bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teaching Rationality—Sustained Shared Thinking as a Means for Learning to Navigate the Space of Reasons
Authors: Hildebrandt Frauke , Musholt Kristina
Published: February 2020

Human thought can be characterised as being situated in the ‘space of reasons’. That is to say that human thought is guided by the norms of theoretical and practical rationality which, in turn, enable autonomous thinking. But how do children learn to navigate the space of reasons? Building on the work of Tugendhat and Bakhurst, among others, we argue, first, that this process involves the acquisition of propositional thought and that it is an essentially social one in which both children and adults take an active role. Second, and more specifically, by drawing on Brandom's theory of meaning, we provide a philosophical analysis of empirical findings with respect to the efficacy of ‘Sustained Shared Thinking’ (SST) in early educational settings. We argue that the efficacy of SST is based on its emphasising, modelling and practising those elements of communication that are essential for gaining proficiency in ‘playing the game of giving and asking for reasons’, namely drawing inferences between propositions and concepts and providing justifications for one's assertions. This is achieved by making explicit the inferential relationships between concepts and propositions and by the use of modal and doxastic markers that function as an invitation to a joint search for reasons.
Characterization of proteases activities in Ficus carica cultivars
Authors: Nishimura Kosaku , Higashiya Keisuke , Ueshima Naoki , Abe Tatsuya , Yasukawa Kiyoshi
Published: February 2020

In this study, we characterized protease activities of 23 Ficus carica cultivars. Extracts of fruit, branch, and leaf of Masui Dauphine, one of the most representative F. carica cultivars in Japan, exhibited gelatin‐hydrolyzing activity, both in the absence and presence of a cysteine protease‐specific inhibitor, E‐64, suggesting that not only ficin (classified as cysteine protease) but also collagenase (classified as serine protease) were involved in the digestion of gelatin. In the hydrolysis of (7‐methoxycoumarin‐4‐yl)acetyl‐l‐Lys‐l‐Pro‐l‐Leu‐Gly‐l‐Leu‐[N3‐(2,4‐dinitrophenyl)‐l‐2,3‐diaminopropionyl]‐l‐Ala‐l‐Arg‐NH2, all branch extracts of 23 F. carica cultivars exhibited the activity both in the absence and presence of cysteine protease‐specific inhibitor E‐64, indicating that they contain ficin and collagenase. During digestion of acid‐solubilized type I collagen by the branch extract of Masui Dauphine at 40–55 °C, collagen was completely digested in the absence of E‐64, while it was partially digested in the presence of the inhibitor, indicating that the manner of digestion differed between ficin and collagenase contained in the extract. These results suggest that F. carica is attractive for industrial use to digest collagen.

Practical Application

The industrial use of F. carica might be enhanced by efficiently utilizing these proteases and/or selecting the appropriate F. carica cultivar. Collagen is one of the targets to which our results might be applied. It is widely accepted today that collagen and its digestion products could be useful as functional food. F. carica is a potential candidate for use in not only complete but also partial digestion of collagen.
The Environment Significance of Aerinite — First Discovered in the UBC Cliffs
Authors: WANG Guanyu , WANG Hejing
Published: February 2020

To analyze the composition and structure of the pale blue outcrop from the UBC Cliffs and research the environmental significance of aerinite recorded in the sediments, mineral composition, bulk chemical composition and structural analyses were carried out by means of X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), electron microprobe analysis (EMPA) and X‐ray fluorescence spectra (XRF). Quartz, feldspar, mica, chlorite and aerinite as well as a small amount of amphibole, calcite, clinopyroxene, rutile, perovskite and apatite are recorded in the sediments. It is reported for the first time that the aerinite occurs in a high latitude area and in sediments paragenetic with mica and chlorite. The large span in grain size shows a typical characteristic of fluvioglacial sediments. Geochemistry characteristics (CIA, CIW, PIA, WIP and ICV) verify that there is virtually no chemical weathering. Mineralogy and geochemistry features of the UBC Cliffs sediments indicate that aerinite is accommodate to the high latitude and cold, dry climate. As the sediments show high similarity to those of their provenance, they have great significance in the identification of the forming condition and origin of the aerinite.
Environment and Age of the Upper Devonian–Carboniferous Zhulumute and Hongguleleng Formations, Junggar Basin, NW China: Ichnological and Palynological Aspects
Authors: STACHACZ Michał , KONDAS Marcelina , FILIPIAK Paweł , MA Xueping
Published: February 2020

Two Upper Devonian to Lower Carboniferous sections, namely the Bulongguoer and Haer (Gennaren area) in the Junggar Basin, Central Asian Orogenic Belt, in northwestern China were examined with regard to ichnology and palynology. The deposits of the Hongguleleng Formation and Namu Member of the Heishantou Formation, respectively, are mostly unbioturbated or poorly bioturbated, with poorly diversified trace fossils, which indicate unfavourable conditions for the burrowing benthic community during the Late Devonian and Early Carboniferous. The main factor governing the growth of the bioturbating population was the rapid sedimentation of fine‐grained, volcanic material documented as tempestites, which buried the benthic fauna. In the Bulongguoer section, the presence of miospores Teichertospora torquata and Grandispora gracilis enabled identification of the broad Teichertospora torquata‐Grandispora gracilis Miospore Zone from the transitional Frasnian/Famennian interval. More accurate identification of palynostratigraphical levels (DE and CZ Miospore zones) is only tentative. On the basis of palynofacies analysis, samples from the lower Bulongguoer section indicate deposition in more proximal conditions, whereas samples from the top of the section indicate deposition in a more distal environment. In the Haer section, only a general biostratigraphic indication for the Tournaisian was possible, owing to poor preservation of organic matter.
Comparison of the incidence of viruses within germplasm, orchards and wild cherry trees in the Czech Republic
Authors: Přibylová Jaroslava , Lenz Ondřej , Fránová Jana , Koloniuk Igor , Špak Josef
Published: February 2020

A survey targeting 19 viruses infecting sweet and sour cherry trees worldwide was conducted in germplasm, orchards and wild trees in the Czech Republic during 2014–2015. A total of 184 trees were screened (77 trees from a germplasm collection and 107 trees at 21 different localities in the South Bohemian region) using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and sequencing. The following 10 viruses were detected: apple chlorotic leaf spot virus (ACLSV), apple mosaic virus (ApMV), cherry green ring mottle virus (CGRMV), cherry leaf roll virus (CLRV), cherry necrotic rusty mottle virus (CNRMV), cherry virus A (CVA), little cherry virus 1 (LChV‐1), little cherry virus 2 (LChV‐2), prune dwarf virus (PDV) and prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV). ApMV and LChV‐2 were detected in the Czech Republic for the first time. CGRMV and CNRMV were found only in imported trees within the germplasm collection. CVA, CLRV and PNRSV were the most frequently identified viruses in the germplasm collection, and PNRSV and PDV were the most abundant in orchards and wild trees. Of the 108 symptomatic trees, 68 were infected with one or more of the 19 viruses tested. On the other hand, 45 of the 76 samples from trees with no obvious symptoms were infected at the time of collection. Moreover, we did not find any significant association between symptom manifestation and detected virus presence. Next‐generation sequencing of six selected samples yielded major genome portions (71.7–99.9%) of ACLSV, CGRMV, CLRV, CNRMV, CVA, LChV‐1, LChV‐2, PDV and PNRSV, which were deposited in GenBank. In addition, we obtained the first complete coding sequences of a European PNRSV isolate (CZ‐Cig).
Equity and Political Economy in Thomas Hobbes
Authors: Ward Lee
Published: February 2020

Thomas Hobbes is often viewed as a seminal figure in the development of the homo economicus philosophical anthropology central to the acquisitive, bourgeois morality of liberal modernity. The present study challenges this interpretation of Hobbes as an antecedent to free market ideology by arguing that his political economy presupposed a complex relation between contract, law, and social networks of credit informed by prudence and robust norms of equity. The normative claims of equity permeate Hobbes's holistic account of political economy and inform his vision of liberal statecraft that gave priority to prudential judgment against economic determinism, especially as Hobbes understood trade, taxation, allocation of resources, and the provision of social welfare. I will conclude by reflecting upon how Hobbes's political economy both reveals the internal diversity within the liberal intellectual tradition and can help us to better understand and critique contemporary liberal states and democratic theory.
The effects of proton pump inhibitors on the microbiome in young children
Authors: Levy Elvira I. , Hoang Delphine M. , Vandenplas Yvan
Published: February 2020

Aim

The use of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatments are increasing among paediatric patients worldwide. We aimed to review the effects of PPIs on the microbiome and its associated effect on the gastrointestinal, respiratory and metabolic systems. The role of probiotics is discussed.

Methods

We searched for relevant articles published in English language in PubMed and Google Scholar. Articles were extracted using subject heading and key words of interest to the topic.

Results

There is evidence that PPIs modify the microbiome of the mouth, gut and lungs. The specific adverse effects associated with PPIs were necrotising enterocolitis, late onset sepsis in premature infants, Clostridium difficile infection, asthma, obesity and small intestine bacterial overgrowth in young children. Studies on the use of probiotics to counteract adverse effects of PPIs were limited.

Conclusion

PPIs create dysbiosis of the microbiome in the mouth, gut and lungs in the paediatric population. Probiotics could restore dysbiosis but it has very poorly been studied if probiotics can counteract or prevent PPI induced adverse effects.
NEW DATA ON THE TECHNOLOGY OF FAIENCE PRODUCTION IN CENTRAL EUROPE IN THE EARLY BRONZE AGE
Authors: Purowski T.
Published: February 2020

New data on faience production technologies in central Europe come from an analysis of 12 faience beads from an Early Bronze Age cemetery in Poland. The beads were tested with the EPMA method. Altogether 65 measurements were made. In terms of morphology, the artifacts are all the same, but they differ in microstructure and chemical composition. For some a mixed alkali flux was used, for others soda‐rich plant ashes. Even so, all of the beads seem to have been made from local raw materials in central Europe (soda‐rich plant ashes could have come from plants growing near one of the mainland salt sources, which are frequent, for example, in south‐eastern Poland).
Bayesian modeling of multiple structural connectivity networks during the progression of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Peterson Christine B. , Osborne Nathan , Stingo Francesco C. , Bourgeat Pierrick , Doecke James D. , Vannucci Marina
Published: February 2020

Alzheimer's disease is the most common neurodegenerative disease. The aim of this study is to infer structural changes in brain connectivity resulting from disease progression using cortical thickness measurements from a cohort of participants who were either healthy control, or with mild cognitive impairment, or Alzheimer's disease patients. For this purpose, we develop a novel approach for inference of multiple networks with related edge values across groups. Specifically, we infer a Gaussian graphical model for each group within a joint framework, where we rely on Bayesian hierarchical priors to link the precision matrix entries across groups. Our proposal differs from existing approaches in that it flexibly learns which groups have the most similar edge values, and accounts for the strength of connection (rather than only edge presence or absence) when sharing information across groups. Our results identify key alterations in structural connectivity that may reflect disruptions to the healthy brain, such as decreased connectivity within the occipital lobe with increasing disease severity. We also illustrate the proposed method through simulations, where we demonstrate its performance in structure learning and precision matrix estimation with respect to alternative approaches.
A comparative analysis of fibroblast growth factor receptor signalling during Xenopus development
Authors: Brunsdon Hannah , Isaacs Harry V.
Published: February 2020

Background Information

The fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signalling system of vertebrates is complex. In common with other vertebrates, secreted FGF ligands of the amphibian Xenopus signal through a family of four FGF receptor tyrosine kinases (fgfr1, 2, 3 and 4). A wealth of previous studies has demonstrated important roles for FGF signalling in regulating gene expression during cell lineage specification in amphibian development. In particular, FGFs have well‐established roles in regulating mesoderm formation, neural induction and patterning of the anteroposterior axis. However, relatively little is known regarding the role of individual FGFRs in regulating FGF‐dependent processes in amphibian development. In this study we make use of synthetic drug inducible versions of Xenopus Fgfr1, 2 and 4 (iFgfr1, 2 and 4) to undertake a comparative analysis of their activities in the tissues of the developing embryo.

Results

We find that Xenopus Fgfr1 and 2 have very similar activities. Both Fgfr1 and Fgfr2 are potent activators of MAP kinase ERK signalling, and when activated in the embryo during gastrula stages regulate similar cohorts of transcriptional targets. In contrast, Fgfr4 signalling in naïve ectoderm and neuralised ectoderm activates ERK signalling only weakly compared to Fgfr1/2. Furthermore, our analyses indicate that in Xenopus neural tissue the Fgfr4 regulated transcriptome is very different from that of Fgfr1.

Conclusion and significance

We conclude that signalling downstream of Fgfr1 and 2 regulates similar processes in amphibian development. Interestingly, many of the previously identified canonical transcriptional targets of FGF regulation associated with germ layer specification and patterning are regulated by Fgfr1/Fgfr2 signalling. In contrast, the downstream consequences of Fgfr4 signalling are different, although roles for Fgfr4 signalling in lineage specification and anteroposterior patterning are also indicated.
The Role of Executive Functions in Socioeconomic Attainment Gaps: Results From a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Blakey Emma , Matthews Danielle , Cragg Lucy , Buck Jessica , Cameron David , Higgins Ben , Pepper Lisa , Ridley Ellen , Sullivan Emma , Carroll Daniel J.
Published: February 2020

The socioeconomic attainment gap in mathematics starts early and increases over time. This study aimed to examine why this gap exists. Four‐year‐olds from diverse backgrounds were randomly allocated to a brief intervention designed to improve executive functions (N = 87) or to an active control group (N = 88). The study was preregistered and followed CONSORT guidelines. Executive functions and mathematical skills were measured at baseline, 1 week, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year posttraining. Executive functions mediated the relation between socioeconomic status and mathematical skills. Children improved over training, but this did not transfer to untrained executive functions or mathematics. Executive functions may explain socioeconomic attainment gaps, but cognitive training directly targeting executive functions is not an effective way to narrow this gap.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor diabetes mellitus: a novel form of autoimmune diabetes
Authors: Quandt Z , Young A , Anderson M
Published: February 2020

Autoimmune diabetes mellitus is a rare but significant side effect of treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced diabetes mellitus (CPI-DM) is characterized by acute onset of dramatic hyperglycemia with severe insulin deficiency and occurrence following exposure to programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-1/PD-L1) inhibitors rather than cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) inhibitors. As a growing number of patients undergo immunotherapy, further understanding of the characteristics of CPI-DM patients is needed for improved prognostic and diagnostic application in order to reduce overall morbidity for this already at-risk population. Additionally, understanding of the features and mechanisms of CPI-DM may contribute to understanding mechanisms of spontaneous type I diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Here, we summarize the clinical features of CPI-DM and interrogate the genetic and cellular mechanisms that may contribute to the disease, as well as the clinical challenges for predicting and treating these patients as increasing cancer immunotherapies reach clinical utility.
Effect of high glucose levels and lipopolysaccharides‐induced inflammation on osteoblast mineralization over sandblasted/acid‐etched titanium surface
Authors: Ramenzoni Liza L. , Bösch Adrian , Proksch Susanne , Attin Thomas , Schmidlin Patrick R.
Published: February 2020

Background and Purpose

Poorly controlled diabetes mellitus has been related to higher risk of implant treatment complications due to increased susceptibility to infection and delayed wound healing. Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) stimulate cytokine production leading to chronic inflammation and immunological host response that accentuates the destruction of periodontal tissues. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different glycemic conditions on secretion and mineralization of bone matrix under sterile inflammation induced by LPS on osteoblasts seeded over sandblasted/acid‐etched (SLA) titanium surface.

Materials and Methods

Osteoblast cell viability was performed to determine the influence of different glucose concentrations (5.5, 8, 12, and 24 mM), which were chosen to reflect normal, postprandial, and high glucose values, similar to those typically seen in Diabetes mellitus under clinical conditions. Cells were seeded on titanium SLA discs (Straumann AG, Waldenburg, Switzerland) and exposed to glucose concentrations and LPS (1μg/mL) in order to test inflammatory response (qPCR) and mineralization (Alizarin Red staining).

Results

Osteoblast viability was severely decreased when exposed to higher glucose levels (≥12 mM) and LPS (P < .05) compared to control. When the osteoblasts were exposed to LPS and glucose at ≥8 mM, the gene transcripts of inflammatory cytokines were ≈2.5‐fold upregulated, while ≤8 mM glucose elicited no significant change compared to control without glucose treatment (P > .05). Osteoblasts exposed to LPS produced sparse extracellular matrix mineralization, especially combined with higher glucose values (≥12 mM), together with decreased calcium deposition compared to control (P < .05).

Conclusions

High glucose levels combined with LPS inflammatory stimulation elicited an adverse effect on the volume and quality of mineralized hard tissue formation on SLA titanium surfaces in vitro. Hence, both normal glucose levels and infection control including low levels of circulating LPS during initial osseointegration period may be required to increase the success rate of dental implants.
Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) – a guide for dermatologists on how to manage affected individuals
Authors: Harter Katharina , Hammel Gertrud , Fleming Megan , Traidl‐Hoffmann Claudia
Published: February 2020

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a condition characterized by a subjectively perceived increase in sensitivity to environmental chemicals. Individuals affected report a wide variety of nonspecific complaints, and frequently attribute cutaneous and mucosal symptoms to chemical exposures. Dermatologists should therefore be familiar with this condition. MCS is a diagnosis of exclusion. Other causes for the patients’ symptoms should be ruled out by routine laboratory tests, allergy tests and, if indicated, monitoring for toxic (environmental) substances. The primary job of dermatologists is to rule out skin diseases or hypersensitivities as possible causes of the complaints. Interdisciplinary patient management is essential, especially in severe cases in which those affected have problems coping with everyday life. Relevant specialties in this context include environmental medicine, psychosomatic medicine as well as occupational and social medicine. Cutaneous symptoms are usually addressed with symptomatic treatment using basic skin care products. There are currently no evidence‐based treatment recommendations for MCS. It is crucial that MCS patients be protected from unnecessary treatments and thus from mental, social and financial strain. In addition to medical skills, managing MCS patients requires communicative and psychosocial competence in particular. Physicians involved in the treatment will benefit from training in psychotherapy. Irrespective of the mechanisms that lead to MCS, diagnosis and treatment of this condition require an actively supportive attitude towards these patients, a good doctor‐patient relationship and interdisciplinary cooperation.
The effect of dapagliflozin on apolipoprotein B and glucose fluxes in patients with type 2 diabetes and well‐controlled plasma LDL cholesterol
Authors: Bouter Kristien E. C. , van Bommel Erik J. M. , Jansen Hans , van Harskamp Dewi , Schierbeek Henk , Ackermans Mariëtte T. , Serlie Mireille J. , Schimmel Alinda W. M. , Nieuwdorp Max , Dallinga‐Thie Geesje M. , van Raalte Daniël H.
Published: February 2020

Aim

To dissect the effects of the sodium‐glucose linked transporter 2 inhibitor dapagliflozin on lipid metabolism and assess whether these effects could potentially offset cardiovascular benefit with this drug‐class.

Materials and Methods

We assessed the effect of dapagliflozin on lipid metabolism in 11 adults with uncomplicated type 2 diabetes. After 4 weeks of statin wash‐out and 4 weeks of rosuvastatin 10 mg treatment, participants were treated with dapagliflozin 10 mg once‐daily for 5 weeks. Before and after dapagliflozin, plasma lipids were measured and very low‐density lipoprotein (VLDL)‐1 and VLDL‐2 apolipoprotein (Apo)B fluxes were assessed using (5.5.5‐2H3)‐leucine tracer infusion. In addition, hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivity as well as insulin‐mediated inhibition of peripheral lipolysis were measured during a two‐step hyperinsulinemic‐euglycaemic clamp using (6,6‐2H2)‐glucose and (1,1,2,3,3‐2H5)‐glycerol tracers.

Results

Rosuvastatin decreased all plasma lipids significantly: total cholesterol from 4.5 (3.2–6.2) to 3.1 (2.5–3.8) mmol/L, LDL cholesterol from 2.6 (1.7–3.4) to 1.5 (1.1–2.2) mmol/L, HDL cholesterol from 1.34 (0.80–2.02) to 1.19 (0.74–1.89) mmol/L and triglycerides from 0.92 (0.31–3.91) to 0.79 (0.32–2.10) mmol/L. The addition of dapaglifozin to rosuvastatin did not raise either LDL cholesterol or total cholesterol, and only increased HDL cholesterol by 0.08 (−0.03–0.13) mmol/L (P = 0.03). In line with this, dapagliflozin did not affect VLDL‐1 or VLDL‐2 ApoB fluxes. Fasting endogenous glucose production tended to increase by 0.9 (−3.4–3.1) μmol kg−1 min−1 (P = 0.06), but no effect on hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivity or on peripheral lipolysis was observed.

Conclusions

Dapagliflozin has no effect on plasma LDL‐cholesterol levels or VLDL‐apoB fluxes in the context of optimal lipid‐lowering treatment, which will thus not limit cardiovascular benefit when lipids are adequately controlled.
Microhabitat analyses support relationships between niche breadth and range size when spatial autocorrelation is strong
Authors: Ficetola Gentile Francesco , Lunghi Enrico , Manenti Raoul
Published: February 2020

Multiple evidence of positive relationships between nice breadth and range size (NB–RS) suggested that this can be a general ecological pattern. However, correlations between niche breadth and range size can emerge as a by‐product of strong spatial structure of environmental variables. This can be problematic because niche breadth is often assessed using broad‐scale macroclimatic variables, which suffer heavy spatial autocorrelation. Microhabitat measurements provide accurate information on species tolerance, and show limited autocorrelation. The aim of this study was to combine macroclimate and microhabitat data to assess NB–RS relationships in European plethodontid salamanders (Hydromantes), and to test whether microhabitat variables with weak autocorrelation can provide less biased NB–RS estimates across species. To measure macroclimatic niche, we gathered comprehensive information on the distribution of all Hydromantes species, and combined them with broad‐scale climatic layers. To measure microhabitat, we recorded salamander occurrence across > 350 caves and measured microhabitat features influencing their distribution: humidity, temperature and light. We assessed NB–RS relationships through phylogenetic regression; spatial null‐models were used to test whether the observed relationships are a by‐product of autocorrelation. We observed positive relationships between niche breadth and range size at both the macro‐ and microhabitat scale. At the macroclimatic scale, strong autocorrelation heavily inflated the possibility to observe positive NB–RS. Spatial autocorrelation was weaker for microhabitat variables. At the microhabitat level, the observed NB–RS was not a by‐product of spatial structure of variables. Our study shows that heavy autocorrelation of variables artificially increases the possibility to detect positive relationships between bioclimatic niche and range size, while fine‐scale data of microhabitat provide more direct measure of conditions selected by ectotherms, and enable less biased measures of niche breadth. Combining analyses performed at multiple scales and datasets with different spatial structure provides more complete niche information and effectively tests the generality of niche breadth–range size relationships.
Development and topographic organization of subicular projections to lateral septum in the rat brain
Authors: Tsamis Konstantinos I. , Lagartos Donato Maria J. , Dahl Annelene G. , O'Reilly Kally C. , Witter Menno P.
Published: February 2020

One of the main subcortical targets of hippocampal formation efferents is the lateral septum. Previous studies on the subicular projections, as a main output structure of the hippocampus, have shown a clear topographic organization of septal innervation, related to the origin of the fibres along the dorsoventral axis of the subiculum in the adult brain. In contrast, studies on the developing brain depict an extensive rearrangement of subicular projections during the prenatal period, shifting from the medial septum to the lateral septum. Our study aimed to describe the postnatal development of subicular projections to the septum. We injected anterograde tracers into the subiculum of 57 pups of different postnatal ages. Injections covered the proximodistal and dorsoventral axis of the subiculum. The age of the pups at day of tracer injection ranged from the day of birth to postnatal day 30. Analyses revealed that from the first postnatal day projections from subiculum preferentially target the lateral septum. Sparse innervation in the lateral septum was already present in the first few postnatal days, and during the following 3 weeks, the axonal distribution gradually expanded. Subicular projections to the lateral septum are topographically organized depending on the origin along the dorsoventral axis of the subiculum, in line with the adult innervation pattern. Different origins along the proximodistal axis of the subiculum are reflected in changes in the strength of septal innervation. The findings demonstrate that in case of the development of subicular projections, axonal expansion is more prominent than axonal pruning.
Retinal ON and OFF pathways contribute to initial optokinetic responses with different temporal characteristics
Authors: Sugita Yuko , Miura Kenichiro , Furukawa Takahisa
Published: February 2020

Visual information in the retina is processed via two pathways: ON and OFF pathways that originate from ON and OFF bipolar cells. The differences in the receptors that mediate signal transmission from photoreceptors imply that the response speed to light signals differs between ON and OFF pathways. We studied the initial optokinetic responses (OKRs) of mice using two‐frame motion stimuli presented with interstimulus intervals (ISIs) to understand functional difference of these pathways. When two successive image frames were presented with an ISI, observers often perceived motion in the opposite direction of the actual shift. This directional reversal results from the biphasic nature of the temporal filters in visual systems whose characteristics can be estimated from the dependence on ISIs. We examined the dependence on ISIs in the OKRs of TRPM1−/− mice, whose ON bipolar cells are dysfunctional, as well as in those of wild‐type control mice. Wild type and TRPM1−/− mice showed comparable OKRs in the veridical direction when no ISI was present. Both types of mice showed OKRs that decreased and eventually reversed as the ISI increased, but with a directional reversal at a shorter ISI in TRPM1−/− than wild‐type mice. In addition, the temporal filters of TRPM1−/− mice estimated from dependence on ISIs were tuned for higher frequencies, suggesting that compared with wild‐type mice, the visual system of TRPM1−/− mice responds to light signals with faster dynamics. We conclude that the ON and OFF pathways contribute to initial OKRs by providing visual signals processed with different temporal resolutions.
Self‐efficacy and Success of Disadvantaged Entrepreneurs: The Moderating Role of Resilience
Authors: Santoro Gabriele , Ferraris Alberto , Del Giudice Manlio , Schiavone Francesco
Published: February 2020

This paper aims to explore the antecedents of success in the context of entrepreneurs with specific disadvantages, namely those with physical challenges, and those with mental limitations, such as dyslexia and attention deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). With a sample of 114 disadvantaged entrepreneurs located in Italy, the research explores the relationship between self‐efficacy and entrepreneurial success (both at the individual and business level) and the moderating role of individual resilience. Implementing OLS analysis, findings suggest that self‐efficacy and resilience improve individual success of entrepreneurs and that their joint effect is positive. Slightly differently, it has not been found a positive direct impact of resilience on business success, while the moderating effect is significant and positive. We compare the results with findings from a sample of non‐disadvantaged entrepreneurs (108) thus providing diverse implications, opening up a debate around the different antecedents (and relative effects) of entrepreneur success at individual and business level.
DNA damage response proteins regulating mitotic cell division: double agents preserving genome stability
Authors: Petsalaki Eleni , Zachos George
Published: February 2020

The DNA damage response recognizes DNA lesions and coordinates a cell cycle arrest with the repair of the damaged DNA, or removal of the affected cells to prevent the passage of genetic alterations to the next generation. The mitotic cell division, on the other hand, is a series of processes that aims to accurately segregate the genomic material from the maternal to the two daughter cells. Despite their great importance in safeguarding genomic integrity, the DNA damage response and the mitotic cell division were long viewed as unrelated processes, mainly because animal cells that are irradiated during mitosis continue cell division without repairing the broken chromosomes. However, recent studies have demonstrated that DNA damage proteins play an important role in mitotic cell division. This is performed through regulation of the onset of mitosis, mitotic spindle formation, correction of misattached kinetochore–microtubules, spindle checkpoint signaling, or completion of cytokinesis (abscission), in the absence of DNA damage. In this review, we summarize the roles of DNA damage proteins in unperturbed mitosis, analyze the molecular mechanisms involved, and discuss the potential implications of these findings in cancer therapy.
In transition: Avian biogeographic responses to a century of climate change across desert biomes
Authors: Iknayan Kelly J. , Beissinger Steven R.
Published: February 2020

Transition zones between biomes, also known as ecotones, are areas of pronounced ecological change. They are primarily maintained by abiotic factors and disturbance regimes that could hinder or promote species range shifts in response to climate change. We evaluated how climate change has affected metacommunity dynamics in two adjacent biomes and across their ecotone by resurveying 106 sites that were originally surveyed for avian diversity in the early 20th century by Joseph Grinnell and colleagues. The Mojave, a warm desert, and the Great Basin, a cold desert, have distinct assemblages and meet along a contiguous, east–west boundary. Both deserts substantially warmed over the past century, but the Mojave dried while the Great Basin became wetter. We examined whether the distinctiveness and composition of desert avifaunas have changed, if species distributions shifted, and how the transition zone impacted turnover patterns. Avifauna change was characterized by (a) reduced occupancy, range contractions, and idiosyncratic species redistributions; (b) degradation of historic community structure, and increased taxonomic and climatic differentiation of the species inhabiting the two deserts; and (c) high levels of turnover at the transition zone but little range expansion of species from the warm, dry Mojave into the cooler, wetter Great Basin. Although both deserts now support more drier and warmer tolerant species, their bird communities still occupy distinct climatological space and differ significantly in climatic composition. Our results suggest a persistent transition zone between biomes contributes to limiting the redistribution of birds, and highlight the importance of understanding how transition zone dynamics impact responses to climate change.
The effect of vehicle on skin absorption of Mg2+ and Ca2+ from thermal spring water
Authors: Tarnowska M. , Briançon S. , Resende de Azevedo J. , Chevalier Y. , Arquier D. , Barratier C. , Bolzinger M.‐A.
Published: February 2020

Objective

Thermal spring waters (TSW) are commonly used as active ingredients in cosmetics. Their biological activities directly depend on the ionic composition of the spring. However, in order to exhibit beneficial properties, the minerals need to reach viable skin layers. The present study addresses the incorporation of marketed TSW in model cosmetic formulations and the impact of the formulation on skin absorption of magnesium and calcium ions that are known to improve skin barrier function.

Methods

Marketed TSW was introduced into five formulations. Liposomes were prepared using saturated or unsaturated phospholipids mixed with cholesterol by the thin layer evaporation technique. Emulsions water‐in‐oil (W/O), oil‐in‐water (O/W) or double: water‐in‐oil‐in‐water (W/O/W) were prepared by high‐shear mixing. Skin absorption of Mg2+ and Ca2+ from those formulations was studied in vitro using static Franz diffusion cells under infinite dose condition and under occlusion of the apparatus.

Results

Mg2+ and Ca2+ penetrate skin samples from TSW. Encapsulating TSW into double emulsion (TSW/O/W) increased skin absorption of both cations of interest and kept the Ca2+/Mg2+ ratio equal to that of TSW in each skin layer. The dermal absorption of Mg2+ from the double emulsion departs from both single emulsions. Application of liposome suspension improved the skin absorption of Ca2+ while keeping constant that of Mg2+, leading to unbalanced Ca2+/Mg2+ ratio inside skin.

Conclusion

The beneficial effects of TSW are not only due to their action on the skin surface. Their active components, especially Ca2+ and Mg2+ cations, reach viable skin layers in a formulation‐dependent manner. The distribution of ions inside skin depends on the type of formulation.
Effect of the sintering temperature on microstructure and properties of Al2O3–Cu–Ni hybrid composites obtained by PPS
Authors: Zygmuntowicz Justyna , Falkowski Paweł , Wachowski Marcin , Cymerman Konrad , Piotrkiewicz Paulina , Kaszuwara Waldemar
Published: February 2020

In the present research, the influence of sintering temperature on the microstructure and properties of Al2O3–Cu–Ni hybrid composites prepared by the Pulse Plasma Sintering (PPS) technique were described. In this research, three temperatures have been selected: 1250°C, 1300°C, and 1350°C. SEM observations were carried out to determine the distribution of the metallic phase in the composite depending on the sintering temperature. The conducted experiments and microscopic observations enabled a better understanding of the phenomena occurring between the ceramic matrix and metallic phase in the obtained materials. The mechanical properties like a hardness and fracture toughness were measured. The technology applied allowed us to obtain ceramic‐metal composites with a homogeneous microstructure. It was found that the sintering temperature influences the selected physical and mechanical properties of the composites produced. It was found that samples produced at 1300°C are characterized by the highest relative density and the mechanical properties.
DNA methylation‐mediated Siglec‐7 regulation in natural killer cells via two 5′ promoter CpG sites
Authors: Huang Hsin‐Ting , Su Shih‐Chi , Chiou Tzeon‐Jye , Lin Yen‐Hsi , Shih Yi‐Chen , Wu Yu‐Xuan , Fan Ting‐Hsi , Twu Yuh‐Ching
Published: February 2020

First discovered on the natural killer (NK) cell, the cell surface inhibitory receptor sialic acid‐binding immunoglobulin‐like lectin‐7 (Siglec‐7) is known for regulating many important biological activities. However, the detail regulatory mechanism for Siglec‐7 expression in NK cells currently remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate how cell surface Siglec‐7 expression is regulated and found that, in both NK cell lines and peripheral NK cells, transcription was the main regulatory step. Furthermore, when NK‐92MI and peripheral NK cells were treated with DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitor, the CpG island, with 9 CpG sites, in 5′ Siglec‐7 promoter became noticeably hypomethylated, and Siglec‐7 expression increased in both RNA transcript and surface protein. Within this CpG island, we identified both CpG 8 and CpG 9 as two key regulators responsible for Siglec‐7 expression. Additionally, by using histone deacetylases (HDAC) inhibitor, butyric acid, we showed that Siglec‐7 expression was also subjected to the histone modification. And a combined treatment with both 5‐azacytidine and butyric acid showed an additive effect on Siglec‐7 transcript expression in peripheral NK cells.
Dealing with loss: food and eating in women with ovarian cancer on parenteral nutrition
Authors: Sowerbutts A. M. , Lal S. , Sremanakova J. , Clamp A. R. , Jayson G. C. , Hardy L. , Sutton E. , Raftery A.‐M. , Teubner A. , Burden S.
Published: February 2020

Background

Malignant bowel obstruction is a common complication of ovarian cancer, resulting in limited oral intake. Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) may be offered to patients in this condition to meet nutritional requirements. However, it is not known how they experience being unable to eat. The present study reports how patients related to food when receiving HPN.

Methods

The investigation was a qualitative study underpinned by phenomenology with women with advanced ovarian cancer in bowel obstruction receiving parenteral nutrition. Interview transcripts were analysed thematically guided by the techniques of Van Manen.

Results

We recruited 20 women to the study. Participants were interviewed a maximum of four times and a total of 39 in‐depth longitudinal interviews were conducted. Participants could tolerate minimal amounts of food, if they had a venting gastrostomy. Not being able to eat engendered a sense of sadness and loss, and most women found it challenging to be in the presence of others eating. They adopted strategies to cope, which included fantasising about food and watching cookery programmes. These approaches were not a long‐term solution; either participants came to terms with their loss or the strategies became less effective in providing relief.

Conclusions

Home parenteral nutrition meets the nutritional requirements of patients with malignant bowel obstruction but cannot replace the non‐nutritive functions of food. Healthcare professionals can offer a patient‐centred approach by acknowledging the difficulties that patients may face and, wherever possible, encourage them to focus on the positive benefits of interacting with people rather than the loss of eating on social occasions.
Increased abdominal fat mass and high fat consumption in young school children with congenital heart disease: results from a case‐control study
Authors: Hansson L. , Lind T. , Öhlund I. , Wiklund U. , Rydberg A.
Published: February 2020

Background

We have previously found that infants with complex congenital heart disease (CHD) experience growth failure despite high‐energy dietary supplementation. This is a follow‐up and comparison with healthy controls at 9 years of age regarding body composition and macronutrient intake, especially in relationship to the diet provided during infancy.

Methods

Anthropometric changes in 10 children with CHD at 12 months and at 4 and 9 years of age were analysed as Z‐scores. To assess body composition and food intake at 9 years of age, a dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry scan and a 3‐day food diary were completed and compared with age‐ and gender‐matched controls using Wilcoxon's signed‐rank test for matched pairs.

Results

Growth changes from 12 months to 9 years, converted to Z‐scores for weight for height and height for age, were significantly different within the group of children with complex CHD, although no growth differences were seen in comparison with healthy controls at 9 years of age. However, the children with CHD had statistically higher abdominal fat mass index and higher daily intake of fat, particularly from saturated fatty acid in g kg−1 compared to controls.

Conclusions

At 9 years of age, children with complex CHD with growth failure and high fat intake in infancy have normalised growth but increased abdominal fat mass and higher intake of saturated fatty acid compared to their peers. Nutritional monitoring in early childhood may detect unhealthy diet quality and prevent later health risks in this group.
Site‐specific life cycle assessment of a pilot floating offshore wind farm based on suppliers’ data and geo‐located wind data
Authors: Poujol Baptiste , Prieur‐Vernat Anne , Dubranna Jean , Besseau Romain , Blanc Isabelle , Pérez‐López Paula
Published: February 2020

Renewable energy systems are essential in coming years to ensure an efficient energy supply while maintaining environmental protection. Despite having low environmental impacts during operation, other phases of the life cycle need to be accounted for. This study presents a geo‐located life cycle assessment of an emerging technology, namely, floating offshore wind farms. It is developed and applied to a pilot project in the Mediterranean Sea. The materials inventory is based on real data from suppliers and coupled to a parameterized model which exploits a geographic information system wind database to estimate electricity production. This multi‐criteria assessment identified the extraction and transformation of materials as the main contributor to environmental impacts such as climate change (70% of the total 22.3 g CO2 eq/kWh), water use (73% of 6.7 L/kWh), and air quality (76% of 25.2 mg PM2.5/kWh), mainly because of the floater's manufacture. The results corroborate the low environmental impact of this emerging technology compared to other energy sources. The electricity production estimates, based on geo‐located wind data, were found to be a critical component of the model that affects environmental performance. Sensitivity analyses highlighted the importance of the project's lifetime, which was the main parameter responsible for variations in the analyzed categories. Background uncertainties should be analyzed but may be reduced by focusing data collection on significant contributors. Geo‐located modeling proved to be an effective technique to account for geographical variability of renewable energy technologies and contribute to decision‐making processes leading to their development.
MiRNA-7 enhances erlotinib sensitivity of glioblastoma cells by blocking the IRS-1 and IRS-2 expression
Authors: Alamdari-Palangi Vahab , Amini Razieh , Karami Hadi
Published: February 2020

Objectives

Down-regulation of miRNA-7 is correlated with over-expression of IRS-1 and IRS-2 proteins, the upstream regulators of IGF-1R/Akt pathway, in glioblastoma cells. In this study, the effect of miRNA-7 on expression of IRS-1 and IRS-2 and sensitivity of the U373-MG glioblastoma cells to erlotinib was explored.

Methods

After miRNA-7 transfection, the expression of IRS-1 and IRS-2 mRNAs was measured by RT-qPCR. Trypan blue assay was used to assess the effect of miRNA-7 on cell proliferation. The effects of miRNA-7 and erlotinib, alone and in combination, on cell survival and apoptosis were measured using MTT assay and ELISA cell death assay, respectively.

Key findings

Our data showed that miRNA-7 markedly inhibited the expression of IRS-1 and IRS-2 in a time-dependent manner, inhibited the proliferation of glioblastoma cells and enhanced apoptosis (P < 0.05, relative to control). Pretreatment with miRNA-7 synergistically inhibited the cell survival rate and decreased the IC50 of erlotinib. Furthermore, miRNA-7 significantly augmented the apoptotic effect of erlotinib.

Conclusions

Our data propose that inhibition of IRS-1 and IRS-2 by miRNA-7 can effectively induce apoptosis and sensitize glioblastoma cell to EGFR-TKIs. Therefore, miRNA-7 may be a potential therapeutic target in patients with glioblastoma.