bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dynamical mechanisms of how an RNN keeps a beat, uncovered with a low-dimensional reduced model
Authors: Zemlianova Klavdia , Bose Amitabha , Rinzel John 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Despite music’s omnipresence, the specific neural mechanisms responsible to perceive and anticipate temporal patterns in music are unknown. To study potential mechanisms for keeping time in rhythmic contexts, we train a biologically constrained RNN on seven different stimulus tempos (2–8Hz) on a synchronization and continuation task, a standard experimental paradigm. Our trained RNN generates a network oscillator that uses an input current (context parameter) to control oscillation frequency and replicates key features of neural dynamics observed in neural recordings of monkeys performing the same task. We develop a reduced three-variable rate model of the RNN and analyze its dynamic properties. By treating our understanding of the mathematical structure for oscillations in the reduced model as predictive, we confirm that the dynamical mechanisms are found also in the RNN. Our neurally plausible reduced model reveals an E-I circuit with two distinct inhibitory sub-populations, of which one is tightly synchronized with the excitatory units.
Impact of COVID-19 Restrictions Liberalization on Air Quality: A Case Study of Chongqing, Southwest China
Authors: Wang Haozheng , Zhang Liuyi , Chen Yuanjun , Shi Guangming , Huang Chentao , Yang Fumo , Li Weihao 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

To mitigate the societal impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, China implemented long-term restrictive measures. The sudden liberalization at the end of 2022 disrupted residents’ daily routines, making it scientifically intriguing to explore its effect on air quality. Taking Chongqing City in Southwest China as an example, we examined the impact of restriction liberalization on air quality, identified potential sources of pollutants, simulated the effects of abrupt anthropogenic control relaxation using a Random Forest Model, and applied an optimized model to predict the post-liberalization pollutant concentrations. The results showed increases in PM2.5 (72.3%), PM10 (67.7%), and NO2 (21.9%) concentrations while O3 concentration decreased by 20.5%. Although potential pollution source areas contracted, pollution levels intensified with northeastern Sichuan, interior Chongqing, and northern Guizhou being major contributors to pollutant emissions. Anthropogenic emissions accounted for 26.7% ~ 33% changes in PM2.5、PM10 concentrations while meteorological conditions contributed to 40.2% ~ 43.3% variations observed during the period. The optimized model demonstrated correlation between predicted and observed values with R2 ranging from 0.70 to 0.89, enabling accurate prediction of post-liberalization pollutant concentrations. This study can enhance our understanding regarding the impact of sudden social lockdown relaxation events on air quality while providing support for urban air pollution prevention.
Genome-Wide Investigation of the PIF Gene Family in alfalfa (Medicago sativa) Expression Profiles during Development and Stress
Authors: Liu Qianning , Wang Baiji , Xu Wen , Yuan Yuying , YU Jinqiu , Cui Guowen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background Phytochrome-interacting factors (PIFs) plays an important role in plants as hubs for intracellular signaling regulation. The PIF gene family has been identified and characterized in many plants, but alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), an important perennial high-quality legume forage, has not been reported on the PIF gene family. Results In this study, we presented the identification and characterization of five MsPIF gene family in alfalfa (Medicago sativa). Phylogenetic analysis indicated that PIFs from alfalfa and other four plant species could be divided into three groups supported by similar motif analysis. The collinearity analysis of the MsPIF gene family showed the presence of two gene pairs, and the collinearity analysis with AtPIFs showed three gene pairs, indicating that the evolutionary process of this family is relatively conservative. Analysis of cis-acting elements in promoter regions of MsPIF genes indicated that various elements were related to light, abiotic stress, and plant hormone responsiveness. Gene expression analyses demonstrated that MsPIFs were primarily expressed in the leaves and were induced by various abiotic stresses. Conclusion This study conducted genome-wide identification, evolution, synteny analysis, and expression analysis of the PIFs in alfalfa. Our study lays a foundation for the study of the biological functions of the PIF gene family and provides a useful reference for improving abiotic stress resistance in alfalfa.
Xenograft of bio-3D printed scaffold-free cartilage constructs derived from human iPSCs to regenerate articular cartilage in immunodeficient pigs
Authors: Nakayama Koichi , Nonaka Toshihiro , Nakamura Anna , Murata Daiki , Yoshizato Hiromu , Kashimoto Shohei , Nagaishi Yukiko , Itoh Manabu , Zujur Denise , Ikeya Makoto , Toguchida Junya , Mawatari Masaaki , Zhao Chengzhu , Inada Yoshiko 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Arthroplasty is currently the only option for reconstruction of large articular cartilage defects, mainly due to osteoarthritis. However, reconstruction with artificial materials has several issues such as deterioration, foreign body reaction, and bacterial infection. This study established a new method for articular cartilage reconstruction that fundamentally solves the problems associated with artificial materials by creating scaffold-free cartilage constructs and implanting them into extensive osteochondral defects without artificial materials. Tubular cartilage constructs were fabricated using a completely scaffold-free Kenzan bio-three-dimensional printing method with chondrogenic spheroids generated from human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (iPSC-MSCs). The constructs were partially cut open to form a patch and implanted into osteochondral defects in the femoral trochlear groove of immunodeficient miniature pigs. The cartilage constructs were elastic and easy to handle, and abundant glycosaminoglycans and collagens were observed in the grafted site after implantation as well as in the articular cartilage. Cells at this site were positive forhuman vimentin, indicating that the cartilage constructs were successfully engrafted onto the host subchondral bone. Scaffold-free human iPSC-MSC-derived cartilage constructs implanted into osteochondral defects contributed to the regeneration of extensive osteochondral defects in the absence of artificial materials.
Decision making for rehabilitation of the atrophic maxillary arch with tilted implants through TTPHIL:ALL TILT® Protocol: A proposed classification of various situations
Authors: Nag Venkat Ratna , Puppala Sarika , Lokwani Bhavna , Ramanathan Manikandhan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Majority of classifications for implant placement is based on the morphology of the available bone. The entry and exit points of implant in all forms of atrophy are not emphasized. The purpose of this article is to classify the entry points, angulations and exit points for 6 tilted maxillary implants in anterior-posterior distribution for prompt decision making, the ease of surgery and to capitalize on the available bone width.
Methods
Retrospective radiographic analysis was done for 150 maxillary arch edentulous patients restored with fixed prosthesis supported by six tilted implants between April 2021 to April 2023. Post operative Orthopantomograph (OPG) tracings were done for maxillary sinus borders to classify the sinus pneumatization and the entry and exit points of implants were noted with respect to the prosthetic teeth, basal anchoring bone and implant angulations.
Results
Of the arches treated, 63 were SP1, 34 were SP2, 16 were SP3 in the maxilla. Many combination arches were encountered as well including 32 cases of SP1 + SP2 and 5 of SP2 + SP3 combinations. The common preferred entry points were canine, second premolar and second molar areas.
Conclusions
A functional surgical classification aids in placing all-6 tilted bicortcal implants for immediate function while being versatile enough to be used in delayed cases as well. The knowledge of this classification helps to visualise the entry/fixation points minimising unpredictable and morbid grafting surgical procedures. It also aids in efficiently delivering patient-centric minimally invasive, predictably stable, biomechanically sound, fixed implant treatments without cantilever in complete edentulism.
Induction of labour with cervical ripening balloon associated with oral misoprostol: an observational study comparing sequential and concurrent administration
Authors: Mancarella Matteo , Attianese Daniela , Moggio Giulia , Novara Lorenzo , Pecchio Silvia , Ambrogio Alessia , Covino Roberta , De Chiesa Francesca , Fuso Luca , Sgro Luca Giuseppe , Ferrero Annamaria , Bounous Valentina Elisabetta 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose. The association of cervical ripening balloons (CRB) and misoprostol for induction of labour (IoL) is frequently used, although there is poor evidence about the optimal timing and protocol for their combination. The aim of this study was to compare a concurrent and a sequential scheme for administration of oral misoprostol in association with CRB, in terms of mode and timing of delivery and rate of adverse events.Methods. This was an observational study comparing two consecutive cohorts of women with unfavourable cervix undergoing IoL by means of CRB combined with oral misoprostol, with either a sequential scheme (retrospective cohort, N = 36) or a concurrent administration (prospective cohort, N = 30). Primary outcome was the rate of vaginal delivery (VD); secondary outcomes included the interval of time to labour and delivery and the incidence of maternal or perinatal complications.Results. The concurrent administration of misoprostol combined with CRB resulted in a similar rate of VD compared to the sequential scheme (63.9% vs 76.7%, p = 0.29). Both time to active labour (32.7 +/- 10.9 vs 21.8 +/- 9.6hours, p = 0.001) and to vaginal delivery (34.0 +/- 12.6 vs 25.3 +/- 10.2 hours, p = 0.016) were shorter for concurrent misoprostol administration, resulting in a higher rate of VD within 24 hours (13.9 % vs 43.3%, p = 0.01). The rate of maternal and perinatal adverse outcomes did not differ significantly between the two groups.Conclusion. A concurrent use of CRB and oral misoprostol might be preferable due to similar results in terms of mode of delivery, achieved in a shorter time with no increase in complications; futher studies on larger populations will be needed to verify potential differences in CS rates and rare adverse events.
Constitutive overexpression of a nicotianamine synthase gene in bread wheat and in vivo assessment of iron and zinc bioavailability
Authors: Tako Elad , Cheng Jacquelyn , Beasley Jesse T. , Kolba Nikolai , Jackson Cydney , Dugan Eliot , Johnson Alexander A.T. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) deficiencies affect over two billion people globally. Biofortification of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum), a crop that supplies approximately 20% of calories and protein consumed by humans worldwide, represents a sustainable strategy for increasing micronutrient intakes. We employed constitutive overexpression (OE) of an endogenous nicotianamine synthase gene (TaNAS2A) in bread wheat cultivar Gladius to increase biosynthesis of the metal-chelating molecule nicotianamine (NA). Field evaluation of three independent OE-TaNAS2A events found normal growth and consistently increased NA concentration in whole wheat flour relative to controls. Extracts prepared from whole wheat flours were functionally characterized in vivo (Gallus gallus) using the intraamniotic administration approach and alterations in markers of Fe and Zn transport, inflammation, and intestinal functionality and morphology were observed in treatment groups that received OE-TaNAS2A extracts.
Robust low threshold full-color upconversion lasing in rare-earth activated nanocrystal-in-glass microcavity
Authors: Dong Guoping , Gao Zhigang , Cui Lugui , Chu yushi , Niu Luyue , Wang Lehan , Zhao Rui , Yang Yulong , Liu Xiaofeng , Ren Jing 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Visible light microlasers are essential building blocks for wide-ranging applications from integrated photonics to quantum computing. However, achieving low-threshold (µW), continuous-wave (CW) visible light lasing at room temperature (RT) has been a challenge because of the formidable requirement of population inversion at short wavelengths. Rare-earth (RE)-activated microcavities, featuring the merits of high-quality factor (Q) and small mode volume of whispering gallery modes, offer the great opportunity for achieving infrared-to-visible upconversion (UC) lasing. Here, nano-glass composite (GC) microspheres are fabricated incorporating RE-doped fluoride nanocrystals with highly efficient UC emissions. These multi-phase composite microspheres exhibit a high Q value (≥ 105), comparable to that of conventional multi-component glass microspheres. The UC lasing at pure red, green and blue (RGB) are demonstrated from a tapered fiber-microsphere system, and the RGB color gamut covered by the lasing is 106.26% of the standard of national television system committee. The superiority of the GC microspheres is clearly manifested by the reduced (by 45%) lasing threshold and enhanced (more than four times) slope efficiency. This, together with the excellent long-term stability suggests a promising solution to achieving highly robust, low-threshold and versatile UC microlasers.
Long-term Treatment Outcomes of Complicated Acute Diverticulitis in Immunocompromised Patients.
Authors: Sancho-Muriel Jorge , Cholewa Hanna , Millán Mónica , Quevedo David , Alvarez Eduardo , Nieto-Sanchez Marta , Blasco Raquel , Giner Francisco , Gomez Maria Jose , Primo-Romaguera Vicent , Frasson Matteo , Flor-Lorente Blas 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The main aim of this study was to determine the short- and long-term outcomes of the non-operative management of acute left-sided complicated diverticulitis (ALCD) in severely immunocompromised patients (IMS group) and compare them with immunocompetent patients (IC group). The secondary aim was to assess the necessity of an elective surgery following a successful prior non-operative management in the IMS group after a non-operative management of the first episode of ALCD.
Methods
Patients presented with their first episode of ALCD between 2012 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Only severely immunosuppressed patients were considered for the analysis, including: long-term oral or intravenous steroid intake; current malignancy undergoing chemotherapy; chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis or solid organ transplant with immunosuppressive medication. For each group, demographic data, severity of the episode, management decisions (conservative or operative), and short- and long-term outcomes were recorded and compared. A subanalysis of patients with ALCD associating and abscess (modified Hinchey classification Ib/II) was performed.
Results
A total of 290 patients were included in the study: 50 among the IMS and 240 among the IC group. The rate of emergent surgery was higher in the IMS group (50.0% vs. 22.5%, p < 0.001) and was associated with increased morbidity (72.4% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.041) and mortality (24.1% vs. 4.3%, p = 0.003). The duration of the hospital stay was significantly longer in the IMS group (15 vs. 8 days, p < 0.001). The final stoma rate was significantly higher in the IMS group (82.1% vs. 22.9, p < 0.001), with a median follow-up of 51.4 months. 141 patients presented ALCD with an abscess; 25 in the IMS and 116 in the IC group. There was a higher rate of surgical intervention among the IMS group as the initial treatment approach (24.0% vs. 5.2%, p = 0.002), even though the conservative treatment had a similar rate of success (81.3% vs. 92.0%, p = 0.178). The recurrence rate following a non-operative approach was similar (IMS: 31.2% vs. 35.4% in the IC group, p = 0.169). Furthermore, 81.2% of non-operatively managed IMS patients (13 out of 16) did not require a surgical intervention at the end of the follow-up, with similar findings in the IC group (78/96, 81.2%, p = 0.148).
Conclusion
Medical treatment of immunosuppressed patients during their first ALCD episode associating an abscess is feasible, with a high success rate and results comparable with the IC group. Moreover, taking into account the readmission rates, the need of emergent surgery of the recurrence, as well as the perioperative mortality and morbidity in the IMS group, conservative management with no differed scheduled surgery seems to be a safe option in this subgroup of patients.
Sexuality of adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus in comparison with their healthy peers.
Authors: Kakleas Kostas , Kandyla Betina , Tsitsika Artemis , Tzavara Chara , Karanasios Spyros , Karavanaki Kyriaki 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) may differ from their healthy peers with respect to sexual behavior. The aim of this study was to explore sexual behaviors of T1DM adolescents in comparison with healthy peers.
Methods
The study population included 174 adolescents, of whom 58 T1DM adolescents (mean ± SD age 16.3 ± 2.0 years, disease duration 6.7 ± 3.5 years and HbA1c:8.0 ± 1.3%) and 116 healthy controls (matching 1:2 for school, class and gender). Anonymous, self-reported questionnaires were used to evaluate sexual education and behaviour.
Results
T1DM adolescents had a sexual experience at a significantly lower percentage than healthy peers (74.1% vs 87.4%, p = 0.033). The average age of first sexual intercourse was similar for both groups (15.9 ± 1.8 years vs 15.2 ± 1.5 years for T1DM and controls respectively). In the control group boys had sexual intercourse twice more frequently than girls and in the T1DM group three times more frequently. Maternal education level (β=-1.47, p = 0.014) and HbA1c (β=-0.63, p = 0.49) were independently negatively associated with the age at 1st sexual experience and 1st sexual intercourse (maternal education: β=-1.53, p = 0.003, HbA1c: β=-0.92, p < 0.001) respectively.
Conclusion
A significant percentage of the T1DM adolescents had sexual experience or intercourse. However, fewer T1DM adolescents had sexual experience compared to their healthy peers with girls having less frequently sexual intercourse than boys. Maternal education level and glycaemic control were negatively associated with age at sexual debut. The above findings underline the need for early sexual education of adolescents with or without diabetes for the prevention of unfavourable outcomes.
T Lymphocytes induce the expression of Coronin-1A in breast cancer cells enabling the transmigration through a blood- brain-barrier model.
Authors: Kros Johan M. , Zeneyedpour Lona , Pedrosa Rute M.S.M. , Belcaid Zineb , Dik Willem A. , Luider Theo M. , Mustafa Dana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background:
In previous work we discovered that T lymphocytes play a prominent role in the rise of brain metastases of ER-negative breast cancers. In the present study we explored how T lymphocytes promote breast cancer cell penetration through the blood brain barrier (BBB).
Methods:
An in vitro BBB model was employed to study the effects of T lymphocytes on BBB trespassing capacity of three different breast carcinoma cell lines. Differential protein expression was explored by comparing the proteomes of the breast cancer cells before and after co-culture with activated T lymphocytes using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). siRNA was used to silence protein expression in the breast cancer cells to study contribution to in vitro BBB passage. Furthermore, protein expression in primary breast cancer tissues was explored and related to brain-metastatic potential.
Results:
Co-culturing with activated T lymphocytes or their conditioned medium (CM) resulted in increased passage through the in vitro BBB. The effects were less for cell line MDA-MB-231-B2M2 (brain affinity) as compared to MDA-MB-231 and SK-BR-7. Mass spectrometry-based proteomics revealed significant alterations in the expression of 35 proteins by the breast cancer cell lines upon T cell contact. Among the proteins is coronin-1A, a protein related to cell motility. Knockdown of CORO1A in the breast cancer cells reduced their ability to cross the artificial BBB to 60%. The effects were significantly less for the cell line derived from breast cancer with affinity for brain. The expression of coronin-1A was confirmed by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR of 52 breast cancer samples of patients with metastasized breast cancers, with and without brain locations. Lastly, CORO1A upregulation was validated in a publicly available mRNA expression database from 204 primary breast cancers with known metastatic sites.
Conclusions:
We conclude that T lymphocytes trigger cancer cells to express proteins including coronin-1A that enable the cancer cells to cross an in vitro BBB. In addition, a prominent role of coronin-1A in the formation of cerebral metastases in breast cancer patients is strongly suggestive by its upregulation in tissue samples of breast cancer patients with brain metastases.
Effects of glacier retreat on plant–soil relationships
Authors: Charles Cecile , Khelidj Nora , Mottet Lucia , Tu Bao Ngan , Adatte Thierry , Bomou Brahimsamba , Faria Micaela , Monbaron Laetitia , Reubi Olivier , de Vere Natasha , Grand Stéphanie , Losapio Gianalberto 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background and Aims
An emblematic symptom of climate change is the retreat of glaciers worldwide. As glaciers retreat, new ice-free terrains allow the development of plant communities and soil. However, little is known about how plant–soil relationships change with glacier retreat over space-time.
Methods
We examined the direct and indirect relationships between structure of plant communities (life-forms composition, richness, ecological indicators) and soil properties (pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, C/N ratio, texture, available and major elements) along a 120-years glacier foreland chronosequence.
Results
Plant diversity increases with soil nitrogen content shortly after glacier retreat. In turn, soil stabilization and nutrient availability further increases plant diversity, reaching a maximum value around 60 years since glacier retreat. After 120 years, soil pH becomes very acidic as it acidifies at a rate of 0.02 units per, and plant communities shift from herbaceous to a coniferous forest. Such shift is accompanied by an increase in soil carbon and relative decrease in soil nutrients as C/N ratio increases by five folds. As a result, biodiversity decreases in our study area while organic matter accumulation and soil acidity become more pronounced.
Conclusion
Plants enrich soil nitrogen in pioneer stages while carbon accumulates in the soil and nutrients become scarcer in late stages. As climate is warming and glaciers are retreating at increasing rates, local plant–soil interactions should be the target of biodiversity conservation efforts and landscape management plans aimed at mitigating the impact of glacier retreat on biodiversity and soil functioning.