bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water temperature regime of selected lakes on James Ross Island during 2015 austral summer
Authors: Kavan Jan
Published: July 2017

Five lakes on the northernmost tip of James Ross Island (JRI), Ulu Peninsula, were selected to study their water temperature regime and relationship to atmospheric factors. Different genetic types of lakes were selected to cover not only influence of atmospheric parameters but also the morphology of lakes. Water temperature of all lakes showed strong similarities in the reaction to atmospheric factors no matter its genetic type or morphological properties, which were only second order factors shaping the general trends into more individual temporal patterns. All lakes are characterised by strong diurnal regime with maximum temperatures in late afternoon and minimum early morning. Most stable conditions were found in Monolith Lake and Triangular Lake, the first one with the biggest volume and regular inflow and outflow of water, the second one with semi-permanent ice cover protecting the water column from larger fluctuations caused by atmospheric factors. The most unstable environment was found in Shallow Lake, small shallow temporary lake with variable water level. Spatio-temporal issues of temperature relationships between water body and the terrestrial environment were shown with IR camera timelapse shooting on the example of Shallow Lake.
Celiac Disease and Other Causes of Duodenitis
Authors: Owen Daniel R. , Owen David A.
Published: July 2017

Context.—

Patients who receive an upper gastrointestinal endoscopic examination frequently have biopsies taken from the duodenum. Accurate interpretation of duodenal biopsies is essential for patient care. Celiac disease is a common clinical concern, but pathologists need to be aware of other conditions of the duodenum that mimic celiac disease.

Objective.—

To review the normal histologic features of duodenal mucosa and describe the clinical and histologic findings in celiac disease and its mimics, listing the differentiating features of biopsies with villous atrophy and epithelial lymphocytosis.

Data Sources.—

The study comprises a literature review of pertinent publications as of November 30, 2016.

Conclusions.—

Celiac disease is a common cause of abnormal duodenal histology. However, many of the histologic features found in the duodenal biopsy of patients with celiac disease are also present in other conditions that affect the small bowel. Diagnostic precision may be enhanced by obtaining a careful patient history and by ancillary laboratory testing, particularly for the presence of antitissue transglutaminase antibodies.
Experimentação em Design e Arte: Van Gogh, ponte entre a teoria da cor e a escala de ampliação.
Authors: Santos Marko Alexandre Lisboa dos , Cruz Alexia Luanda Teske da , Perini Bruna Inez
Published: July 2017

Este artigo relata a experiência de um trabalho coletivo realizado pelos alunos da primeira fase de um curso de Design. Por meio deste estudo objetivou-se a compreensão da importância da arte moderna no contexto do pós-impressionismo, além de conceitos acerca da Teoria da Cor e da Escala de Ampliação de Formas como contribuições para uma formação em Design mais significativa pelos acadêmicos do curso. Enviado em: 9 de outubro de 2016.  Aprovado em: 9 de janeiro de 2017
Herramientas para el autoaprendizaje en procesos creativos y de prototipo de interfaces para la gestión de contenido audiovisual. El caso de VertexZenit.
Authors: Vertedor-Romero Jose Antonio , Ruiz del Olmo Francisco Javier , Alonso-Calero Jose María
Published: July 2017

VertexZenit es un proyecto desarrollado en el ámbito universitario de la enseñanza de las Bellas Artes en la Universidad de Málaga, España, con un componente artístico-investigador de larga duración basado en la programación de comportamientos audiovisuales y en la construcción de interfaces y su comunicación con la máquina. La evolución de la investigación muestra que tanto la tecnología como la programación aplicada pueden tener aplicación en distintos ámbitos sociales mediante un uso alternativo de la misma. Se han construido máquinas interactivas propias que pueden mutar según las necesidades de su entorno como parte del trabajo desarrollado. El estudio se centra en tres aspectos temáticos: el trabajo de diseño tanto virtual como físico de estas interfaces (tanto para elaborar música electrónica y como video auto-generado), la participación como elemento de producción y finalmente la posibilidad de un repositorio de conocimiento colectivo. Estas tres ideas quedan formalizadas a través de distintos prototipos con los que se ha experimentado en los últimos años y que se recogen como conclusiones generales del presente texto. Enviado em: 29 de outubro de 2016.   Aprovado em: 22 de fevereiro de 2017
Substrate stiffness governs the initiation of B cell activation by the concerted signaling of PKCβ and focal adhesion kinase
Authors: Shaheen Samina , Wan Zhengpeng , Li Zongyu , Chau Alicia , Li Xinxin , Zhang Shaosen , Liu Yang , Yi Junyang , Zeng Yingyue , Wang Jing , Chen Xiangjun , Xu Liling , Chen Wei , Wang Fei , Lu Yun , Zheng Wenjie , Shi Yan , Sun Xiaolin , Li Zhanguo , Xiong Chunyang , Liu Wanli
Published: July 2017

The mechanosensing ability of lymphocytes regulates their activation in response to antigen stimulation, but the underlying mechanism remains unexplored. Here, we report that B cell mechanosensing-governed activation requires BCR signaling molecules. PMA-induced activation of PKCβ can bypass the Btk and PLC-γ2 signaling molecules that are usually required for B cells to discriminate substrate stiffness. Instead, PKCβ-dependent activation of FAK is required, leading to FAK-mediated potentiation of B cell spreading and adhesion responses. FAK inactivation or deficiency impaired B cell discrimination of substrate stiffness. Conversely, adhesion molecules greatly enhanced this capability of B cells. Lastly, B cells derived from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients exhibited an altered BCR response to substrate stiffness in comparison with healthy controls. These results provide a molecular explanation of how initiation of B cell activation discriminates substrate stiffness through a PKCβ-mediated FAK activation dependent manner.
Clinical Preceptors’ Perceptions of Empathy: The Empathy in Osteopathic Training and Education (EMOTE) Study
Authors: Davis Glenn Elbert , Hartwig Walter Carl , McTighe Adam J.
Published: July 2017

Context

Physician empathy influences rapport with patients and improves outcomes, but it is not well understood as an outcome of osteopathic medical education.

Objective

To determine how clerkship preceptors at Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine-CA (TUCOM) in Vallejo define empathy and how they compare observed empathetic behavior of TUCOM students with that of other medical students.

Methods

Cross-sectional data were obtained from a survey of TUCOM clinical preceptors comparing TUCOM students with other medical students on 10 behaviors. Results were analyzed with a 2-tailed z test of proportional difference at the 95% confidence level.

Results

Of 650 preceptors contacted, 177 responded and were included in the final analysis (27%). Survey item reliability was high (Cronbach α=0.96). A majority of preceptors (59% to 71%) considered TUCOM students “similar” to other medical students for each behavior. A majority of preceptors (107 [60%]) shared a definition of empathy with one another and with the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners and the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine. Approximately 39% of preceptors rated TUCOM students “better” or “advanced” for “displays of empathy” compared with approximately 30% of preceptors who rated students as better or advanced across all 10 behaviors. Preceptors who shared a definition of empathy rated TUCOM students as better or advanced at a significantly higher rate for “displays of empathy” (z=1.982, P<.05) compared with preceptors who did not share a definition (n=70). Osteopathic preceptors (n=67) rated TUCOM students significantly higher on “displays of empathy” (z=2.82, P<.05) and “clear and effective communication to patients, families and co-workers” (z=2.83, P<.01) than did allopathic preceptors. No significant differences were found based on number of years as a preceptor or on the combination of types of students the preceptor taught.

Conclusion

Most clinical preceptors shared a definition of empathy, and they were able to observe and rate displays of it in clerkship students. Preceptors rated TUCOM students more favorably than other students they taught for displays of empathy.
Functional Somatic Syndrome: Assessment and Management
Authors: Graver Christopher J.
Published: July 2017

Functional somatic syndrome (FSS) occurs in as many as 30% of patients in general medical practice, but it is infrequently a topic of formal instruction. Many physicians feel uncomfortable with medically unexplained symptoms and are unfamiliar with how to assess or manage them. Traditional medical approaches can be ineffective and can contribute to iatrogenic or adverse physiologic effects in patients. Physicians treating patients with FSS should not only consider standard medical tests, but they should also try to gain a deeper behavioral understanding of the mind-body connections that underlie the presenting symptoms. Osteopathic physicians, with their emphasis on holistic patient care, are in a key position to treat patients with FSS. This review provides a brief recapitulation of the literature and illustrates key factors in the assessment and management of FSS.
Ready for Residency: A Bloomian Analysis of Competency-Based Osteopathic Medical Education
Authors: Rosenberger Kyle , Skinner Daniel , Monk Jody
Published: July 2017

Context

Bloom's Taxonomy is a widely accepted tool for analyzing learning objectives, creating assessment materials, and ensuring that students move progressively through various levels of knowledge and cognition. Competency-based osteopathic medical education has, to the authors’ knowledge, yet to be subjected to systematic bloomian analysis.

Objective

To advance a bloomian analysis of competencies published by the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) and draw consequences of that analysis for undergraduate osteopathic medical education.

Methods

Content analysis of the verbs and contexts used in the AACOM competencies was conducted, followed by categorization by the various cognitive and knowledge dimensions as specified by the Revised Bloom's Taxonomy.

Results

The majority of AACOM competencies gravitate toward the taxonomy's apply and procedural cognitive and knowledge dimensions, respectively. In addition, 58% of the top 10 most-used verbs in the document were identified to be in the apply cognitive dimension. An analysis of the competencies revealed that 69% can be categorized under the procedural knowledge dimension. Of 657 code co-occurances, 45% were from the apply cognitive and procedural knowledge dimensions. These figures suggest a skewing toward application-based cognitive and procedural-based knowledge over other types of cognitive and knowledge dimensions.

Conclusion

Bloom's Taxonomy offers a useful framework for understanding how competency-based osteopathic medical education is organized. Such analysis underscores the importance of attending to the language and construction of competencies to better understand how the language of competencies shapes pedagogic practices and begin a broader conversation about the appropriate use and distribution of lower- and higher-order cognitive processes within competency-based osteopathic medical education.
Pheochromocytoma-Induced Cardiomyopathy Mimicking Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Vilcant Viliane
Published: July 2017

Pheochromocytoma is a rare catecholamine-secreting tumor with a prevalence of 0.1% to 0.6% in hypertensive patients. The classic triad of symptoms is headache, palpitations, and diaphoresis, but clinical presentation varies greatly. Pheochromocytoma can also mimic acute coronary syndrome and heart failure. With surgical resection, appropriate preoperative medical therapy, and 10% malignancy rate, prognosis is usually good. In the present case, a patient presented to the emergency department with symptoms suggesting a non–ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and was transferred to a tertiary medical center for a cardiac catheterization. No coronary artery disease was found. However, cardiomyopathy developed, which made pheochromocytoma difficult to diagnose at first glance.
Landscape metrics as functional traits in plants: perspectives from a glacier foreland
Authors: Sitzia Tommaso , Dainese Matteo , Krüsi Bertil O. , McCollin Duncan
Published: July 2017

Spatial patterns of vegetation arise from an interplay of functional traits, environmental characteristics and chance. The retreat of glaciers offers exposed substrates which are colonised by plants forming distinct patchy patterns. The aim of this study was to unravel whether patch-level landscape metrics of plants can be treated as functional traits. We sampled 46 plots, each 1 m × 1 m, distributed along a restricted range of terrain age and topsoil texture on the foreland of the Nardis glacier, located in the South-Eastern Alps, Italy. Nine quantitative functional traits were selected for 16 of the plant species present, and seven landscape metrics were measured to describe the spatial arrangement of the plant species’ patches on the study plots, at a resolution of 1 cm × 1 cm. We studied the relationships among plant communities, landscape metrics, terrain age and topsoil texture. RLQ-analysis was used to examine trait-spatial configuration relationships. To assess the effect of terrain age and topsoil texture variation on trait performance, we applied a partial-RLQ analysis approach. Finally, we used the fourth-corner statistic to quantify and test relationships between traits, landscape metrics and RLQ axes. Floristically-defined relevé clusters differed significantly with regard to several landscape metrics. Diversity in patch types and size increased and patch size decreased with increasing canopy height, leaf size and weight. Moreover, more compact patch shapes were correlated with an increased capacity for the conservation of nutrients in leaves. Neither plant species composition nor any of the landscape metrics were found to differ amongst the three classes of terrain age or topsoil texture. We conclude that patch-level landscape metrics of plants can be treated as species-specific functional traits. We recommend that existing databases of functional traits should incorporate these type of data.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Al–12.6Si Eutectic Alloy Modified with Al–5Ti Master Alloy
Authors: Wang Shuo , Liu Ya , Peng Haoping , Lu Xiaowang , Wang Jianhua , Su Xuping
Published: July 2017

The Al–12.6Si eutectic alloy has been modified via the Al–5Ti master alloy to improve both microstructure and mechanical properties. The results show that the fraction of the primary α–Al phase in the Al–12.6Si alloy and the mechanical properties of the resulting alloy vary considerably after modification with the Al–5Ti master alloy at different temperatures. With increasing modification temperature, the fraction of primary α–Al in the Al–12.6Si alloy increases, varying with the amount of added Al–5Ti. For an added amount of 0.2 wt.% Al–5Ti, the fraction of primary α–Al in the Al–12.6Si alloy reaches a maximum. The tensile strength and elongation of an Al–12.6Si alloy modified with 0.2 wt.% Al–5Ti at different temperatures evidently increase compare with unmodified alloys.
Ultrathin Two‐Dimensional Multinary Layered Metal Chalcogenide Nanomaterials
Authors: Tan Chaoliang , Lai Zhuangchai , Zhang Hua
Published: July 2017

Ultrathin two‐dimensional (2D) layered transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), such as MoS2, WS2, TiS2, TaS2, ReS2, MoSe2 and WSe2, have attracted considerable attention over the past six years owing to their unique properties and great potential in a wide range of applications. Aiming to achieve tunable properties and optimal application performances, great effort is devoted to the exploration of 2D multinary layered metal chalcogenide nanomaterials, which include ternary metal chalcogenides with well‐defined crystal structures, alloyed TMDs, heteroatom‐doped TMDs and 2D metal chalcogenide heteronanostructures. These novel 2D multinary layered metal chalcogenide nanomaterials exhibit some unique properties compared to 2D binary TMD counterparts, thus holding great promise in various potential applications including electronics/optoelectronics, catalysis, sensors, biomedicine, and energy storage and conversion with enhanced performances. This article focuses on the state‐of‐art progress on the preparation, characterization and applications of ultrathin 2D multinary layered metal chalcogenide nanomaterials.
Toward Flexible Wireless Pressure‐Sensing Device via Ionic Hydrogel Microsphere for Continuously Mapping Human‐Skin Signals
Authors: Tai Yanlong , Yang Zhenguo
Published: July 2017

Flexible pressure‐sensing systems have attracted more attention recently. Here, a novel kind of flexible wireless pressure‐sensing device is reported based on a chip‐type ionic alginate hydrogel (IAH) microsphere, which is sandwiched by a folded polyethylene terephthalate film with a continuous silver pattern as both antenna and electrode through a stack of double‐sided tape as bonding frame. The whole device can be seen as an inductance (L)/capacitance (C)/resistance (R) (LCR) oscillation circuit and the main sensing mechanism is based on the variation of contact electric double‐layer capacitance (CEDL) at the IAH microsphere/electrode interface. Through theoretical analysis, the performance of the wireless pressure sensor is optimized step by step. Under the defined parameters, the final sensitivity of device is up to 9.32% kPa−1 (to working frequency) with a detectable unit as low as 25 Pa, showing with great repeatability and durability. In addition, the efficiency of this wireless devices is further verified through continuously mapping human‐skin signals (muscle motion at human hand, pulse signals at human wrist), exhibiting excellent sensing performance.
Robotic gastrectomy for gastric cancer: Current evidence
Authors: Alhossaini Rana M. , Altamran Abdulaziz A. , Seo Won Jun , Hyung Woo Jin
Published: July 2017

The robotic system has gained wide acceptance in specialties such as urological and gynecological surgery. It has also been applied in the field of upper gastrointestinal surgery. Since the first implementation of the robotic system for the treatment of gastric adenocarcinoma, the procedure has been found to be safe and feasible. Although robotic gastrectomy does not meet our expectations and yield better results than laparoscopic gastrectomy, this procedure seems to provide several advantages over laparoscopy such as reduced blood loss, shorter learning curves and increased number of retrieved lymph nodes. However, as many case series, including a recent multicenter study, have revealed, higher cost and longer operation time are the major limitations of robotic gastrectomy. Furthermore, there are no results from well‐designed randomized clinical trials comparing the two procedures. New procedures in much more technically demanding cases will test the genuine benefits of robotic gastrectomy.
Land use and mobility during the Neolithic in Wales explored using isotope analysis of tooth enamel
Authors: Neil Samantha , Montgomery Janet , Evans Jane , Cook Gordon T. , Scarre Chris
Published: July 2017

Objectives

The nature of land use and mobility during the transition to agriculture has often been debated. Here, we use isotope analysis of tooth enamel from human populations buried in two different Neolithic burial monuments, Penywyrlod and Ty Isaf, in south‐east Wales, to examine patterns of land use and to evaluate where individuals obtained their childhood diet.

Materials and Methods

We employ strontium (87Sr/86Sr) and oxygen (δ18O) and carbon (δ13C) isotope analysis of enamel from adjacent molars. We compare strontium isotope values measured in enamel to locally bioavailable 87Sr/86Sr values. We combine discussion of these results with evaluation of new radiocarbon dates obtained from both sites.

Results

The majority of enamel samples from Penywyrlod have strontium isotope ratios above 0.7140. In contrast, the majority of those from Ty Isaf have 87Sr/86Sr values below 0.7140. At Penywyrlod oxygen isotope ratios range between 25.9 and 28.2 ‰ (mean 26.7 ± 0.6 ‰, 1σ, n = 15) and enamel δ13Ccarbonate values range between −18.0 and −15.0 ‰ (mean −16.0 ± 0.8 ‰, 1σ, n = 15). At Ty Isaf oxygen isotope ratios exhibited by Neolithic individuals range between 25.4 and 27.7 ‰ (mean 26.7 ± 0.6 ‰, 1σ, n = 15) and enamel δ13Ccarbonate values range between −16.9 and −14.9 ‰ (mean −16.0 ± 0.6 ‰, 1σ, n = 15).

Discussion

The strontium isotope results suggest that the majority of individuals buried at Penywyrlod did not source their childhood diet locally. One individual in this group has strontium isotope ratios that exceed all current known biosphere values within England and Wales. This individual is radiocarbon dated to the first few centuries of the 4th millennium BC, consistent with the period in which agriculture was initiated in Wales: the results therefore provide evidence for migration during the transition to farming in Wales. In contrast, all individuals sampled from Ty Isaf post‐date the period in which agriculture is considered to have been initiated and could have sourced their childhood diet from the local region in which they were buried.
Shaping Antiaromatic π‐Systems by Metalation: Synthesis of a Bowl‐Shaped Antiaromatic Palladium Norcorrole
Authors: Yonezawa Tsubasa , Shafie Siham A. , Hiroto Satoru , Shinokubo Hiroshi
Published: July 2017

The synthesis of a bowl‐shaped antiaromatic molecule was achieved through the deformation of a planar antiaromatic porphyrinic π‐conjugation system by insertion of palladium into the small cavity of a metal‐free norcorrole. The bowl‐to‐bowl inversion dynamics of the antiaromatic Pd‐coordinated norcorrole was determined by variable‐temperature 1H NMR spectroscopy. The metal‐free norcorrole was prepared from acid‐induced demetalation of a copper norcorrole, which was obtained from the intramolecular coupling of a bis(diiododipyrrin) copper complex with copper thiophenecarboxylate.
Base‐Free Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of 1,2‐Di‐ and Monoketones Catalyzed by a (NH)2P2‐Macrocyclic Iron(II) Hydride
Authors: De Luca Lorena , Mezzetti Antonio
Published: July 2017

The hydride isonitrile complex [FeH(CNCEt3)(1 a)]BF4 (2) containing a chiral P2(NH)2 macrocycle (1 a), in the presence of 2‐propanol as hydrogen donor, catalyzes the base‐free asymmetric transfer hydrogenation (ATH) of prostereogenic ketones to alcohols and the hemihydrogenation of benzils to benzoins, which contain a base‐labile stereocenter. Benzoins are formed in up to 83 % isolated yield with enantioselectivity reaching 95 % ee. Ketones give the same enantioselectivity observed with the parent catalytic system [Fe(CNCEt3)2(1 a)] (3 a) that operates with added NaOtBu.
Hierarchical Nanotubes Constructed by Carbon‐Coated Ultrathin SnS Nanosheets for Fast Capacitive Sodium Storage
Authors: He Peilei , Fang Yongjin , Yu Xin‐Yao , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: July 2017

Tin(II) sulfide (SnS) has been an attractive anode material for sodium ion batteries. Herein, an elegant templating method has been developed for the rational design and synthesis of hierarchical SnS nanotubes composed of ultrathin nanosheets. In order to enhance the electrochemical performance, carbon coated hierarchical SnS nanotubes (denoted as SnS@C nanotubes) have also been obtained by simply adding glucose into the reaction system. Benefiting from their unique structural merits, the SnS@C nanotubes exhibit enhanced sodium storage properties in terms of good cycling performance and superior rate capability.
Improvements in the thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of phase‐change microcapsules with oxygen‐plasma‐modified multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Sun Yanli , Wang Rui , Liu Xing , Li Mengxuan , Yang Hua , Li Bo
Published: July 2017

The thermal properties and mechanical properties are the key factors of phase‐change microcapsules (microPCMs) in energy‐storage applications. In this study, microPCMs based on an n‐octadecane (C18) core and a melamine–urea–formaldehyde (MUF) shell supplemented with O2‐plasma‐modified multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were synthesized through in situ polymerization. Meanwhile, two different addition methods, the addition of modified CNTs into the emulsion system or into the polymer system, were compared and examined. Scanning electron microscopy micrographs showed that the microPCMs were spherical and had a broadened size distribution. Fourier transform infrared testing demonstrated that the modified CNTs did not affect C18 coated by MUF resin. The results indicate that the thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of the microPCMs were remarkably improved by the addition of a moderate amount of modified CNTs, but the heat enthalpy and encapsulated efficiency decreased slightly. Moreover, the thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of microPCMs modified with CNTs directly added to the polymer system were superior to those with CNTs added to emulsion system. In particular, when 0.2 g of modified CNTs were added to the polymer system, the thermal conductivity of the microPCMs was improved by 225%, and the breakage rates of the microPCMs at 4000 rpm for 5, 10, and 20 min decreased by 74, 72, and 60%, respectively, compared with that of the microPCMs without modified CNTs. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45269.
Inflammation and insulin resistance: New targets encourage new thinking
Authors: Johnson Andrew M. F. , Hou Shaocong , Li Pingping
Published: July 2017

Galectin‐3 and LTB4 are pro‐inflammatory molecules recently shown to directly cause insulin resistance in mouse and human cells. They are highly expressed in the obese state, and can be targeted both genetically and pharmacologically to improve insulin sensitivity in vivo. This expands on previous research showing that targeting inflammatory cytokines can be insulin sensitizing in animal models. However, translating these potential therapies into the human setting remains challenging. Here we review this latest research, and discuss how balancing their pleiotropic functions, the action of the microbiome, and the ability to identify relevant patient populations are vital considerations for successful anti‐inflammatory insulin sensitizing therapy.
Improved sensitivity of firefly luminescent intermediate‐based protein interaction assay using Ser 440 mutant with lower adenylation activity
Authors: Ohmuro‐Matsuyama Yuki , Yamashita Takahiro , Lin Huan , Yamaji Hideki , Ueda Hiroshi
Published: July 2017

Protein–protein interaction assays are important in various fields including molecular biology, diagnostics, and drug screening. We recently designed a novel protein–protein interaction assay, the firefly luminescent intermediate‐based protein interaction assay (FlimPIA), that exploited the unique reaction mechanism of firefly luciferase (Fluc). Using two mutant Flucs, each impaired with one of the two half‐reactions, namely adenylation and subsequent oxidative luminescent steps, FlimPIA detects the proximity of the two proteins tethered to the mutant Flucs. Here, we found that introducing a mutation into a residue in the hinge region (S440) of the mutant with lowered adenylation activity (‘Acceptor’ Fluc) further improved the response of FlimPIA by lowering the residual adenylation activity. Mutants with bulkier residues showed greater inhibition, probably due to increased steric hindrance at the adenylation conformation. As a result, the FlimPIA with S440 L acceptor showed the best signal/background ratio for the detection of rapamycin‐induced FKBP12–FRB interactions.
A novel moonlight function of glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) for immunomodulation
Authors: Nakano Toshiaki , Goto Shigeru , Takaoka Yuki , Tseng Hui‐Peng , Fujimura Takashi , Kawamoto Seiji , Ono Kazuhisa , Chen Chao‐Long
Published: July 2017

Glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) is an energy metabolism‐related enzyme, which generates NADH in glycolysis. Our previous study revealed a novel role of exogenous GAPDH in the amelioration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced sepsis‐related, severe acute lung injury (ALI) in mice. Here, we show the effect of extracellular GAPDH on the physiological functions of macrophages, which play an important role in the onset of sepsis and ALI. GAPDH has no effect on cell viability, while it strongly suppressed cell adhesion, spreading, and phagocytic function of LPS‐stimulated macrophages. GAPDH treatment significantly reduced tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, while it induced interleukin (IL)‐10 production from LPS‐stimulated macrophages in a dose‐dependent manner. It is noteworthy that heat inactivation of GAPDH lost its immunomodulatory activity. Correspondingly, NADH significantly inhibited TNF‐α and enhanced IL‐10 production with elevation of both M1/M2 macrophage markers. These data suggest that extracellular GAPDH induces intermediate M1/M2 macrophages for termination of inflammation, partly through its enzyme activity for generation of NADH. © 2018 BioFactors, 44(6):597–608, 2018
Exact Matrix‐matching Calibration by Standard Addition‐Isotope Dilution‐Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry for the Accurate Determination of Chloramphenicol in Infant Formula
Authors: Ahn Seonghee , Kim Bomi , Baek Song‐Yee , Aristiawan Yosi , Kim Jeongkwon , Kim Byungjoo
Published: July 2017

We consistently observed a bias in the results for determination of chloramphenicol (CAP) in infant formula by isotope dilution‐liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (ID‐LC/MS). Various matrix interferences from infant formula eventually can result in bias during the ID‐LC/MS analysis. We tried to optimize LC conditions to minimize matrix effects by separating significant matrix interferences from the analyte and the internal standard, but some level of bias remained. To eliminate the bias due to the matrix effects, we used a standard addition‐isotope dilution‐liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (SA‐ID‐LC/MS) method for CAP analysis. In the SA‐ID‐LC/MS method, standard addition techniques were combined with IDMS for exact matrix matching while keeping the isotope dilution techniques as a tool for accurate correction of recovery in sample preparation processes. The method provided accurate analytical results for target analyte in the range of 1 µg/kg with a relative expanded uncertainty of 3%.
MOAM: A methodology for developing mobile learning objects (MLOs)
Authors: Saldaña Hernández Karen Annet , Hernández Velázquez Yesenia , López Domínguez Eduardo , Excelente Toledo Cora Beatriz , Medina Nieto María Auxilio
Published: July 2017

This paper proposes a methodology to develop high quality MLOs throughout five phases: analysis, design, development, assessment, and publishing. MOAM was assessed with important results given that MLOs comply with technical aspects such as reusability, interoperability, portability and take into account educational objectives, learning content, assessment, and learning styles.
Perceptions of Corporal Punishment among Creole and Maroon Professionals and Community Members in Suriname
Authors: van der Kooij Inger W. , Nieuwendam Josta , Moerman Gerben , Boer Frits , Lindauer Ramón J. L. , Roopnarine Jaipaul L. , Graafsma Tobi L. G.
Published: July 2017

Child discipline is a vital part of child‐rearing in all cultures. The need for child discipline is generally recognised, but considerable debate exists regarding the best methods. Corporal punishment (CP) is a dominant practice in Caribbean cultures. This qualitative study investigated community perceptions of the function, legality and boundaries of CP in child‐rearing practices in Suriname, in which CP is defined as hitting a child on their buttocks or extremities using an open hand. Twelve focus group discussions were conducted with adolescent and adult community members from Creole and Maroon backgrounds, as well as with professionals working with children. ATLAS.ti (version 7.5.4), a qualitative data package, was used to conduct the analyses. This study showed how violent forms of disciplining children are widely accepted and practised in Suriname. CP is considered a necessary and respected form of disciplining children, particularly by parents. Participants know about the existence of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child that has been ratified in Suriname, but there is a lack of knowledge about its content. Developing appropriate policy responses to violence towards children requires understanding of the perception and use of CP. Such knowledge is needed to tackle the invisibility and social acceptance of violence in child discipline.

Key Practitioner Messages

Under certain circumstances, Corporal Punishment (CP) is accepted and applied in Suriname, despite growing knowledge of its harmful consequences.

While participants considered the lawfulness of behaviour, they were primarily interested in the intentions of the caretakers when using CP If these were interpreted ‘in the best interest of the child’, CP was not considered maltreatment.

Understanding of what motivates caregivers to use CP helps in developing appropriate policy responses in order to prevent and respond to violence towards children.
Policy Assemblage in Taiwan's Child Protection Reforms: Policy Mixture, Policy Regime Change and Shifting Policy Challenges
Authors: Lin Yei‐Whei
Published: July 2017

For the last two decades, East Asia has witnessed a wave of child protection reforms. In this paper, the case of Taiwan is selected for study because of its rich experiences in this respect. With the adoption of a policy assemblage perspective, this case study aims to explain Taiwan's policy regime transformation and the shifting policy challenges. The interplay between the imported US policy model and local circumstances is found to have triggered the subsequent reform acts. In particular, with ongoing assembling of programmes borrowed from the USA, Taiwan has transformed the policy regime into a managerialist one. Moreover, through consideration of policy governance, the evolving policy regime is found to be fraught with challenges, in particular, retaining a sufficient and committed workforce for policy delivery. Based on the research findings, a more balanced reform approach towards child protection is recommended for the policy stakeholders of developing countries when pursuing relevant reform acts.

‘This case study aims to explain Taiwan's policy regime transformation and the shifting policy challenges’

Key Practitioner Messages

Learning and assembling the policy ideas and programmes of developed countries have been the mainstream approach to child protection reforms in other parts of world, including East Asia.

Different assemblages of international policy ideas and programmes often lead to an evolving child protection regime and shifting policy challenges.

Practitioners are advised to adopt a more balanced consideration of three major dimensions of child protection governance: system input, system capacity and system effectiveness.

‘Assembling the policy ideas and programmes of developed countries has been the mainstream approach to child protection reforms’
A Cross‐Country Comparison of Child Welfare Systems and Workers' Responses to Children Appearing to be at Risk or in Need of Help
Authors: Berrick Jill , Dickens Jonathan , Pösö Tarja , Skivenes Marit
Published: July 2017

This paper compares how frontline staff in four national child welfare systems and policy contexts – Finland, Norway, England and the USA (specifically, California) – respond to questions about a scenario of possible harm to children. The countries have different child welfare systems that we anticipated would be reflected in the workers' responses (n = 1027). The analysis shows differences and similarities between the systems, although often not in line with system expectations. There is also variation within the country samples. The study shows the complex interactions of individual and agency characteristics in addition to the role of proceduralised decision‐making systems and professional discretion.

‘Compares how frontline staff in four national child welfare systems and policy contexts... respond to... a scenario of possible harm to children’

Key Practitioner Messages

Professional discretion differs.

Proceduralised and high threshold systems result in less variation between workers' responses.

System categories do not seem to capture the nuances of frontline decision‐making.
Characterization of Biomimetic Cofactors According to Stability, Redox Potentials, and Enzymatic Conversion by NADH Oxidase from Lactobacillus pentosus
Authors: Nowak Claudia , Pick André , Csepei Lénárd‐István , Sieber Volker
Published: July 2017

Oxidoreductases are attractive biocatalysts that convert achiral substrates into products of higher value, but they are also for the most part dependent on nicotinamide cofactors. Recently, biomimetic nicotinamide derivatives have received attention as less costly alternatives to natural cofactors. However, recycling of biomimetics is still challenging because there are only limited opportunities. Here, we have characterized various biomimetic cofactors with regard to stability and redox potentials to find the best alternative to natural cofactors. Further, the cofactor spectrum of NADH oxidase from Lactobacillus pentosus (LpNox) could be expanded, and the enzymatic activity was also compared to activities with different small‐molecule catalysts. As a result, we succeeded in identifying several strategies for regeneration of oxidized biomimetics.
High‐Efficiency Na‐Storage Performance of a Nickel‐Based Ferricyanide Cathode in High‐Concentration Electrolytes for Aqueous Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Wanfeng , Zhang Fang , Xiang Xingde , Zhang Xiucheng
Published: July 2017

Nickel‐based ferricyanides have attracted much attention as cathode materials for aqueous sodium‐ion batteries, owing to their room‐temperature synthesis and open structural framework. However, factors affecting their electrochemical performance are still not clear. Herein, the effect of electrolyte concentrations on electrochemical properties of the ferricyanide cathode has been investigated by combining cyclic voltammetry, charge/discharge tests, and electrochemical impedance microscopy. It is found that high‐concentration electrolyte can not only raise the working potential, owing to increased activity of Na+ ions, but also increase the initial coulombic efficiency due to suppression of side reactions. The optimized electrolyte enables it cycling with an initial coulombic efficiency of 99.3 %, excellent high‐rate capability (68.1 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C and 63.1 mAh g−1 at 10 C), and outstanding cycling stability (96.3 % capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 10 C). The finding indicates that designing high‐concentration electrolytes is an effective strategy to improve electrochemical performance of ferricyanide cathodes for aqueous sodium‐ion batteries.
Synthesis of Water‐Soluble Palladium Nanoparticles Stabilized by Sulfonated N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes
Authors: Asensio Juan M. , Tricard Simon , Coppel Yannick , Andrés Román , Chaudret Bruno , de Jesús Ernesto
Published: July 2017

A strategy involving the decomposition of palladium(II) organometallic complexes with sulfonated N‐heterocyclic carbene ligands leads to the formation of stable and water‐soluble Pd nanoparticles. Three different methodologies (thermal decomposition, reduction under 13CO atmosphere, and reduction with H2) gave particles with different shapes and sizes, ranging from 1.5 to 7 nm. The structures of the organometallic intermediates and organic decomposition products were elucidated by NMR spectroscopy. To check the accessibility of the surface, the nanoparticles were tested as catalysts for the chemoselective hydrogenation of styrene in water. An effect of the particle size on the catalyst activity was observed. The aqueous phase was recycled up to ten times without any precipitation of metallic palladium.
Self‐Assembled CoS Nanoflowers Wrapped in Reduced Graphene Oxides as the High‐Performance Anode Materials for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhao Yingying , Pang Qiang , Meng Yuan , Gao Yu , Wang Chunzhong , Liu Bingbing , Wei Yingjin , Du Fei , Chen Gang
Published: July 2017

It remains a big challenge to identify high‐performance anode materials to promote practical applications of sodium‐ion batteries. Herein, the facile synthesis of CoS nanoflowers wrapped in reduced graphene oxides (RGO) is reported, and their sodium storage properties are systematically studied in comparison with bare CoS. The CoS@RGO nanoflowers deliver a high reversible capacity of 620 mAh g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1 and superior rate capability with discharge capacity of 329 mAh g−1 at 4 A g−1, much higher than those of the bare CoS. Evidenced by electrochemical impedance spectra and ex‐situ SEM images, the improvement in the sodium storage performance is found to be due to the introduction of RGO which serves as a conducting matrix, to not only increase the kinetic properties of CoS, but also buffer the volume change and maintain the integrity of working electrodes during (de)sodiation processes. More importantly, the pseudocapacitive contribution of more than 89 % is only observed in the CoS@RGO nanocomposites, owing to the enhanced specific area and surface redox behavior.
[Au(9‐methylcaffein‐8‐ylidene)2]+/DNA Tel23 System: Solution, Computational, and Biological Studies
Authors: Papi Francesco , Bazzicalupi Carla , Ferraroni Marta , Massai Lara , Bertrand Benoît , Gratteri Paola , Colangelo Donato , Messori Luigi
Published: July 2017

Physicochemical methods have been used to investigate interactions occurring in solution between the dicarbene gold(I) complex [Au(9‐methylcaffein‐8‐ylidene)2]BF4 (AuNHC) and a human telomeric DNA sequence, namely Tel23. Circular dichroism measurements allow identification of the conformational changes experienced by Tel23 upon interaction with AuNHC, and the respective binding stoichiometries and constants were determined. Computational studies provide a good link between previous crystallographic results of the same system and the present solution data, offering an exhaustive description of the inherent noncovalent metallodrug–DNA interactions. Remarkably, we found that a preformed AuNHC/Tel23 adduct is capable of producing strong and selective inhibition of the enzyme telomerase. The latter feature is mechanistically relevant and might account for the conspicuous in vitro anticancer properties of the investigated dicarbene gold(I) complex.
A Microfluidic Device for Rapid Screening of E. coli O157:H7 Based on IFAST and ATP Bioluminescence Assay for Water Analysis
Authors: Ngamsom Bongkot , Truyts Alma , Fourie Louis , Kumar Shavon , Tarn Mark D. , Iles Alexander , Moodley Klariska , Land Kevin J. , Pamme Nicole
Published: July 2017

We present a simple microfluidic system for rapid screening of Escherichia coli (E. coli) O157:H7 employing the specificity of immunomagnetic separation (IMS) via immiscible filtration assisted by surface tension (IFAST), and the sensitivity of the subsequent adenosine triphosphate (ATP) assay by the bioluminescence luciferin/luciferase reaction. The developed device was capable of detecting E. coli O157:H7 from just 6 colony forming units (CFU) in 1 mL spiked buffer within 20 min. When tested with wastewater discharged effluent samples, without pre‐concentration, the device demonstrated the ability to detect 104 CFU per mL seeded; suggesting great potential for point‐of‐need microbiological water quality monitoring.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Quaternary Δ4‐ and Δ5‐Dehydroprolines Based on a Two‐Step Formal [3+2] Cycloaddition of α‐Aryl and α‐Alkyl Isocyano(thio)acetates with Vinyl Ketones
Authors: Odriozola Amaiur , Oiarbide Mikel , Palomo Claudio
Published: July 2017

A divergent synthesis of optically active quaternary Δ4‐ and Δ5‐dehydro prolines is developed based on the first catalytic enantioselective conjugate addition of α‐substituted isocyano(thio)acetates to vinyl ketones that is general for both α‐aryl and α‐alkyl isocyano(thio)acetates. The new tetrasubstituted C−N stereocenter is formed without the need of any metal salt due to a bifunctional tertiary amine/squaramide catalyst, featuring a bulky polyaryl sidearm and an unusually short squaramide diamide H⋅⋅⋅H interatomic distance in the solid state.
Differential accumulation of vimentin fragments in preeclamptic placenta
Authors: Mary Sheon , Kulkarni Mahesh J. , Mehendale Savita S. , Joshi Sadhana R. , Giri Ashok P.
Published: July 2017

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that is the result of abnormal placentation because of inadequate trophoblast invasion into spiral arteries that prevent normal blood flow to the placenta. We report the alteration in vimentin protein proteolysis in placenta of normotensive and preeclamptic women, which is known to have a role in many physiological functions other than its major function in the structural integrity of the cell. Placental proteome from normotensive (n = 25) and preeclamptic pregnancies (n = 25) showed eight differentially accumulated protein spots of vimentin (proteolytic fragments) by two‐dimensional electrophoresis. Immunoblots of normotensive and preeclamptic placenta revealed a difference in proteolytic processing of vimentin. In particular, lower molecular weight vimentin fragments of 32 and 20 kDa were 3.3 and 2.6–fold (p < 0.0001) higher, respectively, in preeclampsia compared with normotensive placenta.
G‐Quadruplex‐Mediated Molecular Switching of Self‐Assembled 3D DNA Nanocages
Authors: Tam Dick Yan , Leung Hoi Man , Chan Miu Shan , Lo Pik Kwan
Published: July 2017

We demonstrated a strategy to reversibly extend and contract 3D DNA nanocages based on G‐rich DNA strands as scaffolds in the presence of K+ or chelating agents. The contraction and extension of nanocage would be regulated by formation and deformation of G‐quadruplex in the presence of K+ ions and chelating agents, respectively. Compared to single telomeric DNA strands, self‐assembled 3D DNA nanocages integrated with three HTLs act as horseradish peroxidase mimicking DNAzymes for colorimetric detection and monitoring of cholesterol with high stability toward nuclease and blood serum degradations. This is the first example of facile construction of 3D DNA nanostructures with contractile, reversible, and catalytic features based on the assembly and disassembly of G‐quadruplexes. This work offers a new platform for manipulation of nanoscale conformational changes and a step forward in obtaining stimuli‐responsive 3D DNA nanomaterials with versatile reactivity and functionalities.
DroidAuditor: A framework for auditing covert communication on Android
Authors: Qiang Weizhong , Xin Shifan , Jin Hai , Sun Guozhong
Published: July 2017

Exploitation of covert channels in smartphone operating systems may lead to furtive data transmission between applications with different permissions, which might threaten users' privacy. Restricting the access to shared system resources can effectively prevent the exploitation of known covert channels. However, it inevitably limits the normal usage of those resources. In this paper, we propose a general method that detects covert channel attack at runtime without impacting the accessibility of shared resources in the system. The main idea of the method is to track and audit the use of system resources known as potential covert channel variables and impose interferences on those channels to reduce their capacity once violations are detected. We implement a prototype framework, which is able to audit and interfere covert communication both in the application layer and in the native layer of Android. The experimental results demonstrate that our method can effectively reduce the data rate of user‐defined covert channels while the overhead is negligible.