bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wireless implantable chip with integrated nitinol-based pump for radio-controlled local drug delivery
Authors: Fong Jeffrey , Xiao Zhiming , Takahata Kenichi
Published: November 2014

We demonstrate an active, implantable drug delivery device embedded with a microfluidic pump that is driven by a radio-controlled actuator for temporal drug delivery.
Efficient Bayesian estimates for discrimination among topologically different systems biology models
Authors: Hagen David R. , Tidor Bruce
Published: November 2014

A fast and accurate solution to the problem of computing the relative evidence for several candidate topologies of a systems biology model given a set of data gathered on the underlying system.
A global view of network of lncRNAs and their binding proteins
Authors: Shang Desi , Yang Haixiu , Xu Yanjun , Yao Qianlan , Zhou Wenbin , Shi Xinrui , Han Junwei , Su Fei , Su Bin , Zhang Chunlong , Li Chunquan , Li Xia
Published: November 2014

A network of lncRNAs and their binding proteins provided insights into understanding lncRNA functions.
Low complexity and disordered regions of proteins have different structural and amino acid preferences
Authors: Kumari Bandana , Kumar Ravindra , Kumar Manish
Published: November 2014

Low complexity regions may have the potential to adopt secondary structures.
Design, synthesis and evaluation of the QD-DTC–bisbiotin nanobioconjugate as a potential optical-SPECT imaging agent
Authors: Bag Narmada , Mathur Rashi , Singh Sweta , Hussain Firasat , Chauhan Ram Prakash , Chuttani Krishna , Mishra Anil Kumar
Published: November 2014

Biotinylated dithiocarbamate ligand modified quantum dots improve targeting while maintaining the photoluminescence for efficient imaging applications.
Ultrasonic-assisted green synthesis of palladium nanoparticles and their nanocatalytic application in multicomponent reaction
Authors: Basavegowda Nagaraj , Mishra Kanchan , Lee Yong Rok
Published: November 2014

Palladium nanoparticles were synthesized using the Perilla frutescens leaf extract and used as catalysts for the preparation of pyrazolylphosphonate derivatives.
Preparation of carbon supported CuPd nanoparticles as novel heterogeneous catalysts for the reduction of nitroarenes and the phosphine-free Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction
Authors: Nasrollahzadeh Mahmoud , Jaleh Babak , Ehsani Ali
Published: November 2014

This paper reports on the synthesis and use of C/CuPd bimetallic NPs as heterogeneous catalysts for the phosphine-free Suzuki–Miyaura coupling and the reduction of nitroarenes.
Distinctive size effects of Pt nanoparticles immobilized on Fe3O4@PPy used as an efficient recyclable catalyst for benzylic alcohol aerobic oxidation and hydrogenation reduction of nitroaromatics
Authors: Long Yu , Yuan Bing , Niu Jianrui , Tong Xin , Ma Jiantai
Published: November 2014

Size effects of supported Pt nanoparticles were entirely different for benzylic alcohol aerobic oxidation and hydrogenation reduction of nitroaromatics.
The real TiO2/HTM interface of solid-state dye solar cells: role of trapped states from a multiscale modelling perspective
Authors: Gagliardi Alessio , Auf der Maur Matthias , Gentilini Desiree , di Fonzo Fabio , Abrusci Agnese , Snaith Henry J. , Divitini Giorgio , Ducati Caterina , Di Carlo Aldo
Published: November 2014

We present a multiscale simulation of charge transport in a solid-state dye-sensitized solar cell, where the real morphology between TiO2 and the hole transport material is included.
Molecular recognition of upper rim functionalized cavitand and its unique dimeric capsule in the solid state
Authors: Kobayashi Mutsumi , Takatsuka Mei , Sekiya Ryo , Haino Takeharu
Published: November 2014

Calix[4]resorcinarene-based cavitand recognized the methyl group of the guests to form 1 : 1 host–guest complexes. In the solid state, the cavitand formed a dimeric capsule in which two molecules of nitromethane were entrapped by weak noncovalent interactions.
Photoredox catalysis using a new iridium complex as an efficient toolbox for radical, cationic and controlled polymerizations under soft blue to green lights
Authors: Telitel Sofia , Dumur Frederic , Telitel Siham , Soppera Olivier , Lepeltier Marc , Guillaneuf Yohann , Poly Julien , Morlet-Savary Fabrice , Fioux Philippe , Fouassier Jean-Pierre , Gigmes Didier , Lalevée Jacques
Published: November 2014

A new iridium complex (nIr) was designed and investigated as a photoinitiator catalyst for radical and cationic polymerizations upon very soft irradiation.
Silkworm cocoons by cylinders self-assembled from H-shaped alternating polymer brushes
Authors: Huang Qiutong , Yang Bo , Liu Huanhuan , Zhao Youliang , Du Jianzhong
Published: November 2014

We report a novel silkworm cocoon-like nanostructure based on the 3D hierarchical self-assembly of cylinders which are spontaneously formed by an H-shaped polymer brush comprising a disulfide-bridged spacer and two brushes with alternating PEG and PCL side chains. Crystalline of PCL between adjacent cylinders bridges cylinders.
Role of 4,4′-bipyridine versus longer spacers 4,4′-azobipyridine, 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethylene, and 1,2-bis(pyridin-3-ylmethylene)hydrazine in the formation of thermally labile metallophosphate coordination polymers
Authors: Rajakannu Palanisamy , Howlader Rana , Kalita Alok Ch. , Butcher Raymond J. , Murugavel Ramaswamy
Published: November 2014

Uncoordinated N-donors spacers in the title compounds facilitate interesting orthogonal H-bonding, leading to the formation of 3-D polymeric networks.
A novel cementitious microfiltration membrane: mechanisms of pore formation and properties for water permeation
Authors: Wang Zhe , Chen Zhonglin , Chang Jing , Shen Jimin , Kang Jing , Yang Lei , Chen Qian
Published: November 2014

A low-cost cementitious inorganic membrane, with mean pore size of 2.4 μm, was fabricated under ambient conditions.
Synthesis and click modification of an azido-functionalized Zr(iv) metal–organic framework and a catalytic study
Authors: Yi Xiu-Chun , Xi Fu-Gui , Qi Yan , Gao En-Qing
Published: November 2014

A new azido-functionalized Zr(iv) MOF was synthesized and further functionalizedviapost-synthetic click reactions, and the amino-tagged MOF is a base catalyst for Knoevenagel condensation.
Can elongation of the π-system in triarylamine derived sensitizers with either benzothiadiazole and/or ortho-fluorophenyl moieties enrich their light harvesting efficiency? – a theoretical study
Authors: Chaitanya Kadali , Ju Xue-Hai , Heron B. Mark
Published: November 2014

This study established that elongation of the π-system in a series of hypothetical triphenylamine dyes by the judicious placement either a fluorophenyl or benzothiadiazole group, or a combination of both groups, results in improved light harvesting efficiency in DSSCs.
Immobilization of phosphomolybdic acid nanoparticles on imidazole functionalized Fe3O4@SiO2: a novel and reusable nanocatalyst for one-pot synthesis of Biginelli-type 3,4-dihydro-pyrimidine-2-(1H)-ones/thiones under solvent-free conditions
Authors: Javidi Jaber , Esmaeilpour Mohsen , Dodeji Fatemeh Nowroozi
Published: November 2014

Fe3O4@SiO2-imid-PMAn: a novel and reusable nanocatalysts.
Synthesis of novel furan-containing tetrafunctional fluorene-based benzoxazine monomer and its high performance thermoset
Authors: Wang Hui , Wang Jun , He Xuanyu , Feng Tiantian , Ramdani Noureddine , Luan Minjie , Liu Wenbin , Xu Xiaodong
Published: November 2014

Synthesis of novel furan-containing tetrafunctional fluorene-based benzoxazine monomer and its high performance thermoset.
Colorimetric “naked eye” detection of CN−, F−, CH3COO−and H2PO4−ions by highly nonplanar electron deficient perhaloporphyrins
Authors: Chaudhri Nivedita , Sankar Muniappan
Published: November 2014

Highly nonplanar electron deficient perhaloporphyrins were utilized for the detection of basic anions such as CN−, F−, CH3COO−and H2PO4−viaanion induced deprotonation. These sensors can be reusable without loss of their sensing ability.
Modifying the carbon fiber–epoxy matrix interphase with silicon dioxide nanoparticles
Authors: Qin Wenzhen , Vautard Frederic , Askeland Per , Yu Junrong , Drzal Lawrence
Published: November 2014

The carbon fiber surface was modified by silicon dioxide nanoparticles by immersing CFs tows in a SiO2 nanoparticle suspension. A significant increase of the IFSS was obtained.
Chemical sensors and biosensors for the detection of melamine
Authors: Li Ying , Xu Jingyue , Sun Chunyan
Published: November 2014

Melamine is an emerging contaminant in milk, infant formula and pet food.
Li9V3(P2O7)3(PO4)2 nanotubes fabricated by a simple molten salt approach with excellent cycling stability and enhanced rate capability in lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Miao Xue , Li Chun , Chu Wei , Wu Ping , Tong Dong Ge
Published: November 2014

Li9V3(P2O7)3(PO4)2 nanotubes exhibited excellent cycling stability in addition to enhanced rate capability as cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries.
Controllable synthesis and morphology-dependent photocatalytic performance of anatase TiO2 nanoplates
Authors: Sun Wen , Liu Hang , Hu Juncheng , Li Jinlin
Published: November 2014

The morphology of TiO2 anatase nanoplates was controlled through tuning the ratio of HAc to DMF, reaction time and temperature. The excellent photocatalytic performance can be ascribed to the exposed {010} facet and high surface area.
Highly thermostable lanthanide metal–organic frameworks exhibiting unique selectivity for nitro explosives
Authors: Zhao Shu-Na , Song Xue-Zhi , Zhu Min , Meng Xing , Wu Lan-Lan , Song Shu-Yan , Wang Cheng , Zhang Hong-Jie
Published: November 2014

The solvent-free Eu-MOF with high red emission intensity and the microporous instinct exhibits high sensitivity for 2,4,6-trinitrophenol with Ksv constant 6.24 × 104 M−1.
Intramolecular ring-opening from a CO2-derived nucleophile as the origin of selectivity for 5-substituted oxazolidinone from the (salen)Cr-catalyzed [aziridine + CO2] coupling
Authors: Adhikari Debashis , Miller Aaron W. , Baik Mu-Hyun , Nguyen SonBinh T.
Published: November 2014

The (salen)Cr-catalyzed [aziridine + CO2] coupling to form oxazolidinone was found to exhibit excellent selectivity for the 5-substituted oxazolidinone product in the absence of any cocatalyst.
Integration of CNTs in 3D-IC interconnects: a non-destructive approach for the precise characterization and elucidation of interfacial properties
Authors: Ghosh K. , Verma Y. K. , Tan C. S.
Published: November 2014

Growth of CNT bundles on Cu-metal lines through oxide vias and the precise estimation of Cu–CNT contact resistance.
Ionic semi-interpenetrating networks as a new approach for highly conductive and stretchable polymer materials
Authors: Shaplov Alexander S. , Ponkratov Denis O. , Vlasov Petr S. , Lozinskaya Elena I. , Gumileva Lyudmila V. , Surcin Christine , Morcrette Mathieu , Armand Michel , Aubert Pierre-Henri , Vidal Frédéric , Vygodskii Yakov S.
Published: November 2014

The synthesis and characterization of ionically conductive polymer films with high stretchability and good elasticity based on ionic semi-interpenetrating polymer networks (semi-IPNs) are discussed.
Application of paramagnetic graphene quantum dots as a platform for simultaneous dual-modality bioimaging and tumor-targeted drug delivery
Authors: Huang Chun-Lin , Huang Chih-Ching , Mai Fu-Der , Yen Chia-Liang , Tzing Shin-Hwa , Hsieh Hsiao-Ting , Ling Yong-Chien , Chang Jia-Yaw
Published: November 2014

This paper reports the development of a multifunctional nanocarrier platform consisting of paramagnetic graphene quantum dots, folate, and doxorubicin for simultaneous fluorescence and MR imaging, and cancer treatment.
Two-step ion-exchange synthetic strategy for obtaining monodisperse NaYF4:Ln3+ nanostructures with multicolor luminescence properties
Authors: Shao Baiqi , Zhao Qi , Lv Wenzhen , Jiao Mengmeng , Lü Wei , You Hongpeng
Published: November 2014

Monodisperse β-NaYF4:Ln3+nanocrystals with multiform novel morphologies have been synthesized by a novel, two-step, ion-exchange route expressed as Y2(OH)5NO3·nH2O → Y(OH)xF3−x → β-NaYF4.
Structural and optical properties of Fe and Zn substituted CuInS2 nanoparticles synthesized by a one-pot facile method
Authors: Vahidshad Yaser , Tahir Muhammad Nawaz , zad Azam Iraji , Mirkazemi Seyed Mohammad , Ghazemzadeh Reza , Tremel Wolfgang
Published: November 2014

Schematic diagram showing a possible excitation, relaxation and the emission pathway in CuInxFe1−xS2 solid solution.
Simple inverted‐F antenna based on independent control of resonant frequency for LTE/wireless wide area network applications
Authors: Sung Youngje
Published: November 2014

In this study, a simple inverted‐F antenna (IFA) that can independently tune resonant frequency is proposed. The proposed antenna covers the hexa‐band (long term evolution/wireless wide area network (LTE700/WWAN)) for mobile handset applications. The proposed structure consists of four radiating branches. Each branch operates as an IFA and has a resonant length of quarter‐wavelength at the fundamental frequency. One remarkable feature of the proposed antenna is that all four resonant frequencies can be tuned independently without affecting the other resonant frequencies. The independent resonant control is explained through analysis based on parameter study and simulated electric field distribution. The occupied antenna volume of the proposed design is 50 × 15 × 3 mm3, which is appropriate for the smart phone applications. A prototype of the proposed antenna is fabricated and measured, and the obtained results, including the reflection coefficient, efficiency and gain, are presented. A stable and omni‐directional radiation pattern with a reasonable gain has been observed over the operating bandwidth.
SiGe BiCMOS high‐gain and wideband differential intermediate frequency amplifier for W‐band passive imaging single‐chip receivers
Authors: Reyaz Shakila Bint , Malmqvist Robert , Gustafsson Andreas , Kaynak Mehmet
Published: November 2014

This study presents the results of a high‐gain and wideband differential intermediate frequency (IF) amplifier circuit design for a W‐band passive imaging single‐chip (down‐conversion) receiver front‐end. The cascaded two‐stage IF amplifier was fabricated in a 0.13 μm SiGe BiCMOS process technology with 300 GHz/500 GHz fT/fmax. In total six on‐chip inductors are used in the input, output and inter‐stage matching networks which enable relatively broadband RF properties together with a compact circuit size for the IF amplifier (the die area is 0.27 mm2 incl. RF and DC pads). The broadband SiGe amplifier has a measured gain of 10–19.5 dB at 2–37 GHz (|s11| and |s22| ≤ −10 dB at 7–40 GHz and 8–35 GHz, respectively), noise figure of 6.3–8.0 dB at 2–26 GHz and output third order intercept points of 7–17 dBm at 1–40 GHz (the DC power consumption is 122 mW). To the authors’ best knowledge, this work reports a first‐time realisation of a differential IF amplifier made in a 0.13 μm SiGe BiCMOS technology that achieves such wideband impedance matching together with a high gain and reasonably low noise properties over a wide instantaneous bandwidth (|s21| = 15–19.5 dB at 3–26 GHz).
Load margin assessment of systems with distributed generation with the help of a neuro‐fuzzy method
Authors: Zambroni de Souza Matheus Ferreira , Reis Yuri , Almeida Adriano Batista , Lima Isaias , Zambroni de Souza Antonio Carlos
Published: November 2014

Voltage security problems became a matter of concern over the last three decades because of the systems complexity. This is about to worsen as the penetration of renewable sources grows. Different operating scenarios must be addressed because of the intermittent nature of some sources. This study discusses this problem by proposing a neuro‐fuzzy methodology to determine the load margin when the intermittency of the sources is taken into account. Load margin is obtained by the continuation method enhanced by the Constrained Reactive Implicit Coupling (CRIC) method, so its computational effort is reduced. Monte Carlo simulation is employed to generate the bunch of data considered by the neuro‐fuzzy and the results are obtained in two ways. First, a sample IEEE 34‐bus system is employed, so the results may be reproduced. Then, a modified Brazilian real system with 115 buses is considered.
The Comprehensive AOCMF Classification System: Midface Fractures - Level 3 Tutorial
Authors: Cornelius Carl-Peter , Audigé Laurent , Kunz Christoph , Buitrago-Téllez Carlos H. , Rudderman Randal , Prein Joachim
Published: November 2014

This tutorial outlines the details of the AOCMF image-based classification system for fractures of the midface at the precision level 3. The topography of the different midface regions (central midface—upper central midface, intermediate central midface, lower central midface—incorporating the naso-orbito-ethmoid region; lateral midface—zygoma and zygomatic arch, palate) is subdivided in much greater detail than in level 2 going beyond the Le Fort fracture types and its analogs. The level 3 midface classification system is presented along with guidelines to precisely delineate the fracture patterns in these specific subregions. It is easy to plot common fracture entities, such as nasal and naso-orbito-ethmoid, and their variants due to the refined structural layout of the subregions. As a key attribute, this focused approach permits to document the occurrence of fragmentation (i.e., single vs. multiple fracture lines), displacement, and bone loss. Moreover, the preinjury dental state and the degree of alveolar atrophy in edentulous maxillary regions can be recorded. On the basis of these individual features, tooth injuries, periodontal trauma, and fracture involvement of the alveolar process can be assessed. Coding rules are given to set up a distinctive formula for typical midface fractures and their combinations. The instructions and illustrations are elucidated by a series of radiographic imaging examples. A critical appraisal of the design of this level 3 midface classification is made.
Transition Helmholtz free energy, entropy, and heat capacity of free-standing smectic films in water: A mean-field treatment
Authors: Śliwa Izabela , Zakharov A. V.
Published: November 2014

Using the extended McMillan's mean field approach with anisotropic forces a study of both the structural and thermodynamic properties of free-standing smectic film (FSSF) in water on heating to the isotropic temperature is carried out numerically. By solving the self-consistent nonlinear equations for the order parameters, we obtained that the smectic-A-isotropic (AI) transition occurs through the series of layer-thinning transitions causing the films to thin in the stepwise manner as the temperature is increased above the bulk smectic-A-isotropic temperature TAI(bulk). With enhanced pair interactions in the bounding layers, the smectic-isotropic transition corresponds to smectic melting of the central layers. The effects of surface “enhanced” pair interactions in the bounding layers and of film thickness on the orientational and translational order parameters, the Helmholtz free energy and entropy, as well as the temperature dependence of the heat capacity of FSSFs, have also been investigated. Reasonable agreement between the theoretically predicted and the experimentally obtained – by means of optical microscopy and ellipsometry techniques – data of the temperature when the thin decylcyanobiphenyl smectic film immersing in water ruptures has been obtained.
Magnetization reversal behavior in complex shaped Co nanowires: A nanomagnet morphology optimization
Authors: Zighem Fatih , Mercone Silvana
Published: November 2014

A systematic micromagnetic study of the morphological characteristic effects over the magnetic static properties of Co-based complex shaped nanowires is presented. The relevance of each characteristic size (i.e., length L, diameter d, and size of the nanowires head T) and their critical values are discussed in the coercive field optimization goal. Our results strongly confirms that once the aspect ratio (Ld) of the nanowire is bigger than around 10, the length is no more the pertinent parameter and instead the internal diameter and the shape of the nanowires play a key role. We attribute this behavior to the non uniform distribution of the demagnetizing field which is localized in the nanowires head and acts as a nucleation point for the incoherent magnetization reversal. Finally, angular dependence of the magnetization is simulated and compared to the case of a prolate spheroid for all considered morphologies.
Deep level centers and their role in photoconductivity transients of InGaAs/GaAs quantum dot chains
Authors: Kondratenko S. V. , Vakulenko O. V. , Mazur Yu. I. , Dorogan V. G. , Marega E. , Benamara M. , Ware M. E. , Salamo G. J.
Published: November 2014

The in-plane photoconductivity and photoluminescence are investigated in quantum dot-chain InGaAs/GaAs heterostructures. Different photoconductivity transients resulting from spectrally selecting photoexcitation of InGaAs QDs, GaAs spacers, or EL2 centers were observed. Persistent photoconductivity was observed at 80 K after excitation of electron-hole pairs due to interband transitions in both the InGaAs QDs and the GaAs matrix. Giant optically induced quenching of in-plane conductivity driven by recharging of EL2 centers is observed in the spectral range from 0.83 eV to 1.0 eV. Conductivity loss under photoexcitation is discussed in terms of carrier localization by analogy with carrier distribution in disordered media.
Ultra-high-speed lateral solid phase crystallization of GeSn on insulator combined with Sn-melting-induced seeding
Authors: Chikita H. , Matsumura R. , Kai Y. , Sadoh T. , Miyao M.
Published: November 2014

To produce high-performance devices on flexible plastic substrates, it is essential to form Ge-based group IV semiconductors on insulating substrates at low temperatures (≤250 °C). We have developed a technique for solid phase crystallization of amorphous GeSn (≤220 °C) enhanced by Sn doping, and combined with a seeding technique induced by Sn melting (∼250 °C). This combination produces lateral crystallization of amorphous GeSn from seed arrays with no incubation time. As a result, extremely high growth velocities at 220 °C, depending on Sn concentration, e.g., 0.13 μm/h (14% Sn) and 1100 μm/h (23% Sn), are achieved. These velocities are 104–108 times higher than that of pure Ge. This technique enables growth of crystalline GeSn island arrays (diameters: 50–150 μm) at low temperatures (≤250 °C) at controlled positions on insulating substrates.
Plasmonic-induced transparency of unsymmetrical grooves shaped metal–insulator–metal waveguide
Authors: Wang Jicheng , Sun Lin , Hu Zheng-Da , Liang Xiuye , Liu Cheng
Published: November 2014

The plasmonic waveguides with unsymmetrical grooves shaped metal-insulator–metal (MIM) structures are proposed in theory. For symmetrical and unsymmetrical groove structures, the transmission varies with the increasing of the groove depths and groove lengths. The filtering characteristics due to the destructive interference of the plasmonic modes are found in those subwavelength structures. The transmission line theory is utilized to interpret the transmittance and filtering phenomena. The transmission formulas are also achieved by the transmission line theory. It is found that the slow light effects are emerged in the unsymmetrical groove structures. A small group velocity (c/80) can be achieved. Finite Element Method (FEM) is conducted to verify our design.
Perfective – imperfective
Authors: Konstantzou Katerina , van Hout Angeliek , Varlokosta Spyridoula , Vlassopoulos Maria
Published: November 2014

Tense morphology has been found to be cross-linguistically vulnerable in specific language impairment (SLI). Research on the development of aspect is rather limited and results are quite inconsistent; some studies suggest that aspect appears intact (Leonard et al. 2003), while others report severe deficits (Fletcher et al. 2005). The present study is the first one to examine the comprehension and production of aspectual distinctions in Greek SLI. Forty children participated in the study; eight children with SLI (mean age: 6;7), sixteen age-matched typically developing children (mean age: 6;6) and sixteen language-matched typically developing children (mean age: 4;5). Our results provide evidence that the development of aspectual distinctions in Greek SLI seems to be delayed rather than deviant, as it follows the asymmetrical pattern described for earlier stages of typical development; perfective aspect is fully acquired, whereas interpretation of imperfective aspect is still inadequate (Kazanina & Phillips 2003; van Hout 2005).
Specific language impairment in Cypriot Greek
Authors: Theodorou Eleni , Kambanaros Maria , Grohmann Kleanthes K.
Published: November 2014

Investigating children’s language skills in their native variety is of paramount importance. Clinical practices cannot be based on findings from languages or varieties which have different properties. This paper, after demonstrating the importance of investigating Specific Language Impairment (SLI) in Cyprus, assesses the feasibility of existing language assessments in Standard Modern Greek for the diagnosis of SLI in the Greek Cypriot context, for the children’s native variety of Cypriot Greek. In total, 16 children with SLI (5 to 9 years) and 22 age-matched typically language developing children participated in this study. However, given that not all stimuli in the Standard Greek versions were appropriate for Cypriot Greek-speaking children and because of cultural differences, the tools were adapted. Results showed that the assessment tools can accurately identify children with SLI from typically language developing peers with sensitivity and specificity when the comparison is between children that use the same variety. Keywords: acquisition; bilectalism; diagnosis; sensitivity; specificity
Complexity in linguistic theorizing
Authors: Karlsson Fred
Published: November 2014

The general notion of ‘complexity’ is discussed based on foundational ideas by Herbert Simon and Nicholas Rescher. An analytic overview is provided of the ways in which language complexity has been treated in linguistic theories during the past 200 years. The Schlegel brothers, Humboldt, and Schleicher developed the first theory of complexity with their tripartition of languages into progressively complex morphological types. Humboldt also provided the principle of One Meaning – One Form (Humboldt’s Universal) which has turned out to be a widespread tendency in the simplification of morphological complexity. Jespersen’s Ease Theory has been influential in highlighting many instances of phonological change. The main contribution of Structuralism was Markedness Theory, the idea that language at all levels is built on minimal oppositions where one term (e.g. voiceless or singular) is more basic than its complex counterpart (e.g. voiced or plural). Syntactic complexity came to the fore with the theory of Immediate Constituents giving tools for measuring syntactic depth. Generative linguistics tried to measure syntactic complexity by devising Evaluation Measures based on symbol counting. Current linguistics offers a plethora of empirical studies at all levels, invoking considerations of both system, processing, and cognitive complexity.
Constructional continuity
Authors: Nenonen Marja , Penttilä Esa
Published: November 2014

This paper sketches a continuum between lexicon and syntax, with concrete examples from two typologically different languages, Finnish and English. While Finnish is a morphologically rich and relatively transparent synthetic language, full of inflectional and derivational morphology and compounding, English is clearly more analytical making use of particles, prepositions, and other free grammatical morphemes. The contrastive idiom analyses of these two languages offer us a glimpse into the multiplicity involved in idiomaticity and into the cooperation of the lexical and syntactic principles of language that takes place in the production of fixed, conventional, multiword utterances and through their ubiquity also in some phenomena that are involved in grammaticalization. On the basis of the discussion presented in this paper, it can be concluded that rather than forming a single continuum, the rich spectrum of lexical and syntactic constructions of these two languages can be thought of as forming a continuum of continua, where idioms reside at a culmination point, since they can be regarded as both lexical units and syntactic constructions at the same time.
Competition as a unifying concept for the study of language
Authors: Berg Thomas
Published: November 2014

With linguistics suffering from increasing fractionalization, it is necessary not to lose sight of the overall picture. It seems uncontroversial that the study of language consists of the following five components: processing, use, structure, variation, and change. While some of the relationships between these concepts have been investigated, a systematic integration of these components into a coherent framework is conspicuously missing. A modest attempt is made here to outline such a framework which makes the interrelationships of the components transparent. In all of these components, competition is found to play a key role. At its core, competition is a psycholinguistic effect which arises in the task of selecting an intended unit from among a number of elements concurrently activated in the processing network. The audible and visible outcome of the selection process is language use. Language structure is the prerequisite for competition in that it provides the set of competitors. When competition is low, consistent (i.e., invariant) language use emerges. When competition is high, language use is variable, i.e., synchronic variation occurs. When competition changes over time, language change takes place. Thus, it is language processing in general and competition in particular that constrains and binds together many phenomena of language use, structure, variation, and change.
Degradation of benzotrifluoride via the dioxygenase pathway in Rhodococcus sp. 065240
Authors: Yano Kenichi , Wachi Masaaki , Tsuchida Sakiko , Kitazume Tomoya , Iwai Noritaka
Published: November 2014

We previously isolated Rhodococcus sp. 065240, which catalyzes the defluorination of benzotrifluoride (BTF). In order to investigate the mechanism of this degradation of BTF, we performed proteomic analysis of cells grown with or without BTF. Three proteins, which resemble dioxygenase pathway enzymes responsible for isopropylbenzene degradation from Rhodococcus erythropolis BD2, were induced by BTF. Genomic PCR and DNA sequence analysis revealed that the Rhodococcus sp. 065240 carries the gene cluster, btf, which is highly homologous to the ipb gene cluster from R. erythropolis BD2. A mutant strain, which could not catalyze BTF defluorination, was isolated from 065240 strain by UV mutagenesis. The mutant strain had one mutation in the btfT gene, which encodes a response regulator of the two component system. The defluorinating ability of the mutant strain was recovered by complementation of btfT. These results suggest that the btf gene cluster is responsible for degradation of BTF.
Structural adjustment and social protection in the Middle East and North Africa: food subsidies in Jordan
Authors: Kawamura Yusuke
Published: November 2014

Jordan has been praised by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank (WB) as a successful case of social protection reform. While implementing a structural adjustment programme (SAP), Jordan accepted the WB’s policy assistance and successfully eliminated food subsidies, which the IMF/WB have repeatedly criticized for their inefficiency as a poverty alleviation programme. Nevertheless, even while officially suspending food subsidies, the Jordanian government still continued to fund them. Moreover, it officially reinstituted the subsidies in 2005. This fact demonstrates that the policy assistance is not powerful enough to change the food subsidy system, which is in-built in the social contract in Jordan.
Disproof of a conjecture by Rademacher on partial fractions
Authors: Drmota Michael , Gerhold Stefan
Published: November 2014

In his book Topics in Analytic Number Theory (1973), Hans Rademacher considered the generating function of integer partitions into at most

N
N

parts and conjectured certain limits for the coefficients of its partial fraction decomposition. We carry out an asymptotic analysis that disproves this conjecture, thus confirming recent observations of Sills and Zeilberger (Journal of Difference Equations and Applications 19 (2013)), who gave strong numerical evidence against the conjecture.
Impact of Gender and Menopausal Status on Relationships Between Biological Aging, as Indexed by Telomere Length, and Aortic Stiffness
Authors: Raymond Andrew R. , Norton Gavin R. , Woodiwiss Angela J. , Brooksbank Richard L.
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND

Telomere length predicts cardiovascular disease (CVD) possibly through an impact of telomere attrition on aortic stiffness. Whether reduced biological aging and a lack of telomere length–aortic stiffness relationships in women contribute to the lower prevalence of CVD in women, prior to menopause, is uncertain.

METHODS

We evaluated the relationship between telomere length and carotid–femoral (aortic) pulse wave velocity (PWV) in 580 randomly recruited participants of Black African descent (age = 44±19 years; women: n = 361; premenopausal: n = 195). PWV was determined using carotid and femoral applanation tonometry (SphygmoCor). Relative leukocyte telomere length (T/S) was measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assays.

RESULTS

Men and women had similar T/S. T/S was inversely correlated with age (r = −0.14, P < 0.001) and this association was similar in all (r = −0.14, P < 0.01) and premenopausal (r = −0.17, P < 0.05) women as in men (r = −0.14, P < 0.05). An inverse relationship between T/S and PWV was noted both before (r = −0.20, P < 0.0001) and after (partial r = −0.14, P < 0.001) adjustments for confounders. No interaction between T/S and either sex or menopausal status was independently associated with PWV, and T/S was independently correlated with PWV in all (partial r = −0.14, P < 0.01) and premenopausal (partial r = −0.18, P < 0.05) women and in men (partial r = −0.15, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Gender and premenopausal status do not affect age-related decreases in T/S and associations between T/S and PWV. In participants of African descent in whom telomere length did not differ by gender, the impact of gender prior to menopause on CVD is unlikely to be attributed to differences in the effect of biological aging on aortic stiffness.
Modelling carbon deposition and dissolved nitrogen discharge from sea cage aquaculture of tropical spiny lobster
Authors: Lee Soxi , Hartstein Neil D. , Jeffs Andrew
Published: November 2014

The tropical spiny lobster, Panulirus ornatus, is farmed in floating sea cages situated in shallow coastal waters in many parts of the Asia-Pacific region. Despite the rapid expansion of this aquaculture activity, very little is known about its environmental impacts. This study combines computer modelling with previous laboratory measures to provide information on benthic carbon deposition and the production of dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) from hypothetical sea cage aquaculture of spiny lobsters. Modelling scenarios were run with two different lobster aquaculture stocking densities (3 and 5 kg m−3) and various feed conversion ratios (FCRs) using natural seafood or artificial lobster diet (FCR 1.28–28). Simulations from the model showed that cumulative benthic carbon deposition varied from 0.1 to over 0.8 kg C m−2 year−1, while the mean DIN levels around sea cages ranged from 5.6 up to 25 µg N l−1 and the maximum DIN levels ranged from 10.8 to 165 µg N l−1. The results showed that feeding lobsters with seafood resulted in a markedly higher benthic carbon loading and release of DIN when compared with artificial lobster feed. Therefore, the elimination of the use of trash fish would greatly reduce the environmental impacts of spiny lobster aquaculture. Overall, the effects from spiny lobster aquaculture were spatially localized with the highest concentrations of carbon deposition and DIN directly beneath the sea cages. Therefore, it seems unlikely that spiny lobster aquaculture in sea cages will cause adverse environmental effects unless the lobsters are heavily stocked and supplied with poor quality feed.
Does population genetic structure support present management regulations of the northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis) in Skagerrak and the North Sea?
Authors: Knutsen Halvor , Jorde Per Erik , Blanco Gonzalez Enrique , Eigaard Ole Ritzau , Pereyra Ricardo T. , Sannæs Hanne , Dahl Mikael , André Carl , Søvik Guldborg
Published: November 2014

Population structuring in the northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis) in the North Sea area (including Fladen and Skagerrak) was studied by microsatellite DNA analyses. Screening 20 sample locations in the open ocean and Skagerrak fjords for nine loci revealed low, but significant genetic heterogeneity. The spatial genetic structure among oceanic samples of Skagerrak and the eastern North Sea was weak and non-significant, consistent with the current management regime of one single stock. However, Skagerrak fjord samples generally displayed elevated levels of genetic differentiation, and significantly so in several pairwise comparisons with other fjords and oceanic samples. Although the Skagerrak fjord populations are of less economic value, some of them are regulated separately (e.g. the Gullmarsfjord) and local stocks may prove important to uphold genetic variability and biocomplexity in a changing environment.
Quantitative environmental risk assessments in the context of marine spatial management: current approaches and some perspectives
Authors: Stelzenmüller V. , Fock H. O. , Gimpel A. , Rambo H. , Diekmann R. , Probst W. N. , Callies U. , Bockelmann F. , Neumann H. , Kröncke I.
Published: November 2014

Marine spatial planning (MSP) requires spatially explicit environmental risk assessment (ERA) frameworks with quantitative or probabilistic measures of risk, enabling an evaluation of spatial management scenarios. ERAs comprise the steps of risk identification, risk analysis, and risk evaluation. A review of ERAs in in the context of spatial management revealed a synonymous use of the concepts of risk, vulnerability and impact, a need to account for uncertainty and a lack of a clear link between risk analysis and risk evaluation. In a case study, we addressed some of the identified gaps and predicted the risk of changing the current state of benthic disturbance by bottom trawling due to future MSP measures in the German EEZ of the North Sea. We used a quantitative, dynamic, and spatially explicit approach where we combined a Bayesian belief network with GIS to showcase the steps of risk characterization, risk analysis, and risk evaluation. We distinguished 10 benthic communities and 6 international fishing fleets. The risk analysis produced spatially explicit estimates of benthic disturbance, which was computed as a ratio between relative local mortality by benthic trawling and the recovery potential after a trawl event. Results showed great differences in spatial patterns of benthic disturbance when accounting for different environmental impacts of the respective fleets. To illustrate a risk evaluation process, we simulated a spatial shift of the international effort of two beam trawl fleets, which are affected the most by future offshore wind development. The Bayesian belief network (BN) model was able to predict the proportion of the area where benthic disturbance likely increases. In conclusion, MSP processes should embed ERA frameworks which allow for the integration of multiple risk assessments and the quantification of related risks as well as uncertainties at a common spatial scale.
Linking risk factors to risk treatment in ecological risk assessment of marine biodiversity
Authors: Astles K. L.
Published: November 2014

Implementing marine ecosystem-based management at regional and small spatial scales is challenging due to the complexity of ecosystems, human activities, their interactions and multilayered governance. Ecological risk assessments (ERAs) of marine biodiversity are often used to prioirtise issues but only give broad guidance of how issues might be addressed in the form of strategies. However, at small and regional spatial scales marine natural resource managers have to make decisions within these strategies about how to manage specific interactions between human uses and ecological components. By using the transition between risk characterization and risk treatment in ERA for marine biodiversity tractable ways through the complexity can be found. This paper will argue that specific management and research actions relevant to smaller spatial scales can be developed by using the linkage between risk factors and risk treatment in ERA. Many risk factors require risk treatments that extend beyond the boundary of local agencies or sector responsibilities. The risk factor-treatment platform provides a practical way that these boundaries can be opened up by providing a scientifically based and transparent process to engage all actors who need to be involved in addressing the issues raised by an ERA. First, the principles of the mechanism will be described. Second, how the mechanism is constructed will be introduced using examples from an urban estuary. Application of the mechanism reveals three different types of risk factors (stressor, ecological, and knowledge gap) that can be used to develop specific management and research actions to treat risks. The systematic approach enables the dual complexities of marine ecosystems and multiple human pressures to be unravelled to identify and target issues effectively. The risk factor treatment linkage provides a platform to negotiate and develop effective management and research actions across jurisdictional, disciplinary, community and stakeholder boundaries.
Assessing the potential biases of ignoring sexual dimorphism and mating mechanism in using a single-sex demographic model: the shortfin mako shark as a case study
Authors: Tsai Wen-Pei , Liu Kwang-Ming , Punt André E. , Sun Chi-Lu
Published: November 2014

Most demographic models explicitly track the dynamics of a single sex. However, single-sex models may lead to rather poor results when vital rates and other demographic parameters differ between the sexes. Consequently, the population may not be optimally managed if management measures are based on a single-sex model, which suggests the need for two-sex models. The consequences of ignoring sexual dimorphism and mating mechanisms when proposed management strategies are based on single-sex demographic models are illustrated for shortfin mako shark, Isurus oxyrinchus, in the Northwest Pacific Ocean. Analyses based on single-sex models would underestimate the probability of decline risk. The findings imply that management decisions should be based on sex-specific models to better achieve management goals. The mating mechanism principally affects the proportion of breeding females, which has a large impact on the perceived population growth rate. Which mating function best describes the dynamics of shortfin mako populations is still unknown. More research is needed to avoid making inaccurate management decisions, such as genetic paternity studies to clarify the mating mechanism for this species.
Validation of Algorithms to Identify Invasive Electrophysiology Procedures Using Administrative Data in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Singh Sheldon M. , Webster Lauren , Calzavara Andrew , Wijeysundera Harindra C.
Published: November 2014

Background:

Administrative database research can provide insight into the real-world effectiveness of invasive electrophysiology procedures. However, no validated algorithm to identify these procedures within administrative data currently exists.

Objective:

To develop and validate algorithms to identify atrial fibrillation (AF), atrial flutter (AFL), supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) catheter ablation procedures, and diagnostic electrophysiology studies (EPS) within administrative data.

Methods:

Algorithms consisting of physician procedural billing codes and their associated most responsible hospital diagnosis codes were used to identify potential AF, AFL, SVT catheter ablation procedures and diagnostic EPS within large administrative databases in Ontario, Canada. The potential procedures were then limited to those performed between October 1, 2011 and March 31, 2013 at a single large regional cardiac center (Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center) in Ontario, Canada. These procedures were compared with a gold-standard cohort of patients known to have undergone invasive electrophysiology procedures during the same time period at the same institution. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of each algorithm was determined.

Results:

Algorithms specific to each of AF, AFL, and SVT ablation were associated with a moderate sensitivity (75%–86%), high specificity (95%–98%), positive (95%–98%), and negative (99%) predictive values. The best algorithm to identify diagnostic EPS was less optimal with a sensitivity of 61% and positive predictive value of 88%.

Conclusions:

Algorithms using a combination of physician procedural billing codes and accompanying most responsible hospital diagnosis may identify catheter ablation procedures within administrative data with a high degree of accuracy. Diagnostic EPS may be identified with reduced accuracy.
Flaviramulus aquimarinus sp. nov., isolated from seawater
Authors: Lee Ji Hee , Baik Keun Sik , Seong Chi Nam
Published: November 2014

A yellow-coloured, rod-shaped, non-motile, Gram-stain-negative and facultative anaerobic bacterium, designated KYW499T, was isolated from seawater collected at Suncheon Bay, Republic of Korea. The isolate required sea salts for growth. Flexirubin-type pigments were absent. Major cellular fatty acids (>10 % of total) were iso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 1 G, iso-C17 : 0 3-OH, iso-C15 : 0 3-OH. The main polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine and two unidentified polar lipids. The predominant isoprenoid quinone was MK-6. The genomic DNA G+C content was 31.7 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain KYW499T belonged to the family

Flavobacteriaceae

, and was related to the genus

Flaviramulus

. Data from a polyphasic taxonomy study suggested that the isolate represents a novel species of the genus

Flaviramulus

, for which the name Flaviramulus
aquimarinus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is KYW499T ( = KCTC 23924T = JCM 18274T).
A systematic simulation of the effect of salicylic acid on sphingolipid metabolism
Authors: Shi Chao , Yin Jian , Liu Zhe , Wu Jian-Xin , Zhao Qi , Ren Jian , Yao Nan
Published: November 2014

The phytohormone salicylic acid (SA) affects plant development and defense responses. Recent studies revealed that SA is also involved in the regulation of sphingolipid metabolism, but the details of this regulation remain to be explored. Here, we use in silico Flux Balance Analysis (FBA) with published microarray data to construct a whole-cell simulation model, including 23 pathways, 259 reactions and 172 metabolites, to predict the alterations in flux of major sphingolipid species after treatment with exogenous SA. This model predicts significant changes in fluxes of certain sphingolipid species after SA treatment, changes that likely trigger downstream physiological and phenotypic effects. To validate the simulation, we used isotopic non-stationary metabolic flux analysis to measure sphingolipid contents and turnover rate in Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings treated with SA or the SA analog benzothiadiazole (BTH). The results show that both SA and BTH affect sphingolipid metabolism by not only concentration of certain species, but also the optimal flux distribution and turnover rate of sphingolipid contents. Our strategy allows us to formally estimate sphingolipid fluxes on a short time scale and gives us a systemic view of the effect of SA on sphingolipid homeostasis.