bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creencias epistémicas sobre la Geografía y la Historia en la formación inicial del profesorado de Educación Infantil y Primaria
Authors: Miguel-Revilla Diego , Fernández Portela Julio
Published: February 2018

Las creencias epistémicas relacionadas con la Geografía y la Historia influyen en la manera en la que los docentes abordan su enseñanza. Esta investigación de métodos mixtos centra su atención en el profesorado en formación de Educación Infantil y Primaria, y en la relación entre sus visiones sobre ambas disciplinas. A través de la aplicación de un cuestionario de respuesta abierta, y utilizando dos marcos de análisis basados en niveles de competencia, se realiza un examen de las posiciones de 63 docentes en formación. Los resultados muestran la existencia de una correlación positiva, estadísticamente significativa, entre las creencias de ambas disciplinas. Se concluye proponiendo la necesidad de trabajar de forma específica en torno a la naturaleza de ambas áreas.
¿Cómo utilizan los conocimientos en ciencias los futuros maestros de educación infantil ante una información escrita?
Authors: Cantó Doménech José , De Pro Bueno Antonio , Solbes Jordi
Published: February 2018

En este trabajo se analizan cómo los futuros maestros y maestras de educación infantil hacen uso de sus conocimientos científicos en el ámbito cotidiano. Para ello, 64 estudiantes del 4º curso del Grado de Maestro/a de Educación Infantil de la Universidad de Valencia, después de una lectura de dos textos periodísticos sobre los efectos del accidente nuclear de Fukushima en los Juegos Olímpicos de Japón de 2020, contestaron un cuestionario abierto También debieron responder unas cuestiones sobre la utilización didáctica de los textos. Los resultados ponen de manifiesto la poca incidencia que la ciencia ha tenido a la hora de formar su opinión, así como dificultades que encuentran a la hora de usar sus conocimientos científicos en contextos cotidianos.
Towards a better understanding of protected-area management costs
Authors: Craigie Ian D , Pressey Robert L
Published: February 2018

Data on protected area (PA) management costs are essential for effective conservation planning and management. To be most useful, these data should be at high resolution, in terms of individual management units within PA systems and individual management actions. Ideally, data would also capture temporal changes in management costs in relation to disturbance events, and variations in biophysical and social context. Yet there remains no generally accepted method to collect these important high-resolution data. Here we present a new method for the collection of data on current management spending and the costs of managing PAs to explicit, and usually higher, standards than presently achieved. The method allows the gathering of data at higher spatial, temporal, and thematic resolution than has been achieved before. We highlight the strengths and potential pitfalls of this type of data collection and offer insights into how these data can be used for the benefit of PA managers, conservation planners, and policy-makers. The methods presented here could be adapted to be used by other PA management agencies and jurisdictions to better understand the costs of managing PAs effectively.
Conjunction of factors triggering waves of seasonal influenza
Authors: Chattopadhyay Ishanu , Kiciman Emre , Elliott Joshua W , Shaman Jeffrey L , Rzhetsky Andrey
Published: February 2018

Using several longitudinal datasets describing putative factors affecting influenza incidence and clinical data on the disease and health status of over 150 million human subjects observed over a decade, we investigated the source and the mechanistic triggers of influenza epidemics. We conclude that the initiation of a pan-continental influenza wave emerges from the simultaneous realization of a complex set of conditions. The strongest predictor groups are as follows, ranked by importance: (1) the host population’s socio- and ethno-demographic properties; (2) weather variables pertaining to specific humidity, temperature, and solar radiation; (3) the virus’ antigenic drift over time; (4) the host population’€™s land-based travel habits, and; (5) recent spatio-temporal dynamics, as reflected in the influenza wave auto-correlation. The models we infer are demonstrably predictive (area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve 80%) when tested with out-of-sample data, opening the door to the potential formulation of new population-level intervention and mitigation policies.
THz Generation using Nonlinear Optics: Mathematical Analysis and Design of THz antennas
Authors: Khulbe M. , Tripathy M. R. , Parthasarathy H.
Published: February 2018

In this paper, a mathematical model is designed for THz generation from a nonlinear random medium. Using nonlinear optics and Maxwell’s equations a set of nonlinear wave equations are derived to give scattered electromagnetic fields from an inhomogeneous medium. First, the analysis is done with second order nonlinearity. Its scattering parameters are calculated for THz radiation. Secondly, third order nonlinearity is described in terms of the coupling of Scalar and vector field components of nonlinear wave equations. The coupling of waves results in soliton generation. Multiple nonlinear interaction in the medium also gives wide bandwidth. Speed and high bandwidth is a demand of future networks. Hence a mathematical proof is implemented for THz antennas using SHG (Second harmonic generation) and THG (Third harmonic generation) materials. These antennas are designed and simulated using GaAs as a SHG material, and Graphene with SiO2 substrate as a THG material. GaAs is used as a substrate, which radiates at 524.8 GHz giving a high bandwidth of 25 GHz. Similarly, Graphene patch antenna with SiO2 substrate radiates in THz region at 3.5THz giving very high bandwidth of 2.5THz.
Impact of parents’ physical activity on preschool children’s physical activity: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Xu Chang , Quan Minghui , Zhang Hanbin , Zhou Chenglin , Chen PeiJie
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This study examined the associations of physical activity levels between parents and their pre-school children based on gender and weekday/weekend.

Method

A total of 247 parent-preschool child triads from Shanghai, China were analyzed. The children had a mean age of 57.5 ± 5.2 months. Both sedentary behavior and physical activity were measured in all participants using an ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometer over seven consecutive days from Monday through the following Sunday. A multivariate regression model was derived to identify significant relationships between parental and child physical activity according to gender and weekday/weekend.

Results

There was a significant correlation between mothers’ and girls’ moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and total physical activity (TPA) on weekdays. Fathers’ MPVA levels correlated significantly with those of boys and girls, with paternal influence appearing to be stronger than maternal influence. However, there was not a significant correlation between fathers’ and children’s TPA. TPA levels of both mothers and fathers correlated with those of girls, but not with those of boys. Parental sedentary levels on the weekend correlated significantly with girls’ levels, but not with boys’ levels. Children’s physical activity levels on weekends were influenced more by fathers’ activity levels than by mothers’, while the opposite was observed on weekdays.

Conclusion

Sedentary behavior and physical activity levels of parents can strongly influence those of their preschool children, with maternal influence stronger during the weekdays and paternal influence stronger on the weekends. Parents’ activity levels influence girls’ levels more strongly than they influence boys’ levels.
Chronicling a Dynasty on the Make
Authors: Ghereghlou Kioumars
Published: February 2018

This article studies Qāsim Beg Ḥayātī Tabrīzī’s unpublished account of Ṣafavid history, which has long been considered lost. Ḥayātī’s account—dedicated, in 961/1554, to Shah Ṭahmāsp’s sister, Princess Mihīn Begum (d. 969/1562)—spans the period between the formative years of the Ṣafaviyya Sufi order under Ṣafī al-Dīn Isḥāq Ardabīlī (d. 735/1334) and the early years of the reign of Shah Ismāʿīl (907–30/1501–24). Emphasis is given to the way in which it fills in the gaps of our knowledge insofar as the pre-dynastic and early dynastic phases of Ṣafavid history as well as the administrative history of the Ṣafavid shrine in Ardabīl are concerned.
Islamic Law in Theory: Studies on Jurisprudence in Honor of Bernard Weiss. Edited by A. Kevin Reinhart and Robert Gleave
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed Fekry
Published: February 2018

Islamic Law in Theory: Studies on Jurisprudence in Honor of Bernard Weiss. Edited by A. Kevin Reinhart and Robert Gleave. Studies on Islamic Law and Society, vol. 37. Leiden: Brill, 2014. Pp. xx + 370. $181, €140.
Correspondence of Tiglath-pileser III and Sargon II from Calah/Nimrud. By Mikko Luukko
Authors: Yamada Shigeo
Published: February 2018

The Correspondence of Tiglath-pileser III and Sargon II from Calah/Nimrud. By Mikko Luukko. State Archives of Assyria, vol. 19. Helsinki: Neo-Assyrian Text Corpus Project, 2012. Pp. lxxiv + 287, 3 plts., illus. $89.50 (paper).
Late Sixteenth-Century Chinese Buddhist Fellowship: Spiritual Ambitions, Intellectual Debates, and Epis- tolary Connections. By Jennifer Eichman
Authors: McGuire Beverly Foulks
Published: February 2018

A Late Sixteenth-Century Chinese Buddhist Fellowship: Spiritual Ambitions, Intellectual Debates, and Epis- tolary Connections. By Jennifer Eichman. Sinica Leidensia, vol. 127. Boston: Brill, 2016. Pp. xvi + 422. €139, $180.
Studies on the Archaeology of Ebla, 1980-2010. By Paolo Matthiae, edited by Frances Pinnock
Authors: Meijer Diederik J. W.
Published: February 2018

Studies on the Archaeology of Ebla, 1980-2010. By Paolo Matthiae, edited by Frances Pinnock. Wiesbaden: Harrassowitz Verlag, 2013. Pp. xi + 664, 226 plts. €98.
Contenitori neoassiri: Studi per un repertorio lessicale. By Salvatore Gaspa
Authors: Morello Nathan
Published: February 2018

Contenitori neoassiri: Studi per un repertorio lessicale. By Salvatore Gaspa. Philippika, vol. 67. Wiesbaden: Harrassowitz Verlag, 2014. Pp. xix + 566, illus. €98.
Books Received
Authors: Editors
Published: February 2018

Books Received
América Latina à espera pelo grito dos livres
Authors: Orso Paulino José
Published: February 2018

Este artigo trata da América Latina e sua relação com os sucessivos domínios coloniais e imperiais, e sua imperiosa necessidade de libertação e emancipação. Numa perspectiva histórica, analisamos como essa porção do continente americano, primeiramente foi submetida ao domínio europeu e, posteriormente, estadunidense que, sob o lema: “América para os americanos”, decretado pela Doutrina Monroe, em 1823, auto denominou-se “polícia da américa”, passou a governar de acordo com a política do Big Stick (Grande Porrete) e se outorgou o direito de patrocinar golpes, implantar ditaduras e plantar governos subservientes a seus interesses. O intuito é o de que, trazendo à tona esse cenário assombroso, abominável e espantoso, possamos contribuir para que de fato se compreenda os desafios que estão colocados para a América Latina e para os trabalhadores, e se construam alternativas efetivas e eficazes para fazer frente a ele e transformá-lo em vestígio do museu da história.
Una reforma jurídico-administrativa llamada educativa: el caso de México
Authors: Bertussi Guadelupe Teresinha
Published: February 2018

La reforma estructural educativa neoliberal implantada por el actual gobierno de México se caracteriza por la ausencia de modelo educativo, otorgar autonomía de gestión a las escuelas y establecer pruebas estandarizadas permanentes, obligatorias, nacionales, y públicas con el fin de evaluar alumnos,instituciones,planes,programas, así como el ingreso,promoción reconocimiento y permanencia en el servicio de docentes y directivos de la Educación Básica y Média Superior. Las presiones sociales en contra de estas medidas e irregularidades en su gestión han descalificado la reforma y llevado al gobierno a presentar un modelo educativo que será implentado hasta el último semestre de su mandato, a no profundizar en la autonomía de las escuelas y suspender temporalmente la flexibilización de la relación laboral maestro/Estado, aceptando el carácter no obligatorio y no punitivo de las pruebas estandarizadas para evaluarlos. El persistente conflicto -instauración/impugnación- que ha acompañado la referida reforma, sumado a la frágil hegemonía y legitimidad del actual gobierno, ponen en duda la continuidad en el poder de su partido y de la propria reforma en el próximo periodo presidencial, a partir de diciembre de 2018.
Coup d'état e exclusivismo político-educacional: uma análise da medida provisória 746/2016
Authors: Silva Marcelo Lira
Published: February 2018

A formação social brasileira desenvolveu-se ontologicamente enquanto uma particularidade capitalista, ou seja, estruturou-se a partir de uma burguesia agrário-exportadora, fundamentada na acumulação do capital latifundiário, estruturado socialmente no escravagismo. Nesse sentido, o processo de emancipação política do Brasil, ou seja, a constituição do Estado brasileiro passou pela crise e dissolução do sistema colonial, a partir da qual forjou-se um tipo particular de classes dominantes que constituíram um Estado sem uma nação. Tratara-se da constituição de um tipo de capitalismo hipertardio, dependente e subordinado ao epicentro do capitalismo mundial, de tal forma que as classes dominantes brasileiras constituíram-se a partir do desenvolvimento e da difusão de um pensamento eclético enraizado na tessitura social brasileira enquanto ideologia conservadora de viés conciliatório. Devido sua incapacidade de fundar-se enquanto classe dominante autônoma, constituída a partir de um projeto nacional de desenvolvimento próprio, e, portanto, de impossibilidade de competitividade no mercado internacional, as classes dominantes brasileiras criaram um tipo particular de bonapartismo-colonial, marcado pelo exclusivismo político; e, consequentemente, pela não admissão de qualquer tipo de participação e representatividade das classes trabalhadoras e demais classes subalternas nos processos decisórios do país. O tipo particular de desenvolvimento do capitalismo brasileiro forjou uma classe dominante autocrática, que pela via do exclusivismo político passou a impor a sociedade brasileira um tipo particular de dominação fundamentada em Golpes de Estado recorrentes, na criminalização das frágeis organizações autônomas das classes trabalhadoras e demais classes subalternas, e, no encarceramento e ou extermínio físico de suas principais lideranças políticas e socioculturais. Nesse sentido, o Golpe de Estado Judicial-Parlamentar-Midiático, consumado no Brasil em 31 de agosto de 2016, criou as condições autocráticas necessárias à recomposição e reordenamento das instituições brasileiras, dentre as quais as que estruturam o sistema educacional, como forma de viabilizar as condições objetivas e subjetivas necessárias ao novo padrão de acumulação neoliberal-flexível imposto pelo epicentro do capitalismo mundial a periferia capitalista.
Tsunami Scenarios Based on Interseismic Models Along the Nankai Trough, Japan, From Seafloor and Onshore Geodesy
Authors: Watanabe Shun‐ichi , Bock Yehuda , Melgar Diego , Tadokoro Keiichi
Published: February 2018

The recent availability of Global Positioning System‐Acoustic seafloor geodetic observations enables us to resolve the spatial distribution of the slip deficit rate near the Nankai trough, southwestern Japan. Considering a tectonic block model and the transient deformation due to the major earthquakes in this area, the slip deficit rate between the two relevant blocks can be estimated. In this study, we remove the time‐dependent postseismic deformation of the 2004 southeastern off the Kii Peninsula earthquakes (MJMA 7.1, 7.4), which had led to the underestimation of the slip deficit rate in earlier studies. We model the postearthquake viscoelastic relaxation using the 3D finite element model with bi‐viscous Burgers rheology, as well as the afterslip on the finite faults. The corrected Global Positioning System‐Acoustic and land‐based Global Navigation Satellite Systems data are aligned to the existing tectonic model and used to estimate the slip deficit rate on the plate boundary. We then calculate the coseismic displacements and tsunami wave propagation with the simple assumption that a hundred years of constant slip deficit accumulation was released instantaneously. To evaluate the influence of uncertainties in the plate interface geometry on a tsunami model for the Nankai trough, we investigated two different geometries and performed checkerboard inversion simulations. Although the two models indicate roughly similar results, the peak height of the tsunami wave and its arrival time at several points are significantly different in terms of the expected hazard.
Observations of Isocyanate, Amide, Nitrate, and Nitro Compounds From an Anthropogenic Biomass Burning Event Using a ToF‐CIMS
Authors: Priestley Michael , Le Breton Michael , Bannan Thomas J. , Leather Kimberly E. , Bacak Asan , Reyes‐Villegas Ernesto , De Vocht Frank , Shallcross Beth M. A. , Brazier Toby , Anwar Khan M. , Allan James , Shallcross Dudley E. , Coe Hugh , Percival Carl J.
Published: February 2018

Anthropogenic biomass burning is poorly represented in models due to a lack of observational data but represents a significant source of short‐lived toxic gases. Guy Fawkes Night (bonfire night) is a regular UK‐wide event where open fires are lit and fireworks are set off on 5 November. Previous gas phase studies of bonfire night focus on persistent organic pollutants primarily using off‐line techniques. Here the first simultaneous online gas phase measurements of several classes of compounds including isocyanates, amides, nitrates, and nitro‐organics are made during bonfire night (2014) in Manchester, UK, using a time‐of‐flight chemical ionization mass spectrometer (ToF‐CIMS) using iodide reagent ions. A shallow boundary layer and low wind speeds favor pollutant buildup with typical HCN, HNCO, and CH3NCO concentrations of tens of parts per thousand increasing by a factor of 13 to potentially harmful levels >1 ppb. Normalized excess mixing ratios relative to CO for a range of isocyanates and amides are reported for the first time. Using a HNCO:CO ratio of 0.1%, we distinguish emissions from flaming and smoldering combustion and report more accurate normalized excess mixing ratios for the distinct burning phases. While bonfire night is a highly polluting event, NO2 concentrations measured at this location are higher at other times, highlighting the importance of traffic as an NO2 emission source at this location. A risk communication methodology is used to equate enhancements in hourly averaged black carbon and NO2 concentrations caused by bonfire night as an equivalent of 26.1 passively smoked cigarettes.
Ancient
DNA
Authors: Williams Sloan R.
Published: February 2018

Ancient DNA (aDNA) is recovered from degraded biological specimens, generally of either paleontological or archaeological origin. Early research struggled to overcome the effects of molecular damage and contamination from modern sources, but new advances in sequencing technology have transformed the field. aDNA studies have contributed vital information to a range of fields, from human evolution to modern human migration and infectious disease history. The field continues to advance as researchers use new technologies to retrieve DNA sequences from even older fossils, but also expand into new fields such as proteomics and microbiome research.
Meiji Diplomacy (1868–1912)
Authors: Akami Tomoko
Published: February 2018

The Meiji government (1868–1912) toppled the shogunate government (1603–1867), and became responsible for the conduct of Japanese diplomacy in 1868. This entry provides an overview of Meiji diplomacy in the context of recent works in international history. Particular attention is paid to the imperial factor in the development of the modern international system, and it examines how this factor influenced Meiji diplomacy and the development of its diplomatic institutions. Two subjects of Meiji diplomacy which have been relatively neglected – public diplomacy and multilateral diplomacy – but have been recognized as significant in recent literature, are also given attention here.
Uncommon Aggregation‐Induced Emission Molecular Materials with Highly Planar Conformations
Authors: Yang Lei , Ye Pan , Li Wenqiang , Zhang Weijie , Guan Qian , Ye Chen , Dong Tao , Wu Xiaoxi , Zhao Weijun , Gu Xinggui , Peng Qian , Tang Benzhong , Huang Hui
Published: February 2018

Numerous luminogenic molecules with twist/rotor structures have showed pronounced aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) effect, while planar conjugated molecules usually exhibit aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) characteristics. However, development of emissive organic molecules with planar conformations is beneficial to achieving nanomaterials with high photostability for biological applications. Herein, six analogous planar molecules that show completely contrast emission behavior. 1,2‐Di(2‐thienyl)‐ethene, 1,2‐di(2‐selenophenyl)‐ethene, and (E)‐1,2‐bis(thieno[3,2‐b]thiophen‐2‐yl)ethene molecules show common ACQ effect, while the planar (E)‐1,2‐diethyoxy‐1,2‐di(thiophen‐2‐yl)ethene (TVT(OEt)), (E)‐1,2‐diethyoxy‐1,2‐di(selenophen‐2‐yl)ethene (SVS(OEt)), and (E)‐1,2‐diethyoxy‐1,2‐di(thieno[3,2‐b]thiophen‐2‐yl)ethene (TTVTT(OEt)) molecules are highly emissive in the solid state, exhibiting interesting AIE behavior. The experimental and theoretical results demonstrate that the photoisomerization is responsible for the unusual AIE activity of TVT(OEt), SVS(OEt), and TTVTT(OEt). Furthermore, the AIE TTVTT(OEt)‐based nanomaterials exhibit specific imaging of lipid droplets with excellent photostability. The ease with this strategy paves a novel way for creating emissive molecular materials with planar conformations for biological and other applications.
Emergency Medicine Trainee Burnout Is Associated With Lower Patients’ Satisfaction With Their Emergency Department Care
Authors: Lu Dave W. , Weygandt Paul Logan , Pinchbeck Carrie , Strout Tania D.
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Emergency medicine (EM) physicians and trainees report high levels of burnout. Burnout negatively impacts physician well‐being and career satisfaction but it remains unclear how burnout may influence patient care. We examined the degree to which EM trainee burnout at one institution was associated with patients’ satisfaction with their emergency department (ED) care.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional, pilot study conducted at a single institution, we measured EM trainee burnout using the Maslach Burnout Inventory through a confidential, electronic survey. We subsequently linked individual trainee burnout results with their individual Press Ganey (PG) ED patient satisfaction scores. We compared burnout scores across sex and postgraduate year using chi‐square tests and PG results via analysis of variance.

Results

Twenty‐seven of 53 (50.9%) eligible EM trainees completed the burnout assessment. Trainees reported an overall burnout rate of 77.8% (95% confidence interval = 59.2%–89.4%). There were no significant differences in burnout based on sex (p = 0.888) or postgraduate year (p = 0.671). Trainee burnout was significantly associated with lower trainee‐specific PG scores, including patient ratings of resident physician courtesy (p = 0.011), taking the time to listen (p = 0.004), keeping informed of treatment (p = 0.014), and concern for patient comfort (p = 0.006). There was no significant association between trainee burnout and patients’ overall likelihood to recommend the ED to others (p = 0.364).

Conclusion

Emergency medicine trainee burnout is associated with lower trainee‐specific PG ED patient satisfaction scores across all four physician domains. In addition to its detrimental impact on physician wellness, burnout may play a significant adverse role in patients’ perceptions of their ED providers’ interpersonal and communication skills.
Advances in Structural Biology and the Application to Biological Filament Systems
Authors: Popp David , Koh Fujiet , Scipion Clement P. M. , Ghoshdastider Umesh , Narita Akihiro , Holmes Kenneth C. , Robinson Robert C.
Published: February 2018

Structural biology has experienced several transformative technological advances in recent years. These include: development of extremely bright X‐ray sources (microfocus synchrotron beamlines and free electron lasers) and the use of electrons to extend protein crystallography to ever decreasing crystal sizes; and an increase in the resolution attainable by cryo‐electron microscopy. Here we discuss the use of these techniques in general terms and highlight their application for biological filament systems, an area that is severely underrepresented in atomic resolution structures. We assemble a model of a capped tropomyosin‐actin minifilament to demonstrate the utility of combining structures determined by different techniques. Finally, we survey the methods that attempt to transform high resolution structural biology into more physiological environments, such as the cell. Together these techniques promise a compelling decade for structural biology and, more importantly, they will provide exciting discoveries in understanding the designs and purposes of biological machines.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Enhanced Cancer‐Imaging Application of Trans‐activator of Transcription Peptide‐conjugated Ultrasmall Gadolinium Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Ahmad Mohammad Yaseen , Cha Hyunsil , Oh In‐Taek , Tegafaw Tirusew , Miao Xu , Ho Son Long , Marasini Shanti , Ghazanfari Adibehalsadat , Yue Huan , Chae Kwon Seok , Chang Yongmin , Lee Gang Ho
Published: February 2018

We prepared gadolinium oxide (Gd2O3) nanoparticles (GNPs) coated with a trans‐activator of transcription (TAT) peptide with cell‐penetrating ability (i.e., TAT‐GNPs) through one‐pot process. We characterized the particle diameter, surface‐coating structure, water proton relaxivities, andin vitrocellular toxicities of the TAT‐GNPs. We measuredin vivoT1magnetic resonance images (MRI) in a model nude mouse with liver cancer prior and posterior to intravenous administration. The average particle diameter of the GNPs was 1.5 nm. The sample solution exhibited a longitudinal water proton relaxivity (r1) of 18.2/s/mM (r2/r1= 1.6, r2= transverse water proton relaxivity), which is four to five times higher than those of commercial Gd‐chelates. Thein vivoT1MRI exhibited positively (or T1) enhanced contrasts in the mouse liver cancer after intravenous administration, demonstrating that the TAT‐GNPs acted as an enhanced cancer‐imaging agent similar to the cancer‐targeting agent in T1MRI.
Positively and Negatively Charged Collagen Nanohydrogels: pH‐responsive Drug‐releasing Characteristics
Authors: Kim Han‐Sem , Kim Sung‐Jin , Kang Ji‐Hye , Shin Ueon Sang
Published: February 2018

Researchers are facing many challenges in developing a strategy for site‐specific delivery in the gastrointestinal tract that can maximize therapeutic response and reduce side effects. The objective of this article was to develop a site‐specific drug delivery system for the gastrointestinal tract using natural polymer collagen (CG). For this, two types of pH‐responsive CG nanohydrogels (negatively charged pH‐CGNH‐COOH and positively charged pH‐CGNH‐NH2) were prepared using negatively and positively functionalized carbon nanotubes, CNT‐COOH and CNT‐NH2, respectively. The pH‐CGNH‐COOH and pH‐CGNH‐NH2 nanohydrogel samples comprising negatively and positively charged fibrils (CG/CNT‐COOH and CG/CNT‐NH2) were physicochemically characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometry, Zeta sizer, thermogravimetric analysis, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. They also revealed the pH‐responsive release of bovine serum albumin at pH 9 and cytochrome C at pH 2. These results strongly indicate that these drug carriers can be useful for site‐specific delivery in the gastrointestinal tract.
A point mutation in Phe71Ser in glycoprotein IX as a genetic cause of Bernard–Soulier syndrome: case report
Authors: Alsahafi Imtinan K. , Al‐Harbi Ibrahim , Aldor Shahad M. , Albarakati Bilqis A. , Alahmadi Ghaida B.
Published: February 2018

Key Clinical Message

We need to be aware of rare causes of persistent thrombocytopenia as Bernard–Soulier syndrome (BSS). When BSS is suspected based on family history and giant platelets, genetic test for mutations of GPIbIXV is necessary. Management varies once you recognize the cause. Platelets transfusion and antifibrinolytics are the mainstay of therapy.
Unusual presentation of oral pyogenic granulomas: a review of two cases
Authors: Parajuli Ramesh , Maharjan Sushna
Published: February 2018

Key Clinical Message

Pyogenic granuloma is a benign vascular neoplasm of the oral cavity that usually presents as a small nodular lesion, the gingiva being the commonest site. Occasionally it occurs at uncommon sites with unusual sizes. Here we describe two cases of oral pyogenic granulomas that had an unusual presentation.
Successful management of extremely high‐output refractory congenital chylothorax with chemical pleurodesis using 4% povidone–iodine and propranolol: a case report
Authors: Borcyk Kathleen , Kamil Ammar , Hagerty Kristine , Deer Melissa , Tomich Paul , Anderson Berry Ann L.
Published: February 2018

Key Clinical Message

First‐line therapy for congenital chylothorax is conservative treatment. However, surgical intervention or chemical pleurodesis is required for refractory cases. With all the concerns regarding its complications, povidone–iodin provided a successful management for a high‐output congenital chylothorax. However, renal and thyroid function must be monitored during treatment.
Chromatic adaptation in a 2D photograph demonstrated by a D‐up viewer
Authors: Phuangsuwan C. , Ikeda M.
Published: February 2018

It is said that we cannot have color constancy in a photograph. The concept of recognized visual space of illumination (RVSI) asserts that chromatic adaptation occurs when one perceives the illumination that is filling a space and not the objects in the space. It predicts then that if one perceives a 3D scene in a photograph, then color constancy will occur in the photograph. In this work, a dimension‐up (D‐up) viewer was developed to perceive a 3D scene on a 2D photograph, and the effect of chromatic adaptation was measured by the color appearance of a gray patch placed at the center of the photograph. Subjects saw the patch as a vivid color when they saw a photograph that had been taken under colored illumination, which is a normal experience in a real space observation. When the color appearance was measured by the elementary color naming method, the amount of chromaticness of the patch in percentage and the apparent hue were very similar to those observed in the 2‐room technique, thus confirming the prediction by the RVSI theory.
Safety, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics in Healthy Volunteers Treated With GDC‐0853, a Selective Reversible Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor
Authors: Herman Ann E. , Chinn Leslie W. , Kotwal Shweta G. , Murray Elaine R. , Zhao Rui , Florero Marilyn , Lin Alyse , Moein Anita , Wang Rena , Bremer Meire , Kokubu Serika , Serone Adrian P. , Hanze Eva L. , Viberg Anders , Morimoto Alyssa M. , Winter Helen R. , Katsumoto Tamiko R.
Published: February 2018

GDC‐0853 is a small molecule inhibitor of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) that is highly selective and noncovalent, leading to reversible binding. In double‐blind, randomized, and placebo‐controlled phase I healthy volunteer studies, GDC‐0853 was well tolerated, with no dose‐limiting adverse events (AEs) or serious AEs. The maximum tolerated dose was not reached during dose escalation (≤600 mg, single ascending dose (SAD) study; ≤250 mg twice daily (b.i.d.) and ≤500 mg once daily, 14‐day multiple ascending dose (MAD) study). Plasma concentrations peaked 1–3 hours after oral administration and declined thereafter, with a steady‐state half‐life ranging from 4.2–9.9 hours. Independent assays demonstrated dose‐dependent BTK target engagement. Based on pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) simulations, a once‐daily dosing regimen (e.g., 100 mg, q.d.) is expected to maintain a high level of BTK inhibition over the dosing interval. Taken together, the safety and PK/PD data support GDC‐0853 evaluation in rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune or inflammatory indications.
Cysteamine Capped Silver Nanoparticles and Single‐walled Carbon Nanotubes Composite Coated on Glassy Carbon Electrode for Simultaneous Analysis of Hydroquinone and Catechol
Authors: Butwong Nutthaya , Srijaranai Supalax , Glennon Jeremy D. , Luong John H. T.
Published: February 2018

A stable complex of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) capped by cysteamine (Cst) together with single‐walled carbon nanotube (CNTs) was used to modify a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) for simultaneous detection of hydroquinone (HQ) and catechol (CT). The resulting electrode (AgCst‐CNTs/GCE) showed excellent electrocatalysis and reversibility towards this electroactive pair. The peak separations of their oxidation‐reduction peaks decreased significantly, compared with those of the unmodified GCE. The signal responses of the AgCst‐CNTs/GCE were 5‐fold higher while its peak potential separation remained unchanged (ca. 130 mV), compared to the CNTs‐modified GCE. The oxidation peak currents obtained for HQ and CT exhibited linearly from submicromolar to hundred micromolar concentrations without any cross‐interference. The modified electrode possessed a very large active surface area with a detection limit (S/N=3) of 10 and 40 nM for HQ and CT, respectively. The sensor was demonstrated for the analysis of river water and topical cream as evinced by high accuracy and reproducibility.
Leaf characters of Lavoisiera, Microlicia and Trembleya (Microlicieae, Melastomataceae) and their implications for taxonomy
Authors: Silva Kleber Resende , Romero Rosana , Simão Daniela Guimarães
Published: February 2018

In Microlicieae taxonomical delimitation of Lavoisiera, Microlicia and Trembleya is problematic. This study aims to fill this gap by identifying leaf characters that are useful for taxonomy of these genera. Species of Rhynchanthera were also included in this study for comparison, since it is an early‐diverging genus of the tribe. Diagnostic characters of Lavoisiera include sessile leaves with spongy parenchyma composed of isodiametric cells, and acute margins with supporting tissue. Trembleya is distinguished by petiolate, microphyllous, and hypostomatic leaves. The presence of depressions on the leaf surface and a homogeneous mesophyll is observed only in species of Microlicia. The leaf characters observed in Rhynchanthera, together with the available phylogenetic studies, were important to indicate evolutionary tendencies in the leaf structure within Microlicieae. Thus, our results indicate a tendency for reduction in leaf size within the tribe, in relation to both the petiole and the lamina. This reduction, which is more pronounced in Microlicia, results in a greater anatomical heterogeneity, due to variations in the organization of both vascular and fundamental tissues.
Synthesis of cyclic carbonate via the coupling reaction of carbon dioxide with epoxide at ambient pressure
Authors: Hu Zongxiao , Fan Guozhi , Wang Yuexin , Li Jianfen , Song Guangsen
Published: February 2018

Cyclic carbonates were synthesized via the coupling reaction of CO2 with epoxides at ambient pressure. The reaction of atmospheric pressure CO2 with styrene oxide (SO) was selected as the model reaction. The coupling reaction was investigated by varying a simple catalytic system composed of Lewis acid and quaternary ammonium salt, molar ratio of catalyst to substrate, solvent, and temperature. The yield of styrene carbonate (SC) reached 91.5% in the presence of ZnBr2/Bu4NBr at p(CO2)° = 0.1 MPa and 100°C for 4 h. The coupling reactions between CO2 and a series of substrates including aliphatic and aromatic epoxides were also performed efficiently. Yields of cyclic carbonates in the range of 76.4–93.2% were achieved. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Unique fluid‐fluid level ultrasonic appearance in subacute placenta abruption with massive subchorionic hematoma
Authors: Wang Ling , Zhou Qichang , Li Lingling , Zeng Shi
Published: February 2018

A unique fluid‐fluid level ultrasonic appearance was observed in a patient with placenta abruption with massive subchorionic hematoma; it could indicate a subacute hemorrhage stage.
Assessing the combined effects of resurgence and reinstatement in children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Liggett Ashley P. , Nastri Regina , Podlesnik Christopher A.
Published: February 2018

Resurgence and reinstatement are laboratory models of relapse following treatments for problem behavior that arrange alternative sources of reinforcement, such as differential reinforcement of alternative behavior and noncontingent reinforcement. Resurgence models the elimination or reduction of reinforcers during treatment and reinstatement models the re‐presentation of reinforcers previously maintaining problem behavior. The present study examined individual and combined effects of resurgence and reinstatement in a translational model of treatment relapse with three children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. We first reinforced and then extinguished an arbitrary response while providing access to a preferred toy to model a version of noncontingent reinforcement with extinction. In the following phases, we examined resurgence by removing the toy, reinstatement by presenting the training reinforcer response‐independently, and a combination of resurgence and reinstatement. Overall, relapse of target responding reliably exceeded functionally similar responses never reinforced in the experimental situation. Most importantly, relapse tended to be greater when combining resurgence and reinstatement than when assessing either alone. These findings support previous studies showing that combinations of operations can increase treatment relapse. This translational model arranging simulated problem behavior with arbitrary tasks provides a platform from which to thoroughly and systematically assess methods for understanding and improving behavioral treatments.
Sustainable Survival for adolescents living withHIV: doSDG‐aligned provisions reduce potential mortality risk?
Authors: Cluver Lucie , Pantelic Marija , Orkin Mark , Toska Elona , Medley Sally , Sherr Lorraine
Published: February 2018

Introduction

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) present a groundbreaking global development agenda to protect the most vulnerable. Adolescents living withHIVin Sub‐Saharan Africa continue to experience extreme health vulnerabilities, but we know little about the impacts ofSDG‐aligned provisions on their health. This study tests associations of provisions aligned with fiveSDGs with potential mortality risks.

Methods

Clinical and interview data were gathered from N = 1060 adolescents living withHIVin rural and urban South Africa in 2014 to 2015. AllART‐initiated adolescents from 53 government health facilities were identified, and traced in their communities to include those defaulting and lost‐to‐follow‐up. Potential mortality risk was assessed as either: viral suppression failure (1000+ copies/ml) using patient file records, or adolescent self‐report of diagnosed but untreated tuberculosis or symptomatic pulmonary tuberculosis.SDG‐aligned provisions were measured through adolescent interviews. Provisions aligned withSDGs 1&2 (no poverty and zero hunger) were operationalized as access to basic necessities, social protection and food security; AnSDG3‐aligned provision (ensure healthy lives) was having a healthy primary caregiver; AnSDG8‐aligned provision (employment for all) was employment of a household member; AnSDG16‐aligned provision (protection from violence) was protection from physical, sexual or emotional abuse. Research partners included the South African national government,UNICEFand Pediatric and Adolescent Treatment for Africa.

Results

20.8% of adolescents living withHIVhad potential mortality risk – i.e. viral suppression failure, symptomatic untreatedTB, or both. AllSDG‐aligned provisions were significantly associated with reduced potential mortality risk:SDG1&2 (OR0.599CI0.361 to 0.994);SDG3 (OR0.577CI0.411 to 0.808);SDG8 (OR0.602CI0.440 to 0.823) andSDG16 (OR0.686CI0.505 to 0.933). Access to multipleSDG‐aligned provisions showed a strongly graded reduction in potential mortality risk: Among adolescents living withHIV, potential mortality risk was 38.5% with access to noSDG‐aligned provisions, and 9.3% with access to all four.

Conclusions

SDG‐aligned provisions across a range ofSDGs were associated with reduced potential mortality risk among adolescents living withHIV. Access to multiple provisions has the potential to substantially improve survival, suggesting the value of connecting and combiningSDGs in our response to paediatric and adolescentHIV.
T-cell egress from the thymus: Should I stay or should I go?
Authors: James Kieran D , Jenkinson William E , Anderson Graham
Published: February 2018

T-cells bearing the αβTCR play a vital role in defending the host against foreign pathogens and malignant transformation of self. Importantly, T-cells are required to remain tolerant to the host’s own cells and tissues in order to prevent self-reactive responses that can lead to autoimmune disease. T-cells achieve the capacity for self/nonself discrimination by undergoing a highly selective and rigorous developmental program during their maturation in the thymus. This organ is unique in its ability to support a program of T-cell development that ensures the establishment of a functionally diverse αβTCR repertoire within the peripheral T-cell pool. The thymus achieves this by virtue of specialized stromal microenvironments that contain heterogeneous cell types, whose organization and function underpins their ability to educate, support, and screen different thymocyte subsets through various stages of development. These stages range from the entry of early T-cell progenitors into the thymus, through to the positive and negative selection of the αβTCR repertoire. The importance of the thymus medulla as a site for T-cell tolerance and the exit of newly generated T-cells into the periphery is well established. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the developmental pathways that take place during αβT-cell development in the thymus. In addition, we focus on the mechanisms that regulate thymic egress and contribute to the seeding of peripheral tissues with newly selected self-tolerant αβT-cells.

Review on thymic microenvironments regulation of thymocyte maturation and egress of mature self-tolerant T cells.
CD64 on monocytes and granulocytes in severe acute bronchiolitis: Pilot study on its usefulness as a bacterial infection biomarker
Authors: García-Salido Alberto , Serrano-González Ana , Casado-Flores Juan , Sierra-Colomina Montserrat , de Azagra-Garde Amelia Martínez , García-Teresa María Ángeles , Melen Gustavo J , Ramírez-Orellana Manuel
Published: February 2018

The CD64 receptor has been described as a biomarker of bacterial infection. We speculated that CD64 surface expression on monocytes and granulocytes of children with severe acute bronchiolitis (SAB) could be altered in cases of probable bacterial infection (PBI) determined using classical biomarkers (procalcitonin and C-reactive protein, leukocyte count, and radiographic findings). A prospective observational pilot study was conducted from October 2015 to February 2016 in children admitted for pediatric critical care. A blood sample was taken in the first 24 hours of admission, and CD64 was measured by flow cytometry. The values obtained were analyzed and correlated with traditional biomarkers of PBI. Thirty-two children were included; a correlation was found between CD64 expression and the PBI criteria. CD64 surface expression was higher in children with PBI (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.73; P = 0.042) and the percentage of CD64+ granulocytes was higher in children with PBI. This is the first study to describe CD64 surface expression on monocytes and granulocytes in SAB, finding CD64 values to be higher in children with PBI. Larger clinical studies are needed to elucidate the real accuracy of CD64 as a biomarker of bacterial infection.
Primary murine mucosal response during cephalosporin‐induced intestinal colonization by Enterococcus faecium
Authors: Hendrickx Antoni P. A. , van de Kamer Denise , Willems Rob J. L.
Published: February 2018

Hospitalized patients are often administered antibiotics that perturb the gastrointestinal commensal microbiota, leading to outgrowth of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria, like multidrug‐resistant Enterococcus faecium, subsequent spread, and eventually infections. However, the events that occur at the initial stage of intestinal colonization and outgrowth by multidrug‐resistant E. faecium within the antibiotic‐treated host have not been thoroughly studied. Here, we describe and visualize that only 6 hr after cephalosporin treatment of mice, the Muc‐2 mucus layer is reduced and E‐cadherin junctions were altered. In contrast, the cadherin‐17 junctions were unaffected in antibiotic treated mice during E. faecium colonization or in untreated animals. E. faecium was capable to colonize the mouse colon already within 6 hr after inoculation, and agglutinated at the apical side of the intestinal epithelium. During the primary stage of gastrointestinal colonization the number of IgA+ cells and CD11b+IgA+ cells increased in the lamina propria of the colon and mediated an elevated IgA response upon E. faecium colonization.
Single‐scan z‐shim method for reducing susceptibility artifacts in gradient echo myelin water imaging
Authors: Lee Doohee , Lee Jingu , Lee Jongho , Nam Yoonho
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Myelin water imaging (MWI) reportedly corresponds closely to the myelin content in the brain. An MWI technique based on multi‐echo gradient echo (mGRE) has recently been proposed as an alternative to the conventional spin‐echo‐based MWI. However, the mGRE signal is vulnerable to macroscopic field inhomogeneity, which makes MWI unreliable. In the present study, a z‐shim‐based single‐scan correction method is proposed to overcome this limitation.

Methods

Z‐shim gradients in the slice‐selection direction were added to an mGRE sequence after an echo time of 12 ms. A 3‐pool model corresponding to the proposed sequence was suggested for fitting the acquired signal. The method was evaluated through a comparison with methods without a correction and with post‐processing only from non‐z‐shimmed data. To do this, numerical simulations and in vivo experiments were conducted.

Results

The simulation and in vivo experiment results indicated that post‐processing alone was not sufficient to offset the macroscopic field inhomogeneity, particularly in inferior regions of the brain. On the other hand, the proposed method compensated the field inhomogeneity in most brain areas. The estimated in vivo myelin water fraction values were in good agreement with literature values obtained by previously proposed field inhomogeneity correction method.

Conclusion

The proposed method showed reliable myelin water fraction in most regions of the brain in vivo, including those with severe field inhomogeneity.