bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
”Being among the stars”: Et feministisk-posthumanistisk perspektiv på det multiplanetære menneske
Authors: Nørkjær Bang Anne , Halmø Kroløkke Charlotte
Published: November 2024

I en tid hvor rumudforskning i stigende grad bliver underlagt kommercielle logikker, alt imens konsekvenserne af ekstraktiv kapitalisme på Jordens økosystemer bliver stadig mere tydelige, er det nødvendigt, at feministisk forskning også bidrager til samtalen om vores relationer til de mere-end-menneskelige verdener ”out there”, som nu af nye, private rumfartsvirksomheder bliver iscenesat som en lovende ny ”frontier”. Med den erkendelse som udgangspunkt, søger vi i denne artikel at udvikle et feministisk-posthumanistisk perspektiv på den SpaceX-drevne mission om at gøre mennesket til en multiplanetær art gennem Mars-kolonisering. I artiklen undersøger vi, hvordan mennesket forestilles som multiplanetær art gennem SpaceX’ formidling af dets Mars program og argumenterer for, at det multiplanetære menneske forestilles ud af tre overordnede linjer: 1) Multiplanetaritet som risikohåndtering  2) multiplanetaritet som ”livets gave” og 3) multiplanetaritet som en del af et attraktivt menneskeligt liv i ikke bare den globale, men også galaktiske elite – en idé, der i disse fremstillinger har umiddelbare effekter på det jordiske liv gennem sin affektive kraftfuldhed og evne til at cirkulere optimisme, produktivitet og håb for en fremtid som måske – måske aldrig – materialiserer sig. På den måde viser vores studie, at SpaceX’ forestillinger om multiplanetaritet bygger på opretholdelsen og mobiliseringen af naturkulturelle skillelinjer og animacitetshierarkier gennem antropocentriske, biopolitiske og imperialistiske tænkemåder: Mulitplaneratitet opstår som en redningskrans – ikke så meget for faktiske mennesker, der er truet af klimakatastrofe, men for en særlig måde at leve på, rodfæstet i vestlig forbrugskultur.
The Other Greta Effect (OGE)
Authors: Coughlin Jenna , Morera Quesada Ana Paulina
Published: November 2024

Since Greta Thunberg’s rise to international prominence as a youth climate activist, other youth activists have been identified in mass media as the ‘Greta Thunberg’ of their respective nations or regions. Through an analysis informed by decolonial approaches to global media studies and climate change and scholarship on climate justice, this article finds that this discursive phenomenon, termed the ‘Other Great Effect’ (OGE), constructs Greta Thunberg as a global icon whose identity and approach establish a normative framework for youth climate activism. The OGE supports a universalizing narrative that legitimates the global North as leaders on climate change policy and downplays the different contexts, experiences, and identities represented within youth activism. Through case studies of four young activists who have been subjected to the Other Greta Effect, we find that the OGE paradoxically contributes to these activists’ illegibility while also providing opportunities to call for a more diverse climate movement. Finally, we present the Global Youth Activists Map as an alternative visualization that advances a more intersectional approach to climate justice.
Evaluation of intraventricular lesions of the CNS by MRI: A pictorial review
Authors: Lynser Donboklang , Phukan Pranjal , Daniala Chhunthang , Kakati Arindom , Singh Binoy Kumar , Raphael Vandana , Marbaniang Evarisalin , Khonglah Yookarin
Published: November 2024

While magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings on T1 weighted (T1W), T2 weighted (T2W), T2 fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), gradient echo (GRE), and contrast enhancement play an important role in the diagnosis and characterization of intraventricular lesions, conventional MRI imaging still plays an important role in diagnosis with the advantage of reduced scan times and scope for increased daily cases. Advanced techniques, such as perfusion imaging, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and functional MRI (fMRI) have been added for further characterization on a routine basis in some centers. The objective of our pictorial review is to present typical conventional MRI findings for diagnosis and characterization of intraventricular lesions.
Direitos indígenas Yanomami e meio ambiente: por uma proteção integrada no STF e no sistema interamericano
Authors: Vasconcelos Luciana Barreira de , Pompeu Gina Vidal Marcílio
Published: November 2024

Apesar das conquistas de direitos indígenas, tanto no âmbito dos tratados internacionais quanto da Constituição Federal de 1988, vivencia-se no Brasil um panorama de violações a essas garantias diante do avanço da mineração ilegal na Floresta Amazônica. O contato forçado com garimpeiros, bem como a degradação ambiental decorrente da atividade, causam danos à saúde e ao modo de vida dos povos indígenas, dentre os quais os Yanomami. Por meio da ADPF nº 709 – DF, a Articulação dos Povos Indígenas do Brasil busca obter do Supremo Tribunal Federal tutela capaz de assegurar proteção às comunidades invadidas. Este artigo objetiva identificar perspectivas para efetivar os direitos desses povos a partir do reconhecimento de sua interconexão com a natureza, com base na aplicação sistêmica e integrada dos artigos 225 e 231 da CF/88. Para tanto, examina-se, à luz do paradigma da interculturalidade, decisão em que o STF deferiu parcialmente Medida Cautelar no âmbito da referida ADPF. Quanto à metodologia, a pesquisa foi realizada com abordagem qualitativa, mediante exame bibliográfico e documental. Sua relevância reside em oferecer contribuição acadêmica consistente na proposição de soluções jurídicas, nas esferas nacional e interamericana, para o resguardo dos direitos dos Yanomami ameaçados pelo garimpo ilegal em suas terras.
Posacuerdo en Colombia, una alternativa para el desarrollo económico
Authors: Grueso José Rosario , Mendieta David
Published: November 2024

Los acuerdos de paz son una herramienta esencial para terminar con los conflictos armados y promover el desarrollo económico. La presente investigación realiza un análisis de cómo el Posacuerdo en Colombia, se convierte en alternativa para el desarrollo económico, con mayores beneficios económicos en departamentos que de forma histórica y geográfica han padecido las secuelas de la guerra. La metodología usada es de carácter analito descriptivo y la principal conclusión encontrada es que, a partir de la firma del Acuerdo Final de paz en Colombia, actividades económicas como el turismo y la agricultura se han visto beneficiadas. El apoyo del Estado a través del aumento de regalías y de la empresa privada con la generación de nuevos puestos de trabajo a víctimas y excombatientes se está buscando mejorar las condiciones sociales de la población en las ZOMAC (zonas más afectadas por el conflicto). Sin embargo, es perentorio que el gobierno nacional continúe en el fortalecimiento de la paz en Colombia como factor esencial para el progreso económico, social y político.
Gestão dos riscos climáticos, papel do setor securitário brasileiro
Authors: Jacobi Kölling Gabrielle , Araújo Clayton Vinicius Pegoraro de , Xavier Luiz Carlos
Published: November 2024

Contemporaneamente, o direito é provocado, constantemente, a dar respostas para problemas inseridos na sociedade de risco, com isso, o paradigma clássico da segurança é revisitado, nas mais variadas áreas do direito. Nesse contexto, a ciência tem trazido contribuições relevantes quanto às informações relativas às vulnerabilidades e potenciais impactos associados às mudanças climáticas. Esses eventos extremos, dependendo dos impactos e consequências podem se transformar em desastres, com relevantes impactos socioambientais e econômicos. Assim, o problema de pesquisa que conduzirá a discussão é: quais são as possibilidades e estratégias de adaptação necessárias para enfrentar os desafios das mudanças climáticas na sociedade atual no contexto dos investimentos, créditos e subscrição de seguros? Diante disso, o objetivo geral é analisar a Política Nacional de Mudanças Climáticas e seus desdobramentos jurídicos e ambientais, com especial destaque para a comunicação e gestão de riscos e a necessidade de políticas públicas robustas para a proteção climática e a gestão de desastres, levando em consideração os impactos econômico-financeiros relacionados aos eventos extremos ou desastres materializados, têm provocado alterações nos padrões de divulgação da gestão dos riscos climáticos, visando promover decisões mais eficazes de investimentos, crédito e subscrição de seguros. A metodologia utilizada é a pesquisa bibliográfica, baseada na análise da literatura já publicada em forma de livros, artigos e literatura cinzenta (teses, dissertações, trabalhos apresentados em congressos, relatórios, dentre outros).
El asbesto o amianto en Colombia: un estudio de sus antecedentes, la prohibición en su uso y la aplicación tardía del principio de precaución
Authors: Vargas-Chaves Iván
Published: November 2024

El presente artículo tiene por objetivo estudiar el marco evolutivo regulatorio en la prohibición del asbesto o amianto en Colombia, desde sus impactos a la salud humana por inhalación o ingesta, hasta las implicaciones de la prohibición de su uso mediante la Ley 1968 de 2019, luego de varias décadas de estudios y denuncias por parte de la sociedad civil, así como de restricciones en su uso en otros países. La metodología utilizada fue el análisis documental de información especializada, la cual se recopiló en artículos en bases de revistas indexadas, además de jurisprudencia y normas relevantes en la materia. Como aporte se presenta una nueva aproximación a la problemática derivada de la tardía aplicación del principio de precaución en Colombia, y al marco evolutivo del tratamiento regulatorio y normativo al uso del asbesto. Por último, el artículo concluye que, aunque la prohibición del uso del asbesto se dio tardíamente en el país, fue no obstante un logro para las víctimas y la sociedad civil quienes exigían al Estado salvaguardar su derecho a la salud, a gozar de un ambiente sano y a la vida. Mientras tanto, el Estado y el sector privado se enfrentan a un reto en la sustitución progresiva del asbesto utilizado habitualmente en las edificaciones y en la construcción de ciudades.
A conceptual model for the formation of a professional worldview among students at universities of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia
Authors: Pecherskiy Yuriy Ivanovich
Published: November 2024

The subject of this work is the formation and development of a professional worldview among cadets of educational organizations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia in the learning process. The object of the study is the educational process at the university of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, taking into account the historically developed features characteristic of educational organizations of this type. The author examines in detail such aspects as the peculiarities of training and education of cadets in educational organizations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia; a set of measures implemented in order to form and further develop a positive professional worldview, as well as the distinctive features associated with this process. In preparing this article, methods of theoretical and empirical research were used, philosophical and general scientific approaches were applied; professional and pedagogical literature was studied, generalized and analyzed, as well as best practices. The most important and difficult tasks that arise in the law enforcement sphere can be successfully solved only by those with a positive worldview, legally educated, patriotic employees of the internal affairs bodies. Education at the universities of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia should form a positive professional outlook, values and beliefs among cadets that meet the needs of Russian society and correspond to its main tasks. Currently, this is very relevant, especially for educational organizations of law enforcement agencies. In the current conditions, activities aimed at the formation, preservation, strengthening and development of traditional spiritual and moral values are extremely significant. It involves the education and assimilation by future specialists of the internal affairs bodies of the Russian Federation of a sense of pride in the opportunity to serve the Fatherland, responsibility for the fulfillment of professional duty and patriotism. The scientific novelty of the work is the conceptual model presented by the author of the formation of the professional worldview of cadets of educational organizations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, as well as its phased implementation in the educational environment of a departmental university.
Bilateral regulation of EGFR activity and local PI(4,5)P2 dynamics in mammalian cells observed with superresolution microscopy
Authors: Abe Mitsuhiro , Yanagawa Masataka , Hiroshima Michio , Kobayashi Toshihide , Sako Yasushi
Published: November 2024

Anionic lipid molecules, including phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2), are implicated in the regulation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). However, the role of the spatiotemporal dynamics of PI(4,5)P2 in the regulation of EGFR activity in living cells is not fully understood, as it is difficult to visualize the local lipid domains around EGFR. Here, we visualized both EGFR and PI(4,5)P2 nanodomains in the plasma membrane of HeLa cells using super-resolution single-molecule microscopy. The EGFR and PI(4,5)P2 nanodomains aggregated before stimulation with epidermal growth factor (EGF) through transient visits of EGFR to the PI(4,5)P2 nanodomains. The degree of coaggregation decreased after EGF stimulation and depended on phospholipase Cγ, the EGFR effector hydrolyzing PI(4,5)P2. Artificial reduction in the PI(4,5)P2 content of the plasma membrane reduced both the dimerization and autophosphorylation of EGFR after stimulation with EGF. Inhibition of PI(4,5)P2 hydrolysis after EGF stimulation decreased phosphorylation of EGFR-Thr654. Thus, EGFR kinase activity and the density of PI(4,5)P2 around EGFR molecules were found to be mutually regulated.
A biofilm-tropic Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteriophage uses the exopolysaccharide Psl as receptor
Authors: Walton Brenna , Abbondante Serena , Marshall Michaela Ellen , Dobruchowska Justyna M , Alvi Amani , Gallagher Larry A , Vallikat Nikhil , Zhang Zhemin , Wozniak Daniel J , Yu Edward W , Boons Geert-Jan , Pearlman Eric , Rietsch Arne
Published: November 2024

Bacteria in nature can exist in multicellular communities called biofilms. Biofilms also form in the course of many infections.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
infections frequently involve biofilms, which contribute materially to the difficulty to treat these infections with antibiotic therapy. Many biofilm-related characteristics are controlled by the second messenger, cyclic-di-GMP, which is upregulated on surface contact. Among these factors is the exopolysaccharide Psl, which is a critically important component of the biofilm matrix. Here we describe the discovery of a
P. aeruginosa
bacteriophage, which we have called Clew-1, that directly binds to and uses Psl as a receptor. While this phage does not efficiently infect planktonically growing bacteria, it can disrupt
P. aeruginosa
biofilms and replicate in biofilm bacteria. We further demonstrate that the Clew-1 can reduce the bacterial burden in a mouse model of
P. aeruginosa
keratitis, which is characterized by the formation of a biofilm on the cornea. Due to its reliance on Psl for infection, Clew-1 does not actually form plaques on wild-type bacteria under standard
in vitro
conditions. This argues that our standard isolation procedures likely exclude bacteriophage that are adapted to using biofilm markers for infection. Importantly, the manner in which we isolated Clew-1 can be easily extended to other strains of
P. aeruginosa
and indeed other bacterial species, which will fuel the discovery of other biofilm-tropic bacteriophage and expand their therapeutic use.
Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived microglia integrate into mouse retina and recapitulate features of endogenous microglia
Authors: Ma Wenxin , Zhao Lian , Xu Biying , Fariss Robert N , Redmond T Michael , Zou Jizhong , Wong Wai T , Li Wei
Published: November 2024

Microglia exhibit both maladaptive and adaptive roles in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases and have emerged as a cellular target for central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including those affecting the retina. Replacing maladaptive microglia, such as those impacted by aging or over-activation, with exogenous microglia that can enable adaptive functions has been proposed as a potential therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases. To investigate microglia replacement as an approach for retinal diseases, we first employed a protocol to efficiently generate human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived microglia in quantities sufficient for in vivo transplantation. These cells demonstrated expression of microglia-enriched genes and showed typical microglial functions such as LPS-induced responses and phagocytosis. We then performed xenotransplantation of these hiPSC-derived microglia into the subretinal space of adult mice whose endogenous retinal microglia have been pharmacologically depleted. Long-term analysis post-transplantation demonstrated that transplanted hiPSC-derived microglia successfully integrated into the neuroretina as ramified cells, occupying positions previously filled by the endogenous microglia and expressed microglia homeostatic markers such as P2ry12 and Tmem119. Furthermore, these cells were found juxtaposed alongside residual endogenous murine microglia for up to 8 months in the retina, indicating their ability to establish a stable homeostatic state in vivo. Following retinal pigment epithelial cell injury, transplanted microglia demonstrated responses typical of endogenous microglia, including migration, proliferation, and phagocytosis. Our findings indicate the feasibility of microglial transplantation and integration in the retina and suggest that modulating microglia through replacement may be a therapeutic strategy for treating neurodegenerative retinal diseases.
An Integrated Machine Learning Approach Delineates an Entropic Expansion Mechanism for the Binding of a Small Molecule to α-Synuclein
Authors: Menon Sneha , Adhikari Subinoy , Mondal Jagannath
Published: November 2024

The mis-folding and aggregation of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) such as
α
-synuclein (
α
S) underlie the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative disorders. However, targeting
α
S with small molecules faces challenges due to its lack of defined ligand-binding pockets in its disordered structure. Here, we implement a deep artificial neural network based machine learning approach, which is able to statistically distinguish fuzzy ensemble of conformational substates of
α
S in neat water from those in aqueous fasudil (small molecule of interest) solution. In particular, the presence of fasudil in the solvent either modulates pre-existing states of
α
S or gives rise to new conformational states of
α
S, akin to an ensemble-expansion mechanism. The ensembles display strong conformation-dependence in residue-wise interaction with the small molecule. A thermodynamic analysis indicates that small-molecule modulates the structural repertoire of
α
S by tuning protein backbone entropy, however entropy of the water remains unperturbed. Together, this study sheds light on the intricate interplay between small molecules and IDPs, offering insights into entropic modulation and ensemble expansion as key biophysical mechanisms driving potential therapeutics.
Chaetotaxy of the fourth larval stage of Pintomyia longiflocosa, a primary vector of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Colombia
Authors: Méndez-Cardona Sergio , Carrasquilla María Cristina , González Camila , Santamaría Erika
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Pintomyia (Pifanomyia) longiflocosa is an endemic species from Colombia, found between the central and eastern Andes, and reported as one of the primary vectors of cutaneous leishmaniasis in coffee-growing zones of the country. This species is classified in the Townsendi series and can only be identified by the morphology of the male adults.Objective. To determine the potential use of the fourth larval stage of the vector Pi. longiflocosa in morphological taxonomy based on the description of its chaetotaxy.Materials and methods. Pintomyia longiflocosa adults were captured in Campoalegre, Huila, and reared in the Entomology Laboratory at the Colombian Instituto Nacional de Salud. To identify the setae found in each corporal segment, 15 fourth-instar larvae were mounted on microscope slides using Canadian balm after being cleared with 10 % potassium hydroxide and saturated phenol. Additionally, five specimens were prepared for their observation by scanning electron microscopy.Results. Based on the description of Pi. longiflocosa, we established that all species of the subgenus Pifanomyia so far described have the same antennal morphology and clavate setae along their body. However, various setae present in Pi. longiflocosa are absent in Pi. youngi, suggesting differences among the larvae of the Townsendi series.Conclusions. These results support the potential importance of morphological characters from the fourth larval instar, such as antennal morphology and chaetotaxy, specifically in closely related species that are cryptic in their adult stages.
Displasia septo-óptica plus: reporte de caso para revisar y reconocer esta entidad
Authors: Reyes Alexander , Galvis Julieth , Estupiñán Yilver
Published: November 2024

La displasia septo-óptica es una afección neurológica congénita de etiología multifactorial caracterizada por agenesia del septum pellucidum, disgenesia del cuerpo calloso o ambas, hipoplasia del quiasma o nervios ópticos y disfunción hormonal con alteraciones hipofisiarias o hipotalámicas. Para hacer el diagnóstico se requieren dos de estos criterios y la resonancia magnética es el examen de elección. La mayoría de los casos se presentan con anomalías del desarrollo cortical en la forma conocida como displasia septo-óptica plus. Si bien las convulsiones y los trastornos del neurodesarrollo son las manifestaciones neurológicas dominantes, es una entidad muy heterogénea con múltiples hallazgos clínicos y radiológicos que se deben considerar.Se presenta el caso de un hombre de 35 años con antecedentes de traumatismo craneoencefálico en la infancia y remisión por epilepsia focal resistente al tratamiento asociada con déficit cognitivo.En la evaluación inicial, la tomografía computarizada de cráneo simple se apreció agenesia del septum pellucidum y disgenesia del cuerpo calloso. Se practicó una resonancia magnética cerebral que confirmó la agenesia del septum pellucidum y, también, reveló irregularidad y engrosamiento anómalo de la corteza cerebral en los lóbulos frontales y la región perisilviana; además, se encontró sustancia gris heterotópica en los lóbulos frontales y la región frontoinsular izquierda, leve ventriculomegalia supratentorial, apariencia atípica del rostrum del cuerpo calloso e hipoplasia del quiasma y los nervios ópticos.Aunque la agenesia del septum pellucidum fue la clave en este caso, no es un hallazgo presente en todos los pacientes.
Relación de la capacidad funcional y la funcionalidad familiar con la fragilidad en adultos mayores con riesgo cardiovascular en el suroccidente colombiano
Authors: Paz Clara Inés , Ledezma Betsy Mercedes , Rivera Diana María , Salazar Mabel Lorena , Torres María Verónica , Patiño Franklin René , Mera-Mamián Andry Yasmid
Published: November 2024

Introducción. Los cambios del envejecimiento son multidimensionales y multifactoriales, y el síndrome geriátrico de fragilidad es su expresión más problemática y compleja. Este lleva a vulnerabilidad, cambio desproporcionado del estado de salud y declinación funcional, haciéndose necesaria su identificación efectiva y un abordaje integral.Objetivo. Describir las características sociodemográficas, clínicas, funcionales y relacionales de la fragilidad en adultos mayores con riesgo cardiovascular en el suroccidente colombiano.Materiales y métodos. Se desarrolló un estudio observacional, de tipo transversal, analítico. La población seleccionada fueron adultos mayores inscritos en un programa de riesgo cardiovascular y metabólico en Popayán, Cauca. Mediante un análisis multivariado, se exploró la relación entre fragilidad y algunas variables sociodemográficas, clínicas y funcionales.Resultados. Participaron 293 adultos mayores, principalmente mujeres (69,6 %), con edad promedio de 71,23 ± 7,38 años. El 77,1 % se clasificó como independientes en actividades básicas y, el 56,3 %, en actividades instrumentales de la vida diaria; predominó la autonomía en hombres. El 71,1 % de las mujeres y el 43,8 % de los hombres se clasificaron como prefrágiles. En el análisis bivariado, se encontró una relación entre la fragilidad, y las variables sexo, edad, estado civil, nivel educativo, ocupación, perímetro de pantorrilla, capacidad funcional, capacidad instrumental y funcionalidad familiar. El análisis multivariado demostró mayor prevalencia (55 %) de fragilidad o prefragilidad en las mujeres.Conclusiones. La mayoría de los participantes se clasificaron como prefrágiles; prevaleció la dependencia y fragilidad en las mujeres, lo que sugiere la necesidad de implementar estrategias de prevención y un abordaje diferencial según el sexo.
Stable dominance of parasitic dinoflagellates in Antarctic sponges
Authors: López-Rodríguez Marileyxis R. , Gérikas Ribeiro Catherine , Rodríguez-Marconi Susana , Parada-Pozo Génesis , Manrique-de-la-Cuba Maria , Trefault Nicole
Published: November 2024

Background

Marine sponges are dominant components of Antarctic benthos and representative of the high endemism that characterizes this environment. All microbial groups are part of the Antarctic sponge holobionts, but microbial eukaryotes have been studied less, and their symbiotic role still needs to be better understood. Here, we characterize the dynamics of microbial eukaryotes associated with Antarctic sponges, focusing on dinoflagellates over three summer periods to better understand the members, interannual variations, and trophic and lifestyle strategies.

Results

The analysis revealed that dinoflagellates dominate microeukaryotic communities in Antarctic sponges. The results also showed significant differences in the diversity and composition of dinoflagellate communities associated with sponges compared to those in seawater. Antarctic sponges were dominated by a single dinoflagellate family, Syndiniales Dino-Group-I-Clade 1, which was present in high abundance in Antarctic sponges compared to seawater communities. Despite minor differences, the top microeukaryotic amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) showed no significant interannual abundance changes, indicating general temporal stability within the studied sponge species. Our findings highlight the abundance and importance of parasitic groups, particularly the classes Coccidiomorphea, Gregarinomorphea, and Ichthyosporea, with the exclusive dominance of Syndiniales Dino-Group-I-Clade 1 within sponges.

Conclusions

The present study comprehensively characterizes the microbial eukaryotes associated with Antarctic sponges, showing a remarkable stability of parasitic dinoflagellates in Antarctic sponges. These findings underscore the significant role of parasites in these marine hosts, with implications for population dynamics of the microeukaryome and the holobiont response to a changing ocean.
Force-velocity-power variables derived from isometric and dynamic testing: metrics reliability and the relationship with jump performance
Authors: Vieira Amilton , Cunha Rafael , Gonçalves Carlos , Dal Pupo Juliano , Tufano James
Published: November 2024

We investigated the convergent validity and intrasession reliability of force, velocity, and power (FVP) variables and the dynamic strength index (DSI) obtained from isometric midthigh pull (IMTP) and squat jump (SJ) testing. Fifteen male combat sports athletes (27 ± 5 years, 77 ± 9 kg, 1.76 ± 0.1 m, 14 ± 6% body fat) participated in a 2-days study. The first day involved testing familiarization, while the second was dedicated to IMTP and SJ testing. Maximal isometric force (Fiso) was obtained from IMTP, while mean force, mean velocity, jump height, and jump impulse (J) were gathered from SJ. To analyze the FVP, we calculated the linear relationship between force and velocity, which allowed us to obtain the slope of the relationship (SFV), the theoretical velocity at zero force (V0), and the theoretical maximal power (Pmax). DSI was obtained as a ratio from SJ peak force and Fiso. The convergent validity was investigated using Spearman’s ρ coefficients to assess the relationships between jump height and J with Fiso, V0, SFV, Pmax, and DSI. The intrasession reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and coefficient of variations (CV). All variables demonstrated acceptable reliability scores. ICC ranged from moderate to excellent, and the mean CV was <10%. We found a “very large” correlation between jump J and Pmax, while jump height was not correlated with any variable. In conclusion, the IMTP and SJ combination is a practical way to determine FVP producing capacities that can be reliably measured (intrasession). The Pmax, derived from FVP, was correlated with jump performance, which might evidence the convergent validity of the method.
Combined effect of temporal inundation and aboveground-cutting on the growth performance of two emergent wetland plants, Phragmites australis and Bolboschoenus planiculmis
Authors: Park Hee-Sun , Kim Ji Yoon , Kim Gu-Yeon , Jo Hyunbin , Joo Gea-Jae
Published: November 2024

Background

Phragmites australis is a common foundation species found in inland and brackish estuarine ecosystems. P. australis stands provide a wide range of habitats for wetland organisms and perform essential functions, such as nutrient cycling, pollutant filtration, wave energy reduction, and soil stabilization. However, excessive growth of P. australis can degrade the quality of wetland habitats, thereby reducing the functions of restored wetlands.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of vegetation management techniques, such as aboveground cutting and temporal inundation with varying depth and periodicity, in controlling the growth performance of P. australis and adjacent vegetation, Bolboschoenus planiculmis. Differences in growth responses to manipulated inundation stress between P. australis and B. planiculmis were measured.

Results

Inundation stress of 10–50 cm caused significantly greater inhibition of growth performance in B. planiculmis compared to P. australis. The combination of aboveground-cutting and inundation treatments resulted in a significant inhibitory effect on the growth performance and survival rate of P. australis. The growth performance of P. australis, including stem volume and biomass, decreased and its mortality rate increased. Our manipulated experiment suggests a combined treatment approach of moderate inundation, such as 5–10 cm for 20–30 days, and aboveground cutting to manage the overgrowth of P. australis in restored brackish wetlands.
Incidence and Outcome of Spontaneous Alveolar Air Leak Events in COVID-19 Pneumonia: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chougale Samruddhi Dhanaji , Anokar Anita Tulshiramji , Prasad Amarnath P , Deshpande Uma A , Bhushan Sashi , Dhotre Ashish A , Vadapalli Kiran
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has increased the burden of hospitalised pneumonia cases and related complications. Spontaneous Pneumothorax (PT) and Pneumomediastinum (PM) have been reported in both spontaneously breathing and ventilated patients with COVID19 pneumonia. Aim: To determine the incidence and outcomes of spontaneous alveolar air leak events in COVID-19 pneumonia. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study was carried out from June 2020 to June 2021 at a tertiary care centre in Western India. All incident cases of alveolar air leaks in COVID-19 pneumonia were included. Clinical and demographic data were collected, and statistical analysis was performed. The Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test were used to assess the differences in subgroup proportions. Results: A total of 79 patients (63 males and 16 females) experienced spontaneous alveolar air leaks in the form of PT, PM (mediastinal emphysema), or Subcutaneous Emphysema (SE), either isolated or in combination. A total of 58 patients (73.41%) had PT, while 8 patients (10.12%) had isolated PM and 2 patients (2.53%) had isolated SE. Of the total events, 35 (44.30%) occurred in spontaneously breathing patients, among them vigorous coughing was an important precipitating factor. At the time of the incident, 1.27%, 21.52%, and 77.21% of the affected cases belonged to mild, moderate, and severe COVID19 categories, respectively. Male patients (n-63, 79.74%) in the age group of 30-60 years were predominantly affected. A total of 38 events (48.10%) occurred within two weeks (early) of symptom onset. The PaO2 :FiO2 ratio at the time of the alveolar leak showed a significant association with the outcome. Patients with PT had a poorer outcome compared to those with other types of alveolar leaks (p-value<0.005). Major bleeding occurred in 2 (3.33%) of the total 60 Intercostal Drainage (ICD) procedures. Prolonged alveolo-pleural fistula healed spontaneously in four out of five cases. The cumulative incidence for air leak events was 1.55%, and for barotrauma, it was 6.47%. The overall mortality in this cohort was 74.68% (n=59), while it was 29.41% (5 out of 17) in the moderate severity group. Patients with lateonset events had a better outcome (p-value<0.005). Conclusion: In this cohort of COVID-19 pneumonia from Western India, the cumulative incidence of spontaneous alveolar air leaks was 1.55%, predominantly affecting males. The early occurrence of PT in severely hypoxic patients on mechanical ventilator was associated with higher mortality.
Perception of Parents of Children with Mental Health in Kisii County, Kenya
Authors: Omwenga Michael Keari , Kayusi Fredrick
Published: November 2024

Many studies done on families and hospitals have shown a high prevalence of children's mental illnesses. Due to discrimination and stigmatization connected to mental illness in children, few parents take their children to hospitals for complaints that are related to emotional and psychological problems despite the high cases of conduct disorders. This study sets out to identify and find out the perception of parents who have children with conduct disorders and what tends to contribute to the causation of these mental disorders and predictors of negative or positive perception. A sample of 179 children were used in the study. A cross-sectional study was carried out, and questionnaires were used to interview parents on the sociodemographic characteristics of children and family attachments. The study was done in Kisii Referral, Nyanchwa Mission, Nyangena, and Mediforte Hospitals. Child mental disorders were assessed using a Reporting Questionnaire for children, Parents’ assessment of diagnostic statistical manual (DSM V) symptoms as being suggestive of childhood psychiatric disorders, and parents’ assessment of contributory factors to the development of childhood psychiatric disorders. The results reveal that the majority of parents (87%) had poor perceptions about their children’s conditions of conduct disorders. Only 27.4% of parents were willing to classify their children as having psychological problems, 10.6% had good knowledge while 77.7% had poor knowledge. Most of the symptoms, parents noticed as conduct disorders were epilepsy, abnormal behaviors, consistent indiscipline and much sleeping in children. In conclusion, most parents had negative perceptions towards their children. The study advocates for programs such as health education and enlightenment to enhance mental health and conduct disorder education for parents so that they can easily identify and recognize their children's health problems and take them for assessment and treatment which could lead to positive adversities.
Feed Monocalcium Phosphate Derived from Wet-process Phosphoric Acid and Calcium-based Raw Materials
Authors: Ugli Khoshimov Ilkhomjon Erkin , Ismatullaevna Turdialieva Shakhzoda , Reypnazarovich Seytnazarov Atanazar , Sattarovich Namazov Shafaat , Erkinovich Kholmurodov Jamshidbek
Published: November 2024

In this study, granulated feed-grade monocalcium phosphate was produced using highly purified wet-process phosphoric acid (WPA) and finely milled limestone (99.5% CaCO3). The WPA was desulfated to 0.09–0.14% SO₃, defluorinated to 0.18–0.20% F, and concentrated to 50.55% P₂O₅. Under controlled conditions—achieving a 95% reaction rate and a 15-minute decomposition time—a high-quality product was obtained. The final composition included 50.45% digestible P₂O₅, 38.02% water-soluble P₂O₅, 21.14% total CaO, and 14.39% water-soluble CaO, with a fluoride content of 0.16%. The granules achieved 2.13 MPa in strength, with over 85% in the optimal 2-3 mm size range, meeting GOST 23999-80 standards. This phosphate supplement offers high bioavailability for livestock, poultry, and aquaculture.
A Comparative Growth Trend Study of Tomato in Jaipur and Sirohi District of Rajasthan, India
Authors: Yadav Lal Chand , Sharma Latika , Meena G.L. , Singh Hari , Yadav Narendra
Published: November 2024

Tomato (Licopersicon esculentum) is an important crop that contributes economically and significantly to horticulture production. T The study was conducted for the period of 12 year in Jaipur and Sirohi districts of Rajasthan to analyze the growth rate in area, production, and productivity from 2010-11 to 2021-22. (Department of Horticulture, Government of Rajasthan-2022-23). For analyzing the trend in area production and productivity of tomatoes in Jaipur and Sirohi district, and Rajasthan state the following linear, semi-log, and exponential functions were tested. The tested model were selected based on high R2 (Coefficient of determination) and the best-fit function was used for the result discussion. Semi-log function was best function for the area, production and productivity of Rajasthan. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for area of Rajasthan was found 1.76 percent, with 0.46 R2. The production and productivity show 9.91 and 8.15 percent growth rate. The semi-log function was also best fit the area and production of Tomato in Jaipur district with 4.58 and 15.94 percent annual growth respectively. The linear function was fitted for the productivity that shows 17.20 percent CAGR with 0.39 percent R2. The area of tomato in Sirohi district shows highest fluctuation due to this an exponential function was shows poor fits for calculate the growth rate this function shows 0.01 percent compound annual growth rate. The exponential function was best fit for the production and productivity with 0.41 and 0.31 R2 respectively. The exponential function show 11.24 percent growth rate, which was significant at 5 percent level. The productivity show 12.25 percent compound annual growth rate with 10 percent level of significance. Thus the productivity shows highest compound annual growth rate followed by Production and area in Jaipur and Sirohi district of Rajasthan, while in Rajasthan, production shows highest growth rate followed by productivity and area. According to the findings, the result suggest for the introduction of high yield varieties of tomato may increase the productivity in Rajasthan.
Advancing Vegetable Grafting: A Comprehensive Review of Techniques, Challenges, and the Future of Automated Solutions
Authors: Awazade Ankit Sanjay , Verma Deven
Published: November 2024

Vegetable grafting, a practice that combines two plant parts rootstock and scion into a single, superior plant, is an increasingly important technique in modern agriculture. By enhancing yields, stress resistance, and disease tolerance, grafting plays a crucial role in addressing challenges such as soil borne pathogens, extreme environmental conditions, and crop vulnerability to nematodes. Despite its benefits, vegetable grafting faces several challenges, including the need for compatible plant material, labour-intensive nursery production, high seed costs, and the potential for pathogen spread. Effective grafting requires meticulous selection of rootstock and scion, precise grafting techniques, and optimal post-grafting care to ensure survival and success. Looking toward the future, significant advancements in grafting technologies and nursery practices are required to overcome these challenges and improve efficiency. The development of grafting robots, capable of mechanizing the grafting process, holds promise for increasing productivity while reducing labor costs. Additionally, the establishment of specialized plug plantlet nurseries, equipped with advanced seeders, growth chambers, and acclimatization facilities, offers a pathway to enhance seedling vigour and uniformity in developing countries. Future research should also focus on refining seed-priming methods, improving seedling storage technologies, and exploring digital tools such as databases, crop models, and mobile applications to optimize grafting practices. These innovations could provide valuable insights for growers, helping them select the best rootstock-scion combinations and manage crops more efficiently. With continued research and technological advancements, vegetable grafting is poised to become a global solution, offering sustainable growth and productivity improvements in agriculture.
Crystal structure of plasma kallikrein reveals the unusual flexibility of the S1 pocket triggered by Glu217
Authors: Xu Mingming , Chen Yayu , Xu Peng , Andreasen Peter A. , Jiang Longguang , Li Jinyu , Huang Mingdong
Published: July 2018

Serine proteases play important roles in numerous physiological and pathophysiological processes. Moreover, serine proteases are classical subjects for studies of catalytic and inhibitory mechanisms of enzymes. Here, we determined the crystal structures of a serine protease, murine plasma kallikrein (mPK), and its complex with a peptidic inhibitor. Although mPK in the complex adopts a canonical protease structure, the apo‐mPK exhibits a previously unobserved structural feature: the entrance of the intact S1 pocket is blocked by Glu217. In addition, molecular dynamics simulations and functional assays support the flexibility of Glu217 and suggest that this flexibility plays a role in regulating the activity of serine proteases.

Enzymes

EC: 3.4.21.34
A fine‐needle aspiration‐based protein signature discriminates benign from malignant breast lesions
Authors: Franzén Bo , Kamali‐Moghaddam Masood , Alexeyenko Andrey , Hatschek Thomas , Becker Susanne , Wik Lotta , Kierkegaard Jonas , Eriksson Annika , Muppani Naveen R. , Auer Gert , Landegren Ulf , Lewensohn Rolf
Published: July 2018

There are increasing demands for informative cancer biomarkers, accessible via minimally invasive procedures, both for initial diagnostics and to follow‐up personalized cancer therapy. Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy provides ready access to relevant tissues; however, the minute sample amounts require sensitive multiplex molecular analysis to achieve clinical utility. We have applied proximity extension assays (PEA) and NanoString (NS) technology for analyses of proteins and of RNA, respectively, in FNA samples. Using samples from patients with breast cancer (BC,n = 25) or benign lesions (n = 33), we demonstrate that these FNA‐based molecular analyses (a) can offer high sensitivity and reproducibility, (b) may provide correct diagnosis in shorter time and at a lower cost than current practice, (c) correlate with results from routine analysis (i.e., benchmarking against immunohistochemistry tests for ER, PR, HER2, and Ki67), and (d) may also help identify new markers related to immunotherapy. A specific 11‐protein signature, including FGF binding protein 1, decorin, and furin, distinguished all cancer patient samples from all benign lesions in our main cohort and in smaller replication cohort. Due to the minimally traumatic sampling and rich molecular information, this combined proteomics and transcriptomic methodology is promising for diagnostics and evaluation of treatment efficacy in BC.
Construction of a set of novel and robust gene expression signatures predicting prostate cancer recurrence
Authors: Jiang Yanzhi , Mei Wenjuan , Gu Yan , Lin Xiaozeng , He Lizhi , Zeng Hui , Wei Fengxiang , Wan Xinhong , Yang Huixiang , Major Pierre , Tang Damu
Published: July 2018

We report here numerous novel genes and multiple new signatures which robustly predict prostate cancer (PC) recurrence. We extracted 696 differentially expressed genes relative to a reported PC signature from the TCGA dataset (n = 492) and built a 15‐gene signature (SigMuc1NW) using Elastic‐net with 10‐fold cross‐validation through analyzing their expressions at 1.5 standard deviation/SD below and 2 SD above a population mean. SigMuc1NW predicts biochemical recurrence (BCR) following surgery with 56.4% sensitivity, 72.6% specificity, and 63.24 median months disease free (MMDF) (P = 1.12e‐12). The prediction accuracy is improved with the use of SigMuc1NW's cutpoint (P = 3e‐15) and is further enhanced (sensitivity 67%, specificity 75.7%, MMDF 45.2, P = 0) when all 15 genes were analyzed through their cutpoints instead of their SDs. These genes individually associate with BCR using either SD or cutpoint as the cutoff points. Eight of 15 genes are individual risk factors after adjusting for age at diagnosis, Gleason score, surgical margin, and tumor stage. Eleven of 15 genes are novel to PC. SigMuc1NW discriminates BCR with time‐dependent AUC (tAUC) values of 76.6% at 11.5 months (76.6%–11.5 m), 73.8%‐22.3 m, 78.5%‐32.1 m, and 76.4%–48.4 m. SigMuc1NW is correlated with adverse features of PC, high Gleason scores (odds ratio/OR 1.48, P < 2e‐16), and advanced tumor stages (OR 1.33, P = 4.37e‐13). SigMuc1NW remains an independent risk factor of BCR (HR 2.44, 95% CI 1.53–3.87, P = 1.62e‐4) after adjusting for age at diagnosis, Gleason score, surgical margin, and tumor stage. In an independent PC (MSKCC) cohort (n = 140), these 15 genes were altered in PC vs normal tissue, metastatic PCs vs primary PCs, and recurrent PCs vs nonrecurrent PCs. Importantly, a 10‐gene subsignature SigMuc1NW1 predicts BCR in MSKCC (P = 3.11e‐15) and TCGA (P = 3.13e‐12); SigMuc1NW1 discriminates BCR at 18.4 m with tAUC as 82.5%. Collectively, our analyses support SigMuc1NW as a novel and robust signature in predicting BCR of PC.