bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Vicious Circle of Quality in Ethiopian Higher Education
Authors: Woldegiyorgis Ayenachew
Published: December 2018

While Ethiopian higher education is hailed for its expansion in the past years, its quality remains seriously challenged. The supply of low quality teachers and ill-prepared students, along with the high demand for new teachers forcing the government to massively recruit mediocre graduates, continues the vicious circle.
China: A World Leader in Graduation Rates
Authors: Marioulas Julian
Published: December 2018

Graduation rates at higher education institutions in China are among the highest worldwide. Faculty and administration avoid weeding out low-performing students for a plethora of reasons. This can have an adverse effect on student performance, especially at colleges with low entry requirements. It also enables corruption in the admissions process. The author argues that graduation, being almost guaranteed, is acting as an impediment to the further development of Chinese universities.
Reframing Global Engagement
Authors: Van der Wende Marijk
Published: December 2018

Globalization has strongly influenced higher education during the last decades. As in many other sectors, this has generated contradictory outcomes. Higher education has opened up to the world and become more engaged at the global level. But how will this process continue with the current backlash against globalization in Europe and the United States, and what will be the impact of other major geopolitical trends such as the rise of China?
Private Higher Education in Brazil: Fueling Economic Growth
Authors: Bezerra José Janguiê , Niskier Celso , Batourina Lioudmila
Published: December 2018

The Brazilian private education sector is one of the largest in the world. Today there are more than 6 million students enrolled in private higher education institutions, which represents more than 75 percent of all university students. Brazilian higher education started expanding in 1996, when the government, according to the National Education Plan, introduced a fund allowing young people to take up students loans. From 1996 to 2010, the government took a number of actions, addressing the problem of social inclusion and supplying the country with educated, middle class workers. The Brazilian Association of Private Universities (ABMES—Associação Brasileira de Mantenedoras de Ensino Superior) is pushing the government to keep investing in the scholarships in spite of the economic crisis, and working together on finding alternative funding mechanisms to provide society with access opportunities to higher education, and to sustain economic growth.
Higher Education in Mauritius: Challenges and Perspectives of Internationalization
Authors: Motala Timol Shaheen , Kinser Kevin
Published: December 2018

Since 2000, Mauritius has had a policy to become a knowledge hub, with internationalization of its higher education sector as a key initiative. The country had several difficulties in implementing this plan, and based on this experience is now reviewing its efforts and policies to address the issues encountered. This case offers several lessons to understand how an internationalization agenda can be implemented as an element of a diversified economy.
Free Higher Education: Mistaking Equality and Equity
Authors: De Gayardon Ariane
Published: December 2018

Free higher education is seeing a revival of popularity globally at a time whenstudents and their families are asked to contribute ever more toward the cost of college.However, contrary to popular belief, free-tuition higher education is not necessarilyassociated with better access to, or equity within, tertiary education. This article takes acloser look at the realities behind “free” higher education, more specifically in itsrelationship with access.
Public Universities and Budget Cuts in Malaysia
Authors: Abdullah Doria
Published: December 2018

Malaysian public universities have experienced drastic budget cuts over the past twoyears, which did not bode well for Malaysia’s academic community. This articlepresents an overview of the situation, explaining the rationales behind the budgetcuts, adjustments made by public universities, and unaddressed gaps.
India: World-Class Universities?
Authors: Altbach Philip G. , Salmi Jamil
Published: December 2018

India’s higher education and research sectors have been generallyunderfunded, especially in view of the tremendous growth in numbers ofstudents. Compared to the other BRIC countries, the percentage spent oneducation, 4.1 percent of GDP, is second to Brazil. This article explores the Indian higher education system with respect to its potential to create world-class universities.
The Emergence (and Perils) of Income-Targeted Free Tuition
Authors: Usher Alex
Published: December 2018

Free tuition has been implemented in many contexts, but is differently targeted, and can become more expensive and less effective than the policies it seeks to replace. New York, Chile, and Canada’s plans are highlighted in this article.
The Contradictions of Private Higher Education Expansion in India
Authors: Mathews Eldho
Published: December 2018

When it comes to university-level education in India, a majority of students and parents prefer government and government-aided private institutions, as contrasted with the strong presence of private providers at the primary and secondary levels. This article explores the range of providers at the tertiary level.
Enough Quantity: Time to Focus on Quality of Researchers in Pakistan
Authors: Ahmed Muhammad
Published: December 2018

The education sector of Pakistan has progressed tremendously during the last 15 years,with the number of researchers and research papers increasing by 248 percent and 687percent respectively. However, the quality of Pakistani research is still of uneven quality,partly due to the inexperience, incompetence, and corruption of faculty at nationalhigher education institutions. Revising faculty hiring criteria, establishing a plagiarism-free research culture, enhancing training on research ethics, and involving morePakistani scholars trained abroad in research are key steps toward preserving highereducation in Pakistan.
Transatlantic Lessons on Higher Education Access and Completion Policy
Authors: Dougherty Kevin J. , Callender Claire
Published: December 2018

This article explores what England and the United States can learn from each other withregard to reducing social class and racial/ethnic differences in higher education accessand completion. It focuses on seven policy strands: student information provision;outreach from higher education institutions; student financial aid; affirmative action orcontextualization in higher education admissions; higher education efforts to improveretention and completion; performance funding; and degree of reliance onsubbaccalaureate institutions.
International Branch Campuses: Can They Be Research Universities
Authors: Sutrisno Agustian
Published: December 2018

International branch campuses are often seen as teaching institutions. There are several factors inhibiting research at these campuses. Three possible scenarios to transform them into more research-intensive institutions are discussed in this article.
Internationalization of Universities: The German Way
Authors: Wahlers Marijke
Published: December 2018

While German universities have traditionally followed a partnership-based cooperativeapproach to internationalization, more recently, growing competition and increasingresource shortages have resulted in the emergence of a more competitive approach.Also with regard to international students as a target group, the cooperative andcompetitive approaches have coexisted for many years, albeit virtually unconnected.This has resulted in a dramatic increase in the number of international students inGermany over the past two decades. The question arises as to whether, and how, thetwo sometimes contradictory rationales can, in the future, be harmonized. There ismuch to be said for Germany further enhancing its international profile in the globalcompetitive market by consistently pursuing its partnership-based approach. There isevidence that not only universities, but also the economy and society, reap long-termbenefits.
Increasing International Students’ Tuition Fees: The Two Sides of the Coin
Authors: Sanchez-Serra Daniel , Marconi Gabriele
Published: December 2018

While higher tuition fees contribute to better funded tertiary education systems, they also put a burden on families whose children enroll in tertiary education, especially those with limited financial means. This article explores this dilemma and identifies key questions.
“One Belt One Road” and Central Asia: A New Trend in Internationalization of Higher Education?
Authors: Li Aisi
Published: December 2018

China’s One Belt One Road (OBOR) strategy is the latest trend in international relations, and it is making a real impact on higher education in Central Asia. This article discusses the impact of three aspects of the plan: Chinese funding for study abroad, the Confucius Institutes, and the role of Xinjiang, China’s northwestern frontier.
Creating National Champions in France: A Little Less Égalité, a Little More Sélectivité?
Authors: Highman Ludovic
Published: December 2018

The merger between Paris–Sorbonne University (Paris IV) and Pierre and Marie Curie University (Paris VI) will create a single, multidisciplinary institution in the heart of Paris. This merger needs to be contextualized within the national and European contexts, in order to shed light on the drivers, opportunities, and challenges behind a trend that has become increasingly visible among European nations, which seek torationalize and consolidate their higher education systems.
Higher Education Leadership Training: Global Maps and Gaps
Authors: Rumbley Laura , Van't Land Hilligje , Becker Juliette
Published: December 2018

Globally, most higher education leaders, managers, and policymakers receive no formal/specialized training for their work. Compared to the need, there is a relatively small number of structured training opportunities that exist to build leadership and management capacity in higher education around the world. These training programs are almost universally small in scale and largely unable to offer systematic accounts ofthe long-term impact of their efforts. This is a critical concern in the face of the myriad opportunities and imperatives facing higher education institutions and systems worldwide—particularly in low-income and emerging economy contexts—now and into the foreseeable future.
Predatory Conferences: A Case of Academic Cannibalism
Authors: McCrostie James
Published: December 2018

The number of questionable conferences continues to increase around the world. Questionable conference organizers are companies that aim to profit as much as possible from the event by preying on researchers’ need to present research findings. They fail to perform any real peer review and deceive researchers to maximize profits. This essay outlines argues that the term questionable conference serves better than the more established predatory conference, criticizes complicit researchers, lists common red flags to identify questionable conferences and explains what might be done to solve the problem.
Student Debt in the United States: Rhetoric vs Reality
Authors: Baum Sandy
Published: December 2018

The general notion of a student debt “crisis” in the United States is rooted in misperceptions. The problems lie largely with students who leave school without a credential, with those who attend for-profit institutions, and with older adults returning to school—not with young, four-year college graduates.
Gender and Higher Education: Increasing Exposure of Harassment and Pay Gaps
Authors: Hazelkorn Ellen
Published: December 2018

In Ireland and the United Kingdom, public discourse around issues of sexual harassment and promotion and pay gaps is increasing. A lack of research, combined with a lack of understanding, means the full scale is unknown, and universities lack basic guidelines. Narrow definitions of excellence also shape academic culture. But action is slowly taking hold. The take-away is that nothing moves institutions fasterthan compliance and money.
An Agenda in Motion: Women’s Issues in Latin American Higher Education
Authors: Maldonado-Maldonado Alma , Acosta Felicitas
Published: December 2018

Women in Latin America have experienced physical and psychological violence; discrimination; lack of equal opportunities; less recognition for their work, abilities, and capacities. The #MeToo and Time's Up movements (2017) are dealing with the issue of women's role in present-day society and highlight cases of male power towards women. This article offers a reflection on this discussion at universities in the region.
Internationalization of Higher Education: Past and Future
Authors: Knight Jane , De Wit Hans
Published: December 2018

Over the past 25 years, internationalization has evolved from a marginal and minor component to a global, strategic, and mainstream factor in higher education. Has international higher education lived up to our expectations and its potential? What values have guided it? What have we learned from the past to guide us into the future? Is the strong appeal for internationalization of the curriculum a return to the former days of cooperation and exchange, or a call for a more responsible process of internationalization? Who could have forecasted that internationalization would transform from a process based on values of cooperation to one that is increasingly characterized by competition?
Definitions of Transnational Higher Education
Authors: Wilkins Stephen
Published: December 2018

Transnational higher education involves providers and programs crossing national borders. The providers take a variety of forms, with different ownership structures, objectives, strategies, disciplines, and types of student. The purpose of this article is to identify the different types of transnational education providers, so that these institutions can be categorized and defined. The focus is only on institution mobility, and therefore program mobility—such as distance education, franchised programs, and joint or dual degrees—are outside the scope of the article.
What about Provincial Institutions in Higher Education Policy in India?
Authors: Srivastava Anamika , Koshal Nandita
Published: December 2018

In this article, we take stock of provincial higher education institutions in India, which—advertently or not—have not yet caught the attention of policy makers. However, these institutions employ the majority of the teachers and cater to the needs of the majority of students in the country.
Employability of Graduates in India—Hard Realities
Authors: Khare Mona
Published: December 2018

In the massified Indian higher education sector, the number of graduates seeking jobs is rapidly rising, but they often fall short of employers’ expectations due to poor “employability skills.” There are several distortions in the higher education system that are responsible for youth not being able to obtain and keep employment.
Om anoreksi og jagten på nydelse
Authors: Jepsen Rasmus Rask
Published: December 2018

At være glad for sig selv, elske sig selv, nyde sig selv synes at være det højeste mål i livet for mange i dag. Men selvom vi forsøger at indrette vores liv derefter, er det alligevel, som om vi ikke rigtig lykkes med at indfri dette mål. Vi lever med Slavoj Žižeks ord i dag i et nydelsessamfund, hvor vi påbydes altid at nyde lidt mere og lidt bedre. Det er dette påbud, som tyranniserer samtidens individer og efterlader dem med en følelse af skyld og utilstrækkelighed.I artiklen analyseres sygdommen anoreksi som et symptom på samtidens overopmærksom på nydelse. Anorektikeren er et eksempel på en person, der er så optaget af at nyde sig selv og sin krop, at det slår over i sin modsætning og bliver en smertefuld og ubehagelig lidelse, fordi hun altid føler sig skyldig over ikke at nyde godt nok.Via udvalgte og illustrative citater fra pro-anorektiske internetfora og med udgangspunkt i den lacanianske psykoanalyse og dennes begreb om (mer)nydelse, giver artiklen en forklaring på, hvad det er, den anorektiske sygdom tilbyder sine subjekter, og hvorfor disse subjekter insisterer på at holde fast i sin sygdom, selvom de udmærket er klar over, hvor sundhedsskadelig og farlig den er.
L’empowerment en travail social et les significations de la solidarité
Authors: Bourbonnais Mathieu , Parazelli Michel
Published: December 2018

La solidarité est souvent définie en travail social comme un moyen ou une finalité des pratiques d’intervention se réclamant de l’empowerment. Or, la solidarité comme l’empowerment font l’objet d’usages polysémiques brouillant la compréhension des phénomènes à l’oeuvre. À partir d’une synthèse analytique de la littérature sur l’empowerment, nous présentons six perspectives basées sur des significations différentes d’après des modalités théoriques et idéologiques spécifiques donnant lieu à une conceptualisation de la solidarité selon une grille d’analyse fondée sur des conditions de pratique. Après quoi nous soulevons certains angles morts théoriques des perspectives recensées, dont le régime d’autonomie dans lequel s’exercent ces pratiques et les rapports de pouvoir avec lesquels ces dernières doivent composer. Nous concluons en considérant les dimensions paradoxales du régime d’autonomie-condition en intervention sociale et les défis que ce contexte dissonant représente pour le travail social.
Stages et réalité des professionnelles et professionnels en santé et services sociaux dans un contexte francophone minoritaire à Iqaluit, au Nunavut
Authors: Mercure Dominique , Rivard Sylvie , Bélanger Roxanne , Charrier Marie-Josée
Published: December 2018

Cet article présente la démarche d’analyse et les résultats d’une recherche sur les stages et la réalité des professionnelles et professionnels en santé et services sociaux dans un contexte francophone minoritaire en région arctique. Une démarche méthodologique d’étude de cas à multiples niveaux a été choisie pour permettre de comprendre le vécu des différents acteurs et actrices de la communauté francophone vivant à Iqaluit, au Nunavut. Douze entretiens ont été effectués auprès de stagiaires et de professionnelles et professionnels oeuvrant dans les services de santé et les services sociaux pour mieux saisir leur contexte de pratique, les défis rencontrés, les compétences développées dans ce milieu et les obstacles quant à l’organisation des stages. Les résultats illustrent les perceptions de participantes et participants non autochtones sur une réalité complexe composée de nombreux défis.
Des stages en français pour se préparer à travailler auprès des communautés francophones en situation minoritaire
Authors: Savard Jacinthe , Benoît Josée , Dubouloz Claire-Jehanne , Breau-Godwin Stéphanie
Published: December 2018

Dans l’objectif d’augmenter le nombre de professionnelles et professionnels pouvant offrir des services sociaux et de santé en français dans les communautés francophones en situation minoritaire (CFSM), des stages en français ont été offerts à des étudiantes et étudiants bilingues de programmes de formation professionnelle offerts en anglais au sein d’universités canadiennes. L’expérience a été positive pour l’ensemble des parties prenantes : stagiaires, éducatrices-cliniciennes et responsables de la formation clinique. Après cette expérience, les stagiaires ont mentionné avoir une meilleure connaissance des défis d’accès aux services rencontrés par les CFSM et se sentir plus en mesure d’offrir des services en français à ces communautés.
Enquête sur l’offre active pour les services auxiliaires de santé du Nord-Est de
l’Ontario
Authors: Bélanger1 Roxanne , Mayer-Crittenden Chantal , Mainguy Josée , Coutu Anie
Published: December 2018

Au Canada, il existe peu de données décrivant les services auxiliaires de santé en
français disponibles dans les communautés francophones en situation minoritaire. L’objectif
de cette étude était d’examiner l’accès aux services d’orthophonie, de physiothérapie et
d’ergothérapie en français dans le Nord-Est de l’Ontario. Un outil mesurant la disponibilité
et l’offre active des services a été créé et validé. Ce dernier a été distribué aux
personnes fournissant les services et aux personnes les utilisant afin de déterminer leurs
perceptions concernant l’offre de ces services en français, ainsi que l’accessibilité aux
services auxiliaires de santé en français. Les résultats ont montré un manque de services en
français dans cette région.
The Treatment of Complex Motorcycle Spoke Injuries in Children
Authors: Jielile Jiasharete , Li Pengfei , Bahetiya Wulan , Badelhan Aynaz , Qianman Bayixiati , Jialihasi Ayidaer , Shawutali Nuerai , Wuerliebieke Jianati , Aizezi Adili , Yeerboo Naertai , Makemutibieke Elihaer , Aisaiding Amuding , Hazehan Tuolihawu , Shatewalede Tulede , Awuyyesihan Zhumatai
Published: December 2018

Motorcycle spoke injuries involving the soft tissue, Achilles tendon, and calcaneal defects are rare in children. Currently, calcaneal defects are very challenging to treat. Multiple methods have been used in clinical practice; however, an effective treatment has yet to be established, especially when Achilles tendon and soft-tissue defects are also present. It is important to address this condition, because the calcaneus plays a key role in standing and gait. Unsatisfactory treatment of calcaneal defects may significantly decrease patients' quality of life (eg, by limiting mobility). In this article, we report the effective treatment of calcaneal defects in four children using distraction osteogenesis with an external fixator framework designed by the authors. From May 2014 to May 2015, four children (age range, 6–11 years) with defects of the Achilles tendon, soft tissue, and calcaneus resulting from a motorcycle accident were treated at our hospital. The Achilles tendon and soft-tissue defects were treated with second-stage reconstruction. In the third-stage surgery, osteotomy of the residual calcaneus was performed. A customized external fixator was used to lengthen the calcaneus at a rate of 1.5 mm/day in the posterior direction and reposition it by 40° in the inferior direction. In all four children, the calcaneus was lengthened by 5 cm. Distraction osteogenesis through external fixation is effective for restoring the length, width, and height of the calcaneus in children.
Retrospective Analysis of Plantar Fascia by Ultrasound Imaging in Patients with Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Slayton Michael Henry , Amodei Richard C. , Compton Keegan B. , Cicchinelli Luke D.
Published: December 2018

Background:

We compared diagnostic ultrasound images of the plantar fascia with available patient histories for symptomatic patients previously diagnosed as having plantar fasciitis. Plantar fascia thickness and depth, the prevalence of perifascial hypoechoic lesions, and injury timelines in patients were reviewed.

Methods:

Images and histories for 126 symptomatic patients were collected from a patient database. We documented plantar fascia depth and thickness and the visualization of hypoechoic perifascial lesions. After image analysis, the obtained plantar fascia thickness measurements were compared with various patient attributes for possible relationships, including age, weight, and body mass index. In addition, plantar fascia thickness measurements were separated based on injury timeline as well as symptomatic/asymptomatic foot for patients with unilateral conditions to check for significant differences between subgroups. These were, in turn, compared with a control group of 71 individuals with no heel pain or diagnosis of plantar fasciitis.

Results:

Overall, mean ± SD symptomatic thickness (n = 148) was 6.53 ± 1.56 mm. Mean ± SD symptomatic depth (n = 136) was 13.36 ± 2.14 mm. For the control group, mean ± SD thickness was 3.20 ± 0.66 mm and depth was 10.30 ± 2.00 mm. Comparison of thickness based on injury timeline showed two significant differences: acute injuries (≤3 months) are significantly thicker than chronic injuries (>3 months), and only acute symptomatic thicknesses are significantly different from their asymptomatic thickness counterparts. Age, weight, and body mass index did not show significant correlations to thickness. Analysis of ultrasound images showed that 93% of symptomatic feet had hypoechoic lesions.

Conclusions:

Injury timeline and the presence of hypoechoic lesions may play important roles in patient discomfort, diagnosis, and treatment of plantar fasciitis.
Fragile X mental retardation protein is a Zika virus restriction factor that is antagonized by subgenomic flaviviral RNA
Authors: Soto-Acosta Ruben , Xie Xuping , Shan Chao , Baker Coleman K , Shi Pei-Yong , Rossi Shannan L , Garcia-Blanco Mariano A , Bradrick Shelton
Published: December 2018

Subgenomic flaviviral RNA (sfRNA) accumulates during infection due to incomplete degradation of viral genomes and interacts with cellular proteins to promote infection. Here we identify host proteins that bind the Zika virus (ZIKV) sfRNA. We identified fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) as a ZIKV sfRNA-binding protein and confirmed this interaction in cultured cells and mouse testes. Depletion of FMRP elevated viral translation and enhanced ZIKV infection, indicating that FMRP is a ZIKV restriction factor. We further observed that an attenuated ZIKV strain compromised for sfRNA production was disproportionately stimulated by FMRP knockdown, suggesting that ZIKV sfRNA antagonizes FMRP activity. Importantly, ZIKV infection and expression of ZIKV sfRNA upregulated endogenous FMRP target genes in cell culture and ZIKV-infected mice. Together, our observations identify FMRP as a ZIKV restriction factor whose activity is antagonized by the sfRNA. Interaction between ZIKV and FMRP has significant implications for the pathogenesis of ZIKV infections.
Structural plasticity in root-fungal symbioses: diverse interactions lead to improved plant fitness
Authors: Kariman Khalil , Barker Susan Jane , Tibbett Mark
Published: December 2018

Root-fungal symbioses such as mycorrhizas and endophytes are key components of terrestrial ecosystems. Diverse in trophy habits (obligate, facultative or hemi-biotrophs) and symbiotic relations (from mutualism to parasitism), these associations also show great variability in their root colonization and nutritional strategies. Specialized interface structures such as arbuscules and Hartig nets are formed by certain associations while others are restricted to non-specialized intercellular or intracellular hyphae in roots. In either case, there are documented examples of active nutrient exchange, reinforcing the fact that specialized structures used to define specific mycorrhizal associations are not essential for reciprocal exchange of nutrients and plant growth promotion. In feremycorrhiza (withAustroboletus occidentalisand eucalypts), the fungal partner markedly enhances plant growth and nutrient acquisition without colonizing roots, emphasizing that a conventional focus on structural form of associations may have resulted in important functional components of rhizospheres being overlooked. In support of this viewpoint, mycobiome studies using the state-of-the-art DNA sequencing technologies have unearthed much more complexity in root-fungal relationships than those discovered using the traditional morphology-based approaches. In this review, we explore the existing literature and most recent findings surrounding structure, functioning, and ecology of root-fungal symbiosis, which highlight the fact that plant fitness can be altered by taxonomically/ecologically diverse fungal symbionts regardless of root colonization and interface specialization. Furthermore, transition from saprotrophy to biotrophy seems to be a common event that occurs in diverse fungal lineages (consisting of root endophytes, soil saprotrophs, wood decayers etc.), and which may be accompanied by development of specialized interface structures and/or mycorrhiza-like effects on plant growth and nutrition.
Diversity of NC10 bacteria associated with sediments of submergedPotamogeton crispus(Alismatales: Potmogetonaceae)
Authors: Wang Binghan , Huang Shanshan , Zhang Liangmao , Zhao Jianwei , Liu Guanglong , Hua Yumei , Zhou Wenbing , Zhu Duanwei
Published: December 2018

Background

The nitrite-dependent anaerobic methane oxidation (N-DAMO) pathway, which plays an important role in carbon and nitrogen cycling in aquatic ecosystems, is mediated by “CandidatusMethylomirabilis oxyfera” (M. oxyfera) of the NC10 phylum.M. oxyfera-like bacteria are widespread in nature, however, the presence, spatial heterogeneity and genetic diversity ofM. oxyferain the rhizosphere of aquatic plants has not been widely reported.

Method

In order to simulate the rhizosphere microenvironment of submerged plants,Potamogeton crispuswas cultivated using the rhizobox approach. Sediments from three compartments of the rhizobox: root (R), near-rhizosphere (including five sub-compartments of one mm width, N1–N5) and non-rhizosphere (>5 mm, Non), were sampled. The 16S rRNA gene library was used to investigate the diversity ofM. oxyfera-like bacteria in these sediments.

Results

Methylomirabilis oxyfera-like bacteria were found in all three sections, with all 16S rRNA gene sequences belonging to 16 operational taxonomic units (OTUs). A maximum of six OTUs was found in the N1 sub-compartment of the near-rhizosphere compartment and a minimum of four in the root compartment (R) and N5 near-rhizosphere sub-compartment. Indices of bacterial community diversity (Shannon) and richness (Chao1) were 0.73–1.16 and 4–9, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis showed that OTU1-11 were classified into group b, while OTU12 was in a new cluster of NC10.

Discussion

Our results confirmed the existence ofM. oxyfera-like bacteria in the rhizosphere microenvironment of the submerged plantP. crispus. Group b ofM. oxyfera-like bacteria was the dominant group in this study as opposed to previous findings that both group a and b coexist in most other environments. Our results indicate that understanding the ecophysiology ofM. oxyfera-like bacteria group b may help to explain their existence in the rhizosphere sediment of aquatic plant.
Genetic landscape and novel disease mechanisms from a large LGMD cohort of 4656 patients
Authors: Nallamilli Babi Ramesh Reddy , Chakravorty Samya , Kesari Akanchha , Tanner Alice , Ankala Arunkanth , Schneider Thomas , da Silva Cristina , Beadling Randall , Alexander John J. , Askree Syed Hussain , Whitt Zachary , Bean Lora , Collins Christin , Khadilkar Satish , Gaitonde Pradnya , Dastur Rashna , Wicklund Matthew , Mozaffar Tahseen , Harms Matthew , Rufibach Laura , Mittal Plavi , Hegde Madhuri
Published: December 2018

Objective

Limb‐girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMDs), one of the most heterogeneous neuromuscular disorders (NMDs), involves predominantly proximal‐muscle weakness with >30 genes associated with different subtypes. The clinical‐genetic overlap among subtypes and with other NMDs complicate disease‐subtype identification lengthening diagnostic process, increases overall costs hindering treatment/clinical‐trial recruitment. Currently seven LGMD clinical trials are active but still no gene‐therapy‐related treatment is available. Till‐date no nation‐wide large‐scale LGMD sequencing program was performed. Our objectives were to understand LGMD genetic basis, different subtypes’ relative prevalence across US and investigate underlying disease mechanisms.

Methods

A total of 4656 patients with clinically suspected‐LGMD across US were recruited to conduct next‐generation sequencing (NGS)‐based gene‐panel testing during June‐2015 to June‐2017 in CLIA‐CAP‐certified Emory‐Genetics‐Laboratory. Thirty‐five LGMD‐subtypes‐associated or LGMD‐like other NMD‐associated genes were investigated. Main outcomes were diagnostic yield, gene‐variant spectrum, and LGMD subtypes’ prevalence in a large US LGMD‐suspected population.

Results

Molecular diagnosis was established in 27% (1259 cases; 95% CI, 26–29%) of the patients with major contributing genes to LGMD phenotypes being: CAPN3(17%), DYSF(16%), FKRP(9%) and ANO5(7%). We observed an increased prevalence of genetically confirmed late‐onset Pompe disease, DNAJB6‐associated LGMD subtype1E and CAPN3‐associated autosomal‐dominant LGMDs. Interestingly, we identified a high prevalence of patients with pathogenic variants in more than one LGMD gene suggesting possible synergistic heterozygosity/digenic/multigenic contribution to disease presentation/progression that needs consideration as a part of diagnostic modality.

Interpretation

Overall, this study has improved our understanding of the relative prevalence of different LGMD subtypes, their respective genetic etiology, and the changing paradigm of their inheritance modes and novel mechanisms that will allow for improved timely treatment, management, and enrolment of molecularly diagnosed individuals in clinical trials.
Micro/Nanometer‐Structured Scaffolds for Regeneration of Both Cartilage and Subchondral Bone
Authors: Deng Cuijun , Lin Rongcai , Zhang Meng , Qin Chen , Yao Qingqiang , Wang Liming , Chang Jiang , Wu Chengtie
Published: December 2018

Treatment of osteochondral defects remains a great challenge in clinical practice because cartilage and subchondral bone possess significantly different physiological properties. In this study, the controlled surface micro/nanometer structure of bioactive scaffolds in a combination of biomaterial chemistry is harnessed to address this issue. Model bioactive biomaterials, bredigite (BRT) scaffolds, with controlled surface micro/nanostructure are successfully fabricated by combining 3D printing with a hydrothermal process. It is found that the growth of micro/nano–calcium phosphate crystals on the surface of BRT scaffolds notably enhances their compressive strength by healing the microcracks on the strut surface. The micro/nanostructured surface distinctly facilitates the spread and differentiation of chondrocytes by activating integrin αvb1 and α5b1 heterodimers, regulates cell morphology, and promotes osteogenic differentiation of rabbit bone marrow stromal cells (rBMSCs) through the synergetic effect of integrin α5b1 and RhoA, in which the microrod surface demonstrates the highest stimulatory effect on the differentiation of chondrocytes and rBMSCs. The in vivo study shows that the micro/nanostructured surface of the 3D printed scaffolds obviously promotes the regeneration of both cartilage and subchondral bone tissues. This study suggests that the construction of controlled micro/nanostructured surface in porous 3D scaffolds offers a smart strategy to induce bilineage bioactivities for osteochondral regeneration.
Supramolecular Antibacterial Materials for Combatting Antibiotic Resistance
Authors: Li Xingshu , Bai Haotian , Yang Yuchong , Yoon Juyoung , Wang Shu , Zhang Xi
Published: December 2018

Antibiotic‐resistant bacteria have emerged as a severe threat to human health. As effective antibacterial therapies, supramolecular materials display unprecedented advantages because of the flexible and tunable nature of their noncovalent interactions with biomolecules and the ability to incorporate various active agents in their platforms. Herein, supramolecular antibacterial materials are discussed using a format that focuses on their fundamental active elements and on recent advances including material selection, fabrication methods, structural characterization, and activity performance.
Repurposed Leather with Sensing Capabilities for Multifunctional Electronic Skin
Authors: Zou Binghua , Chen Yuanyuan , Liu Yihan , Xie Ruijie , Du Qinjie , Zhang Tao , Shen Yu , Zheng Bing , Li Sheng , Wu Jiansheng , Zhang Weina , Huang Wei , Huang Xin , Huo Fengwei
Published: December 2018

Electronic skin (e‐skin), an important part toward the realization of artificial intelligence, has been developing through comprehending, mimicking, and eventually outperforming skin in some aspects. Most of the e‐skin substrates are flexible polymers, such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Although PDMS was found to be biocompatible, it is not suitable for long‐time wearing due to its air impermeability. This study reports a simple and designable leather based e‐skin by merging the natural sophisticated structure and wearing comfort of leather with the multifunctional properties of nanomaterials. The leather based e‐skin could make leather, “the dead skin,” repurposed for its sensing capabilities. This e‐skin can be applied in flexible pressure sensors, displays, user‐interactive devices, etc. It provides a new class of materials for the development of multifunctional e‐skin to mimic or even outshine the functions of real skin.
High‐Energy‐Density Foldable Battery Enabled by Zigzag‐Like Design
Authors: Liao Xiangbiao , Shi Changmin , Wang Tianyang , Qie Boyu , Chen Youlong , Yang Pengfei , Cheng Qian , Zhai Haowei , Chen Meijie , Wang Xue , Chen Xi , Yang Yuan
Published: December 2018

Flexible batteries, seamlessly compatible with flexible and wearable electronics, attract a great deal of research attention. Current designs of flexible batteries struggle to meet one of the most extreme yet common deformation scenarios in practice, folding, while retaining high energy density. Inspired by origami folding, a novel strategy to fabricate zigzag‐like lithium ion batteries with superior foldability is proposed. The battery structure could approach zero‐gap between two adjacent energy storage segments, achieving an energy density that is 96.4% of that in a conventional stacking cell. A foldable battery thus fabricated demonstrates an energy density of 275 Wh L−1 and is resilient to fatigue over 45 000 dynamic cycles with a folding angle of 130°, while retaining stable electrochemical performance. Additionally, the power stability and resilience to nail shorting of the foldable battery are also examined.
Frogspawn‐Coral‐Like Hollow Sodium Sulfide Nanostructured Cathode for High‐Rate Performance Sodium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Wang Chuanlong , Wang Huan , Hu Xiaofei , Matios Edward , Luo Jianmin , Zhang Yiwen , Lu Xuan , Li Weiyang
Published: December 2018

Room‐temperature (RT) sodium–sulfur (Na–S) batteries are attractive cost‐effective platforms as the next‐generation energy storage systems by using all earth‐abundant resources as electrode materials. However, the slow kinetics of Na–S chemistry makes it hard to achieve high‐rate performance. Herein, a facile and scalable approach has been developed to synthesize hollow sodium sulfide (Na2S) nanospheres embedded in a highly hierarchical and spongy conductive carbon matrix, forming an intriguing architecture similar to the morphology of frogspawn coral, which has shown great potential as a cathode for high‐rate performance RT Na–S batteries. The shortened Na‐ion diffusion pathway benefits from the hollow structures together with the fast electron transfer from the carbon matrix contributes to high electrochemical reactivity, leading to superior electrochemical performance at various current rates. At high current densities of 1.4 and 2.1 A g−1, high initial discharge capacities of 980 and 790 mAh g−1sulfur can be achieved, respectively, with reversible capacities stabilized at 600 and 400 mAh g−1sulfur after 100 cycles. As a proof of concept, a Na‐metal‐free Na–S battery is demonstrated by pairing the hollow Na2S cathode with tin‐based anode. This work provides guidance on rational materials design towards the success of RT high‐rate Na–S batteries.
Experimental and density functional theory insights into the effect of withdrawing ligands on the fluorescence yield of Ru(II)‐based complexes
Authors: Ali Basant A. , Sharmoukh Walid , Elnagar Mohamed M. , Hassan Zeinab M. , Allam Nageh K.
Published: December 2018

The quality of emission spectra of metal complexes gives good insights into their performance in many optoelectronic applications. Herein, the effect of the number and position of various ligand structures on the emission spectra of Ru bipyridine complexes was studied. Specifically, the use of a different number of withdrawing groups (COOH) was investigated in detail. The complexes were first investigated using density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent DFT calculations and then confirmed experimentally. The bandgap energy, reactivity, emission spectra and Stokes shift were found to depend on the number and position of the withdrawing groups attached to the Ru(bpy)22+ complexes. Upon increasing the number of withdrawing groups, the electrons were found to be withdrawn from the carbon orbitals and resonated to reach the metal, and accumulated around it, thus enhancing the metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer mechanism instead of the ligand‐to‐ligand charge transfer mechanism. The complexes with more withdrawing groups showed spectra with more intense emission peaks with shorter lifetime, indicating the enhancement in the photoactivity of the complexes. Ligands with ring nitrogens with two COOH groups showed the greatest effect on the enhancement of the emission spectra with a lifetime of 0.5359 ns. The resulting collective emission spectra covered a wide wavelength range, making the investigated complexes a good choice for many optoelectronic applications.
Decoration of Dibenzofuran Using Cyanocarbazole via 6‐Position as a Molecular Design Approach for High‐Triplet‐Energy Bipolar Host Materials
Authors: Konidena Rajendra Kumar , Lee Kyung Hyung , Lee Jun Yeob
Published: December 2018

In this study, two new dibenzofuran derivatives featuring one or two cyanocarbazole units, 6‐(dibenzo[b,d]furan‐4‐yl)‐9‐phenyl‐9H‐carbazole‐3‐carbonitrile (mBFCzCN) and 6,6′‐(dibenzo[b,d]furan‐4,6‐diyl)bis(9‐phenyl‐9H‐carbazole‐3‐carbonitrile) (dBFCzCN), were developed as host materials for phosphorescent organic light emitting diodes (PhOLEDs). A new molecular design connecting the cyanocarbazole to the dibenzofuran using the cyanocarbazole 6‐position instead of its 9‐position was created, and the effects of number of cyanocarbazole units in the dibenzofuran building block on the photophysical and electroluminescence properties were investigated in detail. The mBFCzCN compound revealed high triplet energy (2.78 eV) than that of dBFCzCN (2.68 eV) and good bipolar charge transporting properties. The potential of these materials as hosts for blue and green PhOLEDs was investigated using bis(4,6‐(difluorophenyl)pyridinato‐N,C2′)picolinate iridium(III) (FIrpic) and tris(2‐phenylpyridinato)iridium(III) (Ir(ppy)3) dopants, respectively. The results indicated that the mBFCzCN with one cyanocarbazole unit showed better device performance than the dBFCzCN with two cyanocarbazole units in the blue and green devices. High external quantum efficiencies of 19.0 and 21.2 % were demonstrated in the blue and green PhOLEDs with the mBFCzCN host due to its high triplet energy and good bipolar charge transporting characteristics.
Transcranial Doppler to detect right‐to‐left shunt in cryptogenic acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Palazzo Paola , Ingrand Pierre , Agius Pierre , Belhadj Chaidi Rafik , Neau Jean‐Philippe
Published: December 2018

Objectives

We aimed to confirm the sensitivity and specificity of contrast transcranial Doppler (cTCD) in the detection of right‐to‐left shunt (RLS) compared to the current reference standard (i.e., transesophageal echocardiography—TEE) in patients aged <55 years with a cryptogenic acute ischemic stroke (AIS) or high‐risk (ABCD2 score ≥4) transient ischemic attack (TIA), and to calculate the real life delay in detecting RLS by cTCD versus TEE in a tertiary care academic stroke center.

Methods

Consecutive 16‐ to 54‐year‐old patients with AIS or high‐risk TIA underwent complete diagnostic workup which included, in case of undetermined etiology, cTCD and TEE. Sensitivity and specificity of cTCD, RLS characteristics, and median delay between the two tests were calculated.

Results

Of the 98 included patients, 52 (53%) had a cryptogenic cerebrovascular ischemic event, which displayed a 56% prevalence of RLS related to a patent foramen ovale (PFO) mainly with a high‐grade shunt. When comparing TCD with “bubble test” to TEE, sensitivity and specificity were both 100%. Median delays from symptom onset to examination were 2 (min–max 1–10) and 21 (min–max 1–60) days, respectively, for cTCD and TEE. No adverse event occurred during or after cTDC examination.

Conclusions

Transcranial Doppler with “bubble test” appears as the best screening test for the detection of RLS in young and middle‐aged adults with cryptogenic acute cerebral ischemic events to select patients potentially suitable for closure procedure after TEE confirmation.
Delta radiomic features improve prediction for lung cancer incidence: A nested case–control analysis of the National Lung Screening Trial
Authors: Cherezov Dmitry , Hawkins Samuel H. , Goldgof Dmitry B. , Hall Lawrence O. , Liu Ying , Li Qian , Balagurunathan Yoganand , Gillies Robert J. , Schabath Matthew B.
Published: December 2018

Background

Current guidelines for lung cancer screening increased a positive scan threshold to a 6 mm longest diameter. We extracted radiomic features from baseline and follow‐up screens and performed size‐specific analyses to predict lung cancer incidence using three nodule size classes (<6 mm [small], 6‐16 mm [intermediate], and ≥16 mm [large]).

Methods

We extracted 219 features from baseline (T0) nodules and 219 delta features which are the change from T0 to first follow‐up (T1). Nodules were identified for 160 incidence cases diagnosed with lung cancer at T1 or second follow‐up screen (T2) and for 307 nodule‐positive controls that had three consecutive positive screens not diagnosed as lung cancer. The cases and controls were split into training and test cohorts; classifier models were used to identify the most predictive features.

Results

The final models revealed modest improvements for baseline and delta features when compared to only baseline features. The AUROCs for small‐ and intermediate‐sized nodules were 0.83 (95% CI 0.76‐0.90) and 0.76 (95% CI 0.71‐0.81) for baseline‐only radiomic features, respectively, and 0.84 (95% CI 0.77‐0.90) and 0.84 (95% CI 0.80‐0.88) for baseline and delta features, respectively. When intermediate and large nodules were combined, the AUROC for baseline‐only features was 0.80 (95% CI 0.76‐0.84) compared with 0.86 (95% CI 0.83‐0.89) for baseline and delta features.

Conclusions

We found modest improvements in predicting lung cancer incidence by combining baseline and delta radiomics. Radiomics could be used to improve current size‐based screening guidelines.
An exploratory study of clients’ experiences and preferences for counselling room space and design
Authors: Sanders Rachael , Lehmann Jennifer
Published: December 2018

Background

Elements of the built environment can impact on an occupant's frame of mind, their interaction with other occupants and their physiological state. It is anticipated that counselling spaces will have some influence on clients’ thoughts, feelings and behaviours and potentially affect the therapeutic process.

Aim

To examine clients’ experiences and perspectives of counselling room design, with the aim of identifying what they considered to be an “ideal” counselling room.

Method

A descriptive qualitative design was employed to examine 15 clients’ perspectives of counselling spaces. Semi‐structured interviews and a previously unused method of model design, in which participants created and recreated models of counselling rooms, were used to encourage participants to express their views of these spaces.

Findings

Thematic analysis revealed an interaction between physical–spatial features and clients’ thoughts and feelings. The driving force behind clients’ design preferences was the desire for a sense of physical and emotional comfort, which was achieved by creating a welcoming, relaxed and homely environment that promoted a sense of safety and security. Moreover, an association between clients’ opinions of the counsellor and the space in which they were counselled was revealed.

Implications

The design and layout of counselling rooms affect clients, particularly women who are feeling vulnerable. While we cannot create a space that fulfils every client's needs, we believe that clients should be included in the decision‐making process to promote their sense of safety and comfort because this impacts on the therapeutic practice.