bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Call of Duty: A Case Study of ICT Integration in Philippine Provincial Public Schools in San Isidro Davao Oriental Post K-12 Implementation
Authors: Castillo Lian Sabella
Published: August 2018

The study delves on the factors and barriers that contribute to the success and failure of ICT integration in Philippine public basic schools. The country is currently undergoing a major reform in its education system, from a K-10 system to a K-12 one encompassing an ICT module. Our case study, San Isidro, Davao Oriental is a partially rural region in the southern island of Mindanao that could be representative of a larger demographic. Exploratory mixed methods design was utilized to answer these questions. An ICT integration self-assessment matrix was constructed on the basis of previous research from UNESCO, The World Bank, OECD, among others. These standards for success were translated into a survey questionnaire distributed among the 21 schools in the municipality. Purposive sampling of schools was pooled for interview and detailed questioning, along with additional field observations. Findings show that human factors such as leadership and teacher motivation are key in realization of these goals. Faculty activity for any such venture, such as ICT integration and innovative pedagogy, is likely limited by the basic infrastructure available within campus grounds. However, as people have the capacity to go above and beyond limitations, it is possible to transcend these limitations and progress towards innovative pedagogy and consequently the next stage in integration.
Behaviors, Cognitions, and Affects of Catholic School Students and Teachers on Capiz Aswang Phenomenon (C.A.P.)
Authors: Baes Rev. Fr. Glenn Bermejo
Published: August 2018

It is alleged that Capiz has evolved to be the subject of many aswangs and other mythological ghosts, goblins, ghouls, manananggal and other monster stories. As views, opinions, and questions are ignored or receive a poor treatment - varying beliefs about the aswang phenomenon in Capiz will just lead to rising ignorance, persistent stereotyping, and deeper confusion that may continue to afflict Capiz and dehumanize Capisnon undeservedly. Hence, this study was conducted to probe the perception of Capisnon to the said phenomenon; elicit change in their conceptual, personal/social behaviors and dispositions vis-a-vis their practice of the Catholic faith. The research employed a descriptive qualitative design using a researcher-made questionnaire to a stratified sample of respondents.  Also, a Focus Group Discussion with non-probable sample from Dumarao's Tag-aw Ati Minority and the Guban-Tapaz Tribe Panayanon Bukidnon was conducted to enrich the data and inferences of the study. Results acknowledged that the past colonial masters are the reasons for wrongly imputing the word aswang to Capiz and Capisnon and the contemporary detractors who take Capiz Aswang Phenomenon or C.A.P. out of their proper historical and cultural contexts. With or without the presence of C.A.P., the ideal circumstances in upholding the real identity and self-worth of Capisnon are: a well-informed insight about the phenomenon, a conscious discernment of its history and real meaning, and a growing diligence in character to be good and to do good in the community.
Library Logging System Design Based on Radio Frequency Identification Interface using Arduino Uno board as Platform
Authors: Morallo Narcisa
Published: August 2018

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology revolutionizes the automatic identification of objects. In this paper, library logging system based on radio frequency identification (RFID) interface using Arduino Uno board as platform is proposed and prototyped. Technology in Arduino and RFID are reviewed. RFID MFRC522, is a highly integrated reader/writer IC for contactless communication at 13.56 MHz. RFID technology uses electromagnetic fields to transfer data to automatically identify objects. Information of books with RFID tags are registered in the database system. When books are scanned in the RFID reader, the system will automatically give the information of the book and the current date and time. User will input the borrowers' information which will automatically login into the system with the book details. Arduino microcontroller is used as a micro web server and a communications gateway among hardware modules.  Design shows that RFID interfacing using Arduino Uno board as platform can make library logging system more efficient and convenient through the automation of workflow processes. To reduce library losses, security and item identification should be combined in a single tag in future designs.
Employers and Tourism Students Perception of Employability in Cruise Industry
Authors: Dumlao Mary Ann , Llenares Ian I. , Sario Jay
Published: August 2018

Despite challenges on the employability of tourism graduates, cruise industry emerged as potential labor market for aspiring tourism graduates in the field. This study aimed to understand the perception of employers and tourism students on employability and explore possible career opportunities. The mixed method research design was utilized such as survey and interview to gather data. The respondents were the 285 graduating tourism students in selected higher education institutions in Metro Manila and five recruitment officers of the three manning agencies, such as United Philippine Lines, Philippine Transmarine Carrier, and Magsaysay Shipping. The Phase I of the study focused on conducting the survey to know respondents perception on employment while Phase II concentrate on interview with the recruitment officers from the various manning agency to explore cruise tourism career opportunities. Results showed that tourism students perceived highly competent on cruise tourism jobs such as front office, food and beverages, housekeeping and cruise staffing expect for ship star reservation system and bar mixology. Also, they perceived high on graduate attributes such as customer expectation, innovative spirit, communication skills, organizational skills, self-management skills, self-awareness, self-reliant, leadership and assertiveness. Interestingly, employers perceived employability with outstanding skills on the front office, food and beverages, housekeeping and cruise staffing section.
State of Implementation of Senior High School Program: An Explanatory Analysis of Administrative and Instructional Practices
Authors: Ramos Rigette Ryan
Published: August 2018

This study dealt to explore the administrative and instructional practices associated with the implementation of the Senior High School Program in the Division of Pampanga in aid of policy recommendation. It described how administrators and teachers assess the level of readiness of schools; administrative and instructional practices that are utilized; common problems and their coping measures; significant insights and observations and the policy recommendation that may be proposed. The study made use of the descriptive evaluation method utilizing the Mixed Method Explanatory Sequential Design in data analyzing, for the purposes of breadth and depth of understanding and corroboration. Based on the results, the Division of Pampanga has the readiness to offer the program. Administrators have been pursuing their administrative and instructional functions. There are issues hindering implementation that need to be addressed. Administrators and teachers are doing their very best to find solutions to their encountered problems. The following are the recommendations; Administrators may study the possibility of strategically aligning the local school board funds. Administrators may continue the training, and supporting teachers to do action researches. Concerned schools may revisit the different ways and means on how the problems can be solved.
Efficacy of Potassium Aluminum Sulfate (KALSO4)2 and Povidone Iodine (C6H9I2NO) as Crede's Prophylaxis against Ophthalmia Neonatorum
Authors: Mendoza Leonel
Published: August 2018

Neonatal conjunctivitis is a worldwide problem.  Although global incidence is not known, incidents of 1-24% have been reported from various regions of the world especially those practicing home delivery without standard prophylaxis.  This study was an in-vitro investigation on possible prophylaxis for ophthalmia neonatorum (ON) like potassium aluminum sulfate (KAlSO4)2 and povidone iodine (C6H9I2NO) in comparison to tetracycline. A five by three (5x3) factorial experiment in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used in this study.  Factor A was the five-test bacteria, namely Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter spp. and Pseudomonas spp. while Factor B was the experimental variables or the substances to be tested such as alum, povidone iodine and tetracycline.  Aluminum was diluted and subjected to purity test prior to bacteria assay.  The zone of inhibition was measured using a caliper and results were recorded.  Based on the in-vitro analysis, aluminum showed a positive response to the five tested bacteria as it yielded a comparative mean results of growth inhibition.   Among the possible applications of the findings in the study could be the formulation of antiseptic eye drops with the use of alum or Povidone iodine to be used as prophylaxis to guard against neonatal conjunctivitis.
Best Practices on Financial Management: A Collaborative Academic Interventions in Cotabato City, Southern Philippines
Authors: Salam Norodin , Sedik-Salam Marwisa
Published: August 2018

Finance has been described as a great challenge for every organization and considered   the lifeblood of every institution which is used to finance its programs and services.  The study determined the best financial management practices and the implementation in the local government unit of Cotabato City, Mindanao, Southern Philippines.  It also identified the gaps in financial management in its covered local community.  Interview guides and document analysis were used in the study. Using descriptive method, it was found out that the financial management of the local community was properly managed. Hence, there was a good financial management in terms of finances of the communities in Cotabato City as a basis of receiving the award of the seal of good housekeeping.  It has been highly recommended to engage more trainings on the same field with the involvement of the second liner young officials.  This study provides empirical data to the agency administrators managing the community.  There will also be an identification of strategies to be adapted in the programs for implementation.
Peer influence in bullying: The autonomy‐enhancing effect of moral competence
Authors: Doehne Malte , von Grundherr Michael , Schäfer Mechthild
Published: August 2018

Research has found that moral competence is negatively associated with bullying behavior in schools, but the drivers of this association are not yet well understood. In this paper, we report on two studies which suggest that moral competence acts as a moderator of peer influence in the context of school bullying. Data were collected at two time points in three German higher secondary schools (grades 7–10, average age at measurement: 14.26 years). Using a cross‐lagged panel design (CLPD), study 1 (N = 251) found adolescents with low moral competence to be susceptible to peer influence, while no such effect was found for adolescents with high moral competence. Study 2, a cross‐sectional analysis (N = 748), found moral competence to be inversely related to the likelihood of an individual's conforming with the pro‐bullying behavior of his or her peers. Neither study found corresponding effects for pro‐social, defending behavior. Our findings further illuminate the associations between moral competence, peer influence, and school bullying. Some implications for bullying prevention are discussed.
Self‐Adhesive Macroporous Carbon Electrodes for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Huiyin , Xiao Junyan , Shi Jiangjian , Su Hang , Luo Yanhong , Li Dongmei , Wu Huijue , Cheng Yi‐Bing , Meng Qingbo
Published: August 2018

Carbon electrode are a low‐cost and great potential strategy for stable perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the efficiency of carbon‐based PSCs lags far behind compared with that of state‐of‐the‐art PSCs. The poor interface contact between the carbon electrode and the underlying layer dominates the performance loss of the reported carbon‐based PSCs. In this respect, a sort of self‐adhesive macroporous carbon film is developed as counter electrode by a room‐temperature solvent‐exchange method. Via a simple press transfer technique, the carbon film can form excellent interface contact with the underlying hole transporting layer, remarkably beneficial to interface charge transfer. A power conversion efficiency of up to 19.2% is obtained for mesoporous‐structure PSCs, which is the best achieved for carbon‐based PSCs. Moreover, the device exhibits greatly improved long‐term stability. It retains over 95% of the initial efficiency after 1000 h storage under ambient atmosphere. Furthermore, after aging for 80 h under illumination and maximum power point in nitrogen atmosphere, the carbon‐based PSC retains over 94% of its initial performance.
Confining Nitrogen Inversion to Yield Enantiopure Quinolino[3,2,1‐k]Phenothiazine Derivatives
Authors: Quinton Cassandre , Sicard Lambert , Vanthuyne Nicolas , Jeannin Olivier , Poriel Cyril
Published: August 2018

The first examples of optically pure 9H‐quinolino[3,2,1‐k]phenothiazine (QPTZ)‐based molecules are reported. The inversion of the nitrogen atom, locked in the QPTZ fragment, is confined with a high‐energy barrier that has allowed the isolation at room temperature of each stereoisomer. Considering the growing necessity in molecular electronics to introduce chiral characteristics within highly efficient molecular fragments, a molecular strategy to generate enantiopure derivatives constructed on the very promising electron rich core QPTZ is provided. As this work aims to report the foundations of the QPTZ chirality, the present findings may open avenues towards the use of this fragment in its optically pure form.
Janus MoSSe Nanotubes: Tunable Band Gap and Excellent Optical Properties for Surface Photocatalysis
Authors: Tang Zhen‐Kun , Wen Bo , Chen Mingyang , Liu Li‐Min
Published: August 2018

Transition metal chalcogenides have attracted considerable attention because of their wide applications in solving energy and environmental problems. Here, the electronic structures and optical properties of Janus MoSSe nanotubes are explored by first‐principles calculations. It is shown that the Janus MoSSe nanotubes exhibit versatile electronic properties. All zigzag MoSSe nanotubes exhibit a direct band gap with a good optical absorption. More interestingly, the electronic structure of the armchair MoSSe nanotubes is greatly dependent on the radius. The nanotubes are indirect semiconductors at a small radius of 7.4 Å, and they could gradually become direct semiconductors with the increase of the radius of armchair MoSSe nanotubes. Further, the optical absorption abilities of the armchair MoSSe nanotubes can be further modulated by axial stress. The suitable band gap, lower formation energy, and tunable band gap of the armchair MoSSe nanotubes enable them to have great potential applications for optoelectronics and photocatalysis as low‐dimensional nanomaterials.
Black Phosphorus Quantum Dot/Ti3C2 MXene Nanosheet Composites for Efficient Electrochemical Lithium/Sodium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Meng Ruijin , Huang Jimei , Feng Yutong , Zu Lianhai , Peng Chengxin , Zheng Lirong , Zheng Lei , Chen Zhibin , Liu Guanglei , Chen Bingjie , Mi Yongli , Yang Jinhu
Published: August 2018

The exploration of new and efficient energy storage mechanisms through nanostructured electrode design is crucial for the development of high‐performance rechargeable batteries. Herein, black phosphorus quantum dots (BPQDs) and Ti3C2 nanosheets (TNSs) are employed as battery and pseudocapacitive components, respectively, to construct BPQD/TNS composite anodes with a novel battery‐capacitive dual‐model energy storage (DMES) mechanism for lithium‐ion and sodium‐ion batteries. Specifically, as a battery‐type component, BPQDs anchored on the TNSs are endowed with improved conductivity and relieved stress upon cycling, enabling a high‐capacity and stable energy storage. Meanwhile, the pseudocapacitive TNS component with further atomic charge polarization induced by POTi interfacial bonds between the two components allows enhanced charge adsorption and efficient interfacial electron transfer, contributing a higher pseudocapacitive value and fast energy storage. The DMES mechanism is evidenced by substantial characterizations of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, density functional theory calculations, and kinetics analyses. Consequently, the composite electrode exhibits superior battery performance, especially for lithium storage, such as high capacity (910 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1), long cycling stability (2400 cycles with a capacity retention over 100%), and high rate capability, representing the best comprehensive battery performance in BP‐based anodes to date.
Kinetics of Lifetime Changes in Bimetallic Nanocatalysts Revealed by Quick X‐ray Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Filez Matthias , Poelman Hilde , Redekop Evgeniy A. , Galvita Vladimir V. , Alexopoulos Konstantinos , Meledina Maria , Ramachandran Ranjith K. , Dendooven Jolien , Detavernier Christophe , Van Tendeloo Gustaaf , Safonova Olga V. , Nachtegaal Maarten , Weckhuysen Bert M. , Marin Guy B.
Published: August 2018

Alloyed metal nanocatalysts are of environmental and economic importance in a plethora of chemical technologies. During the catalyst lifetime, supported alloy nanoparticles undergo dynamic changes which are well‐recognized but still poorly understood. High‐temperature O2–H2 redox cycling was applied to mimic the lifetime changes in model Pt13In9 nanocatalysts, while monitoring the induced changes by in situ quick X‐ray absorption spectroscopy with one‐second resolution. The different reaction steps involved in repeated Pt13In9 segregation‐alloying are identified and kinetically characterized at the single‐cycle level. Over longer time scales, sintering phenomena are substantiated and the intraparticle structure is revealed throughout the catalyst lifetime. The in situ time‐resolved observation of the dynamic habits of alloyed nanoparticles and their kinetic description can impact catalysis and other fields involving (bi)metallic nanoalloys.
Palladium‐Catalyzed γ‐C(sp3)−H Arylation of Thiols by a Detachable Protecting/Directing Group
Authors: Jin Likun , Wang Jianchun , Dong Guangbin
Published: August 2018

Reported herein is a palladium‐catalyzed, directed γ‐C(sp3)−H arylation of protected thiols. The key is to utilize Michael acceptors as a dual reagent to install a protecting/directing group on thiols by a thiol‐Michael click reaction, and remove it later under basic conditions. The C−H arylation proceeds with high functional‐group tolerance and the deprotected thiols can be further transformed into other sulfur‐containing compounds. This unique mode of activation could open the door for site‐selective functionalization of thiols or other sulfur‐containing compounds at unactivated positions.
ERT imaging of the interior of the huge tumulus of Kastas in Amphipolis (northern Greece)
Authors: Tsokas Grigorios N. , Tsourlos Panagiotis I. , Kim Jung‐Ho , Yi Myeong‐Jong , Vargemezis George , Lefantzis Michel , Fikos Elias , Peristeri Katerina
Published: August 2018

The geophysical investigations aiming to image the interior of the huge tumulus of Kastas in Amphipolis in northern Greece commenced on November of 2014 and continued sporadically until the first months of 2017. The electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) method was exclusively employed in both conventional and innovative schemes. Due to the immense size of the tumulus, an irregular grid was established on the tumulus whereas regular grids of ERTs were established on a small terrace created by the excavations and at the south extremity. Also, typical two‐dimensional (2D) ERTs carried out to help clarifying the geological and tectonic setting. Kastas tumulus was created by covering a hill with large amounts of transported earth material. In this respect it constitutes a huge human construction. Further, the excavations revealed a unique building containing ancient art masterpieces. The irregular grid on top constitutes the first effort of such an approach to investigate the interior of a tumulus since all known efforts have been implemented employing regular grids. Consequently, a three‐dimensional (3D) smoothness constrained inversion algorithm was modified. At first, the irregularly placed electrode locations had to fit in a finite element forward solver having particular specifications. Further, the hexahedral elements of the created mesh were manipulated to cope with neighbouring electrode positions in order to make a less dense grid. Finally, a so called ‘nudging’ process was followed to merge closely positioned electrodes belonging to different, branching, 2D data acquisition lines. The geophysical imaging helped clarify the geological and tectonic structure of Kastas. Further, it yielded several findings some of them being interpreted as natural features and some others as probable manmade. The latter comprise the targets of future excavations.
Cocrystallization of Imide‐Fused Corannulene Derivatives and C60: Guest‐Induced Conformational Switching and 1:1 Segregated Packing
Authors: Lu Ru‐Qiang , Wu Shuang , Bao Yue‐Hua , Yang Lin‐Lin , Qu Hang , Saha Mithu , Wang Xiao‐Ye , Zhuo You‐Zhen , Xu Binbin , Pei Jian , Zhang Hui , Weng Wengui , Cao Xiao‐Yu
Published: August 2018

A pair of interconvertible stereoisomers of imide‐fused corannulene derivatives was mixed with C60, which resulted in cocrystallization into a 1:1 segregated packing motif through concave–convex π–π interactions. Only one conformation was observed in the cocrystal owing to guest‐induced conformational switching. The 1D assemblies of the complex showed promising applications in organic electronics.
Digitalisierung im konstruktiven Bauwesen
Authors: Glock Christian
Published: August 2018

Die digitale Transformation wird das Bauwesen ebenso beeinflussen wie andere Lebens‐ und Wirtschaftsbereiche. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden daher nach einer inhaltlichen Einordnung ausgewählte Entwicklungen und Treiber der Digitalisierung vorgestellt und mit Blick auf das Bauwesen beleuchtet. Im Anschluss werden einige mögliche Auswirkungen analysiert und bewertet. Hierbei werden Entwicklungen in den Bereichen Building Information Modeling (BIM) und Virtuelle Realität ebenso aufgegriffen wie der Einfluss auf die Bauprozesse oder die veränderte Rolle der beteiligten Akteure. Ziel ist es, einen Überblick zum Stand der Digitalisierung zu geben und mögliche zukünftige Entwicklungen mit entsprechenden Chancen und Risiken aufzuzeigen, insbesondere im Hinblick auf das kon struktive Bauwesen und den Massivbau.
Analyse des Tausalzeintrags in Fahrbahndeckenbetone mit neuartiger Prüftechnik
Authors: Weise Frank , Millar Steven , Wilsch Gerd
Published: August 2018

In den letzten Jahren sind im deutschen Bundesautobahnnetz vermehrt AKR‐Schäden an Betonfahrbahndecken aufgetreten. Ursächlich hierfür ist die Verwendung alkaliempfindlicher Gesteinskörnung. Dies führt bei gleichzeitiger Anwesenheit von Wasser infolge der Exposition der Fahrbahndecke und des alkalischen Milieus durch den Einsatz alkalireicher Portlandzemente bei der Betonherstellung zu einer Alkali‐Kieselsäure‐Reaktion (AKR). Zusätzlich wird der AKR‐Schädigungsprozess in Betonfahrbahndecken durch den externen Tausalzeintrag (primär NaCl) im Winter begünstigt. Vor diesem Hintergrund kommt der Ermittlung des Tausalzeintrags in den Fahrbahndeckenbeton eine große Bedeutung zu.

Die Analyse des Tausalzeintrags erfolgte bisher ausschließlich nasschemisch an gemahlenen Bohrkernsegmenten. Nachteilig sind hierbei der relativ hohe prüftechnische Aufwand und die eingeschränkte Ortsauflösung. Der alternative Einsatz von LIBS (Laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy) eröffnet in diesem Kontext neue Möglichkeiten. So wird in diesem Beitrag anhand von Bohrkernen aus einem repräsentativen AKR‐geschädigten BAB‐Abschnitt exemplarisch die Vorgehensweise bei der LIBS‐Analyse zur Ermittlung der Na‐ und Cl‐Verteilung an vertikalen Schnittflächen von Bohrkernen aufgezeigt. Da der Tausalzeintrag primär über den Zementstein erfolgt, wurde der verfälschende Na‐Grundgehalt der Gesteinskörnung mittels eines Ausschlusskriteriums (Ca‐Gehalt) eliminiert. Vergleichend durchgeführte Cl‐Mappings mit Mikroröntgenfluoreszenzanalyse sowie nasschemische Analysen belegen die Güte der durchgeführten LIBS‐Messungen. Allerdings bedarf es bei der quantitativen Ermittlung des Natriumgehaltes in der Betonfahrbahndecke noch weitergehender Untersuchungen.
Making complex prediction rules applicable for readers: Current practice in random forest literature and recommendations
Authors: Boulesteix Anne‐Laure , Janitza Silke , Hornung Roman , Probst Philipp , Busen Hannah , Hapfelmeier Alexander
Published: August 2018

Ideally, prediction rules should be published in such a way that readers may apply them, for example, to make predictions for their own data. While this is straightforward for simple prediction rules, such as those based on the logistic regression model, this is much more difficult for complex prediction rules derived by machine learning tools. We conducted a survey of articles reporting prediction rules that were constructed using the random forest algorithm and published in PLOS ONE in 2014–2015 in the field “medical and health sciences”, with the aim of identifying issues related to their applicability. Making a prediction rule reproducible is a possible way to ensure that it is applicable; thus reproducibility is also examined in our survey. The presented prediction rules were applicable in only 2 of 30 identified papers, while for further eight prediction rules it was possible to obtain the necessary information by contacting the authors. Various problems, such as nonresponse of the authors, hampered the applicability of prediction rules in the other cases. Based on our experiences from this illustrative survey, we formulate a set of recommendations for authors who aim to make complex prediction rules applicable for readers. All data including the description of the considered studies and analysis codes are available as supplementary materials.
Blood Vessels and Myocardial Thickness within the Left Atrial Appendage Isthmus Line
Authors: Hołda Mateusz K. , Hołda Jakub , Strona Marcin , Koziej Mateusz , Klimek‐Piotrowska Wiesława
Published: August 2018

Electric isolation of the left atrial appendage (LAA) and linear ablations in the area of the LAA base are gaining popularity. However, very little is known about the myocardial architecture and the presence of epicardial blood vessels within this region, which could significantly influence the course of such procedures. We examined 200 autopsied hearts (22.5% females, 46.7 ± 16.8 years old). The LAA isthmus (i.e., the line between the LAA ostium and the mitral annulus) was cut longitudinally. The myocardium was thickest at the LAA end of the isthmus (2.4 ± 0.7 mm) followed by its middle sector (2.1 ± 0.7 mm) inside the LAA, 5 mm from its ostium (1.9 ± 0.7 mm), and the mitral annulus end of the isthmus (1.8 ± 0.6 mm) (P < 0.0001). At least one artery was found in 96.5% of all samples (89.5% were single branched, 7% had two branches). The great cardiac vein was found in 77.0% and the left marginal vein in 2.5%. The artery was interposed between the endocardium and the great cardiac vein in 31.5% of cases. The smallest distance between the endocardium and the artery was 0.5 mm and between the endocardium and the vein was 0.7 mm. In total, we were able to distinguish fifteen different types of vascular arrangements within the LAA isthmus line in this study. The myocardium within the LAA isthmus is thickest at its LAA end. The left circumflex coronary artery branches are the most frequently‐occurring vessels within the isthmus and are present in almost all cases, while the great cardiac vein is present in three quarters of hearts. Clin. Anat. 31:1024–1030, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A comparison of relative survival and cause‐specific survival methods to measure net survival in cancer populations
Authors: Makkar Nupur , Ostrom Quinn T. , Kruchko Carol , Barnholtz‐Sloan Jill S.
Published: August 2018

Background

Accurate cancer survival statistics are necessary for describing population‐level survival patterns and measuring advancements in cancer care. Net cancer survival is measured using two methods: cause‐specific survival (CSS) and relative survival (RS). Both are valid methodologies for estimating net survival and are used widely in medical research. In these analyses, we compare CSS to RS at selected cancer sites.

Methods

Using data from 18 SEER registries between 2000 and 2014, five‐year RS and CSS estimates were generated overall as well as by age groups and by sex. To assess how closely the two survival methods corresponded, net survival percent difference was calculated with the following formula: ((RS‐CSS)/RS)*100.

Results

Discrepancies between estimates obtained from CSS and RS methods varied with cancer site and age, but not by sex. In most cases, CSS was greater than RS, but cancers with available early screening and high survival rate had higher RS than CSS. Net survival percent differences were small in children and adolescents and young adults, and large in adults over the age of 40.

Conclusions

While both CSS and RS aim to quantify net survival, the estimates tend to differ due to the biases present in both methodologies. Error when estimating CSS most frequently stems from misclassification of cause of death, whereas RS is subject to error when no suitable life tables are available. Appropriate use of CSS and RS requires a detailed understanding of the characteristics of the disease that may lead to differences in the estimates generated by these methods.
Reduced‐toxicity allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in congenital sideroblastic anemia
Authors: Kim Min Hee , Shah Sanjay , Bottomley Sylvia S. , Shah Niketa C.
Published: August 2018

Key Clinical Message

The case of an infant girl with severe congenital sideroblastic anemia associated with a novel molecular defect in mitochondrial transporter SLC25A38 is presented. Her transfusion dependence was fully reversed following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation using a modified reduced‐intensity conditioning regimen, and she remains healthy 5 years posttransplant.
Molekularer Draht von Hand gemacht
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: August 2018

Durch Injektionen einzelner Elektronen in einem Tunnelmikroskop lassen sich immer komplexere Reaktionen an Einzelmolekülen ausführen und gleichzeitig in ihrem Verlauf und Mechanismus beobachten.
Enhancement of Kaolin Adsorption Affinity Toward Phosphate by Sequestrating Naturally Abundant Ca/Mg From Seawater
Authors: Li Jian‐Rong , Xu Lei , He Meng‐Meng , Xiao Hang
Published: August 2018

A facile and economical strategy is designed to enhance the adsorption affinity of kaolin toward phosphate by acquiring calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) from seawater. The modified kaolin is prepared at different temperatures to obtain CaO/MgO with different surface properties. The different modified kaolins are comparatively characterized using X‐ray diffraction, zero charge, BET surface area, energy dispersive spectrometry, and X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy. Solution pH slightly affected the removal of phosphate by modified kaolin in the range of 4–7. The maximum adsorption capacity of the modified kaolin sintered at 600 °C (KS600) was 4.07 mg g−1, which is eleven times higher than that of raw kaolin. The presence of SO42− or CO32− ions demonstrates a negative effect on adsorption, whereas the presence of Cl−, F−, or NO3− exerted a negligible effect on removal efficiency. Importantly, KS600 had the capacity to remove phosphate effectively in real sewage. The strong interaction between phosphate and CaO/MgO played a key role in the enhancement of phosphate adsorption. These results indicate that the abundant ocean resources could be used for environmental remediation.
Septin‐based readout of PI(4,5)P2 incorporation into membranes of giant unilamellar vesicles
Authors: Beber Alexandre , Alqabandi Maryam , Prévost Coline , Viars Fanny , Lévy Daniel , Bassereau Patricia , Bertin Aurélie , Mangenot Stéphanie
Published: August 2018

Septins constitute a novel class of cytoskeletal proteins. Budding yeast septins self‐assemble into non‐polar filaments bound to the inner plasma membrane through specific interactions with l‐α‐phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2). Biomimetic in vitro assays using giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) are relevant tools to dissect and reveal insights in proteins–lipids interactions, membrane mechanics and curvature sensitivity. GUVs doped with PI(4,5)P2 are challenging to prepare. This report is dedicated to optimize the incorporation of PI(4,5)P2 lipids into GUVs by probing the proteins–PI(4,5)P2 GUVs interactions. We show that the interaction between budding yeast septins and PI(4,5)P2 is more specific than using usual reporters (phospholipase Cδ1). Septins have thus been chosen as reporters to probe the proper incorporation of PI(4,5)P2 into giant vesicles. We have shown that electro‐formation on platinum wires is the most appropriate method to achieve an optimal septin–lipid interaction resulting from an optimal PI(4,5)P2 incorporation for which, we have optimized the growth conditions. Finally, we have shown that PI(4,5)P2 GUVs have to be used within a few hours after their preparation. Indeed, over time, PI(4,5)P2 is expelled from the GUV membrane and the PI(4,5)P2 concentration in the bilayer decreases.
Laminar specific gene expression reveals differences in postnatal laminar maturation in mouse auditory, visual, and somatosensory cortex
Authors: Chang Minzi , Suzuki Nobuko , Kawai Hideki Derek
Published: August 2018

Proper formation of laminar structures in sensory cortexes is critical for sensory information processing. Previous studies suggested that the timing of neuronal migration and the laminar position of cortical neurons differ among sensory cortexes. How they differ during postnatal development has not been systematically investigated. Here, identifying laminas using transcription factors, we examined postnatal changes in neuronal density and distribution in presumptive primary auditory (ACx), visual (VCx), and somatosensory cortexes (SCx) in a strain of mice using immunofluorescence techniques. Development of laminar thickness and its cortical proportion differed among the sensory cortexes. Layers 2–4 defined by Cut‐like homeobox 1 (Cux1)‐expressing neurons were narrower, and layer 5 was wider in ACx compared to those in VCx or SCx, while Forkhead‐box protein P2 (Foxp2)‐defined layer 6 was wider in SCx than the other two sensory cortexes throughout postnatal development. Meanwhile, thalamocortical input layers identified by Cux1‐expressing neurons formed later in ACx than in the other two cortical regions. The cell densities of ETS‐related protein 81‐expressing neurons increased in both lower and upper layers but at distinct timing, while those of COUP‐TF‐interacting protein 2 expressing neurons in the lower layers changed bidirectionally (i.e., increased or decreased) both in layer‐ and cortical region‐specific manners. Foxp2‐expressing cells in layer 6 distributed differently and declined at different timing among the sensory cortexes. Overall, we demonstrate that the maturational timing of lamina differs among the sensory cortexes and that postnatal age‐dependent changes in neuronal distribution are unique to each of the sensory cortexes.
Progesterone receptor expression in cajal‐retzius cells of the developing rat dentate gyrus: Potential role in hippocampus‐dependent memory
Authors: Newell Andrew J. , Lalitsasivimol Diana , Willing Jari , Gonzales Keith , Waters Elizabeth M. , Milner Teresa A. , McEwen Bruce S. , Wagner Christine K.
Published: August 2018

The development of medial temporal lobe circuits is critical for subsequent learning and memory functions later in life. The present study reports the expression of progesterone receptor (PR), a powerful transcription factor of the nuclear steroid receptor superfamily, in Cajal‐Retzius cells of the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus of rats. PR was transiently expressed from the day of birth through postnatal day 21, but was absent thereafter. Although PR immunoreactive (PR‐ir) cells did not clearly express typical markers of mature neurons, they possessed an ultrastructural morphology consistent with neurons. PRir cells did not express markers for GABAergic neurons, neuronal precursor cells, nor radial glia. However, virtually all PR cells co‐expressed the calcium binding protein, calretinin, and the glycoprotein, reelin, both reliable markers for Cajal‐Retzius neurons, a transient population of developmentally critical pioneer neurons that guide synaptogenesis of perforant path afferents and histogenesis of the dentate gyrus. Indeed, inhibition of PR activity during the first two weeks of life impaired adult performance on both the novel object recognition and object placement memory tasks, two behavioral tasks hypothesized to describe facets of episodic‐like memory in rodents. These findings suggest that PR plays an unexplored and important role in the development of hippocampal circuitry and adult memory function.
Compliance with infection control practices when taking dental x‐rays: Survey of a Japanese dental school
Authors: Gamoh Shoko , Akiyama Hironori , Maruyama Hugo , Ohshita Naohiro , Nakayama Masayuki , Matsumoto Kazuhiro , Yoshida Hiroaki , Ohkubo Tadashi , Kishimoto Naotaka , Mori Yui , Nakatsuka Michiko , Shimizutani Kimishige
Published: August 2018

The aim of this study was to assess knowledge, attitude, behavior, and compliance concerning infection control among dental practitioners in a dental university hospital in Japan. A 12‐item questionnaire about infection control during radiographic procedures was distributed to 686 dental personnel working at Osaka Dental University. The questionnaire collected information on occupation and the use of gloves, holders, door handles, control panels, dental chairs, protectors, tube head, tube arms, tube cones, and keyboards for personal computers. To identify misunderstandings about, and thus noncompliance with, current infection control practices, the percentage of correct answers (PCA) was calculated. Understanding and compliance with the current practices was considered low when <75% and high when ≥75%. In addition, contaminated objects in the clinical setting were examined using black light. PCA was low for one question on using gloves in film positioning and high for three questions on using protective film barriers, regardless of the respondents' occupation. PCA was generally high for three questions on practicing hand hygiene before putting on gloves, methods to protect film holders, and methods to protect radiographic equipment, but was low among some subjects. PCA was generally low for four questions on using film protective barriers, developing images from unprotected films, practicing hand hygiene after removing gloves, and awareness of a procedures manual for taking intraoral x‐rays, but was high among some subjects. Saliva contamination of radiographic equipment was confirmed by direct visualization using black light. Awareness was low of infection control measures to be used during intraoral projection. This study indicates the need for additional education and training to improve infection control practices, through, for example, using a standard procedures manual for all dental practitioners and visual evidence (visualization) of contamination.
Promoting remyelination through cell transplantation therapies in a model of viral‐induced neurodegenerative disease
Authors: Mangale Vrushali , McIntyre Laura L. , Walsh Craig M. , Loring Jeanne F. , Lane Thomas E.
Published: August 2018

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system (CNS) disease characterized by chronic neuroinflammation, demyelination, and axonal damage. Infiltration of activated lymphocytes and myeloid cells are thought to be primarily responsible for white matter damage and axonopathy. Several United States Food and Drug Administration‐approved therapies exist that impede activated lymphocytes from entering the CNS thereby limiting new lesion formation in patients with relapse‐remitting forms of MS. However, a significant challenge within the field of MS research is to develop effective and sustained therapies that allow for axonal protection and remyelination. In recent years, there has been increasing evidence that some kinds of stem cells and their derivatives seem to be able to mute neuroinflammation as well as promote remyelination and axonal integrity. Intracranial infection of mice with the neurotropic JHM strain of mouse hepatitis virus (JHMV) results in immune‐mediated demyelination and axonopathy, making this an excellent model to interrogate the therapeutic potential of stem cell derivatives in evoking remyelination. This review provides a succinct overview of our recent findings using intraspinal injection of mouse CNS neural progenitor cells and human neural precursors into JHMV‐infected mice. JHMV‐infected mice receiving these cells display extensive remyelination associated with axonal sparing. In addition, we discuss possible mechanisms associated with sustained clinical recovery. Developmental Dynamics 248:43–52, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
HPLC‐QTOF method for quantifying 11‐ketoetiocholanolone, a cortisol metabolite, in ruminants' feces: Optimization and validation
Authors: Molina‐García Lucía , Pérez Jesus M. , Sarasa Mathieu , Ureña‐Gutiérrez Benjamín , Espinosa Jose , Azorit Concepción
Published: August 2018

Studies of animal ecology can benefit from a quantified understanding of eco‐physiological processes and, in particular, of the physiological responses in free‐ranging animals to potential stressors. The determination of fecal cortisol metabolites as a noninvasive method for monitoring stress has proved to be a powerful tool. High‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS/MS) has emerged as the most accurate method for avoiding problems related to the nonspecificity of immunoassays. In this study, we optimize and validate a reliable method using HPLC‐MS/MS for quantifying 11‐ketoetiocholanolone (11‐k), a representative fecal cortisol metabolite in ruminants. An appropriate extraction and purification procedure was developed taking into account the complex nature of feces. The final extract obtained was then analyzed with HPLC‐MS/MS using a quadrupole‐time‐of‐fly (QTOF) tandem mass spectrometer with an electrospray ionization interface operating in positive mode, which allowed an unequivocal determination of the metabolite due to its accurate mass capabilities. After rigorous optimization of both sample extraction and the HPLC‐QTOF parameters, making use of feces from free‐ranging Iberian ibex, ideal conditions were established. Matrix‐matched standards were used to calibrate the method. The limit of detection and quantification was 13‐ and 40‐ ng/g, respectively. The validation of the method was performed with recoveries in the range of 85–110%, a figure much higher than the 60% obtained with the previous extraction methods used in our laboratory, and with relative standard deviations (RSDs) no higher than 15% for the complete analytical procedure, including extraction and analysis. The time required for the fecal 11‐k analysis was greatly reduced in comparison with the previous work carried out in our laboratory. This is the first time that QTOF mass detection coupled with HPLC has been validated for 11‐k quantification in feces from free‐ranging ruminants such as Iberian ibex. Given the high selectivity and sensitivity attained, our method could become a useful tool for noninvasive stress quantification in ruminants.
Epicardial fat in heart failure patients with mid‐range and preserved ejection fraction
Authors: van Woerden Gijs , Gorter Thomas M. , Westenbrink B. Daan , Willems Tineke P. , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Rienstra Michiel
Published: August 2018

Aims

Adipose tissue and inflammation may play a role in the pathophysiology of patients with heart failure (HF) with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction. We therefore investigated epicardial fat in patients with HF with preserved (HFpEF) and mid‐range ejection fraction (HFmrEF), and related this to co‐morbidities, plasma biomarkers and cardiac structure.

Methods and results

A total of 64 HF patients with left ventricular ejection fraction >40% and 20 controls underwent routine cardiac magnetic resonance examination. Epicardial fat volume was quantified on short‐axis cine stacks covering the entire epicardium and was related to clinical correlates, biomarkers associated with inflammation and myocardial injury, and cardiac function and contractility on cardiac magnetic resonance. HF patients and controls were of comparable age, sex and body mass index. Total epicardial fat volume was significantly higher in HF patients compared to controls (107 mL/m2 vs. 77 mL/m2, P <0.0001). HF patients with atrial fibrillation and/or type 2 diabetes mellitus had more epicardial fat than HF patients without these co‐morbidities (116 vs. 100 mL/m2, P =0.03, and 120 vs. 97 mL/m2, P =0.001, respectively). Creatine kinase‐MB, troponin T and glycated haemoglobin in patients with HF were positively correlated with epicardial fat volume (R =0.37, P =0.006; R =0.35, P =0.01; and R =0.42, P =0.002, respectively).

Conclusion

Heart failure patients had more epicardial fat compared to controls, despite similar body mass index. Epicardial fat volume was associated with the presence of atrial fibrillation and type 2 diabetes mellitus and with biomarkers related to myocardial injury. The clinical implications of these findings are unclear, but warrant further investigation.
Potential evaluation of CO2 EOR and storage in oilfields of the Pearl River Mouth Basin, northern South China Sea
Authors: Li Pengchun , Liu Xueyan , Lu Jiemin , Zhou Di , Hovorka Susan D. , Hu Gang , Liang Xi
Published: August 2018

The Pearl River Mouth Basin (PRMB) is the largest petroliferous sedimentary basin in the northern South China Sea. It is near the coastal economic zone of Guangdong province where a large number of CO2 emission sources are located. Carbon dioxide enhanced oil recovery (EOR) represents an opportunity to promote offshore carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) deployment because CO2 flooding offers a method to recover additional oil while simultaneously sequestering anthropogenic CO2. In this paper, a comprehensive multiparameter ‘quick look’ and potential evaluation method was proposed to screen and assess offshore CO2 EOR potential. A screening scheme for the CO2 EOR potential of reservoirs of the PRMB was also proposed using additional parameters, including reservoir properties and engineering design incorporating a dimensionless screen model and calculations. The results show that the suitability of reservoirs for CO2 EOR and storage varies and could be categorized into four priority grades. Approximately 30 of the oil reservoirs from 10 oilfields were preferentially identified by applying the screening method for reservoirs with predicted higher ultimate recovery potentials. It was predicted that 3227 × 104 t of additional oil could be produced from these reservoirs and that 3617 × 104 t of CO2 could be simultaneously stored. The sensitivity analysis shows that injection pressure (Pinj) would be more sensitive than production pressure (Pp) and well distance (L) on the CO2 EOR and storage efficiency, indicating that EOR operations with higher Pinj may improve oil production. The prospective reservoirs include those candidates with suitability grades of I and II from the Lufeng (LF) and Huizhou (HZ) oilfield clusters, where 1164 × 104 t of additional oil could be produced and 1464 × 104 t of CO2 stored with CO2 EOR. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.