bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) – A Potential Crop for Food and Nutrition Security in Africa
Authors: Ikumi Pauline , Mburu Monica , Njoroge Daniel
Published: October 2019

There has been an increasing demand for functional foods with numerous health benefits due to intensified consumer awareness leading to a major shift in the consumption patterns of food. This has largely been attributed to increased lifestyle diseases across different populations. The use of food with nutraceutical and functional properties for management of lifestyle diseases like diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular problems is now gaining momentum among the public. Consequently, the consumption of chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.) has increased in recent years particularly due to its high content of omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber. Chia seeds also contain high quality proteins which offer all the essential amino acids and several vital minerals. In addition, chia seeds are a potential source of antioxidants and polyphenolic compounds such as chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol with the major phenolic acid being rosmarinic. Owing to the rich nutritional profile, chia seeds provide numerous health benefits such as; cardiac protective and hepatic protective effects, anti-aging and anti-carcinogenic properties. The high amounts of dietary fibers present in the seeds also confer benefits by preserving good glycemic control thus helps in controlling diabetes mellitus. In addition to the numerous health benefits accrued to consumption of chia seeds, they have great potential in application in the food industry for; development of various baked products, production of biodegradable edible films, use as emulsifiers and stabilizers among other uses. This review provides an in-depth insight into the potential of chia crop in promoting nutrition and food security by providing comprehensive information pertaining to; its origin, cultivation and distribution, physical properties, nutritional characteristics, health benefits, functional properties and its potential use in the food industry. It evident that chia seeds contain superior nutritional components as compared to other seeds and also confers many health benefits such as antioxidative, anti-hypertensive and hypoglycemic properties among others. It possesses physical and functional properties that make it an excellent crop for use in food applications for the development of functional foods. Moreover, its application not only limited to food but can also be used for feed. Chia therefore demonstrates great potential as a crop that can be utilized for improved food and nutrition security.
Nonlinear Hybrid Procedures for Solving Some Nonlinear Equations
Authors: RHANIZAR Bouchta
Published: October 2019

The goal of this paper is to study a classic problem used in several fields such as science and engeneering. It’s solving nonlinear equations: f (x) = 0; where f : R → R is considered of class C^1 on the interval I containing x^* the solution of (1) .

We propose in this research a new method for solving nonlinear equations. A convergence acceleration result is established and numerical examples are given.
A Quality of Wonder
Authors: Yeager D. M. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: October 2019

What place has poetry in the teaching or reflection of ethicists? Even poetry that has no obvious political edge can play an important role in refining a poetics of the will, where will is understood at once as the motive power of action and as the seat of both our freedom and our bondage. Poems by W. H. Auden, Anthony Hecht, Galway Kinnell, William Carols Williams, and others are examined against a background provided by the work of Erazim Kohák, H. Richard Niebuhr, and Paul Ricoeur. A poetics of the will requires attention to affirmation, beauty, and wonder, but also to concrete embodiment, full recognition of the complex reality of persons and situations, and mature resistance to the temptation to righteousness and the seduction of despair.
From the contemplative to the unbalanced intellect: Schopenhauer, Nietzsche and Piaget
Authors: Torriani Tristan Guillermo
Published: October 2019

O discernimento entre o bem e o mal pode ser considerado a preocupação central da Filosofia, mas seu cultivo requer uma combinação complexa de habilidades cognitivas, linguísticas e sociais complexas. Diferentemente da religião ou da Teologia, espera-se que os filósofos superem a confusão ao apresentarem posições sustentáveis forma puramente lógica, sem apelos à autoridade ou às emoções. Isto deposita altas expectativas sobre o intelecto, a nossa habilidade de usar a razão discursiva. Schopenhauer defendia que a Filosofia seria primariamente teórica ou contemplativa, portanto não orientaria a conduta ou o caráter. Enquanto a Vontade seria ativa, o intelecto seria passivo e instrumental. Nietzsche subordinou o intelecto ao corpo e propôs um critério fisiológico para avaliar filosofias. Piaget investigou o desenvolvimento da inteligência em estádios examinando a interação construtiva da criança com coisas e pessoas. O intelecto permanece em desequilíbrio e deve se adaptar continuamente.
Benefits and Barriers to Exercise among Individuals with Class III Obesity
Authors: Joseph Pamela L. , Bonsignore Alis , Kunkel Gail F. , Grace Sherry L. , Sockalingam Sanjeev , Oh Paul
Published: October 2019

Objectives: In this paper, we describe the degree of exercise and sedentary behavior among individuals with class III obesity, identify perceived benefits and barriers to exercise, and discuss the association of exercise barriers with activity and sedentary behavior. Methods:
This was a cross-sectional study at a tertiary care center. Adults with class III obesity referred to the Bariatric Program completed the exercise benefits/barriers scale, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short-Form, and the Sedentary Behavior Questionnaire. Participants were
asked to list additional exercise barriers. Results: The 80 participants engaged in a median of 699.0 MET-minutes/week of physical activity, and were sedentary 10.4 ± 4.5 hours/day. The mean exercise benefits/barriers score was 126.3 ± 12.8 (barrier score = 31.6 ±
5.3, benefit score = 87.8 ± 9.4). Less than 60% identified exercise as enjoyable, or a form of social interaction. More than 60% identified exercise barriers related to physical exertion. Additional barriers included pain and musculoskeletal comorbidities (39.4%), psychological factors
(14.7%), and weight (12.6%). There was no statistically significant association between exercise barriers and sedentary behavior (p = .69) or physical activity (p = .08). Conclusions: Participants reported low physical activity, with high sedentary behavior and exercise barriers. Physical
exertion, pain and musculoskeletal comorbidities were common barriers, which highlights importance of thoughtful exercise with attention to exercise barriers in this population .
Factors Associated with Mammogram Use in Korean American Immigrant Women
Authors: Lee Mi Hwa , Merighi Joseph R. , Lee Hee Yun
Published: October 2019

Objectives: In this study, we assessed breast cancer screening in Korean American immigrant women and identified factors associated with adherence to American Cancer Society mammography screening guidelines. Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional survey with 182 Korean
American immigrant women in Los Angeles County, California. Andersen's Behavioral Model of Health Services Use guided this study's design and analysis. We used hierarchical logistic regression to identify predisposing, enabling, and need factors associated with mammography adherence. Results:
Nearly all respondents (95.1%) had a mammogram at some point in their lifetime. Mammography adherence based on age was 22.2% (45-49 years), 29.0% (50-54 years), and 67.7% (55 years and older). The strongest correlates of mammogram adherence were having a regular primary care check-up and hearing
about a mammogram experience from family members, friends, or neighbors. Awareness of free or low-cost mammogram service, family cancer history, and having fatalistic beliefs also were associated with mammogram adherence. Conclusions: The findings highlight the primacy of health education
messages that emphasize the importance of regular check-ups and personal screening experiences to promote mammography use in this population. Additional research is needed to understand Korean American immigrant women's perspectives on breast cancer and breast cancer screening in relation
to fatalism.
Early Childhood Nutrition Knowledge of Caregivers in Tanzania
Authors: Moxley Victor B.A. , Graul Maggie F. , Stoneking Nathan , Hale Cecily , Torres Scott , Linehan Mary , Dobies Kerry Ann , Mulokozi Generose , Hoj Taylor H. , Crookston Benjamin T. , Hall P. Cougar , West Joshua H.
Published: October 2019

Childhood stunting is a pressing health issue in Tanzania and results from chronic infections and inadequate nutrition. Educating caregivers on the nutritional determinants, their consequences, and appropriate solutions may improve nutrition-related practices among caregivers in Tanzania. The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with Tanzanian caregivers’ knowledge of childhood nutrition practices. Data for this study came from a cross-sectional survey of 4,095 caregivers of children under 24 months living in the Geita, Kagera, Kigoma, Mwanza, and Shinyanga regions of Tanzania. Complete responses relating to demographic and socioeconomic factors, media exposure, and early childhood nutrition knowledge were analyzed using multiple linear regression modeling techniques. Caregivers’ knowledge concerning proper early childhood nutrition practices was found to be significantly related to using a mobile banking account (p<.0001), owning a working radio with batteries (p<.0001), having watched television recently (p<.0001), residing in a southern lake region (p<.0001), affiliating with a Christian faith (p=0.0027), having more children under the age of 5 (p=0.0005), having received advice on maternal nutrition before pregnancy (p<.0001) and having received advice from a community health worker (p=0.0184). Living in a rural environment (p<.0001) and speaking a non-mainstream language (p<0.05) were significantly associated with decreased knowledge. The influences of media and technology, socio-demographic factors and traditional health education may be important in the development of accurate childhood nutrition knowledge among caregivers. These factors may be targeted for future community health worker efforts with vulnerable populations in Tanzania to prevent stunting.
Análise ecossistêmica da serra do mar paranaense, porção área de especial interesse turístico do Marumbi
Authors: Savi Maurício , Milani Jaçanan Eloisa de Freitas , Nogueira Barbara Gabriele de Souza , Rosin Joana Caroline de Freitas , Roderjan Carlos Vellozo
Published: October 2019

As áreas protegidas objetivam a conservação da biodiversidade. Analisando relações bióticas e abióticas da Área de Especial Interesse Turístico do Marumbi (AEIT), situada na serra do mar paranaense e que contempla cinco Parques Estaduais em ambiente montanhoso sob o domínio da Floresta Ombrófila Densa, buscam-se indicadores de efetividade ecológica. Através da construção e interpretação cartográfica, do georreferenciamento, do intercruzamento dos aspectos geológicos, dos geomorfológicos, dos hidrográficos, dos vegetacionais, da altimetria, da declividade e perímetros das unidades de conservação (UC), revelaram a distribuição de 3.703 nascentes em 66.000 hectares (ha), média de uma a cada 18,02 ha. A maior parte na Montana (600 a 1200m s.n.m.) com 53% e na Submontana (30 a 600m s.n.m) com 26,5%. Diferentemente da bibliografia consultada que indicava abundância de nascentes nas cimeiras; o resultado foi 6,7% na Altomontana e 1,8% nos Campos de Altitude (acima de 1200m s.n.m). No cruzamento de nascentes com domínios geológicos, o granito apresenta 57,7% de ocorrência e o complexo migmatitico 35,2% sendo este na relação unidade/área mais representativo. Apenas 20,4% das nascentes estão em unidades de conservação (ucs) de proteção integral analisadas.
Micorrízas arbusculares e composição mineral das folhas de espécies usadas na recuperação de clareiras da Província de Urucu, Amazonas.
Authors: Moreira Francisco Wesen , Oliveira Cassiane Minelli de , Maia José Luiz Zanirato , Oliveira Luiz Antonio de
Published: October 2019

As áreas destinadas à revegetação na região explorada pela Petrobras para a extração de gás e petróleo na Amazônia é constituída de solos com baixa fertilidade e baixo potencial de inoculo de microrganismos benéficos para as plantas. Por isso, a colonização das raízes pelos fungos micorrízicos arbusculares podem acelerar o crescimento e as chances de sobrevivência das plântulas no campo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a importância da associação micorrízica arbuscular em espécies nativas cultivadas em áreas de clareiras visando a revegetação e recuperação de solos degradados e sua relação com os teores de nutrientes foliares. Foram amostradas folhas, solos e raízes de plantas que atingiram índice de colonização por FMAs acima de 10% em 12 clareiras/jazidas da Província Petrolífera de Urucu no mês de julho de 2005. Os teores de nutrientes nas folhas variaram muito entre as espécies. A sequência de macronutrientes acumulados foi K > Ca > Mg > P para a goiaba de anta, palheteira e vermelhinho e micronutrientes Fe >> Zn > Mn para a goiaba de anta, jucá e visgueiro.  Os solos se mostraram ácidos, com baixos teores de K, Zn e Mn, porém com altos níveis de P, Al e Fe. A colonização por FMAs variou entre 0 a 34,8%, com a presença apenas de vesículas, não sendo encontrados hifas e arbúsculos. A ausência de hifas sugere falta de contribuição efetiva da associação micorrízica na nutrição das plantas.
OPTIMISATION OF A CORROSION-PROTECTIVE COATING FOR A NEW BOAT LANDING SYSTEM USED IN OFFSHORE WIND TURBINES
Authors: CICERO SERGIO , FUENTES JUAN DIEGO , ANDRES ALVAREZ DAVID , MEDIAVILLA XABIER , SAN  SEGUNDO LUIS , LACALLE ROBERTO , SARMIENTO JAVIER , GUANCHE GARCIA RAUL , POLIMON CARLOS
Published: October 2019

Most of the maintenance operations in offshore platforms are performed by using service vessels approaching to boat landing systems, which are secondary structures attached to the main structure of the wind turbine. These systems guarantee certain structural integrity conditions thay may be jeopardised by the aggressive marine environment, which may cause corrosion processes if the structural material is not conveniently protected. The main strategy to avoid corrosion in this type of structures is to provide protective coatings, which in this particular case must have an adequate behaviour not only against the proper marine environment, but also against the abrasion and the impact loads generated by the violent contacts between the service vessel and the boat landing system.
This work develops a comprehensive analysis to define a protective coating that provides simultaneously an adequate corrosion protection and a sufficient resistance against abrasion and impact loads. Based on industrial practice and a literature review, a number of tentative proposals were established, combining different metallization strategies, epoxy intermediate layers and external paints. The proposals were successively subjected to corrosion, abrasion and impact tests, discarding, after each set of tests, those providing unsatisfactory results. The final solution consists of 3 consecutive layers: thermal sprayed aluminium, a two-component polyamine cured pure epoxy, and a two-component chemically curing aliphatic acrylic polyurethane topcoat.
LEVELIZED COST OF ELECTRICITY: KEY DRIVERS AND VALUATION METHODS
Authors: ABADIE MUÑOZ LUIS MARIA , CHAMORRO GOMEZ JOSE MANUEL
Published: October 2019

The aim of this paper is to propose an improvement over traditional approaches to the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). Basically there are two methods available. The first one considers a yearly timeframe, so it yields a yearly estimate of the LCOE. The second one, instead, keeps the whole lifetime of the facility when computing its LCOE; it thus results in a life-cycle estimate. This said, they share some features, for example, their reliance on the net-present-value methodology and the scant use of market prices. Unfortunately, they also stumble on some common issues, such as the proper way to account for risk.
The focus here falls on two power generating technologies from renewable sources, namely wind and solar. Section 1 gives a quick overview of their widespread deployment across the world. Section 2 provides a thorough review of the two approaches to the LCOE at a theoretical level. It also includes some remarks about their underlying assumptions and pinpoints some of their limitations. Section 3 shows numerical estimates of LCOE for different technologies and countries following the two approaches. It also looks at recent trends of LCOE estimates over time. Then Section 4 presents a proposal for an improved LCOE, one that uses public information available on the markets and deals with the discounting of risk more properly. There is also a numerical application to a standard wind park. Section 5 concludes.

Key Words: Electricity generation, renewable energies, solar farms, wind farms, investment valuation, futures markets
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LOAD PROFILES AND GRID PARITY IN THE RESIDENTIAL SOLAR ENERGY
Authors: CALLEJA SANZ GEMA , DOMENECH LEGA BRUNO , OLIVELLA NADAL JORDI
Published: October 2019

In the residential sector, grid parity has been reached or is close to be reached in many countries, which means that the cost of electricity from residential photovoltaic installations is equal to or less than the retail electricity price. However, not all installations are equally profitable. The objective of this paper is to analyze the economic performance of residential self-consumption systems, particularly the effect of electric load profiles in regard to that performance. For this purpose, a simulation model is proposed to perform a comparative analysis of the profitability of different configurations of a grid-connected, residential solar system. The model is applied to several differentiated load profiles, as well as to different configurations of photovoltaic panels and batteries. The analysis shows the impact of different load profiles on self-consumption, autarchy and, ultimately, the grid parity of the installation.

Keywords: Photovoltaic systems, grid connection, batteries, techno-economic simulation, load profiles, grid parity
The Cooperative Memorial & Removal Services vs. The Ontario Board of Funeral Services
Authors: Dickey Eleanor Dolores
Published: October 2019

In a test case that the attorney general of Ontario considered of province-wide importance, a small group of citizens in Thunder Bay, who had formed a burial cooperative, took on the province’s funeral industry in the courts in the early 1980s. The resulting judgement fundamentally changed how the industry operated in the province of Ontario.
La construction discursive des rapports de force dans les éditoriaux de La Presse : le cas des médecins et des infirmières
Authors: Dufour Mathieu , Laurin-Lamothe Audrey
Published: October 2019

Par le biais d’une analyse thématique d’éditoriaux de La Presse sur près de 35 ans, soit de 1980 à 2015, nous montrons comment s’est graduellement construit, au Québec, un discours qui prône une augmentation constante de la rémunération des médecins, alors même que, parallèlement, les infirmières recevaient un traitement asymétrique. Notre analyse s’inscrit dans la continuité des recherches sur les facteurs ayant influencé l’évolution de la rémunération des travailleurs à partir des années 1980.

Notre objectif dans cet article est de cerner si le rapport de force de ces deux catégories de travailleurs s’est détérioré ou a été renforcé sur le plan narratif grâce au portrait qu’en brosse La Presse, l’un des quotidiens les plus lus du Québec. Jusqu’à l’aube des années 2000, les médecins sont décrits et considérés au même titre que les autres travailleurs, notamment les infirmières, c’est-à-dire que leurs revendications salariales ou relatives à leurs conditions de travail sont dépeintes négativement par les éditorialistes. Cependant, au début du présent siècle s’opère un changement discursif qui justifie dorénavant la hausse de la rémunération des membres de cette profession, discours principalement basé sur l’argument de la nécessité d’un rattrapage avec le reste du Canada.

Par la suite, dans le cadre d’une analyse thématique, les données relatives à la rémunération des médecins sont comparées à l’augmentation des salaires des infirmières, qui elles n’ont pas bénéficié d’un tel traitement et qui font l’objet d’une dévalorisation associée à la représentation genrée de leur pratique.

Au final, cette recherche constitue une contribution à une meilleure connaissance du discours médiatique en tant que reflet et moteur des rapports de force entre catégories sociales qui bénéficient de privilèges inégaux. Notre étude illustre également le traitement différencié réservé à deux groupes de professionnels en santé.
Anglo-American Multinationals in Europe: The Curious Case of Hudson’s Bay Company Taking over Galeria Kaufhof
Authors: Gebert Raoul
Published: October 2019

Multinational corporations are undeniably the driving force of globalization and regional economic integration. A convenient institutional framework (Hall and Soskice, 2001) to apply when comparing multinationals from different host countries is the well-travelled road of dividing capitalist economies into coordinated market economies (CMEs) and liberal market economies (LMEs). This article aims to elucidate the tensions between centralized human resources practices and labour union avoidance usually exhibited by multinationals from so-called Liberal Market Economies (LMEs) when they expand into coordinated ones (CMEs). Specifically, it examines the recent acquisition of the German retail giantGaleria Kaufhofby the Canadian multinational Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC).

The article shows that HBC has settled into an uneasy acceptance of the CME institutions, while its investment motives vacillate between a long-term, market-enlargement strategy and a short- to medium-term one, based on the rapidly increasing real estate value of its downtown flagship stores. The article encourages researchers in IR to retain three principal conclusions for the literature and for further study. First, without predetermining outcomes by looking at host-country or home-country effects alone, institutionalist frameworks do present a convenient backdrop for conceptualizing movements of multinationals across jurisdictions. Secondly, concepts such as bricolage, recombining of institutional elements and institutional entrepreneurship, stemming from the institutional change literature, should routinely figure in one’s analytical toolbox, in any attempt at non-deterministic institutional analysis. Finally, sector-level actors, such as trade unions and employers’ associations, can play an essential role in any successful adaptation of collective bargaining institutions in the context of globalization by developing, maintaining and carefully utilizing their repertoire of strategic capabilities.
Mandatory Dues Check-off Reviewed in Light of the US Supreme Court’s Decision in the Janus Case
Authors: Trudeau Gilles
Published: October 2019

The United States Supreme Court has recently ruled in the Janus Case that the agency shop (mandatory dues check-off) imposed by Illinois law on state employees violates the freedom of expression and association guaranteed by the US Constitution. This decision underscores the profoundly different status enjoyed by the Rand Formula in Canada, where it is considered an essential element of the nation-wide Wagner-type collective bargaining system. Not only is it permitted everywhere, legislation has made it mandatory, in one way or another, in a majority of Canadian jurisdictions, including Quebec. Furthermore, almost 30 years ago, the Supreme Court of Canada recognized that mandatory dues check-off did not interfere with the freedom of association or expression protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
A Drosophila model of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis CLN4 reveals a hypermorphic gain of function mechanism
Authors: Imler Elliot , Pyon Jin Sang , Kindelay Selina , Torvund Meaghan , Zhang Yong-quan , Chandra Sreeganga S , Zinsmaier Konrad E
Published: October 2019

The autosomal dominant neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCL) CLN4 is caused by mutations in the synaptic vesicle (SV) protein CSPα. We developed animal models of CLN4 by expressing CLN4 mutant human CSPα (hCSPα) in Drosophila neurons. Similar to patients, CLN4 mutations induced excessive oligomerization of hCSPα and premature lethality in a dose-dependent manner. Instead of being localized to SVs, most CLN4 mutant hCSPα accumulated abnormally, and co-localized with ubiquitinated proteins and the prelysosomal markers HRS and LAMP1. Ultrastructural examination revealed frequent abnormal membrane structures in axons and neuronal somata. The lethality, oligomerization and prelysosomal accumulation induced by CLN4 mutations was attenuated by reducing endogenous wild type (WT) dCSP levels and enhanced by increasing WT levels. Furthermore, reducing the gene dosage of Hsc70 also attenuated CLN4 phenotypes. Taken together, we suggest that CLN4 alleles resemble dominant hypermorphic gain of function mutations that drive excessive oligomerization and impair membrane trafficking.
One-step efficient generation of dual-function conditional knockout and geno-tagging alleles in zebrafish
Authors: Li Wenyuan , Zhang Yage , Han Bingzhou , Li Lianyan , Li Muhang , Lu Xiaochan , Chen Cheng , Lu Mengjia , Zhang Yujie , Jia Xuefeng , Zhu Zuoyan , Tong Xiangjun , Zhang Bo
Published: October 2019

CRISPR/Cas systems are widely used to knock out genes by inducing indel mutations, which are prone to genetic compensation. Complex genome modifications such as knockin (KI) might bypass compensation, though difficult to practice due to low efficiency. Moreover, no ‘two-in-one’ KI strategy combining conditional knockout (CKO) with fluorescent gene-labeling or further allele-labeling has been reported. Here, we developed a dual-cassette-donor strategy and achieved one-step and efficient generation of dual-function KI alleles at tbx5a and kctd10 loci in zebrafish via targeted insertion. These alleles display fluorescent gene-tagging and CKO effects before and after Cre induction, respectively. By introducing a second fluorescent reporter, geno-tagging effects were achieved at tbx5a and sox10 loci, exhibiting CKO coupled with fluorescent reporter switch upon Cre induction, enabling tracing of three distinct genotypes. We found that LiCl purification of gRNA is critical for highly efficient KI, and preselection of founders allows the efficient germline recovery of KI events.
Co-reviewing and ghostwriting by early-career researchers in the peer review of manuscripts
Authors: McDowell Gary S , Knutsen John D , Graham June M , Oelker Sarah K , Lijek Rebeccah S
Published: October 2019

Many early-career researchers are involved in the peer review of manuscripts for scientific journals, typically under the guidance of or jointly with their advisor, but most of the evidence about this activity is anecdotal. Here we report the results of a literature review and a survey of researchers, with an emphasis on co-reviewing and 'ghostwriting'. The literature review identified 36 articles that addressed the involvement of early-career researchers in peer review, most of them about early-career researchers and their advisors co-reviewing manuscripts for the purposes of training: none of them addressed the topic of ghostwriting in detail. About three quarters of the respondents to the survey had co-reviewed a manuscript. Most respondents believe co-reviewing to be a beneficial (95%) and ethical (73%) form of training in peer review. About half of the respondents have ghostwritten a peer review report, despite 81% responding that ghostwriting is unethical and 82% agreeing that identifying co-reviewers to the journal is valuable. Peer review would benefit from changes in both journal policies and lab practices that encourage mentored co-review and discourage ghostwriting.
SCGN deficiency results in colitis susceptibility
Authors: Sifuentes-Dominguez Luis F , Li Haiying , Llano Ernesto , Liu Zhe , Singla Amika , Patel Ashish S , Kathania Mahesh , Khoury Areen , Norris Nicholas , Rios Jonathan J , Starokadomskyy Petro , Park Jason Y , Gopal Purva , Liu Qi , Tan Shuai , Chan Lillienne , Ross Theodora , Harrison Steven , Venuprasad K , Baker Linda A , Jia Da , Burstein Ezra
Published: October 2019

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects 1.5–3.0 million people in the United States. IBD is genetically determined and many common risk alleles have been identified. Yet, a large proportion of genetic predisposition remains unexplained. In this study, we report the identification of an ultra rare missense variant (NM_006998.3:c.230G > A;p.Arg77His) in the SCGN gene causing Mendelian early-onset ulcerative colitis. SCGN encodes a calcium sensor that is exclusively expressed in neuroendocrine lineages, including enteroendocrine cells and gut neurons. SCGN interacts with the SNARE complex, which is required for vesicle fusion with the plasma membrane. We show that the SCGN mutation identified impacted the localization of the SNARE complex partner, SNAP25, leading to impaired hormone release. Finally, we show that mouse models of Scgn deficiency recapitulate impaired hormone release and susceptibility to DSS-induced colitis. Altogether, these studies demonstrate that functional deficiency in SCGN can result in intestinal inflammation and implicates the neuroendocrine cellular compartment in IBD.
A proline-rich motif on VGLUT1 reduces synaptic vesicle super-pool and spontaneous release frequency
Authors: Zhang Xiao Min , François Urielle , Silm Kätlin , Angelo Maria Florencia , Fernandez-Busch Maria Victoria , Maged Mona , Martin Christelle , Bernard Véronique , Cordelières Fabrice P , Deshors Melissa , Pons Stéphanie , Maskos Uwe , Bemelmans Alexis Pierre , Wojcik Sonja M , El Mestikawy Salah , Humeau Yann , Herzog Etienne
Published: October 2019

Glutamate secretion at excitatory synapses is tightly regulated to allow for the precise tuning of synaptic strength. Vesicular Glutamate Transporters (VGLUT) accumulate glutamate into synaptic vesicles (SV) and thereby regulate quantal size. Further, the number of release sites and the release probability of SVs maybe regulated by the organization of active-zone proteins and SV clusters. In the present work, we uncover a mechanism mediating an increased SV clustering through the interaction of VGLUT1 second proline-rich domain, endophilinA1 and intersectin1. This strengthening of SV clusters results in a combined reduction of axonal SV super-pool size and miniature excitatory events frequency. Our findings support a model in which clustered vesicles are held together through multiple weak interactions between Src homology three and proline-rich domains of synaptic proteins. In mammals, VGLUT1 gained a proline-rich sequence that recruits endophilinA1 and turns the transporter into a regulator of SV organization and spontaneous release.
PPM1H phosphatase counteracts LRRK2 signaling by selectively dephosphorylating Rab proteins
Authors: Berndsen Kerryn , Lis Pawel , Yeshaw Wondwossen M , Wawro Paulina S , Nirujogi Raja S , Wightman Melanie , Macartney Thomas , Dorward Mark , Knebel Axel , Tonelli Francesca , Pfeffer Suzanne R , Alessi Dario R
Published: October 2019

Mutations that activate LRRK2 protein kinase cause Parkinson’s disease. LRRK2 phosphorylates a subset of Rab GTPases within their Switch-II motif controlling interaction with effectors. An siRNA screen of all human protein phosphatases revealed that a poorly studied protein phosphatase, PPM1H, counteracts LRRK2 signaling by specifically dephosphorylating Rab proteins. PPM1H knockout increased endogenous Rab phosphorylation and inhibited Rab dephosphorylation in human A549 cells. Overexpression of PPM1H suppressed LRRK2-mediated Rab phosphorylation. PPM1H also efficiently and directly dephosphorylated Rab8A in biochemical studies. A “substrate-trapping” PPM1H mutant (Asp288Ala) binds with high affinity to endogenous, LRRK2-phosphorylated Rab proteins, thereby blocking dephosphorylation seen upon addition of LRRK2 inhibitors. PPM1H is localized to the Golgi and its knockdown suppresses primary cilia formation, similar to pathogenic LRRK2. Thus, PPM1H acts as a key modulator of LRRK2 signaling by controlling dephosphorylation of Rab proteins. PPM1H activity enhancers could offer a new therapeutic approach to prevent or treat Parkinson’s disease.
Lactate-mediated epigenetic reprogramming regulates formation of human pancreatic cancer-associated fibroblasts
Authors: Bhagat Tushar D , Von Ahrens Dagny , Dawlaty Meelad , Zou Yiyu , Baddour Joelle , Achreja Abhinav , Zhao Hongyun , Yang Lifeng , Patel Brijesh , Kwak Changsoo , Choudhary Gaurav S , Gordon-Mitchell Shanisha , Aluri Srinivas , Bhattacharyya Sanchari , Sahu Srabani , Bhagat Prafulla , Yu Yiting , Bartenstein Matthias , Giricz Orsi , Suzuki Masako , Sohal Davendra , Gupta Sonal , Guerrero Paola A , Batra Surinder , Goggins Michael , Steidl Ulrich , Greally John , Agarwal Beamon , Pradhan Kith , Banerjee Debabrata , Nagrath Deepak , Maitra Anirban , Verma Amit
Published: October 2019

Even though pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is associated with fibrotic stroma, the molecular pathways regulating the formation of cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are not well elucidated. An epigenomic analysis of patient-derived and de-novo generated CAFs demonstrated widespread loss of cytosine methylation that was associated with overexpression of various inflammatory transcripts including CXCR4. Co-culture of neoplastic cells with CAFs led to increased invasiveness that was abrogated by inhibition of CXCR4. Metabolite tracing revealed that lactate produced by neoplastic cells leads to increased production of alpha-ketoglutarate (aKG) within mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In turn, aKG mediated activation of the demethylase TET enzyme led to decreased cytosine methylation and increased hydroxymethylation during de novo differentiation of MSCs to CAF. Co-injection of neoplastic cells with TET-deficient MSCs inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Thus, in PDAC, a tumor-mediated lactate flux is associated with widespread epigenomic reprogramming that is seen during CAF formation.
Serum-deprived differentiated neuroblastoma F-11 cells express functional dorsal root ganglion neuron properties
Authors: Pastori Valentina , D’Aloia Alessia , Blasa Stefania , Lecchi Marzia
Published: October 2019

The isolation and culture of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons cause adaptive changes in the expression and regulation of ion channels, with consequences on neuronal excitability. Considering that not all neurons survive the isolation and that DRG neurons are heterogeneous, it is difficult to find the cellular subtype of interest. For this reason, researchers opt for DRG-derived immortal cell lines to investigate endogenous properties. The F-11 cell line is a hybridoma of embryonic rat DRG neurons fused with the mouse neuroblastoma line N18TG2. In the proliferative condition, F-11 cells do not display a gene expression profile correspondent with specific subclasses of sensory neurons, but the most significant differences when compared with DRGs are the reduction of voltage-gated sodium, potassium and calcium channels, and the small amounts ofTRPV1transcripts. To investigate if functional properties of mature F-11 cells showed more similarities with those of isolated DRG neurons, we differentiated them by serum deprivation. Potassium and sodium currents significantly increased with differentiation, and biophysical properties of tetrodotoxin (TTX)-sensitive currents were similar to those characterized in small DRG neurons. The analysis of the voltage-dependence of calcium currents demonstrated the lack of low threshold activated components. The exclusive expression of high threshold activated Ca2+currents and of TTX-sensitive Na+currents correlated with the generation of a regular tonic electrical activity, which was recorded in the majority of the cells (80%) and was closely related to the activity of afferent TTX-sensitive A fibers of the proximal urethra and the bladder. Responses to capsaicin and substance P were also recorded in ~20% and ~80% of cells, respectively. The percentage of cells responsive to acetylcholine was consistent with the percentage referred for rat DRG primary neurons and cell electrical activity was modified by activation of non-NMDA receptors as for embryonic DRG neurons. These properties and the algesic profile (responses to pH5 and sensitivity to both ATP and capsaicin), proposed in literature to define a sub-classification of acutely dissociated rat DRG neurons, suggest that differentiated F-11 cells express receptors and ion channels that are also present in sensory neurons.
The effect of habitat changes along the urbanization gradient for breeding birds: an example from the Xiong’an New Area
Authors: Xie Shilin , Su Yuebo , Xu Weihua , Cai Wenbo , Wang Xiaoke , Lu Fei , Ouyang Zhiyun
Published: October 2019

Background

Because of its status as an ecocivilization pilot city, fundamental research on spatial distribution patterns and impact factors of the avian community within the Xiong’an New Area is necessary for future ecological planning and mitigation of negative impacts from future urbanization. Gradient research within small cities can provide important information for the development of urbanization gradient patterns of avian communities.

Methods

A total of 30 sample points within the urbanization gradient were selected, and avian communities and environmental variables were measured within a 50 m radius sample circle. Principal component regression analysis was used to analyze bird-environment relationships. The Sorensen dissimilarity index was used to calculate the beta-diversity.

Results

Our results showed that there was a significant urban-rural pattern with a gradient phenomenon in avian communities. Results of this study showed more resident, passenger and insectivore species, and a higher density of breeding insectivore and omnivore individuals appear in the urban fringe than in the other areas. A relatively high value of overall beta-diversity and spatial isolation probably exists among the three disjunct constructed regions. Both species richness and individual abundance were significantly influenced by the species diversity of the trees and foliage height diversity (FHD).

Discussion

Based on our results and our goal of avian species diversity conservation, we first suggest that urban green spaces be established and ensure a high complexity of vegetation structure as this is critically needed to increase avian species α-diversity within habitat patches. Second, different habitat types within and around the three constructed areas should be developed based on the important existing bird habitats to increase avian diversity in each city, especially in the areas within Xiongxian and Rongcheng that are well protected, and to elevate the beta-diversity of the total region. Finally, based on the biodiversity hotspots identified by this research, ecological corridors should be carefully planned to improve the stability of regional bird communities.
Symptomatic menopausal transition and risk of subsequent stroke
Authors: Yu Chao-Hung , Kor Chew-Teng , Weng Shuo-Chun , Chang Chia-Chu , Chen Ching-Pei , Wu Chia-Lin
Published: October 2019

Objective

To examine the long-term risk of stroke in women who have experienced symptomatic menopausal transition.

Methods

In this nationwide, population-based cohort study conducted from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2013, we identified 22,058 women with no prior history of stroke, who experienced symptomatic menopausal transition at ≥45 years of age. Moreover, 22,058 women without symptomatic menopause were matched by propensity scores and enrolled as a comparison group. The propensity score was calculated by using all characteristic variables of each subject, including demographics (age and monthly income), comorbidities (hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, obesity, chronic kidney disease, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, dysrhythmia, peripheral artery occlusive disease), Charlson’s comorbidity index score, clinic visit frequency, and long-term medications (antihypertensives, antidiabetic agents, statins, antiplatelets, aspirin, warfarin, and hormone replacement therapy). The primary endpoint was the development of stroke after the onset of symptomatic menopausal transition. The Fine and Gray’s proportional subhazards model was performed to assess the association between symptomatic menopausal transition and subsequent stroke. All subjects were followed up until December 31, 2013.

Results

During a mean follow-up of 8.5 years (standard deviation 4.7 years, maximum 14 years), 2,274 (10.31%) women with symptomatic menopausal transition, and 1,184 (5.37%) matched comparison participants developed stroke. The incidence rates were 11.17 per 1,000 person-years in the symptomatic menopausal transition group compared with 8.57 per 1,000 person-years in the comparison group. The risk of developing stroke was significantly higher in women with symptomatic menopausal transition (crude subhazard ratio, 1.31; 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.22–1.41]; P < 0.001). After adjusting for demographics, comorbidities, clinic visit frequency, and long-term medications, the risk of stroke remained statistically significant (adjusted subhazard ratio, 1.30; 95% CI [1.21–1.40]; P < 0.001). Moreover, subgroup analyses revealed no evidence for inconsistent effects for symptomatic menopausal transition on subsequent risk of stroke across all subgroups except age, comorbidities, hypertension, and use of antihypertensives. Women with early menopausal transition (before age 50), without comorbid condition, without hypertension, or without use of antihypertensives are at a higher risk of stroke. The longer duration of symptomatic menopausal transition was associated with higher risk of stroke (P for trend < 0.001).

Conclusion

In this large-scale retrospective cohort study, symptomatic menopausal transition was statistically significantly associated with a 30% increased risk of stroke. Further prospective studies are required to confirm our findings.
A bibliometric analysis of IL-35 research from 2009 to 2018
Authors: Cai Xulong , Zhou Chenrong , Zhou Li , Xu Qiaolan
Published: October 2019

Background

Interleukin-35 (IL-35) is a recently discovered cytokine that plays a role in immune suppression and has therefore been the subject of a great deal of research. A bibliometric analysis of the global research concerning IL-35, however, is rare.

Objectives

The aim of this research was to assess the international scientific output of IL-35 research and explore its hotspots and frontiers from 2009 to 2018 by bibliometric analysis.

Methods

Publications about IL-35 research from 2009 to 2018 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). Citespace V was used to analyze years, journals, countries, research institutions, areas of exploration, research hotspots, and trends of publication.

Results

We retrieved a total of 416 publications and observed a trend of publications increasing over the past decade. Original articles (351) were the most frequently occurring document type. The largest number of publications belonging to one country and one institution, respectively, was China (202) and Tianjin Medical University (17). Trending keywords may indicate frontier topics, including “infectious tolerance,” “autoimmune,” and “central nervous system.”

Conclusion

This study provides valuable information on the study of IL-35 so that researchers may identify new research fields.
Occurrence of Multi-drug Resistant Bacteria in Some Selected Street Food Samples
Authors: El-Sayed Mohamed H.
Published: October 2019

Antimicrobial resistance is a subject of great concern in the public health. The prevalence of antimicrobial resistance among food pathogens has increased during recent decades.

Studying the incidence and antibiotic resistance pattern of bacterial species isolated from fish and vended street fruits.  

Eleven fish swabs and thirteen sliced fruit samples were collected and prepared for isolation of bacterial species through inoculation onto selective and non-selective nutrient media. The grown colonies were purified through subculturing on nutrient agar plates then identified by morphological and biochemical methods. The obtained pure cultures were then kept on nutrient agar slants. Testing antibiotic resistance of the isolated bacterial strains was studied by Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method on Mueller Hinton agar using ten antibiotics belonging to different classes. The resultant inhibition zone was interpreted according to Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute.

Twenty-eight bacterial cultures were isolated from the collected food samples. The conventional identification using morphological and biochemical methods of these cultures revealed presence of three Gram positive species; Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus sp. and Bacillus subtilis in addition to four Gram negative; Escherichia coli, Brucella sp., Enterococcus faecalis and Proteus mirabilis. The incidence of the obtained bacterial species was arranged as 29.16% for both S. aureus and E. faecalis followed by Brucella sp. 16.66%; B. subtilis & E. coli 12.5% then Streptococcus sp. and P. mirabilis with an incidence of 8.33% each. Testing antibiotic resistance pattern of seven bacterial species against ten antibiotics showed that, among three Gram positive bacterial species, only one (33.33%) strain S. aureus exhibited resistance to six antibiotics; amoxicillin, erythromycin, ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone, fluconazole and dicloxacillin. Among four Gram negative bacterial strains only one (25.0%) strain Enterococcus faecalis exhibited resistance to eight antibiotics; amoxicillin, streptomycin, chloramphenicol, cotrimoxazole, ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, sparfloxacin and cloxacillin.

Occurrence of multi-drug resistant bacteria in fish and vended street fruits poses not only risk of disease to the foods but public health hazard to food handlers and consumers in general. Also the result of this study recommended augmentin and cephazolin as good choice antibiotics for treatment of infection in the study area.