bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary diversification of secondary mechanoreceptor cells in tunicata
Authors: Rigon Francesca , Stach Thomas , Caicci Federico , Gasparini Fabio , Burighel Paolo , Manni Lucia
Published: June 2013

Background

Hair cells are vertebrate secondary sensory cells located in the ear and in the lateral line organ. Until recently, these cells were considered to be mechanoreceptors exclusively found in vertebrates that evolved within this group. Evidence of secondary mechanoreceptors in some tunicates, the proposed sister group of vertebrates, has recently led to the hypothesis that vertebrate and tunicate secondary sensory cells share a common origin. Secondary sensory cells were described in detail in two tunicate groups, ascidians and thaliaceans, in which they constitute an oral sensory structure called the coronal organ. Among thaliaceans, the organ is absent in salps and it has been hypothesised that this condition is due to a different feeding system adopted by this group of animals. No information is available as to whether a comparable structure exists in the third group of tunicates, the appendicularians, although different sensory structures are known to be present in these animals.

Results

We studied the detailed morphology of appendicularian oral mechanoreceptors. Using light and electron microscopy we could demonstrate that the mechanosensory organ called the circumoral ring is composed of secondary sensory cells. We described the ultrastructure of the circumoral organ in two appendicularian species,Oikopleura dioicaandOikopleura albicans, and thus taxonomically completed the data collection of tunicate secondary sensory cells. To understand the evolution of secondary sensory cells in tunicates, we performed a cladistic analysis using morphological data. We constructed a matrix consisting of 19 characters derived from detailed ultrastructural studies in 16 tunicate species and used a cephalochordate and three vertebrate species as outgroups.

Conclusions

Our study clearly shows that the circumoral ring is the appendicularian homologue of the coronal organ of other tunicate taxa. The cladistic analysis enabled us to reconstruct the features of the putative ancestral hair cell in tunicates, represented by a simple monociliated cell. This cell successively differentiated into the current variety of oral mechanoreceptors in the various tunicate lineages. Finally, we demonstrated that the inferred evolutionary changes coincide with major transitions in the feeding strategies in each respective lineage.
Determination of the apoptotic index in osteosarcoma tissue and its relationship with patients prognosis
Authors: Wu Xing , Cheng Biao , Cai Zheng-dong , Lou Lie-ming
Published: June 2013

Background

Nowadays it remains a controversial issue whether a correlation exists between the apoptosis rate of tumor tissue and the prognosis of the patients. We aimed to explore the prognostic significance of apoptosis index of human osteosarcoma tissue.

Methods

The technique of terminal DNA breakpoints in situ 3 - hydroxy end labeling (TUNEL) was used to detect and analysis apoptosis index in 56 osteosarcoma specimens. The relationships between apoptosis index of tumor tissue and long term survival of patients as well as pathologic classification, tumor clinical stages, tumor size and level of serum alkaline phosphatase were analyzed.

Results

Our studies showed the cases with high apoptosis index had significantly longer survival time. Apoptosis index in osteosarcoma tissue was correlated with tumor size and level of serum alkaline phosphatase but not with pathologic classifications and clinical stages of tumor.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that apoptosis index of osteosarcoma tissue combined with serum alkaline phosphatase could used as valid indicators to predicate the malignant level and prognosis of osteosarcoma cases, which would contribute to enhance efficacy of clinical treatments for osteosarcoma.
Cloning, expression, and immunocharacterization of surface protein containing an altered thrombospondin repeat domain (SPATR) from Plasmodium knowlesi
Authors: Palaeya Vanitha , Lau Yee Ling , Mahmud Rohela , Chen Yeng , Fong Mun Yik
Published: June 2013

Background

Plasmodium knowlesi is the fifth species identified to cause malaria in humans and is often misdiagnosed as Plasmodium malariae due to morphological similarities. The development of an inexpensive, serological detection method utilizing antibodies specific to P. knowlesi would be a valuable tool for diagnosis. However, the identification of specific antigens for these parasites remains a major challenge for generating such assays. In this study, surface protein containing an altered thrombospondin repeat domain (SPATR) was selected as a potentially specific antigen from P. knowlesi. Its multistage expression by sporozoites, asexual erythrocytic forms and gametocytes, along with its possible role in liver cell invasion, suggests that SPATR could be used as a biomarker for diagnosis of P. knowlesi.

Methods

The spatr gene from P. knowlesi was codon optimized and cloned (pkhspatr). Recombinant pk HSPATR protein was expressed, purified, and evaluated for its sensitivity and specificity in immunoblot and ELISA-based assays for detecting P. knowlesi infection.

Results

The recombinant pk HSPATR protein allows sensitive detection of human P. knowlesi infection in serum samples by immunoblot and ELISA.

Conclusions

With further research, recombinant pk HSPATR protein could be exploited as a marker for detection of P. knowlesi infection in humans. Therefore, this finding should contribute to the development of immunodiagnostic assays for the species-specific detection of malaria.
In-depth interviews with state public health practitioners on the United States National Physical Activity Plan
Authors: Evenson Kelly R , Satinsky Sara B , Valko Cheryl , Gustat Jeanette , Healy Isobel , Litt Jill S , Hooker Steven P , Reed Hannah L , Tompkins Nancy O’Hara
Published: June 2013

Background

The United States National Physical Activity Plan (NPAP; 2010), the country’s first national plan for physical activity, provides strategies to increase population-level physical activity to complement the 2008 physical activity guidelines. This study examined state public health practitioner awareness, dissemination, use, challenges, and recommendations for the NPAP.

Methods

In 2011–2012, we interviewed 27 state practitioners from 25 states. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were coded using a standard protocol, verified and reconciled by an independent coder, and input into qualitative software to facilitate development of common themes.

Results

NPAP awareness was high among state practitioners; dissemination to local constituents varied. Development of state-level strategies and goals was the most frequently reported use of the NPAP. Some respondents noted the usefulness of the NPAP for coalitions and local practitioners. Challenges to the plan included implementation cost, complexity, and consistency with other policies. The most frequent recommendation made was to directly link examples of implementation activities to the plan.

Conclusions

These results provide early evidence of NPAP dissemination and use, along with challenges encountered and suggestions for future iterations. Public health is one of eight sectors in the NPAP. Further efforts are needed to understand uptake and use by other sectors, as well as to monitor long-term relevance, progress, and collaboration across sectors.
Effect of the parental origin of the X-chromosome on the clinical features, associated complications, the two-year-response to growth hormone (rhGH) and the biochemical profile in patients with turner syndrome
Authors: Álvarez-Nava Francisco , Lanes Roberto , Quintero José Miguel , Miras Mirta , Fideleff Hugo , Mericq Verónica , Marcano Henry , Zabala William , Soto Marisol , Pardo Tatiana , Borjas Lisbeth , Villalobos Joalice , Gunczler Peter , Unanue Nancy , Tkalenko Natalia , Boyanofsky Adriana , Silvano Liliana , Franchioni Liliana , Llano Miriam , Fideleff Gabriel , Azaretzky Miriam , Suarez Martha
Published: June 2013

Background

It is possible that genes on the X chromosome are expressed differently depending of its parental origin. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of the parental origin of the X-chromosome on phenotypic variability, response to rhGH and on the biochemical profile of TS patients.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional multicenter correlational study carried out over three years in six Latin-American university hospitals. Unrelated 45,X TS patients (n =  93; 18.3 ± 8.5 years )) were evaluated. A subgroup (n =  34) of the patients were prospectively treated with rhGH over two years. DNA profiles of patients and their mothers were compared to determine the parental origin of the retained X-chromosome through 10 polymorphic X-chromosome-STRs. The association with clinical features, biochemical profiles and anthropometric data at the beginning and after two years of rhGH treatment was determined.

Results

Seventy two percent of patients retained the maternal X chromosome (Xm). A trend towards significance between maternal height and patients final height (p ≤ 0.07) in 45,Xm subjects was observed. There was no correlation between paternal height and patient height. No differences were detected between both groups in regard to dysmorphic features, classical malformations or increase in the height-SDS after rhGH. There were higher levels of triglycerides, total and LDL cholesterol in patients >20 years who retained the Xm.

Conclusions

The parental origin of the retained X chromosome may influence lipid metabolism in TS patients, but its effect on growth seems to be minimal. No parental-origin-effect on the phenotypic features, associated anomalies and on the growth response to rhGH was found in 45,X TS individuals.
Presence of Antibodies against Genogroup VI Norovirus in Humans
Authors: Mesquita João Rodrigo , Costantini Verónica P , Cannon Jennifer L , Lin Seh-ching , Nascimento Maria São José , Vinjé Jan
Published: June 2013

Background

Noroviruses are important enteric pathogens in humans and animals. Recently, we reported a novel canine norovirus (CaNoV) in dogs with diarrhea belonging to a new genogroup (GVI). No data are available on exposure of humans to this virus.

Methods

Sera from 373 small animal veterinarians and 120 age-matched population controls were tested for IgG antibodies to CaNoV by a recombinant virus like particle based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Antibodies to CaNoV were found in 22.3% of the veterinarians and 5.8% of the control group (p < 0.001). Mean corrected OD450 values for CaNoV antibodies were significantly higher in small animal veterinarians compared to the control group.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that CaNoV may infect humans and small animal veterinarians are at an increased risk for exposure to this virus. Additional studies are needed to assess if this virus is able to cause disease in humans.
Histological and molecular characterisation of feline humeral condylar osteoarthritis
Authors: Ryan John M , Lascelles B Duncan X , Benito Javier , Hash Jon , Smith Sionagh H , Bennett David , Argyle David J , Clements Dylan N
Published: June 2013

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a clinically important and common disease of older cats. The pathological changes and molecular mechanisms which underpin the disease have yet to be described. In this study we evaluated selected histological and transcriptomic measures in the articular cartilage and subchondral bone (SCB) of the humeral condyle of cats with or without OA.

Results

The histomorphometric changes in humeral condyle were concentrated in the medial aspect of the condyle. Cats with OA had a reduction in articular chondrocyte density, an increase in the histopathological score of the articular cartilage and a decrease in the SCB porosity of the medial part of the humeral condyle. An increase in LUM gene expression was observed in OA cartilage from the medial part of the humeral condyle.

Conclusions

Histopathological changes identified in OA of the feline humeral condyle appear to primarily affect the medial aspect of the joint. Histological changes suggest that SCB is involved in the OA process in cats. Differentiating which changes represent OA rather than the aging process, or the effects of obesity and or bodyweight requires further investigation.
Fading vision: knowledge translation in the implementation of a public health policy intervention
Authors: Tomm-Bonde Laura , Schreiber Rita S , Allan Diane E , MacDonald Marjorie , Pauly Bernie , Hancock Trevor
Published: June 2013

Background

In response to several high profile public health crises, public health renewal is underway in Canada. In the province of British Columbia, the Ministry of Health initiated a collaborative evidence-informed process involving a steering committee of representatives from the six health authorities. A Core Functions (CF) Framework was developed, identifying 21 core public health programs. For each core program, an evidence review was conducted and a model core program paper developed. These documents were distributed to health authorities to guide development of their own renewed public health services. The CF implementation was conceptualized as an embedded knowledge translation process. A CF coordinator in each health authority was to facilitate a gap analysis and development of a performance improvement plan for each core program, and post these publically on the health authority website.

Methods

Interviews (n = 19) and focus groups (n = 8) were conducted with a total of 56 managers and front line staff from five health authorities working in the Healthy Living and Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention core programs. All interviews and focus groups were digitally recorded, transcribed and verified by the project coordinator. Five members of the research team used NVivo 9 to manage data and conducted a thematic analysis.

Results

Four main themes emerged concerning implementation of the CF Framework generally, and the two programs specifically. The themes were: ‘you’ve told me what, now tell me how’; ‘the double bind’; ‘but we already do that’; and the ‘selling game.’ Findings demonstrate the original vision of the CF process was lost in the implementation process and many participants were unaware of the CF framework or process.

Conclusions

Results are discussed with respect to a well-known framework on the adoption, assimilation, and implementation of innovations in health services organizations. Despite attempts of the Ministry of Health and the Steering Committee to develop and implement a collaborative, evidence-informed policy intervention, there were several barriers to the realization of the vision for core public health functions implementation, at least in the early stages. In neglecting the implementation process, it seems unlikely that the expected benefits of the public health renewal process will be realized.
Differential sensitivity of polyhydroxyalkanoate producing bacteria to fermentation inhibitors and comparison of polyhydroxybutyrate production from Burkholderia cepacia and Pseudomonas pseudoflava
Authors: Dietrich Diane , Illman Barbara , Crooks Casey
Published: June 2013

Background

The aim of this study is determine the relative sensitivity of a panel of seven polyhydroxyalkanoate producing bacteria to a panel of seven lignocellulosic-derived fermentation inhibitors representing aliphatic acids, furans and phenolics. A further aim was to measure the polyhydroxybutyrate production of select organisms on lignocellulosic-derived monosaccharides arabinose, xylose, glucose and mannose.

Findings

We examined the sensitivity of seven polyhydroxyalkanoate producing bacteria: Azohydromonas lata, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus cereus, Burkholderia cepacia, Pseudomonas olevorans, Pseudomonas pseudoflava and Ralstonia eutropha, against seven fermentation inhibitors produced by the saccharification of lignocellulose: acetic acid, levulinic acid, coumaric acid, ferulic acid, syringaldehyde, furfural, and hyroxymethyfurfural. There was significant variation in the sensitivity of these microbes to representative phenolics ranging from 0.25-1.5 g/L coumaric and ferulic acid and between 0.5-6.0 g/L syringaldehyde. Inhibition ranged from 0.37-4 g/L and 0.75-6 g/L with acetic acid and levulinic acid, respectively. B. cepacia and P. pseudoflava were selected for further analysis of polyhydroxyalkanoate production.

Conclusions

We find significant differences in sensitivity to the fermentation inhibitors tested and find these variations to be over a relevant concentration range given the concentrations of inhibitors typically found in lignocellulosic hydrolysates. Of the seven bacteria tested, B. cepacia demonstrated the greatest inhibitor tolerance. Similarly, of two organisms examined for polyhydroxybutyrate production, B. cepacia was notably more efficient when fermenting pentose substrates.
Age and gender difference in non-drafting ultra-endurance cycling performance - the ‘Swiss Cycling Marathon’
Authors: Zingg Matthias , Knechtle Beat , Rüst Christoph A , Rosemann Thomas , Lepers Romuald
Published: June 2013

Background

In recent years, there was an increased interest in investigating the gender difference in performance and the age of peak performance in ultra-endurance performances such as ultra-triathlon, ultra-running, and ultra-swimming, but not in ultra-cycling. The aim of the present study was to analyze the gender difference in ultra-cycling performance and the age of peak ultra-cycling performance in the 720-km ‘Swiss Cycling Marathon’, the largest European qualifier for the ‘Race Across America’.

Methods

Changes in the cycling speed and age of 985 finishers including 38 women and 947 men competing in the Swiss Cycling Marathon from 2001 to 2012 covering a distance of 720 km with a change of altitude of 4,993 m were analyzed using linear regression.

Results

The gender difference in performance was 13.6% for the fastest cyclists ever, 13.9% ± 0.5% for the three fastest cyclists ever and 19.1% ± 3.7% for the ten fastest cyclists ever. The gender difference in performance for the annual top three women and men decreased from 35.0% ± 9.5% in 2001 to 20.4% ± 7.7% in 2012 (r
2 = 0.72, p = 0.01). The annual top three women improved cycling speed from 20.3 ± 3.1 km h−1 in 2003 to 24.8 ± 2.4 km h−1 in 2012 (r
2 = 0.79, p < 0.01). The cycling speed of the annual top three men remained unchanged at 30.2 ± 0.6 km h−1 (p > 0.05). The age of peak performance for the ten fastest finishers ever was 35.9 ± 9.6 years for men and 38.7 ± 7.8 years for women, respectively (p = 0.47).

Conclusions

The gender difference in ultra-cycling performance decreased over the 2001 to 2012 period in the 720-km Swiss Cycling Marathon for the annual top three cyclists and reached approximately 14%. Both women and men achieved peak performance at the age of approximately 36 to 39 years. Women might close the gender gap in ultra-endurance cycling in longer cycling distances. Future studies need to investigate the gender difference in performance in the Race Across America, the longest nonstop and non-drafting ultra-cycling race in the world.
MatMRI and MatHIFU: software toolboxes for real-time monitoring and control of MR-guided HIFU
Authors: Zaporzan Benjamin , Waspe Adam C , Looi Thomas , Mougenot Charles , Partanen Ari , Pichardo Samuel
Published: June 2013

Background

The availability of open and versatile software tools is a key feature to facilitate pre-clinical research for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (MR-HIFU) and expedite clinical translation of diagnostic and therapeutic medical applications.

In the present study, two customizable software tools that were developed at the Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute are presented for use with both MRI and MR-HIFU. Both tools operate in a MATLAB®; environment. The first tool is named MatMRI and enables real-time, dynamic acquisition of MR images with a Philips MRI scanner. The second tool is named MatHIFU and enables the execution and dynamic modification of user-defined treatment protocols with the Philips Sonalleve MR-HIFU therapy system to perform ultrasound exposures in MR-HIFU therapy applications.

Methods

MatMRI requires four basic steps: initiate communication, subscribe to MRI data, query for new images, and unsubscribe. MatMRI can also pause/resume the imaging and perform real-time updates of the location and orientation of images. MatHIFU requires four basic steps: initiate communication, prepare treatment protocol, and execute treatment protocol. MatHIFU can monitor the state of execution and, if required, modify the protocol in real time.

Results

Four applications were developed to showcase the capabilities of MatMRI and MatHIFU to perform pre-clinical research. Firstly, MatMRI was integrated with an existing small animal MR-HIFU system (FUS Instruments, Toronto, Ontario, Canada) to provide real-time temperature measurements. Secondly, MatMRI was used to perform T2-based MR thermometry in the bone marrow. Thirdly, MatHIFU was used to automate acoustic hydrophone measurements on a per-element basis of the 256-element transducer of the Sonalleve system. Finally, MatMRI and MatHIFU were combined to produce and image a heating pattern that recreates the word ‘HIFU’ in a tissue-mimicking heating phantom.

Conclusions

MatMRI and MatHIFU leverage existing MRI and MR-HIFU clinical platforms to facilitate pre-clinical research. MatMRI substantially simplifies the real-time acquisition and processing of MR data. MatHIFU facilitates the testing and characterization of new therapy applications using the Philips Sonalleve clinical MR-HIFU system. Under coordination with Philips Healthcare, both MatMRI and MatHIFU are intended to be freely available as open-source software packages to other research groups.
Room temperature photo-induced, Eu3+-doped IGZO transparent thin films fabricated using sol–gel method
Authors: Krishnan Rajagopalan , Thirumalai Jagannathan , Chandramohan Rathinam
Published: June 2013

Red-emitting Eu3+-doped indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) transparent thin films were fabricated using sol–gel method under UV (254-nm irradiation) in nitrogen atmosphere (inside the glove box) and thermally annealed at 500°C for 1 h. Structure, morphology, composition, and optical properties of the materials were examined using X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscope, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and photoluminescence, respectively.
The efficacy of Ezetimibe added to ongoing Fibrate-Statin therapy on postprandial lipid profile in the patients with type 2 Diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sharifi Faranak , Hojeghani Nima , Mazloomzadeh Saeideh , Shajari Zahra
Published: June 2013

Background

Postprandial hypertriglyceridemia in diabetes mellitus can be followed by endothelial dysfunction, impaired vascular compliance and increased cardiovascular complications. So focus on better control of postprandial hypertriglyceridemia is as important as controlling fasting triglyceride level in type 2 DM.

Objective

We evaluated the effect of ezetimibe adding to fibrate or statin on postprandial hypertriglyceridemia.

Methods

In a randomized controlled clinical trial, 47 subjects with type 2 diabetes and hypertiglyceridemia were enrolled and divided in three treatment groups including Gemfibrozil 1200mg/d + placebo(group A), Ezetimibe10mg/d + Gemfibrozile 1200mg/d(group B) or Ezetimibe10mg/d + Atorvastatin10mg/d (group C) for a 6- week period. Oral fat loading test were performed in the initiation and also at the end of the study and lipid profile and APOB were measured.

Results

Fasting and postprandial serum triglyceride (TG) decreased significantly with all the three treatment groups with no difference between them in the percent of TG reduction. Although serum total cholesterol decreased significantly in all the three groups of treatment its reduction was more prominent in group C(−38.1% ± 11.2%in group C vs. -16.5% ± 19.6% and −7.2% ± 10.7% in groups B & A respectively, p < 0.0001 ). Fasting serum HDL increased significantly only by Gemfibrozil (23.4% ± 28.4% vs. 6.4% ± 18.9% and 1.8% ± 17.7%, p < 0.05 ). Fasting serum APOB was reduced only in ezetimibe containing groups (B &C).

Conclusion

Adding ezetimibe to gemfibrozil has no additional effect on reducing postprandial TG but ezetimibe can potentiate the effect of low-dose atorvastatin on lowering TG and LDL-c.
Human Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stromal cells reduce renal fibrosis through induction of native and foreign hepatocyte growth factor synthesis in injured tubular epithelial cells
Authors: Du Tao , Zou Xiangyu , Cheng Jun , Wu Shuai , Zhong Liang , Ju Guanqun , Zhu Jiang , Liu Guohua , Zhu Yingjian , Xia Shujie
Published: June 2013

Introduction

Based on some well-documented reports, we attempted to clarify the antifibrotic mechanisms of human Wharton’s-jelly-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (WJ-MSCs) from the perspective of induction of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) expression in tubular epithelial cells (TECs).

Methods

A rat model of acute kidney injury (AKI) was established through unilateral renal ischemia for 1 hour. Two days later, a single intravenous cell or vehicle injection, or contralateral nephrectomy, was performed. Rats were sacrificed at 1 day, 1 week, 4 weeks, or 6 weeks after the intervention. Renal fibrosis was evaluated by Masson trichrome staining and Sircol collagen assay. The upregulation of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) versus E-cadherin expression was adopted as an indicator of tubular epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Gene and protein expression of HGF or transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot, respectively. HGF expression in TECs was detected with immunostaining. In vitro, rat TECs subjected to hypoxia injury were incubated with or without conditioned medium (CM) from WJ-MSCs for 1, 3, 24, or 48 hours. Rat or human HGF synthesis in TECs was assessed with immunostaining, RT-PCR, or ELISA.

Results

Cell delivery or nephrectomy led to abrogation of renal scarring. At the incipient period of AKI, through induction of HGF expression, either of them remarkably promoted the upregulation of HGF versus TGF-β1 expression in damaged kidney. Rat TECs were not only the principal cells expressing HGF but also exhibited human HGF expression after cell infusion. During fibrogenesis, the downregulation of HGF versus TGF-β1 expression was greatly prevented by WJ-MSCs or kidney removal, thereby resulting in tubular EMT delay. In vitro, after 24 or 48 hours of incubation, CM not only robustly induced the upregulation of rat HGF gene expression in TECs but substantially amplified the release of rat HGF. Under the induction of CM, human HGF mRNA and protein were detected in rat TECs.

Conclusions

WJ-MSCs contribute to tubular EMT delay and the alleviation of renal fibrosis. Induction of native and foreign HGF synthesis in damaged TECs at the initial stage of AKI leads to recovery of the disturbed balance of HGF/TGF-β1 during scar formation, being one of the vital mechanisms.
Using Assessments to Investigate and Compare the Nature of Learning in Undergraduate Science Courses
Authors: Momsen Jennifer , Offerdahl Erika , Kryjevskaia Mila , Montplaisir Lisa , Anderson Elizabeth , Grosz Nate
Published: June 2013

Assessments and student expectations can drive learning: students selectively study and learn the content and skills they believe critical to passing an exam in a given subject. Evaluating the nature of assessments in undergraduate science education can, therefore, provide substantial insight into student learning. We characterized and compared the cognitive skills routinely assessed by introductory biology and calculus-based physics sequences, using the cognitive domain of Bloom's taxonomy of educational objectives. Our results indicate that both introductory sequences overwhelmingly assess lower-order cognitive skills (e.g., knowledge recall, algorithmic problem solving), but the distribution of items across cognitive skill levels differs between introductory biology and physics, which reflects and may even reinforce student perceptions typical of those courses: biology is memorization, and physics is solving problems. We also probed the relationship between level of difficulty of exam questions, as measured by student performance and cognitive skill level as measured by Bloom's taxonomy. Our analyses of both disciplines do not indicate the presence of a strong relationship. Thus, regardless of discipline, more cognitively demanding tasks do not necessarily equate to increased difficulty. We recognize the limitations associated with this approach; however, we believe this research underscores the utility of evaluating the nature of our assessments.
Learning Each Other's Ropes: Negotiating Interdisciplinary Authenticity
Authors: Redish Edward F. , Cooke Todd J.
Published: June 2013

A common feature of the recent calls for reform of the undergraduate biology curriculum has been for better coordination between biology and the courses from the allied disciplines of mathematics, chemistry, and physics. Physics has lagged behind math and chemistry in creating new, biologically oriented curricula, although much activity is now taking place, and significant progress is being made. In this essay, we consider a case study: a multiyear conversation between a physicist interested in adapting his physics course for biologists (E.F.R.) and a biologist interested in including more physics in his biology course (T.J.C.). These extended discussions have led us both to a deeper understanding of each other's discipline and to significant changes in the way we each think about and present our classes. We discuss two examples in detail: the creation of a physics problem on fluid flow for a biology class and the creation of a biologically authentic physics problem on scaling and dimensional analysis. In each case, we see differences in how the two disciplines frame and see value in the tasks. We conclude with some generalizations about how biology and physics look at the world differently that help us navigate the minefield of counterproductive stereotypical responses.
How Can We Improve Problem Solving in Undergraduate Biology? Applying Lessons from 30 Years of Physics Education Research
Authors: Hoskinson A.-M. , Caballero M. D. , Knight J. K.
Published: June 2013

If students are to successfully grapple with authentic, complex biological problems as scientists and citizens, they need practice solving such problems during their undergraduate years. Physics education researchers have investigated student problem solving for the past three decades. Although physics and biology problems differ in structure and content, the instructional purposes align closely: explaining patterns and processes in the natural world and making predictions about physical and biological systems. In this paper, we discuss how research-supported approaches developed by physics education researchers can be adopted by biologists to enhance student problem-solving skills. First, we compare the problems that biology students are typically asked to solve with authentic, complex problems. We then describe the development of research-validated physics curricula emphasizing process skills in problem solving. We show that solving authentic, complex biology problems requires many of the same skills that practicing physicists and biologists use in representing problems, seeking relationships, making predictions, and verifying or checking solutions. We assert that acquiring these skills can help biology students become competent problem solvers. Finally, we propose how biology scholars can apply lessons from physics education in their classrooms and inspire new studies in biology education research.
The Trouble with Chemical Energy: Why Understanding Bond Energies Requires an Interdisciplinary Systems Approach
Authors: Cooper Melanie M. , Klymkowsky Michael W.
Published: June 2013

Helping students understand “chemical energy” is notoriously difficult. Many hold inconsistent ideas about what energy is, how and why it changes during the course of a chemical reaction, and how these changes are related to bond energies and reaction dynamics. There are (at least) three major sources for this problem: 1) the way biologists talk about chemical energy (which is also the way we talk about energy in everyday life); 2) the macroscopic approach to energy concepts that is common in physics and physical sciences; and 3) the failure of chemistry courses to explicitly link molecular with macroscopic energy ideas. From a constructivist perspective, it is unlikely that students can, without a coherent understanding of such a central concept, attain a robust and accurate understanding of new concepts. However, changes are on the horizon, guided by the increasing understanding that difficult concepts require coherent, well-designed learning progressions and the new National Research Council Framework for K–12 Science Education. We provide supporting evidence for our assertions and suggestions for an interdisciplinary learning progression designed to better approach the concept of bond energies, a first step in an understanding chemical energy and behavior of reaction systems that is central to biological systems.
Context Dependence of Students’ Views about the Role of Equations in Understanding Biology
Authors: Watkins Jessica , Elby Andrew
Published: June 2013

Students’ epistemological views about biology—their ideas about what “counts” as learning and understanding biology—play a role in how they approach their courses and respond to reforms. As introductory biology courses incorporate more physics and quantitative reasoning, student attitudes about the role of equations in biology become especially relevant. However, as documented in research in physics education, students’ epistemologies are not always stable and fixed entities; they can be dynamic and context-dependent. In this paper, we examine an interview with an introductory student in which she discusses the use of equations in her reformed biology course. In one part of the interview, she expresses what sounds like an entrenched negative stance toward the role equations can play in understanding biology. However, later in the interview, when discussing a different biology topic, she takes a more positive stance toward the value of equations. These results highlight how a given student can have diverse ways of thinking about the value of bringing physics and math into biology. By highlighting how attitudes can shift in response to different tasks, instructional environments, and contextual cues, we emphasize the need to attend to these factors, rather than treating students’ beliefs as fixed and stable.
Minimal Residual Disease Assessed by Multiparameter Flow Cytometry in Multiple Myeloma: Impact on Outcome in the Medical Research Council Myeloma IX Study
Authors: Rawstron Andy C. , Child J. Anthony , de Tute Ruth M. , Davies Faith E. , Gregory Walter M. , Bell Sue E. , Szubert Alexander J. , Navarro-Coy Nuria , Drayson Mark T. , Feyler Sylvia , Ross Fiona M. , Cook Gordon , Jackson Graham H. , Morgan Gareth J. , Owen Roger G.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

To investigate the prognostic value of minimal residual disease (MRD) assessment in patients with multiple myeloma treated in the MRC (Medical Research Council) Myeloma IX trial.

Patients and Methods

Multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC) was used to assess MRD after induction therapy (n = 378) and at day 100 after autologous stem-cell transplantation (ASCT; n = 397) in intensive-pathway patients and at the end of induction therapy in non–intensive-pathway patients (n = 245).

Results

In intensive-pathway patients, absence of MRD at day 100 after ASCT was highly predictive of a favorable outcome (PFS, P < .001; OS, P = .0183). This outcome advantage was demonstrable in patients with favorable and adverse cytogenetics (PFS, P = .014 and P < .001, respectively) and in patients achieving immunofixation-negative complete response (CR; PFS, P = .0068). The effect of maintenance thalidomide was assessed, with the shortest PFS demonstrable in those MRD-positive patients who did not receive maintenance and longest in those who were MRD negative and did receive thalidomide (P < .001). Further analysis demonstrated that 28% of MRD-positive patients who received maintenance thalidomide became MRD negative. MRD assessment after induction therapy in the non–intensive-pathway patients did not seem to be predictive of outcome (PFS, P = .1).

Conclusion

MRD assessment by MFC was predictive of overall outcome in patients with myeloma undergoing ASCT. This predictive value was seen in patients achieving conventional CR as well as patients with favorable and adverse cytogenetics. The effects of maintenance strategies can also be evaluated, and our data suggest that maintenance thalidomide can eradicate MRD in some patients.
Randomized Phase II Study of the Anti–Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Monoclonal Antibody Cetuximab With Cisplatin Versus Cisplatin Alone in Patients With Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Baselga José , Gómez Patricia , Greil Richard , Braga Sofia , Climent Miguel A. , Wardley Andrew M. , Kaufman Bella , Stemmer Salomon M. , Pêgo António , Chan Arlene , Goeminne Jean-Charles , Graas Marie-Pascale , Kennedy M. John , Ciruelos Gil Eva Maria , Schneeweiss Andreas , Zubel Angela , Groos Jutta , Melezínková Helena , Awada Ahmad
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Epidermal growth factor receptor is overexpressed in metastatic triple-negative breast cancers (mTNBCs), an aggressive subtype of breast cancer. Our randomized phase II study investigated cisplatin with or without cetuximab in this setting.

Patients and Methods

Patients who had received no more than one previous chemotherapy regimen were randomly assigned on a 2:1 schedule to receive no more than six cycles of cisplatin plus cetuximab or cisplatin alone. Patients receiving cisplatin alone could switch to cisplatin plus cetuximab or cetuximab alone on disease progression. The primary end point was overall response rate (ORR). Secondary end points studied included progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety profiles. Analyses included a significance level of α = .10 with no adjustments for multiplicity.

Results

The full analysis set comprised 115 patients receiving cisplatin plus cetuximab and 58 receiving cisplatin alone; 31 patients whose disease progressed on cisplatin alone switched to cetuximab-containing therapy. The ORR was 20% (95% CI, 13 to 29) with cisplatin plus cetuximab and 10% (95% CI, 4 to 21) with cisplatin alone (odds ratio, 2.13; 95% CI, 0.81 to 5.59; P = .11). Cisplatin plus cetuximab resulted in longer PFS compared with cisplatin alone (median, 3.7 v 1.5 months; hazard ratio [HR], 0.67; 95% CI, 0.47 to 0.97; P = .032). Corresponding median OS was 12.9 versus 9.4 months (HR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.56 to 1.20; P = .31). Common grade 3/4 adverse events included acne-like rash, neutropenia, and fatigue.

Conclusion

While the primary study end point was not met, adding cetuximab to cisplatin doubled the ORR and appeared to prolong PFS and OS, warranting further investigation in mTNBC.
Type I and II Endometrial Cancers: Have They Different Risk Factors?
Authors: Setiawan Veronica Wendy , Yang Hannah P. , Pike Malcolm C. , McCann Susan E. , Yu Herbert , Xiang Yong-Bing , Wolk Alicja , Wentzensen Nicolas , Weiss Noel S. , Webb Penelope M. , van den Brandt Piet A. , van de Vijver Koen , Thompson Pamela J. ,   The Australian National Endometrial Cancer Study Group, Strom Brian L. , Spurdle Amanda B. , Soslow Robert A. , Shu Xiao-ou , Schairer Catherine , Sacerdote Carlotta , Rohan Thomas E. , Robien Kim , Risch Harvey A. , Ricceri Fulvio , Rebbeck Timothy R. , Rastogi Radhai , Prescott Jennifer , Polidoro Silvia , Park Yikyung , Olson Sara H. , Moysich Kirsten B. , Miller Anthony B. , McCullough Marjorie L. , Matsuno Rayna K. , Magliocco Anthony M. , Lurie Galina , Lu Lingeng , Lissowska Jolanta , Liang Xiaolin , Lacey James V. , Kolonel Laurence N. , Henderson Brian E. , Hankinson Susan E. , Håkansson Niclas , Goodman Marc T. , Gaudet Mia M. , Garcia-Closas Montserrat , Friedenreich Christine M. , Freudenheim Jo L. , Doherty Jennifer , De Vivo Immaculata , Courneya Kerry S. , Cook Linda S. , Chen Chu , Cerhan James R. , Cai Hui , Brinton Louise A. , Bernstein Leslie , Anderson Kristin E. , Anton-Culver Hoda , Schouten Leo J. , Horn-Ross Pamela L.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Endometrial cancers have long been divided into estrogen-dependent type I and the less common clinically aggressive estrogen-independent type II. Little is known about risk factors for type II tumors because most studies lack sufficient cases to study these much less common tumors separately. We examined whether so-called classical endometrial cancer risk factors also influence the risk of type II tumors.

Patients and Methods

Individual-level data from 10 cohort and 14 case-control studies from the Epidemiology of Endometrial Cancer Consortium were pooled. A total of 14,069 endometrial cancer cases and 35,312 controls were included. We classified endometrioid (n = 7,246), adenocarcinoma not otherwise specified (n = 4,830), and adenocarcinoma with squamous differentiation (n = 777) as type I tumors and serous (n = 508) and mixed cell (n = 346) as type II tumors.

Results

Parity, oral contraceptive use, cigarette smoking, age at menarche, and diabetes were associated with type I and type II tumors to similar extents. Body mass index, however, had a greater effect on type I tumors than on type II tumors: odds ratio (OR) per 2 kg/m2 increase was 1.20 (95% CI, 1.19 to 1.21) for type I and 1.12 (95% CI, 1.09 to 1.14) for type II tumors (Pheterogeneity < .0001). Risk factor patterns for high-grade endometrioid tumors and type II tumors were similar.

Conclusion

The results of this pooled analysis suggest that the two endometrial cancer types share many common etiologic factors. The etiology of type II tumors may, therefore, not be completely estrogen independent, as previously believed.
Photocatalytic Effect of TiO2 Nanoparticles on Room-temperature Sinterable Silver Nanoparticle Ink with Poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) Ligand
Authors: Lee Mi Yeon , Lee Jung Yup , Lee Won Jin , Kim So Yeon , Park Young Ho , Mosaiab Tamim , Park Sung Young , In Insik
Published: June 2013

Highly conductive silver (Ag) film on poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrate was prepared by using room-temperature sinterable silver nanoparticle (AgNP) ink having TiO2 nanoparticles as photodecomposition catalysts. AgNP-40T ink having TiO2 nanoparticles (1 wt %) successfully produced Ag film with a conductivity up to 5.2% of that of bulk silver, after ultraviolet (UV) irradiation for 1 h. The photodecomposition of poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) ligands by TiO2 during UV irradiation might contribute to facile room-temperature sintering of AgNP-40T ink.
Fabrication of Step-edge-decorated Graphite Electrodes with Platinum and Their Electrocatalytic Activities
Authors: Miyazaki Kohei , Fukutsuka Tomokazu , Abe Takeshi , Ogumi Zempachi
Published: June 2013

Step-edge-decorated graphite electrodes with Pt nanoparticles were fabricated by pulsed laser deposition (PLD), and the impacts of the morphological change of Pt nanoparticles on the electrocatalytic activities were investigated. Primary Pt particles (about 5 nm in diameter) were formed by PLD and were aggregated along the step-edge lines of highly oriented pyrolytic graphites (HOPGs). An increase in the temperature of the HOPG substrate leaded to the diffusion of Pt particles along the step-edge lines of HOPG and resulted in the agglomeration of Pt particles (100–150 nm in diameter). As for methanol oxidation, it is found that the agglomerated Pt particles exhibited higher catalytic activities than small Pt nanoparticles on HOPGs.
Low-temperature-sintered Dye-sensitized Solar Cell Using Surface Treatment of TiO2 Photoelectrode with Ultraviolet Light
Authors: Zen Shungo , Saito Daiki , Ono Ryo , Oda Tetsuji
Published: June 2013

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) require the sintering of TiO2 paste at 450–550 °C in their manufacture. However, high-temperature sintering is disadvantageous because it limits the use of materials that cannot withstand high temperatures. We have developed a new technique for reducing the sintering temperature through ultraviolet (UV) treatment of the TiO2 photoelectrode. The UV treatment enables the sintering temperature to be reduced 250 °C while maintaining the energy conversion efficiency.
PEO-b-PPO Diblock Copolymers for the Preparation of 2D Hexagonal Mesoporous Silica Films with Extremely Large Structural Periods
Authors: Takahashi Masahiko , Kubo Wataru , Miyata Hirokatsu
Published: June 2013

Use of poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(propylene oxide) (PEO-b-PPO) diblock copolymers with appropriate block ratios effectively increases the structural period of the mesoporous silica films with a two-dimensional hexagonal structure, which are prepared by the evaporation-induced self-assembly process. The number of the hydrophobic PPO block can control the periodicity over a wide range, which reaches even ca. 20 nm.
Cesium Ion Uptake by Synthetic K-birnessite K0.30(Mn4+0.90Mn3+0.030.07)O2·0.50H2O
Authors: Chitrakar Ramesh , Makita Yoji , Sonoda Akinari
Published: June 2013

The ion-exchange properties of layered manganese oxide (K-birnessite) synthesized by decomposition of KMnO4 at 600 °C were examined. The material showed Cs+ uptake of 1.3 mmol g−1 at pH 2–4 and 1.0 mmol g−1 at pH 10. The distribution coefficients (Kd) of cations showed that the material is effective for Cs+ uptake in the solution (pH 1.7, pH 10) containing 0.1 mmol dm−3 of Na+, K+, Cs+, Mg2+, and Ca2+.
Preparation, Properties, and X-ray Structures of Bis(10-methyl-9-methyleneacridan)-type Electron Donors with a Thiophene, Bithiophene, or Terthiophene Skeleton: Redox Switching of Thiophene–Thienoquinoid Structure Accompanied by UV–vis–NIR Electrochromic Response
Authors: Suzuki Takanori , Hoshiyama Yuuki , Wada Kazuhisa , Ishigaki Yusuke , Miura Youhei , Kawai Hidetoshi , Katoono Ryo , Fujiwara Kenshu , Fukushima Takanori
Published: June 2013

The newly designed title dyes 1–3 have a thiophene-type π-skeleton, to which two methyleneacridan subunits are attached as electron-donating end groups. They undergo reversible one-wave 2e-oxidation to the corresponding dications containing a thienoquinoid moiety. The redox and spectral properties can be modified by changing the π-skeleton, and bithiophene 2 and terthiophene 3 can serve as new entries of UV–vis–NIR electrochromic materials.
Computerized Memory Training Leads to Sustained Improvement in Visuospatial Short-Term Memory Skills in Children with Down Syndrome
Authors: Bennett Stephanie J. , Holmes Joni , Buckley Sue
Published: June 2013

This study evaluated the impact of a computerized visuospatial memory training intervention on the memory and behavioral skills of children with Down syndrome. Teaching assistants were trained to support the delivery of a computerized intervention program to individual children over a 10–16 week period in school. Twenty-one children aged 7–12 years with Down syndrome were randomly allocated to either an intervention or waiting list control group. Following training, performance on trained and non-trained visuospatial short-term memory tasks was significantly enhanced for children in the intervention group. This improvement was sustained four months later. These results suggest that computerized visuospatial memory training in a school setting is both feasible and effective for children with Down syndrome.