bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
РИЗИКИ СОЦІАЛІЗАЦІЇ МОЛОДІ В УМОВАХ ІНФОРМАТИЗАЦІЇ СОЦІАЛЬНОГО СЕРЕДОВИЩА
Authors: Уманец Н. А.
Published: December 2020

У статті говориться про кризи соціалізації молоді в умовах інформаційного суспільства. Нова модель соціалізації молоді знаходиться на етапі становлення. Глобалізаційні процеси відбиваються на цій соціальній групі в першу чергу. Зміна цінностей, особливостей та способів спілкування, що породжені цифровою революцією, сприяли посиленню індивідуалізації соціальних практик. Зростання складності соціального життя супроводжується інтенсифікацією процесів обміну інформацією і підвищенням потреби людей в ній. Адаптуючись до нових умов існування, сучасна людина змушена трансформувати свої когнітивні стратегії й встигати обробляти більшу кількість інформації за коротший проміжок часу. Лінійне, бінарне мислення замінюється нелінійним. Сьогодні людина все частіше мислить яскравими образами, брендами, рекламними текстами, не маючи цілісної картини. Під тиском інформаційного потоку змінюється свідомість людини, її мова, процес мислення, комунікативні якості особистості. Змінюється співвідношення традиційних та нових форм в структурі практик читання сучасної молоді. Розглядається процес кіберсоціалізації особистості, який набуває значущості в умовах трансформації соціокультурного середовища і ціннісної системи. Акцентується увага на системі освіти як ключовому інституті у забезпеченні соціального розвитку молоді. Актуальність цієї проблематики пов'язана з розвитком віртуального комунікативного простору соціальних мереж і появою у сучасної молоді потреби в соціальних мережах.
CULTURE AS THE FOUNDATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF OUR PERSONALITIES AND LIVES
Authors: Шафер Д. Пол
Published: December 2020

Given all the problems that exist in the world today - from the COVID-19 pandemic and racial violence and prejudice to the environmental crisis and colossal disparities in income and wealth – people everywhere in the world are being severely challenged and thinking a great deal about the development of their personalities and lives. When Edward Burnett Tylor defined culture as "the complex whole," it was apparent that all people live a "cultural life" as a whole made up of many parts. Matthew Arnold went farther in this regard by contending that the challenge in life is to create a "harmonious cultural life" through the development of all our faculties and powers. Johan Huizinga went even further when he provided a powerful and profound insight into this matter by stating that the challenge is to create balance and harmony between the material and non-material dimensions of life, and therefore all the diverse activities and developments in the world and in life. Given the severe imbalances and disharmonies that exist in this area at present as a result of placing a much higher priority on the former dimension compared to the latter dimension, it is clear that this problem can only be resolved and rectified by placing a much higher priority on the development of non-material activities such as the arts, humanities, education, and spirituality going forward into the future. Not only is this the key to coming to grips with many of the world’s most complicated and life-threatening problems and changing directions in the world and in life in the future, but also it is the solution to developing our personalities and lives as balanced and harmonious wholes. This will result in a great deal more caring, sharing, compassion, cooperation, conservation, and creativity in the world, thereby putting us in a much stronger position to come to grips with the problems we will be confronted with in the future, creating more compatible lifestyles and ways of life, achieving sustainable development, and becoming cultural personalities in the realistic and idealistic sense.
THE MANAGEMENT OF ORGANIZATIONAL COMMUNICATION AS A FACTOR OF SOCIALIZATION: THE MAGAZINE VIDA NOVA
Authors: de Castro Cantífula
Published: December 2020

Organizational communication is a key element for the survival, maintenance and consolidation of human relationships in the workplace. This research aims to understand how organizational communication is being managed in the Mozambican Catholic Vida Nova Magazine, verifying how inclusive communication contributes to maintaining good quality of the journal and a high productivity of employees. The methodology used was qualitative, with a field work that consisted of participant observation for one year, complemented by semi-structured interviews with key witnesses. The results showed that Vida Nova Magazine experiences a particular kind of participatory, dialogical and strategic communication processes, coming mainly from the spontaneity of personal relations and communication among employees rather than due to a strategic option of the management. In view of the global demands in the field of social communication, Vida Nova Magazine seeks to broaden its field of action using instrumental forms of communication, based on new technologies, as digital platforms, both social networks and the website. The socialization process of its employees is promising as it cooperates in the consolidation of personal life and is expected to have a new life with Vida Nova.
Keywords: organizational communication, collaborators socialization, community life, information processing
Limbaga (Proverbs) Simalungun as a Source of Forming Character Education
Authors: Purba Asriaty R. , Herlina Herlina , Siahaan Jamorlan
Published: December 2020

This research is entitled Limbaga (Proverbs) Simalungun as a Source of Formation of Character Education. Character education is a human activity to establish peace-loving and prosperous personalities in order to build their own personal character and people around them. Character education is closely related to moral education which aims to shape and practice one's ability to perfect him in a better direction. Character education has been applied since childhood. Character education can be done in their family, school and community. The purpose of this study is to describe the character values contained in limbaga (proverbss) that can be used as a source of character education. This research belongs to the category of descriptive qualitative research. The results showed that there were 9 (nine) character values contained in the Simalungun limbaga (proverbs) namely: religious, hard working, honest, disciplined, independent, rewarding achievement, responsibility, social care, and peace-loving.
Complicaciones de la Mononucleosis infecciosa en la edad adulta. A propósito de un caso clínico.
Authors: Tirapé Castro Hugo Arturo , Cajamarca Sacta Lía Cristina , Villa Cuzco Leonardo Vicente , Uguña Uguña Daniel Esteban
Published: December 2020

La mononucleosis infecciosa es una enfermedad ocasionada principalmente por el virus Epstein-Barr, está ampliamente extendida y generalmente se produce en la infancia y la adolescencia, siendo poco común reportar casos en la edad adulta. Debido a sus características muy generales como alza térmica, faringitis y adenopatías, siendo en la mayoría de casos auto limitada y junto a una baja incidencia de complicaciones en su evolución, hacen que sea habitual no diagnosticarla y confundirla con cuadros similares como por ejemplo el resfriado común. Sin embargo, existe un pequeño porcentaje de estos pacientes que pueden tener complicaciones mucho mayores e incluso llegar a la muerte si no son adecuadamente diagnosticados y manejados,  sobre todo al llegar a la edad adulta.  A continuación, se presenta un caso clínico de mononucleosis atípica, ya que características como edad, manifestaciones iniciales, así como las complicaciones no fueron las habituales, motivo por el que se propone no olvidar la existencia de esta patología en los diagnósticos diferenciales y la importancia de una adecuada valoración y manejo
Análisis estadístico en la producción de proteína unicelular a partir de la fermentación del suero ácido de quesería
Authors: Marcatoma Tixi Jessica Alexandra , Rodas Espinoza Sonia Lourdes , Mármol Cuadrado Luis Heriberto , Galán Robalino Paola Andrea
Published: December 2020

La investigación tuvo como objetivo determinar el rendimiento máximo de proteína unicelular en función de tres tipos de suero de leche: suero a base de queso mozzarella, queso fresco y  requesón, tras un proceso de fermentación que utilizó  levaduras del género Kluyveromyces Marxianus en conjunto con la nutrición de minerales como sulfato de amonio, sulfato monopotásico y magnesio. El proceso de fermentación para la obtención de biomasa se mantiene a una temperatura de 39°C y luego de 72 horas se logra maximizar el porcentaje de proteína unicelular en las muestras analizadas. Los resultados arrojados por el método de Kjeldahl muestran la presencia de 6,95; 6,45 y 10,4% (N*6.38) de proteína en los sueros de queso mozzarella, requesón y fresco respectivamente, el suero de queso fresco es seleccionado como el mejor tratamiento para la obtención de este nutriente que permite a la industria alimentaria, cosmética y farmacéutica incorporarla en nuevos productos funcionales que beneficien a la salud de quienes la consumen.
Avaliação físico-química de biscoitos com e sem glúten desenvolvidos para substituir palitos de picolés
Authors: Gasparetto Bruna dos Reis , Lima Diana Clara Nunes de
Published: December 2020

O presente estudo teve como objetivo desenvolver palitos de picolés comestíveis, com a finalidade de substituir os palitos de madeira ou plástico, por um biscoito que possa ser consumido juntamente com o sorvete. Para isso, foram desenvolvidas três formulações de biscoitos (F1, F2 e F3). A formulação F3, foi preparada com farinha de trigo e utilizada como base para o desenvolvimento das demais formulações, no qual a farinha de trigo foi substituída por farinhas de aveia e de arroz (F2) e por diferentes fontes de amido (arroz polido, milho e mandioca) (F3), além de outras modificações. Realizou-se avaliações físico-químicas (atividade de água, umidade, textura, volume específico e expansão). Na análise de textura, as três formulações não apresentaram diferença significativa (p>0,05). As formulações F1 e F3 apresentaram os menores valores para atividade de água e umidade, respectivamente (p<0,05). Em relação ao volume específico, a formulação F3 apresentou o mesmo volume que a F2 (p>0,05) que, por sua vez, foi igual ao volume da F1 (p>0,05). Já para a expansão a formulação F2 apresentou maior expansão que a formulação F1, no entanto ambas apresentaram a mesma expansão que a formulação F3 (p>0,05). Por fim, observou-se que as três formulações se enquadraram na proposta do estudo. Os biscoitos apresentaram características esperadas para esse tipo de produto, além de apresentar resistência suficiente para sustentar um picolé. Porém a formulação F1 foi a que apresente melhor potencial para esse fim no atual mercado, por também estar relacionada à tendência de saudabilidade.
A phosphate starvation response gene (psr1-like) is present and expressed in Micromonas pusilla and other marine algae
Authors: Fiore CL , Alexander H , Kido Soule MC , Kujawinski EB
Published: December 2020

Phosphorus (P) limits primary production in regions of the surface ocean, and many plankton species exhibit specific physiological responses to P deficiency. The metabolic response of Micromonas pusilla, an ecologically relevant marine photoautotroph, to P deficiency was investigated using metabolomics and comparative genomics. The concentrations of some intracellular metabolites were elevated in the P-deficient cells (e.g. xanthine, inosine), and genes involved in the associated metabolic pathways shared a predicted conserved amino acid motif in the non-coding regions of each gene. The presence of the conserved motif suggests that these genes may be co-regulated, and the motif may constitute a regulatory element for binding a transcription factor, specifically that of Psr1 (phosphate starvation response). A putative phosphate starvation response gene (psr1-like) was identified in M. pusilla with homology to well characterized psr1/phr1 genes in algae and plants, respectively. This gene appears to be present and expressed in other marine algal taxa (e.g. Emiliania huxleyi) in field sites that are chronically P limited. Results from the present study have implications for understanding phytoplankton taxon-specific roles in mediating P cycling in the ocean.
Temporal acoustic occurrence of sperm whales Physeter macrocephalus and long-finned pilot whales Globicephala melas off western Ireland
Authors: Barile C , Berrow S , Parry G , O’Brien J
Published: December 2020

Sperm whalesPhyseter macrocephalusand long-finned pilot whalesGlobicephala melasare the most abundant species among the community of deep-diving cetaceans occurring off the west coast of Ireland, northeast Atlantic. To address a knowledge gap on these elusive species in an area subject to increasing levels of anthropogenic noise, fixed bottom-mounted autonomous acoustic recorders were deployed from 2014 to 2016 at 13 locations. Acoustic data were collected over 2410 cumulative days, for a total of 9179 h of recordings, with sperm whale clicks and pilot whale whistles detected on 79 and 53% of the days monitored, respectively. Diel, lunar and seasonal effects on the acoustic occurrence of sperm whales and long-finned pilot whales were investigated for individual recording sites and for each recording year using generalised estimating equations. Large differences in acoustic occurrence across stations for both species highlighted the existence of more critical locations throughout the year, especially to the north of the shelf edge. Temporally, significant modulations were found for both species at all scales investigated, but the lack of consistency across the study area emphasises the need to exercise great caution when inferring general tendencies based on local patterns. The variability of spatio-temporal patterns indicates a flexibility in the distribution of sperm whales and long-finned pilot whales off the west coast of Ireland, highlighting the challenge in establishing management and mitigation measures and stressing the need of long-term, year-round monitoring.
Cesta labyrintom: Dospievajúci s emocionálnymi problémami a problémami v správaní v systéme starostlivosti
Authors: Dankulincová Zuzana , Bosáková Lucia , Fiľakovská Daniela , Husárová Daniela , Kopčáková Jaroslava
Published: December 2020

Vedecká monografia je výstupom projektu Care4Youth, ktorý si kládol za cieľ zmapovať súčasný systém starostlivosti o dospievajúcich s emocionálnymi problémami a problémami v správaní (ďalej len EBP) na Slovensku. Zachytáva aký systém starostlivosti je a aké sú jeho možné nedostatky z pohľadu všetkých, ktorých sa to týka (dospievajúcich s problémami, ich rodičov, poskytovateľov starostlivosti a ďalších zainteresovaných inštitúcií). Pozerá sa tiež na trajektóriu dospievajúcich s EBP v systéme starostlivosti, čiže kedy a ako dospievajúci s problémami vstupujú a vystupujú do a zo systému starostlivosti, prípadne prechádzajú z jedného typu starostlivosti do druhého a aký dopad na nich rozličné trajektórie majú. V neposlednom rade bolo cieľom monografie priniesť odborné informácie o tom aké sú rizikové a protektívne faktory, ktoré ovplyvnia ich úspešnosť v systéme starostlivosti, alebo naopak, ktoré ich ohrozujú. To všetko s cieľom podporiť návrh vylepšení v systéme starostlivosti, ktorý by bol prospešným pre všetky zúčastnené strany.
S100A1: a Major Player in Cardiovascular Performance
Authors: DUARTE-COSTA S. , CASTRO-FERREIRA R. , NEVES J. S. , LEITE-MOREIRA A. F.
Published: December 2020

Calcium cycling is a major determinant of cardiac function. S100A1 is the most abundant member of the calcium-binding S100 protein family in myocardial tissue. S100A1 interacts with a variety of calcium regulatory proteins such as SERCA2a, ryanodine receptors, L-type calcium channels and Na+/Ca2+ exchangers, thus enhancing calcium cycling. Aside from this major function, S100A1 has an important role in energy balance, myofilament sliding, myofilament calcium sensibility, titin-actin interaction, apoptosis and cardiac remodeling. Apart from its properties regarding cardiomyocytes, S100A1 is also important in vessel relaxation and angiogenesis. S100A1 potentiates cardiac function thus increasing the cardiomyocytes’ functional reserve; this is an important feature in heart failure. In fact, S100A1 seems to normalize cardiac function after myocardial infarction. Also, S100A1 is essential in the acute response to adrenergic stimulation. Gene therapy experiments show promising results, although further studies are still needed to reach clinical practice. In this review, we aim to describe the molecular basis and regulatory function of S100A1, exploring its interactions with a myriad of target proteins. We also explore its functional effects on systolic and diastolic function as well as its acute actions. Finally, we discuss S100A1 gene therapy and its progression so far.
Are There Any Differences Between Stress Hormone Levels in Non-Stress Conditions and in Potentional Stress Overload (Heart Catheterisation) in Sows?
Authors: SKARLANDTOVÁ H. , BIČÍKOVÁ M. , NEUŽIL P. , MLČEK M. , HRACHOVINA V. , SVOBODA T. , MEDOVÁ E. , KUDLIČKA J. , DOHNALOVÁ A. , HAVRÁNEK Š. , KAZIHNÍTKOVÁ H. , MÁČOVÁ L. , VAŘEJKOVÁ E. , KITTNAR O.
Published: December 2020

In order to study a possible effect of mini-invasive heart intervention on a response of hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal stress axis, we analyzed four stress markers (cortisol, cortisone, DHEA and DHEAS) in 25 sows using minimally invasive heart catheterisation as the stress factor. The marker levels were assessed in four periods of the experiment, (1) the baseline level on the day before intervention, (2) after the introduction of anesthesia, (3) after conducting tissue stimulation or ablation, and (4) after the end of the catheterisation. For statistical analyses we used the non-parametric Friedman test for four dependent samples (including all four stages of the operation) or three dependent samples (influence of operation only, baseline level was excluded). Statistically significant differences in both Friedman tests were found for cortisol and for cortisone. Significant differences for DHEA as well as for DHEAS were found for all tested stages but not for the effect of operation itself. We have concluded that cortisol levels are blunted by the influence of anesthesia after its administration, and therefore decrease back to the baseline at the end of the operation. The other markers (cortisone, DHEA and DHEAS) acted as balanced systems against the injurious stress effect.
The Ludovic technique: the painting of the Cochno Stone, West Dunbartonshire
Authors: Brophy Kenneth
Published: December 2020

The painting of the Cochno Stone rock-art panel, West Dunbartonshire, in 1937 by Ludovic McLellan Mann is one of the most eccentric acts in the history of archaeology in Scotland. Despite publishing widely and being a compulsive user of newspapers to publicise and report on his activities, Mann left very few direct clues to explain what the grid and symbols he painted onto the Cochno Stone meant. This paper describes the different elements of Mann's paintjob based on historic photography and observations made during the brief uncovering of the Cochno Stone in 2016. The logic underpinning the multiple elements of this painted scheme, including two different grids, is explored with reference to other works published by Mann and his broader body of research. It is argued that Mann saw the arrangement of rock-art symbols carved into the Cochno Stone as a microcosm of a Neolithic cosmological scheme and associated with the documentation of and prediction of eclipses. The paper concludes with reflection on the legacy of this act.
Differences in Science American College Testing Scores between Traditional and Alternative Science Sequences
Authors:   Principal, Rich Hill, Missouri, USA, Gilbert John , Concannon James ,   Director for the School of Education and Program Manager for STEM Education, William Woods University, Fulton, Missouri, USA
Published: December 2020

To examine differences between sequences of secondary science courses on achievement on science high stakes exams, a purposive quantitative research design was utilized in this study. A short survey was sent out to public high schools in the state of Missouri that asked to identify their main science course sequence. In addition, participants were asked to indicate if they had altered their science course sequence between the years of 2012 and 2017. This data were compared to their average building science American College Testing (ACT) score for the 2015–2016 and 2016–2017 school years in which all 16–17-year-olds in the state were required to take the exam. The analysis of the results found no connection between science course sequence and performance on the science section of the ACT for either year. In addition, it was found that schools that indicated that they altered their science course sequence had no difference in performance on the science portion of the ACT. Further research is needed to determine if there are any benefits to altering a science course sequence.
Pre-service Teachers’ Collaborative Learning Experiences in a Science Content Course
Authors:   Department of Early Childhood and Elementary Education, Penn State Berks, Reading Pennsylvania, USA, Kazempour Mahsa , Amirshokoohi Aidin ,   Department of Education, DeSales University, Center Valley, Pennsylvania, USA
Published: December 2020

Developing an in-depth understanding, skills, and level of comfort to teach through inquiry requires that pre-service teachers themselves learn through an inquiry-based approach that would allow them to explore various dimensions of such an approach. Productive discourse and collaboration, involving extensive interactions among students, constant and mutual exchange of ideas, and higher-order thinking are critical components of inquiry-based learning. Further research is needed to understand the dynamics of collaborative experiences and the process by which science is learned in collaborative team contexts, particularly with teacher candidates who will be responsible for implementing such approaches in their future classrooms. This qualitative study aimed to explore the dynamics of inquiry-based learning experiences of two teams of elementary pre-service teachers in an introductory science content course. Analysis of observation data indicated that although the team engaged in a less structured activity engaged in slightly more productive communication, both teams experienced inequitable levels of involvement by different team members. Team members assumed different roles and varying degrees of participation and engagement in discourse. Our research indicated possible challenges of collaborative interaction and discourse which are critical to consider as teacher educators and researchers. It is imperative that science content and methods courses offer pre-service teachers opportunities for direct experience and explicit instruction on effective means of productive interactions and discourse.
PENGARUH SISTEM AKUNTANSI DAN PENGENDALIAN INTERNAL TERHADAP PEMBERIAN KREDIT OLEH PT BANK OCBC NISP TBK KOTA BATAM
Authors: Effendi Syahril , Harahap Baru
Published: December 2020

This study aims to prove that the existence of partial and simultaneous influence of variables Accounting System (X1) and Internal Control (X2) of the variable Lending (Y) at PT Bank OCBC NISP Tbk Batam. The analysis used in this study is Regression Analysis which has the aim to determine the regression coefficients besarknya which will show the influence of the independent variables on the dependent variable. The results of the t test showed that variables Accounting System (X1) significantly affects Lending (Y) with Tcount (7,469) Ttable (1.65521)  with significant = 0.000 <0.05 and Internal Control (X2) significantly affects Lending (Y) with tcount (6,339) Ttable (1.65521) with significant = 0.000 <0.05. F Test results showed that the Accounting System (X1) and Internal Control (X2) simultaneously influence on Lending (Y) with Fcount (659.4509)> Ftable (3.06) and significant = 0.000 <0.05. Rated R Square of 0.899, showing the extent of the role or contribution of variables Accounting and Internal Control Systems is able to explain the variable Lending by 89.9%, while 10.1% are influenced by factors that are not included in this study.
Reverse Engineering Targets for Recombinant Protein Production in Corynebacterium glutamicum Inspired by a Fast-Growing Evolved Descendant
Authors: Lee Min Ju , Park Jihoon , Park Kyunghoon , Kim Jihyun F. , Kim Pil
Published: December 2020

We previously reported a Corynebacterium glutamicum JH41 strain with a 58% faster growth rate through application of adaptive laboratory evolution. To verify that the fast-reproducing strain was useful as a host for recombinant protein expression, we introduced a plasmid responsible for the secretory production of a recombinant protein. The JH41 strain harboring the plasmid indeed produced the secretory recombinant protein at a 2.7-fold greater rate than its ancestral strain. To provide the reverse engineering targets responsible for boosting recombinant protein production and cell reproduction, we compared the genome sequence of the JH41 strain with its ancestral strain. Among the 15 genomic variations, a point mutation was confirmed in the 14 bases upstream of NCgl1959 (encoding a presumed siderophore-binding protein). This mutation allowed derepression of NCgl1959, thereby increasing iron consumption and ATP generation. A point mutation in the structural gene ramA (A239G), a LuxR-type global transcription regulator involved in central metabolism, allowed an increase in glucose consumption. Therefore, mutations to increase the iron and carbon consumption were concluded as being responsible for the enhanced production of recombinant protein and cell reproduction in the evolved host.
Expression and Function of WNT6: From Development to Disease
Authors: Wei Ming , Zhang Congmin , Tian Yujia , Du Xiaohui , Wang Qi , Zhao Hui
Published: December 2020

WNT family member 6 (WNT6) is a member of the highly conserved WNT protein family. It plays an essential role in the normal development process, not only in embryonic morphogenesis, but also in post-natal homeostasis. WNT6 functions in mice and humans. This review summarizes the current findings on the biological functions of WNT6, describing its involvement in regulating embryogenesis, decidualization, and organ development. Aberrant WNT6 signaling is related to various pathologies, such as promoting cancer development, lung tuberculosis, and kidney fibrosis and improving the symptoms of Rett syndrome (RTT). Thus, due to its various functions, WNT6 has great potential for in-depth research. This work not only describes the signaling mechanism and function of WNT6 under physiological and pathological conditions, but also provides a theoretical basis for targeted therapy.
The Interaction of TRAF6 With Neuroplastin Promotes Spinogenesis During Early Neuronal Development
Authors: Vemula Sampath Kumar , Malci Ayse , Junge Lennart , Lehmann Anne-Christin , Rama Ramya , Hradsky Johannes , Matute Ricardo A. , Weber André , Prigge Matthias , Naumann Michael , Kreutz Michael R. , Seidenbecher Constanze I. , Gundelfinger Eckart D. , Herrera-Molina Rodrigo
Published: December 2020

Correct brain wiring depends on reliable synapse formation. Nevertheless, signaling codes promoting synaptogenesis are not fully understood. Here, we report a spinogenic mechanism that operates during neuronal development and is based on the interaction of tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) with the synaptic cell adhesion molecule neuroplastin. The interaction between these proteins was predictedin silicoand verified by co-immunoprecipitation in extracts from rat brain and co-transfected HEK cells. Binding assays show physical interaction between neuroplastin’s C-terminus and the TRAF-C domain of TRAF6 with aKdvalue of 88 μM. As the two proteins co-localize in primordial dendritic protrusions, we used young cultures of rat and mouse as well as neuroplastin-deficient mouse neurons and showed with mutagenesis, knock-down, and pharmacological blockade that TRAF6 is required by neuroplastin to promote early spinogenesis duringin vitrodays 6-9, but not later. Time-framed TRAF6 blockade during days 6–9 reduced mEPSC amplitude, number of postsynaptic sites, synapse density and neuronal activity as neurons mature. Our data unravel a new molecular liaison that may emerge during a specific window of the neuronal development to determine excitatory synapse density in the rodent brain.
Microenvironmental Determinants of Breast Cancer Metastasis: Focus on the Crucial Interplay Between Estrogen and Insulin/Insulin-Like Growth Factor Signaling
Authors: Vella Veronica , De Francesco Ernestina Marianna , Lappano Rosamaria , Muoio Maria Grazia , Manzella Livia , Maggiolini Marcello , Belfiore Antonino
Published: December 2020

The development and progression of the great majority of breast cancers (BCs) are mainly dependent on the biological action elicited by estrogens through the classical estrogen receptor (ER), as well as the alternate receptor named G-protein–coupled estrogen receptor (GPER). In addition to estrogens, other hormones and growth factors, including the insulin and insulin-like growth factor system (IIGFs), play a role in BC. IIGFs cooperates with estrogen signaling to generate a multilevel cross-communication that ultimately facilitates the transition toward aggressive and life-threatening BC phenotypes. In this regard, the majority of BC deaths are correlated with the formation of metastatic lesions at distant sites. A thorough scrutiny of the biological and biochemical events orchestrating metastasis formation and dissemination has shown that virtually all cell types within the tumor microenvironment work closely with BC cells to seed cancerous units at distant sites. By establishing an intricate scheme of paracrine interactions that lead to the expression of genes involved in metastasis initiation, progression, and virulence, the cross-talk between BC cells and the surrounding microenvironmental components does dictate tumor fate and patients’ prognosis. Following (i) a description of the main microenvironmental events prompting BC metastases and (ii) a concise overview of estrogen and the IIGFs signaling and their major regulatory functions in BC, here we provide a comprehensive analysis of the most recent findings on the role of these transduction pathways toward metastatic dissemination. In particular, we focused our attention on the main microenvironmental targets of the estrogen-IIGFs interplay, and we recapitulated relevant molecular nodes that orientate shared biological responses fostering the metastatic program. On the basis of available studies, we propose that a functional cross-talk between estrogens and IIGFs, by affecting the BC microenvironment, may contribute to the metastatic process and may be regarded as a novel target for combination therapies aimed at preventing the metastatic evolution.
Neutrophils Return to Bloodstream Through the Brain Blood Vessel After Crosstalk With Microglia During LPS-Induced Neuroinflammation
Authors: Kim Yu Rim , Kim Young Min , Lee Jaeho , Park Joohyun , Lee Jong Eun , Hyun Young-Min
Published: December 2020

The circulatory neutrophil and brain tissue-resident microglia are two important immune cells involved in neuroinflammation. Since neutrophils that infiltrate through the brain vascular vessel may affect the immune function of microglia in the brain, close investigation of the interaction between these cells is important in understanding neuroinflammatory phenomena and immunological aftermaths that follow. This study aimed to observe how morphology and function of both neutrophils and microglia are converted in the inflamed brain. To directly investigate cellular responses of neutrophils and microglia, LysMGFP/+and CX3CR1GFP/+mice were used for the observation of neutrophils and microglia, respectively. In addition, low-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was utilized to induce acute inflammation in the central nervous system (CNS) of mice. Real-time observation on mice brain undergoing neuroinflammation via two-photon intravital microscopy revealed various changes in neutrophils and microglia; namely, neutrophil infiltration and movement within the brain tissue increased, while microglia displayed morphological changes suggesting an activated state. Furthermore, neutrophils seemed to not only actively interact with microglial processes but also exhibit reverse transendothelial migration (rTEM) back to the bloodstream. Thus, it may be postulated that, through crosstalk with neutrophils, macrophages are primed to initiate a neuroinflammatory immune response; also, during pathogenic events in the brain, neutrophils that engage in rTEM may deliver proinflammatory signals to peripheral organs outside the brain. Taken together, these results both show that neuroinflammation results in significant alterations in neutrophils and microglia and lay the pavement for further studies on the molecular mechanisms behind such changes.
Bifunctional, Copper-Doped, Mesoporous Silica Nanosphere-Modified, Bioceramic Scaffolds for Bone Tumor Therapy
Authors: Ma Hongshi , Ma Zhenjiang , Chen Qufei , Li Wentao , Liu Xiangfei , Ma Xiaojun , Mao Yuanqing , Yang Han , Ma Hui , Wang Jinwu
Published: December 2020

In the traditional surgical intervention procedure, residual tumor cells may potentially cause tumor recurrence. In addition, large bone defects caused by surgery are difficult to self-repair. Thus, it is necessary to design a bioactive scaffold that can not only kill residual tumor cells but also promote bone defect regeneration simultaneously. Here, we successfully developed Cu-containing mesoporous silica nanosphere-modified β-tricalcium phosphate (Cu-MSN-TCP) scaffolds, with uniform and dense nanolayers with spherical morphology via 3D printing and spin coating. The scaffolds exhibited coating time- and laser power density-dependent photothermal performance, which favored the effective killing of tumor cells under near-infrared laser irradiation. Furthermore, the prepared scaffolds favored the proliferation and attachment of rabbit bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells and stimulated the gene expression of osteogenic markers. Overall, Cu-MSN-TCP scaffolds can be considered for complete eradication of residual bone tumor cells and simultaneous healing of large bone defects, which may provide a novel and effective strategy for bone tumor therapy. In the future, such Cu-MSN-TCP scaffolds may function as carriers of anti-cancer drugs or immune checkpoint inhibitors in chemo-/photothermal or immune-/photothermal therapy of bone tumors, favoring for effective treatment.
Prophage-Related Gene VpaChn25_0724 Contributes to Cell Membrane Integrity and Growth of Vibrio parahaemolyticus CHN25
Authors: Yang Lianzhi , Wang Yaping , Yu Pan , Ren Shunlin , Zhu Zhuoying , Jin Yinzhe , Yan Jizhou , Peng Xu , Chen Lanming
Published: December 2020

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a leading seafood-borne pathogen that can cause acute gastroenteritis and even death in humans. In aquatic ecosystems, phages constantly transform bacterial communities by horizontal gene transfer. Nevertheless, biological functions of prophage-related genes in V. parahaemolyticus remain to be fully unveiled. Herein, for the first time, we studied one such gene VpaChn25_0724 encoding an unknown hypothetical protein in V. parahaemolyticus CHN25. This gene deletion mutant ΔVpaChn25_0724 was constructed by homologous recombination, and its complementary mutant ΔVpaChn25_0724-com was also obtained. The ΔVpaChn25_0724 mutant exhibited a sever defect in growth and swimming motility particularly at lower temperatures. Biofilm formation and cytotoxicity capacity of V. parahaemolyticus CHN25 was significantly lowered in the absence of VpaChn25_0724. Comparative secretomic analysis revealed an increase in extracellular proteins of ΔVpaChn25_0724, which likely resulted from its damaged cell membrane. Comparison of transcriptome data showed twelve significantly altered metabolic pathways in ΔVpaChn25_0724, suggesting inactive transport and utilization of carbon sources, repressed energy production and membrane biogenesis in ΔVpaChn25_0724. Comparative transcriptomic analysis also revealed several remarkably down-regulated key regulators in bacterial gene regulatory networks linked to the observed phenotypic variations. Overall, the results here facilitate better understanding of biological significance of prophage-related genes remaining in V. parahaemolyticus.
Colon Carcinogenesis: The Interplay Between Diet and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Loke Yean Leng , Chew Ming Tsuey , Ngeow Yun Fong , Lim Wendy Wan Dee , Peh Suat Cheng
Published: December 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence increases yearly, and is three to four times higher in developed countries compared to developing countries. The well-known risk factors have been attributed to low physical activity, overweight, obesity, dietary consumption including excessive consumption of red processed meats, alcohol, and low dietary fiber content. There is growing evidence of the interplay between diet and gut microbiota in CRC carcinogenesis. Although there appears to be a direct causal role for gut microbes in the development of CRC in some animal models, the link between diet, gut microbes, and colonic carcinogenesis has been established largely as an association rather than as a cause-and-effect relationship. This is especially true for human studies. As essential dietary factors influence CRC risk, the role of proteins, carbohydrates, fat, and their end products are considered as part of the interplay between diet and gut microbiota. The underlying molecular mechanisms of colon carcinogenesis mediated by gut microbiota are also discussed. Human biological responses such as inflammation, oxidative stress, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage can all influence dysbiosis and consequently CRC carcinogenesis. Dysbiosis could add to CRC risk by shifting the effect of dietary components toward promoting a colonic neoplasm together with interacting with gut microbiota. It follows that dietary intervention and gut microbiota modulation may play a vital role in reducing CRC risk.
Mapping Multi-Level Policy Incentives for Bioenergy With Carbon Capture and Storage in Sweden
Authors: Fridahl Mathias , Bellamy Rob , Hansson Anders , Haikola Simon
Published: December 2020

Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) is considered a key mitigation technology in most 1.5–2.0°C compatible climate change mitigation scenarios. Nonetheless, examples of BECCS deployment are lacking internationally. It is widely acknowledged that widespread implementation of this technology requires strong policy enablers, and that such enablers are currently non-existent. However, the literature lacks a more structured assessment of the “incentive gap” between scenarios with substantive BECCS deployment and existing policy enablers to effectuate BECCS deployment. Sweden, a country with progressive climate policies and particularly good preconditions for BECCS, constitutes a relevant locus for such examinations. The paper asks to what extent and how existing UN, EU, and Swedish climate policy instruments incentivize BECCS research, development, demonstration, and deployment in Sweden. The analysis is followed by a tentative discussion of needs for policy reform to improve the effectiveness of climate policy in delivering BECCS. Drawing on a tripartite typology of policy instruments (economic, regulatory, and informational) and the ability of these instruments to create supply-push or demand-pull, the article finds that: (1) no instruments create a demand-pull to cover operational expenditure; (2) economic instruments provide partial support for research and the capital expenditure associated with demonstration, and; (3) regulatory instruments provide partial clarity on environmental safeguards and responsibilities. A few regulatory barriers also continue to counteract deployment. The article concludes that the existing policy mix requires considerable reform if BECCS is to contribute substantially to the Swedish target for net-zero emissions. Continued effort to dismantle regulatory barriers must be complemented with a strong demand-pull instrument that complements the current focus on supply-push incentives. If unreformed, the existing policy mix will most likely lead to substantial public expenditure on BECCS research, development, and demonstration without leading to any substantial deployment and diffusion.
Fault System-Based Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment of a Moderate Seismicity Region: The Eastern Betics Shear Zone (SE Spain)
Authors: Gómez-Novell Octavi , García-Mayordomo Julián , Ortuño María , Masana Eulàlia , Chartier Thomas
Published: December 2020

Including faults as seismogenic sources in probabilistic seismic hazard assessments (PSHA) has turned into a common practice as knowledge of active faults is improving. Moreover, the occurrence of earthquakes in multi-fault ruptures has evidenced the need to understand faults as interacting systems rather than independent sources. We present a PSHA for the Southeastern Spain obtained by including the faults of a moderate seismicity region, the Eastern Betics Shear Zone (EBSZ) in SE Spain, as the main seismogenic sources in two separate source models, one considering background seismicity. In contrast with previous studies in Spain, earthquake occurrence of the EBSZ system is modeled considering different hypotheses of multi-fault ruptures at the whole fault system scale and weighted in a logic tree. We compare the hazard levels with those from an area source PSHA and a previous fault-based approach. The results show a clear control of the EBSZ faults in the seismic hazard for all return periods, increasing drastically the hazard levels in the regions close to the fault traces and influencing up to 20 km farther with respect to the area source PSHA. The seismic hazard is dependent on the fault slip rates as peak ground accelerations and territorial extension of the fault influence appear higher around the Alhama de Murcia and Carboneras faults, while lower slip rate faults (Palomares Fault) show minor contribution to the hazard. For the return period of 475 years and near-fault locations, our models are more consistent with the ground motion values reached in the 2011 Mw 5.2 Lorca event than the building code or national seismic hazard map, which suggest that our fault system-based model performs more accurate estimations for this return period. Fault data, mainly slip rates, and its uncertainties have a clear impact on the seismic hazard and, for some faults, the lack of detailed paleoseismic studies can compromise the reliability of the hazard estimations. This, together with epistemic uncertainties concerning the background seismicity, are key discussion points in the present study, having an impact on further research and aiming to serve as a case example for other low-to-moderate seismicity regions worldwide.
Practical Rubrics for Informal Science Education Studies: (1) a STEM Research Design Rubric for Assessing Study Design and a (2) STEM Impact Rubric for Measuring Evidence of Impact
Authors: Habig Bobby
Published: December 2020

Informal learning institutions, such as museums, science centers, and community-based organizations, play a critical role in providing opportunities for students to engage in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) activities during out-of-school time hours. In recent years, thousands of studies, evaluations, and conference proceedings have been published measuring the impact that these programs have had on their participants. However, because studies of informal science education (ISE) programs vary considerably in how they are designed and in the quality of their designs, it is often quite difficult to assess their impact on participants. Knowing whether the outcomes reported by these studies are supported with sufficient evidence is important not only for maximizing participant impact, but also because there are considerable economic and human resources invested to support informal learning initiatives. To address this problem, I used the theories of impact analysis and triangulation as a framework for developing user-friendly rubrics for assessing quality of research designs and evidence of impact. I used two main sources, research-based recommendations from STEM governing bodies and feedback from a focus group, to identify criteria indicative of high-quality STEM research and study design. Accordingly, I developed three STEM Research Design Rubrics, one for quantitative studies, one for qualitative studies, and another for mixed methods studies, that can be used by ISE researchers, practitioners, and evaluators to assess research design quality. Likewise, I developed three STEM Impact Rubrics, one for quantitative studies, one for qualitative studies, and another for mixed methods studies, that can be used by ISE researchers, practitioners, and evaluators to assess evidence of outcomes. The rubrics developed in this study are practical tools that can be used by ISE researchers, practitioners, and evaluators to improve the field of informal science learning by increasing the quality of study design and for discerning whether studies or program evaluations are providing sufficient evidence of impact.
Chemotherapy Associated Ovarian Failure
Authors: Mauri Davide , Gazouli Ioanna , Zarkavelis Georgios , Papadaki Alexandra , Mavroeidis Leonidas , Gkoura Stefania , Ntellas Panagiotis , Amylidi Anna-Lea , Tsali Lampriani , Kampletsas Eleftherios
Published: December 2020

As the incidence of malignancies in young adults is increasing, fertility preservation in cancer survivors arises as a major concern. Especially among female cancer patients, pregnancy rates are estimated to be 40% lower compared to women of the same age. Nowadays oncologists are to be preoccupied not only with their patients’ successful treatment, but also with the maintenance of the potential of the latter to conceive and obtain children. Chemotherapy associated ovarian failure (COF), refers to disruption of ovarian function both as an endocrine gland and as a reproductive organ, due to previous exposure to chemotherapy agents. Although the underlying mechanism is not fully understood, it is supposed that chemotherapy agents may induce either DNA damage of premature ovarian follicle or early activation and apoptosis of them, resulting into early exhaustion of available follicle deposit. Various chemotherapy agents have been associated with COF with the highest incidence being reported for patients undergoing combination regimens. Although a variety of alternatives in order to maintain ovarian function and fertility in female cancer survivors are available, adequately established practices to do so are lacking. Thus, it is of major importance to investigate further and collect sufficient evidence, aiming to guide patients and physicians in everyday clinical practice.