bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ammonia independent sodium uptake mediated by Na+ channels and NHEs in the freshwater ribbon leech Nephelopsis obscura
Authors: Quijada-Rodriguez Alex R. , Schultz Aaron G. , Wilson Jonathan M. , He Yuhe , Allen Garett J. P. , Goss Greg G. , Weihrauch Dirk
Published: July 2017

Freshwater organisms actively take up ions from their environment to counter diffusive ion losses due to inhabiting hypo-osmotic environments. The mechanisms behind active Na+ uptake are quite well understood in freshwater teleosts, however, the mechanisms employed by invertebrates are not. Pharmacological and molecular approaches were used to investigate Na+ uptake mechanisms and their link to ammonia excretion in the ribbon leech Nephelopsis obscura. At the molecular level, we identified a Na+ channel and a Na+/H+-exchanger (NHE) in the skin of N. obscura, where the NHE was upregulated when acclimated to extremely low [Na+] (0.05 mmol l−1, pH 5) conditions. Additionally, we found that leeches in dilute freshwater environments use both, a vacuolar-type H+-ATPase (VHA) assisted uptake via a Na+ channel and a NHE based mechanisms for Na+ uptake. Immunolocalization of VHA and Na+/K+ ATPase indicated at least two cell types present within leech skin, VHA+ and VHA− cells, where the VHA+ cells are likely involved in Na+ uptake. NKA was present throughout the epithelium. We also found that increasing ammonia excretion by decreasing water pH, ammonia loading leeches or exposing leeches to high environmental ammonia does not affect Na+ uptake providing indications that an NHE-Rh metabolon is not present and that ammonia excretion and Na+ uptake are not coupled in N. obscura. To our knowledge, this is the first study showing the mechanisms of Na+ uptake and their links to ammonia excretion in a freshwater invertebrate, where results suggest an ammonia-independent Na+ uptake mechanism relying on both Na+ channels and NHEs.
A species-specific nematocide that results in terminal embryogenesis
Authors: Renahan Tess , Hong Ray L.
Published: July 2017

Nematode-insect interactions are ubiquitous, complex, and constantly changing as the host and nematode coevolve. The entomophilic nematode Pristionchus pacificus is found on a myriad beetle species worldwide, though the molecular dynamics of this relationship are largely unknown. To better understand how host cues affect P. pacificus embryogenesis, we characterized the threshold of sensitivity to the pheromone (Z)-7-tetradecen-2-one (ZTDO) by determining the minimum exposure duration and developmental window that results in P. pacificus embryonic lethality. We found early-stage embryos exposed to volatile ZTDO for as few as four hours all display terminal embryogenesis, characterized by punctuated development up to 48 hours later, with abnormal morphology and limited cavity formation. To determine if the pheromone arrests pre-hatching development by suffocating or permeabilizing the eggshells, we raised embryos under anoxic conditions as well as examined eggshell permeability using the lipophilic dye FM4-64. We found that asphyxiating the embryos arrested embryogenesis in a reversible manner but did not phenocopy the effects of ZTDO exposure, whereas the ZTDO-induced disruption of embryogenesis did correlate with increased eggshell permeability. The effects of ZTDO are also highly specific, as other lipid insect compounds do not produce any detectable embryocidal effect. The high specificity and unusual teratogenic effect of ZTDO may be important in mediating the host-nematode relationship by regulating P. pacificus development.
Avian thermoregulation in the heat: resting metabolism, evaporative cooling, and heat tolerance in Sonoran Desert songbirds
Authors: Smith Eric Krabbe , O'Neill Jacqueline J. , Gerson Alexander R. , McKechnie Andrew E. , Wolf Blair O.
Published: July 2017

We examined thermoregulatory performance in seven Sonoran Desert passerine bird species varying in body mass from 10 to 70g – Lesser Goldfinch, House Finch, Pyrrhuloxia, Cactus Wren, Northern Cardinal, Abert's Towhee and Curve-billed Thrasher. Using flow-through respirometry we measured daytime resting metabolism, evaporative water loss and body temperature at air temperatures (Tair) between 30° and 52°C. We found marked increases in resting metabolism above the upper critical temperature (Tuc), which for six of the seven species fell within a relatively narrow range (36.2° – 39.7°C), but which was considerably higher in the largest species, the Curve-billed Thrasher (42.6°C). Resting metabolism and evaporative water loss were minimal below the Tuc and increased with Tair and body mass to maximum values among species of 0.38 – 1.62 W and 0.87 – 4.02 g H2O hr−1. Body temperature reached maximum values ranging from 43.5° to 45.3°C. Evaporative cooling capacity, the ratio of evaporative heat loss to metabolic heat production, reached maximum values ranging from 1.39–2.06, consistent with known values for passeriforms and much lower than values in taxa such as columbiforms and caprimulgiforms. These maximum values occurred at heat tolerance limits (HTL) that did not scale with body mass among species, but were ∼50°C for all species except the Pyrrhuloxia and Abert's Towhee (HTL=48°C). High metabolic costs associated with respiratory evaporation appeared to drive the limited heat tolerance in these desert passeriforms, compared to larger desert columbiforms and galliforms that use metabolically more efficient mechanisms of evaporative heat loss.
Blue petrels recognize the odor of their egg
Authors: Leclaire Sarah , Bourret Vincent , Bonadonna Francesco
Published: July 2017

Most studies on avian olfactory communication have focused on mate choice, and the importance of olfaction in subsequent nesting stages has been poorly explored. In particular, the role of olfactory cues in egg recognition has received little attention, despite eggs potentially being spread with parental odorous secretions known to elicit individual discrimination. Here we used behavioral choice tests to determine whether female blue petrels (Halobaena caerulea) can discriminate the odor of their own egg from the odor of a conspecific egg. Females preferentially approached the odor of their own egg, suggesting that blue petrels can recognize their own egg using odor cues. This finding raises the question of the adaptive value of this mechanism, and may inspire further research on odor-based egg discrimination in species suffering brood parasitism.
Results of early warning indicators for HIV/AIDS in 42 outpatient clinics in 25 northern provinces of Vietnam
Authors: Le Huong Thi , Doan Linh Thuy Thi , Pham Dung Kim , Phuc Do Huyen , Nguyen Huong Lan Thi
Published: July 2017

Background: The emergence of HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) is an unavoidable consequence of antiretroviral therapy (ART), and HIVDR early warning indicators (EWIs) could specifically assess factors at individual clinics associated with HIVDR. Thus, the present study aimed to collect data on EWIs for HIV/AIDS at 42 outpatient clinics (OPCs) in 25 northern provinces and cities of Vietnam in 2012.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted. Data was collected from 42 OPCs in 25 northern provinces between October and December 2012. The information was collected retrospectively from outpatient records from 2008 to 2011.

Results: In total, 99.8% ART patients were prescribed the correct regimen when starting ART treatment. All facilities met the target of under 20% patients lost to follow-up at 12 months. A total of 33/42 facilities reached the goal for on-time appointment keeping and 37/42 facilities achieved the target of first-line retention after 12-month ARV treatment. 

Conclusions: EWIs should be performed routinely in HIV/AIDS facilities. The data collected will contribute to monitoring, supervision, periodic assessment, and future plans for HIV/AIDS care and treatment programs in the area.
Protein sites with more coevolutionary connections tend to evolve slower, while more variable protein families acquire higher coevolutionary connections
Authors: Mandloi Sapan , Chakrabarti Saikat
Published: July 2017

Background: Amino acid exchanges within proteins sometimes compensate for one another and could therefore be co-evolved. It is essential to investigate the intricate relationship between the extent of coevolution and the evolutionary variability exerted at individual protein sites, as well as the whole protein.

Methods: In this study, we have used a reliable set of coevolutionary connections (sites within 10Å spatial distance) and investigated their correlation with the evolutionary diversity within the respective protein sites.

Results: Based on our observations, we propose an interesting hypothesis that higher numbers of coevolutionary connections are associated with lesser evolutionary variable protein sites, while higher numbers of the coevolutionary connections can be observed for a protein family that has higher evolutionary variability. Our findings also indicate that highly coevolved sites located in a solvent accessible state tend to be less evolutionary variable. This relationship reverts at the whole protein level where cytoplasmic and extracellular proteins show moderately higher anti-correlation between the number of coevolutionary connections and the average evolutionary conservation of the whole protein.

Conclusions: Observations and hypothesis presented in this study provide intriguing insights towards understanding the critical relationship between coevolutionary and evolutionary changes observed within proteins. Our observations encourage further investigation to find out the reasons behind subtle variations in the relationship between coevolutionary connectivity and evolutionary diversity for proteins located at various cellular localizations and/or involved in different molecular-biological functions.
Resistance to Sustainability Innovations in the Oil and Gas Sphere
Authors: Здольник  , Zdolnik Daria , Тищенко  , Tishchenko Olga , Тищенко  , Tishchenko Nazar
Published: July 2017

The article analyzes the main causes of resistance to the principles of the sustainable development concept as the results of the research in the oil company "Bashneft". In addition, the article describes the main risks of the industry, which led to changes in strategy and, as a consequence, changes in project portfolio, including sustainable development projects. There is also a system of the implementation management of the changes related to the sustainable development concept developed and the main methods of combating and preventing resistance identified in the article.
Budget Law of Russia
Authors: Пешкова  , Peshkova Christina
Published: July 2017

This textbook is for educational organizations of higher juridical education. It is recommended to organize the process of teaching and preparing special literature on Budget Law, Financial Law, studying the problems of financial and budget activity of the state, legal regulation of public finances, financial control. This book describes institutes of budget law:
budget system, budget construction of the state, Intergovernmental relationships,
budget income and budget costs,
budget process.
The book can be useful for financial agencies, agencies of budget control, state and municipal organizations.
Making a choice of catheterisation gel and the role of chlorhexidine
Authors: Williams Cath
Published: July 2017

It is estimated that over 90 000 people in the UK community live with an indwelling catheter ( Wilson, 2016 ). It is essential that a lubricating gel is used during catheterisation, as this helps to reduce the risk of pain, trauma and infection ( Loveday et al, 2014 ; National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, 2012 ). Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic contained in many catheterisation gels. Evidence demonstrates that increasing numbers of patients are experiencing hypersensitivity reactions to this ingredient ( Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists, 2014 ). This article considers the range of catheterisation gel choices available to clinicians and the importance of selecting the correct gel for each patient. It addresses the benefits of using OptiLube Active CHG Free (with lidocaine 2%) – the only catheterisation gel currently available in the UK that contains the benefits of local anaesthetic without chlorhexidine – and recommends that this should be the gel of choice for non-specialist staff conducting catheterisations without individual patient assessments.
Finding the time: an audit of the acute ward mealtime processes
Authors: Digan Eimear , O'Reilly Helen , Halley Mary Jane , Hickey Mary , Feehan Sinead , Collins Ronan , Bent Emer
Published: July 2017

It has been found that many organisations still fail to meet the basic rights of those in their care, in terms of access to food, drink and support when they need it. In acknowledgment that food service in hospitals must be given a higher priority, and be recognised as an integral part of the patient's treatment and care, Irish hospitals must now have a system to evaluate the nutritional and hydrational care for patients admitted to hospital. The purpose of this audit was to examine the level of mealtime support available to patients during the main mealtime service in our hospital. As the audit highlighted the need to alter ward processes around the mealtime service, quality improvement initiatives were introduced. These initiatives had a positive impact, enabling ward staff to improve adequacy of mealtime support to patients, leading to better patient quality care at this time.
The birth of our humanity
Authors: Page Lesley
Published: July 2017

At the end of her time as President of the Royal College of Midwives, Lesley Page reflects on achievements and developments in global midwifery and considers the progress still to be made
Small Animal Review
Authors: Tennant Bryn
Published: July 2017

Introduction:

Persistent proteinuria may be found in 19% of healthy elderly dogs. Measurement of proteinuria should be part of geriatric health screening.
Skills for communicating empathy to companion animal clients
Authors: McMurray Jantina , Boysen Søren
Published: July 2017

In veterinary clinical interactions, expression of empathy by veterinary surgeons is associated with higher client and veterinary surgeon satisfaction. Evidence from human medicine suggests that empathy is also associated with increased diagnostic accuracy, increased treatment adherence, and decreased malpractice risk. However, veterinary surgeons often fail to communicate empathy to animal owners. Perceived lack of empathy is one of the most common causes of formal complaints from veterinary clients. To increase client satisfaction and reduce the risk of complaints, it has been recommended that veterinary surgeons improve their ability to convey empathy to clients. This article will discuss skills to communicate empathy to veterinary clients and describe how to avoid empathy pitfalls.
Professional development is now smarter than ever
Authors: Freeston Michael
Published: July 2017

The workforce strategy outlines a series of proposals to map occupations within the early years, so that career pathways are clear, but how training is offered needs to adapt to a changing sector.
Breaking down barriers by sharing knowledge
Authors: Gouldsboro Julia
Published: July 2017

Incidents driven by cultural or religious intolerance are shocking and can lead to apprehensiveness in the communities in which they occur. How can we foster greater understanding in our young children?
Boost mental health with your best nurturing nature
Authors: Mainstone-Cotton Sonia
Published: July 2017

If we can help young children to have a good wellbeing then we are setting them off on a great start in life. For this to happen, we must be intentional about it, ensuring every aspect of our care empowers it.
Facial expressions: understanding the social information code
Authors: Brown Paula
Published: July 2017

Facial expression recognition is an emotional process for the brain and the result of fast, automated responses or short-cuts, helping us to respond with no conscious thought and fewer resources. But what can we learn from observing this form of non-verbal communication?
When billions turn into pennies
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: July 2017

As the Conservative manifesto unravels and with the 30-hour offer merely weeks away, the NDNA is calling on the government to end the underfunding that threatens the very survival of our nurseries.
Energy throughout the day
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: July 2017

Jenni Clarke's new six-part series will explore ways to promote healthy habits in the early years, starting with a look at practical ways you can promote nutritious food and drink in your setting.
Evaluation of the Hygienic Quality of Raw Cow’s Milk in Oujda City Morocco
Authors: Mchiouer K. , Bennani S. , Sh. El-Gendy N. , Meziane M.
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study is to determine the microbiological quality of raw cows’ milk of Oujda city. Raw milk samples are collected randomly between June 2014 and May 2015 from 20 Mahlaba (dairies) for microbiological evaluation. The samples are analyzed to determine total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (TMAB), total coliform, fecal coliform, staphylococcus aureus, fecal streptococci, proteolytic bacteria and lactic acid bacteria. The results of bacterial count showed that there is a variation between all the milk samples and a period effect is also observed. The mean counts of total mesophilic aerobic bacteria from all sale points are between 1.76×106 and 40.17×106 CFU/ml. Milk samples reveled counts total coliform and fecal coliform ranging from 0.58×105 to 11.10×105 CFU/ml and from 0.60×103 to 14.64×103 CFU/ml, respectively. Staphylococcus aureus are also detected in all samples with counts ranging from 0.35 ×103 to 3.08×103 CFU/ml. Fecal streptococci are found in all milk samples, at counts ranging from 0.16 ×102 to 2.18 ×102 CFU/ml. And finally, proteolytic and lactic acid bacteria are between 0.3×103 and 2.86×103 CFU/ml and 2.37×106 and 24.14 ×106 CFU/ml respectively. These results indicate a lack of compliance with good manufacturing practice at milking, collection and transportation of raw milk.
Salt Tolerance Analysis of Crops using the SWAP Model
Authors: Kamyab-Talesh Forough , Mostafazadeh-Fard Behrouz , Vazifedoust Majid , Shayannejad Mohammad , Navabian Maryam
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT: Soil and water salinities are major environmental factors limiting the productivity of agricultural lands especially in arid and semi arid regions. To determine salinity threshold values and slope of the yield decrements for crops of wheat, barley and maize, SWAP model was study for an arid region located in Semnan Province (52◦25' N 35◦11' E), central part of Iran with area of 35000 ha including 94 villages belonged to irrigation network of Garmsar district. The data collected from the above 94 villages for years 1998 to 2007 were used to calibrate and simulate yield of wheat, barley and maize using the SWAP model. The irrigation water salinities of 2, 4, 6 and 8 dS m-1 were used and yield reductions versus soil saturation extracts were evaluated and salinity threshold values and slope of the yield reductions were determined for each of the above crops. The results showed that the SWAP model predict crop yields with good accuracy and the threshold values and slope of the yield reductions are site dependent. These values should be determined for each area in order to be able to plan better irrigation scheduling for arid regions which have soil and irrigation water salinities problems.
Cells Cultivation System and Preparation of the Purple Membranes for Bionanotechnology
Authors: O. Solovyeva Daria , A. Oleinikov Vladimir , Yu. Zaitsev Sergei
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT: The purple membranes (PM) of the Halobacterium salinarum cells and bacteriorhodopsin (major retinal-containing trans-membrane protein of these bacteria are the most promising photosensitive biopolymers in terms of bionanotechnology, developing photosensitive devices, etc. The article is devoted to the improvement of the cultivation system for Halobacterium salinarum cells and the PM production; the study of the properties and functional characterization of bacteriorhodopsin - the biological components of the bionanomaterials. The optimal conditions for the production of the biomass are the following: the volume of incubation media must be 10% of the working volume (the volume of the cuvette); the cell “age” must be close to the end of the exponential phase of growth; the lighting must be maximum (4 light bulbs LD-20); the temperature must be 37°С; the time must be 8 days; the aeration must be 0.45 (L air)/(L of environment)/min. The yield of the product is about 5 g of biomass containing 45 mg of bacteriorhodopsin. The purple membranes and their major protein - bacteriorhodopsin were obtained with the required parameters.
Characterization of the Cellulase Enzyme Produced by Actinomycetes Isolated from the Mangrove Coastal Areas
Authors: C. P. Kulkarni , C. B. Maurya
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT: Cellulase enzyme plays an important role in converting cellulosic biomass in high value products and therefore finds various applications in a number of industries such as pulp and paper, textile, laundry, biofuel production, food and feed industry, brewing and agriculture. Although there are various sources available for obtaining enzymes of industrial applications such as bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, microalgae, animals and plants; microorganisms represent the most common source of enzymes because of their broad biochemical diversity, feasibility of mass culture and ease of genetic manipulation. Among the microorganisms, actinomycetes are increasingly becoming an important resource for the production of therapeutic molecules and industrially important enzymes. Considering this, the present investigation was undertaken to isolate a novel actinomycete strain from a sea sediment sample and explore its ability to produce the enzyme cellulase. After morphological and biochemical studies, this actinomycete strain was further characterized using its 16S rRNA gene sequence and a phylogenetic tree was constructed. The activity and stability of the extracted enzyme from this actinomycete was analyzed. Finally, the applications of this extracted enzyme were studied.
Effect of Surface Sterilization time and Plant Bioregulators for Callus Formation in Hybrid Lilium Cv. Tresor
Authors: Arpita Gochhayat Anchal , Beura Sashikala , Subudhi Enketeswara
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT: An efficient protocol was standardized for calli mass formation from bulb scale explant of hybrid Lilium Cv. Tresor under in vitro conditions at Biotechnology-cum-Tissue Culture Centre, OUAT, Bhubaneswar. The bulb scale explants were treated with 0.1 % HgCl2 (3 min, 4min, 5min, 6 min, 7min, 8min and 9 min) and control (without treatment) were cultured on MS media, among the treatments, 5 minutes timing resulted in minimum contamination [fungal % (6.67), bacterial % (6.67)] and maximum survival % (83.33%). The best surface sterilization time was further taken into consideration for treatment of explants, sterilization and cultured in the MS Basal media supplemented with BAP (0.5, 1.0 mg/l) in combination with 2,4-D (0.5,1.0,1.5,2.0, and 2.5 mg/l) and 2,4-D (0.5,1.0,1.5,2.0, and 2.5 mg/l) alone along with control. Basal media supplemented with BAP (1.0 mg/l) and 2,4-D (1.50 mg/l) produced maximum callus % (90.00%) and spread, profuse green callus was also recorded in similar combination which opened prospects for developing an indirect means of in vitro regeneration of hybrid Lilium Cv. Tresor there by strengthening the way biotechnology which could be used for improvement and satiate the national and international demands of this cut flowers.
An Efficient Protocol for Micro Propagation of Gardenia Jasminoides Ellis.
Authors: Abd Al-Razzaq Salim Siham , Younus Hamza Sumaya
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT: The purpose of present study was the development of a suitable protocol for micro propagation of Gardenia jasminoides by using explants from shoot tips and nodes exist from 2-3 years old plants. The sterile explants cultured in MS medium supplemented with TDZ ( 0.0, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 or 4.0 mg/L ) in combination with IAA ( 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 or 0.4 mg/L) for shoot initiation. Results showed there was no significant difference between explants source in initiation stage. The highest averages of shoots numbers, shoots lengths, number of leaves and nodes per shoot were obtained at combination 3.0 mg/L TDZ + 0.3 mg/L IAA for both explants. The micro shoots from initiation stage were harvested and cut into new explants and transferred to multiplication medium containing the same concentrations of TDZ and IAA above in addition of 3.0 mg/L of GA3 of all treatments. The best results of shoots multiplication through shoots numbers(3.8 shoots/explant), shoots lengths(3.2 cm), number of leaves(6.9 leaves/shoot) and nodes(5.2 nodes/shoot) were obtained at 3.0 mg/L TDZ + 0.3 mg/L IAA. Also, there was induction of flower buds formation in some TDZ and IAA combinations. Then, the multiplied shoots were transferred to rooting medium comprised of half strength of MS salts containing 4.0 g/L activated charcoal and supplemented with IBA ( 0.0, 0.5, 1.0 or 1.5 mg/L) and NAA ( 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 or 2.0 mg/L ) individually. Results showed the concentration 1.5 mg/L of IBA gave the highest rooting response(90%), whereas, the concentration 1.0 mg/L IBA gave highest average of roots number (3.1 roots/shoot) and roots length(4.6 cm). While, the concentration 1.0 mg/L of NAA gave the best rooting response (80%), roots number (2.4 roots/shoot) and roots length(2.37 cm) after 6 weeks of culture in rooting medium. Rooted plants were transplanted to sterile mixture of peat moss and river soil (2:1) in pots for acclimatization, and after 4 weeks, the plants became hardened and gave survival percentage of 86% of plants.
TOWARD THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE TOOLS FOR MONITORING COASTAL ENVIRONMENTS UTILIZING GENE RESPONSE IN ORYZIAS FISHES
Authors: Inoue Koji , Yamamoto Yu , Yusof Shahrizad , Dung Le Quang , Arifin Zainal , Ismail Ahmad , Kinoshita Masato
Published: July 2017

Southeast Asia is known as a center of biodiversity of the earth. As economic growth of this region is remarkable, conservation of biodiversity is a top priority issue. For this purpose, it is important to monitor the environmental condition in effective ways. We are trying to detect pollutants in coastal and estuary waters through the expression level of pollutant-responsive genes of rice fishes of the genus Oryzias, widely distributed in Asia. Japanese medaka O. latipes is a useful model because whole genome sequence is available. Javanese medaka O. javanicus and Indian medaka O. dancena, both of which are widely distributed in Southeast Asia and adaptable to seawater, are also potential models. One possible method for pollution monitoring is the use of transgenic fish bearing artificialgene construct containing the pollutant-responsive promoter and a reporter gene. For example, transgenic strains that can detect estrogen-like substances have already been established. It is also probable to detect pollutants by quantifying mRNA or proteins expressed from the pollutant-responsive gene. In any case, the most important point is to identify the gene that responds to specific pollutants. Comprehensive transcriptomic analyses are powerful tool for this purpose. Organotin-responsive genes are being screened at present.
The acoustic parameters for analysing speech with complete dentures
Authors: C Gunasekar , C Sabrigirinathan , K Vinayagavel , K Ramkumar
Published: July 2017

The patients those who wear dentures have difficulty in speech becomes a major concern. Various studies were provided to improve speech with various technique, suggestions and conclusions but the better or exact test is to analyses the speech with complete dentures. Here we like to give brief details on understanding about proper knowledge on speech production, perception and the acoustic features and useful parameters to analyses these acoustic features with the quality of speech in denture wearers.
Pension Obligations in the European Union: A Case Study for Accounting Policy
Authors: Biondi Yuri , Boisseau-Sierra Marion
Published: July 2017

Pension obligations constitute a critical issue for public finances and budgets. This is especially true for the European Union whose institutional mechanism aims to supervise Member States’ spending through centralised budgetary rules based upon financial covenants. In this context, accounting methods of recognition and measurement of pension obligations become an integral and critical aspect of Europe’s transnational budgetary and financial supervision. Drawing upon a comprehensive overview of pension management and regulation, this article aims to analyse the ongoing debate on accounting for pension obligations with a specific attention to the harmonization of European Public Sector Accounting Standards (EPSAS). While the European Commission has been favouring the ‘indisputable reference’ to the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), European Member States’ practices and views remain inconsistent with the normative solution imposed by the IPSAS 25, which favours and facilitates Definite Contribution pension schemes. In this context, we do summarise the IPSAS position mimicking the IFRS, review the pension’s accounting in national statistics and EPSAS debate, and provide some building blocks for a comprehensive model of accounting for pension obligations that admits and enables several viable modes of pension management.
MiR-107 inhibits proliferation of lung cancer cells through regulating TP53 regulated inhibitor of apoptosis 1 (TRIAP1)
Authors: Wang Bing , Zuo Zhanjie , Lv Fang , Zhao Liang , Du Minjun , Gao Yushun
Published: July 2017

Aims

Accumulating evidence indicates that aberrant expression of miR-107 plays a crucial role in cancers. This study aims to display the function of miR-107 and its novel target genes in the progression of lung cancer.

Methods and Material

MiR-107 or miR-107 inhibitor was transfected into lung cancer cells A549. The levels of miR-107 and TP53 regulated inhibition of apoptosis 1 (TRIAP1) were examined by quantitative real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis and Western Blot. Functionally, MTT and colony formation assays were carried out to test the effect of miR-107 inhibitor and/or small interference RNA (siRNA) targeting TRIAP1 mRNA on proliferation of lung cancer cells. Levels of miR-107 or TRIAP1 were detected in clinical lung cancer samples by using qRT-PCR analysis.

Results

QRT-PCR analysis revealed that miR-107 inhibitor or miR-107 was successfully transfected into A549 cells. Western Blot indicated that miR-107 decreased the expression of TRIAP1 protein in the cells. In contrast, miR-107 inhibitor augmented the levels of TRIAP1 protein. Functionally, miR-107 inhibitor remarkably suppressed A549 cell proliferation, whereas, TRIAP1 siRNAs could abrogate the miR-107 inhibitor-induced proliferation of cells. Then, we validated that TRIAP1 was increased in clinical lung cancer samples. MiR-107 expression was negatively related to TRIAP1 expression in clinical lung cancer samples.

Conclusions

MiR-107 suppresses cell proliferation by targeting TRIAP1 in lung cancer. Our finding allows new insights into the mechanisms of lung cancer that is mediated by miR-107.
Environmental Geochemistry of Geophagic Materials from Free State Province in South Africa
Authors: Ekosse Georges-Ivo E. , Ngole-Jeme Veronica M. , Diko Makia L.
Published: July 2017

Nine geophagic material samples were analysed in order to characterise their mineralogical and elemental constituents, and infer on their health threats. Most abundant mineral in the samples was quartz, followed by smectite, kaolinite and muscovite in minor; and microcline, plagioclase, and goethite in trace quantities. Dominant major oxides were SiO
Mapping Mangrove Density from Rapideye Data in Central America
Authors: Son Nguyen-Thanh , Chen Chi-Farn , Chen Cheng-Ru
Published: July 2017

Mangrove forests provide a wide range of socioeconomic and ecological services for coastal communities. Extensive aquaculture development of mangrove waters in many developing countries has constantly ignored services of mangrove ecosystems, leading to unintended environmental consequences. Monitoring the current status and distribution of mangrove forests is deemed important for evaluating forest management strategies. This study aims to delineate the density distribution of mangrove forests in the Gulf of Fonseca, Central America with Rapideye data using the support vector machines (SVM). The data collected in 2012 for density classification of mangrove forests were processed based on four different band combination schemes: scheme-1 (bands 1–3, 5 excluding the red-edge band 4), scheme-2 (bands 1–5), scheme-3 (bands 1–3, 5 incorporating with the normalized difference vegetation index, NDVI), and scheme-4 (bands 1–3, 5 incorporating with the normalized difference red-edge index, NDRI). We also hypothesized if the obvious contribution of Rapideye red-edge band could improve the classification results. Three main steps of data processing were employed:
Adolescent suicide as a global public health issue
Authors: Abraham Zebib K. , Sher Leo
Published: July 2017

Youth suicide is a major global mental health problem. This review looks at the epidemiology, risk and protective factors associated with youth suicide, and global strategies to address this important issue. To better understand factors contributing to youth suicide, global gender differences in suicide were examined. Global rates of suicide amongst young men are higher than young women. However, there are anomalously higher rates of female youth suicide in India and China, and possible causes of this are examined further. It is likely that underestimation of youth suicide is a major factor affecting the accuracy of suicide epidemiology. Risk factors for youth suicide are varied. Psychiatric factors include various psychiatric illnesses, substance use (particularly amongst refugee and homeless youth). Psychosocial risk factors include family conflict, physical and sexual childhood abuse, isolation, socioeconomic disadvantage, discrimination and acculturation. Vulnerable populations are at increased risk, including refugee/immigrant/indigenous youth, those in foster care and homeless youth. Protective factors can include family cohesion and strong interpersonal relationships, as well as increased access to care. Global strategies to prevent youth suicide include reducing lethal means to suicide and reducing harmful media reporting. Various psychosocial interventions may be helpful, including individual support, and family, school and community based interventions. Strategies can also increase evaluation of psychiatric disorders and access to care, as well as promote psycho-education and reduce stigma against mental illness.
Multilingualism, urban change and gentrification in the landscape of a Brussels neighbourhood
Authors: Vandenbroucke Mieke
Published: July 2017

This paper focuses on how different historical stages of socio-economic development in Brussels are played out on the ground over time in one particular inner-city neighbourhood, the Quartier Dansaert. In particular, I document the history of this neighbourhood and how urban change and gentrification have impacted the outlook of multilingualism and the development of multilingual discourses and language hierarchies in its material and semiotic landscape over time. By using the rich history of multilingualism in the Quartier Dansaert as a case-study, I argue in favour of more historically-sensitive and longitudinal approaches to social and, in particular, linguistic change as played out in urban landscape.
Transitional Justice in the Middle East and North Africa – Taking Account of Islam
Authors: Yusuf Hakeem O.
Published: July 2017

The core of the argument of this article is that the integration of Islamic notions of justice into transitional justice mechanisms in the MENA makes for a more viable and sustainable transitional justice process in the region. This would mean a critical cultural value in the MENA is given a place in dealing with the past and mapping out a sustainable future in the region. The argument here is premised on the logic that a social transformation-focused enterprise like transitional justice ought to engage with Islam for sustainable outcomes in societies in the MENA where Islam is very influential. Given the significant role and influence of Islam on cultural, socio-political and legal institutions in the MENA, a process of transitional justice that takes account of Islamic values and practices is important for negotiating justice and institutionalising reforms in societies in the region.
A novel mutation in the FOXC2 gene: a heterozygous insertion of adenosine (c.867insA) in a family with lymphoedema of lower limbs without distichiasis
Authors: Planinsek Rucigaj Tanja , Rijavec Matija , Miljkovic Jovan , Selb Julij , Korosec Peter
Published: July 2017

Background

Primary lymphoedema is a rare genetic disorder characterized by swelling of different parts of the body and highly heterogenic clinical presentation. Mutations in several causative genes characterize specific forms of the disease. FOXC2 mutations are associated with lymphoedema of lower extremities, usually distichiasis and late onset.

Patients and methods

Subjects from three generations of a family with lymphoedema of lower limbs without distichiasis were searched for mutations in the FOXC2 gene.

Results

All affected family members with lymphoedema of lower limbs without distichiasis, and still asymptomatic six years old girl from the same family, carried the same previously unreported insertion of adenosine (c.867insA) in FOXC2.

Conclusions

Identification of a novel mutation in the FOXC2 gene in affected family members of three generations with lymphoedema of lower limbs without distichiasis, highlights the high phenotypic variability caused by FOXC2 mutations.
The Selection of Litigation against Government Agencies: Evidence from China
Authors: Cui Wei , Wang Zhiyuan
Published: July 2017

We test the relevance of the selection theory of litigation in a contemporary, civil law setting, using Chinese judicial data that span 25 years regarding lawsuits against government agencies. Civil law systems may be characterized by lower costs of litigation and lower rates of settlement than the U.S. legal system, and therefore the presence of selection effects cannot be assumed. We show that selection effects are indeed manifest in Chinese administrative litigation, and suggest that this may be explained by hidden or intangible litigation costs. Our test for selection effects builds on the approach of previous U.S. studies and potentially allows the identification of selection effects to help improve inferences from decided cases. Finally, we examine patterns of settlement and plaintiff wins in pre-litigation administrative appeals in China, and do not find sufficient evidence for selection effects in this process. This could potentially be explained if most appellants pursuing administrative appeals do not intend to litigate.
Influence of micro- and nanofiller contents on friction and wear behavior of epoxy composites
Authors: Ozsoy Iskender , Mimaroglu Adullah , Unal Huseyin
Published: July 2017

In this study, the influence of micro- and nanofiller contents on the tribological performance of epoxy composites was studied. The fillers are micro-Al2O3, micro-TiO2, and micro-fly ash and nano-Al2O3, nano-TiO2, and nanoclay fillers. The microfillers were added to the epoxy by 10%, 20%, and 30% by weight. The nanofillers were added to the epoxy by 2.5%, 5%, and 10%. Friction and wear tests were conducted using the pin-on-disc arrangement. Tribo elements consisted of polymer pin and DIN 1.2344 steel counterface disc. A load value of 15 N, a sliding speed of 0.4 m/s, a sliding distance of 2000 m, and dry atmospheric conditions were applied to test conditions. The results show that the friction coefficients and the specific wear rates of the nanofilled composites increase as the filler content increases. For microfiller-filled epoxy composites, these values decrease as filler content increases. The tribological performance of epoxy composites is enhanced by the addition of microfillers, and the higher enhancement is reached with the addition of 30% fly ash filler. Finally, the pin and disc worn surface images show the presence of adhesive and some abrasive wear mechanisms.
Numerical study on the interfacial behavior of Mg/Al plate in explosive/impact welding
Authors: Yuan Xiaodan , Wang Wenxian , Cao Xiaoqing , Zhang Tingting , Xie Ruishan , Liu Ruifeng
Published: July 2017

In this study, the process of explosive welding of Mg/Al plate is represented, and the interfacial behavior of two metals is researched. The objective of this work is to investigate the factors that affect the quality of explosive bonding and the distribution of physical parameters on the collision. A finite difference engineering package with smoothed particle hydrodynamics method is used to model the oblique impact of a thin flyer plate (Al) on a relatively thick base plate (Mg). Wavy interface and jetting phenomenon, which existed in the experiment, are well reproduced in the simulation. The contours of pressure, shear stress, velocity, and effective plastic strain of magnesium and aluminum are also distinctly described. The bonding turns out to be a possible solid-state welding process. The effective plastic strain exceeds a minimum value, and the shear stress is just the opposite sign in this simulation where available bonding occurred. Wave formation appears to be the result of variation in the velocity distribution on the interface and periodic disturbances of magnesium and aluminum. A transition from straight to wave occurs along the interface. High values of plastic strain of two metals are predicted on the interface.
El potencial pedagógico de la pragmática sociocultural como herramienta de mediación en la interpretación de experiencias interculturales
Authors: Morollón Martí Natalia
Published: July 2017

El propósito de este trabajo es investigar de qué forma una aproximación sociocultural al estudio de la cortesía puede contribuir a promover la conciencia metapragmática e introducir una dimensión intercultural en el aula universitaria de español como lengua extranjera (ELE). Para ello, esta investigación muestra el análisis de la actividad reflexiva en grupos de estudiantes universitarios. Durante el desarrollo de estas reflexiones, el conocimiento teórico y conceptual relativo al área de investigación de la pragmática sociocultural, presentado en forma de enseñanza explícita, es empleado como herramienta de mediación durante el desarrollo del diálogo colaborativo (Swain, 2006. Languaging, agency and collaboration in advanced second language profiency. En H. Byrnes (Ed.), Advanced Language Learning: The Contribution of Halliday and Vygotsky (pp. 95–108). London: Continuum) en la interpretación de sus experiencias interculturales, obtenidas en sesiones de telecolaboración con hablantes nativos de español. El análisis cualitativo de los datos muestra cómo la presentación de conceptos teóricos, en lugar de mostrar normas generalizadas relativas al uso de la lengua, permite a los estudiantes participar en una actividad en la que construyen el significado de lo sucedido durante la interacción verbal a través del significado conceptual. Asimismo, esta aproximación sociocultural aplicada estudio de la cortesía ofrece oportunidades de interpretación de experiencias interculturales desde una perspectiva relativista en la que se consideran los factores sociales y culturales específicos de cada comunidad de habla estudiada y permite realizar comparaciones sobre el uso de la lengua en la interacción intercultural. Estas reflexiones y comparaciones son aspectos fundamentales en el desarrollo de la comprensión intercultural.
Memórias e sensibilidades numa produção de conhecimentos histórico-educacionais
Authors: Cunha Nara Rúbia de Carvalho , Prado Guilherme Do Val Toledo
Published: July 2017

Neste artigo são apresentadas reflexões sobre o trabalho com memórias em um projeto desenvolvido no Museu Casa Guignard, em Ouro Preto-MG, com professores de educação básica, como parte de uma pesquisa de formação docente realizada junto ao programa de Pós-Graduação da Unicamp, de 2012 a 2016.  Em diálogo com o filósofo Walter Benjamin, destaca-se a relação entre os sujeitos da pesquisa, potencializada pelo desafio de lidar com as sensibilidades no trabalho científico.
O imaginário nas obras de Molina e Berega: (re)construindo signos
Authors: Ahlert Jacqueline , Betencourt Maria Goreti
Published: July 2017

O presente artigo objetiva versar, de forma introdutória, sobre as representações simbólico-visuais que compõe as obras dos artistas Molina Campos e Berega, estabelecendo interfaces com obras do passado histórico da arte e propondo uma relação sígnica vinculada ao repertório iconográfico ocidental, como elemento constitutivo de imaginários sociais. Ambos os artistas, representaram os modos e as práticas cotidianas das pessoas no pampa sulino, tanto sul-rio-grandense quanto argentino, de um modo particular e semelhante. Propõe-se conduzir um discurso que reconfigure os imaginários manifestos nas obras, seus signos de ligação e as possibilidades emocionais que expressam, levando em conta a estética kitsch, presente nas representações analisadas.
Memória, paz e reconciliação: entrevista com Camilo Posso
Authors: Ferreira Maria Letícia Mazzucchi
Published: July 2017

O tema da justiça de transição tem sido de suma importância para os países latino-americanos nas últimas décadas. Nesse contexto, o direito à verdade, à reparação e à justiça tem sido debatido e alcançado de diferentes maneiras e em diferentes níveis em cada um dos países afetados pela violência de Estado durante o século XX. Em meio a tão delicados debates, o tema da reconciliação como um pilar para a verdade e para a justiça apresenta-se na proposta desenvolvida pelo Centro de Memoria para a Paz, de Bogotá, como um desafiador motor de reconstrução social em um país ainda profundamente marcado por conflitos violentos. Sobre esse tema, nos fala Camilo González Posso, diretor do Centro, em entrevista concedida à professora Maria Letícia Mazzucchi Ferreira, no dia 20 de novembro de 2015, que contou com apoio da FAPERGS.
The Tectonic Thinking and Strategies in Louis I. Kahn’s Art Museums
Authors: Chih-Ming Shih  , Fang-Jar Liou
Published: July 2017

Through the use of tectonic form to integrate natural lighting and modern mechanical services into his art museum designs, Louis Kahn was able to give full expression to the spatial poetics of his tectonic thinking. By making a comparative examination of the literature and illustrations and presenting 3D models, we examine how, in the process of giving shape to space, Kahn was able to make the most of the inherent qualities of his materials to integrate the mechanical services into his three museums designs—the Yale University Art Gallery (1951–53); the Kimbell Art Museum (1966–72); and the Yale Center for British Art (1969–74)—while also making ample use of natural lighting. We then go on to investigate why Kahn adopted a design concept which used tectonic form and natural lighting to give expression to the inherent spatial characteristics of a museum. The results indicate that the architectural principle of complying with the structural form and order were the main factors influencing Kahn’s approach to integrating the mechanical services and natural light into these three designs. It was also found that Kahn’s pioneering use of passive natural lighting has had a significant impact on subsequent museum designs.