bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation Strategies of Osteopathic Medical Students for the COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE
Authors: Sandella Jeanne M. , Peters Alex , Smith Larissa L. , Gimpel John R.
Published: March 2016

Context: Since 2002, osteopathic medical schools have made curricular changes to further enhance the clinical skills of their students, to prepare them for residency training, and to pass the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination-USA Level 2-Performance Evaluation (COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE).

Objective: To report how students at osteopathic medical schools prepare for the COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE, and to investigate the effect of these techniques on examination performance.

Methods: A standardized survey was given to students before the beginning of their examination to assess the preparation of osteopathic medical students for the COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE, such as coursework, orientation materials, and standardized patient (SP) encounters. Surveys that were completed by first-time test takers during the 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 test cycles were included in this study.

Results: Of 9120 surveys administered, 8733 were completed, achieving a response rate of 95.8%. Of those 8733 respondents, 8706 students (99.7%) reported having SP encounters during the first and second year of medical school, and 7379 (84%) reported having at least 1 SP encounter in years 3 and 4. Of 8733 students, 6079 (70%) reported receiving feedback from an osteopathic physician on their SP encounters, and 6049 (69%) and 6253 (72%) reported having viewed the COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE orientation video online and having read the examination’s orientation guide, respectively. The largest difference in preparation between students who passed the COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE and students who did not was a prerequisite SP examination at their school, with 5574 students (68.9%) who passed reporting having participated compared with 364 students (56.5%) who failed. None of the differences in clinical skills training and test preparation was associated with statistically significant differences in pass or fail status.

Conclusion: Osteopathic medical students use a variety of methods to enhance their clinical skills in preparation for the COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE, with universal use of SP programs since the COMLEX-USA Level 2-PE was implemented in 2004. Educators should continue to foster ways to develop students’ clinical skills that reflect new advances in education and assessment to ensure that future osteopathic physicians can demonstrate competency in fundamental clinical skills before beginning postgraduate training.
Breakdown of coevolution between symbiotic bacteriaWolbachiaand their filarial hosts
Authors: Lefoulon Emilie , Bain Odile , Makepeace Benjamin L. , d’Haese Cyrille , Uni Shigehiko , Martin Coralie , Gavotte Laurent
Published: March 2016

Wolbachiais an alpha-proteobacterial symbiont widely distributed in arthropods. Since the identification ofWolbachiain certain animal-parasitic nematodes (the Onchocercidae or filariae), the relationship between arthropod and nematodeWolbachiahas attracted great interest. The obligate symbiosis in filariae, which renders infected species susceptible to antibiotic chemotherapy, was held to be distinct from theWolbachia-arthropod relationship, typified by reproductive parasitism. While co-evolutionary signatures inWolbachia-arthropod symbioses are generally weak, reflecting horizontal transmission events, strict co-evolution between filariae andWolbachiahas been reported previously. However, the absence of close outgroups for phylogenetic studies prevented the determination of which host group originally acquiredWolbachia. Here, we present the largest co-phylogenetic analysis ofWolbachiain filariae performed to date including: (i) a screening and an updated phylogeny ofWolbachia; (ii) a co-phylogenetic analysis; and (iii) a hypothesis on the acquisition ofWolbachiainfection. First, our results show a general overestimation ofWolbachiaoccurrence and support the hypothesis of an ancestral absence of infection in the nematode phylum. The accuracy of supergroup J is also underlined. Second, although a global pattern of coevolution remains, the signal is derived predominantly from filarial clades associated withWolbachiain supergroups C and J. In other filarial clades, harbouringWolbachiasupergroups D and F, horizontal acquisitions and secondary losses are common. Finally, our results suggest that supergroup C is the basalWolbachiaclade within the Ecdysozoa. This hypothesis on the origin ofWolbachiawould change drastically our understanding ofWolbachiaevolution.
The comparison of cold-water immersion and cold air therapy on maximal cycling performance and recovery markers following strength exercises
Authors: Hayter Kane J. , Doma Kenji , Schumann Moritz , Deakin Glen B.
Published: March 2016

This study examined the effects of cold-water immersion (CWI) and cold air therapy (CAT) on maximal cycling performance (i.e. anaerobic power) and markers of muscle damage following a strength training session. Twenty endurance-trained but strength-untrained male (n = 10) and female (n = 10) participants were randomised into either: CWI (15 min in 14 °C water to iliac crest) or CAT (15 min in 14 °C air) immediately following strength training (i.e. 3 sets of leg press, leg extensions and leg curls at 6 repetition maximum, respectively). Creatine kinase, muscle soreness and fatigue, isometric knee extensor and flexor torque and cycling anaerobic power were measured prior to, immediately after and at 24 (T24), 48 (T48) and 72 (T72) h post-strength exercises. No significant differences were found between treatments for any of the measured variables (p > 0.05). However, trends suggested recovery was greater in CWI than CAT for cycling anaerobic power at T24 (10% ± 2%, ES = 0.90), T48 (8% ± 2%, ES = 0.64) and T72 (8% ± 7%, ES = 0.76). The findings suggest the combination of hydrostatic pressure and cold temperature may be favourable for recovery from strength training rather than cold temperature alone.
Comprehensive profiling of retroviral integration sites using target enrichment methods from historical koala samples without an assembled reference genome
Authors: Cui Pin , Löber Ulrike , Alquezar-Planas David E. , Ishida Yasuko , Courtiol Alexandre , Timms Peter , Johnson Rebecca N. , Lenz Dorina , Helgen Kristofer M. , Roca Alfred L. , Hartman Stefanie , Greenwood Alex D.
Published: March 2016

Background.Retroviral integration into the host germline results in permanent viral colonization of vertebrate genomes. The koala retrovirus (KoRV) is currently invading the germline of the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) and provides a unique opportunity for studying retroviral endogenization. Previous analysis of KoRV integration patterns in modern koalas demonstrate that they share integration sites primarily if they are related, indicating that the process is currently driven by vertical transmission rather than infection. However, due to methodological challenges, KoRV integrations have not been comprehensively characterized.

Results.To overcome these challenges, we applied and compared three target enrichment techniques coupled with next generation sequencing (NGS) and a newly customized sequence-clustering based computational pipeline to determine the integration sites for 10 museum Queensland and New South Wales (NSW) koala samples collected between the 1870s and late 1980s. A secondary aim of this study sought to identify common integration sites across modern and historical specimens by comparing our dataset to previously published studies. Several million sequences were processed, and the KoRV integration sites in each koala were characterized.

Conclusions.Although the three enrichment methods each exhibited bias in integration site retrieval, a combination of two methods, Primer Extension Capture and hybridization capture is recommended for future studies on historical samples. Moreover, identification of integration sites shows that the proportion of integration sites shared between any two koalas is quite small.
Weed Management Potentials of Identified Invasive Weed Species
Authors: Carcusia Annabella , Rosit James Francienne , Pascual Pet Roey
Published: March 2016

Synthetic herbicide, the most popular weed control, causes environmental hazards. The use of allelopathy in controlling weeds is a possible alternative for sustainable weed management. The study was conducted to determine the allelopathic potentials of identified invasive weed species in terms of percent and rate of germination, plant height, length of leaves and roots and percent mortality of grasses, sedges, and broadleaves. The treatments were: T0-Pre/Post-emergence Herbicide, T1Tap Water, T2-Mimosa pudica extract,T3-Lantana camara extract,T4-Chromolaena odorata extract. These were compared according to their effects on Cenchrus spinifex, Conyza canadensis, Impatiens wallerana and Cyperus rotundus. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) for Completely Randomized Design. A further test was done using Duncans Multiple Range Test (DMRT). For germination, Lantana camara is effective in reducing the percent germination and prolonging germination rate of most common weed species. On the other hand, Chromolaena odorata is effective in reducing the percent germination and prolonging the germination rate of Impatiens wallerana, while Mimosa pudica was effective against Cenchrus spinifex and Cyperus rotundus. For growth and development, Mimosa pudica was found to be the most effective in all common weed species, except for Cyperus rotundus where Chromolaena odorata was most effective on reducing the length of leaves and roots, and above ground fresh weight. Furthermore, Chromolaena odorata was found effective against both Cyperus rotundus and Conyza canadensis while Mimosa pudica was effective against Cenchrus spinifex in terms of percent mortality. Thus, such potential of invasive weed species for weed management should be utilized.
Syntactic Patterns of News Headlines in Philippine and American Newspapers
Authors: Tabula Rommel , Agbayani Richard
Published: March 2016

Linguistic and rhetorical patterns of texts are intertwined with writers’ socio-cultural backgrounds. The study explored the syntactic patterns of news headlines in Philippine and American newspapers. Specifically, it examined the grammatical patterns and cohesive conjunctions commonly employed by news writers; the contrastive analysis on the use of cohesive conjunctions in long headlines; and the cultural practices reflected in headline writing. Descriptiveresearch design was utilized in the study. Data analyzed were 30 news headlines obtained from the online edition of six leading newspapers from the two countries published daily from August 15-21, 2015. Frequency counts and percentage were employed to quantify the frequency of occurrence of the patterns. Results revealed that S-V-O emerged as the commonly employed syntactic pattern by Filipino and American writers. It is frequently applied either in simple sentences or multiple sentences. The rhetorical pattern of the two speech communities regarding cohesive conjunctions is built on the adversative. Comparatively, ‘but’ is the adversative cohesive conjunctions commonly used. Similarities of the commonly used grammatical structure existed in the two nationalities as reflected in the writing of news headlines. In contrast, S-V-C pattern was employed in American headlines while the additive ‘and’ was used in Philippine headlines. Thus, Philippine and American headlines manifest parallelism in commonly used syntactic patterns and cohesive conjunctions but have distinct differences in other grammatical aspects.
Very High Level of Teaching Behavior and Outstanding Teaching Performance of Public University Faculty
Authors: Tolentino Oswald T. , Bajet Paz Crizzle A.
Published: March 2016

The quality of education depends on several factors such as training for students, teaching activities, management of the school, and the teachers themselves. The teachers are the most important factor in successful teaching. Moreover, to influence student's behavior, the relationship between a teacher and his student is the most effective influence. The study aimed to determine the level of teaching behavior and level of teaching performance of the faculty in the College of Technology in the University of Northern Philippines. Using descriptive-correlational method of research, the study used questionnaires as primary tools in gathering the data. Findings showed that the faculty had a very high level of teaching behavior along personal, teacher and students, involvement of student, influence method, discipline control, preparing teaching method, teaching process, classroom environment and facilities, work distribution, and learning strategy and social skill. Furthermore, the faculty had outstanding level of teaching performance. The level of teaching behavior of the faculty is not significantly related with their level of teaching performance. The teaching performance of the faculty should not rest on their laurels by enhancing some aspects of their performance like sharing learning objectives with students, promoting a healthy exchange of ideas, and using appropriate evaluation tools.
Potentials of Home-made Concoction as Nutrient Solution in a Modified Hydroponic System
Authors: Rosit James Francienne , Pascual Pet Roey , Rio Jessa , Sacamay Meriam Mae , Alferez Roger , Camomot Leonilla
Published: March 2016

A Hydroponic System is a technique that is widely used in Agriculture especially in growing plants in urban areas. A study was conducted to determine the responses of lettuce grown under a modified hydroponic system to different organic solutions at Cebu Technological University – Barili Campus, Philippines.The treatments used in the study are T0 – commercial organic amino acid, T1 – Home-made concoction, T2 – Inorganic fertilizer and T3 - coconut water. Results showed that on the number of leaves, lettuces that were applied with home–made concoction had 10.13% and 15.23% more leaves than inorganic fertilizer and commercial organic amino acid applied treatments respectively (4th week). No significant difference were observed among commercial organic amino acid, home-made concoction and inorganic fertilizer, in terms of leaf length from the 2nd week to 4th week having. Furthermore, comparable results were observed between lettuce applied with home-made concoction and inorganic fertilizer on its leaf width on the 2nd week having 7.03 cm and 6.30 cm respectively. Moreover, comparable effects were also observed on commercial organic amino acid and home-made concoction in plant height having an average length of 17.03 cm and 17.00 cm, respectively. At harvesting, lettuces that were applied with home-made concoction had the heaviest weight having 43.23 g or 20.12% heavier than those applied with commercial organic amino acid and 23.67% heavier than inorganic fertilizer. Therefore, the home-made concoction is the best organic nutrient source in growing lettuce in a modified hydroponic system.
Career Management, Employee Empowerment and Motivation in an Academic Institution: Fostering Job Satisfaction
Authors: Biore Christopher
Published: March 2016

Employee stagnation in a certain position, centralized decision making and tendency for micromanagement are among the pressing issues for companies experiencing growth. The chief purpose of the study is to determine the extent of career management, people empowerment and employee motivation as perceived by the personnel of the University of Cebu (UC). The study applied the descriptive design with the use of questionnaire designed by the researcher as the major tool for data collection. The respondents were the teaching and the non-teaching personnel of UC. The results revealed that there were significant differences on the extent to which people empowerment was upheld by management as well as the motivational needs of the employees. In the aspects of motivation, among Herberg's hygiene factors, only two (2) were well addressed. These were pay and job security. Therefore, it is concluded that hygiene factors do not necessarily go together as perceived by employees despite the fact that Herzberg's two-factor theory grouped these aspects together as one.
Strategic Implementation of Maternal, Neonatal, Child Health and Nutrition Health Programs in Ilocos Sur, Philippines
Authors: Bermio Joussie Bajet
Published: March 2016

The Department of Health is committed to achieve the Millennium Development Goals of reducing child mortality and improving maternal health by 2015.The study aimed to determine the relationship between the extent of implementation of the maternal, neonatal, child health, nutrition strategy, and the socio-demographic, work-related and health facility-related factors. The study employed the descriptive-correlational method. The respondents were all the 244 municipal health office personnel of Ilocos Sur, Philippines.  The DOH guideline was partially adapted specifically on natal and post- natal part of the questionnaire. The extent of implementation of the MNCHN Strategy is "Very High"; the implementer-respondents'civil status yielded positive significant relationship while the implementer-respondents' educational attainment yielded an inverse significant relationship with the extent of implementation of the MNCHN Strategy. Moreover, the number of health personnel, consultation, and delivery room equipment are significantly related to the implementation of the MNCHN Strategy. The local government unit of Ilocos Sur, Philippines is on the process of finalizing the ordinance in support to the MNCHN Strategy and the Department of Health is also working on Health Facility Enhancement Program (HEP) so that the Municipal Health Offices could upgrade their equipment in providing higher quality of health services to the community.
Blended Learning Approach: A Case Study
Authors: Redoblo Cristine
Published: March 2016

The computer era has come to integrate and assimilate in the academic curriculum and instruction. The Blended Learning adaptation further added to the teaching and learning experience in the classroom. The study investigated the factors on the use of ICT in terms of Computer usage, Internet usage, Multimedia usage and Mobile usage in Blended Learning Approach among the faculty. It analyzed the SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) of blended learning for a Proposed 5-year Instructional Design Strategic Plan. The study used quantitative research design by the use of the constructed questionnaire and qualitative through the conducted focus group discussions within the four campuses of CHMSC. The study revealed that CHMSC faculty exhibited low extent of use of blended learning. The result also showed a significant difference in the extent of use of ICT in terms of age, sex, and workplace whereas civil status, subject taught, and educational qualification do not significantly differ. The identified factors that affect blended learning were used as a basis for a Proposed Instructional Design Strategic Plan and projected after five years. The development and package of learning materials will be realized to the clients of the institutions and other stakeholders.
Ultrasound‐Guided Fasciotomy for Anterior Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome of the Leg
Authors: Balius Ramon , Bong David A. , Ardèvol Jordi , Pedret Carles , Codina David , Dalmau Antonio
Published: March 2016

Chronic exertional compartment syndrome is characterized by exertional pain and elevated intracompartmental pressures affecting the leg in physically active young people. In patients who have failed conservative measures, fasciotomy is the treatment of choice. This study presents a new method for performing fasciotomy using high‐resolution ultrasound (US) guidance and reports on the clinical outcomes in a group of these patients. Over a 3‐year period, 7 consecutive patients with a total of 9 involved legs presented clinically with anterior compartment chronic exertional compartment syndrome, which was confirmed by intracompartmental pressure measurements before and after exercise. After a US examination, fasciotomy under US guidance was performed. Preoperative and postoperative pain and activity levels were assessed as well as number of days needed to “return to play.” All patients had a decrease in pain, and all except 1 returned to presymptomatic exercise levels with a median return to play of 35 days.
Effect of Coronary Slow Flow on the Longitudinal Left Ventricular Function Assessed by 2‐Dimensional Speckle‐Tracking Echocardiography
Authors: Narimani Sima , Hosseinsabet Ali , Pourhosseini Hamidreza
Published: March 2016

Objectives

The coronary slow flow phenomenon is defined as the slow progression of an angiographic contrast agent to the distal part of the coronary arteries on selective coronary angiography in the absence of stenosis. There are some studies with different results about the effect of this phenomenon on left ventricular (LV) function. The aim of our study was to evaluate the longitudinal LV function in the coronary slow flow phenomenon using 2‐dimensional (2D) speckle‐tracking echocardiography.

Methods

In a study with a patient‐to‐patient matched design, 36 patients with the coronary slow flow phenomenon and 36 individuals with normal coronary flow matched for age (±5 years), sex, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus were compared in terms of the longitudinal LV systolic and diastolic functions by pulsed wave tissue Doppler echocardiography and 2D speckle‐tracking echocardiography–derived indices.

Results

Lateral s′ and e′ waves were lower in the patients with the coronary slow flow phenomenon, but there were no statistically significant differences between the groups regarding the other tissue Doppler echocardiographic indices and longitudinal systolic strain and systolic and diastolic strain rates derived by 2D speckle‐tracking echocardiography.

Conclusions

Our results showed that the coronary slow flow phenomenon could not impair the longitudinal LV systolic and diastolic functions.
Hepatoprotective Effect of Dexmedetomidine Against Radioiodine Toxicity in Rats: Evaluation of Oxidative Status and Histopathologic Changes
Authors: Kismet Kemal , Sadic Murat , Bag Yusuf Murat , Atilgan Hasan Ikbal , Koca Gokhan , Onalan Ali Kemal , Senes Mehmet , Peker Seydi Ali , Yumusak Nihat , Korkmaz Meliha
Published: March 2016

Based on the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties of Dexmedetomidine (DEX), the present study was conducted to investigate the possible radioprotective effects of DEX against hepatic radioiodine (I-131) toxicity. Thirty-six rats were randomly divided into 3 groups as untreated control (Group 1); oral radioiodine (RAI, 111 MBq) administrated rats (Group 2), and DEX group (oral radioiodine and daily intraperitoneal 25 μg/kg DEX administrated rats, Group 3). In the third group, DEX administration was started 2 days before and continued for 5 days after RAI administration. Twenty-four hours after the administration of the last dose of DEX, liver samples were taken for evaluation of oxidative stress parameters and histopathologic changes. The tissue malondialdehyde and advanced oxidation protein product levels in DEX group were significantly lower than RAI group. The total tissue sulphydryl and catalase levels of DEX group were higher than RAI group and the difference was statistically significant. The histopathologic damage in the DEX-treated group was significantly less than the damage in the RAI group (P < 0.05 for all pathologic parameters). Treatment with DEX decreased the histopathologic abnormalities when compared with the RAI group. It was presented that DEX had radioprotective effect on the liver after I-131 therapy and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities are likely to be involved in the mechanism underlying the radioprotective effects of DEX. After further studies, DEX might be used as a hepatoprotective treatment regimen before administering radioactive iodine therapy particularly in patients with hepatic disease.
Biophysical controls on interannual variability in ecosystem‐scale CO2 and CH4 exchange in a California rice paddy
Authors: Knox Sara Helen , Matthes Jaclyn Hatala , Sturtevant Cove , Oikawa Patricia Y. , Verfaillie Joseph , Baldocchi Dennis
Published: March 2016

We present 6.5 years of eddy covariance measurements of fluxes of methane (FCH4) and carbon dioxide (FCO2) from a flooded rice paddy in Northern California, USA. A pronounced warming trend throughout the study associated with drought and record high temperatures strongly influenced carbon (C) budgets and provided insights into biophysical controls of FCO2 and FCH4. Wavelet analysis indicated that photosynthesis (gross ecosystem production, GEP) induced the diel pattern in FCH4, but soil temperature (Ts) modulated its amplitude. Forward stepwise linear models and neural networking modeling were used to assess the variables regulating seasonal FCH4. As expected due to their competence in modeling nonlinear relationships, neural network models explained considerably more of the variance in daily average FCH4 than linear models. During the growing season, GEP and water levels typically explained most of the variance in daily average FCH4. However, Ts explained much of the interannual variability in annual and growing season CH4 sums. Higher Ts also increased the annual and growing season ratio of FCH4 to GEP. The observation that the FCH4 to GEP ratio scales predictably with Ts may help improve global estimates of FCH4 from rice agriculture. Additionally, Ts strongly influenced ecosystem respiration, resulting in large interannual variability in the net C budget at the paddy, emphasizing the need for long‐term measurements particularly under changing climatic conditions.
Mathematical constraints on the use of transmission line models to investigate the preliminary breakdown stage of lightning flashes
Authors: da Silva Caitano L. , Merrill Ryan A. , Pasko Victor P.
Published: March 2016

The initial stage of in‐cloud lightning development is characterized by a series of initial breakdown pulses (IBPs), observed as abrupt electric field changes at a remote sensor. Recent studies have attributed this process to the stepwise elongation of a negative lightning leader channel and used transmission line (TL) models to interpret the observed electromagnetic emission. In these models a current pulse is injected at the base of the channel, propagates along it, and the current parameters are adjusted to fit the measured IBPs. In this paper we explore the limitations of TL models by comparing four of its variants: the classic TL (with no attenuation) and three modified transmission line models that have different current attenuation characteristics, i.e., following linear, exponential, and Gaussian functions. For a compact channel (less than a few hundred meters long) all four models tend to produce similar electromagnetic signatures, and nearly identical waveforms can be obtained by simply varying the channel length. It is impossible to simultaneously identify, with confidence, both channel length and the speed of current wave propagation at the source by matching a far‐field waveform. The field‐to‐current conversion factor for in‐cloud sources is not a constant and can vary by as much as 2 orders of magnitude depending on channel length and current pulse risetime. This conclusion contrasts with the assumption used by the National Lightning Detection Network, that the field‐to‐current conversion can be performed by a multiplicative constant, as it is done for return strokes in cloud‐to‐ground lightning.
The very slow solar wind: Properties, origin and variability
Authors: Sanchez‐Diaz Eduardo , Rouillard Alexis P. , Lavraud Benoit , Segura Kevin , Tao Chihiro , Pinto Rui , Sheeley N. R. , Plotnikov Illya
Published: March 2016

Solar wind slower than 300 km/s, hereafter termed very slow solar wind (VSSW), is seldom observed at 1 AU. It was, however, commonly measured inside 0.7 AU by the two Helios spacecraft, particularly during solar maximum. Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) modeling reveals that the disappearance of VSSW at 1 AU is the result of its interaction with faster solar wind. The acceleration and compression of the VSSW contributes to the observed highly variable structure of the slow solar wind at 1 AU. The VSSW usually contains the heliospheric plasma sheet and current sheet. It has higher density and lower temperature than the regular slow solar wind, extending the known scaling laws below 300 km/s. Its helium abundance increases with solar activity even more significantly than the slow solar wind. Contrary to faster solar winds, the helium ions in the VSSW are slower than the dominant protons. Combining a Potential Field Source Surface (PFSS) model with ballistic back tracing, we study the source region of the VSSW. We show that the proton density flux for the VSSW is much higher than for the faster winds, particularly at solar maximum.
Short‐term nonmigrating tide variability in the mesosphere, thermosphere, and ionosphere
Authors: Pedatella N. M. , Oberheide J. , Sutton E. K. , Liu H.‐L. , Anderson J. L. , Raeder K.
Published: March 2016

The intraseasonal variability of the eastward propagating nonmigrating diurnal tide with zonal wave number 3 (DE3) during 2007 in the mesosphere, ionosphere, and thermosphere is investigated using a whole atmosphere model reanalysis and satellite observations. The atmospheric reanalysis is based on implementation of data assimilation in the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (WACCM) using the Data Assimilation Research Testbed (DART) ensemble Kalman filter. The tidal variability in the WACCM+DART reanalysis is compared to the observed variability in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) based on the Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics Dynamics satellite Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry (TIMED/SABER) observations, in the ionosphere based on Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate (COSMIC) observations, and in the upper thermosphere (∼475 km) based on Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) neutral density observations. To obtain the short‐term DE3 variability in the MLT and upper thermosphere, we apply the method of tidal deconvolution to the TIMED/SABER observations and consider the difference in the ascending and descending longitudinal wave number 4 structure in the GRACE observations. The results reveal that tidal amplitude changes of 5–10 K regularly occur on short timescales (∼10–20 days) in the MLT. Similar variability occurs in the WACCM+DART reanalysis and TIMED/SABER observations, demonstrating that the short‐term variability can be captured in whole atmosphere models that employ data assimilation and in observations by the technique of tidal deconvolution. The impact of the short‐term DE3 variability in the MLT on the ionosphere and thermosphere is also clearly evident in the COSMIC and GRACE observations. Analysis of the troposphere forcing in WACCM+DART and simulations of the Global Scale Wave Model (GSWM) show that the short‐term DE3 variability in the MLT is not related to a single source; rather, it is due to a combination of changes in troposphere forcing, zonal mean atmosphere, and wave‐wave interactions.
Dual carbon isotope characterization of total organic carbon in wintertime carbonaceous aerosols from northern India
Authors: Bikkina Srinivas , Andersson August , Sarin M. M. , Sheesley R. J. , Kirillova E. , Rengarajan R. , Sudheer A. K. , Ram K. , Gustafsson Örjan
Published: March 2016

Large‐scale emissions of carbonaceous aerosols (CA) from South Asia impact both regional climate and air quality, yet their sources are not well constrained. Here we use source‐diagnostic stable and radiocarbon isotopes (δ13C and Δ14C) to characterize CA sources at a semiurban site (Hisar: 29.2°N, 75.2°E) in the NW Indo‐Gangetic Plain (IGP) and a remote high‐altitude location in the Himalayan foothills (Manora Peak: 29.4°N, 79.5°E, 1950 m above sea level) in northern India during winter. The Δ14C of total aerosol organic carbon (TOC) varied from −178‰ to −63‰ at Hisar and from −198‰ to −1‰ at Manora Peak. The absence of significant differences in the 14C‐based fraction biomass of TOC between Hisar (0.81 ± 0.03) and Manora Peak (0.82 ± 0.07) reveals that biomass burning/biogenic emissions (BBEs) are the dominant sources of CA at both sites. Combining this information with δ13C, other chemical tracers (K+/OC and SO42−/EC) and air mass back trajectory analyses indicate similar source regions in the IGP (e.g., Punjab and Haryana). These results highlight that CA from BBEs in the IGP are not only confined to the atmospheric boundary layer but also extend to higher elevations of the troposphere, where the synoptic‐scale circulations could substantially influence their abundances both to the Himalayas and over the downwind oceanic regions such as the Indian Ocean. Given the vast emissions of CA from postharvest crop residue combustion practices in the IGP during early Northeast Monsoon, this information is important for both improved process and model understanding of climate and health effects, as well as in guiding policy decision aiming at reducing emissions.
Active Cooling of a Microvascular Shape Memory Alloy‐Polymer Matrix Composite Hybrid Material
Authors: Coppola Anthony M. , Hu Liangfa , Thakre Piyush R. , Radovic Miladin , Karaman Ibrahim , Sottos Nancy R. , White Scott R.
Published: March 2016

Microvascular shape memory alloy (SMA)‐polymer matrix composite (PMC) hybrid materials are fabricated using the Vaporization of Sacrificial Components (VaSC) technique. Two types of sacrificial materials are used: Mg wires in the SMA (nickel titanium) and poly(lactic acid)/tin(II) oxalate fibers in the PMC (glass fiber/epoxy). These sacrificial materials survive the initial solidification of the host materials, then are vaporized during a final thermal treatment to reveal the vascular network. The effect of VaSC on composition and transformation temperatures of the SMA are examined. Active cooling through the vascular network maintains temperature in the PMC below the glass transition temperature (152 °C) at heat fluxes as high as 300 kW m−2, while this temperature is exceeded without cooling at just 10 kW m−2.
High‐Performance Multifunctional Graphene‐PLGA Fibers: Toward Biomimetic and Conducting 3D Scaffolds
Authors: Esrafilzadeh Dorna , Jalili Rouhollah , Stewart Elise M. , Aboutalebi Seyed H. , Razal Joselito M. , Moulton Simon E. , Wallace Gordon G.
Published: March 2016

The development of electrically conducting fibers based on known cytocompatible materials is of interest to those engaged in tissue regeneration using electrical stimulation. Herein, it is demonstrated that with the aid of rheological insights, optimized formulations of graphene containing spinnable poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) dopes can be made possible. This helps extend the general understanding of the mechanics involved in order to deliberately translate the intrinsic superior electrical and mechanical properties of solution‐processed graphene into the design process and practical fiber architectural engineering. The as‐produced fibers are found to exhibit excellent electrical conductivity and electrochemical performance, good mechanical properties, and cellular affinity. At the highest loading of graphene (24.3 wt%), the conductivity of as‐prepared fibers is as high as 150 S m−1 (more than two orders of magnitude higher than the highest conductivity achieved for any type of nanocarbon‐PLGA composite fibers) reported previously. Moreover, the Young's modulus and tensile strength of the base fiber are enhanced 647‐ and 59‐folds, respectively, through addition of graphene.
Tuned In Situ Growth of Nanolayered rGO on 3D Na3V2(PO4)3 Matrices: A Step toward Long Lasting, High Power Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Rajagopalan Ranjusha , Zhang Lei , Dou Shi Xue , Liu Hua Kun
Published: March 2016

Even though significant improvements have been made in sodium ion batteries, battery management mandates that all batteries in a pack are kept at an acceptable level of more than 80% capacity retention after a long cycle when it is tested for emergencies. Based on these realistic facts, the present study profitably exploits in situ grown reduced graphene oxide on 3D Na3V2 (PO4)3 matrices exhibiting a high rate performance and a specific discharge capacity of 117 mAh g−1. Unlike the earlier literature reports, it is demonstrated that the fabricated electrode shows >85% capacity retention after 6000 cycles at 10 C, the longest cycle life reported till date. The work also reasons in‐depth the outstanding sodiation/desodiation capabilities to the low hysteresis voltage and how these electrodes can be used for deep discharges by extending the potential window to 1.3–3.8 V (vs Na/Na+) resulting in a noteworthy specific capacity of ≈165.4 mAh g−1 at 1 C.
Copper‐Catalyzed Diastereoselective Synthesis of Trifluoromethylated Tetrahydrofurans
Authors: Wang Yanan , Jiang Min , Liu Jin‐Tao
Published: March 2016

The copper‐catalyzed intramolecular diastereoselective trifluoromethylcycloetherification of homoallylic alcohols with Togni’s reagent as trifluoromethylating reagent was realized under mild conditions. Various trifluoromethylated tetrahydrofurans were synthesized in moderate to good yields. Moreover, a wide range of common functional groups was tolerated.

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Insights into the Molecular Recognition Process in Organocatalytic Chemoselective Monoacylation of 1,5‐Pentanediol
Authors: Imayoshi Ayumi , Yamanaka Masahiro , Sato Makoto , Yoshida Keisuke , Furuta Takumi , Ueda Yoshihiro , Kawabata Takeo
Published: March 2016

Monoacylation of long‐chain linear diols often encounters difficulties associated with unavoidable overacylation affording the diacylate. However, several C1‐ and C2‐symmetrical pyrrolidinopyridine (PPY) catalysts were found to effectively promote the chemoselective monoacylation of 1,5‐pentanediol. The effects of catalyst structure on the performance for the monoacylation were investigated. The amide carbonyl group(s) in the pyrrolidine ring in both C1‐ and C2‐symmetrical catalysts was(were) suggested to play the key role in selective monoacylation. On the other hand, the indolyl NH group in the amide side chain of the catalysts was found to be critically important for further increasing the chemoselectivity of monoacylation only when the catalyst has a C2‐symmetrical structure. The effects of the catalyst structure on the chemoselective monoacylation were elucidated by DFT calculations, and the origin of the precise molecular recognition for 1,5‐pentanediol by the catalysts and transition state (TS) stabilization effects by these functionalities were disclosed.

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An Improved Catalyst for Iodine(I/III)‐Catalysed Intermolecular CH Amination
Authors: Lucchetti Nicola , Scalone Michelangelo , Fantasia Serena , Muñiz Kilian
Published: March 2016

1,2‐Diiodobenzene is presented as an efficient catalyst precursor for the intermolecular amination of arenes under homogeneous conditions. N‐Troc‐ and N‐phthalimido‐substituted methoxyamines serve as suitable nitrogen sources providing the corresponding aniline derivatives in up to 99% yield and with up to 66:1 regioselectivity. Key for this successful CN coupling protocol is the strained μ‐oxo‐bridged conformation of the bisiodine(III) catalyst, which induces unparalleled high reactivity.

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Wet‐Chemical Processing of Phosphorus Composite Nanosheets for High‐Rate and High‐Capacity Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Rui Xianhong , Tang Yuxin , Liu Yaqing , Wei Jiaqi , Chen Shi , Leow Wan Ru , Li Wenlong , Liu Yuanjun , Deng Jiyang , Ma Bing , Yan Qingyu , Chen Xiaodong
Published: March 2016

Phosphorus‐based materials are promising for high‐performance lithium‐ion battery (LIB) applications due to their high theoretical specific capacity. Currently, the existing physical methods render great difficulty toward rational engineering on the nanostructural phosphorus or its composites, thus limiting its high‐rate LIB applications. For the first time, a sublimation‐induced synthesis of phosphorus‐based composite nanosheets by a chemistry‐based solvothermal reaction is reported. Its formation mechanism involves solid–vapor–solid transformation driven by continuous vaporization–condensation process, as well as subsequent bottom‐up assembly growth. The proof‐of‐concept LIBs composed of the phosphorus‐based nanosheets achieve a high capacity of 630 mAh g−1 at an ultrahigh current density of 20 A g−1, which is attributed to efficient lithium‐ion diffusion and electron transfer. Such simple sublimation‐induced transformation opens up new prospects for rational engineering of phosphorus‐based materials for enhancing electrochemical performance.
Thriving and Adapting: Resilience, Sense of Community, and Syndemics among Young Black Gay and Bisexual Men
Authors: Reed Sarah J. , Miller Robin Lin
Published: March 2016

We examined resilience associated with the avoidance of psychosocial health conditions (i.e., syndemics) that increase vulnerability for HIV among young Black gay and bisexual men. We used analytic induction to compare a sample of 23 men who showed no evidence of syndemic conditions to a sample of 23 men who experienced syndemic conditions. The men who avoided syndemics reported supportive relationships with people who helped them to develop a strong sense of identity, provided them with opportunities to give back to their communities, and promoted positive norms about health. In contrast, the men experiencing syndemic conditions described numerous instances of trauma and oppression that infringed upon their desire to form positive relationships. Among these men, experiences of oppression were associated with shame, identity incongruence, social isolation, relational disconnection, mistrust of men, and expectations of further marginalization. We examined participants’ experiences through the framework of the psychosocial sense of community. Results of this study provide evidence for using strength‐based intervention strategies to prevent syndemic conditions. Findings suggest that to attenuate socio‐structural barriers to health and comorbid psychosocial health concerns, interventions must address young men's social isolation and promote positive identity and sense of community.
Congenital limb deficiency classification and nomenclature: The need for a consensus
Authors: Lowry Robert Brian , Bedard Tanya
Published: March 2016

After the thalidomide epidemic in the early 1960s, many jurisdictions developed congenital anomaly surveillance systems. Congenital limb deficiencies can act as indicators of potential teratogens. The classification of congenital limb deficiencies is essential to determine the precise cause or causes of this anomaly. This article describes the different terminology and classification that have been used over time and the need for a consensus. While there are a variety of studies examining the epidemiology and etiology of congenital limb deficiencies, there is an inconsistent use of terminology and classification which makes comparisons between studies challenging. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transparente Filme aus CO2‐basierten polyungesättigten Polyethercarbonaten: eine neue Synthesestrategie und schnelle Vernetzung
Authors: Subhani Muhammad Afzal , Köhler Burkhard , Gürtler Christoph , Leitner Walter , Müller Thomas E.
Published: March 2016

Transparente Filme wurden durch Vernetzung polyungesättigter Polyethercarbonate hergestellt, die durch Mehrkomponentenpolymerisation von CO2, Propylenoxid, Maleinsäureanhydrid und Allylglycidylether erhalten wurden. Polyethercarbonate mit ABXBA‐Multiblockstruktur wurden über sequenzielle Zugabe von Mischungen aus Propylenoxid/Maleinsäureanhydrid und Propylenoxid/Allylglycidylether während der Polymerisation erzielt. Die simultane Zugabe beider Monomermischungen ergab Polyethercarbonate mit ABA‐Triblockstruktur. Beide Typen polyungesättigter Polyethercarbonate sind durch unterschiedliche funktionelle Gruppen gekennzeichnet. Terminale Hydroxygruppen, Maleinatestereinheiten entlang des Polymerrückgrats und laterale Allylgruppen ermöglichen eine vielfältige polymeranaloge Chemie. Die Kombination aus Doppelbindungen, die mit Elektronenakzeptoren und ‐donoren substituiert sind, fördert die wirkungsvolle UV‐ oder redoxinitiierte radikalische Vernetzung. Die resultierenden Materialien sind transparent und interessant für Lackanwendungen.
Singly versus Doubly Reduced Nickel Porphyrins for Proton Reduction: Experimental and Theoretical Evidence for a Homolytic Hydrogen‐Evolution Reaction
Authors: Han Yongzhen , Fang Huayi , Jing Huize , Sun Huiling , Lei Haitao , Lai Wenzhen , Cao Rui
Published: March 2016

A nickel(II) porphyrin Ni‐P (P=porphyrin) bearing four meso‐C6F5 groups to improve solubility and activity was used to explore different hydrogen‐evolution‐reaction (HER) mechanisms. Doubly reduced Ni‐P ([Ni‐P]2−) was involved in H2 production from acetic acid, whereas a singly reduced species ([Ni‐P]−) initiated HER with stronger trifluoroacetic acid (TFA). High activity and stability of Ni‐P were observed in catalysis, with a remarkable ic/ip value of 77 with TFA at a scan rate of 100 mV s−1 and 20 °C. Electrochemical, stopped‐flow, and theoretical studies indicated that a hydride species [H‐Ni‐P] is formed by oxidative protonation of [Ni‐P]−. Subsequent rapid bimetallic homolysis to give H2 and Ni‐P is probably involved in the catalytic cycle. HER cycling through this one‐electron‐reduction and homolysis mechanism has been proposed previously but rarely validated. The present results could thus have broad implications for the design of new exquisite cycles for H2 generation.
Direct Photocontrol of Peptidomimetics: An Alternative to Oxygen‐Dependent Photodynamic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Babii Oleg , Afonin Sergii , Garmanchuk Liudmyla V. , Nikulina Viktoria V. , Nikolaienko Tetiana V. , Storozhuk Olha V. , Shelest Dmytro V. , Dasyukevich Olga I. , Ostapchenko Liudmyla I. , Iurchenko Volodymyr , Zozulya Sergey , Ulrich Anne S. , Komarov Igor V.
Published: March 2016

Conventional photodynamic treatment strategies are based on the principle of activating molecular oxygen in situ by light, mediated by a photosensitizer, which leads to the generation of reactive oxygen species and thereby causes cell death. A diarylethene‐derived peptidomimetic is presented that is suitable for photodynamic cancer therapy without any involvement of oxygen. This light‐sensitive molecule is not a mediator but is itself the cytotoxic agent. As a derivative of the cyclic amphiphilic peptide gramicidin S, the peptidomimetic exists in two thermally stable photoforms that are interconvertible by light of different wavelengths. The isomer generated by visible light shows much stronger toxicity against tumor cells than the UV‐generated isomer. First in vivo applications are demonstrated on a tumor animal model to illustrate how the peptidomimetic can be administered in the less toxic form and then activated locally in a solid tumor by visible light.
Radical Polymerization of Vinyl Monomers in Porous Organic Cages
Authors: Uemura Takashi , Nakanishi Ryo , Mochizuki Shuto , Kitagawa Susumu , Mizuno Motohiro
Published: March 2016

The radical polymerization of vinyl monomers was performed in a tetrahedral imine‐linked organic cage with extrinsic porosity (CC3). Because of its dynamic and responsive packing structure, CC3 endowed the polymerization with specific behaviors. The adsorption of styrene triggered a change in the CC3 assembly, resulting in a monomer arrangement that was suitable for polymerization within the host matrix. The polymerization reaction was strongly dependent on the crystallinity of CC3 and was promoted by amorphization of the host in a cooperative manner, which is not possible with conventional rigid porous materials. Furthermore, CC3 can recognize the polarity of substrates, and thus polar monomers, such as methyl methacrylate and acrylonitrile, could not induce the structural changes in CC3 that are required for polymerization. This monomer specificity governed by the flexibility of CC3 is useful to the prevent incorporation of unfavorable monomers into the polymeric products.