bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Groundwater Pumping on Seawater Intrusion in Coastal Aquifers
Authors: Sherif M.M. , Singh V.P.
Published: June 2017

Many aquifers around the globe are located in coastal areas and are thus subjected to the seawater intrusion phenomenon. The growth of population in coastal areas and the conjugate increase in human, agricultural, and industrial activities have imposed an increasing demand for freshwater. This increase in water demand is often covered by extensive pumping of fresh groundwater, causing subsequent lowering of the water table (or piezometric head) and upsetting the dynamic balance between freshwater and saline water bodies. The classical result of such a development is seawater intrusion. This paper presents a review for the seawater intrusion phenomenon in coastal aquifers. The effect of pumping activities on the seawater intrusion in the Nile Delta aquifer of Egypt is investigated. It was concluded that any additional pumping should be located in the middle Delta and avoided in the eastern and western sides of the Delta.
Dual Pump Recovery (DPR) System to Extract Freshwater in Coastal Aquifers
Authors: Otto C.
Published: June 2017

The paper describes the hydraulic theory of recovering a dense plume using a newly devised dual pump recover system (DPR) and its feasibility to half the remediation time of a contaminated unconfined aquifer in a coastal urban environment. Although the DPR system was successfully applied to clean up the polluted aquifer, the hydraulic principles and techniques are also applicable to extract fresh groundwater from coastal aquifers without the risk of saltwater incursion.
Apresentação do Grão-Chanceler
Authors: Santos Dom Airton José dos
Published: June 2017

Prezados leitores, a apresentação deste trabalho reflete o horizonte traçado pelo empenho desta instituição, a Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas, em apresentar claramente e sem equívocos, sua identidade e sua missão.
Universidade Católica em diálogo, à luz do Concílio Vaticano II
Authors: Rocha Dom Sérgio Da
Published: June 2017

No contexto de celebração do Jubileu do Concílio Vaticano II, torna-se ainda mais importante retomar as grandes linhas eclesiológicas desse Concílio, especialmente a relação Igreja-sociedade ou Igreja-mundo da Gaudium et Spes (GS), um dos quatro maiores documentos do Concílio, classificado como “Constituição Pastoral”, que trata da Igreja no mundo de hoje. Neste ano, estamos celebrando o Jubileu de ouro da publicação da GS (07.12.1965). Durante o Concílio, surgiu outro texto valioso que resume muito bem a postura da Igreja na sociedade, que é a primeira encíclica do Papa Paulo VI, chamada Ecclesiam Suam (ES), publicada em 1964, um dos mais belos tratados sobre o diálogo na Igreja, em profunda sintonia com a perspectiva eclesiológica da Gaudium et Spes, que pode ser resumida pelos termos “diálogo” e “serviço”.
A dignidade humana e o ensino jurídico nas Universidades Católicas
Authors: Gaspar Renata Alvares
Published: June 2017

O presente trabalho teve por objeto a realização de reflexões sobre o ensino jurídico no âmbito das Universidades Católicas tendo como estrutura e moldura a proteção da dignidade humana, como mandato da proteção internacional dos Direitos Humanos. Ademais, se buscou estudar os desafios recíprocos – tanto para o Direito quanto para a Universidade – a fim de que o ensino Jurídico à luz do cristianismo cumpra sua missão de humanidade. Para o Direito, nas Universidades Católicas, o ponto alto de remodelação e superação de paradigmas nas ciências jurídicas ocorre com a juridificação dos Direitos Humanos. No caso brasileiro esta temática, com maior pujança, se consolidou a partir dos debates e da entrada em vigor da Constituição Federal de 1988. Ao final, se concluiu que o desafio maior não é da Universidade frente ao Direito, mas sim da Faculdade de Direito – e seus conteúdos –, que precisou e segue precisando se pensar e repensar, à luz da proteção da dignidade humana, dentro da missão a que se propõem as Instituições de Ensino Superior Católicas.
Discursos do nacional no romance brasileiro contemporâneo: Dois irmãos e Cidade de Deus
Authors: Mata Anderson Luís Nunes da
Published: June 2017

As relações entre as imagens do nacional e o romance brasileiro contemporâneo oscilam entre a crítica à tradição de fazer representar a nação na narrativa e a adesão a modelos estabelecidos no século XIX. O artigo discute como os romances Cidade de Deus , de Paulo Lins, e Dois irmãos, de Milton Hatoum, representam uma permanência da relação entre o romance e a representação da nação por meio de aspectos temáticos e formais.
O fruto do desencanto: suicídio e alienação em A maçã envenenada, de Michel Laub
Authors: Lehnen Leila
Published: June 2017

Este artigo propõe uma leitura do romance A maçã envenenada (2013) de Michel Laub como uma alegoria do Brasil pós-ditadura. Tendo o suicídio e a tragédia (no sentido de calamidade) como eixo organizador, o livro pode ser lido como a alegoria da derrota (Avelar, 1999) que indica o fim de uma coletividade e, em termos mais amplos, o fim das utopias sociais e políticas no contexto pós-transicional brasileiro. Este artigo demonstrará como o romance de Laub usa o suicídio para alegorizar a “derrota” das utopias sociais e políticas, resultado não somente da ditadura, mas também do processo transicional brasileiro e da realidade política e econômica do país após a democratização.
A representação do trabalho em João Dias e Luís Bernardo Honwana
Authors: Vecchia da Rocha e Silva Rejane , Reghini de Mattos Tatiane
Published: June 2017

Este artigo apresenta, em perspectiva comparatista, uma análise de dois contos moçambicanos, “Godido”, de João Dias, e “As mãos dos pretos”, de Luís Bernardo Honwana, a partir, principalmente, da representação das condições de trabalho do negro dentro da estrutura colonial portuguesa do século XX em Moçambique.
A study on rational drugs prescribing in General out Patient Department (GOPD) BPKIHS, a tertiary care teaching University at Dharan, Eastern part of Nepal
Authors: Rai Bijendra Kumar , Rai B , Pun S , Mahat S , Sharma M K , Shingh S S
Published: June 2017

Background: A prescription is standard form that is used by doctors to prescribe medicines. A prescription done ideally include some demographic profile and detail instructions of what medicines should be given to whom, what formulations, how much doses, by which route, when, how frequently and for how long. The rational drugs prescribing and prescription writing is important in patient care. The incomplete prescription and irrational drugs would be harmful to patient. The WHO has defined rational use of medicines as requiring that “patients receive medications appropriate to their clinical needs, in doses that meet their own requirements for an adequate period of time at the lowest cost to them and their community.” Assessment of prescription pattern helps in formulating prescribing policies of the institution. Objective: The study aims to finding out the prescription writing skill on the base rational drug prescribing in GOPD, BPKIHS.Method: A cross sectional study was conducted in GOPD, BPKIHS, in two week period from 13th July 2012 to 27th July 2012. A semi structured questionnaire was used to document difficult variables and interviewing the patients. A total number of 100 prescriptions were analyzed and the same number determined.Results: The number of male and female patients was 57 and 43 respectively. The minimum age recorded was 15 and maximum age 85. The mean age was 38.64 ±18.702 (range 15-85 years). General physical examination and systemic examination were mentioned in 63 and 72% cases respectively. Likewise 91 % cases were advised for laboratory investigations. Provisional and final diagnoses were mentioned in 49% and 54% respectively. Forty-six patients were treated on empirical basis. Six percent of patients were prescribed more 5 items, 18% patients. 4 items and 36 % patients were prescribed 3 items of drugs. Only 31% patients were prescribed 2 items of drugs that would meet the criteria of World Health Organization guide to prescription. Common side effects of prescribed drugs were not mentioned in 84$ patients. Drug prescribing in the GOPD of BPKIHS is not as per  the WHO guidelines with many missing important details. Seventeen percent of patients had no recall, only 29% of patients had excellent recall for how to take prescribed medicines. In 51% patients special advises related with prescribed drugs were provided. The follow up visit was mentioned in 78% patients. Seventy percent patients did not known the name of treating doctors and 58% patients were happy with the doctor’s consultation.Conclusion: A majority of the doctors were not able to correctly define rational drugs prescribing and there is missing many important details in prescription writing. Therefore an educational intervention regarding the rational drug prescribing and prescription writing skills should be carried out in all doctors working in GOPD.Health Renaissance 2015;13(2): 72-79
Morphometric sex determination from mastoid triangle in South Indian population
Authors: Singh Pankaj Kumar , Menezes RG , Shetty BSK , Rastogi P , Kanchan T , Rao J , P P , Y.P RB
Published: June 2017

No abstract availableHealth Renaissance 2015;13(2): 105-113
Neglected scenario of sanitation in schools of Sunsari district of Nepal: Critical sphere for public health consideration
Authors: Rai Pramila , Sah R B , Rijal R , Pokharel PK
Published: June 2017

Background: Provision of adequate water supply, sanitation facilities, hygiene and waste management in schools reduces the disease burden among children, staff and their families. Every child has equal right to grow in a safe and sound environment. However, levels of water supply, sanitation and hygiene are unacceptable in many schools worldwide.Method: Study included forty schools comprising twenty public and twenty private schools of Sunsari district selected by simple random sampling method. The status of school environment and sanitation were assessed by using observation and interview method using observation checklist, questionnaires and photographs.Result: Two public schools were completely devoid of sanitary facilities though toilet facility was present physically. Students couldn’t use toilet due to lack of water in one school due to theft of tube well and septic tank of the toilet was full in another school. Other remaining schools didn’t have satisfactory, clean and proper sanitary facilities. Only few schools had convenient hand washing point.Conclusion: Sanitation facilities were in neglected state evidenced by unavailability of sanitation facilities even though that was physically present and the sanitation facilities were in pitiable condition including cleanliness, water supply. All the stakeholders including school management, supervisors, parents, teachers, students should be ready to play vital role on their own. Lack of one toilet affects no. of students and people of surrounding area and raises of risk of soil transmitted diseases so this situation demands attention of authorities and other stakeholders.Health Renaissance 2015;13(2): 114-124
Agreement on diabetic retinopathy grading in fundus photographs by allied ophthalmic personnel as compared to ophthalmologist at a community setting in Nepal
Authors: Thapa Raba , Bajimaya Sanyam , Pradhan Eli , Paudyal Govinda
Published: June 2017

Introduction: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the emerging cause of blindness in the developing world. Timely detection of DR could save vision from its avoidable blinding condition. Objective: To assess the accuracy of DR grading in fundus photographs by the allied ophthalmic personnel (AOP) as compared to ophthalmologist at a community setting in Nepal. Materials and methods: Fundus photographs of known diabetes subjects attending for DR screening were graded by two groups of AOP and ophthalmologist. Agreement for DR grading by the AOP versus ophthalmologist was assessed using kappa coefficient (k). Results: Fundus photographs of 864 eyes of 435 subjects with diabetes were evaluated in the study. The agreement was substantial for detection of normal versus abnormal retina by both the AOP 1 and AOP 2. For normal versus abnormal macula, the agreement was substantial for AOP 1 and moderate for AOP 2. The agreement for grading macular exudates, retinal hemorrhage, venous beading ranged from moderate to substantial for both the AOPs. There was overall substantial agreement for diagnosing cases with or without DR and CSME by both the AOP 1 and AOP 2. The agreement ranged from fair to moderate for diagnosing other stages of NPDR by both the AOPs. Conclusion: Allied ophthalmic personnel with training could be a first level DR screener and referral of vision threatening DR. Three out of five diabetics could be managed at community level and thus reduce work load of ophthalmologist. This DR screening modality can be useful in other resource limited countries.
Demographic pattern and clinical characteristics of optic neuritis in a tertiary eye care centre
Authors: Godar Manita Sunam , Sharma Ananda Kumar , Thapa Madhu , Sitaula Sanjeeta , Gurung Shanti
Published: June 2017

Purpose: To study the demographic pattern and clinical characteristics of optic neuritis cases in a tertiary eye care centre in Nepal. Design: Descriptive, cross-sectional study. Methodology: Complete ocular examination was done in all the newly diagnosed cases of optic neuritis presenting from January 1st 2012 to June 30th 2013. Demographic pattern, clinical features, visual acuity, colour vision, contrast sensitivity and visual field defects were studied. Results: Sixty seven eyes of 50 patients (28 females and 22 males) with optic neuritis were included in the study. The mean age was 34.32 years ± 13.72 years. The male: female ratio was 1:1.27. All the cases presented with complaint of blurring of vision. Painful ocular movement was noted in 58%. On ophthalmoscopic examination around 2/3rd of eyes suffered from papillitis (72%) and 1/3rd from retrobulbar optic neuritis (27%). Only one case of neuroretinitis (1%) was seen in the study. The colour vision pattern was variable. Contrast sensitivity was reduced in 94%. Centrocaecal scotoma was seen in 10.5%. Conclusion: Females were predominantly affected. Unilateral involvement was the most common presenting as papillitis.
Ultrasound evaluation of normal orbital preseptal thickness
Authors: Shrestha A , Shrestha S , Koirala P , Pun B
Published: June 2017

Introduction: Orbital preseptal thickness is an important parameter not only in diagnosis of orbital cellulitis but also in recent classification and management of dark eye circle (DEC). Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate normal preseptal thickness and collect baseline data in normal skin in a given population with no orbital pathology. Materials & method: Ultrasound was performed on 42 patients (23 females and 19 males) with clinically normal eyes and orbits for evaluation of normal orbital preseptal thickness. The age ranged between 15 to 35 years with a mean age of 24.9 years. Results: Our study concluded that normal preseptal thickness ranged from 2.1 mm to 5.5 mm. Mean preseptal thickness for both sides was 3.9 mm. Conclusion: Ultrasound can be used as quick, reliable and cost–effective modality for evaluation of orbital preseptal thickness.
Clinical Patterns and risk factors for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment at a tertiary eye care centre of northern India
Authors: Takkar Brijesh , Azad Shorya , Bhatia Indrish , Azad Rajvardhan
Published: June 2017

Purpose: To identify patterns and risk factors for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD) in northern India. Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted at a tertiary care centre in northern India. 378 consecutive records of patient, operated between January 2011 to June 2012 were included for analysis. Clinical history, signs and risk factors of RD were evaluated. Comparison was done with available literature from other developing nations. Results: Mean age of the patients was 40.12 + 20.43 years (Range 12-85 years); 81% were male and half of the patients presented after 1 month of visual symptoms. Retinal breaks were discovered commonly in the temporal region, while no break was found in10% of the patients. PVR more than grade C was seen in a third of the patients. Prior surgery for cataract was found to be the most common identifiable risk factor for RD (40%). Bilateral RD was seen in 13% of the patients. Conclusion: Pseudophakia is the commonest risk factor for RD. If no retinal break is discovered pre operatively, the surgeon should seek a retinal break temporally during surgery. Bilateral RD is a serious concern for rural northern India, probably linked to delayed presentation.
Retinal necrosis as the initial presentation of primary intraocular lymphoma
Authors: Majumder Parthopratim Dutta , Raghothaman Nirupama , Kharel Ranju , Kumar Nitin , Khetan Vikas
Published: June 2017

A 72 years old female presented with bilateral painless progressive loss of vision over one year. She was diagnosed as non-resolving bilateral panuveitis. Her visual acuity in right eye was hand movement close to face and left eye was perception of light with inaccurate projection of rays. Bilateral anterior chamber had 1+ cells and flares. Vitreous cells had 1+ cells and haze in right eye but the left eye had 3+ vitreous cells and haze. Right eye fundus had multiple, discrete sub retinal yellowish deposits with subretinal haemorrhage and macular edema with perivascular infiltrates. In left eye, disc was just visible. The patient underwent diagnostic vitrectomy in left eye and undiluted vitreous sample on cytology showed reactive large lymphoid cells with necrotic background pattern suggestive of intraocular lymphoma. Patient underwent external beam radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Nocardia Arthritidis Keratitis: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Gieger Andrew , Waller Stephen , Pasternak Joseph
Published: June 2017

Introduction: Keratitis due to Nocardia infection is not commonly encountered in clinical practice and may therefore be mistaken for fungal or viral keratitis leading to delayed treatment and increased risk of permanent visual impairment. Case: An otherwise healthy 27 years old Caucasian Active Duty military member presented to the clinic with three days of light sensitivity and irritation of his right eye. He carried a history of PRK in both eyes six years prior and admitted to recent contact lens overuse. With empiric treatment for typical bacterial keratitis including corticosteroids, his condition worsened on close follow-up. While awaiting cultures, a shift to fortified topical antibiotics tobramycin, moxifloxacin and ciprofloxacin showed improvement with closure of the epithelial defect. Ulcerative relapse occurred with withdrawal of therapy. Culture proven Nocardia arthritidis prompted successful treatment with topical antibiotic amikacin. On follow-up at three months, the patient was doing well with a small peripheral anterior stromal scar without permanent visual sequelae. Visual acuity returned to baseline of 20/20 in the affected eye. Conclusion: Keratitis caused by Nocardia species, including arthritidis, responds well to amikacin. Late diagnosis and early treatment withdrawal may lead to a prolonged recovery. Current literature indicates that corticosteroids may be harmful in the treatment of Nocardia keratitis. Increased awareness of Nocardia as an ocular pathogen has the potential to reduce unnecessary morbidity related to delayed diagnosis, inadequate therapy and inappropriate use of corticosteroids.
Mechanical and physiological effect of partial pressure suit: Experiment and numerical study
Authors: Yang Tao , Ding Li , Zhang Haibo , Xue Lihao , Zhang Wei , Chen Lianyun , Xiao Huajun , Qiao Huiting
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND:

During high-altitude flight, the protection of the pilot is vital. A partial pressure suit may affect human physiology, especially circulatory physiology.

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this study was to investigate how a partial pressure suit works.

METHOD:

Ten subjects took part in the flight simulation experiments. Counter pressure at the chest, abdomen, thigh and shank were detected, together with physiological parameters such as heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO) and total peripheral resistance (TPR). A numerical model was also established to simulate hemo-physiological effects of the partial pressure suit.

RESULTS:

The experiment’s results show the non-uniform counter pressure distribution in different parts of the body. There is a linear, proportional relation between TPR and the pressurizing level. HR and MAP increase along with that of the pressure level. SV and CO decrease with the increase of the pressure level. The numerical model simulated the physiological effect of a partial pressure suit. The results were verified by experiment data. The simulation estimated the change of blood flow with the pressure level.

CONCLUSIONS:

The numerical model provides a potential way to improve the protection of pilots.
The Heinemann International Library, 1890–7
Authors: Rees Kathy
Published: June 2017

William Heinemann's first major publishing venture was the ‘Heinemann International Library’ edited by Edmund Gosse. This grew into a series of twenty works of fiction translated into English. Notable for introducing Victorian readers to cultures as unfamiliar as those of Austria, Bulgaria, and Poland, the series is sometimes viewed as illustrating the growing British interest in little-known European literatures. An examination of the interactions between authors, translators, publisher, and editor, together with a sample of comments by contemporary reviewers, suggests, however, that this series of mostly realist novels was more contentious than has previously been recognized. This analysis explores the difficulties of marketing foreign novels in translation, particularly the demand for dynamic equivalence, achieved at the cost of suppressing innovative stylistic or linguistic qualities.
l-Amino Acid Production by a Immobilized Double-Racemase Hydantoinase Process: Improvement and Comparison with a Free Protein System
Authors: Rodríguez-Alonso María , Rodríguez-Vico Felipe , Las Heras-Vázquez Francisco , Clemente-Jiménez Josefa
Published: June 2017

Protein immobilization is proving to be an environmentally friendly strategy for manufacturing biochemicals at high yields and low production costs. This work describes the optimization of the so-called “double-racemase hydantoinase process,” a system of four enzymes used to produce optically pure l-amino acids from a racemic mixture of hydantoins. The four proteins were immobilized separately, and, based on their specific activity, the optimal whole relation was determined. The first enzyme, d,l-hydantoinase, preferably hydrolyzes d-hydantoins from d,l-hydantoins to N-carbamoyl-d-amino acids. The remaining l-hydantoins are racemized by the second enzyme, hydantoin racemase, and continue supplying substrate d-hydantoins to the first enzyme. N-carbamoyl-d-amino acid is racemized in turn to N-carbamoyl-l-amino acid by the third enzyme, carbamoyl racemase. Finally, the N-carbamoyl-l-amino acid is transformed to l-amino acid by the fourth enzyme, l-carbamoylase. Therefore, the product of one enzyme is the substrate of another. Perfect coordination of the four activities is necessary to avoid the accumulation of reaction intermediates and to achieve an adequate rate for commercial purposes. The system has shown a broad pH optimum of 7–9, with a maximum activity at 8 and an optimal temperature of 60 °C. Comparison of the immobilized system with the free protein system showed that the reaction velocity increased for the production of norvaline, norleucine, ABA, and homophenylalanine, while it decreased for l-valine and remained unchanged for l-methionine.
Adolescents’ Knowledge of Breastfeeding and Their Intention to Breastfeed in the Future
Authors: Čatipović Marija , Voskresensky Baričić Tamara , Rokvić Sunčana , Grgurić Josip
Published: June 2017

The aim of this paper is to analyze third-year secondary school students’ knowledge of breastfeeding and intention to breastfeed their children, based on the results of a questionnaire. The respondents were 154 students (101 female/43 male) of two secondary schools in Bjelovar. The students completed a questionnaire which consisted of 23 questions regarding knowledge and intention to breastfeed. The answers were analyzed statistically and different results were compared by nonparametric tests. About half of the respondents think that both partners should decide on breastfeeding and recognize the role that fathers have in initiating and maintaining breastfeeding. Only 13.64% of the respondents know that breastfeeding is to be done only on demand. Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, as recommended by the medical profession, is recognized by 70.13% of the students. The question on how justified is the initiation of formula together with the mother’s milk was answered correctly by 29.22% of the students. Secondary school students’ knowledge of breastfeeding is insufficient, and schools, families, social communities and other sources of information should share the responsibility for improving this. We consider it necessary to pay more attention to improving students’ knowledge of breastfeeding through school curricula.
The Mehler-Fock Transform in Signal Processing
Authors: Lenz Reiner
Published: June 2017

Many signals can be described as functions on the unit disk (ball). In the framework of group representations it is well-known how to construct Hilbert-spaces containing these functions that have the groups SU(1,N) as their symmetry groups. One illustration of this construction is three-dimensional color spaces in which chroma properties are described by points on the unit disk. A combination of principal component analysis and the Perron-Frobenius theorem can be used to show that perspective projections map positive signals (i.e., functions with positive values) to a product of the positive half-axis and the unit ball. The representation theory (harmonic analysis) of the group SU(1,1) leads to an integral transform, the Mehler-Fock-transform (MFT), that decomposes functions, depending on the radial coordinate only, into combinations of associated Legendre functions. This transformation is applied to kernel density estimators of probability distributions on the unit disk. It is shown that the transform separates the influence of the data and the measured data. The application of the transform is illustrated by studying the statistical distribution of RGB vectors obtained from a common set of object points under different illuminants.
Secondary Forest and Shrubland Dynamics in a Highly Transformed Landscape in the Northern Andes of Colombia (1985–2015)
Authors: Rubiano Kristian , Clerici Nicola , Norden Natalia , Etter Andrés
Published: June 2017

Understanding the dynamics of natural ecosystems in highly transformed landscapes is key to the design of regional development plans that are more sustainable and otherwise enhance conservation initiatives. We analyzed secondary forest and shrubland dynamics over 30 years (1985–2015) in a densely populated area of the Colombian Andes using satellite and biophysical data. We performed a land-cover change analysis, assessed landscape fragmentation, and applied regression models to evaluate the effects of environmental and geographical correlates with the observed forest transitions. Forest cover area increased during the 30 year-span, due mostly to forest regrowth in areas marginal for agriculture, especially during the first half of the study period. However, a high dynamic of both forest regrowth and clearing near urban centers and roads was observed. Soil fertility turned out to be a key correlate of both forest recovery and deforestation. Secondary forests, <30 years old represent the most fragmented component. Our findings reflect the complexity of the processes occurring in highly transformed and densely populated regions. Overall, this study provides elements for a better understanding of the factors driving land cover change near large urban areas, and raises new iideas for further research.
Endogenous Retroviral Insertions Indicate a Secondary Introduction of Domestic Sheep Lineages to the Caucasus and Central Asia between the Bronze and Iron Age
Authors: Schroeder Oskar , Benecke Norbert , Frölich Kai , Peng Zuogang , Kaniuth Kai , Sverchkov Leonid , Reinhold Sabine , Belinskiy Andrey , Ludwig Arne
Published: June 2017

Sheep were one of the first livestock species domesticated by humans. After initial domestication in the Middle East they were spread across Eurasia. The modern distribution of endogenous Jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus insertions in domestic sheep breeds suggests that over the course of millennia, successive introductions of improved lineages and selection for wool quality occurred in the Mediterranean region and most of Asia. Here we present a novel ancient DNA approach using data of endogenous retroviral insertions in Bronze and Iron Age domestic sheep from the Caucasus and Pamir mountain areas. Our findings support a secondary introduction of wool sheep from the Middle East between the Late Bronze Age and Iron Age into most areas of Eurasia.
Multi-Feature Joint Sparse Model for the Classification of Mangrove Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Luo Yan-Min , Ouyang Yi , Zhang Ren-Cheng , Feng Hsuan-Ming
Published: June 2017

Mangroves are valuable contributors to coastal ecosystems, and remote sensing is an indispensable way to obtain knowledge of the dynamics of mangrove ecosystems. Due to the similar spectral features between mangroves and other land cover types, challenges are posed since the accuracy is sometimes unsatisfactory in distinguishing mangroves from other land cover types with traditional classification methods. In this paper, we propose a classification method named the multi-feature joint sparse algorithm (MF-SRU), in which spectral, topographic, and textural features are integrated as the decision-making features, and sparse representation of both center pixels and their eight neighborhood pixels is proposed to represent the spatial correlation of neighboring pixels, which can make good use of the spatial correlation of adjacent pixels. Experiments are performed on Landsat Thematic Mapper multispectral remote sensing imagery in the Zhangjiang estuary in Southeastern China, and the results show that the proposed method can effectively improve the extraction accuracy of mangroves.
Centrosomal Protein 70 Is a Mediator of Paclitaxel Sensitivity
Authors: Shi Xingjuan , Wang Yujue , Sun Xiaoou , Wang Chan , Jiang Peng , Zhang Yu , Huang Qinghai , Liu Xiangdong , Li Dengwen , Zhou Jun , Liu Min
Published: June 2017

Centrosome aberrations have been implicated in the development and progression of breast cancer. Our previous worked show that centrosomal protein 70 (Cep70) regulates breast cancer growth and metastasis. However, it remains elusive whether Cep70 is implicated in the sensitivity of the anti-microtubule drug paclitaxel in breast cancer. Here we provide evidence that Cep70 is a mediator of paclitaxel sensitivity in breast cancer. Cell proliferation assays show that Cep70 expression correlates with paclitaxel sensitivity in breast cancer cell lines. In addition, paclitaxel sensitivity varies when altering Cep70 expression level. Mechanistic studies reveal that Cep70 interacts with tubulin, and promotes the ability of paclitaxel to stimulate microtubule assembly. These data demonstrate that Cep70 mediates paclitaxel sensitivity in breast cancer.
Gene Expression Profiling Reveals Potential Players of Left-Right Asymmetry in Female Chicken Gonads
Authors: Wan Zhiyi , Lu Yanan , Rui Lei , Yu Xiaoxue , Yang Fang , Tu Chengfang , Li Zandong
Published: June 2017

Most female birds develop only a left ovary, whereas males develop bilateral testes. The mechanism underlying this process is still not completely understood. Here, we provide a comprehensive transcriptional analysis of female chicken gonads and identify novel candidate side-biased genes. RNA-Seq analysis was carried out on total RNA harvested from the left and right gonads on embryonic day 6 (E6), E12, and post-hatching day 1 (D1). By comparing the gene expression profiles between the left and right gonads, 347 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained on E6, 3730 were obtained on E12, and 2787 were obtained on D1. Side-specific genes were primarily derived from the autosome rather than the sex chromosome. Gene ontology and pathway analysis showed that the DEGs were most enriched in the Piwi-interactiing RNA (piRNA) metabolic process, germ plasm, chromatoid body, P granule, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, microbial metabolism in diverse environments, and methane metabolism. A total of 111 DEGs, five gene ontology (GO) terms, and three pathways were significantly different between the left and right gonads among all the development stages. We also present the gene number and the percentage within eight development-dependent expression patterns of DEGs in the left and right gonads of female chicken.
Melatonin as a Novel Interventional Candidate for Fragile X Syndrome with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Humans
Authors: Won Jinyoung , Jin Yunho , Choi Jeonghyun , Park Sookyoung , Lee Tae , Lee Sang-Rae , Chang Kyu-Tae , Hong Yonggeun
Published: June 2017

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common monogenic form of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). FXS with ASD results from the loss of fragile X mental retardation (fmr) gene products, including fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), which triggers a variety of physiological and behavioral abnormalities. This disorder is also correlated with clock components underlying behavioral circadian rhythms and, thus, a mutation of the fmr gene can result in disturbed sleep patterns and altered circadian rhythms. As a result, FXS with ASD individuals may experience dysregulation of melatonin synthesis and alterations in melatonin-dependent signaling pathways that can impair vigilance, learning, and memory abilities, and may be linked to autistic behaviors such as abnormal anxiety responses. Although a wide variety of possible causes, symptoms, and clinical features of ASD have been studied, the correlation between altered circadian rhythms and FXS with ASD has yet to be extensively investigated. Recent studies have highlighted the impact of melatonin on the nervous, immune, and metabolic systems and, even though the utilization of melatonin for sleep dysfunctions in ASD has been considered in clinical research, future studies should investigate its neuroprotective role during the developmental period in individuals with ASD. Thus, the present review focuses on the regulatory circuits involved in the dysregulation of melatonin and disruptions in the circadian system in individuals with FXS with ASD. Additionally, the neuroprotective effects of melatonin intervention therapies, including improvements in neuroplasticity and physical capabilities, are discussed and the molecular mechanisms underlying this disorder are reviewed. The authors suggest that melatonin may be a useful treatment for FXS with ASD in terms of alleviating the adverse effects of variations in the circadian rhythm.
The Role of Hemoproteins: Hemoglobin, Myoglobin and Neuroglobin in Endogenous Thiosulfate Production Processes
Authors: Bilska-Wilkosz Anna , Iciek Małgorzata , Górny Magdalena , Kowalczyk-Pachel Danuta
Published: June 2017

Thiosulfate formation and biodegradation processes link aerobic and anaerobic metabolism of cysteine. In these reactions, sulfite formed from thiosulfate is oxidized to sulfate while hydrogen sulfide is transformed into thiosulfate. These processes occurring mostly in mitochondria are described as a canonical hydrogen sulfide oxidation pathway. In this review, we discuss the current state of knowledge on the interactions between hydrogen sulfide and hemoglobin, myoglobin and neuroglobin and postulate that thiosulfate is a metabolically important product of this processes. Hydrogen sulfide oxidation by ferric hemoglobin, myoglobin and neuroglobin has been defined as a non-canonical hydrogen sulfide oxidation pathway. Until recently, it appeared that the goal of thiosulfate production was to delay irreversible oxidation of hydrogen sulfide to sulfate excreted in urine; while thiosulfate itself was only an intermediate, transient metabolite on the hydrogen sulfide oxidation pathway. In the light of data presented in this paper, it seems that thiosulfate is a molecule that plays a prominent role in the human body. Thus, we hope that all these findings will encourage further studies on the role of hemoproteins in the formation of this undoubtedly fascinating molecule and on the mechanisms responsible for its biological activity in the human body.
Fluorescence Analysis of Vitamin D Receptor Status of Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCS) in Breast Cancer: From Cell Models to Metastatic Patients
Authors: Zhang Xi , Hofmann Simone , Rack Brigitte , Harbeck Nadia , Jeschke Udo , Sixou Sophie
Published: June 2017

The Vitamin D receptor (VDR) expressed in normal breast tissue and breast tumors has been suggested as a new prognostic biomarker in breast cancer (BC). Besides, increasing evidence supports the view that the detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) predicts outcome in early and metastatic BC. Consequently, an evaluation of VDR expression in the CTCs of BC patients may allow optimization of their treatment. As an attempt to profile and subtype the CTCs of metastatic patients, we established an innovative fluorescence technique using nine BC cell lines to visualize, define, and compare their individual VDR status. Afterwards, we tested the CTC presence and VDR expression in blood samples (cytospins) collected from 23 metastatic BC patients. The results demonstrated major differences in the VDR levels among the nine cell lines, and VDR positive CTCs were detected in 46% of CTC-positive patients, with a total of 42 CTCs individually analyzed. Due to the limited number of patients in this study, no correlation between VDR expression and BC subtype classification (according to estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and HER2) could be determined, but our data support the view that VDR evaluation is a potential new prognostic biomarker to help in the optimization of therapy management for BC patients.
The Intersection of NGF/TrkA Signaling and Amyloid Precursor Protein Processing in Alzheimer’s Disease Neuropathology
Authors: Canu Nadia , Amadoro Giuseppina , Triaca Viviana , Latina Valentina , Sposato Valentina , Corsetti Veronica , Severini Cinzia , Ciotti Maria Teresa , Calissano Pietro
Published: June 2017

Dysfunction of nerve growth factor (NGF) and its high-affinity Tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) receptor has been suggested to contribute to the selective degeneration of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons (BFCN) associated with the progressive cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The aim of this review is to describe our progress in elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying the dynamic interplay between NGF/TrkA signaling and amyloid precursor protein (APP) metabolism within the context of AD neuropathology. This is mainly based on the finding that TrkA receptor binding to APP depends on a minimal stretch of ~20 amino acids located in the juxtamembrane/extracellular domain of APP that carries the α- and β-secretase cleavage sites. Here, we provide evidence that: (i) NGF could be one of the “routing” proteins responsible for modulating the metabolism of APP from amyloidogenic towards non-amyloidogenic processing via binding to the TrkA receptor; (ii) the loss of NGF/TrkA signaling could be linked to sporadic AD contributing to the classical hallmarks of the neuropathology, such as synaptic loss, β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) deposition and tau abnormalities. These findings will hopefully help to design therapeutic strategies for AD treatment aimed at preserving cholinergic function and anti-amyloidogenic activity of the physiological NGF/TrkA pathway in the septo-hippocampal system.
Better than Membranes at the Origin of Life?
Authors: Hansma Helen
Published: June 2017

Organelles without membranes are found in all types of cells and typically contain RNA and protein. RNA and protein are the constituents of ribosomes, one of the most ancient cellular structures. It is reasonable to propose that organelles without membranes preceded protocells and other membrane-bound structures at the origins of life. Such membraneless organelles would be well sheltered in the spaces between mica sheets, which have many advantages as a site for the origins of life.
Ternary CNTs@TiO2/CoO Nanotube Composites: Improved Anode Materials for High Performance Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Madian Mahmoud , Ummethala Raghunandan , Naga Ahmed Osama Abo El , Ismail Nahla , Rümmeli Mark Hermann , Eychmüller Alexander , Giebeler Lars
Published: June 2017

TiO2 nanotubes (NTs) synthesized by electrochemical anodization are discussed as very promising anodes for lithium ion batteries, owing to their high structural stability, high surface area, safety, and low production cost. However, their poor electronic conductivity and low Li+ ion diffusivity are the main drawbacks that prevent them from achieving high electrochemical performance. Herein, we report the fabrication of a novel ternary carbon nanotubes (CNTs)@TiO2/CoO nanotubes composite by a two-step synthesis method. The preparation includes an initial anodic fabrication of well-ordered TiO2/CoO NTs from a Ti-Co alloy, followed by growing of CNTs horizontally on the top of the oxide films using a simple spray pyrolysis technique. The unique 1D structure of such a hybrid nanostructure with the inclusion of CNTs demonstrates significantly enhanced areal capacity and rate performances compared to pure TiO2 and TiO2/CoO NTs, without CNTs tested under identical conditions. The findings reveal that CNTs provide a highly conductive network that improves Li+ ion diffusivity, promoting a strongly favored lithium insertion into the TiO2/CoO NT framework, and hence resulting in high capacity and an extremely reproducible high rate capability.
Finite Convergence for Feasible Solution Sequence of Variational Inequality Problems
Authors: Zhao Wenling , Wang Ruyu , Zhang Hongxiang
Published: June 2017

We establish the notion of augmented weak sharpness of solution sets for the variational inequality problems which can be abbreviated to VIPs. This notion of augmented weak sharpness is an extension of the weak sharpness of the solution set of monotone variational inequality, and it overcomes the defect of the solution set not satisfying the weak sharpness in many cases. Under the condition of the solution set being augmented weak sharp, we present a necessary and sufficient condition for finite convergence for feasible solution sequence of VIP. The result is an extension of published results, and the augmented weak sharpness also provides weaker sufficient conditions for the finite convergence of many optimization algorithms.
Effect of Al-5Ti-0.62C-0.2Ce Master Alloy on the Microstructure and Tensile Properties of Commercial Pure Al and Hypoeutectic Al-8Si Alloy
Authors: Ding Wanwu , Xu Chen , Zhang Haixia , Zhao Wenjun , Guo Tingbiao , Xia Tiandong
Published: June 2017

Al-5Ti-0.62C-0.2Ce master alloy was synthesized by a method of thermal explosion reaction in pure molten aluminum and used to modify commercial pure Al and hypoeutectic Al-8Si alloy. The microstructure and tensile properties of commercial pure Al and hypoeutectic Al-8Si alloy with different additions of Al-5Ti-0.62C-0.2Ce master alloy were investigated. The results show that the Al-5Ti-0.62C-0.2Ce alloy was composed of α-Al, granular TiC, lump-like TiAl3 and block-like Ti2Al20Ce. Al-5Ti-0.62C-0.2Ce master alloy (0.3 wt %, 5 min) can significantly refine macro grains of commercial pure Al into tiny equiaxed grains. The Al-5Ti-0.62C-0.2Ce master alloy (0.3 wt %, 30 min) still has a good refinement effect. The tensile strength and elongation of commercial pure Al modified by the Al-5Ti-0.62C-0.2Ce master alloy (0.3 wt %, 5 min) increased by roughly 19.26% and 61.83%, respectively. Al-5Ti-0.62C-0.2Ce master alloy (1.5 wt %, 10 min) can significantly refine both α-Al grains and eutectic Si of hypoeutectic Al-8Si alloy. The dendritic α-Al grains were significantly refined to tiny equiaxed grains. The morphology of the eutectic Si crystals was significantly refined from coarse needle-shape or lath-shape to short rod-like or grain-like eutectic Si. The tensile strength and elongation of hypoeutectic Al-8Si alloy modified by the Al-5Ti-0.62C-0.2Ce master alloy (1.5 wt %, 10 min) increased by roughly 20.53% and 50%, respectively. The change in mechanical properties corresponds to evolution of the microstructure.
Commercial Value and Challenges of Drop-Based Microfluidic Screening Platforms–An Opinion
Authors: Holtze Christian , Weisse Sebastian , Vranceanu Marcel
Published: June 2017

Developments in High Throughput Screening aim at maximizing the number of samples per time and reducing the cost per sample, e.g., by applying very small sample volumes. The ultimate technological step in miniaturization is moving from microtiter plate wells to droplets, and from batch-wise characterization to the continuous preparation and analysis of samples. A range of drop-based microfluidic screening platforms has emerged that benefit from drop-formation rates of thousands per second, perfect drop size uniformity, plug-flow and compartmentalization, and the possibility of continuously analyzing a train of drops. However, after many years of intensive research, only few commercial applications have been developed and substantial development in the field is still required to make them reliable and broadly applicable. Can academic research achieve this, given that most of the fundamental concepts have been described already, making it hard to publish a big story? Can start-up companies raise enough money to overcome the technical issues of drop-based screening platforms? This contribution addresses the question, focusing on how the different stakeholders in the field should interact so that disillusionment will not put a premature end to the development of drop-based screening technologies.
The Antiproliferative Effect of Cyclodipeptides from Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 on HeLa Cells Involves Inhibition of Phosphorylation of Akt and S6k Kinases
Authors: Hernández-Padilla Laura , Vázquez-Rivera Dolores , Sánchez-Briones Luis A. , Díaz-Pérez Alma L. , Moreno-Rodríguez José , Moreno-Eutimio Mario A. , Meza-Carmen Victor , Cruz Homero Reyes-De la , Campos-García Jesús
Published: June 2017

Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, a potential pathogen of plants and animals, produces the cyclodipeptides cyclo(l-Pro-l-Tyr), cyclo(l-Pro-l-Phe), and cyclo(l-Pro-l-Val) (PAO1-CDPs), whose effects have been implicated in inhibition of human tumor cell line proliferation. Our purpose was to investigate in depth in the mechanisms of HeLa cell proliferation inhibition by the PAO1-CDPs. The results indicate that PAO1-CDPs, both purified individually and in mixtures, inhibited HeLa cell proliferation by arresting the cell cycle at the G0–G1 transition. The crude PAO1-CDPs mixture promoted cell death in HeLa cells in a dose-dependent manner, showing efficacy similar to that of isolated PAO1-CDPs (LD50 of 60–250 µM) and inducing apoptosis with EC50 between 0.6 and 3.0 µM. Moreover, PAO1-CDPs showed a higher proapoptotic activity (~103–105 fold) than their synthetic analogs did. Subsequently, the PAO1-CDPs affected mitochondrial membrane potential and induced apoptosis by caspase-9-dependent pathway. The mechanism of inhibition of cells proliferation in HeLa cells involves inhibition of phosphorylation of both Akt-S473 and S6k-T389 protein kinases, showing a cyclic behavior of their expression and phosphorylation in a time and concentration-dependent fashion. Taken together our findings indicate that PI3K–Akt–mTOR–S6k signaling pathway blockage is involved in the antiproliferative effect of the PAO1-CDPs.