bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital rights and responsibility in education: A scoping review
Authors: Gallego-Arrufat María-Jesús , García-Martínez Inmaculada , Romero-López María-Asunción , Torres-Hernández Norma
Published: January 2024

Studies on digital rights in education have both gained attention and provided a framework for research, policy and practice in educational research within the field of educational technology. The potential benefits we appreciate in Internet use are inseparable from the maximum risks involved. Faced with this responsibility, individuals demand that their rights and freedoms be guaranteed in the digital environment according to their various roles as students, teachers, families or staff. This scoping review selects and analyses 54 theoretical and empirical studies from the last decade (2013-2023), identifying the main topics investigated as privacy protection in online environments, right to digital security or cybersecurity, and right to digital education. The review underscores the need to guide efforts towards digital education for citizens because the legal regulation of rights and responsibilities is necessary but insufficient. The paper also makes arguments about acceptance, limitations and implications for teacher training.
Recenze: Marcela Andoková: Čierna som, a predsa krásna. Tyconiov výklad Piesne piesní 1,5
Authors: Šály Martin
Published: January 2024

Review: Marcela Andoková: Čierna som, a predsa krásna. Tyconiov výklad Piesne piesní 1,5
Phytocoenotic Distribution of Hulthemia persica (Michaut ex Juss.) Bornm. (Rosaceae) under Different Ecological Conditions in Uzbekistan
Authors: Tashkhanim T Rakhimova , Nodira K Rakhimova , Vasila K Sharipova , Nargiza K Rakhimova , Eldor E Temirov
Published: January 2024

The paper presents some of the results of the 2020–2022 studies of 7 communities with the participation of a poorly studied forage and melliferous species, Hulthemia persica, in the Republic of Uzbekistan. The research goal is to identify the phytocenotic confinement of the poorly studied forage and melliferous species H. persica in various environmental conditions in the Republic of Uzbekistan. Phytocoenotic studies in 7 communities have shown that the population numbers of H. persica in the Tashkent Region (Parkentsay) are satisfactory. However, in recent years the strong impact of anthropogenic factors, primarily livestock grazing under natural growing conditions, has affected this species’ abundance, which has gradually disappeared. Large-scale exploration and prospecting, with the development of the oil and gas industry and other technogenic factors, has harmed the state of H. persica; therefore, populations lack young individuals and the cover provided by this species is relatively low. Therefore, it is crucial to strengthen protection measures, which the authors also recommend using for degraded pastures in the desert and foothill regions of the Republic of Uzbekistan. A detailed survey of natural populations and monitoring their condition should be carried out. In particular, H. persica is a promising plant adapted to various environmental conditions and can be used in degraded pastures in desert and foothill regions of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
A comprehensive review on mutation breeding milestones in cereals: Conventional to advanced molecular approaches to achieve sustainable goals in trait improvement
Authors: Jasmin Agalya , Nilavu  , Jayakumar Anjana , Petchiammal Indira , Lydia Pramitha  , Devesena  , Neethu Francis  , Arumugam Pillai Madhavan  , Selvaraj Ramchander
Published: January 2024

The grass family includes the annual common grasses known as cereals. The 5 main types of cereals are rice, wheat, barley, rye and oats. As a result of their high vitamin (20-80%) and fiber content (90%), these grains can help treat conditions like type II diabetes, complex metabolic syndrome, obesity, gastrointestinal disorders, and high cholesterol. Cereals have inspired a long history of research into their genetics, development, and evolution due to their significance in both economic and scientific terms. They need to be improved because they play a big part in global food production and crop quality is declining. The crop improvement can be done by incorporating desired features from non-adapted landraces/wild resources. That induced mutagenesis has made a significant contribution to crop improvement initiatives by producing mutant varieties with better and desired genetic modifications in the crop plants mainly in agronomically significant features. The mutants produced by the induction of physical and chemical mutagens were highly useful. The notable traits obtained by the induced mutations are semidwarfness and early maturity in rice varieties, disease resistance in barley, salinity, and drought tolerance in wheat, and lodging and disease resistance in oat and rye. In this review, we focused on identifying and developing elite mutants, their genetic function, and their utilization in future breeding programs for various traits in cereal crops.
Nutrient inputs shape ecosystem functioning gradients along the pristine, upper Neretva River, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Del Campo Rubén , Jechsmayr Barbara , Settles Veronika , Ströder Melanie , Singer Gabriel
Published: January 2024

Ecosystem functions are the backbone of ecosystem services that rivers provide to human societies. Ecosystem functioning emerges from the interaction between biological communities and their environment. As environmental conditions in rivers change along their longitudinal continuum, so does functioning. Sometimes, these changes do not follow smooth gradients but rather great discontinuities. This can be the case in calcareous, karstic rivers due to the sudden massive inputs of groundwater along the landscape, a typical phenomenon for Balkan rivers. Despite their high geodiversity and their great ecological value, Balkan rivers remain understudied. Here, we investigated how ecosystem functions and their diversity (estimated as multifunctionality) change along the continuum of the karstic, free-flowing Neretva River in Bosnia and Herzegovina. For this purpose, we measured a subset of fundamental ecosystem functions (ecosystem gross primary production, biofilm net primary production and enzymatic activities, organic matter decomposition) in 11 river reaches from the Neretva headwaters to river sections upstream of the Jablanica reservoir. We found different functions reached their maximum in different sections of the Neretva depending on nutrient inputs. While organic matter decomposition was highest in headwaters due to the input of nutrients from riparian vegetation, biofilm enzymatic activity expressed highest values at middle sections due to groundwater inputs of NH4+-N. Primary production was highest at the most downstream sections due to the accumulation of NO3--N and PO43--P within the catchment area. As a result, average multifunctionality peaked at sites with the highest nutrient concentration across the Neretva river continuum, indicating a stronger influence of nutrient inputs than network position. The pristine conditions of the Neretva result in oligotrophic conditions along its upper course. Our results emphasize the great sensitivity of ecosystem functioning in the Neretva to nutrient inputs and environmental discontinuities, either natural or human-made. Potential major, long-term impacts in the area might alter existing environmental gradients and thus ecosystem functioning in rivers at local and regional scale.
Impaired function in the lung periphery following COVID‐19 is associated with lingering breathing difficulties
Authors: Kjellberg Sanna , Holm Alexander , Berguerand Nicolas , Sandén Helena , Schiöler Linus , Olsén Monika Fagevik , Olin Anna‐Carin
Published: January 2024

Lingering breathing difficulties are common after COVID‐19. However, the underlying causes remains unclear, with spirometry often being normal. We hypothesized that small airway dysfunction (SAD) can partly explain these symptoms. We examined 48 individuals (32 women, 4 hospitalized in the acute phase) who experienced dyspnea and/or cough in the acute phase and/or aftermath of COVID‐19, and 22 non‐COVID‐19 controls. Time since acute infection was, median (range), 65 (10–131) weeks. We assessed SAD using multiple breath washout (MBW) and impulse oscillometry (IOS) and included spirometry and diffusing‐capacity test (DLCO). One‐minute‐sit‐to‐stand test estimated physical function, and breathing difficulties were defined as answering “yes” to the question “do you experience lingering breathing difficulties?” Spirometry, DLCO, and IOS were normal in almost all cases (spirometry: 90%, DLCO: 98%, IOS: 88%), while MBW identified ventilation inhomogeneity in 50%. Breathing difficulties (n = 21) was associated with increased MBW‐derived Sacin. However, physical function did not correlate with SAD. Among individuals with breathing difficulties, 25% had reduced physical function, 25% had SAD, 35% had both, and 15% had normal lung function and physical function. Despite spirometry and DLCO being normal in almost all post‐COVID‐19 individuals, SAD was present in a high proportion and was associated with lingering breathing difficulties.
Synergistic inhibitive effect of a hybrid zinc oxide-benzalkonium chloride composite on the corrosion of carbon steel in a sulfuric acidic solution
Authors: AlBeladi Muntathir , Geesi Mohammed H. , Riadi Yassine , Alahiane Mustapha , Aljohani Talal A. , Berisha Avni , Reka Arianit , Kaiba Abdellah , Ouerghi Oussama
Published: January 2024

Zinc oxide and quaternary ammonium-type surfactants have been separately recognized for their anti-corrosive efficiencies. Their composite, not investigated so far, could provide a synergetic anti-corrosion effect. In this respect, the aim of this study is to synthesize a composite material consisting of zinc oxide and benzalkonium chloride (ZnO-BAC) in varying mass ratios (3:1, 1:1, and 1:3). The inhibitory properties of the ZnO-BAC composite against carbon steel corrosion in a 0.5 M sulfuric acid solution were assessed under ambient conditions. First, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used to examine the chemical structure of the prepared composite. Then, the corrosion inhibitive performance of the devised inhibitors was screened using electrochemical, hydrogen collection, and weight loss measurements. Further, the surface morphology was examined using a scanning electron microscope, both before and after immersion in the corrosion medium. The electrochemical measurements indicate that the prepared inhibitor exhibits a predominant cathodic inhibition behavior and the maximum inhibition efficiency, approximately 91.9%, was achieved for one-to-one mass ratio. Similar results were obtained from weight loss and hydrogen evolution measurements, which showed that the ZnO-BAC composite reduced the corrosion rate of carbon steel by 69.9% and 64.9%, respectively. Finally, molecular dynamics and an adsorption equilibrium model were used to elucidate the mechanism of corrosion inhibition by the ZnO-BAC composite, which exhibits a high adsorption energy on the iron surface.
Effect of tool rotational speed on friction stir spot welds of AZ31B Mg alloy to AISI 304 stainless steel
Authors: Ekinci Omer
Published: January 2024

AZ31B Mg alloy were welded to AISI 304 stainless steel (which is a very challenging task because of their huge different chemical and physical features) by friction stir spot welding (FSSW) at different tool rotation speeds (700, 1000, and 1300 rpm) while keeping other conditions the same. Welds were evaluated and compared by examining their cross-sectional geometry, XRD pattern, tensile shear strength, fracture way and area. From cross-sections of welds, it was obtained that joining area expanded when speed was enhanced and the weld made through 1300 rpm had the largest one. Therefore, weld fabricated with the highest speed of 1300 rpm displayed the biggest tensile shear load of 3741 N while that manufactured with the lowest speed of 700 rpm possessed the lowest of 2430 N. All welds showed tensile shear type fracture and fracture occurred from the hooking regions where joining took place. From the fracture joint region, the weld of 700 rpm had the smallest joined area, whereas that of 1300 rpm showed the biggest. Higher speed produced a stronger joint, which agreed with a bigger bonding area and broken joint region. Also, joint became more ductile with increasing speed. Some phases were detected in joints.
Transmissible topological edge states based on Su–Schrieffer–Heeger photonic crystals with defect cavities
Authors: Yan Qiuchen , Ma Rui , Lyu Qinghong , Hu Xiaoyong , Gong Qihuang
Published: January 2024

Topological photonic crystals have great potential in the application of on-chip integrated optical communication devices. Here, we successfully construct the on-chip transmissible topological edge states using one-dimensional Su–Schrieffer–Heeger (SSH) photonic crystals with defect cavities on silicon-on-insulator slab. Different coupling strengths between the lateral modes and diagonal modes in photonic crystal defect cavities are used to construct the SSH model. Furthermore, two photonic SSH-cavity configurations, called α and β configurations, are designed to demonstrate the topological edge states. Leveraging the capabilities of photonic crystal transverse electric modes with on-chip transmission, we introduced a waveguide to excite a boundary defect cavity and found that the transmission peak of light, corresponding to the topological edge state, can be received in another boundary defect cavity, which is caused by the tunnel effect. Moreover, the position of this peak experiences a blue shift as the defect cavity size increases. Therefore, by tuning the size of the SSH defect cavity, on-chip wavelength division multiplexing function can be achieved, which is demonstrated in experiments. The ultrafast response time of one operation can be less than 20 fs. This work harmonizes the simplicity of one-dimensional SSH model with the transmissibility of two-dimensional photonic crystals, realizing transmissible on-chip zero-dimensional topological edge states. Since transmission peaks are highly sensitive to defect cavity size, this configuration can also serve as a wavelength sensor and a reconfigurable optical device, which is of substantial practical value to on-chip applications of topological photonics.
The third way: object reordering as ambiguous labeling resolution
Authors: Stegovec Adrian
Published: January 2024

This paper examines free object order alternation in ditransitives, focusing on Slovenian. It is shown that neither a scrambling nor a base generation analysis is fully satisfactory. A new analysis based on the Labeling Algorithm is proposed, where it is argued that the introduction of a second object creates an ambiguous labeling scenario ({NP,VP}), which has two equivalent resolutions: (i) movement of the VP with the first object inside, or (ii) movement of the second object. This is shown to derive both free object order in the general case and the restrictions on object order in select contexts, as due to the specifics of the VP-movement analysis it is possible for selectional restrictions to filter out either derivation (i) or (ii).
Brain expression profiles of two SCN1A antisense RNAs in children and adolescents with epilepsy
Authors: Schneider Marius Frederik , Vogt Miriam , Scheuermann Johanna , Müller Veronika , Fischer-Hentrich Antje H. L. , Kremer Thomas , Lugert Sebastian , Metzger Friedrich , Kudernatsch Manfred , Kluger Gerhard , Hartlieb Till , Noachtar Soheyl , Vollmar Christian , Kunz Mathias , Tonn Jörg Christian , Coras Roland , Blümcke Ingmar , Pace Claudia , Heinen Florian , Klein Christoph , Potschka Heidrun , Borggraefe Ingo
Published: January 2024

Objective

Heterozygous mutations within the voltage-gated sodium channel α subunit (SCN1A) are responsible for the majority of cases of Dravet syndrome (DS), a severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy. Development of novel therapeutic approaches is mandatory in order to directly target the molecular consequences of the genetic defect. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether cis-acting long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) of SCN1A are expressed in brain specimens of children and adolescent with epilepsy as these molecules comprise possible targets for precision-based therapy approaches.

Methods

We investigated SCN1A mRNA expression and expression of two SCN1A related antisense RNAs in brain tissues in different age groups of pediatric non-Dravet patients who underwent surgery for drug resistant epilepsy. The effect of different antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) directed against SCN1A specific antisense RNAs on SCN1A expression was tested.

Results

The SCN1A related antisense RNAs SCN1A-dsAS (downstream antisense, RefSeq identifier: NR_110598) and SCN1A-usAS (upstream AS, SCN1A-AS, RefSeq identifier: NR_110260) were widely expressed in the brain of pediatric patients. Expression patterns revealed a negative correlation of SCN1A-dsAS and a positive correlation of lncRNA SCN1A-usAS with SCN1A mRNA expression. Transfection of SK-N-AS cells with an ASO targeted against SCN1A-dsAS was associated with a significant enhancement of SCN1A mRNA expression and reduction in SCN1A-dsAS transcripts.

Conclusion

These findings support the role of SCN1A-dsAS in the suppression of SCN1A mRNA generation. Considering the haploinsufficiency in genetic SCN1A related DS, SCN1A-dsAS is an interesting target candidate for the development of ASOs (AntagoNATs) based precision medicine therapeutic approaches aiming to enhance SCN1A expression in DS.
Analysis of the SARS-CoV-2 nsp12 P323L/A529V mutations: coeffect in the transiently peaking lineage C.36.3 on protein structure and response to treatment in Egyptian records
Authors: Abd-Elshafy Dina N. , Nadeem Rola , Nasraa Mohamed H. , Bahgat Mahmoud M.
Published: January 2024

SARS-CoV-2 nsp12, the RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase plays a crucial role in virus replication. Monitoring the effect of its emerging mutants on viral replication and response to antiviral drugs is important. Nsp12 of two Egyptian isolates circulating in 2020 and 2021 were sequenced. Both isolates included P323L, one included the A529V. Tracking A529V mutant frequency, it relates to the transience peaked C.36.3 variant and its parent C.36, both peaked worldwide on February–August 2021, enlisted as high transmissible variants under investigation (VUI) on May 2021. Both Mutants were reported to originate from Egypt and showed an abrupt low frequency upon screening, we analyzed all 1104 nsp12 Egyptian sequences. A529V mutation was in 36 records with an abrupt low frequency on June 2021. As its possible reappearance might obligate actions for a candidate VUI, we analyzed the predicted co-effect of P323L and A529V mutations on protein stability and dynamics through protein structure simulations. Three available structures for drug–nsp12 interaction were used representing remdesivir, suramin and favipiravir drugs. Remdesivir and suramin showed an increase in structure stability and considerable change in flexibility while favipiravir showed an extreme interaction. Results predict a favored efficiency of the drugs except for favipiravir in case of the reported mutations.
Partial and Complete Fluid Replacement Maintains Exercise Performance in a Warm Environment Following Prolonged Cold-Water Immersion
Authors: Wheelock Courtney E. , Stooks Jocelyn , Schwob Jacqueline , Hess Hayden W. , Pryor Riana R. , Hostler David
Published: January 2024

Wheelock, CE, Stooks, J, Schwob, J, Hess, HW, Pryor, RR, and Hostler, D. Partial and complete fluid replacement maintains exercise performance in a warm environment following prolonged cold-water immersion. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): 290–296, 2024—Special warfare operators may be exposed to prolonged immersion before beginning a land-based mission. This immersion will result in substantial hypohydration because of diuresis. This study tested the hypothesis that both partial and full postimmersion rehydration would maintain performance during exercise in the heat. Seven men (23 ± 2 years; V̇o
2max: 50.8 ± 5.3 ml·kg−1·min−1) completed a control trial (CON) without prior immersion and 3 immersion (18.0°C) trials without rehydration (NO) or with partial (HALF) or full (FULL) rehydration. After immersion, subjects completed a 60-minute weighted ruck march (20.4 kg; 5.6 kph) and a 15-minute intermittent exercise protocol (iEPT) in a warm environment (30.0°C and 50.0% relative humidity). The primary outcome was distance (km) covered during the iEPT. A priori statistical significance was set to p ≤ 0.05. Immersion resulted in 2.3 ± 0.4% loss of body mass in all immersion trials (p < 0.01). Distance covered during the first 13-minute interval run portion of iEPT was reduced in the NO rehydration trial (1.59 ± 0.18 km) compared with all other conditions (CON: 1.88 ± 0.18 km, p = 0.03; HALF: 1.80 ± 0.18 km, p < 0.01; FULL: 1.86 ± 0.28 km, p = 0.01). During the final 2 minutes of the iEPT, distance in the NO rehydration trial (0.31 ± 0.07 km) was reduced compared with the FULL rehydration trial (0.37 ± 0.07 km; p < 0.01) but not compared with CON (0.35 ± 0.07 km; p = 0.09) or HALF (0.35 ± 0.07 km; p = 0.08). Both partial and full postimmersion fluid replacement maintained intermittent exercise performance and should be applied as rehydration strategies.
Competitive Season-Long Changes in Countermovement Vertical Jump Force-Time Metrics in Female Volleyball Players
Authors: Cabarkapa Damjana V. , Cabarkapa Dimitrije , Philipp Nicolas M. , Fry Andrew C.
Published: January 2024

Cabarkapa, DV, Cabarkapa, D, Philipp, NM, and Fry, AC. Competitive season-long changes in countermovement vertical jump force-time metrics in female volleyball players. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): e72–e77, 2024—Although force plates remain one of the most widely used tools for neuromuscular performance assessment in applied sports-specific settings, there is still a lack of scientific literature focused on studying changes in countermovement vertical jump (CVJ) performance in team sports such as volleyball, especially within the female athlete population. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to examine season-long neuromuscular performance changes in volleyball players. Eighteen National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Division-I collegiate female athletes performed 3 maximal-effort CVJs while standing on a uniaxial force plate system sampling at 1,000 Hz at 5 different testing timepoints throughout a competitive season span (∼11 weeks). The testing sessions were separated 2–3 weeks apart and performed at the approximately same time of the day (12:00 hours). Repeated-measures analysis of variance revealed that both concentric and eccentric force-time metrics remain relatively unchanged throughout a regular season span (e.g., concentric peak force and power, eccentric impulse and duration). However, the eccentric metrics such as peak and mean power and peak velocity displayed a slight improvement after a brief tapering period purposely implemented before the post-season competition to optimize the athlete's recovery (∼15, 18, and 14% increase, respectively). In addition, the outcome metrics such as vertical jump height and reactive strength index-modified did not display notable fluctuations across the competitive season span. These findings can help coaches, sports scientists, and strength and conditioning practitioners to obtain a deeper insight into collegiate female athletes' force-time characteristics that may aid with developing adequate training regimens targeted toward optimizing on-court performance.
Optimum Design of Mixture Proportion and Microscopic Analysis of Cement-Stabilized Macadam by Rubber Powder and Fiber
Authors: Chen Gonghong , Liu An , Xu Zheng , Zhou Zhigang , Yang Pengjie
Published: January 2024

Based on the orthogonal test method, the mixture proportion design of cement-stabilized macadam (CSM) modified with rubber powder and fiber is studied. With strength and dry-shrinkage as key indices, the influence of length of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber, fiber content, particle size of rubber powder, and rubber powder content on the performance of CSM is analyzed, and the optimum mixing proportion is determined. Based on this, the modification mechanism of CSM by rubber powder and fiber is further studied from a micro perspective. The results show that the 7-day unconfined compressive strength of CSM gradually increases with the increase of fiber length. With the increase of fiber content, the compressive strength shows a trend of first increasing and then decreasing. The 7-day unconfined compressive strength of CSM gradually increases with the increase of rubber powder mesh size and linearly decreases with the increase of rubber powder content. The 28-day average dry-shrinkage coefficient of CSM shows a trend of first decreasing and then increasing with the increase of fiber length and fiber content, and gradually increasing with the increase of rubber powder mesh number and rubber powder content. Considering the strength and shrinkage characteristics, the optimum mixing parameters are 40 mesh rubber powder, 0.5 % rubber powder, 18-mm fiber length, and 1.2-kg/m3 fiber content. Scanning electron microscopy results show that there is a gap between the rubber powder and the cement matrix, and the interface between the two is discontinuous, with weak bonding, resulting in a decrease in the compressive strength of CSM. PVA fiber can improve the toughness of CSM. It has good adhesion with cement matrix. It forms a three-dimensional network support structure in the CSM mixture and can restrain water loss in the cement matrix, thus greatly improving the cracking resistance of CSM.
Behavioral and Molecular Characterization of Prenatal Stress Effects on the C57BL/6J Genetic Background for the Study of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Dunn Jeffrey T. , Guidotti Alessandro , Grayson Dennis R.
Published: January 2024

Stress-inducing events during pregnancy are associated with aberrant neurodevelopment resulting in adverse psychiatric outcomes, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While numerous preclinical models for the study of ASD are frequently generated using C57BL/6J mice, few studies have investigated the effects of prenatal stress on this genetic background. In the current manuscript, we stressed C57BL/6 dams during gestation and examined numerous behavioral and molecular endophenotypes in the adult male and female offspring to characterize the resultant phenotype as compared with offspring born from nonstressed (NS) dams. Adult mice born from prenatal restraint stressed (PRS) dams demonstrated reduced sociability and reciprocal social interaction along with increased marble burying behaviors relative to mice born from nonstressed control dams. Differential expression of genes related to excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission was evaluated in the medial prefrontal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, nucleus accumbens and caudate putamen via qRT-PCR. The male PRS mouse behavioral phenotype coincided with aberrant expression of glutamate and GABA marker genes (e.g., Grin1, Grin2b, Gls, Gat1, Reln) in neural substrates of social behavior. Rescue of the male PRS sociability deficit by a known antipsychotic with epigenetic properties (i.e., clozapine (5 mg/kg) + 18 hr washout) indicated possible epigenetic regulation of genes that govern sociability. Clozapine treatment increased the expression levels of genes involved in DNA methylation, histone methylation, and histone acetylation in the nucleus accumbens. Identification of etiology-specific mechanisms underlying clinically relevant behavioral phenotypes may ultimately provide novel therapeutic interventions for the treatment of psychiatric disorders including ASD.
Chronic Spinal Cord Injury Regeneration with Combined Therapy Comprising Neural Stem/Progenitor Cell Transplantation, Rehabilitation, and Semaphorin 3A Inhibitor
Authors: Yoshida Takashi , Tashiro Syoichi , Nagoshi Narihito , Shinozaki Munehisa , Shibata Takahiro , Inoue Mitsuhiro , Ogawa Shoji , Shibata Shinsuke , Tsuji Tetsuya , Okano Hideyuki , Nakamura Masaya
Published: January 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) often results in various long-term sequelae, and chronically injured spinal cords exhibit a refractory feature, showing a limited response to cell transplantation therapies. To our knowledge, no preclinical studies have reported a treatment approach with results surpassing those of treatment comprising rehabilitation alone. In this study of rats with SCI, we propose a novel combined therapy involving a semaphorin 3A inhibitor (Sema3Ai), which enhances axonal regeneration, as the third treatment element in combination with neural stem/progenitor cell transplantation and rehabilitation. This comprehensive therapeutic strategy achieved significant improvements in host-derived neuronal and oligodendrocyte differentiation at the SCI epicenter and promoted axonal regeneration even in the chronically injured spinal cord. The elongated axons established functional electrical connections, contributing to significant enhancements in locomotor mobility when compared with animals treated with transplantation and rehabilitation. As a result, our combined transplantation, Sema3Ai, and rehabilitation treatment have the potential to serve as a critical step forward for chronic SCI patients, improving their ability to regain motor function.
Synaptotagmin 7 sculpts short-term plasticity at a high probability synapse
Authors: Chiu Delia N. , Carter Brett C.
Published: January 2024

Synapses with high release probability (Pr) tend to exhibit short-term synaptic depression. According to the prevailing model, this reflects the temporary depletion of release-ready vesicles after an initial action potential (AP). At the high-Prlayer 4 to layer 2/3 (L4-L2/3) synapse in rodent somatosensory cortex, short-term plasticity appears to contradict the depletion model: depression is absent at interstimulus intervals (ISIs) less than 50 ms, and develops to a maximum at ∼200 ms. To understand the mechanism(s) underlying the biphasic time course of short-term plasticity at this synapse, we used whole-cell electrophysiology and two-photon calcium imaging in acute slices from male and female juvenile mice. We tested several candidate mechanisms including neuromodulation, postsynaptic receptor desensitization, and use-dependent changes in presynaptic AP-evoked calcium. We found that, at single L4-L2/3 synapses, Prvaries as a function of ISI, giving rise to the distinctive short-term plasticity time course. Furthermore, the higher-than-expected Prat short ISIs depends on expression of synaptotagmin 7 (Syt7). Our results show that two distinct vesicle release processes summate to give rise to short-term plasticity at this synapse: i) a basal, high-Prrelease mechanism that undergoes rapid depression and recovers slowly (τ = ∼3 s); and ii) a Syt7-dependent mechanism that leads to a transient increase in Pr(τ = ∼100 ms) after the initial AP. We thus reveal how these synapses can maintain a very high probability of neurotransmission for multiple APs within a short time frame.

Significance StatementRelease at single L4-L2/3 synapses violates a commonly held synaptic short-term plasticity rule. Although these synapses transmit with very high probability, they do not undergo profound short-term synaptic depression in the tens of milliseconds following an AP. Syt7 is a calcium-sensing protein important for synaptic facilitation and asynchronous release, but not previously known to play a role at high-Prsynapses. We discovered that Syt7-mediated release shapes L4-L2/3 synaptic transmission by effectively counteracting short-term depression for ∼100 ms. We thus establish a molecular basis for a form of information processing at the synaptic level: the combination of these vesicle release properties results in a notch filter, preferentially conveying both very low and very high frequency signals.
Factors associated with the development of early postoperative atrial fibrillation in patients after non-cardial surgery
Authors: Abdurozikov Eldor E. , Dzhioeva Olga N. , Kiselev Anton R.
Published: January 2024

Aim. To determine the clinical, instrumental and laboratory factors associated with the development of new-earlypostoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in patients after non-cardial surgical interventions.
Methods. Cohort retrospective study: 226 case histories were selected from the archive, of which 70 patients were diagnosed with POAF for the first time after non-cardial surgical interventions and 156 patients without it.
Results.Patients in the POAF group were statistically significantly older than patients without POAF: the average age was 77 (69;84) years versus 61 (44;71) years (p<0.001), respectively. In addition, patients with POAF were more likely to have a history of myocardial infarction: 30% vs. 8.4% in the group without POAF (p<0.001); more often had a history of cardiac arrhythmias: 35.7% vs. 10.3% with POAF (p<0.001). Thromboembolic complications and pneumonia were more common in the POAF group: 35.7% and 51.4% versus 3.9% and 11%, respectively (p<0.001). There were no differences between the groups in the urgency of surgical intervention. There were also no differences in the volume of postoperative infusion of solutions (p>0.05), the frequency of bleeding after surgery (p=0.290) and the duration of hospitalization (p=0.613).When constructing the logistic regression, it was found that statistically significant independent predictors of POAF development were: myocardial infarction (OR 4.7 at 95% CI 2.2-10.1), history of cardiac arrhythmias (OR 5.0 at 95% CI 2.5-10.3), CHF 2-3 FC (OR 9.9 at 95% CI 5.2-19.1), diabetes mellitus (OR 4.0 at 95% CI 2-8), COPD (OR 8.6 at 95% CI 1.7-42.3), intraoperative infusion of more than 3 liters (OR 3.4 at 95% CI 1.6-7.4).
Conclusions.Patients who developed POAF after abdominal surgery are significantly older than patients without POAF, have more pronounced concomitant pathology: they often have a history of myocardial infarction and cardiac arrhythmias, more often suffer from severe chronic heart failure, diabetes mellitus and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The development of atrial POAF is more often noted with a large infusion of solutions during surgery, as well as with repeated laparotomies. In the early postoperative period, systemic inflammatory reaction syndrome and thromboembolic complications are more common in patients with POAF.
A survey of dental professionals’ opinions around the use of antibiotics in molar 3 extractions and dental implant placement
Authors: Torof Elham , Newton Edward , Morrissey Hana , Ball Patrick A.
Published: January 2024

Aim. This survey was conducted to determine the type and frequency of antibiotics (AB) use for the prevention of infections in dental third molar (M3) extraction and implantation procedures (DIP) among UK dentists and the opinions underpinning their practice.

Methods and design. Systematic reviews of the evidence were undertaken alongside this survey of practicing dentists in the United Kingdom to identify the opinions and practices of those undertaking the procedures.

With ethical approval, a survey was designed for online delivery and was sent to every dental practitioner in the UK with a publicly available email address or social media contact. The opening page provided the project information sheet and proceeding to complete and submit the questionnaire was considered consent to participate. The online survey was circulated to 900 identified addresses and a total of 145 responses were received. Responses were collated in Microsoft® Excel™ and analyzed using IBM® SPSS™ plus thematic analysis of free text responses.

Results. There were 42% of participants (n=61) who discouraged AB prophylactic use in M3 extractions in people with no systemic conditions and who also preferred postoperative AB use when required. Where, 57.9% of respondents (n=84) supported the short-term use of ABs (5-7 days) for M3 extraction and 53% (n=77) in DIP placement in patients with no relevant medical history. As an ad hoc finding, dentists reported on the negative impact of heavy smoking and oral parafunctional behavior on DIP success.

Conclusion. The use of antibiotics and broad spectrum antibiotics remains higher than current guidelines would recommend. Further research is required to clarify the specific risks arising from underlying medical conditions to further clarify where prophylaxis is required.
Poetic and theatrical occasionalisms: Creation of new morphologically complex words by Joseph von Eichendorff, Johann Nepomuk Nestroy, Peter Handke and Arno Schmidt
Authors: Dressler Wolfgang U. , Tumfart Barbara , Kunisch Dietmar , Hannesschläger Vanessa
Published: January 2024

This contribution characterises and differentiates the poetic occasionalisms in the form of new morphologically complex words created by the early romantic German lyrical poet Joseph von Eichendorff, by the Austrian Nobel Prize winner for literature Peter Handke and by the extravagant German prosaic author Arno Schmidt and the occasionalisms created by the most famous Austrian comedy writer Johann Nepomuk Nestroy.The concept and term occasionalism has been founded by the Russian pioneer of stylistics Erik J. Chanpira (1996, see § 2) and defined as a newly created morphologically complex poetic word destined to be used with a literary function only once for a single passage and which is not taken over by anybody else. This definition holds for the authors investigated, except Eichendorff who reuses occasionalisms, which may be also reused by other lyrical poets of the same period or even later.The main part (§ 3) consists of the discussion of 17 criteria for characterising and differentiating the occasionalisms studied. These are productivity of word formation, literary functions, main content, single use vs. reuse of them, consequences of the noun bias of German and of the preference for binary relations, size of the word families of compound constituents (especially of the first constituent), the degree of poetic licence, semantically coherent vs. incoherent combination of words within a compound, embedding into the cotext and into the situational context, gapping constructions and their make-up, preference for compounding vs. derivational morphology.The conclusion and outlook (§ 4) present proposals how literary studies may profit from investigations of poetic and theatrical occasionalisms, which represent the highest degree of language creativity of literary authors. We urge that theatre productions should highlight occasionalisms and report that Nestroy’s German occasionalisms are generally better translated into English by programs of machine translation then by human translators.
Priešmokyklinio ir mokyklinio amžiaus vaikų probleminis interneto naudojimas: tėvų įsitraukimo, požiūrio į vaiko interneto naudojimą ir vaikų veiklų internete vaidmuo
Authors: Puchalska Valerija , Jusienė Roma , Breidokienė Rima
Published: January 2024

The use of the Internet for communication, education, and entertainment has become an important part of the lives of all users, including teenagers and children. The role of parents is considered to be important to ensure children’s safe use of the Internet and to protect them from excessive involvement in online activities. The current study aimed to investigate the associations between problematic Internet use in children aged 6–14 years and their parents’ involvement in their children’s Internet use and parents’ attitudes towards their child’s Internet use. The sample consisted of 719 parents with children aged six to fourteen years (mean age 9.04 years, 55.2% of the sample were boys). Parents completed the Compulsive Internet Use Scale (Meerkerk et al., 2009) to assess their children’s problematic Internet use, and answered questions about their attitudes towards the impact of the Internet on their child’s health and relationships, their involvement in their child’s Internet use, their child’s online activities, and the time spent using screens. The data were collected as part of the research project „Long-term effects of screens on children’s physical and mental health“, in spring 2021. The results showed that children’s problematic Internet use (PIU) is related to children’s age, the total duration of screen use, online activities, and parents’ attitudes on the impact of the Internet on children’s health and relationships. In a sample of children aged 6–10 years, greater PIU was predicted by male gender, longer screen time, greater children’s involvement in online entertainment and social activities, and less favorable parental attitudes toward children’s health and relationships. Similarly, the same variables predicted PIU in 11–14-year-olds, except for social activities online. The relationships between the variables were also analyzed using structural equation modeling: models add to the results by indicating indirect associations between parental attitudes towards the Internet and children’s PIU in both age groups. In contrast, it is only in younger children that parental involvement indirectly predicts PIN.
The Role of Organisational Climate in Employee Well-Being and the Occurrence of Workplace Violence: Contextualisation of Theoretical Constructs
Authors: Butvilas Tomas , Janiukštis Andrius , Bubnys Remigijus , Lūžienė Rita
Published: January 2024

Research has shown the importance of microclimates for employee behaviour, organisational performance and individual employee well-being; also, the negative implications of workplace violence for organisational microclimate and employee well-being. This paper aims to shed light on the theoretical aspects of organisational microclimate, employee well-being and workplace violence, and to offer theoretical insights into the role of microclimate in employee well-being and the occurrence of workplace violence. To achieve this objective, an analysis and synthesis of recent scientific publications was chosen. The results revealed the theoretical links between the organisational microclimate and the emergence of workplace violence, as well as the negative implications of workplace violence for employee well-being and the further spread of violence in the organisation. This study will contribute to further empirical research on the role of organisational microclimate in employee well-being and the emergence of workplace violence.
Turmeric black tea as a multimodal theronostic dietary adjuvant aiding neuroprotection and ameliorating hypertension
Authors: De Baishakhi , Bhandari Koushik , Katakam Prakash , Saha Gargi , Goswami ridib Kumar
Published: January 2024

This study reports the multifunctional potentiality of turmeric black tea (TBT) in alleviating hypertension in salt induced hypertensive animal model and aiding neuroprotection in colchicines induced Alzheimer rat models. TBT prepared basing on the desirability function of central composite design with 3.11g of black tea and 1.46g of ground turmeric exhibited optimal pharmacologic response and organoleptic acceptability. No signs of mortality were observed till 10g/kg b.w. or any hepato-renal adversities with 5000mg/kg doses. LCMS analysis of TBT showed the presence of several tea catechins, theaflavins, gallic acids and curcuminoids. Incorporation of turmeric in black tea aided in value addition as evidenced by in vitro and in vivo experimental results and has not affected the chemoprofile of black tea studied by FTIR. The multipotency of TBT is attributed due to presence of the variant pharmacologically active molecules.
Engineering photo cross-linked porous network for efficient and selective removal of toxicants from wastewater
Authors: Nair Sayantani Nair , Nair Ajith , Bag Arijit , Ghorai Pradip Kumar , Shunmugam Raja
Published: January 2024

This article delineates the UV curable synthesis of an organogel based on thiol-norbornene click chemistry. Characterisations of the material are accomplished by standard analytical and spectroscopic techniques. Rheological measurements suggest the presence of elasticity, which is one of the characteristic features of a gel system. The organogel is found to be mechanically and thermally stable. In particular, the gel shows excellent efficiency towards the removal of cationic dyes from aqueous phase. Additionally, the adsorption results fit with pseudo second order kinetics as well as Langmuir adsorption isotherm model with good correlation. DFT calculations suggest the favourable interaction energy between the dyes and the gel as the defining parameter for the selective uptake of cationic dyes by the gel. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report unfolding the excellent efficiency of norbornene based photo cross-linked network towards removal of toxic dyes that are regularly discharged from textile and paint industries. Further, minimum water uptake during dye removal process keeps maximum amount of water available for future usage thereby making it an inexpensive material that has potential applications in toxic organic dye containing wastewater treatment.
A escrita literária da história na comemoração do centenário da Farroupilha. O caso de Farrapo: memórias dum cavalo, 1935
Authors: Antunes Soares Fabrício Antônio
Published: January 2024

Objetivo: analisar a escrita literária da história e como se articula à construção de sentido histórico na novela Farrapo: memórias dum cavalo (1935), do literato brasileiro Félix Contreiras Rodrigues (1884-1960). Metodologia: no contexto histórico da inserção política do estado do Rio Grande do Sul nas instituições e na política nacional do Brasil entre 1920 e 1935, o artigo averigua a articulação entre texto e contexto, por intermédio da operação literária da história através de analise do lugar social da obra literária, das práticas literárias da obra e, por fim, da escrita do texto literário. A fonte primária desta investigação é da novela Farrapo: memórias de um cavalo. Originalidade: ademais do método, o artigo trabalha com a hipótese de que Farrapo: memórias dum cavalo articula e cristaliza a nacionalização da história regional sulina em um período de ascensão política sul-rio-grandense em nível nacional. Conclusão: o texto literário sobre a história foi permeado por questões teóricas e políticas do seu presente examinadas a partir da operação literária da história, isto é, a novela estudada acolhe a hipótese deste artigo.
¿Gentrificación rural “verde”? Desplazamientos y eco-colonización en Patagonia-Aysén, Chile
Authors: Núñez Andrés , Urrutia Reveco Santiago , Aliste Enrique , Mayne Alex , Salazar Burrows Alejandro
Published: January 2024

En este artículo se analizan algunos procesos socioterritoriales contemporáneos en la región de Aysén, Patagonia chilena, con especial énfasis en el Valle Exploradores. Se estima que aquellos procesos pueden ser interpretados como una forma de gentrificación rural y “verde”. Bajo esta categoría se quiere dar cuenta de una multiplicidad de procesos interdependientes tales como el desplazamiento de la población local vinculada al incremento en el valor del suelo, una explosión en la oferta inmobiliaria, nuevos patrones de consumo y prácticas socioterritoriales, así como el surgimiento de discursos que posicionarían a esta región como un enclave de la conservación y preservación de la naturaleza bajo el eslogan “Reserva de Vida”. Desde este marco, el trabajo pretende contribuir con una lectura crítica a los discursos despolitizados de conservación resaltando los impactos socioterritoriales que traen consigo estos renovados procesos de “eco-colonización”, característicos de una nueva geografía del capital. Metodológicamente, se propone una plataforma mixta basada en observaciones realizadas en terreno, entrevistas semiestructuradas a informantes clave, análisis bibliográfico y levantamiento de información en el Conservador de Bienes Raíces.