bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The double tropopause and its dynamical relationship to the tropopause inversion layer in storm track regions
Authors: Peevey T. R. , Gille J. C. , Homeyer C. R. , Manney G. L.
Published: June 2014

Using High Resolution Dynamic Limb Sounder observations and ERA‐Interim reanalysis this study demonstrates that the warm conveyor belt (WCB) is a mechanism responsible for the relationship between the double tropopause (DT) and the tropopause inversion layer (TIL), a relationship recently suggested in the literature based on idealized model simulations of baroclinic disturbances. Using these data sets, spatial and temporal characteristics of the DT‐TIL relationship are examined over a 3 year period, 2005–2008. In the extratropics, results from satellite data show that as the TIL increases in strength, so does the frequency of the DT, regardless of season or hemisphere. The inverse relationship is found in the tropics. Using only DT profiles, zonal composites of wind, relative vorticity, and temperature from reanalysis data show that as the TIL increases in strength, the upper tropospheric circulation switches from cyclonic to anticyclonic, and the upward vertical motion increases. This result suggests the WCB as a mechanism since it is on the anticyclonic side of the jet and is characterized by the movement of tropical air poleward and upward from the surface. To verify this relationship, the vertical and horizontal development of a synoptic‐scale baroclinic system is analyzed over a 4 day period. Results show the equatorward extension of the polar tropopause, and thus the formation of the DT, due to the strengthening of the TIL in the region of vertical motion associated with the WCB. Moreover, this result suggests that air movement within the DT could originate from high latitudes when associated with a baroclinic disturbance.
Phase Field Modeling of Microstructure Formation, DSC Curves, and Thermal Expansion for AgCu Brazing Fillers Under Reactive Air Brazing Conditions
Authors: Apel Markus , Laschet Gottfried , Böttger Bernd , Berger Ralf
Published: June 2014

We discuss phase field simulations of the microstructure evolution in an Ag–Cu brazing filler for conditions close to reactive air brazing (RAB) under air. The simulations show the basic steps of the phase formation in the brazing filler during solidification and provide calculated DSC curves, which allow a direct comparison between simulation and experiment. It is demonstrated that the consideration of transport processes (mainly oxygen) is necessary for a quantitative interpretation of measured differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) curves. Furthermore, simulations demonstrate the effect of different Cu‐contents on the microstructure and the corresponding DSC curves. Finally, the effective temperature‐dependent thermal expansion including the eigenstrain from the phase transformation is calculated for the two‐phase microstructure.
Effect of Carbon Addition on Recovery Behavior of Trained FeMnSi Based Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Peng Huabei , Chen Jie , Wang Shanling , Wen Yuhua
Published: June 2014

We investigate microstructures and recovery behavior of trained Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni and Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni0.12C alloys under different deformation strains by color optical micrographs, XRD, and SQUID. The training results in the formation of α′ martensite in Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni alloy, while introduces Cr23C6 particles besides the α′ martensite in Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni0.12C alloy. The stress‐induced ε martensite bands are thinner in trained Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni0.12C alloy than in trained Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni alloy. When the deformation strain is below 8%, the recovery strain of trained Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni0.12C alloy is slightly lower than that of trained Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni alloy. This result is attributed to the fact that the Ms temperature of Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni0.12C alloy is much below the deformation temperature than that of Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni alloy. When the deformation strain is above 8%, the recovery strain of trained Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni0.12C alloy is higher than that of trained Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni alloy. The reason for this result is that in trained Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni0.12C alloy, both α′ martensite and Cr23C6 particles prevent stress‐induced ε martensite bands from colliding each other at large deformation strain, and the width of stress‐induced ε martensite bands is smaller as compared with trained Fe14Mn5Si8Cr4Ni alloy. It is concluded that carbon addition can improve the recovery strain of trained FeMnSi based shape memory alloys at large deformation strain.
High‐Strength and High‐Ductility Nanostructured and Amorphous Metallic Materials
Authors: Kou Hongning , Lu Jian , Li Ying
Published: June 2014

The development of materials with dual properties of high strength and high ductility has been a constant challenge since the foundation of the materials science discipline. The rapid progress of nanotechnology in recent decades has further brought this challenge to a new era. This Research News highlights a few newly developed strategies to optimize advanced nanomaterials and metallic glasses with exceptional dual mechanical properties of high strength and high ductility. A general concept of strain non‐localization is presented to describe the role of multiscale (i.e., macroscale, microscale, nanoscale, and atomic scale) heterogeneities in the ductility enhancement of materials reputed to be intrinsically brittle, such as nanostructured metallic materials and bulk metallic glasses. These nanomaterials clearly form a new group of materials that display an extraordinary relationship between yield strength and the uniform elongation with the same chemical composition. Several other examples of nanomaterials such as those reinforced by nanoprecipitates will also be described.
New UV‐A Photodetector Based on Individual Potassium Niobate Nanowires with High Performance
Authors: Liu Hui , Zhang Zhiming , Hu Linfeng , Gao Nan , Sang Liwen , Liao Meiyong , Ma Renzhi , Xu Fangfang , Fang Xiaosheng
Published: June 2014

A new UV‐A photodetector based on K2Nb8O21 nanowire is successfully fabricated for the first time. The potassium niobate is synthesized using a facile molten method. The K2Nb8O21 nanowire photodetectors exhibit an excellent sensitivity and wavelength selectivity with respect to UV‐A light. Furthermore, the photodetectors show great advantages in response time compared with other sensors based on single‐oxide semiconductor nanostructures, and, especially, the responsivity is much better than that of single ZnS nanobelt photodetectors. The mechanism of conductivity is explained from the viewpoints of field emission and thermionic field emission for the change of light intensities.
Partial oxidation of methane in hollow‐fiber membrane reactors based on alkaline‐earth metal‐free CO2‐tolerant oxide
Authors: Wei Yanying , Liao Qing , Li Zhong , Wang Haihui , Feldhoff Armin , Caro Juergen
Published: June 2014

The U‐shaped alkaline‐earth metal‐free CO2‐stable oxide hollow‐fiber membranes based on (Pr0.9La0.1)2(Ni0.74Cu0.21Ga0.05)O4+δ (PLNCG) are prepared by a phase‐inversion spinning process and applied successfully in the partial oxidation of methane (POM) to syngas. The effects of temperature, CH4 concentration and flow rate of the feed air on CH4 conversion, CO selectivity, H2/CO ratio, and oxygen permeation flux through the PLNCG hollow‐fiber membrane are investigated in detail. The oxygen permeation flux arrives at approximately 10.5 mL/min cm2 and the CO selectivity is higher than 99.5% with a CH4 conversion of 97.0% and a H2/CO ratio of 1.8 during 140 h steady operation. The spent hollow‐fiber membrane still maintains a dense microstructure and the Ruddlesden‐Popper K2NiF4‐type structure, which indicates that the U‐shaped alkaline‐earth metal‐free CO2‐tolerant PLNCG hollow‐fiber membrane reactor can be steadily operated for POM to syngas with good performance. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 3587–3595, 2014
Eine Stickstoff‐dotierte Kohlenstoffmatrix mit eingeschlossenen MnxOy/NC‐ und CoxOy/NC‐Nanopartikeln für leistungsfähige bifunktionale Sauerstoffelektroden
Authors: Masa Justus , Xia Wei , Sinev Ilya , Zhao Anqi , Sun Zhenyu , Grützke Stefanie , Weide Philipp , Muhler Martin , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: June 2014

Die reversible Umwandlung von Wasser in H2 und O2 sowie die Rekombination von H2 und O2 zu H2O unter Gewinnung von Energie ist die Basis für einen vollständig nachhaltigen Zyklus der Energiekonversion und ‐speicherung. Die Realisierung dieses Ziels wird jedoch von der Nichtverfügbarkeit effizienter Katalysatoren für die Wasserspaltung und Sauerstoffreduktion behindert. Wir berichten über hochaktive bifunktionale Katalysatoren für Sauerstoffelektroden, die aus Mn3O4‐ und Co3O4‐Nanopartikeln, eingeschlossen in N‐dotierten Kohlenstoff, bestehen und durch selektive Pyrolyse und nachfolgende milde Kalzinierung von Mn‐ oder Co‐N4‐macrocyclischen Komplexen erhalten wurden. Eine sehr starke Wechselwirkung zwischen den Metallzentren und Stickstoff‐haltigen Resten wurde beobachtet, was auf eine M‐Nx‐Koordination schließen lässt. Die Katalysatoren zeigen eine deutlich verringerte reversible Überspannung in KOH (0.1 M) gegenüber der von RuO2, IrO2, Pt, NiO, Mn3O4 und Co3O4. Damit gehören sie zu den besten Nichtedelmetall‐Katalysatoren für reversible Sauerstoffelektroden.
Copper‐Based Ternary and Quaternary Semiconductor Nanoplates: Templated Synthesis, Characterization, and Photoelectrochemical Properties
Authors: Wu Xue‐Jun , Huang Xiao , Qi Xiaoying , Li Hai , Li Bing , Zhang Hua
Published: June 2014

Two‐dimensional (2D) copper‐based ternary and quaternary semiconductors are promising building blocks for the construction of efficient solution‐processed photovoltaic devices at low cost. However, the facile synthesis of such 2D nanoplates with well‐defined shape and uniform size remains a challenge. Reported herein is a universal template‐mediated method for preparing copper‐based ternary and quaternary chalcogenide nanoplates, that is, CuInS2, CuInxGa1−xS2, and Cu2ZnSnS4, by using a pre‐synthesized CuS nanoplate as the starting template. The various synthesized nanoplates are monophasic with uniform thickness and lateral size. As a proof of concept, the Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoplates were immobilized on a Mo/glass substrate and used as semiconductor photoelectrode, thus showing stable photoelectrochemical response. The method is general and provides future opportunities for fabrication of cost‐effective photovoltaic devices based on 2D semiconductors.
Lithiation of a Silyl Ether: Formation of an ortho‐Fries Hydroxyketone
Authors: Lo Hong‐Jay , Lin Chin‐Yin , Tseng Mei‐Chun , Chein Rong‐Jie
Published: June 2014

A hydroxy‐directed alkylation of an N,N‐diethylarylamide using CIPE‐assisted α‐silyl carbanions (CIPE=complex‐induced proximity effect) has been developed using a simple reagent combination of LDA (lithium diisopropylamide) and chlorosilane. A study of the mechanism, and the application of the procedure to an anionic Snieckus–Fries rearrangement for a highly efficient synthesis of the potent phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY294002, are reported.
The Ketene‐Surrogate Coupling: Catalytic Conversion of Aryl Iodides into Aryl Ketenes through Ynol Ethers
Authors: Zhang Wenhan , Ready Joseph M.
Published: June 2014

tert‐Butoxyacetylene is shown to undergo Sonogashira coupling with aryl iodides to yield aryl‐substituted tert‐butyl ynol ethers. These intermediates participate in a [1,5]‐hydride shift, which results in the extrusion of isobutylene and the generation of aryl ketenes. The ketenes are trapped in situ with multiple nucleophiles or undergo electrocyclic ring closure to yield hydroxynaphthalenes and quinolines.
Selective Targeting of Tumor and Stromal Cells By a Nanocarrier System Displaying Lipidated Cathepsin B Inhibitor
Authors: Mikhaylov G. , Klimpel D. , Schaschke N. , Mikac U. , Vizovisek M. , Fonovic M. , Turk V. , Turk Boris , Vasiljeva Olga
Published: June 2014

Cathepsin B (CtsB) is a lysosomal cysteine proteinase that is specifically translocated to the extracellular milieu during cancer progression. The development of a lipidated CtsB inhibitor incorporated into the envelope of a liposomal nanocarrier (LNC‐NS‐629) is described. Ex vivo and in vivo studies confirmed selective targeting and internalization of LNC‐NS‐629 by tumor and stromal cells, thus validating CtsB targeting as a highly promising approach to cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Research on the tribological performance of Cr2O3 filled with bronze‐based PTFE composites
Authors: Ye Sujuan , Zeng Xingrong , Tan Feng , Fan Qing
Published: June 2014

Enhancement of the wear resistance of bronze‐filled polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composites has been achieved using various fillers, for example, chromic oxide (Cr2O3), molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), graphite, and nanometer aluminum oxide (n‐Al2O3), in the present study. The wear resistance was evaluated by a block‐on‐ring wear tester, and the effects of fillers on the wear resistance as well as the mechanism were investigated. The wear rate for the composite where the recipe containing 59% PTFE + 40% bronze + 1% Cr2O3 was 0.5 × 10−5 mm−3/N m and for the composite in the recipe containing 60% PTFE + 40% bronze was 4.2 × 10−5 mm−3/N m, which meant that that Cr2O3 increased the wear resistance by approximately 10 times. The differential scanning calorimetry measure analysis showed that Cr2O3 had a positive effect on the crystallization of PTFE; the crystallinity of PTFE composites increased from 45% to 52%, which exhibited improved wear resistance. Wear testing and scanning electron microscope analysis had shown that Cr2O3 had a positive effect on the formation of transfer film and keeping it stable to exhibit improved wear resistance. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results also showed that Cr2O3 was effective in tribochemical reactions during sliding against stainless ring; these maybe responsible for forming transfer film and lowering wear rate of composite. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 41117.
The production of anatomical teaching resources using three‐dimensional (3D) printing technology
Authors: McMenamin Paul G. , Quayle Michelle R. , McHenry Colin R. , Adams Justin W.
Published: June 2014

The teaching of anatomy has consistently been the subject of societal controversy, especially in the context of employing cadaveric materials in professional medical and allied health professional training. The reduction in dissection‐based teaching in medical and allied health professional training programs has been in part due to the financial considerations involved in maintaining bequest programs, accessing human cadavers and concerns with health and safety considerations for students and staff exposed to formalin‐containing embalming fluids. This report details how additive manufacturing or three‐dimensional (3D) printing allows the creation of reproductions of prosected human cadaver and other anatomical specimens that obviates many of the above issues. These 3D prints are high resolution, accurate color reproductions of prosections based on data acquired by surface scanning or CT imaging. The application of 3D printing to produce models of negative spaces, contrast CT radiographic data using segmentation software is illustrated. The accuracy of printed specimens is compared with original specimens. This alternative approach to producing anatomically accurate reproductions offers many advantages over plastination as it allows rapid production of multiple copies of any dissected specimen, at any size scale and should be suitable for any teaching facility in any country, thereby avoiding some of the cultural and ethical issues associated with cadaver specimens either in an embalmed or plastinated form. Anat Sci Educ 7: 479–486. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists.
Optimal maintenance level for second‐hand product with periodic inspection schedule
Authors: Kim Dae‐Kyung , Lim Jae‐Hak , Park Dong Ho
Published: June 2014

This paper formulates a periodic inspection/upgrade model under free non‐renewable warranty policy with a fixed length of warranty period for the second‐hand product and derives an optimal number of inspections required and an optimal improvement level to minimize the expected total warranty cost from the perspective of the dealer during the warranty period. At each inspection, the product is taken an upgrade action in order to reduce its failure rate, which is characterized by an improvement level. It is true in general that the higher improvement level and more frequent inspections increase the warranty cost but lower the chance of product failures. In this paper, we propose an optimal strategy with respect to the inspection/upgrade action for the dealer to lower the total warranty cost. Firstly, we define an inspection/upgrade action, which reduces the product's failure rate proportionally to the improvement level at each inspection and then evaluate the expected total warranty cost. Secondly, the optimal solutions for the decision variables and its uniqueness are discussed in general. Numerical results are presented when the failure distribution follows a Weibull distribution under the proposed model. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cloning, expression, and characterization of a novel alkali‐tolerant xylanase from alkaliphilic Bacillus sp. SN5
Authors: Bai Wenqin , Xue Yanfen , Zhou Cheng , Ma Yanhe
Published: June 2014

A xylanase gene (xyn11A) was cloned from the genomic library of alkalophilic Bacillus sp. SN5. It encoded a polypeptide of 366 amino acids, consisting of a family 11 glycoside hydrolase, a short linker region, and a family 36 carbohydrate‐binding module (CBM). The intact xylanase Xyn11A and the CBM‐linker‐truncated Xyn11A‐LC were expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3). Both purified recombinant proteins exhibited the highest activity at 55 °C. The optimal pH for Xyn11A activity was 7.5, whereas Xyn11A‐LC showed a broad pH profile (>80% activity at pH 5.5–8.5) with optimal activity at pH 5.5 and 7.5–8.0. They had high alkali tolerance, retaining over 80% residual activity after preincubation at pH 8.5–11.0 at 37 °C for 1 H. Xyn11A‐LC showed better thermal stability, lower affinity, and lower catalytic activity to insoluble xylan than Xyn11A, whereas its specific activity for soluble beechwood xylan (4,511.9 U/mg) was greater than that of Xyn11A (3,136.4 U/mg). These results implied that the CBM of Xyn11A could change the enzymatic properties and play a role in degrading insoluble xylan. Xyn11A‐LC is a family 11 alkali‐tolerant cellulase‐free xylanase with high specific activity, which qualifies it as a potential candidate for industrial applications, especially in the paper industry.
Bacterial XylRs and synthetic promoters function as genetically encoded xylose biosensors in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Teo Wei Suong , Chang Matthew Wook
Published: June 2014

Lignocellulosic biomass is a sustainable and abundant starting material for biofuel production. However, lignocellulosic hydrolysates contain not only glucose, but also other sugars including xylose which cannot be metabolized by the industrial workhorse Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Hence, engineering of xylose assimilating S. cerevisiae has been much studied, including strain optimization strategies. In this work, we constructed genetically encoded xylose biosensors that can control protein expression upon detection of xylose sugars. These were constructed with the constitutive expression of heterologous XylR repressors, which function as protein sensors, and cloning of synthetic promoters with XylR operator sites. Three XylR variants and the corresponding synthetic promoters were used: XylR from Tetragenococcus halophile, Clostridium difficile, and Lactobacillus pentosus. To optimize the biosensor, two promoters with different strengths were used to express the XylR proteins. The ability of XylR to repress yEGFP expression from the synthetic promoters was demonstrated. Furthermore, xylose sugars added exogenously to the cells were shown to regulate gene expression. We envision that the xylose biosensors can be used as a tool to engineer and optimize yeast that efficiently utilizes xylose as carbon source for growth and biofuel production.
Thrombectomy using suction filtration and veno‐venous bypass: Single center experience with a novel device
Authors: Donaldson Cameron W. , Baker Joshua N. , Narayan Rajeev L. , Provias Tim S. , Rassi Andrew N. , Giri Jay S. , Sakhuja Rahul , Weinberg Ido , Jaff Michael R. , Rosenfield Kenneth
Published: June 2014

Objectives

To describe the first single center experience with a novel aspiration thrombectomy device.

Background

The appearance of inferior vena cava or right‐sided intracardiac thrombus may prompt consideration of percutaneous thrombectomy as a method to prevent new or worsening pulmonary embolism (PE). The AngioVac is a novel thrombectomy device composed of a cannula and extracorporeal circuit with filter for pump‐assisted removal of intravascular debris which is coupled with a reinfusion catheter for return of blood to the patient. The device has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration since 2009. This report represents the first significant case series describing its use, feasibility and outcomes in evacuating large caval thrombi or intracardiac masses in PE.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of patient and case characteristics and in‐hospital clinical outcomes of AngioVac thrombectomy in 14 consecutive patients treated between April 2010 and July 2013 at our institution.

Results

Fourteen consecutive patients (mean age 50, 64% female) underwent 15 AngioVac procedures over 40 months. Indications included intracardiac mass (73%), acute PE (33%), and caval thrombus (73%). Four patients (27%) were in shock at the start of the procedure. Peri‐procedure mortality was 0% and in‐hospital mortality was 13% at a mean follow‐up of 23 days. There were no pulmonary hemorrhages, strokes or myocardial infarctions. Though 73% had a post procedural drop in hematocrit, only two bleeding events were related to access site and required a transfusion.

Conclusions

AngioVac thrombectomy is feasible in critically ill patients with acute DVT or PE and large caval thrombi or intracardiac masses. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alkylbenzene Analysis in Pyrolysis Oils from Biomass and Coal by Comprehensive Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Rathsack Philipp , Reichel Denise , Krzack Steffen , Otto Matthias
Published: June 2014

Elf Einsatzstoffe entlang der Inkohlungsreihe wurden in einem Festbettreaktor pyrolysiert und die Ausbeuten der gasförmigen, flüssigen und festen Produkte bestimmt. Die gewonnenen Pyrolyseöle wurden hinsichtlich der Alkylbenzole mit komprehensiver Gaschromatographie‐Massenspektrometrie qualitativ untersucht. In allen Proben, von Biomasse bis Anthrazit, konnten leichte Alkylbenzole nachgewiesen werden. In kohlestämmigen Pyrolyseölen konnten darüber hinaus langkettig substituierte n‐Alkylbenzole gefunden und eine deutlich erhöhte Anzahl an Isomeren bei gegebener Summenformel nachgewiesen werden.
Specificity of lectin‐immobilized fluorescent nanospheres for colorectal tumors in a mouse model which better resembles the clinical disease
Authors: Kitamura Tokio , Sakuma Shinji , Shimosato Moe , Higashino Haruki , Masaoka Yoshie , Kataoka Makoto , Yamashita Shinji , Hiwatari Ken‐ichiro , Kumagai Hironori , Morimoto Naoki , Koike Seiji , Tobita Etsuo , Hoffman Robert M. , Gore John C. , Pham Wellington
Published: June 2014

We have been investigating an imaging agent that enables real‐time and accurate diagnosis of early colorectal cancer at the intestinal mucosa by colonoscopy. The imaging agent is peanut agglutinin‐immobilized polystyrene nanospheres with surface poly(N‐vinylacetamide) chains encapsulating coumarin 6. Intracolonically‐administered lectin‐immobilized fluorescent nanospheres detect tumor‐derived changes through molecular recognition of lectin for the terminal sugar of cancer‐specific antigens on the mucosal surface. The focus of the present study was to evaluate imaging abilities of the nanospheres in animal models that reflect clinical environments. We previously developed an orthotopic mouse model with human colorectal tumors growing on the mucosa of the descending colon to better resemble the clinical disease. The entire colon of the mice in the exposed abdomen was monitored in real time with an in vivo imaging apparatus. Fluorescence from the nanospheres was observed along the entire descending colon after intracolonical administration from the anus. When the luminal side of the colon was washed with phosphate‐buffered saline, most of the nanospheres were flushed. However, fluorescence persisted in areas where cancer cells were implanted. Histological evaluation demonstrated that tumors were present in the mucosal epithelia where the nanospheres fluoresced. In contrast, no fluorescence was observed when control mice, without tumors were tested. The lectin‐immobilized fluorescent nanospheres were tumor‐specific and remained bound to tumors even after vigorous washing. The nanospheres nonspecifically bound to normal mucosa were easily removed through mild washing. These results indicate that the nanospheres combined with colonoscopy, will be a clinically‐valuable diagnostic tool for early‐stage primary colon carcinoma. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel electrospun SnO2@carbon nanofibers as high performance anodes for lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Fu Zhirong , Li Xuefeng , Xu Guirong
Published: June 2014

SnO2@carbon (SnO2@C) nanofibers (NFs) have been prepared by electrospinning method and evaluated as anodes in lithium‐ion battery half cells. XRD were carried out to provide further information about the structure of the as‐prepared NFs, and all the peaks can be readily indexed to the rutile phase SnO2 (JCPDS No. 41–1445). Electrochemical characterization by galvanostatic charge‐discharge tests shows that the NF anodes have first discharge capacities of 1375.5 mA h g−1 at 80 mA g−1current density. This excellent Li‐ion storage capability of SnO2 NFs is probably resulting from protection of amorphous carbon and the synergy arising from that the ultrafine SnO2 particles embedded in the carbon nanofiber (CNF) matrix: the nanometer‐sized SnO2@C NFs can provide not only negligible diffusion times of ions thus faster phase transitions but also enough space to buﬀer the volume changes during the lithium insertion and extraction reactions. The highly dispersed NFs are expected to be applied as attractive anodes for lithium‐ion batteries.
Fine needle aspiration of breast masses in pregnant and lactating women: Experience with 28 cases emphasizing Thinprep findings
Authors: Heymann Jonas J. , Halligan Allison M. , Hoda Syed A. , Facey Kirk E. , Hoda Rana S.
Published: June 2014

Background

Fine needle aspiration (FNA) of breast masses in pregnant or lactating women is an uncommon procedure, and cytological interpretation is considered problematic due to atypia inherent to secretory change in glandular epithelia. Previous descriptions of “lactating adenoma” (LAd), the most common tumor in this population, have been on direct smears (DS), while ThinPrep (TP, Hologic, Boxborough, MA) findings therein remain largely uncharacterized.

Methods

FNA cases from breast masses in pregnant or lactating women (2005–2012), processed as TP and/or DS were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

28 cases from as many patients (mean age 36 years), at 23 weeks of pregnancy to 10 months postpartum, were reviewed. Size of mass ranged from 1.0 to 4.5 cm. Corresponding histopathology was available in 21/28 cases. TP was available in 24/28 cases. Relative to DS, in TP, LAd showed “lacy” fragments, tissue paper‐like texture, and globular clumps of “milky” background material, with embedded singly dispersed “bare” epithelial cell nuclei containing cherry‐red macronucleoli. Architecture appeared disrupted in TP with isolated cells, smaller cell clusters, and lobules in LAd. Cellular morphology was better preserved in TP. Cytological features of carcinoma on TP were similar to DS. There were no false‐positive cases. In this series, LAd was the most common diagnosis for breast masses in pregnant and lactating women (78.5%) and demonstrated background, architectural, and cellular alterations on TP.

Conclusion

In this setting, malignancy is an important consideration (encountered in 3/28, 11% of cases, including one false‐negative angiosarcoma case). Diagn. Cytopathol. 2015;43:188–194. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Involvement of Nitric Oxide and ATP‐Sensitive Potassium Channels in the Peripheral Antinoceptive Action of a Tramadol–Dexketoprofen Combination in the Formalin Test
Authors: Isiordia‐Espinoza Mario A. , Pozos‐Guillén Amaury , Pérez‐Urizar José , Chavarría‐Bolaños Daniel
Published: June 2014

Preclinical Research

Systemic coadministration of tramadol and dexketoprofen can produce antinociceptive synergism in animals. There has been only limited evaluation of this drug combination in the peripheral nervous system in terms of the antinociceptive interaction and its mechanisms. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the peripheral antinociceptive interaction between tramadol and dexketoprofen in the formalin test and the involvement of the nitric oxide (NO)–cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway and ATP‐sensitive K+ channels. Different doses of tramadol or dexketoprofen were administered locally to the formalin‐injured mouse paw and the antinociceptive effect evaluated. ED50 values were calculated for both drugs alone and in combination. Coadministration of tramadol and dexketoprofen produced an antinociceptive synergistic interaction during the second phase of the formalin test. Pretreatment with NO antagonists, including l‐NG‐nitroarginine methyl ester and 1H‐[1,2,4]‐oxadiazolo‐[4,3‐a]‐quinoxalin‐1‐one, or the ATP‐sensitive K+ channel antagonist glibenclamide reversed the antinociceptive synergistic effect of the tramadol–dexketoprofen combination, suggesting that NO and ATP‐sensitive K+ channels were involved.
Biological Evaluation and SAR Analysis of O‐Methylated Analogs of Quercetin as Inhibitors of Cancer Cell Proliferation
Authors: Shi Zhi‐Hao , Li Nian‐Guang , Tang Yu‐Ping , Shi Qian‐Ping , Tang Hao , Li Wei , Zhang Xu , Fu Hai‐An , Duan Jin‐Ao
Published: June 2014

Preclinical Research

Using a high‐throughout screening approach, the anticancer activities of 16 O‐methylated (OMe) analogs of quercetin were assessed. The structure–activity relationships showed that OMe moieties at the 4′ and/or 7 positions were important for maintaining inhibitory activities against the 16 cancer cell lines. Furthermore, when the OH groups at the 3′ and 4′ positions were both replaced by OMe moieties, anticancer activity was enhanced.
The plasticity of development: How knowledge of epigenetics may advance understanding of eating disorders
Authors: Strober Michael , Peris Tara , Steiger Howard
Published: June 2014

Objective

To depict the processes through which animals and human beings engage their environment in continuously evolving states of conflict and cooperation.

Method

Descriptive literature review.

Results

Life history outcomes are more relative than they are absolute. Genetic variations play a crucial role, but heavily influencing behavioral outcomes, psychopathology included, are external cues that epigenetically remodel DNA along experience‐dependent signaling pathways. The result is phenotypes that either optimize adjustment, or constrain it.

Discussion

Knowledge of epigenetic mechanisms may help shed new light on the origin of maturational phenotypes underlying eating disorders and why adjusting treatments to these realities warrants our attention. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2014; 47:696–704)
Unique influence of stimulus duration and stimulation site (glabrous vs. hairy skin) on the thermal grill‐induced percept
Authors: Hunter J. , Dranga R. , van Wyk M. , Dostrovsky J.O.
Published: June 2014

Background

The application to the skin of spatially interlaced innocuous warm (40 °C) and cool (20 °C) thermodes (termed a thermal grill – TG) can produce an unusual thermal percept, but the mechanisms remain unclear.

Methods

We compared the percept quality and intensity over a 120‐s period evoked by each of three configurations of a 6‐bar thermal stimulator (6TS): all 40 °C(WARM); all 20 °C(COOL); alternating bars 40/20 °C (TG) at two body sites (forearm and palm).

Results

Both unpleasantness and pain were significantly greater for the TG‐induced (vs. either COOL‐ or WARM‐induced) percept. Unpleasantness ratings were significantly higher than pain intensity ratings. Several emotional qualitative descriptors were unique to the TG‐induced percept. TG palmar (vs. forearm) stimulation produced a more intense percept and was perceived as painful in more subjects. Temporal profiles of intensities of TG‐induced percepts differed from those induced by the COOL or WARM thermodes alone. For both unpleasantness and pain, the site differences in the temporal profile were also unique for TG versus the COOL‐ or WARM‐evoked percepts. Qualitative characteristics of the TG‐induced percept varied over time and between subjects.

Conclusions

The TG percept intensity and temporal profile were different from those evoked by either of its component parts. The perceived quality is person‐specific. These differences suggest that the classic ‘TG illusion’ results from complex central integration of several types of peripheral afferent inputs activated by the TG. Differing body site‐related roles of thermosensory afferents in discrimination versus temperature homeostasis may explain site‐related variations in the percept.
Effects of intra‐articular hyaluronic acid injection on immunohistochemical characterization of joint afferents in a rat model of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Ikeuchi M. , Izumi M. , Aso K. , Sugimura N. , Kato T. , Tani T.
Published: June 2014

Background

Intra‐articular hyaluronic acid (HA) injection, known as viscosupplementation, is a widely used therapy for pain relief in knee osteoarthritis (OA). Long‐term clinical efficacy of HA has been reported in spite of a relatively short residence time. Herein, we evaluated our hypothesis that intra‐articular HA injection could reduce the OA‐associated changes in joint afferents.

Methods

OA was induced by intra‐articular injection of mono‐iodoacetate in rats. Animals in the OA + HA group were given three weekly intra‐articular HA injections. Pain‐related behaviours, including weight‐bearing asymmetry and mechanical hyperalgesia of the paw, knee joint histology and immunohistochemistry of joint afferents identified by retrograde labelling, were compared between groups (naïve, OA and OA + HA).

Results

OA rats showed pain‐related behaviours and up‐regulation of pain‐related neurochemical markers [calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP), tyrosine receptor kinase A (TrkA) and acid‐sensing ion channel 3 (ASIC3)] in joint afferents. HA injections reduced not only the severity of OA and pain behaviours but also OA‐associated neurochemical changes in joint afferents. The differences between OA and OA + HA were statistically significant in CGRP (61 ± 10% vs. 51 ± 10%; p = 0.0406) but not significant in TrkA (62 ± 10% vs. 54 ± 9%; p = 0.0878) and ASIC3 (38 ± 9% vs. 32 ± 8%; p = 0.3681).

Conclusion

Intra‐articular HA injections reduced the severity of OA, decreased mechanical hyperalgesia of the paw, but not weight‐bearing asymmetry, and attenuated OA‐associated up‐regulation of CGRP, but not TrkA and ASIC3, in joint afferents. The modulatory effects of HA on joint afferents is one of the underlying mechanisms of the gap between HA residence time and duration of clinical efficacy.
A genome‐wide association study suggests an association of Chr8p21.3 (GFRA2) with diabetic neuropathic pain
Authors: Meng W. , Deshmukh H.A. , van Zuydam N.R. , Liu Y. , Donnelly L.A. , Zhou K. ,   Wellcome Trust Case Control Consortium 2 (WTCCC2),   Surrogate Markers for Micro‐ and Macro‐Vascular Hard Endpoints for Innovative Diabetes Tools (SUMMIT) Study Group, Morris A.D. , Colhoun H.M. , Palmer C.N.A. , Smith B.H.
Published: June 2014

Background

Neuropathic pain, caused by a lesion or a disease affecting the somatosensory system, is one of the most common complications in diabetic patients. The purpose of this study is to identify genetic factors contributing to this type of pain in a general diabetic population.

Method

We accessed the Genetics of Diabetes Audit and Research Tayside (GoDARTS) datasets that contain prescription information and monofilament test results for 9439 diabetic patients, among which 6927 diabetic individuals were genotyped by Affymetrix SNP6.0 or Illumina OmniExpress chips. Cases of neuropathic pain were defined as diabetic patients with a prescription history of at least one of five drugs specifically indicated for the treatment of neuropathic pain and in whom monofilament test result was positive for sensory neuropathy in at least one foot. Controls were individuals who did not have a record of receiving any opioid analgesics. Imputation of non‐genotyped SNPs was performed by IMPUTE2, with reference files from 1000 Genomes Phase I datasets.

Results

After data cleaning and relevant exclusions, imputed genotypes of 572 diabetic neuropathic pain cases and 2491 diabetic controls were used in the Fisher's exact test. We identified a cluster in the Chr8p21.3, next to GFRA2 with a lowest p‐value of 1.77 × 10−7 at rs17428041. The narrow‐sense heritability of this phenotype was 11.00%.

Conclusion

This genome‐wide association study on diabetic neuropathic pain suggests new evidence for the involvement of variants near GFRA2 with the disorder, which needs to be verified in an independent cohort and at the molecular level.
A Bayesian spatial factor analysis approach for combining climate model ensembles
Authors: Neeley E.S. , Christensen W.F. , Sain S.R.
Published: June 2014

Global and regional climate models are large computer models that simulate the Earth's climate system and are used extensively in climate change research. Climate models are based on natural laws of physics, chemistry, and fluid dynamics. However, different inputs and parameterizations lead to different climate projections. To help account for inherent uncertainties in the process, collections of climate models, called ensembles, are often used. This paper proposes a method for combining climate ensemble output using a spatial confirmatory factor analysis model to characterize modes of similarity among ensemble members. The proposed model uses both Bayesian and spatial methods to estimate a common climate factor as well as unique factor loadings for each ensemble member. These spatial factor loadings indicate the degree of agreement for each member with the common climate factor. The model is applied to the North American Regional Climate Change Assessment Program ensemble, using both winter surface temperature and winter precipitation. In both cases, the spatial confirmatory factor analysis model finds areas of disagreement among ensemble members where no suitable consensus can be obtained. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alle Augen auf den Nachwuchs
Authors: Wagner Dorothea
Published: June 2014

Die Frage nach der Zukunft junger Forscherinnen und Forscher ist die Frage nach der Zukunft unseres Wissenschaftssystems. Dieses ist nur leistungsfähig, wenn es gelingt, hoch qualifiziertes Personal möglichst früh zu gewinnen und zu halten. Dazu braucht es vor allem eines: belastbare Perspektiven.
IntelligenteLogistik 2.0
Authors: Gath Max , Herzog Otthein
Published: June 2014

Briefe, Bücher, Medikamente — Express‐ und Kurierleistungen gehören heute zum städtischen Alltag. Sie zu steuern, stellt die Logistik vor neue Herausforderungen. Ein Transferprojekt zeigt, dass dabei Selbststeuerung und lokale Optimierung für mehr Flexibilität sorgen.
Stock‐Versus‐Flow Distinctions, Information, and the Role of Inventory
Authors: Adrangi Bahram , Chatrath Arjun , Christie‐David Rohan A. , Miao Hong , Ramchander Sanjay
Published: June 2014

A framework is presented that distinguishes commodities by their stock‐versus‐flow orientations. Specifically, the responsiveness of commodities to macroeconomic news is assessed while conditioning on the mediating role of inventories. Such responses are expected to differ based on commodity orientation. Results for gold, silver, and copper are reported. With standard responsiveness tests, gold and silver, our ex‐ante stock‐oriented commodities, exhibit only weak stock orientation, whereas copper exhibits a flow orientation. However, when responses are conditioned on daily movements and concentration of local inventories among traders, the stock orientation of gold and silver becomes evident, while copper also exhibits a sporadic stock orientation. The findings indicate the viability of simple statistical tools in uncovering stock‐versus‐flow orientations for commodities. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 35:1003–1025, 2015
Somatic mutations in the D‐loop of mitochondrial DNA in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Shih‐An , Jiang Rong‐San , Wang Wen‐Yi , Lin Jin‐Ching
Published: June 2014

Background

The purpose of this study was to characterize somatic mutations in the D‐loop of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and their impact on survival in patients with head and neck cancer.

Methods

Histologically confirmed head and neck cancer and corresponding noncancerous tissues were obtained from 130 patients. The D‐loop of mtDNA sequence in noncancerous tissues was compared with that of paired cancer samples and any sequence differences were identified as somatic mutations.

Results

Somatic mutations of the D‐loop were observed in 81 patients (62.3%) with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, and most of them occurred in the poly‐C tract. There were no significant differences between the mutation group and nonmutation group in demographic and tumor‐related features. Patients with D‐loop mutations had better survival (4‐year disease‐specific survival rate: 70.5% vs 50.8%; p = .0435).

Conclusion

Somatic mutation of D‐loop of mtDNA was a potential prognostic factor of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 878–883, 2015
Relationship of vitamin D status with advanced liver fibrosis and response to hepatitis C virus therapy: A meta-analysis
Authors: García-Álvarez Mónica , Pineda-Tenor Daniel , Jiménez-Sousa María A. , Fernández-Rodríguez Amanda , Guzmán-Fulgencio María , Resino Salvador
Published: June 2014

There is growing evidence that vitamin D is related to chronic hepatitis C (CHC) pathogenicity. We analyzed the relationship of vitamin D status with advanced liver fibrosis (ALF) in CHC treatment-naïve patients and sustained virologic response (SVR) in CHC patients on pegylated interferon alpha plus ribavirin (pegIFNα/ribavirin) therapy. We performed a meta-analysis of all eligible studies published to date (April, 2014) in PubMed, SCOPUS, LILACS, and the Cochrane Library, assessing plasma/serum vitamin D levels related to ALF and/or SVR. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) were estimated by either fixed or random effects models. Fourteen studies were selected from the literature search, seven for ALF (1,083 patients) and 11 for SVR (2,672 patients). For liver fibrosis, low vitamin D status was related to a diagnosis of ALF, with the cutoffs of 10 ng/mL (OR = 2.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.20, 4.72) and 30 ng/mL (OR = 2.22, 95% CI = 1.24, 3.97) being significant, and a near-significance for 20 ng/mL (OR = 1.44, 95% CI = 0.99, 2.12). Regarding SVR, a significant heterogeneity among studies was found (

P

< 0.001), and we only found a significant association with SVR for a vitamin D cutoff of 20 ng/mL (OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.31, 0.91). When meta-analysis was performed excluding the outliers, significant pooled ORs were found for all patients (10 ng/mL [OR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.34, 0.67] and 20 ng/mL [OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.45, 0.76]) and GT1/4 patients (10 ng/mL [OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.34, 0.81] and 20 ng/mL [OR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.39, 0.74]).

Conclusion

: Low vitamin D status in CHC patients is associated with a higher likelihood of having ALF and lower odds of achieving SVR following pegIFNα/ribavirin therapy. (Hepatology 2014;60:1541–1550)
Novel insights into ammonia-mediated neurotoxicity pointing to potential new therapeutic strategies
Authors: Hadjihambi Anna , Rose Christopher F. , Jalan Rajiv , Thrane Rangroo V , Thrane A S , Wang F , Cotrina M L , Smith N A , Chen M
Published: June 2014

Abstract

Ammonia is a ubiquitous waste product of protein metabolism that can accumulate in numerous metabolic disorders, causing neurological dysfunction ranging from cognitive impairment to tremor, ataxia, seizures, coma and death. The brain is especially vulnerable to ammonia as it readily crosses the blood-brain barrier in its gaseous form, NH3, and rapidly saturates its principal removal pathway located in astrocytes. Thus, we wanted to determine how astrocytes contribute to the initial deterioration of neurological functions characteristic of hyperammonemia in vivo. Using a combination of two-photon imaging and electrophysiology in awake head-restrained mice, we show that ammonia rapidly compromises astrocyte potassium buffering, increasing extracellular potassium concentration and overactivating the Na+-K+−2Cl– cotransporter isoform 1 (NKCC1) in neurons. The consequent depolarization of the neuronal GABA reversal potential (EGABA) selectively impairs cortical inhibitory networks. Genetic deletion of NKCC1 or inhibition of it with the clinically used diuretic bumetanide potently suppresses ammonia-induced neurological dysfunction. We did not observe astrocyte swelling or brain edema in the acute phase, calling into question current concepts regarding the neurotoxic effects of ammonia. Instead, our findings identify failure of potassium buffering in astrocytes as a crucial mechanism in ammonia neurotoxicity and demonstrate the therapeutic potential of blocking this pathway by inhibiting NKCC1.
The Relationships Between MBO System Strength and Goal‐Climate Quality and Strength
Authors: Aksoy Eda , Bayazit Mahmut
Published: June 2014

We adopted Bowen and Ostroff's () HRM system strength concept so as to test it within the context of a management by objectives (MBO) system, which was utilized by six independent firms owned by a large, diversified family business group in Turkey. For this purpose, we surveyed the middle managers to measure 10 context‐specific metafeatures of the MBO system. By using aggregated scores at the functional group level (N = 47), we captured the distinctiveness, consistency, and consensus dimensions of this HRM practice. We tested and compared three alternative theoretical models of HRM strength where the three dimensions have compensatory, additive, and distinctiveness mediated effects on climate quality and strength. Results support the compensatory model and indicate that the strength of the MBO system (as a reflective latent variable representing the shared variance of the system's distinctiveness, consistency, and consensus) is positively related to business units’ quality and strength of goal climate. In addition, distinctiveness—but not consistency and consensus—of the MBO system appears to be particularly critical for the emergence of a strong and high‐quality goal climate. Lastly, implications and limitations of the study as well as possible future research directions are discussed. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.