bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disruption by SaCas9 Endonuclease of HERV-Kenv, a Retroviral Gene with Oncogenic and Neuropathogenic Potential, Inhibits Molecules Involved in Cancer and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Ibba Gabriele , Piu Claudia , Uleri Elena , Serra Caterina , Dolei Antonina
Published: August 2018

The human endogenous retrovirus (HERV)-K, human mouse mammary tumor virus like-2 (HML-2) subgroup of HERVs is activated in several tumors and has been related to prostate cancer progression and motor neuron diseases. The cellular splicing factor 2/alternative splicing factor (SF2/ASF) is a positive regulator of gene expression, coded by a potent proto-oncogene, amplified, and abnormally expressed in tumors. TAR DNA-binding protein-43 (TDP-43) is a DNA/RNA-binding protein, negative regulator of alternative splicing, known for causing neurodegeneration, and with complex roles in oncogenesis. We used the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 technology, with the Cas9 system from Staphylococcus aureus (SaCas9), to disrupt the HERV-K(HML-2)env gene, and evaluated the effects on cultured cells. The tool was tested on human prostate cancer LNCaP cells, whose HERV-Kenv transcription profile is known. It caused HERV-K(HML-2)env disruption (the first reported of a HERV gene), as evaluated by DNA sequencing, and inhibition of env transcripts and proteins. The HERV-K(HML-2)env disruption was found to interfere with important regulators of cell expression and proliferation, involved in manaling, RNA-binding, and alternative splicing, such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF-R), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), SF2/ASF, and TDP-43. These novel findings suggest that HERV-K is not an innocent bystander, they reinforce its links to oncogenesis and motor neuron diseases, and they open potential innovative therapeutic options.
The Inhibition of HIV-1 Entry Imposed by Interferon Inducible Transmembrane Proteins Is Independent of Co-Receptor Usage
Authors: Yu Jingyou , Liu Shan-Lu
Published: August 2018

Interferon inducible transmembrane proteins (IFITMs) are one of several IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) that restrict entry of enveloped viruses, including flaviviruses, filoviruses and retroviruses. It has been recently reported that in U87 glioblastoma cells IFITM proteins inhibit HIV-1 entry in a co-receptor-dependent manner, that is, IFITM1 is more inhibitory on CCR5 tropic HIV-1 whereas IFITM2/3 confers a greater suppression of CXCR4 counterparts. However, how entry of HIV-1 with distinct co-receptor usage is modulated by different IFITM orthologs in physiologically relevant CD4+ T cells and monocytes/macrophages has not been investigated in detail. Here, we report that overexpression of IFITM1, 2 and 3 in human CD4+ HuT78 cells, SupT1 cells, monocytic THP-1 cells and U87 cells expressing CD4 and co-receptor CCR5 or CXCR4, suppressed entry of CXCR4 tropic viruses NL4.3 and HXB2, CCR5 tropic viruses AD8 and JRFL, dual tropic 89.6 virus, as well as a panel of 32 transmitted founder (T/F) viruses, with a consistent order of potency, that is, IFITM3 > IFITM2 > IFITM1. Consistent with previous reports, we found that some CCR5-using HIV-1 isolates, such as AD8 and JRFL, were relatively resistant to inhibition by IFITM2 and IFITM3, although the effect can be cell-type dependent. However, in no case have we observed that IFITM1 had a stronger inhibition on entry of any HIV-1 strains tested, including those of CCR5-using T/Fs. We knocked down the endogenous IFITMs in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and purified CD4+ T cells and observed that, while this treatment did greatly enhance the multiple-round of HIV-1 replication but had modest effect to rescue the single-round HIV-1 infection, reinforcing our previous conclusion that the predominant effect of IFITMs on HIV-1 infection is in viral producer cells, rather than in target cells to block viral entry. Overall, our results argue against the idea that IFITM proteins distinguish co-receptors CCR5 and CXCR4 to inhibit entry but emphasize that the predominant role of IFITMs on HIV-1 is in producer cells that intrinsically impair the viral infectivity.
Dry Pipes: Associations between Utility Performance and Intermittent Piped Water Supply in Low and Middle Income Countries
Authors: Kaminsky Jessica , Kumpel Emily
Published: August 2018

Intermittent piped water supply impacts at least one billion people around the globe. Given the environmental and public health implications of poor water supply, there is a strong practical need to understand how and why intermittent supply occurs, and what strategies may be used to move utilities towards the provision of continuous water supply. Leveraging data from the International Benchmarking Network for Water and Sanitation Utilities, we discover 42 variables that have statistically significant associations with intermittent water supply at the utility scale across 2115 utilities. We categorized these under the following themes: Physical infrastructure system scale, coverage, consumer type, public water points, financial, and non-revenue water and metering. This research identifies globally relevant factors with high potential for cross-context, scaled impact. In addition, using insights from the analysis, we provide empirically grounded recommendations and data needs for improved global indicators of utility performance related to intermittent supply.
Hydraulic Conductivity Characteristics of Desert Plant Organs: Coping with Drought Tolerance Strategy
Authors: Li Shanjia , Su Peixi , Zhang Haina , Zhou Zijuan , Shi Rui , Gou Wei
Published: August 2018

Plant hydraulic conductivity (K) refers to the rate of water flow (kg s−1) per unit pressure drop (MPa), which drives flow through the plant organ system. It is an important eco-physiology index for measuring plant water absorption and transport capacity. A field study was conducted in the arid region of the Heihe River Basin in northwestern China, plant hydraulic conductivity was measured by high-pressure flowmeter (HPFM) to investigate the characteristics of hydraulic conductivity of typical dominant desert plants (Reaumuria soongarica M., Nitraria sphaerocarpa M., and Sympegma regelii B.) and their relationship with functional traits of leaves, stems, and roots, and explaining their adaptation strategies to desert environment from the perspective of plant organs hydraulic conductivity. The results showed that the hydraulic conductivity of the leaves and stems of R. soongarica and N. sphaerocarpa (KLA, leaf hydraulic conductivity per unit leaf area; KLW, leaf hydraulic conductivity per unit leaf weight; KSLA, stem hydraulic conductivity per unit leaf area; KSLW, stem hydraulic conductivity per unit leaf weight) were significantly lower than those of S. regelii, while their fine root (KRL, root hydraulic conductivity per unit leaf length; KRSA, root hydraulic conductivity per unit root surface area) and whole root (KTRW, whole root hydraulic conductivity per unit root weight) of hydraulic conductivity were significantly higher than those of S. regelii. In addition, KLA and KLW, KSLA and KSLW, and KRL and KRSA in three desert plants all exhibited consistent trends. Correlation analysis illustrated that the hydraulic conductivity of leaves and stems had a significantly positive correlation, but they had no significant negative correlation with the specific leaf weight (SLW, specific leaf weight). The hydraulic conductivity of fine root weight (KRW, root hydraulic conductivity per unit root weight) and specific root surface area (SRSA, specific root surface area) showed significantly positive correlation (r = 0.727, P < 0.05). The results demonstrated that the R. soongarica and N. sphaerocarpa preserved their water content through the strong leaf absorption capacity of soil water and the low water dispersion rates of leaves to adapt to the harsher arid habitat, which is more drought tolerant than S. regelii.
Conceptualization and Schematization of Mesoscale Sustainable Drainage Systems: A Full-Scale Study
Authors: Haghighatafshar Salar , La Cour Jansen Jes , Aspegren Henrik , Jönsson Karin
Published: August 2018

Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) can be considered the joint product of water engineering and urban planning and design since these systems must comply with hydraulic, hydrologic, and social-ecological functions. To enhance this joint collaboration, a conceptual model of mesoscale SuDS is introduced based on the observed rainfall-runoff responses from two catchments with SuDS and a pipe-bound catchment. The model shows that in contrast to pipe systems, SuDS disaggregates the catchment into a group of discrete mini catchments that have no instant connection to the outlet. These mini catchments start to connect to each other (and perhaps to the outlet) as the rainfall depth increases. It is shown that the sequence of stormwater control measures (SCMs as individual components of SuDS) affects the system’s overall performance depending on the volumetric magnitude of the rainfall. The concept is useful in the design and implementation of mesoscale SuDS retrofits, which include several SCMs with different retention and detention capacities within a system.
Drought Analysis in Europe and in the Mediterranean Basin Using the Standardized Precipitation Index
Authors: Caloiero Tommaso , Veltri Simone , Caloiero Paola , Frustaci Francesco
Published: August 2018

In this study, drought events over a large area of the Northern Hemisphere, including continental Europe, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the Mediterranean basin, were analyzed using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) at various times scales (3, 6, 12, and 24 months). To this purpose, the Global Precipitation Climatology Centre (GPCC) Full Data Monthly Product Version 2018 data set, with spatial resolutions of 0.5° longitude/latitude and for the period 1951–2016, has been used. First, the temporal evolution of the percentage of grid points, falling within the severe and extreme drought categories, has been evaluated. Then, a trend analysis has been performed at a seasonal scale, considering the autumn-winter and the spring-summer periods, and at an annual scale. The results of this paper highlight that the Mediterranean basin and North Africa are the most consistently vulnerable areas showing a general reduction in SPI values especially for the long time scale.
Valuation and Pricing of Agricultural Irrigation Water Based on Macro and Micro Scales
Authors: Ren Yongtai , Wei Shuai , Cheng Kun , Fu Qiang
Published: August 2018

Research on water pricing is important to effectively address the water resource crisis. The agricultural industry has the greatest water-saving potential. Using Heilongjiang Province, the main grain-producing region in China, as an example, an agricultural irrigation water price was determined based on macro and micro scales, and affordable water prices for peasants were calculated. The results show a macro-agricultural irrigation water price of 1.023 yuan/m3, indicating that the current agricultural irrigation water price does not reflect the water source value. The micro-agricultural irrigation water prices for surface water and groundwater range from 0.993 to 1.008 and from 2.343 to 2.358 yuan/m3, respectively, indicating differences in cost recovery and value. The surface water prices for maize, rice, and soybeans ranged from 0.286 to 0.476, from 0.101 to 0.179, and from 0.180 to 0.307 yuan/m3, respectively, while the appropriate groundwater prices ranged from 0.317 to 0.507, from 0.131 to 0.210, and from 0.211 to 0.337 yuan/m3, respectively. The government could formulate different subsidy policies according to the actual situation and raise agricultural irrigation water prices to the full-cost level to enable the implementation of law of value.
Assessment of Business Interruption of Flood-Affected Companies Using Random Forests
Authors: Sultana Zakia , Sieg Tobias , Kellermann Patric , Müller Meike , Kreibich Heidi
Published: August 2018

Losses due to floods have dramatically increased over the past decades, and losses of companies, comprising direct and indirect losses, have a large share of the total economic losses. Thus, there is an urgent need to gain more quantitative knowledge about flood losses, particularly losses caused by business interruption, in order to mitigate the economic loss of companies. However, business interruption caused by floods is rarely assessed because of a lack of sufficiently detailed data. A survey was undertaken to explore processes influencing business interruption, which collected information on 557 companies affected by the severe flood in June 2013 in Germany. Based on this data set, the study aims to assess the business interruption of directly affected companies by means of a Random Forests model. Variables that influence the duration and costs of business interruption were identified by the variable importance measures of Random Forests. Additionally, Random Forest-based models were developed and tested for their capacity to estimate business interruption duration and associated costs. The water level was found to be the most important variable influencing the duration of business interruption. Other important variables, relating to the estimation of business interruption duration, are the warning time, perceived danger of flood recurrence and inundation duration. In contrast, the amount of business interruption costs is strongly influenced by the size of the company, as assessed by the number of employees, emergency measures undertaken by the company and the fraction of customers within a 50 km radius. These results provide useful information and methods for companies to mitigate their losses from business interruption. However, the heterogeneity of companies is relatively high, and sector-specific analyses were not possible due to the small sample size. Therefore, further sector-specific analyses on the basis of more flood loss data of companies are recommended.
Araneus bonali sp. n., a novel lichen-patterned species found on oak trunks (Araneae, Araneidae)
Authors: Morano Eduardo , Bonal Raul
Published: August 2018

The new species Araneusbonali Morano, sp. n. (Araneae, Araneidae) collected in central and western Spain is described and illustrated. Its novel status is confirmed after a thorough revision of the literature and museum material from the Mediterranean Basin. The taxonomy of Araneus is complicated, but both morphological and molecular data supported the genus membership of Araneusbonali Morano, sp. n. Additionally, the species uniqueness was confirmed by sequencing the barcode gene cytochrome oxidase I from the new species and comparing it with the barcodes available for species of Araneus. A molecular phylogeny, based on nuclear and mitochondrial genes, retrieved a clade with a moderate support that grouped Araneusdiadematus Clerck, 1757 with another eleven species, but neither included Araneusbonali sp. n. nor Araneusangulatus Clerck, 1757, although definitive conclusions about the relationships among Araneus species need more markers examined and a broader taxonomic coverage. The new species was collected on isolated holm oaks and forest patches within agricultural landscapes. Adults were mostly trapped on tree trunks, where their lichen-like colours favour mimicry, while juveniles were collected on tree branches. Specimens were never found either in ground traps or grass samples. This species overwinters as egg, juveniles appear in early spring, but reproduction does not take place until late summer-early autumn. Araneusbonali Morano, sp. n. was found in the same locality from where another new spider species was described. Nature management policies should thus preserve isolated trees as key refuges for forest arthropods in agricultural landscapes, as they may be hosting more unnoticed new species. After including Araneusbonali Morano, sp. n. and removing doubtful records and synonymies, the list of Araneus species in the Iberian Peninsula numbers eight.
Validation d’un questionnaire sur l’alphabétisme en santé des francophones en situation linguistique minoritaire
Authors: Zanchetta Margareth , Maheu Christine , Racine Louise , Kaszap Margot , Jbilou Jalila , Giguère Samuel , Reece Daidre-Ann , Thélusma-Rémy Marlene , Montgomery Catherine , Xenocostas Spyridoula , Parada Henry , Talbot Yves , Mohamed Mohamed
Published: August 2018

Objectif : Cette étude vise à construire et à valider les éléments qualitatifs d’un questionnaire en français destiné à explorer les mécanismes par lesquels les francophones vivant en situation linguistique minoritaire mobilisent leur capital social et leurs atouts culturels vers leur alphabétisme en santé. Méthodes : Nous avons procédé à une révision des données probantes qualitatives provenant d’une étude précédente pour caractériser le capital social et les atouts culturels. À partir de modèles conceptuels sur le capital social des francophones et sur l’auto-détermination du comportement langagier en milieu linguistique minoritaire, nous avons conçu les questions puis évalué la qualité de contenu de l’outil. Par le moyen d’entretiens cognitifs, 92 experts naturels ont testé la validité linguistique et contextuelle du questionnaire, constitué de 21 questions à options de réponses à choix multiples. Des professionnels de recherche ont également été consultés. Résultats : La parcimonie et la lisibilité ont été testées à l’aide du test de Flesch : 19 questions (soit 93 %) ont été classées comme relevant des styles très grand public, assez facile ou courant. La facilité de lecture et d’utilisation du questionnaire a été confirmée par les experts naturels comme par les professionnels de recherche consultés. Conclusion : Cette étude comble une lacune de la recherche en contexte multiculturel en matière d’outils de recueil de données aisément compris et lus par une variété de francophones, soulignant la faiblesse des données probantes liées à la construction de l’alphabétisme familial en santé au sein des francophones en situation linguistique minoritaire.
Évaluation de l’implantation d’un modèle de concertation local en santé et services sociaux
Authors: Roy Mathieu , Pinsonneault Linda , Clapperton Irma , Siga Marie-Louise , Breton Mylaine
Published: August 2018

Objectif : Pour adapter l’offre de services aux besoins des citoyens de sa communauté, une autorité locale de santé a créé un modèle de concertation en santé et services sociaux. Cette démarche reposant sur une gouvernance partagée et diverses stratégies de promotion de la santé priorise des cibles, élabore des actions et mesure leurs effets. Cette étude évalue l’implantation de ce modèle de concertation via trois dimensions : décrire (1) l’implantation du modèle, (2) la prise en considération de l’expérience citoyenne dans la priorisation et l’établissement des plans d’action, (3) les facteurs favorables et défavorables à son implantation. Méthodes : Une méthodologie qualitative comprenant quatre sources de données a été privilégiée ( i.e . entrevue individuelle, groupe de discussion, observation non-participante, analyse de compte-rendu). Une analyse de contenu a été pratiquée sur les entrevues individuelles et les groupes de discussions. L’observation non-participante et l’analyse de comptes-rendus ont bonifié l’évaluation. Résultats : La valorisation des savoirs expérientiels, la participation citoyenne, le leadership partagé, le soutien d’institutions et d’intervenants, le dynamisme des tables de concertation ont été favorables à l’implantation du modèle. Le temps, le langage, la lourdeur de la démarche, l’instabilité du personnel, la réforme récente du réseau québécois et des éléments propres aux tables de concertation ont été défavorables. Conclusion : Le modèle de concertation permet des actions adaptées aux besoins sociaux et de santé d’une population et augmente le sentiment d’appartenance à sa communauté. Des efforts sont nécessaires pour préserver la pertinence, la souplesse et le dynamisme du modèle en contexte de restructuration du réseau québécois.
La lutte contre la mortalité maternelle au Burkina Faso est-elle adaptée pour réduire les trois retards ?
Authors: Sombié Issiakia , Méda Ziemlé Clément , Blaise Geswendé Savadogo Léon , Télesphore Somé Donmozoun , Fatoumata Bamouni Sophie , Dadjoari Moussa , Windsouri Sawadogo Ramata , Sanon-Ouédraogo Djénéba
Published: August 2018

Objectif : En dépit de nombreuses interventions mises en œuvre pour réduire la mortalité maternelle, celle-ci reste toujours élevée au Burkina Faso. Alors, il est apparu important d’analyser la lutte contre la mortalité maternelle au Burkina Faso au cours des quinze dernières années afin d’identifier les forces et faiblesses et aider à mieux réorienter le programme national. Méthodes : Une analyse selon le modèle des trois retards avec la méthode des forces, faiblesses, opportunités et menaces a été réalisée. Les sources de données ont été les publications scientifiques ainsi que la littérature grise au niveau national. Résultats : De nombreuses études ont permis de comprendre les facteurs favorisant le premier retard, mais très peu d’interventions efficaces avec une couverture de l’ensemble du pays ont été réalisées pour le réduire. La construction des infrastructures, la mise en place d’un système de transfert rapide, l’intégration du coût du transfert dans la subvention du coût des accouchements ont été les interventions mises en œuvre pour réduire le deuxième retard. Au niveau du troisième retard, la promotion de la transfusion sanguine, les soins obstétricaux et néonataux d’urgence, l’augmentation du nombre de personnels de santé formés, la délégation de tâches, la subvention puis la gratuité des coûts des accouchements ont été les interventions promues. De façon générale, l’analyse note que les interventions au niveau du premier retard étaient insuffisantes et peu mises en œuvre ; des faiblesses ont été notées concernant les interventions sur les deux derniers retards. Conclusion : L’insuffisance et la faible qualité de mise en œuvre des interventions n’ont pas permis de réduire de façon significative les trois retards. De nouvelles interventions, surtout au niveau de la communauté et le renforcement de la qualité des soins dans les formations sanitaires, devraient être priorisées.
Gastric cancer indocyanine green lymph node navigation surgery: systematic review
Authors: Molteni Beatrice , Porsio Paola , Molfino Sarah , Alfano Marie Sophie , Benedicenti Sara , Catena Fausto , Ansaloni Luca , Portolani Nazario , Baiocchi Gianluca
Published: August 2018

Sentinel lymph node (LN) biopsy is a common practice to determinate if a lymphadenectomy is needed in various malignancies. Recent studies have investigated the possibilities to extend sentinel LN biopsy in gastric cancer. Indocyanine green (ICG) is a diagnostic reagent recently introduce in sentinel LN biopsy field. This review aims to determinate the feasibility to used ICG to detect sentinel LN in gastric cancer.
Initial Validation of a Multilevel Model of Job Satisfaction and Career Intentions Among Collegiate Athletic Trainers
Authors: Eason Christianne M. , Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Pitney William A.
Published: August 2018

Context: 

The constructs of job satisfaction and career intentions in athletic training have been examined predominantly via unilevel assessment. The work-life interface is complex, and with troubling data regarding attrition, job satisfaction and career intentions should be examined via a multilevel model. Currently, no known multilevel model of career intentions and job satisfaction exists within athletic training.

Objective: 

To validate a multilevel model of career intentions and job satisfaction among a collegiate athletic trainer population.

Design: 

Cross-sectional study.

Setting: 

Web-based questionnaire.

Patients or Other Participants: 

Athletic trainers employed in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I, II, or III or a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics college or university (N = 299; 56.5% female, 43.5% male). The average age of participants was 34 ± 8.0 years, and average experience as an athletic trainer was 10.0 ± 8 years.

Main Outcome Measure(s): 

A demographic questionnaire and 7 Likert-scale survey instruments were administered. Variables were responses related to work-family conflict, work-family enrichment, work-time control, perceived organizational family support, perceived supervisor family support, professional identity and values, and attitude toward women.

Results: 

Exploratory factor analysis confirmed 3 subscales: (1) individual factors, (2) organizational factors, and (3) sociocultural factors. The scale was reduced from 88 to 62 items. A Cronbach α of 0.92 indicated excellent internal consistency.

Conclusions: 

A multilevel examination highlighting individual, organizational, and sociocultural factors is a valid and reliable measure of job satisfaction and career identity among athletic trainers employed in the collegiate setting.
Être and paraître: The games of truth in the book of Susanna
Authors: Kanonge Dickh M.
Published: August 2018

Recent literary methods have opened new possibilities in reading and understanding the logic of narratives. The Greimassian approach offers such a possibility. Though Greimas’ approach is by now accepted as part of the canon of narratology, some of its components have not yet received due attention. This is the case with his ‘veridictory square’, a diagram that applies especially to texts where oppositions such as truth-falsehood, hero-villain and subject-anti-subject are prominent themes. This article aims to demonstrate that these kinds of narratives, such as Susanna, do not concern themselves with objective truth but persuasion about truth, that is, veridiction. Truth telling in those stories corresponds to manipulation, exercising a particular cognitive doing or causing to appear as true. In other words, such a manipulation of truth aims at causing people to believe. Using Greimas’ veridictory square built on opposing modalities of being (être) and seeming (paraître), the contrast between reality and appearance, this article provides insight into the games of truth in Susanna and thus offers a new inspiring way of reading these kinds of stories.
Bible translation and gender, challenges and opportunities – with specific reference to sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Mojola Aloo O.
Published: August 2018

This article focuses on issues of gender in Bible translation and looks at how the dominant patriarchal framework that underlies biblical cultures, including both traditional and contemporary cultures, influences biblical interpretation and ensuing Bible translations in diverse languages. This framework undermines gender-neutral or gender-sensitive interpretations and translations of the biblical text in favour of the dominant patriarchal tradition. Belief in biblical inerrancy and infallibility tends to buttress and lend solid unwavering support to the patriarchal standpoint in spite of the diversity and variety of numerous contested, differing and even opposing interpretations on many key biblical teachings. The article seeks to challenge the role of patriarchalism in biblical interpretation and translation drawing on insights from gender studies, translation studies, biblical studies and cultural studies. It seeks to interrogate the ways in which the Bible is used to defend patriarchalism and to propose a gender-sensitive approach rooted in the principles of justice, fairness and the equality of both male and female as created in the divine image.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This article brings to question basic assumptions on issues of gender in the following disciplines – Biblical studies, translation studies and social-cultural studies – and propose a rethinking of these assumptions and if possible their abandonment and replacement by those that promote egalitarianism and justice across the sexes.
Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Characteristics among HIV-Positive Households Participating in the Global Enteric Multicenter Study in Rural Western Kenya, 2008–2012
Authors: Schilling Kathrine A. , Awuor Alex O. , Rajasingham Anu , Moke Fenny , Omore Richard , Amollo Manase , Farag Tamer H. , Nasrin Dilruba , Nataro James P. , Kotloff Karen L. , Levine Myron M. , Ayers Tracy , Laserson Kayla , Blackstock Anna , Rothenberg Richard , Stauber Christine E. , Mintz Eric D. , Breiman Robert F. , O’Reilly Ciara E.
Published: August 2018

Diarrheal illness, a common occurrence among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV), is largely preventable through access to safe drinking water quality, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities. We examined WASH characteristics among households with and without HIV-positive residents enrolled in the Global Enteric Multicenter Study (GEMS) in rural Western Kenya. Using univariable logistic regression, we examined differences between HIV-positive and HIV-negative households in regard to WASH practices. Among HIV-positive households, we explored the relationship between the length of time knowing their HIV status and GEMS enrollment. No statistically significant differences were apparent in the WASH characteristics among HIV-positive and HIV-negative households. However, we found differences in the WASH characteristics among HIV-positive households who were aware of their HIV status ≥ 30 days before enrollment compared with HIV-positive households who found out their status < 30 days before enrollment or thereafter. Significantly more households aware of their HIV-positive status before enrollment reported treating their drinking water (odds ratio [OR] confidence interval [CI]: 2.34 [1.12, 4.86]) and using effective water treatment methods (OR [CI]: 9.6 [3.09, 29.86]), and had better drinking water storage practices. This suggests that within this region of Kenya, HIV programs are effective in promoting the importance of practicing positive WASH-related behaviors among PLHIV.
Nanoindentation study of macerals in coals from the Ukrainian Donets Basin
Authors: Vranjes Sanja , Misch David , Schöberl Thomas , Kiener Daniel , Gross Doris , Sachsenhofer Reinhard F.
Published: August 2018

Abstract. This article discusses the mechanical properties
of macerals in Carboniferous coals from the Ukrainian Donets Basin, covering
a maturity range from 0.62 to 1.47 %Rr (vitrinite reflectance). The
inherent inhomogeneity of geological samples requires characterization at the
micro-/nanoscale, and hence material parameters, such as hardness H and
reduced elastic modulus Er, were obtained from twelve coal specimens via
nanoindentation tests. Different material properties and maturity trends were
acquired for the individual maceral groups (vitrinite, inertinite,
liptinite). The results indicate that apart from maturity, multiple factors
like microstructural features and depositional environment control the
mechanical properties of macerals in coals. H and Er of vitrinites
show a complex relationship with maturity due to additional influence of
microstructural features such as nanoporosity or mineral inclusions and
complex changes in the organic matter structure with increasing rank. The
mechanical behaviour of inertinites is mainly controlled by the prevailing
conditions (temperature, exposure) during paleo-wildfires. Er and H of
liptinites are strongly influenced by transformational processes related to
devolatilization at low to medium rank, as well as later hydrocarbon
generation. Variations in the depositional environment (e.g. increased
organic S content due to marine influence) might play an additional role.
A classification algorithm for selective dynamical downscaling of precipitation extremes
Authors: Meredith Edmund P. , Rust Henning W. , Ulbrich Uwe
Published: August 2018

Abstract. High-resolution climate data O(1 km) at the catchment scale can be of
great value to both hydrological modellers and end users, in particular for
the study of extreme precipitation. While dynamical downscaling with
convection-permitting models is a valuable approach for producing quality
high-resolution O(1 km) data, its added value can often not be
realized due to the prohibitive computational expense. Here we present a
novel and flexible classification algorithm for discriminating between days
with an elevated potential for extreme precipitation over a catchment and
days without, so that dynamical downscaling to convection-permitting
resolution can be selectively performed on high-risk days only, drastically
reducing total computational expense compared to continuous simulations; the
classification method can be applied to climate model data or reanalyses.
Using observed precipitation and the corresponding synoptic-scale circulation
patterns from reanalysis, characteristic extremal circulation patterns are
identified for the catchment via a clustering algorithm. These extremal
patterns serve as references against which days can be classified as
potentially extreme, subject to additional tests of relevant meteorological
predictors in the vicinity of the catchment. Applying the classification
algorithm to reanalysis, the set of potential extreme days (PEDs) contains
well below 10 % of all days, though it includes essentially all extreme days;
applying the algorithm to reanalysis-driven regional climate simulations over
Europe (12 km resolution) shows similar performance, and the subsequently
dynamically downscaled simulations (2 km resolution) well reproduce the
observed precipitation statistics of the PEDs from the training period. Additional tests on continuous 12 km resolution historical and future (RCP8.5)
climate simulations, downscaled in 2 km resolution time slices, show
the algorithm again reducing the number of days to simulate by over 90 % and
performing consistently across climate regimes. The downscaling framework we
propose represents a computationally inexpensive means of producing
high-resolution climate data, focused on extreme precipitation, at the
catchment scale, while still retaining the advantages of
convection-permitting dynamical downscaling.
Ibn al-Jaṭīb y la poesía: El Kitāb A´mal al-a´lām, ejemplo de antología poética de al-Andalus
Authors: De Castro León Víctor
Published: August 2018

El presente estudio tiene por objeto la exposición y análisis de la poesía que el sabio granadino del s. XIV Ibn al-Jaṭīb incluyó en su obra histórica Kitāb A´māl al-a´lām. Estas muestras poéticas, algunas de gran extensión, constituyen una selecta antología de poesía andalusí de todas las épocas de la presencia islámica en la Península Ibérica.
Eastern Wisdom: Nizami Ganjawi’s Romance Genre
Authors: Minuchehr Pardis
Published: August 2018

Eastern Wisdom: Nizami Ganjawi’s Romance Genre
Espaços-tempos da Infância Terena: do quintal de casa à escola indígena
Authors: De Jesus Naine Terena
Published: August 2018

Este artigo traz informações sobre os espaços da infância do povo indígena Terena, que possui grande parte de sua população no estado de Mato Grosso do Sul - Brasil. O texto é resultado de imersão realizada durante as pesquisas de campo de doutorado, concluído no ano de 2014 e busca apresentar aspectos da infância Terena e suas particularidades, a fim de levar ao leitor uma das diversas infâncias existentes, proporcionando argumentos para a problematização do local da criança na estrutura social de cada povo e das instituições voltadas as crianças.
Impacts of Land Use and Cover Changes on Transhumant Pastoralism in Sudanian Zones of Burkina Faso, West Africa
Authors: Sanou Charles L. , Zampaligré Nouhoun , Tsado Daniel N. , Kiema André , Sieza Yssouf
Published: August 2018

This research aimed to investigate how the rapid land use and cover changes is affecting pastoral resources and practices within Kompienga province in Sudanian zone of Burkina Faso. To achieve this aim, Landsat images data of years 1989, 2001, 2013 and 2015 were retrieved and analysed. Images were acquired following the path 193 and row 52, from Landsat-5 Thematic Mapper (TM), Landsat-7 Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+) and Landsat-8 Operational Land Imager (OLI). Images processing were done using 350 training sample for both; the purpose of supervised classification and accuracy assessment. Random Forest Algorithm (RFA) procedures in R-Software (version 3.3.2) were used for images classification. Furthermore, survey data were collected through group discussions and individual interviews with a 271 head of household respondents (pastoralists and agro-pastoralists) to investigate respondents’ perceptions on land uses and covers changes and its impacts on their pastoral and agro pastoral resources and animal husbandry practices. Results showed that Land use dynamics was characterized by an increase in croplands at an average rate of 46.7 % per year, between 1989 and 2015. On the contrary a decline of pasture lands was observed since 2001 at an average rate of 6.0 % per year. Similar trends in land uses changes were observed by interviewed respondents who depicted an increase in cropping lands (98.5 % of respondents) to the detriment of pasture lands (97.8 % of respondents). To overcome these land use/land cover changes and it subsequent consequences, respondent pastoralists and agro pastoralists have developed local adaptations strategies. Thus, some measures are still needed at government level to sustain local pastoralist and agro-pastoralist efforts and strengthen their adaptive capacity.
Estado de las desigualdades de género en el mercado de trabajo de El Salvador
Authors: López Edgar Lara
Published: August 2018

Este artículo es un análisis del mercado de trabajo desde una perspectiva de género, con el propósito de determinar las condiciones y oportunidades de mujeres y hombres como fuerza de trabajo y como agentes económicos.TEORÍA Y PRAXIS Año 10, No.20, Enero-Mayo de 2012, pp.3-21
Comentario de Texto de Castillo José María, La humanidad de Dios, Trotta, Madrid 2012.
Authors: García Rodríguez Ángel Iván
Published: August 2018

TEORÍA Y PRAXIS año 10, No.21, Junio-Diciembre de 2012, pp.91-95
El sentido filosófico de la vida en el pensamiento existencialista : Una lectura desde Ellacuría
Authors: Carrillo Ronald
Published: August 2018

La pregunta por el sentido de la vida y la filosofía nacen al mismo tiempo en el mundo griego. La angustia que genera la finitud de la existencia humana es la que motiva al hombre a preguntarse por el sentido de la vida. El pensamiento existencialista retoma la cuestión del hombre y su existencia, volviendo a reﬂexionar sobre la libertad y la historia. Este trabajo busca identificar los conceptos relacionados con el sentido de la vida en el pensamiento existencialista aplicando el método de historización. La tesis central en este escrito es que dichos conceptos inﬂuyen en la filosofía de Ellacuría permitiéndole proponer al ser humano histórico como fundamento filosófico del sentido de la vida.TEORÍA Y PRAXIS año 16, No.32, Enero-Mayo de 2018, pp.29-44
El autoritarismo de derechas como sustrato psicosocial de odio
Authors: Orellana Carlos Iván
Published: August 2018

Una expresión y un instigador probable de la psicología de los crímenes de odio es el llamado autoritarismo de derechas. Estas tendencias antidemocráticas, conservadoras y punitivas son identificables en El Salvador de hoy vinculadas a las condiciones de alta inseguridad, violencia e incertidumbre que experimenta el país. El artículo teoriza sobre el autoritarismo de derechas y ofrece los resultados de una escala original para medir el fenómeno. Los resultados principales reconfirman que las actitudes autoritarias existen en la población salvadoreña y que se ven alimentadas por aspectos como la percepción de anomia o del prejuicio hacia los delincuentes. Se concluye con algunas implicaciones y posibilidades futuras de investigación.TEORÍA Y PRAXIS año 16, No.32, Enero-Mayo de 2018, pp.105-136
Framework for apprenticeship in ethical comportment and formation
Authors: Priddy Kristen D.
Published: August 2018

Recently the literature on preparing students for nursing and other professions has emphasized the need for attention to civility, ethical comportment, and formation of professional identity.  Nursing educators play a key role in supporting the formation of ethical comportment and professional nursing identity. Although a number of frameworks exist for the formation of identity, there are none that address the interaction between nursing educators and students or the role of nursing educators in implementing effective pedagogies for formation. In this article a framework developed from existing literature is proposed to guide nursing educator practice in stimulating and supporting the process of professional identity formation and ethical comportment in nursing students. The framework will also serve as a guide for future research in the process of formation of ethical comportment and professional identity.
Mesurer l’effet du travail salarié sur la réussite : une analyse statistique sur les étudiants d’une université française
Authors: Body Kady Marie-Danielle , Bonnal Liliane , Giret Jean-François
Published: August 2018

L’emploi étudiant est généralement considéré comme un frein à la réussite scolaire et universitaire. Nos travaux portant sur une enquête réalisée dans une université française en 2012 visent à mesurer les effets des caractéristiques de l’emploi et, notamment, de son intensité. À partir d’une modélisation statistique prenant en compte la probabilité d’accès au travail salarié, nous montrons un effet négatif de l’emploi salarié pour les étudiants qui travaillent plus de 8 heures par semaine. Le type d’emploi exercé a également un effet sur les chances de réussite : les jeunes ayant un emploi dans le secteur public et ceux qui ont la possibilité d’aménager leur emploi du temps paraissent moins touchés par l’échec.
Mindfulness and autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR)
Authors: Fredborg Beverley K. , Clark James M. , Smith Stephen D.
Published: August 2018

Background

Autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) is a perceptual phenomenon in which specific audiovisual stimuli frequently elicit tingling sensations on the scalp and neck. These stimuli (“ASMR triggers”) are typically social in nature (e.g., watching someone brush their hair, hearing whispering,) and often elicit a calm and positive emotional state that may last up to several minutes. ASMR experiences phenomenologically overlap with mindfulness; however, no research has directly examined how mindfulness might relate to ASMR.

Methods

In the current study, 284 individuals with ASMR completed the Toronto Mindfulness Scale (TMS), the Mindful Attention and Awareness Scale (MAAS), and a questionnaire examining ASMR experiences. Age- and sex-matched control participants were asked to view two ASMR-eliciting videos to ensure that they did not experience tingling sensations associated with ASMR; they then completed the TMS and MAAS questionnaires.

Results

When compared with matched controls, individuals with ASMR generated significantly higher scores on the MAAS, a global measure of mindfulness, as well as significantly higher scores on the Curiosity subscale of the TMS.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the sensory-emotional experiences associated with ASMR may be partially explained by a distinct subset of characteristics associated with mindfulness.
Redox‐control of chlorophyll biosynthesis mainly depends on thioredoxins
Authors: Richter Andreas S. , Pérez‐Ruiz Juan M. , Cejudo Francisco Javier , Grimm Bernhard
Published: August 2018

In order to maintain enzyme stability and activity, chloroplasts use two systems of thiol‐disulfide reductases for the control of redox‐dependent properties of proteins. Previous studies have revealed that plastid‐localized thioredoxins (TRX) and the NADPH‐dependent thioredoxin reductase C (NTRC) are important for the reduction of cysteine residues of enzymes involved in chlorophyll synthesis. Very recently, it was shown that the pale green phenotype of the ntrc mutant is suppressed when the contents of 2‐cysteine peroxiredoxins (2CP) A and B are decreased. Here, we show that suppression of the ntrc phenotype results from a recovery of wild‐type‐like redox control of chlorophyll biosynthesis enzymes in ntrc/2cp mutants. The presented results support the conclusion that TRXs rather than NTRC are the predominant reductases mediating the redox‐regulation of these enzymes.
Living Bacteria in Thermoresponsive Gel for Treating Fungal Infections
Authors: Lufton Maayan , Bustan Or , Eylon Bat‐hen , Shtifman‐Segal Ella , Croitoru‐Sadger Tsuf , Shagan Alona , Shabtay‐Orbach Ayelet , Corem‐Salkmon Enav , Berman Judith , Nyska Abraham , Mizrahi Boaz
Published: August 2018

The leading living bacteria formulations currently available are from a limited list of genera and are generally limited to gastrointestinal tract syndromes. A formulation composed of living Bacillus subtilis incorporated in a thermoresponsive hydrogel that hardens after administration on the skin and continuously produces antifungal agents is described. The ability of the formula to support bacteria growth and its mechanical properties and penetrability through the skin are fine‐tuned by varying the ratio between polymer concentrations and bacterial media. The formula penetrates via the stratum corneum and accumulates in the epidermis without penetrating the inner, dermis layer. In vivo results mirror the results seen in vitro: bacillus formulations completely inhibit candida growth, demonstrating clinical effects comparable to those achieved by ketoconazole. LC‐MS/MS analysis of the bacterial formulation confirms the presence of surfactin, the most powerful biosurfactant that possesses a broad antifungal activity. This platform may enable rational design of novel formulations composed of secreting bacteria inside a responsive, smart, hydrogel—which is the prerequisite for producing a successful drug delivery system.
Recent Advances in Zn‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Song Ming , Tan Hua , Chao Dongliang , Fan Hong Jin
Published: August 2018

The ever‐growing demands for electrical energy storage have stimulated the pursuit of alternative advanced batteries. Zn‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are receiving increased attentions due to the low cost, high safety, and high eco‐efficiency. However, it is still a big challenge to develop suitable cathode materials for intercalation of Zn ions. This review provides a timely access for researchers to the recent activities regarding ZIBs. First, cathode materials including various manganese oxides, vanadium compounds, and Prussian blue analogs are summarized with details in crystal structures and Zn ion storage mechanisms. Then, the electrolytes and their influences on the electrochemical processes are discussed. Finally, opinions on the current challenge of ZIBs and perspective to future research directions are provided.
Photoactive Bismuth Vanadate Structure for Light‐Triggered Dissociation of Alzheimer's β‐Amyloid Aggregates
Authors: Kim Kayoung , Lee Sahng Ha , Choi Da Som , Park Chan Beum
Published: August 2018

Bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) is an attractive, low‐cost n‐type semiconductor that exhibits excellent photoelectrocatalytic properties, chemical stability, and biocompatibility. This study reports a newly discovered function of BiVO4 dissociating highly stable, self‐assembled amyloid aggregates associated with Alzheimer's disease. A visible light‐active, nanoporous BiVO4 platform is developed to break β‐amyloid (Aβ) assemblies and alleviate Aβ aggregate‐induced toxicity. Multiple photochemical and microscopic analyses reveal that β‐sheet‐rich, long Aβ fibrils are effectively destabilized and broken into small‐sized, soluble species by BiVO4 photoelectrode under illumination of a white light‐emitting diode and an anodic bias. The photoactivated BiVO4 under anodic bias generates oxidative stress, such as superoxide ions and hole‐derived hydrogen peroxide, which causes photooxidation of Aβ residues and irreversible disassembly of Aβ aggregates. The efficacy of photoelectrocatalytic dissociation of Aβ aggregates is enhanced by Mo‐doped BiVO4, which facilitates the separation of electron–hole pairs by improving electron‐transport properties of BiVO4. Furthermore, it is verified that both pristine and Mo‐doped BiVO4 photoelectrodes are nontoxic and effective in reducing Aβ‐associated cytotoxicity. The work shows the potential of BiVO4‐based photoelectrode platforms for the dissociation of neurotoxic, highly stable Aβ assemblies using light energy.