bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic field fluctuation properties of coronal mass ejection-driven sheath regions in the near-Earth solar wind
Authors: Kilpua Emilia K. J. , Fontaine Dominique , Good Simon , Ala-Lahti Matti , Osmane Adnane , Palmerio Erika , Yordanova Emiliya , Moissard Clement , Hadid Lina Z. , Janvier Miho
Published: April 2020

Abstract. In this work, we investigate the magnetic field fluctuations in three coronal mass ejection (CME)-driven sheath regions at 1 AU with their speeds ranging from slow to fast. The data set we use consists primarily of high resolution (0.092 s) magnetic field measurements from the Wind spacecraft. We analyse magnetic field fluctuation amplitudes and fluctuation amplitudes normalised to the mean magnetic field, compressibility, and spectral properties of fluctuations. We also analyse intermittency using various approaches: we apply the partial variance of increments (PVI) method, investigate probability distribution functions of fluctuations, including their skewness and kurtosis, and perform a structure function analysis. Our analysis is conducted separately for three different subregions in the sheath and in the solar wind ahead of it, each 1 hr in duration. We find that, for all cases, the transition from the solar wind ahead to the sheath generates new fluctuations and the intermittency and compressibility increase, while the region closest to the ejecta leading edge resembled the solar wind ahead. The spectral indices exhibit large variability in different parts of the sheath, but are typically steeper than Kolmogorov's in the inertial range. The structure function analysis produced generally much better fit with the extended p-model (Kraichnan's form) than with the standard version, implying that turbulence is not fully developed in CME sheaths near Earth's orbit. The p-values obtained (p~0.8–0.9) also suggest relatively high intermittency. At the smallest timescales investigated, the spectral indices indicate relatively shallow slopes (between −2 and −2.5), suggesting that in CME-driven sheaths at 1 AU the energy cascade from larger to smaller scales could still be ongoing through the ion scale. Regarding many properties (e.g., spectral indices and compressibility) turbulent properties in sheaths, regardless their speed, resemble that of the slow wind, rather fast wind. They are also partly similar to properties reported in terrestrial magnetosheath, in particular regarding their intermittency, compressibility and absence of Kolmogorov's type turbulence. Our study also reveals that turbulent properties can vary considerably within the sheath. This was in particular the case for the fast sheath behind the strong and quasi-parallel shock, including a small, coherent structure embedded close to its midpoint. Our results support the view of the complex formation of the sheath and different physical mechanisms playing a role in generating fluctuations in them.
Investigation of sources of gravity waves observed in the Brazilian equatorial region on 8 April 2005
Authors: Dare-Idowu Oluwakemi , Paulino Igo , Figueiredo Cosme A. O. B. , Medeiros Amauri F. , Buriti Ricardo A. , Paulino Ana Roberta , Wrasse Cristiano M.
Published: April 2020

Abstract. On 8 April 2005, strong gravity wave (GW) activity (over a period of more than 3 h) was observed in São João do Cariri (7.4∘ S, 36.5∘ W).
These waves propagated to the southeast and presented different spectral
characteristics (wavelength, period and phase speed). Using hydroxyl
(OH) airglow images, the characteristics of the observed GWs were
calculated; the wavelengths ranged between 90 and 150 km, the periods ranged from
∼26 to 67 min and the phase speeds ranged from 32 to 71 m s−1.
A reverse ray-tracing analysis was performed to search for the possible
sources of the waves that were detected. The ray-tracing database was composed of
temperature profiles from the Naval Research Laboratory Mass Spectrometer Incoherent Scatter (NRLMSISE-00) model and SABER measurements as well as wind
profiles from the Horizontal Wind Model (HWM) and meteor radar data. According to the ray tracing result, the likely source of these observed gravity waves was the
Intertropical Convergence Zone, which caused intense convective processes to take place in the northern part of the observatory. Also, the observed preferential
propagation direction of the waves to the southeast could be explained using
blocking diagrams, i.e. due to the wind filtering process.
Human response to severe drought in Early Modern Catalonia. The case of Barcelona, Western Mediterranean (1620–1650)
Authors: Gorostiza Santiago , Martí Escayol Maria Antònia , Barriendos Mariano
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Combining historical climatology and environmental history, this article examines the diverse range of strategies deployed by the city government of Barcelona to confront the recurrent drought episodes experienced between 1626 and 1650. First, our reconstruction of drought episodes for the period 1525–1821, based on pro pluvia rogations as documentary proxy data, identifies the years 1625–1635 and 1640–1650 as the most significative drought events of the period 1521–1825 (highest Drought Frequency Weighted Index of the series). Throughout the article, we focus on human responses to drought and discuss how water scarcity was perceived and confronted by Barcelona city authorities. We present the ambitious water supply projects launched by the city government, together with the construction of windmills as an alternative to watermills in order to mill grain, as attempts to cope with diminishing water flows. The context was aggravated by political instability, related first to the tensions between the centralising efforts of the Spanish King Philip IV and later to the impact of the Thirty Years’ War in the border region between the French and Spanish Crowns (1635–1659). Finally, we interpret the efforts of the city government to codify and appropriate knowledge about urban water supply as an attempt to systematise historical information on infrastructure to improve institutional capacities to cope with water scarcity in the future. These efforts materialised in the elaboration of the Llibre de les Fonts de la Ciutat de Barcelona (“Book of Fountains of the City of Barcelona”), a manual compiling the knowledge of Barcelona’s water supply from source to tap, written by the Barcelona water city officer in 1650, after three decades of experience in his post.
Holocene sea-level change on the west coast Bohai Bay, China
Authors: Wang Fu , Zong Yongqiang , Mauz Barbara , Li Jianfen , Fang Jing , Tian Lizhu , Chen Yongsheng , Shang Zhiwen , Jiang Xingyu , Spada Giorgio , Melini Daniele
Published: April 2020

Abstract. To constrain models on global sea-level change regional proxy data on coastal change are indispensable. Here, we reconstruct the Holocene sea-level history of the northernmost East China Sea shelf. This region is of great interest owing to its apparent far-field position during the late Quaternary, its broad shelf and its enormous sediment load supplied by the Yellow River. This study collected 15 sediment cores from the coastal plain of west Bohai Bay and extracted 25 sea-level index points through the analyses of sedimentary facies, foraminiferal assemblages and radiocarbon dating. These proxy data indicate a phase of rapid rise from c. −17 m to −4 m of mean sea level between c. 10 ka and 6.5 ka. This was followed by a phase of slow rise from 6.5 ka to 2 ka. In contrast to previous studies our data suggest that the sea level remained c. 2.5–1 m below the modern mean sea level during the mid-late Holocene. The difference between proxy data and sea-level predictions based on three GIA models suggests that the Bohai coastal plain experiences subsidence at a rate of around 1.25 mm/a since about 7 ka which masks the mid-Holocene highstand recorded elsewhere in the region. Thus, during the early Holocene rapid rise the sea flooded the coastal plain and the shoreline retreated landwards at a rate of c. 40 m/a. It stayed at the landward maximum marine limit during the mid Holocene when the sea-level rise slowed down allowing vertical sedimentary accretion to occur in the landward areas. During the late Holocene fluvial sediment supply outpaced the sea-level change and the shoreline prograded seawards at a rate between 20 and 10 m/a.
Quantifying flood-water impacts on a lake water budget via volume-dependent transient stable isotope mass balance
Authors: Masse-Dufresne Janie , Barbecot Florent , Baudron Paul , Gibson John
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Interactions between groundwater and surface water are often overlooked in lake water budgets, even though groundwater can significantly contribute to the total annual water inputs to a lake. Isotope mass balance models have seen significant developments in the last decade for assessing the spatial and temporal variability of hydrological processes in lakes but are generally applied assuming steady-state. While this assumption is generally acceptable for long-term water balances of large lakes, it may be less appropriate for lakes which undergo strong seasonality of hydrological processes and meteorological conditions. In this study, a volume-dependent transient isotopic mass balance model was developed for an artificial lake (named Lake A) in Canada, and in a context where direct measurement of surface water fluxes is difficult, if not impossible. This lake typically receives important inputs of flood-water during the spring freshet period, as a hydraulic connection with a large watershed establishes each year. Quantification of the water fluxes to Lake A allowed to highlight the impacts of flood-water inputs over the annual water budget. The isotopic mass balance model revealed that groundwater and surface water inputs respectively account for 71 % and 28 % of the total annual water inputs to Lake A, which demonstrates its dependence on groundwater. An important part of these groundwater inputs is likely to correspond to flood-derived surface water due to bank storage. On an annual timescale, Lake A was found to be resilient to surface water pollution and sensitive to groundwater quantity and quality changes. There is however a likelihood that the resilience to surface water pollution is lower from April to August, as important water inputs originating from Lake DM contribute to the water balance via direct and indirect inputs (i.e., from bank storage). This suggests that the surface water fluxes between Lake DM and Lake A did not only have an impact on the dynamic of Lake A during springtime but also significantly influenced the long-term dynamics of Lake A. These findings can help anticipating the impacts of variation in the intensity and/or duration of future flooding events on lakes' water quality. From a more global perspective, this knowledge is useful for establishing regional-scale management strategies for maintaining water quality at flood-affected lakes in a context of land-use and climate changes.
Application of Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis and cremoris as Starter Culture in the Colonial Cheese Production
Authors: Ressutte Jéssica Barrionuevo , Rodrigues Thainá Stella , Pozza Magali Soares dos Santos , Madrona Grasiele Scaramal
Published: April 2020

The addition of the starter culture composed of Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis and Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris coming from two commercial brands was evaluated in Colonial cheese during the maturation period. The physiochemical parameters suggest an increase in lactic bacteria due to the reduction of pH and an increase in acidity; the starter culture did not influence the yields, moisture, ash, and instrumental color of the samples. The microbiological parameters show control of the growth of aerobic mesophiles compared to the control (without addition of the culture). As such, the use of evaluated cultures is a viable method for improving the quality of Colonial cheese.
An enigmatic Chironomidae (Diptera): first larval description for Nandeva Wiedenbrug, Reiss and Fittkau and evidence for phylogenetic position in Tanytarsini
Authors: Cranston Peter S.
Published: April 2020

The previously unknown larva of the genus Nandeva Wiedenbrug, Reiss and Fittkau (Chironomidae: Chironominae) is suggested to be a candidate from tropical northern Australia belonging to the tribe Tanytarsini. The basis for the assumption is DNA analysis showing maximum values of Bayesian posterior probability and Bootstrap support for an exclusive sister relationship of the unreared larva with a male of Nandeva from South America. The monophyly of Nandeva has high support as a member of the subtribe Tanytarsina, although its precise relationships within this subtribe lack support.  Larval morphology is described and illustrated, and conforms to the subtribe Tanytarsina in tribe Tanytarsini. The historical tempo is discussed in relation to fossils and dating of pertinent nodes and the term ‘pseudo-gondwanan’ is used to described an extant restricted austral range, but with fossils showing a wider past distribution in the north.
Governing complexity and environmental justice: lessons from the water crisis in Metropolitan São Paulo (2013-2015)
Authors: Torres Pedro Henrique Campello , Côrtes Pedro Luiz , Jacobi Pedro Roberto
Published: April 2020

The paper presents a discussion on the water crisis that occurred between 2013 and 2015 in the Metropolitan Region of São Paulo, the lack of integrated natural resources planning, and the reaction of social actors affected by the crisis. The region was affected by an extreme hydrological and climatological event, which was combined with the unsustainable management of water resources. The paper addresses, initially, the dynamics of water governance in the region, and the main aspects related to water availability and climate dependence that caused the water crisis. Then, we present an analysis of the process that led to the water crisis and its main developments, which is based on the follow-up of the different moments of the crisis and dialogues with its relevant stakeholders. The results indicate the relevance of emphasizing issues on matters such as the lack of transparency and highlight the role of societal initiatives. We conclude the paper with a proposition to discuss governance processes that can contribute to the development of more effective initiatives in order to reduce the impact of this visible change in water regimes, strengthen transparent management, and promote a more democratic interaction between social actors and the government.
La teoría de los recursos de poder una revisión crítica
Authors: Campillo Inés , SOLA Jorge
Published: April 2020

La teoría de los recursos de poder (TRP) fue uno de los enfoques dominantes en el estudio del desarrollo de los Estados de bienestar de posguerra. Su idea básica es que los diferentes equilibrios de poder de clase explican las diversas formas adoptadas por estos. No obstante, cada vez más autores cuestionan su capacidad explicativa para dar cuenta del devenir de los Estados de bienestar postindustriales. Este artículo analiza los orígenes y contenidos de la TRP, revisa algunas de las principales críticas que ha recibido y sugiere una vía para la reformulación de este programa de investigación, mostrando que es un buen punto de partida para abordar las transformaciones recientes del Estado de bienestar y establecer un diálogo con otras áreas de investigación colindantes.
A Post-Colonial Approach to The Man Who Ended History: A Documentary
Authors: Zhang Zhehui
Published: April 2020

The Man Who Ended History: A Documentary is a science fiction by Chinese American science fiction writer Ken Liu (1976-). Based on the theory of Post-Colonial Criticism, this paper makes a concrete analysis of the text from the perspectives of three eminent contemporary theorists, aiming at the readers’ better understanding of the work, and eliminating ethnocentrism, racism, unilateralism and hegemony; keeping history in mind and justifying the names of innocent humans who have been persecuted; safeguarding world peace, and building a community with a shared future for mankind.
Management of Ascending Aorta Calcification in Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Wang Chuan , Yu Yang , Gu Chengxiong , Li Jingxing
Published: April 2020

Neurological complications are one of the most common complications after coronary artery bypass grafting. With the development of off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCABG), the incidence of postoperative neurological complications caused by aortic intubation decreased significantly; however, the continuous suture of the great saphenous vein-aortic anastomosis in the coronary artery bypass grafting requires the operation of surgical clamp and perforation on the ascending aorta, which may lead to potential plaque detachment. Calcification of ascending aorta is an independent risk factor for cerebrovascular events after OPCABG. Therefore, it is crucial to explore and operate on the ascending aorta. There are three main methods of proximal anastomosis in OPCABG: (1) partial blocking of ascending aorta with side wall clamp for anastomosis; (2) application of proximal anastomosis auxiliary device (Enclose, Heartstring, etc.) for proximal anastomosis; and (3) original auxiliary device (urethra catheter-water sac) or no-clamp surgical techniques for proximal anastomosis.
Resurrecting the Hospital Autopsy: Impact of an Office of Decedent Affairs on Consent Rates, Providers, and Next-of-Kin
Authors: Juskewitch Justin E. , Griffin Joan M. , Maleszewski Joseph J. , Asiedu Gladys B. , Paolini Michael A. , Regnier Angela K. , Yrjo Melanie L. , Kendall Monica L. , Comfere Nneka I. , Cheville Andrea L. , Carey Elise C. , Amirahmadi Fazlollaah , Rabatin Jeffrey T. , Moynihan Timothy J. , Reichard R. Ross , Aubry Marie-Christine
Published: April 2020

Context.—

Autopsy rates have decreased dramatically despite providing important clinical information to medical practices and social benefits to decedents' families.

Objective.—

To assess the impact of an institutional Office of Decedent Affairs (ODA), a direct communication link between pathology and decedents' families, on hospital autopsy consent rates, autopsy-related communication, practitioner views, and next-of-kin experiences.

Design.—

A before and after study involving all hospital decedents whose deaths did not fall within the jurisdiction of the medical examiner's office from 2013 to 2018. A pathology-run ODA launched in May 2016 to guide next-of-kin through the hospital death process (including autopsy-related decisions) and serve as the next-of-kin's contact for any subsequent autopsy-related communication. Critical care and hematology/oncology practitioners were assessed for their autopsy-related views and decedents' next-of-kin were assessed for their autopsy-related experiences. Autopsy consent rates for non–medical examiner hospital deaths, autopsy-related communication rates, practitioner views on the role and value of autopsy, and next-of-kin autopsy experiences and decisions factors were compared prior to and after ODA launch.

Results.—

Autopsy consent rates significantly increased from 13.2% to 17.3% (480 of 3647 deaths versus 544 of 3148 deaths; P < .001). There were significant increases in the rate of autopsy-related discussions and bereavement counseling provided to decedents' families. Practitioner views on the positive role of autopsy for any hospital death and those with advanced stage cancer also significantly increased. Next-of-kin indicated more consistent autopsy-related discussions with the potential benefits of autopsy discussed becoming key decision factors.

Conclusions.—

An ODA improves hospital autopsy consent rates, autopsy-related communication, providers' autopsy-related views, and next-of-kins autopsy experiences.
COGNITIVE AND STYLE PREDICTORS OF THE STUDENTS’ PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING
Authors: Kibal’chenko A. Irina , Eksakusto V. Tatiana
Published: April 2020

The article analyses the psychological well-being and basic beliefs of students from the point of view of various variables, but the particular attention is payed to cognitive style, which is studied as the way of information assessment, determining person’s intellectual activity as well as own life activity in general. Theoretical and multivariate regression (stepwise method) analyses allowed us to define the models of psychological well-being and basic beliefs predictors at the significance levels from p≤0.000 to p≤0.043. The number of the students’ basic beliefs and psychological well-being style models is 17 of hypothetical 18 models; this result reflects a high (94.4 percent) study subject matter coverage. The following groups of the models were pointed out in a process of categorization: “harmonic” (these cognitive styles are highly efficient and prove that the style criteria correlate with the basic beliefs and psychological well-being ones); “tending to harmonize” (characterized by the cognitive styles inclusiveness dominating, leading to activity efficiency, but including individual style pole-correctors); “ambivalent” (cognitive style poles inclusiveness dominates, while other poles domination decreases). The following conclusions are made on the basis of statistically significant results: the level and peculiarities of the style poles and students’ psychological well-being and basic beliefs regression equations correlation is the determinant, defining the success of these poles and beliefs directly or indirectly. The results of the research enlarge scientific facts about cognitive styles being predictors of students’ psychological well-being and basic beliefs and make their metacognitive regulation and evaluation possible.
THE METHOD OF DESTRUCTIVE SCENARIO FORECASTING FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF DIVERGENT THINKING OF MANAGERS
Authors: Rezanovich Irina , Rezanovich Anatoly , Piatkova Marina , Peredrienko Tatiana
Published: April 2020

The phenomenon of thinking is well studied in psychology, and many of its types are revealed. However, little attention is paid to the development of divergent thinking in general and the development of divergent thinking of managers in particular. At the same time, multidirectional management decisions, their prompt adoption and the originality of content are very necessary for enterprises. The aim of the article is to give the characteristic of divergent thinking, to note its features and to present own definition of the concept “divergent thinking of managers”. In the article the analysis of one of the functions of managers, that is forecasting, is described. The scenario method and a new method of destructive scenario forecasting are proposed. The algorithm of the last method application in the form of a technological map is shown. The result of using the method for 2 years on specialized programs of professional development and retraining of managers is described. The results of mathematical processing of the obtained data on diagnostic procedures are presented. They testify that in the experimental groups the development of qualitative characteristics of divergent thinking of managers proceeded more intensively than in the control ones, in which the method of destructive scenario forecasting was not used. That proves the effectiveness of the proposed method for the development of divergent thinking of managers.
The Regulatory and Legal Framework for Mass Housing Constructions in the USSR (1955-1969)
Authors: Danilova Alisa Mikhailovna
Published: April 2020

The article presents an analytical review of the main regulatory and legal documents in the sphere of mass housing constructions in 1955-1969 with the aim to identify their impact and effect on the construction industry in the period under review. The research object of this study is the regulatory legal acts in the field of mass housing constructions in 1955-1969. Based on the study of regulatory legal acts on this issue, it was possible to identify their influence on the development of the construction industry and mass housing constructions in the USSR during the studied period, which is the research subject of this study. The author analyzes all the major laws that were important for the development of mass housing constructions and highlights the features of each of them. This research is based on the principle of historicism. Its implementation allowed the author to consider mass housing constructions as a process taking into account specific historical facts in its development. In addition, the author used the problem-chronological method to consider the topic in its historical sequence. The novelty of this study lies in the fact that for the first time in historiography the author makes an attempt to comprehensively systematize the regulatory and legal documents developed and adopted at the highest level in the field of mass industrial housing constructions in order to assess their impact and effect on the state housing policy of the USSR.
Dachniki of Tsaritsyno: Parishioners of the Life-Giving Spring Church in the Catherine Palace (Second Half of the 19th - Early 20th Centuries)
Authors: Babich Irina Leonidovna
Published: April 2020

The article's research subject is the life of the Orthodox community around the Life-Giving Spring Church in Tsaritsyno at the end of the 19th - early 20th centuries. The research object is the dachniki (summer residents) who became members of this Orthodox community.The Central State Archive of Moscow has preserved the metric books of this church. Based on this type of source, the author has compiled a list of the dachniki in Tsaritsyno who became parishioners of the Life-Giving Spring Church. The dachniki becoming part of the Tsaritsyno community was identified by the author through the evidence that they turned to the church's priests to perform various religious celebrations: baptisms, weddings and funeral services. Obviously, these celebrations are not indicative of the active participation of a specific dachnik in the life of the church, but in the author's opinion, this can still be indirectly used to analyze the relationship between country life and church life in Tsaritsyno. The author applied the historical method to analyze the archival materials collected at the Central Historical Archive of Moscow and the structural method to create a comprehensive picture of Russian life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.The choice of this topic for scientific research is based on the fact that in the 1990-2010s the process of an Orthodox revival had begun, which also turned out to be partially tied to the modern dacha movement. On the example of a number of monasteries near Moscow, one can trace the growth of Orthodox communities in the opened monasteries thanks to the dachniki living nearby. Due to this, the historical experience of this interaction can contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the processes taking place in modern Russia.
The biogenesis of CLEL peptides involves several processing events in consecutive compartments of the secretory pathway
Authors: Stührwohldt Nils , Scholl Stefan , Lang Lisa , Katzenberger Julia , Schumacher Karin , Schaller Andreas
Published: April 2020

Post-translationally modified peptides are involved in many aspects of plant growth and development. The maturation of these peptides from their larger precursors is still poorly understood. We show here that the biogenesis of CLEL6 and CLEL9 peptides in Arabidopsis thaliana requires a series of processing events in consecutive compartments of the secretory pathway. Following cleavage of the signal peptide upon entry into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the peptide precursors are processed in the cis-Golgi by the subtilase SBT6.1. SBT6.1-mediated cleavage within the variable domain allows for continued passage of the partially processed precursors through the secretory pathway, and for subsequent post-translational modifications including tyrosine sulfation and proline hydroxylation within, and proteolytic maturation after exit from the Golgi. Activation by subtilases including SBT3.8 in post-Golgi compartments depends on the N-terminal aspartate of the mature peptides. Our work highlights the complexity of post-translational precursor maturation allowing for stringent control of peptide biogenesis.
Distinct gene expression and secondary metabolite profiles insuppressor of prosystemin-mediated responses2 (spr2)tomato mutants having impaired mycorrhizal colonization
Authors: Casarrubias-Castillo Kena , Montero-Vargas Josaphat M. , Dabdoub-González Nicole , Winkler Robert , Martinez-Gallardo Norma A. , Zañudo-Hernández Julia , Avilés-Arnaut Hamlet , Délano-Frier John P.
Published: April 2020

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) colonization, sampled at 32–50 days post-inoculation (dpi), was significantly reduced insuppressor of prosystemin-mediated responses2 (spr2)mutant tomato plants impaired in the ω−3FATTY ACID DESATURASE7(FAD7) gene that limits the generation of linolenic acid and, consequently, the wound-responsive jasmonic acid (JA) burst. Contrary to wild-type (WT) plants, JA levels in root and leaves ofspr2mutants remained unchanged in response to AMF colonization, further supporting its regulatory role in the AM symbiosis. Decreased AMF colonization inspr2plants was also linked to alterations associated with a disrupted FAD7 function, such as enhanced salicylic acid (SA) levels and SA-related defense gene expression and a reduction in fatty acid content in both mycorrhizalspr2roots and leaves. Transcriptomic data revealed that lower mycorrhizal colonization efficiency inspr2mutants coincided with the modified expression of key genes controlling gibberellin and ethylene signaling, brassinosteroid, ethylene, apocarotenoid and phenylpropanoid synthesis, and the wound response. Targeted metabolomic analysis, performed at 45 dpi, revealed augmented contents of L-threonic acid and DL-malic acid in colonizedspr2roots which suggested unfavorable conditions for AMF colonization. Additionally, time- and genotype-dependent changes in root steroid glycoalkaloid levels, including tomatine, suggested that these metabolites might positively regulate the AM symbiosis in tomato. Untargeted metabolomic analysis demonstrated that the tomato root metabolomes were distinctly affected by genotype, mycorrhizal colonization and colonization time. In conclusion, reduced AMF colonization efficiency inspr2mutants is probably caused by multiple and interconnected JA-dependent and independent gene expression and metabolomic alterations.
Heavy Metals Contamination of Some Food Materials from Markets in South Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Anukwuorji C. A. , Okigbo R. N. , Chikwendu A. E. , Anuagasi C. L. , Anukwu J. U.
Published: April 2020

This research work aimed at assessing the metal composition of the cotyledons of Citrullus colocynthis (egusi) and Irvingia wombolu (ogbono) as well as cassava chips sold in open markets in the five states of the South-Eastern Nigeria. These food materials were sampled from 135 stores and markets in three waves (Wet season, Harmattan and Dry season) between February, 2015 and March, 2016 in each of the five states in south eastern Nigeria (Enugu, Anambra, Imo, Abia and Ebonyi). The food materials were analyzed for Zinc, Lead, Copper and Iron using the Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) method. The concentrations of these metals were not higher than the maximum permissible limit set by NAFDAC in Nigeria except for Lead in Enugu State ((0.042±0.068 mg/g). The highest quantity of Lead was detected in Citrullus colocynthis (0.039±0.006 mg/g) while the least concentration was detected in Cassava chips (0.009±0.005 mg/g). Lead was detected in samples collected across all the seasons (Wet season, Dry season and Harmattan). The high concentration of Lead in the sampled food materials from Enugu state across all the waves of sample collection that violated the permissible limits of lead set by WHO and NAFDAC is of public health concern. Lead exposure has been shown to cause severe health challenges thus regular monitoring of these toxic heavy metals from foods sold in markets is essential, to prevent their excessive build-up in the food chain. The inference of this study reveals that these food materials sold in the open market are not completely safe for consumption as a result of lead contamination due to poor handling and processing. Findings from this study will be of great help to all stakeholders in this area of interest such as researchers and environmental regulators, relevant government agencies saddled with the responsibility of ensuring the safety of foods consumed in Nigeria.
Pharmacoeconomic Analysis of Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Shahid , Al-Saikhan Fahad I. , Ahmed Nehad J. , Iqbal Muhammad Zahid
Published: April 2020

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) imparts a substantial economic burden on an individual and society. Exacerbation of COPD (ECOPD) is the primary cost driver for this burden as it usually associated with hospital admissions of COPD patients. The present study aimed to determine the direct costs of acute ECOPD among COPD patients.

Methods: A total of 90 eligible patients with acute ECOPD who were admitted to the hospital were involved in this study. A convenient sampling technique was used during data collection. Cost data were collected according to the expenditures and existing information. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0. The Spearman's rank test was used to observe the differences (correlations) between the Govt perspective and the patient perspective.

Results: The direct costs per episode of acute ECOPD were determined according to the Anthonisen criteria for evaluating acute ECOPD. The mean direct costs for severity III, severity II and severity I were 89.1, 134.8 and 178.2 USD respectively. The cost of acute ECOPD was positively associated with disease severity, length of hospital stay and the number of co-morbidities.

Conclusion: Acute ECOPD patients consume a considerable amount of healthcare resources and pose a significant economic burden on the government.
How Do Out-of-Pocket Expenditures Affect Healthcare: A Qualitative Insight of Acute Exacerbation among Asthma Patients
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Shahid , Al-Saikhan Fahad I. , Ahmed Nehad J. , Iqbal Muhammad Zahid
Published: April 2020

Introduction: This study was designed to determine the out of pocket costs (OOPCs) of acute exacerbation of asthma (AEA) in asthma patients attending a public hospital.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was done by interviewing the patients using the convenience sampling technique. Data were obtained based on per episode of AEA. OOPCs were calculated based on direct and indirect costs. A total of 128 patients participated in the study. The data were analyzed with SPSS ver 23.

Results: The study group comprised of 88 males (68.8%), 57 (44.5%) singles and 67 (52.3%) less than 40 years of age. There were considerable differences found between the severity levels and lengths of hospital stay towards the OOPCs.

Conclusion: The severity of the AEA and length of stay in the hospital increase the per episode OOPCs of AEA among asthma patients.
Presence in many mammalian tissues of an identical major cytosolic substrate (Mr 100000) for calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase
Authors: Palfrey H.Clive
Published: July 2002

Incubation of cytosol fractions from a variety of mammalian tissues (heart, liver, lung, adrenal, spleen and skeletal muscle) with Ca2+ (0.5 mM) in the presence of γ‐[32P]ATP resulted in the phosphorylation of a prominent substrate of M
r ∼ 100000 (100 kDa). One‐dimensional peptide maps and two‐dimensional tryptic fingerprints of the phosphoprotein from these sources were identical. A single major phosphopeptide was generated by trypsin and was determined to contain exclusively phosphothreonine. The 100 kDa substrate could be distinguished from glycogen phosphorylase (M
r ∼ 97000) by a number of criteria including phosphopeptide mapping and by its failure to bind either to glycogen or to a specific antiphosphorylase antibody. The Ca2+‐dependent protein kinase responsible for phosphorylation of the 100 kDa protein appeared to be a calmodulin (CaM)‐requiring enzyme in that it could be inhibited in cytosol extracts by trifluoperazine (IC
50 6–16 μM) and that exogenous CaM was necessary for 100 kDa phosphorylation in CaM‐depleted cytosol. These results suggest that a rise in intracellular Ca2+ resulting in an activation of CaM‐dependent protein kinase leads to the phosphorylation of a common 100 kDa substrate in many tissues.
Unusual frequencies of certain alternating purine‐pyrimidine runs in natural DNA sequences: relation to Z‐DNA
Authors: Trifonov Edward N. , Konopka Andrzej K. , Jovin Thomas M.
Published: July 2002

Prokaryotic, eukaryotic and mitochondrial DNA sequences of total Length 300000 nucleotides have been analyzed to find out whether stretches of alternating purines and pyrimidines are unusual in terms of occurrence, composition and base sequence. Alternating runs longer than 5 nucleotides are significantly underrepresented in the natural sequences as compared to random ones. Octanucleotides are the most deficient, occurring at only 60% of the frequency expected in random sequences. An unexpectedly high proportion of these octamers consists of alternating tetramers with the repeat structure (PuPyPuPy)2or (PyPuPyPu)2. DNA stretches containing such sequences can potentially form a Sl nuclease sensitive slippage (staggered loop) structure, which might serve as a locally unstacked intermediate in the B‐ to Z‐DNA conformational transition.
Yeast ribonuclease H(70) cleaves RNA‐DNA junctions
Authors: Karwan Robert , Wintersberger Ulrike
Published: July 2002

A specific substrate, M 13 DNA:RNA‐[32P]DNA, was synthesized to investigate the mode of cleavage of enzymes with RNase H activity. RNase H(70) from Saccharomyces cerevisiae hydrolyzes the phosphodiester bond at the RNA‐DNA junction of this substrate, thereby producing a 5'‐monophosphate‐terminated polydeoxyribonucleotide and 3'‐hydroxyl‐terminated oligoribonucleotides.
Cellular fibronectin is induced by epidermal growth factor, but not by dexamethasone or cyclic AMP in rat liver epithelial cells
Authors: Seebacher Thomas , Manske Marianne , Kornblihtt Alberto R. , Bade Ernesto G.
Published: July 2002

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) induces fibronectin (FN) and FN mRNA in rat liver epithelial cells, under conditions where the factor also induces the cells to migrate. Newly synthesized protein is secreted into the medium and deposited as substratum‐bound extracellular matrix. The levels of mRNA and the amount of protein synthesized are not influenced by cyclic AMP or dexamethasone, factors that have been found to modulate FN expression in other cells. However, the cells are sensitive to the factors, suggesting a cell‐specific regulation. The EGF‐induced RNA contains the sequences EIIIA and EIIIB characteristic of cellular fibronectin.
Fibronectin isoforms in plasma membrane domains of normal and regenerating rat liver
Authors: Enrich Carlos , Evans W.Howard , Gahmberg Carl G.
Published: July 2002

Plasma membrane fractions were obtained from the three surface domains of normal and regenerating adult rat livers. It was shown by immunoblotting that sinusoidal plasma membranes contained the characteristic 220 and 210 kDa fibronectin doublet, whereas bile canalicular plasma membranes contained a 220 kDa component. In lateral plasma membranes, 180, 190 and 220 kDa fibronectin isoforms were present. Fibronectin in the sinusoidal and canalicular plasma membranes was shown, by detergent/aqueous phase partitioning, to be more hydrophilic than isoforms in lateral plasma membranes. Changes in the distribution of fibronectin between plasma membrane domains occurred during liver regeneration and their significance, especially in relation to cell division, is discussed.
The human islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) gene
Authors: Christmanson Lars , Rorsman Fredrik , Stenman Göran , Westermark Per , Betsholtz Christer
Published: July 2002

We report the isolation and characterization of the human gene encoding islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP). Previously characterized cDNA sequences correspond to three exons of which the first is noncoding. A functional promoter region was identified in the 5' flanking DNA; however, this was farther upstream than expected. Northern blot analysis of human insulinoma RNA revealed three IAPP mRNAs of sizes 1.2, 1.8 and 2.1 kb, in agreement with three polyadenylation signals present in the 3' end of the gene. In situ hybridization to metaphase chromosomes resulted in two distinct peaks on chromosome 12, at 12p12‐p13 and 12q13‐q14. Southern blot analysis of genomic DNA suggested a single IAPP locus but also indicated the presence of additional homologous sequences in human genomic DNA.
Production of enkephalin in tobacco protoplasts using tobacco mosaic virus RNA vector
Authors: Takamatsu Nobuhiko , Watanabe Yuichiro , Yanagi Hideki , Meshi Tetsuo , Shiba Tadayoshi , Okada Yoshimi
Published: July 2002

To examine the validity of the strategy to express a foreign gene as a fusion protein with the coat protein (CP) of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), we have constructed ENK RNA by using an in vitro transcription system of TMV RNA. ENK RNA differs from TMV RNA only in that ENK RNA carries an additional sequence coding for Leu‐enkephalin (Tyr‐Gly‐Gly‐Phe‐Leu) (Enk) with a preceding in‐frame methionine just before the termination codon of CP gene. In protoplasts inoculated with ENK RNA, CP+Enk fusion protein accumulated as the major protein.
Heterogeneity in human soluble guanylate cyclase due to alternative splicing
Authors: Chhajlani Vijay , Frändberg Per-Anders , Ahlner Johan , Axelsson Krister L. , Wikberg Jarl E.S.
Published: July 2002

Two forms of the smaller subunit of the human soluble guanylate cyclase enzyme have been cloned by using PCR. One of the clones (HSGC‐1) is identical to bovine and rat lung smaller subunit cyclase. However, the other (HSGC‐2) is lacking 33 amino acids. Comparison of its sequence with published partial genomic sequences of bovine guanylate cyclase indicates that HSGC‐2 is formed due to alternative splicing.
Human ferritin H‐chains can be obtained in non‐assembled stable forms which have ferroxidase activity
Authors: Levi Sonia , Santambrogio Paolo , Albertini Alberto , Arosio Paolo
Published: July 2002

We found conditions to obtain the Leu‐169 → Arg mutant of human ferritin H chain in a stable and non‐assembled state. The protein obtained is an oligomer of subunits with a high degree of structured conformation, and when concentrated it re‐assembles into ferritin cages. Functional studies showed that (i) it promotes iron oxidation like the assembled ferritin, but at slower rate, (ii) it is readily precipitated by the oxidised iron unless apotransferrin or L‐chain ferritin are added to sequester Fe(III). The results confirm that ferroxidase activity is located within the H‐chain, and indicate that the cages of the fully assembled ferritins are important not only in maintaining iron in a soluble form, but also in eliciting the activity of the ferroxidase centres.
Distribution and characterization of immunoreactive adrenomedullin in human tissue and plasma
Authors: Ichiki Yoshinari , Kitamura Kazuo , Kangawa Kenji , Kawamoto Mari , Matsuo Hisayuki , Eto Tanenao
Published: July 2002

A specific and sensitive radioimmunoassay for human adrenomedullin has been developed and distribution and characterization of immunoreactive adrenomedullin in human tissue were investigated. The radioimmunoassay specifically recognizes its carboxyterminal region and half maximal inhibition of binding of radioiodinated adrenomedullin(40–52)NH2 was observed at 11 . Immunoreactive adrenomedullin was abundant in adrenal medulla (47.7 ± 26.1 , mean ± S.D.) and was ubiquitously found in all tissue examined. The mean plasma concentration of adrenomedullin in three normal individuals was 17.2 ± 6.4 (mean ± S.D.). By analysis with reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with the radioimmunoassay, most immunoreactive adrenomedullin in the adrenal medulla, atrium and lung was found to be adrenomedullin(1–52)NH2.
Diabetes in pregnancy
Authors: Bassaw B. , Ataullah I. , Roopnarinesingh S. , Sirjusingh A.
Published: July 2002

Objective: To determine whether there is an association between the level of glycemic control and perinatal complications in pregnant diabetic patients. Methods: Two hundred sixty confirmed cases of pre‐existing diabetes, gestational diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance were analyzed to assess risk factors, modality of treatment, level of blood sugar control and effect on perinatal morbidity and mortality. Results: Risk factors for the development of diabetes included age (> 25 years), East Indian ethnic origin, glycosuria, and a history of diabetes in a first‐degree relative. Treatment consisted of diet alone or in combination with soluble insulin. There is a marked increase in perinatal mortality and maternal morbidity if normoglycemia is not maintained. Conclusions: A greater emphasis must be placed on the detection of diabetes in pregnancy and effective treatment should be instituted as early as possible to achieve normoglycemia if associated complications are to be reduced.
Dermatoglyphic patterns in subtypes of schizophrenia
Authors: Chary TVR , Varma SL , Singh S , Zain AM , Dharap AS
Published: July 2002

Dermatoglyphic patterns of fingers were studied in two hundred and fifty patients of various subtypes of schizophrenia and ninety normal control subjects. The difference between the males and female dermatoglyphic patterns in the schizophrenic and controls was found to be non significant. No difference was also found between the fingerprint patterns in patients of various subtypes of schizophrenia.
Incidence of dementia in the elderly: review of age and sex effects
Authors: Schröppel H , Baumann A , Fichter M , Meller I
Published: July 2002

A review of epidemiological studies about incidence of dementia among the aged is presented. Empirical studies on incidence of dementia have shown considerably differing estimations. Nevertheless, in all studies, an age-related increase in incidence becomes clearly apparent. Epidemiological field-studies could not yield consistent findings concerning the association of incidence and gender. However, most studies found an increased incidence for men until the age of 70–80 years. In older age most studies reported the same incidence for men and women or found an increased incidence of dementia in women. The findings are reviewed and discussed in the context of methodological issues.