bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inteligencia artificial: evolución, aplicaciones y futuro
Authors: Rivera Delgado de Vela Regina
Published: September 2024

La Inteligencia Artificial (IA) es una disciplina que integra ciencia e ingeniería, con una trayectoria que se remonta a muchos años atrás. Sus inicios se ubican en el campo de la Medicina, a mediados del siglo XX. Desde entonces, ha experimentado un desarrollo acelerado, impulsado por el constante avance de los métodos, estrategias y herramientas informáticas y digitales. Esta evolución ha impactado positivamente en todos los niveles de atención médica, desde la primaria hasta la especializada, incluyendo la investigación de vanguardia. Los objetivos de la IA en el ámbito sanitario son diversos: ampliar la cobertura de atención, fomentar la autonomía del paciente, optimizar la eficiencia de la atención médica y brindar soporte en la toma de decisiones diagnósticas y terapéuticas, siempre en consonancia con las necesidades y preferencias de los pacientes. Sin embargo, es importante reconocer que la implementación de la IA también presenta desafíos, especialmente en lo que respecta a los aspectos éticos y de responsabilidad. Estos aspectos deben ser considerados en todos los procesos y por todos los actores involucrados, incluyendo a los Estados y Organismos internacionales, quienes tienen la obligación de velar por los derechos humanos y los valores fundamentales de la convivencia nacional e internacional.
Creencia religiosa según la autopercepción de discriminación en estudiantes de universidades de cinco países latinoamericanos
Authors: Mejia Christian , Rivera Regina R , Villar-Agurto Irma , Barriga Yria , Valverde Frisancho Yaneth , Portillo-Centurión Adan , Pinto Villar Yenny M.
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: La discriminación puede manifestarse por diversos factores, entre los que destaca la religión que se profesa. Esta investigación tiene como objetivo determinar si existe una asociación entre la creencia religiosa y la autopercepción de discriminación en estudiantes universitarios de cinco países latinoamericanos.
Material y métodos: Se desarrolló un estudio transversal analítico y multicéntrico. Se indagó sobre la creencia religiosa de los estudiantes universitarios de cinco países, comparándola con su autopercepción de discriminación (referida a sus prácticas, costumbres o dialecto) y otros factores relevantes. Para analizar la asociación entre las variables, se emplearon modelos lineales generalizados.
Resultados: De los 2 498 estudiantes encuestados, el 10 %, el 18 % y el 37 % percibieron discriminación por parte de sus maestros, compañeros o hacia otros compañeros, respectivamente. Entre las religiones estudiadas, los católicos fueron los que menos discriminación percibieron (4 % por parte de los maestros, 7 % por parte de los compañeros y 10 % hacia otros compañeros). En el análisis multivariado, comparando con los estudiantes de religión católica, aquellos que profesaban el cristianismo (p < 0,001), el agnosticismo (p < 0,001), el ateísmo (p = 0,001) y otras religiones (p < 0,001) percibieron una mayor discriminación por parte de los maestros. Asimismo, se observó que los estudiantes que profesaban el cristianismo (p = 0,003), el evangelismo (p < 0,001), el agnosticismo (p = 0,011), el ateísmo (p = 0,005) y otras religiones (p = 0,001) percibían que sus compañeros sufrían discriminación. En cuanto a la discriminación proveniente de otras personas del entorno educativo, esta se asoció con el cristianismo (p = 0,001), el evangelismo (p = 0,002), el agnosticismo (p = 0,002), el ateísmo (p < 0,001) y otras religiones (p = 0,001).
Conclusión: Se evidenció una asociación entre la percepción de discriminación y la religión profesada por los estudiantes. No obstante, se observaron diferencias significativas según el origen de la discriminación percibida.
ANALISIS KINERJA KSPPS BMT NU CABANG BONDOWOSO DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN PENDEKATAN BALANCED SCORECARD
Authors: Muhammad Bahanan
Published: September 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah menganalisis kinerja KSPPS BMT NU Cabang Bondowoso dengan pendekatan balanced scorecard serta menganalisis Perspektif manakah yang lebih berpengaruh terhadap kinerja KSPPS BMT NU Cabang Bondowoso dengan menggunakan metode Analytical Hierarchy Process. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh karyawan dan anggota KSPPS BMT NU yang berada di kota Bondowoso. Sampel penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah sebanyak 182 orang untuk anggota BMT NU dan 21 orang untuk karyawan KSPPS BMT NU Cabang Bondowoso. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa (1). Analisis Kinerja KSPPS BMT NU Cabang Bondowoso dengan Pendekatan Balanced Scocrecard, secara keseluruhan Berdasarkan hasil analisis yang telah diuraikan sebelumnya dapat diketahui bahwa kinerja KSPPS BMT NU Cabang Bondowoso berada dalam kondisi baik ; (2). Analsis perspektif Balanced Scorecard dengan menggunakan metode Analytical Hierarchy Process Hasil analisis terhadap masing-masing perspektif Balanced Scorecard dengan menggunakan Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) menunjukkan bahwa perspektif yang dianggap paling berpengaruh terhadap kinerja perusahaan adalah perspektif pelanggan yang memiliki nilai bobot tertinggi, sedangkan faktor yang paling dianggap memiliki pengaruh tertinggi dari perspektif pelanggan adalah pertambahan jumlah anggota
ANALISIS MEKANISME PENERAPAN PRODUK PEMBIAYAAN “KABAR” PADA KSPPS NURI PUJER BONDOWOSO DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN AKAD QARDHUL HASAN
Authors: Muhammad Bahanan
Published: September 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengnalisis mekanisme penerapan produk pembiayaan “KABAR” pada KSPPS Nuri cabang pujer dengan menggunakan akad Qardhul Hasan, serta mengetahui peran dan manfaatnya terhadap peningkatan ekonomi kaum dhuafa masyarakat pujer. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode deskriptif kualitatif yang mana merupakan penelitian yang dilakukan dengan menggali data langsung dari narasumber, objek ataupun lokasi penelitian. Penerapan Sistem pembiyaan Qardhul Hasan pada KSPPS Nuri yaitu pinjaman yang ditujukan khusus kepada kaum duafa dengan ketentuan anggota baru atau anggota yang baru pertama kali melakukan pinjaman adalah maksimal 1 juta rupiah sedang untuk anggota yang memiliki rekam jejak pemabayaran yang baik maksimal mendapatkan pinjaman sebesar 2 juta rupiah, angsurannya maximal 12 kali bayar / 1 Tahun Proses pembayaran angsuran bisa dilakukan di kantor KSPPS Nuri atau bias dilakukan menggunakan system penjemputan kerumah anggota.. Bagi anggota Pembiayaan dengan akad Qardhul Hasan sangat membantu anggota KSPPS Nuri yang sedang mengalami kesulitan keuangan dalam permodalan usaha atau dapat juga untuk membantu membayar angsuran dan sebagai sumber pinjaman yang bersifat non komersial / dana talang. Bagi pengelola yaitu Karena pembiayaan Qardhul Hasan bersifat sosial dan tolong menolong maka akan memberikan citra baik bagi KSPPS Nuri Cabang Pujer.
MEMBEKALI PELAYAN PASTORAL: PELATIHAN KONSELOR SEBAGAI LANGKAH MAJU DALAM PENINGKATAN KUALITAS PELAYANAN JEMAAT
Authors: Brek Yohan , Lombogia Randy. A.P.P
Published: September 2024

The results of this research show that counselor training significantly increases participants' knowledge regarding the principles of pastoral counseling, listening skills, empathetic attitudes and the ability to apply pastoral counseling methods and techniques in real situations. Apart from that, this program was also successful in raising participants' awareness of the importance of a holistic approach in serving the congregation which considers physical, mental, social and spiritual aspects. The results and conclusions of this research state that counselor training is a vital step forward in efforts to improve the quality of congregational services, providing a stronger foundation for counselors to support congregation members in life's challenges with a quality faith perspective.
 
Keywords: 
The results of this research show that counselor training significantly increases participants' knowledge regarding the principles of pastoral counseling, listening skills, empathetic attitudes and the ability to apply pastoral counseling methods and techniques in real situations. Apart from that, this program was also successful in raising participants' awareness of the importance of a holistic approach in serving the congregation which considers physical, mental, social and spiritual aspects. The results and conclusions of this research state that counselor training is a vital step forward in efforts to improve the quality of congregational services, providing a stronger foundation for counselors to support congregation members in life's challenges with a quality faith perspective.
KAJIAN EKO-TEOLOGI TENTANG KESADARAN MASYARAKAT DESA TELING TERHADAP KELESTARIAN LINGKUNGAN HIDUP
Authors: Kapoh Crivil , Crisye Arnold Maninggolang  , Giovani Matimbang  , Cantika Syalomita Kansil  , Gerald Theogive Ambanaga  , Nancy Mokosolang  , Claudia P durandt  , Fatrisya Sawilan  , Servika Manggopa  , Agra Monintja  , Filadelvia Hatam  , Yohana Kristilia Morong  , Revana Christince Taarega  , Vanessa Mayli Poluan
Published: September 2024

Dunia yang diciptakan Tuhan, beserta segala penghuninya, diselamatkan sebagai wujud keadilan Tuhan yang harus dijaga untuk menjaga keseimbangan kosmis demi kesejahteraan seluruh makhluk hidup. . Namun kenyataannya, individualisme manusia seringkali membuat mereka mengeksploitasi alam. Kami menyadari bahwa konsep keselamatan Gereja telah lama didominasi oleh teologi keselamatan yang antroposentris, dengan sengaja mengecualikan makna hidup dan keselamatan yang juga merupakan hak semua makhluk. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif dengan metode penelitian kepustakaan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan teologi ekologi lingkungan, model-modelnya dan implementasinya sebagai upaya manusia dalam mengatasi permasalahan alam dan lingkungan hidup.
An in-silico approach for the identification of natural compounds as potential BACE1 inhibitors for the treatment of Alzheimer disease
Authors: Lodha Tanishq , Birangal Sumit , Pai Aravinda , Prabhu Santosh , Nayak Sandhya , Francis Tisa , Kumar Lalit , Verma Ruchi
Published: September 2024

BACE-1 is a transmembrane protein occurring in the endoplasmic reticulum that is responsible for generation of beta amyloid (Aβ) by cleavage of amyloid precursor protein (APP). Deposition and aggregation of Aβ in the brain results in the onset of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The process of drug discovery in this area is sluggish and most of the developed molecules fail due to toxicity. Research related to phytochemicals has taken pace in drug discovery process due to associated low toxicity comparatively. The development of low toxicity BACE-1 inhibitors has proven to be a promising treatment strategy for AD. In the current study, in-silico drug repurposing techniques were employed to identify small natural molecules from the ZINC database as potential BACE-1 inhibitors. Molecular docking studies (both rigid and flexible) were conducted via high-throughput virtual screening, standard-precision and extra precision mode and protein ligand interactions were observed. Top compounds were undertaken for molecular mechanics with generalized Born and surface area solvation (MMGBSA) calculations and absorption distribution metabolism elimination properties analysis. ZINC000014945921, ZINC000150351431, and ZINC000069488328 were selected as leads and these compounds with the co-crystallized ligand were subjected to molecular dynamic simulations. The final findings of this study suggested that ZINC000150351431 and ZINC000069488328 can be considered as potential leads in the development of drugs for therapeutic use for AD.
Inclusive, exclusive and hierarchical atlas of NFATc1+/PDGFR-α+ cells in dental and periodontal mesenchyme
Authors: Yang Xue , Han Chuyi , Yu Changhao , Zhou Bin , Ye Ling , Li Feifei , Yu Fanyuan
Published: September 2024

Platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFR-α) activity is crucial in the process of dental and periodontal mesenchyme regeneration facilitated by autologous platelet concentrates (APCs), such as platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and concentrated growth factors (CGF), as well as by recombinant PDGF drugs. However, it is largely unclear about the physiological patterns and cellular fate determinations of PDGFR-α+ cells in the homeostasis maintaining of adult dental and periodontal mesenchyme. We previously identified NFATc1 expressing PDGFR-α+ cells as a subtype of skeletal stem cells (SSCs) in limb bone in mice, but their roles in dental and periodontal remain unexplored. To this end, in the present study we investigated the spatiotemporal atlas of NFATc1+ and PDGFR-α+ cells residing in dental and periodontal mesenchyme in mice, their capacity for progeny cell generation, and their inclusive, exclusive and hierarchical relations in homeostasis. We utilized CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing to generate two dual recombination systems, which were Cre-loxP and Dre-rox combined intersectional and exclusive reporters respectively, to concurrently demonstrate the inclusive, exclusive, and hierarchical distributions of NFATc1+ and PDGFR-α+ cells and their lineage commitment. By employing the state-of-the-art transgenic lineage tracing techniques in cooperating with tissue clearing-based advanced imaging and three-dimensional slices reconstruction, we systematically mapped the distribution atlas of NFATc1+ and PDGFR-α+ cells in dental and periodontal mesenchyme and tracked their in vivo fate trajectories in mice. Our findings extend current understanding of NFATc1+ and PDGFR-α+ cells in dental and periodontal mesenchyme homeostasis, and furthermore enhance our comprehension of their sustained therapeutic impact for future clinical investigations.
Simply crushed Zizyphi spinosi semen prevents neurodegenerative diseases and reverses age-related cognitive decline in mice
Authors: Umeda Tomohiro , Sakai Ayumi , Uekado Rumi , Shigemori Keiko , Nakajima Ryota , Yamana Kei , Tomiyama Takami
Published: September 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases are age-related disorders characterized by the cerebral accumulation of amyloidogenic proteins, and cellular senescence underlies their pathogenesis. Thus, it is necessary for preventing these diseases to remove toxic proteins, repair damaged neurons, and suppress cellular senescence. As a source for such prophylactic agents, we selected
Zizyphi spinosi semen
(ZSS), a medicinal herb used in traditional Chinese medicine. ZSS hot water extract ameliorated Aβ and tau pathology and cognitive impairment in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. Non-extracted ZSS simple crush powder showed stronger effects than the extract and improved α-synuclein pathology and cognitive/motor function in Parkinson’s disease model mice. Furthermore, when administered to normal aged mice, the ZSS powder suppressed cellular senescence, reduced DNA oxidation, promoted brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression and neurogenesis, and enhanced cognition to levels similar to those in young mice. The quantity of known active ingredients of ZSS, jujuboside A, jujuboside B, and spinosin, was not proportional to the nootropic activity of ZSS. These results suggest that ZSS simple crush powder is a promising dietary material for the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases and brain aging.Impact statementNon-extracted simple crush powder of
Zizyphi spinosi semen
has not only disease-preventing effects but also brain-rejuvenating effects in mice.
N-acetylation of α-synuclein enhances synaptic vesicle clustering mediated by α-synuclein and lysophosphatidylcholine
Authors: Wang Chuchu , Zhao Chunyu , Hu Xiao , Qiang Jiali , Liu Zhenying , Gu Jinge , Zhang Shengnan , Li Dan , Zhang Yaoyang , Burré Jacqueline , Diao Jiajie , Liu Cong
Published: September 2024

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of α-synuclein (α-syn) such as acetylation and phosphorylation play important yet distinct roles in regulating α-syn conformation, membrane binding, and amyloid aggregation. However, how PTMs regulate α-syn function in presynaptic terminals remains unclear. Previously, we reported that α-syn clusters synaptic vesicles (SV)
1
, and neutral phospholipid lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) can mediate this clustering
2
. Here, based on our previous findings, we further demonstrate that N-terminal acetylation, which occurs under physiological conditions and is irreversible in mammalian cells, significantly enhances the functional activity of α-syn in clustering SVs. Mechanistic studies reveal that this enhancement is caused by the N-acetylation-promoted insertion of α-syn’s N-terminus and increased intermolecular interactions on the LPC-containing membrane. Our work demonstrates that N-acetylation fine-tunes α-syn–LPC interaction for mediating α-syn’s function in SV clustering.
Engineering PEG10-assembled endogenous virus-like particles with genetically encoded neoantigen peptides for cancer vaccination
Authors: Tang Ruijing , Guo Luobin , Wei Tingyu , Chen Tingting , Yang Huan , Ye Honghao , Lin Fangzhou , Zeng Yongyi , Yu Haijun , Cai Zhixiong , Liu Xiaolong
Published: September 2024

Tumor neoantigen peptide vaccines hold potential for boosting cancer immunotherapy, yet efficiently co-delivering peptides and adjuvants to antigen-presenting cells in vivo remains challenging. Virus-like particle (VLP), which is a kind of multiprotein structure organized as virus, can deliver therapeutic substances into cells and stimulate immune response. However, the weak targeted delivery of VLP in vivo and its susceptibility to neutralization by antibodies hinder their clinical applications. Here, we first designed a novel protein carrier using the mammalian-derived capsid protein PEG10, which can self-assemble into endogenous VLP (eVLP) with high protein loading and transfection efficiency. Then, an engineered tumor vaccine, named ePAC, was developed by packaging genetically encoded neoantigen into eVLP with further modification of CpG-ODN on its surface to serve as an adjuvant and targeting unit to dendritic cells (DCs). Significantly, ePAC can efficiently target and transport neoantigens to DCs, and promote DCs maturation to induce neoantigen-specific T cells. Moreover, in mouse orthotopic liver cancer and humanized mouse tumor models, ePAC combined with anti-TIM-3 exhibited remarkable antitumor efficacy. Overall, these results support that ePAC could be safely utilized as cancer vaccines for antitumor therapy, showing significant potential for clinical translation.
Vida Cotidiana, Transformaciones y Emociones durante la Pandemia. Relatos de Referentes de Hogar
Authors: García-Bastán Guido , Paulín Horacio Luis , Arias Lucía Angélica
Published: September 2024

En este artículo, presentamos parte de los resultados de un proyecto que se propuso analizar las desigualdades y el acceso a derechos durante la pandemia por COVID-19, en hogares de la ciudad de Córdoba, Argentina. Siguiendo los lineamientos de la Teoría Fundamentada, desde una estrategia cualitativa basada en entrevistas a 40 referentes de hogar, analizamos las transformaciones en la vida cotidiana, las experiencias diferenciales con relación a marcadores sociales específicos y el papel de las emociones en la configuración de dichas experiencias. Nuestros hallazgos señalan que, para todos los niveles socioeconómicos, el confinamiento fue una experiencia intensiva en cuanto a la reorganización de las unidades domésticas. El análisis de marcadores de generación, género y nivel socioeconómico revela modos desiguales de experimentar los momentos más críticos de la pandemia y el confinamiento. Asimismo, la exploración de la dimensión emocional en los testimonios permitió reconstruir las valoraciones que distintos sectores hicieron del papel desempeñado por el Estado durante la pandemia, aspecto central para avanzar en la evaluación de las políticas públicas orientadas al cuidado de la población.
Unusual Audiologic Profile in Unilateral Renal Agenesis: A Case Report
Authors: Subramanian Anusha Rao , Dhandayutham Subhashini , Mariappan Narendrakumar
Published: September 2024

Unilateral Renal Agenesis (URA) is characterised by the absence of one kidney, and typically manifests asymptomatically due to compensatory hypertrophy of the remaining kidney. The condition is often detected incidentally because routine screening for renal anomalies is not universal globally. URA is generally associated with mixed or sensorineural hearing loss. A case involving contralateral conductive hearing loss is discussed in the present case report. The present case involves a eight-year-old female with isolated URA and no other concurrent abnormalities. The present report highlights an atypical audiological profile in URA, diverging (conductive type of hearing loss) from the commonly observed sensorineural or mixed hearing loss patterns. Understanding such variations contributes to the broader knowledge of the genetic and developmental links between the auditory and renal systems. This case underscores the importance of comprehensive audiological assessments in individuals with renal anomalies, potentially broadening diagnostic considerations and therapeutic approaches.
Autonomic Functions in Young Infertile Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Case-control Study
Authors: Shrimali Khushboo , Kaur Manjinder , Gandhi Pooja , Sharma Suman , Sharma Akash , Kurmi Naren , Chaudhary Saroj , Singh Muskan
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine and metabolic disorder in women of reproductive age, characterised by chronic anovulation, high androgen levels, Insulin Resistance (IR), and low-grade inflammation. Women with PCOS face increased risks of cardiac and metabolic issues, along with observed sympathetic overactivity. Aim: To assess the status of autonomic responses in women with and without PCOS through Autonomic Function Tests (AFT). Materials and Methods: The present study was designed as a case-control study, volunteers were recruited from the infertility centre of a tertiary care hospital and studied in the Department of Physiology. The study included 80 infertile women aged between 18 and 40 years. The study participants were divided into two groups: Group P included 40 volunteers with PCOS, while Group N included 40 healthy volunteers without PCOS and without any co-morbid conditions. Autonomic functions, which determine the sympathovagal balance, were evaluated. The data were analysed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Results: The cold pressor test failed to raise Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) and Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) in Group P (124.45±8.55 mmHg and 83.75±8.27 mmHg, respectively) as effectively as in Group N (131.40±4.69 mmHg and 89.80±6.79 mmHg, respectively), indicating baroreceptor reflex insensitivity. Similarly, during the hand grip test, the rise in SBP and DBP was significantly lower (p-value<0.001) in Group P (119.10±7.79 mmHg and 85.45±8.49 mmHg, respectively) compared to Group N (128±6.50 mmHg and 92.65±6.5 mmHg, respectively). The 30:15 RR ratio and Valsalva maneuver results showed that DBP was significantly lower in Group P compared to Group N, with no significant difference in SBP after standing in both groups. The 30:15 RR ratio and Valsalva ratio were significantly (p-value=0.008 and p-value=0.004, respectively) lower in Group P (0.73±0.11 and 1.23±0.16, respectively) compared to Group N (0.82±0.16 and 1.36±0.23, respectively). Conclusions: The present study reported diminished sympathetic overactivity and increased parasympathetic activity due to normal Body Mass Index (BMI) in both groups.
Evaluation of Sugar Factory Privatization Practices in Turkey: The Case of Kayseri Sugar Factory- Turhal
Authors: Kayalı Gizem , Budak Dilek Bostan , Ayyıldız Merve
Published: September 2024

The primary aim of this research is to assess the privatization process of sugar factories in Turkey, with a particular focus on the perspective of sugar beet producers. The study specifically examines sugar beet producers associated with the Turhal Sugar Factory. The distribution of the sample size across the production regions was determined by considering the number of producers in each region. The nine production regions in question exhibit similar characteristics in terms of geography and general agricultural features. The sample size was determined to be 150, with a 90 %confidence interval and 5% margin of error from the mean. The findings indicate that 43,3% of the farms experienced a reduction in sugar beet cultivation areas following privatization, with this decline being more significant among small scale farms. This suggests that small farms require additional support to maintain their sustainability. When compared to Türkşeker, producers generally expressed satisfaction with the services provided by the factory post-privatization. However, concerns about the factory’s future inactivity grow as farm size increases. While many studies have demonstrated that privatized factories tend to be more efficient and effective, this research also highlights the producers’ apprehensions regarding the operations of private factories. Thus, it is crucial to address these concerns with privatization policies and implement measures to ensure the continued operations of these factories. Another significant issue is the pricing of pulp, a vital by-product for livestock farming. Therefore, then setting pulp prices, consideration should be given to both the market price and the region’s livestock potential.
Magma plumbing for the 2014–2015 Holuhraun eruption, Iceland
Authors: Geiger Harri , Mattsson Tobias , Deegan Frances M. , Troll Valentin R. , Burchardt Steffi , Gudmundsson Ólafur , Tryggvason Ari , Krumbholz Michael , Harris Chris
Published: June 2016

The 2014–2015 Holuhraun eruption on Iceland was located within the Askja fissure swarm but was accompanied by caldera subsidence in the Bárðarbunga central volcano 45 km to the southwest. Geophysical monitoring of the eruption identified a seismic swarm that migrated from Bárðarbunga to the Holuhraun eruption site over the course of two weeks. In order to better understand this lateral connection between Bárðarbunga and Holuhraun, we present mineral textures and compositions, mineral‐melt‐equilibrium calculations, whole rock and trace element data, and oxygen isotope ratios for selected Holuhraun samples. The Holuhraun lavas are compositionally similar to recorded historical eruptions from the Bárðarbunga volcanic system but are distinct from the historical eruption products of the nearby Askja system. Thermobarometry calculations indicate a polybaric magma plumbing system for the Holuhraun eruption, wherein clinopyroxene and plagioclase crystallized at average depths of ∼17 km and ∼5 km, respectively. Crystal resorption textures and oxygen isotope variations imply that this multilevel plumbing system facilitated magma mixing and assimilation of low‐δ18O Icelandic crust prior to eruption. In conjunction with the existing geophysical evidence for lateral migration, our results support a model of initial vertical magma ascent within the Bárðarbunga plumbing system followed by lateral transport of aggregated magma batches within the upper crust to the Holuhraun eruption site.
Threshold sensitivity of shallow Arctic lakes and sublake permafrost to changing winter climate
Authors: Arp Christopher D. , Jones Benjamin M. , Grosse Guido , Bondurant Allen C. , Romanovsky Vladimir E. , Hinkel Kenneth M. , Parsekian Andrew D.
Published: June 2016

Interactions and feedbacks between abundant surface waters and permafrost fundamentally shape lowland Arctic landscapes. Sublake permafrost is maintained when the maximum ice thickness (MIT) exceeds lake depth and mean annual bed temperatures (MABTs) remain below freezing. However, declining MIT since the 1970s is likely causing talik development below shallow lakes. Here we show high‐temperature sensitivity to winter ice growth at the water‐sediment interface of shallow lakes based on year‐round lake sensor data. Empirical model experiments suggest that shallow (1 m depth) lakes have warmed substantially over the last 30 years (2.4°C), with MABT above freezing 5 of the last 7 years. This is in comparison to slower rates of warming in deeper (3 m) lakes (0.9°C), with already well‐developed taliks. Our findings indicate that permafrost below shallow lakes has already begun crossing a critical thawing threshold approximately 70 years prior to predicted terrestrial permafrost thaw in northern Alaska.
On the ambiguous nature of the 11 year solar cycle signal in upper stratospheric ozone
Authors: Dhomse S. S. , Chipperfield M. P. , Damadeo R. P. , Zawodny J. M. , Ball W. T. , Feng W. , Hossaini R. , Mann G. W. , Haigh J. D.
Published: June 2016

Up to now our understanding of the 11 year ozone solar cycle signal (SCS) in the upper stratosphere has been largely based on the Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment (SAGE) II (v6.2) data record, which indicated a large positive signal which could not be reproduced by models, calling into question our understanding of the chemistry of the upper stratosphere. Here we present an analysis of new v7.0 SAGE II data which shows a smaller upper stratosphere ozone SCS, due to a more realistic ozone‐temperature anticorrelation. New simulations from a state‐of‐art 3‐D chemical transport model show a small SCS in the upper stratosphere, which is in agreement with SAGE v7.0 data and the shorter Halogen Occultation Experiment and Microwave Limb Sounder records. However, despite these improvements in the SAGE II data, there are still large uncertainties in current observational and meteorological reanalysis data sets, so accurate quantification of the influence of solar flux variability on the climate system remains an open scientific question.
Satellite observations of energy‐banded ions during large geomagnetic storms: Event studies, statistics, and comparisons to source models
Authors: Colpitts C. A. , Cattell C. A. , Kozyra J. U. , Thomsen M. F. , Lavraud B.
Published: June 2016

Energy‐banded ions from tens to ten thousands of eV are observed in the low‐latitude auroral and subauroral zones during every large (minimum Dst < −150 nT) geomagnetic storm encountered by the FAST satellite. The banded ions persist for many FAST orbits, lasting up to 12 h, in both the northern and southern hemispheres. The energy‐banded ions often have more than six distinct bands, and the O+, He+, and H+ bands are often observed at the same energies. The bands are extensive in latitude (~50–75° on the dayside, often extending to 45°) and magnetic local time, covering all magnetic local time over the data set of storms. The distributions are peaked in the perpendicular direction at the altitudes of the FAST satellite (~350–4175 km), although in some cases the precipitating component dominates for the lowest energy bands. At the same time, for some of the events studied in detail, long‐lasting intervals of field‐aligned energy dispersed ions from ~100 eV to 40 keV are seen in Los Alamos National Laboratory geosynchronous observations, primarily on the dayside and after magnetosheath encounters (i.e., highly compressed magnetosphere). We present both case and statistical studies of the banded ions. These bands are a new phenomenon associated with all large storms, which are distinctly different from other banded populations, and are not readily interpreted using previous models for particle sources, transport, and loss. The energy‐banded ions are an energetically important component of the inner magnetosphere during the most intense magnetic storms.
A numerical model for the entire Wadden Sea: Skill assessment and analysis of hydrodynamics
Authors: Gräwe Ulf , Flöser Götz , Gerkema Theo , Duran‐Matute Matias , Badewien Thomas H. , Schulz Elisabeth , Burchard Hans
Published: June 2016

A baroclinic three‐dimensional numerical model for the entire Wadden Sea of the German Bight in the southern North Sea is first assessed by comparison to field data for surface elevation, current velocity, temperature, and salinity at selected stations and then used to calculate fluxes of volume and salt inside the Wadden Sea and the exchange between the Wadden Sea and the adjacent North Sea through the major tidal inlets. The model is simulating the reference years 2009–2011. An overview of tidal prisms and residual volume fluxes of the main inlets and their variability is given. In addition, data from an intensive observational campaign in a tidal channel south of the island of Spiekeroog as well as satellite images and observations of sea surface properties from a ship of opportunity are used for the skill assessment. Finally, the intensity of estuarine overturning circulation and its variability in the tidal gullies are quantified and analyzed as function of gravitational and wind straining using various estimates including Total Exchange Flow (TEF). Regional differences between the gullies are assessed and drivers of the estuarine circulation are identified. For some inlets, the longitudinal buoyancy gradient dominates the exchange flow, for some others wind straining is more important. Also the intensity of tidal straining (scaled covariance of eddy viscosity and vertical shear) depends on buoyancy gradient and wind forcing in different ways, depending on local topography, orientation toward the main wind direction, and influence by freshwater run off inside or outside the tidal basin.
“To Catch or Not to Catch”: Microcapsule‐Based Sandwich Assay for Detection of Proteins and Nucleic Acids
Authors: Verma Sujit K. , Amoah Amanda , Schellhaas Ulla , Winterhalter Mathias , Springer Sebastian , Kolesnikova Tatiana A.
Published: June 2016

The development of new assays that specifically detect intermediate or final products of biotechnological processes or multiple analytes in biomedical research is important for diagnostics and biotechnology. This study presents a microcapsule‐based sandwich assay for detection of proteins and nucleic acids using flow cytometry as an optical readout. The main component of the assay are robust chemically cross‐linked microcapsules that are coated with adaptor proteins such as protein A or streptavidin. In the first approach, the ability of detecting the blood cancer biomarker beta‐2 microglobulin in the fM to pM concentration range with the help of protein A‐coated capsules is demonstrated. In the second approach, streptavidin‐coated capsules are used for detection of nucleic acids in the nM concentration range. The developed assay allows rapid quantitative analyte measurement, while providing high sensitivity and selectivity at very small sample quantities. In the future, protein A‐ and streptavidin‐coated microcapsules can be used as universal tools for detection of a broad range of analytes.
Regio‐ and Stereoselective Synthesis of 1,2,3‐Trisubstituted Indanes from Diarylmethanols and Allylamides through Iron(III) Chloride Hexahydrate
Authors: Li Yali , Zhang Lingjuan , Zhang Zongyao , Xu Jianbin , Pan Yixiao , Xu Conghui , Liu Lingxian , Li Zengguang , Yu Zhiyong , Li Huanrong , Xu Lijin
Published: June 2016

An efficient method for the highly regio‐ and stereoselective synthesis of 1,2,3‐trisubstituted indanes from diarylmethanols and allylamides through iron(III) chloride hexahydrate‐catalyzed intermolecular [3+2] cycloaddition reaction is reported. A range of 1,2,3‐trisubstituted indanes were prepared in good to excellent yields with excellent stereoselectivities for various combinations of diarylmethanols and allylamides. The choice of solvent is critical to the catalysis. Mechanistic studies indicated that the generation of a benzylic cation is involved in this catalytic process, and the reaction proceeds via the initial formation of diarylmethyl ethers. This reaction features ready availability of the starting materials, high level of functional tolerance and simple experimental operation.

magnified image
Charge Creation and Recombination in Multi‐Length Scale Polymer:Fullerene BHJ Solar Cell Morphologies
Authors: Mukherjee Subhrangsu , Jiao Xuechen , Ade Harald
Published: June 2016

While the extremes in organic photovoltaic bulk heterojunction morphology (finely mixed or large pure domains) are easily understood and known to be unfavorable, efficient devices often exhibit a complex multi‐length scale, multi‐phase morphology. The impact of such multiple length scales and their respective purities and volume fractions on device performance remains unclear. Here, the average spatial composition variations, i.e., volume‐average purities, are quantified at multiple size scales to elucidate their effect on charge creation and recombination in a complex, multi‐length scale polymer:fullerene system (PBDTTPD:PC71BM). The apparent domain size as observed in TEM is not a causative parameter. Instead, a linear relationship is found between average purity at length scales <50 nm and device fill‐factor. Our findings show that a high volume fraction of pure phases at the smallest length scales is required in multi‐length scale systems to aid charge creation and diminish recombination in polymer:fullerene solar cells.
Oesophagostomiasis in non‐human primates of Gombe National Park, Tanzania
Authors: Terio Karen A. , Lonsdorf Elizabeth V. , Kinsel Michael J. , Raphael Jane , Lipende Iddi , Collins Anthony , Li Yingying , Hahn Beatrice H. , Travis Dominic A. , Gillespie Thomas R.
Published: June 2016

Oesophagostomum sp. is a parasitic nematode that frequently infects wild chimpanzees. Although nodular lesions are commonly associated with infection, some wild chimpanzee populations seem to tolerate Oesophagostomum nodular lesions while those at Gombe and other sites suffer from associated morbidity and mortality. From August 2004 to December 2013, we examined demographic (i.e., age, sex) and individual correlates (i.e., fecal consistency, Oesophagostomum egg production) to Oesophagostomum‐associated pathology in 14 individually recognized chimpanzees at Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania. In addition, we characterized Oesophagostomum‐associated pathology in 14 individual sympatric primates including baboons, colobus, and cercopithecid monkeys. In five chimpanzees, there was no evidence of any significant underlying disease aside from oesophagostomiasis to explain the thin condition or diarrhea. All five of these chimpanzees had moderate to numerous parasitic nodules. In general, nodules were more numerous in older chimpanzees. Three of four chimpanzees with the highest average Oesophagostomum egg counts in feces collected during the year prior to their death had numerous parasitic nodules at necropsy. In contrast, the four chimpanzees with the lowest egg counts had only moderate numbers of nodules. No association (P = 0.74) was noted between frequency of diarrhea in the year prior to death and the number of nodules noted at necropsy. Nodules were also present in all baboons examined documenting pathology associated with Oesophagostomum infection in wild baboons. In contrast, no lesions were noted in colobus or cercopithecid monkeys, although it is uncertain if they are infected as no fecal studies have been completed in these species to date at Gombe. Sequence of DNA isolated from nodules in chimpanzees matched (99%) Oesophagostomum stephanostomum. Further research is needed to identify the types of Oesophagostomum causing lesions in baboons and to determine if baboons suffer from these infections. Am. J. Primatol. 80:e22572, 2018. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lateralization and performance asymmetries in the termite fishing of wild chimpanzees in the goualougo triangle, republic of Congo
Authors: Sanz Crickette M. , Morgan David B. , Hopkins William D.
Published: June 2016

The nearly universal right hand preference manifested by human populations is one of the most pronounced manifestations of population‐level lateralization. Morphological and archeological evidence indicate that this behavioral specialization may have emerged among our hominin ancestors. Whether population‐level behavioral asymmetries are evident in non‐human animals remains a topic of considerable scientific debate, with the most consistent evidence of population‐level trends emerging from studies of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes). However, previous studies of population‐level lateralization in wild apes have relied upon data sets pooled across populations to reach adequate sample sizes. Our aim was to test for population‐level handedness within a single wild chimpanzee population, and also to determine if performance asymmetries were associated with handedness. To address these questions, we coded handedness and duration of fishing probe insertions from remote video footage of chimpanzee visitation to termite nests (totaling 119 hr) in the Goualougo Triangle, Republic of Congo. Similar to reports from other populations, chimpanzees in the Goualougo Triangle showed robust individual hand preferences for termite fishing. There were 46 right‐handed, 39 left‐handed, and 4 ambiguously‐handed individuals. Though we did not detect an overall significant population‐level handedness (t(88) = 0.83, n.s.) in this study, males showed a greater right hand preference than females. Further, we found that average dipping latencies were significantly faster for right‐ compared to left‐handed chimpanzees. Possible explanations and evolutionary implications of taxa‐ and task‐specific patterns of population‐level laterality are discussed. Am. J. Primatol. 78:1190–1200, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anti‐inflammatory effects of intranasal cyclosporine for allergic rhinitis in a mouse model
Authors: Joo Yeon‐Hee , Chang Dong‐Yeop , Kim Jin Hyun , Jung Myeong Hee , Lee Jino , Cho Hyun‐Jin , Jeon Sea‐Yuong , Kim Seong‐Jae , Kim Sang‐Wook
Published: June 2016

Background

Although topical corticosteroids are considered a safe and effective drug for allergic rhinitis (AR), some AR patients do not show sufficient symptomatic improvement by use of topical corticosteroids. Topical cyclosporine is a safe and effective drug for patients with allergic conjunctivitis, particularly for those with steroid‐resistant allergic conjunctivitis. We investigated the anti‐inflammatory effects of intranasal cyclosporine for AR using a mouse model.

Methods

After establishment of allergic inflammation in 5‐week‐old BALB/c mice, cyclosporine was administered intranasally 3 times per week for 2 weeks. To confirm its anti‐inflammatory effects, triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) was utilized as a control drug. Histopathologic changes were evaluated using Sirius red and Giemsa staining for eosinophilic and mast cell infiltration, respectively. The levels of cytokines in sinonasal tissues, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5, and IL‐13, were assessed based on a cytometric bead array.

Results

The degree of eosinophilic infiltration was significantly decreased by instillation of cyclosporine, the potency being similar to TAC. However, the number of mast cells was not decreased by cyclosporine or TAC. The levels of TNF, IL‐4, IL‐5, and IL‐13 were significantly decreased after treatment with cyclosporine.

Conclusion

The anti‐inflammatory effects of topical cyclosporine for AR were equivalent to those of topical corticosteroids. Topical cyclosporine may be useful for the treatment of AR, although human studies are required.
Effectiveness of atorvastatin in suppressing MUC5AC gene expression in human airway epithelial cells
Authors: Lee Eun Jung , Song Kee Jae , Hwang Hye Jin , Kim Kyung‐Su
Published: June 2016

Background

We recently reported that chronic cholesterol depletion in NCI‐H292 cells by lovastatin suppresses interleukin (IL)‐1β–induced MUC5AC gene expression. However, as there are numerous statins affect MUC5AC expression, we sought to determine which statin is most effective in reducing MUC5AC expression, and whether this activity of statins is related to IL‐1 receptor (IL‐1RI) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity.

Methods

Four statins, namely atorvastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, and simvastatin, were tested. Cholesterol depletion was measured via modified microenzymatic fluorescence assay and filipin staining. NCI‐H292 cells were pretreated with 10 μM of each statin for 1 hour, 10 ng/mL of IL‐1β was added, and cells were then co‐incubated with statin and IL‐1β for 24 hours. MUC5AC mRNA expression was measured via real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The phosphorylation levels were assayed by Western blot.

Results

Cholesterol in the plasma membrane was markedly decreased by all 4 statins, of which atorvastatin was the most potent. IL‐1β–induced MUC5AC messenger RNA (mRNA) expression was most significantly decreased by 10 μM atorvastatin, to 1.4 ± 0.2‐fold of the level of the untreated control group, as opposed to an increase to 4.7 ± 0.5‐fold for IL‐1β alone, and this suppression of MUC5AC expression was dose‐dependent. This decrease in MUC5AC expression by atorvastatin was mediated via the IL‐1 receptor and the MAPK pathway, including both phospho‐p38 MAPK and phospho–extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (phospho‐ERK).

Conclusion

These results suggest that atorvastatin is the most potent of the assayed statins with respect to suppression of IL‐1β–induced MUC5AC mRNA expression, and may be considered as an anti‐hypersecretory agent.
Exergonic and Spontaneous Production of Radicals through Beryllium Bonds
Authors: Brea Oriana , Alkorta Ibon , Mó Otilia , Yáñez Manuel , Elguero José , Corral Inés
Published: June 2016

High‐level ab initio calculations show that the formation of radicals, by the homolytic bond fission of Y−R (Y=F, OH, NH2; R=CH3, NH2, OH, F, SiH3, PH2, SH, Cl, NO) bonds is dramatically favored by the association of the molecule with BeX2 (X=H and Cl) derivatives. This finding is a consequence of two concomitant effects, the significant activation of the Y−R bond after the formation of the beryllium bond, and the huge stabilization of the F. (OH., NH2.) radical upon BeX2 attachment. In those cases where R is an electronegative group, the formation of the radicals is not only exergonic, but spontaneous.
Oxidation Reactions with Bioinspired Mononuclear Non‐Heme Metal–Oxo Complexes
Authors: Engelmann Xenia , Monte‐Pérez Inés , Ray Kallol
Published: June 2016

The selective functionalization of strong C−H bonds and the oxidation of water by cheap and nontoxic metals are some of the key targets of chemical research today. It has been proposed that high‐valent iron‐, manganese‐, and copper‐oxo cores are involved as reactive intermediates in important oxidation reactions performed by biological systems, thus making them attractive targets for biomimetic synthetic studies. The generation and characterization of metal–oxo model complexes of iron, manganese, and copper together with detailed reactivity studies can help in understanding how the steric and electronic properties of the metal centers modulate the reactivity of the metalloenzymes. This Review provides a focused overview of the advances in the chemistry of biomimetic high‐valent metal–oxo complexes from the last 5–10 years that can be related to our understanding of biological systems.
Metal Vacancy Ordering in an Antiperovskite Resulting in Two Modifications of Fe2SeO
Authors: Valldor Martin , Wright Taylor , Fitch Andrew , Prots Yurii
Published: June 2016

Small, red Fe2SeO single crystals in two modifications were obtained from a CsCl flux. The metastable α‐phase is pseudo‐tetragonal (Cmce, a=16.4492(8) Å, b=11.1392(4) Å, c=11.1392(4) Å), whereas the β‐phase is trigonal (P31, a=9.8349(4) Å, c=6.9591(4) Å)) and thermodynamically stable within a narrow temperature range. Both crystal structures were solved from twinned specimens. The enantiomers of the β‐phase appear as racemic mixtures. Selenium and oxygen form two individual interpenetrating primitive cubic lattices, giving a bcc packing. A quasi‐octahedrally coordinated iron atom is found close to the center of each surface of the selenium sublattice. The difference between the α‐ and β‐phases is the distribution of iron at 2/3 of the surfaces. α‐ and β‐Fe2SeO are comparable with metal‐vacancy‐ordered antiperovskites. Each Fe/O lattice can also be described in terms of vertex‐sharing OFe4 tetrahedra, with a crystal structure similar to that of an antisilicate. Iron is divalent and has a high‐spin d6 (S=2) configuration. The β‐phase exhibits magnetoelectric coupling.