bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Rotational Speed and Extraction Time on The Physicochemical Qualities of Klanceng Honey (Trigona sp.)
Authors: Hermawan Rizky , Andriani Ria Dewi , Mustaniroh Siti Asmaul , Umam Al Awwally Khotibul , Yulianingsih Rini , Sabrina Nimas Mayang , Widayanti Vindhya Tri , Saleha Rischa Amalia
Published: January 2024

Klanceng honey is one of the livestock produced by the Trigona sp. Bees cultivated by KTH Telaga Lestari, Ngebel Village, Ponorogo. The quality of klanceng honey needs to be improved through the extraction process to optimize the quality of honey. The research objective is to determine the physical and chemical qualities (pH, acidity, reducing sugar content, water content, and specific gravity). The method used in this research was Completely Randomized Design (CRD) Factorial with two factors, which were rotational speed (30 (A1), 31 (A2), and 32 (A3) Hz) and extraction time (4 (B1), 5 (B2), and 6 (B3) minutes). The tested variables were pH, acidity, reducing sugar content, water content, and specific gravity. The data was analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The results showed that speed rotation had a significant effect (P<0.05) on pH 3.68±0.08, a highly significant effect (P<0.01) on acidity 197.22±21.21, and reducing sugar content 68.46±25.71. In contrast, the rotational speed did not significantly affect water content and specific gravity (P>0.05). The results showed that the extraction time used had a highly significant effect (P<0.01) on acidity 156.67±44.82 and reducing sugar content 62.56±30.09, a significant difference (P<0.05) on water content 27.33±0.50 and extraction time used did not give effect (P>0.05) to pH and specific gravity. In conclusion, the research results showed that the rotational speed of 32 Hz (A3) and the extraction time of 4 minutes (B1) gave the best value for pH, acidity, reducing sugar content, water content, and specific gravity.
The Effect of Vitamin E and Selenium Injections on The Semen Quality of Bangkok Roosters (Gallus domesticus)
Authors: Kholifah Kholifah , Hartati Puji , Pranatasari Dewi
Published: January 2024

This study aims to determine the effect of vitamin E and selenium injections on the semen quality of male Bangkok chickens. The study used 18 male Bangkok chickens aged 1.5 years from April 10, 2023, to May 26, 2023, consisting of 3 treatments of 6 repeats using Complete Randomized Design, P0 (without injection of vitamin E and selenium), P1 (0.6 ml/head), P2 (0.9 ml/head). Chickens are kept in individual cages and given feed for corn, bran, and concentrates. Chickens are injected once every 2 weeks for 6 weeks. Data analysis used Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), descriptive analysis, and Kruskal Wallis Test followed by Duncans Multiple Ring Test and Mann-Whitney test. The result of observing the color of the injection treatment on Bangkok chickens was milky white, the smell was specific with medium thickness. pH, mass movement, and spermatozoa abnormalities were not significantly different in treatments P0, P1, and P2, the volume of semen obtained was significantly different in treatments P0, P1, and P2, the result of the mean sperm concentration in treatments P0 and P1 showed the significantly different result, however, P0 and P2 with P1 and P2 show no significant difference. It was concluded that the injection of vitamin E and selenium 0.6 ml/head had a better effect on volume and concentration than without injection and injection 0.9 ml/head.
Characteristics of Bioplastics with Addition of Beeswax and Glucomannan
Authors: Figaliah Feronika Mei , Manab Abdul , Sawitri Manik Eirry
Published: January 2024

Packaging for cheese products usually uses plastic with a polymer base. Plastic is divided into two types: plastic made from synthetic polymer raw materials (difficult to decompose) and plastic made from natural polymer raw materials. The impact of using plastic with synthetic polymer materials, or what is usually called commercial plastic, will cause a buildup of waste and result in environmental pollution, so a solution for packaging using bioplastic is needed. This research was conducted to determine the characteristics of bioplastics with the addition of beeswax and glucomannan. By examining the variables of thickness, water resistance, water vapor permeability, biodegradability, tensile strength, and elongation, we will analyze the characteristics of bioplastics that have been enhanced with beeswax and glucomannan. The results showed that the addition of beeswax and glucomannan had no significant effect (p > 0.05) on thickness, water vapor permeability, biodegradability, tensile strength, and elongation. However, the addition of beeswax and glucomannan had a significant effect (p > 0.05) on water resistance. The addition of beeswax and glucomannan also increased (p <0.05) the results of water resistance and tensile strength while reducing (p <0.05) the results of thickness, water vapor permeability, biodegradability, and bioplastic elongation. It can be concluded that beeswax and glucomannan are able to provide strong bioplastic characteristics and have protective properties for products with a longer shelf life at room temperature.
Agronomic Characteristics of Red Napier Grass (Pennisetum purpureum cv. Red) under Different Level of Nitrogen Fertilization and Harvest Ages
Authors: Rukmana Novaliana , Aprilia Rizka Muizzu , Kusmartono Kusmartono , Subagiyo Ifar
Published: January 2024

This experiment aimed to find out the morphological characteristics and biomass DM production of Red Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum cv. Red) under different levels of nitrogen fertilization and harvest ages. The grass stem cuttings were planted on polybags. A Completely Randomized Factorial Design (CRFD) was employed comprising 2 treatment factors. The first factor was harvest age of K1: 50 days of age K2: 60 days of age and K3: 70 days of age and the second factor was level of N fertilization comprised P1: no fertilization, P2: 100 kg N /ha/year, P3: 200 kg N/ha/year, P4: 300 kg N/ha/year. The treatments were applied after the grasses were trimmed at 90 days after planting. The variables measured include plant height, number of tillers, leaves-to-stem ratio, and biomass production. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and least significant difference test. It was found that interaction of treatments significantly (P<0.01) affects plant height and biomass DM production. Treatments of age of harvest and level of N fertilization, respectively significantly (P<0.01) affect either number of tillers or leaves-to-stem ratio. It was concluded that K3 and P3 gave the highest value for all variables measured.
Correlation Between Morphometric Traits and Body Weight in Fat-Tailed Sheep
Authors: Arvandi Fajar Dwi , Nugiartiningsih V.M. Ani
Published: January 2024

This study was conducted to determine the correlation between morphometric traits and body weight in fat-tailed sheep. The materials used this study were 80 Fat-Tailed sheep aged 90 days to 2 years. The variables measured were morphometric traits (body weight, body length, and chest circumference) and body weight. The data obtained were analyzed using pearson correlation and regression methods. The result showed that the correlation between morphometric traits and Body Weight (BW) of Fat-Tailed Sheep were as follows: Body Height (BH) = 0.53, Body Length (BL) = 0.55, and Chest Circumference (CC) = 0.71. The results of this study indicate that the regression between morphometric traits and Body Weight (BW) of Fat-Tailed Sheep aged 90 days to 2 years were as follow: BW = - 12.38 + 0.72 BH, BW = -21.35 + 0.88 BL, BW -10.78 + 0.57 CC. The conclusion obtained is that the correlation between morphometric traits and body weight in Fat Tailed Sheep aged 90 days to 2 years, with correlation values ranging from 0.53 to 0.71 indicates a medium to strong correlation coefficient. CC has the highest correlation with BW compared to BH and BL.
Performance of Goat Fed on Basal Feed and Indigofera zollingeriana
Authors: Pudjihastutia Endang , Lomboana Agustinus , Kaunang Charles L.
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to measure the potential and basal feed introduction (corn stover, gliricidia leaves, Panicum maximum) with the addition of Indigofera zollingeriana, which is expected to increase the goat performance. Fifteen goats aged 9-12 months, with an initial weight of ±20 kg were randomly assigned in completely randomized design (CRD) to one of three treatments and five replications. The treatment were P1 = 60% basal feed + 40% Indigofera zollingeriana, P2 = 70% basal feed + 30% Indigofera zollingeriana, P3= 80% basal feed + 20% Indigofera zollingeriana. We assessed the study outcomes as follows: daily weight gain (DWG), dry matter intake (DMI), feed efficiency and physiological responses. Data was statistically analyzed with Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Duncan’s multiple range test. ANOVA test showed that the treatments significantly affected (p<0.05) the DMI, DWG, feed efficiency and respiratory rate. Based on multiple range tests, treatment P1 was significantly different (p<0.05) than treatment P2 and P3. Mean DMI ranged from 265.8 to 380.32 g/head/day, mean DWG ranged from 33.28 to 65.62 g/head/day, mean feed efficiency ranged from 0.12 to 0.17%, mean respiratory rate ranged from 22 to 32 rate per minute. Statistical analysis showed that the treatment did not significantly (p>0.05) affect rectal temperature and heart rate. Mean rectal temperature and heart rate were 38.2-39.8°C and 80-90 beats per minute, respectively. In conclusion, the administration of 60% basal feed (20% corn straw, 20% gamal leaves and 20% Panicum maximum) and 40% Indigofera zollingeriana could improve the goat’s performance.
Comparative evaluation of healing after surgical excision of oral mucosal lesions using PRF and collagen membrane
Authors: Poddar Vishal Kumar , Arora Srimathy S. , Kumari Kusum
Published: January 2024

Objectives The purpose of the comparative study was to evaluate the clinical parameters affecting healing after surgical excision of superficial, potentially malignant oral lesions using Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) and Collagen Membrane. Material and methods: A total of 100 patients requiring treatment for oral mucosal lesions (OML) were enrolled through a randomized selection of two different groups, where Group 1 (50 patients) received PRF while Group 2 (50 patients) received Collagen membrane following excisional biopsy. Parameters checked were Pain, Clinical Healing, Granulation Tissue, Epithelialization, Wound Contracture, and Complications postoperatively at 3rd, 7th and 30th day. Results: Group 1 showed better results with post-operative pain, clinical healing and granulation presence when compared to Group 2. Conclusion: PRF can be ascertained as a better dressing material than Collagen Membrane with better healing potential.
Design and implementation of smart integrated hybrid Solar-Darrieus wind turbine system for in-house power generation
Authors: Alnaimi Firas Basim Ismail , Kazem Hussein A. , Alzakri Ariff Bin , Alatir Abdulaziz Mohammed
Published: January 2024

This paper presents the design and development of an integrated hybrid Solar-Darrieus wind turbine system for renewable power generation. The Darrieus wind turbine's performance is meticulously assessed using the SG6043 airfoil, determined through Q-blade simulation, and validated via comprehensive CFD simulations. The study identifies SG6043 as the optimal airfoil, surpassing alternatives. CFD simulations yield specific coefficients of power (0.2366) and moment (0.0288). The paper also introduces a hybrid prototype, showcasing of 10 W photovoltaic module and improved turbine performance with the SG6043 airfoil. The focus extends to an optimized hybrid PV solar-wind system seamlessly integrated with IoT technology for remote monitoring. Addressing weather challenges, the research suggests blade shape optimizations via Q-blade and an IoT-based solution leveraging the ESP32 Wi-Fi module. Theoretical results project electrical energy generation ranging from 0.88 kW on March 14, 2023, to 0.06 kW on February 20, 2023. Darrieus wind turbines, experiencing increased blade drag, require less lift to operate. Experimental and theoretical results converge well, affirming the model's reasonable assumptions. Beyond advancing renewable energy technologies, this research sets the stage for future investigations aimed at enhancing the efficiency and capabilities of hybrid wind-solar PV systems.
Nerve Tracing in Juvenile Rats: A Feasible Model for the Study of Brachial Plexus Birth Palsy and Cocontractions?
Authors: Jönsson Krister , Hultgren Tomas , Risling Mårten , Sköld Mattias K.
Published: January 2024

Brachial plexus birth injuries cause diminished motor function in the upper extremity. The most common sequel is internal rotation contracture. A number of these patients also suffer from cocontractions, preventing the use of an otherwise good passive range of motion in the shoulder. One theory behind the co-contracture problem is that injured nerve fibers grow into distal support tissue not corresponding to the proximal support tissue, resulting in reinnervation of the wrong muscle groups. To further elucidate this hypothesis, we used rat neonates to investigate a possible model for the study of cocontractions in brachial plexus birth injuries. Five-day-old rats were subjected to a crush injury to the C5–C6 roots. After a healing period of 4 weeks, the infraspinatus muscle was injected with Fluoro-Gold. A week later, the animals were perfused and spinal cords harvested and sectioned. Differences in the uptake of Fluoro-Gold and NeuN positive cells of between sides of the spinal cord were recorded. We found a larger amount of Fluoro-Gold positive cells on the uninjured side, while the injured side had positive cells dispersed over a longer area in the craniocaudal direction. Our findings indicate that the method can be used to trace Fluoro-Gold from muscle through a neuroma. Our results also indicate that a neuroma in continuity somewhat prevents the correct connection from being established between the motor neuron pool in the spinal cord and target muscle and that some neurons succumb to a crushing injury. We also present future research ideas.
Cascaded four-wave mixing in liquid-core optical fibers
Authors: Junaid Saher , Hofmann Johannes , Chemnitz Mario , Blothe Markus , Setzpfandt Frank , Nolte Stefan , Schmidt Markus A.
Published: January 2024

Ultrafast nonlinear interactions in optical fibers are commonly employed for generating light with tailored properties, with four-wave mixing (FWM) being a widely used mechanism. Existing systems mainly rely on fibers with solid glass cores, facing limitations due to a lack of tunability and susceptibility to noise. Here, fibers with fluidic cores emerge as a promising alternative for efficient FWM, offering novel functionalities and expanded parameter ranges. In this study, we investigate single and cascaded FWM in liquid-core fibers regarding spectral tunability and interplay with the Raman effect. The study relies on binary liquids used as core materials in combination with ultrashort ps-pulses and seeding. Strong side bands were observed whose spectral position could be adjusted by the liquid composition and the seed wavelength. Seeding additionally leads to higher-order side bands, which we assign to cascaded FWM. Furthermore, we explore the interaction between FWM and stimulated Raman scattering by adjusting the FWM peaks to overlap or deviate from the Raman bands through variations of the core liquid and the seed wavelength. The presented results shed light on the unique characteristics of the liquid-core fiber platform in the context of parametric nonlinear interactions, particularly regarding tunability and interaction with Raman scattering. These findings offer new possibilities for the development of light sources capable of Raman-free photon pair generation for quantum technology or for creating tunable narrowband spectra for imaging applications in life sciences.
Broadband noise-insulating periodic structures made of coupled Helmholtz resonators
Authors: Krasikova Mariia , Pavliuk Aleksandra , Krasikov Sergey , Kuzmin Mikhail , Lutovinov Andrey , Melnikov Anton , Baloshin Yuri , Powell David A. , Marburg Steffen , Bogdanov Andrey
Published: January 2024

Acoustic metamaterials and phononic crystals represent a promising platform for the development of noise-insulating systems characterized by a low weight and small thickness. Nevertheless, the operational spectral range of these structures is usually quite narrow, limiting their application as substitutions of conventional noise-insulating systems. In this work, the problem is tackled by demonstration of several ways for the improvement of noise-insulating properties of the periodic structures based on coupled Helmholtz resonators. It is shown that tuning of local coupling between the resonators leads to the formation of a broad stopband covering ∼3.5 octaves (200–2100 Hz) in the transmission spectra. This property is linked to band structures of the equivalent infinitely periodic systems and is discussed in terms of bandgap engineering. The local coupling strength is varied via several means, including introduction of chirped structures and lossy resonators with porous inserts. The stopband engineering procedure is supported by genetic algorithm optimization, and the numerical calculations are verified by experimental measurements.
Nature of the metallic and in-gap states in Ni-doped SrTiO3
Authors: Alarab Fatima , Hricovini Karol , Leikert Berengar , Richter Christine , Schmitt Thorsten , Sing Michael , Claessen Ralph , Minár Ján , Strocov Vladimir N.
Published: January 2024

Epitaxial thin films of SrTiO3(100) doped with 6% and 12% Ni are studied with resonant angle-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy at the Ti and Ni L2,3-edges. We find that the Ni doping shifts the valence band of n-doped pristine SrTiO3 toward the Fermi level (in the direction of p-doping) and reducing the bandgap. In the Ti t2g-derived mobile electron system (MES), the Ni doping depopulates the out-of-plane dxz/yz-derived bands, transforming the MES to two-dimensional and progressively reduces the electron density embedded in the in-plane dxy-derived bands as reflected in their Fermi momentum. Furthermore, the Ti and Ni L2,3-edge resonant photoemission is used to identify the Ni 3d impurity state in the vicinity of the valence-band maximum and decipher the full spectrum of the in-gap states originating from the Ni atoms, Ti atoms, and from their hybridized orbitals. Our experimental information about the dependence of the valence bands, MES, and in-gap states in Ni-doped SrTiO3 may help the development of this material toward its device applications associated with the reduced optical bandgap.
Boosting phonon transport across AlN/SiC interface by fast annealing amorphous layers
Authors: Tian Shuang , Wu Tianheng , Hu Shiqian , Ma Dengke , Zhang Lifa
Published: January 2024

The high increase in interface density has become the main bottleneck for heat dissipation in gallium nitride/aluminum nitride (AlN)/silicon carbide (SiC) based nanodevices. In this paper, the interfacial thermal conductance (ITC) of AlN/SiC interface is investigated by non-equilibrium molecular dynamics simulation. It is found that introducing amorphous layers at AlN/SiC interface will result in an enhancement of its ITC by 2.32 times. Three different amorphous layers are investigated and can be achieved by fast thermal annealing. Among them, the amorphous SiC layers work best, and the amorphous AlN layers work worst. Further spectral analysis reveals that the enhancement of ITC comes from the strengthening of interfacial inelastic phonon processes, which boosts the transport of modes at a wide frequency range. What is more, as the thickness of amorphous layers increases, the enhancement of ITC weakens. This research provides a highly operational strategy to enhance ITC and enriches our understanding of inelastic phonon process at interface.
A new analytical method for modeling a 2D electrostatic potential in MOS devices, applicable to compact modeling
Authors: Lime F. , Iñiguez B. , Kloes A.
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a new conformal mapping method to solve 2D Laplace and Poisson equations in MOS devices. More specifically, it consists of an analytical solution of the 2D Laplace equation in a rectangular domain with Dirichlet boundary conditions, with arbitrary values on the boundaries. The advantages of the new method are that all four edges of the rectangle are taken into account and the solution consists of closed-form analytical expressions, which make it fast and suitable for compact modeling. The new model was validated against other similar methods. It was found that the new model is much faster, easier to implement, and avoids many numerical issues, especially near the boundaries, at the cost of a very small loss in accuracy.
Comparative transcript abundance of gibberellin oxidases genes in two barley (Hordeum vulgare) genotypes with contrasting lodging resistance under different regimes of water deficit
Authors: Liaqat Shoaib , Ali Zulfiqar , Saddique Muhammad Abu Bakar , Ikram Rao Muhammad , Ali Imtiaz
Published: January 2024

Barley (Hordeum vulgare) is the world’s fourth most important cereal crop, and is particularly well adapted to harsh environments. However, lodging is a major productivity constraint causing 13–65% yield losses. Gibberellic acid (GA) homeostatic genes such as HvGA20ox, HvGA3ox and HvGA2ox are responsible for changes in plant phenotype for height and internodal length that contribute towards lodging resistance. This study explored the expression of different HvGAox transcripts in two contrasting barley genotypes (5-GSBON-18, lodging resistant; and 5-GSBON-70, lodging sensitive), which were sown both under controlled (hydroponic, completely randomised factorial design) and field conditions (split-plot, completely randomised block design) with two irrigation treatments (normal with three irrigation events; and water deficit with one irrigation event). In the hydroponic experiment, expression analysis was performed on seedlings at 0, ¾, 1½, 3 and 6 h after application of treatment. In the field experiment, leaf, shoot nodes and internodes were sampled. Downregulation of HvGA20ox.1 transcript and 2-fold upregulation of HvGA2ox.2 transcript were observed in 5-GSBON-18 under water deficit conditions. This genotype also showed a significant reduction in plant height (18–20%), lodging (<10%), and increased grain yield (15–18%) under stress. Utilisation of these transcripts in barley breeding has the potential to reduce plant height, lodging and increased grain yield.
Cell-intrinsic C5a synergizes with Dectin-1 in macrophages to mediate fungal killing
Authors: Li Xaria X. , Fung Jenny N. , Clark Richard J. , Lee John D. , Woodruff Trent M.
Published: January 2024

The complement factor C5a is a core effector product of complement activation. C5a, acting through its receptors C5aR1 and C5aR2, exerts pleiotropic immunomodulatory functions in myeloid cells, which is vital for host defense against pathogens. Pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) are similarly expressed by immune cells as detectors of pathogen-associated molecular patterns. Although there is evidence of cross talk between complement and PRR signaling pathways, knowledge of the full potential for C5a–PRR interaction is limited. In this study, we comprehensively investigated how C5a signaling through C5a receptors can modulate diverse PRR-mediated cytokine responses in human primary monocyte-derived macrophages and observed a powerful, concentration-dependent bidirectional effect of C5a on PRR activities. Unexpectedly, C5a synergized with Dectin-1, Mincle, and STING in macrophages to a much greater extent than TLRs. Notably, we also identified that selective Dectin-1 activation using depleted zymosan triggered macrophages to generate cell-intrinsic C5a, which acted on intracellular and cell surface C5aR1, to help sustain mitochondrial ROS generation, up-regulate TNFα production, and enhance fungal killing. This study adds further evidence to the holistic functions of C5a as a central immunomodulator and important orchestrator of pathogen sensing and killing by phagocytes.
Electrolyte design combining fluoro- with cyano-substitution solvents for anode-free Li metal batteries
Authors: Mao Minglei , Gong Lei , Wang Xiaobo , Wang Qiyu , Zhang Guoqun , Wang Haoxiang , Xie Wei , Suo Liumin , Wang Chengliang
Published: January 2024

Fluoro-substitution solvents have achieved great success in electrolyte engineering for high-energy lithium metal batteries, which, however, is beset by low solvating power, thermal and chemical instability, and possible battery swelling. Instead, we herein introduce cyanogen as the electron-withdrawing group to enhance the oxidative stability of ether solvents, in which cyanogen and ether oxygen form the chelating structure with Li
+
not notably undermining the solvating power. Cyano-group strongly bonds with transition metals (TMs) of NCM811 cathode to attenuate the catalytic reactivity of TMs toward bulk electrolytes. Besides, a stable and uniform cathode–electrolyte interphase (CEI) inhibits the violent oxidation decomposition of electrolytes and guarantees the structural integrity of the NCM811 cathode. Also, a N-containing and LiF-rich solid–electrolyte interphase (SEI) in our electrolyte facilitates fast Li
+
migration and dense Li deposition. Accordingly, our electrolyte enables a stable cycle of Li metal anode with Coulombic efficiency of 98.4% within 100 cycles. 81.8% capacity of 4.3 V NCM811 cathode remains after 200 cycles. Anode-free pouch cells with a capacity of 125 mAh maintain 76% capacity after 100 cycles, corresponding to an energy density of 397.5 Wh kg
-1
.
Synonymous edits in the
Escherichia coli
genome have substantial and condition-dependent effects on fitness
Authors: Yang Dong-Dong , Rusch Leo M. , Widney Karl A. , Morgenthaler Andrew B. , Copley Shelley D.
Published: January 2024

CRISPR-Cas-based genome editing is widely used in bacteria at scales ranging from construction of individual mutants to massively parallel libraries. This procedure relies on guide RNA-directed cleavage of the genome followed by repair with a template that introduces a desired mutation along with synonymous “immunizing” mutations to prevent re-cleavage of the genome after editing. Because the immunizing mutations do not change the protein sequence, they are often assumed to be neutral. However, synonymous mutations can change mRNA structures in ways that alter levels of the encoded proteins. We have tested the assumption that immunizing mutations are neutral by constructing a library of over 50,000 edits that consist of only synonymous mutations in
Escherichia coli
. Thousands of edits had substantial effects on fitness during growth of
E. coli
on acetate, a poor carbon source that is toxic at high concentrations. The percentage of high-impact edits varied considerably between genes and at different positions within genes. We reconstructed clones with high-impact edits and found that 69% indeed had significant effects on growth in acetate. Interestingly, fewer edits affected fitness during growth in glucose, a preferred carbon source, suggesting that changes in protein expression caused by synonymous mutations may be most important when an organism encounters challenging conditions. Finally, we showed that synonymous edits can have widespread effects; a synonymous edit at the 5′ end of
ptsI
altered expression of hundreds of genes. Our results suggest that the synonymous immunizing edits introduced during CRISPR-Cas-based genome editing should not be assumed to be innocuous.
A spatiotemporal molecular atlas of the ovulating mouse ovary
Authors: Mantri Madhav , Zhang Hanxue Hannah , Spanos Emmanuel , Ren Yi A. , De Vlaminck Iwijn
Published: January 2024

Ovulation is essential for reproductive success, yet the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms are far from clear. Here, we applied high-resolution spatiotemporal transcriptomics to map out cell type– and ovulation stage–specific molecular programs as function of time during follicle maturation and ovulation in mice. Our analysis revealed dynamic molecular transitions within granulosa cell types that occur in tight coordination with mesenchymal cell proliferation. We identified molecular markers for the emerging cumulus cell fate during the preantral-to-antral transition. We describe transcriptional programs that respond rapidly to ovulation stimulation and those associated with follicle rupture, highlighting the prominent roles of apoptotic and metabolic pathways during the final stages of follicle maturation. We further report stage-specific oocyte–cumulus cell interactions and diverging molecular differentiation in follicles approaching ovulation. Collectively, this study provides insights into the cellular and molecular processes that regulate mouse ovarian follicle maturation and ovulation with important implications for advancing therapeutic strategies in reproductive medicine.
Identification of KU-55933 as an anti-atherosclerosis compound by using a hemodynamic-based high-throughput drug screening platform
Authors: Wei Shu-Yi , Fu Wei-Shan , Liu Chang-Hsuan , Wang Wei-Li , Shih Yu-Tsung , Chien Shu , Chiu Jeng-Jiann
Published: January 2024

Several compounds have been used for atherosclerosis treatment, including clinical trials; however, no anti-atherosclerotic drugs based on hemodynamic force-mediated atherogenesis have been discovered. Our previous studies demonstrated that “small mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 1/5” (Smad1/5) is a convergent signaling molecule for chemical [e.g., bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs)] and mechanical (e.g., disturbed flow) stimulations and hence may serve as a promising hemodynamic-based target for anti-atherosclerosis drug development. The goal of this study was to develop a high-throughput screening (HTS) platform to identify potential compounds that can inhibit disturbed flow- and BMP-induced Smad1/5 activation and atherosclerosis. Through HTS using a Smad1/5 downstream target inhibitor of DNA binding 1 (
Id-1
) as a luciferase reporter, we demonstrated that KU-55933 and Apicidin suppressed
Id-1
expression in AD-293 cells. KU-55933 (10 μM), Apicidin (10 μM), and the combination of half doses of each [1/2(K + A)] inhibited disturbed flow- and BMP4-induced Smad1/5 activation in human vascular endothelial cells (ECs). KU-55933, Apicidin, and 1/2(K + A) treatments caused 50.6%, 47.4%, and 73.3% inhibitions of EC proliferation induced by disturbed flow, respectively, whereas EC inflammation was only suppressed by KU-55933 and 1/2(K + A), but not Apicidin alone. Administrations of KU-55933 and 1/2(K + A) to apolipoprotein E-deficient mice inhibited Smad1/5 activation in ECs in athero-susceptible regions, thereby suppressing endothelial proliferation and inflammation, with the attenuation of atherosclerotic lesions in these mice. A unique drug screening platform has been developed to demonstrate that KU-55933 and its combination with Apicidin are promising therapeutic compounds for atherosclerosis based on hemodynamic considerations.
Examining political influence on language
Authors: Ivašković Igor
Published: January 2024

This article discusses the problem of evaluating socio-political interventions in language at the case of Croatian. From a theoretical point of view, definitions of such interventions, often called purism, are first analyzed and placed in the context of the ‘one standard axiom’ thesis. To determine why only some historical periods of intervention are labeled as purist, a brief comparative overview is provided of conflicting perspectives on interventions in the Croatian language made between 1918 and 1990. The author argues that partial historical analyses will always find that a particular regime pursued a policy of purism. Moreover, proponents of the Yugoslav period as normal adhere to the thesis of the existence of the ‘One Standard Bosnian, Croatian, Montenegrin, and Serbian Axiom,’ while their counterparts argue for the distinctiveness of the Croatian language from related South Slavic languages.
(Im)possible change
Authors: Soler Josep , Erdocia Iker , Savski Kristof
Published: January 2024

This article examines three sets of infrastructures that give shape to the academic knowledge economy, namely:
institutional infrastructures (universities and conferences); gate-keeping infrastructures (journals and publishers); and
validation infrastructures (competitive assessments of individuals and institutions). We analyse the tensed interplay between
critical perspectives in applied linguistics and the influence of academic neoliberalism. We develop our argument in three parts:
(1) Academic critique and its emancipatory epistemologies are intertwined with established systems and coexist with mechanisms
that perpetuate inequalities. (2) Inequalities in knowledge production reverberate in knowledge dissemination, where the hegemonic
role of English as the language of academic publishing reinforces the unequal position of different actors in their academic
fields. (3) These inequalities (that originate in institutional and gate-keeping infrastructures) extend to the validation of
knowledge, which is entrenched in the audit culture that pervades academia and further reinforces neoliberal competitive dynamics.
We conclude by reflecting on the possibilities for change at these three levels.
Singling out
Authors: Rasmussen Gitte
Published: January 2024

This EMCA (Ethnomethodology and Conversation Analysis) study concerns carers’ multimodal methods for including
residents living with dementia in social activities in remote locations. It illustrates how groups of residents are pre-arranged
and how the residents are subsequently singled out one by one through requests to come along. Though the request may be the second
one, it may be designed as a first request. Subsequently, carers employ multimodal methods to solicit moving and to escort the
singled-out residents.

The paper concludes that carers’ methods are employed with a view to difficulties resulting from dementia and to
pre-empt confusion in the residents. However, the methods may lead to exclusion. Except for one instance, this is not
problematized by the residents. The paper argues that some residents may understand they will be included next or in a while. For
other residents, forthcoming activities are not relevant unless extra efforts are made to reintroduce their relevance to them.
Maternal protein restriction and fetal growth: lack of evidence of a role for homocysteine in fetal programming
Authors: Langley-Evans Simon C. , Lilley Christina , McMullen Sarah
Published: January 2024

The disease-programming effects of a maternal low-protein (MLP) diet in rat pregnancy have been suggested to be attributable of hyperhomocysteinaemia. The aim of the present study was to determine whether MLP feeding impacted upon maternal and day 20 fetal homocysteine concentrations, with ensuing effects upon oxidan/ntioxidant status. Sixty-four pregnant rats were fed either MLP diet or control diet before termination of pregnancy at days 4, 10, 18 or 20 gestation (full-term gestation 22d). Maternal plasma homocysteine concentrations were similar in control and MLP-fed dams at all points in gestation. Fetal plasma homocysteine was similarly unaffected by MLP feeding at day 20 gestation. Activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were similar in livers of mothers and fetuses in the two groups. Whilst catalase activity was not influenced by diet in maternal liver, MLP exposure increased catalase activity in fetal liver at day 20. Oxidative injury (protein carbonyl concentration) was lower in the livers of MLP-fed animals at day 18 gestation (P<0·05), but significantly greater at day 20. Hepatic expression of methionine synthase was similar in control and MLP-fed dams at all stages of gestation. Expression of DNA methyltransferase 1 in fetal liver was altered by maternal diet in a sex- and gestational age-specific manner. In conclusion, MLP feeding does not impact upon maternal or fetal homocysteine concentrations prior to day 20 gestation in the rat. There was no evidence of increased oxidative injury in fetal tissue that might explain the long-term programming effects of the diet.
High phosphorus intakes acutely and negatively affect Ca and bone metabolism in a dose-dependent manner in healthy young females
Authors: Kemi Virpi E. , Kärkkäinen Merja U. M. , Lamberg-Allardt Christel J. E.
Published: January 2024

Ca and P are both essential nutrients for bone and are known to affect one of the most important regulators of bone metabolism, parathyroid hormone (PTH). Too ample a P intake, typical of Western diets, could be deleterious to bone through the increased PTH secretion. Few controlled dose–response studies are available on the effects of high P intake in man. We studied the short-term effects of four P doses on Ca and bone metabolism in fourteen healthy women, 20–28 years of age, who were randomized to four controlled study days; thus each study subject served as her own control. P supplement doses of 0 (placebo), 250, 750 or 1500mg were taken, divided into three doses during the study day. The meals served were exactly the same during each study day and provided 495mg P and 250mg Ca. The P doses affected the serum PTH (S-PTH) in a dose-dependent manner (P=0·0005). There was a decrease in serum ionized Ca concentration only in the highest P dose (P=0·004). The marker of bone formation, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, decreased (P=0·05) and the bone resorption marker, N-terminal telopeptide of collagen type I, increased in response to the P doses (P=0·05). This controlled dose–response study showed that P has a dose-dependent effect on S-PTH and increases PTH secretion significantly when Ca intake is low. Acutely high P intake adversely affects bone metabolism by decreasing bone formation and increasing bone resorption, as indicated by the bone metabolism markers.
Butyrate production from oligofructose fermentation by the human faecal flora: what is the contribution of extracellular acetate and lactate?
Authors: Morrison Douglas J. , Mackay William G. , Edwards Christine A. , Preston Tom , Dodson Brian , Weaver Lawrence T.
Published: January 2024

Butyrate is an important substrate for maintenance of colonic health and oligofructose fermentation by human faecal bacteria can increase butyrate production in vitro. However, oligofructose appears to be fermented by mainly acetate and lactate-producing bacteria rather than butyrate-producing bacteria. Isotope labelling studies using [U-13C6]glucose were used to show that 13C2 and 13C4 were the major labelled butyrate species produced from glucose fermentation, via [13C2]acetate–acetyl CoA as intermediate. Bacterial interconversion reactions were quantified and acetate conversion to butyrate and lactate conversion to acetate, propionate and butyrate were observed. Addition of oligofructose to faecal batch cultures significantly increased butyrate production. Of the newly synthesised butyrate from oligofructose fermentation, 80% was derived from interconversion of extracellular acetate and lactate, with acetate being quantitatively more significant. Carbohydrates, such as oligofructose, have prebiotic properties. In addition, oligofructose selectively stimulates the bacterial conversion of acetate and lactate to butyrate. Carbohydrates with similar properties represent a refinement of the prebiotic definition, termed butyrogenic prebiotics, because of their additional functionality.
Dietary soya protein intake and exercise training have an additive effect on skeletal muscle fatty acid oxidation enzyme activities and mRNA levels in rats
Authors: Morifuji Masashi , Sanbongi Chiaki , Sugiura Katsumi
Published: January 2024

Exercise training and regular physical activity increase oxidation of fat. Enhanced oxidation of fat is important for preventing lifestyle diseases such as hypertension and obesity. The aim of the present study in rats was to determine whether intake of dietary soya protein and exercise training have an additive effect on the activity and mRNA expression of enzymes involved in skeletal muscle fatty acid oxidation. Male Sprague–Dawley rats (n 32) were assigned randomly into four groups (eight rats per group) and then divided further into sedentary or exercise-trained groups fed either casein or soya protein diets. Rats in the exercise groups were trained for 2 weeks by swimming for 120mi/, 6/eek. Exercise training decreased hepatic triacylglycerol levels and retroperitoneal adipose tissue weight and increased skeletal muscle carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1) activity and mRNA expression of CPT1, β-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (HAD), acyl-CoA oxidase, PPARγ coactivator 1α (PGC1α) and PPARα. Soya protein significantly decreased hepatic triacylglycerol levels and epididymal adipose tissue weight and increased skeletal muscle CPT1 activity and CPT1, HAD, acyl-CoA oxidase, medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, PGC1α and PPARα mRNA levels. Furthermore, skeletal muscle HAD activity was the highest in exercise-trained rats fed soya protein. We conclude that exercise training and soya protein intake have an important additive role on induction of PPAR pathways, leading to increased activity and mRNA expression of enzymes involved in fatty acid oxidation in skeletal muscle and reduced accumulation of body fat.
Sub-membrane actin rings compartmentalize the plasma membrane
Authors: Rentsch Jakob , Bandstra Selle , Sezen Batuhan , Sigrist Philipp , Bottanelli Francesca , Schmerl Bettina , Shoichet Sarah , Noé Frank , Sadeghi Mohsen , Ewers Helge
Published: January 2024

The compartmentalization of the plasma membrane (PM) is a fundamental feature of cells. The diffusivity of membrane proteins is significantly lower in biological than in artificial membranes. This is likely due to actin filaments, but assays to prove a direct dependence remain elusive. We recently showed that periodic actin rings in the neuronal axon initial segment (AIS) confine membrane protein motion between them. Still, the local enrichment of ion channels offers an alternative explanation. Here we show, using computational modeling, that in contrast to actin rings, ion channels in the AIS cannot mediate confinement. Furthermore, we show, employing a combinatorial approach of single particle tracking and super-resolution microscopy, that actin rings are close to the PM and that they confine membrane proteins in several neuronal cell types. Finally, we show that actin disruption leads to loss of compartmentalization. Taken together, we here develop a system for the investigation of membrane compartmentalization and show that actin rings compartmentalize the PM.
Anatomy of parameter-estimation biases in overlapping gravitational-wave signals
Authors: Wang Ziming , Liang Dicong , Zhao Junjie , Liu Chang , Shao Lijing
Published: January 2024

In future gravitational-wave (GW) detections, a large number of overlapping GW signals will appear in the data stream of detectors. When extracting information from one signal, the presence of other signals can cause large parameter estimation biases. Using the Fisher matrix (FM), we develop a bias analysis procedure to investigate how each parameter of other signals affects the inference biases. Taking two-signal overlapping as an example, we show detailedly and quantitatively that the biases essentially originate from the overlapping of the frequency evolution. Furthermore, we find that the behaviors of the correlation coefficients between the parameters of the two signals are similar to the biases. Both of them can be used as characterization of the influence between signals. We also corroborate the bias results of the FM method with full Bayesian analysis. Our results can provide guidance for the development of new parameter estimation algorithms on overlapping signals, and the analysis methodology has the potential to generalize.
(Regular) Black holes in conformal Killing gravity coupled to nonlinear electrodynamics and scalar fields
Authors: Junior José Tarciso S S , Lobo Francisco S N , Rodrigues Manuel E
Published: January 2024

In this work, we explore new solutions with static and spherical symmetry in 4D for black holes and regular black holes in the recently proposed conformal Killing gravity (CKG). This theory is of third order in the derivatives of the metric tensor and essentially satisfies three theoretical criteria for gravitational theories beyond general relativity (GR). The criteria essentially stipulate the following, that one should: (i) obtain the cosmological constant as an integration constant; (ii) derive the energy conservation law as a consequence of the field equations, rather than assuming it; (iii) and not necessarily consider conformally flat metrics as vacuum solutions. In fact, existing modified theories of gravity, including GR, do not simultaneously fulfil all of these three criteria. Here, we couple CKG to nonlinear electrodynamics (NLED) and scalar fields, and we explore solutions of black holes and regular black holes. More specifically, by solving the field equations of CKG, we find specific forms for the NLED Lagrangian, the scalar field and the field potential, and analyse the regularity of the solutions through the Kretschmann scalar. We find generalizations of the Schwarschild–Reissner-Nordström–AdS solutions, and consequently further extend the class of (regular) black hole solutions found in the literature.
Low-temperature plasma jet treatment generates reactive oxygen species in solution that leads to peptide oxidation and protein aggregation
Authors: Begley Alina , Oganesyan Irina , Mrđenović Dušan , Smok Izabela , Leitner Alexander , Zenobi Renato
Published: January 2024

Low-temperature plasma (LTP) jets are Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medical devices to remove cancerous tissue and aid in wound healing. However, reports on their reaction with proteins are conflicting, ranging from fragmentation, oxidation, aggregation, or a combination thereof. In this study we bridge the gap between plasma-treatment of short peptides to proteins at physiologically relevant concentrations. The LTP in this study is based on a helium dielectric barrier discharge that forms a plasma-jet, which is directed at the solution without direct contact with the plasma, and results in the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) OH• and O2•− in solution. The longer the solution is treated, the more solution-phase ROS form. Treating peptide- and protein-containing solutions leads to extensive oxidation. The ROS led to the same oxidative modifications for peptide M with increasing chain length (9, 18, 37, 76 amino acids), which could be identified with high-resolution mass spectrometry. Oxidized species M + xO led to conformational changes such as compaction and elongation, while the unmodified peptide M remained unaltered, as found by ion mobility spectrometry and size exclusion chromatography. For proteins at high concentration, insoluble aggregates formed and could be identified by UV/V is light scattering and atomic force microscopy. The formation of aggregates is dependent on the amino acid chain length, the peptide concentration, and the time for aggregate formation. These findings highlight the importance of both peptide chain length and concentration in determining the fate of peptides following the exposure to LTP, while also offering valuable insights for the field of plasma medicine.