bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent‐based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction for the simultaneous enantiomeric analysis of five β‐agonists in the environmental samples
Authors: Liu Yongjing , Xu Wen , Zhang Hua , Xu Wei
Published: June 2019

In this study, a simple and effective method was developed for the enantiomeric analysis of five β‐agonists (terbutaline, clorprenaline, tulobuterol, clenbuterol, and salbutamol) in water samples using deep eutectic solvent (DES) based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction and chiral LC‐MS. In such a framework, different kinds of hydrophobic DESs were tailored to examine their extraction ability for five β‐agonists from aqueous sample. After an initial screening, the primary factors affecting the extraction recovery of DES based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction, such as hydrogen‐bond acceptor/hydrogen‐bond donor ratio, DES volume, type and volume of disperser solvent and so on, were investigated and optimized. Finally, the established method was validated and found to be linear, precise, and accurate. The method was successfully applied to analyze the five β‐agonists in water samples, which will help better understand the behavior of individual enantiomer and make accurate risk assessment on the ecosystem.
Bioaccumulation in Functionally Different Species: Ongoing Input of PCBs with Sediment Deposition to Activated Carbon Remediated Bed Sediments
Authors: Gidley Philip T. , Kennedy Alan J. , Lotufo Guilherme R. , Wooley Allyson H. , Melby Nicolas L. , Ghosh Upal , Burgess Robert M. , Mayer Philipp , Fernandez Loretta A. , Schmidt Stine N. , Wang Alice P. , Bridges Todd S. , Ruiz Carlos E.
Published: June 2019

Activated carbon-amended bed sediments reduced total polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) accumulation in 3 functionally different marine species, sandworms (Alitta virens), hard clams (Mercenaria mercenaria), and sheepshead minnows (Cyprinodon variegatus), during both clean and contaminated ongoing sediment inputs. Mesocosm experiments were conducted for 90 d to evaluate native, field-aged bed sediment PCBs, and ongoing input PCBs added 3 times a week. Simulated in situ remediation applied an activated carbon dose equal to the native organic carbon content that was premixed into the bed sediment for 1 mo. The highest bioaccumulation of native PCBs was in worms that remained in and directly ingested the sediment, whereas the highest bioaccumulation of the input PCBs was in fish that were exposed to the water column. When periodic PCB-contaminated sediment inputs were introduced to the water column, the activated carbon remedy had minimal effect on the input PCBs, whereas the native bed PCBs still dominated bioaccumulation in the control (no activated carbon). Therefore, remediation of only the local bedded sediment in environmental systems with ongoing contaminant inputs may have lower efficacy for fish and other pelagic and epibenthic organisms. While ongoing inputs continue to obscure remedial outcomes at contaminated sediment sites, the present study showed clear effectiveness of activated carbon amendment remediation on native PCBs despite these inputs but no remediation effectiveness for the input-associated PCBs (at least within the present study duration). Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2326–2336. Published 2019 Wiley Periodicals Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
White matter plasticity and maturation in human cognition
Authors: Bells Sonya , Lefebvre Jérémie , Longoni Giulia , Narayanan Sridar , Arnold Douglas L. , Yeh Eleun Ann , Mabbott Donald J.
Published: June 2019

White matter plasticity likely plays a critical role in supporting cognitive development. However, few studies have used the imaging methods specific to white matter tissue structure or experimental designs sensitive to change in white matter necessary to elucidate these relations. Here we briefly review novel imaging approaches that provide more specific information regarding white matter microstructure. Furthermore, we highlight recent studies that provide greater clarity regarding the relations between changes in white matter and cognition maturation in both healthy children and adolescents and those with white matter insult. Finally, we examine the hypothesis that white matter is linked to cognitive function via its impact on neural synchronization. We test this hypothesis in a population of children and adolescents with recurrent demyelinating syndromes. Specifically, we evaluate group differences in white matter microstructure within the optic radiation; and neural phase synchrony in visual cortex during a visual task between 25 patients and 28 typically developing age‐matched controls. Children and adolescents with demyelinating syndromes show evidence of myelin and axonal compromise and this compromise predicts reduced phase synchrony during a visual task compared to typically developing controls. We investigate one plausible mechanism at play in this relationship using a computational model of gamma generation in early visual cortical areas. Overall, our findings show a fundamental connection between white matter microstructure and neural synchronization that may be critical for cognitive processing. In the future, longitudinal or interventional studies can build upon our knowledge of these exciting relations between white matter, neural communication, and cognition.
Segmental tracheal resection (nine rings) and reconstruction for carcinoma showing thymus‐like differentiation (CASTLE) of the thyroid
Authors: Tran Justin , Zafereo Mark
Published: June 2019

Background

Tumors invading the trachea are rare, and although literature often suggests five tracheal rings as the maximum limit of tracheal resection with primary closure, longer tracheal resections and primary closure are possible in many patients. One such locally invasive tumor with propensity for tracheal invasion is carcinoma showing thymic‐like differentiation (CASTLE) of the thyroid.

Methods

A 53‐year‐old woman presents with a 2‐year history of hoarseness, newly diagnosed right vocal cord paralysis, and a thyroid mass with significant tracheal and esophageal muscularis invasion. Pathology suggests CASTLE. Segmental nine‐ring tracheal resection with primary closure is illustrated, demonstrating important tracheal reconstructive techniques.

Results

At the completion of total thyroidectomy and central compartment dissection (not illustrated), the area of tracheoesophageal tumor involvement is isolated. First, the disease is sharply dissected from the tracheal wall and esophagus, excising 4 cm of esophageal muscularis. Next, a plane is established between the membranous trachea and esophagus. The intact left recurrent laryngeal nerve is released from the left tracheoesophageal groove. Substernal thoracic tracheal attachments are released, and a suprahyoid muscle release is performed. Tracheal rings 1 through 9 are resected en bloc, and circumferential tracheal closure is illustrated, with careful attention to technique of tracheal closure and management of the endotracheal tube. Finally, given the degree of tracheoesophageal resection and indication for postoperative radiation therapy, a pectoralis muscle flap is rotated over the trachea and esophagus.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first video demonstration of a segmental resection and reconstruction of a CASTLE of the thyroid in the peer‐reviewed literature. Unique to this case is the significant length of tracheal resection with primary closure, as well as demonstration of concurrent esophageal muscularis resection. Resection and reconstruction of longer segments of cervical trachea require stepwise surgical technique to safely preserve recurrent laryngeal nerve (s), while releasing the larynx and thoracic trachea to minimize tension on the tracheal closure.
Tax shocks with high and low uncertainty
Authors: Bertolotti Fabio , Marcellino Massimiliano
Published: June 2019

We assess whether the effects of fiscal policy depend on the extent of uncertainty in the economy. Focusing on tax shocks, identified by the narrative series by Romer and Romer (American Economic Review, 2010, 100(3), 763‐801), and various measures of uncertainty, we use a Threshold VAR model to allow for dependence of the effects of the tax shocks on both the level of uncertainty and the sign of the shock. We find that the economy responds more positively to tax cuts during periods of low uncertainty, while, in response to tax increases, the response of main aggregates is more negative in more uncertain times. We argue that controlling for monetary policy in fiscal VARs is important to avoid omitted variable bias. We interpret our empirical evidence in light of existing theoretical contributions.
Facile synthesis of zwitterionic organoaluminum complexes containing formally dianionic homoscorpionate ligands
Authors: Su Wei‐Jia , Hsu Yu‐Lin , Ruan Jian‐Wen , Liang Lan‐Chang
Published: June 2019

A series of zwitterionic aluminum complexes of the type AlX[(2‐O‐3,5‐tBu2C6H2)3PZ] (AlX [O3PZ]; X = Cl, Me, Et, and iBu; Z = H, Me) containing C3‐symmetric, formally dianionic, facially tridentate ligands [O3PZ]2− were prepared and structurally characterized. Although serendipitous, these complexes can be readily synthesized by partial protonolysis of AlX3 with equal molar (2‐HO‐3,5‐tBu2C6H2)3P (H3[O3P]) or [(2‐HO‐3,5‐tBu2C6H2)3p.m.e](OTf) ({H3[O3PMe]}OTf) in THF at 25°C or elevated temperatures. Alcoholysis of AlMe[O3PMe] (2) with an excess amount of MeOH in refluxing toluene generates AlOMe[O3PMe] (10). Salt metathesis of AlCl[O3PMe] (6) with nBuM (M = Li, MgCl) and NaOR (R = tBu, Ph) in ethereal solutions affords AlnBu[O3PMe] (9) and AlOR[O3PMe] (R = tBu (11), Ph (12)), respectively. Reactivity of 10, 11, and 12 with respect to catalytic ring‐opening polymerization of ε‐caprolactone is assessed.
Co‐expression analysis provides important module and pathways of human dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Xiao Junhui , Li Fang , Yang Qianzhao , Zeng Xue‐Feng , Ke Zun‐Ping
Published: June 2019

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart disease that injured greatly to the people wordwide. Systemic co‐expression analysis for this cancer is still limited, although massive clinic experiments and gene profiling analyses had been well performed previously. Here, using the public RNA‐Seq data “GSE116250” and gene annotation of Ensembl database, we built the co‐expression modules for DCM by Weighted Gene Co‐Expression Network Analysis, and investigated the function enrichment and protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network of co‐expression genes of each module by Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery and Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins database, respectively. First, 5,000 genes in the 37 samples were screened and 11 co‐expression modules were conducted. The number of genes for each module ranged from 77 to 936, with a mean of 455. Second, interaction relationships of hub‐genes between pairwise modules showed great differences, suggesting relatively high‐scale independence of the modules. Third, functional enrichments of the co‐expression modules exhibited great differences. We found that genes in module 3 were significantly enriched in the pathways of focal adhesion and ubiquitin‐mediated proteolysis. This module was inferred as the key module involved in DCM. In addition, PPI analysis revealed that the genes HSP90AA1, CTNNB1, MAPK1, GART, and PPP2CA owned the largest number of adjacency genes, unveiling that they may function importantly during the occurrence of DCM. Focal adhesion and ubiquitin‐mediated proteolysis play important roles in human DCM.
Jaundice, hepatosplenomegaly, and portal lymphadenopathy in a middle‐aged female: Is it lymphoma?
Authors: Elford Alexander T , Dwyer Jeremy P , Fanning Scott B
Published: June 2019

Primary biliary cholangitis is a rare liver disease which often progresses to cirrhosis. It can be difficult to diagnose as patients are often asymptomatic initially or merely complain of fatigue or pruritus. We describe the case of a 56‐year‐old female who presented with a 2‐month history of painless jaundice and constitutional symptoms. Computed tomography scan showed massive hepatosplenomegaly with abdominal lymphadenopathy. Liver biopsy and a strongly positive antimitochondrial antibody titer confirmed the diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis.
Morphology of the genital organs of the female red‐rumped agouti (Dasyprocta leporina, Linnaeus, 1758) during estrous cycle phases and in advanced pregnancy
Authors: de Oliveira Gleidson Benevides , de Araújo Júnior Hélio Noberto , dos Santos Sousa Rejane , Bezerra Ferdinando Vinícius Fernandes , dos Santos Amilton Cesar , de Moura Carlos Eduardo Bezerra , Silva Alexandre Rodrigues , de Oliveira Rocha Hugo Alexandre , de Oliveira Moacir Franco
Published: June 2019

The study investigated the gross and microscopic anatomy of the genital organs of 20 agoutis at different stages of the estrous cycle and four in the final trimester of pregnancy. Specimens were euthanized and their reproductive organs were fixed in a 4% paraformaldehyde or 2.5% glutaraldehyde solution and submitted to routine histological techniques for light and scanning electron microscopy. In the ovary, during the proestrus phase, we observed developing follicles and corpus luteum (CL) in regression; during estrus, there were Graafian follicles; during metestrus, there was a hemorrhagic corpus, whereas in diestrus, there was a mature CL. The uterus was partially double because the cervix was cranially septate but caudally, the septum disappeared, forming a single ostium that opened into the vagina. Changes occurred along the estrous cycle in the uterine and vaginal epithelia, that is, an increase in the uterine epithelium height accompanied by an increase of thickness of the vaginal epithelium during the follicular phase and a decrease of thickness of both epithelia during the luteal phase. The endometrial lining was composed of a simple cuboidal epithelium to simple columnar epithelium with basal nuclei. The vaginal mucosa consisted of epithelium that varied from nonkeratinized stratified squamous (luteal phase) to keratinized stratified squamous (follicular phase). The clitoris was external to the vagina. It presented two protruding lateral keratinized spicules and a centralized urethra, with no common parts between the urinary and genital tracts. Anatomical and histological changes were observed mainly in the cervix, vagina and spicules of the clitoris during the EC.
Physiological aging at striatal synapses
Authors: Walsh John P. , Akopian Garnik
Published: June 2019

Mike Levine's body of work guides thinking on how the basal ganglia process information to create coordinated movements and skill learning throughout the life span and in disease. This special issue is a nod to Mike's career and a well‐deserved gesture by the neuroscience community thanking him for the impact he has made on many people's careers and the field of basal ganglia physiology. This paper reviews how aging impacts basal ganglia processing with a focus on single cell and synaptic physiology. This review begins with the work Mike did with his collaborators Nat Buchwald, Chester Hull and Jay Schneider. These early studies paved the way for subsequent studies on changes in synaptic processing that occur with aging in the basal ganglia. The primary focus of this review is aging at corticostriatal synapses. Corticostriatal synapses show reduced expression of both short‐term and long‐term synaptic potentiation. The roles of age‐related changes in calcium homeostasis, vesicle cycling, dopamine modulation, and NMDA receptor function in aging's effect on synaptic plasticity are discussed. The article ends with a review of mitochondrial aging theory as it applies to age‐induced changes in corticostriatal synaptic function.
Multi‐strain yeast fraction product supplementation can alleviate weaning stress and improve performance and health of piglets raised under low sanitary conditions
Authors: Upadhaya Santi D , Bravo de Laguna Fernando , Bertaud Bruno , Kim In‐Ho
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

This study was conducted to evaluate the health benefits to weaning pigs, raised under low sanitary conditions, of dietary supplementation with a multi‐strain yeast fraction product (Cyberlindnera jadinii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae). In total, 160 weaning pigs (7.21 ± 1.05 kg) were randomly allotted to two dietary treatments in a 6‐week feeding trial. The dietary treatments included a corn‐soybean meal‐based basal diet (CON) and CON + 2 g kg−1 multi‐strain yeast fraction product (MsYF) during weeks 1–2 and 0.4 g kg−1 MsYF during weeks 3–6.

RESULTS

The MsYF supplementation increased (P < 0.05) body weight (BW) at day 42 and average daily gain (ADG) during days 1–14 and days 1–42 (P < 0.05) compared to CON. The total tract digestibility of dry matter (DM), fecal Lactobacillus counts, and serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration at day 42 were higher (P < 0.05) in pigs fed a MsYF supplemented diet. The concentration of serum haptoglobin in pigs receiving a MsYF‐supplemented diet was higher (P < 0.05) at days 7, 14, and 42 than those receiving CON. The mRNA expression for INF‐γ and TNF‐α genes were lower (P < 0.05) at days 14 and 7 respectively and the expression of IL‐6 and TLR‐2 genes was lower (P < 0.01) at days 7 and 14 in pigs fed an MsFY supplemented diet than those fed CON.

CONCLUSION

Supplementation with a multi‐strain yeast fraction product had a positive effect on ADG during the early post‐weaning period and led to better health in weaning pigs. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of Label Impurities in Recycling on the Mechanical Properties of PC/ABS Materials
Authors: Kühnel Tim , Wagner Florian , Berthold Anja , Langer Beate , De Keyzer Jozefien
Published: June 2019

The current share of plastic in waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is considerable approximately 25%. This potential should be used by recycling to create economic, environmental and financial benefits. In order to investigate the influence of potential label impurities that can occur as contaminations in recycled plastics, a testing series based on controlled contamination and shredding of virgin polycarbonate (PC)/acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) was developed. PC/ABS granules and paper labels as well as two different types of polypropylene (PP1 and PP2) in different concentrations were stepwise processed and injection moulded into specimens. The influence of the three different impurities and their concentrations on the mechanical properties of the plastic were investigated.
Abnormal involuntary movement scale in tardive dyskinesia: Minimal clinically important difference
Authors: Stacy Mark , Sajatovic Martha , Kane John M. , Cutler Andrew J. , Liang Grace S. , O'Brien Christopher F. , Correll Christoph U.
Published: June 2019

Background

A minimal clinically important difference has not been established for the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale in patients with tardive dyskinesia. Valbenazine is a vesicular monoamine transporter 2 inhibitor approved for the treatment of tardive dyskinesia in adults. Efficacy in randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trials was defined as the change from baseline in Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale total score (sum of items 1‐7).

Objectives

To estimate an minimal clinically important difference for the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale using valbenazine trial data and an anchor‐based method.

Methods

Data were pooled from three 6‐week double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trials: KINECT (NCT01688037), KINECT 2 (NCT01733121), and KINECT 3 (NCT02274558). Valbenazine doses were pooled for analyses as follows: “low dose,” which includes 40 or 50 mg/day; and “high dose,” which includes 75 or 80 mg/day. Mean changes from baseline in Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale total score were analyzed in all participants (valbenazine‐ and placebo‐treated) with a Clinical Global Impression of Change‐Tardive Dyskinesia or Patient Global Impression of Change score of 1 (very much improved) to 3 (minimally improved).

Results

The least squares mean improvement from baseline to week 6 in Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale total score was significantly greater with valbenazine (low dose: –2.4; high dose: –3.2; both, P < 0.001) versus placebo (–0.7). An minimal clinically important difference of 2 points was estimated based on least squares mean changes in Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale total score in participants with a Clinical Global Impression of Change‐Tardive Dyskinesia score ≤3 at week 6 (mean change: –2.2; median change: –2) or Patient Global Impression of Change score ≤3 at week 6 (mean change: –2.0; median change: –2).

Conclusions

Results from an anchor‐based method indicate that a 2‐point decrease in Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale total score may be considered clinically important. © 2019 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Frameworks for quality improvement in pediatric intensive care: A concise review
Authors: Kourtis Susan A. , Burns Jeffrey P.
Published: June 2019

Quality improvement programs focused on improving care in intensive care units have become standard at pediatric hospitals around the world over the past several decades. However, the methodology or framework by which these programs assess quality is not standard. This review describes the varying quality improvement frameworks that have been promoted by prominent pediatric and critical care societies and the strengths and limitations of these frameworks, as well as several notable international collaboratives in this domain.
Controllable synthesis of monodisperse nonspherical colloidal particles with cavity structures
Authors: Sun Yangyi , Zhang Hua , Han Weichang , Huang Huajun , Qi Dongming
Published: June 2019

This article reports a facile controllable approach to prepare monodisperse nonspherical colloidal particles with cavity structures by one‐pot soap‐free emulsion polymerization of styrene (St), 3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (MPS), and acrylic acid (AA). In our strategy, only by varying the feeding time of AA to the as‐polymerized St and MPS, the nonspherical latex particles with single cavity of different surface roughness and multicavity structures could be successfully synthesized. The depth and width of the cavity can be also easily controlled by adjusting the amount of MPS and AA. A possible formation mechanism is proposed on the basis of experimental results. These nonspherical colloidal particles, which have controllable cavity structures, are good building blocks or templates for the construction of functional coating and complex colloidal architectures. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1645–1652
Quantification of electron correlation effects: Quantum Information Theory vs Method of Increments
Authors: Stemmle Christian , Paulus Beate
Published: June 2019

Understanding electron correlation is crucial for developing new concepts in electronic structure theory, especially for strongly correlated electrons. We compare and apply two different approaches to quantify correlation contributions of orbitals: Quantum Information Theory (QIT) based on a Density Matrix Renormalization Group (DMRG) calculation and the Method of Increments (MoI). Although both approaches define very different correlation measures, we show that they exhibit very similar patterns when being applied to a polyacetelene model system. These results suggest one may deduce from one to the other, allowing the MoI to leverage from QIT results by screening correlation contributions with a cheap (“sloppy”) DMRG with a reduced number of block states. Or the other way around, one may select the active space in DMRG from cheap one‐body MoI calculations.
Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis
Authors: Garg Ravindra Kumar , Mahadevan Anita , Malhotra Hardeep Singh , Rizvi Imran , Kumar Neeraj , Uniyal Ravi
Published: June 2019

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a slowly progressive brain disorder caused by mutant measles virus. SSPE affects younger age groups. SSPE incidence is proportional to that of measles. High‐income countries have seen substantial decline in SSPE incidence following universal vaccination against measles. SSPE virus differs from wild measles virus. Measles virus genome recovered from the autopsied brain tissues demonstrates clustered mutations in virus genome particularly in the M gene. These mutations destroy the structure and functioning of the encoded proteins. Complete infectious virus particle has rarely been recovered from the brain. Human neurons lack required receptor for entry of measles virus inside the neurons. Recent in vitro studies suggest that mutations in F protein confer hyperfusogenic properties to measles virus facilitating transneuronal viral spread. The inflammatory response in the brain leads to extensive tissue damage. Clinically, SSPE is characterized by florid panencephalitis. Clinically, SSPE is characterized by cognitive decline, periodic myoclonus, gait abnormalities, vision loss, and ultimately to a vegetative state. Chorioretinitis is a common ocular abnormality. Electroencephalography (EEG) shows characteristic periodic discharges. Neuroimaging demonstrates periventricular white matter signal abnormalities. In advanced stages, there is marked cerebral atrophy. Definitive diagnosis requires demonstration of elevated measles antibody titers in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Many drugs have been used to stabilize the course of the disease but without evidence from randomized clinical trials. Six percent of patients may experience prolonged spontaneous remission. Fusion inhibitor peptide may, in the future, be exploited to treat SSPE. A universal vaccination against measles is the only proven way to tackle this menace currently.
Inhibition of Phosphoinositide-3-Kinase Signaling Promotes the Stem Cell State of Trophoblast
Authors: Lee Cheryl Q.E. , Bailey Alexander , Lopez-Tello Jorge , Sferruzzi-Perri Amanda N. , Okkenhaug Klaus , Moffett Ashley , Rossant Janet , Hemberger Myriam
Published: June 2019

Trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) are a heterogeneous cell population despite the presence of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and transforming growth factor β (TGFB) as key growth factors in standard culture conditions. To understand what other signaling cascades control the stem cell state of mouse TSCs, we performed a kinase inhibitor screen and identified several novel pathways that cause TSC differentiation. Surprisingly, inhibition of phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K) signaling increased the mRNA and protein expression of stem cell markers instead, and resulted in a tighter epithelial colony morphology and fewer differentiated cells. PI3K inhibition could not substitute for FGF or TGFB and did not affect phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase, and thus acts independently of these pathways. Upon removal of PI3K inhibition, TSC transcription factor levels reverted to normal TSC levels, indicating that murine TSCs can reversibly switch between these two states. In summary, PI3K inhibition reduces the heterogeneity and seemingly heightens the stem cell state of TSCs as indicated by the simultaneous upregulation of multiple key marker genes and cell morphology. Stem Cells  2019;37:1307–1318
Becoming an urban science teacher: How beginning teachers negotiate contradictory school contexts
Authors: Marco‐Bujosa Lisa M. , McNeill Katherine L. , Friedman Audrey A.
Published: June 2019

Teacher attrition rates are high in urban schools, particularly for new science teachers. Little research has addressed how science teachers can be prepared to effectively bridge the divide between preparation and urban teaching. We utilized the theoretical frameworks of social justice, identity, and structure‐agency to investigate this transition. Specifically, we examined the Urban Science Teacher Preparation (USTP) program as a critical case of “well‐prepared” urban science teachers. Study participants included one cohort of four teachers. Data, primarily from individual interviews, a focus group, and written reflections, were collected from participants during pre‐service preparation and their first year of teaching. The USTP program nurtured the development of a professional identity aligned with teaching science for social justice, with a unique emphasis on identifying structural injustices in schools. Findings indicate all four teachers used their identities to negotiate school policies and procedures that restricted student opportunities to learn science through three processes: deconstructing the context, positioning themselves within and against the context, and enacting their identities. These findings suggest the importance of USTP programs to provide teacher candidates with political clarity for teaching for social justice and sustained induction support to resist school socialization pressures.
Digital Transformation in Health Care: Augmented Reality for Hands-Free Service Innovation
Authors: Klinker Kai , Wiesche Manuel , Krcmar Helmut
Published: June 2019

Health care professionals regularly require access to information systems throughout their daily work. However, existing smart devices like smartphones and tablets are difficult to use at the point of care, because health care professionals require both hands during their work. Following a design science research approach including ethnographic fieldwork and prototype tests with focus groups, we find that Augmented Reality smart glass applications offer potential for service innovation in the health care sector. Our smart glass prototype supports health care professionals during wound treatment by allowing them to document procedures hands-free while they perform them. Furthermore, we investigate the use of audio based and physical interaction with the smart glasses in a within-subjects design experiment.
Education Indicators for Internal Medicine Point-of-Care Ultrasound: a Consensus Report from the Canadian Internal Medicine Ultrasound (CIMUS) Group
Authors:   On behalf of the Canadian Internal Medicine Ultrasound (CIMUS) Group, Ambasta Anshula , Balan Marko , Mayette Michael , Goffi Alberto , Mulvagh Sharon , Buchanan Brian , Montague Steven , Ruzycki Shannon , Ma Irene W. Y.
Published: June 2019

Background

Curriculum development and implementation for internal medicine point-of-care ultrasound (IM POCUS) continues to be a challenge for many residency training programs. Education indicators may provide a useful framework to support curriculum development and implementation efforts across programs in order to achieve a consistent high-quality educational experience.

Objective

This study seeks to establish consensus-based recommendations for education indicators for IM POCUS training programs in Canada.

Design

This consensus study uses a modified nominal group technique for voting in the initial round, followed by two additional rounds of online voting, with consensus defined as agreement by at least 80% of the participants.

Participants

Participants were 22 leaders with POCUS and/or education expertise from 13 Canadian internal medicine residency programs across 7 provinces.

Main Measures

Education indicators considered were those that related to aspects of the POCUS educational system, could be presented by a single statistical measure, were readily understood, could be reliably measured to provide a benchmark for measuring change, and represented a policy issue. We excluded a priori indicators with low feasibility, are impractical, or assess learner reactions. Candidate indicators were drafted by two academic internists with post-graduate training in POCUS and medical education. These indicators were reviewed by two internists with training in quality improvement prior to presentation to the expert participants.

Key Results

Of the 52 candidate education indicators considered, 6 reached consensus in the first round, 12 in the second, and 4 in the third round. Only 5 indicators reached consensus to be excluded; the remaining indicators did not reach consensus.

Conclusions

The Canadian Internal Medicine Ultrasound (CIMUS) group recommends 22 education indicators be used to guide and monitor internal medicine POCUS curriculum development efforts in Canada.
Open Science and the Science-Society Relationship
Authors: Lakomý Martin , Hlavová Renata , Machackova Hana
Published: June 2019

Nowadays, the prevailing trend in the science-society relationship is to engage with the broader public, which is beneficial for the public, scientific institutes, scientific findings, and the legitimacy of science as a whole. This article provides a broad review of the rapidly growing research on Open Science and identifies the gaps in the current knowledge for future research. The review focuses on the science-society relationship, such that knowledge from this field is summarised and systematised. Insight into the most salient topics, including science communication, public engagement with science, public cognition of science, and challenges and potential unintended consequences connected to interactions with the public are examined. The first section of the paper focuses on science communication which involves efforts and approaches to inform the public about science by the most effective means. The section on public engagement reviews how scientists and scientific institutions are increasingly involved in direct interactions with the public and different groups of stakeholders to make science more open. The section focusing on public cognition of science provides information about public knowledge, perception, and trust regarding science, which both determines and is formed by public engagement. Last, risks, ethical issues, and data issues connected to the implementation of Open Science principles are reviewed, as there are many unintended consequences of Open Science which are examined by this current research. In conclusion, research covering the science-society relationship is rapidly growing. However, it brings multiple challenges as well as opportunities which are captured and discussed in a variety of existing studies. This article provides a coherent overview of this field in order to bring more comprehensible knowledge to scientists, scientific institutions, and outreach professionals.
Cryoconite on a glacier on the north-eastern Tibetan plateau: light-absorbing impurities, albedo and enhanced melting
Authors: LI YANG , KANG SHICHANG , YAN FANGPING , CHEN JIZU , WANG KUN , PAUDYAL RUKUMESH , LIU JINGSHI , QIN XIANG , SILLANPÄÄ MIKA
Published: June 2019

Cryoconite is a dark-coloured granular sediment that contains biological and mineralogical components, and it plays a pivotal role in geochemistry, carbon cycling and glacier mass balance. In this work, we collected cryoconite samples from Laohugou Glacier No. 12 (LHG) on the north-eastern Tibetan Plateau during the summer of 2015 and measured the spectral albedo. To explore the impacts of this sediment on surface ablation, the ice melting differences between the cryoconite-free (removed) ice and the intact layers were compared. The results showed that the mean concentrations of black carbon (BC), organic carbon (OC) and total iron (Fe) in the LHG cryoconite were 1.28, 11.18 and 39.94 mg g−1, respectively. BC was found to play a stronger role in solar light adsorption than OC and free Fe. In addition, ice covered by cryoconite exhibited the lowest mean reflectance (i.e., <0.1). Compared with the cryoconite-free ice surface, cryoconite effectively absorbed solar energy and enhanced glacial melting at a rate of 2.27–3.28 cm d−1, and free Fe, BC and OC were estimated to contribute 1.01, 0.99 and 0.76 cm d−1, respectively. This study provides important insights for understanding the role of cryoconite in the glacier mass balance of the northern Tibetan Plateau.
The potential to strengthen temperature reconstructions in ecoregions with limited tree line using a multispecies approach
Authors: Alexander M. Ross , Pearl Jessie K. , Bishop Daniel A. , Cook Edward R. , Anchukaitis Kevin J. , Pederson Neil
Published: June 2019

Tree-ring reconstructions of temperature often target trees at altitudinal or latitudinal tree line where annual growth is broadly expected to be limited by and respond to temperature variability. Based on this principal, regions with sparse tree line would seem to be restricted in their potential to reconstruct past temperatures. In the northeastern United States, there are only two published temperature reconstructions. Previous work in the region reconstructing moisture availability, however, has shown that using a greater diversity of species can improve reconstruction model skill. Here, we use a network of 228 tree-ring records composed of 29 species to test the hypothesis that an increase in species diversity among the pool of predictors improves reconstructions of past temperatures. Chamaecyparis thyoides alone explained 31% of the variability in observed cool-season minimum temperatures, but a multispecies model increased the explained variance to 44%. Liriodendron tulipifera, a species not previously used for temperature reconstructions, explained a similar amount of variance as Chamaecyparis thyoides (12.9% and 20.8%, respectively). Increasing the species diversity of tree proxies has the potential for improving reconstruction of paleotemperatures in regions lacking latitudinal or elevational tree lines provided that long-lived hardwood records can be located.
Norms, institutions and freedom of speech in the US, the UK and Australia
Authors: Gelber Katharine
Published: June 2019

While it has become accepted that norms can act in institution-like ways, a highly valued norm that has not been examined is free speech. Can free speech be conceptualised as acting in institution-like ways? If it can, what does this illuminate about processes of policy change? I analyse policy change between 2001 and 2011 in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia, a period during which significant new limits were introduced on free speech in relation to national security. In addition to showing how free speech acted in institution-like ways, the analysis suggests three implications: norms can both act in institution-like ways and be subject to change in interaction with other institutions; a broad, cultural level institution can mask policy change at the narrow, rule-based level even where the latter contradicts the former; and complexity and variation in speech regulation can be understood as consequences of the to-be-expected variability in the institutionalisation of a norm.
Kinematic Design Optimization of an Eight Degree-of-Freedom Upper-Limb Exoskeleton
Authors: Zeiaee Amin , Soltani-Zarrin Rana , Langari Reza , Tafreshi Reza
Published: June 2019

This paper studies the problem of optimizing the kinematic structure of an eight degree-of-freedom upper-limb rehabilitation exoskeleton. The objective of optimization is achieving minimum volume and maximum dexterity in the workspace of daily activities specified by a set of upper-arm configurations. To formulate the problem, a new index is proposed for effective characterization of kinematic dexterity for wearable robots. Additionally, a set of constraints are defined to ensure that the optimal design can cover the desired workspace of the exoskeleton, while singular configurations and physical interferences are avoided. The formulated multi-objective optimization problem is solved using an evolutionary algorithm (Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II) and the weighted sum approach. Among the resulted optimal points, the point with least sensitivity with respect to the variations of design variables is chosen as the final design.
Newly Recognized Stuttering in Three Young Children Following the Hojedk Earthquake in Iran
Authors: Jafari Hamid , Mohamadi Mahan , Haghjoo Asghar , Heidari Mohammad
Published: June 2019

Natural disasters, particularly earthquakes, in addition to physical complications, have always had psychological consequences for those affected by them. Stuttering is one of the psychological consequences of shocking events. After a 6.6 magnitude earthquake in Hojedk, Kerman, Iran, two 5-year-old children and a 4-year-old child with symptoms of discontinuous speech (including repeated sound, syllable, and words) were referred to the Kerman Welfare Organization’s rehabilitation center (Kerman, Iran). After history-taking, it became clear that the children had begun to stutter after the earthquake due to fear and stress. Considering the importance of negative emotional experiences in the onset of stuttering, it cannot really be said with certainty that the negative experience of the earthquake initiated the stuttering. Rather, the stuttering had not been present before the earthquake and appeared after the event. These cases indicate the importance of psychosocial support and speech therapy after disasters, especially for children that have higher psychological vulnerability than other age groups.
Combined Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy Techniques for A Rapid Assessment of the Effect and Cell Viability of Scenedesmus sp. DE2009 Under Metal Stress
Authors: Millach Laia , Villagrasa Eduard , Solé Antonio , Esteve Isabel
Published: June 2019

Phototrophic microorganisms are the dominant populations in microbial mats, which play an important role in stabilizing sediments, such as happens in the Ebro Delta. These microorganisms are exposed to low metal concentrations over a long period of time. Distinct methods have been used to evaluate their toxic effect on the preservation of these ecosystems. Nevertheless, most of these techniques are difficult to apply in isolated phototrophs because (i) they usually form consortia with heterotrophic bacteria, (ii) are difficult to obtain in axenic cultures, and (iii) do not grow on solid media.

In this study, and for the first time, a combination of fast, non-invasive, and in vivo Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) techniques were applied in a consortium of Scenedesmus sp. DE2009 to analyze its physiological state and viability under metal stress conditions. Microalga was more resistant to Pb followed by Cr and Cu. However, in multimetal combinations, the presence of Cu negatively affected microalga growth. Additionally, the inhibitory concentration (IC) values were also calculated by CLSM pigment analysis. The result determines a higher degree of toxicity for Cu and Cr in comparison to Pb. The high sensitivity of these CLSM-methods to detect low concentrations allows consideration of Scenedesmus sp. DE2009 as a good bioindicator of metal pollution in natural environments.
Absence of Age‐Related Trends in Stable Oxygen Isotope Ratios From Oak Tree Rings
Authors: Duffy Josie E. , McCarroll Danny , Loader Neil J. , Young Giles H. F. , Davies Darren , Miles Daniel , Bronk Ramsey Christopher
Published: June 2019

The potential for age‐related trends in the stable oxygen isotope ratios of latewood alpha cellulose was investigated in samples of living oak trees and historic building timbers from the UK. When the series are examined individually, it is clear that the strongest trends in individual trees and timbers reflect concurrent trends in climate. Nonclimatic trends are very small and represent random noise that can be removed by averaging. If the same data are analyzed using the more conventional approach of aligning the series by ring number and fitting a regression line, so that the magnitude of the age trend is based on the slope of the mean and the statistical significance on the correlation coefficient, the results are very different. We demonstrate that this conventional approach regularly produces spurious age trends with grossly inflated probabilities, because of offsets in the mean values of series of different length. We conclude that there is no need to detrend stable oxygen isotope series from individual trees or timbers of oak from the UK and that to do so would remove important climatic information. Long isotope chronologies can safely be constructed by combining data from multiple individual trees, or by pooling material from trees prior to chemical treatment and isotopic measurement. Age‐related trends may occur in other species or in other regions, but where they have been identified using the conventional “slope of the mean” approach they should be reassessed using the “mean of the slope” approach.
Correction: S1PR1 drives a feedforward signalling loop to regulate BATF3 and the transcriptional programme of Hodgkin lymphoma cells
Authors: Vrzalikova K , Ibrahim M , Vockerodt M , Perry T , Margielewska S , Lupino L , Nagy E , Soilleux E , Liebelt D , Hollows R , Last A , Reynolds G , Abdullah M , Curley H , Care M , Krappmann D , Tooze R , Allegood J , Spiegel S , Wei W , Woodman C B J , Murray P G
Published: June 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Efficacy and safety of dosage-escalation of low-dosage esaxerenone added to a RAS inhibitor in hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes and albuminuria: a single-arm, open-label study
Authors: Itoh Hiroshi , Ito Sadayoshi , Rakugi Hiromi , Okuda Yasuyuki , Nishioka Satoshi
Published: June 2019

The stimulation of mineralocorticoid receptors is linked to the development of hypertension and cardiovascular or renal damage in patients with diabetes, and the blockade of these receptors may be an effective treatment option. This open-label study with a 12-week treatment period assessed the antihypertensive (primary) and antialbuminuric (secondary) efficacy and safety of esaxerenone as an add-on therapy to a renin–angiotensin system inhibitor in hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes and albuminuria (urinary albumin-creatinine ratio 30 to <1000 mg/g•Cr). Esaxerenone was administered over 12 weeks at a starting dosage of 1.25 mg/day, which was gradually titrated to 2.5 mg/day and 5 mg/day at weeks 4, 6, or 8 according to the dosage-escalation criteria based on serum K+ levels, the estimated glomerular filtration rate, and the likelihood/occurrence of hypotension. Of the 51 patients enrolled, 44 (86.3%) reached an esaxerenone dosage of 2.5 or 5 mg/day. The changes from the baseline in sitting systolic and diastolic blood pressures were −13.7 mmHg (p < 0.05) and −6.2 mmHg (p < 0.05), respectively. Significant decreases in blood pressure occurred regardless of age, baseline systolic blood pressure, glycated hemoglobin level, and estimated glomerular filtration rate. The urinary albumin-creatinine ratio decreased by 32.4% from the baseline (p < 0.05). Two consecutive serum K+ measurements ≥ 5.5 mEq/L occurred in one patient but resolved after dosage reduction. Esaxerenone showed antihypertensive and antialbuminuric effects and a low risk of hyperkalemia with dosage titration from 1.25 mg in Japanese hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes and albuminuria receiving a renin–angiotensin system inhibitor.