bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visão jurídico-administrativa nas aquisições por pregão: busca de qualidade em hospital universitário do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Vilas Filho Fabio Gonçalves , Machado Wiliam Cesar Alves , Figureido Nébia Maria Almeida
Published: December 2019

O presente estudo buscou avaliar se as aquisições oriundas dos processos de compras de materiais hospitalares através do pregão eletrônico, em hospital universitário, atende ao princípio de segurança para realização dos procedimentos terapêuticos primordiais na recuperação dos pacientes. Constatou-se a necessidade de se realizar análise prévia dos insumos, por uma comissão de pré-qualificação, diante da morosidade dos testes das amostras quando estas ocorrem no curso do pregão, bem como os inúmeros pareceres negativos corroboram no sentido de que a baixa qualidade dos insumos oferecidos pelos licitantes pode trazer prejuízos para a administração nos aspectos financeiros, sobretudo no agravamento do quadro clínico dos pacientes e estresse das equipes de saúde envolvidas no procedimento.
The secretarybird dilemma: identifying a bird species fromthe Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari
Authors: Braulińska Kamila
Published: December 2019

Known from a few representations in Predynastic Egyptian art, the secretarybird has otherwise been elusive, in the art of Pharaonic Egypt as well as the scientific discourse on iconographic imagery of birds in ancient Egypt. The author's studies of the animal decoration at the Temple for her doctoral dissertation identified three images of birds belonging most likely to the same species, depicted in the context of the expedition of Hatshepsut shown in the Portico of Punt. The zoological identification of the species as the secretarybird (another possibility is the African harrier-hawk) derives from an in-depth analysis of the bird’s systematics, appearance, distribution and habitat, as well as behavior, which are essential for proper species recognition and instrumental for understanding the rationale behind bringing it from the “God’s Land”. Iconographic features contesting this identification and suggesting a different species, that is, the African harrier-hawk, are discussed based on a combination of theoretical background, material analysis, on-site interviews with experts and the author’s personal experience with the species.
Vitamin D in edible mushrooms: biosynthesis, contents, bioavailability, and nutritional significance
Authors: Kochan Zdzisław , Jędrzejewska Katarzyna , Karbowska Joanna
Published: December 2019

Edible mushrooms exposed to sunlight or UV irradiation convert ergosterol to ergocalciferol (vitamin D2), which is well absorbed and has a similar bioavailability to vitamin D3. Consumption of vitamin D2 – enhanced mushrooms significantly increases circulating levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D2 that is further metabolized to the biologically active form – 1,25(OH)2D2. Dietary supplementation with UV-irradiated mushrooms has been shown to lower parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentrations in the blood and to increase bone mineral density, to suppress an immune response, to decrease circulating plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) levels, as well as to improve cognitive performance in dementia syndromes. Current evidence indicates that more than half of the world’s population is vitamin D deficient, mushrooms enriched with ergocalciferol may therefore prove useful as a natural dietary source of this vitamin – incorporating them into the diet can help meet the body’s daily requirement and restore vitamin D status.
Filmethik. Grundüberlegungen zu einer medienethischen Subdisziplin
Authors: Bohrmann Thomas
Published: December 2019

Filmethik ist keine akademische Disziplin wie die Medien- und Kommunikationswissenschaft, sie ist aber eine bestimmte Perspektive auf das Einzelmedium Film. Die ethische Reflexion über den Film soll Filmethik heißen. Dabei ist sie eine Subdisziplin der Medienethik mit einem normativen und einem deskriptiven Ansatz. Als (normative) Ethik des Films konzentriert sich Filmethik auf die Frage, welche Normen für den Film gelten sollen und welche moralischen Akteure für die normative Durchsetzung zuständig bzw. verantwortlich sind. Und als (deskriptive) Ethik im Film untersucht die Filmethik, welche moralischen Probleme in Spielfilmen zur Sprache kommen und wie diese durch die handelnden Figuren gelöst werden. Die normative und die deskriptive Perspektive finden aber in der Filmkritik und Filmbewertung (Kinder- und Jugendschutz) zusammen.
Militärsportvereine unter dem NS-Regime
Authors: Wittmann Florian
Published: December 2019

After conscription was re-introduced by Nazi Germany, countless military sports clubs were founded in the Wehrmacht. Although some of them rose in significance considerably until the end of WWII, little is known about these clubs. Based on recent access to archival sources, this article focuses on the self-representation and inner workings of these military sports clubs. It also shows how they set themselves apart from civilian sports clubs. The article also demonstrates that NS did not influence the daily routines of these clubs to a large extent.
Notion d’intérêt public et avenir de la conservation de la nature en République Démocratique du Congo
Authors: Makungu Ursil Lelo Di , Bolimia Daddy Bogole , Ntekenge Juvénal Madigo , Valentin Blaise Iyamba , Akemane Richard Mandandi , Zogi Martin Amisa , Chalachala Nadyne-Clémence , Tshimpanga Ibrahim , Lofongola Didier Okoto , Ular Augustin Bedidjo
Published: December 2019

La gouvernance durable des aires protégées est généralement motivée au nom de l’intérêt général en dépit de l’imprécision juridique qui caractérise cette notion. Afin d‘assurer cette gouvernance durable pour la conservation des aires protégées, la République Démocratique du Congo (RDC), a besoin non seulement des moyens matériels, financiers et humains, mais surtout des politiques publiques clairement définies et orientées vers la conservation durable de ses ressources matérialisées dans un instrument juridique sectoriel. Par ailleurs, la loi n°14/003 du 11 février 2014 relative à la conservation de la nature apparait comme le véritable instrument efficace et adapté de la concrétisation et de la mise en œuvre de la politique publique en matière de gestion durable des aires protégées. Cependant l’usage arbitraire de cette notion d’intérêt général sans contenu juridique clair risque de paraître plutôt comme une géomancie juridique et administrative pour porter atteinte à la conservation de la nature, à la suite de l’absence de l’échelle de valeur pour mieux cerner d’une part, les mesures de conservation et de l’autre, les dérogations à ces mesures. Suite à cette difficulté d’évaluation des valeurs liées à la conservation et aux restrictions y afférentes, le législateur entretient un flou offrant ainsi un pouvoir exorbitant au pouvoir public à l’Etat et aux entités territoriales au nom de l’intérêt de pouvoir. Certains acteurs de la politique publique s’accordent des pouvoirs arbitraires au nom de cet intérêt afin de substituer une zone de conservation à une autre activité contraire aux objectifs et principes de conservation durable des aires protégées. Cette étude entend aborder la notion d’intérêt public qui du reste, sujette à des diverses appréhensions et conception tant par le pouvoir public que par l’opinion publique, suite à sa vitalité dans une perspective spatio-temporelle. Les indicateurs de l’analyse de conciliation du concept d’intérêt public au contexte du droit congolais de la conservation de la nature révèlé plutôt être une pure supercherie intellectuelle instaurée par le législateur et dont le pouvoir public s’en sert pour enfreindre les mesures de conservation de la nature. C’est autour de toute ces questions que la présente étude à bien voulu répondre aux préoccupations de la compréhension de la notion d’intérêt public, son contenu, ses critères et fonctions, son utilité, le lien qu’il entretien avec le droit de la conservation et son avenir dans le domaine de la conservation de la nature en RDC.
Pathologic Evaluation of Breast Tissue From Transmasculine Individuals Undergoing Gender-Affirming Chest Masculinization
Authors: Hernandez Andrea , Schwartz Christopher J. , Warfield Dana , Thomas Kristen M. , Bluebond-Langner Rachel , Ozerdem Ugur , Darvishian Farbod
Published: December 2019

Context.—

Bilateral mastectomy for chest masculinization is one of the gender-affirming procedures for transmasculine individuals.

Objective.—

To optimize gross handling protocols and assess histopathologic findings in transmasculine breast tissue specimens.

Design.—

We identified all gender-affirming mastectomies from 2015 to 2018. We sequentially identified reduction mammoplasty (RM) cases for macromastia from the same period as control. Significant findings were defined as atypical ductal or lobular hyperplasia (ADH, ALH), ductal or lobular carcinoma in situ (DCIS, LCIS), or invasive carcinoma.

Results.—

Significant findings were present in 6 of 211 gender-affirming mastectomies (2.8%) as follows: ADH (n = 5) and LCIS together with ALH (n = 1). By comparison, 19 of 273 RM specimens (7%) yielded significant findings as follows: ALH (n = 11), ADH (n = 4), LCIS (n = 2), DCIS (n = 1), and invasive lobular carcinoma (n = 1). In the gender-affirming group, 142 transmen underwent androgen therapy before surgery, of whom 2 had significant pathologic findings. Thirty and 41 individuals had a family history of breast cancer in the gender-affirming and RM group, of whom 1 and 3 individuals had significant pathologic findings, respectively.

Conclusions.—

Our study demonstrates that we handle transmasculine mastectomy specimens by examining 2.8 times more slides on average than for RMs, with a 2.5 times lower rate of significant pathologic findings. Prior family history of breast cancer or the use of androgen therapy before surgery in gender-affirming individuals did not increase the risk of identifying significant breast lesions. We recommend submitting 4 tissue blocks per mastectomy for individuals undergoing gender-affirming breast surgery.
The background, psychometric qualities and clinical application of the visual analog mood scales: A review and evaluation
Authors: Athanasou James
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this report is to evaluate the published version of the Visual Analog Mood Scales. These scales were published in 1997 and assess eight clinically relevant unipolar dimensions: afraid, confused, sad, angry, energetic, tired, happy, tense. From a search of the literature in PsycINFO, 24 empirical studies (including reliability and validity) were located on the application of the scales. The use of the scales for diagnosis, treatment and experimentation is described and published data on the test-retest reliability and validity of the scales is summarized. The reported test-retest correlations ranged from .43 to .87 and were considered too low for high stakes decisions. From nine studies, the concurrent validity coefficients across the eight scales ranged from a low of .12 to as high as .82. It is concluded that the scales have clinical utility for a quasi-non-verbal or pictorial assessment of mood states but there are limitations in the interpretation of the results. This is due to the shortcomings in the standardization samples as well as concerns for the psychometric quality in terms of validity and reliability.
Post-natal development of EEG responses to noxious stimulation in pigs (Sus scrofa) aged 1-15 days
Authors: Kells NJ , Beausoleil NJ , Sutherland MA , Johnson CB
Published: December 2019

This study examined electroencephalographic (EEG) indices of acute nociception in pigs (Sus scrofa) aged 1, 5, 7, 10, 12 and 15 days, post-natal. Ten pigs per age were anaesthetised with halothane in oxygen and maintained at a light plane of anaesthesia. EEG was recorded bilaterally using a five-electrode montage. Following a 10-min baseline period, tails were docked using side-cutter pliers and recording continued for a further 5 min. Changes in the median frequency (F50), 95% spectral edge frequency (F95) and total power (PTOT) of the EEG were used to assess nociception. Tail-docking at one day of age induced no significant changes in the EEG spectrum. A typical nociceptive response, characterised by an increase in F50 and decrease in PTOT was evident at ten days of age, with five and seven day old pigs exhibiting responses in either F50 or PTOT only. Pooling of data into ≤ 7 days of age and > 7 days of age revealed F50 was higher overall in the older group. Whilst PTOT decreased after docking in both groups, this response was larger and more prolonged in the older group. F95 increased after docking in the older pigs only. Overall, these data provide evidence of an increase in cortical responsiveness to noxious stimulation with increasing post-natal age, suggesting there may be qualitative differences in pain perception between age groups. Further, the data provide some support for current recommendations that tail-docking and other painful husbandry procedures be performed within seven days of birth in order to minimise their impact on animal welfare.
Redefining human-animal relationships: an evaluation of methods to allow their empirical measurement in zoos
Authors: Patel F , Whitehouse-Tedd K , Ward SJ
Published: December 2019

Scientific studies of human-animal interactions (HAIs) and how these develop into human-animal relationships (HARs) now represent some of the most significant contributions to animal welfare science. However, due to the current definition of HAR, studies have only been able to measure HAIs and infer its impact on HARs and animal welfare. Here, we redefine HARs as a series of repeated HAIs between two individuals known to each other, the nature of which is influenced by their historical HAIs and where consideration to the content, quality and the pattern of the interactions is also vital. With a new definition, it is now feasible to empirically measure HARs, however, first, it is important to evaluate current methods utilised in animal industries to allow standardisation across HAR research in zoos. Here, we review the current methods that have been used to assess HAIs in animals and determine their overall suitability for measuring HARs and their use in a zoo environment. Literature searches were conducted using the search terms ‘human-animal’ AND ‘interaction’, ‘human-animal’ AND ‘relationship’, ‘human-animal’ AND ‘bond’. Subsequently, ‘zoo’, ‘companion’, ‘agriculture’, ‘laboratory’ and ‘wild’ were added to each combination yielding five potential methods to evaluate. These methods were assessed according to a panel of indicators including reliability, robustness, practical application and feasibility for use in a zoo environment. Results indicated that the methods utilising ‘latency’, ‘qualitative behaviour assessment’ and the ‘voluntary approach test’ were potentially viable to assess HARs in a zoo environment and could subsequently contribute to the assessment of welfare implications of these HARs for the animals involved. These methods now require empirical testing and comparisons within a zoo environment.
The representativeness of a semi-random sampling method for animal welfare assessments on mink farms
Authors: Marsbøll AF , Henriksen BIF , Møller SH
Published: December 2019

In this study we present a semi-random sampling method developed for the sampling of mink (Neovison vison) for on-farm welfare assessments according to the WelFur-Mink system. The only information required for implementation of this method is the number of cages in use in each shed on the farm. The representativeness of samples selected with this method was evaluated in relation to the physical characteristics of the farm and the mink characteristics by simulated sampling on a farm with a complicated structure in the growth period. The selection of 10,000 samples was simulated. The trueness was, in general, high, ie the method has no systematic skewness. The precision was low for certain factors due to the high variation within sheds. The sampling in sections of six adjacent cages means that it is often not possible to select a sample which is an exact representation of the mink and their housing environment. If accepting a deviation of ± one cage section, the estimated probability of selecting a representative sample was high for most of the individual factors. However, the estimated probability of selecting a sample that is representative according to all factors was rather low. This deviation from exact representativeness ought to be evaluated in the light of the increased feasibility and repeatability offered by the method. Also, we expect that the representativeness of samples selected with this method will be higher on other less-complicated farms. We suggest that this simple method balances feasibility and representative sampling in a way that makes it useful in the WelFur-Mink system.
Alumnas, maestras y cantantes: La formación vocal de las mujeres en el siglo XIX en España
Authors: Morales Villar María del Coral
Published: December 2019

La profesión de cantante en el siglo XIX permitía a las mujeres optar a una realidad social distinta al ideal doméstico femenino. Aquellas que destacaban por sus dotes vocales o querían desarrollar su sensibilidad artística, podían acceder a la enseñanza oficial o privada del canto. El objetivo de este estudio es destacar la importancia de la actividad que desempeñaron las mujeres en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje del canto en el siglo XIX en España, pese a las limitaciones de la época. Para ello, nos centramos en dos instituciones representativas de la formación vocal: el Conservatorio de Madrid en el sistema público y la Escuela Lírico-Dramática de ámbito privado.  Esta investigación se basa en la revisión y análisis de documentación, en su mayoría histórica, a través de la que se ha reconstruido el tipo de enseñanza vocal al que tenían acceso las mujeres, su papel dentro del sistema educativo y las salidas profesionales de estos estudios. Aunque durante el periodo formativo existían pocas diferencias entre ambos sexos, la escasa presencia de maestras de canto en los claustros docentes, la limitación para impartir clase a los cantantes masculinos y los escasos foros para publicar sus métodos didácticos, evidencian el largo camino que quedaba por recorrer hacia la igualdad de género.
El aprendizaje expresivo y las diferencias de género en la Educación Superior de Música
Authors: Bonastre Carolina , Nuevo Roberto
Published: December 2019

En un momento en el que la igualdad entre mujeres y hombres se considera necesaria en la mayoría de las culturas occidentales, el resultado de las investigaciones en el área de música muestra que se siguen produciendo diferencias de género. Lo cual afecta a aspectos como: a) la elección instrumental de los estudiantes; y b) las salidas profesionales, principalmente en composición y dirección orquestal. Desde un enfoque educativo se plantea si se observa un cambio en la actualidad de estos aspectos y si existen también diferencias de género en el uso de estrategias de enseñanza-aprendizaje de la expresividad musical. 196 alumnos ingleses y españoles de enseñanzas superiores aportaron información al respecto. Los resultados indican que persisten las diferencias en estos aspectos generales y que las mujeres respecto a los hombres consideran más relevante el uso de estrategias como las metáforas e imágenes.
Tripiana-Muñoz, S. (2019). Estrategias eficaces de práctica instrumental. Primeros pasos al estudiar una obra musical. Granada: Editorial Libargo
Authors: Vela Marta
Published: December 2019

Tras largas discusiones a lo largo del tiempo entre las diversas claves del éxito de los grandes intérpretes, esta monografía aborda el tema de la práctica instrumental desde la perspectiva de la importancia del estudio eficaz, estratégico y perseverante, y, de este modo, la perentoria necesidad de convertirse en objeto de investigación. La autora relata cómo, en tan sólo los últimos cien años, se ha observado un interés científico por la naturaleza de la práctica instrumental y su relación con la transición desde niveles iniciales hasta niveles de excelencia. No obstante, señala que los estudios sobre la planificación de la interpretación, es decir, sobre cómo formar representaciones mentales de la música, diseñar planes interpretativos y estrategias adecuadas de práctica instrumental, no comenzaron hasta después de la aparición de la psicología cognitiva en la segunda mitad del siglo XX, ya que había poco lugar para tales cuestiones en la corriente conductista.
Monográfico: Música y Educación: Una mirada femenina
Authors: García Gil Desirée , Pérez Colodrero Consuelo
Published: December 2019

Resulta evidente que cualquier experiencia musical transmite significados relacionados con el género, de tal suerte que, desde la creación a la percepción, pasando por la interpretación, el aprendizaje y la enseñanza, todos los procesos musicales producen ideologías y transmiten connotaciones derivadas de esta perspectiva. La exploración de las relaciones de género a través de música, no obstante, no irrumpió en la investigación hasta la década de 1970, particularmente en el ámbito anglosajón, donde un reducido pero relevante número de especialistas, generalmente activistas del Feminismo, introdujo esta novedosa categoría de estudio como complemento y oposición al tipo de aproximación que sobre el hecho musical se estaba realizando por aquel entonces.
Calpain fosters the hyperexcitability of motoneurons after spinal cord injury and leads to spasticity
Authors: Plantier Vanessa , Sanchez-Brualla Irene , Dingu Nejada , Brocard Cécile , Liabeuf Sylvie , Gackière Florian , Brocard Frédéric
Published: December 2019

Up-regulation of the persistent sodium current (INaP) and down-regulation of the potassium/chloride extruder KCC2 lead to spasticity after spinal cord injury (SCI). We here identified calpain as the driver of the up- and down-regulation of INaP and KCC2, respectively, in neonatal rat lumbar motoneurons. Few days after SCI, neonatal rats developed behavioral signs of spasticity with the emergence of both hyperreflexia and abnormal involuntary muscle contractions on hindlimbs. At the same time, in vitro isolated lumbar spinal cords became hyperreflexive and displayed numerous spontaneous motor outputs. Calpain-I expression paralleled with a proteolysis of voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels and KCC2. Acute inhibition of calpains reduced this proteolysis, restored the motoneuronal expression of Nav and KCC2, normalized INaP and KCC2 function, and curtailed spasticity. In sum, by up- and down-regulating INaP and KCC2, the calpain-mediated proteolysis of Nav and KCC2 drives the hyperexcitability of motoneurons which leads to spasticity after SCI.
Kinetic‐Oriented Construction of MoS2 Synergistic Interface to Boost pH‐Universal Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Hu Jue , Zhang Chengxu , Yang Peng , Xiao Jingyi , Deng Tao , Liu Zhiyong , Huang Bolong , Leung Michael K. H. , Yang Shihe
Published: December 2019

As a prerequisite for a sustainable energy economy in the future, designing earth‐abundant MoS2 catalysts with a comparable hydrogen evolution catalytic performance in both acidic and alkaline environments is still an urgent challenge. Decreasing the energy barriers could enhance the catalysts' activity but is not often a strategy for doing so. Here, the first kinetic‐oriented design of the MoS2‐based heterostructure is presented for pH‐universal hydrogen evolution catalysis by optimizing the electronic structure based on the simultaneous modulation of the 3d‐band‐offsets of Ni, Co, and Mo near the interface. Benefiting from this desirable electronic structure, the obtained MoS2/CoNi2S4 catalyst achieves an ultralow overpotential of 78 and 81 mV at 10 mA cm−2, and turnover frequency as high as 2.7 and 1.7 s−1 at the overpotential of 200 mV in alkaline and acidic media, respectively. The MoS2/CoNi2S4 catalyst represents one of the best hydrogen evolution reaction performing ones among MoS2‐based catalysts reported to date in both alkaline and acidic environments, and equally important is the remarkable long‐term stability with negligible activity loss after maintaining at 10 mA cm−2 for 48 h in both acid and base. This work highlights the potential to deeply understand and rationally design highly efficient pH‐universal electrocatalysts for future energy storage and delivery.
Stable Triple Cation Perovskite Precursor for Highly Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells Enabled by Interaction with 18C6 Stabilizer
Authors: Wu Xiayan , Jiang Yue , Chen Cong , Guo Jiali , Kong Xiangyu , Feng Yancong , Wu Sujuan , Gao Xingsen , Lu Xubing , Wang Qianming , Zhou Guofu , Chen Yiwang , Liu Jun‐Ming , Kempa Krzysztof , Gao Jinwei
Published: December 2019

Triple cation perovskites (Cs0.05(MA0.17FA0.83)0.95Pb(I0.83Br0.17)3) have received lots of attention owing to the excellent stability and photovoltaic performance. However, the development toward efficient solar cells has been significantly impeded by its intrinsic precursor instability, as well as defective crystal surface. Herein, a strategy for introducing the additive of 1,4,7,10,13,16‐hexaoxacyclooctadecane (18C6) in the precursor solution, rendering an excellent stability of more than one month, and the defect passivation effect on the crystal surface are demonstrated. In those perovskite solar cells, a power conversion efficiency of 20.73% has been achieved with a substantially improved open‐circuit voltage and fill factor. As evidenced by the density functional theory calculations, the fundamental reason relating to the enhanced performance is found to be the interaction effect between the 18C6 and cations, and in particular the formation of the 18C6/Pb complex. This finding represents an alternative strategy for achieving a stable precursor solution and efficient perovskite solar cells.
A Tumor Microenvironment‐Responsive Biodegradable Mesoporous Nanosystem for Anti‐Inflammation and Cancer Theranostics
Authors: Wu Jianrong , Niu Shiwei , Bremner David H. , Nie Wei , Fu Zi , Li Dejian , Zhu Li‐Min
Published: December 2019

A nanoplatform that integrates diagnostic and therapeutic functions with intrinsic tumor microenvironment‐responsive biodegradability is highly desired. Herein, a biodegradable nanotheranostic agent based on hollow mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles (HMONs), followed by encapsulating of heat shock protein 90 (Hsp 90) inhibitor is described. Then, the pore‐engineering including gating with bovine serum albumin‐iridium oxide nanoparticles (BSA‐IrO2) and conjugation of polyethylene glycol (PEG) is conducted to yield 17AAG@HMONs‐BSA‐IrO2‐PEG (AHBIP) nanotheranostics for multimode computed tomography (CT)/photoacoustic (PA) imaging‐guided photodynamic therapy (PDT) and low‐temperature photothermal therapy (PTT). Such nanoplatforms show extraordinary photothermal conversion efficiency, high cargo loading (35.4% for 17AAG), and stimuli‐responsive release of 17AAG for inhibition of Hsp90, which induces cell apoptosis at low‐temperatures (≈41 °C). Also, the IrO2 simultaneously endows the nanotheranostics with catalytic activity in triggering the decomposition of H2O2 into O2 and thus reducing the tumor hypoxia, as well as protecting normal tissues against H2O2‐induced inflammation. AHBIP shows good photocatalysis activity for PDT as a result of the generation of superoxide anion by laser irradiation. The resulting AHBIP‐mediated synergistic PTT/PDT offers an outstanding therapeutic outcome both in vitro and in vivo. Overall, the incorporation of the BSA‐IrO2 and biodegradable HMONs into one nanoplatform has great potential for clinical applications.
Adaptive Liquid Interfacially Assembled Protein Nanosheets for Guiding Mesenchymal Stem Cell Fate
Authors: Jia Xiaofang , Minami Kosuke , Uto Koichiro , Chang Alice Chinghsuan , Hill Jonathan P. , Nakanishi Jun , Ariga Katsuhiko
Published: December 2019

There is a growing interest in the development of dynamic adaptive biomaterials for regulation of cellular functions. However, existing materials are limited to two‐state switching of the presentation and removal of cell‐adhesive bioactive motifs that cannot emulate the native extracellular matrix (ECM) in vivo with continuously adjustable characteristics. Here, tunable adaptive materials composed of a protein monolayer assembled at a liquid–liquid interface are demonstrated, which adapt dynamically to cell traction forces. An ultrastructure transition from protein monolayer to hierarchical fiber occurs through interfacial jamming. Elongated fibronectin fibers promote formation of elongated focal adhesion structures, increase focal adhesion kinase activation, and enhance neuronal differentiation of stem cells. Cell traction force results in spatial rearrangement of ECM proteins, which feeds back to alter stem cell fate. The reported biomimetic adaptive liquid interface enables dynamic control of stem cell behavior and has potential translational applications.
Probing Polaritons in 2D Materials with Synchrotron Infrared Nanospectroscopy
Authors: Barcelos Ingrid D. , Bechtel Hans A. , de Matos Christiano J. S. , Bahamon Dario A. , Kaestner Bernd , Maia Francisco C. B. , Freitas Raul O.
Published: December 2019

Polaritons, which are quasiparticles composed of a photon coupled to an electric or magnetic dipole, are a major focus in nanophotonic research of van der Waals (vdW) crystals and their derived 2D materials. For the variety of existing vdW materials, polaritons can be active in a broad range of the electromagnetic spectrum (meVs to eVs) and exhibit momenta much higher than the corresponding free‐space radiation. Hence, the use of high momentum broadband sources or probes is imperative to excite those quasiparticles and measure the frequency‐momentum dispersion relations, which provide insights into polariton dynamics. Synchrotron infrared nanospectroscopy (SINS) is a technique that combines the nanoscale spatial resolution of scattering‐type scanning near‐field optical microscopy with ultrabroadband synchrotron infrared radiation, making it highly suitable to probe and characterize a variety of vdW polaritons. Here, the advances enabled by SINS on the study of key photonic attributes of far‐ and mid‐infrared plasmon‐ and phonon‐polaritons in vdW and 2D crystals are reviewed. In that context the SINS technique is comprehensively described and it is demonstrated how fundamental polaritonic properties are retrieved for a range of atomically thin systems including hBN, MoS2, graphene and 2D heterostructures.
Creation and Annihilation of Nonradiative Recombination Centers in Polycrystalline Metal Halide Perovskites by Alternating Electric Field and Light
Authors: Chen Ruiyun , Li Jun , Dobrovolsky Alexander , González‐Carrero Soranyel , Gerhard Marina , Messing Maria E. , Chirvony Vladimir , Pérez‐Prieto Julia , Scheblykin Ivan G.
Published: December 2019

Metal halide perovskites are promising optoelectronic materials. Their electronic properties however are rather unstable which is often assigned to ion migration. Ion migration can be readily influenced by an electric field (EF). Here, the response of photoluminescence (PL) of individual MAPbX3 (MA = CH3NH3, X = I, Br) sub‐micrometer‐sized polycrystals to EF is studied. Alternating EF with frequency higher than 10 Hz is found to reversibly quench PL. It is proposed that an alternating EF when applied together with light increases ion migration. This leads to a shift in the equilibrium between creation and annihilation of defects toward higher concentration of nonradiative recombination centers. The PL quenching is found to increase with increasing frequency of the field. This can be rationalized by the frequency dependence of the dielectric constant, leading to stronger internal fields for high modulation frequencies compared to, e.g., a constant EF with the same external amplitude. PL quenching and enhancement observed under constant EF are hypothesized to be due to a reconfiguration of already existing nonradiative recombination centers situated on grain boundaries. The control of perovskite PL by alternating EF reported here can find applications in optoelectronic devices.
Multifunctional Silanization Interface for High‐Energy and Low‐Gassing Lithium Metal Pouch Cells
Authors: Gao Yuliang , Guo Manyi , Yuan Kai , Shen Chao , Ren Zengying , Zhang Kun , Zhao Hui , Qiao Fahong , Gu Jinlei , Qi Yaqin , Xie Keyu , Wei Bingqing
Published: December 2019

Lithium (Li) metal has attracted unprecedented attention as the ultimate anode material for future rechargeable batteries, but the electrochemical behavior (such as Li dendrites and gassing problems) in real Li metal pouch cells has received little attention. To achieve realistic high‐energy Li metal batteries, the designed solid electrolyte interface to suppress both Li dendrites and catastrophic gassing problems is urgently needed at cell level. Here, an efficient multifunctional silanization interface (MSI) is proposed for high‐energy Li metal pouch cells. Such an MSI not only guides uniform nucleation and growth of Li metal but also suppresses interfacial parasitic reactions between Li metal and electrolyte. As a result, under harsh conditions (negative to positive electrode capacity ratio of 2.96 and electrolyte weight to cathode capacity ratio of 2.7 g Ah−1), a long‐running lifespan (over 160 cycles with a capacity retention of 96% at 1 C), and low‐gassing behavior of realistic high‐energy Li metal pouch cell (1 Ah, 300 Wh kg−1) is achieved. This work opens a promising avenue toward the commercial applications of high‐energy Li metal batteries.
Characterizing the effect of exposure to microgravity on anemia: more space is worse
Authors: Trudel Guy , Shafer Jessica , Laneuville Odette , Ramsay Tim
Published: December 2019

The effects of space travel have renewed importance with space tourism and plans for long‐term missions to the moon and Mars. The study of space anemia is limited by the availability of subjects and extreme conditions. An approach using the accumulated data on human space flight may characterize space anemia. A total of 17 336 hemoglobin (Hb) concentration measures from 721 space missions and controls were used to study acute and long‐term effects of duration of exposure to space on Hb decrement. Nearly half of astronauts (48%) landing after long duration missions were anemic. Returning to Earth revealed Hb decrements whose magnitude and time to recover were dependent on exposure to space: −0.61 g/dL (4%), −0.82 g/dL (5%) and −1.66 g/dL (11%) of preflight Hb for mean exposure to space of 5.4, 11.5, and 145 days, respectively. Astronauts returning from a mean 5.4 days in space took 24 days to return to preflight Hb while astronauts 11.5 to 145 days in space took 49 days. Negative effects of microgravity on Hb persisted throughout female and male astronautsʼ terrestrial lives (−0.001 and −0.002 mg/dL Hb respectively) for every day spent in space (both P < .05). The negative effect of exposure to space was not overcome by a statistically significant effect of being an astronaut compared to controls. Exposure to space showed a dose‐response relationship with acute and chronic Hb decrements. Space anemia contributes to the deconditioning of astronauts returning to Earth, and needs to be considered for space travel to other planets, space tourism and for the care of bedridden patients who present similar changes as astronauts.
(NH4)Bi2(IO3)2F5: An Unusual Ammonium‐Containing Metal Iodate Fluoride Showing Strong Second Harmonic Generation Response and Thermochromic Behavior
Authors: Fan Huixin , Lin Chensheng , Chen Kaichuang , Peng Guang , Li Bingxuan , Zhang Ge , Long Xifa , Ye Ning
Published: December 2019

An ammonium‐containing metal iodate fluoride compound, (NH4)Bi2(IO3)2F5, featuring a two‐dimensional double‐layered framework constructed by [BiO2F5]6− and [BiO4F4]9− polyhedra, as well as [IO3]− groups, was successfully synthesized. The well‐ordered alignment of these SHG‐active units leads to an extraordinary strong SHG response of 9.2 times that of KDP. Moreover, this compound possesses a large birefringence (Δn=0.0690 at 589.3 nm), a wide energy band gap (Eg=3.88 eV), and a high laser damage threshold (LDT; 40.2×AgGaS2). In particular, thermochromic behavior was observed for the first time in this type of compound. Such multifunctional crystals will expand the application of nonlinear optical materials.
Hemipenial morphology of nine South American species of Mabuya (Scincidae: Lygosominae) with comments on the morphology of the family
Authors: Sánchez‐Martínez Paola María , Ramírez‐Pinilla Martha Patricia , Meneses‐Pelayo Elson , Nunes Pedro M. Sales
Published: December 2019

Species of the genus Mabuya are barely recognizable because of their highly conservative external morphology, resulting in unstable systematic and taxonomic status. Considering that hemipenial morphology has been extensively used as a source of systematic information for several groups of Squamata, we described the hemipenial morphology of nine species of Mabuya, searching for diagnostic features useful to taxonomic and systematic studies. To have comparative parameters within the family, we also presented the description of the hemipenes of two other Scincidae species (i.e., Trachylepis atlantica and Tiliqua rugosa). This information, together with the available literature, was analyzed in a comparative framework, allowing us to define some variation for the genus and family. The hemipenial morphology of the species of Mabuya studied is very conservative; features that show subtle variation were the shape of the protuberances present on the asulcate face of the hemipenial body and the presence and type of a lateral fold, on the body. Also, within the family, some variation was found in the shape and length of lobes, length of branches of the sulcus spermaticus, and in the kind of folds and protuberances in both faces of the lobes and hemipenial body. Although these features were not tested in a systematic context, this information suggested variations in hemipenial morphology that could contribute to taxonomic diagnostics and phylogenetic characters. The importance of obtaining proper preparations for gathering accurate information is emphasized, and the use of fresh‐killed specimens that shows fewer difficulties for the procedures of preparation is highly recommended.
Pressure loss coefficients for large‐diameter mitered elbows
Authors: Coombs Hayden J. , Johnson Michael C. , Sharp Zachary B. , Barfuss Steven L.
Published: December 2019

Data are readily available for pressure loss coefficients of various valves, meters, and pipe fittings. However, there are little to no data for large‐diameter mitered elbows. This study uses computational fluid dynamics (CFD) coupled with minimal laboratory data to determine pressure loss coefficients of large‐diameter mitered elbows with dimensions that follow ANSI/AWWA C208‐17 recommendations. The CFD methods were compared with physical data to determine the accuracy of the CFD simulations. The results suggest pressure loss coefficients are solely dependent on Reynolds number. Tabulated data and formulas for pressure loss coefficients of large‐diameter mitered data are set forth for engineering use.
Impact of histotypes on preferential organ‐specific metastasis in triple‐negative breast cancer
Authors: Li Yaming , Su Peng , Wang Yifei , Zhang Hanwen , Liang Yiran , Zhang Ning , Song Xiaojin , Li Xiaoyan , Li Jie , Yang Qifeng
Published: December 2019

Background

The distant metastasis was the most predictive characters of poor prognosis for triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC). We aimed to evaluate the correlation between patient characters and preferential distant metastatic sites (DMS) and its effects on prognosis.

Methods

Using the 2010‐2014 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER) data, patients with TNBC were classified into eight histologic subtypes. Patient characters were compared using a chi‐squared test. Logistic regression was used for identification of predictive factors. The log‐rank testing was utilized with disease‐specific survival (DSS) and overall survival (OS) as the primary outcomes.

Results

A total of 23 270 patients with TNBC were involved, including 1544 patients with distant metastatic cancer. Bone metastasis was diagnosed in 559 cases, brain metastasis in 124 cases, liver metastasis found in 369 cases and lung metastasis in 492 cases. Histologic subtypes including metaplastic breast carcinoma and invasive lobular carcinoma showed significant differences in preferential DMS compared with invasive ductal carcinoma. Furthermore, we found different histologic subtypes with specific DMS showed various prognosis. We also evaluated different DMS of specific histologic subtypes showed different prognosis.

Conclusion

Certain histologic subtypes of breast cancer are associated with preferential DMS and prognosis; this knowledge may help to further understand the mechanism of breast cancer metastasis and to monitor the prognosis of patients with TNBC.
MTFP1 overexpression promotes the growth of oral squamous cell carcinoma by inducing ROS production
Authors: Xiao Tingying , Sun Jian , Xing Zhankui , Xie Fuqiang , Yang Lan , Ding Wenjuan
Published: December 2019

Mitochondrial fission process 1 (MTFP1) is a novel nuclear‐encoded protein that promotes mitochondrial fission. Increasing lines of evidence indicate that increased mitochondrial fission is involved in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. However, the expression and biological effects of MTFP1 in cancer development is still unclear, especially in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). In this study, we first evaluated the expression of MTFP1 in 12‐paired OSCC tumor and peritumor tissues. We then explored the effects of MTFP1 knockdown or overexpression on cell growth by cell proliferation, colony formation, cell cycle, and cell apoptosis assays. Furthermore, the mechanisms by which MTFP1 promoted OSCC cell growth were explored. Our results showed that MTFP1 is frequently overexpressed in OSCC tissues. Functional experiments revealed that MTFP1 promoted the growth of OSCC cells by inducing the progression of cell cycle and suppressing cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, MTFP1 overexpression‐mediated mitochondrial fragmentation and subsequent ROS production was found to be involved in the promotion of OSCC cell growth. Collectively, our study demonstrates that MTFP1 plays a critical oncogenic role in OSCC carcinogenesis, which may serve as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of this malignance.
Laser atherectomy and drug‐coated balloons for the treatment of femoropopliteal in‐stent restenosis: 2‐Year outcomes
Authors: Kokkinidis Damianos G. , Behan Sean , Jawaid Omar , Hossain Prio , Giannopoulos Stefanos , Singh Gagan D. , Laird John R. , Valle Javier A. , Waldo Stephen W. , Armstrong Ehrin J.
Published: December 2019

Background

Femoropopliteal (FP) artery is one of the most anatomically challenging areas for sustained stent patency. The incidence of FP in‐stent restenosis (ISR) is estimated at 50% at 24 months. Prior studies have shown that lesion debulking with laser atherectomy (LA) combined with drug coated balloon (DCB) have superior outcomes compared to LA + balloon angioplasty (BA) ISR, but there have not been studies evaluating 2‐year outcomes.

Methods

This was a dual‐center retrospective cohort study that compared patients with FP‐ISR treated with LA + DCB versus LA + BA. Cox regression analysis was used to examine 2‐year outcomes of target lesion revascularization (TLR) and the composite outcome of TLR or restenosis. Multivariable analysis was performed for clinical and statistically significant (in the univariate analysis) variables.

Results

One hundred and seventeen consecutive patients with Tosaka II (n = 32) and III (n = 85) ISR were analyzed. Sixty‐six patients were treated with LA + DCB and 51 with LA + BA. The LA + DCB group had more lesions with moderate to severe calcification (58% vs. 13%; p < .0001). The LA + DCB group was more likely to be treated with the use of embolic protection devices (64% vs. 23%, p < .001) and cutting balloons (61% vs. 6%, p < .001). Bail‐out stenting rates were lower in the LA + DCB group (32% vs. 57%, p = .008). LA + DCB was superior (HR: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.34–0.9, p = .027) for the composite outcome of 2‐year TLR or restenosis. The 12‐month KM estimates for freedom from TLR or restenosis were 66% in the LA + DCB group versus 46% in the LA + BA group. The 24‐month KM estimates were 45% in the LA + DCB group versus 24% in the LA + BA group.

Conclusions

The combination of DCB + LA was associated with decreased rates of bail‐out stenting and improved 2‐year TLR or restenosis rates. Randomized clinical trials examining the DCB + LA combination for FP‐ISR are needed.
Nutritional and functional properties of durum wheat bran protein concentrate
Authors: Alzuwaid Nabeel T. , Sissons Mike , Laddomada Barbara , Fellows Christopher M.
Published: December 2019

Background and objectives

Plant industrial by‐products are relatively low cost and rich in organic material. Although these by‐products are a good source of various nutritional compounds, they represent the main disposal problem for the food industry. Wheat bran, one of the main by‐products of the wheat milling industry, contains more than 15% high‐quality proteins. However, these proteins are present in a form which is poorly digested as they are enclosed within a matrix of cell wall polysaccharides. About 15.5 million tonnes of usable protein could be recovered from bran if a commercial extraction process can be made viable. The purpose of this work was to extract protein from durum wheat bran using an alkaline acid method to study its nutritional and functional properties with the goal of using it as a fortifying material in cereal‐based foods such as pasta and bread.

Findings

Durum wheat bran protein concentrate (WBPC) was prepared by using an alkaline extraction method (pH 9.5 for two hours) followed by isoelectric precipitation (pH 4.2). Chemical, nutritional, and functional properties of WBPC were obtained. WBPC had a protein content of ~61% (protein yield 20.5%–24.8%), containing also lipids, fiber, and small quantities of starch. WBPC was enriched in phytosterols compared to wheat bran (11.59 vs. 5.14 mg/g) with β‐sitosterol the predominant (4.37 mg/g). WBPC was also enriched in all the amino acids compared to bran, especially lysine and threonine. WBPC retained some phenolic acids, but at an eightfold lower quantity than in bran and retained about half the antioxidant activity (DPPH) of bran. WBPC showed excellent functional properties in terms of high solubility over a wide range in pH and good water and fat absorption capacity. The main protein components were albumin and globulin proteins.

Conclusion

The extraction method used produced a protein concentrate in reasonable yield with high protein content enriched in essential amino acids and phytosterols compared to wheat bran with good functional properties and phenolic acids and antioxidant potential.

Significance and novelty

The nutritional and functional properties of WBPC make it a promising ingredient for various food products such as cereal and baked foods, processed meat, and beverages.
About a rare cause of a coxitis
Authors: Kaffel Dhia , Triki Wafa , Maatallah Kaouther , Ferjani Hanene , Riahi Hend , Jlalia Zied , Hamdi Wafa
Published: December 2019

OO of the acetabulum can clinically and radiologically mimic an ankylosing spondylitis (with coxitis and sacroiliitis). Management of OO include multidisciplinary approach including radiologist, rheumatologist, and orthopedist.