bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local Volume Concentration, Packing Domains and Scaling Properties of Chromatin
Authors: Cangnano Marcelo , Kröger Martin , Almassalha Luay Matthew , Agrawal Vasundhara , Li Wing Shun , Pujadas-Liwag Emily M , Nap Rikkert J , Backman Vadim , Szleifer Igal
Published: August 2024

We propose the Self Returning Excluded Volume (SR-EV) model for the structure of chromatin based on stochastic rules and physical interactions. The SR-EV
rules of return
generate conformationally-defined domains observed by single cell imaging techniques. From nucleosome to chromosome scales, the model captures the overall chromatin organization as a corrugated system, with dense and dilute regions alternating in a manner that resembles the mixing of two disordered bi-continuous phases. This particular organizational topology is a consequence of the multiplicity of interactions and processes occurring in the nuclei, and mimicked by the proposed return rules. Single configuration properties and ensemble averages show a robust agreement between theoretical and experimental results including chromatin volume concentration, contact probability, packing domain identification and size characterization, and packing scaling behavior. Model and experimental results suggest that there is an inherent chromatin organization regardless of the cell character and resistant to an external forcing such as Rad21 degradation.
The role of DNA topoisomerase 1α (AtTOP1α) in regulating arabidopsis meiotic recombination and chromosome segregation
Authors: Elesawi Ibrahim Eid , Hashem Ahmed M. , Yao Li , Maher Mohamed , Hassanin Abdallah A. , Abd El-Moneim Diaa , Safhi Fatmah A. , Al Aboud Nora M. , Alshamrani Salha Mesfer , Shehata Wael F. , Chunli Chen
Published: August 2024

Meiosis is a critical process in sexual reproduction, and errors during this cell division can significantly impact fertility. Successful meiosis relies on the coordinated action of numerous genes involved in DNA replication, strand breaks, and subsequent rejoining. DNA topoisomerase enzymes play a vital role by regulating DNA topology, alleviating tension during replication and transcription. To elucidate the specific function of DNA topoisomerase 1α ($AtTOP1 \alpha$) in male reproductive development of Arabidopsis thaliana, we investigated meiotic cell division in Arabidopsis flower buds. Combining cytological and biochemical techniques, we aimed to reveal the novel contribution of $AtTOP1 \alpha$ to meiosis. Our results demonstrate that the absence of $AtTOP1 \alpha$ leads to aberrant chromatin behavior during meiotic division. Specifically, the top1α1 mutant displayed altered heterochromatin distribution and clustered centromere signals at early meiotic stages. Additionally, this mutant exhibited disruptions in the distribution of 45s rDNA signals and a reduced frequency of chiasma formation during metaphase I, a crucial stage for genetic exchange. Furthermore, the atm-2×top1α1 double mutant displayed even more severe meiotic defects, including incomplete synapsis, DNA fragmentation, and the presence of polyads. These observations collectively suggest that $AtTOP1 \alpha$ plays a critical role in ensuring accurate meiotic progression, promoting homologous chromosome crossover formation, and potentially functioning in a shared DNA repair pathway with ATAXIA TELANGIECTASIA MUTATED (ATM) in Arabidopsis microspore mother cells.
Phylogenetic synthesis of morphological and molecular data reveals insights on the classification of diogenid hermit crabs (Crustacea: Decapoda: Anomura)
Authors: Cheng Jiao , Li Wenjie , Wang Yanrong , Sha Zhongli
Published: August 2024

The family Diogenidae Ortmann, 1892 is a diverse and abundance group of hermit crabs, but their systematics and phylogenetic relationships are highly complex and unresolved. Herein, we gathered nucleotide sequence data from two mitochondrial (16S rRNA and COI) and two nuclear (NaK and PEPCK) genes for a total of 2,308 bp in length across 38 species from six extant diogenid genera. Molecular data were combined with 41 morphological characters to estimate the largest phylogeny of diogenid hermit crabs to date with the aim of testing the proposed taxonomic scheme of Diogenidae and addressing intergeneric relationships within this family. Despite conflicts between mitochondrial and nuclear DNA trees, the combined-data tree reflects the contributions of each dataset, and improves tree resolution and support for internal nodes. Contrary to traditional classification, our total evidence revealed a paraphyletic Diogenidae based on internally nested representatives of Coenobitidae Dana, 1851. Within Diogenidae, the studied diogenid hermit crabs were split between two clades with high support, which contradicts recent morphological classification scheme for Diogenidae sensu lato based on fossil records. The genus Diogenes Dana, 1851 was found nested inside Paguristes Dana, 1851, which formed a clade being separated from the remainder, pointing towards paraphyly in Paguristes. In another clade, Dardanus Paulson, 1875 occupied a basal position relative to the other diogenids, while Calcinus Dana, 1851 and Clibanarius Dana, 1852 showed sister relationships and formed a cluster with Ciliopagurus Forest, 1995. Among the morphological characters examined, carapace shield and telson were identified as phylogenetically significant for grouping diogenid genera, while phylogenetic insignificance of gill number was evidenced by its mosaic pattern in diogenid phylogeny. The present study sheds light on the controversial generic phylogeny of Diogenidae and highlights the necessity for thorough taxonomic revisions of this family as well as some genera (e.g., Paguristes) to reconcile current classifications with phylogenetic relationships.
Mitochondria dysfunction is one of the causes of diclofenac toxicity in the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Harshkova Darya , Zielińska Elżbieta , Narajczyk Magdalena , Kapusta Małgorzata , Aksmann Anna
Published: August 2024

Background

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as diclofenac (DCF), form a significant group of environmental contaminants. When the toxic effects of DCF on plants are analyzed, authors often focus on photosynthesis, while mitochondrial respiration is usually overlooked. Therefore, an in vivo investigation of plant mitochondria functioning under DCF treatment is needed. In the present work, we decided to use the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii as a model organism.

Methods

Synchronous cultures of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii strain CC-1690 were treated with DCF at a concentration of 135.5 mg × L−1, corresponding to the toxicological value EC50/24. To assess the effects of short-term exposure to DCF on mitochondrial activity, oxygen consumption rate, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) production were analyzed. To inhibit cytochrome c oxidase or alternative oxidase activity, potassium cyanide (KCN) or salicylhydroxamic acid (SHAM) were used, respectively. Moreover, the cell’s structure organization was analyzed using confocal microscopy and transmission electron microscopy.

Results

The results indicate that short-term exposure to DCF leads to an increase in oxygen consumption rate, accompanied by low MMP and reduced mtROS production by the cells in the treated populations as compared to control ones. These observations suggest an uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation due to the disruption of mitochondrial membranes, which is consistent with the malformations in mitochondrial structures observed in electron micrographs, such as elongation, irregular forms, and degraded cristae, potentially indicating mitochondrial swelling or hyper-fission. The assumption about non-specific DCF action is further supported by comparing mitochondrial parameters in DCF-treated cells to the same parameters in cells treated with selective respiratory inhibitors: no similarities were found between the experimental variants.

Conclusions

The results obtained in this work suggest that DCF strongly affects cells that experience mild metabolic or developmental disorders, not revealed under control conditions, while more vital cells are affected only slightly, as it was already indicated in literature. In the cells suffering from DCF treatment, the drug influence on mitochondria functioning in a non-specific way, destroying the structure of mitochondrial membranes. This primary effect probably led to the mitochondrial inner membrane permeability transition and the uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation. It can be assumed that mitochondrial dysfunction is an important factor in DCF phytotoxicity. Because studies of the effects of NSAIDs on the functioning of plant mitochondria are relatively scarce, the present work is an important contribution to the elucidation of the mechanism of NSAID toxicity toward non-target plant organisms.
Interlocking concrete block pavement as an alternative to flexible and rigid pavement in medium traffic condition: comparative assessment based on sustainability
Authors: Jacob C. Babu  , Anisha Anil  , Akshaya V Kum  , Anjali Vijayan  , Tiju Susan Thomas  , Dr. Dhanya B.S.
Published: August 2024

Highway pavements are one of the most energy and resource intensive infrastructure in the world. Hence, studies related to sustainability of pavements are gaining much importance. Interlocking Concrete Block Pavement (ICBP) is a widely accepted technology used extensively for constructing parking lots, walkways and roads. Compared to other conventional pavement methods, ICBP has many advantages such as less maintenance cost, high dimensional accuracy and will not be affected by thermal expansion and contraction. At present, the researches dealing with ICBP are focused mainly on the structural aspects only. However, it is necessary to study a pavement system in terms of its structural, environmental and economic aspects. Through this work, an attempt is made to study all these three aspects of ICBP which is meant to carry medium traffic. The design of ICBP was carried out based on IRC SP63: 2018. Both rigid and flexible pavement systems for the same traffic conditions were designed following IRC58: 2015 and IRC37: 2018 respectively. Comparison of these three pavement systems were carried out in terms of their material, construction as well as environmental aspects. Cradle to gate Life Cycle Assessment(LCA) of three pavement systems were studied using OpenLCA software. The economic aspect was evaluated by preparing material quantity estimates assuming single lane road for a 10m stretch. The results indicate that ICBP is a competitive option to rigid and flexible pavements in medium traffic conditions.
Autosomal Recessive Spastic Paraplegia Type 51 Caused by Homozygous Mutation of the AP4E1 Gene: A Case Report of a 17-Years-Old Boy
Authors: Bittmann Stefan
Published: August 2024

Autosomal recessive spastic paraplegia-51 (SPG51) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a homozygous mutation in the AP4E1 gene, located on chromosome 15q21. Spastic paraplegia-51 (SPG51) is an extremely rare autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by neonatal hypotonia that progresses to hypertonia and spasticity. Mutations in the AP-4E1 gene on chromosome 15q21.2, which is part of the AP-4 complex, can lead to autosomal recessive spastic paraplegia 51 (SPG51). Different mutations in this gene have been identified in affected individuals, leading to disruption of the AP4 complex and vesicular trafficking processes. The specific characteristics of SPG51 are, due to only few cases, not well understood due to limited reports of affected families. Affected individuals also have global developmental delay with impaired intellectual development and poor or absent speech. Studies linked to an additive symptom of persistent stuttering. Affected individuals typically present with hypotonia in the neonatal period, which progresses to muscular hypertonia, especially in the lower limbs. They may also exhibit contractures, talipes equinovarus, decreased muscle mass, short stature, and microcephaly. Severe mental retardation, absent speech, and dysmorphic facial features are common. Some patients may experience seizures. Neurological examination often reveals spastic paraplegia of the lower limbs, and brain imaging may show atrophy of the cerebellar vermis and cortical atrophy. We present an extremely rare case of a 17 years-old boy with autosomal recessive spastic paraplegia type 51.
Rifaximin and Metronidazole Fixed Dose Combination: New Treatment Option in the Management of Diarrhea
Authors: Faruqui Arif A.
Published: August 2024

Background: Endemic infectious diarrhea is a widespread problem around the world, caused by a combination of viruses, bacteria, and parasites. While commonly used fluoroquinolone antibiotics are effective for specific types of acute diarrhea, they carry potential side effects.
Aim: To assess the effectiveness and tolerability of a fixed-dose combination of rifaximin and metronidazole as an alternative treatment approach for the management of acute diarrhea.
Study Design: A multicentre, open-label, non-comparative and non-randomized trial was conducted in 370 patients suffering from acute diarrhea due to various factors.
Methodology: Patients were given a tablet containing fixed-dose combination of 200 mg of rifaximin and 400 mg of metronidazole twice daily for 5 days. The primary outcomes evaluated were changes in the number of loose/watery stools, the presence of fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and gas/flatulence from baseline to day 5. A global assessment using a 3-point scale (Excellent/Good/Poor) was done by the investigators for efficacy and tolerability evaluation. Adverse drug reactions were monitored throughout the study period.
Results: After 5-day therapy, the average number of watery stools per day decreased significantly from 7.853 ± 3.773 to 0.766 ± 0.949 (P < .001). None of the patients experienced fever and vomiting, while few patients experienced nausea (0.31%), abdominal pain (0.31%), and gas/flatulence (0.93%) at the end of the study. According to the evaluation by the investigators, all patients reported good to excellent efficacy and tolerability.
Conclusions: The combination therapy of rifaximin and metronidazole is clinically effective and safe to treat acute diarrhea caused by different factors and can serve as a new treatment option for managing acute diarrhea.
Impact of British Policy on the Social Mobility and Employment Opportunities of Eurasian Women in Nineteenth and Twentieth Century India
Authors: Behera Santosh Kumar , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: August 2024

This article aims to investigate the multifaceted impact of British colonialism on Eurasian women's employment opportunities in 19th and early 20th-century India. It examined how societal expectations initially confined Eurasian women to marriage, particularly to European officers. However, colonial infrastructure development and changing social norms led to a diversification of employment options. The 1901 Madras census data revealed a significant number of Eurasian women working in various fields, including orphanages, education (teachers), healthcare (nurses, midwives), and skilled trades (seamstresses, milliners). Building on this foundation, the study aims to expand the understanding of working Eurasian women across all of India. Notably, even married women often continued working, contributing to household income. The discussion acknowledged the limitations of historical data, particularly the potential undercounting of Eurasian women in prostitution statistics. Overall, the analysis highlighted the complex interplay between colonialism, social hierarchies, and economic realities that shaped the evolving employment landscape for Eurasian women in British India.
Influence of Organic Manures and Integrated Nutrient Management on Floral Characteristics and Corm Yield in Gladiolus cv. Nova Lux
Authors: Dixit Shivam , Pandey Ashok Kumar , Tiwari Harendra , Trivedi Himanshu , Bhadauria Ankit Singh
Published: August 2024

A field experiment was conducted at the Department of Horticulture, Janta College Bakewar, Etawah, India, during 2021-22. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with 10 treatments with replications. Different combinations of Vermi-compost, F.Y.M., and NPK were used as treatments. The results revealed that, amongst all the treatments, the application of N.P.K. 120:80:80 kg + V.C. 10 t/ha in treatment (T8) produced significant results. Average height of plant in (90 DAS)73.16cm, Average number of leaves per plant (60 DAS) 5.78, Average width of longest leaf in 5.77cm (final stage), Average length of florets in 9.88 cm (full blooming stage), Average Number of cormels 32.04 per plant, Average weight of corms 150.51 (g).  It can be concluded that application of N.P.K. and vermi composed could be used as organic fertilizer for production of Gladiolus.
Rainfall Trend Analysis in Mysuru and Bengaluru Districts of Karnataka, India
Authors: Karthik V C , Naik B. Samuel , Veershetty  , R Raaga , Hanji Shreya S , Godavari
Published: August 2024

Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges facing humanity today, with temperature, precipitation, and runoff being key indicators closely linked to its impact. Understanding the spatial variability and temporal trends of rainfall is crucial for effective water resource management and agriculture. This study focuses on analyzing rainfall data from the Mysuru and Bengaluru districts, located in the Southern and Eastern dry zones of Karnataka, respectively. These regions play a pivotal role in the state's agricultural development and overall economic growth. We utilized daily precipitation records from two meteorological stations, spanning the period from 1983 to 2018, to analyze rainfall trends on monthly, seasonal, and annual scales. To assess these trends, we applied both parametric and non-parametric statistical methods, including the simple regression method, Mann-Kendall test, and Sen’s slope estimator. The Mann-Kendall test was used to detect significant trends in the precipitation time series, while Sen’s slope estimator quantified the magnitude of these trends. Bengaluru had higher average annual rainfall (928.81 mm) compared to Mysuru (681.65 mm), with excess rainfall in 2005 and a positive Pre-Monsoon trend (+3.543 mm/year), while Mysuru experienced maximum rainfall deficit in 2016 and a negative Monsoon trend (-3.238 mm/year). Neither district showed a significant trend in annual rainfall. The findings of this trend analysis are essential for informed water resource planning and management in the region.
Study on Impact of Soil Chemical Characteristics on Nematode Distribution Across Geographical Regions of Meghalaya
Authors: H Jeevan. , H G Shashank , Gouda M. N. Rudra , Mallikarjun Gurram , Naik Santhosh , K B Chethan Kumar , G Srinivasa , V Preetham , Patidar R.K , Kadam Veronica
Published: August 2024

This study looks at the relationship between soil chemical characteristics and nematode communities in Meghalaya's agricultural landscapes. Nematodes, which are important bioindicators of soil health, were studied in connection to soil characteristics such as pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Organic Carbon (OC), and nutrient levels (N, P, K) in various parts of Meghalaya. The study found strong relationships between soil chemistry and the spread of various nematode taxa. Acidic soils with lower pH and higher organic carbon were shown to have higher populations of plant-parasitic nematodes such as Meloidogyne sp. and Xiphinema sp., both of which have been shown to reduce agricultural productivity. Soils with greater EC, on the other hand, have fewer of these damaging nematodes, implying that modifying soil salinity could be a viable technique for controlling nematode infestations. Furthermore, nutrient-rich soils, particularly those high in phosphorus and potassium, were associated with larger abundances of Tylenchorhynchus sp., emphasising the intricate relationship between soil fertility and nematode dynamics. The study highlights the critical impact of soil chemical characteristics in influencing nematode communities, as well as the importance of specific soil management strategies to improve crop health in Meghalaya. Farmers can use these findings to build targeted methods for controlling nematode populations, decreasing crop loss and encouraging sustainable agricultural practices in the region. This study offers useful recommendations for enhancing soil health and increasing agricultural productivity in some regions of Meghalaya's agroecosystems.
Assessment of Correlation of Morphological, and Physiological Traits with Seed Yield in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Magar Akshay S. , Katiyar Pratibha , Banjare Bhumika , Thakur Neha
Published: August 2024

Thirty-six rice varieties were evaluated at the instructional farm, College of Agriculture, IGKV, Raipur (C.G.) during the years 2021-22 and 2022-23 under the Kharif season. The correlation studies with different morphological, and physiological traits were carried out and suggested that traits e.g. number of tillers, productive tiller, number of leaves, total dry weight, SCMR value of flag leaf, second leaf, third leaf, net assimilation rate, specific leaf weight, light interception, Harvest index, panicle weight plant-1, total grain panicle-1, fertile grains panicle-1, number of primary branches panicle-1, and number of fertile grains on primary branch content were positively correlated at p<0.001 significant level, while Flag leaf length, angle of top three leaves, specific leaf area, sterile grains panicle-1, number of sterile grains on ttprimary branch, and number of sterile grains on the secondary branch were negatively associated with grain yield during both the years. Hence, these traits could be considered as the principal traits. Thus, correlation analysis suggested that these parameters contribute to the seed yield of rice.
Exploring Innovative Thinking Skills Among SME Owners in South Africa: Implications for Business Longevity
Authors: Ndlela Sphesihle , Barnes Neil
Published: August 2024

Aims: According to the SME South Africa study conducted in 2018, the survival rate of South African Small medium enterprises (SME) is low. The country’s policymakers have become increasingly aware of the need to support the cultivation and growth of resilient, innovative and agile entrepreneurs as can be seen in the National Integrated Small Enterprise Development (NISED) Masterplan. In addition, employees in innovative organizations are more likely to share knowledge to contribute to the improvement of organizational performance, as such environments require high levels of innovative activity. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the level of innovative thinking skills among SME owners in South Africa's construction and manufacturing industries and explore its impact on SME longevity.
Study Design:  The study employed a descriptive quantitative design, focusing on 204 SME owners from the construction and manufacturing industries in South Africa, selected via quota sampling. Data was collected through an anonymous online questionnaire, which assessed the participants' levels of innovative thinking. The analysis, conducted using Python software, aimed to determine the prevalence of these skills and their implications for the longevity of SMEs.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in South Africa, focusing on the construction and manufacturing industries. The data collection and analysis took place over a period of two years June 2020 and July 2022.
Methodology: The study employed a descriptive quantitative approach, using quota sampling to select 204 SME owners from the construction and manufacturing industries in South Africa. Data was gathered through an anonymous online questionnaire and analyzed using Python software to assess innovative thinking levels. Python was selected for descriptive statistics due to its robust and mature libraries like Pandas and NumPy, which facilitate efficient data manipulation and analysis. It ensures consistency and reproducibility in research workflows.
Results: The results indicated that SME owners in both the construction and manufacturing sectors exhibited moderate levels of innovative thinking. This suggests that while innovative thinking is present, there is potential for further development to enhance SMEs' competitive edge and long-term viability.
Conclusion: The study concludes that while SME owners in South Africa demonstrate moderate levels of innovative thinking, there is significant room for improvement. Enhancing these skills could play a crucial role in boosting the competitive advantage and sustainability of SMEs. It is recommended that SME owners integrate innovative thinking more deeply into their management practices to effectively navigate complex challenges.
Validation of DEM prediction for granular avalanches on irregular terrain
Authors: Mead Stuart R. , Cleary Paul W.
Published: August 2015

Accurate numerical simulation can provide crucial information useful for a greater understanding of destructive granular mass movements such as rock avalanches, landslides, and pyroclastic flows. It enables more informed and relatively low cost investigation of significant risk factors, mitigation strategy effectiveness, and sensitivity to initial conditions, material, or soil properties. In this paper, a granular avalanche experiment from the literature is reanalyzed and used as a basis to assess the accuracy of discrete element method (DEM) predictions of avalanche flow. Discrete granular approaches such as DEM simulate the motion and collisions of individual particles and are useful for identifying and investigating the controlling processes within an avalanche. Using a superquadric shape representation, DEM simulations were found to accurately reproduce transient and static features of the avalanche. The effect of material properties on the shape of the avalanche deposit was investigated. The simulated avalanche deposits were found to be sensitive to particle shape and friction, with the particle shape causing the sensitivity to friction to vary. The importance of particle shape, coupled with effect on the sensitivity to friction, highlights the importance of quantifying and including particle shape effects in numerical modeling of granular avalanches.
Lithium‐Salt‐Containing High‐Molecular‐Weight Polystyrene‐block‐Polyethylene Oxide Block Copolymer Films
Authors: Metwalli Ezzeldin , Rasool Majid , Brunner Simon , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: August 2015

Ionic conductivity in relation to the morphology of lithium‐doped high‐molecular‐weight polystyrene‐block‐polyethylene oxide (PS‐b‐PEO) diblock copolymer films was investigated as solid‐state membranes for lithium‐ion batteries. The tendency of the polyethylene (PEO) block to crystallize was highly suppressed by increasing both the salt‐doping level and the temperature. The PEO crystallites completely vanished at a salt‐doping ratio of Li/EO>0.08, at which the PEO segments were hindered from entering the crystalline unit of the PEO chain. A kinetically trapped lamella morphology of PS‐b‐PEO was observed, due to PEO crystallization. The increase in the lamella spacing with increasing salt concentration was attributed to the conformation of the PEO chain rather than the volume contribution of the salt or the previously reported increase in the effective interaction parameter. Upon loading the salt, the PEO chains changed from a compact/highly folded conformation to an amorphous/expanded‐like conformation. The ionic conductivity was enhanced by amorphization of PEO and thereby the mobility of the PEO blocks increased upon increasing the salt‐doping level.
Influence of FPS bearing properties on the seismic performance of base‐isolated structures
Authors: Castaldo Paolo , Tubaldi Enrico
Published: August 2015

The paper analyzes the influence of friction pendulum system (FPS) isolator properties on the seismic performance of base‐isolated building frames. The behavior of these systems is analyzed by employing a two‐degree‐of‐freedom model accounting for the superstructure flexibility, whereas the FPS isolator behavior is described by adopting a widespread model that considers the variation of the friction coefficient with the velocity. The uncertainty in the seismic input is taken into account by considering a set of natural records with different characteristics scaled to increasing intensity levels. The variation of the statistics of the response parameters relevant to the seismic performance is investigated through the nondimensionalization of the motion equation and an extensive parametric study carried out for different isolator and system properties. The proposed approach allows to explore a wide range of situations while limiting the required nonlinear response history analyses.

Two case studies consisting of base‐isolated building frames described as shear‐type systems are finally investigated in order to demonstrate the capabilities of the proposed simplified model in unveiling the essential characteristics of the performance of buildings isolated with FPS bearings. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bee venom phospholipase A2 suppresses allergic airway inflammation in an ovalbumin‐induced asthma model through the induction of regulatory T cells
Authors: Park Soojin , Baek Hyunjung , Jung Kyung‐Hwa , Lee Gihyun , Lee Hyeonhoon , Kang Geun‐Hyung , Lee Gyeseok , Bae Hyunsu
Published: August 2015

Bee venom (BV) is one of the alternative medicines that have been widely used in the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases. We previously demonstrated that BV induces immune tolerance by increasing the population of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in immune disorders. However, the major component and how it regulates the immune response have not been elucidated. We investigated whether bee venom phospholipase A2 (bvPLA2) exerts protective effects that are mediated via Tregs in OVA‐induced asthma model. bvPLA2 was administered by intraperitoneal injection into control and OVA‐challenged mice. The Treg population, total and differential bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cell count, Th2 cytokines, and lung histological features were assessed. Treg depletion was used to determine the involvement of Treg migration and the reduction of asthmatic symptoms. The CD206‐dependence of bvPLA2‐treated suppression of airway inflammation was evaluated in OVA‐challenged CD206‐/‐ mice. The bvPLA2 treatment induced the Tregs and reduced the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the lung in the OVA‐challenged mice. Th2 cytokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were reduced in bvPLA2‐treated mice. Although bvPLA2 suppressed the number of inflammatory cells after OVA challenge, these effects were not observed in Treg‐depleted mice. In addition, we investigated the involvement of CD206 in bvPLA2‐mediated immune tolerance in OVA‐induced asthma model. We observed a significant reduction in the levels of Th2 cytokines and inflammatory cells in the BALF of bvPLA2‐treated OVA‐induced mice but not in bvPLA2‐treated OVA‐induced CD206‐/‐ mice. These results demonstrated that bvPLA2 can mitigate airway inflammation by the induction of Tregs in an OVA‐induced asthma model.
Modeling exact exchange potential in spherically confined atoms
Authors: Vyboishchikov Sergei F.
Published: August 2015

In this work, local exchange potentials corresponding to the Hartree–Fock (HF) electron density have been obtained using the Zhao–Morrison–Parr method for a number of closed‐shell confined atoms and ions. The exchange potentials obtained and the resulting density were compared with those given by the Becke–Johnson (BJ) model potential. It is demonstrated that introducing a scaling factor to the BJ potential allows improving the quality of the resulting density. The optimum scaling factor increases with decreasing confinement radius. The performance of Karasiev and Ludeña's SCα‐LDA method as well as of the Becke‐88 exchange potential for reproducing the HF electron densities in confined atoms has been also examined. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Return to Micro‐credit on Small‐scale Businesses: A Case Study of Ghanaian MFI
Authors: Peprah James Atta , Ayayi Ayi Gavriel
Published: August 2015

The paper uses two rounds of survey to examine the relative returns to micro‐credit for small‐scale businesses in two regions of Ghana. Propensity scores matching and the nearest neighbour matching are used to assess the return to micro‐loans on retail businesses of clients and non‐clients. Micro‐credit impacts on sales, stock, expenses and profit for clients as compared with non‐clients. Women‐owned businesses produce higher returns from micro‐credit than men‐owned businesses. Individual and enterprise characteristics influence access to micro‐credit. The paper offers policy recommendations to microfinance institutions on whom and which business activity to give credit. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient extraction of proteins from recalcitrant plant tissue for subsequent analysis by two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis
Authors: Parkhey Suruchi , Chandrakar Vibhuti , Naithani S.C. , Keshavkant S.
Published: August 2015

Protein extraction for two‐dimensional electrophoresis from tissues of recalcitrant species is quite problematic and challenging due to the low protein content and high abundance of contaminants. Proteomics in Shorea robusta is scarcely conducted due to the lack of a suitable protein preparation procedure. To establish an effective protein extraction protocol suitable for two‐dimensional electrophoresis in Shorea robusta, four procedures (borate buffer/trichloroacetic acid extraction, organic solvent/trichloroacetic acid precipitation, sucrose/Tris/phenol, and organic solvent/phenol/sodium dodecyl sulfate) were evaluated. Following these, proteins were isolated from mature leaves and were analyzed for proteomics, and also for potential contaminants, widely reported to hinder proteomics. The borate buffer/trichloroacetic acid extraction had the lowest protein yield and did not result in any banding even in one‐dimensional electrophoresis. In contrast, organic solvent/phenol/sodium dodecyl sulfate extraction allowed the highest protein yield. Moreover, during proteomics, organic solvent/phenol/sodium dodecyl sulfate extracted protein resolved the maximum number (144) of spots. Further, when proteins were evaluated for contaminants, significant (77–95%) reductions in the nucleic acids, phenol, and sugars were discernible with refinement in extraction procedure. Accumulated data suggested that the organic solvent/phenol/sodium dodecyl sulfate extraction was the most effective protocol for protein isolation for proteomics of Shorea robusta and can be used for plants that have a similar set of contaminants.
Dietary overlap and potential competition in a dynamic ungulate community in Northwestern Canada
Authors: Jung Thomas S. , Stotyn Shannon A. , Czetwertynski Sophie M.
Published: August 2015

The potential for interspecific competition for food resources is a key consideration when newly introduced ungulates occupy a shared range with resident native species. Management plans in Yukon, Canada, for reintroduced bison (Bison bison) and introduced elk (Cervus canadensis) called for an assessment of competition for food resources between these species and resident populations of caribou (Rangifer tarandus), thinhorn sheep (Ovis dalli), and moose (Alces americanus). To assess potential competition among ungulates, we examined dietary overlap of 7 ungulate species in southwestern Yukon, Canada. We compared diet composition at the forage class level and composite diet indices (diversity, evenness, and niche breadth) among species found at 2 elevation classes (high [≥1,200 m ASL] and low [<1,200 m ASL]) during summer and winter, using data derived from microhistological analyses of feces. Composite indices and percent of key forage classes in diets differed among ungulates during summer and winter and at both high and low elevations. Potential dietary overlap for most species pairs was low to moderate (0.07–0.60). However, for bison and thinhorn sheep at high elevations, and bison and semi‐feral horses (Equus ferus caballus) at low elevations, it was high (0.82–0.97) during both summer and winter, indicating potential for food competition. Dietary overlap between species appeared to be based primarily on morphophysiological classification (i.e., browser‐intermediate‐grazer), rather than body size. Bison, horses, and sheep were all grazers. Intermediate species, such as introduced elk, had only moderate dietary overlap with several species. We concluded that the potential for competition for food resources based on dietary overlap between bison and sheep and bison and horses may be high in our study area, depending on forage availability, but for all other species pairs in our study area the potential for forage competition is low to moderate. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.
A new approach to compressed sensing for NMR
Authors: Stern Alan S. , Hoch Jeffrey C.
Published: August 2015

Compressed sensing (CS) has attracted a great deal of recent interest as an approach for spectrum analysis of nonuniformly sampled NMR data. Although theoretical justification for the method is abundant, it suffers from several weaknesses, among them poor convergence of some algorithms, and it remains an open question whether NMR spectra satisfy the sparsity requirements of CS theorems. The versions of CS used in NMR involve minimizing thel1norm of the spectrum. They bear similarity to maximum entropy (MaxEnt) reconstruction, but critical comparison of the methods can be difficult. Here we describe a formalism that places CS and MaxEnt reconstruction on equal footing, enabling critical comparison of the two methods. We also describe a new algorithm for CS that restricts the computation of thel1norm to the real channel for complex spectra and ensures causality. Preliminary 1D results demonstrate that this approach ameliorates some artifacts that can occur when using thel1norm of the complex spectrum. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SirX: a selective inversion recovery experiment on X‐nuclei for the determination of the exchange rate of slow chemical exchanges between two sites
Authors: Xie Xiulan , Bönisch Friedrich
Published: August 2015

Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy has proven to be powerful for the study of dynamic processes. A new pulse sequence, SirX, is designed to provide boundary conditions that simplify the McConnell equations. Both an initial rate approximation and a whole curve fitting to the time course of magnetization can be used to calculate the exchange rate. These methods were used to study the exchange kinetics of N,N‐dimethylacetamide. As compared with the well‐established exchange spectroscopy suitable to studies of slow exchange, SirX has the advantage of being less time consuming and capable of providing more reliable kinetic data. Furthermore, by setting the observation on X‐nuclei with larger chemical shift dispersion as compared with an observation on 1H resonance, SirX extends the upper limit of a reliable determination of exchange rates. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The structure of the Caenorhabditis elegans manganese superoxide dismutase MnSOD‐3‐azide complex
Authors: Hunter Gary J. , Trinh Chi H. , Bonetta Rosalin , Stewart Emma E. , Cabelli Diane E. , Hunter Therese
Published: August 2015

C. elegans MnSOD‐3 has been implicated in the longevity pathway and its mechanism of catalysis is relevant to the aging process and carcinogenesis. The structures of MnSOD‐3 provide unique crystallographic evidence of a dynamic region of the tetrameric interface (residues 41–54). We have determined the structure of the MnSOD‐3‐azide complex to 1.77‐Å resolution. Analysis of this complex shows that the substrate analog, azide, binds end‐on to the manganese center as a sixth ligand and that it ligates directly to a third and new solvent molecule also positioned within interacting distance to the His30 and Tyr34 residues of the substrate access funnel. This is the first structure of a eukaryotic MnSOD‐azide complex that demonstrates the extended, uninterrupted hydrogen‐bonded network that forms a proton relay incorporating three outer sphere solvent molecules, the substrate analog, the gateway residues, Gln142, and the solvent ligand. This configuration supports the formation and release of the hydrogen peroxide product in agreement with the 5‐6‐5 catalytic mechanism for MnSOD. The high product dissociation constant k4 of MnSOD‐3 reflects low product inhibition making this enzyme efficient even at high levels of superoxide.
Poisson law for some non-uniformly hyperbolic dynamical systems with polynomial rate of mixing
Authors: PÈNE FRANÇOISE , SAUSSOL BENOÎT
Published: August 2015

We consider some non-uniformly hyperbolic invertible dynamical systems which are modeled by a Gibbs–Markov–Young tower. We assume a polynomial tail for the inducing time and a polynomial control of hyperbolicity, as introduced by Alves, Pinheiro and Azevedo. These systems admit a physical measure with polynomial rate of mixing. In this paper we prove that the distribution of the number of visits to a ball$B(x,r)$converges to a Poisson distribution as the radius$r\rightarrow 0$and after suitable normalization.
Ionospheric Modelling using GPS to Calibrate the MWA. I: Comparison of First Order Ionospheric Effects between GPS Models and MWA Observations
Authors: Arora B. S. , Morgan J. , Ord S. M. , Tingay S. J. , Hurley-Walker N. , Bell M. , Bernardi G. , Bhat N. D. R. , Briggs F. , Callingham J. R. , Deshpande A. A. , Dwarakanath K. S. , Ewall-Wice A. , Feng L. , For B.-Q. , Hancock P. , Hazelton B. J. , Hindson L. , Jacobs D. , Johnston-Hollitt M. , Kapińska A. D. , Kudryavtseva N. , Lenc E. , McKinley B. , Mitchell D. , Oberoi D. , Offringa A. R. , Pindor B. , Procopio P. , Riding J. , Staveley-Smith L. , Wayth R. B. , Wu C. , Zheng Q. , Bowman J. D. , Cappallo R. J. , Corey B. E. , Emrich D. , Goeke R. , Greenhill L. J. , Kaplan D. L. , Kasper J. C. , Kratzenberg E. , Lonsdale C. J. , Lynch M. J. , McWhirter S. R. , Morales M. F. , Morgan E. , Prabu T. , Rogers A. E. E. , Roshi A. , Shankar N. Udaya , Srivani K. S. , Subrahmanyan R. , Waterson M. , Webster R. L. , Whitney A. R. , Williams A. , Williams and C. L.
Published: August 2015

We compare first-order (refractive) ionospheric effects seen by the MWA with the ionosphere as inferred from GPS data. The first-order ionosphere manifests itself as a bulk position shift of the observed sources across an MWA field of view. These effects can be computed from global ionosphere maps provided by GPS analysis centres, namely the CODE. However, for precision radio astronomy applications, data from local GPS networks needs to be incorporated into ionospheric modelling. For GPS observations, the ionospheric parameters are biased by GPS receiver instrument delays, among other effects, also known as receiver DCBs. The receiver DCBs need to be estimated for any non-CODE GPS station used for ionosphere modelling. In this work, single GPS station-based ionospheric modelling is performed at a time resolution of 10 min. Also the receiver DCBs are estimated for selected Geoscience Australia GPS receivers, located at Murchison Radio Observatory, Yarragadee, Mount Magnet and Wiluna. The ionospheric gradients estimated from GPS are compared with that inferred from MWA. The ionospheric gradients at all the GPS stations show a correlation with the gradients observed with the MWA. The ionosphere estimates obtained using GPS measurements show promise in terms of providing calibration information for the MWA.
IDEMPOTENT RANK IN THE ENDOMORPHISM MONOID OF A NONUNIFORM PARTITION
Authors: DOLINKA IGOR , EAST JAMES , MITCHELL JAMES D.
Published: August 2015

We calculate the rank and idempotent rank of the semigroup ${\mathcal{E}}(X,{\mathcal{P}})$ generated by the idempotents of the semigroup ${\mathcal{T}}(X,{\mathcal{P}})$ which consists of all transformations of the finite set $X$ preserving a nonuniform partition ${\mathcal{P}}$. We also classify and enumerate the idempotent generating sets of minimal possible size. This extends results of the first two authors in the uniform case.
Constructing ‘Farmer’ and ‘State’ Identities in Moral Discourses about Semi-subsistence Agriculture in North-east Brazil
Authors: PENNESI KAREN
Published: August 2015

Anthropological analysis elucidates how discourses about agriculture in one North-east Brazilian community reflect relational roles of citizens and the state, the position of farmers in society, and the relationship of individuals to their work. In these discourses, farmers are positioned as moral, hard-working, autonomous citizens, justifying their participation in low-paying activities. The declining numbers of agricultural workers is explained as a result of individual laziness or government irresponsibility. In using these discourses to take stances publicly on agricultural issues, speakers assign responsibilities and moral status to agents. In constructing rural identities, such moral discourses emphasise the symbolic value of subsistence agriculture as its economic value declines.
‘Hands off my constitution’: Constitutional reform and the workings of democracy in Mali
Authors: Wing Susanna D.
Published: August 2015

Constitutions in Africa are often considered fragile. Mali is an example of both constitutional crisis and constitutional durability. While Mali was upheld as a democratic model, the 2012 military coup might lead one to argue that Mali's recent history reflects constitutional weakness. However, the swift reinstatement of the constitution, popular commitment to its preservation, and attempts to pursue the post-coup transition in a constitutional manner all illustrate the domestic and international legitimacy of Mali's 1992 constitution. This article analyses the process of the proposed Malian constitutional referendum that, though constitutional in itself, contributed to the March 2012 overthrow of President Touré. It argues that the history of participatory constitutionalism in Mali contributed to the movement against the referendum. Constitutional reform is a necessity for an enduring constitution and this article sheds light on constitutional reform in states with weak legislatures, and illustrates the process of reform and the political divide that surrounded it in Mali. It provides a unique analysis of the crisis in Mali while at the same time making a contribution to our understanding of constitutionalism and constitutional reform in Africa.
South Africa at a Turning Point?
Authors: Zuern Elke
Published: August 2015

South Africa is at a crossroads. The state has not adequately addressed dire human development needs, often failing to provide the services it constitutionally guarantees. As a result, citizens are expressing their frustrations in a variety of ways, at times including violence. These serious challenges are most readily apparent in poverty, inequality and unemployment statistics, but also in electricity provision, billing and affordability as well as a recent spate of racially motivated attacks which highlight the tension both among South Africans and between South Africans and darker skinned foreigners. The country has, however, been on the brink before and avoided the worst-case scenario of full-scale civil war and state collapse. Far too often South Africa's past successes have been attributed to the role of one man, Nelson Mandela. While Mandela was indeed an extraordinary human being who rightly deserved the international awards and accolades as well as the deep admiration of so many, South Africa's triumphs as a society and a state are the product of both cooperative and conflicting contributions by a wide range of actors. A central question at the present juncture is how well equipped domestic actors and institutions are to address the crisis. The following pages seek to provide some insights and through the perspectives of three authors to consider causes and possible responses.