bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ERBB3-Binding Protein 1 (EBP1) Is a Novel Developmental Pluripotency-Associated-4 (DPPA4) Cofactor in Human Pluripotent Cells
Authors: Somanath Priyanka , Bush Kelly M. , Knoepfler Paul S.
Published: January 2018

Developmental Pluripotency-Associated-4 (DPPA4) is one of the few core pluripotency genes lacking clearly defined molecular and cellular functions. Here, we used a proteomics screening approach of human embryonic stem cell (hESC) nuclear extract to determine DPPA4 molecular functions through identification of novel cofactors. Unexpectedly, the signaling molecule ERBB3-binding protein 1 (EBP1) was the strongest candidate binding partner for DPPA4 in hESC. EBP1 is a growth factor signaling mediator present in two isoforms, p48 and p42. The two isoforms generally have opposing functions, however their roles in pluripotent cells have not been established. We found that DPPA4 preferentially binds p48 in pluripotent and NTERA-2 cells, but this interaction is largely absent in non-pluripotent cells and is reduced with differentiation. The DPPA4–EBP1 interaction is mediated at least in part in DPPA4 by the highly conserved SAF-A/B, Acinus and PIAS (SAP) domain. Functionally, we found that DPPA4 transcriptional repressive function in reporter assays is significantly increased by specific p48 knockdown, an effect that was abolished with an interaction-deficient DPPA4 ΔSAP mutant. Thus, DPPA4 and EBP1 may cooperate in transcriptional functions through their physical association in a pluripotent cell specific context. Our study identifies EBP1 as a novel pluripotency cofactor and provides insight into potential mechanisms used by DPPA4 in regulating pluripotency through its association with EBP1.
Poly(Lactide-Co-Glycolide)-Monomethoxy-Poly-(Polyethylene Glycol) Nanoparticles Loaded with Melatonin Protect Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Transplanted in Infarcted Heart Tissue
Authors: Ma Qiang , Yang Junjie , Huang Xu , Guo Weisheng , Li Sulei , Zhou Hao , Li Jingwei , Cao Feng , Chen Yundai
Published: January 2018

Stem cell transplantation is a promising therapeutic strategy for myocardial infarction. However, transplanted cells face low survival rates due to oxidative stress and the inflammatory microenvironment in ischemic heart tissue. Melatonin has been used as a powerful endogenous antioxidant to protect cells from oxidative injury. However, melatonin cannot play a long-lasting effect against the hostile microenvironment. Nano drug delivery carriers have the ability to protect the loaded drug from degradation in physiological environments in a controlled manner, which results in longer effects and decreased side effects. Therefore, we constructed poly(lactide-co-glycolide)-monomethoxy-poly-(polyethylene glycol) (PLGA-mPEG) nanoparticles to encapsulate melatonin. We tested whether the protective effect of melatonin encapsulated by PLGA-mPEG nanoparticles (melatonin nanoparticles [Mel-NPs]) on adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) was enhanced compared to that of free melatonin both in vitro and in vivo. In the in vitro study, we found that Mel-NPs reduced formation of the p53- cyclophilin D complex, prevented mitochondrial permeability transition pores from opening, and rescued ADSCs from hypoxia/reoxygenation injury. Moreover, Mel-NPs can achieve higher ADSC survival rates than free melatonin in rat myocardial infarction areas, and the therapeutic effects of ADSCs pretreated with Mel-NPs were more apparent. Hence, the combination of Mel-NPs and stem cell transplantation may be a promising strategy for myocardial infarction therapy.
New improved metaheuristic approaches for optimum design of posttensioned axially symmetric cylindrical reinforced concrete walls
Authors: Bekdaş Gebrail
Published: January 2018

Two novel hybrid approaches are presented for optimum design of axially symmetric cylindrical walls subjected to posttensioning loads using metaheuristic algorithms such as harmony search (HS), flower pollination algorithm (FPA), and teaching learning based optimization (TLBO). The objective function of the optimization problem is to minimize the total cost of the wall subjected to constraints on the basis of sectional capacities (bending moment, shear force, and axial tension), ACI 318 (building code requirements for structural concrete) requirements and design variables such as wall thickness, compressive strength of concrete, location and intensities of posttensioning cables, size, and spacing of reinforcement. In the optimum design, the performance of the iterative population based metaheuristic algorithms, HS, FPA, and TLBO are compared and tested by taking wall thickness as discrete and continuous variable. In order to improve the efficiency on finding global optimum results, hybrid forms of the HS combined with FPA and TLBO are effective for the optimization problem.
Influence analysis of bracket set on seismic performance of steel eave columns in Chinese traditional style buildings
Authors: Xue Jianyang , Ma Linlin , Wu Zhanjing , Gao Weixin
Published: January 2018

This paper presents influence analysis of bracket set on seismic performance of steel eave columns in Chinese traditional style buildings. Eight 1/1.5‐scale steel eave columns were constructed and tested under low cyclic reversed loading, including 4 specimens with bracket set and 4 specimens without bracket set. Based on the analysis of the strain of the specimens, the failure modes of the specimens were obtained. In addition, the hysteresis loops, skeleton curves, degradations of stiffness and strength, ductility, and dissipation capacities of the specimens were analyzed. Bracket set changed the force transfer mechanisms and failure modes of the specimens and had a significant influence on the seismic performance of the specimens. Compared with the specimens without bracket set, the yielded and ultimate bearing capacities of the specimens with bracket set improved by 30.7% and 24.0%, respectively. And also, the stiffness of the specimens with bracket set at the yielded and ultimate points increased by 52.8% and 135.6%. The dissipation capacities of the specimens with bracket set were 2.12 times those of the specimens without bracket set at yielded load. However, the ductility of the specimens with bracket set slightly decreased by 8.5%. It was shown that the seismic performance of the specimens with bracket set was better than that of the specimens without bracket set. The work in this paper provides a basis for further theoretical study on the seismic performance of steel eave columns in Chinese traditional style buildings.
The paradox of canine conspecific coprophagy
Authors: Hart Benjamin L. , Hart Lynette A. , Thigpen Abigail P. , Tran Alisha , Bain Melissa J.
Published: January 2018

Canine conspecific coprophagy, the tendency or predisposition of some dogs to eat their own faeces or those of other dogs, seems paradoxical because dogs typically show an aversion to conspecific faeces. In an attempt to resolve this paradox, we set out to determine the factors associated with the occurrence of this behaviour and to evaluate the efficacy of 11 products marketed for treating coprophagy as well as behaviour modification procedures. Because a large sample of dogs was needed to address these issues, two web‐based surveys were utilized. One, intended to compare coprophagic dogs and non‐coprophagic dogs, yielded 1552 returns. The other, yielding 1475 usable returns, specifically recruited owners of coprophagic dogs to gather information about the characteristics of coprophagy and treatment success. The findings revealed that 16% of dogs sampled engaged in frequent conspecific coprophagy, defined as having been seen eating stools at least six times. No evidence was found relating the coprophagy to diet or the dog's age. Coprophagic dogs were as easily house trained as non‐coprophagic dogs, suggesting a normal aversion to faeces. Coprophagic dogs were more likely to be reported as greedy eaters than non‐coprophagic dogs. The reported success rate of the commercial products and behaviour modification approaches was close to zero, indicating that the behaviour is not readily changed. The coprophagy was overwhelmingly directed at fresh stools, defined as being no more than 2 days old. A hypothesis is offered that coprophagy reflects a tendency inherited from the ancestral wolf to keep the den area free of faecal‐borne intestinal parasites that might be deposited in the den resting area and would typically have parasite ova that are not initially infective, but could develop infective larvae after 2 days. An evolved parasite defence strategy to consume fresh faeces in the rest area would be adaptive.
Solvent Free Synthesis of PdZn/TiO2 Catalysts for the Hydrogenation of CO2 to Methanol
Authors: Bahruji Hasliza , Esquius Jonathan Ruiz , Bowker Michael , Hutchings Graham , Armstrong Robert D. , Jones Wilm
Published: January 2018

Catalytic upgrading of CO2 to value-added chemicals is an important challenge within the chemical sciences. Of particular interest are catalysts which are both active and selective for the hydrogenation of CO2 to methanol. PdZn alloy nanoparticles supported on TiO2 via a solvent-free chemical vapour impregnation method are shown to be effective for this reaction. This synthesis technique is shown to minimise surface contaminants, which are detrimental to catalyst activity. The effect of reductive heat treatments on both structural properties of PdZn/TiO2 catalysts and rates of catalytic CO2 hydrogenation are investigated. PdZn nanoparticles formed upon reduction showed high stability towards particle sintering at high reduction temperature with average diameter of 3–6 nm to give 1710 mmol kg−1 h of methanol. Reductive treatment at high temperature results in the formation of ZnTiO3 as well as PdZn, and gives the highest methanol yield.
The Unmasking of English Dictionaries
Authors: Dixon R. M. W.
Published: January 2018

When we look up a word in a dictionary, we want to know not just its meaning but also its function and the circumstances under which it should be used in preference to words of similar meaning. Standard dictionaries do not address such matters, treating each word in isolation. R. M. W. Dixon puts forward a new approach to lexicography that involves grouping words into 'semantic sets', to describe what can and cannot be said, and providing explanations for this. He provides a critical survey of the evolution of English lexicography from the earliest times, showing how Samuel Johnson's classic treatment has been amended in only minor ways. Written in an easy and accessible style, the book focuses on the rampant plagiarism between lexicographers, on ways of comparing meanings of words, and on the need to link lexicon with grammar. Dixon tells an engrossing story that puts forward a vision for the future.
Rarefaction-driven Rayleigh–Taylor instability. Part 2. Experiments and simulations in the nonlinear regime
Authors: Morgan R. V. , Cabot W. H. , Greenough J. A. , Jacobs J. W.
Published: January 2018

Experiments and large eddy simulation (LES) were performed to study the development of the Rayleigh–Taylor instability into the saturated, nonlinear regime, produced between two gases accelerated by a rarefaction wave. Single-mode two-dimensional, and single-mode three-dimensional initial perturbations were introduced on the diffuse interface between the two gases prior to acceleration. The rarefaction wave imparts a non-constant acceleration, and a time decreasing Atwood number, $A=(\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}_{2}-\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}_{1})/(\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}_{2}+\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}_{1})$, where $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}_{2}$ and $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}_{1}$ are the densities of the heavy and light gas, respectively. Experiments and simulations are presented for initial Atwood numbers of $A=0.49$, $A=0.63$, $A=0.82$ and $A=0.94$. Nominally two-dimensional (2-D) experiments (initiated with nearly 2-D perturbations) and 2-D simulations are observed to approach an intermediate-time velocity plateau that is in disagreement with the late-time velocity obtained from the incompressible model of Goncharov (Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 88, 2002, 134502). Reacceleration from an intermediate velocity is observed for 2-D bubbles in large wavenumber, $k=2\unicode[STIX]{x03C0}/\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}=0.247~\text{mm}^{-1}$, experiments and simulations, where $\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}$ is the wavelength of the initial perturbation. At moderate Atwood numbers, the bubble and spike velocities approach larger values than those predicted by Goncharov’s model. These late-time velocity trends are predicted well by numerical simulations using the LLNL Miranda code, and by the 2009 model of Mikaelian (Phys. Fluids., vol. 21, 2009, 024103) that extends Layzer type models to variable acceleration and density. Large Atwood number experiments show a delayed roll up, and exhibit a free-fall like behaviour. Finally, experiments initiated with three-dimensional perturbations tend to agree better with models and a simulation using the LLNL Ares code initiated with an axisymmetric rather than Cartesian symmetry.
Rotations and accumulation of ellipsoidal microswimmers in isotropic turbulence
Authors: Pujara N. , Koehl M. A. R. , Variano E. A.
Published: January 2018

Aquatic micro-organisms and artificial microswimmers locomoting in turbulent flow encounter velocity gradients that rotate them, thereby changing their swimming direction and possibly providing cues about the local flow environment. Using numerical simulations of ellipsoidal particles in isotropic turbulence, we investigate the effects of body shape and swimming velocity on particle motion. Four particle shapes (sphere, rod, disc and triaxial ellipsoid) are investigated at five different swimming velocities in the range $0\leqslant V_{s}\leqslant 5u_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D702}}$, where $V_{s}$ is the swimming velocity and $u_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D702}}$ is the Kolmogorov velocity scale. We find that anisotropic, swimming particles preferentially sample regions of lower fluid vorticity than passive particles do, and hence they accumulate in these regions. While this effect is monotonic with swimming velocity, the particle enstrophy (variance of particle angular velocity) varies non-monotonically with swimming velocity. In contrast to passive particles, the particle enstrophy is a function of shape for swimming particles. The particle enstrophy is largest for triaxial ellipsoids swimming at a velocity smaller than $u_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D702}}$. We also observe that the average alignment of particles with the directions of the velocity gradient tensor are altered by swimming leading to a more equal distribution of rotation about different particle axes.
The Transnational Mission of an Indian War Correspondent: P. R. S. Mani in Southeast Asia, 1944–1946
Authors: GOODALL HEATHER , FROST MARK RAVINDER
Published: January 2018

This article, based on new archival materials, reconstructs the experiences and observations of an Indian war correspondent from 1944 to 1946 as he covered the advance of Indian soldiers of the British-led Indian Army from northeast India, through Burma to Malaya at the war's end, then to their eventual deployment with the South East Asian Command in Java after the Japanese surrender. As it transpired, Captain P. R. S. Mani worked as an enlisted public relations officer of the British-led Indian Army but also sustained his commitment as a patriotic Indian nationalist, who gathered intelligence on the Indian diaspora in Southeast Asia and on the impact of Subhas Chandra Bose's Indian National Army. Relatively little scholarship has focused on Asian war journalism. Mani's tension-ridden role as a self-styled ‘Indian Army observer’ provides an illuminating insight into the way in which Britain's lines of communication were appropriated and subverted during wartime and beyond, and into the way his own nationalism was reshaped by his unofficial transnational activities.
The Spectacle of Global Fascism: The Italian Blackshirt mission to Japan's Asian empire
Authors: HEDINGER DANIEL
Published: January 2018

In the spring of 1938 a mission of the Italian Fascist Party journeyed to the Japanese empire, visiting China, Korea, Manchukuo, and Japan itself. Those were happy days for the Axis and, as such, characterized by a flood of shuttle visits and requests for cooperation between Italy, Japan, and Germany. As we explore the choreography of the visit and accompany the Italian Blackshirts on their two-month-long trip, two processes become clear. On the one hand, the presence of the Blackshirts in Japan helped place the nation's regional war with China in the broader context of worldwide conflicts. On the other hand, this trip assisted in firmly placing the new Axis alliance in the context of a pan-Asianist empire under Japanese control. This article suggests that both processes were linked and mutually enhancing of one another. At the same time they were part of a much more far-reaching phenomenon, namely the globalization of the Axis alliance. This, I will argue, was acted out on the stages provided by what is best described as the ‘spectacle of global fascism’. Of course, this spectacle proved to have its tensions and oddities. But as the focus on the performative aspects of the Italian-Japanese encounters shows, this novel form of fascist diplomacy was a way of handling contradictions within the alliance. At the same time, the spectacle served to strengthen it. In other words, seen through the lens of the Blackshirts’ mission, the Axis appears significantly stronger, diverse, and also more global than conventional diplomatic history has perceived it to be.
OP119 Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products: Are Current Health Technology Assessment Methods Suitable?
Authors: Hampson Grace , Towse Adrian
Published: January 2018

INTRODUCTION:

There is considerable excitement around the development of regenerative medicines (or advanced therapy medicinal products, ATMPs), with the expectation that they may bring substantial clinical gains and offer cures for previous debilitating and fatal diseases. However, high costs mean that Health Technology Assessment (HTA) and reimbursement decisions are challenging for payers and manufacturers, even when the therapies are expected to offer good value for money.

In Europe, seven ATMPs have market authorization, yet only one has achieved national level reimbursement. Statistics such as these put HTA bodies under pressure to review their methods and consider how these can apply to regenerative medicines.

METHODS:

We present a review of one example, from the United Kingdom's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), who commissioned an external organization to undertake a mock appraisal of a hypothetical ATMP using standard methods. The therapeutic area chosen for the mock appraisal was chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy for treating relapsed or refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

RESULTS:

The role of uncertainty was a key consideration within the report, yet we found that the presentation of uncertainty within the mock appraisal was misleading for decision makers.

We found that the exercise represents a thorough mock HTA of CAR T-cell therapy. However, it focused on testing whether ATMPs could fit into the existing HTA pathway for conventional medicines, rather than seeking to identify the most suitable approach for assessing regenerative medicines. We suggest the latter would have been a more relevant question for the mock appraisal.

CONCLUSIONS:

Any significant departures from the usual HTA process must be based on solid economic rationale if we are to ensure efficient allocation of resources. Thus, in order for regenerative medicines to be given ‘special treatment,’ it must be demonstrated that societal preferences, or the full extent of health (or non-health) benefits, are not being realised for this group of treatments through existing HTA methods.
VP48 The Costs And Cost-Effectiveness Of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Vaccination In Estonia
Authors: Võrno Triin , Reile Rainer , Närska Margit , Pehme Lea
Published: January 2018

INTRODUCTION:

Many countries that have used Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine against tuberculosis (TB) have switched from universal vaccination of infants and children to selective vaccination, or discontinued with vaccination at all. The aim of the study is to assess the costs and cost-effectiveness of BCG vaccination in Estonia.

METHODS:

A Markov cohort model and budget impact analysis were used to compare the current, universal BCG vaccination to selective and non-vaccination strategies. The epidemiological and economic impact of BCG vaccination were estimated for the period 2018–2032 following the hypothetical change in the vaccination policy in 2018. The results were presented as the cost per case of TB adverted, changes in the occurrence of TB and yearly (undiscounted) costs associated with vaccination and TB treatment.

RESULTS:

In a cohort of 13,500 infants over a time-period of 15 years Estonian universal BCG vaccination prevents around two TB cases compared to selective or non-vaccination strategies. The cost per one TB case averted for the universal strategy compared to non-vaccination strategy was EUR12,234 (EUR4,059–28,748 in sensitivity analysis) and compared to selective vaccination EUR3,847 (EUR504–10,568). The number of TB cases in 0–14-year old children in 2032 was estimated to be 1.3 for universal vaccination, 2.7 for selective and 2.9 for non-vaccination strategy. The total costs of vaccination and TB treatment in 2032 were estimated to be EUR23,764, EUR16,459 and EUR7,553 respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

The cost per case of TB averted is dependent on vaccine efficacy, and is high compared with the cost of treating one case of TB. At the same time, the total costs of BCG vaccination and TB treatment are marginal compared to other vaccination programs used in Estonia. Despite the limited budget impact, several organizational challenges need to be addressed if the universal program is replaced with selective BCG vaccination.
VP78 Cross-Country Variation In Health Technology Assessment Preferences: An International Survey
Authors: Efthymiadou Olina , Kanavos Panos
Published: January 2018

INTRODUCTION:

Several studies have explored how Health Technology Assessment (HTA) processes, HTA submission requirements, perception and handling of uncertainties vary across different jurisdictions (1-3). However, no study has elicited HTA stakeholders’ preferences/priorities on criteria that shape coverage decisions across countries. We aimed to identify the extent to which preferences on criteria, uncertainties and other factors that shape HTA recommendations differ across countries.

METHODS:

HTA stakeholders in Brazil, England, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain and Sweden were invited via email to complete a web-survey. A number of clinical, economic and other criteria (that is, rarity/orphan status and stakeholder input, among others) considered in HTAs, along with additional factors related to clinical evidence uncertainties, unmet need and innovative nature of treatment were ranked in terms of their importance on a 7-point Likert-scale. Responses were anonymised and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS:

Responses were received from Brazil (n = 9), England (n = 7), France (n = 10), Italy (n = 6), Netherlands (n = 3), Spain (n = 3) and Sweden (n = 3). “Achievement of/Concerns around clinical benefit” was the only clinical criterion/uncertainty scoring equally important across countries (100 percent of respondents in each country). The requirement for/uncertainty around “Appropriate comparators” scored high in importance overall but was not consistent across countries, nor was the “Acceptability of surrogate rather than clinical endpoints”. Variation was seen in all economic criteria, apart from “Budget impact analysis” (equally important for more than 80 percent of respondents in each country). Greater differences were observed in the level of priority that innovation, disease severity and stakeholder input have towards HTA coverage decisions across countries.

CONCLUSIONS:

Although agreement was seen in preferences mostly for some of the clinical criteria and/or evidentiary requirements ranked, there were notable differences on countries' priorities for economic evidence criteria/uncertainties and the extent to which unmet need, disease burden and innovation are considered important towards HTA decision-making, possibly explaining differences in HTA recommendations.
VP190 A Review Of Best Practices In Five Mental Disorders In Youth
Authors: Gheorghiu Ionela , Lesage Alain , Amor Leila Ben , Conrod Patricia , Geoffroy Marie-Claude , Kackzorowski Janusz , Moga Carmen , Mombo Nina , Renaud Johanne , Vasiliadis Helen-Maria , Mongodin Adam
Published: January 2018

INTRODUCTION:

In order to support service planning of the youth program of the East of Montreal Health and Social Services Board, and potentially of the other twenty-five programs across the Quebec province, our hospital-based Health Technology Assessment (HTA) unit was asked to bring evidence of the effective interventions for five most common mental disorders in children and young populations, namely anxio-depressive disorders, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder, oppositional and conduct disorders, substance abuse disorders, and suicide attempts.

METHODS:

A review of reviews was conducted for the five disorders in young populations aged 6 to 25 years. This was based exclusively on systematic reviews and meta-analysis of a minimum two randomized-controlled trials. The review was completed with examples of Quebec's good practices in youth mental health gathered from personal research experience of clinical researchers involved in the project. The project involved collaboration with three other hospital units and provincial HTA agencies.

RESULTS:

No review supporting screening and early detection for the five disorders was identified. Prevention, however, was better covered in the literature, and a clear distinction was made between universal, targeted and indicated interventions. In general, targeted and indicated prevention interventions were effective in the case of anxio-depressive (1) and substance use disorders, while universal prevention strategies seemed to reduce suicide attempts and suicide ideation (2). Effective treatments also exist for these mental disorders. In general, psychotherapies dominated for anxio-depressive and substance use disorders; parental skills dominated in oppositional disorders, whilst pharmacological treatment dominated in attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (3). Evidence was limited for suicide attempts. The overview of Quebec's good practices allowed identification of interventions or practices already in use in the province.

CONCLUSIONS:

The review summarized effective interventions for five most common mental disorders in young populations. It also permitted to identify several research gaps, and therefore research recommendations were formulated for the province's health research agency.
VP199 Limitations Of Studies On Oxygen Therapy In Acute Care Settings
Authors: Moga Carmen , Chojecki Dagmara
Published: January 2018

INTRODUCTION:

A high-level, rapid review (1) was conducted on oxygen therapy issues studied in the past 10 years in acute care settings. The main objective was to determine the appropriateness/inappropriateness of use, safety issues, and quality of care associated with oxygen prescription, administration, and monitoring. The results from this review were used to inform an upcoming provincial oxygen summit.

METHODS:

The Health Technology Assessment review (1) used a standardized rapid review approach: a comprehensive search of literature (published in English from 2005 to 2016), study selection using a priori developed criteria, and a qualitative synthesis of the results. Iterative interactions with the requester were necessary to clarify and refine the research questions, scope, and inclusion criteria.

RESULTS:

Twenty-four audit studies were reviewed, the majority published after 2011, in the United Kingdom, and also in single institutions. Twelve studies reported effects after implementing interventions for improvement of oxygen prescription. Many studies had caveats on design, data reporting, and outcomes, or they lacked an explanation of the methods of analysis. Studies conducted in rural settings, and on infants and children were unavailable. The reported issues with oxygen therapy included: a lack or an inconsistency of compliance with guidelines, local policies, and standards; inappropriate prescription and administration; variability in practice among healthcare providers; and suboptimal monitoring, including poor standards of medical chart documentation for patients receiving oxygen therapy, such as incomplete details on flow rate and oxygen concentration.

CONCLUSIONS:

Possibly due to the general tendency to publish research findings that have statistically significant results, relatively few publications were found in the literature search. The universal use of oxygen therapy and the enrolment of consecutive patients in some of the studies increase the applicability of the findings to other institutions. The rapid review provided a timely synthesis of the available, credible research for use by local stakeholders for further discussions and planning.
Slack: Adopting Social-Networking Platforms for Active Learning
Authors: Sabin Jerald , Olive Andrea
Published: January 2018

Online learning in postsecondary institutions has increased dramatically across the United States and Canada. Although research demonstrates the benefits of online learning for student success, instructors face challenges in facilitating communication, delivering course content, and navigating outdated and cumbersome technologies. The authors examine the use of a free third-party platform called Slack as a tool to facilitate better communication among students and faculty, enable the delivery of diverse and dynamic course content, and reach students in an online course that supports both independent and collaborative learning. The authors present a case study of Slack’s use in an online second-year environmental politics course taught at a large Canadian public university. There is a significant and growing literature on how to best engage students in online learning, including active and social learning models as promising approaches to digital teaching. The authors argue that using collaborative social technologies such as Slack—which both replicates and integrates the online and social-media environments that students already inhabit—can assist faculty in meeting their pedagogical goals online. The article documents the instructors’ experience in managing discussion and involving students in their online learning through active learning exercises. Best practices are examined.
International Legitimacy Lost? Rule and Resistance When America Is First
Authors: Lake David A.
Published: January 2018

The pillars of the Pax Americana are decaying. There are two critical challenges. Our interests with our closest allies have been drifting apart for decades, with increasingly serious consequences. A new populist and economic nationalist coalition has been mobilized in the United States, challenging the internationalist coalition that has prevailed at home since the second World War. These challenges are not the product of President Donald J. Trump. He is the manifestation of these challenges, not their cause. Understanding these challenges requires examining anew the role of international legitimacy and authority in world politics and recognizing that different international orders have different distributional consequences. This essay summarizes my past research on the incentives for international hierarchy, integrates the role of domestic interests into that theory, and explores the nature and role of international legitimacy in the study of world order. Part II examines the Pax Americana, and contrasts this order with those found in the Caribbean basin and Middle East. The final section outlines the changing incentives for cooperation between the United States and Europe, discusses the rise of populism in the United States, and suggests ways of addressing the current challenges to internationalism.
Identifying metabolic pathways for production of extracellular polymeric substances by the diatomFragilariopsis cylindrusinhabiting sea ice
Authors: Aslam Shazia N , Strauss Jan , Thomas David N , Mock Thomas , Underwood Graham J C
Published: January 2018

Diatoms are significant primary producers in sea ice, an ephemeral habitat with steep vertical gradients of temperature and salinity characterizing the ice matrix environment. To cope with the variable and challenging conditions, sea ice diatoms produce polysaccharide-rich extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) that play important roles in adhesion, cell protection, ligand binding and as organic carbon sources. Significant differences in EPS concentrations and chemical composition corresponding to temperature and salinity gradients were present in sea ice from the Weddell Sea and Eastern Antarctic regions of the Southern Ocean. To reconstruct the first metabolic pathway for EPS production in diatoms, we exposed Fragilariopsis cylindrus, a key bi-polar diatom species, to simulated sea ice formation. Transcriptome profiling under varying conditions of EPS production identified a significant number of genes and divergent alleles. Their complex differential expression patterns under simulated sea ice formation was aligned with physiological and biochemical properties of the cells, and with field measurements of sea ice EPS characteristics. Thus, the molecular complexity of the EPS pathway suggests metabolic plasticity in F. cylindrus is required to cope with the challenging conditions of the highly variable and extreme sea ice habitat.
Programmed cell death can increase the efficacy of microbial bet hedging
Authors: Libby Eric , Driscoll William W. , Ratcliff William C.
Published: January 2018

Programmed cell death (PCD) occurs in both unicellular and multicellular organisms. While PCD plays a key role in the development and maintenance of multicellular organisms, explaining why single-celled organisms would evolve to actively commit suicide has been far more challenging. Here, we explore the potential for PCD to act as an accessory to microbial bet-hedging strategies that utilize stochastic phenotype switching. We consider organisms that face unpredictable and recurring disasters, in which fitness depends on effective phenotypic diversification. We show that when reproductive opportunities are limited by carrying capacity, PCD drives population turnover, providing increased opportunities for phenotypic diversification through stochastic phenotype switching. The main cost of PCD, providing resources for growth to a PCD(−) competitor, is ameliorated by genetic assortment in spatially structured populations. Using agent -based simulations, we explore how basic demographic factors, namely bottlenecks and local dispersal, can generate sufficient spatial structure to favor the evolution of high PCD rates.
Serum ω-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Potential Influence Factors in Elderly Patients with Multiple Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Authors: Liu Wenwen , Xie Xiaochuan , Liu Meilin , Zhang Jingwei , Liang Wenyi , Chen Xiahuan
Published: January 2018

Recent clinical trials failed to demonstrate that ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplement reduced cardiovascular events, which contradicted previous evidence. However, serum ω-3 PUFA concentrations of participants remained unclear in those studies. We aimed to investigate the definite relationship between serum concentrations of ω-3 PUFAs and coronary artery disease (CAD), and to explore the potential influence factors of ω-3 PUFAs. We selected Chinese in-patients (n = 460) with multiple cardiovascular risk factors or an established diagnosis of CAD. Serum ω-3 PUFAs, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), were measured by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Serum concentrations of ω-3 PUFAs in CAD patients were lower than that in patients with cardiovascular risk factors. Furthermore, high serum DHA concentration was an independent protective factor of CAD after adjustment for confounding factors (OR: 0.52, p = 0.014). Alcohol intake (p = 0.036) and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) usage (p = 0.027) were associated with a decreased serum ω-3 PUFA concentration. We conclude that serum concentrations of ω-3 PUFAs may associate with a decreased CAD proportion, and DHA may serve as a protective factor of CAD. Serum ω-3 PUFA concentrations may be reduced by alcohol intake and certain drugs like PPIs.
On the Angular Distribution of the H+Li2 Cross Sections: a Converged Time-Independent Quantum Scattering Study
Authors: Vila Henrique Vieira Rivera , Ribeiro Luiz Antônio , Macedo Luiz Guilherme Machado de , Gargano Ricardo
Published: January 2018

A thorough time-independent quantum scattering study is performed on a benchmark potential energy surface for the H+Li2reaction at the fundamental electronic state. Integral and differential cross sections are calculated along with thermal rate coefficients until convergence is reached. Our findings show that vibrational and rotational excitations of the reactant hinder reactivity, though for the latter a considerable reaction promotion was spotted as we increase the reactant rotational quantum number until the critical value ofj = 4. Such a promotion then begins to retract, eventually becoming an actual inhibition for largerj. In a straightforward manner, the concept of time-independent methods implemented in this study allowed this accurate state-to-state analysis. Furthermore, a nearly isotropic behaviour of the scattering is noted to take place from the angular point of view. Remarkably, our computational protocol is ideally suited to yield converged thermal rate coefficients, revealing a non-Arrhenius pattern and showing that J-shifting approach fails to describe this particular reaction. Our results, when compared to previous and independent ones, reinforce the latest theoretical reference for future validation in the experimental field.
Three Dimensional Evaluation of Posterior Pole and Optic Nerve Head in Tilted Disc
Authors: Kim Yong Chan , Moon Ji-Sun , Park Hae-Young Lopilly , Park Chan Kee
Published: January 2018

For over a century, tilted disc syndrome (TDS) has been defined vaguely. The lack of consensus of the terminology arises from the lack of understanding of the pathogenesis of this condition. Also, myopic discs with temporal crescents or peripapillary atrophy (PPA) are histologically indistinguishable from TDS. Therefore, we examined the morphological background of the extreme ONH appearances such as the myopic tilted disc and the TDS by analyzing the posterior segment of the eye from a three-dimensional (3D) perspective. 107 eyes of 107 subjects were classified into 3 groups with respect to the optic disc torsion degrees: (1) mild torsion (0–30 degrees; 35 eyes) and (2) moderate torsion (30–60 degrees; 35 eyes) and (3) severe torsion (60–90 degrees; 37 eyes). SSOCT images were analyzed in coronal view, which supplements anterior-posterior depth (z axis in Cartesian coordinates). The amount of optic disc torsion was significantly correlated with Disc-DPE angle and Fovea-Disc depth (r = 0.548, P < 0.001 and r = 0.544, P < 0.001). In conclusion, we describe specific types of posterior sclera configuration that corresponds to the increasing degree of optic disc torsion, even in the extreme ONH appearances such as the myopic tilted disc and the TDS. These findings suggest that the optic disc appearance is determined by the configuration of the posterior sclera.
Overexpression of adhesion molecules and barrier molecules is associated with differential infiltration of immune cells in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Chae Young Kwang , Choi Wooyoung M. , Bae William H. , Anker Jonathan , Davis Andrew A. , Agte Sarita , Iams Wade T. , Cruz Marcelo , Matsangou Maria , Giles Francis J.
Published: January 2018

Immunotherapy is emerging as a promising option for lung cancer treatment. Various endothelial adhesion molecules, such as integrin and selectin, as well as various cellular barrier molecules such as desmosome and tight junctions, regulate T-cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment. However, little is known regarding how these molecules affect immune cells in patients with lung cancer. We demonstrated for the first time that overexpression of endothelial adhesion molecules and cellular barrier molecule genes was linked to differential infiltration of particular immune cells in non-small cell lung cancer. Overexpression of endothelial adhesion molecule genes is associated with significantly lower infiltration of activated CD4 and CD8 T-cells, but higher infiltration of activated B-cells and regulatory T-cells. In contrast, overexpression of desmosome genes was correlated with significantly higher infiltration of activated CD4 and CD8 T-cells, but lower infiltration of activated B-cells and regulatory T-cells in lung adenocarcinoma. This inverse relation of immune cells aligns with previous studies of tumor-infiltrating B-cells inhibiting T-cell activation. Although overexpression of endothelial adhesion molecule or cellular barrier molecule genes alone was not predictive of overall survival in our sample, these genetic signatures may serve as biomarkers of immune exclusion, or resistance to T-cell mediated immunotherapy.
The potential impact of invasive woody oil plants on protected areas in China under future climate conditions
Authors: Dai Guanghui , Yang Jun , Lu Siran , Huang Conghong , Jin Jing , Jiang Peng , Yan Pengbo
Published: January 2018

Biodiesel produced from woody oil plants is considered a green substitute for fossil fuels. However, a potential negative impact of growing woody oil plants on a large scale is the introduction of highly invasive species into susceptible regions. In this study, we examined the potential invasion risk of woody oil plants in China’s protected areas under future climate conditions. We simulated the current and future potential distributions of three invasive woody oil plants,Jatropha curcas,Ricinus communis, andAleurites moluccana, under two climate change scenarios (RCP2.6 and RCP8.5) up to 2050 using species distribution models. Protected areas in China that will become susceptible to these species were then identified using a spatial overlay analysis. Our results showed that by 2050, 26 and 41 protected areas would be threatened by these invasive woody oil plants under scenarios RCP2.6 and RCP8.5, respectively. A total of 10 unique forest ecosystems and 17 rare plant species could be potentially affected. We recommend that the invasive potential of woody oil plants be fully accounted for when developing forest-based biodiesel, especially around protected areas.
Enhanced anastomotic healing by Daikenchuto (TJ-100) in rats
Authors: Wada Toshiaki , Kawada Kenji , Hirai Kenjiro , Toda Kosuke , Iwamoto Masayoshi , Hasegawa Suguru , Sakai Yoshiharu
Published: January 2018

Daikenchuto (DKT), a traditional Japanese medicine, is widely used to treat various gastrointestinal disorders. This study aimed to investigate whether DKT could promote the anastomotic healing in a rat model. Pedicled colonic segments were made in left colon by ligation of the feeding arteries, and then intestinal continuity was restored. Colonic blood flow was analyzed by using ICG fluorescence imaging: Fmax, Tmax, T1/2, and Slope were calculated. Anastomotic leakage (AL) was found in 6 of 19 rats (31.6%) in the control group, whereas in 1 of 16 rats (6.2%) in the DKT group. The Fmax and Slope of DKT group were significantly higher than those of control group. DKT could promote the anastomotic healing, with the higher bursting pressure on postoperative day (POD) 2 and 5, the larger granulation thickness on POD 5, and neoangiogenesis on POD 5. Histological examination showed DKT exhibited a decreased inflammatory cell infiltration, enhanced fibroblast infiltration, and enhanced collagen density on POD 5. In the DKT group, the levels of TGFβ1 on POD 2 and VEGFα on POD5 were significantly higher, whereas the level of TNFα on POD 2 was significantly lower. Therefore, DKT could be effective for the prevention of AL following colorectal surgery.
Publisher Correction: Discovery of targetable genetic alterations in advanced non-small cell lung cancer using a next-generation sequencing-based circulating tumor DNA assay
Authors: Hou Helei , Yang Xiaonan , Zhang Jinping , Zhang Zhe , Xu Xiaomei , Zhang Xiaoping , Zhang Chuantao , Liu Dong , Yan Weihua , Zhou Na , Zhu Hongmei , Qian Zhaoyang , Li Zhuokun , Zhang Xiaochun
Published: January 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML version of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Visible-light-induced photocatalytic benzene/cyclohexane cross-coupling utilizing a ligand-to-metal charge transfer benzene complex adsorbed on titanium oxides
Authors: Yamamoto A. , Ohara T. , Yoshida H.
Published: January 2018

High selectivity was achieved in the photocatalytic cross-coupling of benzene and cyclohexane by photoexcitation of a surface benzene complex.
Challenge in optoelectronic duplex switches: a red emission large-size single crystal and a unidirectional flexible thin film of a hybrid multifunctional material
Authors: Zhu Xiao , Zhang Wan-Ying , Chen Cheng , Ye Qiong , Fu Da-Wei
Published: January 2018

[N(NH2CH2CH2)3]2Mn2Cl12is single crystal that functions as a red-light and/or dielectric switch material. This material explains the advantages of molecular materials and can be converted into transparent unidirectional films.
Development and validation of a simulation method, PeCHREM, for evaluating spatio-temporal concentration changes of paddy herbicides in rivers
Authors: Imaizumi Yoshitaka , Suzuki Noriyuki , Shiraishi Fujio , Nakajima Daisuke , Serizawa Shigeko , Sakurai Takeo , Shiraishi Hiroaki
Published: January 2018

A model simulating high-resolution concentration changes of various herbicides in Japan was developed and validated.
A semi-rigid isoindoline-derived nitroxide spin label for RNA
Authors: Gophane Dnyaneshwar B. , Endeward Burkhard , Prisner Thomas F. , Sigurdsson Snorri Th.
Published: January 2018

The new semi-rigid spin label ImUm showed limited motion in RNA duplexes and accurate distances between two spin labels in RNA duplexes were obtained by pulsed EPR spectroscopy.
Nanospheres with a smectic hydrophobic core and an amorphous PEG hydrophilic shell: structural changes and implications for drug delivery
Authors: Murthy N. Sanjeeva , Zhang Zheng , Borsadia Siddharth , Kohn Joachim
Published: January 2018

The structural changes in nanospheres with a crystalline core and an amorphous diffuse shell were investigated by small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), small-, medium-, and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS, MAXS and WAXS), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).
Optimisation of functional properties in lead-free BiFeO3–BaTiO3 ceramics through La3+ substitution strategy
Authors: Calisir Ilkan , Amirov Abdulkarim. A. , Kleppe Annette K. , Hall David A.
Published: January 2018

The structure and key functional properties of a promising lead-free solid solution, BiFeO3–BaTiO3, have been optimised by controlling chemical homogeneity via La-substitution strategies and thermal treatment.
High energy density rechargeable metal-free seawater batteries: a phosphorus/carbon composite as a promising anode material
Authors: Kim Yongil , Hwang Soo Min , Yu Hyein , Kim Youngsik
Published: January 2018

The seawater battery system shows stable cell performances, based on the open-structured cathode and closed-structured anode with the phosphorus/carbon composite.
Designing half-metallic ferromagnetism by a new strategy: an example of superhalogen modified graphitic C3N4
Authors: Yao Qiushi , Lu Min , Du Yongping , Wu Fang , Deng Kaiming , Kan Erjun
Published: January 2018

Designing half-metallic ferromagnetism at atomic scale is always one of the hottest topics for the scientific community due to its potential in spintronics applications.