bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Participation of BMI-1 protein in cancer
Authors: Zaczek Agnieszka , Jóźwiak Paweł , Krześlak Anna
Published: September 2017

BMI-1 (B-lymphoma Mo-MLV insertion region 1) protein is a constituent of Polycomb Repressive Complex 1 (PRC1) that via ubiquitination of histone H2A affects expression of many genes. BMI-1 is involved in cellular processes such as DNA repair, proliferation, growth, senescence and apoptosis. BMI-1 plays a key role in biology of stem cells including cancer stem cells by regulation of their self-renewal and differentiation. Accumulating evidence has revealed that overexpression of BMI-1 in many human cancers correlates with disease progression and therapy failure. The results of in vitro and in vivo studies confirm the involvement of BMI-1 in tumor initiation as well as invasion, metastasis and chemoresistance. Taking into account significant role of BMI1 in tumorigenesis, especially associated with cancer stem cells, it seems that this gene may be a promising target of anticancer therapies.
Novel Stability-Indicating Chemometric-Assisted Spectrophotometric Methods for the Determination of Chlordiazepoxide and Clidinium Bromide in the Presence of Clidinium Bromide’s Alkali-Induced Degradation Product
Authors: Nessim Christine K , Michael Adel M , Fayez Yasmin M , Lotfy Hayam M
Published: September 2017

Two simple and accurate chemometric-assisted spectrophotometric models were developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of chlordiazepoxide (CDZ) and clidinium bromide (CDB) in the presence of an alkali-induced degradation product of CDB in their pure and pharmaceutical formulation. Resolution was accomplished by using two multivariate calibration models, including principal component regression (PCR) and partial least-squares (PLS), applied to the UV spectra of the mixtures. Great improvement in the predictive abilities of these multivariate calibrations was observed. A calibration set was constructed and the best model used to predict the concentrations of the studied drugs. CDZ and CDB were analyzed with mean accuracies of 99.84 ± 1.41 and 99.81 ± 0.89% for CDZ and 99.56 ± 1.43 and 99.44 ± 1.41% for CDB using PLS and PCR models, respectively. The proposed models were validated and applied for the analysis of a commercial formulation and laboratory-prepared mixtures. The developed models were statistically compared with those of the official and reported methods with no significant differences observed. The models can be used for the routine analysis of both drugs in QC laboratories.
Medida y evaluación de las creencias sobre la profesión de los maestros en formación
Authors: Asensio Muñoz Inmaculada , Ruiz de Miguel Covadonga
Published: September 2017

Las creencias sobre la función docente deberían ser un tópico importante en los programas de formación inicial del profesorado por su impacto en la práctica profesional. El objetivo de esta investigación es aportar una medida, basada en auto-informe, y una aproximación evaluativa que permita inferir el efecto que la formación inicial tiene sobre ellas, mediante un diseño ex-post facto y trasversal. Con datos procedentes de 543 estudiantes de los Grados de Educación Infantil y Primaria de la UCM, se aportan evidencias de fiabilidad y validez y se jerarquizan con CART las creencias medidas según el cambio observado por cursos.

 
Impacto del Burnout en el desarrollo profesional del profesorado universitario. Una revisión de la investigación
Authors: Rodríguez-García Antonio-Manuel , Sola-Martínez Tomás , Fernández-Cruz Manuel
Published: September 2017

Numerosos investigadores afirman que la docencia es una profesión altamente estresante, por lo que se convierte en un escenario idóneo para la aparición de burnout (agotamiento emocional, despersonalización y baja autorrealización). No obstante, la atención y estudio de los investigadores acerca del burnout en el campo de la Educación Superior ha sido menor en detrimento de otros niveles y etapas,  pese a los cambios y transformaciones que ha experimentado la Educación Superior en los últimos años y que justifican la necesidad de investigación en esta línea. Esta revisión bibliográfica ha tenido como objetivo describir los diferentes objetivos, métodos, instrumentos y variables de investigaciones en este escenario, y así conocer el estado de la cuestión respecto al docente de universidad. Posteriormente, se ha realizado un análisis de las mismas para extraer los datos más importantes de cada investigación y que pueden ser de ayuda para el avance del conocimiento en esta área. Se concluye con una problemática que va acrecentándose y que dificulta el desarrollo profesional del docente de universidad.  
Los futuros pedagogos ante el hecho religioso. Estudio exploratorio en la Universidad de Barcelona.
Authors: Freixa Niella Montserrat , Vilà Baños Ruth , Rubio Hurtado Maria José , Belghiranne El Moussaoui Fàtima
Published: September 2017

Se presenta un estudio exploratorio sobre la diversidad religiosa-cultural y el diálogo interreligioso surgido de la investigación financiada por la Generalitat de Cataluña “Gestionar la diversitat religiosa i cultural des de l’educació. Els Futurs agents socioeducatius” (2014 RELIG 00019). Se analizan los planes docentes de los grados de la facultad de Educación de la Universidad de Barcelona y se valida un instrumento de medición de las actitudes de los futuros agentes socioeducativos aplicándolo a una muestra de estudiantes de último curso de Pedagogía. Los resultados indican actitudes moderadamente altas y la importancia de estar formado para promover el diálogo interreligioso.
Propiedades psicométricas del instrumento prácticas derivadas del aprendizaje social del profesorado
Authors: Hurtado Espinoza Ana Karen , Madueño Serrano María Luisa
Published: September 2017

El objetivo fue establecer las propiedades psicométricas de un instrumento para medir en qué grado las acciones derivadas de la socialización con estudiantes, especialistas educativos-disciplinares y pares académicos contribuyen en la formación docente de los profesores universitarios. Se seleccionó de forma no probabilística a 196 profesores que se encuentran adscritos a una institución pública del Sur de Sonora, de los cuales 100 son mujeres (M edad=36.5, DE=9.4 años), y 96 hombres (M edad=42.2, DE=11.7 años). Los resultados reflejan que la escala tiene confiabilidad medida por Alfa de Cronbach de .94; en el análisis factorial exploratorio se utilizó el método de ejes principales y rotación Oblimin, se obtuvo una solución de tres factores que explican el 56.46% de la varianza de los puntajes. En conclusión, el instrumento presenta evidencias de confiabilidad y validez. Además, es una escala potencial para medir las prácticas derivadas del aprendizaje social que contribuyen a la formación docente de los profesores universitarios.
Comparison of One-Dimensional and Volumetric Computed Tomography Measurements of Injected-Water Phantoms
Authors: Levine Zachary H. , Chen-Mayer H. Heather , Peskin Adele P. , Pintar Adam L.
Published: September 2017

The goal of this study was to compare volumetric analysis in computed tomography (CT) with the length measurement prescribed by
the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) for a system with known mass and unknown shape. We injected 2 mL to
4 mL of water into vials of sodium polyacrylate and into disposable diapers. Volume measurements of the sodium polyacrylate powder
were able to predict both mass and proportional changes in mass within a 95 % prediction interval of width 12 % and 16 %,
respectively. The corresponding figures for RECIST were 102 % and 82 %.
NanoUV-VIS: An Interactive Visualization Tool for Monitoring the Evolution of Optical Properties of Nanoparticles Throughout Synthesis Reactions
Authors: Calderón-Jiménez Bryan , Sarmanho Gabriel F. , Murphy Karen E. , Montoro Bustos Antonio R. , Vega-Baudrit Jose R.
Published: September 2017

Engineered nanoparticles (NPs) are being used for a broad array of high technology applications including sensing, imaging, targeted drug delivery, bio-diagnostics, catalysis, optoelectronics and film growth seeding. The enhanced optical, electrical and catalytic properties of metal NPs are strongly correlated with their size, shape, and structure. As such, physicochemical characterization of NPs is critically important to ensure their effective use and applicability. In this context, Ultraviolet/Visible Spectroscopy (UV/VIS) is one of the most widely used methods for measuring the optical properties and electronic structures of NPs. UV/VIS absorption bands are related to important properties such as the diameter, shape, and polydispersity of metallic and semi- conducting NPs. Thus, this analytical technique is used during NP synthesis to monitor NP formation, assess suspension stability under different conditions and media, and to establish the optical properties of the newly formed nanomaterials. In view of the extensive use of UV/VIS for NP characterization and monitoring of NP formation during synthesis reactions, we have developed NanoUV-VIS, an interactive web application designed for the analysis of multiple UV-VIS absorbance spectra measured as a function of time. Graphical visualizations of the data in 2 dimensions (spectrum plot, contour plot) and 3 dimensions (surface plot) are created by this tool. In addition, the NanoUV-VIS tool evaluates and estimates important parameters related to the absorption bands of NPs, including, maximum optical absorbance, Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) peak and the Full Width at Half Maximum (FWHM) of the UV/VIS spectra. This information is available to download as a table in the software, as well as in the form of interactive plots, where the scientist can compare the behavior of these parameters in order to better interpret the outcomes of the experiment.
En særlig kvindelig skaberkraft
Authors: Richard Anne Birgitte
Published: September 2017

Anmeldelse af Eva Pohl: Et lyst værelse. Empati, rumopfattelse, kunstnerisk selvspejling og æstetik i kvindelige danske forfatteres og billedkunstneres værker i perioden 1930-90. Syddansk Universitetsforlag 2016, 129 sider.
À propos d’un vase Caliviny de Pearls. Contribution à l’étude de l’usage de la polychromie dans la peinture des céramiques amérindiennes des Petites Antilles et sa relation avec les pétroglyphes
Authors: Petitjean Roget Henry
Published: September 2017

Le choix de la polychromie pour les céramiques de la période caliviny semble directement lié aux croyances concernant l’arc en ciel et les pétroglyphes. Ce choix délibéré parait révéler la crainte qu’avaient les Amérindiens des Petites Antilles de la disparition de la pluie.
China Threat Perceptions in Southeast Asia: Problems of Bilateral Interactions
Authors: Prajuli Wendy A.
Published: September 2017

Tulisan ini berusaha menjawab pertanyan mengapa persepsi ancaman terhadap Cina masih bertahan di Asia Tenggara meskipun Cina telah meningkatkan kerjasamanya dengan negara-negara di kawasan tersebut. Artikel ini berargumen bahwa minimnya jumlah kerjasama pertahanan bilateral antara Cina dan negara-negara Asia Tenggara adalah penyebab masih bertahannya persepsi ancaman Cina di kawasan tersebut. Struktur tulisan ini terbagi ke dalam tiga bagian. Bagian pertama membahas mengenai modernisasi militer Cina. Bagian kedua menjelaskan persepsi ancaman Cina di Asia Tenggara. Sementara bagian ketiga menjelaskan penyebab persepsi ancaman Cina masih bertahan di Asia tenggara.
Identitas Islam Moderat dalam Kebijakan Luar Negeri Indonesia
Authors: Andriasanti Lelly
Published: September 2017

In recent years, Indonesia's foreign policy seems to portray moderate Islamic identity. This is, however, in contrast with the practices of Indonesia's foreign policy itself. Historically, Indonesia has been avoiding the possibility of reflecting the Islamic identity, although the majority of Indonesia's population is Muslim. This situation raises a question, "Why does Indonesia's current foreign policy promote moderate Islamic identity?" The methodology used in this study is a qualitative method, specifically discourse analysis. There are four results of this study. First of all, by portraying moderate Islamic identity, Indonesia wants to distinguish itself from the other Muslim-majority countries, especially those in the Middle East region. Second, there are expectations from the international community, especially Western countries, to understand and to get closer to the Muslim world. Third, Indonesian Government wants to accommodate the voice of domestic Muslim community that has been expecting a better relation with the Muslim world. Last but not least, in accordance with the consistency of its worldview, Indonesia has a motivation to take part in international relations.
Measuring Cost per Use of Library-Funded Open Access Article Processing Charges: Examination and Implications of One Method
Authors: Hampson Crystal , Stregger Elizabeth
Published: September 2017

INTRODUCTION Libraries frequently support their open access (OA) fund using money from their collections budget. Interest in assessment of OA funds is arising. Cost per use is a common method to assess library collections expenditures. OA article processing charges (APCs) are a one-time cost for global, perpetual use. Article level metrics provide data on global, cumulative article level usage. This article examines a method and discusses the limitations and implications of using article level metrics to calculate cost per use for OA APCs. METHODS Using different APC models from two publishers, PLOS and BioMed Central, this article presents a cost per use formula for each model. RESULTS The formula for each model is demonstrated with available data. The examples suggest a very low cost per use for OA APCs after only three years. DISCUSSION Several limitations exist to obtaining article level data currently, including the nature of open access and accessibility of the data. OA articles’ usage levels are high and include use from altruistic access. Cost per use comparison with traditional publishing models is possible; however, comparison between different OA expenditures with very low costs per use may not be helpful. CONCLUSION Article level metrics can provide a means to measure cost per use of OA APCs. Libraries need increased access to article level usage data. They will also need to develop new benchmarks and expectations to evaluate APC payments, given higher usage levels for OA articles and considering altruistic access.
Effects of Bed Forms and Large Protruding Grains on Near‐Bed Flow Hydraulics in Low Relative Submergence Conditions
Authors: Monsalve Angel , Yager Elowyn M. , Schmeeckle Mark W.
Published: September 2017

In mountain rivers, bed forms, large relatively immobile grains, and bed texture and topographic variability can significantly alter local and reach‐averaged flow characteristics. The low relative submergence of large immobile grains causes highly three‐dimensional flow fields that may not be represented by traditional shear stress, flow velocity, and turbulence intensity equations. To explore the influence of large protruding grains and bed forms on flow properties, we conducted a set of experiments in which we varied the relative submergence while holding the sediment transport capacity and upstream sediment supply constant. Flow and bed measurements were conducted at the beginning and end of each experiment to account for the absence or presence of bed forms, respectively. Detailed information on the flow was obtained by combining our measurements with a 3‐D numerical model. Commonly used velocity profile equations only performed well at the reach scale when shallow flow effects and the roughness length of the relatively mobile sediment were considered. However, at the local scale large deviations from these profiles were observed and simple methods to estimate the spatial distribution of near‐bed shear stresses are likely to be inaccurate. Zones of high turbulent kinetic energy occurred near the water surface and were largely controlled by the immobile grains and plunging flow. The reach‐averaged shear stress did not correlate to depth or slope, as commonly assumed, but instead was controlled by the relative boulder submergence and degree of plunging flow. For accurate flow predictions in mountain rivers, the effects of bed forms and large boulders must be considered.
Single‐Column Model Simulations of Subtropical Marine Boundary‐Layer Cloud Transitions Under Weakening Inversions
Authors: Neggers R. A. J. , Ackerman A. S. , Angevine W. M. , Bazile E. , Beau I. , Blossey P. N. , Boutle I. A. , de Bruijn C. , Cheng A. , van der Dussen J. , Fletcher J. , Dal Gesso S. , Jam A. , Kawai H. , Cheedela S. K. , Larson V. E. , Lefebvre M.‐P. , Lock A. P. , Meyer N. R. , de Roode S. R. , de Rooy W. , Sandu I. , Xiao H. , Xu K.‐M.
Published: September 2017

Results are presented of the GASS/EUCLIPSE single‐column model intercomparison study on the subtropical marine low‐level cloud transition. A central goal is to establish the performance of state‐of‐the‐art boundary‐layer schemes for weather and climate models for this cloud regime, using large‐eddy simulations of the same scenes as a reference. A novelty is that the comparison covers four different cases instead of one, in order to broaden the covered parameter space. Three cases are situated in the North‐Eastern Pacific, while one reflects conditions in the North‐Eastern Atlantic. A set of variables is considered that reflects key aspects of the transition process, making use of simple metrics to establish the model performance. Using this method, some longstanding problems in low‐level cloud representation are identified. Considerable spread exists among models concerning the cloud amount, its vertical structure, and the associated impact on radiative transfer. The sign and amplitude of these biases differ somewhat per case, depending on how far the transition has progressed. After cloud breakup the ensemble median exhibits the well‐known “too few too bright” problem. The boundary‐layer deepening rate and its state of decoupling are both underestimated, while the representation of the thin capping cloud layer appears complicated by a lack of vertical resolution. Encouragingly, some models are successful in representing the full set of variables, in particular, the vertical structure and diurnal cycle of the cloud layer in transition. An intriguing result is that the median of the model ensemble performs best, inspiring a new approach in subgrid parameterization.
Anisotropic Horizontal Thermal Contraction of Young Oceanic Lithosphere Inferred From Stress Release Due To Oceanic Intraplate Earthquakes
Authors: Sasajima Ryohei , Ito Takeo
Published: September 2017

How freely the oceanic lithosphere contracts horizontally due to thermal contraction is important information, because it reflects the boundary condition of the oceanic lithosphere, which includes information regarding the magnitude of driving/resisting forces of plate tectonics. We investigated the horizontal thermal contraction of young oceanic lithosphere using an analysis of the intraplate stress release due to oceanic intraplate earthquakes (OCEQs) and numerical simulations. The stress release due to OCEQs in young oceanic lithosphere (5–15 Ma) shows significant differences between the spreading directional component and the ridge‐parallel component. The extensional stress release of the ridge‐parallel component is 6 times as large as that of the spreading directional component, while the compressional stress release of the ridge‐parallel component is one seventh that of the spreading directional component. We conducted a numerical simulation of the thermal stress evolution of the oceanic lithosphere to investigate how the difference in the horizontal contraction rates between the spreading direction and the ridge‐parallel direction can explain the observed anisotropic stress release. The result indicates that young oceanic lithosphere (5–15 Ma) barely contracts in the ridge‐parallel direction (only 0–30% of the spreading directional contraction rate), while it contracts freely in the spreading direction due to the weakness of the oceanic ridge strength and the low‐viscosity asthenosphere. From the results, we constrained the magnitude of the basal traction working on the bottom of the oceanic lithosphere to be smaller than 0.44 MPa.
Coculture of endothelial progenitor cells and mesenchymal stem cells enhanced their proliferation and angiogenesis through PDGF and Notch signaling
Authors: Liang Tangzhao , Zhu Lei , Gao Wenling , Gong Ming , Ren Jianhua , Yao Hui , Wang Kun , Shi Dehai
Published: September 2017

The beneficial effects of combined use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) on tissue repair and regeneration after injury have been demonstrated, but the underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of direct contact coculture of human bone marrow‐derived EPCs (hEPCs)/human bone marrow‐derived MSCs (hMSCs) on their proliferation and angiogenic capacities and the underlying mechanism. hEPCs and hMSCs were cocultured in a 2D mixed monolayer or a 3D transwell membrane cell‐to‐cell coculture system. Cell proliferation was determined by Cell Counting Kit‐8. Angiogenic capacity was evaluated by in vitro angiogenesis assay. Platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB (PDGF‐BB), PDGF receptor neutralizing antibody (AB‐PDGFR), and DAPT (a γ‐secretase inhibitor) were used to investigate PDGF and Notch signaling. Cell proliferation was significantly enhanced by hEPCs/hMSCs 3D‐coculture and PDGF‐BB treatment, but inhibited by AB‐PDGFR. Expression of cyclin D1, PDGFR, Notch1, and Hes1 was markedly enhanced by PDGF‐BB but inhibited by DAPT. In vitro angiogenesis assay showed that hEPCs/hMSCs coculture and PDGF‐BB significantly enhanced angiogenic capacity, whereas AB‐PDGFR significantly reduced the angiogenic capacity. PDGF‐BB increased the expression of kinase insert domain receptor (KDR, an endothelial marker) and activated Notch1 signaling in cocultured cells, while DAPT attenuated the promoting effect of PDGF‐BB on KDR expression of hEPCs/hMSCs coculture. hEPCs/hMSCs coculture enhanced their proliferation and angiogenic capacities. PDGF and Notch signaling pathways participated in the promoting effects of hEPCs/hMSCs coculture, and there was crosstalk between these two signaling pathways. Our findings should aid understanding of the mechanism of beneficial effects of hEPCs/hMSCs coculture.
Techniques for Imaging Intercellular Transport
Authors: Oparka Karl , Boevink Petra
Published: September 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Microinjection

Fluorescent Reporter Proteins

Red Fluorescent Proteins

Biolistic Bombardment

Viral Vectors

Tissue or Cell‐Specific Promoters

PhotoactivatableGFP

Fluorescence Recovery after Photobleaching

FlAsHandReAsH

Ablation Techniques

Quantum Dots
Regulation of Plasmodesmal Conductance
Authors: Holdaway‐Clarke Terena L.
Published: September 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Monitoring Plasmodesmal Conductance

Regulation of Plasmodesmal Conductance

Mechanisms

Conclusion
Floral Induction
Authors: Tremblay Reynald , Colasanti Joseph
Published: September 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Floral Transition is Marked by Developmental Phase Changes

Floral Induction is Mediated through Multiple Pathways

Photoperiodic Floral Induction Provides a Cue to Seasonal Changes

Autonomous Pathway

Vernalization

Hormones and Other Factors

Perspective
The Genetic Control of Flower Size and Shape
Authors: Fulton Lynette , Batoux Martine , Yadav Ram Kishor , Schneitz Kay
Published: September 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Flower Primordium Outgrowth

Regulating Flower Meristem Size

Early Control of Organogenesis in the Flower

Generating Organ Boundaries

Floral Organ Size

Flower Shape and Symmetry

Dorsoventral Symmetry

Outlook: to Boldly go Where no One has Gone Before …

Acknowledgements
Robust output tracking of uncertain nonlinear time‐delay systems with unknown dead‐zone inputs via control schemes with a simple structure
Authors: Wu Hansheng
Published: September 2017

The adaptive robust output tracking control problem is considered for a class of uncertain nonlinear time‐delay systems with completely unknown dead‐zone inputs. A new design method is proposed so that some adaptive robust output tracking control schemes with a rather simple structure can be constructed. It is not necessary to know the nonlinear upper bound functions of uncertain nonlinearities. In fact, the constructed output tracking control schemes are structurally linear in the state and have a self‐tuning control gain function that is updated by an adaptation law. In this paper, the dead‐zone input is nonsymmetric, and its information is assumed to be completely unknown. In addition, a numerical example is given to describe the design procedure of the presented method, and the simulations of this numerical example are implemented to demonstrate the validity of the theoretical results.
Confinement of Long‐Lived Triplet Excitons in Organic Semiconducting Host–Guest Systems
Authors: Notsuka Naoto , Kabe Ryota , Goushi Kenichi , Adachi Chihaya
Published: September 2017

Long‐lived triplet excitons on organic molecules easily deactivate at room temperature because of the presence of thermally activated nonradiative pathways. This study demonstrates long‐lived phosphorescence at room temperature resulting from suppression of the nonradiative deactivation of triplet excitons in conventional organic semiconducting host–guest systems. The nonradiative deactivation pathway strongly depends on the triplet energy gap between the guest emitting molecules and the host matrices. The triplet energy gap required to confine the long‐lived triplet excitons (≈0.5 eV) is much larger than that of conventional host–guest systems for phosphorescent emitters. By effectively confining the triplet excitons, this study demonstrates long‐lived room‐temperature phosphorescence under optical and electrical excitation.
Gecko‐Gaskets for Multilayer, Complex, and Stretchable Liquid Metal Microwave Circuits and Antennas
Authors: Zandvakili Mersedeh , Honari Mohammad Mahdi , Mousavi Pedram , Sameoto Dan
Published: September 2017

This paper describes a reliable, repeatable, and cost effective solution for fabrication of complex mechanically reconfigurable microfluidic devices for soft electronics. The devices are made of eutectic gallium indium (EGaIn) in styrene‐ethylene‐butylene‐styrene thermoplastic elastomer with gecko‐adhesive based bonding which both aids in sealing thin channels and directing flow of high surface energy metal into small channels in a repeatable process. Selective filling of complex microfluidic structures is achieved by controlled advancement of EGaIn‐air interface using optimized hydrophobic valves. These valves are designed based on EGaIn's critical Laplace pressure to fabricate variable aspect ratio and multilayer features or designs with multiple branches and arrays of isolated elements. As a proof of concept, different antennas (bow‐tie, folded and multilayer dipoles, and microstrip patch antennas) and a hybrid power divider are fabricated with total device thicknesses less than 600 µm. These devices can conform to complex surfaces for applications like body worn sensors, and can be stretched or bent to change their electromagnetic properties such as center frequency, bandwidth, and impedance matching.
Comparison of Online and Classroom‐based Formats for Teaching Emergency Medicine to Medical Students in Uganda
Authors: Mahadevan Swaminatha V. , Walker Rebecca , Kalanzi Joseph , Stone Luggya Tonny , Bills Corey , Acker Peter , Apfeld Jordan C. , Newberry Jennifer , Becker Joseph , Mantha Aditya , Tecklenburg Strehlow Anne N. , Strehlow Matthew C.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

Severe global shortages in the health care workforce sector have made improving access to essential emergency care challenging. The paucity of trained specialists in low‐ and middle‐income countries translates to large swathes of the population receiving inadequate care. Efforts to expand emergency medicine (EM) education are similarly impeded by a lack of available and appropriate teaching faculty. The development of comprehensive, online medical education courses offers a potentially economical, scalable, and lasting solution for universities experiencing professional shortages.

Methods

An EM course addressing core concepts and patient management was developed for medical students enrolled at Makerere University College of Health Sciences in Kampala, Uganda. Material was presented to students in two comparable formats: online video modules and traditional classroom‐based lectures. Following completion of the course, students were assessed for knowledge gains.

Results

Forty‐two and 48 students enrolled and completed all testing in the online and classroom courses, respectively. Student knowledge gains were equivalent (classroom 25 ± 8.7% vs. online 23 ± 6.5%, p = 0.18), regardless of the method of course delivery.

Conclusions

A summative evaluation of Ugandan medical students demonstrated that online teaching modules are effectively equivalent and offer a viable alternative to traditional classroom‐based lectures delivered by on‐site, visiting faculty in their efficacy to teach expertise in EM. Web‐based curriculum can help alleviate the burden on universities in developing nations struggling with a critical shortage of health care educators while simultaneously satisfying the growing community demand for access to emergency medical care. Future studies assessing the long‐term retention of course material could gauge its incorporation into clinical practice.
Occupation and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Minsk tractor plant workers
Authors: Vinnikov Denis , Semizhon Sergey , Rybina Tatsyana , Savich Ludmila , Scherbitsky Vicktor , Manichev Igor
Published: September 2017

Background

The aim of this study was to measure the association of exposure to dust at workplace with COPD using objective methods of exposure and outcome classification.

Methods

Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) to forced vital capacity (FVC) <70%; FVC below LLN, and FEV1 below LLN from the annual screening of Minsk Tractor Plant workers (N = 458) were tested for predictors in an adjusted logistic regression model.

Results

In a regression model, adjusted for pack‐years of smoking, age, sex, and work duration, work in highly exposed workplaces was associated with FEV1/FVC<70% (odds ratio (OR) 2.10 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.16;3.83); and FEV1<LLN (OR 2.24 (95% CI 1.18;4.25)). Given the fraction of workers exposed 0.20, population attributable fraction (PAF%) of COPD due to dust exposure was 18%.

Conclusions

Workers in highly exposed to dust workplaces had double odds of developing COPD.
Enhanced Intrinsic Voltage Gain in Artificially Stacked Bilayer CVD Graphene Field Effect Transistors
Authors: Pandey Himadri , Aguirre‐Morales Jorge‐Daniel , Kataria Satender , Fregonese Sebastien , Passi Vikram , Iannazzo Mario , Zimmer Thomas , Alarcon Eduard , Lemme Max C.
Published: September 2017

We report on electronic transport in dual‐gate, artificially stacked bilayer graphene field effect transistors (BiGFETs) fabricated from large‐area chemical vapor deposited (CVD) graphene. The devices show enhanced tendency to current saturation, which leads to reduced minimum output conductance values. This results in improved intrinsic voltage gain of the devices when compared to monolayer graphene FETs. We employ a physics based compact model originally developed for Bernal stacked bilayer graphene FETs (BSBGFETs) to explore the observed phenomenon. The improvement in current saturation may be attributed to increased charge carrier density in the channel and thus reduced saturation velocity due to carrier‐carrier scattering.
High‐Temperature Formation of a Functional Film at the Cathode/Electrolyte Interface in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries: An In Situ AFM Study
Authors: Lang Shuang‐Yan , Shi Yang , Guo Yu‐Guo , Wen Rui , Wan Li‐Jun
Published: September 2017

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries have been attracting wide attention for their promising high specific capacity. A deep understanding of Li–S interfacial mechanism including the temperature (T) effect is required to meet the demands for battery modification and systematic study. Herein, the interfacial behavior during discharge/charge is investigated at high temperature (HT) of 60 °C in an electrolyte based on lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl) imide (LiFSI). By in situ atomic force microscopy (AFM), dynamic evolution of insoluble Li2S2 and Li2S is studied at the nanoscale. An in situ formed functional film can be directly monitored at 60 °C after Li2S nucleation. It retards side reactions and facilitates interfacial redox. The insight into the interfacial processes at HT provides direct evidence of the existence of the film and reveals its dynamic behavior, providing a new avenue for electrolyte design and performance enhancement.
A selective and sensitive fluorescent sensor for cysteine detection based on bi‐8‐carboxamidoquinoline derivative and Cu2+ complex
Authors: Chai Guoping , Liu Qingwen , Fei Qiang , Zhang Jinling , Sun Xiaoxiao , Shan Hongyan , Feng Guodong , Huan Yanfu
Published: September 2017

In this paper, a novel fluorescent sensor 1 for selective and sensitive detection of cysteine was developed based on a complex between bi‐8‐carboxamidoquinoline derivative ligand (L) and Cu2+. The interaction of Cu2+ with the ligand causes a dramatic fluorescence quenching most likely due to its high affinity towards Cu2+ and a ligand–metal charge transfer (LMCT) process. The in situ generated L–Cu2 complex was utilized as a chemosensing ensemble for cysteine. In the presence of cysteine, the fluorophore, L, was released from L–Cu2 complex because of the strong affinity of cysteine to Cu2+ via the Cu–S bond, leading to the fluorescence recovery of the ligand. The proposed displacement mechanism was confirmed by the results of mass spectrometry (MS) study. Under optimized conditions, the recovered fluorescence intensity is linear with cysteine concentrations in the range 1 × 10−6 mol/l to 8 × 10−6 mol/l. The detection limit for cysteine is 1.92 × 10−7 mol/l. Furthermore, the established method showed a highly sensitive and selective response to cysteine among the 20 fundamental α‐amino acids used as the building blocks of proteins, after Ni2+ was used as a masking agent to eliminate the interference of His. The proposed sensor is applicable in monitoring cysteine in practical samples with good recovery rate.
Outcome after restorative proctocolectomy and ileal pouch–anal anastomosis in children and adults
Authors: Diederen K , Sahami S S , Tabbers M M , Benninga M A , Kindermann A , Tanis P J , Oomen M W , de Jong J R , Bemelman W A
Published: September 2017

Background

Studies comparing the outcome of ileal pouch–anal anastomosis (IPAA) in children and adults are scarce. This complicates decision-making in young patients. The aim of this study was to compare adverse events and pouch function between children and adults who underwent IPAA.

Methods

This cross-sectional cohort study included all consecutive children (aged less than 18 years) and adults with a diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease or familial adenomatous polyposis who underwent IPAA in a tertiary referral centre between 2000 and 2015. Adverse events were assessed by chart review, and pouch function by interview using a pouch function score (PFS).

Results

In total, 445 patients underwent IPAA: 41 children (median age 15 years) and 404 adults (median age 39 years), with a median follow-up of 22 (i.q.r. 8–68) months. Being overweight (P = 0·001), previous abdominal surgery (P = 0·018), open procedures (P < 0·001) and defunctioning ileostomy (P = 0·014) were less common among children than adult patients. The occurrence of anastomotic leakage, surgical fistulas, chronic pouchitis and Crohn's of the pouch was not associated with paediatric age at surgery, nor was pouch failure. The development of anastomotic strictures was associated with having IPAA surgery during childhood (odds ratio 4·22, 95 per cent c.i. 1·13 to 15·77; P = 0·032). Pouch function at last follow-up was similar in the children and adult groups (median PFS 5·0 versus 6·0 respectively; P = 0·194).

Conclusion

Long-term pouch failure rates and pouch function were similar in children and adults. There is no need for a more cautious attitude to use of IPAA in children based on concerns about poor outcome.
Sex hormones and brain volumes in a longitudinal study of middle‐aged men in the CARDIA study
Authors: Elbejjani Martine , Schreiner Pamela J. , Siscovick David S. , Sidney Stephen , Lewis Cora E. , Bryan Nick R. , Launer Lenore J.
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Several findings suggest that testosterone (T) is neuroprotective and that declining T levels during aging are associated with cognitive and brain pathologies; however, little is known on T and brain health in middle‐age. We examined the relationships of total T, bioavailable T, and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels with total and regional gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) volumes in middle‐aged men. We also evaluated the association of sex hormone levels with cognitive function.

Methods

Analysis included 267 community‐dwelling men participating in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) substudy. Total T, bioavailable T, and SHBG levels were measured at three times from the 2nd to 4th decade of life; brain volumes were measured at the ages of 42–56. Associations were estimated using linear regression models, adjusted for several potential confounders.

Results

Higher SHBG levels were associated with greater total WM volume (+3.15 cm3 [95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.01, 6.28] per one standard deviation higher SHBG). Higher SHBG levels were associated with lower total and regional GM volumes overall and significantly with smaller parietal GM volume (−0.96 cm3 [95%CI = −1.71, −0.21]). T levels were not related to brain volumes. Neither T nor SHBG levels were associated with cognitive function.

Conclusion

Results suggest a role for SHBG in structural brain outcomes in men and emphasize the value of investigating SHBG levels as modulators of sex hormone and metabolic pathways regulating brain and behavioral characteristics in men.
Hydrothermally Stable Ruthenium–Zirconium–Tungsten Catalyst for Cellulose Hydrogenolysis to Polyols
Authors: Lucas Martin , Fabičovicová Katarina , Claus Peter
Published: September 2017

In this work, we describe a catalytic material based on a zirconium–tungsten oxide with ruthenium for the hydrogenolysis of microcrystalline cellulose under hydrothermal conditions. With these catalysts, polyols can be produced with high yields. High and stable polyol yields were also achieved in recycling tests. A catalyst with 4.5 wt % ruthenium in total achieved a carbon efficiency of almost 100 %. The prepared Zr‐W oxide is mesoporous and largely stable under hydrothermal conditions (493 K and 65 bar hydrogen). Decomposition into the components ZrO2 and WO3 could be observed at temperatures of 1050 K in air.
Moïse Haïssinsky: The Discoverer of Underpotential Deposition
Authors: Scholz Fritz , Leiva Ezequiel P. M.
Published: September 2017

Underpotential deposition (upd) is a highly important topic within electrochemistry. Its discovery and early development are tightly connected with the rise of radiochemistry at the beginning of the last century and the nuclear weapon and atomic energy programs during and after World War II. Only later it reached fundamental electrochemistry in civil research institutes. Moïse Haïssinsky played a key role in discovering upd, when he worked at “L'Institut du Radium” in Paris, starting under the directorship of Marie Skłodowska‐Curie. Among all of the scientists who have to be named in a history of upd, Moïse Haïssinsky is the least well known, because his research was later almost entirely in the field of radiochemistry. In this paper, he is remembered for his contributions to electrochemistry and his life is described in more detail.
Hybridized 1T/2H MoS2 Having Controlled 1T Concentrations and its use in Supercapacitors
Authors: Thi Xuyen Nguyen , Ting Jyh‐Ming
Published: September 2017

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanoflowers consisting of hybridized 1T/2H phases have been synthesized by using a microwave‐assisted hydrothermal (MTH) method. The concentration of the 1T phase, ranging from 40 % to 73 %, is controlled by simply adjusting the ratio of the Mo and S precursors. By using the hybridized 1T/2H MoS2 as an electrode material, it was demonstrated that the resulting supercapacitor performance is dominated by the 1T phase concentration. It was found that a supercapacitor with 73 % 1T phase exhibits excellent capacitance of 259 F g−1 and great cyclic stability after 1000 cycles. The formation mechanism of the MHT‐synthesized hybridized 1T/2H MoS2 is also reported. More importantly, the mechanism also explains the observed relationship between the 1T phase concentration and the ratio of the Mo and S precursors.
Probability of cancer in high‐risk patients predicted by the protein‐based lung cancer biomarker panel in China: LCBP study
Authors: Yang Dawei , Zhang Xiaoju , Powell Charles A. , Ni Jun , Wang Bin , Zhang Jianya , Zhang Yafei , Wang Lijie , Xu Zhihong , Zhang Li , Wu Guoming , Song Yong , Tian Wenhua , Hu Jia‐an , Zhang Yong , Hu Jie , Hong Qunying , Song Yuanlin , Zhou Jian , Bai Chunxue
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

The authors built a model for lung cancer diagnosis previously based on the blood biomarkers progastrin‐releasing peptide (ProGRP), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC), and cytokeratin 19 fragment (CYFRA21‐1). In the current study, they examined whether modification of the model to include relevant clinical information, risk factors, and low‐dose chest computed tomography screening would improve the performance of the biomarker panel in large cohorts of Chinese adults.

METHODS

The current study was a large‐scale multicenter study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01928836) performed in a Chinese population. A total of 715 participants were enrolled from 5 regional centers in Beijing, Henan, Nanjing, Shanghai, and Chongqing between October 2012 and February 2014. Serum biomarkers ProGRP, CEA, SCC, and CYFRA21‐1 were analyzed on the ARCHITECT i2000SR. Relevant clinical information was collected and used to develop a patient risk model and a nodule risk model.

RESULTS

The resulting patient risk model had an area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.7037 in the training data set and 0.7190 in the validation data set. The resulting nodule risk model had an area under the ROC curve of 0.9151 in the training data set and 0.5836 in the validation data set. Moreover, the nodule risk model had a relatively higher area under the ROC curve (0.9151 vs 0.8360; P = 0.001) compared with the American College of Chest Physician model in patients with lung nodules.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the patient risk model and the nodule risk model, developed for the early diagnosis of lung cancer, demonstrated excellent discrimination, allowing for the stratification of patients with different levels of lung cancer risk. These new models are applicable in high‐risk Chinese populations. Cancer 2018;124:262‐70. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Enhancing Photocurrent Generation in Photosynthetic Reaction Center‐Based Photoelectrochemical Cells with Biomimetic DNA Antenna
Authors: Carey Anne‐Marie , Zhang HaoJie , Liu Minghui , Sharaf Daiana , Akram Natalie , Yan Hao , Lin Su , Woodbury Neal W. , Seo Dong‐Kyun
Published: September 2017

Three‐ to four‐times higher performance of biohybrid photoelectrochemical cells with photosynthetic reaction centers (RC) has been achieved by using a DNA‐based biomimetic antenna. Synthetic dyes Cy3 and Cy5 were chosen and strategically placed in the anntena in such a way that they can collect additional light energy in the visible region of the solar spectrum and transfer it to RC through Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET). The antenna, a DNA templated multiple dye system, is attached to each Rhodobacter sphaeroides RC near the primary donor, P, to facilitate the energy transfer process. Excitation with a broad light spectrum (approximating sunlight) triggers a cascade of excitation energy transfer from Cy3 to Cy5 to P, and also directly from Cy5 to P. This additional excitation energy increases the RC absorbance cross‐section in the visible and thus the performance of the photoelectrochemical cells. DNA‐based biomimetic antennas offer a tunable, modular light‐harvesting system for enhancing RC solar coverage and performance for photoelectrochemical cells.
Imidazolium Ions with an Alcohol Substituent for Enhanced Electrocatalytic Reduction of CO2
Authors: Zhang Lin , Wu Nian , Zhang Jichen , Hu Yang , Wang Zhiyong , Zhuang Lin , Jin Xianbo
Published: September 2017

Electrochemical reduction of CO2 to CO is an attractive process for carbon capture and energy regeneration. Imidazolium ionic liquids (IMILs) are promising electrolyte catalytically active additives for this important reaction. Herein, we report functionalizing the imidazolium ion with a propanol substituent at the N site can significantly enhance the catalytic activity of IMILs, causing a positive shift of the onset potential for the CO2 reduction by about 90 mV in an acetonitrile electrolyte. Theoretical calculations indicated that the propanol hydroxyl could bridge a local hydrogen‐bonding chain as shortcut for proton transfer, leading to a dramatic decrease of the activation barrier for the catalytic reduction of CO2 in IMIL.
Antibody‐based strategies for the detection of Luspatercept (ACE‐536) in human serum
Authors: Reichel Christian , Gmeiner Günter , Thevis Mario
Published: September 2017

Luspatercept (ACE‐536, ACVR2B‐Fc), a fusion protein consisting of the extracellular domain of ActRIIB receptor and the Fc‐part of human immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1), is currently under clinical development (Phase III). It stimulates the formation of red blood cells and hence may be misused by athletes for doping purposes in the future. Several antibody‐based strategies for the detection of Luspatercept and other ACVR2B‐Fc fusion proteins in human serum were evaluated (ELISA; IEF‐, SDS‐, and SAR‐PAGE followed by Western blotting; immunoprecipitation). Two methods led to useful results: a commercial “soluble” ACTR‐IIB ELISA, which also detected Luspatercept and other ACVR2B‐Fc's, but showed no cross‐reactivity with Sotatercept/ACVR2A‐Fc's. The ELISA might be applied as fast screening tool (100 μL serum; limit of detection (LOD) ca 15.6 ng/mL). The second method uses a polyclonal ACVR2B‐antibody for immunoprecipitation followed by SAR‐PAGE and Western blotting with a monoclonal detection antibody (50 μL serum; LOD ca 1.0 ng/mL). It can be used for initial as well as for confirmatory testing. Due to the high doses (mg/kg) and long serum half‐life of Luspatercept, both strategies may be useful in anti‐doping control in the future. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.