bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide association, RNA-seq and iTRAQ analyses identify candidate genes controlling radicle length of wheat
Authors: Xu Fengdan , Chen Shulin , Zhou Sumei , Yue Chao , Yang Xiwen , Zhang Xiang , Zhan Kehui , He Dexian
Published: September 2022

The radicle, present in the embryo of a seed, is the first root to emerge at germination, and its rapid growth is essential for establishment and survival of the seedling. However, there are few studies on the critical mechanisms underlying radicle and then radicle length in wheat seedlings, despite its importance as a food crop throughout the world. In the present study, 196 wheat accessions from the Huanghuai Wheat Region were screened to measure radicle length under 4 hydroponic culture environments over 3 years. Different expression genes and proteins (DEGs/DEPs) between accessions with extremely long [Yunong 949 (WRL1), Zhongyu 9,302 (WRL2)] and short roots [Yunong 201 (WRS1), Beijing 841 (WRS2)] were identified in 12 sets of root tissue samples by RNA-seq and iTRAQ (Isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification). Phenotypic results showed that the elongation zone was significantly longer in root accessions with long roots compared to the short-rooted accessions. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) identified four stable chromosomal regions significantly associated with radicle length, among which 1A, 4A, and 7A chromosomes regions explained 7.17% to12.93% of the phenotypic variation. The omics studies identified the expression patterns of 24 DEGs/DEPs changed at both the transcriptional and protein levels. These DEGs/DEPs were mainly involved in carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms, photosynthesis and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathways. TraesCS1A02G104100 and TraesCS2B02G519100 were involved in the biosynthesis of tricin-lignins in cell walls and may affect the extension of cell walls in the radicle elongation zone. A combination of GWAS and RNA-seq analyses revealed 19 DEGs with expression changes in the four accessions, among which, TraesCS1A02G422700 (a cysteine-rich receptor-like protein kinase 6, CRK6) also showed upregulation in the comparison group by RNA-seq, iTRAQ, and qRT-PCR. BSMV-mediated gene silencing also showed that TaCRK6 improves root development in wheat. Our data suggest that TaCRK6 is a candidate gene regulating radicle length in wheat.
Physiological and molecular mechanisms of the response of roots of Pinus massoniana Lamb. to low-temperature stress
Authors: Lu Jingyu , Chen Hu , Yang Zhangqi , Sun Shuang , Luo Qunfeng , Xie Junkang , Tan Jianhui
Published: September 2022

Pinus massoniana Lamb. is the timber species with the widest distribution and the largest afforestation area in China, providing a large amount of timber, turpentine and ecological products. but low temperature limits its growth and geographical distribution. Physiological and molecular studies can well explain the mechanism of P. massoniana response to low temperature. In this study, physiological and biochemical indexes, cell morphology, lignin content, gene regulatory networks, and gene expression patterns of different P. massoniana varieties (cold-tolerant and cold-sensitive) were studied from physiological, biochemical, and molecular perspectives. The results indicated that under low-temperature stress, the cold-tolerant cultivar maintained high contents of osmoregulatory substances, and the root morphology and structure remained intact. In the initial stage of low-temperature stress, the number of differentially expressed genes was 7148, and with the extension of stress time, the number of differentially expressed genes decreased to 1991. P. massoniana might direct its responses to low temperature by regulating phenylpropane metabolism, starch and sucrose metabolism, hormone signaling pathways, and transcription factors. BAM, 4CL, CCoAOMT, PRX5, WRKYs, and hormone synthesis related genes play important roles. P. massoniana cultivars may vary in response mechanisms. In this study, physiological and analytical techniques were used to study the root tip response mechanism of Masson’s pine to low temperature stress. The results of this study lay a foundation for in-depth research on the molecular functions of P. massoniana under low-temperature stress conditions.
High-density linkage map construction in an autotetraploid blueberry population and detection of quantitative trait loci for anthocyanin content
Authors: Montanari Sara , Thomson Susan , Cordiner Sarah , Günther Catrin S. , Miller Poppy , Deng Cecilia H. , McGhie Tony , Knäbel Mareike , Foster Toshi , Turner Janice , Chagné David , Espley Richard
Published: September 2022

Highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum, 2n = 4x = 48) is the most cultivated type of blueberry, both in New Zealand and overseas. Its perceived nutritional value is conferred by phytonutrients, particularly anthocyanins. Identifying the genetic mechanisms that control the biosynthesis of these metabolites would enable faster development of cultivars with improved fruit qualities. Here, we used recently released tools for genetic mapping in autotetraploids to build a high-density linkage map in highbush blueberry and to detect quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for fruit anthocyanin content. Genotyping was performed by target sequencing, with ∼18,000 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers being mapped into 12 phased linkage groups (LGs). Fruits were harvested when ripe for two seasons and analyzed with high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS): 25 different anthocyanin compounds were identified and quantified. Two major QTLs that were stable across years were discovered, one on LG2 and one on LG4, and the underlying candidate genes were identified. Interestingly, the presence of anthocyanins containing acylated sugars appeared to be under strong genetic control. Information gained in this study will enable the design of molecular markers for marker-assisted selection and will help build a better understanding of the genetic control of anthocyanin biosynthesis in this crop.
RETRACTED: Emergence of Asian endemic begomoviruses as a pandemic threat
Authors: Qureshi Muhammad Amir , Lal Aamir , Nawaz-ul-Rehman Muhammad Shah , Vo Thuy Thi Bich , Sanjaya Gusti Ngurah Prabu Wira , Ho Phuong Thi , Nattanong Bupi , Kil Eui-Joon , Jahan Shah Mohammad Hemayet , Lee Kyeong-Yeoll , Tsai Chi-Wei , Dao Hang Thi , Hoat Trinh Xuan , Aye Tin-Tin , Win Nang Kyu , Lee Jangha , Kim Sang-Mok , Lee Sukchan
Published: September 2022

Plant viruses are responsible for the most devastating and commercially significant plant diseases, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. The genus begomovirus is the largest one in the family Geminiviridae, with a single-stranded DNA genome, either monopartite or bipartite. Begomoviruses are transmitted by insect vectors, such as Bemisia tabaci. Begomoviruses are the major causative agents of diseases in agriculture globally. Because of their diversity and mode of evolution, they are thought to be geographic specific. The emerging begomoviruses are of serious concern due to their increasing host range and geographical expansion. Several begomoviruses of Asiatic origin have been reported in Europe, causing massive economic losses; insect-borne transmission of viruses is a critical factor in virus outbreaks in new geographical regions. This review highlights crucial information regarding Asia’s four emerging and highly destructive begomoviruses. We also provided information regarding several less common but still potentially important pathogens of different crops. This information will aid possible direction of future studies in adopting preventive measures to combat these emerging viruses.
Interaction of BES1 and LBD37 transcription factors modulates brassinosteroid-regulated root forging response under low nitrogen in arabidopsis
Authors: Chai Shuli , Chen Junhua , Yue Xiaolan , Li Chenlin , Zhang Qiang , de Dios Víctor Resco , Yao Yinan , Tan Wenrong
Published: September 2022

Brassinosteriod (BR) plays important roles in regulation of plant growth, development and environmental responses. BR signaling regulates multiple biological processes through controlling the activity of BES1/BZR1 regulators. Apart from the roles in the promotion of plant growth, BR is also involved in regulation of the root foraging response under low nitrogen, however how BR signaling regulate this process remains unclear. Here we show that BES1 and LBD37 antagonistically regulate root foraging response under low nitrogen conditions. Both the transcriptional level and dephosphorylated level of BES1, is significant induced by low nitrogen, predominantly in root. Phenotypic analysis showed that BES1 gain-of-function mutant or BES1 overexpression transgenic plants exhibits progressive outgrowth of lateral root in response to low nitrogen and BES1 negatively regulates repressors of nitrate signaling pathway and positively regulates several key genes required for NO3- uptake and signaling. In contrast, BES1 knock-down mutant BES1-RNAi exhibited a dramatical reduction of lateral root elongation in response to low N. Furthermore, we identified a BES1 interacting protein, LBD37, which is a negative repressor of N availability signals. Our results showed that BES1 can inhibit LBD37 transcriptional repression on N-responsive genes. Our results thus demonstrated that BES1-LBD37 module acts critical nodes to integrate BR signaling and nitrogen signaling to modulate the root forging response at LN condition.
Standard CBT versus integrative and multimodal CBT assisted by virtual-reality for generalized anxiety disorder
Authors: Popa Cosmin Octavian , Sava Florin Alin , Muresan Simona , Schenk Alina , Cojocaru Cristiana Manuela , Muntean Lorena Mihaela , Olah Peter
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a prevalent emotional disorder associated with increased dysfunctionality, which has a lasting impact on the individual’s quality of life. Besides medication, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) represents the golden standard psychotherapeutic approach for GAD, integrating multilevel techniques and various delivery formats that enable the development of tailored treatment protocols. The objective of this study was to compare the efficiency of a standard CBT protocol targeting worries, dysfunctional beliefs, and intolerance of uncertainty with an integrative and multimodal CBT intervention augmented with Virtual Reality (VR).

Materials and methods

This study included 66 participants (Mage = 22.53 years; SD = 2.21) with moderate GAD symptoms that were randomized to the standard CBT group (CBTs; N = 32) and the Integrative and Multimodal CBT augmented with VR (IM-VRCBT; N = 34) group. The interventions comprised 10 weekly sessions conducted by trained CBT therapists, including cognitive restructuring, problem-solving, behavioral exposure, and relaxation techniques. Baseline and post-assessments were conducted with both groups. Primary outcome measures included the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS) and Penn-State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ) to evaluate the severity of GAD symptoms and worries, respectively. Secondary outcomes involved the administration of Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire (ATQ), Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale (DAS) and Unconditional Self-Acceptance Questionnaire (USAQ).

Results

Both interventions determined statistically significant effects on both primary and secondary outcomes (ps < 0.001) in the expected direction. However, CBTs was associated with higher effect sizes for anxiety (Cohen’s d = 2.76) and worries (Cohen’s d = 1.85), in contrast to IM-VRCBT. Also, secondary analyses revealed positive correlations between changes in anxiety and worries level and the reduction of dysfunctional cognitive processes.

Conclusion

This research emphasized the effectiveness of CBT interventions for treating adults with moderate GAD symptomatology. Specifically, both interventions were efficient for reducing anxiety symptomatology present at individuals with GAD. However, regarding cognitive dysfunctions like worries, the standard CBT protocol performed better, as compared to the IM-VRCBT. In addition, we conclude that VR could be integrated within CBT interventions in a single protocol for GAD treatment.
Quantum core affect. Color-emotion structure of semantic atom
Authors: Surov Ilya A.
Published: September 2022

Psychology suffers from the absence of mathematically-formalized primitives. As a result, conceptual and quantitative studies lack an ontological basis that would situate them in the company of natural sciences. The article addresses this problem by describing a minimal psychic structure, expressed in the algebra of quantum theory. The structure is demarcated into categories of emotion and color, renowned as elementary psychological phenomena. This is achieved by means of quantum-theoretic qubit state space, isomorphic to emotion and color experiences both in meaning and math. In particular, colors are mapped to the qubit states through geometric affinity between the HSL-RGB color solids and the Bloch sphere, widely used in physics. The resulting correspondence aligns with the recent model of subjective experience, producing a unified spherical map of emotions and colors. This structure is identified as a semantic atom of natural thinking—a unit of affectively-colored personal meaning, involved in elementary acts of a binary decision. The model contributes to finding a unified ontology of both inert and living Nature, bridging previously disconnected fields of research. In particular, it enables theory-based coordination of emotion, decision, and cybernetic sciences, needed to achieve new levels of practical impact.
“Death drive” scientifically reconsidered: Not a drive but a collection of trauma-induced auto-addictive diseases
Authors: Kirsch Michael , Dimitrijevic Aleksandar , Buchholz Michael B.
Published: September 2022

Over the last 102 years, a lot of discussion was being held about the psychoanalytic conception of the “death drive,” but still with inconclusive results. In this paper, we start with a brief review of Freud’s conception, followed by a comprised overview of its subsequent support or criticisms. The core of our argument is a systematic review of current biochemical research about two proposed manifestations of the “death drive,” which could hopefully move the discussion to the realm of science. It was already established that drive satisfaction leads to the secretion of beta-endorphins, and research evidence also shows that the same biochemical mechanisms get activated in the case of masochism and the gambling disorder but only if they are preceded by chronic frustration of the essential drives. We conclude that the actual situation is more complex than Freud hypothesized, and that a fundamental revision of the psychoanalytic drive theory is necessary.
Can Rehabilitative Travel Mobility improve the Quality of Life of Seasonal Affective Disorder Tourists?
Authors: Sha Sha , Shen Wencan , Yang Zhenzhi , Dong Liangquan , Li Tingting
Published: September 2022

Rehabilitation mobility has become a new demand and travel mode for people to pursue active health. A large number of tourists choose to escape the cold in warm places to improve their health every winter. In this study, we collected the health index data of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) tourists from western China before and after their cold escape in Hainan Island in winter, aiming to compare whether rehabilitating cold escape can improve the Quality of Life (QOL) of SAD tourists by hierarchical analysis. Compared with previous studies, this paper has the following contributions: Firstly, the study samples were accurately screened according to the pathogenesis of SAD tourists and the confounding factors were strictly controlled; Secondly, the observational experimental method was used to conduct inter-group and intra-group control studies on 695 samples, and the results were more objective and reliable. Thirdly, the effect of treatment on the quality of life (QOL) of 397 tourists in the rehabilitation mobility group was quantitatively evaluated from three factors including age, gender and sunshine exposure level by multivariate analysis of variance. Research results show that the rehabilitation environment brought by rehabilitation activities can help improve the health status of tourists. Therefore, this paper proposes the concept of “Tourism Therapy” and constructs a theoretical framework. The conclusion of this paper provides a scientific basis and reference for the study of tourism healing as a non-medical alternative therapy.
Research on affective cognitive education and teacher–student relationship based on deep neural network
Authors: Zhou Shi
Published: September 2022

Since entering the new century, People’s living standards are constantly improving, with the continuous improvement of living conditions, people are becoming more and more important in education, which is the embodiment of the enhancement of national strength. The education level is getting higher and higher, and a good education level needs a good teacher–student relationship. To solve these problems, we use the emotional cognition of God’s network to study the teacher–student relationship, and collect and analyze the data of the teacher–student relationship. In this chapter, we use GABP neural network algorithm DHNN algorithm and discrete Hopfield neural network to make the collected data more convenient to be analyzed. The research shows that there is a close relationship between the educational level and the relationship between teachers and students in China, and a good relationship between teachers and students will promote the improvement of educational level. According to the research data, “face-to-face” is the most important way of interaction between tutors and postgraduates in various types of teacher–student relationship. QQ WeChat is also one of the main ways of interaction between students and teachers, which shows that the interaction between students and teachers is talking about the interaction between online and Internet. The education industry is becoming more and more important, and the teacher–student relationship is the most important part of the education industry. Good teacher–student relationship is helpful to cultivate students’ healthy personality. In view of the cold relationship between teachers and students at present, we need to make some measures the relationship between teachers and students and effectively use the relationship between teachers and students to promote the better development of the education industry.
Synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of newly detected synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists AB-4CN-BUTICA, MMB-4CN-BUTINACA, MDMB-4F-BUTICA, MDMB-4F-BUTINACA and their analogs
Authors: Sparkes Eric , Boyd Rochelle , Chen Shuli , Markham Jack W. , Luo Jia Lin , Foyzun Tahira , Zaman Humayra , Fletcher Charlotte , Ellison Ross , McGregor Iain S. , Santiago Marina J. , Lai Felcia , Gerona Roy R. , Connor Mark , Hibbs David E. , Cairns Elizabeth A. , Glass Michelle , Ametovski Adam , Banister Samuel D.
Published: September 2022

Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) continue to make up a significant portion new psychoactive substances (NPS) detected and seized worldwide. Due to their often potent activation of central cannabinoid receptors in vivo, use of SCRAs can result in severe intoxication, in addition to other adverse health effects. Recent detections of AB-4CN-BUTICA, MMB-4CN-BUTINACA, MDMB-4F-BUTICA and MDMB-4F-BUTINACA mark a continuation in the appearance of SCRAs bearing novel tail substituents. The proactive characterization campaign described here has facilitated the detection of several new SCRAs in toxicological case work. Here we detail the synthesis, characterization, and pharmacological evaluation of recently detected SCRAs, as well as a systematic library of 32 compounds bearing head, tail, and core group combinations likely to appear in future. In vitro radioligand binding assays revealed most compounds showed moderate to high affinity at both CB1 (pKi = < 5 to 8.89 ± 0.09 M) and CB2 (pKi = 5.49 ± 0.03 to 9.92 ± 0.09 M) receptors. In vitro functional evaluation using a fluorescence-based membrane potential assay showed that most compounds were sub-micromolar to sub-nanomolar agonists at CB1 (pEC50 = < 5 to 9.48 ± 0.14 M) and CB2 (pEC50 = 5.92 ± 0.16 to 8.64 ± 0.15 M) receptors. An in silico receptor-ligand docking approach was utilized to rationalize binding trends for CB2 with respect to the tail substituent, and indicated that rigidity in this region (i.e., 4-cyanobutyl) was detrimental to affinity.
Characteristics associated with treatment seeking for smoking cessation among heavy-drinking research participants
Authors: Green ReJoyce , Lin Johnny , Montoya Amanda K. , Bello Mariel S. , Grodin Erica N. , Ryu Howon , Ho Diana , Leventhal Adam M. , Ray Lara A.
Published: September 2022

Objective

Treatment seeking for smoking cessation has tremendous clinical implications with the potential to reduce tobacco-related morbidity and mortality. The present study seeks to elucidate clinical variables that distinguish treatment seeking versus non-treatment seeking status for smoking cessation in a large sample of heavy drinking smokers using data-driven methods.

Materials and methods

This secondary data analysis examines n = 911 (n = 267 female) individuals who were daily smokers and heavy drinkers (≥ 7 drinks per week for women, ≥ 14 for men) that were enrolled in either a treatment-seeking study (N = 450) or a non-treatment seeking study (N = 461) using identical pharmacotherapies. Participants completed measures of demographics, alcohol and cigarette use, alcohol craving, the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11), and the Wisconsin Inventory of Smoking Dependence Motives (WISDM-68). These measures were used in a random forest model to identify predictors of treatment seeking status.

Results

The top variables of importance in identifying treatment seeking status were: age, drinks per drinking day, cigarettes per smoking day, BIS-11 cognitive impulsivity, WISDM social environmental goads, WISDM loss of control, WISDM craving, and WISDM tolerance. Age and drinks per drinking day were two of the most robust predictors, followed by measures of nicotine craving and tolerance.

Conclusion

Individuals who are daily smokers and consume more drinks per drinking day are less likely to belong to the smoking cessationtreatment-seeking group. Targeting heavy drinking smokers, particularly younger individuals, may be necessary to engage this group in smoking cessation efforts and to reduce the burden of disease of nicotine dependence earlier in the lifespan.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for insomnia in patients with autism spectrum disorder: Study protocol for a randomized, double-blind, and sham-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Jiao Jian , Tan Lu , Zhang Ye , Li Taomei , Tang Xiangdong
Published: September 2022

Background

Insomnia is the most common comorbidity in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and seriously affects their rehabilitation and prognosis. Thus, an intervention targeting insomnia in ASD seems warranted. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a potentially effective treatment for improving sleep quality and optimizing sleep structure, has already been demonstrated to alleviate insomnia symptoms and sleep disturbance in different neurological and neuropsychiatric conditions. This trial aims to investigate the effects of rTMS on insomnia in patients with ASD.

Method

This study is designed to be a double-blind, randomized, and sham-controlled trial with a target sample size of 30 participants (aged 3–13 years) diagnosed with ASD comorbid with insomnia. The intervention phase will comprise 20 sessions of rTMS or sham rTMS applied over the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) within four consecutive weeks. The effect of rTMS on insomnia and other symptoms of ASD will be investigated through home-PSG (two consecutive overnights), sleep diary, CSHQ, CARS, ABC, SRS, RBS-R, and metabolomics analysis at baseline and posttreatment. A follow-up assessment 1 month after the intervention will examine the long-term effects.

Discussion

The results of this study may address an important knowledge gap and may provide evidence for the use of rTMS to treat insomnia in ASD. Furthermore, it will elucidate the potential mechanism and link between sleep disorders and clinical symptoms.

Clinical trial registration

The study is ongoing and has been registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100049266) on 28/07/2021.
Food insecurity in Venezuelan migrants in Trinidad and Tobago using the food insecurity experience scale
Authors: Saint Ville Arlette , Francis-Granderson Isabella , Bhagwandeen Brendon , Mohammed Mizaaj
Published: September 2022

Economic, political, humanitarian and health crises in Venezuela have resulted in mass out migration -thousands of Venezuelans emigrated to Trinidad and Tobago. However, little is known about their food security status in the host country. This study assessed the food security status among Venezuelan migrants and asylum seekers in Trinidad and Tobago and tested the validity of the online application of the food insecurity experience scale (FIES), a tool to measure food insecurity, in a small group. This convenience, cross-sectional study applied an online questionnaire to 433 Venezuelan migrants in Trinidad and Tobago in 2020. Snowball sampling was used to connect to migrants based on their access to locally-based NGO service providers, and organizations directly connected to the Venezuelan migrant community. Researchers applied the 12-month reference period to the FIES to measure food insecurity at the individual level. Descriptive analyses, Rasch modeling and binary logistic regression were conducted. Overall, 61.9% of respondents displayed behaviors characterized as severely food insecure. Significant differences in food security status were observed when categories of employment status (p = 0.032) and paying rent (p = 0.005) were considered. There were greater proportions of unemployed individuals who were severely food insecure (67.6%) compared to those who were employed (56.7%). There were greater proportions of individuals paying rent who were severely food insecure (62.6%) compared to those who were not paying rent (50.0%). Logistic regression with adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals revealed that food insecurity was less likely among migrants who were employed (OR 0.112, 95% CI 0.016–0.763) relative to those who were not employed, while food insecurity was more likely among migrants who were paying rent (OR 7.325, 95% CI 1.965–27.312) relative to those not paying rent. The FIES was consistent in assessing food security status. These findings provide a rapid assessment that can be used to galvanize international, national and community-level stakeholders to devise and target responses to assist migrants experiencing food insecurity.
Depression, anxiety, stress, and satisfaction with life: Moderating role of interpersonal needs among university students
Authors: Ooi Pei Boon , Khor Kuan Siew , Tan Choe Chai , Ong Derek Lai Teik
Published: September 2022

Depression, anxiety, and stress are ranked among the top mental health concerns faced by university students in recent times perpetuated by the proliferation of digitalization. Thus, this study was performed to assess the relationship between depression, anxiety, stress, and satisfaction with life, with interpersonal needs (perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness) as moderators. A cross-sectional study using a convenient sampling method was conducted among 430 Malaysian private university students (Mean aged= 20.73 years; SD = 1.26 years). A self-administered questionnaire comprising the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), Satisfaction with Life Scale, and Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire were used. Students who experienced lower depression and anxiety reported higher satisfaction with life under the influence of low perceived burdensomeness. Perceived burdensomeness, when coupled with depression (β = 0.76, p < 0.01) and anxiety (β = 0.79, p < 0.01), contributed 15.8% of variance in satisfaction with life. Students who experienced stress reported higher satisfaction with life under the influence of high thwarted belongingness (β = 0.73, p < 0.01), contributing 17.3% of the variance in satisfaction with life. For university students who experienced depression and anxiety symptoms, mental health practitioners may need to be cognizant of how to support students' education and management of their perceived burdensomeness perceptions.
Striving for normality: Agency, citizen participation and intergroup belonging on the urban periphery of Helsinki
Authors: Tuominen Pekka
Published: September 2022

This article examines how the inhabitants of a culturally diverse suburban estate in Finland strive for meaningful encounters in their lives. The focus is on Kontula, a residential working-class district on the eastern periphery of Helsinki, which has become a powerful symbol of the ills of contemporary urbanity—poverty and social problems, as well as rootlessness and the failed integration of the immigrant populations—in the vernacular geography and media representations of the city. I studied how everyday mobility in an increasingly segregated city is related to a range of qualities of sociocultural encounters, both within the immediate neighbourhood and across other urban areas. I argue that for many marginalised inhabitants, agency predominantly emphasises striving for normality, not a challenge to the system. This is why it is so rarely recognised. Themes such as common decency, meaningful activity and equal encounter are much more typical aims of everyday practises than those focussing on changing the conditions. The contexts explored range from the familiar and neighbourly surroundings characterised by high degree of cultural intimacy and effortlessness to spaces with unfamiliar expectations and very different cultural codes. How do people living on the stigmatised periphery establish sense of belonging in a segregated city? How is it possible retain a sense of decency and dignity in unpredictable circumstances? During my long-term ethnographic fieldwork in the area, I concentrated on the qualities of encounters and senses of agency. These are interweaved with the inhabitants' everyday life, realised in their movement across the city and vary considerably in different contexts, reproducing the quotidian urbanity of Helsinki.
Recent applications of the Successive Self-nucleation and Annealing thermal fractionation technique
Authors: Pérez-Camargo Ricardo A. , Cavallo Dario , Müller Alejandro J.
Published: September 2022

Successive Self-nucleation and Annealing (SSA) is a thermal fractionation technique that is performed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The combination of non-isothermal and isothermal steps applied during SSA achieves efficient molecular segregation during polymer crystallization. Such molecular segregation magnifies the effect of defects in polymer chain crystallization, thereby providing information on chain structure. The technique was created and implemented by Müller and co-workers in 1997, becoming a powerful resource for studying ethylene/α-olefin copolymers. The different variables to design the SSA protocol: fractionation window, fractionation time, scanning rate, sample mass, and the first self-nucleation temperature to be applied (Ts, ideal), have been previously reviewed, together with the different applications of SSA. SSA versatility, simplicity (when properly applied), and short times to produce results have allowed its use to study novel and more complex polymeric systems. This review article explores the most recent applications of SSA of the past decade. First, the principles of the technique are briefly explained, covering all the relevant variables. Next, we have selected different cases that show how SSA is employed in various novel fields, such as studying intermolecular interactions and topological effects in homopolymers; supernucleation and antinucleation effects in nanocomposites, including the pre-freezing phenomenon; crystallization modes in random copolymers; solid-solid transitions; miscibility, co-crystallization and composition in blends; evaluation of polymer synthesis variables; and the novel information that could be gained by using fast scanning chip-based calorimetry. Finally, we offer a perspective on SSA, a technique that has become a powerful method for studying the distribution of defects affecting crystallization in semi-crystalline polymers.
The role of the inner radiation belt dynamic in the generation of auroral-type sporadic E-layers over south American magnetic anomaly
Authors: Da Silva L. A. , Shi J , Resende L. C. A. , Agapitov O. V. , Alves L. R. , Batista I. S. , Arras C. , Vieira L. E. , Deggeroni V. , Marchezi J. P. , Wang C. , Moro J. , Inostroza A. , Li H. , Medeiros C. , Cardoso F. R. , Jauer P. , Alves M. V. , Chen S. S. , Liu Z. , Denardini C. M. , Gonzalez W.
Published: September 2022

The dynamics of the electron population in the Earth’s radiation belts affect the upper atmosphere’s ionization level through the low-energy Electron Precipitation (EP). The impact of low-energy EP on the high-latitude ionosphere has been well explained since the 1960’s decade. Conversely, it is still not well understood for the region of the South American Magnetic Anomaly (SAMA). In this study, we present the results of analysis of the strong geomagnetic storm associated with the Interplanetary Coronal Mass Ejection (May 27-28, 2017). The atypical auroral sporadic E layers (Esa) over SAMA are observed in concomitance with the hiss and magnetosonic wave activities in the inner radiation belt. The wave-particle interaction effects have been estimated, and the dynamic mechanisms that caused the low-energy EP over SAMA were investigated. We suggested that the enhancement in pitch angle scattering driven by hiss waves result in the low-energy EP (≥10 keV) into the atmosphere over SAMA. The impact of these precipitations on the ionization rate at the altitude range from 100 to 120 km can generate the Esa layer in this peculiar region. In contrast, we suggested that the low-energy EP (≤1 keV) causes the maximum ionization rate close to 150 km altitude, contributing to the Esa layer occurrence in these altitudes.
Study protocol of “From Science 2 School”—prevalence of sports and physical exercise linked to omnivorous, vegetarian and vegan, diets among Austrian secondary schools
Authors: Wirnitzer Katharina C. , Tanous Derrick R. , Motevalli Mohamad , Göbel Georg , Wirnitzer Gerold , Drenowatz Clemens , Ruedl Gerhard , Cocca Armando , Kirschner Werner
Published: September 2022

The increasing prevalence of unhealthy lifestyle choices contribute to almost all chronic conditions negatively affecting individual and public health. As the most beneficial preventative solution, a healthy lifestyle focusing on the dual approach of physical activity (PA) and a healthful diet is highly recommended. Considering the growing number of people interested in sustainable, plant-based diets, it seems crucial to analyze lifestyle behaviors with a special focus on diet type to delve deeper into the unenthusiastic health status among young populations. Therefore, this multidisciplinary study aims to survey and scale health behaviors with a special focus on the prevalence of traditional and vegetarian diets in connection with PA levels among Austrian pupils (10–19 years), teachers and principals in secondary education levels I and II. Following a cross-sectional design, sociodemographic and school-related data along with a complete profile of lifestyle behaviors, including detailed information regarding diet, PA, sports & exercise, and other health-related behaviors, were collected using online-based questionnaires. A total number of 8,845 children/adolescents (~1.2% of the eligible 771,525 Austrian secondary school pupils) and 1,350 adults (~1.5% of total eligible 89,243 Austrian teachers/principals) participated in the study. As this is the first investigation to explore the prevalence of veganism/vegetarianism amongst a large group of pupils, the present study will add an important contribution to overcome the lack of knowledge on PA, sports & exercise linked to healthy alternative diets. With a sustainable healthy lifestyle, a healthy transition from childhood to adulthood occurs, which can result in growing healthier functioning generations at all social levels. As a study protocol, the present article is intended to present comprehensive details of the study design, objectives, and the associated analytical procedures of the “From Science 2 School” study.
An alternative asymmetric figure-of-eight single-layer suture technique for bowel anastomosis in an in vitro porcine model
Authors: Liu Chen , Wang Yewen , Zhao Ai-rong , Hu Feng-ai , Fan Qizhong , Han Guoxiu , Ding Guojian , Fu Tingliang , Geng Lei , Yin Hongshan
Published: September 2022

Anastomotic techniques are of vital importance in restoring gastrointestinal continuity after resection. An alternative asymmetric figure-of-eight single-layer suture anastomotic technique was introduced and its effects were evaluated in anin vitroporcine model. Twelve 15-cm grossly healthy small intestine segments from a porcine cadaver were harvested and randomly divided into asymmetric figure-of-eight single-layer suture (figure-of-eight suture) and single-layer interrupted suture technique (interrupted suture) groups (n = 6 in each group). The anastomosed bowel was infused with methylene blue solution to test anastomotic leakage. Anastomosis construction time, leakage, and suture material cost were recorded and analyzed statistically using Fisher's exact test and Student'st-test. One anastomotic leakage occurred (16.67%) in the figure-of-eight suture group, and two (33.33%) in the interrupted suture group (p > 0.9999). The anastomosis construction time was relatively short in the figure-of-eight suture group, but the difference did not reach a statistically significant level between the two groups. The mean number of suture knots and the cost of suture material in the figure-of-eight suture group were significantly decreased in comparison to the interrupted suture group (15.67 ± 3.30 vs. 22.17 ± 2.03, 167.11 ± 35.20 vs. 236.45 ± 21.70 CNY,p < 0.01, respectively). Our results suggested that the alternative asymmetric figure-of-eight suture technique was safe and economic for intestinal anastomosis. Anin vivoexperiment is required to elucidate the effects of this suture technique on the physiological anastomotic healing process.
The alamar blue assay in the context of safety testing of nanomaterials
Authors: Longhin Eleonora Marta , El Yamani Naouale , Rundén-Pran Elise , Dusinska Maria
Published: September 2022

The Alamar Blue (AB) assay is widely used to investigate cytotoxicity, cell proliferation and cellular metabolic activity within different fields of toxicology. The use of the assay with nanomaterials (NMs) entails specific aspects including the potential interference of NMs with the test. The procedure of the AB assay applied for testing NMs is described in detail and step-by-step, from NM preparation, cell exposure, inclusion of interference controls, to the analysis and interpretation of the results. Provided that the proper procedure is followed, and relevant controls are included, the AB assay is a reliable and high throughput test to evaluate the cytotoxicity/proliferation/metabolic response of cells exposed to NMs.
Serum steroid profiling of hepatocellular carcinoma associated with hyperadrenocorticism in dogs: A preliminary study
Authors: Oo Thandar , Sasaki Noboru , Ikenaka Yoshinori , Ichise Takahiro , Nagata Noriyuki , Yokoyama Nozomu , Sasaoka Kazuyoshi , Morishita Keitaro , Nakamura Kensuke , Takiguchi Mitsuyoshi
Published: September 2022

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common primary liver tumors in humans and dogs. Excessive adrenocortical hormone exposure may cause steroid hepatopathy, which may develop into HCC. In our previous study, hyperadrenocorticism (HAC) was a highly concurrent disease in dogs with HCC. Therefore, this study hypothesized that adrenal steroid alterations might be involved in hepatocarcinogenesis and aimed to specify the relationship between HAC and HCC in dogs.

Materials and methods

This study included 46 dogs brought to the Hokkaido University Veterinary Teaching Hospital between March 2019 and December 2020. Owners gave their signed consent for blood collection on their first visit. A total of 19 steroids (14 steroids and 5 metabolites) in the baseline serum of 15 dogs with HCC, 15 dogs with HAC, and 10 dogs with both diseases were quantitatively measured using the developed liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) method.

Results

In each group, 11 steroids were detected higher than 50%. The detection rate of steroid hormones did not significantly differ between the groups (p > 0.05). Principle component analysis (PCA) showed that the steroid profiles of the three groups were comparable. Median steroid hormone concentrations were not significantly different between the study diseases (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The developed LC/MS/MS was useful for measuring steroid hormones. Although it was clear that HAC was concurrent in dogs with HCC, none of the serum steroids was suggested to be involved in HCC.
Classification of the Structural Behavior of Tall Buildings with a Diagrid Structure: A Machine Learning-Based Approach
Authors: Kazemi Pooyan , Ghisi Aldo , Mariani Stefano
Published: September 2022

We study the relationship between the architectural form of tall buildings and their structural response to a conventional seismic load. A series of models are generated by varying the top and bottom plan geometries of the buildings, and a steel diagrid structure is mapped onto their skin. A supervised machine learning approach is then adopted to learn the features of the aforementioned relationship. Six different classifiers, namely k-nearest neighbour, support vector machine, decision tree, ensemble method, discriminant analysis, and naive Bayes, are adopted to this aim, targeting the structural response as the building drift, i.e., the lateral displacement at its top under the considered external excitation. By focusing on the classification of the structural response, it is shown that some classifiers, like, e.g., decision tree, k-nearest neighbour and the ensemble method, can learn well the structural behavior, and can therefore help design teams to select more efficient structural solutions.
Evolutionary Approaches to the Identification of Dynamic Processes in the Form of Differential Equations and Their Systems
Authors: Karaseva Tatiana , Semenkin Eugene
Published: September 2022

Evolutionary approaches are widely applied in solving various types of problems. The paper considers the application of EvolODE and EvolODES approaches to the identification of dynamic systems. EvolODE helps to obtain a model in the form of an ordinary differential equation without restrictions on the type of the equation. EvolODES searches for a model in the form of an ordinary differential equation system. The algorithmic basis of these approaches is a modified genetic programming algorithm for finding the structure of ordinary differential equations and differential evolution to optimize the values of numerical constants used in the equation. Testing for these approaches on problems in the form of ordinary differential equations and their systems was conducted. The influence of noise present in the data and the sample size on the model error was considered for each of the approaches. The symbolic accuracy of the resulting equations was studied. The proposed approaches make it possible to obtain models in symbolic form. They will provide opportunities for further interpretation and application.
Modern Accounting Specialist in New Economic Reality: Cases of Lithuania and Latvia
Authors: Subačienė Rasa , Budrionytė Ramunė , Žemgulienė Jolanta , Faituša Ivita
Published: September 2022

Rapid changes in the economic environment, the development of new technologies, and global crises have an impact on and produce new requirements for many professions, including accounting specialists. An analysis of the competencies necessary for the modern accounting specialist provides insights into the required abilities from a labour market perspective. This article investigates the necessary knowledge and competencies of modern accounting specialists using a survey. Responses are analysed according to the respondents’ country, work experience, current working position and the size of the enterprise. We evaluate the personal, professional and social competencies as well as necessary types of professional knowledge. Research results may be summarised based on the traditional viewpoint of an accounting specialist. Despite their differing attributes, and with only some slight differences, respondents emphasised the need for accounting specialists to have certain classic knowledge and noted the need for traditional competencies.
Mean Value-Based Parallel Collaborative Optimization Method for Modular Aircraft Structural Layout
Authors: Xu Chao , Yao Weixing , Zhou Danfa
Published: September 2022

The conventional structural layout optimization method is usually used to solve the layout optimization problem of a single structure, but it is difficult to apply to the layout optimization problem of the modular aircraft structure containing multiple substructures. Therefore, this paper proposes the mean value-based parallel collaborative optimization method (MVPM) for modular aircraft structural layout. This method is a two-stage optimization method based on decomposition. The basic idea of the MVPM is decomposing the layout optimization problem of the modular aircraft structure into a system coordination problem and several independent subsystem optimization problems by introducing coordination variables. The subsystem optimizes each aircraft structure. Under the constraints of the structure itself, the performance of each structure is better, and the shared variables are as close to the coordination variables as possible. The system coordination adjusts the coordination variables according to the optimization results of each subsystem. With constant iteration between the system and subsystems, the shared variables of each subsystem eventually agree with the coordination variables. The numerical test results show that the MVPM has high optimization efficiency and stability.
The Role of Estrous Synchronization and Artificial Insemination in Improving the Reproductive Performance of Moo Lath Gilts
Authors: Xayalath Somsy , Novotni-Danko Gabriella , Rátky József
Published: September 2022

Considering the different problems facing the Lao indigenous pig breed Moo Lath. This study was performed to evaluate the efficiency of applying estrous synchronization for the better reproductive management of this species with the use of Altrenogest Regumate® to increase the litter size and birth weight of crossbred piglets using artificial insemination (AI) with Duroc semen. In total, 36 gilts (age: 6.5−10.5 months, weight at insemination: 36.60−51.42 kg) were used. The gilts were divided into three groups (G1, 2, and 3); G1 (18) were synchronized, while G2 (12) were not. Both G1 and G2 gilts were inseminated using Duroc semen, whereas a local boar naturally serviced the G3 (6) gilts. Our results showed that G1 produced the largest litter, compared with G2 and G3 (8.66, 7.50, and 5.50, respectively; p < 0.000). The birth weight of the piglets was not different between the groups (p = 0.464), and higher birth weight was observed in the gilts younger than 7 months and lower in those older than 9 months. In conclusion, the litter size of Moo Lath primiparous gilts was improved in the F−1 Duroc−Moo Lath crossbreed, but their birth weight did not. Moreover, estrous synchronization and AI are novel techniques among Lao farmers who still need more training. Both the optimal body weight and age of gilts at first mating should be clarified for a better economic outcome.