bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adolescents’ opinions and thoughts about consanguineous marriages: A Turkey sample
Authors: Özpulat Funda , Kabasakal Esma , Taşdelen Baş Melike
Published: January 2017

Background: Family is the core of social life.  Consanguineous marriage means the blood relation between spouses, in other words cognation.  Consanguineous marriage is a comprehensive phrase and socio-economic reasons lie behind consanguineous marriages. Consanguineous marriages are observed more commonly in societies having a closed economy and societies living a nomadic life.Objectives: This study is conducted so as to find out adolescents’ thoughts and opinions with regard to consanguineous marriages.Methods: This study, conducted between dates of March 12th, 2015 – February 15th 2016, is a descriptive type. Research was conducted as a two-centre study in Akşehir District of Konya and Yenimahalle district of Ankara. Total number of participant students in the research is 2073 students.Findings: The percentage of adolescents’ whose parents made consanguineous marriage is 12,1%. The rate of students who have consanguineous marriage among their relatives is 50,8%. Many of the health problems caused by students’ relatives who made consanguineous marriage are physical disabilities. Demand of family is mainly pointed (56,3%) out as the reason of consanguineous marriage.Conclusion: When dominant attitude of families on marriages are considered, it is suggested to include parents while holding public health education programs. When it is considered that adolescents access necessary information through school classes, it is of importance for the Ministry of National Education to display more sensitivity on this matter.  Adölesanların akraba evliliklerine ilişkin görüş ve düşünceleri:Türkiye örneğiÖzet: Aile, toplumsal hayatın çekirdeğidir. Akraba evliliği, eşler arasında kan bağı bulunmasını yani aynı atadan gelme durumunu ifade etmektedir. Akraba evliliği, geniş kapsamlı bir deyimdir ve aile içi evlenmelerin asıl temelinde sosyo-ekonomik nedenler yatmaktadır. Kapalı ekonomide yaşayan toplumlarda, aşiret ve göçebe hayatı yaşayan toplumlarda akraba evlilikleri daha sık görülmektedir.Amaç: Bu çalışma, lise öğrencilerinin akraba evliliklerine ilişkin görüş ve düşüncelerini saptamak amacıyla yapılmaktadır.Metod: Bu tanımlayıcı türedeki araştırma 12 Mart 2015- 15 Şubat 2016 tarihleri arasında 2073 lise öğrencisiyle yapılmıştır.Bulgular: Annesi ve babası arasında akraba evliliği bulunanların oranı %12,1’dir. Akrabası arasında akraba evliliği bulunanların oranı % 50,8’dir. Ailesinde veya akrabasında akraba evliliği yapanlarda sağlık problemi oluşanların çoğunluğunu fiziksel engellilik oluşturmaktadır. Akraba evliliğine tamamen karşı olanlar %36,3’tür. akraba evliliğinin kaynağı olarak çoğunlukla (%56,3) aile isteği gösterilmiştir.Sonuç ve Öneriler: Akraba evliliğinde aile rolünün baskın olduğu göz önünde bulundurulduğunda toplum eğitim programları aracılığıyla ailelerin bilinçlendirilmesi önerilmektedir. Adölesanların gerekli bilgiye çoğunlukla okul derslerinden erişmesi bakımındanMilli Eğitim Bakanlığı’nın konuya gereken hassasiyeti göstermesi önemlidir.
Relative Nielsen Numbers, Braids and Periodic Segments
Authors: Wójcik Klaudiusz
Published: January 2017

The aim of this paper is to establish a connection between the method of period segments and the relative Nielsen fixed point theory. We prove that if W is a periodic segment over

[
0
,
T
]

{[0,T]}

for the T-periodic semi-process Φ, then the Poincaré map P has at least

N
⁢

(

m
W

,

W
0

∖

W
0

-
-

¯

)

{N(m_{W},\overline{W_{0}\setminus W_{0}^{--}})}

fixed points with trajectories contained in W, where

N
⁢

(

m
W

,

W
0

∖

W
0

-
-

¯

)

{N(m_{W},\overline{W_{0}\setminus W_{0}^{--}})}

is the relative Nielsen number defined by Zhao. It is also shown that if the sequence

N
⁢

(

m
¯

n

)

{N(\overline{m}^{n})}

is bounded and

N
∞

⁢

(
m
)

>
1

{N^{\infty}(m)>1}

, then the Poincaré map has infinitely many periodic points. We prove that there exists a compact set

I
⊂

W
0

{I\subset W_{0}}

, invariant for the Poincaré map, such that the topological entropy

h
⁢

(

P
|

I

)

{h(P|_{I})}

is bounded from below by

log
⁡

N
∞

⁢

(
m
)

-

h
⁢

(

m
¯

)

{\log N^{\infty}(m)-h(\overline{m})}

. In particular, if

h
⁢

(

m
¯

)

=
0

{h(\overline{m})=0}

, then

h
⁢

(

P
|

I

)

≥

log
⁡

N
∞

⁢

(
m
)

.

{h(P|_{I})\geq\log N^{\infty}(m).}

We adapt the result obtained by Jiang to get a concrete example of a braid-like periodic segment with

N
∞

⁢

(
m
)

>
1

{N^{\infty}(m)>1}

.
Sparse signal recovery using a new class of random matrices
Authors: Au-Yeung Enrico
Published: January 2017

We propose a new class of random matrices that enables the recovery of signals with sparse representation in a known basis with overwhelmingly high probability. To construct a matrix in this class, we begin with a fixed non-random matrix that satisfies two very general conditions. Then we decompose the matrix into pieces of sparse matrices. A random sum (involving Bernoulli random variables) of these pieces of sparse matrices is used to construct the final matrix. We say that the random matrix is the randomized Bernoulli transform of the original matrix. The random matrix is not created by filling all its entries with random variables, as in the case of Gaussian or Bernoulli matrices. Therefore, as a benefit, far fewer number of random variables are needed to generate this new type of random matrices. We prove that the number of samples needed to recover a random signal is proportional to the sparsity of the signal, up to a logarithmic factor, and hence this number is nearly optimal.
What does it mean to be an English teacher in Brazil? Student teachers’ beliefs through narratives in a distance education programme
Authors: Costa Ribas Fernanda , Manzan Perine Cristiane
Published: January 2017

This paper aims to investigate the beliefs of student teachers on a distance teacher education course about being an English teacher in Brazil. The theoretical framework of this paper is based on studies about beliefs in language teaching and learning (Barcelos and Kalaja 2011. Introduction to beliefs about SLA revisited. System 39(3). 281–289), and distant teacher education (Borg et al. 2014. The impact of teacher education on pre-service primary English language teachers. London: British Council). Data were collected in a supervised teaching practicum course in an English Language and Literature Distance Programme provided by a federal public university in Brazil. The data stem from visual narratives and meta-narratives posted on two online discussion forums. It is expected that the results of this study will contribute to advancing research on the use of visual materials in the investigation of beliefs, and that they will foster the debate on the contributions of visual narratives to teachers’ reflections, particularly in distance teacher education settings.
A study of the original material of Lithothamnion engelhartii Foslie (Corallinales, Rhodophyta)
Authors: Athanasiadis Athanasios
Published: January 2017

Eight collections of the type material of Lithothamnion engelhartii from Cape Jaffa and Kingston (South Australia) were re-examined and two disparate entities were shown to be included. Some specimens exhibit embedded conceptacles in the thallus where the perithallium dominates. The other specimens lack embedded conceptacles and the thallus is formed by unattached-superimposed lamellae where the hypothallium prevails. The lectotype selected here fits the second description and is in agreement with most other type specimens and recent material collected at Eyre Peninsula (South Australia). The lectotype specimen displays dorsiventral organization lacking perithallial protuberances. The hypothallium is polystromatic with coaxial to non-coaxial regions and forms a relatively thin ascending perithallium. Subepithallial cells are elongate and support single flattened epithallial cells. Multiporate conceptacles are bisporangial, develop in dense aggregations, and do not become embedded in the thallus (except via superimposition of new lamellae). Pore canals are conical to pyriform and develop differentiated cells lining the canals along the base. Syntype material exhibits simple spermatangia, and this character, together with the presence of elongate basal pore cells and the lack of a predominantly coaxial hypothallium, suggests an affiliation with the temperate species of Leptophytum from the NE Pacific.
Moisture Diffusivity of Seedless Grape undergoing convective drying
Authors: Hermassi Imène , Azzouz Sofien , Hassini Lamine , Belghith Ali
Published: January 2017

Seedless grape (Sultana grape) is a very important commercial fruit grown in large quantities in Tunisia. This product is characterized by a high initial moisture content (the initial wet basis moisture content of the fruit is more than 80 %), and thus a high shrinkage during drying. The mature seedless grape is a spherically shaped fruit. Thermo-physical properties and drying kinetics of seedless grape is essential for the optimization of its drying processes. This paper is composed of two parts, the first one is reserved to the experimental study of seedless grapes, such as the establishment of the desorption isotherms which were determined at 40, 50, 60 and 70 °C by using static gravimetric method and these desorption data were fitted by GAB model. Then we were interested in measurement of the axial hydrous shrinkage of a grape berry and it was expressed as a function of moisture content. Indeed, the drying kinetics under different controlled conditions of air temperature and relative humidity were realized. In the second part, the moisture diffusivity of the seedless grape was determined by minimizing the sum of square of deviations between the predicted and experimental values of moisture content of convective drying kinetics. The adopted approach was based on a numerical solving of the conservation equation of the solid phase and the equation of diffusion/convection of liquid phase for spherical geometry, coupled by the solid phase velocity due to shrinkage. The moisture diffusivity of seedless grape increased with temperature and was correlated by an Arrhenius-type equation. Indeed, the effect of moisture diffusivity was expressed by an exponential function. The moisture diffusivity of seedless grape ranged between 3.5610−10 (m2/s) and 12.610−10 (m2/s). Activation energy was found equal to 57.76 kJ/mol.
A family of irretractable square-free solutions of the Yang–Baxter equation
Authors: Bachiller David , Cedó Ferran , Jespers Eric , Okniński Jan
Published: January 2017

A new family of non-degenerate involutive
set-theoretic solutions of the Yang–Baxter equation is constructed.
All these solutions are strong twisted unions of multipermutation
solutions of multipermutation level at most two. A large subfamily
consists of irretractable and square-free solutions. This subfamily
includes a recent example of Vendramin [38, Example 3.9], who
first gave a counterexample to Gateva-Ivanova’s Strong Conjecture
[19, Strong Conjecture 2.28 (I)]. All the solutions in this
subfamily are new counterexamples to Gateva-Ivanova’s Strong
Conjecture
and also they answer a question
of Cameron and Gateva-Ivanova [21, Open Questions 6.13 (II)(4)]. It is proved that the natural left brace structure on
the permutation group of the solutions in this family has trivial
socle. Properties of the permutation group and of the structure
group associated to these solutions are also investigated. In
particular, it is proved that the structure groups of finite
solutions in this subfamily are not poly-(infinite cyclic) groups.
Financial Development & Commercial Advantage
Authors: Cezar Rafael
Published: January 2017

Abstract:

The article seeks to clarify the relationship between financial development and the marginal variation in the proportion of exporting firms (extensive margin) and the volume exported by each economic sector (intensive margin). We develop a theoretical model with two countries facing different levels of financial restrictions and input costs, several sectors differentiated by their dependence on external finance and heterogeneous firms producing with a combination of inputs. The model shows that financially developed countries experience a commercial advantage in financially dependent sectors and countries with more competitive cost structures experience an advantage and specialize in low financially dependent sectors. This relationship is true even within the manufacturing sectors. The model also indicates that financial development only affects trade in financially constrained sectors.
Br2- or HBr-catalyzed synthesis of asymmetric 3,3-di(indolyl)indolin-2-ones
Authors: Li Yanni , Liang Deqiang , Li Xiangguang , Huang Wenzhong , Yuan Lin , Wang Baoling , Cheng Ping
Published: January 2017

Under the catalysis of 1 mol% of Br2 or HBr at room temperature, indoles undergo a rapid reaction with 3-hydroxy-3-(indol-3-yl)indolin-2-ones to give asymmetric 3,3-di(indol-3-yl)indolin-2-ones with high efficiency and wide substrate scope. This is a rare example of Br2 acting as a Lewis acid catalyst. Theoretical calculations suggest that both the catalytic activity of the catalysts and the stability of reaction intermediates are responsible for the high efficiency of this reaction.
Jenseits von Piraterie und Kaperfahrt. Für einen Paradigmenwechsel in der Geschichte der Gewalt im maritimen Spätmittelalter
Authors: Rohmann Gregor
Published: January 2017

Gewalthandeln auf See wird auch in der Forschung noch immer oft unter dem populären Rubrum „Piraterie“ zusammengefasst. Dagegen möchte ich für eine grundlegende Revision unserer Maßstäbe für die Untersuchung von „Seeraub“ plädieren. Ausgehend von methodischen Überlegungen und vergleichenden Blicken auf den wesentlich besser erforschten Mittelmeerraum werden anhand von Beispielfällen aus dem Hanseraum um 1400 die kategorialen Anachronismen, quellenkritischen Unwägbarkeiten und vorwissenschaftlichen Implikationen der bis heute geläufigen Begriffe in den Blick genommen. Sinnvoller wäre es, neutral von Gewalthandeln und Güterwegnahme im maritimen Raum zu sprechen, um dann die Akteure, die Normen, Praktiken und Funktionen ihres Handelns und vor allem den diachronen Wandel dieser Faktoren differenziert erforschen zu können.
Revolution, Illuminismus und Theosophie. Eine Genealogie der „häretischen“ Historiographie des frühen französischen Sozialismus und Kommunismus
Authors: Strube Julian
Published: January 2017

Historische Studien, die sich in den 1830er und frühen 1850er Jahren mit der Geschichte von Sozialismus und Kommunismus beschäftigten, haben diese in eine dezidiert religiöse, „häretische“ Tradition gestellt. Diese wurde entweder von Kritikern als eine Verfälschung des Christentums dargestellt, oder aber von Sozialreformern als Kern des wahren Christentums, das den korrumpierten Kirchen entgegengesetzt wurde. In diesen Narrativen nahmen die Bezeichnungen illuminisme, théosophie und mysticisme eine bemerkenswert zentrale Stellung ein. Im Artikel soll daher die Genealogie dieser unklaren Bezeichnungen im gegebenen Kontext nachgezeichnet werden. Es wird argumentiert, dass sich die damit verbundenen Narrative bis in freimaurerische und theologische Diskurse des 18. Jahrhunderts zurückverfolgen lassen, die sich um die Frage nach der „wahren“ Religion drehten. Im Zuge der Französischen Revolution erfuhren diese Narrative eine vielgestaltige Politisierung. Die Betrachtung dieser Entwicklungen erlaubt abschließend grundsätzliche Überlegungen zur Historiographie des Sozialismus sowie zum Verhältnis von Religion und Politik vor dem Hintergrund eines genealogischen Ansatzes.
Sugarcane Juice Clarification by Hydrogen Peroxide: Predictions with Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Sartori Juliana Aparecida de Souza , Ribeiro Katia , Teixeira Antonio Carlos Silva Costa , Magri Nathalia Torres Correa , Mandro Juliana Lorenz , Aguiar Claudio Lima de
Published: January 2017

Hydrogen peroxide has been studied as an alternative for sulfur in the white sugar industry. Sulfur has been associated to allergic diseases, mainly asthma. In this study, artificial neural network (ANN) models are proposed to predict the effects of different variables (peroxidation time, temperature, pH, H2O2 dosage, and initial °Brix) on sugarcane juice color removal and sucrose content. Experimental results and the ANN models revealed that temperature showed the greatest influence on the decrease of juice color; nevertheless, the effect of temperature depended on pH: at pH<;5.0 a decrease in juice absorbance was observed at temperatures close to 38 °C, whereas in the pH range of 5.0–6.3, absorbance decreased only at about 50–62 °C, regardless of the amount of hydrogen peroxide used. On the other hand, the remaining sucrose content after peroxidation was influenced by the initial °Brix and by pH.
Interactions between formal distance and participant-related variables in receptive multilingualism
Authors: Vanhove Jan , Berthele Raphael
Published: January 2017

Recognizing cognates in a related but unknown language (Lx) is of key importance in receptive multilingualism. Many studies have consequently investigated the impact of both item-related characteristics (most notably the cognates’ formal distance to their L1/L2 counterparts) and participant-related variables (e. g., the make-up of the participants’ linguistic repertoires) on Lx cognate recognition. However, little is known about how these two factors interact with one another. Using data from a lifespan study on Lx (Swedish) cognate recognition in German-speaking participants, we investigate how the effect of the Lx cognates’ formal distance to their L1/L2 counterparts varies as a function of the participants’ richness of linguistic experience and their ability to deal with abstract patterns flexibly (‘fluid intelligence’). We do so for both written and spoken stimuli. The results underscore that the relationship between formal distance and recognition in receptive multilingualism, and cross-linguistic influence more generally, may vary systematically as a function of participant-related variables.
An overview on heterogeneous Fenton and photoFenton reactions using zerovalent iron materials
Authors: Litter Marta I. , Slodowicz Mariel
Published: January 2017

The basic and applied aspects of Fenton and Fenton-like processes for removal of pollutants using zerovalent iron materials, including nanoparticles, are reviewed in this article. Only those examples including the use of the iron materials together with hydrogen peroxide addition are included. The mechanistic aspects of homogeneous and heterogeneous Fenton processes, still under discussion, are displayed. The use of biogenic generated iron nanoparticles for removal of pollutants is discussed due to their novelty and economy of synthesis.
On a conjecture of Imrich and Müller
Authors: Ivanov Sergei V.
Published: January 2017

A conjecture of Imrich and Müller on the rank of the intersection of subgroups of free groups is disproved.
Multi-stage Mirror-Based Planar Structure for Wavelength Division Demultiplexing
Authors: Bany Salameh Haythem , Jawarneh Khaled , Musa Ahmed
Published: January 2017

In this paper, a new design for a demultiplexer device for Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) communication system is proposed. The proposed device consists of an inhomogeneous layer of a semiconductor material with refractive index that is graded according to a given profile. To minimize the size of the proposed device and achieve better spatial shift between the multiplexed wavelengths, several mirrors are placed at different locations inside the device. These mirrors will force the multiplexed light to be reflected before reaching the total internal reflection point. By controlling the different design parameters such as incident angle, the refractive index profile, etc., a small size, low cost and less complexity WDM device can be realized. In the design process, we exploits the ray’s spatial shift that results from the introduced mirrors and the material dispersion. In addition, the effect of the aforementioned design parameters on the amount of spatial shift between the adjacent wavelengths and the size of the device has been investigated. Results show that the proposed design achieves higher spatial shift as well as smaller device size in comparison with precedent WDM device designs.
A definition of gentle ventilation in congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a survey of neonatologists and pediatric surgeons
Authors: Farkouh-Karoleski Christiana , Najaf Tasnim , Wynn Julia , Aspelund Gudrun , Chung Wendy K. , Stolar Charles J. , Mychaliska George B. , Warner Brad W. , Wagner Amy J. , Cusick Robert A. , Lim Foong-Yen , Schindel David T. , Potoka Douglas , Azarow Kenneth , Cotten C. Michael , Hesketh Anthony , Soffer Samuel , Crombleholme Timothy , Needelman Howard
Published: January 2017

Ventilation practices have changed significantly since the initial reports in the mid 1980 of successful use of permissive hypercapnia and spontaneous ventilation [often called gentle ventilation (GV)] in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). However, there has been little standardization of these practices or of the physiologic limits that define GV. We sought to ascertain among Diaphragmatic Hernia Research and Exploration; Advancing Molecular Science (DHREAMS) centers’ GV practices in the neonatal management of CDH. Pediatric surgeons and neonatologists from DHREAMS centers completed an online survey on GV practices in infants with CDH. The survey gathered data on how individuals defined GV including ventilator settings, blood gas parameters and other factors of respiratory management. A total of 87 respondents, from 12 DHREAMS centers completed the survey for an individual response rate of 53% and a 92% center response rate. Approximately 99% of the respondents defined GV as accepting higher carbon dioxide (PCO
Fetal face as important indicator of fetal brain function
Authors: AboEllail Mohamed Ahmed Mostafa , Hata Toshiyuki
Published: January 2017

Fetuses show various facial expressions, such as blinking, yawning, sucking, mouthing, tongue expulsion, scowling, and smiling, assessed by four-dimensional ultrasound from the early second trimester of pregnancy. Moreover, some fetuses demonstrate emotion-like behaviors as noted in infants, children, and adults. Selective fetal responses to stimuli indicate a high degree of brain development, which is reflected in the facial reactions. The fetal face with its movements and expressions can mirror the fetal brain function and development during different stages of the fetus
Crystal structure of pyridinium bis(naphthalane-2,3-diolato-κ2
O,O′)borate monohydrate, C25H20BNO5
Authors: Tombul Mustafa , Güven Kutalmış , Svoboda Ingrid , Fuess Hartmut
Published: January 2017

C25H20BNO5, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 7.0868(6) Å, b = 10.3522(6) Å, c = 15.3140(10) Å, α = 74.088(7)°, β = 89.996(7)°, γ = 79.190(1)°, V = 1059.71(13) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0445, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1105, T = 298 K.
Crystal structure of 2-amino-4-(3-fluorophenyl)-5-oxo-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-4H-chromene-3-carbonitrile, C16H13FN2O2
Authors: Zhai Yunhui , Song Ruijuan
Published: January 2017

C16H13FN2O2, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 8.7809(6) Å, b = 8.7912(6) Å, c = 10.0170(7) Å, α = 72.048(7)°, β = 74.395(6)°, γ = 75.377(6)°, V = 696.26(8) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0457, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1594, T = 293(2) K.
Crystal structure of (E)-3-methyl-4-((3-(5-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)methylene)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-5(4H)-one, C29H23N7O
Authors: El-Hiti Gamal A. , Abdel-Wahab Bakr F. , Alshammari Mohammed B. , Hegazy Amany S. , Kariuki Benson M.
Published: January 2017

C29H23N7O, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 8.2785(12) Å, b = 12.1750(18) Å, c = 13.8122(16) Å, α = 114.401(13)°, β = 103.083(11)°, γ = 93.384(12)°, V = 1216.5(3)Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0713, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1880, T = 293(2) K.
Goodness-of-fit tests for random sequences incorporating several components
Authors: Ianevych Tetiana O. , Kozachenko Yuriy V. , Troshki Viktor B.
Published: January 2017

In this paper we have constructed the goodness-of-fit tests incorporating several components,
like expectation and covariance function for identification of a non-centered univariate random sequence or
auto-covariances and cross-covariances for identification of a centered multivariate random sequence. For the construction
of the corresponding estimators and investigation of their properties we utilized the theory of square
Gaussian random variables.
Image processing via simulated quantum dynamics
Authors: Sowa Artur
Published: January 2017

We apply simulated quantum evolution to image processing, and examine its practicality in the context of image denoising. More specifically, in our approach image processing consists of three stages: First, a digitized gray-scale image is represented as a quantum variable – typically, a density matrix. Second, the quantum variable is evolved via the Markovian master equation in Lindblad form. Third, the quantum variable is back-converted into an image. Numerical experiments indicate remarkable denoising results are obtained in this way for a suitable choice of flow parameters. To our knowledge the proposed image processing technique is conceptually new.
The “unknown voice” in Western history since Socrates
Authors: Ruben Aarne
Published: January 2017

Socrates remains one of the most prominent paternal figures of Western dialogism and phonocentric paradigm; the man who stirred up the dialectic imaginations of his days. In Plato’s Socratic dialogues, his inner voice (daimonion) sounds as a last-instance statement to cast the light on the final solution of the conversation. In the context of antiquity and following cultural tradition, Socrates was the only hearer of warning signals from inside. The rest of the voices were urging (voices of the imaginable cursed souls, saints, angels, etc.). There was no need for a “personal” dictating voice when a divine dictation was already present. According to Charles Peirce’s classification, a “voice without evident source” or a voice from the head is a dicent indexical legisign.
Scaled-up solvothermal synthesis of nanosized metastable indium oxyhydroxide (InOOH) and corundum-type rhombohedral indium oxide (rh-In2O3)
Authors: Schlicker Lukas , Bekheet Maged F. , Gurlo Aleksander
Published: January 2017

Phase pure metastable indium oxyhydroxide (InOOH) with crystallite size in the range ca. 2–7 nm is synthesized by a nonaqueous solvothermal synthesis route in ethanol. The influence of synthesis parameters such as temperature, basicity (pH), synthesis time, and water content is carefully addressed. T-pH maps summarize the impact of synthesis temperature and pH and reveal that phase pure InOOH is obtained in water-free solutions at mild temperatures (150–180°C) in highly basic conditions (pH>12). Subsequent calcination of InOOH at 375–700°C in ambient air atmosphere results in metastable nanoscaled rhombohedral indium oxide (rh-In2O3). The synthesis protocol for phase pure nanocrystalline InOOH material was successfully upscaled allowing for obtaining ca. 3 g of phase-pure InOOH with a yield of ca. 78%. The upscaled InOOH and rh-In2O3 batches are now available for a detailed in-situ characterization of the mechanism of decomposition of InOOH to rh-In2O3 to c-In2O3 as well as for the characterization of the functional properties of InOOH and rh-In2O3 materials.
Sexually Dimorphic Risk Mitigation Strategies in Rats
Authors: Pellman Blake A. , Schuessler Bryan P. , Tellakat Mohini , Kim Jeansok J.
Published: January 2017

The scientific understanding of fear and anxiety—in both normal and pathological forms—is presently limited by a predominance of studies that use male animals and Pavlovian fear conditioning-centered paradigms that restrict and assess specific behaviors (e.g., freezing) over brief sampling periods and overlook the broader contributions of the spatiotemporal context to an animal’s behavioral responses to threats. Here, we use a risky “closed economy” system, in which the need to acquire food and water and the need to avoid threats are simultaneously integrated into the lives of rats, to examine sex differences in mitigating threat risk while foraging. Rats lived for an extended period (∼2 months) in enlarged chambers that consisted of a safe, bedded nest and a risky foraging area where footshocks could be delivered unpredictably. We observed that male and female rats used different strategies for responding to the threat of footshock. Whereas male rats increased the size of meals consumed to reduce the overall time spent foraging, female rats sacrificed their metabolic needs in order to avoid shocks. Ovarian hormone fluctuations were shown to exert slight but reliable rhythmic effects on risky decision-making in gonadally intact female rats. However, this did not produce significant differences in approach–avoidance trade-offs between ovariectomized and intact female groups, suggesting that male–female sex differences are not due to the activational effects of gonadal hormones but, rather, are likely to be organized during early development.
A Novel HumanCAMK2AMutation Disrupts Dendritic Morphology and Synaptic Transmission, and Causes ASD-Related Behaviors
Authors: Stephenson Jason R. , Wang Xiaohan , Perfitt Tyler L. , Parrish Walker P. , Shonesy Brian C. , Marks Christian R. , Mortlock Douglas P. , Nakagawa Terunaga , Sutcliffe James S. , Colbran Roger J.
Published: January 2017

Characterizing the functional impact of novel mutations linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) provides a deeper mechanistic understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Here we show that ade novoGlu183 to Val (E183V) mutation in the CaMKIIα catalytic domain, identified in a proband diagnosed with ASD, decreases both CaMKIIα substrate phosphorylation and regulatory autophosphorylation, and that the mutated kinase acts in a dominant-negative manner to reduce CaMKIIα-WT autophosphorylation. The E183V mutation also reduces CaMKIIα binding to established ASD-linked proteins, such as Shank3 and subunits ofl-type calcium channels and NMDA receptors, and increases CaMKIIα turnover in intact cells. In cultured neurons, the E183V mutation reduces CaMKIIα targeting to dendritic spines. Moreover, neuronal expression of CaMKIIα-E183V increases dendritic arborization and decreases both dendritic spine density and excitatory synaptic transmission. Mice with a knock-in CaMKIIα-E183V mutation have lower total forebrain CaMKIIα levels, with reduced targeting to synaptic subcellular fractions. The CaMKIIα-E183V mice also display aberrant behavioral phenotypes, including hyperactivity, social interaction deficits, and increased repetitive behaviors. Together, these data suggest that CaMKIIα plays a previously unappreciated role in ASD-related synaptic and behavioral phenotypes.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTMany autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-linked mutations disrupt the function of synaptic proteins, but no single gene accounts for >1% of total ASD cases. The molecular networks and mechanisms that couple the primary deficits caused by these individual mutations to core behavioral symptoms of ASD remain poorly understood. Here, we provide the first characterization of a mutation in the gene encoding CaMKIIα linked to a specific neuropsychiatric disorder. Our findings demonstrate that this ASD-linkedde novo CAMK2Amutation disrupts multiple CaMKII functions, induces synaptic deficits, and causes ASD-related behavioral alterations, providing novel insights into the synaptic mechanisms contributing to ASD.
Survival of a Novel Subset of Midbrain Dopaminergic Neurons Projecting to the Lateral Septum Is Dependent on NeuroD Proteins
Authors: Khan Shabana , Stott Simon R.W. , Chabrat Audrey , Truckenbrodt Anna M. , Spencer-Dene Bradley , Nave Klaus-Armin , Guillemot François , Levesque Martin , Ang Siew-Lan
Published: January 2017

Midbrain dopaminergic neurons are highly heterogeneous. They differ in their connectivity and firing patterns and, therefore, in their functional properties. The molecular underpinnings of this heterogeneity are largely unknown, and there is a paucity of markers that distinguish these functional subsets. In this paper, we report the identification and characterization of a novel subset of midbrain dopaminergic neurons located in the ventral tegmental area that expresses the basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, Neurogenic Differentiation Factor-6 (NEUROD6). Retrograde fluorogold tracing experiments demonstrate thatNeurod6+midbrain dopaminergic neurons neurons project to two distinct septal regions: the dorsal and intermediate region of the lateral septum. Loss-of-function studies in mice demonstrate thatNeurod6and the closely related family memberNeurod1are both specifically required for the survival of this lateral-septum projecting neuronal subset during development. Our findings underscore the complex organization of midbrain dopaminergic neurons and provide an entry point for future studies of the functions of theNeurod6+subset of midbrain dopaminergic neurons.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTMidbrain dopaminergic neurons regulate diverse brain functions, including voluntary movement and cognitive and emotive behaviors. These neurons are heterogeneous, and distinct subsets are thought to regulate different behaviors. However, we currently lack the means to identify and modify gene function in specific subsets of midbrain dopaminergic neurons. In this study, we identify the transcription factor NEUROD6 as a specific marker for a novel subset of midbrain dopaminergic neurons in the ventral midbrain that project to the lateral septum, and we reveal essential roles forNeurod1andNeurod6in the survival of these neurons during development. Our findings highlight the molecular and anatomical heterogeneity of midbrain dopaminergic neurons and contribute to a better understanding of this functionally complex group of neurons.
Clinical features and practice patterns of treatment for adrenal crisis: a nationwide cross-sectional study in Japan
Authors: Ono Yosuke , Ono Sachiko , Yasunaga Hideo , Matsui Hiroki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Tanaka Yuji
Published: January 2017

Context

Adrenal crisis is an endocrine emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. However, the clinical features and practice patterns of treatment for adrenal crisis are not completely understood.

Objective

To investigate patient characteristics, comorbidities and treatments of adrenal crisis.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of patients who received intravenous glucocorticoids for adrenal crisis at admission from 1 July 2007 to 31 March 2014, using a national inpatient database in Japan.

Results

Among approximately 34 million inpatients in the database, we identified 799 patients diagnosed with adrenal crisis and coexisting primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency at admission. The median (interquartile range) age was 58 (28–73) years, and the overall in-hospital mortality was 2.4% (19 of 799 patients). The most common comorbidity at admission was infections excluding pneumonia and gastroenteritis (15.0%). There were 68 (8.5%) patients with gastroenteritis, and no deaths occurred among these patients. The patients with secondary adrenal insufficiency showed significantly higher proportions of admission to ICU, extracellular fluid resuscitation, insulin therapy and catecholamine use than the patients with primary adrenal insufficiency. There were no significant between-group differences in mortality rate and variation in intravenous glucocorticoids (short-acting glucocorticoid, hydrocortisone; moderate-acting glucocorticoid, prednisolone or methylprednisolone; long-acting glucocorticoid, dexamethasone or betamethasone). Of the 19 dead patients, 15 were aged above 60 years, 12 had impaired consciousness at admission and 13 received insulin therapy.

Conclusions

Clinicians should be aware that older patients with impaired consciousness and diabetes mellitus are at relatively high risk of death from adrenal crisis.
A putative role for anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in optimising ovarian reserve expenditure
Authors: Pankhurst Michael W
Published: January 2017

The mammalian ovary has a finite supply of oocytes, which are contained within primordial follicles where they are arrested in a dormant state. The number of primordial follicles in the ovary at puberty is highly variable between females of the same species. Females that enter puberty with a small ovarian reserve are at risk of a shorter reproductive lifespan, as their ovarian reserve is expected to be depleted faster. One of the roles of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is to inhibit primordial follicle activation, which slows the rate at which the ovarian reserve is depleted. A simple interpretation is that the function of AMH is to conserve ovarian reserve. However, the females with the lowest ovarian reserve and the greatest risk of early reserve depletion have the lowest levels of AMH. In contrast, AMH apparently strongly inhibits primordial follicle activation in females with ample ovarian reserve, for reasons that remain unexplained. The rate of primordial follicle activation determines the size of the developing follicle pool, which in turn, determines how many oocytes are available to be selected for ovulation. This review discusses the evidence that AMH regulates the size of the developing follicle pool by altering the rate of primordial follicle activation in a context-dependent manner. The expression patterns of AMH across life are also consistent with changing requirements for primordial follicle activation in the ageing ovary. A potential role of AMH in the fertility of ageing females is proposed herein.
SHH Protein Variance in the Limb Bud Is Constrained by Feedback Regulation and Correlates with Altered Digit Patterning
Authors: Zhang Rui , Lee Chanmi , Lawson Lisa Y , Svete Lillian J , McIntyre Lauren M , Harfe Brian D
Published: January 2017

mRNA variance has been proposed to play key roles in normal development, population fitness, adaptability, and disease. While variance in gene expression levels may be beneficial for certain cellular processes, for example in a cell’s ability to respond to external stimuli, variance may be detrimental for the development of some organs. In the bilaterally symmetric vertebrate limb buds, the amount of Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) protein present at specific stages of development is essential to ensure proper patterning of this structure. To our surprise, we found that SHH protein variance is present during the first 10 hr of limb development. The variance is virtually eliminated after the first 10 hr of limb development. By examining mutant animals, we determined that the ability of the limb bud apical ectodermal ridge (AER) to respond to SHH protein was required for reducing SHH variance during limb formation. One consequence of the failure to eliminate variance in SHH protein was the presence of polydactyly and an increase in digit length. These data suggest a potential novel mechanism in which alterations in SHH variance during evolution may have driven changes in limb patterning and digit length.
CRISPR-Cas-Induced Mutants Identify a Requirement for dSTIM in Larval Dopaminergic Cells of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Pathak Trayambak , Trivedi Deepti , Hasan Gaiti
Published: January 2017

Molecular components of store-operated calcium entry have been identified in the recent past and consist of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane-resident calcium sensor STIM and the plasma membrane-localized calcium channel Orai. The physiological function of STIM and Orai is best defined in vertebrate immune cells. However, genetic studies with RNAi strains in Drosophila suggest a role in neuronal development and function. We generated a CRISPR-Cas-mediated deletion for the gene encoding STIM in Drosophila (dSTIM), which we demonstrate is larval lethal. To study STIM function in neurons, we merged the CRISPR-Cas9 method with the UAS-GAL4 system to generate either tissue- or cell type-specific inducible STIM knockouts (KOs). Our data identify an essential role for STIM in larval dopaminergic cells. The molecular basis for this cell-specific requirement needs further investigation.
Adipose tissue derived stromal vascular fraction transplantation can recover spinal cord injury in mice
Authors: Lam Hau Thi-My , Tran Minh Nguyen-Thu , Bui Khoa Anh , Le Thao Thi-Thu , Bui Khanh Hong-Thien , Phan Ngoc Kim , Pham Phuc Van
Published: January 2017

Introduction: Stem cell therapy is one of the most promising therapies for degenerative diseases and related injuries. Adipose tissue derived stem cells (ADSCs) exhibit some particular properties such as high production of paracrine factors. Indeed, ADSCs have been successfully used to treat diseases, including osteoarthritis, diabetic ulcer, etc.
Methods: In this study, ADSCs were used to treat spinal cord injury (SCI) in a mouse model. Non-expanded ADSCs, from stromal vascular fractions (SVFs) isolated from both autologous and allogeneic adipose tissues, were injected into injured sites of mice at a specified dose. The SCI mouse model were generated by transection of spinal cord at vertebrae T8 - T10. After 1 week of transection, mice exhibiting completed SCI were divided into 4 groups: group 1 was control (mice without any treatment), group 2 was placebo (mice treated with platelet rich plasma (PRP)), group 3 was allogeneic SVF transplantation (mice treated with allogeneic SVFs), and group 4 was autologous SVF transplantation (mice treated with autologous SVFs). For the treatment groups, mice were transplanted with 20 µL of activated PRP or/and with 106 cells of SVF (allogeneic or autologous) into the injured position through laminectomy. The recovery of SCI was evaluated by locomotor test, sensory test and sensory-motor test at 5 weeks after transplantation. The histology of the spinal cord also was checked after 5 weeks.
Results: The results showed that in all groups with PRP injected with or without SVFs, the inflammation was efficiently controlled. The glial scar as well as myelin defragmentation were clearly reduced. However, a significant improvement of BBB score was only recorded in mice transplanted with autologous SVFs.
Conclusion: The results of our study show that autologous SVF transplantation in combination with PRP can be a promising therapy for SCI.
Connective Tissue Growth Factor Domain 4 Amplifies Fibrotic Kidney Disease through Activation of LDL Receptor–Related Protein 6
Authors: Johnson Bryce G. , Ren Shuyu , Karaca Gamze , Gomez Ivan G. , Fligny Cécile , Smith Benjamin , Ergun Ayla , Locke George , Gao Benbo , Hayes Sebastian , MacDonnell Scott , Duffield Jeremy S.
Published: January 2017

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a matrix-associated protein with four distinct cytokine binding domains, has roles in vasculogenesis, wound healing responses, and fibrogenesis and is upregulated in fibroblasts and myofibroblasts in disease. Here, we investigated the role of CTGF in fibrogenic cells. In mice, tissue-specific inducible overexpression of CTGF by kidney pericytes and fibroblasts had no bearing on nephrogenesis or kidney homeostasis but exacerbated inflammation and fibrosis after ureteral obstruction. These effects required the WNT receptor LDL receptor–related protein 6 (LRP6). Additionally, pericytes isolated from these mice became hypermigratory and hyperproliferative on overexpression of CTGF. CTGF is cleaved in vivo into distinct domains. Treatment with recombinant domain 1, 1+2 (N terminus), or 4 (C terminus) independently activated myofibroblast differentiation and wound healing responses in cultured pericytes, but domain 4 showed the broadest profibrotic activity. Domain 4 exhibited low-affinity binding to LRP6 in in vitro binding assays, and inhibition of LRP6 or critical signaling cascades downstream of LRP6, including JNK and WNT/β-catenin, inhibited the biologic activity of domain 4. Administration of blocking antibodies specifically against CTGF domain 4 or recombinant Dickkopf–related protein-1, an endogenous inhibitor of LRP6, effectively inhibited inflammation and fibrosis associated with ureteral obstruction in vivo. Therefore, domain 4 of CTGF and the WNT signaling pathway are important new targets in fibrosis.
Who should care for people with bleeding disorders?
Authors: Harrison Cathy
Published: January 2017

An integrated model of specialised-delivered care is widely accepted as the standard of care for people with haemophilia in the UK. Assessment of available evidence on patient outcomes confirms this approach. But leading the specialist care for this group of patients does not require a medical qualification. Specialist nursing is well established within the haemophilia service and offers perhaps the greatest resource as health services cope with cost constraints on the specialist provision of services.
Neonatal circumcision in patients with haemophilia is safe – a single centre experience
Authors: Barg Assaf Arie , Mendelovich Sarina Levy , Lalezari Shadan , Aviv Shirley Azar , Bashari Dalia , Kenet Gili
Published: January 2017

Consensus evidence-based guidelines regarding prophylactic treatment for circumcision in patients with haemophilia are lacking. In this study, we retrospectively examined the results of circumcision of 40 consecutive neonates with haemophilia, diagnosed after delivery. Our protocol included application of a single dose of factor replacement prior to the procedure and 3 days’ oral treatment with tranexamic acid. Only 3/40 neonates with haemophilia experienced mild postcircumcision bleeding. No major or any life-threatening bleeds were encountered. As the therapy administered was minimal and the procedure simple and feasible, we concluded that circumcision in neonates with haemophilia should be performed according to family’s and physician’s discretion. Avoidance of circumcising male babies with haemophilia due to fear of bleeding complications is not supported by the results shown within our patient cohort.
Impact of intestinal helminths on the risks of gastrointestinal haemorrhage and iron deficiency among haemophilia patients in northern Nigeria
Authors: Ibrahim Umma A. , Ahmed Sagir G. , Kagu Modu B. , Abjah Usman A.
Published: January 2017

We predicted that haemophilia would create a prohaemorrhagic host-parasite relationship, which would make haemophiliacs very vulnerable to haemorrhagic effects of intestinal helminths in tropical countries like Nigeria. If our prediction is correct, the frequency and risks of gastrointestinal haemorrhage and iron deficiency will be higher among haemophiliacs infected by helminths in comparison with uninfected haemophiliacs. Frequency of gastrointestinal haemorrhages and iron deficiency among haemophiliacs with and without intestinal helminth infections were retrospectively obtained and analysed, and their relative risk determined by regression analysis. Haemophiliacs with intestinal helminths had significantly higher frequencies of gastrointestinal haemorrhage (73.3% vs. 18.5%, p<0.05) and iron deficiency (60% vs. 22.2%, p<0.05) in comparison with haemophiliacs without intestinal helminths. Haemophiliacs with intestinal helminths had significantly elevated relative risks (RR) of gastrointestinal haemorrhage (RR=3.4, CI95%: 2.4- 4.3, p=0.007) and iron deficiency (RR=2.5, CI95%: 1.7-3.3, p=0.009). These results showed that helminth infections were associated with increased risks of gastrointestinal haemorrhage and iron deficiency in haemophiliacs. This is thought to be due to a pro-haemorrhagic host-parasite relationship resulting from host haemostatic abnormality, coupled with the concurrent manipulation of the host haemostatic system by anticoagulants produced by some of the parasites. Haemophiliacs in tropical countries should be regularly screened and treated for intestinal helminths.