bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Characterization of the Lipid Genome-Wide Association Study Signal on Chromosome 18q11.2 Implicates HNF4A-Mediated Regulation of the
TMEM241
Gene
Authors: Rodríguez Alejandra , Gonzalez Luis , Ko Arthur , Alvarez Marcus , Miao Zong , Bhagat Yash , Nikkola Elina , Cruz-Bautista Ivette , Arellano-Campos Olimpia , Muñoz-Hernández Linda L. , Ordóñez-Sánchez Maria-Luisa , Rodriguez-Guillen Rosario , Mohlke Karen L. , Laakso Markku , Tusie-Luna Teresa , Aguilar-Salinas Carlos A. , Pajukanta Päivi
Published: May 2016

Objective—

We recently identified a locus on chromosome 18q11.2 for high serum triglycerides in Mexicans. We hypothesize that the lead genome-wide association study single-nucleotide polymorphism rs9949617, or its linkage disequilibrium proxies, regulates 1 of the 5 genes in the triglyceride-associated region.

Approach and Results—

We performed a linkage disequilibrium analysis and found 9 additional variants in linkage disequilibrium (
r
2
>0.7) with the lead single-nucleotide polymorphism. To select the variants for functional analyses, we annotated the 10 variants using DNase I hypersensitive sites, transcription factor and chromatin states and identified rs17259126 as the lead candidate variant for functional in vitro validation. Using luciferase transcriptional reporter assay in liver HepG2 cells, we found that the G allele exhibits a significantly lower effect on transcription (
P
<0.05). The electrophoretic mobility shift and ChIPqPCR (chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled with quantitative polymerase chain reaction) assays confirmed that the minor G allele of rs17259126 disrupts an hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 α–binding site. To find the regional candidate gene, we performed a local expression quantitative trait locus analysis and found that rs17259126 and its linkage disequilibrium proxies alter expression of the regional transmembrane protein 241 (
TMEM241
) gene in 795 adipose RNAs from the Metabolic Syndrome In Men (METSIM) cohort (
P
=6.11×10
−07
–5.80×10
−04
). These results were replicated in expression profiles of
TMEM241
from the Multiple Tissue Human Expression Resource (MuTHER; n=856).

Conclusions—

The Mexican genome-wide association study signal for high serum triglycerides on chromosome 18q11.2 harbors a regulatory single-nucleotide polymorphism, rs17259126, which disrupts normal hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 α binding and decreases the expression of the regional
TMEM241
gene. Our data suggest that decreased transcript levels of
TMEM241
contribute to increased triglyceride levels in Mexicans.
JMJD8 Regulates Angiogenic Sprouting and Cellular Metabolism by Interacting With Pyruvate Kinase M2 in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Boeckel Jes-Niels , Derlet Anja , Glaser Simone F. , Luczak Annika , Lucas Tina , Heumüller Andreas W. , Krüger Marcus , Zehendner Christoph M. , Kaluza David , Doddaballapur Anuradha , Ohtani Kisho , Treguer Karine , Dimmeler Stefanie
Published: May 2016

Objective—

Jumonji C (JmjC) domain–containing proteins modify histone and nonhistone proteins thereby controlling cellular functions. However, the role of JmjC proteins in angiogenesis is largely unknown. Here, we characterize the expression of JmjC domain–containing proteins after inducing endothelial differentiation of murine embryonic stem cells and study the function of JmjC domain–only proteins in endothelial cell (EC) functions.

Approach and Results—

We identified a large number of JmjC domain–containing proteins regulated by endothelial differentiation of murine embryonic stem cells. Among the family of JmjC domain–only proteins, Jmjd8 was significantly upregulated on endothelial differentiation. Knockdown of Jmjd8 in ECs significantly decreased in vitro network formation and sprouting in the spheroid assay. JMJD8 is exclusively detectable in the cytoplasm, excluding a function as a histone-modifying enzyme. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed JMJD8-interacting proteins with known functions in cellular metabolism like pyruvate kinase M2. Accordingly, knockdown of pyruvate kinase M2 in human umbilical vein ECs decreased endothelial sprouting in the spheroid assay. Knockdown of JMJD8 caused a reduction of EC metabolism as measured by Seahorse Bioscience extracellular flux analysis. Conversely, overexpression of JMJD8 enhanced cellular oxygen consumption rate of ECs, reflecting an increased mitochondrial respiration.

Conclusions—

Jmjd8 is upregulated during endothelial differentiation and regulates endothelial sprouting and metabolism by interacting with pyruvate kinase M2.
The Gatekeepers of Change:
Authors: Björnsdóttir Steinunn Arnþrúður
Published: May 2016

The case study focuses on a renewal process, initiated by the Church Central Authorities and the response of pastors in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland (elci) to the process. The main finding was that participation at the grass roots level was limited. This can be explained partly by the method used by the Church Central Authorities and partly by the very structure of the church, which places the authority to make changes in the parish with the pastor and parish council. Tensions between parishes and central church authorities, issues of authority and structural and financial issues emerged as important factors that determined the success of the change process, or lack thereof.
Religious Decline in Small-Town Rural Ontario Churches: Effects on Levels of Social Capital and Subsequent Innovative Responses
Authors: McLellan Janet , Barrett Joel R.
Published: May 2016

The qualitative data in this article highlights the dynamics of religious change and decline in small town rural churches, reflecting larger trends throughout North America and Europe.
1
It questions the consequences of religious decline, particularly regarding reduced levels of volunteerism
2
and community social capital.
3
This article posits that the decline in institutionalized religion has already had negative effects within small-town rural Ontario communities, specifically the loss of leadership to sustain numerous enterprises that traditionally serve members beyond the church alongside decreased support in various volunteer sectors that also provide a range of services, activities, and programs to the larger community. Following an analysis of the challenges facing churches in a cluster of small rural communities within the Haliburton Highlands, the paper details responses developed by local churches and ministers to continue to meet community needs and maintain their strong presence and high levels of social capital in these non-religious locales.
Communication, Church and Society: A Story of Qualitative Enquiry
Authors: Crudge Mike , Nelson Frances , Johnson Rosser
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this paper is to show how a communication problem was identified between the church and society in New Zealand. The hypothesis was that the way the church presents itself to contemporary society creates a disconnect between the two. As the church is not seen as relevant, those exploring spirituality may therefore never consider the church or Christian spiritualty as being helpful in their exploration. This research looked at whether society (receivers of church communication) and church leaders (as representative of the source of the church’s communication) had the same concept in mind when referring to ‘church’. The theoretical underpinnings of the research started with the basic Shannon-Weaver model of communication.11 The methodology was shaped by the framework of critical studies, and ‘thick description’ from Clifford Geertz was the influencing core qualitative concept behind our method of qualitative research using semi-structured in-depth interviews, focus groups and thematic analysis.22
Kurzia trichoclados (Lepidoziaceae, Marchantiophyta)—A disjunct liverwort newly reported for India
Authors: RAWAT K.K. , SAHU VINAY , VERMA P.K. , ASTHANA A.K.
Published: May 2016

Kurzia trichoclados (K. Müller) Grolle, is a disjunct liverwort known from Europe, North America and Southeast Asia. Its distribution in South Asia has now been expanded to include India.
Regional Influences of Natural External Forcings on the Transition from the Medieval Climate Anomaly to the Little Ice Age
Authors: Andres Heather J. , Peltier W. R.
Published: May 2016

Reconstructions of historical climate changes indicate that surface air temperatures decreased over the preindustrial last millennium. Conflicting explanations have been proposed for the cause of the transition from the Medieval Climate Anomaly (MCA) in the early part of the last millennium to the Little Ice Age (LIA) near its end. The possible causes include volcanic emissions, total solar irradiance (TSI) variations, greenhouse gas concentration fluctuations, and orbital forcing variations. In the present paper, it is demonstrated that all of these climate forcings contribute significantly to simulated surface air temperature (SAT) and sea ice concentration changes over this period. On the other hand, simulated ocean heat content appears to respond significantly only to volcanic and TSI variations.

In model simulations at T85 spectral resolution, TSI reductions and volcanic emissions together generate significant increases in sea ice extent in the Barents Sea, which is found to be responsible for most of the temperature reductions over northwestern Europe. TSI appears less important to Arctic sea ice and SAT changes in simulations at T42 spectral resolution, which are weaker than at T85 resolution. Such resolution dependence is attributed to differences in background conditions in the responses to these external climate forcings. Nonlinearities in the forcing responses and sensitivities to background conditions challenge the assumption that sensitivity tests for given forcings can be run independently. Additionally, it is demonstrated that an ensemble of model simulations is required to isolate forcing responses even over a period as long as the last millennium.
Performance Anxiety and the Passion in the Croxton Play of the Sacrament
Authors: Fitzgerald Christina M.
Published: May 2016

The Croxton Play of the Sacrament paradoxically enacts anxieties about the propriety of Passion drama. Framing the play's central action—the Jews' testing of the Communion wafer in a parody of the Passion—with the story of a Christian merchant who enables or even sponsors those acts, the Croxton play provides critical distance on the very performance it enacts. Ultimately, it replaces the Passion play with, and judges it inferior to, a more decorous and authoritative processional ritual. Moreover, in presenting a Christian merchant as the catalyst for the Jews' actions, the play not only reinforces the anti-Semitic association of Jews with commerce, but also directs part of its antiludic anxieties at Christian mercantile culture, thus deploying its anti-Semitism to criticize the culture that largely underwrote late medieval drama. In all of this, the play participates in an antiludic discourse that may be broader and earlier than previously supposed.
Avian thermoregulation in the heat: efficient evaporative cooling allows for extreme heat tolerance in four southern Hemisphere columbids
Authors: McKechnie Andrew E. , Whitfield Maxine C. , Smit Ben , Gerson Alexander R. , Smith Eric Krabbe , Talbot William A. , McWhorter Todd J. , Wolf Blair O.
Published: May 2016

Birds show phylogenetic variation in the relative importance of respiratory versus cutaneous evaporation, but the consequences for heat tolerance and evaporative cooling capacity remain unclear. We measured evaporative water loss (EWL), resting metabolic rate (RMR) and body temperature (Tb) in four arid-zone columbids from southern African [Namaqua dove (Oena capensis, ∼37 g), laughing dove (Spilopelia senegalensis, ∼89 g) and Cape turtle dove (Streptopelia capicola, ∼148 g)] and Australia [crested pigeon (Ocyphaps lophotes), ∼186 g] at air temperatures (Ta) of up to 62°C. There was no clear relationship between body mass and maximum Ta tolerated during acute heat exposure. Maximum Tb at very highest Ta was 43.1±1.0°C, 43.7±0.8°C, 44.7±0.3°C and 44.3±0.8°C in Namaqua doves, laughing doves, Cape turtle doves and crested pigeons, respectively. In all four species, RMR increased significantly at Ta above thermoneutrality, but the increases were relatively modest with RMR at Ta=56°C, 32%, 60%, 99% and 11% higher, respectively, than at Ta=35°C. At the highest Ta values reached, evaporative heat loss was equivalent to 466%, 227%, 230% and 275% of metabolic heat production. The maximum ratio of evaporative heat loss to metabolic production observed in Namaqua doves, 4.66, exceeds by a substantial margin previous values reported for birds. Our results support the notion that cutaneous evaporation provides a highly efficient mechanism of heat dissipation and an enhanced ability to tolerate extremely high Ta.
Stable association of RNAi machinery is conserved between the cytoplasm and nucleus of human cells
Authors: Kalantari Roya , Hicks Jessica A. , Li Liande , Gagnon Keith T. , Sridhara Viswanadham , Lemoff Andrew , Mirzaei Hamid , Corey David R.
Published: May 2016

Argonaute 2 (AGO2), the catalytic engine of RNAi, is typically associated with inhibition of translation in the cytoplasm. AGO2 has also been implicated in nuclear processes including transcription and splicing. There has been little insight into AGO2's nuclear interactions or how they might differ relative to cytoplasm. Here we investigate the interactions of cytoplasmic and nuclear AGO2 using semi-quantitative mass spectrometry. Mass spectrometry often reveals long lists of candidate proteins, complicating efforts to rigorously discriminate true interacting partners from artifacts. We prioritized candidates using orthogonal analytical strategies that compare replicate mass spectra of proteins associated with Flag-tagged and endogenous AGO2. Interactions with TRNC6A, TRNC6B, TNRC6C, and AGO3 are conserved between nuclei and cytoplasm. TAR binding protein interacted stably with cytoplasmic AGO2 but not nuclear AGO2, consistent with strand loading in the cytoplasm. Our data suggest that interactions between functionally important components of RNAi machinery are conserved between the nucleus and cytoplasm but that accessory proteins differ. Orthogonal analysis of mass spectra is a powerful approach to streamlining identification of protein partners.
Formation of culture of international communication in the sphere of state policy of Russia
Authors: Комардина  , Komardina Marina
Published: May 2016

In the article the author discloses specifics of formation of international communication culture in the sphere of state policy of the Russian Federation. Inculcation of skills of cross-cultural communication is a long and difficult process, having its own structure and carrying out a number of the certain functions considered below. The author focuses on formation of culture of international communication among young people, which is the important direction of state policy of the Russian government. State and international legal acts are presented, directed to prevention of conflict situations of international character. Also the active position of Russia in formation of cross-cultural dialogue is emphasized.
Modern aspects of anti-corruption behavior of law enforcement officers
Authors: Малик  , Malik Vladislav
Published: May 2016

The article deals with modern aspects of anti-corruption behavior of police officers. Unquestioning execution of governmental commitments, adherence to the principles of duty, oath of professional honor and dignity should be referred to such behavior. The author outlined the main factors that determine the relationships of corruption in the police department. Specificity of corruption in the system of internal affairs bodies is shown, which is reflected in the behavior of employees. The author assigns limitations of corruption component to control of power on the part of citizens and civil society organizations.
Specifics of realization of regional policy in the sphere of social protection of disabled children in the Orel region
Authors: Семянников  , Semyannikov Dmitriy
Published: May 2016

In the article the statistics of number of disabled children both at the federal level, and in the Orel region for 2012-2015 is analyzed. The short analysis of realization of state policy in the field of social protection of the population at the level of the region is presented. The analysis of the regional legislation is carried out, defining main activities of authorities of the Orel region on realization of regional policy in the sphere of social protection of disabled children.
Realization of the domestic state policy in the sphere of execution of punishments in the context of "Nelson Mandela´s rules"
Authors: Ештокин  , Eshtokin Aleksandr
Published: May 2016

In the article basic provisions of the resolution concerning improvement of penitentiary mechanisms of various states accepted in December, 2015 are considered by the General Assembly of the United Nations. Thematic areas of this document which, according to the author, have to promote advance of ideas of humanity in places of compulsory isolation are analyzed. The author focuses attention on fixing a number of correctional facilities of the procedures in rules, obligatory for administration, providing use of various ways and methods of protection of the rights of the persons deprived of freedom.
Constitutional or police state - the selection of modern Russia
Authors: Никитина  , Nikitina Yu.
Published: May 2016

In the contemporary world the concept of the constitutional state is very popular and recognized as the most humane and just society. It is considered to be the antithesis of a police state. The author performed analytical study of the current model of political, social and economic development of the Russian Federation and of the problems of formation and functioning of the legal, institutional and legal, humanitarian and legal aspects of the statehood in Russia. On the base of the analyses the author has drawn the conclusion substantiating the current Russian statehood.
Linguistic expertise in law-making
Authors: Чернова  , Chernova Olga
Published: May 2016

The article examines the nature and content of linguistic expertise in law-making as a complex linguistic research; research target and customers of conducting expertise are identified. The mechanism of regional experience of linguistic expertise, and some problematic aspects related to the allocation of this type of expertise as independent are studied. The features of the linguistic expertise in the framework of legal one are presented and their relationship is traced. The need for obligatiry conduct of linguistic research in law-making at both the federal and regional levels is assessed.
Priorities of realization of state youth policy in the Orel region
Authors: Комарова  , Komarova Marina
Published: May 2016

The author of the article structured the main components of the mechanism of formation of youth policy in the modern Russian Federation. Problems and the priority directions of the state youth policy in the Orel region are designated. The value of the program approach in the mechanism of realization of youth policy in the Orel region is presented. Taking into account regional specifics, the integrative factors promoting development of potential of youth are revealed.
Request of youth to authorities (on the example of Orel)
Authors: Филатова  , Filatova Evgeniya
Published: May 2016

The article deals with social demand through the general requirements to the characteristics of the power system and its bodies. The need for measuring request to the authorities of the youth is actualized. The data of sociological research, which revealed a request of young people to authorities in the sphere of youth policy, are shown.
The horse in action: anatomy and biomechanics
Authors: Nagy Annamaria
Published: May 2016

In a new series Annamaria Nagy, senior orthopaedic clinician at the Animal Health Trust, Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, focuses on the anatomical and biomechanical features of the equine athlete
Coherence Co-constructed: Using Coherence for Analysis and Transformation of Social Conflicts
Authors: Erol Ali Ersen
Published: May 2016

Narrative coherence is a much-debated subject, primarily because different approaches to coherence leave us with an either/or predicament. We can either pay attention to rather modernist approaches that attempt to map meaning structures in a given text to locate points of coherence; or, we can pay attention to critical approaches that suggest even seeking coherence results in confirming with dominant discourses and narratives in a given context. This article is an attempt in reconciliation between these two approaches to provide an alternative approach to the question: what makes texts cohere? Using a political rally ad Turkish Prime Minister used to counter the protests that took place in Turkey during the summer of 2013, the article demonstrates how coherence is constructed as a relationship between a text and an audience based on semiotic markers that refer to historical and ideological narratives.
Narrative Braiding and the Role of Public Officials in Transforming the Publics Conflicts
Authors: Cobb Sara
Published: May 2016

Deliberative processes should enable public officials to stay connected to the changing needs and interests of the communities for whom and with whom they work. Theoretically, these practices should enable public officials to help citizens negotiate with each other, and with the government, problem-solving in a way that produces timely solutions to the kinds of wicked problems that are critical to governing in the globalized context where media sensationalizes divisions that create the Us as different from Them. Theoretically, these practices should enable public officials to foster a quality of relationships within a community that supports the community to learn about itself, to become a reflecting community (Laws, 2010). However, it is all too often the case that these practices enact the form of engagement only, without significantly altering the nature of relationships or the (his)stories that are the comet tail of wicked problems. This paper offers a narrative lens on deliberation, describing a practice called braiding, which would allow public officials to weave together the storylines and the identities that anchor them, creating the conditions for public deliberation that could actually transform the publics conflicts.
Welcome Letter
Authors: Winslade John
Published: May 2016

Introduction to the journal from it's editors, John Winslade and Sara Cobb.
Bloodborne Viral Pathogen Contamination in the Era of Laboratory Automation
Authors: Bryan Andrew , Cook Linda , Atienza Ederlyn E , Kuypers Jane , Cent Anne , Baird Geoffrey S , Coombs Robert W , Jerome Keith R , Wener Mark H , Butler-Wu Susan M
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

The CDC states that laboratory testing for persons under investigation for Ebola virus disease can be safely performed using automated laboratory instruments by adhering to bloodborne pathogen practices. We therefore sought to investigate the levels of viral contamination of a total laboratory automation (TLA) system to guide risk mitigation strategies for handling infectious agents.

METHODS

Environmental swabs followed by PCR for hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) viruses were taken from a chemistry TLA system during routine clinical use and after running a small number of high-titer HCV samples. Control experiments were performed to ensure the recovery of DNA and RNA viruses by swabs from a representative nonporous surface.

RESULTS

Of 79 baseline swabs for nucleic acids performed on the TLA system, 10 were positive for HBV and 8 for HCV. Viral nucleic acid was consistently detected from swabs taken from the distal inside surface of the decapper discharge chute, with areas adjacent to the decapper instrument and the centrifuge rotor also positive for HBV or HCV nucleic acid. Contamination was occasionally detected on exposed surfaces in areas without protective barriers between samples and personnel. After running known HCV-positive samples, at least one additional site of contamination was detected on an exposed area of the line.

CONCLUSIONS

A low level of viral contamination of automated clinical laboratory equipment occurs in clinical use. Given the risks associated with highly infectious agents, there is a need for risk-mitigation procedures when handling all samples.
Attunement and evanescence
Authors: Fraleigh Sondra
Published: May 2016

The following article is both subjective and theoretic, based on personal conviction, and also an enduring fascination with the potentials of dancing relative to Buddhist philosophy. Butoh, the postmodern dance of Japan, appears in context, especially where it relates to the key terms
above. Zen poetry in the form of haiku dots the article throughout. We also note that in Japan, last names come first.
Talking text: Exploring SMS and e-mail use by Australian talkback radio listeners
Authors: Ewart Jacqui , Ames Kate
Published: May 2016

Research into talkback radio has provided a great deal of information about shock jocks and their interactions with audiences, their political power and the power of radio to mobilize its audiences in negative ways. Talkback radio has been traditionally perceived as a participatory form of media, albeit limited by various gatekeeping and rules of access. However, the nature of talkback with its traditional reliance on voice and performance is changing as programmes are increasingly offering audience members the opportunity to contribute to programmes via e-mail, Short Messaging Service (SMS) and, more recently, websites and social media. This article contributes to an under-explored area of talkback radio studies by examining audience ‘participation’ in talkback programmes via SMS and e-mail. It draws data from focus groups with audiences of twelve Australian commercial and non-commercial talkback radio programmes to discover why some study participants use SMS and e-mail and why some do not contribute via these technologies. The article also examines, in what circumstances and for what purposes these talkback radio listeners use these technologies. Inductive coding was used to analyse the data through the computer program NVivo. We conclude that while study participants strongly associated talkback with phone calls, e-mail and SMS are largely accepted as regular methods of contributing to and communicating with talkback radio programmes. There is much more work to be undertaken on the topic of non-verbal contributions to talkback radio, particularly with the increasing use of social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter, which this article has not explored.
Jornalismo Radiofónico Luso-Brasileiro: as tipificações da convergência nos modelos de ensino da FCSH /UNL e da ECA /USP
Authors: Galvão Jr L. C.
Published: May 2016

O contexto digital leva o Jornalismo a reconfigurações não apenas no âmbito dos media, mas também nas salas de aula, onde docentes promovem ações dedicadas a promover a aderência do ensino à realidade. A existência dessas iniciativas motivou este estudo que observa a inserção do fenômeno da convergência no ensino do Jornalismo Radiofónico em Portugal e no Brasil. O modelo metodológico partede estudos de caso envolvendo as disciplinas Atelier de Jornalismo Radiofónico, do percurso Jornalismo da Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas da Universidade Nova de Lisboa (FCSH/UNL); e Radiojornalismo e Projetos em Rádio, do curso de Jornalismo do Departamento de Jornalismo e Editoração da Escola de Comunicações e Artes da Universidade de São Paulo (CJE-ECA/USP). Notou-se no estudoa adoção de atividades que ressaltam a convergência tecnológica, no caso português, e de conteúdos, no recorte brasileiro, evidenciando aproximação das ações pedagógicas à prática do jornalismo radiofónico.
O Lugar da proximidade nos Planos de Formação Em Jornalismo
Authors: Coelho Pedro
Published: May 2016

A associação do jornalismo à Internet abre novo espaço à ação comunicativae, como tal, torna, uma vez mais, possível a reconstrução do espaço público a partir da nova interação entre públicos, permitida pelas plataformas digitais. As comunidades de proximidade estão especialmente vocacionadas para aproveitarem esta dinâmica, recriando-se a partir da base tecnológica que deve ser usada pelos meios de comunicação social locais. Neste contexto, torna-se decisivo que a academia gere alianças estratégicas com as comunidades de acolhimento, participando na formação de jornalistas que ultrapassem o paroquialismo que caracteriza os universos de proximidade.
The Fall of Kaku Aka: Social and Political Change in the Mid-Nineteenth-Century Western Gold Coast
Authors: Valsecchi Pierluigi
Published: May 2016

This article deals with the radical reshaping of a system of power and a hierarchy of personal and group dependency in an area of the western Gold Coast in the mid-nineteenth century. The article focuses on the events surrounding the 1848 British expedition against King Kaku Aka of Appolonia (Nzema), which resulted in the end of the exceptionally strong monarchy and its replacement with a looser form of oligarchy. Kaku Aka’s defeat was mainly caused by the defection of his body of direct royal servants and dependents, who constituted the core of the kingdom. The abrupt end of Appolonia’s monarchy coincided with the final crisis of a system of power created in the eighteenth century, and the political seal to a wave of social change sweeping the area-and the western Gold Coast more generally-in the mid-nineteenth century. Sources convey a strong impression of growing mobility within the social landscape and substantial changes in the condition of the bonded sections of the population. The case of Appolonia provides also an excellent example of the ruling elite’s tentative responses to these growing challenges.
The Influence of Islam in Sierra Leone History: Institutions, Practices, and Leadership
Authors: Skinner David E.
Published: May 2016

For several centuries, Islamic ideas, institutions, and leadership have contributed significantly to the cultures, political systems, and economic activities of the Upper Guinea Coast; migrants introduced and promoted Islam along the coast and in the hinterland of what developed into the modern state of Sierra Leone. This article traces the influence of Islam in the development of Sierra Leone throughout its history and demonstrates how Muslim leaders (religious, economic, and political) and Islamic institutions, ideas, and activities contributed to the process of nation-building, commercial enterprise, educational growth, and international relations from the eighteenth century to the twenty-first century.
IL2RG: A series of three novel mutations with clinical manifestations
Authors: Jamal Alisha , Upton Julia E.M.
Published: May 2016

Background: X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is caused by mutations in the IL2RG gene and classically presents with absent T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. Mutational analysis has contributed to the understanding of this gene.

Methods: The primary immunodeficiency (PID) registry was reviewed for patients with SCID with novel IL2RG mutations. The clinical phenotype was assessed using a retrospective chart review.

Results: We describe 3 novel mutations in the IL2RG. The first was a guanine to adenine substitution at position 215 (c.215 G > A) in exon 2 leading to a cysteine to tyrosine substitution at position 72 (p.Cys72Tyr), with a typical T− B+ NK− phenotype. The second was a deletion of thymine at position 618 and adenine at position 619 (c.618_619TA) in exon 5, leading to a frameshift at the 206 amino acid (p.His206fs). The phenotype was characterized by a classic SCID presentation and immunophenotyping revealed a low number of absolute lymphocytes with mostly B cells, low levels of immunoglobulins, as well as very low NK cells. Finally, the third mutation was a guanine to cytosine substitution at position 341 (c.341 G > C) in exon 3 leading to a glycine to alanine substitution at position 114 (p.Gly114Ala), presenting with a T+ B+ NK+ phenotype. The presence of T and NK cells in IL2RG are discussed in the context of other mutations allowing for T and NK cells in IL2RG mutations, as well as in the setting of maternal engraftment.

Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge we describe 3 novel mutations in the IL2RG gene and the associated phenotypes. These mutations illustrate that these patients can have atypical immunological evaluations.

Statement of novelty: To the best of our knowledge, this paper describes 3 novel mutations in the IL2RG gene.
Developing cross-cultural healthcare workers: content, process and mentoring
Authors: Strand Mark A , Chen Alice I , Pinkston Lauren M
Published: May 2016

Career service in cross-cultural healthcare mission work is the ambition of many people around the world. However, premature termination of this expected long-term service mitigates against achieving the goals of the individual and the organization. The lingering challenge of high rates of missionary attrition impacts the long-term effectiveness of the work and the health and well-being of the workers. One of the keys to reducing premature attrition is cross-cultural training for these individuals, provided it offers the right content, through the best medium, at the time of greatest perceived need by the missionary. This paper applies the Dreyfus Model of skills acquisition to the process of mentoring career healthcare missionaries in a progressive manner, utilizing a mentoring method. These missionaries can flourish in their work and more effectively achieve their individual and organizational goals through strategic mentorship that clearly defines a pathway for growing their cross-cultural skills.
Awareness and Inclination towards Entrepreneurship among college students of Kashmir
Authors: Majeed Shabir
Published: May 2016

Kashmir region is a land locked area and the employment opportunities in the public sector are very limited. The private sector has not taken off due to the prevailing political instability. With limited public sector employment opportunities and troubled private sector, the sizable population of Kashmir population comprises of youth. Thereby, this paper intends to focus on youth’s awareness and willingness especially the college students to take up entrepreneurship. The study has used a structured questionnaire and observation to examine the awareness and willingness to take up entrepreneurship as career option. The questionnaire has been drafted to know the reasons of entrepreneurship awareness whether negative or positive. The results have shown up very little awareness among the college students which is largely due to the lack of entrepreneurial education, mindset of parents and individual desire of youth.
Socio-Economic Issues Of Beggary: A Study Of Beggars In Coimbatore City
Authors: V. Dr.Malarvizhi , Geetha Dr.K.T.
Published: May 2016

Beggars are an inescapable part of our society and one has to deal with this reality. Begging is a global phenomenon and not found in our society alone but rather it is found everywhere, in both developed and developing countries. A large proportion of beggars are the people who are unable to get on with life in a normal passion because of poverty, disability or other reasons. They can find no way out but to live on alms of others at the expanse of their dignity. The study throws lights on the socio-economic conditions of beggars; to find out the causes and factors that lead to their begging life; to identify the problems faced by the beggars while they beg and to give remedial measures for improving their socio-economic condition. Data was collected from 51 beggars by adopting purposive sampling method during May to June 2015 and techniques like Chi-square test; Garrett’s rating scale; Likert’s summated scale and Factor analysis were used. The study revealed that the main cause for begging was illiteracy, no source of food and illness and also they faced problems like harassment from municipal officers and police, fellow beggars, sexual abuse and health hazards. The study concludes that as they are also humans who have the right to live with dignity and respect, help them to get job in productive works according to their potentialities and skill rather than giving them kind and cash to get rid of them.
LAV Path Planning by Enhanced Fireworks Algorithm on Prior Knowledge
Authors: Bing Li , Ning You , YeHong Du
Published: May 2016

Path planning plays an extremely important role in the design of LAVs (Loitering Air Vehicles) to accomplish the air combat task fleetly and reliably. The planned path should ensure that LAVs reach the destination along the optimal path with minimum probability of being found and minimal consumed fuel. Traditional methods tend to find local best solutions due to the large search space. So it takes a lot of time and consumes a lot of computing resources. In this paper, a new young intelligent algorithm-fireworks algorithm is introduced, and EFWA (enhanced fireworks algorithm)-its enhanced version is used to find the optimal solution. At the same time, the battlefield prior knowledge is fully utilized to predict the existence space of the potential optimal trajectory. Greatly the search space reduced, plan planning efficiency is significantly improved. Path planning method effectiveness in this paper has further been improved compared with FACPSO. Moreover, the EFWA on prior knowledge performs well on the application of dynamic path planning when the threats cruise randomly than FAC-PSO.
Health Care Visits as a Risk Factor for Tuberculosis in Taiwan: A Population-Based Case–Control Study
Authors: Pan Sung-Ching , Chen Chien-Chou , Chiang Yi-Ting , Chang Hsing-Yi , Fang Chi-Tai , Lin Hsien-Ho
Published: May 2016

Objectives. To assess whether health care visits of nontuberculous patients are a risk factor for contracting tuberculosis.

Methods. We conducted a case–control study nested within the cohort of 1 million individuals from the health insurance database in Taiwan between 2003 and 2010. We identified incident cases of tuberculosis through International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) codes and prescription of antituberculosis drugs. We identified 4202 case participants and 16 808 control participants matched by age, gender, and date of diagnosis to estimate the association between frequency of health care visits and incidence of tuberculosis.

Results. Frequency of health care visits was associated with increased risk of tuberculosis in a dose-dependent manner after adjustment for other medical comorbidities (P for trend < .001). Compared with individuals with fewer than 5 visits per year, those with more than 30 had a 77% increase in tuberculosis risk (adjusted odds ratio = 1.77; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.60, 1.97).

Conclusions. Frequent health care visits of nontuberculous patients appear to be a risk factor for contracting tuberculosis.

Public Health Implications. Efforts should focus on educating the general population to avoid unnecessary hospital visits, strengthening active case finding, and intensifying infection control in all health care settings.
Simultaneous Adsorption of Cadmium, Zinc, and Lead on Hydroxyaluminum‐ and Hydroxyaluminosilicate‐Montmorillonite Complexes
Authors: Saha U. K. , Taniguchi S. , Sakurai K.
Published: May 2016

We examined the adsorption behavior of Cd, Zn, and Pb from mixed solutions on synthetically prepared Hydroxyaluminum (HyA)‐ and Hydroxyaluminosilicate (HAS)‐montmorillonite (Mt) complexes within the pH range 4 to 8. Initial concentrations of each metal (MeI) of 1 × 10−6 M in binary systems and 1 × 10−6, 2 × 10−5, 5 × 10−5 M in ternary systems were used in a background electrolyte of 0.01 M NaClO4 The presence of HyA and HAS polymers on Mt greatly increased the adsorption of all three metals. Lead appeared to have the strongest affinity for adsorption on both Mt and on the complexes. The adsorption affinity sequence of Pb > Cd > Zn on Mt did not change with MeI and could be explained with hard‐soft acid‐base (HSAB) theory. On the complexes, the affinity sequences of Zn > Cd in binary systems and Pb ≫ Zn ≥ Cd in most ternary systems were consistent with predictions based on the first hydrolysis constants. We propose that HyA‐Mt and HAS‐Mt are composed of nonuniform metal adsorption sites. For a given type of site, metal selectivity was predominantly determined by the metal properties, softness and ease of hydrolysis, while ionic potential had a limited predictive index for metal adsorption. The overall adsorption behavior of the metals along with their extraction patterns showed that the strength of adsorption followed the order of Pb ≫ Zn > Cd among the metals and of HyA‐Mt ≥HAS‐Mt ≫ Mt among the adsorbents.
A Point‐Source Method for Rapid Simultaneous Estimation of Soil Hydraulic and Chemical Transport Properties
Authors: Al-Jabri Salem A. , Horton Robert , Jaynes Dan B.
Published: May 2016

Hydraulic and chemical transport properties are needed for accurate prediction of water and chemical movement through the vadose zone. Field methods used to estimate such properties are often hampered by extensive labor and time constraints. One of the objectives of this study was to develop an experimental setup and a procedure for a point‐source method that facilitates rapid and simultaneous measurements of soil hydraulic and chemical transport properties at multiple locations. Another objective was to evaluate the point‐source method by comparing the parameters with those produced by ponded and tension infiltrometers. The experimental setup consisted of three dripper lines equipped with pressure‐compensating drippers. The setup was evaluated on a greenhouse soil pit. Determined hydraulic properties were the saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) and the macroscopic capillary length (λc). Hydraulic properties (from the point‐source method) were determined by applying four consecutive discharge rates on the soil surface and measuring their corresponding steady‐state saturated areas. Determined chemical transport parameters were the immobile water fraction (θim/θ) and the mass exchange coefficient (α). They were determined by applying a sequence of conservative fluorobenzoate tracers. The point‐source method gave consistent and reliable estimates for both sets of properties. Except for α, there was no significant difference between the two procedures (point source vs. infiltrometers) in determining both sets of properties. The study showed that the point‐source setup could be utilized for rapid and simultaneous estimation of soil hydraulic and chemical transport properties at multiple locations with minimum labor requirements.
Soil Investigations using Electromagnetic Induction and Ground‐Penetrating Radar in Southwest Tennessee
Authors: Inman Daniel J. , Freeland Robert S. , Ammons John T. , Yoder Ronald E.
Published: May 2016

Conducting precise soil investigations rapidly and nonintrusively is of great interest to soil scientists and engineers. As such, comparisons of ground‐penetrating radar (GPR), electromagnetic induction (EMI), and traditional soil survey techniques were made on loessial soils in southwest Tennessee. The objectives of this study were to: (i) conduct a complete soil morphological, chemical, and physical characterization by methods; (ii) conduct a nonintrusive soil investigation by GPR and EMI; and (iii) compare the results from a traditional investigation with the nonintrusive investigation. The soils were located on an upland position. Parent material was loess–alluvium–Tertiary sand. Measured loess thickness ranged from 90 to 144 cm and measured alluvium thickness ranged from 82 to 151 cm. Soil morphological and physical properties in the upper 130 cm of nine pedons were analyzed statistically and grouped by pedon sample site. For an unbiased assessment, all GPR and EMI data were analyzed independently by pedon sample site, and data were grouped on the basis of similarities. Groupings of sites were compared by Kappa statistics. At the subgroup level, all sites were classified as Ultic Hapludalfs. Groupings of sites based on soil morphology and physical data had strong agreement with groupings of sites based upon GPR data, which were first targeted by a precursory EMI survey.
Evaluating the Potential for Site‐Specific Phosphorus Applications Without High‐Density Soil Sampling
Authors: Schmidt John P. , Taylor Randal K. , Milliken George A.
Published: May 2016

Because of the costs of additional soil sampling and analyses, high‐density soil sampling is a major obstacle for producers when deciding whether to variably apply P fertilizer. Our objective was to develop an approach to evaluate the potential for site‐specific P applications prior to high‐density soil sampling. Soil samples (40–167) were collected from eight fields ranging in size from 40 to 170 ha. The soil P test frequency distribution (DT) was determined for each field using all the samples and assuming lognormally distributed soil P values. Sets (500) of random samples (n = 5, 10, 20, 30, and 50) were selected from all the samples for each of eight fields. With each sample set, the soil P test frequency distribution (Dx) was estimated. A deviation index (Udev) represented the amount that Dx deviated from DT The generated populations of Udev were then used to evaluate the probability of exceeding any random Udev as a function of n, providing a measure of success in estimating DT A P application based on the mean soil P test was compared with a P application based on DT, providing a measure of potential for a site‐specific P application. The P application based on the mean soil P test deviated from the P application based on DT by 11.7, 9.4, and 5.1 kg P2O5 ha−1 for Fields A, B, and C, respectively, representing the average deviation for the entire field. Larger values represent greater potential return to a site‐specific P application. The Udev that was obtained with 99% probability (n = 50) was used as the criterion from which to compare the success of using smaller sample sizes for estimating DT To achieve the same success in estimating DT with 70, 80, and 90% probability, 18 to 26, 23 to 31, and 33 to 39 soil samples were required for Fields A, B, and C, respectively. This approach provides decision makers a practical tool for estimating DT prior to high‐density soil sampling, with an estimate of the corresponding risk associated with different sample sizes.
Inorganic Carbon Analysis by Modified Pressure‐Calcimeter Method
Authors: Sherrod L. A. , Dunn G. , Peterson G. A. , Kolberg R. L.
Published: May 2016

Soil organic C (SOC) analyses using high temperature induction furnace combustion methods have become increasing popular because of advances in instrumentation. Combustion methods, however, also include C from CaCO3 and CaMg(CO3)2 found in calcareous soils. Separate analysis of the inorganic C (IC) must be done to correct C data from combustion methods. Our objective was to develop a efficient and precise IC method by modification of the pressure‐calcimeter method. We modified the method by using Wheaton serum bottles (20‐mL and 100‐mL) sealed with butyl rubber stoppers and aluminum tear‐off seals as the reaction vessel and a pressure transducer monitored by a digital voltmeter. Our gravimetric IC determination of six soils showed a strong correlation when regressed against IC from the modified pressure‐calcimeter method (slope of 0.99, r2 = 0.998). The method detection limit (MDL) was 0.17 g IC kg−1 for the 20‐mL serum bottles and the limit of quantification (LOQ) was 0.30 g IC kg−1 The 100‐mL serum bottle had a MDL of 0.42 with a LOQ of 2.4 g IC kg−1 When using a 100‐mL Wheaton serum bottle as the reaction vessel with a 0.50‐g sample size, soils containing up to 120 g IC kg−1, which represent a 100 % CaCO3 equivalent, can be analyzed within the V output range of the pressure transducer. Soil organic C determined by subtraction of IC from total C from combustion analysis correlated well with SOC determined by the Walkley‐Black.