bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel design of HA-coated nanoparticles co-encapsulating plasmid METase and 5-Fu shows enhanced application in targeting gastric cancer stem cells
Authors: Yang Weifeng , Zhang Houting , Xin Lin
Published: October 2017

Nanoparticles (NPs) are recognized as an attractive vehicles for cancer treatment due to their targeted drug release. Gastric cancer is an important killer disease, and its therapy methods still need improvement. The NPs were prepared using a precipitation method, and were evaluated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). MTT and Transwell assays were used to determine cell viability and apoptosis. In vivo experiments were performed to validate the effects of NPs on tumor growth. Methioninase (METase)/5-Fu co-encaspulated NPs showed highest ζ size and lowest ζ potential than other NPs. The migration and tumorsphere formation ability of CD44(+) was stronger than CD44(−). The effects of METase/5-Fu co-encaspulated NPs on inhibition cell growth was stronger than that of 5-Fu encaspulated NPs, while HA coated NPs showed significant target ability than that NPs without HA. METase supplementation promoted the inhibition effect of 5-Fu on thymidylate synthetase (TS), as well as cell apoptosis. The in vivo experiments demonstrated that HA coated NPs significantly inhibited tumor growth. It was concluded that HA-coated NPs enhance the target ability, while METase/5-Fu co-encaspulated NPs promote the inhibition effects on tumor growth in gastric cancer.
Numerical Simulation of a Kinetic Cell for in-situ Combustion. A Parametric Study and History Matching Aspects
Authors: Aguilar-Madera Carlos G. , Molina-Espinosa L. , Velasco-Tapia F.
Published: October 2017

The in-situ combustion method is an enhanced oil recovery technique based on the injection of air in petroleum reservoirs with the aim to burn a portion of hydrocarbons. This reduces the oil viscosity improving substantially the oil mobility. Simultaneously other phenomena take place as: distillation, segregation, oil upgrading, among others. In this work, a mathematical model to simulate oil combustion for kinetic cell experiments is presented. The model includes four-phases, nine components and four chemical reactions: coke formation, heavy oil fraction combustion, light oil fraction combustion and coke combustion. This formulation is commonly used to simulate in-situ combustion projects at combustion tubes- and petroleum reservoir-scales. The mass and energy balances were formulated leading to one set of highly coupled ordinary differential equations, which was numerically solved. The predictive model capabilities were tested by comparison with lab data, and it was found that CO and CO2 productions, oxygen uptake and cell temperature evolution agree well with experimental results. At one preliminary stage, the parameters fitting experimental results were inferred by individual manipulation until the best results were found. These parameters were perturbed in order to identify those parameters dominating the global dynamic of process. We found that energy activations and the mass density of oil components are the dominant parameters. We suggest that history matching processes must be focused over these parameters, and for this end, the implementation of advanced computational routines to solve multivariable inverse problems is recommended. In this work, we developed two automatic history matching techniques: one process based on Newton’s method and the second one based on evolutionary algorithms. The Newton’s method showed problems to find the minimum error, meanwhile the evolutionary algorithm was able to optimize the dominant parameters, but at the expense of slow convergence.
In vitro
ovicidal activity of poly lactic acid curcumin-nisin co-entrapped nanoparticle against Fasciola spp. eggs and its reproductive toxicity
Authors: Oyeyemi Oyetunde , Adegbeyeni Odunayo , Oyeyemi Ifeoluwa , Meena Jairam , Panda Amulya
Published: October 2017

Background:

Curcumin and nisin have been widely reported for their antibacterial and anticancer potency. However, their therapeutic applications are hampered by several factors, which necessitate their development into nanosize ranges for improved delivery and activities. Their incorporation into a single nanosynthesized form may suggest desirable efficacy on parasites. The aim of the study was to assess the ovicidal activity of the curcumin-nisin polylactic acid (PLA) entrapped nanoparticle on the Fasciola eggs and its reproductive toxicity.

Methods:

The nanoparticle was formulated by double emulsion method. The eggs of the adult Fasciola spp. were exposed to different concentrations (0.3125–5 mg/mL) of the nanoparticle to monitor hatchability. Mice were exposed to 0.5 mL of the formulated drug at varying concentrations (10–20 mg/kg) and then sacrificed for sperm morphology assay.

Results:

The mean particle size, polydispersity index, and drug entrapment efficiency of the formulated drug were 288.4±24.3 nm, 0.232, and 51.7%, respectively. The highest nanoparticulate concentration (5 mg/mL) showed the least percentage egg hatching (41.7%) compared with the other treatment groups and positive control (albendazole) (45.1%). The aberrations observed in sperm cells were not concentration-dependent and no significant differences were observed in the mean aberrations between the nanoparticulate drug-exposed groups and the negative control (p>0.05).

Conclusions:

The results confirmed the ovicidal activity of the curcumin-nisin nanoparticulate drug against the Fasciola species. The formulation also showed no toxicity to sperm cells. More robust studies on anti-fascioliasis activity of the drug on adult Fasciola spp. and in vivo and in vitro toxicity studies are recommended.
Congenital cataract with LSS gene mutations: a new case report
Authors: Chen Xiaodan , Liu Li
Published: October 2017

Background:

Congenital cataract is one of the major causes of blindness and amblyopia in children. About one-third of the cases are inherited.

Case presentation:

We applied whole exome sequencing for a pediatric patient with congenital cataract, small penis, baldness and absence of eyebrows and detected a compound heterozygous mutation in the lanosterol synthase (

Conclusions:

We concluded that the mutations affect the structural stability of the protein to some extent.
Hepatitis C virus exposure rate among health-care workers in rural Lower Egypt governorates
Authors: Elbahrawy Ashraf , Elwassief Ahmed , Abdallah Abdallah Mahmoud , Kasem Arafat , Mostafa Sadek , Makboul Khaled , Ali Mohamed Salah , Alashker Ahmed , Eliwa Ahmed Maher , Shahbah Hossam , Othman Mohamed Abdellah , Morsy Mohamed Hanafy , Abdelbaseer Mohamed Ali , Abdelhafeez Hafez
Published: October 2017

Background and Objectives

Studies on hepatitis C virus (HCV) in Egypt supported a strong role for various exposures in the health-care setting. In this study, we attempted to estimate the frequency of HCV exposure among Egyptian health-care workers (HCWs).

Methods

Five hundred and sixty-four (564) HCWs were included in this study. Two hundred and fifty-eight (45.74%) were health-care providers and 306 (54.25%) were non-health-care providers. All HCWs completed both the study questionnaire and provided a blood sample for anti-HCV testing by third-generation enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Subsequently, anti-HCV-positive samples were tested for HCV RNA using nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

The mean age of included HCWs was 33.0 ± 9.8 years; of them, 319 (56.56%) were males and 245 (43.44%) were females. The mean duration of health-care work was 9.3 ± 6.7 years. The frequency of antibody against hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV) among included HCWs was 8.7% (n = 49). Old age and prolonged duration of health-care work were significantly associated with anti-HCV seropositivity. Forty (81.63%) of 49 with anti-HCV-positive HCWs had positive hepatitis C viremia. The frequency of HCV RNA positivity increased with age. The frequency of eradicated past infection among nurses (36.85%) was markedly higher than that (6.7%) detected in non-health-care providers.

Conclusion

High rate of HCV infection is detected in Egyptian HCWs in rural Lower Egypt governorates. Health-care providers seem to eradicate HCV infection more frequently than non-health-care providers. National screening and treatment of infected HCWs are recommended.
Colorectal stenting for obstruction due to retrorectal tumor in a patient unsuitable for surgery
Authors: Ersan Veysel , Kutlu Ramazan , Erdem Ceyhun , Karagul Servet , Kayaalp Cuneyt
Published: October 2017

Fund of knowledge on palliative treatment of unresectable retrorectal tumors is scare. Here, we reported a non-surgical treatment of a huge retrorectal malignant tumor in an aged and debilitated patient complicated with colorectal obstruction. An 86-year-old male with severe comorbidities was admitted with acute colorectal obstruction owing to an untreated retrorectal malign epithelial tumor. There was a lobulated retrorectal mass, 20 cm × 15 cm at largest size, extending to the superior iliac bifurcation level, caused an obstruction of the rectal lumen. He was not suitable for surgical excision because of the severe comorbidities. Rectal obstruction was palliated by two self-expandable metallic stents. He tolerated the procedures well and post-procedural course was uneventful. After four months, stents were patent and the patient was continent. Stenting for colorectal obstruction owing to a retrorectal tumor can be feasible in patients who are not suitable for surgery (aged, debilitated, advanced tumor). It avoided the surgical trauma to a high-risk patient and ensured the continuity of continence. As far as we know, this was the first report on colorectal stenting for a retrorectal tumor.
Copper nanoparticles as an alternative feed additive in poultry diet: a review
Authors: Scott Abdullah , Vadalasetty Krishna Prasad , Chwalibog André , Sawosz Ewa
Published: October 2017

Copper (Cu) is a vital trace element involved in various physiological and biochemical processes. However, animals can only absorb a small fraction of Cu and the most is excreted, contaminating soil and aquatic environment. Hence, the use of this mineral as a growth promoter is today one of the crucial health and environmental concerns. In recent years, many studies have reported Cu nanoparticles (Cu-NP) as a promising alternative to antibacterial reagents and a growth promoter. Depending on the size, shape, dose and animal species, Cu-NP exhibit a variety of effects on animal performance. Apart from being highly bioavailable, reports have already pointed out the growth-promoting, antibacterial and immune-modulatory effects of Cu-NP. Toxicological studies provide varied results in animal models. However, other studies being undertaken in different animal species have shown the promise of Cu-NP supplementation. Therefore, there is a need to optimise the dose and duration of Cu-NP supplementation for livestock, depending on their biological effects. Moreover, the bioavailability of Cu-NP in livestock still needs further confirmation. In this review, we summarise the benefits and hazardous effects of Cu-NP and the possibility of using Cu-NP as a feed supplement in different animals, in general, and in poultry particularly.
Clinical profile and management of patients with incident and recurrent acute myocardial infarction in Albania - a call for more focus on prevention strategies
Authors: Myftiu Sokol , Sulo Enxhela , Burazeri Genc , Daka Bledar , Sharka Ilir , Shkoza Artan , Sulo Gerhard
Published: October 2017

Background

The clinical profile of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients reflects the burden of risk factors in the general population. Differences between incident (first) and recurrent (repeated) events and their impact on treatment are poorly described. We studied potential differences in the clinical profile and in-hospital treatment between patients hospitalised with an incident and recurrent AMI.

Methods

A total of 324 patients admitted in the Coronary Care Unit of ‘Mother Teresa’ hospital, Tirana, Albania (2013-2014), were included in the study. Information on AMI type, complications and risk factors was obtained from patient’s medical file.

Logistic regression analyses were used to explore differences between the incident and recurrent AMIs regarding clinical profile and in-hospital treatment.

Results

Of all patients, 50 (15.4%) had a prior AMI. Compared to incident cases, recurrent cases were older (P=0.01), more often women (P=0.01), less educated (P=0.01), and smoked less (P=0.03). Recurrent cases experienced more often heart failure (HF) (OR=2.48; 95% CI: 1.31–4.70), impaired left ventricular ejection fraction (OR=1.97; 95% CI:1.05–3.71), and multivessel disease (OR=6.32; 95% CI: 1.43–28.03) than incident cases. In-hospital use of beta-blockers was less frequent among recurrent compared to incident cases (OR=0.45; 95% CI: 0.24–0.85), while no statistically significant differences between groups were observed regarding angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker, statin, aspirin or invasive procedures.

Conclusion

A more severe clinical expression of the disease and underutilisation of treatment among recurrent AMIs are likely to explain their poorer prognosis compared to incident AMIs.
Self-reported hypoglycaemia in patients treated with insulin: A large Slovenian retrospectively-prospective study
Authors: Pongrac Barlovič Draženka , Zavratnik Andrej , Skvarča Aleš , Janša Karmen , Vukelič Bojana , Tomažič Marjeta , Ravnik Oblak Maja
Published: October 2017

Introduction

Hypoglycaemia is the major barrier for glycaemic target achievement in patients treated with insulin. The aim of the present study was to investigate real-world incidence and predictors of hypoglycaemia in insulin-treated patients.

Methods

More than 300 consecutive patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes treated with insulin were enrolled during regular out-patient visits from 36 diabetes practices throughout the whole country. They completed a comprehensive questionnaire on hypoglycaemia knowledge, awareness, and incidence in the last month and last six months. In addition, in the prospective part, patients recorded incidence of hypoglycaemic events using a special diary prospectively on a daily basis, through 4 weeks.

Results

At least one hypoglycaemic event was self-reported in 84.1%, and 56.4% of patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, respectively, during the prospective period of 4 weeks. 43.4% and 26.2% of patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, respectively, experienced a nocturnal hypoglycaemic event. In the same time-period, severe hypoglycaemia was experienced by 15.9% and 7.1% of patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, respectively. Lower glycated haemoglobin was not a significant predictor of hypoglycaemia.

Conclusions

Rates of self-reported hypoglycaemia in patients treated with insulin in the largest and most comprehensive study in Slovenia so far are higher than reported from randomised control trials, but comparable to data from observational studies. Hypoglycaemia incidence was high even with high glycated haemoglobin values.
Synthesis, solid-state structures and reduction reactions of heteroleptic Ge(II) and Sn(II) β-ketoiminate complexes
Authors: Wiederkehr Jessica , Wölper Christoph , Schulz Stephan
Published: October 2017

A series of new heteroleptic divalent germaniun and tin complexes of the general type L1,4GeN(SiMe3)2 (1, 2) and L1−4SnN(SiMe3)2 (3–6) were synthesized by reaction of β-ketimines L1−4H with Ge[N(SiMe3)2]2 and Sn[N(SiMe3)2]2, respectively. The reaction of 3 with the strong Mg(I) reductant L5Mg yielded the heteroleptic complex L1MgL5
7 after ligand transfer from tin to magnesium, whereas analogous reactions of L4GeN(SiMe3)2
2 and L4SnN(SiMe3)2
6 with L5Mg occurred with formation of insoluble precipitates, transfer of the amido substituent from the group 14 metal to magnesium and subsequent formation of the heteroleptic magnesium complex L5MgN(SiMe3)2 (8). 1–8 were characterized by heteronuclear NMR (1H, 13C, 119Sn) and IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis and single-crystal X-ray diffraction (L4SnN(SiMe3)2
6, L1MgL5
7).
Auto-Regulated Exercise Selection Training Regimen Produces Small Increases in Lean Body Mass and Maximal Strength Adaptations in Strength-trained Individuals
Authors: Rauch Jacob T. , Ugrinowitsch Carlos , Barakat Christopher I. , Alvarez Michael R. , Brummert David L. , Aube Daniel W. , Barsuhn Andrew S. , Hayes Daniel , Tricoli Valmor , De Souza Eduardo O.
Published: October 2017

Rauch, JT, Ugrinowitsch, C, Barakat, CI, Alvarez, MR, Brummert, DL, Aube, DW, Barsuhn, AS, Hayes, D, Tricoli, V, and De Souza, EO. Auto-regulated exercise selection training regimen produces small increases in lean body mass and maximal strength adaptations in highly trained individuals. J Strength Cond Res 34(4): 1133–1140, 2020—The purpose of this investigation was to compare the effects of auto-regulatory exercise selection (AES) vs. fixed exercise selection (FES) on muscular adaptations in strength-trained individuals. Seventeen men (mean ± SD; age = 24 ± 5.45 years; height = 180.3 ± 7.54 cm, lean body mass [LBM] = 66.44 ± 6.59 kg; squat and bench press 1 repetition maximum (1RM): body mass ratio 1.87, 1.38, respectively) were randomly assigned into either AES or FES. Both groups trained 3 times a week for 9 weeks. Auto-regulatory exercise selection self-selected the exercises for each session, whereas FES was required to perform exercises in a fixed order. Lean body mass was assessed via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and maximum strength via 1RM testing, pre-, and post-training intervention. Total volume load was significantly higher for AES than for FES (AES: 573,288 ± 67,505 kg; FES: 464,600 ± 95,595 kg, p = 0.0240). For LBM, there was a significant main time effect (p = 0.009). However, confidence interval analysis (95% CIdiff) suggested that only AES significantly increased LBM (AES: 2.47%, effect size [ES]: 0.35, 95% CIdiff [0.030–3.197 kg]; FES: 1.37%, ES: 0.21, 95% CIdiff [−0.500 to 2.475 kg]). There was a significant main time effect for maximum strength (p ≤ 0.0001). However, 95% CIdiff suggested that only AES significantly improved bench press 1RM (AES: 6.48%, ES: 0.50, 95% CIdiff [0.312–11.42 kg]; FES: 5.14%, ES: 0.43, 95% CIdiff [−0.311 to 11.42 kg]). However for back squat 1RM, similar responses were observed between groups (AES: 9.55%, ES: 0.76, 95% CIdiff [0.04–28.37 kg]; FES: 11.54%, ES: 0.80, 95% CIdiff [1.8–28.5 kg]). Our findings suggest that AES may provide a small advantage in LBM and upper body maximal strength in strength-trained individuals.
Relationship Between Physical Performance Testing Results and Peak Running Intensity During Professional Rugby League Match Play
Authors: Duthie Grant M. , Thornton Heidi R. , Delaney Jace A. , McMahon James T. , Benton Dean T.
Published: October 2017

Duthie, GM, Thornton, HR, Delaney, JA, McMahon, JT, and Benton, DT. Relationship between physical performance testing results and peak running intensity during professional rugby league match play. J Strength Cond Res 34(12): 3506–3513, 2020—The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between individual athletes' physical characteristics and both the peak running intensities and the decline in peak running intensities during competition. Twenty-two professional rugby league athletes (age; 24.1 ± 4.0 years, body mass; 101.4 ± 9.5 kg) underwent a series of physical testing procedures. Peak running intensity was determined using a moving average technique, applied to the speed (m·min−1), acceleration/deceleration (m·s−2), and metabolic power (W·kg−1) during competition, across 10 different durations. The power law relationship was then established, yielding an intercept and slope for the movement variables. Mixed linear models were then used to determine the relationship between physical characteristics and intercept and slope values. There were large, positive relationships between a player's maximal speed and both peak running speeds (effect size = 0.56, 90% confidence interval: 0.20–0.78) and metabolic power (0.57, 0.21–0.79) during competition. By contrast, there were large, negative associations between maximal speed and the rate of decline in running speed (−0.60, −0.81 to −0.27) and metabolic power (−0.65, −0.83 to −0.32) during competition. Similarly, there were negative associations between relative squat strength and the rate of decline in running speed (moderate: −0.41, −0.69 to −0.04) and metabolic power (large: −0.53, −0.77 to −0.17) during competition. The findings of this study demonstrate that a players running intensity during competition is underpinned by the individual athletes physiological qualities. Athletes demonstrating higher maximal speeds in testing were able to maintain higher running intensities over short durations but had a greater decrease in running intensity as duration increased.
Effects of Foam Rolling as a Recovery Tool in Professional Soccer Players
Authors: Rey Ezequiel , Padrón-Cabo Alexis , Costa Pablo B. , Barcala-Furelos Roberto
Published: October 2017

Rey, E, Padrón-Cabo, A, Costa, PB, and Barcala-Furelos, R. Effects of foam rolling as a recovery tool in professional soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 33(8): 2194–2201, 2019—Foam rolling (FR) is a common strategy used after training and competition by players. However, no previous studies have assessed the effectiveness of FR as a recovery tool in sports populations. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of FR (20 minutes of FR exercises on quadriceps, hamstrings, adductors, gluteals, and gastrocnemius) and passive recovery (20 minutes sit on a bench) interventions performed immediately after a training session on Total Quality Recovery (TQR), perceived muscle soreness, jump performance, agility, sprint, and flexibility 24 hours after the training. During 2 experimental sessions, 18 professional soccer players (age 26.6 ± 3.3 years; height: 180.2 ± 4.5 cm; body mass: 75.8 ± 4.7 kg) participated in a randomized fully controlled trial design. The first session was designed to collect the pretest values of each variable. After baseline measurements, the players performed a standardized soccer training. At the end of training unit, all the players were randomly assigned to the FR recovery group and the passive recovery group. A second experimental session was conducted to obtain the posttest values. Results from the between-group analyses showed that FR had a large effect on the recovery in agility (effect sizes [ES] = 1.06), TQR (ES = 1.08), and perceived muscle soreness (ES = 1.02) in comparison with the passive recovery group at 24 hours after training. Thus, it is recommended that soccer coaches and physical trainers working with high-level players use a structured recovery session lasting from 15 to 20 minutes based on FR exercises that could be implemented at the end of a training session to enhance recovery between training loads.
Cardiac Autonomic and Blood Pressure Responses to an Acute Bout of Kettlebell Exercise
Authors: Wong Alexei , Nordvall Michael , Walters-Edwards Michelle , Lastova Kevin , Francavillo Gwendolyn , Summerfield Liane , Sanchez-Gonzalez Marcos
Published: October 2017

Wong, A, Nordvall, M, Walters-Edwards, M, Lastova, K, Francavillo, G, Tripken, J, Summerfield, L, and Sanchez-Gonzalez, M. Cardiac autonomic and blood pressure responses to an acute bout of kettlebell exercise. J Strength Cond Res 35(2S): S173–S179, 2021—Kettlebell (KB) training has become an extremely popular exercise program for improving both muscle strength and aerobic fitness. However, the cardiac autonomic modulation and blood pressure (BP) responses induced by an acute KB exercise session are currently unknown. Understanding the impact of this exercise modality on the postexercise autonomic modulation and BP would facilitate appropriate exercise prescription in susceptible populations. This study evaluated the effects of an acute session of KB exercise on heart rate variability and BP responses in healthy individuals. Seventeen (male = 10 and female = 7) healthy subjects completed either a KB or nonexercise control trial in randomized order. Heart rate variability and BP measurements were collected at baseline, 3, 10, and 30 minutes after each trial. There were significant increases (p < 0.01) in heart rate, markers of sympathetic activity (nLF), and sympathovagal balance (nLF/nHF) for 30 minutes after the KB trial, whereas no changes from baseline were observed after the control trial. There were also significant decreases (p < 0.01) in markers of vagal tone (RMMSD and nHF) for 30 minutes as well as (p < 0.01) systolic BP and diastolic BP at 10 and 30 minutes after the KB trial, whereas no changes from baseline were observed after the control trial. Our findings indicate that KB exercise increases sympathovagal balance for 30 minutes postintervention, which is concurrent with an important hypotensive effect. Further research is warranted to evaluate the potential clinical application of KB training in populations that might benefit from postexercise hypotension, such as hypertensives.
Whole-Brain Source-Reconstructed MEG-Data Reveal Reduced Long-Range Synchronization in Chronic Schizophrenia
Authors: Hirvonen Jonni , Wibral Michael , Palva J. Matias , Singer Wolf , Uhlhaas Peter , Palva Satu
Published: October 2017

Current theories of schizophrenia (ScZ) posit that the symptoms and cognitive dysfunctions arise from a dysconnection syndrome. However, studies that have examined this hypothesis with physiological data at realistic time scales are so far scarce. The current study employed a state-of-the-art approach using Magnetoencephalography (MEG) to test alterations in large-scale phase synchronization in a sample ofn= 16 chronic ScZ patients, 10 males andn= 19 healthy participants, 10 males, during a perceptual closure task. We identified large-scale networks from source reconstructed MEG data using data-driven analyses of neuronal synchronization. Oscillation amplitudes and interareal phase-synchronization in the 3–120 Hz frequency range were estimated for 400 cortical parcels and correlated with clinical symptoms and neuropsychological scores. ScZ patients were characterized by a reduction in γ-band (30–120 Hz) oscillation amplitudes that was accompanied by a pronounced deficit in large-scale synchronization at γ-band frequencies. Synchronization was reduced within visual regions as well as between visual and frontal cortex and the reduction of synchronization correlated with elevated clinical disorganization. Accordingly, these data highlight that ScZ is associated with a profound disruption of transient synchronization, providing critical support for the notion that core aspect of the pathophysiology arises from an impairment in coordination of distributed neural activity.
Interneurons in the Honeybee Primary Auditory Center Responding to Waggle Dance-Like Vibration Pulses
Authors: Ai Hiroyuki , Kai Kazuki , Kumaraswamy Ajayrama , Ikeno Hidetoshi , Wachtler Thomas
Published: October 2017

Female honeybees use the “waggle dance” to communicate the location of nectar sources to their hive mates. Distance information is encoded in the duration of the waggle phase (von Frisch, 1967). During the waggle phase, the dancer produces trains of vibration pulses, which are detected by the follower bees via Johnston's organ located on the antennae. To uncover the neural mechanisms underlying the encoding of distance information in the waggle dance follower, we investigated morphology, physiology, and immunohistochemistry of interneurons arborizing in the primary auditory center of the honeybee (Apis mellifera). We identified major interneuron types, named DL-Int-1, DL-Int-2, and bilateral DL-dSEG-LP, that responded with different spiking patterns to vibration pulses applied to the antennae. Experimental and computational analyses suggest that inhibitory connection plays a role in encoding and processing the duration of vibration pulse trains in the primary auditory center of the honeybee.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe waggle dance represents a form of symbolic communication used by honeybees to convey the location of food sources via species-specific sound. The brain mechanisms used to decipher this symbolic information are unknown. We examined interneurons in the honeybee primary auditory center and identified different neuron types with specific properties. The results of our computational analyses suggest that inhibitory connection plays a role in encoding waggle dance signals. Our results are critical for understanding how the honeybee deciphers information from the sound produced by the waggle dance and provide new insights regarding how common neural mechanisms are used by different species to achieve communication.
Drowning Winter, Burning Bones, Singing Songs
Authors: Honisch Erika Supria
Published: October 2017

In 1587 the Flemish composer Carolus Luython, employed by Holy Roman Emperor Rudolf II, published an unusual motet collection in Prague. Titled Popularis anni jubilus, the collection describes the sounds and rituals beloved by Central European peasants, recasting them as the ecstatic songs of rustic laborers (jubilus) famously celebrated by Saint Augustine in his Psalm commentaries. Highlighting the composer’s collaboration with the Czech cleric who wrote the motet texts, this study serves as a corrective to the interpretative frameworks that have broadly shaped discourses on Central European musical and religious practices in the early modern period.

To make sense of the print’s raucous parade of drunken revelers, mythological figures, honking geese, and the Christ child, this analysis sets aside the hermetic lens typically used to account for the cultural products of the Rudolfine court and turns instead to contemporary theological tracts and writings by Augustine and Ovid that were foundational to the literary worlds of Renaissance humanists. Doing so brings into focus an ordered sequence of motets that offers some of the earliest and most vivid documentation in Central Europe of lay practices associated with the major feasts of the church year, from the bonfires on the Nativity of St. John the Baptist to the drowning of winter on Laetare Sunday. At the same time, this study shows the extent to which such “folk” traditions, parsed along national lines since the nineteenth century, had in fact long occupied common ground in the diverse territories of Habsburg Central Europe.
People’s perception on animal welfare: why does it matter?
Authors: De la Fuente María Fernanda , Souto Antonio , Caselli Christini , Schiel Nicola
Published: October 2017

Understanding peoples’ perception on animal welfare is vital to promote people awareness and changes in attitudes towards this subject. Here we present a short review on public perception of animal welfare in different instances and the factors influencing each one of them. While the great public concern towards farm and laboratory animals resulted in increased efforts to assess animal welfare in these instances, less attention has been given to pets, captive wild animals and their use for entertainment purposes. Irrespective of the instance under consideration, public perception on animal welfare depends on a myriad of biological and sociocultural factors, ranging from people’s gender and age to their own experiences and values. The knowledge on people’s perception will help to refine the message to different audiences, which in turn may increase the pressure on decision-makers to promote positive welfare in animals.
O conceito de moda e o seu papel nas relações de gênero
Authors: Assunção Letícia Formoso
Published: October 2017

Este trabalho apresenta um recorte da dissertação “Mademoiselle Chanel: um discurso entre a magia do glamour e a eloquência da solidão” defendida no Programa de Pós-Graduação em Letras da Universidade Católica de Pelotas nomês de dezembro de 2015. O presente artigo tem como objetivo principal discutir e analisar o conceito de moda e as implicações desta com as questões de gênero, evidenciando a participação das mulheres como designers e consumidoras deste sistema. Para fins de análise, utilizo fundamentos teóricos advindos das teorias de moda (principalmente CASTILHO, 2006; SIMMEL, 2008; BARTHES, 2005 e LIPOVETSKY, 2009) e dos estudos de gênero social (sobretudo FLAX, 1991; SCOTT, 1900 e BUTLER, 1998). A pesquisa realizada com base nestes pressupostos, permite concluir que o sistema de moda, por ser umproduto dotado de valores simbólicos, além de cumprir com as questões tradicionais de adorno, pudor e proteção, age como um ato de significaçãoprofundamente cultural e social.
Performance of tied-together piled foundation in liquefiable soils: New Zealand case study
Authors: Kamuhangire Robert , Plunket Tim
Published: October 2017

Piled foundations are widely used to transfer structural loads through a weak stratum to competent underlying ground. In earthquake-prone areas, these piles have to consider kinematic loading and potential loss of bearing where there is an added liquefaction potential. Earlier practice in parts of Christchurch, New Zealand, did not acknowledge the potential loss of bearing in liquefiable sand layers with numerous instances of driven piles through peat layers bearing on liquefiable sands with consequential damage following the earthquakes of the Canterbury earthquake sequence. Localised instances of screw-type piles installed into liquefiable sands are also evident where the design was driven by vertical structural load specification with torque readings used to confirm bearing capacity. This paper presents a case study of performance of a two-storey 3000 m2 building complex on piled foundations through peat, where the original buildings were founded on driven piles generally into liquefiable layers and later extensions on screw piles of varying depths. Particular focus is given to an approximate 500 m2 extension founded on screw piles of varying depths through peat and generally embedded in underlying liquefiable sand that performed surprisingly better than expected, presumably because of a tied-together foundation system.
Vegetation of a tropical dry forest in a landscape with chronic disturbance: the case of the indigenous community of San Nicolás Zoyatlan (Guerrero, Mexico)
Authors: Cervantes-Gutiérrez Virginia , Méndez-Ramírez Ignacio , Roldán-Aragón Iván Ernesto , Chimal-Hernández Aurora , Arriaga-Martínez Vicente , Carabias-Lillo Julia
Published: October 2017

Background. Tropical dry forests (TDF) provide numerous environmental services to its residents; this has led them to be humanized landscapes subjected to chronic disturbance with a high risk of disappearing.
Research question.  To establish the relationship of vegetation structure and composition of a chronically disturbed TDF, with some environmental factors and the intensity of agricultural land use.
Study site and period of research. Our study was conducted during six months (July through November) in the TDF of the community of San Nicolas Zoyatlan (Guerrero, Mexico); a territory with a history of over 500 years of agricultural use. This use has led to a complex mosaic of vegetation fragments.
Methods. A selection of 36 fragments was studied to determine vegetation structure and composition as well as environmental factors. Representative plants from sampled areas were collected. Data gathered was explored with regression and multivariate statistical analysis techniques.
Results. 59 families, 178 genera and 279 species were recorded. Species richness varied widely among fragments, in general with a low dominance and high turnover of species. Slope was the only factor that showed a solid relationship with vegetation variables. Three groups of fragments were established and the statistical differences between them were explained by the duration of fallow. The fragments with longer fallow period showed the best conditions in vegetation variables and 66.9% of the species were found in them.
Conclusions. Composition and structure of vegetation were related to intensity of agricultural land use. Although there is a process of impoverishment, vegetation dynamics involving species of the Fabaceae, Asteraceae and Burseraceae families show a potential for their use in the environmental restoration of Zoyatlan.
Moss diversity in the state of Aguascalientes Mexico: Revision and update
Authors: Delgadillo-Moya Claudio , Peña-Retes Ana Paola
Published: October 2017

Background: Seven moss species were known from the state of Aguascalientes before a study by Delgadillo et al. (2015) listed 38 new records for its moss flora.
Hypothesis: Despite its comparatively dry climate, Aguascalientes could harbor a more diverse moss flora. Geographically, this would be an extension of the moss flora of Jalisco and Zacatecas.
Study site and dates: Moss collections in Aguascalientes were made in August 2014 and September 2015, with emphasis on northwestern and southwestern localities.
Methods: About 165 moss samples were collected in old fields, streambeds, and areas covered with chaparral vegetation. These and 140 herbarium specimens from the herbarium of Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes (HUAA) were studied to prepare the species list.
Resultados: The Aguascalientes moss flora comprises at least 95 moss species and varieties, including 50 new state records. The families Pottiaceae (34 species), Bryaceae (11) and Grimmiaceae (7) are the most important. It is a flora characteristic of the drylands, but with some highland representatives. Keys for the identification of the known moss species are included.
Conclusions: A larger species number should be expected once less-accessible areas are explored. The known Aguascalientes moss flora is characteristic of dry land areas extending to Jalisco and Zacatecas, but with some high elevation species. It comprises cleistocarpic taxa and other with peculiar adaptations. Some species form associations that require other forms of analysis.
LA HISTIDINA COMO UN POSIBLE PRECURSOR EN EL ORIGEN DE LA VIDA
Authors: Cervantes de la Cruz Karina , Mejía-Luna Isabel , Villanueva Pineda Donovan Omar , Colín-García Marìa , Heredia Alejandro
Published: October 2017

Los procesos químicos que se dieron durante los primeros años de la evolución del planeta Tierra, -antes de la presencia
de formas celulares-, han sido motivo continuo de estudios a nivel experimental en muchos laboratorios. Considerando
ambientes prebióticos plausibles, se ha dado importancia y validez a la presencia de materiales, tales como
minerales y arcillas, que pudieron aportar elementos químicos necesarios para catalizar reacciones químicas y estabilizar
otro tipo de compuestos orgánicos. La estructura cristalina de algunas biomoléculas de importancia biológica,
así como su estereoquímica pueden llevarnos a comprender algunas de las formas de compuestos descritos en el
espacio; en particular los compuestos orgánicos mencionados en algunas meteoritas. Finalmente, aportar elementos
que nos ayuden a dar nuevas evidencias sobre el ¿cómo? y el ¿por qué? de la existencia de algunas moléculas de importancia
biológica, siempre enriquecen el campo científico, y en particular abren nuevos horizontes para entender la
relevancia en los procesos fisicoquímicos y más tardíamente, los procesos metabólicos, que pudieron dar lugar a organismos
vivos de tipo unicelular en la Tierra primitiva. En el presente trabajo se discute la importancia de la histidina
como catalizador orgánico en los estudios sobre el origen de la vida. Se presentan los resultados preliminares sobre
la formación de monocristales de histidina en una disolución acuosa y sus posibles implicaciones como aminoácido
esencial para la formación de oligopéptidos. Además se plantea la posibilidad de que este aminoácido haya actuado
en un momento dado, como catalizador de ciertas reacciones químicas vitales en muchos seres vivos, apoyando su
potencial actividad como catalizador orgánico.
SALVAGUARDA DEL GERMOPLASMA PARA MANZANA EMILIA (malus communis l. Subsp. REINETA AMARILLA DE BLENHEIM) POR CULTIVO DE TEJIDOS in vitro
Authors: Yanez Segovia Sebastian Gonzalo , Tafur Valdano , Rosero Lenin
Published: October 2017

Es de gran importancia mantener la diversidad genética de los materiales tradicionales y de plantas silvestres. Se realizó
la salvaguarda del germoplasma de manzana Emilia, utilizando técnicas de cultivo de tejidos in vitro. Se evaluaron
dos medios de cultivo y seis concentraciones para desinfección; además, de ocho tratamientos para brotación, utilizando
distintas concentraciones de 6-bencilaminopurina (BAP) y para enraizamiento cuatro tratamientos con ácido
indol butírico (IBA). Se utilizó un DCA con un arreglo factorial 2 x 4 con seis observaciones. Se evaluó: porcentajes de
contaminación, de oxidación, viabilidad, días a la brotación, numero de brotes y longitud de brotes. Los tratamientos
iguales y superiores al 10% de NaClO durante 10 minutos presentaron valores adecuados de no contaminación de
explantes. La menor cantidad de explantes oxidados presentaron correlación directamente proporcional en las respuestas
a menor concentración y tiempo de exposición. El mayor porcentaje de explantes viables (77%) se expresó en
el tratamiento de NaClO al 10% durante 15 minutos. Las mejores respuestas en cuanto a la variable días a la brotación
se presentó en los tratamientos sin intervención del BAP. La mejor respuesta en cuanto al número de brotes se manifestó
para el tratamiento 1 ppm de BAP en los medios de cultivo (Murashige y Skoog modificado - MSM y Medio
CHU 10 Modificado por Gerloff). La mejor respuesta en el tamaño del brote se expresó en el tratamiento CHU + 1 ppm
de BAP. Los tejidos celulares de la manzana Emilia presentan alta susceptibilidad a contaminantes microbianos y a la
oxidación de tejidos, por lo cual dificulta la multiplicación por medio de cultivo in vitro. Las altas concentraciones de
BAP inhiben respuestas fisiológicas espontáneas en explantes de la manzana Emilia, especialmente en etapas iniciales
donde existe mayor producción de efectos hormonales intrínsecos.
DIAGNÓSTICO DEL MANEJO DE RESIDUOS SÓLIDOS EN EL PARQUE HISTÓRICO GUAYAQUIL
Authors: Mora Cervetto Alejandra , Molina Moreira Matha Natalia
Published: October 2017

Se realizó un diagnóstico del manejo de residuos sólidos del Parque Histórico Guayaquil (PHG) para determinar la
generación de residuos sólidos, verificar su gestión con base en la normativa y proponer alternativas viables para
un adecuado manejo, utilizando métodos cualitativo y cuantitativo con alcance descriptivo. Se realizaron entrevistas
a actores clave. Los residuos se cuantificaron durante ocho semanas y la identificación cualitativa se realizó con un
muestreo puntual y lineamientos de normas nacionales e internacionales. Los desechos no peligrosos registraron 452
kg en promedio semanal y mostraron una relación directa con el número de visitantes. Los desechos peligrosos pesaron
7.5 kg y los especiales 20 kg. Las categorías por tipo de residuo fueron: 5% peligrosos, 12% especiales y 83%
no peligrosos. De éstos, el 45% corresponde a orgánicos, 27% a reciclables y el 11% a no reciclables. Se determinó un
36% de cumplimiento de 70 aspectos evaluados de la normativa ambiental aplicable, por lo que se debe implementar
la gestión de residuos y obtener los permisos ambientales. El impacto ambiental por la generación de desechos no
debería enfocarse en la cantidad sino en su tipo y manejo. El PHG cuenta con infraestructura y potencial para convertirse
en un modelo de gestión replicable.
La Reforma de Telecomunicaciones en México 2014. Una aproximación analítica
Authors: Rodríguez Arechavaleta Dr. Carlos Manuel
Published: October 2017

La presente investigación aborda la Reforma de Telecomunicaciones en México, aprobada y publicada en 2014. Partiendo de ubicar en el escenario latinoamericano las reformas en dos bloques diferenciados a partir de un reordenamiento de la integración económica y política regional en el 2014, se propone un marco teórico que permita una aproximación sistemática a las diversas variables que intervienen en la configuración de las coaliciones de política comercial ganadoras orientadas a la liberalización comercial o proteccionista. El caso mexicano se puede explicar vinculando las políticas económicas con las instituciones del Estado, la sociedad y el sistema internacional en una interacción dinámica, de constante reconfiguración a partir de tres variables analíticas: i) el contexto internacional; ii) la capacidad de influencia (leverage), las preferencias y las estrategias de los empresarios y; iii) las vulnerabilidades del Estado, intereses e iniciativas. Esta derivación lógica-inferencial propone un juego de hipótesis explicativas para la reforma de Telecomunciaciones en México y llama la atención sobre la importancia de su enfoque integrativo para la literatura reciente de calidad democrática en América Latina.
Nivel de uso de las redes sociales en el proceso de comunicación en las MIPES de Cuenca
Authors: Aucay Piedra Efrén , Herrera Torres Priscilla
Published: October 2017

La investigación se desarrolló en Cuenca, tercera ciudad más importante del Ecuador, cuyo objetivo principal se enfocó en analizar el nivel de uso, así como la administración de redes sociales y aplicaciones móviles en los procesos de comunicación y mercadotecnia en las Micro y Pequeñas Empresas (MIPES).
Debido a que la globalización del internet ha hecho que las empresas deban adaptarse a entornos cada vez más complejos y competitivos, creando estrategias de valor para llegar a satisfacer a un nuevo estilo de demandantes, que influenciados por publicaciones en diferentes medios virtuales, están cada vez más informados, lo que repercute en una sociedad más exigente de confort. La investigación es de tipo cuantitativa, la muestra se tomó de las Micro y Pequeñas empresas de la ciudad. Para la recolección de información se implementó una encuesta, instrumento que fue aplicado a los establecimientos seleccionados. Los constructos de medición se validaron mediante el uso del alfa de Cronbach. Los resultados obtenidos demuestran un bajo nivel de adopción de redes sociales en la microempresa y un nivel medio en la pequeña empresa. Adicionalmente, se observa que en los establecimientos que utilizan las redes sociales y las aplicaciones móviles para actividades de comunicación y mercadotecnia, éstas no se explotan en su totalidad por múltiples factores como: desconocimiento en el uso y administración, no lo consideran necesario, falta de confianza y credibilidad entre otros aspectos.
Assembly with Megahit v2
Authors: E Thornton Jr James
Published: October 2017

Co-assembly using Megahit.
Assembly with Megahit v1
Authors: E Thornton Jr James
Published: October 2017

Co-assembly using Megahit.
Biossegurança no manejo de animais silvestres em áreas de confinamento no Estado do Piauí
Authors: Viana Felipe José Costa , Rizzo Márcia Dos Santos , Freire Simone Mousinho
Published: October 2017

A biossegurança em áreas de confinamento de animais silvestres é questão fundamental para a saúde pública, sobretudo em locais onde os animais são considerados protagonistas da atração, como em parques zoológicos. Estes locais, apesar de toda segurança envolvida na contenção e manejo dos animais, ainda podem ser considerados como ponto de transmissão de zoonoses. Objetivou-se avaliar o grau de insalubridade dos funcionários e o uso de equipamentos de proteção contra patógenos de caráter zoonótico em áreas de confinamento de animais silvestres. O estudo foi realizado através da análise dos dados obtidos por meio de questionário aplicado aos trabalhadores de áreas de confinamento de animais silvestres, cujo enfoque era sobre a rotina de trabalho, manejo dos animais, histórico de saúde e o conhecimento acerca de doenças zoonóticas. As informações coletadas revelaram que, em parte, a administração do local proporciona aos funcionários uma segurança básica, fornecendo EPIs e cursos de atualização no manejo dos animais. Entretanto, a vestimenta utilizada pelos funcionários é lavada em suas próprias residências. Ainda há pontos a serem corrigidos na biossegurança nestes parques, como a construção de vestiários e uniformes próprios, com a lavagem do mesmo em um setor de lavanderia no próprio local.