Quantum field theory creates fermions via abstract operators exciting abstract fields, with a specific field for each type of specific particle. This operator algebra lends itself well to quantum statistics, neverthel...Quantum field theory creates fermions via abstract operators exciting abstract fields, with a specific field for each type of specific particle. This operator algebra lends itself well to quantum statistics, nevertheless, our physical understanding of this process is nonintuitive at best. In this paper we analyze the creation of fermions from primordial gauge field quantum gravity loops in the context of Calabi-Yau manifold theory. I extend a prior mass-gap treatment based on Yang-Mills gauge theory of higher order self-interaction to include the half-integral spin of fermions.展开更多
Transgenesis and genome editing in birds are based on a unique germline transmission system using primordial germ cells(PGCs), which is quite different from the mammalian transgenic and genome editing system. PGCs are...Transgenesis and genome editing in birds are based on a unique germline transmission system using primordial germ cells(PGCs), which is quite different from the mammalian transgenic and genome editing system. PGCs are progenitor cells of gametes that can deliver genetic information to the next generation. Since avian PGCs were first discovered in nineteenth century, there have been numerous efforts to reveal their origin, specification, and unique migration pattern, and to improve germline transmission efficiency. Recent advances in the isolation and in vitro culture of avian PGCs with genetic manipulation and genome editing tools enable the development of valuable avian models that were unavailable before. However, many challenges remain in the production of transgenic and genome-edited birds,including the precise control of germline transmission, introduction of exogenous genes, and genome editing in PGCs.Therefore, establishing reliable germline-competent PGCs and applying precise genome editing systems are critical current issues in the production of avian models. Here, we introduce a historical overview of avian PGCs and their application, including improved techniques and methodologies in the production of transgenic and genome-edited birds, and we discuss the future potential applications of transgenic and genome-edited birds to provide opportunities and benefits for humans.展开更多
Aim: To assess whether exogenous estradiol has any effect on migration of primordial germ cells (PGCs) in the chick. Methods: Fertilized eggs were treated with 17beta-estradiol (E2) (80 lag/egg) at stage X (d...Aim: To assess whether exogenous estradiol has any effect on migration of primordial germ cells (PGCs) in the chick. Methods: Fertilized eggs were treated with 17beta-estradiol (E2) (80 lag/egg) at stage X (day 0 of incubation), stages 8-10 (incubation 30 h) and 13-15 (incubation 55 h). Controls received vehicle (emulsion) only. Changes in PGC number were measured on different days according to developmental stages. Results: In male right gonads, but not in female left gonads, at stages 28-30 (incubation 132 h) significant decreases in the mean number of PGCs aggregating were observed compared with the controls (P 〈 0.05) while the total PGC number in the right and left gonads at each stage did not change (P 〉 0.05). Conclusion: The present study provides evidence that E2 has significant effects on the localization of PGCs in male right, but not female left, gonads of chicken embryos at stages 28-30, compared with controls. (Asian J Andro12008 Mar; 10: 243-248)展开更多
The primordial crust on the Earth formed from the crystallization of the surface magma ocean during the Hadean.However,geological surveys have found no evidence of rocks dating back to more than 4 Ga on the Earth's s...The primordial crust on the Earth formed from the crystallization of the surface magma ocean during the Hadean.However,geological surveys have found no evidence of rocks dating back to more than 4 Ga on the Earth's surface,suggesting the Hadean crust was lost due to some processes.We investigated the subduction of one of the possible candidates for the primordial crust,anorthosite and KREEP crust similar to the Moon,which is also considered to have formed from the crystallization of the magma ocean.Similar to the present Earth,the subduction of primordial crust by subduction erosion is expected to be an effective way of eliminating primordial crust from the surface.In this study,the subduction rate of the primordial crust via subduction channels is evaluated by numerical simulations.The subduction channels are located between the subducting slab and the mantle wedge and are comprised of primordial crust materials supplied mainly by subduction erosion.We have found that primordial anorthosite and KREEP crust of up to - 50 km thick at the Earth's surface was able to be conveyed to the deep mantle within 0.1-2 Gy by that mechanism.展开更多
Recent advances in avian transgenic studies highlight the possibility of utilizing lentiviral vectors as tools to generate transgenic chickens. However, low rates of gonadal chimerism and germ line transmission effici...Recent advances in avian transgenic studies highlight the possibility of utilizing lentiviral vectors as tools to generate transgenic chickens. However, low rates of gonadal chimerism and germ line transmission efficiency still limit the broad usage of this method in creating transgenic chickens. In this study, we implemented a simple strategy using modified lentiviral vectors targeted to chicken primordial germ cells(PGCs) to generate transgenic chickens. The lentiviral vectors were pseudotyped with a modified Sindbis virus envelope protein(termed M168) and conjugated with an antibody specific to PGC membrane proteins. We demonstrated that these optimized M168-pseudotyped lentiviral vectors conjugated with SSEA4 antibodies successfully targeted transduction of PGCs in vitro and in vivo. Compared with the control, 50.0%–66.7% of chicken embryos expressed green fluorescent protein(GFP) in gonads transduced by the M168-pseudotyped lentivirus. This improved the targeted transduction efficiency by 30.0%–46.7%. Efficient chimerism of exogenous genes was also observed. This targeting technology could improve the efficiency of germ line transmission and provide greater opportunities for transgenic poultry studies.展开更多
The Hadean history of Earth is shrouded in mystery and it is considered that the planet was born dry with no water or atmosphere.The Earth-Moon system had many features in common during the birth stage.Solidification ...The Hadean history of Earth is shrouded in mystery and it is considered that the planet was born dry with no water or atmosphere.The Earth-Moon system had many features in common during the birth stage.Solidification of the dry magma ocean at 4.53 Ga generated primordial continents with komatiite.We speculate that the upper crust was composed of fractionated gabbros and the middle felsic crust by anorthosite at ca.21 km depth boundary,underlain by meta-anorthosite(grossular + kyanite 4 quartz)down to 50-60 km in depth.The thickness of the mafic KREEP basalt in the lower crust,separating it from the underlying upper mantle is not well-constrained and might have been up to ca.100-200 km depending on the degree of fractionation and gravitational stability versus surrounding mantle density.The primordial continents must have been composed of the final residue of dry magma ocean and enriched in several critical elements including Ca,Mg,Fe,Mn,P,K,and Cl which were exposed on the surface of the dry Earth.Around 190 million years after the solidification of the magma ocean, "ABEL bombardment" delivered volatiles including H_2O,CO_2,N_2 as well as silicate components through the addition of icy asteroids.This event continued for 200 Myr with subordinate bombardments until 3.9 Ga,preparing the Earth for the prebiotic chemical evolution and as the cradle of first life.Due to vigorous convection arising from high mantle potential temperatures,the primordial continents disintegrated and were dragged down to the deep mantle,marking the onset of Hadean plate tectonics.展开更多
The Standard Model of Particle Physics treats four fields—the gravitational, electromagnetic, weak and strong fields. These fields are assumed to converge to a single field at the big bang, but the theory has failed ...The Standard Model of Particle Physics treats four fields—the gravitational, electromagnetic, weak and strong fields. These fields are assumed to converge to a single field at the big bang, but the theory has failed to produce this convergence. Our theory proposes<em> one </em>primordial field and analyzes the evolution of this field. The key assumption is that <em>only</em> the primordial field exists—if any change is to occur, it must be based upon self-interaction, as there is nothing other than the field itself to interact with. This can be formalized as the <em>Principle</em> <em>of </em><em>Self-interaction</em> and the consequences explored. I show that this leads to the linearized Einstein field equations and discuss the key ontological implications of the theory.展开更多
The history of the early Earth is shrouded in mystery, and one of the major outcomes of the Apollo Program, lunar sampling, and the data acquired by subsequent orbiting missions, is that the Moon is an important analo...The history of the early Earth is shrouded in mystery, and one of the major outcomes of the Apollo Program, lunar sampling, and the data acquired by subsequent orbiting missions, is that the Moon is an important analogue for the Hadean Earth, which includes primordial planet-forming materials. We assemble two special issues of "Geoscience Frontiers" with state-of-the-art contributions that provide insights into planetary formation, Earth's early history and primordial life. New theories show why the Earth began as a dry planetary system and was later seeded by an ocean-atmosphere system through the bombardment of carbonaceous chondrites. A combination of the information concerning the evolution of Earth, Mars, and the other terrestrial planets is important in understanding the fate of the primordial continental crustal materials and the making of habitable planets.展开更多
We proposed an enhanced Reach Extender (RE) called Active Co-existence (ACEX) and investigate its performance with respect to XGS-PON system that co-exist with GPON and TWDM-PON system. The RE is consists of hybrid op...We proposed an enhanced Reach Extender (RE) called Active Co-existence (ACEX) and investigate its performance with respect to XGS-PON system that co-exist with GPON and TWDM-PON system. The RE is consists of hybrid optical amplifier integrated (EDFA and SOA) with Co-existence Element (CEX) module which is installed at the Central Office (CO) together with the OLT system and act as a booster and pre-amplifier for the downstream and upstream optical signal respectively. The results show that the proposed ACEX is capable to support XGS-PON operation for a maximum distance of 35 km with 128 splitting ratio and up to 44 dB link loss.展开更多
The synthesis of evolutionary biology and community ecology aims to understand how genetic variation within one species can shape community properties and how the ecological properties of a community can drive the evo...The synthesis of evolutionary biology and community ecology aims to understand how genetic variation within one species can shape community properties and how the ecological properties of a community can drive the evolution of a species.A rarely explored aspect is whether the interaction of genetic variation and community properties depends on the species'ecological role.Here we investigated the interactions among environmental factors,species diversity,and the within-species genetic diversity of species with different ecological roles.Using high-throughput DNA sequencing,we genotyped a canopydominant tree species,Parashorea chinensis,and an understory-abundant species,Pittosporopsis kerrii,from fifteen plots in Xishuangbanna tropical seasonal rainforest and estimated their adaptive,neutral and total genetic diversity;we also surveyed species diversity and assayed key soil nutrients.Structural equation modelling revealed that soil nitrogen availability created an opposing effect in species diversity and adaptive genetic diversity of the canopy-dominant Pa.chinensis.The increased adaptive genetic diversity of Pa.chinensis led to greater species diversity by promoting co-existence.Increased species diversity reduced the adaptive genetic diversity of the dominant understory species,Pi.kerrii,which was promoted by the adaptive genetic diversity of the canopy-dominant Pa.chinensis.However,such relationships were absent when neutral genetic diversity or total genetic diversity were used in the model.Our results demonstrated the important ecological interaction between adaptive genetic diversity and species diversity,but the pattern of the interaction depends on the identity of the species.Our results highlight the significant ecological role of dominant species in competitive interactions and regulation of community structure.展开更多
There is growing evidence that cellular metabolism can directly participate in epigenetic dynamics and consequently modulate gene expression.However,the role of metabolites in activating the key gene regulatory networ...There is growing evidence that cellular metabolism can directly participate in epigenetic dynamics and consequently modulate gene expression.However,the role of metabolites in activating the key gene regulatory network for specialization of germ cell lineage remains largely unknown.Here,we identified some cellular metabolites with significant changes by untargeted metabolomics between mouse epiblast-like cells(EpiLCs)and primordial germ cell-like cells(PGCLCs).More importantly,we found that inhibition of glutaminolysis by bis-2-(5-phenylacetamido-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)ethyl sulfide(BPTES)impeded PGCLC specialization,but the impediment could be rescued by addition ofα-ketoglutarate(αKG),the intermediate metabolite of oxidative phosphorylation and glutaminolysis.Moreover,adding aKG alone to the PGCLC medium accelerated the PGCLC specialization through promoting H3 K27 me3 demethylation.Thus,our study reveals the importance of metabolite aKG in the germ cell fate determination and highlights the essential role of cellular metabolism in shaping the cell identities through epigenetic events.展开更多
Recently torsion fields were introduced in CP-violating cosmic axion a2-dynamos [Garcia de Andrade, Mod Phys Lett A, (2011)] in order to obtain Lorentz violating bounds for torsion. Here instead, oscillating axion sol...Recently torsion fields were introduced in CP-violating cosmic axion a2-dynamos [Garcia de Andrade, Mod Phys Lett A, (2011)] in order to obtain Lorentz violating bounds for torsion. Here instead, oscillating axion solutions of the dynamo equation with torsion modes [Garcia de Andrade, Phys Lett B (2012)] are obtained taking into account dissipative torsion fields. Magnetic helicity torsion oscillatory contribution is also obtained. Note that the torsion presence guarantees dynamo efficiency when axion dynamo length is much stronger than the torsion length. Primordial axion oscillations due to torsion yield a magnetic field of 109 G at Nucleosynthesis epoch. This is obtained due to a decay of BBN magnetic field of 1015 G induced by torsion. Since torsion is taken as 10–20 s–1, the dynamo efficiency is granted over torsion damping. Of course dynamo efficiency is better in the absence of torsion. In the particular case when the torsion is obtained from anomalies it is given by the gradient of axion scalar [Duncan et al., Nuclear Phys B 87, 215] that a simpler dynamo equation is obtained and dynamo mechanism seems to be efficient when the torsion helicity, is negative while magnetic field decays when the torsion is positive. In this case an extremely huge value for the magnetic field of 1015 Gauss is obtained. This is one order of magnitude greater than the primordial magnetic fields of the domain wall. Actually if one uses tDW ~ 10-4 s one obtains BDW ~ 1022 G which is a more stringent limit to the DW magnetic primordial field.展开更多
Long-term maintenance of chicken primordial germ cells (PGCs) in vitro has tremendous potential for transgenic chicken production. Feeder cells are essential for the establishment and culture of chicken PGCs in vitro....Long-term maintenance of chicken primordial germ cells (PGCs) in vitro has tremendous potential for transgenic chicken production. Feeder cells are essential for the establishment and culture of chicken PGCs in vitro. Buffalo rat liver (BRL) cells are the most commonly used feeder cells for PGCs culture;however, this feeder layers from other animal species usually cause immunogenic contaminations, compromising the potential of PGCs in applications. Therefore, we tested chicken source mensenchymal stem cell (MSCs) derived from bone marrow as feeder cells to further improve PGC culture conditions. MSCs derived from chicken bone marrow have a powerful capacity to proliferate and secrete cytokines. We found chicken primordial germ cells derived from circulating blood (cPGCs) and gonads (gPGCs) can be maintained and proliferated with MSCs feeder layer cells. PGCs co-cultured on MSCs feeder retained their pluripotency, expressed PGCs specific genes and stemness markers, and maintained undifferentiated state. Our study indicated that the xeno-free MSCs-feeders culture system is a good candidate for growth and expansion of PGCs as the stepping stone for transgenic chicken research.展开更多
The recent discovery of gravitational waves has revolutionized our understanding of many aspects regarding how the universe works. The formation of galaxies stands as one of the most challenging problems in astrophysi...The recent discovery of gravitational waves has revolutionized our understanding of many aspects regarding how the universe works. The formation of galaxies stands as one of the most challenging problems in astrophysics. Regardless of how far back we look in the early universe, we keep discovering galaxies with supermassive black holes lurking at their centers. Many models have been proposed to explain the rapid formation of supermassive black holes, including the massive accretion of material, the collapse of type III stars, and the merger of stellar mass black holes. Some of these events give rise to the production of gravitational waves that could be detected by future generations of more sensitive detectors. Alternatively, the existence of these supermassive black holes can be explained in the context of primordial black holes. In this paper we discuss the various models of galaxy formation shedding light on the role that gravitational waves can play to test of the validity of some of these models. We also discuss the prospect of primordial black holes as a seeding constituent for galaxy formation.展开更多
Background: Primordial germ cells(PGCs), the precursors of functional gametes, have distinct characteristics and exhibit several unique molecular mechanisms to maintain pluripotency and germness in comparison to so...Background: Primordial germ cells(PGCs), the precursors of functional gametes, have distinct characteristics and exhibit several unique molecular mechanisms to maintain pluripotency and germness in comparison to somatic cells. They express germ cel-specific RNA binding proteins(RBPs) by modulating tissue-specific cis-and trans-regulatory elements. Studies on gene structures of chicken vasa homologue(CVH), a chicken RNA binding protein, involved in temporal and spatial regulation are thus important not only for understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate germ cel fate, but also for practical applications of primordial germ cells. However, very limited studies are available on regulatory elements that control germ cel-specific expression in chicken. Therefore, we investigated the intricate regulatory mechanism(s) that governs transcriptional control of CVH.Results: We constructed green fluorescence protein(GFP) or luciferase reporter vectors containing the various 5′ flanking regions of CVH gene. From the 5′ deletion and fragmented assays in chicken PGCs, we have identified a CVH promoter that locates at-316 to +275 base pair fragment with the highest luciferase activity. Additional y, we confirmed for the first time that the 5′ untranslated region(UTR) containing intron 1 is required for promoter activity of the CVH gene in chicken PGCs. Furthermore, using a transcription factor binding prediction, transcriptome analysis and siR NA-mediated knockdown,we have identified that a set of transcription factors play a role in the PGC-specific CVH gene expression.Conclusions: These results demonstrate that cis-elements and transcription factors localizing in the 5′ flanking region including the 5′ UTR and an intron are important for transcriptional regulation of the CVH gene in chicken PGCs. Final y,this information wil contribute to research studies in areas of reproductive biology, constructing of germ cel-specific synthetic promoter for tracing primordial germ cells as wel as understanding the transcriptional regulation for maintaining germness in PGCs.展开更多
Mineralogy of the Lunar surface provides important clues for understanding the composition and evo- lution of the primordial crust in the Earth-Moon system. The primary rock forming minerals on the Moon such as pyroxe...Mineralogy of the Lunar surface provides important clues for understanding the composition and evo- lution of the primordial crust in the Earth-Moon system. The primary rock forming minerals on the Moon such as pyroxene, olivine and plagioclase are potential tools to evaluate the Lunar Magma Ocean (LMO) hypothesis. Here we use the data from Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3) onboard the Chandrayaan- 1 project of India, which provides Visible/Near Infra Red (NIR) spectral data (hyperspectral data) of the Lunar surface to gain insights on the surface mineralogy. Band shaping and spectral profiling methods are used for identifying minerals in five sites: the Moscoviense basin, Orientale basin, Apollo basin, Wegener crater-highland, and Hertzsprung basin. The common presence of plagioclase in these sites is in conformity with the anorthositic composition of the Lunar crust. Pyroxenes, olivine and Fe-Mg-spinel from the sample sites indicate the presence of gabbroic and basaltic components. The compositional difference in pyroxenes suggests magmatic differentiation on the Lunar surface. Olivine contains OH/H20 band, indicating hydrous phase in the primordial magmas.展开更多
Background:NANOG is a core transcription factor(TF)in embryonic stem cells(ESCs)and primordial germ cells(PGCs).Regulation of the NANOG gene by TFs,epigenetic factors,and autoregulatory factors is well characterized i...Background:NANOG is a core transcription factor(TF)in embryonic stem cells(ESCs)and primordial germ cells(PGCs).Regulation of the NANOG gene by TFs,epigenetic factors,and autoregulatory factors is well characterized in ESCs,and transcriptional regulation of NANOG is well established in these cells.Although NANOG plays a key role in germ cells,the molecular mechanism underlying its transcriptional regulation in PGCs has not been studied.Therefore,we investigated the mechanism that regulates transcription of the chicken NANOG(cNANOG)gene in PGCs and ESCs.Results:We first identified the transcription start site of cNANOG by 5′-rapid amplification of cDNA ends PCR analysis.Then,we measured the promoter activity of various 5′flanking regions of cNANOG in chicken PGCs and ESCs using the luciferase reporter assay.cNANOG expression required transcriptional regulatory elements,which were positively regulated by POU5F3(OCT4)and SOX2 and negatively regulated by TP53 in PGCs.The proximal region of the cNANOG promoter contains a positive transcriptional regulatory element(CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein(CEBP)-binding site)in ESCs.Furthermore,small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown demonstrated that POU5F3,SOX2,and CEBP played a role in cell type-specific transcription of cNANOG.Conclusions:We show for the first time that different trans-regulatory elements control transcription of cNANOG in a cell type-specific manner.This finding might help to elucidate the mechanism that regulates cNANOG expression in PGCs and ESCs.展开更多
We present the state of current research of Very Short Gamma Ray Bursts (VSGRBs) from seven GRB detectors. We found that VSGRBs form distinct class of GRBs, which in our opinion, in most cases can originate from the e...We present the state of current research of Very Short Gamma Ray Bursts (VSGRBs) from seven GRB detectors. We found that VSGRBs form distinct class of GRBs, which in our opinion, in most cases can originate from the evaporating Primordial Black Holes (PBHs). Arguments supporting our opinion: 1) GRBs with time duration (T90) < 100 ms form distinct class: VSGRBs. 2) We observe significant anisotropy in the galactic angular distribution of BATSE VSGRB events. 3) V/Vmax distribution for BATSE VSGRB events indicates the local distance production. 4) VSGBBs have more energetic γ-ray burst than other GRBs with longer duration (KONUS). 5) We observe small number of afterglows in SWIFT VSGRB sample (25%), in contrast with the noticeable afterglow frequency in SGRB sample (78%). 6) Time profile of rising part BATSE VSGRBs is in agreement with the evaporation PBH model.展开更多
The prey-seeking behavior of three spiders (X1-Pirata subpiraticus, X2-Clubiona japonicola and X3-Tetragnatha japonica) for brown plant hopper (X4-Nilaparvata lugens) and rice spittle bug (X5-Cal-litettix versicolor) ...The prey-seeking behavior of three spiders (X1-Pirata subpiraticus, X2-Clubiona japonicola and X3-Tetragnatha japonica) for brown plant hopper (X4-Nilaparvata lugens) and rice spittle bug (X5-Cal-litettix versicolor) was investigated, as well as how interference between and within species occurred, by using a quadratic regression rotational composite design. Six predation models derived from the analysis of interactions among and within predators and preys were developed. The total predatory capacity of spiders on rice insect pests after coexistence for one day can be expressed as follows: Y3 = 32.795 + 2.25X1 + 1.083X2 + 0.5X3 + 10.167X4 + 3.167X5 - 1.67X12 - 2.42X22 - 3.295X32 - 0.045X42 + 0.455X52 - 3.125X1X2 + 0.375X1X3 -0.625X1X4 - 0.375X1X5 + 0.375X2X3 - 0.875X2X4 + 0.125X2X5 + 0.375X3X4 - 0.375X3X5 + 0.125X4X5. The principal efficiency analysis using this model indicated that increases in insect pest density significantly increased predation by predators; this was much greater than the effect of any single predator. X4 had a greater effect than X5; however, X4 and X5 demonstrated little interspecific interference and even promoted each other and increased predation rates as the densities of the two pests increased. Among the three predators, an increase in the density of X, had the greatest effect on the increase in predation, X3 had the second, X2 the third greatest effect. As predator density increased inter- and intra-species interference occurred, which were largely related to the size, activity, niche breadth, niche overlap and searching efficiency of the predators. X2 produced the greatest interference between different individuals and between any other predator species. X3 had the second greatest, which reduced predation levels at high predator densities. Because of these factors, the highest predation rate was obtained at a prey density of 120 per 4 rice-hills. The optimal proportion of the three predators in the multi-predator prey system was X1: X2: X3 = 5.6:1.3:4.1.展开更多
Afrikan narratives such as folktales,proverbs and taboos were clear systems and structures on which societies operated.These were used to guide society’s values that promoted trust,accountability,self respect and man...Afrikan narratives such as folktales,proverbs and taboos were clear systems and structures on which societies operated.These were used to guide society’s values that promoted trust,accountability,self respect and many more for the wellbeing of the entire community.This paper discussesone of the Banyankole folktale Kanzanise empimba za Nzima atarikimanya akangaya(Let me stand in the gap of my sister(Nzima)while she is away or else,I will be shamed in case she knows I did not).The purpose of the paper is to demonstrate how Afrikan indigenous knowledge and specifically this folktale Kanzanise empimba za Nzima atarikimanya akangaya inculcated in the community a spirit of care,commitment to one another and transparency which are fundamental values that create peaceful societies.The paper argues that there is a wealth of wisdom residing in the African cultures to be exploited to guide African policy development.This will raise African indigenous knowledge to a platform worth recognition for its contribution towards positive transformation.Furthermore,that the Western systems and structures currently guiding Afrikan policy development are oblivious of the richness of Afrikan indigenous knowledge that united the people.The paper concludes that for Afrikans to contribute to the global agenda,they need to bring to the table of globalization a unique product such as the Afrikan indigenous narratives that contribues to world peace.The paper recommends moving back into our past,identify and promote those unique Afrikan values that sustained Africa before the Western influence.展开更多
文摘Quantum field theory creates fermions via abstract operators exciting abstract fields, with a specific field for each type of specific particle. This operator algebra lends itself well to quantum statistics, nevertheless, our physical understanding of this process is nonintuitive at best. In this paper we analyze the creation of fermions from primordial gauge field quantum gravity loops in the context of Calabi-Yau manifold theory. I extend a prior mass-gap treatment based on Yang-Mills gauge theory of higher order self-interaction to include the half-integral spin of fermions.
基金supported by a National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF) grant funded by the Korea government(MSIP)(No.2015R1A3A2033826)
文摘Transgenesis and genome editing in birds are based on a unique germline transmission system using primordial germ cells(PGCs), which is quite different from the mammalian transgenic and genome editing system. PGCs are progenitor cells of gametes that can deliver genetic information to the next generation. Since avian PGCs were first discovered in nineteenth century, there have been numerous efforts to reveal their origin, specification, and unique migration pattern, and to improve germline transmission efficiency. Recent advances in the isolation and in vitro culture of avian PGCs with genetic manipulation and genome editing tools enable the development of valuable avian models that were unavailable before. However, many challenges remain in the production of transgenic and genome-edited birds,including the precise control of germline transmission, introduction of exogenous genes, and genome editing in PGCs.Therefore, establishing reliable germline-competent PGCs and applying precise genome editing systems are critical current issues in the production of avian models. Here, we introduce a historical overview of avian PGCs and their application, including improved techniques and methodologies in the production of transgenic and genome-edited birds, and we discuss the future potential applications of transgenic and genome-edited birds to provide opportunities and benefits for humans.
基金Acknowledgment This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 30270648 and No. 30500270), Zhejiang Province Scientific and Technological Project (No. 2005C22052) and Zhejiang Province Science Foundation (No. Y304194). We thank Dr Ji- Min Zhang of the University of California for linguistic revision of the manuscript.
文摘Aim: To assess whether exogenous estradiol has any effect on migration of primordial germ cells (PGCs) in the chick. Methods: Fertilized eggs were treated with 17beta-estradiol (E2) (80 lag/egg) at stage X (day 0 of incubation), stages 8-10 (incubation 30 h) and 13-15 (incubation 55 h). Controls received vehicle (emulsion) only. Changes in PGC number were measured on different days according to developmental stages. Results: In male right gonads, but not in female left gonads, at stages 28-30 (incubation 132 h) significant decreases in the mean number of PGCs aggregating were observed compared with the controls (P 〈 0.05) while the total PGC number in the right and left gonads at each stage did not change (P 〉 0.05). Conclusion: The present study provides evidence that E2 has significant effects on the localization of PGCs in male right, but not female left, gonads of chicken embryos at stages 28-30, compared with controls. (Asian J Andro12008 Mar; 10: 243-248)
基金supported partly by KAKENHI 26800237 and 26287105
文摘The primordial crust on the Earth formed from the crystallization of the surface magma ocean during the Hadean.However,geological surveys have found no evidence of rocks dating back to more than 4 Ga on the Earth's surface,suggesting the Hadean crust was lost due to some processes.We investigated the subduction of one of the possible candidates for the primordial crust,anorthosite and KREEP crust similar to the Moon,which is also considered to have formed from the crystallization of the magma ocean.Similar to the present Earth,the subduction of primordial crust by subduction erosion is expected to be an effective way of eliminating primordial crust from the surface.In this study,the subduction rate of the primordial crust via subduction channels is evaluated by numerical simulations.The subduction channels are located between the subducting slab and the mantle wedge and are comprised of primordial crust materials supplied mainly by subduction erosion.We have found that primordial anorthosite and KREEP crust of up to - 50 km thick at the Earth's surface was able to be conveyed to the deep mantle within 0.1-2 Gy by that mechanism.
基金the National Transgenic Breeding Project of China(2016ZX08009003006)National Natural Science Foundation of China(31672411)Discipline Innovative Engineering Plan(B12008)。
文摘Recent advances in avian transgenic studies highlight the possibility of utilizing lentiviral vectors as tools to generate transgenic chickens. However, low rates of gonadal chimerism and germ line transmission efficiency still limit the broad usage of this method in creating transgenic chickens. In this study, we implemented a simple strategy using modified lentiviral vectors targeted to chicken primordial germ cells(PGCs) to generate transgenic chickens. The lentiviral vectors were pseudotyped with a modified Sindbis virus envelope protein(termed M168) and conjugated with an antibody specific to PGC membrane proteins. We demonstrated that these optimized M168-pseudotyped lentiviral vectors conjugated with SSEA4 antibodies successfully targeted transduction of PGCs in vitro and in vivo. Compared with the control, 50.0%–66.7% of chicken embryos expressed green fluorescent protein(GFP) in gonads transduced by the M168-pseudotyped lentivirus. This improved the targeted transduction efficiency by 30.0%–46.7%. Efficient chimerism of exogenous genes was also observed. This targeting technology could improve the efficiency of germ line transmission and provide greater opportunities for transgenic poultry studies.
基金supported by Foreign Expert Funding from China University of Geosciences Beijing
文摘The Hadean history of Earth is shrouded in mystery and it is considered that the planet was born dry with no water or atmosphere.The Earth-Moon system had many features in common during the birth stage.Solidification of the dry magma ocean at 4.53 Ga generated primordial continents with komatiite.We speculate that the upper crust was composed of fractionated gabbros and the middle felsic crust by anorthosite at ca.21 km depth boundary,underlain by meta-anorthosite(grossular + kyanite 4 quartz)down to 50-60 km in depth.The thickness of the mafic KREEP basalt in the lower crust,separating it from the underlying upper mantle is not well-constrained and might have been up to ca.100-200 km depending on the degree of fractionation and gravitational stability versus surrounding mantle density.The primordial continents must have been composed of the final residue of dry magma ocean and enriched in several critical elements including Ca,Mg,Fe,Mn,P,K,and Cl which were exposed on the surface of the dry Earth.Around 190 million years after the solidification of the magma ocean, "ABEL bombardment" delivered volatiles including H_2O,CO_2,N_2 as well as silicate components through the addition of icy asteroids.This event continued for 200 Myr with subordinate bombardments until 3.9 Ga,preparing the Earth for the prebiotic chemical evolution and as the cradle of first life.Due to vigorous convection arising from high mantle potential temperatures,the primordial continents disintegrated and were dragged down to the deep mantle,marking the onset of Hadean plate tectonics.
文摘The Standard Model of Particle Physics treats four fields—the gravitational, electromagnetic, weak and strong fields. These fields are assumed to converge to a single field at the big bang, but the theory has failed to produce this convergence. Our theory proposes<em> one </em>primordial field and analyzes the evolution of this field. The key assumption is that <em>only</em> the primordial field exists—if any change is to occur, it must be based upon self-interaction, as there is nothing other than the field itself to interact with. This can be formalized as the <em>Principle</em> <em>of </em><em>Self-interaction</em> and the consequences explored. I show that this leads to the linearized Einstein field equations and discuss the key ontological implications of the theory.
文摘The history of the early Earth is shrouded in mystery, and one of the major outcomes of the Apollo Program, lunar sampling, and the data acquired by subsequent orbiting missions, is that the Moon is an important analogue for the Hadean Earth, which includes primordial planet-forming materials. We assemble two special issues of "Geoscience Frontiers" with state-of-the-art contributions that provide insights into planetary formation, Earth's early history and primordial life. New theories show why the Earth began as a dry planetary system and was later seeded by an ocean-atmosphere system through the bombardment of carbonaceous chondrites. A combination of the information concerning the evolution of Earth, Mars, and the other terrestrial planets is important in understanding the fate of the primordial continental crustal materials and the making of habitable planets.
文摘We proposed an enhanced Reach Extender (RE) called Active Co-existence (ACEX) and investigate its performance with respect to XGS-PON system that co-exist with GPON and TWDM-PON system. The RE is consists of hybrid optical amplifier integrated (EDFA and SOA) with Co-existence Element (CEX) module which is installed at the Central Office (CO) together with the OLT system and act as a booster and pre-amplifier for the downstream and upstream optical signal respectively. The results show that the proposed ACEX is capable to support XGS-PON operation for a maximum distance of 35 km with 128 splitting ratio and up to 44 dB link loss.
基金supported by the Strategic Priority Research Program of Chinese Academy of Sciences,Grant No.XDB31000000the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.31370267).
文摘The synthesis of evolutionary biology and community ecology aims to understand how genetic variation within one species can shape community properties and how the ecological properties of a community can drive the evolution of a species.A rarely explored aspect is whether the interaction of genetic variation and community properties depends on the species'ecological role.Here we investigated the interactions among environmental factors,species diversity,and the within-species genetic diversity of species with different ecological roles.Using high-throughput DNA sequencing,we genotyped a canopydominant tree species,Parashorea chinensis,and an understory-abundant species,Pittosporopsis kerrii,from fifteen plots in Xishuangbanna tropical seasonal rainforest and estimated their adaptive,neutral and total genetic diversity;we also surveyed species diversity and assayed key soil nutrients.Structural equation modelling revealed that soil nitrogen availability created an opposing effect in species diversity and adaptive genetic diversity of the canopy-dominant Pa.chinensis.The increased adaptive genetic diversity of Pa.chinensis led to greater species diversity by promoting co-existence.Increased species diversity reduced the adaptive genetic diversity of the dominant understory species,Pi.kerrii,which was promoted by the adaptive genetic diversity of the canopy-dominant Pa.chinensis.However,such relationships were absent when neutral genetic diversity or total genetic diversity were used in the model.Our results demonstrated the important ecological interaction between adaptive genetic diversity and species diversity,but the pattern of the interaction depends on the identity of the species.Our results highlight the significant ecological role of dominant species in competitive interactions and regulation of community structure.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.31871445 and No.31501211)the National Key R&D program of China(No.2017YFC1001302 and No.2016YFA0503300)。
文摘There is growing evidence that cellular metabolism can directly participate in epigenetic dynamics and consequently modulate gene expression.However,the role of metabolites in activating the key gene regulatory network for specialization of germ cell lineage remains largely unknown.Here,we identified some cellular metabolites with significant changes by untargeted metabolomics between mouse epiblast-like cells(EpiLCs)and primordial germ cell-like cells(PGCLCs).More importantly,we found that inhibition of glutaminolysis by bis-2-(5-phenylacetamido-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)ethyl sulfide(BPTES)impeded PGCLC specialization,but the impediment could be rescued by addition ofα-ketoglutarate(αKG),the intermediate metabolite of oxidative phosphorylation and glutaminolysis.Moreover,adding aKG alone to the PGCLC medium accelerated the PGCLC specialization through promoting H3 K27 me3 demethylation.Thus,our study reveals the importance of metabolite aKG in the germ cell fate determination and highlights the essential role of cellular metabolism in shaping the cell identities through epigenetic events.
文摘Recently torsion fields were introduced in CP-violating cosmic axion a2-dynamos [Garcia de Andrade, Mod Phys Lett A, (2011)] in order to obtain Lorentz violating bounds for torsion. Here instead, oscillating axion solutions of the dynamo equation with torsion modes [Garcia de Andrade, Phys Lett B (2012)] are obtained taking into account dissipative torsion fields. Magnetic helicity torsion oscillatory contribution is also obtained. Note that the torsion presence guarantees dynamo efficiency when axion dynamo length is much stronger than the torsion length. Primordial axion oscillations due to torsion yield a magnetic field of 109 G at Nucleosynthesis epoch. This is obtained due to a decay of BBN magnetic field of 1015 G induced by torsion. Since torsion is taken as 10–20 s–1, the dynamo efficiency is granted over torsion damping. Of course dynamo efficiency is better in the absence of torsion. In the particular case when the torsion is obtained from anomalies it is given by the gradient of axion scalar [Duncan et al., Nuclear Phys B 87, 215] that a simpler dynamo equation is obtained and dynamo mechanism seems to be efficient when the torsion helicity, is negative while magnetic field decays when the torsion is positive. In this case an extremely huge value for the magnetic field of 1015 Gauss is obtained. This is one order of magnitude greater than the primordial magnetic fields of the domain wall. Actually if one uses tDW ~ 10-4 s one obtains BDW ~ 1022 G which is a more stringent limit to the DW magnetic primordial field.
文摘Long-term maintenance of chicken primordial germ cells (PGCs) in vitro has tremendous potential for transgenic chicken production. Feeder cells are essential for the establishment and culture of chicken PGCs in vitro. Buffalo rat liver (BRL) cells are the most commonly used feeder cells for PGCs culture;however, this feeder layers from other animal species usually cause immunogenic contaminations, compromising the potential of PGCs in applications. Therefore, we tested chicken source mensenchymal stem cell (MSCs) derived from bone marrow as feeder cells to further improve PGC culture conditions. MSCs derived from chicken bone marrow have a powerful capacity to proliferate and secrete cytokines. We found chicken primordial germ cells derived from circulating blood (cPGCs) and gonads (gPGCs) can be maintained and proliferated with MSCs feeder layer cells. PGCs co-cultured on MSCs feeder retained their pluripotency, expressed PGCs specific genes and stemness markers, and maintained undifferentiated state. Our study indicated that the xeno-free MSCs-feeders culture system is a good candidate for growth and expansion of PGCs as the stepping stone for transgenic chicken research.
文摘The recent discovery of gravitational waves has revolutionized our understanding of many aspects regarding how the universe works. The formation of galaxies stands as one of the most challenging problems in astrophysics. Regardless of how far back we look in the early universe, we keep discovering galaxies with supermassive black holes lurking at their centers. Many models have been proposed to explain the rapid formation of supermassive black holes, including the massive accretion of material, the collapse of type III stars, and the merger of stellar mass black holes. Some of these events give rise to the production of gravitational waves that could be detected by future generations of more sensitive detectors. Alternatively, the existence of these supermassive black holes can be explained in the context of primordial black holes. In this paper we discuss the various models of galaxy formation shedding light on the role that gravitational waves can play to test of the validity of some of these models. We also discuss the prospect of primordial black holes as a seeding constituent for galaxy formation.
基金supported by a National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF) grant funded by the Korea government(MSIP)(No.2015R1A3A2033826)
文摘Background: Primordial germ cells(PGCs), the precursors of functional gametes, have distinct characteristics and exhibit several unique molecular mechanisms to maintain pluripotency and germness in comparison to somatic cells. They express germ cel-specific RNA binding proteins(RBPs) by modulating tissue-specific cis-and trans-regulatory elements. Studies on gene structures of chicken vasa homologue(CVH), a chicken RNA binding protein, involved in temporal and spatial regulation are thus important not only for understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate germ cel fate, but also for practical applications of primordial germ cells. However, very limited studies are available on regulatory elements that control germ cel-specific expression in chicken. Therefore, we investigated the intricate regulatory mechanism(s) that governs transcriptional control of CVH.Results: We constructed green fluorescence protein(GFP) or luciferase reporter vectors containing the various 5′ flanking regions of CVH gene. From the 5′ deletion and fragmented assays in chicken PGCs, we have identified a CVH promoter that locates at-316 to +275 base pair fragment with the highest luciferase activity. Additional y, we confirmed for the first time that the 5′ untranslated region(UTR) containing intron 1 is required for promoter activity of the CVH gene in chicken PGCs. Furthermore, using a transcription factor binding prediction, transcriptome analysis and siR NA-mediated knockdown,we have identified that a set of transcription factors play a role in the PGC-specific CVH gene expression.Conclusions: These results demonstrate that cis-elements and transcription factors localizing in the 5′ flanking region including the 5′ UTR and an intron are important for transcriptional regulation of the CVH gene in chicken PGCs. Final y,this information wil contribute to research studies in areas of reproductive biology, constructing of germ cel-specific synthetic promoter for tracing primordial germ cells as wel as understanding the transcriptional regulation for maintaining germness in PGCs.
文摘Mineralogy of the Lunar surface provides important clues for understanding the composition and evo- lution of the primordial crust in the Earth-Moon system. The primary rock forming minerals on the Moon such as pyroxene, olivine and plagioclase are potential tools to evaluate the Lunar Magma Ocean (LMO) hypothesis. Here we use the data from Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3) onboard the Chandrayaan- 1 project of India, which provides Visible/Near Infra Red (NIR) spectral data (hyperspectral data) of the Lunar surface to gain insights on the surface mineralogy. Band shaping and spectral profiling methods are used for identifying minerals in five sites: the Moscoviense basin, Orientale basin, Apollo basin, Wegener crater-highland, and Hertzsprung basin. The common presence of plagioclase in these sites is in conformity with the anorthositic composition of the Lunar crust. Pyroxenes, olivine and Fe-Mg-spinel from the sample sites indicate the presence of gabbroic and basaltic components. The compositional difference in pyroxenes suggests magmatic differentiation on the Lunar surface. Olivine contains OH/H20 band, indicating hydrous phase in the primordial magmas.
基金This work was supported by a National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF)grant funded by the Korea government(MSIP)[2015R1A3A2033826]and[2018R1D1A1B07049376].
文摘Background:NANOG is a core transcription factor(TF)in embryonic stem cells(ESCs)and primordial germ cells(PGCs).Regulation of the NANOG gene by TFs,epigenetic factors,and autoregulatory factors is well characterized in ESCs,and transcriptional regulation of NANOG is well established in these cells.Although NANOG plays a key role in germ cells,the molecular mechanism underlying its transcriptional regulation in PGCs has not been studied.Therefore,we investigated the mechanism that regulates transcription of the chicken NANOG(cNANOG)gene in PGCs and ESCs.Results:We first identified the transcription start site of cNANOG by 5′-rapid amplification of cDNA ends PCR analysis.Then,we measured the promoter activity of various 5′flanking regions of cNANOG in chicken PGCs and ESCs using the luciferase reporter assay.cNANOG expression required transcriptional regulatory elements,which were positively regulated by POU5F3(OCT4)and SOX2 and negatively regulated by TP53 in PGCs.The proximal region of the cNANOG promoter contains a positive transcriptional regulatory element(CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein(CEBP)-binding site)in ESCs.Furthermore,small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown demonstrated that POU5F3,SOX2,and CEBP played a role in cell type-specific transcription of cNANOG.Conclusions:We show for the first time that different trans-regulatory elements control transcription of cNANOG in a cell type-specific manner.This finding might help to elucidate the mechanism that regulates cNANOG expression in PGCs and ESCs.
文摘We present the state of current research of Very Short Gamma Ray Bursts (VSGRBs) from seven GRB detectors. We found that VSGRBs form distinct class of GRBs, which in our opinion, in most cases can originate from the evaporating Primordial Black Holes (PBHs). Arguments supporting our opinion: 1) GRBs with time duration (T90) < 100 ms form distinct class: VSGRBs. 2) We observe significant anisotropy in the galactic angular distribution of BATSE VSGRB events. 3) V/Vmax distribution for BATSE VSGRB events indicates the local distance production. 4) VSGBBs have more energetic γ-ray burst than other GRBs with longer duration (KONUS). 5) We observe small number of afterglows in SWIFT VSGRB sample (25%), in contrast with the noticeable afterglow frequency in SGRB sample (78%). 6) Time profile of rising part BATSE VSGRBs is in agreement with the evaporation PBH model.
文摘The prey-seeking behavior of three spiders (X1-Pirata subpiraticus, X2-Clubiona japonicola and X3-Tetragnatha japonica) for brown plant hopper (X4-Nilaparvata lugens) and rice spittle bug (X5-Cal-litettix versicolor) was investigated, as well as how interference between and within species occurred, by using a quadratic regression rotational composite design. Six predation models derived from the analysis of interactions among and within predators and preys were developed. The total predatory capacity of spiders on rice insect pests after coexistence for one day can be expressed as follows: Y3 = 32.795 + 2.25X1 + 1.083X2 + 0.5X3 + 10.167X4 + 3.167X5 - 1.67X12 - 2.42X22 - 3.295X32 - 0.045X42 + 0.455X52 - 3.125X1X2 + 0.375X1X3 -0.625X1X4 - 0.375X1X5 + 0.375X2X3 - 0.875X2X4 + 0.125X2X5 + 0.375X3X4 - 0.375X3X5 + 0.125X4X5. The principal efficiency analysis using this model indicated that increases in insect pest density significantly increased predation by predators; this was much greater than the effect of any single predator. X4 had a greater effect than X5; however, X4 and X5 demonstrated little interspecific interference and even promoted each other and increased predation rates as the densities of the two pests increased. Among the three predators, an increase in the density of X, had the greatest effect on the increase in predation, X3 had the second, X2 the third greatest effect. As predator density increased inter- and intra-species interference occurred, which were largely related to the size, activity, niche breadth, niche overlap and searching efficiency of the predators. X2 produced the greatest interference between different individuals and between any other predator species. X3 had the second greatest, which reduced predation levels at high predator densities. Because of these factors, the highest predation rate was obtained at a prey density of 120 per 4 rice-hills. The optimal proportion of the three predators in the multi-predator prey system was X1: X2: X3 = 5.6:1.3:4.1.
文摘Afrikan narratives such as folktales,proverbs and taboos were clear systems and structures on which societies operated.These were used to guide society’s values that promoted trust,accountability,self respect and many more for the wellbeing of the entire community.This paper discussesone of the Banyankole folktale Kanzanise empimba za Nzima atarikimanya akangaya(Let me stand in the gap of my sister(Nzima)while she is away or else,I will be shamed in case she knows I did not).The purpose of the paper is to demonstrate how Afrikan indigenous knowledge and specifically this folktale Kanzanise empimba za Nzima atarikimanya akangaya inculcated in the community a spirit of care,commitment to one another and transparency which are fundamental values that create peaceful societies.The paper argues that there is a wealth of wisdom residing in the African cultures to be exploited to guide African policy development.This will raise African indigenous knowledge to a platform worth recognition for its contribution towards positive transformation.Furthermore,that the Western systems and structures currently guiding Afrikan policy development are oblivious of the richness of Afrikan indigenous knowledge that united the people.The paper concludes that for Afrikans to contribute to the global agenda,they need to bring to the table of globalization a unique product such as the Afrikan indigenous narratives that contribues to world peace.The paper recommends moving back into our past,identify and promote those unique Afrikan values that sustained Africa before the Western influence.