removal of all weeds including Orobanche) also significantly increased seed yield (1809 kg/ha) while maximum net realization and benifit: cost ratio (BCR) was registered with the application of glyphosate @ 25 g a.i./ha at 25-30 DAS and 50 g/ha @ 50-55 DAS followed by treatment weed free (Removal of all weeds including Orobanche) in pooled results.
Econometric Study Using IMF’s Database: Testing Transmission of USA’s Monetary Policy to Ghana and Nigeria
Authors: Iddrisu Suhaibu, , Abdul-Aziz Mustapha
Published: June 2024

This paper argues that the expansionary U.S. monetary policy drive following the post Covid-19 economic crises generated spillover effect on Ghanaian and Nigerian economies resulting in macroeconomic turbulence. The hypothesis is tested using OLS estimation in a Bayesian VAR model with Litterman/Minnesota prior probabilities of 0.1 assigned to the autoregressive parameters, prior to which the time series properties of the data were investigated. The study thus examines U.S. monetary policy spillovers on monetary policy conduct in Ghana and Nigeria, and the results show that overall, Fed’s unconventional monetary policy shocks positively impact domestic monetary policy rate, interest rate spread and GDP growth rate but negatively impact inflation in both countries. This suggests that emerging economies respond to shocks from the advanced world. The study thus, recommends that governments of emerging countries should design policies to moderate negative monetary spillovers from advanced countries, while harnessing benefits of positive spillovers. This study contributes to literature by identifying term spread, which reflects Fed’s policy shift from short-term interest rates manipulation to large asset purchase and policy announcements as the measure of unconventional monetary policy shocks, which dominated monetary policy conduct in U.S. over the study period.
Analysis of Fracture Toughness and Crack Propagation of Ti6Al4V Produced by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Van Hooreweder Brecht , Moens David , Boonen Rene , Kruth Jean‐Pierre , Sas Paul
Published: November 2011

This paper describes and analyzes fracture toughness and crack propagation of selective laser molten (SLM) components made from Ti6Al4V powder particles. The main goal of this research is to gain more insight in the fracture mechanisms of this relatively new material and to improve the static and dynamic behavior of cracked SLM‐Ti components. At first, the SLM process parameters are optimized until the relative material density equals 99.7%. This is close to the relative density of vacuum arc remelted mill annealed standard oxygen titanium which is used as a reference for all experiments. A distinctive difference in phase morphology and texture of the microstructure is noticed between the SLM and the reference titanium. The fine acicular martensite phase of the SLM‐Ti results in more brittle behavior and inferior fracture toughness. On the other hand, the fine grained microstructure leads to a large number of grain boundaries acting as obstacle points for crack propagation. Consequently, crack growth properties do not significantly differ between both. Microstructural analysis of the crack growth and final failure areas on the fractured surfaces is performed to study the failure mechanisms in more detail.
Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) nanoparticle filled polypropylene: Effect of particle surface treatment on mechanical, thermal, and morphological performance of composites
Authors: Kamal Manish , Sharma C. S. , Upadhyaya Pradeep , Verma Vishal , Pandey K. N. , Kumar Vijai , Agrawal D. D.
Published: November 2011

The present study was aimed to see the effect of surface treatment on nanocomposites with different fatty acids (stearic acid and oleic acid) having two different coupling agents (titanate and silane). Nanocomposites were prepared via melt mixing in Haake 90 twin screw extruder. The characterization of nanocomposites had been carried out using various advance analytical techniques such as dynamic mechanical analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, heat distortion temperature, melt flow index, and scanning electron microscopy. The strength and stiffness were also improved with the incorporation of maleic‐anhydride grafted ethylene propylene rubber in PP/Nano‐CaCO3 nanocomposites. The tensile, flexural, and impact strength properties of PP/MA‐g‐EPR/treated‐CaCO3 and untreated nanocomposites were determined. These studies revealed that stearic acid treated nanofiller filled composites had better properties than those of untreated and oleic acid treated nanofiller filled composites. The SEM studies demonstrated that the dispersion and distribution of Nano‐CaCO3 (nCaCO3) particles within the polypropylene matrix were dependent on the nature of surface treating agents. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Some New Cyclooctanones and Cyclooctane‐Based Heterocycles
Authors: Ali Korany A. , Hosni Hanaa M. , Ragab Eman A. , El‐Moez Sherein I. Abd
Published: November 2011

The versatile synthon (E)‐2‐((dimethyl amino)methylene)cyclooctanone (2) was used as a key intermediate for the synthesis of cyclooctanones and cyclooctane‐based heterocycles with pyrazole, isoxazole, pyrimidine, pyrazolopyrimidine, triazolopyrimidine and imidazopyrimidine derivatives via its reactions with several nitrogen nucleophiles. The newly synthesized compounds were screened in vitro for their antimicrobial activity against pathogenic microorganisms (Listeria monocytogenes, methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans). Most of the tested compounds showed moderate to high antibacterial and antifungal effects against the tested pathogenic microorganisms. Among the synthesized compounds, 2‐((p‐sulfonamidophenyl)methylene)cyclooctanone (5) showed excellent activity against Listeria monocytogenes.
Induction of canonical Wnt signaling by alsterpaullone is sufficient for oral tissue fate during regeneration and embryogenesis in Nematostella vectensis
Authors: Trevino Michael , Stefanik Derek J. , Rodriguez Richard , Harmon Shane , Burton Patrick M.
Published: November 2011

Although regeneration is widespread among metazoa, the molecular mechanisms have been studied in only a handful of taxa. Of these taxa, fewer still are amenable to studies of embryogenesis. Our understanding of the evolution of regeneration, and its relation to embryogenesis, therefore remains limited. Using β‐catenin as a marker, we investigated the role of canonical Wnt signaling during both regeneration and embryogenesis in the cnidarian Nematostella vectensis. The canonical Wnt signaling pathway is known to play a conserved role in primary axis patterning in triploblasts. Induction of Wnt signaling with alsterpaullone results in ectopic oral tissue during both regeneration and embryogenesis by specifically upregulating β‐catenin expression, as measured by qRTPCR. Our data indicate that canonical Wnt signaling is sufficient for oral patterning during Nematostella regeneration and embryogenesis. These data also contribute to a growing body of literature indicating a conserved role for patterning mechanisms across various developmental modes of metazoans. Developmental Dynamics 240:2673–2679, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Differential timing of gene expression regulation between leptocephali of the two Anguilla eel species in the Sargasso Sea
Authors: Bernatchez Louis , St‐Cyr Jérôme , Normandeau Eric , Maes Gregory E. , Als Thomas D. , Kalujnaia Svetlana , Cramb Gordon , Castonguay Martin , Hansen Michael M.
Published: November 2011

The unique life‐history characteristics of North Atlantic catadromous eels have long intrigued evolutionary biologists, especially with respect to mechanisms that could explain their persistence as two ecologically very similar but reproductively and geographically distinct species. Differential developmental schedules during young larval stages have commonly been hypothesized to represent such a key mechanism. We performed a comparative analysis of gene expression by means of microarray experiments with American and European eel leptocephali collected in the Sargasso Sea in order to test the alternative hypotheses of (1) differential timing of gene expression regulation during early development versus (2) species‐specific differences in expression of particular genes. Our results provide much stronger support for the former hypothesis since no gene showed consistent significant differences in expression levels between the two species. In contrast, 146 genes showed differential timings of expression between species, although the observed expression level differences between the species were generally small. Consequently, species‐specific gene expression regulation seems to play a minor role in species differentiation. Overall, these results show that the basis of the early developmental divergence between the American and European eel is probably influenced by differences in the timing of gene expression regulation for genes involved in a large array of biological functions.
Neuronal activity regulates glutamate transporter dynamics in developing astrocytes
Authors: Benediktsson Adrienne M. , Marrs Glen S. , Tu Jian Cheng , Worley Paul F. , Rothstein Jeffrey D. , Bergles Dwight E. , Dailey Michael E.
Published: November 2011

Glutamate transporters (GluTs) maintain a low ambient level of glutamate in the central nervous system (CNS) and shape the activation of glutamate receptors at synapses. Nevertheless, the mechanisms that regulate the trafficking and localization of transporters near sites of glutamate release are poorly understood. Here, we examined the subcellular distribution and dynamic remodeling of the predominant GluT GLT‐1 (excitatory amino acid transporter 2, EAAT2) in developing hippocampal astrocytes. Immunolabeling revealed that endogenous GLT‐1 is concentrated into discrete clusters along branches of developing astrocytes that were apposed preferentially to synapsin‐1 positive synapses. Green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐GLT‐1 fusion proteins expressed in astrocytes also formed distinct clusters that lined the edges of astrocyte processes, as well as the tips of filopodia and spine‐like structures. Time‐lapse three‐dimensional confocal imaging in tissue slices revealed that GFP‐GLT‐1 clusters were dynamically remodeled on a timescale of minutes. Some transporter clusters moved within developing astrocyte branches as filopodia extended and retracted, while others maintained stable positions at the tips of spine‐like structures. Blockade of neuronal activity with tetrodotoxin reduced both the density and perisynaptic localization of GLT‐1 clusters. Conversely, enhancement of neuronal activity increased the size of GLT‐1 clusters and their proximity to synapses. Together, these findings indicate that neuronal activity influences both the organization of GluTs in developing astrocyte membranes and their position relative to synapses. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cryptotanshinone down‐regulates androgen receptor signaling by modulating lysine‐specific demethylase 1 function
Authors: Wu Ching‐Yuan , Hsieh Chang‐Yi , Huang Ko‐En , Chang Chawnshang , Kang Hong‐Yo
Published: November 2011

Development and progression of prostate cancer are intimately associated with androgen receptor (AR) signaling. The emergence of hormone‐refractory prostate cancer and consequent failure of conventional androgen deprivation therapies make it necessary to bypass hormonal resistance by targeting the same signaling pathway at new intervention points. In our study, we showed that cryptotanshinone inhibited the growth of AR‐positive prostate cancer cells, suggesting that cryptotanshinone affected AR function. Cryptotanshinone also profoundly inhibited the transcriptional activity of AR and suppressed the expression of several AR‐target genes at the mRNA and the protein levels. At the molecular level, cryptotanshinone disrupted the interaction between AR and lysine‐specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), and inhibited the complex of AR and LSD1 to the promoter of AR target genes without affecting the protein degradation and translocation of AR. Cryptotanshinone increased the mono‐methyl and di‐methylation of Histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9), a repressive histone marker which is demethylated and activated by LSD1. These data suggest that cryptotanshinone functions via inhibition of LSD1, a protein that promotes AR‐dependent transcriptional activity via derepression of H3K9. In summary, we describe a novel mechanism whereby cryptotanshinone down‐regulates AR signaling via functional inhibition of LSD1‐mediated demethylation of H3K9 and represses the transcriptional activity of AR. Our data suggest that cryptotanshinone can be developed as a potential therapeutic agent for prostate cancer.
Minimally invasive non‐thermal laser technology using laser‐induced optical breakdown for skin rejuvenation
Authors: Habbema Louis , Verhagen Rieko , Van Hal Robbert , Liu Yan , Varghese Babu
Published: November 2011

We describe a novel, minimally invasive laser technology for skin rejuvenation by creating isolated microscopic lesions within tissue below the epidermis using laser induced optical breakdown. Using an in‐house built prototype device, tightly focused near‐infrared laser pulses are used to create optical breakdown in the dermis while leaving the epidermis intact, resulting in lesions due to cavitation and plasma explosion. This stimulates a healing response and consequently skin remodelling, resulting in skin rejuvenation effects. Analysis of ex‐vivo and in‐vivo treated human skin samples successfully demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of the microscopic lesion creation inside the dermis. Treatments led to mild side effects that can be controlled by small optimizations of the optical skin contact and treatment depth within the skin. The histological results from a limited panel test performed on five test volunteers show evidence of microscopic lesion creation and new collagen formation at the sites of the optical breakdown. This potentially introduces a safe, breakthrough treatment procedure for skin rejuvenation without damaging the epidermis with no or little social down‐time and with efficacy comparable to conventional fractional ablative techniques. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
SPINE X: Improving protein secondary structure prediction by multistep learning coupled with prediction of solvent accessible surface area and backbone torsion angles
Authors: Faraggi Eshel , Zhang Tuo , Yang Yuedong , Kurgan Lukasz , Zhou Yaoqi
Published: November 2011

Accurate prediction of protein secondary structure is essential for accurate sequence alignment, three‐dimensional structure modeling, and function prediction. The accuracy of ab initio secondary structure prediction from sequence, however, has only increased from around 77 to 80% over the past decade. Here, we developed a multistep neural‐network algorithm by coupling secondary structure prediction with prediction of solvent accessibility and backbone torsion angles in an iterative manner. Our method called SPINE X was applied to a dataset of 2640 proteins (25% sequence identity cutoff) previously built for the first version of SPINE and achieved a 82.0% accuracy based on 10‐fold cross validation (Q3). Surpassing 81% accuracy by SPINE X is further confirmed by employing an independently built test dataset of 1833 protein chains, a recently built dataset of 1975 proteins and 117 CASP 9 targets (critical assessment of structure prediction techniques) with an accuracy of 81.3%, 82.3% and 81.8%, respectively. The prediction accuracy is further improved to 83.8% for the dataset of 2640 proteins if the DSSP assignment used above is replaced by a more consistent consensus secondary structure assignment method. Comparison to the popular PSIPRED and CASP‐winning structure‐prediction techniques is made. SPINE X predicts number of helices and sheets correctly for 21.0% of 1833 proteins, compared to 17.6% by PSIPRED. It further shows that SPINE X consistently makes more accurate prediction in helical residues (6%) without over prediction while PSIPRED makes more accurate prediction in coil residues (3–5%) and over predicts them by 7%. SPINE X Server and its training/test datasets are available at http://sparks.informatics.iupui.edu/ © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2012
Partial nitrification of sludge reject water using suspended and granular biomass
Authors: López‐Palau S. , Dosta J. , Pericas A. , Mata‐Álvarez J.
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: Partial nitrification–Anammox is a combined promising advanced biological process for the removal of nitrogen from wastewater, which allows important savings in energy consumption, sludge production, and organic carbon. Granular biomass appears to be an interesting alternative to conventional activated sludge, mainly because of its better settling properties. This study deals with the experimental results of a comparison between a conventional and a granular sequencing batch reactor (SBR) for the partial nitrification of reject water.

RESULTS: After some days of operation, 30 days in the conventional SBR (system A) and 100 days in the granular SBR (system B), partial nitrification was achieved. Granular sludge showed much better settling properties than suspended biomass, with values of sludge volumetric index (SVI10) of 130 mL g−1 in system A and 38 mL g−1 in system B. Consequently, the solids concentration within the granular reactor was three times higher than for the conventional system while the concentration of solids in the effluent was 10 times higher in the conventional SBR. Morphology, microstructure and microbial populations in both systems were also studied.

CONCLUSION: A partial nitrification process was successfully achieved in both systems, obtaining an effluent with a NO2−‐N/NH4+‐N ratio near 1, suitable for a following Anammox process. Granular biomass, mostly formed by round particles, showed better settling properties, leading to better sludge–effluent separation as well as higher biomass retention in the reactor. The granulation process does not affect bacterial populations, since they were the same in both systems. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Enhanced lipase production from Aeromonas sp. S1 using Sal deoiled seed cake as novel natural substrate for potential application in dairy wastewater treatment
Authors: Mahdi Bayan A. , Bhattacharya Amrik , Gupta Anshu
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: Sal (Shorea robusta) deoiled seed cake extract (SDOCE) was assessed for its suitability as a cheap natural substrate for lipase production under submerged fermentation. The bacterial isolate Aeromonas sp. S1 isolated from dairy industry was used for lipase production. Both the isolate and its lipase were shown to be potential tools for treatment of dairy wastewater containing higher organic load.

RESULTS: On substituting tributyrin with SDOCE, lipase production was enhanced 24‐fold (195 U mL−1) compared with the initial 8.13 U mL−1 lipase activity. Maximum lipase production was obtained at pH 8.0 and incubation temperature 30 °C. The lipase had pH and temperature optima of 10.0 and 55 °C, respectively. The isolate and its crude enzyme preparation were checked separately for applicability in dairy wastewater treatment. The isolate was able to reduce chemical oxygen demand (COD) by 93%, oil and grease (O&G) by 75%, and total suspended solids (TSS) by 47% after 96 h of treatment. Enzymatic preparation gave 86% reduction of COD after 12 h and 75 and 45% reduction of O&G and TSS, respectively, after 96 h of treatment.

CONCLUSION: Overall, the study shows the usefulness of Sal seed deoiled cake, a cheap agro‐industrial by‐product for the production of lipase. The isolate and its lipase can also be used effectively for the treatment of dairy wastewater. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Lateglacial and early Holocene summer temperatures in the southern Swiss Alps reconstructed using fossil chironomids
Authors: Samartin Stéphanie , Heiri Oliver , Vescovi Elisa , Brooks Stephen J. , Tinner Willy
Published: November 2011

We present a Lateglacial and early Holocene chironomid‐based July air temperature reconstruction from Foppe (1470 m a.s.l.) in the Swiss Southern Alps. Our analysis suggests that chironomid assemblages have responded to major and minor climatic fluctuations during the past 17 000 years, such as the Oldest Dryas, the Younger Dryas and the Bølling/Allerød events in the Lateglacial and the Preboreal Oscillation at the beginning of the Holocene. Quantitative July air temperature estimates were produced by applying a combined Norwegian and Swiss temperature inference model consisting of 274 lakes to the fossil chironomid assemblages. The Foppe record infers average July air temperatures of ca. 9.9 °C during the Oldest Dryas, 12.2 °C during most of the Bølling/Allerød and 11.1 °C for the Younger Dryas. Mean July air temperatures during the Preboreal were 14 °C. Major temperature changes were observed at the Oldest Dryas/Bølling (+2.7 °C), the Allerød/Younger Dryas (−2 °C) and the Younger Dryas/Holocene transitions (+3.9 °C). The temperature reconstruction also shows centennial‐scale coolings of ca. 0.8–1.4 °C, which may be synchronous with the Aegelsee (Greenland Interstadial 1d) and the Preboreal Oscillations. A comparison of our results with other palaeoclimate records suggests noticeable temperature gradients across the Alps during the Lateglacial and early Holocene. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fibre‐rich additives—the effect on staling and their function in free‐standing and pan‐baked bread
Authors: Purhagen Jeanette K , Sjöö Malin E , Eliasson Ann‐Charlotte
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: The use of dietary fibre in bread products is increasing because of consumer demand for healthier products. However, an increase in dietary fibre level changes the rheological properties of the dough and also the quality properties of the final bread product. In this study, effects on dough and bread staling were followed after replacing 3% of wheat flour by fibre‐rich additives (fine durum, oat bran, rye bran and wheat bran). Free‐standing and pan‐baked loaves were baked to compare the influence of baking method and loaf shape.

RESULTS: All additives increased dough stability, with oat bran giving the greatest stability and longest development time. Parameters measured during storage were distribution, migration and loss of water, cutability, crumbliness, firmness and springiness. Furthermore, amylopectin retrogradation and amylase‐lipid complex formation were assessed. Oat bran provided similar or better results than the control for all staling parameters, while other additives gave no general improvements. Cutability reached a plateau when crumb firmness was ≥ 4 N.

CONCLUSION: Small amounts of fibre‐rich additives had a significant influence on staling. However, the baking method (free‐standing or pan‐baked bread) had a greater impact on staling than the additives, thus displaying the importance of the baking method. Cutability was found to be related to firmness. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Development of low‐fat and low‐calorie beef sausage using modified starch as fat replacement agent
Authors: Mohammadi Mehrdad , Oghabi Firouz
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: The effects of modified waxy maize starch (MWMS, 10–32.5 g kg−1) as a replacement for varying levels of oil or both oil and wheat flour (WF) on the chemical and technological characteristics of 60% beef sausages were investigated.

RESULTS: Addition of MWMS increased water‐holding capacity and decreased moisture content and both cooking and purge losses. Incorporation of MWMS improved organoleptic acceptance compared with control sausages.

CONCLUSION: Sausage formula 5 (F5), containing 20 g kg−1 MWMS and 50 g kg−1 WF, was better (P < 0.05) than all other formulae. The total caloric content of the sausages decreased significantly with decreasing fat level (P < 0.05); for example, the decrease in fat content of 57.4% in F5 led to a significant decrease in energy value of 34.9% (P < 0.05). Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Destination Attributes' Evaluation, Satisfaction and Behavioural Intentions: a Structural Modelling Approach
Authors: Eusébio Celeste , Vieira Armando Luís
Published: November 2011

This study aims at developing and testing a model integrating the associations among tourists' evaluation of destinations' attributes, overall satisfaction and behavioural intentions. The analysis is based on 923 observations collected in the Central Region of Portugal, where no investigation of this nature had been conducted before, and compares results regarding domestic versus international tourists. LISREL estimates provided strong support for the model. Some idiosyncrasies specific to each sample were found. This study represents an important contribution to the body of knowledge in the area of tourism destinations' management and marketing and suggests important implications to both practitioners and researchers. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.