bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Igniting the Innovation’s Competencies at Engineering Schools: IoT to the Cloud Labs Network in Mexico
Authors: Morales Ramon , Heredia Yolanda
Published: April 2018

Learning and innovation’s skills are increasingly recognized as key factors separating students who are prepared formore complex environments of life and work in the twenty-first century, and those who are not. The relationshipbetween the industry and the academia is undoubtedly in Mexico and several countries nowadays a very importantsocial and institutional phenomenon. Academy and Industry have always been cooperating in a win-win manner. Overtime, this relationship has evolved in many mechanisms where learning skills developed strongly, but at present,innovation skills are taking more relevance. Efforts like an “IoT to the Cloud Innovation Labs Network” implementedby the Intel® Guadalajara Design Center in Mexico are contributing to foster the innovation’s competencies and skillsfrom students and have been having a profound impact at the local ecosystem at each one of the states where these labsare established. As part of the results, this labs network has been bringing more than 200 innovative projects, indifferent areas like smart agriculture, Internet of Things, automation, wearables, smart hearth, and robots, amongothers. Additionally, more than 3200 people (students, teachers, individuals from the industry and government) havebeen receiving some training coming from this labs network. All the courses and workshops have been deployed in atrain the trainers’ model, bringing a strong, scalable possibility and impact, to the local ecosystems and each one of thestates.
Implementation of Business Policy to Increase Income for Family Welfare (IIFW) to Support Population Program in Indonesia
Authors: Irianto Heru , Haryono Haryono , Hartanto J. Andy , Aisyah Rr Herini Siti
Published: April 2018

Population problems are closely related to the economic and social conditions of the people due to the lower level of education and economy so that the awareness to follow the family planning program is low and lacks access to the available facilities and information. The independence of the family's economic is very important, considering that poverty not only affects the economic problems but also impacts on other issues such as life attitudes, family education, health and others which greatly influence the improvement of the quality of the human resources in Indonesia. In implementing the policy, synergicity of various elements of government institutions, communities, business institutions, such as working training centers, financial institutions, business and educational institutions and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), as well as mass media is strongly needed. With the paradigm of mutualistic symbiosis, the business continuity will be more secure and be able to support and promote each other for the same sake of developing and improving the condition through IIFW. In the era of regional autonomy in Indonesia, all existing local potential can be explored thoroughly to establish the synergicity so that the improvement of the economy in the region, especially, in the areas of the poor can be reached.
Preventieve politiecontroles en interne grenscontroles in het Schengengebied
Authors: Rodrigues Peter , van der Woude Maartje
Published: April 2018

Preventive Policing and Intra-Schengen Border Control

Ever since the 2015 start of what is now often referred to as the European ‘migration crisis’, European member states have been struggling with one of the key fundaments of the European Union and in particular the Schengen Agreement: the principle of free movement. Whereas this principle entails that people should be able to move freely within the Schengen Area, as a result of the ongoing securitization and politicization of migration, Member States are exploring the different opportunities the Schengen Border Code allows them to monitor intra-Schengen cross-border mobility. In doing so, countries seem to have two options: either to temporarily reintroduce border controls or to – permanently – carry out police or immigration controls in an area around the border. In this article we explore and critically assess the choices various countries have made and what seems to be the position of the European Commission in all this.
Comparison of Cytopathologist-Performed Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration With Cytopathologist-Performed Palpation-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration: A Single Institutional Experience
Authors: Conrad Rachel , Yang Sung-Eun , Chang Shelley , Bhasin Meenakshi , Sullivan Peggy S. , Moatamed Neda A. , Lu David Y.
Published: April 2018

Context.—

Although fine-needle aspiration (FNA) practice by pathologists is now well established, it has been primarily performed by manual palpation. In recent years, pathologists have begun to venture into ultrasound-guided FNAs (UGFNAs). Reports on experiences with this relatively new technique for pathologists have shown promising results. However to date, there have been few studies in the literature comparing pathologist-performed UGFNA with the more traditional pathologist-performed palpation-guided FNA (PGFNA).

Objective.—

To compare UGFNA to PGFNA by cytopathologists at an academic medical center.

Design.—

A retrospective study of FNAs performed by cytopathologists within the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) pathology departmental FNA clinic was performed. Data collected included performance technique (UGFNA versus PGFNA), lesion site and size, adequacy status (nondiagnostic rate), and number of passes per procedure. Corresponding surgical pathology/flow cytometric/cytogenetic result follow-up was compared to FNA results. Findings between UGFNA and PGFNA cases were compared.

Results.—

Of 1029 FNA cases during the study period, there were 449 UGFNA cases (43.6%) and 580 PGFNA cases (56.4%). Nondiagnostic rates with UGFNA and PGFNA were 6.7% (30 of 449 cases) and 20.7% (120 of 580 cases), respectively. Nondiagnostic rate was also significantly lower with UGFNA than with PGFNA for lesions within the thyroid (6.0% versus 33.3%), head and neck (6.6% versus 21.2%), and salivary gland (6.2% versus 17.1%), and across all nodule sizes. A total of 495 of 1029 FNA cases (48.1%) had follow-up. Discordance rate was significantly lower with UGFNA than with PGFNA (5.4% versus 12.8%).

Conclusions.—

This study shows improved performance characteristics of cytopathologist-performed UGFNA versus PGFNA.
What Details Do Teachers Expect From Student Proofs? A Study of Proof Checking in Geometry
Authors: Dimmel Justin K. , Herbst Patricio G.
Published: April 2018

We investigated how secondary mathematics teachers check student geometry proofs. From video records of geometry teachers checking proofs, we conjectured that teachers have different expectations for details that follow from written statements than for details that are conveyed by diagrams. To test our conjectures, we randomly assigned 44 secondary mathematics teachers to 1 of 3 experiment groups (n & 13, n & 15, n & 16) in which they viewed and rated representations of instructional practice. Participants in each group viewed treatment or control versions of instructional scenarios and rated the appropriateness of the teachers' work in different segments of each scenario. We compared participants' ratings across and within experiment groups. We found that participants rated lower instruction that deviated from what we hypothesized to be their expectations, confirming our hypotheses.
The Slaughtering and Dressing Procedures of Livestock Inside the Butcher Shops Generate High Levels of Bacterial Contamination
Authors: Fawzi I. Irshaid  , Jacob H. Jacob  , Saifaldeen I. Alhawamdeh
Published: April 2018

Background and Objective: Raw meats from animal carcasses are most frequently contaminated with bacteria during the slaughtering and dressing process. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the bacterial quality of raw meat from lamb, goat and beef carcasses immediately after slaughtering at butcher shops in Al-Mafraq city-Jordan.Materials and Methods: A total of 243 meat samples were aseptically cut from the hand, leg and back of carcasses at three butcher locations, designated as site-C (the central part of the city), site-N (the north side of the city) and site-S (the south side of the city). Samples were processed and then cultured on nutrient agar and xylose lysine deoxycholate (XLD) agar plates aerobically at 35 °C for 48 h for enumeration of bacteria and total Enterobacteriaceae count (TEC) by aerobic plate count (APC). APC and TEC were expressed as colony forming units per gram of meat (CFU/g).Results: APC and TEC in the raw meats ranged from 11.6-28.1 X 106 CFU/g on nutrient agar and from 23-120 X 103 CFU/g on XLD agar medium. By meat type, the lamb had the highest APC and TEC, followed by beef. By location, the highest APC and TEC were shown in the C-Site, followed by the S-Site. There were significant differences between APC counts by location and meat type (P
Cuantificación de los niveles de actividad física a través de podómetros en las clases de Educación Física: Un estudio piloto
Authors: Sánchez-Baño M. , Visiedo A. , Sainz de Baranda P.
Published: April 2018

La inactividad física durante los primeros años de vida está reconocida actualmente como un factor importante en el incremento de los niveles de obesidad y de otros trastornos médicos graves que se observan en los escolares europeos. Los escolares pasan una gran parte de su tiempo en el entorno escolar y éste debería convertirse en un entorno propicio para promocionar la actividad física. A nivel mundial, las pautas de actividad física para la salud pública incluyen un énfasis especial en poblaciones de niños (típicamente 6-11 años) y adolescentes (típicamente 12-19 años). Las directrices existentes normalmente se expresan en términos de frecuencia, el tiempo y la intensidad de la conducta. Sin embargo, con el avance tecnológico han aparecido nuevas alternativas para medir los niveles de actividad física, destacando el uso de los acelerómetros y podómetros en la investigación y en la práctica como una aproximación razonable del volumen de la actividad física diaria. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo medir la cantidad de actividad física realizada en las clases de educación física. La muestra quedó compuesta por 70 escolares (41 niños y 29 niñas) con un rango de edad de 10 y 12 años en una escuela de la Región de Murcia. Un podómetro fue utilizado para cuantificar los niveles de actividad física. Se analizaron dos sesiones de la Unidad Didáctica Juegos y Deportes Alternativos. Los resultados mostraron una media de pasos/día de 3.318 (3.467,3 pasos/día en niños y 3.107,2 pasos/día en niñas). Esta cantidad representa el 20.1% y el 28.85% de la cantidad total recomendada en función del límite del rango tenido en cuenta (11.000 y 16.500 pasos/día).
La retirada deportiva en deportes colectivos: comparativa profesionales y amateurs
Authors: López de Subijana Hernández C. , Barriopedro Moro M. , Alberto Muniesa C.
Published: April 2018

En los últimos tiempos han aumentado el interés por la vida de los deportistas tras su carrera en la élite (Park, Lavalle,y Tod 2013).La propia idiosincrasia económica de cada deporte hace que sean interesantes las comparaciones entre diferentes grupos (Aquilina, 2013).Los objetivos de este estudio fueron analizar si la calidad de la retirada deportiva, evaluada a partir de las dificultades percibidas en diferentes ámbitos, y las condiciones asociadas a la misma (planificación, voluntariedad, tipo de carrera deportiva y nivel de estudios) era diferente para los deportistas profesionales y amateurs. Se utilizó un estudio descriptivo transversal mediante encuestas, con muestreo intencional, administrando un cuestionario de preguntas cerradas, elaborado ad hoc. Participaron un total de 127 deportistas, de ellos 53 profesionales y 74 no profesionales. Los deportistas profesionales experimentaron en mayor grado dificultades relacionadas con su carrera profesional, con su familia, con su red social y vivieron su proceso de integración laboral de una forma menos positiva que los deportistas amateurs. Estos últimos, experimentaron en mayor grado dificultades económicas. Como cabría esperar debido a un vínculo más fuerte con el deporte, un mayor número de deportistas profesionales se dedicó exclusivamente al deporte, mientras que un mayor número de deportistas amateurs compaginaron deporte y trabajo. Además, entre aquellos que compatibilizaron el deporte con los estudios, más deportistas profesionales priorizaron el deporte. La planificación de la retirada fue más frecuente entre los profesionales y no se observaron diferencias en relación a la voluntariedad de la retirada ni en el nivel de estudios.
Psychological Stress, Burnout and its relationship with Decision Making among Table Tennis Referees: A Case Study on the Fourth Championship of Saudi Universities
Authors: Abdul-Rahman Al-Haramlah A.
Published: April 2018

Contextualización: Los árbitros profesionales están expuestos, más que nunca, a fuentes de estrés externas, por ello, el rendimiento de los árbitros ha sido sometido recientemente a una mayor atención y examen. Objetivo: El objetivo general de este estudio fue investigar la relación entre el estrés psicológico, la toma de decisiones y el burnout en árbitros de Tenis de Mesa del Cuarto Campeonato de las Universidades Sauditas. Los cuestionarios se administraron a una muestra de 20 árbitros que participaron en el campeonato. Método: Para estudiar la relación entre el estrés Psicológico y la Toma de decisiones se utilizó la Escala de Estrés Psicológico desarrollada por Mustafa y Abdoul (2001) de 23 ítems. Además, para evaluar el burnout de los árbitros con respecto a la intensidad y la frecuencia, se utilizó una escala de 23 ítems desarrollada por Al-Haramlah (2016). Ambas escalas mostraron una fiabilidad y validez adecuada. Resultados: El estudio mostró que, las presiones psicológicas experimentadas por los árbitros de tenis de mesa están asociadas a la dificultad encontrada por los árbitros en aceptar la decisión del equipo arbitral como un resultado de la tensión durante el partido. Los árbitros también percibieron una sensación de estrés y ansiedad cuando tomaban cualquier decisión que podía decidir el resultado del partido en los minutos finales. Conclusiones: Los resultados de este estudio mostraron una correlación positiva entre el estrés psicológico asociado a la toma de decisiones y el burnout emocional relacionado con la intensidad entre los árbitros de tenis de mesa.
Programas de intervención para la mejora de la imagen corporal en niños de Educación Primaria
Authors: León González M. P. , González-Martí I. , Contreras Jordán O. R.
Published: April 2018

Los problemas derivados de una imagen corporal negativa conducen al desarrollo de programas educativos que, a través de distintos contenidos, tratan de mejorar la imagen corporal de los niños en edad escolar. El propósito de este estudio fue analizar las características y efectos de los programas más recientes para niños de Educación Primaria, a fin de conocer aquellos más eficaces. Se analizaron 21 programas, cuyos contenidos más comunes son autoestima, alfabetización mediática, alimentación saludable y actividad física.  La mayoría de estos programas están basados en una metodología interactiva y un enfoque etiológico.  En general, varios programas resultan efectivos en la mejora de algunos factores de riesgo, aunque se ha observado poco efecto en los insultos sobre apariencia, la insatisfacción corporal y las conductas o síntomas de desórdenes alimentarios, tanto en el post-test como en el seguimiento.  Algunas limitaciones son la falta de un grupo control y una evaluación de seguimiento.
Current therapies in treatment and prevention of fracture wound biofilms: why a multifaceted approach is essential for resolving persistent infections
Authors: Blanchette Krystle A. , Wenke Joseph C.
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Traumatic orthopedic injuries, particularly extremity wounds, are a significant cause of morbidity. Despite prophylactic antibiotic treatment and surgical intervention, persistent infectious complications can and do occur. Persistent bacterial infections are often caused by biofilms, communities of antibiotic tolerant bacteria encased within a matrix. The structural and metabolic differences in this mode of growth make treatment difficult. Herein, we describe both established and novel, experimental treatments targeted at various stages of wound healing that are specifically aimed at reducing and eliminating biofilm bacteria. Importantly, the highly tolerant nature of these bacterial communities suggests that most singular approaches could be circumvented and a multifaceted, combinatorial approach will be the most effective strategy for treating these complicated infections.
Antibiotic Containing Bone Substitute in Major Hip Surgery: A Long Term Gentamicin Elution Study
Authors: Stravinskas Mindaugas , Nilsson Malin , Horstmann Peter , Petersen Michael Mørk , Tarasevicius Sarunas , Lidgren Lars
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Objectives: The objective is to present the antibiotic elution from a locally implanted gentamicin containing hydroxyapatite and calcium sulphate bone substitute with an extended follow up of 30 days.We also compare the pharmacokinetics of the ceramic bone substitute with a published study on gentamicin containing poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) bone cement used in primary total hip arthroplasty.Methods: Gentamicin release was measured in the urine for a month and the serum for 4 days in 10 patients operated for trochanteric hip fractures and 10 patients in uncemented hip revisions. 17 patients were followed up at one year and 3 patients at 6 months.Results and Discussion: The gentamicin concentrations measured in serum were low and approximately 100 times less than in urine during the first days, indicating high local concentrations at the implant site. The elution from the biphasic bone substitute showed a stronger burst and higher gentamicin concentrations for the first week compared to that reported for PMMA used in hip arthroplasty. Also, for the bone substitute a complete gentamicin elution was obtained after 30 days, while for the PMMA cement sub-inhibitory MIC levels of gentamicin were still present in urine 60 days past surgery. No infections were detected.Conclusions: A new biphasic bone substitute containing antibiotics could potentially be used to prevent infection in patients treated for trochanteric hip fractures or uncemented hip revisions. The gentamicin elution from the bone substitute is efficient with high initial local gentamicin concentrations and complete release at 30 days.
Allometric shell growth in infaunal burrowing bivalves: examples of the archiheterodonts Claibornicardia paleopatagonica (Ihering, 1903) and Crassatella kokeni Ihering, 1899
Authors: Perez Damián Eduardo , Santelli María Belén
Published: April 2018

We present two cases of study of ontogenetic allometry in outlines of bivalves using longitudinal data, a rarity among fossils, based on the preserved post-larval record of shells. The examples are two infaunal burrowing bivalves of the southern South America, Claibornicardia paleopatagonica (Archiheterodonta: Carditidae) (early Paleocene) and Crassatella kokeni (Archiheterodonta: Crassatellidae) (late Oligocene–late Miocene). Outline analyses were conducted using a geometric morphometric approach (Elliptic Fourier Analysis), obtaining successive outlines from shells’ growth lines, which were used to reconstruct ontogenetic trajectories. In both taxa, ontogenetic changes are characterized by the presence of positive allometry in the extension of posterior end, resulting in elongated adult shells. This particular allometric growth is known in others infaunal burrowing bivalves (Claibornicardia alticostata and some Spissatella species) and the resulting adult morphology is present in representatives of several groups (e.g. Carditidae, Crassatellidae, Veneridae, Trigoniidae). Taxonomic, ecological and evolutionary implications of this allometric growth pattern are discussed.
Characterization and comparison of the intestinal microbiota in Chinese Shanxi black pig during the weaning and nursery periods
Authors: Gao Pengfei , Wang Haizhen , Cheng Zhimin , Wang Yuanyuan , Song Pengkang , Guo Xiaohong , Duan Zhibian , Cao Guoqing , Liu Jianfeng , Du Min , Li Bugao
Published: April 2018

Background. The intestinal microbiota plays essential functions that affect piglet health at the weaning stage. However, our understanding of the succession of bacterial intestinal communities during weaning and Nursery Periods of pig is limited.

Methods. To better understand this, we performed 16S rDNA gene sequencing of the contents of four distinct intestinal segments [duodenum (D), jejunum (J), ileum (I), and cecum (C)] in six Chinese Shanxi Black pigs at day 25 (B25 group; i.e., weaning) and day 70 (B70 group; i.e., nursery).

Results. We found that the dominant phyla are Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes. In addition, the dominant genera were Acinetobacter, Prevotella, Streptococcus, and SMB53 (Clostridiaceae). The microbiota in the B25 group across segments were significantly different from that in the corresponding segments in the B70 group. In addition, the distinct segments in the B70 group presented a continuum consisting of compartmentalized architecture whereas the distinct segments in B25 group were relatively similar. The predicted molecular function analysis revealed higher enrichments in associated metabolisms as well as stress-induced functions in the B25 group.

Conclusions. This study provides insights into the succession of intestinal microbiota in Chinese Shanxi Black pigs before and after weaning, and provides reference for improving the intestinal development of piglets.
Availability of Nanopore sequences in the genome taxonomy for Vibrionaceae systematics: Rumoiensis clade species as a test case
Authors: Tanaka Mami , Mino Sayaka , Ogura Yoshitoshi , Hayashi Tetsuya , Sawabe Tomoo
Published: April 2018

Whole genome sequence comparisons have become essential for establishing a robust scheme in bacterial taxonomy. To generalize this genome-based taxonomy, fast, reliable and cost-effective genomesequencing methodologies are required. MinION, the palm-sized sequencer from Oxford Nanopore Technologies, enables rapid sequencing of bacterial genomes using minim al laboratory resources. Here we tested the ability of Nanopore sequences for the genome-based taxonomy of Vibrionaceae, compared Nanopore-only assemblies to complete genomes of five Rumoiensis clade species; Vibrio aphrogenes,V. algivorus, V. casei, V. litoralis, and V. rumoiensis. Overall genome relatedness indices (OGRI) based on Nanopore-only assembly were compared with that of Illumina and hybrid assemblies. Our dataset showed that indels in Nanopore-only assemblies does not influence the species discrimination of these five Vibrio species, suggesting the genome sequences from Nanopore-based approach can be used for rapid species identification based on the OGRI.
Water mites (Acari, Hydrachnidia) of riparian springs in a small lowland river valley: what are the key factors for species distribution?
Authors: Zawal Andrzej , Stryjecki Robert , Buczyńska Edyta , Buczyński Paweł , Pakulnicka Joanna , Bańkowska Aleksandra , Czernicki Tomasz , Janusz Katarzyna , Szlauer-Łukaszewska Agnieszka , Pešić Vladimir
Published: April 2018

This paper examines the impact of disturbance factors – flooding and desiccation – on the distribution of water mites in the riparian springs situated in the valley of a small lowland river, the Krąpiel. The landscape factors and physicochemical parameters of the water were analysed in order to gain an understanding of the pattern of water mite assemblages in the riparian springs. Three limnological types of springs were examined (helocrenes, limnocrenes and rheocrenes) along the whole course of the river and a total of 35 water mite species were found. Our study shows that flooding influences spring assemblages, causing a decrease in crenobiontic water mites in flooded springs. The impact of intermittency resulted in a high percentage of species typical of temporary water bodies. Surprisingly, the study revealed the positive impact of the anthropogenic transformation of the river valley: preventing the riparian springs from flooding enhances the diversity of crenobiontic species in non-flooded springs. In the conclusion our study revealed that further conservation strategies for the protection of the riparian springs along large rivers would take into account ongoing climatic changes and the positive impact of the anthropogenic transformation of river valleys.
Rev7 and 53BP1/Crb2 prevent RecQ helicase-dependent hyper-resection of DNA double-strand breaks
Authors: Leland Bryan A , Chen Angela C , Zhao Amy Y , Wharton Robert C , King Megan C
Published: April 2018

Poly(ADP ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) target cancer cells deficient in homology-directed repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). In preclinical models, PARPi resistance is tied to altered nucleolytic processing (resection) at the 5’ ends of a DSB. For example, loss of either 53BP1 or Rev7/MAD2L2/FANCV derepresses resection to drive PARPi resistance, although the mechanisms are poorly understood. Long-range resection can be catalyzed by two machineries: the exonuclease Exo1, or the combination of a RecQ helicase and Dna2. Here, we develop a single-cell microscopy assay that allows the distinct phases and machineries of resection to be interrogated simultaneously in living S. pombe cells. Using this assay, we find that the 53BP1 orthologue and Rev7 specifically repress long-range resection through the RecQ helicase-dependent pathway, thereby preventing hyper-resection. These results suggest that ‘rewiring’ of BRCA1-deficient cells to employ an Exo1-independent hyper-resection pathway is a driver of PARPi resistance.
A label-free approach to detect ligand binding to cell surface proteins in real time
Authors: Burtscher Verena , Hotka Matej , Li Yang , Freissmuth Michael , Sandtner Walter
Published: April 2018

Electrophysiological recordings allow for monitoring the operation of proteins with high temporal resolution down to the single molecule level. This technique has been exploited to track either ion flow arising from channel opening or the synchronized movement of charged residues and/or ions within the membrane electric field. Here, we describe a novel type of current by using the serotonin transporter (SERT) as a model. We examined transient currents elicited on rapid application of specific SERT inhibitors. Our analysis shows that these currents originate from ligand binding and not from a long-range conformational change. The Gouy-Chapman model predicts that adsorption of charged ligands to surface proteins must produce displacement currents and related apparent changes in membrane capacitance. Here we verified these predictions with SERT. Our observations demonstrate that ligand binding to a protein can be monitored in real time and in a label-free manner by recording the membrane capacitance.
How Important is Data Curation? Gaps and Opportunities for Academic Libraries
Authors: Johnston Lisa R , Carlson Jacob , Hudson-Vitale Cynthia , Imker Heidi , Kozlowski Wendy , Olendorf Robert , Stewart Claire
Published: April 2018

INTRODUCTION Data curation may be an emerging service for academic libraries, but researchers actively “curate” their data in a number of ways—even if terminology may not always align. Building on past userneeds assessments performed via survey and focus groups, the authors sought direct input from researchers on the importance and utilization of specific data curation activities. METHODS Between October 21, 2016, and November 18, 2016, the study team held focus groups with 91 participants at six different academic institutions to determine which data curation activities were most important to researchers, which activities were currently underway for their data, and how satisfied they were with the results. RESULTS Researchers are actively engaged in a variety of data curation activities, and while they considered most data curation activities to be highly important, a majority of the sample reported dissatisfaction with the current state of data curation at their institution. DISCUSSION Our findings demonstrate specific gaps and opportunities for academic libraries to focus their data curation services to more effectively meet researcher needs. CONCLUSION Research libraries stand to benefit their users by emphasizing, investing in, and/or heavily promoting the highly valued services that may not currently be in use by many researchers.
Proanthocyanidins in seed coat tegmen and endospermic cap inhibit seed germination inSapium sebiferum
Authors: Shah Faheem Afzal , Ni Jun , Chen Jing , Wang Qiaojian , Liu Wenbo , Chen Xue , Tang Caiguo , Fu Songling , Wu Lifang
Published: April 2018

Sapium sebiferum, an ornamental and bio-energetic plant, is propagated by seed. Its seed coat contains germination inhibitors and takes a long time to stratify for germination. In this study, we discovered that theS. sebiferumseed coat (especially the tegmen) and endospermic cap (ESC) contained high levels of proanthocyanidins (PAs). Seed coat and ESC removal induced seed germination, whereas exogenous application with seed coat extract (SCE) or PAs significantly inhibited this process, suggesting that PAs in the seed coat played a major role in regulating seed germination inS. sebiferum. We further investigated how SCE affected the expression of the seed-germination-related genes. The results showed that treatment with SCE upregulated the transcription level of the dormancy-related gene, gibberellins (GAs) suppressing genes, abscisic acid (ABA) biosynthesis and signalling genes. SCE decreased the transcript levels of ABA catabolic genes, GAs biosynthesis genes, reactive oxygen species genes and nitrates-signalling genes. Exogenous application of nordihydroguaiaretic acid, gibberellic acid, hydrogen peroxide and potassium nitrate recovered seed germination in seed-coat-extract supplemented medium. In this study, we highlighted the role of PAs, and their interactions with the other germination regulators, in the regulation of seed dormancy inS. sebiferum.
Palmitic acid induces neurotoxicity and gliatoxicity in SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma and T98G human glioblastoma cells
Authors: Ng Yee-Wen , Say Yee-How
Published: April 2018

Background

Obesity-related central nervous system (CNS) pathologies like neuroinflammation and reactive gliosis are associated with high-fat diet (HFD) related elevation of saturated fatty acids like palmitic acid (PA) in neurons and astrocytes of the brain.

Methods

Human neuroblastoma cells SH-SY5Y (as a neuronal model) and human glioblastoma cells T98G (as an astrocytic model), were treated with 100–500 µM PA, oleic acid (OA) or lauric acid (LA) for 24 h or 48 h, and their cell viability was assessed by 3-(4,5-dimetylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The effects of stable overexpression of γ-synuclein (γ-syn), a neuronal protein recently recognized as a novel regulator of lipid handling in adipocytes, and transient overexpression of Parkinson’s disease (PD) α-synuclein [α-syn; wild-type (wt) and its pathogenic mutants A53T, A30P and E46K] in SH-SY5Y and T98G cells, were also evaluated. The effects of co-treatment of PA with paraquat (PQ), a Parkinsonian pesticide, and leptin, a hormone involved in the brain-adipose axis, were also assessed. Cell death mode and cell cycle were analyzed by Annexin V/PI flow cytometry. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was determined using 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescien diacetate (DCFH-DA) assay and lipid peroxidation level was determined using thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay.

Results

MTT assay revealed dose- and time-dependent PA cytotoxicity on SH-SY5Y and T98G cells, but not OA and LA. The cytotoxicity was significantly lower in SH-SY5Y-γ-syn cells, while transient overexpression of wt α-syn or its PD mutants (A30P and E46K, but not A53T) modestly (but still significantly) rescued the cytotoxicity of PA in SH-SY5Y and T98G cells. Co-treatment of increasing concentrations of PQ exacerbated PA’s neurotoxicity. Pre-treatment of leptin, an anti-apoptotic adipokine, did not successfully rescue SH-SY5Y cells from PA-induced cytotoxicity—suggesting a mechanism of PA-induced leptin resistance. Annexin V/PI flow cytometry analysis revealed PA-induced increase in percentages of cells in annexin V-positive/PI-negative quadrant (early apoptosis) and subG0-G1 fraction, accompanied by a decrease in G2-M phase cells. The PA-induced ROS production and lipid peroxidation was at greater extent in T98G as compared to that in SH-SY5Y.

Discussion

In conclusion, PA induces apoptosis by increasing oxidative stress in neurons and astrocytes. Taken together, the results suggest that HFD may cause neuronal and astrocytic damage, which indirectly proposes that CNS pathologies involving neuroinflammation and reactive gliosis could be prevented via the diet regimen.
Haimormus shimojiensis, a new genus and species of Pseudozeuxidae (Crustacea: Tanaidacea) from a submarine limestone cave in Northwestern Pacific
Authors: Kakui Keiichi , Fujita Yoshihisa
Published: April 2018

We establish a new pseudozeuxid genusHaimormusgen. nov. based on a new speciesHaimormus shimojiensissp. nov. which was collected from a submarine limestone cave with the entrance at 35 m depth, in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean.H. shimojiensisdiffers from the other confamilial members,Pseudozeuxo belizensisSieg, 1982 andCharbeitanais spongicolaBamber & Bird, 1997, in having the pleonite 1 without the pleopod, the pereopods 2 and 3 propodus with a ventral spiniform seta, and the pereopods 4–6 propodus with one long and two short dorsodistal setae. A key to females of species of Pseudozeuxidae is presented. This is the first tanaidacean report from submarine caves around Japan.
APLICAÇÃO DA TÉCNICA DELPHI PARA VALIDAÇÃO DOS MÉTODOS A SEREM UTILIZADOS NO SISTEMA EM PLATAFORMA WEB PARA IMPLANTAÇÃO DE PLANO DE SEGURANÇA DA ÁGUA
Authors: Bezerra Nolan Ribeiro
Published: April 2018

Este trabalho tem como objetivo validar os métodos a serem empregados no sistema em plataforma Web, visando à implantação do Plano de Segurança da Água, face às diretrizes da Organização Mundial de Saúde e do Ministério da Saúde, por meio da utilização da técnica Delphi. Para tanto, foram selecionados os métodos mais utilizados nos países, tais como: Análise de Perigos e Pontos Críticos de Controle (APPCC) e a Matriz de Priorização do Risco. A execução da validação ocorreu por meio do auxílio de um questionário com quatro questões resumidas sobre os dois métodos, com espaço para comentários de opiniões dos especialistas. O resultado da validação dos métodos ocorreu em duas oficinas (Brasília-DF e Campinas-SP) de trabalho presencial, e as sugestões foram avaliadas, discutidas e incorporadas após consenso de todos os especialistas. A partir da validação, os especialistas concluíram por utilizar apenas a matriz de priorização de riscos com alteração, sugerindo que a árvore de decisão do sistema APPCC necessita de adequações. A matriz validada irá reduzir as incertezas e melhorar a eficiência da avaliação dos riscos.
Suppressed de novo lipogenesis by plasma membrane citrate transporter inhibitor promotes apoptosis in HepG2 cells
Authors: Phokrai Phornpun , Poolsri Wan‐angkan , Suwankulanan Somrudee , Phakdeeto Narinthorn , Kaewkong Worasak , Pekthong Dumrongsak , Richert Lysiane , Srisawang Piyarat
Published: April 2018

Suppression of the expression or activities of enzymes that are involved in the synthesis of de novo lipogenesis (DNL) in cancer cells triggers cell death via apoptosis. The plasma membrane citrate transporter (PMCT) is the initial step that translocates citrate from blood circulation into the cytoplasm for de novo long‐chain fatty acids synthesis. This study investigated the antitumor effect of the PMCT inhibitor (PMCTi) in inducing apoptosis by inhibiting the DNL pathway in HepG2 cells. The present findings showed that PMCTi reduced cell viability and enhanced apoptosis through decreased intracellular citrate levels, which consequently caused inhibition of fatty acid and triacylglycerol productions. Thus, as a result of the reduction in fatty acid synthesis, the activity of carnitine palmitoyl transferase‐1 (CPT‐1) was suppressed. Decreased CPT‐1 activity also facilitated the disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) leading to stimulation of apoptosis. Surprisingly, primary human hepatocytes were not affected by PMCTi. Increased caspase‐8 activity as a consequence of reduction in fatty acid synthesis was also found to cause disruption of ΔΨm. In addition, apoptosis induction by PMCTi was associated with an enhanced reactive oxygen species generation. Taken together, we suggest that inhibition of the DNL pathway following reduction in citrate levels is an important regulator of apoptosis in HepG2 cells via suppression of CPT‐1 activity. Thus, targeting the DNL pathway mediating CPT‐1 activity by PMCTi may be a selective potential anticancer therapy.
Clinical implementation of AXB from AAA for breast: Plan quality and subvolume analysis
Authors: Guebert Alexandra , Conroy Leigh , Weppler Sarah , Alghamdi Majed , Conway Jessica , Harper Lindsay , Phan Tien , Olivotto Ivo A. , Smith Wendy L. , Quirk Sarah
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Two dose calculation algorithms are available in Varian Eclipse software: Anisotropic Analytical Algorithm (AAA) and Acuros External Beam (AXB). Many Varian Eclipse‐based centers have access to AXB; however, a thorough understanding of how it will affect plan characteristics and, subsequently, clinical practice is necessary prior to implementation. We characterized the difference in breast plan quality between AXB and AAA for dissemination to clinicians during implementation.

Methods

Locoregional irradiation plans were created with AAA for 30 breast cancer patients with a prescription dose of 50 Gy to the breast and 45 Gy to the regional node, in 25 fractions. The internal mammary chain (IMCCTV) nodes were covered by 80% of the breast dose. AXB, both dose‐to‐water and dose‐to‐medium reporting, was used to recalculate plans while maintaining constant monitor units. Target coverage and organ‐at‐risk doses were compared between the two algorithms using dose–volume parameters. An analysis to assess location‐specific changes was performed by dividing the breast into nine subvolumes in the superior–inferior and left–right directions.

Results

There were minimal differences found between the AXB and AAA calculated plans. The median difference between AXB and AAA for breastCTV V95%, was <2.5%. For IMCCTV, the median differences V95%, and V80% were <5% and 0%, respectively; indicating IMCCTV coverage only decreased when marginally covered. Mean superficial dose increased by a median of 3.2 Gy. In the subvolume analysis, the medial subvolumes were “hotter” when recalculated with AXB and the lateral subvolumes “cooler” with AXB; however, all differences were within 2 Gy.

Conclusion

We observed minimal difference in magnitude and spatial distribution of dose when comparing the two algorithms. The largest observable differences occurred in superficial dose regions. Therefore, clinical implementation of AXB from AAA for breast radiotherapy is not expected to result in changes in clinical practice for prescribing or planning breast radiotherapy.
Gas‐Stabilizing Gold Nanocones for Acoustically Mediated Drug Delivery
Authors: Mannaris Christophoros , Teo Boon M. , Seth Anjali , Bau Luca , Coussios Constantin , Stride Eleanor
Published: April 2018

The efficient penetration of drugs into tumors is a major challenge that remains unmet. Reported herein is a strategy to promote extravasation and enhanced penetration using inertial cavitation initiated by focused ultrasound and cone‐shaped gold nanoparticles that entrap gas nanobubbles. The cones are capable of initiating inertial cavitation under pressures and frequencies achievable with existing clinical ultrasound systems and of promoting extravasation and delivery of a model large therapeutic molecule in an in vitro tissue mimicking flow phantom, achieving penetration depths in excess of 2 mm. Ease of functionalization and intrinsic imaging capabilities provide gold with significant advantages as a material for biomedical applications. The cones show neither cytotoxicity in Michigan Cancer Foundation (MCF)‐7 cells nor hemolytic activity in human blood at clinically relevant concentrations and are found to be colloidally stable for at least 5 d at 37 °C and several months at 4 °C.
Dual‐Wavelength Carpet Cloak Using Ultrathin Metasurface
Authors: Yang Jianing , Huang Cheng , Wu Xiaoyu , Sun Bo , Luo Xiangang
Published: April 2018

Ultrathin metasurfaces pave an encouraging way for invisibility carpet cloaks on account of their excellent electromagnetic wavefront manipulation. However, the current metasurface‐based carpet cloaks operate at only one wavelength and are limited by their narrow bandwidth. Here, a dual‐wavelength carpet cloak using a two‐layer metasurface at the microwave frequencies is proposed. By individual design of phase compensation at each layer of the metasurface, the proposed cloak can restore the scattering behaviors of a flat conducting plane at different frequencies. Both simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the cloaking effects are realized at 6.1 and 10.2 GHz. In addition, it is found that the cloak is polarization‐insensitive at above two frequencies. The proposed design can be also scaled to the terahertz and optical domain.
An Efficient Benzoxaborole One‐Pot Synthesis by SiliaCatDPP‐Pd Heterogeneous Catalysis using Diboronic Acid
Authors: Kunihiro Kana , Dumais Laurence , Lafitte Guillaume , Varvier Emeric , Tomas Loïc , Harris Craig S.
Published: April 2018

Organoboron compounds are valuable molecules of increasing interest in organic synthesis, catalysis, biology and medicine. Among them, benzoxaboroles emerged as promising building blocks for numerous research programs. In this letter, we communicate the development of new conditions for the one‐pot benzoxaborole synthesis by SiliaCatDPP−Pd catalysis using diboronic acid as the boron source. This low cost and sustainable strategy permitted the preparation of a useful range of benzoxaborole building blocks. Finally, the transformation was extended to a continuous flow process using our Vapourtec system.

magnified image
Organocatalytic Asymmetric Transformations Involving the Cyclic Imine Moiety in Indole and Isoindole Related Heterocycles
Authors: Cheng Dao‐Juan , Shao You‐Dong
Published: April 2018

Indole and isoindole skeletons are pervasive structural moieties in a plethora of biologically active and synthetically useful compounds as well as natural products. In view of the significance of this framework, the development of efficient protocols to access the purely chiral nitrogen‐containing heterocycles has drawn much attention. Among them, the asymmetric transformations based on cyclic imines via organocatalysis strategies have provided an exciting platform from which various nitrogen heterocycles with distinct structural characters were quickly and conveniently prepared with high chemo‐, diastereo‐ and enantioselectivities. This review, organized on the basis of two primary starting materials, summarizes the progress made in the field of organocatalytic asymmetric reactions involving five‐membered cyclic imines and their precursors as masked cyclic imines which usually feature or generate in situ a carbon‐nitrogen double bond embedded in 3H‐indole, 1H‐isoindole and 1,2‐benzisothiazole 1,1‐dioxide ring systems published since the beginning of 2008, including the substrate scope, mechanisms, applications and limitations.

magnified image
Multidirection and Multiamplitude Triboelectric Nanogenerator Composed of Porous Conductive Polymer with Prolonged Time of Current Generation
Authors: Kim Weon‐Guk , Kim Daewon , Jeon Seung‐Bae , Park Sang‐Jae , Tcho Il‐ Woong , Jin Ik‐Kyeong , Han Joon‐Kyu , Choi Yang‐Kyu
Published: April 2018

In this work, a sponge structure triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) named as porous conductive polymer (PCP)‐TENG, is demonstrated. The measured volume charge density of PCP‐TENG is reached to 60 mC m−3 by utilizing wide inner surface of the sponge structure as contact surface. Moreover, the PCP‐TENG generates a continuous sinusoidal‐like alternative current. Notably, the PCP‐TENG can effectively harvest vibrational mechanical energy from various directions and amplitudes. With these characteristics, the PCP‐TENG can be implemented in a wide variety of settings, such as inside of a tire. It is confirmed that the PCP‐TENG generates electrical power for operating a commercial light‐emitting diode and a humidity sensor even under small deformation of the tire.
Complex phenotype of dyskeratosis congenita and mood dysregulation with novel homozygous RTEL1 and TPH1 variants
Authors: Ungar Rachel A. , Giri Neelam , Pao Maryland , Khincha Payal P. , Zhou Weiyin , Alter Blanche P. , Savage Sharon A.
Published: April 2018

Dyskeratosis congenita (DC) is an inherited bone marrow failure syndrome caused by germline mutations in telomere biology genes. Patients have extremely short telomeres for their age and a complex phenotype including oral leukoplakia, abnormal skin pigmentation, and dysplastic nails in addition to bone marrow failure, pulmonary fibrosis, stenosis of the esophagus, lacrimal ducts and urethra, developmental anomalies, and high risk of cancer. We evaluated a patient with features of DC, mood dysregulation, diabetes, and lack of pubertal development. Family history was not available but genome‐wide genotyping was consistent with consanguinity. Whole exome sequencing identified 82 variants of interest in 80 genes based on the following criteria: homozygous, <0.1% minor allele frequency in public and in‐house databases, nonsynonymous, and predicted deleterious by multiple in silico prediction programs. Six genes were identified likely contributory to the clinical presentation. The cause of DC is likely due to homozygous splice site variants in regulator of telomere elongation helicase 1, a known DC and telomere biology gene. A homozygous, missense variant in tryptophan hydroxylase 1 may be clinically important as this gene encodes the rate limiting step in serotonin biosynthesis, a biologic pathway connected with mood disorders. Four additional genes (SCN4A, LRP4, GDAP1L1, and SPTBN5) had rare, missense homozygous variants that we speculate may contribute to portions of the clinical phenotype. This case illustrates the value of conducting detailed clinical and genomic evaluations on rare patients in order to identify new areas of research into the functional consequences of rare variants and their contribution to human disease.
The ontogeny of Robin sequence
Authors: Logjes Robrecht J. H. , Breugem Corstiaan C. , Van Haaften Gijs , Paes Emma C. , Sperber Geoffrey H. , van den Boogaard Marie‐José H. , Farlie Peter G.
Published: April 2018

The triad of micrognathia, glossoptosis, and concomitant airway obstruction defined as “Robin sequence” (RS) is caused by oropharyngeal developmental events constrained by a reduced stomadeal space. This sequence of abnormal embryonic development also results in an anatomical configuration that might predispose the fetus to a cleft palate. RS is heterogeneous and many different etiologies have been described including syndromic, RS‐plus, and isolated forms. For an optimal diagnosis, subsequent treatment and prognosis, a thorough understanding of the embryology and pathogenesis is necessary. This manuscript provides an update about our current understanding of the development of the mandible, tongue, and palate and possible mechanisms involved in the development of RS. Additionally, we provide the reader with an up‐to‐date summary of the different etiologies of this phenotype and link this to the embryologic, developmental, and genetic mechanisms.