bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ionospheric F-region response to the 26 September 2011 geomagnetic storm in the Antarctica American and Australian sectors
Authors: Correia Emilia , Spogli Luca , Alfonsi Lucilla , Cesaroni Claudio , Gulisano Adriana M. , Thomas Evan G. , Ramirez Ray F. Hidalgo , Rodel Alexandre A.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. The ionospheric response at middle and high latitudes in the Antarctica American and Australian sectors to the 26–27 September 2011 moderately intense geomagnetic storm was investigated using instruments including an ionosonde, riometer, and GNSS receivers. The multi-instrument observations permitted us to characterize the ionospheric storm-enhanced density (SED) and tongues of ionization (TOIs) as a function of storm time and location, considering the effect of prompt penetration electric fields (PPEFs). During the main phase of the geomagnetic storm, dayside SEDs were observed at middle latitudes, and in the nightside only density depletions were observed from middle to high latitudes. Both the increase and decrease in ionospheric density at middle latitudes can be attributed to a combination of processes, including the PPEF effect just after the storm onset, dominated by disturbance dynamo processes during the evolution of the main phase. Two SEDs–TOIs were identified in the Southern Hemisphere, but only the first episode had a counterpart in the Northern Hemisphere. This difference can be explained by the interhemispheric asymmetry caused by the high-latitude coupling between solar wind and the magnetosphere, which drives the dawn-to-dusk component of the interplanetary magnetic field. The formation of polar TOI is a function of the SED plume location that might be near the dayside cusp from which it can enter the polar cap, which was the case in the Southern Hemisphere. Strong GNSS scintillations were observed at stations collocated with SED plumes at middle latitudes and cusp on the dayside and at polar cap TOIs on the nightside.
La Educación para la Salud en la formación de maestros desde el Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior
Authors: Torres-García Milagros , Santana-Hernández Hiurma
Published: October 2017

El maestro es una pieza clave para el desarrollo de la Promoción y Educación para la Salud en la escuela, por lo que su formación en esta materia resulta fundamental. Los nuevos títulos de grado adaptados al Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior (EEES), contemplan la inclusión del módulo de formación básica, Infancia, Salud y Alimentación, en el Grado en Educación Infantil, mientras que no se establece ningún requisito para incorporar en el Grado en Educación Primaria aspectos relacionados con la salud. La implantación de estos nuevos planes de estudio ha dado lugar a la primera cohorte de graduados, por lo que el objetivo de nuestro trabajo es identificar los conocimientos, necesidades de formación y capacidades percibidas respecto a la Promoción y Educación para la Salud de nuestros estudiantes, y analizar las diferencias en base a la titulación cursada. Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo transversal. La población quedó constituida por la totalidad de alumnos de 4º curso de los Grados en Educación Infantil y en Educación Primaria. El instrumento de recogida de datos fue un cuestionario elaborado con motivo de esta investigación. Los resultados ponen de manifiesto diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los estudiantes del Grado en Educación Infantil y los del Grado en Educación Primaria, en los conocimientos sobre la inclusión de contenidos de salud en el curriculum y sobre las Escuelas Promotoras de Salud; asimismo, los estudiantes del Grado Infantil percibieron tener una mejor formación metodológica, y una mayor capacitación para educar en hábitos saludables. Todo ello parece indicar que la inclusión de una asignatura de formación básica de Educación para la Salud en el plan de estudios del Grado en Educación Infantil ha contribuido a una mejor percepción de los conocimientos y capacidades necesarias para desarrollar estrategias de Promoción y Educación para la Salud en la escuela.
La evaluación por competencias en los grados. Desarrollo de una experiencia mediante el uso de rúbrica
Authors: Expósito-Langa Manuel , Nicolau-Juliá Débora , Tomás-Miquel José Vicente
Published: October 2017

El Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior está implicando cambios en el modelo pedagógico de la universidad. Una de las cuestiones clave es la forma de evaluar la adquisición de competencias, y cómo esta evaluación puede influir en el proceso de aprendizaje. En este sentido, las rúbricas aparecen como instrumento de interés en el proceso evaluativo. Mediante esta propuesta de trabajo compartimos una experiencia educativa a través de una rúbrica para evaluar las competencias adquiridas en el desarrollo de un trabajo académico, así como la evaluación de su utilidad para el desempeño de los estudiantes. Los resultados indican que la rúbrica es una herramienta que estimula y motiva a los estudiantes en el desempeño del trabajo, así como en la dedicación y esfuerzo en tareas complejas de aprendizaje. En definitiva, la rúbrica permite una evaluación más objetiva, formativa y transparente del aprendizaje del alumno bajo un enfoque por competencias.
Design and validation of a scale to evaluate the impact of implementing a quality management system in schools
Authors: Carballo Santaolalla Rafael , Fernández Díaz Mª José , Rodríguez Mantilla Jesús Miguel
Published: October 2017

Implementation of quality management systems in educational organisations is a fact in many countries. Schools adopt systems to establish an improvement plan, based on evaluating everything they do. Evidence of the improvement and changes must be gathered and tools and techniques are thus required to evaluate these changes. This paper presents a questionnaire with a design and an analysis of its technical characteristics.  Results show that the overall reliability of the questionnaire is very good, with a Cronbach’s α of .988 and values higher than .92 in each of the six dimensions. The item analysis shows the level of homogeneity, with values over .25. The validity of the questionnaire is also good since the dimensions and subdimensions used are consistent, and the empirical data and the unidimensionality of the construct is proven.
Scope assignment: From wh- to QR
Authors: Tsoulas George , Yeo Norman
Published: October 2017

This paper develops a theory of scope assignment to wh-phrases as resulting of a process of selective spell-out of copies created from Internal Merge. We show that so-called LF-movement is not a viable option in the current theory of grammar. We therefore pursue the idea that all movement is overt and this, taken in conjunction with a tripartite structure for question formation (involving a clause-typing interrogative C, a Q particle, and a wh-phrase) yields a transparent, syntactically driven theory of scope which we then extend, more speculatively to Quantifier Raising in general.
Petrography and Geochemistry of the Banded Iron Formation of the Gangfelum Area, Northeastern Nigeria
Authors: Bolarinwa Anthony Temidayo
Published: October 2017

The Gangfelum Banded Iron Formation (BIF) is located within the basement complex of northeastern Nigeria. It is characterized by alternate bands of iron oxide and quartz. Petrographic studies show that the BIF consist mainly of hematite, goethite subordinate magnetite and accessory minerals including rutile, apatite, tourmaline and zircon. Chemical data from inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) show that average Fe2O3(t) is 53.91 wt.%. The average values of Al2O3 and CaO are 1.41 and 0.05 wt.% respectively, TiO2 and MnO are less than 0.5 wt. % each. The data suggested that the BIF is the oxide facies type. Trace element concentrations of Ba (67-332 ppm), Ni (28-35 ppm), Sr (13-55 ppm) and Zr (16-25 ppm) in the Gangfelum BIF are low and similar to the Maru and Muro BIF in northern Nigeria and also the Algoma iron formation from North America, the Orissa iron oxide facies of India and the Itabirite from Minas Gerais in Brazil. The evolution of the Gangfelum BIF involved metamorphism of chemically precipitated or rhythmically deposited iron-rich sediments into hematite-quartz rocks. The banding of the BIF suggested a break in iron precipitation probably due to iron oxide deficiency.
Revenge of the Nerds: Recidivist Masculinity, Identity Politics and the Online ‘Culture Wars’
Authors: Dematagoda Udith
Published: October 2017

This paper is longform commentary and analysis of Angela Nagle's recent work Kill All Normies Online culture wars from 4chan and Tumblr to Trump and the alt-right. It explores the work's relevance to 'Extreme Masculinties', and places it within the context of the contemporary poltiical situation. The work's main thesis on the aesthetic and libidinal forms and characteristics of the 'Alt-Right' are heavily interrogated and placed within the historical context of previous 'crises' in masculinity. This analysis proceeds to further explore the existence of this contemporary crisis through the broader spectrum of identity politics, and its problematic ideological conflicts and consequences.
Massive Submucosal Ganglia in Colonic Inertia
Authors: Naemi Kaveh , Stamos Michael J. , Wu Mark Li-cheng
Published: October 2017

Context.—

Colonic inertia is a debilitating form of primary chronic constipation with unknown etiology and diagnostic criteria, often requiring pancolectomy. We have occasionally observed massively enlarged submucosal ganglia containing at least 20 perikarya, in addition to previously described giant ganglia with greater than 8 perikarya, in cases of colonic inertia. These massively enlarged ganglia have yet to be formally recognized.

Objective.—

To determine whether such “massive submucosal ganglia,” defined as ganglia harboring at least 20 perikarya, characterize colonic inertia.

Design.—

We retrospectively reviewed specimens from colectomies of patients with colonic inertia and compared the prevalence of massive submucosal ganglia occurring in this setting to the prevalence of massive submucosal ganglia occurring in a set of control specimens from patients lacking chronic constipation.

Results.—

Seven of 8 specimens affected by colonic inertia harbored 1 to 4 massive ganglia, for a total of 11 massive ganglia. One specimen lacked massive ganglia but had limited sampling and nearly massive ganglia. Massive ganglia occupied both superficial and deep submucosal plexus. The patient with 4 massive ganglia also had 1 mitotically active giant ganglion. Only 1 massive ganglion occupied the entire set of 10 specimens from patients lacking chronic constipation.

Conclusions.—

We performed the first, albeit distinctly small, study of massive submucosal ganglia and showed that massive ganglia may be linked to colonic inertia. Further, larger studies are necessary to determine whether massive ganglia are pathogenetic or secondary phenomena, and whether massive ganglia or mitotically active ganglia distinguish colonic inertia from other types of chronic constipation.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of empagliflozin in the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease in Italy, based on the results of the EMPA-REG OUTCOME study
Authors: Iannazzo Sergio , Mannucci Edoardo , Reifsnider Odette , Maggioni Aldo Pietro
Published: October 2017

INTRODUCTION: The EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial demonstrated the efficacy of empagliflozin in the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D) with a previous history of cardiovascular (CV) disease. The drug is currently reimbursed for T2D Italian patients, but the reduction of CV mortality and morbidity shown in the trial opens a new treatment perspective in those patients with associated high CV risk.OBJECTIVE: Cost-effectiveness analysis of empagliflozin for the treatment of T2D patients with a previous history of CV disease, from the Italian National Health Service (NHS) perspective.METHODS: The analysis was performed with an individual simulation model, which can predict the time to CV events or death through a set of time-dependent regressions estimated on the patient-level data of the EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial. This design allows the direct simulation of long-term outcomes and costs without the need for surrogate endpoints.The model was adapted to the Italian setting, considering local epidemiological data, baseline quality of life (QoL) utility, background mortality and unit costs from current prices and tariffs. The cost perspective was that of the Italian NHS and the horizon of the simulation was lifetime. Costs and benefits were discounted at a 3.5% rate.RESULTS: Base case results were estimated on a cohort of 5,000 patients, which ensured the convergence of the simulation. Patients treated with empagliflozin in add-on to the standard of care (SoC) lived on the average 13.8 undiscounted years as compared to 11.8 years of patients on SoC alone. The gain in discounted quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) was 1.0, due to improved survival and QoL linked to the reduced incidence of CV events and CV mortality. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was 4,811 €/QALY, well below the commonly applied threshold of 30,000-50,000 €/QALY.CONCLUSION: Empagliflozin in add-on to the SoC is a highly cost-effective strategy for the treatment of T2D patients with known CV disease in the Italian setting.
Un “sujet qui fâche”. L’évaluation des enseignants en France, entre défense statutaire, injonction au professionnalisme et autonomie professionnelle
Authors: Buisson-Fenet Hélène , Pons Xavier
Published: October 2017

Cet article analyse les projets de réforme de l’évaluation des enseignants en France depuis la fin des années 1990 ainsi que les réactions, notamment syndicales, qu’ils ont suscitées. Cette évaluation est considérée comme un analyseur privilégié pour étudier les réactions des enseignants au développement de nouvelles politiques de reddition de comptes.A partir de méthodes qualitatives (entretiens, analyse de dépêches de presse et de corpus de documents), il étudie plus spécifiquement les systèmes de négociation des différents projets de réforme d’une évaluation régulièrement contestée mais jamais réformée au moment où nous terminons cet article.Adoptant une perspective de sociologie de l’action publique, il envisage les échecs de ces différents projets non pas comme le résultat d’une culture de contestation particulièrement prononcée parmi les syndicats d’enseignants dans un système certes encore fortement régulé de manière corporatiste ; mais comme la conséquence de la mise en œuvre de différents répertoires d’action publique par les acteurs de ce dossier. Selon leur mise en adéquation plus ou moins grande  avec la configuration d’action publique d’ensemble dans laquelle ils sont déployés, ces répertoires produisent des mouvements de politisation ou de dépolitisation plus ou moins propices  au changement.Après avoir décrit le système d’évaluation actuellement en vigueur en France, ainsi que les problèmes qu’ils posent et qui ont été identifiés à maintes reprises, nous analysons quatre séquences d’action publique (deux statuquo et deux projets de réforme) et mettons en évidence le déploiement de trois répertoires d’action publique différents : statutaire-conservateur (1997-2009), managérial-réactif (2009-2012) et professionnaliste-coopératif (2012-2016).
El profesorado y las familias ante el espejo. Demandas en un entorno cambiante y mercantilizado
Authors: Giró Miranda Joaquín , Andrés Cabello Sergio
Published: October 2017

Las políticas de rendición de cuentas son una realidad que ha alcanzado al sistema educativo. Este proceso es fundamental en una sociedad democrática, basada en la participación, la transparencia y la confianza entre los diferentes agentes. Pero también puede dar lugar a su uso desde una perspectiva mercantilista y de consideración de la Educación como un bien de consumo más. Este artículo parte del objetivo de relacionar la rendición de cuentas, el profesorado y las familias. Madres y padres tienen el derecho y el deber de participar en la escuela, la cual ha incrementado sus funciones. De esta forma, las familias también reciben esos resultados y el profesorado se ve afectado por esa rendición de cuentas. Partiendo de una metodología cualitativa, a través de entrevistas a la comunidad educativa, especialmente madres y padres y profesores, se ha podido establecer el discurso que se destila desde ambos colectivos en relación a la rendición de cuentas y sus consecuencias. Entre los principales resultados, puede destacarse la existencia de un arco de visiones que van desde la concepción de la rendición de cuentas como una forma de participación, de transparencia y de confianza, hasta otras donde prima más una relación basada en mecanismos de “cuasi mercado” y de exigencia de resultados a la institución escolar y sus profesionales.
El profesorado de Secundaria en España ante las políticas de rendición de cuentas en el marco de implantación de la LOMCE
Authors: Venegas Mar , Usategui Elisa , Del Valle Ana Irene
Published: October 2017

En este artículo nos preguntamos por los discursos y las prácticas del profesorado español de Educación Secundaria Obligatoria en torno a las políticas de rendición de cuentas. Para ello, analizamos los discursos y prácticas del profesorado, en el marco de un proyecto de I+D+i financiado en convocatoria competitiva por el Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad de España, con el objetivo de saber si, en este nuevo paradigma docente, se está produciendo (o no) una redefinición del profesionalismo docente, así como de la responsabilidad social del profesorado, entendiendo ésta en términos de rendición de cuentas. En el artículo, desarrollamos la tesis de que los continuos cambios legislativos en educación en España están consolidando una cultura educativa centrada en la evaluación que, a su vez, contribuye a redefinir el profesionalismo docente en España en términos de una burocratización creciente, derivada, principalmente, de las demandas que los estándares de aprendizaje imponen sobre el profesorado y que conlleva, asimismo, una responsabilización de la rendición de cuentas del profesorado. Comenzamos con algunas pinceladas teóricas para contextualizar el estado de la cuestión. Seguidamente, describimos la estrategia metodológica seguida, basada en 10 grupos de discusión en 10 de las 17 Comunidades Autónomas del Estado español. A continuación, analizaremos los datos atendiendo a nuestra tesis de investigación, la cual, para concluir el artículo, es sometida a una breve discusión en torno a los procesos de socialización y subjetivación profesional del profesorado de la investigación, que se producen, a tenor de los datos de la investigación, en términos similares a los que se observan en otros países occidentales: leyes educativas cambiantes, estándares de aprendizaje, burocratización del profesionalismo docente, eficacia, evaluación, y rendición de la responsabilidad del profesorado.
Time to Tell
Authors: Knight Dennis Ray
Published: October 2017

If he is known for anything other than his writings, James Baldwin is best known for his
work as a civil rights activist. What is often overlooked is Baldwin’s work toward uniting
two under-represented and oppressed groups: African Americans and homosexuals. With his
first novel, Go Tell It on the Mountain, Baldwin began a career of speaking about and for
homosexuals and their relationship with the institutions of African-American communities.
Through its focus on a sensitive, church-going teenager, Go Tell It on the Mountain
dramatizes the strain imposed upon homosexual members of African-American communities
within the Pentecostal Church through its religious beliefs.
Assessing the living and dead proportions of cold-water coral colonies: implications for deep-water Marine Protected Area monitoring in a changing ocean
Authors: Vad Johanne , Orejas Covadonga , Moreno-Navas Juan , Findlay Helen S. , Roberts J. Murray
Published: October 2017

Coral growth patterns result from an interplay of coral biology and environmental conditions. In this study colony size and proportion of live and dead skeletons in the cold-water coral (CWC) Lophelia pertusa (Linnaeus, 1758) were measured using video footage from Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) transects conducted at the inshore Mingulay Reef Complex (MRC) and at the offshore PISCES site (Rockall Bank) in the NE Atlantic. The main goal of this paper was to explore the development of a simple method to quantify coral growth and its potential application as an assessment tool of the health of these remote habitats. Eighteen colonies were selected and whole colony and dead/living layer size were measured. Live to dead layer ratios for each colony were then determined and analysed. The age of each colony was estimated using previously published data. Our paper shows that: (1) two distinct morphotypes can be described: at the MRC, colonies displayed a ‘cauliflower-shaped’ morphotype whereas at the PISCES site, colonies presented a more flattened ‘bush-shaped’ morphotype; (2) living layer size was positively correlated with whole colony size; (3) live to dead layer ratio was negatively correlated to whole colony size; (4) live to dead layer ratio never exceeded 0.27. These results suggest that as a colony develops and its growth rate slows down, the proportion of living polyps in the colony decreases. Furthermore, at least 73% of L. pertusa colonies are composed of exposed dead coral skeleton, vulnerable to ocean acidification and the associated shallowing of the aragonite saturation horizon, with significant implications for future deep-sea reef framework integrity. The clear visual contrast between white/pale living and grey/dark dead portions of the colonies also gives a new way by which they can be visually monitored over time. The increased use of marine autonomous survey vehicles offers an important new platform from which such a surveying technique could be applied to monitor deep-water marine protected areas in the future.
ThePlasmodium bergheiRC strain is highly diverged and harbors putatively novel drug resistance variants
Authors: Songsungthong Warangkhana , Kulawonganunchai Supasak , Wilantho Alisa , Tongsima Sissades , Koonyosying Pongpisid , Uthaipibull Chairat , Kamchonwongpaisan Sumalee , Shaw Philip J.
Published: October 2017

Background

The current first line drugs for treating uncomplicated malaria are artemisinin (ART) combination therapies. However,Plasmodium falciparumparasites resistant to ART and partner drugs are spreading, which threatens malaria control efforts. Rodent malaria species are useful models for understanding antimalarial resistance, in particular genetic variants responsible for cross resistance to different compounds.

Methods

ThePlasmodium bergheiRC strain (PbRC) is described as resistant to different antimalarials, including chloroquine (CQ) and ART. In an attempt to identify the genetic basis for the antimalarial resistance trait inPbRC, its genome was sequenced and compared with five other previously sequencedP. bergheistrains.

Results

We found thatPbRC is eight-fold less sensitive to the ART derivative artesunate than the reference strainPbANKA. The genome ofPbRC is markedly different from other strains, and 6,974 single nucleotide variants private toPbRC were identified. Among thesePbRC private variants, non-synonymous changes were identified in genes known to modulate antimalarial sensitivity in rodent malaria species, including notably the ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase 1 gene. However, no variants were found in some genes with strong evidence of association with ART resistance inP. falciparumsuch as K13 propeller protein.

Discussion

The variants identified inPbRC provide insight intoP. bergheigenome diversity and genetic factors that could modulate CQ and ART resistance inPlasmodiumspp.
New whaitsioids (Therapsida: Therocephalia) from the Teekloof Formation of South Africa and therocephalian diversity during the end-Guadalupian extinction
Authors: Huttenlocker Adam K. , Smith Roger M.H.
Published: October 2017

Two new species of therocephalian therapsids are described from the upper Permian Teekloof Formation of the Karoo Basin, South Africa. They include two specimens of a whaitsiid, Microwhaitsia mendrezi gen. et sp. nov., and a single, small whaitsioid Ophidostoma tatarinovi gen. et sp. nov., which preserves a combination of primitive and apomorphic features. A phylogenetic analysis of 56 therapsid taxa and 136 craniodental and postcranial characters places the new taxa within the monophyletic sister group of baurioids—Whaitsioidea—with Microwhaitsia as a basal whaitsiid and Ophidostoma as an aberrant whaitsioid just outside the hofmeyriid+whaitsiid subclade. The new records support that whaitsioids were diverse during the early-late Permian (Wuchiapingian) and that the dichotomy between whaitsiid-line and baurioid-line eutherocephalians was established early on. The oldest Gondwanan whaitsiid Microwhaitsia and additional records from the lower strata of the Teekloof Formation suggest that whaitsioids had diversified by the early Wuchiapingian and no later than Pristerognathus Assemblage Zone times. Prior extinction estimates based on species counts are reflected in an analysis of origination/extinction rates, which imply increasing faunal turnover from Guadalupian to Lopingian (late Permian) times. The new records support a growing body of evidence that some key Lopingian synapsid clades originated near or prior to the Guadalupian-Lopingian boundary ca. 260–259 million years ago, but only radiated following the end-Guadalupian extinction of dinocephalians and basal therocephalian predators (long-fuse model). Ongoing collecting in older portions of the Teekloof Formation (e.g., Pristerognathus Assemblage Zone) will shed further light on early eutherocephalians during this murky but critical time in their evolutionary diversification.
Integration of lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA reveals novel insights into oviposition regulation in honey bees
Authors: Chen Xiao , Ma Ce , Chen Chao , Lu Qian , Shi Wei , Liu Zhiguang , Wang Huihua , Guo Haikun
Published: October 2017

Background

The honey bee (Apis mellifera) is a highly diverse species commonly used for honey production and pollination services. The oviposition of the honey bee queen affects the development and overall performance of the colony. To investigate the ovary activation and oviposition processes on a molecular level, a genome-wide analysis of lncRNAs, miRNAs and mRNA expression in the ovaries of the queens was performed to screen for differentially expressed coding and noncoding RNAs. Further analysis identified relevant candidate genes or RNAs.

Results

The analysis of the RNA profiles in different oviposition phase of the queens revealed that 740 lncRNAs, 81 miRNAs and 5,481 mRNAs were differently expressed during the ovary activation; 88 lncRNAs, 13 miRNAs and 338 mRNAs were differently expressed during the oviposition inhibition process; and finally, 100 lncRNAs, four miRNAs and 497 mRNAs were differently expressed during the oviposition recovery process. In addition, functional annotation of differentially expressed RNAs revealed several pathways that are closely related to oviposition, including hippo, MAPK, notch, Wnt, mTOR, TGF-beta and FoxO signaling pathways. Furthermore, in the QTL region for ovary size, 73 differentially expressed genes and 14 differentially expressed lncRNAs were located, which are considered as candidate genes affecting ovary size and oviposition. Moreover, a core set of genes served as bridges among different miRNAs were identified through the integrated analysis of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network.

Conclusion

The observed dramatic expression changes of coding and noncoding RNAs suggest that they may play a critical role in honey bee queens’ oviposition. The identified candidate genes for oviposition activation and regulation could serve as a resource for further studies of genetic markers of oviposition in honey bees.
MicroRNA‐661 modulates redox and metabolic homeostasis in colon cancer
Authors: Gómez de Cedrón Marta , Acín Pérez Rebeca , Sánchez‐Martínez Ruth , Molina Susana , Herranz Jesús , Feliu Jaime , Reglero Guillermo , Enríquez Jose Antonio , Ramírez de Molina Ana
Published: October 2017

Cancer cell survival and metastasis are dependent on metabolic reprogramming that is capable of increasing resistance to oxidative and energetic stress. Targeting these two processes can be crucial for cancer progression. Herein, we describe the role of microRNA‐661 (miR661) as epigenetic regulator of colon cancer (CC) cell metabolism. MicroR661 induces a global increase in reactive oxygen species, specifically in mitochondrial superoxide anions, which appears to be mediated by decreased carbohydrate metabolism and pentose phosphate pathway, and by a higher dependency on mitochondrial respiration. MicroR661 overexpression in non‐metastatic human CC cells induces an epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition phenotype, and a reduced tolerance to metabolic stress. This seems to be a general effect of miR661 in CC, since metastatic CC cell metabolism is also compromised upon miR661 overexpression. We propose hexose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase and pyruvate kinase M2 as two key players related to the observed metabolic reprogramming. Finally, the clinical relevance of miR661 expression levels in stage‐II and III CC patients is discussed. In conclusion, we propose miR661 as a potential modulator of redox and metabolic homeostasis in CC.
Anisotropic Poroelasticity in a Rock With Cracks
Authors: Wong Teng‐Fong
Published: October 2017

Deformation of a saturated rock in the field and laboratory may occur in a broad range of conditions, ranging from undrained to drained. The poromechanical response is often anisotropic, and in a brittle rock, closely related to preexisting and stress‐induced cracks. This can be modeled as a rock matrix embedded with an anisotropic system of cracks. Assuming microisotropy, expressions for three of the poroelastic coefficients of a transversely isotropic rock were derived in terms of the crack density tensor. Together with published results for the five effective elastic moduli, this provides a complete micromechanical description of the eight independent poroelastic coefficients of such a cracked rock. Relatively simple expressions were obtained for the Skempton pore pressure tensor, which allow one to infer the crack density tensor from undrained measurement in the laboratory, and also to infer the Biot‐Willis effective stress coefficients. The model assumes a dilute concentration of noninteractive penny‐shaped cracks, and it shows good agreement with experimental data for Berea sandstone, with crack density values up to 0.6. Whereas predictions on the storage coefficient and normal components of the elastic stiffness tensor also seem reasonable, significant discrepancy between model and measurement was observed regarding the off‐diagonal and shear components of the stiffness. A plausible model had been proposed for development of very strong anisotropy in the undrained response of a fault zone, and the model here placed geometric constraints on the associated fracture system.
Temperature Control of the Variability of Tropical Tropopause Layer Cirrus Clouds
Authors: Tseng Hsiu‐Hui , Fu Qiang
Published: October 2017

This study examines the temperature control of variability of tropical tropopause layer (TTL) cirrus clouds (i.e., clouds with bases higher than 14.5 km) by using 8 years (2006–2014) of observations from the Cloud‐Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO) and Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate (COSMIC). It is found that the temporal variability of vertical structure of TTL cirrus cloud fraction averaged between 15°N and 15°S can be well explained by the vertical temperature gradient below ~17.5 km but by the local temperature above for both seasonal and interannual time scales. It is also found that the TTL cirrus cloud fraction at a given altitude is best correlated with the temperature at a higher altitude and this vertical displacement increases with a decrease of the cirrus altitude. It is shown that the TTL cirrus cloud fractions at all altitudes are significantly correlated with tropical cold point tropopause (CPT) temperature. The plausible mechanisms that might be responsible for the observed relations between TTL cirrus fraction and temperature‐based variables are discussed, which include ice particle sediments, cooling associated with wave propagations, change of atmospheric stability, and vertical gradient of water vapor mixing ratio. We further examine the spatial covariability of TTL total cirrus cloud fraction and CPT temperature for the interannual time scale. It is found that the El Niño–Southern Oscillation and quasi‐biennial oscillation are the leading factors in controlling the spatial variability of the TTL cirrus clouds and temperatures.
Multiregional Clinical Trials
Authors: Binkowitz Bruce , Chen Joshua , Quan Hui
Published: October 2017

With the globalization of clinical trials comes a myriad of unique statistical, operational, clinical, regulatory, ethical, epidemiological, and even political issues. Just as the idea of a single center clinical trial cannot be simply lifted and extended to a multicenter trial without accounting for the addition of more than one center, the design of a multicenter clinical trial conducted within a single region cannot simply be lifted and extended to conducting and interpreting a trial across multiple regions. While there are definite advantages to conducting a multiregional clinical trial regarding speed of development, outreach to more patients in need, and generalizability of the results, there is also the downside of additional complications. However, these do not outweigh the advantages to conducting, when feasible, a multiregional clinical trial. Such complications require more upfront planning and consideration of the issues. This article will raise awareness to the most critical aspects that need attention and open the door to how multiregional clinical trials become an advantage to investigating the scientific hypotheses and not a complication. We hope that this article piques the reader's interest enough to pursue further reading, and perhaps research, of this important and interesting subject.
Data Integration
Authors: Dalla Valle Luciana
Published: October 2017

This article introduces some of the most popular techniques of data integration that allow the combination of information coming from various sources. The illustration focuses, in particular, on the Bayesian generalized Heckman methodology and the data calibration methodology based on vines and nonparametric Bayesian networks.
Nonrandomized Trials: Designs and Methodology
Authors: Sedgwick Philip M.
Published: October 2017

The randomized controlled trial is the study design of choice in order to assess the effectiveness of an intervention. Sometimes, the nonrandomized trial study design is used, whereby participants are allocated to treatment groups using nonrandom methods. The design has the potential for confounding with the consequence that internal validity may be compromised. Nonetheless, some nonrandom methods have benefits. In preference trials, patients can choose their treatment, minimizing the effects of treatment preference that can threaten than can threaten the internal validity and the external validity. Although not a trial by definition, the before‐and‐after study can demonstrate the effectiveness of an intervention in a similar way to a nonrandomized trial. The application and methodological implications of the nonrandomized trial, preference trial, and before‐and‐after study designs are outlined. Approaches to treatment group allocation, along with the benefits and disadvantages, are discussed.
Multiscale and Stabilized Methods
Authors: Hughes Thomas J. R. , Scovazzi Guglielmo , Franca Leopoldo P.
Published: October 2017

This chapter presents an introduction to multiscale and stabilized methods, which represent unified approaches to modeling and numerical solution of fluid dynamic phenomena. Finite‐element applications are emphasized but the ideas are general and apply to other numerical methods as well. (They have been used in the development of finite difference, finite volume, and spectral methods, in addition to finite‐element methods.) The analytical ideas are first illustrated for time‐harmonic wave‐propagation problems in unbounded fluid domains governed by the Helmholtz equation. This leads to the well‐known Dirichlet‐to‐Neumann formulation. A general treatment of the variational multiscale method in the context of an abstract Dirichlet problem is then presented, which is applicable to advective–diffusive processes and other processes of physical interest. It is shown how the exact theory represents a paradigm for subgrid‐scale models anda posteriorierror estimation. Hierarchicalp‐methods and bubble function methods are examined in order to understand and ultimately approximate the “fine‐scale Green's function” that appears in the theory. Relationships among the so‐called residual‐free bubbles, element Green's functions, and stabilized methods are exhibited. These ideas are then generalized to a class of nonsymmetric, linear evolution operators formulated in space–time. The variational multiscale method also provides guidelines and inspiration for the development of stabilized methods [e.g., SUPG (streamline upwind Petrov–Galerkin) and GLS (Galerkin least squares)) that have attracted considerable interest and have been extensively utilized in engineering and the physical sciences. An overview of stabilized methods for advective–diffusive equations is presented. A variational multiscale treatment of incompressible viscous flows, including turbulence, is also described. This represents an alternative formulation of large‐eddy simulation, which provides a simplified theoretical framework of LES with potential for improved modeling.
The Circadian Clock inCAMPlants
Authors: Hartwell James
Published: October 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

The Daily Cycle of Metabolism inCAMPlants

Phase Responses ofCAM CO2Rhythms

The Biochemical Basis for the Circadian Rhythm ofCO2Fixation

Multiple Points of Clock Control within theCAMPathway?

The Molecular Identity of the Central Oscillator inCAMSpecies?

Future Perspectives and Unanswered Questions

Acknowledgements
Control of Starch Biosynthesis in Vascular Plants and Algae
Authors: Morell Matthew K. , Li Zhongyi , Regina Ahmed , Rahman Sadiq , d'Hulst Christophe , Ball Steven G.
Published: October 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Synthesis of Bacterial Glycogen

Synthesis of Starch in Vascular Plants

Starch Synthesis and Breakdown in Leaves and Tubers

Control of Starch Biosynthesis in Monocotyledonous Species

Starch Synthesis in Green Algae

Starch Synthesis in Other Systems

Control of Starch Biosynthesis

Opportunities for the Manipulation of Starch Synthesis and Structure

Conclusions
Control of Sulfur Uptake, Assimilation and Metabolism
Authors: Hawkesford Malcolm J. , Howarth Jonathan R. , Buchner Peter
Published: October 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Sulfate Uptake and Distribution

The Assimilatory Pathway – Activation and Reduction

Control of Flux through the Assimilatory Pathway – Cysteine Synthesis

Control of Flux to the Various Sinks after Cysteine Biosynthesis

Acknowledgements
The Fine Structure of the Plant Cuticle
Authors: Jeffree Christopher E.
Published: October 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

The Structure of the Cuticle Proper

Cuticle Polymers

Cuticle Structural Types

Summary of the Cuticle Types

The Epicuticular Wax

Cuticular Pores and Permeability of theCM

Crystallisation Studies onEW

Crystal Orientation and Spatial Patterning

Degradation ofEW

Summary of Cuticle Ontogeny

Acknowledgements
The Cutin Biopolymer Matrix
Authors: Stark Ruth E. , Tian Shiying
Published: October 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction: Protective Plant Polymers

Biosynthesis

Monomer Composition

Polymeric Structure of Intact Cutin

Molecular Structure of Cutin Fragments

Mechanical Properties

Thermodynamic Properties

Summary and Prospectus

Acknowledgements
Optical Properties of Plant Surfaces
Authors: Pfündel Erhard E. , Agati Giovanni , Cerovic Zoran G.
Published: October 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Methods to Determine Optical Properties of Plant Surfaces

Electronic Absorption of Radiation

Non‐Absorptive Optical Properties

Concluding Remarks

Acknowledgements
Transport of Lipophilic Non‐Electrolytes Across the Cuticle
Authors: Riederer Markus , Friedmann Adrian
Published: October 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

How do
LNE
Enter the Cuticle?

Transport through the Cuticle

Enhancing the Transport Properties of the Cuticle

Conclusions
Characterisation of Polar Paths of Transport in Plant Cuticles
Authors: Schreiber Lukas
Published: October 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Results Providing Evidence for Polar Paths of Transport

Significance of Polar Paths of Transport
The Cuticle and Cellular Interactions
Authors: Tanaka Hirokazu , Machida Yasunori
Published: October 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Essential Roles of the Cuticle in Post‐Embryonic Development

Functions of the Cuticle in Plant Reproduction and Embryogenesis

Regulators of Epidermal Differentiation and Cuticle Formation

Concluding Remarks
Commissioning of a PTW 34070 large‐area plane‐parallel ionization chamber for small field megavoltage photon dosimetry
Authors: Kupfer Tom , Lehmann Joerg , Butler Duncan J. , Ramanathan Ganesan , Bailey Tracy E. , Franich Rick D.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

This study investigates a large‐area plane‐parallel ionization chamber (LAC) for measurements of dose‐area product in water (DAPw) in megavoltage (MV) photon fields.

Methods

Uniformity of electrode separation of the LAC (PTW34070 Bragg Peak Chamber, sensitive volume diameter: 8.16 cm) was measured using high‐resolution microCT. Signal dependence on angle α of beam incidence for square 6 MV fields of side length s = 20 cm and 1 cm was measured in air. Polarity and recombination effects were characterized in 6, 10, and 18 MV photons fields. To assess the lateral setup tolerance, scanned LAC profiles of a 1 × 1 cm2 field were acquired. A 6 MV calibration coefficient, ND,w,LAC, was determined in a field collimated by a 5 cm diameter stereotactic cone with known DAPw. Additional calibrations in 10 × 10 cm2 fields at 6, 10, and 18 MV were performed.

Results

Electrode separation is uniform and agrees with specifications. Volume‐averaging leads to a signal increase proportional to ~1/cos(α) in small fields. Correction factors for polarity and recombination range between 0.9986 to 0.9996 and 1.0007 to 1.0024, respectively. Off‐axis displacement by up to 0.5 cm did not change the measured signal in a 1 × 1 cm2 field. ND,w,LAC was 163.7 mGy cm−2 nC−1 and differs by +3.0% from the coefficient derived in the 10 × 10 cm2 6 MV field. Response in 10 and 18 MV fields increased by 1.0% and 2.7% compared to 6 MV.

Conclusions

The LAC requires only small correction factors for DAPw measurements and shows little energy dependence. Lateral setup errors of 0.5 cm are tolerated in 1 × 1 cm2 fields, but beam incidence must be kept as close to normal as possible. Calibration in 10 × 10 fields is not recommended because of the LAC's over‐response. The accuracy of relative point‐dose measurements in the field's periphery is an important limiting factor for the accuracy of DAPw measurements.
Laser‐Induced In‐Fiber Fluid Dynamical Instabilities for Precise and Scalable Fabrication of Spherical Particles
Authors: Zhang Jing , Li Kaiwei , Zhang Ting , Buenconsejo Pio John S. , Chen Ming , Wang Zhe , Zhang Mengying , Wang Zhixun , Wei Lei
Published: October 2017

Scalable fabrication of spherical particles at both the micro‐ and nanoscales is of significant importance for applications spanning optical devices, electronics, targeted drug delivery, biodevices, sensors, and cosmetics. However, current top‐down and bottom‐up fabrication methods are unable to provide the full spectrum of uniformly sized, well‐ordered, and high‐quality spheres due to their inherent restrictions. Here, a generic, scalable, and precisely controllable fabrication method is demonstrated for generating spherical particles in a full range of diameters from microscale to nanoscale. This method begins with a macroscopic composite multimaterial solid‐state preform drawn into a fiber that defines precisely the initial conditions for the process. It is then followed by CO2 laser heating to enable the transformation from a continuous fiber core into a series of homogeneous spheres via Plateau–Rayleigh capillary instability inside the fiber. This physical breakup method applies to a wide range of functional materials with different melting temperatures from 400 to 2400 K and 10 orders of difference in fiber core/cladding viscosity ratio. Furthermore, an ordered array of silicon‐based whispering‐gallery mode resonators with the Q factor as high as 7.1 × 105 is achieved, owing to the process induced ultrasmooth surface and highly crystalline nature.
Noncompaction cardiomyopathy in an infant with Walker–Warburg syndrome
Authors: Abdullah Sarah , Hawkins Cynthia , Wilson Gregory , Yoon Grace , Mertens Luc , Carter Melissa T. , Guerin Andrea
Published: October 2017

Walker–Warburg syndrome (WWS) is a rare autosomal recessive, congenital muscular dystrophy that is associated with brain and eye anomalies. Several genes encoding proteins involved in α‐dystroglycan glycosylation have been implicated in the aetiology of WWS. We describe a patient with nonclassical features of WWS presenting with heart failure related to noncompaction cardiomyopathy resulting in death at 4 months of age. Muscle biopsy revealed absent α‐dystroglycan on immunostaining and genetic testing confirmed the diagnosis with two previously described POMT2 mutations. This is the first reported case of WWS syndrome associated with noncompaction cardiomyopathy.
Exploring the Formation of Black Phosphorus Intercalation Compounds with Alkali Metals
Authors: Abellán Gonzalo , Neiss Christian , Lloret Vicent , Wild Stefan , Chacón‐Torres Julio C. , Werbach Katharina , Fedi Filippo , Shiozawa Hidetsugu , Görling Andreas , Peterlik Herwig , Pichler Thomas , Hauke Frank , Hirsch Andreas
Published: October 2017

Black phosphorus intercalation compounds (BPICs) with alkali metals (namely: K and Na) have been synthesized in bulk by solid‐state as well as vapor‐phase reactions. By means of a combination of in situ X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and DFT calculations the structural behavior of the BPICs at different intercalation stages has been demonstrated for the first time. Our results provide a glimpse into the very first steps of a new family of intercalation compounds, with a distinct behavior as compared to its graphite analogues (GICs), showing a remarkable structural complexity and a dynamic behavior.
Iridium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Allylic Dearomatization by a Desymmetrization Strategy
Authors: Wang Ye , Zheng Chao , You Shu‐Li
Published: October 2017

A desymmetrization strategy was developed involving iridium‐catalyzed allylic dearomatization of indoles. The six‐membered‐ring spiroindolenines contain three contiguous stereogenic centers, including an all‐carbon quaternary center, and were obtained in up to 99 % yield with 99 % ee and >95:5 d.r. When treated with a catalytic amount of tosylic acid, six‐membered spiroindolenine undergoes an unprecedented six‐to‐seven‐membered ring expansion, affording the corresponding hexahydroazepino[4,5‐b]indole.