bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular structures of gas-phase neutral morpholine and its monohydrated complexes: experimental and theoretical approaches
Authors: Zhan Huaqi , Hu Yongjun , Wang Pengchao , Chen Jiaxin
Published: January 2017

Morpholine (NH(CH2CH2)2O) is a typical six-membered aliphatic heterocyclic compound.
Impact of the synthesis parameters on the solid state properties and the CO oxidation performance of ceria nanoparticles
Authors: Lykaki Maria , Pachatouridou Eleni , Iliopoulou Eleni , Carabineiro Sónia A. C. , Konsolakis Michalis
Published: January 2017

A direct quantitative correlation of surface-to-bulk (Os/Ob) reducible oxygen of ceria nanoparticles (NPs) with catalytic activity was revealed.
pH-Responsive and pyrene based electrospun nanofibers for DNA adsorption and detection
Authors: Yeh Cheng-Ting , Chen Ching-Yi
Published: January 2017

A labeling-free DNA adsorption and detection method based on pH-responsive volume changes poly(DMAEMA-co-SA-co-Py) nanofibers shows its potential applications in DNA adsorption and separation.
A sensitive, uniform, reproducible and stable SERS substrate has been presented based on MoS2@Ag nanoparticles@pyramidal silicon
Authors: Jiang Shouzhen , Guo Jia , Zhang Chao , Li Chonghui , Wang Minghong , Li Zhen , Gao Saisai , Chen Peixi , Si Haipeng , Xu Shicai
Published: January 2017

By combine the Ag nanoparticles, pyramidal silicon and molybdenum disulfide, the MoS2@AgNPs@PSi substrate shows high performance in terms of sensitivity, uniformity, reproducibility and stability.
Construction of a crossed-layer-structure MoS2/g-C3N4heterojunction with enhanced photocatalytic performance
Authors: Cao Youzhi , Li Qiao , Wang Wei
Published: January 2017

A novel crossed-layer-structure MoS2/g-C3N4(graphitic carbon nitride) was synthesized by a facile method, and was characterized by a collection of analytical techniques: X-ray diffraction patterns, FT-IR spectra, SEM, TEM, and XPS.
Gas-phase conformational preference of the smallest saccharide (glycolaldehyde) and its hydrated complexes with bridged hydrogen bonding
Authors: Wang Pengchao , Hu Yongjun , Zhan Huaqi , Chen Jiaxin
Published: January 2017

Glycoaldehyde (GA, HOCH2CHO) is the simplest sugar unit of the carbohydrates and the only sugar to have been detected in interstellar space to date.
CuI promoted sulfenylation of organozinc reagents with arylsulfonyl chlorides
Authors: Fu Ying , Su Yuhu , Xu Qin-shan , Du Zhengyin , Hu Yulai , Wang Ke-Hu , Huang Danfeng
Published: January 2017

A CuI promoted sulfenylation of organozinc reagents with arylsulfonyl chlorides/PPh3has been explored.
Formation of cationic hydrophobic micro-blocks in P(AM-DMC) by template assembly: characterization and application in sludge dewatering
Authors: Liu Bingzhi , Zheng Huaili , Deng Xiangrui , Xu Bincheng , Sun Yongjun , Liu Yongzhi , Liang Jianjun
Published: January 2017

The existence of template did play a role of molecular assembly in the radical polymerization, and the cationic hydrophobic micro-blocks in the polymer slightly improved the sludge dehydration performance.
A novel, low surface charge density, anionically modified montmorillonite for polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Yi Deqi , Yang Huixin , Zhao Min , Huang Le , Camino Giovanni , Frache Alberto , Yang Rongjie
Published: January 2017

A new, low surface charge density, anionically modified montmorillonite (MMT) has been prepared and its polyurethane nanocomposites are prepared.
Application of graphene–polymer composite heaters in gas-assisted micro hot embossing
Authors: Cheng Cih , Ke Kun-Cheng , Yang Sen-Yeu
Published: January 2017

This paper reports a novel hot embossing technique using rapid heating and uniform pressure for replication of microstructures on polymeric substrates.
UV-enhanced atomic layer deposition of Al2O3 thin films at low temperature for gas-diffusion barriers
Authors: Yoon Kwan Hyuck , Kim Hongbum , Koo Lee Yong-Eun , Shrestha Nabeen K. , Sung Myung Mo
Published: January 2017

We present UV-ALD as a promising approach to fabricate effective gas-diffusion barrier thin films at low deposition temperature (40 °C).
Photoreductive synthesis of monodispersed Au nanoparticles with citric acid as reductant and surface stabilizing reagent
Authors: Shiraishi Yasuhiro , Tanaka Haruki , Sakamoto Hirokatsu , Ichikawa Satoshi , Hirai Takayuki
Published: January 2017

UV irradiation of water containing HAuCl4 and citric acid at room temperature successfully produces monodispersed Au nanoparticles. The size of Au particles is easily tuned by the intensity of UV light and the amount of citric acid.
Solid-state structure and electronic states of hydrogen-bonded dimer of pyridyl-substituted tetrathiafulvalene salted with PF6−
Authors: Kanetou Tomoaki , Tsunashima Ryo , Hoshino Norihisa , Akutagawa Tomoyuki
Published: January 2017

Our results clarified uniqueness in hydrogen bonding TTFPy dimer in which proton in hydrogen bond was thermally fluctuated. In addition, the fluctuation was coupled with π-electronic systems of TTF moiety where electric dipole moment was amplified.
Electrocatalysis on copper–palladium alloys for amperometric formaldehyde sensing
Authors: Pötzelberger Isabella , Mardare Cezarina Cela , Uiberlacker Lisa Maria , Hild Sabine , Mardare Andrei Ionut , Hassel Achim Walter
Published: January 2017

A co-evaporated Cu–Pd thin film combinatorial library was screened for electrocatalytic oxidation of formaldehyde by scanning droplet cell microscopy. The best activity was found for 7.5 at% Pd and an amperometric sensor was fabricated and tested.
Microporous cobaloxime–graphene composite: a reloadable non-noble metal catalyst platform for the proton reduction reaction
Authors: Soliman Ahmed B. , Haikal Rana R. , Abugable Arwa A. , Alkordi Mohamed H.
Published: January 2017

A heterogeneous catalyst for the proton reduction reaction was constructed through immobilization of cobaloxime, in a microporous solid, atop unmodified graphene sheets through a one-pot reaction.
NiSe2 pyramids deposited on N-doped graphene encapsulated Ni foam for high-performance water oxidation
Authors: Yu Jing , Li Qianqian , Xu Cheng-Yan , Chen Na , Li Yuan , Liu Heguang , Zhen Liang , Dravid Vinayak P. , Wu Jinsong
Published: January 2017

Highly efficient water oxidation electrocatalysts made of low-cost and earth-abundant elements have been developed and demonstrated.
Determining the diffusion mechanism for high aspect ratio ZnO nanowires electrodeposited into anodic aluminum oxide
Authors: Manzano C. V. , Bürki G. , Pethö L. , Michler J. , Philippe L.
Published: January 2017

ZnO nanowires electrodeposited into anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) templates exhibit a high filling ratio and aspect ratio. A diffusion mechanism, which depends on electrodeposition parameters is proposed.
HASF (C3orf58) is a novel ligand of the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor
Authors: Bareja Akshay , Hodgkinson Conrad P. , Payne Alan J. , Pratt Richard E. , Dzau Victor J.
Published: January 2017

We have recently shown that hypoxia and Akt-induced stem cell factor (HASF) protects the heart from ischemia-induced damage and promotes cardiomyocyte proliferation. While we have identified certain signaling pathways responsible for these protective effects, the receptor mediating these effects was unknown. Here, we undertook studies to identify the HASF receptor. A yeast two-hybrid screen identified a partial fragment of insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) as a binding partner of HASF. Subsequent co-immunoprecipitation experiments showed that HASF bound to full-length IGF1R. Binding assays revealed a high affinity of HASF for IGF1R. The treatment of neonatal ventricular cardiomyocytes with HASF resulted in the phosphorylation of IGF1R and other proteins known to be involved in IGF1R-mediated signaling pathways. HASF-mediated ERK activation was abrogated by IGF1R pharmacological inhibitors and siRNAs that targeted IGF1R. However, siRNA-mediated knockdown of either IGF2R or the insulin receptor had no effect on HASF-induced cell signaling. Additionally, pharmacologic inhibition of IGF1R impeded HASF's ability to induce cardiomyocyte proliferation. Finally, we documented that in vivo deletion of the IGF1R completely abolished the ability of HASF to promote cardiomyocyte proliferation in an overexpression mouse model providing further evidence in vivo that the IGF1R is the functional receptor for HASF.
Theoretical analysis and application of polymer‐matrix field grading materials in HVDC cable terminals
Authors: Han Peng , Zha Jun‐Wei , Wang Si‐Jiao , Dang Zhi‐Min
Published: January 2017

The distortion and uneven distribution of electric field in high‐voltage direct current (HVDC) terminal insulator is the key problem for stable running of the power transmission system. Semiconducting flexible materials filled polymer‐matrix composites with non‐linear conductivity have also been considered to modify the distribution of electric field in cable terminal. Several factors having influence on the non‐linear conductivity will be analysed in this review.
Quasi‐static partial element equivalent circuit models of magneto‐dielectric materials
Authors: Romano Daniele , Antonini Giulio
Published: January 2017

This study aims to present the formulation of the partial element equivalent circuit (PEEC) for dispersive and lossy linear magneto‐dielectric materials under the quasi‐static hypothesis. The magnetic permeability and dielectric permittivity are usually available as tabulated data at different frequency samples. They are incorporated in the time‐domain PEEC formulation by resorting to a rational approximation of their frequency‐dependent constitutive relations. Thus, a set of ordinary differential equations is obtained besides those obtained by enforcing Kirchoff voltage and current laws to the PEEC equivalent circuit. The resulting augmented model preserves the circuit structure of the usual PEEC model and, hence, can be run in Spice‐like circuit solvers. The robustness and accuracy of the proposed time‐domain approach is tested by comparison with its frequency‐domain counterpart despite the larger number of unknowns.
Analytical model of stream transported media
Authors: Herrero Rolando , St‐Pierre Claude
Published: January 2017

For transmission of packetised media, real‐time communications rely on the real‐time protocol (RTP). RTP traffic, however, is transmitted over datagram‐based transport that allows fast delivery of media. Internet firewalls are typically configured to allow web friendly traffic that uses stream‐based transport instead and, simultaneously as security measure, reject any other type of transport. A mechanism to overcome this limitation is by switching transport such that media frames that would be rejected by firewalls are transmitted on top of stream transport. In this study, a novel mathematical model that links application layer packet loss to bursty network packet loss in the context of fading channels characteristic of wireless communications is presented for both, datagram and stream transport. This model is compared with experimental scenarios applied to state‐of‐the‐art speech codecs in order to obtain quality scores that can be correlated against theoretical loss probabilities.
Battery energy storage for increasing stability and reliability of an isolated Wind Diesel power system
Authors: Sebastián Rafael
Published: January 2017

Wind–diesel power systems (WDPS) are isolated microgrids which combine diesel generators (DGs) with wind turbine generators (WTGs). The WDPS modelled in this study consists of one 275 kW‐WTG, one 300 kVA‐DG, a 240 V/390.625 Ah Ni–MH battery energy storage system (BESS) and consumer load. The WDPS working modes considered are: Wind Diesel (WD) mode where both the DG and WTG supply power and wind‐only (WO) mode where only the WTG produces active power. First, the dynamic models of the enumerated WDPS components are described. Then, WDPS control requirements in WD and WO modes are studied and a control system to govern the consumed/supplied BESS active power is presented. Finally, the WDPS is simulated and graphs of the system frequency and voltage, active power in each component and the battery current/voltage/state of charge are shown. The simulations cover: the WD mode, where it is shown that the BESS filters the load and WTG power variations and avoids a DG reverse power situation, the WD to WO mode transition where the BESS makes possible a bumpless transition and the WO mode where the BESS regulates the system frequency. Simulations demonstrate that the BESS increases the WDPS stability, reliability and security.
Electron radiation damage mechanisms in 2D MoSe2
Authors: Lehnert T. , Lehtinen O. , Algara–Siller G. , Kaiser U.
Published: January 2017

The contributions of different damage mechanisms in single-layer MoSe2 were studied by investigating different MoSe2/graphene heterostructures by the aberration-corrected high–resolution transmission electron microscopy (AC–HRTEM) at 80 keV. The damage cross–sections were determined by direct counting of atoms in the AC–HRTEM images. The contributions of damage mechanisms such as knock–on damage or ionization effects were estimated by comparing the damage rates in different heterostructure configurations, similarly to what has been earlier done with MoS2. The behaviour of MoSe2 was found to be nearly identical to that of MoS2, which is an unexpected result, as the knock-on mechanism should be suppressed in MoSe2 due to the high mass of Se, as compared to S.
Communication: Analytic gradients for the complex absorbing potential equation-of-motion coupled-cluster method
Authors: Benda Zsuzsanna , Jagau Thomas-C.
Published: January 2017

The general theory of analytic energy gradients is presented for the complex absorbing potential equation-of-motion coupled-cluster (CAP-EOM-CC) method together with an implementation within the singles and doubles approximation. Expressions for the CAP-EOM-CC energy gradient are derived based on a Lagrangian formalism with a special focus on the extra terms arising from the presence of the CAP. Our implementation allows for locating minima on high-dimensional complex-valued potential energy surfaces and thus enables geometry optimizations of resonance states of polyatomic molecules. The applicability of our CAP-EOM-CC gradients is illustrated by computations of the equilibrium structures and adiabatic electron affinities of the temporary anions of formaldehyde, formic acid, and ethylene. The results are compared to those obtained from standard EOM-CC calculations and the advantages of CAP methods are emphasized.
Modeling a dielectric elastomer as driven by triboelectric nanogenerator
Authors: Chen Xiangyu , Jiang Tao , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: January 2017

By integrating a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) and a thin film dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA), the DEA can be directly powered and controlled by the output of the TENG, which demonstrates a self-powered actuation system toward various practical applications in the fields of electronic skin and soft robotics. This paper describes a method to construct a physical model for this integrated TENG-DEA system on the basis of nonequilibrium thermodynamics and electrostatics induction theory. The model can precisely simulate the influences from both the viscoelasticity and current leakage to the output performance of the TENG, which can help us to better understand the interaction between TENG and DEA devices. Accordingly, the established electric field, the deformation strain of the DEA, and the output current from the TENG are systemically analyzed by using this model. A comparison between real measurements and simulation results confirms that the proposed model can predict the dynamic response of the DEA driven by contact-electrification and can also quantitatively analyze the relaxation of the tribo-induced strain due to the leakage behavior. Hence, the proposed model in this work could serve as a guidance for optimizing the devices in the future studies.
Investigation of Al/CuO multilayered thermite ignition
Authors: Nicollet Andréa , Lahiner Guillaume , Belisario Andres , Souleille Sandrine , Djafari-Rouhani Mehdi , Estève Alain , Rossi Carole
Published: January 2017

The ignition of the Al/CuO multilayered material is studied experimentally to explore the effects of the heating surface area, layering, and film thickness on the ignition characteristics and reaction performances. After the description of the micro-initiator devices and ignition conditions, we show that the heating surface area must be properly calibrated to optimize the nanothermite ignition performances. We demonstrated experimentally that a heating surface area of 0.25 mm2 is sufficient to ignite a multilayered thermite film of 1.6 mm wide by a few cm long, with a success rate of 100%. A new analytical and phenomenological ignition model based on atomic diffusion across layers and thermal exchange is also proposed. This model considers that CuO first decomposes into Cu2O, and then the oxygen diffuses across the Cu2O and Al2O3 layers before reaching the Al layer, where it reacts to form Al2O3. The theoretical results in terms of ignition response times confirm the experimental observation. The increase of the heating surface area leads to an increase of the ignition response time and ignition power threshold (go/no go condition). We also provide evidence that, for any heating surface area, the ignition time rapidly decreases when the electrical power density increases until an asymptotic value. This time point is referred to as the minimum response ignition time, which is a characteristic of the multilayered thermite itself. At the stoichiometric ratio (Al thickness is half of the CuO thickness), the minimum ignition response time can be easily tuned from 59 μs to 418 ms by tuning the heating surface area. The minimum ignition response time increases when the bilayer thickness increases. This work not only provides a set of micro-initiator design rules to obtain the best ignition conditions and reaction performances but also details a reliable and robust MicroElectroMechanical Systems process to fabricate igniters and brings new understanding of phenomena governing the ignition process of Al/CuO multilayers.
Controlling domain wall nucleation and injection through focussed ion beam irradiation in perpendicularly magnetized nanowires
Authors: Beguivin A. , Petit D. C. M. C. , Mansell R. , Cowburn R. P.
Published: January 2017

Using Ga+ focussed ion beam irradiation of Ta/Pt/CoFeB/Pt perpendicularly magnetized nanowires, the nucleation and injection fields of domain walls into the nanowires is controlled. The nucleation and injection fields can be varied as a function of dose, however, the range of injection fields is found to be limited by the creation of a step in anisotropy between the irradiated and unirradiated regions. This can be altered by defocussing the beam, which allows the injection fields to be further reduced. The ability to define an arbitrary dose profile allows domain walls to be injected at different fields either side of an asymmetrically irradiated area, which could form the initial stage of a logic device. The effect of the thickness of the magnetic layer and the thickness of a Ta underlayer on the dose required to remove the perpendicular anisotropy is also studied and is seen that for similar Ta underlayers the dose is determined by the thickness of the magnetic layer rather than its anisotropy. This finding is supported by some transport of ions in matter simulations.
GaAs/Ge/Si epitaxial substrates: Development and characteristics
Authors: Buzynin Yury , Shengurov Vladimir , Zvonkov Boris , Buzynin Alexander , Denisov Sergey , Baidus Nikolay , Drozdov Michail , Pavlov Dmitry , Yunin Pavel
Published: January 2017

We developed high quality 2-inch GaAs/Ge/Si (100) epitaxial substrates, which may be used instead of GaAs monolithic substrates for fabrication of solar cells, photodetectors, LEDs, lasers, etc. A 200–300 nm Ge buffer layer was grown on Si substrates using the HW-CVD technique at 300°C, a tantalum strip heated to 1400°C was used as the “hotwire”. The MOCVD method was used to grow a 1 μ GaAs layer on a Ge buffer. The TDD in the GaAs layers did not exceed (1–2)∙105 cm-2 and the surface RMS roughness value was under 1 nm.
Thermoelectric properties of high pressure synthesized lithium and calcium double-filled CoSb3
Authors: Li Xiaohui , Kang Yulong , Chen Chen , Li Jianghua , Zhang Long , Yu Fengrong , Yu Dongli , Tian Yongjun , Xu Bo
Published: January 2017

Lithium and calcium are inefficient filling elements of CoSb3 at ambient pressure, but show nice filling behavior under high pressure. In this work, we synthesized Li/Ca double-filled CoSb3 with high pressure synthesis method. The products show the skutterudite structure of Im3¯ symmetry. Thermoelectric properties were effectively enhanced through Li and Ca co-filling. For the optimal Li0.08Ca0.18Co4Sb12 sample, the power factor maintains a relatively high value over the whole measurement temperature range and peaks at 4700μWm−1K−2, meanwhile the lattice thermal conductivity is greatly suppressed, leading to a maximal ZT of 1.18 at 700 K. Current work demonstrates high pressure synthesis as an effective method to produce multiple elemental filled CoSb3 skutterudites.
Rage Against Conformity: Ruthenium(ɪɪ) Bisterpyridine Complexes Respond to Crystal Engineering Instructions with Whelming Results
Authors: Iranmanesh Hasti , Arachchige Kasun S. A. , Donald William A. , Kyriacou Niamh , Shen Chao , Price Jason R. , Beves Jonathon E.
Published: January 2017

Four heteroleptic ruthenium(ii) complexes of 4′-functionalised 2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine are reported, along with their solid-state single-crystal X-ray structures. The complexes feature complementary hydrogen-bond donor (phenol) and acceptor (pyridyl) groups designed to assemble into one-dimensional polymers. In one example, the system obeys the programmed instructions to form a one-dimensional, self-complementary hydrogen-bonded polymer. In one other example, a water-bridged hydrogen-bonded polymer is formed. In the remaining two structures, aryl–aryl interactions dominate the intermolecular interactions, and outweigh the contribution of intermolecular hydrogen bonding.
Do guanidinium and tetrapropylammonium ions specifically interact with aromatic amino acid side chains?
Authors: Ding Bei , Mukherjee Debopreeti , Chen Jianxin , Gai Feng
Published: January 2017

Significance

Ever since the discovery by Franz Hofmeister in 1888 that a series of salts (now commonly referred to as the Hofmeister series) can have different but consistent effects on the solubility and hence stability of proteins, many studies have been devoted to understanding how such effects are achieved. However, examining any specific mode of ion–protein interactions has proven to be difficult. Herein, we demonstrate, using guanidinium and tetrapropylammonium as examples, that it is possible to use multiple spectroscopic methods and unnatural amino acids that have distinct, environment-sensitive fluorescence and infrared properties to explicitly assess how these ions interact with a specific type of amino acid side chains, thus yielding microscopic insights into their protein-denaturing mechanisms.
Mitochondrial activation chemicals synergize with surface receptor PD-1 blockade for T cell-dependent antitumor activity
Authors: Chamoto Kenji , Chowdhury Partha S. , Kumar Alok , Sonomura Kazuhiro , Matsuda Fumihiko , Fagarasan Sidonia , Honjo Tasuku
Published: January 2017

Significance

Although PD-1 blockade has innovated cancer therapy, a novel combinatorial strategy is required to save less sensitive cancer patients. Mitochondria are key cytoplasmic organelles that efficiently supply the ATP necessary for the rapid proliferation and differentiation of T cells. We found that reactive oxygen species (ROS) strongly activate mitochondrial function of tumor-reactive T cells and synergize tumor regression by PD-1 blockade. ROS appear to activate both AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), which subsequently induce the PPAR-gamma coactivator 1α (PGC-1α) transcription factor. Small-molecule activators of AMPK and mTOR, or PGC-1α, also synergistically enhance tumor-growth suppression by PD-1 blockade therapy. These findings not only open a new aspect of immune metabolism but also pave a way to developing a combinational strategy of PD-1 cancer immunotherapy.
Elemental sulfur aerosol-forming mechanism
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Francisco Joseph S.
Published: January 2017

Significance

The elemental sulfur aerosols are an important constituent in the atmospheres of Earth, Mars, and Venus. There is now evidence suggesting that these aerosols have also played a role in the evolution of early life on Earth. Traditionally, the photolysis of sulfur gases by UV light is thought to be the main mechanism for the formation of sulfur particles in these atmospheres. But, in the theoretical calculations reported here, we propose a nonphotochemical mechanism for the formation of elemental sulfur aerosols that takes advantage of the interaction between sulfur oxides and hydrogen sulfide under water or sulfuric acid catalysis. These results provide a chemical framework for understanding the formation mechanism of S0aerosols in planetary atmospheres.
Development of multifunctional foods
Authors: Yamada Koji
Published: January 2017

Foods contain various biologically active substances with extent physiological effects. Among them, some substances, such as dietary fibers, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and antioxidants, exert multiple activities. In addition, combinational uses of some components, such as sesamin and α-tocopherol, enhance their biological effects each other. The expression of multiple effect leads to the production of multifunctional foods which prevent the occurrence of various diseases. Furthermore, synergic effects between biologically active substances allow us to decrease the dose of each component, which lead to the improvement of safety and reduction of production cost of multifunctional foods. To use these active components for human health, studies on their adsorption and transportation are important, since distribution of some components, such as tocotrienols, is limited to some tissues. In addition, extent safety studies are essential to use artificially synthesized substances such as 10t, 12c derivative of conjugated linoleic acid for human health.
The effects of discourses in regional contexts on the development of curriculum‐based literacy standards for adolescents in schooling: a comparative study of South Australia and Ontario
Authors: Fenwick Lisl
Published: January 2017

This study analyses how discourses in regional contexts affect the development of curriculum‐based literacy standards for adolescents in schooling. A comparative case‐study research design enabled the influences of discourses at the regional level to be analysed. The case studies include the development of curricula to define a minimum literacy standard for the final years of schooling for adolescents in Ontario, Canada, and South Australia, Australia. Critical discourse analysis of key texts associated with the development of literacy standards in each region reveals how globally shared meanings about standard setting for schooling interact with other discourses operating in local contexts to produce curricula that define literacy standards. The results indicate that, while a global discourse about standards‐based reforms may be foregrounded in curriculum, locally generated discourses can challenge key ideas associated with a simplistic discourse about standards. Discourses about literacy in Ontario and South Australia contest the assertion that literacy at the end point of schooling can be defined as a basic competency and local meanings associated with literacy are emphasised within the curriculum for each location. Language choices, involving particularly lexical cohesion, complex noun groups and nominalisation, are used to ensure that local meanings inform literacy standards for the endpoint of schooling.
Maximal heart rate declines linearly with age independent of cardiorespiratory fitness levels
Authors: Ozemek Cemal , Whaley Mitchell H. , Finch W. Holmes , Kaminsky Leonard A.
Published: January 2017

There have been many conflicting observations between the linear or curvilinear decline in maximal heart rate (HRmax) with age. The aim of this study was to determine if linear or curvilinear equations would better describe the decline in HRmax with age in individuals of differing cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) levels. Treadmill cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPX) results from participants (1510 men and 1134 women; 18–76 years) free of overt cardiovascular disease were retrospectively examined using cross‐sectional and longitudinal study designs. Participants completing ≥2 CPX with ≥1 year between test dates were included in the longitudinal analysis (325 men and 150 women). Linear and quadratic regressions were applied to age and HRmax for the whole cohort and respective CRF groups (high, moderate, and low, relative to age and gender normative values). To test for differences among linear, quadratic, and polynomial equations, the change in R 2 (cross‐sectional analysis) and Bayesian information criterion (BIC) (longitudinal analysis) from the linear to the more complex models were calculated. The quadratic or polynomial regression in the cross‐sectional analysis, marginally improved the variance in HRmax explained by age compared to the linear regression for the whole cohort (0.2%), moderate fit group (0.3%), and low fit group (0.8%). With no improvements in the high fit group. BIC did not improve for any CRF category in the longitudinal analysis. In conclusion, the minimal differences among linear, quadratic, and polynomial equations in the respective CRF groups, emphasizes the use of linear prediction equations to estimate HRmax.
Cryptochromes regulate IGF-1 production and signaling through control of JAK2-dependent STAT5B phosphorylation
Authors: Chaudhari Amol , Gupta Richa , Patel Sonal , Velingkaar Nikkhil , Kondratov Roman
Published: January 2017

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling plays an important role in cell growth and proliferation and is implicated in regulation of cancer, metabolism, and aging. Here we report that IGF-1 level in blood and IGF-1 signaling demonstrates circadian rhythms. Circadian control occurs through cryptochromes (CRYs)—transcriptional repressors and components of the circadian clock. IGF-1 rhythms are disrupted in Cry-deficient mice, and IGF-1 level is reduced by 80% in these mice, which leads to reduced IGF signaling. In agreement, Cry-deficient mice have reduced body (∼30% reduction) and organ size. Down-regulation of IGF-1 upon Cry deficiency correlates with reduced Igf-1 mRNA expression in the liver and skeletal muscles. Igf-1 transcription is regulated through growth hormone–induced, JAK2 kinase–mediated phosphorylation of transcriptional factor STAT5B. The phosphorylation of STAT5B on the JAK2-dependent Y699 site is significantly reduced in the liver and skeletal muscles of Cry-deficient mice. At the same time, phosphorylation of JAK2 kinase was not reduced upon Cry deficiency, which places CRY activity downstream from JAK2. Thus CRYs link the circadian clock and JAK-STAT signaling through control of STAT5B phosphorylation, which provides the mechanism for circadian rhythms in IGF signaling in vivo.
Educating Nurses in the United States about Pressure Injuries
Authors: Ayello Elizabeth A. , Zulkowski Karen , Capezuti Elizabeth , Jicman Wendy Harris , Sibbald R. Gary
Published: January 2017

GENERAL PURPOSE:

To provide information about the current state of educating nurses about wound care and pressure injuries with recommendations for the future.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES:

After participating in this educational activity, the participant should be better able to:1. Discuss the importance of pressure injury education and wound care for nurses and identify the current state of nursing education on the subject. 2. Identify strategies that can be used to put improved wound care and pressure injury education into practice.

Wound care nursing requires knowledge and skill to operationalize clinical guidelines. Recent surveys and studies have revealed gaps in nurses’ knowledge of wound care and pressure injuries and their desire for more education, both in their undergraduate programs and throughout their careers. Data from baccalaureate programs in the United States can pinpoint areas for improvement in nursing curriculum content. Lifelong learning about wound care and pressure injuries starts with undergraduate nursing education but continues through the novice-to-expert Benner categories that are facilitated by continuing professional development. This article introduces a pressure injury competency skills checklist and educational strategies based on Adult Learning principles to support knowledge acquisition (in school) and translation (into clinical settings). The responsibility for lifelong learning is part of every nurse’s professional practice.
Intrauterine Adhesion Prevention After Hysteroscopy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Healy Mae Wu , Schexnayder Brian , Connell Matthew T. , Terry Nancy , DeCherney Alan H. , Csokmay John M. , Yauger Belinda J. , Hill Micah J.
Published: January 2017

(Abstracted from Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016;215:267–275.e7)

Intrauterine adhesions are a significant potential fertility complication after operative hysteroscopy. A number of strategies have been investigated by surgeons in an effort to decrease the occurrence of postsurgical intrauterine adhesions.
Clinical Performance Evaluations of Third-Year Medical Students and Association With Student and Evaluator Gender
Authors: Riese Alison , Rappaport Leah , Alverson Brian , Park Sangshin , Rockney Randal M.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Clinical performance evaluations are major components of medical school clerkship grades. But are they sufficiently objective? This study aimed to determine whether student and evaluator gender is associated with assessment of overall clinical performance.

Method

This was a retrospective analysis of 4,272 core clerkship clinical performance evaluations by 829 evaluators of 155 third-year students, within the Alpert Medical School grading database for the 2013–2014 academic year. Overall clinical performance, assessed on a three-point scale (meets expectations, above expectations, exceptional), was extracted from each evaluation, as well as evaluator gender, age, training level, department, student gender and age, and length of observation time. Hierarchical ordinal regression modeling was conducted to account for clustering of evaluations.

Results

Female students were more likely to receive a better grade than males (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13–1.50), and female evaluators awarded lower grades than males (AOR 0.72, 95% CI 0.55–0.93), adjusting for department, observation time, and student and evaluator age. The interaction between student and evaluator gender was significant (P = .03), with female evaluators assigning higher grades to female students, while male evaluators’ grading did not differ by student gender. Students who spent a short time with evaluators were also more likely to get a lower grade.

Conclusions

A one-year examination of all third-year clerkship clinical performance evaluations at a single institution revealed that male and female evaluators rated male and female students differently, even when accounting for other measured variables.
Interrater Agreement of Manual Palpation for Identification of Myofascial Trigger Points
Authors: Rathbone Alasdair T.L. , Grosman-Rimon Liza , Kumbhare Dinesh A.
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To achieve a statistical estimate of the agreement of manual palpation for identification of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) and secondarily to investigate potential factors impacting the agreement of this technique.

Methods:

We searched MEDLINE(R) and Embase for studies examining the reproducibility of manual palpation for the identification of MTrPs from the year 2007 to present. In addition, we utilized studies identified by 2 comprehensive systematic reviews that covered the period before 2007. The included studies were original peer-reviewed research articles and included Cohen κ measures or data with which to calculate Cohen κ. Studies were excluded if they lacked a measure of variability or information required to calculate variability. Studies that examined palpation through body cavities were also excluded. Of the 18 potentially relevant articles only 6 met inclusion criteria including 363 patients. Modified QUADAS tool was used to assess study validity. Subgroup comparisons were made utilizing Q and Z tests.

Results:

An estimate of κ=0.452 (95% confidence interval, 0.364-0.540) was obtained for interrater agreement of manual palpation of MTrPs. Localized tenderness (κ=0.676) and pain recognition (κ=0.575) were the most reliable criteria. Only 1 study met inclusion criteria for intrarater agreement and therefore no meta-analysis was performed.

Discussion:

Use of manual palpation for identification of MTrPs is unreliable, and future investigation should focus on integration with more reliable techniques.
Chronic lateral epiphyseal separation of the proximal tibia causes late-onset tibia vara
Authors: Hasegawa Sachi , Kitoh Hiroshi , Matsushita Masaki , Mishima Kenichi , Kadono Izumi , Sugiura Hiroshi , Kitamura Akiko , Ishiguro Naoki
Published: January 2017

An adolescent obese boy showed late-onset unilateral tibia vara associated with physeal separation (slipped epiphysis) of the lateral proximal tibia and physeal widening of the lateral distal femur. These affected physes showed normal signal intensities by MRI. He was treated with lateral hemiepiphysiodesis of the left proximal tibia and the distal femur using two parallel eight-Plates, and varus deformity rapidly improved postoperatively without recurrence. This is the first case of late-onset tibia vara caused by lateral physeal separation of the proximal tibia. Normal growth of the medial physes around the knee would contribute toward significant correction after surgery.
Timing of Pavlik Harness Initiation: Can We Wait?
Authors: Larson Jill E. , Patel Anay R. , Weatherford Brian , Janicki Joseph A.
Published: January 2017

Background:

Developmental dysplasia of the hip is effectively treated with a Pavlik harness (PH) within the first 6 months of life. Over 80% of unstable hips in the newborn period will naturally stabilize by 2 months of age. If there is no difference in the effectiveness of initiating PH treatment at 1 week compared with 4 weeks of age, waiting may allow the hips to naturally stabilize and avoid treatment. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether the timing of PH implementation influences its effectiveness in the treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip.

Methods:

A retrospective review was conducted between 2004 and 2010. Patients were included if PH therapy was prescribed for hip instability or dislocation at or before 6 months of age. PH failure was defined as requiring any operative procedure for definitive management. Groups were divided based on the age at which the PH was initiated—group1=<30 days, group 2=30 to 60 days, group 3=>60 days.

Results:

A total of 176 children were included with 38 (21.6%) failing PH treatment. The mean age at PH initiation was 1.3 months (SD=1.3) in the successfully treated children and 1.4 months (SD=1.2) in the failures (P=0.77). There was no difference in the failure rates by age with group 1=19.1% (18/94), group 2=22.5% (9/40), and group 3=26.2% (11/42) (P=0.87). There was no statistical difference with respect to sex or breech positioning in the success or failure groups; however, there was a higher percentage of bilateral involvement in the failure group (P=0.04).

Conclusions:

Patients who had PH initiation before 30 days of age were no more or less likely to fail than when PH was initiated after 30 days of age. Parents can be counseled that waiting until after 30 days of age is appropriate before PH implementation. By avoiding swaddling during this period, the hips may stabilize without treatment and allow for more parental-infant bonding before implementation of PH.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—therapeutic, case control study.
Right Dose, Right Now: Customized Drug Dosing in the Critically Ill
Authors: Roberts Jason A. , Kumar Anand , Lipman Jeffrey
Published: January 2017

Drugs are key weapons that clinicians have to battle against the profound pathologies encountered in critically ill patients. Antibiotics in particular are commonly used and can improve patient outcomes dramatically. Despite this, there are strong opportunities for further reducing the persisting poor outcomes for infected critically ill patients. However, taking these next steps for improving patient care requires a new approach to antibiotic therapy. Giving the right dose is highly likely to increase the probability of clinical cure from infection and suppress the emergence of resistant pathogens. Furthermore, in some patients with higher levels of sickness severity, reduced mortality from an optimized approach to antibiotic use could also occur. To enable optimized dosing, the use of customized dosing regimens through either evidence-based dosing nomograms or preferably through the use of dosing software supplemented by therapeutic drug monitoring data should be embedded into daily practice. These customized dosing regimens should also be given as soon as practicable as reduced time to initiation of therapy has been shown to improve patient survival, particularly in the presence of septic shock. However, robust data supporting these logical approaches to therapy, which may deliver the next step change improvement for treatment of infections in critically ill patients, are lacking. Large prospective studies of patient survival and health system costs are now required to determine the value of customized antibiotic dosing, that is, giving the right dose at the right time.
Relationship of Sleep Duration and Regularity with Dietary Intake Among Preschool-Aged Children with Obesity from Low-Income Families
Authors: Petrov Megan E. , Vander Wyst Kiley B. , Whisner Corrie M. , Jeong Mihyun , Denniston Michaela , Moramarco Michael W. , Gallagher Martina R. , Reifsnider Elizabeth
Published: January 2017

Objective:

Diet is a modifiable factor associated with pediatric obesity outcomes, but few studies have evaluated the relationships of sleep duration and regularity on dietary intake of young preschool-aged children. The goal of this study was to evaluate whether short sleep duration and irregular sleep timing were associated with greater calorie, carbohydrate and fat consumption among young children with obesity from low-income families.

Methods:

Fifty-one ethnically diverse children aged 2 to 4 years were recruited from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children clinics in a southeast Texas county. Sleep behaviors were parent reported using the Child Sleep Assessment tool. Dietary intake data were obtained by 24-hour recall interviews (2 weekdays and 1 weekend day).

Results:

Short sleep duration (<11 hr) was highly prevalent among this cohort of preschool-aged children. Short sleep duration was associated with greater fat and decreased carbohydrate consumption. Children with greater variability in sleep duration and timing had greater energy intake from fat and protein sources.

Conclusion:

Allowing for the opportunity to educate parents on the importance of maintaining regular, adequate sleep and relationships between sleep and dietary intake may decrease the risk of childhood obesity in this high-risk pediatric population.
Sandwich Fascial Anterolateral Thigh Flap in Head and Neck Reconstruction: Evolution or Revolution?
Authors: Cherubino Mario , Berli Jens , Turri-Zanoni Mario , Battaglia Paolo , Maggiulli Francesca , Corno Martina , Tamborini Federico , Montrasio Edoardo , Castelnuovo Paolo , Valdatta Luigi
Published: January 2017

Introduction:

The anterolateral thigh perforator flap (ALT) represents the workhorse for most reconstructive efforts in the head and neck regions. The main advantages of this flap are its versatility, the length of the pedicle, and the low morbidity of the donor site. The major drawback is the bulkiness of this flap with the frequent need for secondary revisions. To overcome this, we have developed a novel way to harvest and inset the ALT, called the sandwich fascial ALT flap (SALT).

Methods:

All patients undergoing head and neck reconstruction using the SALT flap from January 2013 to March 2016 were included in this retrospective analysis. The SALT flap was harvested as a composite flap including the superficial fascia, the subscarpal fat, and the deep fascia. At the recipient site, the flap was inset with the deep fascia facing out. A split thickness skin graft (± dermal substitute) was used to cover the deep fascia and the pedicle.

Results:

Eleven patients were included: 8 cases of orbital exenteration, 1 case of forehead reconstruction, and 2 cases of palatal reconstruction after radical maxillectomy. Flap survival was 100%. One patient required an early take back for venous thrombosis. The reconstruction was effective in all cases, allowing a prosthetic rehabilitation when required. Donor-site morbidity was minimal.

Conclusions:

The reconstruction of head and neck defects with a bulky fasciocutaneous ALT flap might not be the best option in every case. The SALT flap could represent a valid alternative for selected cases, with encouraging functional and cosmetic outcomes.
Imaging in Endometriosis and Adenomyosis
Authors: HOYOS LUIS R. , BENACERRAF BERYL , PUSCHECK ELIZABETH E.
Published: January 2017

Endometriosis and adenomyosis may be accurately diagnosed using ultrasound (US). Several findings are characteristic and various US modalities have been described. Recent development of 3-dimensional transvaginal US has resulted in a major advance in the evaluation of adenomyosis. Endometriotic manifestations can also be accurately evaluated with US, which is and should remain the first-line approach for the evaluation of these conditions. Obvious advantages over magnetic resonance imaging include its wide-availability, tolerability, less time-consumption, more accessible price and familiarity of gynecologists with its use. This technology’s full potential can be achieved using 3-dimensional imaging and/or modified techniques according to the particular clinical scenario.