bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the role of nucleotides and lipids in the polymerization of the actin homolog MreB from a Gram-positive bacterium
Authors: Mao Wei , Renner Lars D , Cornilleau Charlène , Li de la Sierra-Gallay Ines , Afensiss Sana , Benlamara Sarah , Ah-Seng Yoan , Van Tilbeurgh Herman , Nessler Sylvie , Bertin Aurélie , Chastanet Arnaud , Carballido-Lopez Rut
Published: October 2023

In vivo, bacterial actin MreB assembles into dynamic membrane-associated filamentous structures that exhibit circumferential motion around the cell. Current knowledge of MreB biochemical and polymerization properties in vitro remains limited and is mostly based on MreB proteins from Gram-negative species. In this study, we report the first observation of organized protofilaments by electron microscopy and the first 3D-structure of MreB from a Gram-positive bacterium. We show that Geobacillus stearothermophilus MreB forms straight pairs of protofilaments on lipid surfaces in the presence of ATP or GTP, but not in the presence of ADP, GDP or non-hydrolysable ATP analogs. We demonstrate that membrane anchoring is mediated by two spatially close short hydrophobic sequences while electrostatic interactions also contribute to lipid binding, and show that the population of membrane-bound protofilament doublets is in steady-state. In solution, protofilament doublets were not detected in any condition tested. Instead, MreB formed large sheets regardless of the bound nucleotide, albeit at a higher critical concentration. Altogether, our results indicate that both lipids and ATP are facilitators of MreB polymerization, and are consistent with a dual effect of ATP hydrolysis, in promoting both membrane binding and filaments assembly/disassembly.
GDF15 is required for cold-induced thermogenesis and contributes to improved systemic metabolic health following loss of OPA1 in brown adipocytes
Authors: Jena Jayashree , García-Peña Luis Miguel , Weatherford Eric T , Marti Alex , Bjorkman Sarah H , Kato Kevin , Koneru Jivan , Chen Jason H , Seeley Randy J , Abel E Dale , Pereira Renata O
Published: October 2023

We previously reported that mice lacking the protein optic atrophy 1 (OPA1 BKO) in brown adipose tissue (BAT) display induction of the activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), which promotes fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) secretion as a batokine. FGF21 increases metabolic rates under baseline conditions but is dispensable for the resistance to diet-induced obesity (DIO) reported in OPA1 BKO mice (Pereira et al., 2021). To determine alternative mediators of this phenotype, we performed transcriptome analysis, which revealed increased levels of growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), along with increased protein kinase R (PKR)-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) levels in BAT. To investigate whether ATF4 induction was mediated by PERK and evaluate the contribution of GDF15 to the resistance to DIO, we selectively deleted PERK or GDF15 in OPA1 BKO mice. Mice with reduced OPA1 and PERK levels in BAT had preserved ISR activation. Importantly, simultaneous deletion of OPA1 and GDF15 partially reversed the resistance to DIO and abrogated the improvements in glucose tolerance. Furthermore, GDF15 was required to improve cold-induced thermogenesis in OPA1 BKO mice. Taken together, our data indicate that PERK is dispensable to induce the ISR, but GDF15 contributes to the resistance to DIO, and is required for glucose homeostasis and thermoregulation in OPA1 BKO mice by increasing energy expenditure.
An observational treatment study of metacognition in anxious-depression
Authors: Fox Celine Ann , Lee Chi Tak , Hanlon Anna Kathleen , Seow Tricia XF , Lynch Kevin , Harty Siobhán , Richards Derek , Palacios Jorge , O'Keane Veronica , Stephan Klaas Enno , Gillan Claire M
Published: October 2023

Prior studies have found metacognitive biases are linked to a transdiagnostic dimension of anxious-depression, manifesting as reduced confidence in performance. However, previous work has been cross-sectional and so it is unclear if under-confidence is a trait-like marker of anxious-depression vulnerability, or if it resolves when anxious-depression improves. Data were collected as part of a large-scale transdiagnostic, four-week observational study of individuals initiating internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) or antidepressant medication. Self-reported clinical questionnaires and perceptual task performance were gathered to assess anxious-depression and metacognitive bias at baseline and 4-week follow-up. Primary analyses were conducted for individuals who received iCBT (n=649), with comparisons between smaller samples that received antidepressant medication (n=82) and a control group receiving no intervention (n=88). Prior to receiving treatment, anxious-depression severity was associated with under-confidence in performance in the iCBT arm, replicating previous work. From baseline to follow-up, levels of anxious-depression were significantly reduced, and this was accompanied by a significant increase in metacognitive confidence in the iCBT arm (β=0.17, SE=0.02, p<0.001). These changes were correlated (r(647)=-0.12, p=0.002); those with the greatest reductions in anxious-depression levels had the largest increase in confidence. While the three-way interaction effect of group and time on confidence was not significant (F(2, 1632)=0.60, p=0.550), confidence increased in the antidepressant group (β=0.31, SE = 0.08, p<0.001), but not among controls (β=0.11, SE = 0.07, p=0.103). Metacognitive biases in anxious-depression are state-dependent; when symptoms improve with treatment, so does confidence in performance. Our results suggest this is not specific to the type of intervention.
Sex chromosome gene expression associated with vocal learning following hormonal manipulation in female zebra finches
Authors: Davenport Matthew H , Choe Ha Na , Matsunami Hiroaki , Jarvis Erich D
Published: October 2023

Zebra finches are sexually dimorphic vocal learners. Males learn to sing by imitating mature conspecifics, but females do not. Absence of song in females is associated with partial atrophy and apparent repression of several vocal learning brain regions during development. However, atrophy can be prevented and vocal learning retained in females when given early pharmacological estrogen treatment. To screen for candidate drivers of this sexual dimorphism, we performed an unbiased transcriptomic analysis of song learning nuclei specializations relative to the surrounding regions from either sex, treated with vehicle or estrogen until 30 days old when divergence between the sexes becomes anatomically apparent. Analyses of transcriptomes by RNA sequencing identified song nuclei-specialized gene expressed modules associated with sex and estrogen manipulation. Female HVC and Area X gene modules were specialized by estrogen supplementation, exhibiting a subset of the transcriptomic specializations observed in males. Female RA and LMAN specialized modules were less dependent on estrogen. The estrogen-induced gene modules in females were enriched for anatomical development functions and strongly correlated to the expression of several Z sex chromosome genes. We present a hypothesis where reduced dosage and expression of these Z chromosome genes suppresses the full development of the song system and thus song learning behavior, which is partially rescued by estrogen treatment.
Spatial and temporal distribution of ribosomes in single cells reveals aging differences between old and new daughters of Escherichia coli
Authors: Chao Lin , Chan Chun Kuen , Shi Chao , Rang Ulla Camilla
Published: October 2023

Lineages of rod-shaped bacteria such as Escherichia coli exhibit a temporal decline in elongation rate in a manner comparable to cellular or biological aging. The effect results from the production of asymmetrical daughters, one with a lower elongation rate, by the division of a mother cell. The slower daughter compared to the faster daughter, denoted respectively as the old and new daughters, has more aggregates of damaged proteins and fewer expressed gene products. We have examined further the degree of asymmetry by measuring the density of ribosomes between old and new daughters and between their poles. We found that ribosomes were denser in the new daughter and also in the new pole of the daughters. These ribosome patterns match the ones we previously found for expressed gene products. This outcome suggests that the asymmetry is not likely to result from properties unique to the gene expressed in our previous study, but rather from a more fundamental upstream process affecting the distribution of ribosomal abundance. Because damage aggregates and ribosomes are both more abundant at the poles of E. coli cells, we suggest that competition for space between the two could explain the reduced ribosomal density in old daughters. Using published values for aggregate sizes and the relationship between ribosomal number and elongation rates, we show that the aggregate volumes could in principle displace quantitatively the amount of ribosomes needed to reduce the elongation rate of the old daughters.
Spatial and temporal distribution of ribosomes in single cells reveals aging differences between old and new daughters of Escherichia coli
Authors: Chao Lin , Chen Chun Kuen , Shi Chao , Rang Camilla U.
Published: October 2023

Lineages of rod-shaped bacteria such as
Escherichia coli
exhibit a temporal decline in elongation rate in a manner comparable to cellular or biological aging. The effect results from the production of asymmetrical daughters, one with a lower elongation rate, by the division of a mother cell. The slower daughter compared to the faster daughter, denoted respectively as the old and new daughters, has more aggregates of damaged proteins and fewer expressed gene products. We have examined further the degree of asymmetry by measuring the density of ribosomes between old and new daughters and between their poles. We found that ribosomes were denser in the new daughter and also in the new pole of the daughters. These ribosome patterns match the ones we previously found for expressed gene products. This outcome suggests that the asymmetry is not likely to result from properties unique to the gene expressed in our previous study, but rather from a more fundamental upstream process affecting distribution of ribosomal abundance. Because damage aggregates and ribosomes are both more abundant at the poles of
E. coli
cells, we suggest that competition for space between the two could explain the reduced ribosomal density in old daughters. Using published values for aggregate sizes and the relationship between ribosomal number and elongation rates, we show that the aggregate volumes could in principle displace quantitatively the amount of ribosomes needed to reduce the elongation rate of the old daughters.Bacteria exhibit a growth decline in a manner comparable to cellular or biological aging. When a mother bacterium reproduces by binary fission it allocates more damage to one of the two daughters. The extra damage correlates with a slower growth. Thus, a lineage of daughters successively acquiring more damage over generations ages, sometimes even to death under stressful conditions. Aging lineages also have lower levels of expressed gene products. Here we show that the aging process also correlates with lower cellular levels of ribosomes. The identification of a ribosomal effect shows that the aging process is acting at a much more fundamental upstream level. While decreased gene products could have resulted from local regulation of specific genes, a lower ribosomal density affects the entirety of cellular metabolism. Understanding bacterial aging is important because biological aging may have originated in single-celled organisms such as
E. coli
.
Re-evaluating the driving force behind mutations
Authors: Leroy Thibault
Published: October 2023

Experiments on tropical trees suggest that new mutations in plants are driven by age rather than number of cell divisions during growth.
Genetic code expansion, click chemistry, and light-activated PI3K reveal details of membrane protein trafficking downstream of receptor tyrosine kinases
Authors: Koh Duk-Su , Stratiievska Anastasiia , Jana Subhashis , Otto Shauna C , Swanson Teresa M , Nhim Anthony , Carlson Sara , Raza Marium , Naves Ligia Araujo , Senning Eric N , Mehl Ryan A , Gordon Sharona E
Published: October 2023

Ligands such as insulin, epidermal growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, and nerve growth factor (NGF) initiate signals at the cell membrane by binding to receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). Along with G-protein-coupled receptors, RTKs are the main platforms for transducing extracellular signals into intracellular signals. Studying RTK signaling has been a challenge, however, due to the multiple signaling pathways to which RTKs typically are coupled, including MAP/ERK, PLCγ, and Class 1A phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K). The multi-pronged RTK signaling has been a barrier to isolating the effects of any one downstream pathway. Here, we used optogenetic activation of PI3K to decouple its activation from other RTK signaling pathways. In this context, we used genetic code expansion to introduce a click chemistry noncanonical amino acid into the extracellular side of membrane proteins. Applying a cell-impermeant click chemistry fluorophore allowed us to visualize delivery of membrane proteins to the plasma membrane in real time. Using these approaches, we demonstrate that activation of PI3K, without activating other pathways downstream of RTK signaling, is sufficient to traffic the TRPV1 ion channels and insulin receptors to the plasma membrane.
SPAG7 deletion causes intrauterine growth restriction, resulting in adulthood obesity and metabolic dysfunction
Authors: Flaherty Stephen E , Bezy Olivier , Paulhus Brianna LaCarubba , Song LouJin , Piper Mary , Pang Jincheng , Park Yoson , Asano Shoh , Lien Yu-Chin , Griffin John D , Robertson Andrew , Opsahl Alan , Shanthappa Dinesh Hirenallur , Ahn Youngwook , Pashos Evanthia , Simmons Rebecca A , Birnbaum Morris J , Wu Zhidan
Published: October 2023

From a forward mutagenetic screen to discover mutations associated with obesity, we identified mutations in the Spag7 gene linked to metabolic dysfunction in mice. Here, we show that SPAG7 KO mice are born smaller and develop obesity and glucose intolerance in adulthood. This obesity does not stem from hyperphagia, but a decrease in energy expenditure. The KO animals also display reduced exercise tolerance and muscle function due to impaired mitochondrial function. Furthermore, SPAG7-deficiency in developing embryos leads to intrauterine growth restriction, brought on by placental insufficiency, likely due to abnormal development of the placental junctional zone. This insufficiency leads to loss of SPAG7-deficient fetuses in utero and reduced birth weights of those that survive. We hypothesize that a ‘thrifty phenotype’ is ingrained in SPAG7 KO animals during development that leads to adult obesity. Collectively, these results indicate that SPAG7 is essential for embryonic development and energy homeostasis later in life.
Habitat loss weakens the positive relationship between grassland plant richness and above-ground biomass
Authors: Yan Yongzhi , Jarvie Scott , Zhang Qing
Published: October 2023

Habitat loss and fragmentation per se have been shown to be a major threat to global biodiversity and ecosystem function. However, little is known about how habitat loss and fragmentation per se alters the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem function (BEF relationship) in the natural landscape context. Based on 130 landscapes identified by a stratified random sampling in the agro-pastoral ecotone of northern China, we investigated the effects of landscape context (habitat loss and fragmentation per se) on plant richness, above-ground biomass, and the relationship between them in grassland communities using a structural equation model. We found that habitat loss directly decreased plant richness and hence decreased above-ground biomass, while fragmentation per se directly increased plant richness and hence increased above-ground biomass. Fragmentation per se also directly decreased soil water content and hence decreased above-ground biomass. Meanwhile, habitat loss decreased the magnitude of the positive relationship between plant richness and above-ground biomass by reducing the percentage of grassland specialists in the community, while fragmentation per se had no significant modulating effect on this relationship. These results demonstrate that habitat loss and fragmentation per se have inconsistent effects on BEF, with the BEF relationship being modulated by landscape context. Our findings emphasise that habitat loss rather than fragmentation per se can weaken the positive BEF relationship by decreasing the degree of habitat specialisation of the community.
Potassium-mediated bacterial chemotactic response
Authors: Zhang Chi , Zhang Rongjing , Yuan Junhua
Published: October 2023

Bacteria in biofilms secrete potassium ions to attract free swimming cells. However, the basis of chemotaxis to potassium remains poorly understood. Here, using a microfluidic device, we found that Escherichia coli can rapidly accumulate in regions of high potassium concentration on the order of millimoles. Using a bead assay, we measured the dynamic response of individual flagellar motors to stepwise changes in potassium concentration, finding that the response resulted from the chemotaxis signaling pathway. To characterize the chemotactic response to potassium, we measured the dose–response curve and adaptation kinetics via an Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) assay, finding that the chemotaxis pathway exhibited a sensitive response and fast adaptation to potassium. We further found that the two major chemoreceptors Tar and Tsr respond differently to potassium. Tar receptors exhibit a biphasic response, whereas Tsr receptors respond to potassium as an attractant. These different responses were consistent with the responses of the two receptors to intracellular pH changes. The sensitive response and fast adaptation allow bacteria to sense and localize small changes in potassium concentration. The differential responses of Tar and Tsr receptors to potassium suggest that cells at different growth stages respond differently to potassium and may have different requirements for potassium.
Cerebellar nuclei cells produce distinct pathogenic spike signatures in mouse models of ataxia, dystonia, and tremor
Authors: van der Heijden Meike E , Brown Amanda M , Kizek Dominic J , Sillitoe Roy V
Published: October 2023

The cerebellum contributes to a diverse array of motor conditions, including ataxia, dystonia, and tremor. The neural substrates that encode this diversity are unclear. Here, we tested whether the neural spike activity of cerebellar output neurons is distinct between movement disorders with different impairments, generalizable across movement disorders with similar impairments, and capable of causing distinct movement impairments. Using in vivo awake recordings as input data, we trained a supervised classifier model to differentiate the spike parameters between mouse models for ataxia, dystonia, and tremor. The classifier model correctly assigned mouse phenotypes based on single-neuron signatures. Spike signatures were shared across etiologically distinct but phenotypically similar disease models. Mimicking these pathophysiological spike signatures with optogenetics induced the predicted motor impairments in otherwise healthy mice. These data show that distinct spike signatures promote the behavioral presentation of cerebellar diseases.
The role of Imp and Syp RNA-binding proteins in precise neuronal elimination by apoptosis through the regulation of transcription factors
Authors: Guan Wenyue , Nie Ziyan , Laurençon Anne , Bouchet Mathilde , Godin Christophe , Kabir Chérif , Darnas Aurelien , Enriquez Jonathan
Published: October 2023

Neuronal stem cells generate a limited and consistent number of neuronal progenies, each possessing distinct morphologies and functions, which are crucial for optimal brain function. Our study focused on a neuroblast (NB) lineage in Drosophila known as Lin A/15, which generates motoneurons (MNs) and glia. Intriguingly, Lin A/15 NB dedicates 40% of its time to producing immature MNs (iMNs) that are subsequently eliminated through apoptosis. Two RNA-binding proteins, Imp and Syp, play crucial roles in this process. Imp+ MNs survive, while Imp−, Syp+ MNs undergo apoptosis. Genetic experiments show that Imp promotes survival, whereas Syp promotes cell death in iMNs. Late-born MNs, which fail to express a functional code of transcription factors (mTFs) that control their morphological fate, are subject to elimination. Manipulating the expression of Imp and Syp in Lin A/15 NB and progeny leads to a shift of TF code in late-born MNs toward that of early-born MNs, and their survival. Additionally, introducing the TF code of early-born MNs into late-born MNs also promoted their survival. These findings demonstrate that the differential expression of Imp and Syp in iMNs links precise neuronal generation and distinct identities through the regulation of mTFs. Both Imp and Syp are conserved in vertebrates, suggesting that they play a fundamental role in precise neurogenesis across species.
Docencia de Calidad en Educación Superior: Propuesta de una Pauta de Orientaciones para Fortalecer la Gestión Curricular
Authors:   , Herrera Martínez Claudia Alejandra
Published: October 2023

El presente trabajo corresponde a un análisis indagatorio sobre las competencias y condiciones asociadas a la docencia de calidad en el contexto de pregrado en educación superior. A partir de la construcción de un marco de referencia que consideró publicaciones nacionales de los últimos doce años sobre criterios de calidad en educación superior, docencia en educación superior, evaluación de docencia en educación superior y competencias de la docencia de excelencia en educación superior se definen conceptos fundamentales para abordar la docencia de calidad en educación superior en un caso situado en el Centro de Idiomas de la Universidad Austral de Chile. La metodología de análisis corresponde a una codificación cualitativa de los aspectos claves encontrados en la literatura que resultan en un número de indicadores o dimensiones relacionados con el quehacer docente de calidad, posteriormente y para dar comprobación a los resultados del análisis de literatura, se aplicaron 2 instrumentos de recolección de datos sobre una muestra de 17 docentes de la unidad académica donde se sitúa este análisis.. Los resultados permiten confirmar una relación afirmativa entre las habilidades y condiciones para la docencia de calidad encontradas en la literatura y las opiniones de docentes de la muestra señalada. Finalmente, y a partir de los resultados obtenidos se propone una pauta de orientaciones para la docencia de calidad con el fin de contribuir a la gestión curricular de prácticas docentes que respondan a las necesidades actuales del sistema de educación superior.
Investigation of Self-Efficacy Perceptions of 21st Century Skills of Social Studies Teacher Candidates (Example of the Eastern Black Sea Region)
Authors: TURAN İlhan , BAY Güldane DİNÇ
Published: October 2023

Bu araştırmanın amacı, Sosyal bilgiler öğretmen adaylarının 21. yüzyıl becerileri öz-yeterlik algılarını belirlemek ve 21. yüzyıl becerileri öz-yeterlik algılarını çeşitli değişkenler (cinsiyet, yaş ve sınıf düzeyi) açısından incelemektir.
Karma yöntemin kullanıldığı bu araştırmanın evreni 2020-2021 eğitim-öğretim yılında, Trabzon Üniversitesi, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Üniversitesi ve Artvin Üniversitesi'nde (3. ve 4. sınıf) öğrenim gören (n=185) Sosyal Bilgiler Eğitimi
Ana Bilim Dalı öğrencilerinden oluşmaktadır. Araştırmanın verileri “Anagün vd., (2016)” tarafından geliştirilen “Öğretmen Adaylarına Yönelik 21. Yüzyıl Becerileri Yeterlilik Algıları Ölçeği” ile araştırmacılar tarafından geliştirilen
3 açık uçlu sorudan oluşan “Yarı Yapılandırılmış Görüşme Formu” ile toplanmıştır. Normal dağılım gösteren, verilerinin analizinde t testi ve ANOVA testleri kullanılmıştır. Bulgular, sosyal bilgiler öğretmen adaylarının 21. yüzyıl
becerileri yeterlik algı düzeylerinin orta değerin üzerinde yüksek olduğunu göstermektedir. Öğretmen adaylarının 21. yüzyıl becerileri öz-yeterlik algı düzeyi ortalama puanlarının yaş ve sınıf düzeyi değişkenlerine göre anlamlı
bir farklılık göstermediği, fakat cinsiyet değişkenine göre kadın öğretmen adayları lehine anlamlı bir fark gösterdiği tespit edilmiştir. Öğretmen adaylarının açık uçlu sorulara verdikleri yanıtların 21. yüzyıl becerileri yeterlik
algıları ölçeğinden elde edilen verilerle büyük oranda örtüştüğü tespit edilmiştir.
Theses and Dissertations Written on Specific Learning Difficulties in Türkiye: A Systematic Review
Authors: ARIK Aybüke , COŞKUN İbrahim
Published: October 2023

Bu çalışmada Türkiye’de 2009-2022 yılları arasında özgül öğrenme güçlüğü (ÖÖG) ile ilgili yapılmış yüksek lisans, doktora ve tıpta uzmanlık tezleri incelenmiştir. Bu çalışmanın temel amacı, Türkiye’de çeşitli bilim dallarındaki araştırmacıların
ÖÖG araştırmalarındaki eğilimlerinin saptanmasıdır. Çalışmanın ÖÖG’ne yönelik çalışma yapacak olan araştırmacılar için bir yol haritası niteliğinde olacağı düşünülmektedir. Sistematik derleme yöntemiyle verilerin toplandığı araştırmaya
Yükseköğretim Kurulu Ulusal Tez Merkezinde 2022 yılı haziran ayına dek yayınlanmış ve erişime açık olan 170 tez dâhil edilmiştir. Araştırmanın veri toplama sürecinde ÖÖG için yaygın olarak kullanılan çeşitli terimler anahtar sözcük
olarak kullanılmıştır. İncelenen tezlerde ÖÖG üzerine yazılmış olan yüksek lisans, doktora ve tıpta uzmanlık tezlerinin dağılımına, tez konularına, araştırmanın yapıldığı üniversitelere, araştırmanın yapıldığı alanlara, araştırmada
kullanılan veri toplama araçlarına, örneklem seçme yöntemlerine ve örneklem çeşitliliğine Veri Analizi Kontrol Listesi kullanılarak bakılmış ve çıkan verilerin frekansları alınmıştır. Araştırma sonuçları Türkiye’de bu dönemde özellikle
sağlık ve eğitim alanlarında ÖÖG’ye yönelik çalışmaların yapıldığını ancak ÖÖG’ne yönelik bilimsel merakın özellikle 2017-2022 yılları arasında arttığını ve çeşitli alanlarda çalışılmaya başlandığını ortaya koymaktadır. Bu durum
ÖÖG’nün birçok bilim dalında araştırmacılar tarafından merak edilen bir konu olduğunu düşündürmektedir. Nitekim bu duruma bağlı olarak ÖÖG araştırmalarında örneklem çeşitliliğinin arttığı, araştırma yöntemlerinin son yıllarda giderek
çeşitlendiği ve veri toplama araçlarının da zenginleştiği görülmektedir.
Analysis of Perceived Mobbing Behaviors, Burnout Levels and Self-Efficacy of Psychological Counselors
Authors: YILDIZ YÜKSEL Habibe , TUNÇ Erhan
Published: October 2023

This study analyzes the perceived mobbing behaviors of psychological counselors and their levels of occupational burnout and self-efficacy in psychological counseling. This is descriptive research which is designed according to the
relational survey method. The study population is comprised of psychological counselors working at a variety of institutions (primary, secondary, upper secondary schools and counseling research centers) in Gaziantep Province in
2015-2016 Academic Year. 286 psychological counselors were contacted and recruited for the study. “Teachers’ Mobbing Scale”, “Maslach Burnout Scale”, “Psychological Counseling Self-Efficacy Scale” and a “Demographic Information
Form”, which was created by the researcher, were employed for the data collection process. The data obtained in this study was analyzed using the SPSS 21 software and a set of statistical analyses, including a t-test, variance
analysis, correlation and regression analyses, were performed after the normality test of distribution. The data analysis revealed that there is a significant relationship among the scores relevant to the mobbing behaviors perceived
by psychological counselors, their burnout levels and self-efficacy in psychological counseling activities. In addition, the multiple regression analysis, which was employed to estimate self-efficacy levels of psychological counselors
explained 22% of the variance, however, these scores do not show any significant difference in terms of gender or undergraduate degree variables. Finally, the study discusses the findings in light of the relevant literature and
makes several suggestions. In addition, in this study, it was found that there was no differentiation in self-efficacy in terms of gender, the self-efficacy level perceived by counselors did not vary according to the type of institution,
self-efficacy in total score type was higher in those with more years of seniority, self-efficacy levels of counselors were higher in helping skills, difficulties in the counseling process and total score type in married counselors
according to their marital status, and self-efficacy levels in counselors were higher in those who did not perceive their profession as monotonous and in those with a master's degree.
Parental Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards Self-medication for Various Oral Health-related Problems in Children: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Kakollu Harsha Veena , Nirmala SVSG , Nuvvula Sivakumar , Arepogu Dhigvijay
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Over the years, there has been an increase in the practice of self-medication (SM) with over-the-counter drugs for dental conditions. Regarding paediatric patients, it is important for parents to have proper knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding SM for their children. Aim: To assess the parental KAP towards SM for various oral health-related problems of children below 15 years of age. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at schools in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India, between March 2021 and January 2022. A total of 323 parents of children aged up to 15 years were included in the study. Data were collected from parents through a prevalidated questionnaire to record their demographic details and KAP of SM. Fisher’s exact test was used to compare KAP of SM with the age, gender, education, and socioeconomic status (SES) of parents. Results: The most common medicine and reason for which SM was practiced were pain relievers (85%) and expensive dental treatment (39.8%), respectively. The pharmacist was the most common source of information for SM (46.9%) and drug dosage (46%). There was a significant association (p=<0.001) between children age groups and the presentation form of medicine. Additionally, statistically significant differences were found when comparing parents’ educational level and SES with dosage difference (p=0.01, p=<0.001), route of administration of medicine (p=0.04, p=<0.002), preference for expensive medicine (p=<0.001, p=<0.001), and reasons for not visiting the dentist (p=<0.01, p=<0.001), respectively. Furthermore, when SES was compared with course completion, a statistically significant difference was found (p=<0.05). Conclusion: Knowledge regarding SM practice was lower in the low educational and low SES groups.
A New Iterative Algorithm for Total Asymptotically Non-Expansive Mapping in CAT(0) Spaces
Authors: Dashputre Samir , Tiwari Rakesh , Shrivas Jaynendra
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we provide certain fixed point results for a total asymptotically non-expansive mapping, as well as a new iterative algorithm for approximating the fixed point of this class of mappings in the setting of CAT(0) spaces. Furthermore, we establish strong and \(\Delta\)-converges theorem for total asymptotically non-expansive mapping in CAT(0) space. Our result, generalizes, improve, extend and unify the results of Thakur et al. [1], Izhar et al. [2] and many more in this direction.
Phenological and Metabolic Study of Mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern. & Coss.) as Affected by Sulphur and Zinc Levels
Authors: Verma Anupama , Singh P. K. , Singh A. K. , Singh Mahak , Kumar Anil , Sachan Ravindra , Soni Arpita , Ashish Ram
Published: October 2023

The Field experiment was carried out during rabi season of 2021-22 and 2022-23 at Students Instructional Farm, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur. The experiment consist of 14 treatments combinations in factorial randomized block design with three replications consisted of 7 fertility levels (including sulphur and zinc) and two varietal factors (i.e. Rohini & Maya). Mustard varieties Rohini & Maya were grown with the recommended agronomic practices. On the basis of results emanated from investigation it can be concluded that among the metabolic studies the maximum chlorophyll content at pre and post anthesis are 46.70 and 48.88 SPAD were recorded in the treatment T14 [Var. Maya with Sulphur @900 ppm] during the first year (2021-22). Maximum rate of photosynthesis at pre and post anthesis are 25.97 and 33.29 µmole m-2/ s-1 respectively, during 1st years of experimentation were associated with the treatment T14 [Var. Maya with Sulphur @900 ppm]. Similarly during 2nd year of experimentation the maximum pre and post anthesis chlorophyll content (47.27 and 49.45 SPAD) and pre and post anthesis rate of photosynthesis (26.32 and 34.50 µmole m-2/ s-1) was found in the treatment T14 [Var. Maya with Sulphur @900 ppm]. Along with this, among the phenological studies minimum number of days taken to anthesis, number of days taken to 50 % flowering and number of days taken to maturity, was also found in the treatment T14 [Var. Maya with Sulphur @900 ppm].
Towards Sustainable Abundance: The Advancements in Tamarind Production Technology
Authors: Vasanthkumar S. S.  , Rubika R.  , Sabarivasan M.  , Pooja U. K.  , Udhayakumar K.
Published: October 2023

Tamarind, a tropical fruit-bearing tree, is essential for food, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications. Advancements in tamarind production technology are needed to ensure sustainable cultivation and efficient processing. This review focuses on innovative cultivation practices, breeding strategies, pest management, post-harvest practices, and value addition. It explores intercropping, agroforestry, and water-efficient irrigation systems to maximize land utilization and water resources. Integrated pest management strategies, such as biological control and organic pesticides, are proposed to reduce chemical dependency, minimize environmental impact, and maintain ecological balance. Post-harvest technology, including innovative harvesting, cleaning, storage, and processing techniques, is evaluated to maintain product quality and shelf life. The review also examines the economic viability and value addition opportunities within the tamarind industry, identifying potential product diversification and reducing the carbon footprint.
Strengthening Environmental Hygiene for Healthcare-associated Infections Prevention in Maternity Ward: Outstanding Findings from a Multisite Survey in the Ndé Division, West Cameroon
Authors: Tchuenté Staël Audrey Menteng , Youté O’Neal Dorsel , Kweyang Blandine Pulcherie Tamatcho , Kougang Esther Guladys , Koul Pascal Blaise Well à Well à , Kwetche Pierre René Fotsing
Published: October 2023

Background: In health facilities, mothers and their children are amongst the most vulnerable groups likely to contract healthcare-associated infections.

Aim: The present investigation aimed at characterizing bacterial groups (profile, load, antibiotic susceptibility) in maternity premises of Bangangté District Hospital (BDH) and “Université des Montagnes” Teaching Hospital (UdMTH), Ndé Division – West Cameroon.

Methods: From September 2nd through November 2nd, 2019, the work was focused on surfaces and airborne bacteria. Specimen collection was conducted by wet surface swabbing and passive adhesion of airborne bacteria, respectively. Isolation, enumeration, identification and susceptibility tests were carried out according to standard bacteriological protocols.

Results: Out of 126 specimens collected and screened, 98.4% resulted in positive cultures. A total of 168 isolates were then recovered, consisted of Staphylococcus spp. (68% and 51%), Gram-positive rods (30% and 35%) and Gram-negative rods (2% and 14%), in UdMTH and BDH, respectively. Bacterial profile recorded were almost similar in all specimens subjected. Bacterial loads varied greatly (as low as < 10 CFU/cm² on surfaces or < 283 CFU/60 mm diameter Petri dish for airborne bacteria and as high as > 30 CFU/cm² on surfaces or > 848 CFU/60 mm diameter Petri dish for airborne bacteria). Bacterial loads appeared to be likely in connection with local activity density. Susceptibility tests revealed high resistance rates while Imipenem was most potent.

Conclusion: Overall findings are reliable clue that could guide advocacy for infections prevention through mitigation of contamination risks in health facilities.
An Experimental and Computational Study of Zeolitic Imidazole Framework (ZIF-8) Synthesis Modulated with Sodium Chloride and Its Interaction with CO2
Authors: Priandani Lita , Aliefa Amarilis , Arjasa Oka Pradipta , Pambudi Fajar Inggit
Published: October 2023

The increase of CO2 level in atmosphere becomes one of the driving forces for research on functional materials. Capturing and utilizing of CO2 are more important than ever, both to reduce CO2 emission and to increase the economic value of CO2 derivatives. In this study, synthesis of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) was conducted by combining Zn2+ metal nodes and 2-methylimidazolate ligand to form zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIF-8) materials. ZIF-8 was synthesised with the addition of sodium chloride to modulate the crystal morphology during the in-situ synthesis, using either water or methanol as the solvent. According to the refinement of the X-ray diffraction pattern, the ZIF-8 materials were successfully prepared and have unit cell parameters that are reasonably close to the available standard. The formation of ZIF-8 is also confirmed by IR spectroscopy, which reveals the stretching vibration mode of Zn−N from the coordination between Zn2+ and 2-methylimidazolate ligand. The crystal morphology exhibits different shape, as observed in SEM and TEM studies, with the dominant shape being a rhombic dodecahedron. The interaction between ZIF-8 and CO2 was investigated via ex-situ IR spectroscopy, combined with several computational techniques such as density functional theory and molecular dynamics, to elucidate the nature of the CO2 binding sites. Copyright © 2023 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Destructive Facial Plaque and Palatal Perforation in a Middle-Aged Woman
Authors: Mustari Akash P. , Chatterjee Debajyoti , Vinay Keshavamurthy
Published: October 2023

A woman in her 30s had asymptomatic erythematous scaly plaques over the face and proximal extremities. The lesions started as a erythematous papule on the face, which had progressed to larger plaques within 10 years. What is your diagnosis?
Use of 3-Dimensional Stereophotogrammetry to Detect Disease Progression in Craniofacial Morphea
Authors: Shaw Katharina S. , Nguyen Tyler T. , Rajeh Ahmad , Cohen Stephanie M. , Semenov Yevgeniy R. , Reusch Diana B. , Dedeoglu Fatma , Vleugels Ruth Ann , Ganske Ingrid M.
Published: October 2023

Importance

Objectively determining disease progression in craniofacial morphea (CM) is challenging, as clinical findings of disease activity are often lacking.

Objective

To evaluate the utility of 3-dimensional (3D) stereophotogrammetry in detecting disease progression in CM over time.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective cohort study included 27 pediatric and adult patients with CM from 2 hospitals in Boston (Boston Children’s Hospital and Brigham & Women’s Hospital) consecutively enrolled from April 1, 2019, to March 1, 2023. Review of 3D stereophotogrammetry images and data analysis occurred from March 1 to April 1, 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Clinical and 3D stereophotogrammetry assessments were performed at 2- to 12-month intervals, depending on the clinical context. The 3D stereophotogrammetry images were then qualitatively rated as demonstrating no progression or definitive progression by an expert (board-certified plastic craniofacial surgeon) and nonexpert (board-certified dermatologist) in 3D stereophotogrammetry. In addition, κ coefficients were calculated for interrater reliability.

Results

Of 27 patients with CM (19 female; median age, 14 [range, 5-40] years) and 3D stereophotogrammetry images obtained from a minimum of 2 time points (median, 4 [range, 2-10] images) spaced a median of 3 (range, 2-12) months apart, 10 experienced progression of their disease based on clinical assessments performed during the study period. In all cases in which clinical progression was favored, blinded qualitative assessment of 3D stereophotogrammetry images also favored progression with substantial interrater reliability (κ = 0.80 [95% CI, 0.61-0.99]). Furthermore, review of 3D stereophotogrammetry detected occult progression of asymmetry not noted on clinical examination in 3 additional patients.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this prospective cohort study, blinded assessment of sequential 3D stereophotogrammetry images in patients with CM not only corroborated clinical assessment of disease progression but also detected occult progression of facial asymmetry not appreciable on clinical examination alone. Therefore, 3D stereophotogrammetry may serve as a useful adjunct to clinical examination of patients with CM over time. Future investigations are warranted to validate 3D stereophotogrammetry as an outcome measure in CM.
Analysis of Social Media Involvement in Violent Injury
Authors: Garcia Whitlock Anna E. , Gill Brendan P. , Richardson Joseph B. , Patton Desmond U. , Strong Bethany , Nwakanma Chidinma C. , Kaufman Elinore J.
Published: October 2023

This cross-sectional study uses police agency–collected information to quantify the association among social media involvement, crime, and violence.
Current Status and Outlook of Low‐Melting‐Point Metals in Biomedical Applications
Authors: Mao Jianbin , Kim Ju‐Hyung , Seo Soonmin
Published: October 2023

In recent years, low‐melting‐point metals including liquid metals, exhibiting outstanding physical and chemical properties such as excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, high surface tension, and biocompatibility, have garnered increasing attention from researchers. The melting point of such metals profoundly influences their properties and determines their range of applications, and comprehending the characteristics and properties of low‐melting‐point metals is crucial for their future applications. Although studies related to liquid metals are growing exponentially in particular, reports exploring the properties and applications of low‐melting‐point metals from the perspective of the melting point are still in their early stages. This review aims to comprehensively summarize the key properties and relevant applications of current low‐melting‐point metals described in recent studies, focusing on gallium‐ and bismuth‐based metal alloys. In addition, this review discusses the opportunities and challenges associated with low‐melting‐point metals, and it is anticipated that this review will contribute to the advancement of low‐melting‐point materials in the fields of flexible electronics and biomedicine, particularly for biomedical applications.
Mechanoresponse of Curved Epithelial Monolayers Lining Bowl‐Shaped 3D Microwells
Authors: Luciano Marine , Versaevel Marie , Kalukula Yohalie , Gabriele Sylvain
Published: October 2023

The optimal functioning of many organs relies on the curved architecture of their epithelial tissues. However, the mechanoresponse of epithelia to changes in curvature remains misunderstood. Here, bowl‐shaped microwells in hydrogels are designed via photopolymerization to faithfully replicate the shape and dimensions of lobular structures. Leveraging these hydrogel‐based microwells, curved epithelial monolayers are engineered, and how in‐plane and Gaussian curvatures at the microwell entrance influence epithelial behavior is investigated. Cells and nuclei around the microwell edge display a more pronounced centripetal orientation as the in‐plane curvature decreases, and enhanced cell straightness and speed. Moreover, cells reorganize their actin cytoskeleton by forming a supracellular actin cable at the microwell edge, with its size becoming more pronounced as the in‐plane curvature decreases. The Gaussian curvature at the microwell entrance enhances the maturation of the supracellular actin cable architecture and leads to a vertical orientation of nuclei toward the bottom of the microwell. Increasing Gaussian curvature results in flattened and elongated nuclear morphologies characterized by highly compacted chromatin states. This approach provides better understanding of the mechanoresponse of curved epithelial monolayers curvatures lining lobular structures. In addition, bowl‐shaped microwells offer a powerful platform to study curvature‐dependent mechanotransduction pathways in anatomically relevant 3D structures.
Advances in Design of High‐Performance Heterostructured Scintillators for Time‐of‐Flight Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Krause Philip , Rogers Edith , Bizarri Gregory
Published: October 2023

Core to advancing time‐of‐flight positron emission tomography (ToF‐PET) toward a less invasive, more flexible procedure with a higher diagnostic power is the development of enhanced radiation detector materials. One promising avenue is the development of heterostructured scintillators where multiple materials work in synergy to exceed the performance of each individual component. Applied to ToF‐PET detectors, one component contributes predominantly to the absorption of gamma rays and the other to the creation of ultra‐fast photons. Whilst other authors have proposed various concepts, heterostructured scintillators are still in their infancy and scientifically guiding their development remains a challenge. Toward this aim and based on simulation and modeling developments, heterostructure properties are directly linked to ToF‐PET performance. This is made possible by redefining the notions of detector photo‐peak efficiency and timing response, as defined for monolithic detectors, in the context of heterostructured scintillators. Their overall potential is then discussed as a function of the materials and design used. This provides a quantitative framework to rapidly and efficiently support the advancement of heterostructured detectors for ToF‐PET technology.
Scientific Computing with Diffractive Optical Neural Networks
Authors: Chen Ruiyang , Tang Yingheng , Ma Jianzhu , Gao Weilu
Published: October 2023

Diffractive optical neural networks (DONNs) are emerging as high‐throughput and energy‐efficient hardware platforms to perform all‐optical machine learning (ML) in machine vision systems. However, the current demonstrated applications of DONNs are largely image classification tasks, which undermine the prospect of developing and utilizing such hardware for other ML applications. Herein, the deployment of an all‐optical reconfigurable DONNs system for scientific computing is demonstrated numerically and experimentally, including guiding two‐dimensional quantum material synthesis, predicting the properties of two‐dimensional quantum materials and small molecular cancer drugs, predicting the device response of nanopatterned integrated photonic power splitters, and the dynamic stabilization of an inverted pendulum with reinforcement learning. Despite a large variety of input data structures, a universal feature engineering approach is developed to convert categorical input features to images that can be processed in the DONNs system. The results open up new opportunities for employing DONNs systems for a broad range of ML applications.