bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review on the Impact of World Higher Education Rankings: Institutional Competitive Competence and Institutional Competence
Authors: Dembereldorj Zoljargal
Published: April 2018

This paper discusses the relevant literature on higher education rankings and its impact on higher education institutions across the globe. The literature suggests that global university rankings impact higher education institutions both in advanced economy and developing countries to build competence to race and exist. Universities in an advanced economy are building institutional competitive competence to race in the global university rankings under the umbrella term of ‘World Class University,’ whereas universities in developing countries are building institutional competence by pursuing to build research intensive universities. The essay argues that global university rankings are shaping the field of higher education institutions, and the capacity of resources dictates universities the type of competence to build to exist: institutional competitive competence and institutional competence.
Mental Toughness in Collegiate Strength and Conditioning: Widely Used, Widely Misunderstood
Authors: Stamatis Andreas , Robinson Eric L. , Morgan Grant B.
Published: April 2018

Researchers explored the value of mental toughness (MT) for strength and conditioning coaches (SCC) for women’s basketball of a NCAA Division I conference. Eight SCCs completed a questionnaire and six participated in a semi-structured interview. Results showed that, while there is no agreement whether MT can be developed in student-athletes or about its key attributes, all coaches believe MT is of value. Further, none of the participants reported being aware of or using an instrument to measure MT. Conclusions are that MT is a widely-used but relatively unclear construct. Future research should focus on definition, measurement, and implementation issues.
Extra-articular osteochondromatosis: A collection of four clinical cases of different localization
Authors: Caruso Anna , La Macchia Riccardo , Boudabbous Sana
Published: April 2018

Synovial chondromatosis is known to be frequently intra-articular and more rarely extra-articular. We present four cases of extra-articular chondromatosis in four different localizations: in the retro-olecranon bursa, in the sheath of the flexor of hallucis longus muscle, in the extra-synovial space of the knee and within the muscle’s fibers of brachialis muscle. Plain radiography, ultrasonography, tomodensitometry and magnetic resonance imaging show imaging characteristics, which help in differential diagnosis. Surgical excision is the gold standard treatment to avoid recurrence or malignancy transformation and to achieve a normal articular mobility.
Arthroscopic Management of Tibial Spine Avulsion Fractures: Principles and Techniques
Authors: Strauss Eric J. , Kaplan Daniel James , Weinberg Maxwell E. , Egol Jonathan , Jazrawi Laith M.
Published: April 2018

Tibial spine fractures are uncommon injuries affecting the insertion of the anterior cruciate ligament on the tibia. They typically occur in skeletally immature patients aged 8 to 14 years and result from hyperextension of the knee with a valgus or rotational force. Diagnosis is based on history, physical examination, and standard radiographs. The use of MRI can identify entrapped soft tissue that may prevent reduction. Open or arthroscopic repair is indicated in patients with partially displaced fractures (>5 mm) with one third to one half of the avulsed fragment elevated, in patients who have undergone unsuccessful nonsurgical reduction and long leg casting or bracing, and in patients with completely displaced fractures. Arthroscopy offers reduced invasiveness and decreased morbidity. Suture fixation and screw fixation have produced successful results. Suture fixation can eliminate the risk of fracture fragment comminution during screw insertion, the risk of neurovascular injury, and the need for hardware removal. Suture fixation is ideal in cases in which existing comminution prevents screw fixation.
Kaebyŏk
Authors: Baker Don , Heo Seok ,   Academic Publishing
Published: April 2018

One of the distinguishing characteristics of Korea’s new religions is an expectation of kaebyŏk, a “Great Transformation” which will eliminate the many conflicts human beings are facing today and produce a world in human beings will find themselves instead in cooperative and mutually beneficial relationships with both their fellow human beings and the natural world. Kaebyŏk once referred to the creation of the world. The use of kaebyŏk in Korea to mean “re-creation” first appeared in the teachings of Ch’oe Cheu, the founder of Tonghak. It was reiterated by Kim Hang, the author of Correct Changes. Kang Ilsun, revered by the Chŭngsan family of religions, further elaborated on the reasons kaebyŏk is imminent and how we can hasten its arrival. Park Chungbin, the founder of Won Buddhism, then suggested that kaebyŏk of the material world was already happening and proposed steps we should take to ensure that we keep pace spiritually. These four Korean religious leaders stimulated an important shift in the Korean world-view which has influenced not only followers of Korea’s new religions but the spirituality of Koreans in general.
Intellectual Disability, Brain Damage, and Group-to-Individual Inferences
Authors: Hardcastle Valerie Gray ,   Bulgarian Academy of Sciences
Published: April 2018

In this essay, I home in on the difficulties with group-to-individual (G2i) inferences in neuroscience and how they impact the legal system. I briefly outline how cognitive shortcutting can distort legal decisions, and then turn my attention to G2i inferences, with a special focus on issues of intellectual disability and brain damage. I argue that judges and juries are not situated to appreciate the nuances in brain data and that they are required to make clinical decisions without clinical training. As a result, they effectively ignore those responsibilities and simply decide cases in virtue of what they already believe to be true. How judges actually make decisions in highstakes criminal cases is troubling, but they are also hamstrung in a variety of ways.
Naturalizing the subjective side of the crime
Authors: Janik Bartosz , Próchnicki Maciej ,   Bulgarian Academy of Sciences
Published: April 2018

Advancements in neuroscience cast new light on the functioning of the human mind. This is especially important within the context of criminal law, wherein consciousness plays a crucial role in determining criminal responsibility. Yet, there are some caveats in the direct application of these new findings, most of which are related to the specific conceptual framework of law based upon commonsense knowledge and (sometimes) outdated psychology. This framework has also produced different doctrines of interpretation in the systems of common and civil law. Moreover, the goals of the law are to some extent different from scientific research on the brain. The aim of this study is to assess to what extent and under what interpretation scientific knowledge concerning consciousness might be useful for legal purposes, especially for the criminal law. Our assessment is that most of the current concepts of criminal law are directly related to outdated psychological and neuroscientific theories, and that the content of those concepts should be updated according to the newest scientific findings while remaining in accordance with the primary functions of criminal law.
Setting Up an ePathology Service at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi: Joint Collaboration With Cleveland Clinic, United States
Authors: Nahal Ayoub , Batac Crystal Mildred O. , Slaw Renee J. , Bauer Thomas W.
Published: April 2018

Context.—

The production of whole slide images is the most advanced form of digital pathology, in which a high-resolution digital scanner is used to rapidly scan glass microscope slides and produce a computer-generated whole slide image that can be saved, stored in a network-attached storage device, and accessed through slide management software within the hospital domain and remotely by authorized users. Digital transformation of glass slides has revolutionized the practice of anatomic pathology by facilitating and expediting consultative services, improving clinical workflow, and becoming an indispensable tool in education and research.

Objective.—

To highlight the institutional need of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates) and the cultural background for obtaining the United Arab Emirates' first comprehensive digital pathology program; to describe a multiphase road map for achieving full implementation of this platform; and to describe the system's clinical applications and its future potential growth.

Data Sources.—

At Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, we prioritized our efforts to initiate digital consultations (eConsultations) and digital immunohistochemistry services (eIHC) with Cleveland Clinic Laboratories (Cleveland, Ohio). After this, we established an internal archiving system together with a subspecialty-based, organ-specific digital library of pathologic diseases.

Conclusions.—

We describe the strategic adoption and implementation of digital pathology into the clinical workflow of the pathology and laboratory medicine institute of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, and we highlight its impact on clinical operations, educational activities, and patient care.
Histórias de vida e biografização: pesquisa sobre as marcas formadoras de professores da região sudeste do estado de Goiás através dos memoriais de formação
Authors: Machado Cláudia , Honório Filho Wolney
Published: April 2018

Este artigo aborda os resultados da pesquisa realizada no Estágio de Pós-Doutorado, intitulada “Histórias de Vida e Biografização: Memoriais de Alunas do Curso de Pedagogia da UFG/Regional Catalão – 2015”, desenvolvido no Programa de Pós-Graduação em Educação da UFG. A proposta de pesquisa foi a análise do sentido das marcas formadoras que profesores em formação produzem quando são submetidos à escrita de memoriais. Como questões de pesquisa investigou a relação entre memória e formação docente. Utilizamos como referencial teórico-metodológico as Pesquisas (Auto)Biográficas. A metodologia desenvolvida foi uma leitura transversal para análise do relato de formação dos alunos e das alunas, no ano de 2015. Como resultados encontramos que a escrita dos memoriais possibilitaram uma descoberta de como as escolhas profissionais, as vivências de sua formação acadêmica.
Educação a serviço da alienação: projetos de lei que ameaçam o a educação transformadora sonhada por Paulo Freire
Authors: Bittencourt Rodrigo Do Prado
Published: April 2018

Este artigo busca analisar os recentes projetos de lei criados para reprimir o pensamento crítico nas escolas brasileiras e submetê-las plenamente às exigências e aos pressupostos neoliberais. São variadas as formas de se atentar contra a liberdade e autonomia de educandos e educadores. Elas vão desde a abolição de disciplinas fundamentais para uma formação cidadã, como a Sociologia e a Filosofia, até a criminalização dos docentes de Humanas, passando pelo estabelecimento de uma educação produtivista, voltada apenas para notas. Todas estas medidas instituem oficialmente a opção por aquilo que Paulo Freire, o maior educador brasileiro, tanto criticou: uma educação alienante a serviço do grande capital.
Efficiency of the Ocluch©MAD in the treatment of patients with OSAS and its association with craniofacial morphology
Authors: Becerra Nilda , Firmani Mónica , Valencia Emilia , Cazenave Lissette , Sotomayor Claudio , Espinosa Paula , Salinas Juan Carlos , Florea Diana
Published: April 2018

Objective: This study uses polysomnography and the Epworth sleepiness scale to assess the efficiency of the Ocluch©MAD in patients with Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAS), on overall respiratory disturbance indices (RDI), supine respiratory disturbance index (SRDI), minimum oxygen saturation, microarousals, CT90 (or ID90), sleep efficacy and snoring. These data are associated with skeletal class and facial biotype in order to establish predictive parameters for its effectiveness according to craniofacial morphology.

Methods: 22 adult patients (between 38 and 60 years of age) of both sexes (7 women, 15 men) diagnosed with OSAS in the Hospital de Carabineros de Chile (HOSCAR) Neurology Unit were recruited and given the Ocluch© MAD in the hospital’s dental clinic, for its use during a three-month period. Patients were assess at the beginning and in the end of this period.

Results: 87.5% of patients with mild OSAS achieved the success criterion and normalization; 71.5% of patients with moderate OSAS achieved the success criterion and 33.3% achieved normalization; 85.7% of patients with severe OSAS achieved the success criterion and 57.1% achieved normalization. All class I and mesofacial patients achieved normalization, but class II patients had the greatest proportional improvement.

Conclusions: The Ocluch MAD is an efficient low-cost alternative that should be considered among the therapeutic arsenal for a multidisciplinary approach to treating this disease.
Sleep respiratory disturbances during the ascent to Mount Aconcagua
Authors: Ortiz-Naretto Alvaro Emilio , Pereiro Miriam Patricia , Ernst Glenda , Borsini Eduardo Enrique
Published: April 2018

Introduction: Mountaineers exposed to hypobaric hypoxia (HH) show high-altitude periodic breathing (PB).

Objective: To analyze high-altitude PB during the ascent of Mount Aconcagua (Argentina).

Materials and Methods: Descriptive study in healthy volunteers using respiratory polygraphy (RP) at different altitudes.

Results: We studied 8 andinist, mean age: 36 years old (25-51), body mass index (BMI) of 23.6 (20.9-28.7) and 22.77 (20.9-27.7) upon return,p<0.01. RP without PB showed a lower Oxygen Desaturation Index (ODI) and a lower Apnea-Hypopnea-Index (AHI); 5.43 (0 - 20) versus 45.95 (2-122) p<0.001 and 3.9 (0-15.5) versus 44.35 (4-115) p<0.001. AHI increased with altitude at the expense of central apneas and hypopneas: p<0.05.

Conclusion: High-altitude PB is frequent above 2,581m.a.s.l. And it is characterized by short cycles. None of the mountaineers showed PB at baseline; however, high-altitude PB occurred in all subjects above 4,900 m.a.s.l
A rare differential diagnosis of excessive daytime sleepiness - Artery of Percheron territory infarct
Authors: Oliveira Giuliano da Paz , Truzzi Giselle , Lima Fernando Cascio Barros , Coelho Fernando Morgadinho Santos
Published: April 2018

Stroke is an example of neurological diseases that can commonly drives Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS). Extensive strokes with brain edema can leave a brain herniation and coma. Other causes of EDS after stroke are strategic lesions at Thalamus and brainstein. A 56-year-old man, right handed, with hypertension and hypercholesterolemia was admitted at Emergency Room due to 5 days onset of EDS, memory impairment, and left-sided weakness. A brain magnetic resonance imaging showed paramedian thalamic hyperintensity with rostral midbrain hyperintensity extending along the pial surface of the interpeduncular fossa. The artery of Percheron (AP) is an unusual anatomical variation that originates from the posterior cerebral artery and irrigates the paramedian regions of the thalamus and part of the midbrain. It is important the clinical suspicions with detailed drowsy patients history. Awareness of the clinical and neuroimaging features of this stroke syndrome is essential for timely diagnosis and appropriate management.
Apnea-hypopnea index in sleep studies and the risk of over-simplification
Authors: Borsini Eduardo , Nogueira Facundo , Nigro Carlos
Published: April 2018

According to recent reports, sleep disorders affect 30% of the adult population and 5-10% of children. Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome (OSA) has a considerable epidemiological impact and demand for consultation is growing in our community. Therefore, it is necessary to know the principles of interpretation of diagnostic methods. A suspicion of OSA requires confirmation. According to the guidelines of the Argentine Association of Respiratory Medicine, polysomnography (PSG) is the gold standard for OSA diagnosis, while home sleep testing (HST) can be accepted as a comparatively effective method depending on the clinical situation of the patient. This article questions the use of AHI (apnea-hypopnea index) as the only measurement needed to diagnose OSA and assess its severity. In fact, it is surprising that, despite the large mass of data analyzed during sleep studies, current practices only focus on AHI. More than four decades have passed since OSA was first described. Our tendency to oversimplify complex conditions may prevent us from gaining a deeper and more thorough understanding of OSA. The development and validation of OSA severity scoring systems based on multiple parameters is still a pending issue.
A new paradigm for science: nurturing the ecosystem
Authors: Lancaster Alexander K , Thessen Anne E , Virapongse Arika
Published: April 2018

The institutions of science are in a state of flux. Declining public funding for basic science, the increasingly corporatized administration of universities, increasing “adjunctification” of the professoriate and poor academic career prospects for postdoctoral scientists indicate a significant mismatch between the reality of the market economy and expectations in higher education for science. Solutions to these issues typically revolve around the idea of fixing the career "pipeline", envisioned being a pathway from higher-education training to a coveted permanent position, and then up a career ladder until retirement. In this paper, we propose and describe the term “ecosystem” as an appropriate way to conceptualize today’s scientific training and the professional landscape of the scientific enterprise. First, we highlight the issues around the concept of “fixing the pipeline”. Then, we articulate our ecosystem metaphor by describing a series of concrete design patterns that draw on peer-to-peer, decentralized, co-operative, and commons-based approaches to creating a new dynamic scientific enterprise.
Using herbaria to study global environmental change
Authors: Lang Patricia L M , Willems Franziska M , Scheepens J F , Burbano Hernán A , Bossdorf Oliver
Published: April 2018

During the last centuries, humans have transformed global ecosystems. With their temporal dimension, herbaria provide the otherwise scarce long-term data crucial to track ecological and evolutionary changes over these centuries of global change. The sheer size of herbaria, together with their increasing digitization and the possibility of sequencing DNA from the preserved plant material, makes them invaluable resources to understand ecological and evolutionary species responses to global environmental change. Following the chronology of global change, we highlight how herbaria can inform about long-term effects on plants of at least four of the main drivers of global change: pollution, habitat change, climate change, and invasive species. We summarize how herbarium specimens so far have been used in global change research, discuss future opportunities and challenges posed by the nature of these data, and advocate for an intensified use of these 'windows into the past' for global change research and beyond.
Modelling Truck Weigh Stations’ Locations based on Truck Traffic Flow and Overweight Violation: A Case Study in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Kulović Mirsad , Injac Zoran , Davidović Slavko , Posavac Ivo
Published: April 2018

The number of registered commercial freight vehicles is constantly increasing, increasing therefore as well the traffic load on the roads in Bosnia and Herzegovina. A significant part of freight vehicles moving along the main and regional roads are overloaded and cause significant damage to road infrastructure, affect road safety and result in an increase of emissions of harmful gases for people and the environment. The overloading rate is extremely high, in particular with 5-axle trucks representing 58.7%. The research showed that the increased overload level ranges from 10-20% of the maximum permissible weight. The importance of load limits was recognized early in the history of road development. This interrelation led directly to limitations on vehicle loads, and laws were enacted in many countries to establish the maximum allowable motor vehicle sizes and weights. Strict enforcement of motor vehicle size and weight laws is a step toward reducing motor vehicle size and weight violations, heavy truck accidents, and, even more, improving road maintenance, rehabilitation expenditures and road safety. Thus, based on the applied model the objective of this paper is to evaluate and optimize the locations of truck weigh stations on the road network of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Neural Network Based Vehicular Location Prediction Model for Cooperative Active Safety Systems
Authors: Dörterler Murat , Bay Ömer Faruk
Published: April 2018

Safety systems detect unsafe conditions and provide warnings for travellers to take action and avoid crashes. Estimation of the geographical location of a moving vehicle as to where it will be positioned next with high precision and short computation time is crucial for identifying dangers. To this end, navigational and dynamic data of a vehicle are processed in connection with the data received from neighbouring vehicles and infrastructure in the same vicinity. In this study, a vehicular location prediction model was developed using an artificial neural network for cooperative active safety systems. The model is intended to have a constant, shorter computation time as well as higher accuracy features. The performance of the proposed model was measured with a real-time testbed developed in this study. The results are compared with the performance of similar studies and the proposed model is shown to deliver a better performance than other models.
VEGF signaling regulates the fate of obstructed capillaries in mouse cortex
Authors: Reeson Patrick , Choi Kevin , Brown Craig E
Published: April 2018

Cortical capillaries are prone to obstruction, which over time, could have a major impact on brain angioarchitecture and function. The mechanisms that govern the removal of these obstructions and what long-term fate awaits obstructed capillaries, remains a mystery. We estimate that ~0.12% of mouse cortical capillaries are obstructed each day (lasting >20 min), preferentially in superficial layers and lower order branches. Tracking natural or microsphere-induced obstructions revealed that 75–80% of capillaries recanalized within 24 hr. Remarkably, 30% of all obstructed capillaries were pruned by 21 days, including some that had regained flow. Pruning involved regression of endothelial cells, which was not compensated for by sprouting. Using this information, we predicted capillary loss with aging that closely matched experimental estimates. Genetic knockdown or inhibition of VEGF-R2 signaling was a critical factor in promoting capillary recanalization and minimizing subsequent pruning. Our studies reveal the incidence, mechanism and long-term outcome of capillary obstructions which can also explain age-related capillary rarefaction.
May the force be with you
Authors: Weng Shinuo , Wallingford John B
Published: April 2018

Understanding the coordination of the forces generated in embryos by two processes, convergent extension and convergent thickening, is key to understanding how a hollow sphere of cells develops into an elongated embryo.
Flying Beyond: Diverse Sáminesses and Be(com)ing Sámi
Authors: Guttorm Hanna Ellen
Published: April 2018

This poststructuralist autoethnographic writing and wandering happens in the context of Sáminess(es) and gets inspired by new materialist and posthumanist theories. This is a porous and fragmentary (non) writing with memories and affects, illustrations and nomadic wonderings. Through sharing her, and never only her, messy and rhizomatic story the author hopes to create space for multiple Sáminesses and the celebration of tiny and provocative differences. This is different autethnographic beginnings, no conclusions, but for multiple connections and towards love and affirmative critique.
Shifting reef fish assemblages along a depth gradient in Pohnpei, Micronesia
Authors: Coleman Richard R. , Copus Joshua M. , Coffey Daniel M. , Whitton Robert K. , Bowen Brian W.
Published: April 2018

Mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) continue to be understudied, especially in island locations spread across the Indo-Pacific Ocean. Pohnpei is the largest island in the Federated States of Micronesia, with a well-developed barrier reef, and steep slopes that descend to more than 1,000 m. Here we conducted visual surveys along a depth gradient of 0 to 60 m in addition to video surveys that extend to 130 m, with 72 belt transects and 12 roving surveys using closed-circuit rebreathers, to test for changes in reef fish composition from shallow to mesophotic depths. We observed 304 fish species across 47 families with the majority confined to shallow habitat. Taxonomic and trophic positions at 30 m showed similar compositions when compared against all other depths. However, assemblages were comprised of a distinct shallow (<30 m) and deep (>30 m) group, suggesting 30 m as a transition zone between these communities. Shallow specialists had a high probability of being herbivores and deep specialists had a higher probability of being planktivores. Acanthuridae (surgeonfishes), Holocentridae (soldierfishes), and Labridae (wrasses) were associated primarily with shallow habitat, while Pomacentridae (damselfishes) and Serranidae (groupers) were associated with deep habitat. Four species may indicate Central Pacific mesophotic habitat:Chromis circumaurea, Luzonichthys seaver, Odontanthias borbonius,and an undescribed slopefish (Symphysanodon sp.). This study supports the 30 m depth profile as a transition zone between shallow and mesophotic ecosystems (consistent with accepted definitions of MCEs), with evidence of multiple transition zones below 30 m. Disturbances restricted to either region are not likely to immediately impact the other and both ecosystems should be considered separately in management of reefs near human population centers.
Chemoselective labeling and site‐specific mapping of 5‐formylcytosine as a cellular nucleic acid modification
Authors: Dietzsch Julia , Feineis Doris , Höbartner Claudia
Published: April 2018

DNA methylation has a profound impact on the regulation of gene expression in normal cell development, and aberrant methylation has been recognized as a key factor in the pathogenesis of human diseases such as cancer. The discovery of modified nucleobases arising from 5‐methylcytosine (5mC) through consecutive oxidation to give 5‐hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), 5‐formylcytosine (5fC), and 5‐carboxylcytosine (5caC) has stimulated intense research efforts regarding the biological functions of these epigenetic marks. This Review focuses on the sensitive detection and quantitation of 5fC in DNA and RNA by chemoselective labeling, which aims at discriminating between 5fC and its thymine counterpart 5‐formyluracil (5fU), and summarizes single‐base resolution sequencing methods for locus‐specific mapping of 5mC and its oxidized derivatives.
Structural basis of the bacteriophage TP901‐1 CI repressor dimerization and interaction with DNA
Authors: Rasmussen Kim K. , Varming Anders K. , Schmidt Simon N. , Frandsen Kristian E. H. , Thulstrup Peter W. , Jensen Malene Ringkjøbing , Lo Leggio Leila
Published: April 2018

Temperate bacteriophages are known for their bistability, which in TP901‐1 is controlled by two proteins, CI and MOR. Clear 1 repressor (CI) is hexameric and binds three palindromic operator sites via an N‐terminal helix‐turn‐helix domain (NTD). A dimeric form, such as the truncated CI∆58 investigated here, is necessary for high‐affinity binding to DNA. The crystal structure of the dimerization region (CTD1) is determined here, showing that it forms a pair of helical hooks. This newly determined structure is used together with the known crystal structure of the CI‐NTD and small angle X‐ray scattering data, to determine the solution structure of CI∆58 in complex with a palindromic operator site, showing that the two NTDs bind on opposing sides of the DNA helix.
The immunoglobulin‐like domain of neuregulins potentiates ErbB3/HER3 activation and cellular proliferation
Authors: Centa Ariana , Rodríguez‐Barrueco Ruth , Montero Juan Carlos , Pandiella Atanasio
Published: April 2018

The neuregulins (NRGs) represent a large family of membrane‐anchored growth factors, whose deregulation may contribute to the pathogenesis of several tumors. In fact, targeting of NRG‐activated pathways has demonstrated clinical benefit. To improve the efficacy of anti‐NRG therapies, it is essential to gain insights into the regions of NRGs that favor their pro‐oncogenic properties. Here, we have addressed the protumorigenic impact of different NRG domains. To do this, deletion mutants affecting different NRG domains were expressed in 293 and MCF7 cells. Of the five forms studied, only the wild‐type and a mutant lacking the Ig‐like domain (NRGΔIg) were properly sorted to the plasma membrane. Both forms were released as soluble forms to the culture media. However, the mutant NRGΔIg failed to efficiently activate HER2 and HER3 receptors, signaling pathways, and cell proliferation when compared to wild‐type NRG. Treatment with trastuzumab, a humanized antibody used in the breast cancer clinic, inhibited the constitutive activation of HER2, HER3, and downstream signaling in MCF7 cells constitutively expressing wild‐type NRG. In contrast, this treatment had a marginal effect on MCF7‐NRGΔIg cells. This study demonstrates that the Ig‐like region of NRGs exerts an important role in their capability to activate ErbB/HER receptors and mitogenic responses. Strategies aimed at targeting NRGs should consider that fact to improve neutralization of the pro‐oncogenic properties of NRGs.
Commissioning an in‐room mobile CT for adaptive proton therapy with a compact proton system
Authors: Oliver Jasmine A. , Zeidan Omar , Meeks Sanford L. , Shah Amish P. , Pukala Jason , Kelly Patrick , Ramakrishna Naren R. , Willoughby Twyla R.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

To describe the commissioning of AIRO mobile CT system (AIRO) for adaptive proton therapy on a compact double scattering proton therapy system.

Methods

A Gammex phantom was scanned with varying plug patterns, table heights, and mAs on a CT simulator (CT Sim) and on the AIRO. AIRO‐specific CT‐stopping power ratio (SPR) curves were created with a commonly used stoichiometric method using the Gammex phantom. A RANDO anthropomorphic thorax, pelvis, and head phantom, and a CIRS thorax and head phantom were scanned on the CT Sim and AIRO. Clinically realistic treatment plans and nonclinical plans were generated on the CT Sim images and subsequently copied onto the AIRO CT scans for dose recalculation and comparison for various AIRO SPR curves. Gamma analysis was used to evaluate dosimetric deviation between both plans.

Results

AIRO CT values skewed toward solid water when plugs were scanned surrounded by other plugs in phantom. Low‐density materials demonstrated largest differences. Dose calculated on AIRO CT scans with stoichiometric‐based SPR curves produced over‐ranged proton beams when large volumes of low‐density material were in the path of the beam. To create equivalent dose distributions on both data sets, the AIRO SPR curve's low‐density data points were iteratively adjusted to yield better proton beam range agreement based on isodose lines. Comparison of the stoichiometric‐based AIRO SPR curve and the “dose‐adjusted” SPR curve showed slight improvement on gamma analysis between the treatment plan and the AIRO plan for single‐field plans at the 1%, 1 mm level, but did not affect clinical plans indicating that HU number differences between the CT Sim and AIRO did not affect dose calculations for robust clinical beam arrangements.

Conclusion

Based on this study, we believe the AIRO can be used offline for adaptive proton therapy on a compact double scattering proton therapy system.
Corrosion Behaviors of Long‐Period Stacking Ordered Structure in Mg Alloys Used in Biomaterials: A Review
Authors: Zong Ximei , Zhang Jinshan , Liu Wei , Zhang Yatong , You Zhiyong , Xu Chunxiang
Published: April 2018

The long‐period stacking ordered (LPSO) phases have distinctive microstructures and significant effect on the promotion of mechanical properties of Mg alloys, which have received considerable attention not only as industrial materials but also as biodegradable implant materials recently. By now, numerous researchers devote to study the effects of the microstructures of LPSO phases on the mechanical properties of Mg alloys. But a few of them reveal the relationship between LPSO phases and corrosion behaviors of Mg alloys. Therefore, the knowledge of characteristics of LPSO phases and their effects on biocorrosion behaviors is essential. In this review, the current understanding about the structure, growth, transformation, and deformation of LPSO phases in Mg alloys are summarized. The recent developments of biocorrosion behaviors of Mg alloys are reviewed. The information on the immersion and corrosion mechanisms of Mg alloys are provided. The role of LPSO structures on corrosion behaviors of Mg alloys is intensively analyzed. Based on the current understandings, some problems are pointed out and suggestions for further research of Mg alloys with LPSO structures using as biomedical materials are provided.
Atomic Structures of Precipitates in Al–Mg–Si Alloys with Small Additions of Other Elements
Authors: Saito Takeshi , Mørtsell Eva A. , Wenner Sigurd , Marioara Calin D. , Andersen Sigmund J. , Friis Jesper , Matsuda Kenji , Holmestad Randi
Published: April 2018

In Al–Mg–Si alloys, additions of only a few weight percent of Mg and Si enable formation of hardening precipitates during heat treatment. The precipitation is complex and is influenced by chemical compositions and thermo‐mechanical treatment. Structural analysis at the atomic scale has played an important role for understanding the Al–Mg–Si system. This review paper gives a summary of the influence of elements on the precipitate structures of Al–Mg–Si alloys at the atomic scale. The structures are modified by small additions of different elements, but all the encountered precipitates are structurally connected with the Si network, except for the main hardening phase which exhibit a partially discontinuous Si network. The influence of the selected elements (Li, Cu, Zn, Ge, Ag, Ni, Co, and Au) is discussed in detail.
3D Microfluidic Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) Chips Fabricated by All‐Femtosecond‐Laser‐Processing for Real‐Time Sensing of Toxic Substances
Authors: Bai Shi , Serien Daniela , Hu Anming , Sugioka Koji
Published: April 2018

A novel all‐femtosecond‐laser‐processing technique is proposed for the fabrication of 2D periodic metal nanostructures inside 3D glass microfluidic channels, which have applications to real‐time surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). In the present study, 3D glass microfluidic channels are fabricated by femtosecond‐laser‐assisted wet etching. This is followed by the space‐selective formation of Cu‐Ag layered thin films inside the microfluidic structure via femtosecond laser direct writing ablation and electroless metal plating. The Cu‐Ag films are subsequently nanostructured by irradiation with linearly polarized beams to form periodic surface structures. This work demonstrates that a double exposure to laser beams having orthogonal polarization directions can generate arrays of layered Cu‐Ag nanodots with dimensions as small as 25% of the laser wavelength. The resulting SERS microchip is able to detect Rhodamine 6G, exhibiting an enhancement factor of 7.3 × 108 in conjunction with a relative standard deviation of 8.88%. This 3D microfluidic chip is also found to be capable of the real‐time SERS detection of Cd2+ ions at concentrations as low as 10 ppb in the presence of crystal violet. This technique shows significant promise for the fabrication of high performance microfluidic SERS platforms for the real‐time sensing of toxic substances with ultrahigh sensitivity.
Bringing Hetero‐Polyacid‐Based Underwater Adhesive as Printable Cathode Coating for Self‐Powered Electrochromic Aqueous Batteries
Authors: Li Xiaodong , Du Zhanglei , Song Zhengyi , Li Bao , Wu Lixin , Liu Qingping , Zhang Houyu , Li Wen
Published: April 2018

The advent of electrochromic aqueous batteries represents a promising trend in the development of smart and environmentally friendly energy storage devices. However, it remains a great challenge to integrate electrochromic, flexible, and patterned features into a single battery unit through a simple operation. Herein, an entirely new class of hetero‐polyacid‐based underwater adhesives is designed and synthesized by combining the redox properties of hetero‐polyacids and the water‐resistant binding of adhesives in single system. The hybrid underwater adhesives not only serve as printable electrode coatings in aqueous solution but also offer unique electrochromic feature for guiding the convenient fabrication of self‐powered electrochromic aqueous battery. The reversible discharging and H2O2 assistant charging behavior is also demonstrated. This kind of wet and electrochromic adhesive with excellent toleration of mechanical deformation offers great promise in developing flexible and smart energy storage configuration, which provides a user‐device interface platform allowing one to evaluate the battery's charging state based on the naked eye–visible change in color.
Dynamic Hyaluronan Hydrogels with Temporally Modulated High Injectability and Stability Using a Biocompatible Catalyst
Authors: Lou Junzhe , Liu Fang , Lindsay Christopher D. , Chaudhuri Ovijit , Heilshorn Sarah C. , Xia Yan
Published: April 2018

Injectable and biocompatible hydrogels have become increasingly important for cell transplantation to provide mechanical protection of cells during injection and a stable scaffold for cell adhesion post‐injection. Injectable hydrogels need to be easily pushed through a syringe needle and quickly recover to a gel state, thus generally requiring noncovalent or dynamic cross‐linking. However, a dilemma exists in the design of dynamic hydrogels: hydrogels with fast exchange of cross‐links are easier to eject using less force, but lack long‐term stability; in contrast, slow exchange of cross‐links improves stability, but compromises injectability and thus the ability to protect cells under flow. A new concept to resolve this dilemma using a biocompatible catalyst to modulate the dynamic properties of hydrogels at different time points of application to have both high injectability and high stability is presented. Hyaluronic acid based hydrogels are formed through dynamic covalent hydrazone cross‐linking in the presence of a biocompatible benzimidazole‐based catalyst. The catalyst accelerates the formation and exchange of hydrazone bonds, enhancing injectability, but rapidly diffuses away from the hydrogel after injection to retard the exchange and improve the long‐term stability for cell culture.
High Rate Production of Clean Water Based on the Combined Photo‐Electro‐Thermal Effect of Graphene Architecture
Authors: Cui Linfan , Zhang Panpan , Xiao Yukun , Liang Yuan , Liang Hanxue , Cheng Zhihua , Qu Liangti
Published: April 2018

The use of abundant solar energy for regeneration and desalination of water is a promising strategy to address the challenge of a global shortage of clean water. Progress has been made to develop photothermal materials to improve the solar steam generation performance. However, the mass production rate of water is still low. Herein, by a rational combination of photo‐electro‐thermal effect on an all‐graphene hybrid architecture, solar energy can not only be absorbed fully and transferred into heat, but also converted into electric power to further heat up the graphene skeleton frame for a much enhanced generation of water vapor. As a result, the unique graphene evaporator reaches a record high water production rate of 2.01–2.61 kg m−2 h−1 under solar illumination of 1 kW m−2 even without system optimization. Several square meters of the graphene evaporators will provide a daily water supply that is enough for tens of people. The combination of photo‐electro‐thermal effect on graphene materials offers a new strategy to build a fast and scalable solar steam generation system, which makes an important step towards a solution for the scarcity of clean water.
PLGA Spherical Nucleic Acids
Authors: Zhu Shengshuang , Xing Hang , Gordiichuk Pavlo , Park Jungsoo , Mirkin Chad A.
Published: April 2018

A new class of polymer spherical nucleic acid (SNA) conjugates comprised of poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticle (NP) cores is reported. The nucleic acid shell that defines the PLGA‐SNA exhibits a half‐life of more than 2 h in fetal bovine serum. Importantly, the PLGA‐SNAs can be utilized to encapsulate a hydrophobic model drug, coumarin 6, which can then be released in a polymer composition‐dependent tunable manner, while the dissociation rate of the nucleic acid shell remains relatively constant, regardless of core composition. Like prototypical gold NP conjugate SNAs, PLGA‐SNAs freely enter Raw‐Blue cells and can be used to activate toll‐like receptor 9 in a sequence‐ and dose‐dependent manner. Taken together, the data show that this novel nanoconstruct provides a means for controlling the release kinetics of encapsulated cargos in the context of the SNA platform, which may be useful for developing combination therapeutics.
Ultrafast Single‐Band Upconversion Luminescence in a Liquid‐Quenched Amorphous Matrix
Authors: Moon Byeong‐Seok , Kim Hyoun‐Ee , Kim Dong‐Hwan
Published: April 2018

Achieving single‐band upconversion is a challenging but rewarding approach to attain optimal performance in diverse applications, such as multiplexed molecular imaging, security coding, and nonlinear photonic devices. Here, highly efficient single‐band upconversion luminescence in the green spectral regime (16.4 times increase in emission at 525 nm) accomplished by realizing minimal energy loss from two‐photon upconversion in a newly synthesized liquid‐quenched amorphous matrix is reported. In contrast to previously reported single‐band upconversion, this phenomenon originates from the elevated transition probability of the host sensitive transition via changes in the host matrix's microstructure. The elevated transition probability facilitates ultrafast decay of upconversion luminescence with decay times as short as 0.2 µs, the fastest decay ever reported. The material in this study therefore has strong potential for use in photonic devices demanding high upconversion efficiency with a fast response time, which to date has been inaccessible using upconversion materials.
Molecular Cancer Imaging in the Second Near‐Infrared Window Using a Renal‐Excreted NIR‐II Fluorophore‐Peptide Probe
Authors: Wang Weizhi , Ma Zhuoran , Zhu Shoujun , Wan Hao , Yue Jingying , Ma Huilong , Ma Rui , Yang Qinglai , Wang Zihua , Li Qian , Qian Yixia , Yue Chunyan , Wang Yuehua , Fan Linyang , Zhong Yeteng , Zhou Ying , Gao Hongpeng , Ruan Junshan , Hu Zhiyuan , Liang Yongye , Dai Hongjie
Published: April 2018

In vivo molecular imaging of tumors targeting a specific cancer cell marker is a promising strategy for cancer diagnosis and imaging guided surgery and therapy. While targeted imaging often relies on antibody‐modified probes, peptides can afford targeting probes with small sizes, high penetrating ability, and rapid excretion. Recently, in vivo fluorescence imaging in the second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II, 1000–1700 nm) shows promise in reaching sub‐centimeter depth with microscale resolution. Here, a novel peptide (named CP) conjugated NIR‐II fluorescent probe is reported for molecular tumor imaging targeting a tumor stem cell biomarker CD133. The click chemistry derived peptide‐dye (CP‐IRT dye) probe afforded efficient in vivo tumor targeting in mice with a high tumor‐to‐normal tissue signal ratio (T/NT > 8). Importantly, the CP‐IRT probes are rapidly renal excreted (≈87% excretion within 6 h), in stark contrast to accumulation in the liver for typical antibody‐dye probes. Further, with NIR‐II emitting CP‐IRT probes, urethra of mice can be imaged fluorescently for the first time noninvasively through intact tissue. The NIR‐II fluorescent, CD133 targeting imaging probes are potentially useful for human use in the clinic for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
Long‐Term Active Corrosion Protection of Damaged Coated‐AA2024‐T3 by Embedded Electrospun Inhibiting Nanonetworks
Authors: Dieleman Christian D. , Denissen Paul J. , Garcia Santiago J.
Published: April 2018

In this work, a new concept is introduced for active corrosion protection at damaged sites aiming at overcoming existing limitations of currently proposed strategies based on dispersed inhibitor‐loaded nanocontainers in coatings. The underlying principle is based on the formation of low‐density and/or humidity responsive interconnected paths of inhibitor in the coating, what is called inhibiting nanonetworks. Such an approach allows for (on‐demand) long‐term local supply of corrosion inhibitor at the damage site. For the proof‐of‐concept, water responsive inhibiting nanonetworks based on polyvinyl alcohol and two known efficient corrosion inhibitors for AA2024‐T3 (cerium chloride and lithium carbonate) using electrospinning are developed. The inhibiting nanonetworks are obtained by subsequently embedding the electrospun fiber mats in thermoset epoxy coatings applied on AA2024‐T3. The coated panels are scratched and exposed to NaCl solutions for a month while continuously monitoring the protective properties electrochemically and optically in a hyphenated setup. The effect of the corrosion inhibitor type and the partial crosslinking of the mat on release and protection are analyzed. Protection levels at relatively big damaged sites are obtained for at least a month immersion thereby proving the benefits of high inhibitor quantities continuously released in time.
Chlorotrimethylsilane and Sodium Iodide: A Remarkable Metal‐Free Association for the Desulfurization of Benzylic Dithioketals under Mild Conditions
Authors: Zhao Guangkuan , Yuan Ling‐Zhi , Alami Mouad , Provot Olivier
Published: April 2018

A novel metal‐free process allowing the reductive desulfurization of various benzylic dithioketals to afford diarylmethane and benzylester derivatives with good to excellent yields is reported. At room temperature, this mild reduction process requires only the use of TMSCl and NaI in CH2Cl2 and tolerates a large variety of functional groups.

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FeOx‐Based Materials for Electrochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Ma Jingyi , Guo Xiaotian , Yan Yan , Xue Huaiguo , Pang Huan
Published: April 2018

Iron oxides (FeOx), such as Fe2O3 and Fe3O4 materials, have attracted much attention because of their rich abundance, low cost, and environmental friendliness. However, FeOx, which is similar to most transition metal oxides, possesses a poor rate capability and cycling life. Thus, FeOx‐based materials consisting of FeOx, carbon, and metal‐based materials have been widely explored. This article mainly discusses FeOx‐based materials (Fe2O3 and Fe3O4) for electrochemical energy storage applications, including supercapacitors and rechargeable batteries (e.g., lithium‐ion batteries and sodium‐ion batteries). Furthermore, future perspectives and challenges of FeOx‐based materials for electrochemical energy storage are briefly discussed.