bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Who is Represented in the Teaching Commons?: SoTL Through the Lenses of the Arts and Humanities
Authors: Potter Michael K. , Wuetherick Brad
Published: June 2015

As the community of Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) scholars has flourished across Canada and around the world, there has been a growing sense among humanists that SoTL work has been dominated by the epistemologies, philosophies, and research methods of the social sciences. This is a view that has been supported by SoTL journal editors and resources dedicated to introducing faculty to SoTL. To quote Nancy Chick (2012) in a recent book on the current state of SoTL in the disciplines, “while many well-known SoTL leaders come from humanities backgrounds …, the on-the-ground work largely marginalizes the practices of their disciplines” (p. 15). The question then follows: “How does the apparent under-representation of (arts and) humanities-based disciplines affect expectations for SoTL, from norms for research design and methodology to the genre and style of its products?” (McKinney & Chick, 2010, p. 10). This paper, which frames the special issue looking at “SoTL through the lenses of the Arts and Humanities,” explores the difficulties with, and opportunities provided by, creating an inclusive teaching commons where the scholarly traditions of the arts and humanities are recognized for the value they bring to the SoTL research imaginary.
Alors que la communauté des universitaires qui oeuvrent dans le domaine de l’avancement des connaissances en enseignement et en apprentissage (ACEA) s’est épanouie à travers le Canada et dans le monde, on constate l’éclosion d’un sentiment, parmi les humanistes, que le travail de l’ACEA a été dominé par les épistémologies, les philosophies et les méthodes de recherche des sciences sociales. C’est une opinion qui a été appuyée par les rédacteurs de revues sur l’ACEA et par les ressources consacrées à l’introduction des enseignants à l’ACEA. Pour citer Nancy Chick (2012) dans un livre récemment publié sur l’état actuel de l’ACEA dans diverses disciplines, « alors que de nombreux leaders éminents en matière d’ACEA proviennent des sciences humaines ..., le travail sur le terrain marginalise grandement les pratiques de leurs disciplines » (p. 15). Ce qui nous mène à la question suivante : « Comment l’apparente sous-représentation des disciplines du domaine des (arts et des) sciences humaines affecte-t-elle les attentes pour l’ACEA, allant des normes de recherche et de méthodologie au genre et au style de ses produits? » (McKinney & Chick, 2010, p. 10). Cet article, qui encadre le numéro spécial consacré à « L’ACEA à travers le prisme des arts et des sciences humaines », explore les difficultés qui existent à créer une commune d’enseignement inclusive ainsi que les opportunités créées par cette commune, où les traditions de recherche en arts et en sciences humaines sont reconnues pour la valeur qu’elles apportent à l’imaginaire de recherche de l’ACEA.
Poetic Re-presentations on Trust in Higher Education
Authors: West Kim , Bloomquist Candace
Published: June 2015

This article discusses using poetic transcription (Glesne, 1997) as a tool for examining trust, including what trust looks and feels like from the “lived experiences” (Richardson, 1992) of university educators. We first explore the rationale for using poetic transcription in this study, discussing how and why poetry may be used as a profound narrative tool (Wells, 2004). This is followed by an overview of the methodology of poetic re-presentation (after Butler-Kisber, 2010; Glesne, 1997; Richardson, 2003). Next, we present selected poems from three different educators (a retired teacher, graduate student teacher, and teacher/administrator). We discuss critical insights and perspectives on trust, including ways that poems can evoke emotion, build empathy, and elicit deeper understandings of the topic at hand (Cannon Poindexter, 2002; Clunis D’Andrea, 2013; Eisner, 1997; Faulkner, 2007; Furman, Lietz, & Langer, 2006). We conclude by discussing some of reasons why poetry is ideally suited for broadening the horizons of educational research.
Dans cet article, nous traitons de l’emploi de la transcription poétique (Glesne, 1997) en tant qu’outil pour examiner la confiance, y compris la manière dont la confiance paraît et se ressent à partir d’« expériences vécues » (Richardson, 1992) par des éducateurs universitaires. Tout d’abord, nous explorons pourquoi nous avons utilisé la transcription poétique dans cette étude, nous discutons comment et pourquoi la poésie peut être utilisée en tant qu’outil narratif profond (Wells, 2004) pour découvrir le coeur de la confiance. Ensuite, nous présentons un aperçu de la méthodologie de la représentation poétique (après Butler-Kisber, 2010; Glesne, 1997; Richardson, 2003). Puis nous présentons quelques poèmes choisis de trois éducateurs différents (un professeur à la retraite, un étudiant diplômé enseignant et un enseignant/administrateur). Nous discutons les idées critiques et les perspectives sur la confiance, y compris les diverses manières dont les poèmes peuvent évoquer l’émotion, faire éprouver l’empathie et susciter une compréhension plus profonde sur le sujet à l’étude (Cannon Poindexter, 2002; Clunis D’Andrea, 2013; Eisner, 1997; Faulkner, 2007; Furman, Lietz et Langer, 2006). En conclusion, nous discutons quelques-unes des raisons pour lesquelles la poésie se prête de façon idéale à la recherche en éducation.
On Being Taught
Authors: Jaarsma Ada S.
Published: June 2015

This essay examines the definitions of the key words of the scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL)—scholarship, teaching, and learning—in order to identify the hopes that animate SoTL research and examine these hopes in light of recent critical thinking about the corporatization of higher education. Arguing that Biesta’s (2013b) distinction between “learning from” and “being taught by” offers an important corrective to the prevailing definitions of SoTL, the essay reflects on the tensions between scholarly teaching, as understood by SoTL, and teaching as a contingent and unpredictable event.
Cet essai examine la définition des mots-clés de l’avancement des connaissances en enseignement et en apprentissage (ACEA) – avancement des connaissances, enseignement, apprentissage – afin d’identifier les espoirs qui inspirent la recherche en ACEA et d’examiner ces espoirs à la lumière des pensées critiques récentes qui portent sur la tendance de l’enseignement supérieur à fonctionner comme une entreprise. Cet essai présente l’argument selon lequel la distinction faite par Biesta (2013b) entre « apprendre de quelqu’un » et « être enseigné par quelqu’un » constitue une correction importante aux définitions actuelles de l’ACEA. L’essai propose une réflexion sur les tensions qui existent entre l’enseignement intellectuel, tel que compris par l’ACEA, et l’enseignement en tant qu’événement contingent et imprévisible.
Novel Readings: Reimagining the Value of the University
Authors: Aspenlieder Erin
Published: June 2015

This article considers the function and value of the university through the close reading of Tom Wolfe’s 2004 novel I am Charlotte Simmons. Comparing the neoliberal university with an idealized university committed to intellectual inquiry, the article argues for a consideration of the academic values lost in the contemporary university, specifically the values of an intellectual meritocracy, academic identity and academic integrity. The article calls for a sustained and sincere conversation about the idea and ideal of the university.
Cet article prend en considération la fonction et la valeur de l’université par le biais d’une lecture attentive du roman de Tom Wolfe, I am Charlotte Simmons, publié en 2004. Comparant l’université néo-libérale à une université idéalisée vouée à la recherche intellectuelle, l’article propose un argument pour examiner les valeurs académiques perdues dans l’université contemporaine, en particulier les valeurs relatives à une méritocratie intellectuelle, à l’identité académique et à l’intégrité académique. Dans cet article, on plaide en faveur d’une conversation soutenue et sincère sur l’idée et l’idéal de l’université.
A Pragmatic Study of Fallacy in David Cameron’s Political Speeches
Authors: Al-Hindawi Fareed H. H. , Alkhazaali Musaab A. , Al-Awadi Duaa
Published: June 2015

Fallacy as a derailment of strategic maneuvering can be defined as the process of issuing a defective argument (when subjected to certain criteria) to support and strengthen a previously issued one for purposes of persuasion. However, fallacy is a broad topic that has been approached from different perspectives. Several studies have attempted to tackle it pragmatically. Yet, those attempts have suffered from many gaps and drawbacks which have characterized them as insufficient accounts in this regard. Many pragmatic aspects related to fallacy, like its pragmatic structure and the strategies used for issuing it, have not been given their due attention. Hence, this work has set itself the task of dealing with this problem. Precisely, it concerns itself with the aims of finding out the pragmatic structure and pragmatic strategies of fallacy in David Cameron’s, the British prime minister, war and electoral political speeches. In association with these aims, there is a development of a pragmatic model for the analysis of these two aspects in the speeches scrutinized. This model is built upon several models introduced by several scholars in addition to some contributions made by the researchers themselves. The validity of the developed model is tested by means of analyzing fourteen fallacious situations taken from David Cameron’s war and electoral political speeches. The analyses conducted have proved that the model developed is workable. Besides, they have yielded various results among which is that fallacy is a process composed of various stages. Each stage is distinct for its pragmatic components and strategies.
Freedom and Fiction?
Authors: Camplin Troy
Published: June 2015

This review discusses recent work that considers literature and film from a free-market perspective. It focuses on two books: Literature and Liberty: Essays in Libertarian Literary Criticism by Allen P. Mendenhall and Exploring Capitalist Fiction: Business through Literature and Film by Edward W. Younkins. Each provides a different, but useful, approach to the topic.
Community perceptions of childbearing and use of safer conception strategies among HIV‐discordant couples in Kisumu, Kenya
Authors: Breitnauer Brooke T , Mmeje Okeoma , Njoroge Betty , Darbes Lynae A , Leddy Anna , Brown Joelle
Published: June 2015

Introduction

Safer conception strategies (SCS) have the potential to decrease HIV transmission among HIV‐discordant couples who desire children. Community perceptions of SCS may influence the scale‐up and uptake of these services, but little is known about how communities will react to these strategies. Without community support for SCS, their success as an HIV prevention tool may be limited. The objective of this study is to characterize community perceptions of SCS for HIV‐discordant couples in Kisumu, Kenya, to inform ongoing and future safer conception intervention studies in low‐resource settings.

Methods

We conducted six focus group discussions and 11 in‐depth‐interviews in Kisumu, Kenya, among a diverse group (N=59) of community members, including men, women, youth (age 19–25), community health workers and local leaders. An iterative qualitative analysis using a grounded theory approach was employed.

Results and discussion

All participants emphasized the importance of childbearing in their society and the right to have children, regardless of an individual's HIV status. While most participants believed that HIV‐discordant couples should be allowed to have children, they discussed several barriers to the uptake of SCS such as HIV‐related stigma, fear of HIV transmission to the uninfected partner and child, fear of unfamiliar medical procedures and lack of information among community members and health care providers about HIV prevention interventions that allow safer conception. Access to information, community experiences with successful safer conception interventions, healthcare provider training, male engagement and community mobilization may help overcome these barriers. Though assisted reproduction strategies generated the most negative reactions from participants, our results suggest that with education and explanation of these services, participants express interest in these strategies and want them to be offered in their community.

Conclusions

Many community members noted a need and desire for safer conception education and services in Kisumu. However, community barriers such as fear, stigma and lack of information should be addressed before safer conception interventions can be successfully implemented and delivered. Further research focused on community education, male engagement and healthcare provider training is a crucial next step in delivering safer conception in this region.
Immunological Synapse
Authors: Agüera‐Gonzalez Sonia , Bouchet Jérôme , Alcover Andrés
Published: June 2015

Immunological synapses are dynamically organised cell–cell interfaces formed between cells of the immune system. Different types of immunological synapses lead to distinct functional outcomes. Thus, T and B lymphocytes form immunological synapses with each other and with dendritic cells or macrophages, conveying mutual activation cues. Moreover, natural killer cells or cytotoxic T lymphocytes form synapses with tumour or infected cells delivering cytotoxic granules that destroy those anomalous cells. Immunological synapses are the result of an orchestrated cell polarisation process that involves cytoskeleton rearrangements, intracellular vesicle traffic and the clustering of receptors, adhesion molecules and signalling effectors, which together ensure the immunological synapse stability, its structure and function. Immunological synapses play key roles in immune responses, like T‐ and B‐cell activation, and polarised secretion of cytokines or cytotoxic granules.

Key Concepts

T cells recognise antigens as molecular fragments associated with major histocompatibility complex proteins displayed at the surface of antigen presenting cells.

Immunological synapses are subcellular structures formed at the interface between T cells and antigen presenting cells.

Immunological synapses regulate lymphocyte activation and effector functions, like polarised secretion of cytokines, or cytotoxic granules.

T‐cell polarisation induced by T‐cell receptor engagement drives the formation of the immunological synapse and ensures its functions.

The immunological synapse is characterised by the reorganisation of the T‐cell actin and microtubule cytoskeleton at the antigen presenting cell contact site.

Intracellular vesicle traffic, including that of the Golgi apparatus, endosomes and lysosomes, polarises to the immunological synapse.

Endosomal vesicles convey the T‐cell receptor and signalling molecules to the immunological synapse.

The Golgi apparatus reorients towards the immunological synapse favouring the polarised secretion of cytokines from T cells to B cells.

T‐cell receptor, co‐receptors, adhesion proteins and signalling molecules form dynamic clusters at the immunological synapse.

Signalling microcluster dynamics regulate the T‐cell receptor signal transduction capacity.
Chemistry
Authors: Viano Cristina
Published: June 2015

In ancient Greece, there was no single discipline equivalent to the modern idea of “chemistry.” Instead, there were two primary approaches to exploring the physics of matter: first, a set of techniques for transforming matter, principally through the application of fire; second, philosophical reflection on the transformations of natural bodies.
Religion, Greek
Authors: Naiden F. S.
Published: June 2015

The anthropomorphic polytheism of the ancient Greeks featured hero cult, local variation, and a fusion of moral and esthetic standards that inspired complex works of art and literature. Rituals were numerous, but Greek religion lacked any liturgy or other sacred books. Culturally unified, Greek religion was organizationally decentralized.
Iklaina in Messenia
Authors: Kelder Jorrit M.
Published: June 2015

Iklaina, a Mycenaean settlement situated 10 km northeast of the modern town of Pylos was probably the seat of a local ruler during the early Mycenaean period. It was destroyed, probably as a result of enemy conquest, around 1400–1350 BCE, and subsequently became a district capital in the kingdom of Pylos, probably known as a‐pu
2
(Alphys) in the Pylian administration.
Gunthamund
Authors: Merrills A. H.
Published: June 2015

Gunthamund was king of Vandal North Africa from 484 to 496
ce
. Little is known for certain about his reign, thanks to a relative dearth of source material, but there is some evidence that he oversaw a substantial reworking of the fisc, and several important economic sources date to this period. Viewed together, these documents provide some sense of the sophistication of the state economy in post‐Roman North Africa.
Despotiko in the Cyclades
Authors: Alexandridou Alexandra
Published: June 2015

The sanctuary of Apollo on the island of Despotiko in the Cyclades, unknown in the ancient sources flourished in the second half of the sixth century. Its importance was only surpassed by the sanctuary of Delos.
Naassenes
Authors: Rasimus Tuomas
Published: June 2015

The Naassene teaching is only known through a hostile description by the author of
Refutatio omnium haeresium
. The cornerstone of their teaching was a doctrine of a heavenly Adam who was identified as Logos and Christ in his capacity of the divine image and world soul. He was additionally symbolized by the snake, based partially on a Christological interpretation of Moses’ brazen serpent (John 3:14–15). The Naassenes pointed out a similarity between the Greek word for temple (
naos
) and the Hebrew word for snake (
nahash
), whence hostile outsiders labeled them Naassenes, “snake people.” In reality they called themselves gnostics. It is a commonly held but mistaken belief that the Naassenes engaged in actual serpent handling and worship.
Julia Maesa
Authors: Scott Andrew G.
Published: June 2015

Julia Maesa, the grandmother of Elagabalus and Severus Alexander, most likely spent the majority of her life at the imperial court and is portrayed as a significant political figure in the ancient sources. These accounts differ on several points, and her overall role in the administration of these two emperors remains unclear.
Berenike, daughter of PtolemyII
Authors: D'Agostini Monica
Published: June 2015

Second wife of the Seleucid king Antiochos II Theos, Berenike was the daughter of Ptolemy II Philadelphos and his first wife Arsinoe I. After the death of her husband Antiochos II in 246bce, she acted in political opposition to Seleukos II Kallinikos and Laodike, Antiochos II's first wife. Berenike and her infant son Antiochos were killed in Antioch by partisans of Laodike and Seleukos II, but the exact chronology of the murder is uncertain. The division of the Seleucid kingdom in two fronts led to the Third Syrian War between Berenike's brother Ptolemy III and Seleukos II.
Toumba in Thessalonike
Authors: Saripanidi Vivi
Published: June 2015

The archaeological site of Toumba in Thessalonike is probably to be identified with one of the settlements that formed ancient Therme. This site has yielded the remains of habitation areas that date from the Early Bronze Age to the Early Hellenistic era, as well as numerous burials from the period between the ninth and the third century BCE.
Andalusia
Authors: Ferrer‐Albelda Eduardo
Published: June 2015

The geographical position of Andalusia and its natural resources, particularly metal ores, contributed to its inclusion within both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean cultural dynamics of the first millennium
bce
, for instance, in the metal exchange networks of the Late Bronze Age or in the Phoenician colonization. Due to the diversity of its substrates and adstrates, this area was inhabited by a mosaic of communities that displayed diverse degrees of sociopolitical aggregation, from the characteristic city‐states of Phoenician tradition to the shaping of territorial domains of different scales or the complex chiefdoms of the peripheral areas. From a cultural perspective there were four groups: Iberians, Turdetani, Phoenicians, and Celts. The Carthaginian occupation and the Roman conquest disrupted the traditional systems of coexistence between these groups, but no major cultural changes occurred until the first century
bce
.
Dux
Authors: Eaton Jonathan
Published: June 2015

The title
dux
(plural
duces
) was synonymous with military command throughout much of the Roman period, though its usage changed considerably over time. Initially used generically during the republican period to refer to senior individuals bearing military commands, from the reign of Diocletian the
duces
were invariably powerful military commanders with responsibility for protecting large swathes of the imperial frontier.
Hupshu
Authors: von Dassow Eva
Published: June 2015

The Semitic word
hupshu
(
ḫupṯu
) denoted the free population subject to conscription, who were distinguished neither by special privation nor by privilege. It is best attested in sources from the Late Bronze Age (ca. 1550–1200
bce
), whereafter its derivatives survive in classical and modern Hebrew. The word belongs to the vocabulary of the West Semitic languages, though it is also attested in Akkadian texts and has a possible cognate in Arabic. Based on the Ugaritic evidence, it derives from a root
ḫ‐b‐ṯ
that yielded a verb meaning “to labor” and the noun
ḫupṯu
(with devoiced middle radical), meaning persons whom the state obliged to labor. The state could conscript only its free citizens, not men in servitude to other men, nor citizens of other states. Hence in Hebrew the derivative adjective
hofshi
(
ḥopšî
) came to mean “free” and the abstract noun
hofesh
(
ḥopeš
) to mean “freedom” (as distinct from bondage).
Banquets, Greek and Roman
Authors: Hänninen Marja‐Leena
Published: June 2015

Hospitality was an essential virtue in ancient Greece and Rome. Feasting and drinking together strengthened friendships, political alliances, and solidarity among peers. Furthermore, banquets had cultural significance since they provided a stage for philosophical and political conversations as well as performances of dance, music, and literature. The actual meal was usually followed by a drinking party, calledsymposiumby the Greeks, orcomissatioby the Romans. In Rome, respectable women, too, could participate in banquets, while Greek women were usually excluded. In addition to private banquets, there were also various public feasts, often at major religious festivals. Public banquets could be funded by local authorities or private benefactors, and there were also banquets organized by clubs, priestal colleges, or religious communities.
Vagabonds
Authors: Brüggemann Thomas
Published: June 2015

The term vagabond stems from the Latin adjective
vagabundus
, which is derived from the verb
vagari
(“to wander”), meaning “strolling about,” “wandering purposelessly,” “extravagating,” or “being erratic.” In antiquity, the term remained socially unspecific and simply refers to the process of “wandering” on a case‐by‐case basis, regardless of the (social) status or milieu of the wandering person. Hence,
vagabundus
was neither used to label a heterogeneous roaming fringe‐group or a social category nor to designate the “traveler‐lifestyle.” The term did not point to a specific group of persons at all. Although
vagabundus
was not associated with sociopolitical ideas and/or corresponding concepts and did not serve the social qualifying of specific population groups, the term's equivocality, its original indecisiveness with its slight pejorative tendency, may have caused its development in the Postclassical period: Suitable for a wide range of people living rough, by the Middle Ages
vagabundus
had become the synonym for vagrants and goliards as well as a generalizing label, a social category
sui generis
that subsumed any kinds of people who lived on the streets permanently or temporarily.
Organocatalyzed Asymmetric Conjugate Addition of Heteroaryl and Aryl Trifluoroborates: a Synthetic Strategy for Discoipyrrole D
Authors: Shih Jiun‐Le , Nguyen Thien S. , May Jeremy A.
Published: June 2015

Bis‐heteroaryl or bis‐aryl stereocenters were formed by an organocatalytic enantioselective conjugate addition using the respective trifluoroborate salts as nucleophiles. Control studies suggested that fluoride dissociation is necessary in the anhydrous conditions. This strategy is applicable to the synthesis of discoipyrrole D, an inhibitor of BR5 fibroblast migration.
Superstructure in the Metastable Intermediate‐Phase Li2/3FePO4 Accelerating the Lithium Battery Cathode Reaction
Authors: Nishimura Shin‐ichi , Natsui Ryuichi , Yamada Atsuo
Published: June 2015

LiFePO4 is an important cathode material for lithium‐ion batteries. Regardless of the biphasic reaction between the insulating end members, LixFePO4, x≈0 and x≈1, optimization of the nanostructured architecture has substantially improved the power density of positive LiFePO4 electrode. The charge transport that occurs in the interphase region across the biphasic boundary is the primary stage of solid‐state electrochemical reactions in which the Li concentrations and the valence state of Fe deviate significantly from the equilibrium end members. Complex interactions among Li ions and charges at the Fe sites have made understanding stability and transport properties of the intermediate domains difficult. Long‐range ordering at metastable intermediate eutectic composition of Li2/3FePO4 has now been discovered and its superstructure determined, which reflected predominant polaron crystallization at the Fe sites followed by Li+ redistribution to optimize the LiFe interactions.
The Corrole Radical
Authors: Schweyen Peter , Brandhorst Kai , Wicht Richard , Wolfram Benedikt , Bröring Martin
Published: June 2015

The reaction of 5,10,15‐trimesitylcorrole (H3cor) with tungsten hexachloride and tungsten hexacarbonyl resulted in the unexpected formation of the 3,17‐dichloro‐5,10,15‐trimesitylcorrole radical (H2cor*) as an air‐stable product. X‐ray crystallography proved the planarization of the corrole radical structure, which was rationalized by the reduced steric hindrance of two versus three hydrogen atoms inside the N4 cavity. Although the aromaticity was lost, no specific changes in CC or CN bond distances could be observed. The regioselectivity of the two‐fold chlorination is the result of the nucleophilic attack of chloride ions to an oxidized corrole macrocycle, and is supported by DFT results. The corrole radical acts as a dianionic ligand and allows the insertion of the divalent zinc(II) cation, which usually does not form neutral corrole complexes.
Non‐invasive high throughput approach for protein hydrophobicity determination based on surface tension
Authors: Amrhein Sven , Bauer Katharina Christin , Galm Lara , Hubbuch Jürgen
Published: June 2015

The surface hydrophobicity of a protein is an important factor for its interactions in solution and thus the outcome of its production process. Yet most of the methods are not able to evaluate the influence of these hydrophobic interactions under natural conditions. In the present work we have established a high resolution stalagmometric method for surface tension determination on a liquid handling station, which can cope with accuracy as well as high throughput requirements. Surface tensions could be derived with a low sample consumption (800 μL) and a high reproducibility (<0.1‰ for water) within a reasonable time (3.5 min per sample). This method was used as a non‐invasive HTP compatible approach to determine surface tensions of protein solutions dependent on protein content. The protein influence on the solutions’ surface tension was correlated to the hydrophobicity of lysozyme, human lysozyme, BSA, and α‐lactalbumin. Differences in proteins’ hydrophobic character depending on pH and species could be resolved. Within this work we have developed a pH dependent hydrophobicity ranking, which was found to be in good agreement with literature. For the studied pH range of 3–9 lysozyme from chicken egg white was identified to be the most hydrophilic. α‐lactalbumin at pH 3 exhibited the most pronounced hydrophobic character. The stalagmometric method occurred to outclass the widely used spectrophotometric method with bromophenol blue sodium salt as it gave reasonable results without restrictions on pH and protein species. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 2485–2494. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Surface Functionalization of g‐C3N4: Molecular‐Level Design of Noble‐Metal‐Free Hydrogen Evolution Photocatalysts
Authors: Chen Yin , Lin Bin , Yu Weili , Yang Yong , Bashir Shahid M. , Wang Hong , Takanabe Kazuhiro , Idriss Hicham , Basset Jean‐Marie
Published: June 2015

A stable noble‐metal‐free hydrogen evolution photocatalyst based on graphite carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) was developed by a molecular‐level design strategy. Surface functionalization was successfully conducted to introduce a single nickel active site onto the surface of the semiconducting g‐C3N4. This catalyst family (with less than 0.1 wt % of Ni) has been found to produce hydrogen with a rate near to the value obtained by using 3 wt % platinum as co‐catalyst. This new catalyst also exhibits very good stability under hydrogen evolution conditions, without any evidence of deactivation after 24 h.
Microwire Chronoamperometric Determination of Concentration, Diffusivity, and Salinity for Simultaneous Oxygen and Proton Reduction
Authors: Weber James , Wain Andrew J. , Marken Frank
Published: June 2015

A microwire chronoamperometric method is reported employing a 25 µm diameter platinum microwire for multi‐parameter electroanalysis with digital simulation‐based evaluation (employing DigiElch 4.F). Concentration and diffusion coefficient data are obtained for the reduction of oxygen and for the reduction of protons individually and simultaneously in saline (0.1 M to 4.0 M NaCl) electrolyte media. The diffusion coefficient and concentration data for oxygen allows salinity levels to be estimated. The microwire chronoamperometry method offers versatility and precision due to (i) a slow approach to steady state (when compared to microdisc methods) and (ii) insignificant viscosity effects (when compared to hydrodynamic methods).
Intercalation of Proflavine in ssDNA Aptamers: Effect on Binding of the Specific Target Chloramphenicol
Authors: Pilehvar Sanaz , Jambrec Daliborka , Gebala Magdalena , Schuhmann Wolfgang , De Wael Karolien
Published: June 2015

The structural modification of ssDNA‐based aptamers upon specific binding of its target molecule leads to changes of the charge‐transfer resistance (Rct) of a negatively‐charged free‐diffusing redox probe. The aptamer adopts a structure due to self‐hybridization which is stabilized using profalvine as intercalator. The pre‐organized aptamer structure is used to detect chloramphenicol (CAP) requiring a substantial change of the aptamer structure indicated by a CAP concentration dependent increase in the Rct values. Pre‐incubation of the aptamer‐modified electrode with an intercalator allows for the modulation of the aptamer/target interaction and hence for a modulation of the CAP‐dependent variation of the Rct values.
A case of ST elevation myocardial infarction precipitated by methylphenidate therapy for gait freeze
Authors: Connell Cia , Gellatly Rochelle , Dooley Michael , Shaw James
Published: June 2015

Background

Parkinson's disease affects 1% of the population older than 60 years. Motor symptoms can be difficult to treat in end‐stage disease, leading to the use of therapies with less favourable adverse effect profiles.

Aim

To promote awareness of the risks associated with the off‐label use of methylphenidate for hypokinesia in Parkinson's disease patients with cardiovascular risk factors.

Clinical details

A 70‐year‐old Caucasian non‐smoking male presented to the hospital with chest pain and inferior ST segment elevation 2 months after commencing methylphenidate for gait hypokinesia. His past medical history was significant for end‐stage Parkinson's disease with associated psychosis, and ischaemic heart disease with previous myocardial infarction. Relevant therapies included levodopa, benserazide, amantadine, pramipexole, quetiapine, atorvastatin and perindopril.

Outcomes

The patient received a drug eluting stent to the circumflex artery, followed by a staged percutaneous coronary intervention to the left anterior descending artery. Methylphenidate was discontinued on day 2 post myocardial infarction in light of published data indicating an increased risk of myocardial infarction with methylphenidate use. Methylphenidate is known to stimulate catecholamine release, thereby increasing the risk of ischaemic cardiovascular events by increasing myocardial oxygen demand.

Conclusion

This is the first reported case to describe methylphenidate use in Parkinson's disease complicated by a myocardial infarction. This case, in conjunction with other published literature, suggests that the use of methylphenidate for this novel indication must be carefully considered for each individual, and avoided in those with cardiovascular risk factors or known ischaemic heart disease.
Implementation of a centralised aminoglycoside monitoring service
Authors: O'Hara Kate , Prior Felicity H. , Whyte Ian M.
Published: June 2015

Following the Therapeutic Guidelines: Antibiotic recommendation for computerised dose monitoring for aminoglycosides, there was a need for health services to implement these systems. We describe the establishment of a centralised aminoglycoside monitoring service designed to be accessible across the local health district. The service was established within the local medicines information service, and uptake and acceptance of recommendations were reviewed at 12 months. The service was well accepted following the first 12 months, although uptake was low. The implementation of the service was considered to be a successful addition to practice and to the local health district.
Impact of pharmacist‐led medication reconciliation on admission using electronic medical records on accuracy of discharge prescriptions
Authors: Lawrence Dona S. , Masood Noman , Astles Dawn , Fitzgerald Claire E. , Bari Ata Ul.
Published: June 2015

Background

Unintentional medication errors are common at hospital discharge and have the potential to cause significant patient harm. Current electronic medical records systems offer the facility to change the process of medication reconciliation by pharmacists.

Aim

To test the impact of pharmacist‐led medication reconciliation at admission recorded on the electronic medication form, on the timeliness and accuracy of discharge prescriptions.

Method

A prospective pre‐ and post‐interventional observational study was carried out from June to October 2013 at two district hospitals. Pharmacists recorded admission medication using National Medication Management Plan (phase 1) and the electronic medication form in patients’ electronic medical records (phase 2). Data collected included time taken for the medical officer to complete the medication form in electronic medical records, the number of times the medical officer was contacted by the pharmacist completing the discharge reconciliation and unintentional discharge medication discrepancy types.

Results

In total 118 patients were included: 66 patients in phase 1 and 52 in phase 2. Data were analysed using chi‐squared test, Fisher's exact test and Mann–Whitney test. There was a significant (33–13%, p < 0.0001) reduction in the proportion of medication orders with a discrepancy. This was because of the significant (25.5–1.9%, p < 0.0001) reduction in discrepancies relating to patients’ usual medication. Time taken for the medical officer to complete the medication form in electronic medical records decreased from 37 s/item (interquartile range, 29–48; n = 51) to 21 s/item (interquartile range, 11–35; n = 35) (p < 0.001). The number of telephone calls to medical officers decreased from 95 to 73%.

Conclusion

This integrated approach to medication reconciliation has highlighted patient safety benefits, and reduced medical and pharmacy workload.
US critical care pharmacy practices and clinical information systems: a Hospira® Pharmacist Award Grant Report
Authors: Choo Chui‐Lynn
Published: June 2015

This is a grant report on a study preceptorship undertaken in intensive care units at the Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore); University of Chicago Medical Center; University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children's Hospital; RUSH University Medical Center (Chicago); Indiana University Health University and Methodist Hospitals (Indianapolis); St Vincent's Hospital (Indianapolis); and Eskenazi Health (Indianapolis). Key learning points from US critical care pharmacy practice models, Residency Programs, Specialist Board Certification and clinical information systems are highlighted. Comparisons between US and Australian practices are discussed. Hospira® and the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia are acknowledged for funding this study preceptorship.
New oral anticoagulants: an approach in older people
Authors: La Brooy Beth , Ho Prahlad
Published: June 2015

New oral anticoagulants have changed the paradigm of anticoagulation management, improving patient convenience as well as possibly reducing the incidence of spontaneous intracranial haemorrhage. However, concerns remain regarding these agents due to the lack of monitoring capacity and availability of readily accessible specific antidotes. This is particularly pertinent in the older population, specifically the frail elderly, who have multiple comorbidities, higher risk of falls requiring intervention and increased risk of bleeding. This group has not been specifically studied in randomised controlled trials and hence extrapolation of trial data to this population should be done carefully. No national guidelines exist for the safe prescription and monitoring of new oral anticoagulants in frail older people. In this article, we provide a review of the currently available new oral anticoagulants in Australia, with a geriatric haematological perspective, including evidence from clinical trials and subsequent meta‐analyses, the concerns regarding these new agents, and how these impact on the older population.
Robotic posterior retroperitoneal adrenalectomy
Authors: Okoh Alexis Kofi , Yigitbas Hakan , Berber Eren
Published: June 2015

Since its initial description by Mercan et al. laparoscopic posterior retroperitoneal (PR) adrenalectomy has served as an alternaltive to the transabdominal (TL) approach for the treatment of adrenal pathologies. Robotic adrenal surgery has been reported to improve surgeon ergonomics and facilitate dissection. In patients with bilateral adrenal masses, PR adrenalectomy may be the approach of choice. We herein describe the technique, discuss its limitations and present a critical review of the current literature. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015; 112:302–304. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Robotic parathyroidectomy
Authors: Okoh Alexis Kofi , Sound Sara , Berber Eren
Published: June 2015

Robotic parathyroidectomy has recently been described. Although the procedure eliminates the neck scar, it is technically more demanding than the conventional approaches. This report is a review of the patients’ selection criteria, technique, and outcomes. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015; 112:240–242. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neoadjuvant modified FOLFIRINOX and chemoradiation therapy for locally advanced pancreatic cancer improves resectability
Authors: Nanda Ronica H. , El‐Rayes Bassel , Maithel Shishir K. , Landry Jerome
Published: June 2015

Background and Objectives

Though necessary for improved outcomes, surgical resection is often limited in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancers (LAPCs). We evaluated the efficacy of the approach adopted by our institution of using modified FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy followed by radiation with concurrent gemcitabine or capecitabine for patients with LAPCs, in an effort to enhance resectability while improving the toxicity profile compared with similar treatment regimens.

Methods

We included 29 consecutive patients with LAPC treated at our institution with the above approach in this review. We evaluated rates of resection, locol control, and survival outcomes in this cohort.

Results

The median follow up for this series of patients was 15.2 months. Approximately half the patients were unresectable at presentation. After neoadjuvant therapy, 41.3% of all patients were able to undergo resection of their tumors and 83% achieved an R0 resection. One‐year local control for the entire cohort was 85%; one‐year progression‐free and overall were 49.2% and 65.5%, respectively. High rates of metastatic disease were seen regardless of resectability. There were minimal toxicities in this cohort.

Conclusions

Neoadjuvant therapy with induction modified FOLFIRINOX and chemoradiation presents a well‐tolerated, promising treatment approach for patients with LAPC. High rates of metastatic disease highlight the need to optimize systemic and targeted agents for pancreatic adenocarcinoma.J. Surg. Oncol. 2015 111:1028–1034. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Numerical plate testing for linear two‐scale analyses of composite plates with in‐plane periodicity
Authors: Terada Kenjiro , Hirayama Norio , Yamamoto Koji , Muramatsu Mayu , Matsubara Seishiro , Nishi Shin‐nosuke
Published: June 2015

A method of numerical plate testing (NPT) for composite plates with in‐plane periodic heterogeneity is proposed. In the two‐scale boundary value problem, a thick plate model is employed at macroscale, while three‐dimensional solids are assumed at microscale. The NPT, which is nothing more or less than the homogenization analysis, is in fact a series of microscopic analyses on a unit cell that evaluates the macroscopic plate stiffnesses. The specific functional forms of microscopic displacements are originally presented so that the relationship between the macroscopic resultant stresses/moments and strains/curvatures to be consistent with the microscopic equilibrated state. In order to perform NPT by using general‐purpose FEM programs, we introduce control nodes to facilitate the multiple‐point constraints for in‐plane periodicity. Numerical examples are presented to verify that the proposed method of NPT reproduces the plate stiffnesses in classical plate and laminate theories. We also perform a series of homogenization, macroscopic, and localization analyses for an in‐plane heterogeneous composite plate to demonstrate the performance of the proposed method. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NOSH‐aspirin (NBS‐1120), a dual nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide‐releasing hybrid, reduces inflammatory pain
Authors: Fonseca Miriam D. , Cunha Fernando Q. , Kashfi Khosrow , Cunha Thiago M.
Published: June 2015

The development of nitric oxide (NO)‐ and hydrogen sulfide (H2S)‐releasing nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has generated more potent anti‐inflammatory drugs with increased safety profiles. A new hybrid molecule incorporating both NO and H2S donors into aspirin (NOSH‐aspirin) was recently developed. In the present study, the antinociceptive activity of this novel molecule was compared with aspirin in different models of inflammatory pain. It was found that NOSH‐aspirin inhibits acetic acid‐induced writhing response and carrageenan (Cg)‐induced inflammatory hyperalgesia in a dose‐dependent (5–150 μmol/kg, v.o.) manner, which was superior to the effect of the same doses of aspirin. NOSH‐aspirin's antinociceptive effect was also greater and longer compared to aspirin upon complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)‐induced inflammatory hyperalgesia. Mechanistically, NOSH‐aspirin, but not aspirin, was able to reduce the production/release of interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β) during Cg‐induced paw inflammation. Furthermore, NOSH‐aspirin, but not aspirin, reduced prostaglandin E2‐induced hyperalgesia, which was prevented by treatment with a ATP‐sensitive potassium channel (KATP) blocker (glibenclamide; glib.). Noteworthy, the antinociceptive effect of NOSH‐aspirin was not associated with motor impairment. The present results indicate that NOSH‐aspirin seems to present greater potency than aspirin to reduce inflammatory pain in several models. The enhanced effects of NOSH‐aspirin seems to be due to its ability to reduce the production of pronociceptive cytokines such as IL‐1 β and directly block hyperalgesia caused by a directly acting hyperalgesic mediator in a mechanism dependent on modulation of KATP channels. In conclusion, we would like to suggest that NOSH‐aspirin represents a prototype of a new class of analgesic drugs with more potent effects than the traditional NSAID, aspirin.
Antiallodynic effects of alpha lipoic acid in an optimized RR‐EAE mouse model of MS‐neuropathic pain are accompanied by attenuation of upregulated BDNF‐TrkB‐ERK signaling in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord
Authors: Khan Nemat , Gordon Richard , Woodruff Trent M. , Smith Maree T.
Published: June 2015

Neuropathic pain may affect patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) even in early disease. In an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE)‐mouse model of MS, chronic alpha lipoic acid (ALA) treatment reduced clinical disease severity, but MS‐neuropathic pain was not assessed. Hence, we investigated the pain‐relieving efficacy and mode of action of ALA using our optimized relapsing‐remitting (RR)‐EAE mouse model of MS‐associated neuropathic pain. C57BL/6 mice were immunized with MOG35‐55 and adjuvants (Quil A and pertussis toxin) to induce RR‐EAE; sham‐mice received adjuvants only. RR‐EAE mice received subcutaneous ALA (3 or 10 mg kg−1 day−1) or vehicle for 21 days (15–35 d.p.i.; [days postimmunization]); sham‐mice received vehicle. Hindpaw hypersensitivity was assessed blinded using von Frey filaments. Following euthanasia (day 35 d.p.i.), lumbar spinal cords were removed for immunohistochemical and molecular biological assessments. Fully developed mechanical allodynia in the bilateral hindpaws of vehicle‐treated RR‐EAE mice was accompanied by marked CD3+ T‐cell infiltration, microglia activation, and increased brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)‐tyrosine kinase B (TrkB) signaling in the dorsal horn of the lumbar spinal cord. Consequently, phospho‐ERK, a marker of central sensitization in neuropathic pain, was upregulated in the spinal dorsal horn. Importantly, hindpaw hypersensitivity was completely attenuated in RR‐EAE mice administered ALA at 10 mg kg−1 day−1 but not 3 mg kg−1 day−1. The antiallodynic effect of ALA (10 mg kg−1 day−1) was associated with a marked reduction in the aforementioned spinal dorsal horn markers to match their respective levels in the vehicle‐treated sham‐mice. Our findings suggest that ALA at 10 mg kg−1 day−1 produced its antiallodynic effects in RR‐EAE mice by reducing augmented CD3+ T‐cell infiltration and BDNF‐TrkB‐ERK signaling in the spinal dorsal horn.