bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enterococcus faecium strain R30 increases red blood cell velocity and prevents capillary regression in the soleus of hindlimb‐unloaded rats via the eNOS/VEGF pathway
Authors: Hirayama Yusuke , Nakanishi Ryosuke , Tategaki Airo , Maeshige Noriaki , Kondo Hiroyo , Ishihara Akihiko , Roy Roland R. , Fujino Hidemi
Published: January 2017

Objective

A chronic decrease in neuromuscular activity results in atrophy and capillary regression in skeletal muscles. The purposes of this study were to determine the effects of Enterococcus faecium strain R30 (R30) administration on (i) the hemodynamics of the rat soleus muscle, and (ii) the capillary regression normally associated with HU.

Methods

Experiment 1: The VRBC was measured for up to 1 hour after administration of R30 with or without the β‐blocker propranolol. Experiment 2: R30 was administered daily to control and HU rats for 2 weeks. Mean capillary luminal diameter, volume, and the levels of eNOS and VEGF protein were measured.

Results

Experiment 1: VRBC was faster 20, 40, and 60 minutes after than before the administration of R30: This effect was suppressed by propranolol administration. Experiment 2: R30 administration during HU increased capillary luminal diameter and volume and eNOS and VEGF protein levels in the soleus of HU rats.

Conclusions

The results suggest that R30 increases VRBC in the soleus muscle via muscle sympathetic nerve activity (Experiment 1) and that R30 supplementation lessens the capillary regression normally associated with HU via the eNOS/VEGF pathway (Experiment 2).
A high susceptibility to redox imbalance of the transmissible stages of Plasmodium falciparum revealed with a luciferase‐based mature gametocyte assay
Authors: Siciliano Giulia , Santha Kumar T.R. , Bona Roberta , Camarda Grazia , Calabretta Maria Maddalena , Cevenini Luca , Davioud‐Charvet Elisabeth , Becker Katja , Cara Andrea , Fidock David A. , Alano Pietro
Published: January 2017

The goal to prevent Plasmodium falciparum transmission from humans to mosquitoes requires the identification of targetable metabolic processes in the mature (stage V) gametocytes, the sexual stages circulating in the bloodstream. This task is complicated by the apparently low metabolism of these cells, which renders them refractory to most antimalarial inhibitors and constrains the development of specific and sensitive cell‐based assays. Here, we identify and functionally characterize the regulatory regions of the P. falciparum gene PF3D7_1234700, encoding a CPW‐WPC protein and named here Upregulated in Late Gametocytes (ULG8), which we have leveraged to express reporter genes in mature male and female gametocytes. Using transgenic parasites containing a pfULG8‐luciferase cassette, we investigated the susceptibility of stage V gametocytes to compounds specifically affecting redox metabolism. Our results reveal a high sensitivity of mature gametocytes to the glutathione reductase inhibitor and redox cycler drug methylene blue (MB). Using isobologram analysis, we find that a concomitant inhibition of the parasite enzyme glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase‐6‐phosphogluconolactonase, a key component of NADPH synthesis, potently synergizes MB activity. These data suggest that redox metabolism and detoxification activity play an unsuspected yet vital role in stage V gametocytes, rendering these cells exquisitely sensitive to decreases in NADPH concentration.
Lysine acetylation regulates the function of the global anaerobic transcription factor FnrL in Rhodobacter sphaeroides
Authors: Wei Wei , Liu Tong , Li Xinfeng , Wang Ruofan , Zhao Wei , Zhao Guoping , Zhao Shimin , Zhou Zhihua
Published: January 2017

The metabolism of the purple non‐sulfur bacterium Rhodobacter sphaeroides is versatile and it can grow under various conditions. Here, we report evidence that the anaerobic photosynthetic metabolism of R. sphaeroides is regulated by protein lysine acetylation. Using a proteomic approach, 59 acetylated peptides were detected. Among them is the global anaerobic transcription factor FnrL, which regulates the biosynthetic pathway of tetrapyrroles and synthesis of the photosynthetic apparatus. Lysine 223 of FnrL was identified as acetylated. We show that all three lysines in the DNA binding domain (K223, K213 and K175) of FnrL can be acetylated by acetyl‐phosphate in vitro. A bacterial deacetylase homolog, RsCobB can deacetylate FnrL in vitro. The transcription of genes downstream of FnrL decreased when the DNA binding domain of FnrL was acetylated, as revealed by chromatin immunoprecipitation and acetylation‐mimicking mutagenesis. An increasing number of acetylated lysines resulted in a further decrease in DNA binding ability. These results demonstrate that the lysine acetylation can fine tune the function of the oxygen‐sensitive FnrL; thus, it might regulate anaerobic photosynthetic metabolism of R. sphaeroides.
Unreasonable Hope: A Critical Evaluation of Thomas Oord's Eschatology
Authors: McLaughlin Ryan Patrick
Published: January 2017

Drawing upon his theology of essential kenosis, Thomas Oord maintains that God can effect miracles, resurrect Jesus's body, and redeem the entire created order in a definitive victory over evil without using any form of coercion. The author explores Oord's theology in order to evaluate this claim. Based on the criteria of both internal consistency and rational viability, the author argues that Oord's notion of essential kenosis makes the bodily resurrection of Jesus an extreme case of good fortune for God and thoroughly undermines any reasonable hope in an eschatological future in which all creatures experience resurrection and redemption in an evil‐free existence.
Sorbus cibagouensis sp. nov. (Rosaceae) from Zayü County, southeastern Xizang, China
Authors: Yin Zhijian , Zhao Mingxu , Tang Fanglin , Sun HongYan , Peng Hua
Published: January 2017

Sorbus cibagouensis sp. nov. (Rosaceae subfam. Rosaceae), a new taxon from Cibagou National Nature Reserve, Zayü County, southeastern Xizang (Tibet), China, is described and illustrated. It is related to S. monbeigii (Cardot) Balakr., but primarily differs in the number of styles (S. cibagouensis = 5; S. monbeigii = 4) and the shape of stipules and leaves (S. cibagouensis: stipules caducous, small, with entire margin, leaflets in 9–11 pairs; S. monbeigii: stipules persistent, large, serrate, leaflets in 6–8 (–10) pairs).
Validation of the Amharic Version of the Brief Pain Inventory for Utility in Ethiopian Cancer Patients
Authors: Anshabo Abel Tesfaye , Migbaru Sefinew , Awoke Dagmawit , Tigeneh Wondemagegnhu , Engidawork Ephrem
Published: January 2017

Background

Pain is a highly prevalent and distressing symptom in patients with cancer but at the same time inadequately treated in many of these patients. The major reason for such imbalance is inappropriate pain assessment. To overcome such a barrier, the use of a valid and reliable pain assessment tool in the language the patient understands is invaluable. Unfortunately, until now, no such standardized tool has been utilized in Ethiopian patients with cancer for both clinical and research purposes.

Objectives

This study tried to validate the Amharic language version of the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI‐Am) and evaluate the adequacy of cancer pain management using the Pain Management Index (PMI).

Methods

A standard forward/backward translation technique was used for translating the BPI from its original English version into Amharic (BPI‐Am). The BPI‐Am was administered to 291 Ethiopian patients with cancer who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Factor analysis was used to identify the underlying constructs of the tool. Mean comparison was used to confirm the sensitivity of the BPI‐Am to known patient groups that differed based on their performance status. Cronbach's α and intraclass correlation coefficients, respectively, were used to assure internal consistency and test–retest reliability of the BPI‐Am. The PMI was calculated to identify the level of inadequate pain management in the current sample. Stepwise logistic regression was used to identify potential predictors of inadequate pain management.

Results

Factor analysis yielded 3 factors—pain severity, physical activity interference, and psychosocial interference—with Cronbach's α coefficients of 0.85, 0.87, and 0.77, respectively. The BPI‐Am showed the capacity to detect higher mean pain severity and mean pain interference scores in patients with poor performance status as compared with those having a good performance status (P < 0.001). Intraclass correlation coefficients for test–retest reliability were 0.75 and 0.78 for the pain severity and pain interference composite scores, respectively. Sixty‐seven percent of patients in the current sample were inadequately treated for their pain according to the PMI. Good performance status (odds ratio [OR] = 2.9, P < 0.01), absence of cancer‐related complications (OR = 2.1, P < 0.05), and being unemployed (OR = 2.6, P < 0.01) were identified as predictors of inadequate pain management.

Conclusion

The BPI‐Am is a valid and reliable tool for use in Ethiopian patients with cancer. The inadequacy of cancer pain management in these groups of patients is high, which calls for needed attention.
Dishonest individuals request more frequent mate retention from friends
Authors: PHAM MICHAEL N. , BARBARO NICOLE , NOSER AMY E. , SELA YAEL , SHACKELFORD TODD K. , ZEIGLER‐HILL VIRGIL , WEEGE BETTINA , FINK BERNHARD
Published: January 2017

Coalitional mate retention (CMR) occurs when individuals request assistance from a friend to minimize the risk of partner infidelity. We secured reports from men and women in a committed, heterosexual relationship to investigate associations between CMR requests and the sex and personality traits of individuals who request CMR and the sex of their friends. Consistent with our hypothesis, individuals scoring higher in Honesty–Humility requested CMR less frequently. We also documented that individuals higher in Extraversion and lower in Conscientiousness requested CMR more frequently. We address limitations of the research and future research directions, including tests of the hypothesis that CMR involves duplicitous behaviors that are less typical of individual mate retention.
What makes a good pediatric transplant lung: Insights from in vivo lung morphometry with hyperpolarized 3He magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Fishman Emily F. , Quirk James D. , Sweet Stuart C. , Woods Jason C. , Gierada David S. , Conradi Mark S. , Siegel Marilyn J. , Yablonskiy Dmitriy A.
Published: January 2017

Obtaining information on transplanted lung microstructure is an important part of the current care for monitoring transplant recipients. However, until now this information was only available from invasive lung biopsy. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of an innovative non‐invasive technique, in vivo lung morphometry with hyperpolarized ³He MRI—to characterize lung microstructure in the pediatric lung transplant population. This technique yields quantitative measurements of acinar airways’ (alveolar ducts and sacs) parameters, such as acinar airway radii and alveolar depth. Six pediatric lung transplant recipients with cystic fibrosis underwent in vivo lung morphometry MRI, pulmonary function testing, and quantitative CT. We found a strong correlation between lung lifespan and alveolar depth—patients with more shallow alveoli were likely to have a negative outcome sooner than those with larger alveolar depth. Combining morphometric results with CT, we also determined mean alveolar wall thickness and found substantial increases in this parameter in some patients that negatively correlated with DLCO. In vivo lung morphometry uniquely provides previously unavailable information on lung microstructure that may be predictive of a negative outcome and has a potential to aid in lung selection for transplantation.
Luciferin‐Regenerating Enzyme Crystal Structure Is Solved but its Function Is Still Unclear
Authors: Hosseinkhani Saman , Emamgholi Zadeh Elaheh , Sahebazzamani Fatemeh , Ataei Farangis , Hemmati Roohullah
Published: January 2017

Contribution of luciferin‐regenerating enzyme (LRE) for in vitro recycling of D‐luciferin has been reported. According to crystal structure of LRE, it is a beta‐propeller protein which is a type of all β‐protein architecture. In this overview, reinvestigation of the luciferase‐based LRE assays and its function is reported. Until now, sequence of LRE genes from four different species of firefly has been reported. In spite of previous reports, T‐LRE (from Lampyris turkestanicus) was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli as well as Pichia pastoris in a nonsoluble form as inclusion body. According to recent investigations, bioluminescent signal of soluble T‐LRE–luciferase‐coupled assay increased and then reached an equilibrium state in the presence of D‐cysteine. In addition, the results revealed that both D‐ and L‐cysteine in the absence of T‐LRE caused a significant increase in bioluminescence intensity of luciferase over a long time. Based on activity measurements and spectroscopic results, D‐cysteine increased the activity of luciferase due to its redox potential and induction of conformational changes in structure and kinetics properties. In conclusion, in spite of previous reports on the effect of LRE (at least T‐LRE) on luciferase activity, most of the increase in luciferase activity is caused by direct effect of D‐cysteine on structure and activity of firefly luciferase. Moreover, bioinformatics analysis cannot support the presence of LRE in peroxisome of photocytes in firefly lanterns.
K ⊈ E
Authors: Zardini Elia
Published: January 2017

In a series of very influential works, Tim Williamson has advanced and defended a much discussed theory of evidence containing, among other claims, the thesis that, if one knows P, P is part of one's evidence (K ⊆ E). I argue that K ⊆ E is false, and indeed that it is so for a reason that Williamson himself essentially provides in arguing against the thesis that, if one has a justified true belief in P, P is part of one's evidence: together with a very plausible principle governing the acquisition of knowledge by non‐deductive inference based on evidence, K ⊆ E leads, in a sorites‐like fashion, to what would seem a series of unacceptably bootstrapping expansions of one's evidence. I then develop some considerations about the functions of and conditions for evidence which are suggested by the argument against K ⊆ E. I close by discussing the relationship of the argument with anti‐closure arguments of the style exemplified by the preface paradox: I contend that, if closure is assumed, it is extremely plausible to expect that the diagnosis of what goes wrong in the preface‐paradox‐style argument cannot be used to block my own argument.
Dynamic Supply Risk Management with Signal‐Based Forecast, Multi‐Sourcing, and Discretionary Selling
Authors: Gao Long , Yang Nan , Zhang Renyu , Luo Ting
Published: January 2017

We examine the critical role of advance supply signals—such as suppliers’ financial health and production viability—in dynamic supply risk management. The firm operates an inventory system with multiple demand classes and multiple suppliers. The sales are discretionary and the suppliers are susceptible to both systematic and operational risks. We develop a hierarchical Markov model that captures the essential features of advance supply signals, and integrate it with procurement and selling decisions. We characterize the optimal procurement and selling policy, and the strategic relationship between signal‐based forecast, multi‐sourcing, and discretionary selling. We show that higher demand heterogeneity may reduce the value of discretionary selling, and that the mean value‐based forecast may outperform the stationary distribution‐based forecast. This work advances our understanding on when and how to use advance supply signals in dynamic risk management. Future supply risk erodes profitability but enhances the marginal value of current inventory. A signal of future supply shortage raises both base stock and demand rationing levels, thereby boosting the current production and tightening the current sales. Signal‐based dynamic forecast effectively guides the firm's procurement and selling decisions. Its value critically depends on supply volatility and scarcity. Ignoring advance supply signals can result in misleading recommendations and severe losses. Signal‐based dynamic supply forecast should be used when: (a) supply uncertainty is substantial, (b) supply‐demand ratio is moderate, (c) forecast precision is high, and (d) supplier heterogeneity is high.
Tectonic control on deltaic sediment dispersal in the middle to upper Turonian Western Cordilleran Foreland Basin, USA
Authors: Hutsky Andrew J. , Fielding Christopher R.
Published: January 2017

Tectonic forcing of delta progradation is increasingly being invoked to explain stratal stacking patterns in foreland basins. Nonetheless, the recognition of different types of tectonic forcing and their consequences for the spatial and temporal distribution of accommodation often rely on incomplete data sets and indirect sequence stratigraphic criteria. Previous work has concluded that the Cenomanian–Turonian Frontier Formation of northern Utah, north‐west Colorado and south‐west Wyoming (‘Vernal Delta’) owes its origin largely to tectonic overprinting of depositional patterns, although the lack of a comprehensive sequence stratigraphic framework for the unit has hampered evaluation of this claim. This study provides detailed facies and sequence stratigraphic analyses based on outcrop sections and wireline log suites from the Uinta, Piceance and Green River basins. Four genetically related intervals were defined and mapped by using regionally traceable stratigraphic horizons (flooding surfaces and sequence boundaries). Internally, intervals are composed of distal and proximal delta front lithologies, and coastal plain facies. Overall, Intervals 1 to 4 form a major basinward projection of coarse clastic strata generated in response to four separate, high‐frequency regressions. Furthermore, a change through time from southward projection of elongate lobes (Intervals 1 and 2) to eastward dispersal and development of a broad, arcuate planform (Intervals 3 and 4) can be explained in terms of changes in prevailing tectonic forcing mechanisms. North–south trending Sevier Orogeny forebulge structures controlled Intervals 1 and 2. West–east progradation (Intervals 3 and 4) was probably controlled by Proterozoic basement lineament reactivation due to Laramide foreland uplifts. Therefore, this study provides direct geological evidence for the initiation of local Laramide deformation as early as 90 Ma. These findings contribute to a more complete understanding of tectonic forcing of coastal to shallow marine successions in foreland basins and the tectonic evolution of the western USA.
Surgical management of bowel obstruction in gynaecological cancer
Authors: Kolomainen Desiree F , Riley Julia , Wood Jayne , Barton Desmond PJ
Published: January 2017

Key content

Bowel obstruction in gynaecological cancers requires a multidisciplinary approach to optimise patient outcomes.

Surgery is usually performed with palliative intent. The palliative care team should be involved in patient management especially in the case of recurrent disease.

There is no level 1 evidence or national guidance available.

Learning objectives

To understand that bowel obstruction in women with gynaecological cancer is rare and seen more often with recurrent disease than primary disease.

To appreciate that case selection for surgery is individualised, and that surgery is associated with higher morbidity and mortality rates in emergency cases and following radiotherapy or recent chemotherapy.

Most women with gynaecological cancer present with non‐acute bowel obstruction, which is most commonly associated with recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer among gynaecological cancers. Bowel obstruction in irradiated women is less often caused by recurrent cancer.

Conservative management includes drug treatments such as opiates, anticholinergics and steroids.

Ethical issues

Data on the quality of life of women with gynaecological cancer and bowel obstruction are lacking.

Although the goal is palliation in most women, there is no clear definition of ‘successful palliation’.

Surgical intervention does not always provide sustained palliation, yet it can contribute to increased morbidity and mortality.
Management of a facial partial thickness chemical burn in a dog caused by bleach
Authors: Kawalilak Lukas T. , Fransson Boel A. , Alessio Terri L.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To describe the management and successful outcome of a late‐recognition partial thickness bleach burn to the face and corneas of a dog.

Case Summary

A 1‐year‐old male neutered Fox Terrier mix breed dog was evaluated for sloughing facial epithelium 5 days after coming into contact with an 8.25% household bleach cleaning solution. Severe erythema, edema, and crusting were noted around the muzzle and margins of both eyes, with moderate to severe alopecia in these areas. A partially detached, partial thickness eschar was present on the muzzle, while a firmly attached eschar was present in the region of both frontal sinuses. These injuries were consistent with a focal, superficial, and partial thickness chemical burn. Multiple ocular abnormalities, the most concerning of which was corneal ulceration, were also present. The patient's wounds were managed conservatively with limited surgical debridement of the affected epithelium 11 and 22 days after the initial exposure. Topical ocular medications, corneal debridement, and a superficial keratectomy were also used. All lesions resolved completely by 84 days postexposure, with no residual effects on the patient's quality of life.

New Information

Chemical burns caused by contact with alkaline agents such as bleach (sodium hypochlorite) result in extensive necrosis of the skin and underlying structures. This is the first report of management alkaline facial burns in a dog. If inadequate or delayed hydrotherapy following exposure has resulted in superficial partial thickness burns, conservative management can be successful when traditional treatments, especially bandaging, are not feasible.
Adaptation of General Belongingness Scale into Turkish for Adolescents: Validity and Reliability Studies
Authors: Yıldız Mehmet Ali
Published: January 2017

The current research aims to adapt the General Belongingness Scale (GBS), developed by Malone, Pillow, and Osman (2012), into Turkish for adolescents and to conduct the validity and reliability studies for it. Ages of the participants, a total of 567 adolescents including 274 males (48.3%) and 293 females (51.7%) ranged between 14 and 18 (average age= 15.76). For the construct validity of GBS, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted. Factor analyses results indicated that the scale included two factors as it is in the original form. Factor loadings of the items varied between .55 and .84. To provide validity of the GBS, Pearson Correlation Coefficents between belongingness and loneliness (r= -.64), life satisfaction (r= .36), attachment to parents (varied between r= .21 and r= .39) and attachment to peers (r= .33 and r= .39) were computed and they were all significant. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient calculated for the scale reliability was .76 for acceptance/inclusion sub-dimension, .85 for rejection/exclusion and .81 for overall scale. Test-retest reliability of the GBS was run with 97 students, and it was found as .80. The research findings indicated that the GBS was a valid and reliable instrument to assess general belongingness for Turkish adolescents.
Endothelin‐1 mediates natriuresis but not polyuria during vitamin D‐induced acute hypercalcaemia
Authors: Tokonami Natsuko , Cheval Lydie , Monnay Isabelle , Meurice Guillaume , Loffing Johannes , Feraille Eric , Houillier Pascal
Published: January 2017

Key points

Hypercalcaemia can occur under various pathological conditions, such as primary hyperparathyroidism, malignancy or granulomatosis, and it induces natriuresis and polyuria in various species via an unknown mechanism.

A previous study demonstrated that hypercalcaemia induced by vitamin D in rats increased endothelin (ET)‐1 expression in the distal nephron, which suggests the involvement of the ET system in hypercalcaemia‐induced effects.

In the present study, we demonstrate that, during vitamin D‐induced hypercalcaemia, the activation of ET system by increased ET‐1 is responsible for natriuresis but not for polyuria.

Vitamin D‐treated hypercalcaemic mice showed a blunted response to amiloride, suggesting that epithelial sodium channel function is inhibited.

We have identified an original pathway that specifically mediates the effects of vitamin D‐induced hypercalcaemia on sodium handling in the distal nephron without affecting water handling.

Acute hypercalcaemia increases urinary sodium and water excretion; however, the underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. Because vitamin D‐induced hypercalcaemia increases the renal expression of endothelin (ET)‐1, we hypothesized that ET‐1 mediates the effects of hypercalcaemia on renal sodium and water handling. Hypercalcaemia was induced in 8‐week‐old, parathyroid hormone‐supplemented, male mice by oral administration of dihydrotachysterol (DHT) for 3 days. DHT‐treated mice became hypercalcaemic and displayed increased urinary water and sodium excretion compared to controls. mRNA levels of ET‐1 and the transcription factors CCAAT‐enhancer binding protein β and δ were specifically increased in the distal convoluted tubule and downstream segments in DHT‐treated mice. To examine the role of the ET system in hypercalcaemia‐induced natriuresis and polyuria, mice were treated with the ET‐1 receptor antagonist macitentan, with or without DHT. Mice treated with both macitentan and DHT displayed hypercalcaemia and polyuria similar to that in mice treated with DHT alone; however, no increase in urinary sodium excretion was observed. To identify the affected sodium transport mechanism, we assessed the response to various diuretics in control and DHT‐treated hypercalcaemic mice. Amiloride, an inhibitor of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), increased sodium excretion to a lesser extent in DHT‐treated mice compared to control mice. Mice treated with either macitentan+DHT or macitentan alone had a similar response to amiloride. In summary, vitamin D‐induced hypercalcaemia increases the renal production of ET‐1 and decreases ENaC activity, which is probably responsible for the rise in urinary sodium excretion but not for polyuria.
Diseños para el otro 90%. El diseño humanitario y las representaciones del uso de tecnologías en el sur global
Authors: Prieto Ñañez Fabian Mauricio
Published: January 2017

En estrecha relación con la promoción de la innovación social, el movimiento denominado “diseño humanitario” busca atender los problemas de poblaciones en situación de pobreza, a partir de procesos de diseño que consideran los entornos de sus usuarios. Este artículo problematiza este tipo de diseño, abordando la exposición Design for the other 90% ―la cual recorrió varias ciudades de Estados Unidos entre 2007 y 2009―, desde los vínculos del diseño humanitario con enfoques de mercado que reconocen en la pobreza un nicho creciente para la economía. A través del análisis de esta exposición, se explorará la forma en que la naturaleza, la tecnología y los cuerpos son representados para legitimar narrativas sobre producción y consumo de tecnología en el sur global. A su vez, se reflexionará acerca de la manera como dicha exhibición apela a estilos de vida en Estados Unidos, articulados a formas de consumo y comprensiones específicas sobre la ayuda humanitaria.
Mambrú vuelve a la escuela: política, procesos y actores en América Latina
Authors: Franco-Avellaneda Manuel , Quintero R Oscar Alejandro
Published: January 2017

Nunca antes en Colombia la educación estuvo tan presente en los medios de comunicación, ni en la agenda y el discurso públicos, circunstancia que se evidencia de variadas maneras. La política de gobierno respecto al tema es configurada por una dinámica problema-solución, en la que alcanzar la paz (problema) permitiría orientar esfuerzos en el cierre de brechas e invertir recursos en mejorar la cobertura y calidad del sistema educativo (solución) (DNP, 2015). En consecuencia, el Ministerio de Educación Nacional ha lanzado múltiples programas de créditos condonables en diferentes niveles: pregrado en Colombia y el exterior, y maestría para docentes. Además, se propone actualizar y subsanar buena parte del déficit de infraestructura física de escuelas en un tiempo récord de cuatros años, con 30 mil nuevos salones de clase. Sumado a lo anterior, se busca que la jornada escolar a la que concurren alrededor de 2’300.000 niños y niñas (más o menos una tercera parte del total de la matrícula) aumente de 5 o 6 horas ―promedio actual― a 8 horas (OECD, 2016).
Reflexiones sobre experiencias de abandono de escuela secundaria y doctorado en Argentina. Modos de cierre y condicionantes individuales e institucionales
Authors: Bartolini Ana María , Gerlo Graciela
Published: January 2017

El artículo reflexiona críticamente sobre el abandono educativo, comparando desertores de escuelas secundarias y de programas doctorales en la República Argentina. La perspectiva teórica integra las categorías de deserción voluntaria y exclusión académica de Tinto (1989), con los conceptos de habitus y violencia simbólica de Bourdieu (Bourdieu y Passeron, 1981). Las reflexiones surgen del análisis interpretativo de experiencias de abandono en escuelas secundarias y en doctorados. Este fue realizado mediante la relectura, una nueva codificación y categorización del material empírico proveniente de dos tesis de posgrado, con el objetivo de comparar situaciones de abandono educativo que presentan más semejanzas que diferencias. Los resultados describen habitus autoobstaculizadores de los desertores, modos de cierre del abandono y condicionantes institucionales. Se concluye que: el abandono educativo es resultado de un proceso que niega, encubre y minimiza;la exclusión académica predominó mientras que la deserción voluntaria fue excepcionalmente hallada; los desertores desplegaron estrategias individuales, incluso persistir varios años a pesar de obstáculos institucionales, postergaciones personales y efectos nocivos en la salud mental.
Subjetividad y tecnologías de la escritura. La formación en tiempos de poshumanismo
Authors: Rueda Ortiz Rocio
Published: January 2017

Este artículo se sustenta en una investigación cualitativa sobre los procesos de formación subjetiva en las redes sociales digitales. Se parte de una cuestión filosófica fundamental: la formación humana en medio de un mundo altamente tecnologizado o poshumano. En la primera parte se expone brevemente el marco conceptual desde la relación formación-pedagogía- escritura(s), los estudios sociales de ciencia y tecnología y de cultura material. En la segunda, se describen los mecanismos de co-formación en las nuevas formas de socialidad plataformada en la red social Facebook: programabilidad, popularidad, conectividad y dataficación, donde la agencia de humanos y no humanos se pone en juego y donde se producen paradójicos procesos informales de formación individual y colectiva. Esta nueva condición lleva, en la cuarta parte, a retomar la noción de formación como artesanía en tiempos de poshumanismo. 
De la unidad a lo común: hacia una articulación feminista de las diferencias. La experiencia de la Plataforma de la Marcha Mundial de Mujeres de Euskal Herria
Authors: Gandarias Goikoetxea Itziar
Published: January 2017

El presente texto explora, desde una metodología feminista y activista, el proceso de articulación de organizaciones de mujeres migradas y feministas locales dentro de la Plataforma de la Marcha Mundial de Mujeres de Euskal Herria. Con base en fragmentos del diario de campo, documentos colectivos de la Plataforma y mi propia experiencia como activista dentro de la misma, analizo las prácticas que se están llevando a cabo entre los diferentes colectivos para tejer alianzas. Estas prácticas, que no quedan exentas de nudos ni dificultades, como tampoco de continuidades que reproducen las lógicas de la herencia colonial y patriarcal entre las propias mujeres, reconfiguran la noción de diferencia y se aproximan a lo que algunas autoras vienen denominando la política de lo común.
The Impact of Reciprocating Compressor Pulsations on the Surge Margin of Centrifugal Compressors
Authors: Brun Klaus , Simons Sarah , Kurz Rainer
Published: January 2017

Pressure pulsations into a centrifugal compressor can move its operating point into surge. This is concerning in pipeline stations where centrifugal compressors operate in series/parallel with reciprocating compressors. Sparks (1983, “On the Transient Interaction of Centrifugal Compressors and Their Piping Systems,” ASME Paper No. 83-GT-236); Kurz et al. (2006, “Pulsations in Centrifugal Compressor Installations,” ASME Paper No. GT2006-90700); and Brun et al. (2014, “Impact of the Piping Impedance and Acoustic Characteristics on Centrifugal Compressor Surge and Operating Range,” ASME J. Eng. Turbines Power, 137(3), p. 032603) provided predictions on the impact of periodic pressure pulsation on the behavior of a centrifugal compressor. This interaction is known as the “compressor dynamic response” (CDR) theory. Although the CDR describes the impact of the nearby piping system on the compressor surge and pulsation amplification, it has limited usefulness as a quantitative analysis tool, due to the lack of prediction tools and test data for comparison. Testing of compressor mixed operation was performed in an air loop to quantify the impact of periodic pressure pulsation from a reciprocating compressor on the surge margin (SM) of a centrifugal compressor. This data was utilized to validate predictions from Sparks’ CDR theory and Brun’s numerical approach. A 50 hp single-stage, double-acting reciprocating compressor provided inlet pulsations into a two-stage 700 hp centrifugal compressor. Tests were performed over a range of pulsation excitation amplitudes, frequencies, and pipe geometry variations to determine the impact of piping impedance and resonance responses. Results provided clear evidence that pulsations can reduce the surge margin of centrifugal compressors and that geometry of the piping system immediately upstream and downstream of a centrifugal compressor will have an impact on the surge margin reduction. Surge margin reductions of over 30% were observed for high centrifugal compressor inlet suction pulsation.
Influence of Combustor Swirl on Endwall Heat Transfer and Film Cooling Effectiveness at the Large Scale Turbine Rig
Authors: Werschnik Holger , Hilgert Jonathan , Wilhelm Manuel , Bruschewski Martin , Schiffer Heinz-Peter
Published: January 2017

At the large scale turbine rig (LSTR) at Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany, the aerothermal interaction of combustor exit flow conditions on the subsequent turbine stage is examined. The rig resembles a high pressure turbine and is scaled to low Mach numbers. A baseline configuration with an axial inflow and a swirling inflow representative for a lean combustor is modeled by swirl generators, whose clocking position toward the nozzle guide vane (NGV) leading edge can be varied. A staggered double-row of cylindrical film cooling holes on the endwall is examined. The effect of swirling inflow on heat transfer and film cooling effectiveness is studied, while the coolant mass flux rate is varied. Nusselt numbers are calculated using infrared thermography and the auxiliary wall method. Boundary layer, turbulence, and five-hole probe measurements as well as numerical simulations complement the examination. The results for swirling inflow show a decrease of film cooling effectiveness of up to 35% and an increase of Nusselt numbers of 10–20% in comparison to the baseline case for low coolant mass flux rates. For higher coolant injection, the heat transfer is on a similar level as the baseline. The differences vary depending on the clocking position. The turbulence intensity is increased to 30% for swirling inflow.
Compensating for ear-canal acoustics when measuring otoacoustic emissions
Authors: Charaziak Karolina K. , Shera Christopher A.
Published: January 2017

Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) provide an acoustic fingerprint of the inner ear, and changes in this fingerprint may indicate changes in cochlear function arising from efferent modulation, aging, noise trauma, and/or exposure to harmful agents. However, the reproducibility and diagnostic power of OAE measurements is compromised by the variable acoustics of the ear canal, in particular, by multiple reflections and the emergence of standing waves at relevant frequencies. Even when stimulus levels are controlled using methods that circumvent standing-wave problems (e.g., forward-pressure-level calibration), distortion-product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) levels vary with probe location by 10–15 dB near half-wave resonant frequencies. The method presented here estimates the initial outgoing OAE pressure wave at the eardrum from measurements of the conventional OAE, allowing one to separate the emitted OAE from the many reflections trapped in the ear canal. The emitted pressure level (EPL) represents the OAE level that would be recorded were the ear canal replaced by an infinite tube with no reflections. When DPOAEs are expressed using EPL, their variation with probe location decreases to the test–retest repeatability of measurements obtained at similar probe positions. EPL provides a powerful way to reduce the variability of OAE measurements and improve their ability to detect cochlear changes.
Blind adaptive multi-user detection for under-ice acoustic communications with mobile interfering users
Authors: Yin Jingwei , Yang Guang , Huang Defeng , Jin Lu , Guo Qinghua
Published: January 2017

The Least Mean Squares Blind Adaptive Multi-user Detection algorithm, the Recursive Least Squares Blind Adaptive Multi-user Detection algorithm, and the Kalman Filter Blind Adaptive Multi-user Detection algorithm, for under-ice communication networks with rising and diving interfering users, are investigated in this paper. Under-ice random asynchronous multi-user communication experiments with rising and diving interfering users were carried out (7 users, 15.7 bit/s per user, 1.2 km under-ice acoustic channels in the Bohai Sea). Good experimental results verified the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed algorithms in mitigating inter-symbol interference and multiple access interference.
Perceptions From Women Athletic Trainers Who Have Departed the Traditional Setting in Athletic Training
Authors: Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Sterling Emily , Mench Jim
Published: January 2017

Women athletic trainers leave the profession of athletic training after the age of 28. The reasons appear complex, but are not well defined in the literature, as many studies examine intent, not actual attrition. We used a descriptive qualitative study with a general inductive approach. Twelve females (4 single with no children, 5 married with children, and 3 married with no children) who left the profession of athletic training between the ages of 28 and 35 participated. Attrition from athletic training for our participants was triggered by organizational, individual, and sociocultural factors. These can be broken down to four main themes of family values, work-life imbalance, sexism, and financial concerns.
Science Signaling
Podcast for 24 January 2017: Tissue-specific regulation of L-type calcium channels
Authors: Hell Johannes W. , Navedo Manuel F. , VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: January 2017

Phosphorylation at Ser
1928
affects the activity of the L-type calcium channel Ca
V
1.2 in the brain and vasculature but not in the heart (Qian
et al
. and Nystoriak
et al
. in 24 January 2017 issue).
Subinhibitory Concentrations of Bacteriostatic Antibiotics Induce
relA
-Dependent and
relA
-Independent Tolerance to β-Lactams
Authors: Kudrin Pavel , Varik Vallo , Oliveira Sofia Raquel Alves , Beljantseva Jelena , Del Peso Santos Teresa , Dzhygyr Ievgen , Rejman Dominik , Cava Felipe , Tenson Tanel , Hauryliuk Vasili
Published: January 2017

The nucleotide (p)ppGpp is a key regulator of bacterial metabolism, growth, stress tolerance, and virulence. During amino acid starvation, the
Escherichia coli
(p)ppGpp synthetase RelA is activated by deacylated tRNA in the ribosomal A-site. An increase in (p)ppGpp is believed to drive the formation of antibiotic-tolerant persister cells, prompting the development of strategies to inhibit (p)ppGpp synthesis. We show that in a biochemical system from purified
E. coli
components, the antibiotic thiostrepton efficiently inhibits RelA activation by the A-site tRNA. In bacterial cultures, the ribosomal inhibitors thiostrepton, chloramphenicol, and tetracycline all efficiently abolish accumulation of (p)ppGpp induced by the Ile-tRNA synthetase inhibitor mupirocin. This abolishment, however, does not reduce the persister level. In contrast, the combination of dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor trimethoprim with mupirocin, tetracycline, or chloramphenicol leads to ampicillin tolerance. The effect is independent of RelA functionality, specific to β-lactams, and not observed with the fluoroquinolone norfloxacin. These results refine our understanding of (p)ppGpp's role in antibiotic tolerance and persistence and demonstrate unexpected drug interactions that lead to tolerance to bactericidal antibiotics.
Occurrence of
bla
KPC-2
,
bla
CTX-M
, and
mcr-1
in Enterobacteriaceae from Well Water in Rural China
Authors: Sun Pan , Bi Zhenwang , Nilsson Maud , Zheng Beiwen , Berglund Björn , Stålsby Lundborg Cecilia , Börjesson Stefan , Li Xuewen , Chen Baoli , Yin Hong , Nilsson Lennart E.
Published: January 2017

We report on the coexistence of
mcr-1
and
bla
CTX-M
in multidrug-resistant, extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing
Escherichia coli
belonging to the sequence type 10 complex isolated from well water in rural China.
Raoultella ornithinolytica
with
bla
KPC-2
was also detected in well water from the same area. This study shows that genes coding for resistance to last-resort antibiotics are present in wells in rural China, indicating a potential source of antibiotic resistance.
Overcoming Hurdles to Development of a Vaccine against Pneumocystis jirovecii
Authors: Garvy Beth A.
Published: January 2017

Development of
Pneumocystis
pneumonia (PCP) is a common problem among immunosuppressed individuals. There are windows of opportunity in which vaccination would be beneficial, but to date, no vaccines have made it to clinical trials. Significant hurdles to vaccine development include host range specificity, making it difficult to translate from animal models to humans. Discovery of cross-reactive epitopes is critical to moving vaccine candidates from preclinical animal studies to clinical trials.
Team-Based Learning in a Pipeline Course in Medical Microbiology for Under-Represented Student Populations in Medicine Improves Learning of Microbiology Concepts
Authors: Behling K. C. , Murphy M. M. , Mitchell-Williams J. , Rogers-McQuade H. , Lopez O. J.
Published: January 2017

As part of an undergraduate pipeline program at our institution for students from underrepresented minorities in medicine backgrounds, we created an intensive four-week medical microbiology course. Team-based learning (TBL) was implemented in this course to enhance student learning of course content. Three different student cohorts participated in the study, and there were no significant differences in their prior academic achievement based on their undergraduate grade point average (GPA) and pre-course examination scores. Teaching techniques included engaged lectures using an audience response system, TBL, and guided self-directed learning. We hypothesized that more active learning exercises, irrespective of the amount of lecture time, would help students master course content. In year 2 as compared with year 1, TBL exercises were decreased from six to three with a concomitant increase in lecture time, while in year 3, TBL exercises were increased from three to six while maintaining the same amount of lecture time as in year 2. As we hypothesized, there was significant (
p
< 0.01) improvement in performance on the post-course examination in years 1 and 3 compared with year 2, when only three TBL exercises were used. In contrast to the students’ perceptions that more lecture time enhances learning of course content, our findings suggest that active learning strategies, such as TBL, are more effective than engaged lectures in improving student understanding of course content, as measured by post-course examination performance. Introduction of TBL in pipeline program courses may help achieve better student learning outcomes.
Metagenomic Approaches to Identify Novel Organisms from the Soil Environment in a Classroom Setting
Authors: Rahman Sadia J. , Charles Trevor C. , Kaur Parjit
Published: January 2017

Molecular Microbial Metagenomics is a research-based undergraduate course developed at Georgia State University. This semester-long course provides hands-on research experience in the area of microbial diversity and introduces molecular approaches to study diversity. Students are part of an ongoing research project that uses metagenomic approaches to isolate clones containing 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) genes from a soil metagenomic library. These approaches not only provide a measure of microbial diversity in the sample but may also allow discovery of novel organisms. Metagenomic approaches differ from the traditional culturing methods in that they use molecular analysis of community deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) instead of culturing individual organisms. Groups of students select a batch of 100 clones from a metagenomic library. Using universal primers to amplify 16S rRNA genes from the pool of DNA isolated from 100 clones, and a stepwise process of elimination, each group isolates individual clones containing 16S rRNA genes within their batch of 100 clones. The amplified 16S rRNA genes are sequenced and analyzed using bioinformatics tools to determine whether the rRNA gene belongs to a novel organism. This course provides avenues for active learning and enhances students’ conceptual understanding of microbial diversity. Average scores on six assessment methods used during field testing indicated that success in achieving different learning objectives varied between 84% and 95%, with 65% of the students demonstrating complete grasp of the project based on the end-of-project lab report. The authentic research experience obtained in this course is also expected to result in more undergraduates choosing research-based graduate programs or careers.