bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atlas® Listeria monocytogenes LmG2 Detection Assay Using Transcription Mediated Amplification to Detect Listeria monocytogenes in Selected Foods and Stainless Steel Surface
Authors: Bres Vanessa , Yang Hua , Hsu Ernie , Ren Yan , Cheng Ying , Wisniewski Michele , Hanhan Maesa , Zaslavsky Polina , Noll Nathan , Weaver Brett , Campbell Paul , Reshatoff Michael , Becker Michael
Published: September 2014

The Atlas Listeria monocytogenes LmG2 Detection Assay, developed by Roka Bioscience Inc., was compared to a reference culture method for seven food types (hot dogs, cured ham, deli turkey, chicken salad, vanilla ice cream, frozen chocolate cream pie, and frozen cheese pizza) and one surface (stainless steel, grade 316). A 125 g portion of deli turkey was tested using a 1:4 food:media dilution ratio, and a 25 g portion for all other foods was tested using 1:9 food:media dilution ratio. The enrichment time and media for Roka's method was 24 to 28 h for 25 g food samples and environmental surfaces, and 44 to 48 h for 125 g at 35 ± 2°C in PALCAM broth containing 0.02 g/L nalidixic acid. Comparison of the Atlas Listeria monocytogenes LmG2 Detection Assay to the reference method required an unpaired approach. For each matrix, 20 samples inoculated at a fractional level and five samples inoculated at a high level with a different strain of Listeria monocytogenes were tested by each method. The Atlas Listeria monocytogenes LmG2 Detection Assay was compared to the Official Methods of Analysis of AOAC INTERNATIONAL 993.12 method for dairy products, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook 8.08 method for ready-to-eat meat and environmental samples, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual, Chapter 10 method for frozen foods. In the method developer studies, Roka's method, at 24 h (or 44 h for 125 g food samples), had 126 positives out of 200 total inoculated samples, compared to 102 positives for the reference methods at 48 h. In the independent laboratory studies, vanilla ice cream, deli turkey and stainless steel grade 316 were evaluated. Roka's method, at 24 h (or 44 h for 125 g food samples), had 64 positives out of 75 total inoculated samples compared to 54 positives for the reference methods at 48 h. The Atlas Listeria monocytogenes LmG2 Detection Assay detected all 50 L. monocytogenes strains that encompassed 13 serotypes across the various lineages and none of the 30 exclusive organisms, including seven other Listeria species. The product consistency and kit stability studies revealed no statistical differences between the three lots tested or to the term of the shelf life. Finally, the robustness study demonstrated no statistical differences when samples were incubated at 33 ± 2°C or 37 ± 2°C, when enrichment aliquots were 1.3 mL or 1.7 mL, or when the samples were analyzed the same day or five days later. Overall the Atlas Listeria monocytogenes LmG2 Detection Assay is statistically equivalent to or better than the reference methods and is robust to the tested variations.
Ultrasonic Extraction with Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry for the Determination of Ochratoxin A in Processed Cereal Products
Authors: Nguyen Kieu Thi Ngoc , Ryu Dojin
Published: September 2014

A rapid, simple, and reliable method using ultra-performance LC/MS/MS (UPLC/MS/MS) was developed for determination of ochratoxin A (OTA) in processed cereal products. OTA was ultrasonically extracted from the sample with acetonitrile–water (80 + 20, v/v), and the extract was then injected into the UPLC/MS/MS system after filtration. The calibration curves had good linearity with coefficients of determination greater than 0.999. Recoveries of OTA were in the range of 90–104%. LOD and LOQ of OTA in samples were 0.6 and 2.0 ng/g, respectively, and no significant matrix effect was found. This method was applied to determine OTA in 25 oat-based cereal samples. OTA was detected in five samples (20%) in the range of 2.4 to 7.3 ng/g.
Fingerprinting of Secondary Metabolites of Liverworts: Chemosystematic Approach
Authors: Ludwiczuk Agnieszka , Asakawa Yoshinori
Published: September 2014

The relationship between various types of plants can be predicted based on the similarity in the chemical substances present in them. Compounds that belong to the category of secondary metabolites are of great value in identifying such relationships. Additionally, results from the chemical investigations, together with the other biological or genetic information, can help to understand real relationships among the taxa. Liverworts are small spore-forming plants with simple morphological organization. On the other hand, many liverwort species demonstrate wide geographical distribution and grow under diverse ecological conditions. Because of this, the identification of these plants is especially challenging. One of the outstanding features of the liverworts is their chemistry. They produce a wide array of secondary metabolites, mainly terpenoids and aromatic compounds. Many of these compounds are characterized by unique structures, and some have not been found in any other plants, fungi, or marine organisms. The potential use of chromatographic fingerprinting of the liverworts, as complementary to morphological and genetic information, to resolve the taxonomic problems at the species, genus, and family levels are discussed.
Diagnosis of Splenic B-Cell Lymphomas in the Bone Marrow: A Review of Histopathologic, Immunophenotypic, and Genetic Findings
Authors: Behdad Amir , Bailey Nathanael G.
Published: September 2014

Splenic B-cell lymphomas are a heterogeneous group of diseases comprising several entities that exhibit overlapping features. Diagnosis of these lymphomas has been reliant on the histopathologic examination of the spleen. However, with advances in diagnostic modalities and therapy, splenectomy is not commonly performed, and diagnosis and subclassification must be rendered based on the blood and bone marrow findings. In this brief review, we summarize the morphologic, immunophenotypic, and genetic findings of splenic B-cell lymphomas in the blood and bone marrow.
História e Internet: conexões possíveis
Authors: Oliveira Nucia Alexandra Silva de
Published: September 2014

Este artigo pretende problematizar as conexões possíveis entre história e internet. O ponto de partida de tal discussão é a constatação da presença da internet na vida social e dos impactos desta mídia nas formas de obter e publicar conhecimentos. Procura-se, de modo mais específico, discutir como a internet tem produzido novos documentos para o trabalho do historiador e, ainda, como tem lidado com eles. Para isso, listam-se alguns trabalhos feitos por historiadores que utilizam a internet como fonte. Nesta parte do trabalho, a ideia é apontar os documentos digitais escolhidos pelos historiadores para a realização de suas análises, ad dificuldades encontradas e as potencialidades destas fontes. Compreende-se que a internet oferece grandes possibilidades ao trabalho historiográfico e, em particular, à História do Tempo Presente. Na segunda parte deste artigo são trazidas informações a partir da pesquisa intitulada “www.historia.com: uma investigação sobre marcos históricos brasileiros tematizados em sítios eletrônicos”. Seu objetivo é investigar narrativas produzidas e apresentadas em sites de pesquisa escolar a respeito de marcos históricos brasileiros. Nesta etapa da discussão, o propósito é debater os usos da história feitos por estes espaços. Percebe-se que se têm apresentado narrativas em que os fatos históricos aparecem de forma linear, simplificada e seguindo o que se costuma chamar de história tradicional. Nesse duplo movimento de observação, espera-se contribuir com o debate sobre esta importante questão: produção e divulgação do saber histórico. Palavras-chave: História – Estudo e Ensino; Internet.
Intolerância ao Sul da América: estudo comparado de grupos fascistas do Brasil e da Argentina na Internet (1996-2007)
Authors: Maynard Dilton Cândido Santos
Published: September 2014

Este artigo investiga os usos da internet realizados por grupos de fascistas do Brasil e da Argentina. Utilizamos como principais fontes sites declaradamente fascistas criados pouco depois da popularização da internet.  Através da perspectiva oferecida pela metodologia comparativa defendida por Marc Bloch, o texto analisa a relação entre as homepages brasileiras e o mais conhecido site sul-americano de extrema direita, Ciudad Libertad Opinión, criado em 1999, com a principal finalidade de disseminar ideias fascistas e prestar apoio a outros grupos extremistas. Apontamos o papel estratégico que o portal Libre Opinión cumpriu como articulador entre os grupos fascistas da América do Sul, sendo um colaborador fundamental na difusão de páginas brasileiras marcadas por veicularem regularmente mensagens xenófobas, racistas, antissemitas e homofóbicas.Palavras-chave: Fascismo – Brasil; Fascismo – Argentina; Internet; América do sul.
Para americano e brasileiro ver: uma memória das relações bilaterais por meio da rede social Flickr
Authors: Saraiva João Gilberto Neves
Published: September 2014

Este trabalho investiga a memória das relações bilaterais produzida pela Embaixada dos Estados Unidos no Brasil na rede social Flickr nos primeiros meses de governo do presidente democrata Barack Obama.  Analisa-se aqui o conjunto de imagens e textos de 19 postagens realizadas pela embaixada na rede no primeiro semestre de 2009. São estabelecidos elos entre a produção da memória, a conjuntura política norte-americana e mitos políticos estadunidenses, como Abraham Lincoln e John Kennedy. Também problematiza as formas lembrar e esquecer diversos eventos das relações bilaterais ao longo do século XX e XXI, além dos posicionamentos publicados na rede social em relação à política e à história do Brasil.Palavras-chave: Redes sociais online; Flickr; Presidentes – Estados Unidos.
Restos do passado a salvo: orkut, memória e identidade em São Rafael/RN
Authors: Souza Francisco das Chagas Silva
Published: September 2014

Em princípios dos anos 1980, um projeto do governo federal prometeu o desenvolvimento socioeconômico do semiárido do Rio Grande do Norte por meio da construção de uma grande barragem. Esse empreendimento causou a submersão do município de São Rafael. Três décadas depois, a população dessa cidade passou a usar o orkut para reconstruir a sua memória. Essa rede social se tornou um repositório de fotografias da antiga São Rafael, geralmente acompanhadas de depoimentos cheios de saudosismos. Este artigo analisa o papel assumido pelo orkut como um museu aberto, no qual se disponibilizam imagens, devidamente comentadas. Defendemos que essa rede social, que vivia seu auge há três anos, converteu-se num lugar de memória durante o tempo em que foi usada pela população de São Rafael como suporte para “salvar” restos do passado e, assim, construir uma memória e uma identidade de grupo.Palavras-chave: São Rafael (RN ) - História; Redes de relações sociais; Orkut; Memória.
Professores de história: o uso do computador na construção do conhecimento histórico escolar
Authors: França Cyntia Simioni , Simon Cristiano Biazzo
Published: September 2014

A presente discussão combina uma reflexão teórica e metodológica para compreender como o computador vem sendo utilizado no ensino de história, em escolas públicas e particulares, no ensino fundamental e médio. O artigo tem como referência a prática de professores de história em Londrina e região, no estado do Paraná. Foram abrangidas 18 cidades e investigadas 61 escolas, sendo 49 do sistema público e 12 pertencentes ao ensino particular. A investigação, com base em questionários respondidos pelos professores, possibilitou identificar as principais questões relacionadas à inserção das novas tecnologias no ensino de história e refletir sobre as possibilidades e limites de sua utilização. Além disso, permitiu sublinhar a importância da formação continuada de professores para tal inserção e refletir sobre ela. A preocupação central do trabalho reside na identificação de como e em que medida tal utilização conseguiu contribuir para alcançar os objetivos da disciplina, que é de propiciar aos alunos a condição de pensar historicamente, problematizando sua condição de ser social dentro de seu próprio momento histórico.Palavras-chave: História - Estudo e Ensino; Professores de História.
A jornada mitológica de Mário Palmério
Authors: Pereira Adgélzira Capeloti
Published: September 2014

Resenha da obra:FONSECA, André Azevedo da. A construção do mito Mário Palmério: um estudo sobre a ascensão social e política do autor de Vila dos Confins. São Paulo: Editora UNESP, 2012.
The Mechanics of Belt Friction Revisited
Authors: Lubarda Vlado A.
Published: September 2014

A new insight into the mechanics of belt friction is given. A conceptual and methodological drawback in the presentation of the classical derivation of the force required to pull the belt over a fixed drum against the hold-force and the friction between the belt and a drum is pointed out, corrected and discussed. The total forces due to pressure and friction ( P and F) are evaluated in magnitude and direction. It is shown that not only the local friction force is proportional to the local pressure ( f = μ p), but also their resultants ( F = μ P), where μ is the coefficient of static friction. The magnitude of the pressure force is P = FR/(1 + μ2)1/2, where FR is the magnitude of the resultant of the pull- and hold-forces applied at two ends of the belt. Different methodological approaches to the analysis are presented, which are particularly appealing from the educational point of view. These include the local and integral equilibrium considerations, the virtual work approach, and the dimensional analysis.
Integrating Developmental Psychology and Engineering Design in a Toy Design Course
Authors: Musto Joseph C. , Domack Alicia M.
Published: September 2014

This paper details a mechanical engineering course in toy design developed at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (Milwaukee, WI, USA). The course was motivated by the need to develop design experiences that integrate societal constraints, as well as the desire to integrate concepts from general education coursework into the engineering curriculum. In this team-taught course, students learn concepts from the area of child developmental psychology, and then use these concepts to inform their design efforts in the design and development of a toy or game to meet specific developmental needs of a specific age group. Student teams take the project from concept to prototype, then play-test their toys and games with children. This paper covers the background and motivation for the course, the topical coverage in both the psychology and engineering areas required for successful implementation, and project descriptions from a recent implementation of the course. Advice for those who wish to develop a similar offering, based on both instructor and student feedback, will be summarized.
A Theoretical Study of the Thermodynamics of Gas Expansion from a High-Pressure to a Low-Pressure Tank
Authors: Dash Sukanta K. , Guha Abhijit
Published: September 2014

In engineering practice and thermodynamics texts, it is assumed that, for the expansion of a gas from a high-pressure tank to a low-pressure tank (through a valve) under adiabatic conditions, the process in the high-pressure tank is isentropic. No theoretical explanation or experimental proof is, however, cited in support of this assumption. A thorough theoretical investigation of this question is presented in this paper. The present numerical computation with an unsteady simulation using the first law of thermodynamics and with no explicit assumption regarding the thermodynamic process that takes place in the high-pressure tank establishes that the expansion in the high-pressure tank is indeed isentropic. Although an analytical proof has not been formulated, it is believed that the present computations constitute the first theoretical justification for the much-used isentropic assumption found in thermodynamics textbooks. A direct determination of a steady solution using an average exit enthalpy for the high-pressure tank also gives a correct result if the pressure ratio in the high-pressure tank is limited to 2. Even though the gas expansion in the high-pressure tank turns out to be isentropic, it is shown that the overall process of gas expansion and compression to the low-pressure tank is an irreversible process.
Breaking down walls to live in harmony
Authors: Requena Natalia , Fischer Reinhard
Published: September 2014

Some of the proteins and enzymes that allow bacteria to enter living fungal cells and cause rice seedling blight have been identified.
Professionalisation in Early Childhood Education in Russia
Authors: Yurchenko Olesya , Mansurov Valery
Published: September 2014

The dialogue around preschool educators has increased as concerns about the quality of early education have been raised across the world. This paper contributes to a novel historical and contemporary understanding of the professionalisation of Russian preschool educators. This history bears similarities and differences to those of other nations, making this project of interest to cross-cultural comparisons. A particular emphasis is laid on the challenges of, and opportunities for, professionalisation by discussing the issue of professional knowledge and expertise, autonomy, and authority. Data for the study comes from two sources: (1) the historical analysis of preschool educators in Russia; (2) semi-structured interviews undertaken with 25 preschool educators from the major organisations representing them. The research showed the central role played by the state in all historical phases of the professionalisation of Russian early education. It was found that Russian preschool educators are discontented with their current professional standing, and look to the state to enhance it.
Invariant soil water potential at zero microbial respiration explained by hydrological discontinuity in dry soils
Authors: Manzoni S. , Katul G.
Published: September 2014

Soil microbial respiration rates decrease with soil drying, ceasing below water potentials around −15 MPa. A proposed mechanism for this pattern is that under dry conditions, microbes are substrate limited because solute diffusivity is halted due to breaking of water film continuity. However, pore connectivity estimated from hydraulic conductivity and solute diffusivity (at Darcy's scale) is typically interrupted at much less negative water potentials than microbial respiration (−0.1 to −1 MPa). It is hypothesized here that the more negative respiration thresholds than at the Darcy's scale emerge because microbial activity is restricted to microscale soil patches that retain some hydrological connectivity even when it is lost at the macroscale. This hypothesis is explored using results from percolation theory and meta‐analyses of respiration‐water potential curves and hydrological percolation points. When reducing the spatial scale from macroscale to microscale, hydrological and respiration thresholds become consistent, supporting the proposed hypothesis.
Variability in categories of Arctic sea ice in Fram Strait
Authors: Hansen E. , Ekeberg O.‐C. , Gerland S. , Pavlova O. , Spreen G. , Tschudi M.
Published: September 2014

An attempt to quantify the temporal variability in the volume composition of Arctic sea ice is presented. Categories of sea ice in the Transpolar Drift in Fram Strait are derived from monthly ice thickness distributions obtained by moored sonars (1990–2011). The inflection points on each side of the old ice modal peak are used to separate modal ice from ice which is thinner and thicker than ice in the modal range. The volume composition is then quantified through the relative amount of ice belonging to each of the three categories thin, modal, and thick ice in the monthly ice thickness distributions. The trend of thin ice was estimated to be negative at −8.8% per decade (relative to the long‐term mean), which was compensated for by increasing trends in modal and thick ice of 7.9% and 4.7% per decade, respectively. A 7–8 year cycle is apparent in the thin and thick ice records, which may explain a loss of deformed ice since 2007. We also quantify how the categories contribute to the mean ice thickness over time. Thick (predominantly deformed) ice dominates the mean ice thickness, constituting on average 66% of the total mean. Following the loss of deformed ice since 2007, the contribution of thick ice to the mean decreased from 75% to 52% at the end of the record. Thin deformed ice did not contribute to this reduction; it was pressure ridges thicker than 5 m that were lost and hence caused the decrease in mean ice thickness.
TaiWan Ionospheric Model (TWIM) prediction based on time series autoregressive analysis
Authors: Tsai L. C. , Macalalad Ernest P. , Liu C. H.
Published: September 2014

As described in a previous paper, a three‐dimensional ionospheric electron density (Ne) model has been constructed from vertical Ne profiles retrieved from the FormoSat3/Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate GPS radio occultation measurements and worldwide ionosonde foF2 and foE data and named the TaiWan Ionospheric Model (TWIM). The TWIM exhibits vertically fitted α‐Chapman‐type layers with distinct F2, F1, E, and D layers, and surface spherical harmonic approaches for the fitted layer parameters including peak density, peak density height, and scale height. To improve the TWIM into a real‐time model, we have developed a time series autoregressive model to forecast short‐term TWIM coefficients. The time series of TWIM coefficients are considered as realizations of stationary stochastic processes within a processing window of 30 days. These autocorrelation coefficients are used to derive the autoregressive parameters and then forecast the TWIM coefficients, based on the least squares method and Lagrange multiplier technique. The forecast root‐mean‐square relative TWIM coefficient errors are generally <30% for 1 day predictions. The forecast TWIM values of foE and foF2 values are also compared and evaluated using worldwide ionosonde data.
Optimization of Solubility, Film Morphology and Photodetector Performance by Molecular Side‐Chain Engineering of Low‐Bandgap Thienothiadiazole‐Based Polymers
Authors: Qi Ji , Zhou Xiaokang , Yang Dezhi , Qiao Wenqiang , Ma Dongge , Wang Zhi Yuan
Published: September 2014

A series of donor–acceptor (D‐A) type low‐bandgap polymers containing the terthiophene and thieno[3,4‐b]thiadiazole units in the main chain but different numbers of identical side chains are designed and synthesized in order to study the effect of side chain on the polymer properties and optimize the performance of polymer photodetectors. Variation in the side chain content can influence the polymer solubility, molecular packing, and film morphology, which in turn affects the photodetector performance, particularly with regard to the photoresponsivity and dark current. X‐ray diffraction patterns indicate that molecular ordering increases with more side chains. Atomic force microscopy shows that appropriate morphology of the active layer in the polymer photodetector is necessary for high photocurrent and low dark current. Using BCP as a hole blocking layer (10 nm), the photodetector based on P4 exhibits the optimized performance with specific detectivity of 1.4 × 1012 Jones at 800 nm, which is among the best reported values for polymer photodetectors and even comparable to that of a silicon photodetector.
Green Emission in Ladder‐Type Quarterphenyl: Beyond the Fluorenone‐Defect
Authors: Kobin Björn , Bianchi Francesco , Halm Simon , Leistner Joachim , Blumstengel Sylke , Henneberger Fritz , Hecht Stefan
Published: September 2014

In polyfluorenes it is generally accepted that (photo)degradation leads to fluorenone type defects that accept the excitation energy and emit green‐to‐yellow light with rather low efficiency. Although initial spectroscopic studies suggest the same to hold true for ladder‐type poly(para‐phenylene)s (LPPPs), kinetic studies of the degradation process are not compatible with the established mechanism. In general, the observed green emission can be caused by the introduction of carbonyl groups; however, only if associated with an additional disruption of the backbone rigidity and hence planarity of the entire π‐system. This is clearly shown by comparison with synthesized model compounds, which are bearing the fluorenone motif yet possess very different optical properties as compared to the defects, which are actually formed. Degradation can be caused by solvent specific, yet substrate nonspecific aromatic formylation but mainly originates from reaction with in‐situ generated singlet oxygen, both in solution as well as in thin films. Time‐dependent photoluminescence measurements on thin films show that green emission is enhanced by energy transfer from intact molecules to defect centers.
Selektive C‐C‐Bindungsspaltung zur stereoselektiven Synthese acyclischer Systeme
Authors: Marek Ilan , Masarwa Ahmad , Delaye Pierre‐Olivier , Leibeling Markus
Published: September 2014

Chemiker setzen seit jeher auf die Entwicklung kreativer Strategien zum Aufbau von Kohlenstoff‐Kohlenstoff‐ und Kohlenstoff‐Heteroatom‐Bindungen. Innerhalb dieses Aufsatzes wird ein weiterer Ansatz eingeführt, der schwierige Molekülstrukturen durch selektive C‐C‐Bindungsspaltung zugänglich macht. Obwohl C‐C‐Einfachbindungen nur eingeschränkt reaktiv sind, soll gezeigt werden, dass diese Methodik einen regio‐, diastereo‐ und enantioselektiven Zugang zu facettenreichen Produkten bietet. Die Entwicklung solcher Strategien mag in Zukunft einen schwerwiegenden Einfluss auf die Syntheseplanung haben und zu neuen und innovativen Prozessen unter Verwendung einfacher oder komplexer Kohlenwasserstoffe führen.
Electrical Network of Single‐Crystalline Metal Oxide Nanoclusters Wired by π‐Molecules
Authors: Tsunashima Ryo , Iwamoto Yoshifumi , Baba Yusuke , Kato Chisato , Ichihashi Katsuya , Nishihara Sadafumi , Inoue Katsuya , Ishiguro Katsuya , Song Yu‐Fei , Akutagawa Tomoyuki
Published: September 2014

In a mixed‐valence polyoxometalate, electrons are usually delocalized within the cluster anion because of low level of inter‐cluster interaction. Herein, we report the structure and electrical properties of a single crystal in which mixed‐valence polyoxometalates were electrically wired by cationic π‐molecules of tetrathiafulvalene substituted with pyridinium. Electron‐transport characteristics are suggested to represent electron hopping through strong interactions between cluster and cationic π‐molecules.
Reversal of the Regiochemistry in the Rhodium‐Catalyzed [4+3] Cycloaddition between Vinyldiazoacetates and Dienes
Authors: Guzmán Pablo E. , Lian Yajing , Davies Huw M. L.
Published: September 2014

A regio‐, diastereo‐, and enantioselective [4+3] cycloaddition between vinylcarbenes and dienes has been achieved using the dirhodium tetracarboxylate catalyst [Rh2(S‐BTPCP)4]. This methodology provides facile access to 1,4‐cycloheptadienes that are regioisomers of those formed from the tandem cyclopropanation/Cope rearrangement reaction of vinylcarbenes with dienes.
Synthesis and Reactivity of a CAAC–Aminoborylene Adduct: A Hetero‐Allene or an Organoboron Isoelectronic with Singlet Carbenes
Authors: Dahcheh Fatme , Martin David , Stephan Douglas W. , Bertrand Guy
Published: September 2014

A one‐electron reduction of a cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene (CAAC)–bis(trimethylsilyl)aminodichloroborane adduct leads to a stable aminoboryl radical. A second one‐electron reduction gives rise to a CAAC–aminoborylene adduct, which features an allenic structure. However, in manner similar to that of stable electrophilic singlet carbenes, this compound activates small molecules, such as CO and H2.
Highly Stable Water‐Soluble Platinum Nanoparticles Stabilized by Hydrophilic N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes
Authors: Baquero Edwin A. , Tricard Simon , Flores Juan Carlos , de Jesús Ernesto , Chaudret Bruno
Published: September 2014

Controlling the synthesis of stable metal nanoparticles in water is a current challenge in nanochemistry. The strategy presented herein uses sulfonated N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands to stabilize platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) in water, under air, for an indefinite time period. The particles were prepared by thermal decomposition of a preformed molecular Pt complex containing the NHC ligand and were then purified by dialysis and characterized by TEM, high‐resolution TEM, and spectroscopic techniques. Solid‐state NMR studies showed coordination of the carbene ligands to the nanoparticle surface and allowed the determination of a 13C–195Pt coupling constant for the first time in a nanosystem (940 Hz). Additionally, in one case a novel structure was formed in which platinum(II) NHC complexes form a second coordination sphere around the nanoparticle.
Copolymer MCJS as a retarder of the acid–rock reaction speed for the stimulation of deep carbonate reservoirs
Authors: Quan Hongping , Li Huan , Huang Zhiyu , Dai Shanshan , Jiang Jifeng
Published: September 2014

The fast reaction rate between hydrochloric acid and carbonates causes the most acid consumption near the wells, and the acid cannot penetrate the deeper places of the carbonate reservoir; this limits the application of acidizing modifications for the reservoir. In this study, we chose acrylamide, 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propane sulfonic acid (AMPS), allyl alcohol polyoxyethylene ether (APEG), and N‐dimethyl‐N‐vinyl nonadecan‐1‐aminium chloride (DMAAC‐18) to synthesize a quadripolymer (MCJS) that could reduce the reaction rate mentioned previously. The molecular structure of MCJS was characterized by Fourier transform infrared and 1H‐NMR spectroscopy. The molecular weight and molecular weight distribution of MCJS was determined by gel permeation chromatography. Carbonate rock was analyzed by X‐ray diffraction and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The retarding properties of the acid mixed with MCJS (MCJS acid) were investigated, and the resulting reaction rate between the acid and carbonate decreased obviously, even at a low viscosity. Scanning electron microscopy and core flood experiments showed that the MCJS could be adsorbed on the carbonate rock surface and form a hydrated film that delayed the reaction. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41471.
Variable selection in Bayesian generalized linear‐mixed models: An illustration using candidate gene case‐control association studies
Authors: Tsai Miao‐Yu
Published: September 2014

The problem of variable selection in the generalized linear‐mixed models (GLMMs) is pervasive in statistical practice. For the purpose of variable selection, many methodologies for determining the best subset of explanatory variables currently exist according to the model complexity and differences between applications. In this paper, we develop a “higher posterior probability model with bootstrap” (HPMB) approach to select explanatory variables without fitting all possible GLMMs involving a small or moderate number of explanatory variables. Furthermore, to save computational load, we propose an efficient approximation approach with Laplace's method and Taylor's expansion to approximate intractable integrals in GLMMs. Simulation studies and an application of HapMap data provide evidence that this selection approach is computationally feasible and reliable for exploring true candidate genes and gene–gene associations, after adjusting for complex structures among clusters.
Soluble production and function of vascular endothelial growth factor/basic fibroblast growth factor complex peptide
Authors: Zhang Qing , Lao Xuejun , Huang Jianhua , Zhu Zhongsong , Pang Lei , Tang Yong , Song Qifang , Huang Jiangfang , Deng Jie , Deng Ning , Yang Qin , Sengupta Aditi M. , Xiong Likuan
Published: September 2014

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) are important proangiogenic factors in tumor procession. The autocrine and paracrine bFGF and the VEGF in tumor tissue can promote tumor angiogenesis, tumor growth, and metastasis. A VEGF/bFGF Complex Peptide (VBP3) was designed on the basis of epitope peptides from both VEGF and bFGF to elicit in vivo production of anti‐bFGF and anti‐VEGF antibodies. In this study, we reported on the production of recombinant VBP3 using high cell density fermentation. Fed‐batch fermentation for recombinant VBP3 production was conducted, and the production procedure was optimized in a 10‐L fermentor. The fraction of soluble VBP3 protein obtained reached 78% of total recombinant protein output under fed‐batch fermentation. Purified recombinant VBP3 could inhibit tumor cell proliferation in vitro and stimulate C57BL/6 mice to produce high titer anti‐VEGF and anti‐bFGF antibodies in vivo. A melanoma‐grafted mouse model and an immunohistochemistry assay showed that tumor growth and tumor angiogenesis were significantly inhibited in VBP3‐vaccinated mice. These results demonstrated that soluble recombinant VBP3 could be produced by large‐scale fermentation, and the product, with good immunogenicity, elicited production of high‐titer anti‐bFGF and anti‐VEGF antibodies, which could be used as a therapeutic tumor vaccine to inhibit tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 31:194–203, 2015
Efficient and Selective Oxidation of D‐Glucose into Gluconic acid under Low‐Frequency Ultrasonic Irradiation
Authors: Rinsant Damien , Chatel Gregory , Jérôme François
Published: September 2014

The production of gluconic acid from D‐glucose represents an attractive target for industry. In this work, we propose an efficient, eco‐friendly, and selective method to oxidize D‐glucose with aqueous H2O2 in the presence of FeSO4 as a catalyst. The reaction was improved significantly under ultrasonic (US) activation, which led to excellent yields in only a few minutes. In addition, we determined that the reaction occurred through a sono‐Fenton process by studying the production of hydroxyl radicals and optimizing the experimental conditions of the reaction. The energy consumption of the process was also investigated in this study.
Activation of Small Molecules by Phosphorus Biradicaloids
Authors: Hinz Alexander , Kuzora Rene , Rosenthal Uwe , Schulz Axel , Villinger Alexander
Published: September 2014

The reactivity of biradicaloid [P(μ‐NTer)]2 was employed to activate small molecules bearing single, double, and triple bonds. Addition of chalcogens (O2, S8, Sex and Tex) led to the formation of dichalcogen‐bridged P2N2 heterocycles, except from the reaction with molecular oxygen, which gave a P2N2 ring featuring a dicoordinated PIII and a four‐coordinated PV center. In formal [2πe+2πe] addition reactions, small unsaturated compounds such as ethylene, acetylene, acetone, acetonitrile, tolane, diphenylcarbodiimide, and bis(trimethylsilyl)sulfurdiimide are readily added to the P2N2 heterocycle of the biradicaloid [P(μ‐NTer)]2, yielding novel heteroatom cage compounds. The synthesis, reactivity, and bonding of the biradicaloid [P(μ‐NTer)]2 were studied in detail as well as the synthesis, properties, and structural features of all addition products.
Gender Differences in Coronary Artery Diameter Are Not Related to Body Habitus or Left Ventricular Mass
Authors: Hiteshi Amit K. , Li Dong , Gao Yanlin , Chen Andy , Flores Ferdinand , Mao Song Shou , Budoff Matthew J.
Published: September 2014

Background

Smaller coronary artery diameter portends worse outcomes after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The suggestion that women have smaller coronary artery diameters than men has not been validated by a large‐scale study.

Hypothesis

We sought to confirm a gender difference with respect to coronary artery diameter, even after accounting for body habitus and left ventricular mass (LVM).

Methods

From 4200 subjects evaluated for cardiovascular disease by computed tomography angiography, we selected 710 subjects (383 males, 327 females) with coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores <100, eliminating patients with artery remodeling. Diameters of the left main (LM), left anterior descending (LAD), left circumflex (CX), and right coronary arteries (RCA), were measured. Measurements were compared using a 2‐sample t test and the multiple regression model, accounting for body habitus and LVM.

Results

After adjusting for age, race, weight, height, body mass index, body surface index, LVM, and CAC, women have smaller diameters in the LM (males 4.35 mm, females 3.91 mm), LAD (males 3.54 mm, females 3.24 mm), CX (males 3.18, females 2.75 mm), and RCA (males 3.70 mm, females 3.26 mm) (P < 0.001). This difference is not related to body habitus or LVM.

Conclusions

Gender significantly influences artery diameter of the LM, LAD, CX, and RCA. This may warrant gender specific approaches during PCI and CABG. As neither body habitus nor LVM relate to the difference in coronary artery diameter, our study encourages a search for inherent differences between genders that can account for this difference.
Semicircular canal‐dependent developmental tuning of translational vestibulo‐ocular reflexes in Xenopus laevis
Authors: Branoner Francisco , Straka Hans
Published: September 2014

Gaze stabilization during head/body movements is achieved to a large extent by vestibular‐evoked compensatory eye movements. These reflexes derive from semicircular canal and otolith organs and depend on the transformation of the respective sensory signals into extraocular motor commands. To elicit directionally and dynamically appropriate compensatory eye movements, extraocular motoneurons require spatiotemporally specific inputs from semicircular canals and regions of the utricular epithelium with matching directional sensitivity. The ontogenetic establishment and maturation of the directional tuning of otolith inputs in extraocular motoneurons was studied in Xenopus laevis tadpoles. In young larvae at stage 46–48, superior oblique (SO) extraocular motoneurons receive omnidirectional utricular signals during horizontal translational motion, indicating an absence of spatial tuning. In contrast, in older larvae beyond stage 49 these motoneurons were activated by directionally more restricted otolith inputs with an increasingly enhanced spatial tuning until stage 53. This developmental process limited the origin of otolith signals to a utricular epithelial sector with a hair cell sensitivity that is coaligned with the pulling direction of the SO eye muscle. The maturation of the otolith response vector was abolished by enzymatic prevention of semicircular canal formation in postembryonic tadpoles at stage 44, suggesting that functionally intact semicircular canals are causally responsible for the observed directional tuning of utricular responses. A likely mechanism by which semicircular canals might influence the tuning of the otolith responses includes stabilization of coactivated and centrally converging sensory signals from semicircular canal and spatially aligned epithelial utricular regions during natural head/body motion. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 75: 1051–1067, 2015
Late‐onset hypogonadism in men with systolic heart failure: prevalence, clinical associates, and impact on long‐term survival
Authors: Jankowska Ewa A. , Tkaczyszyn Michał , Węgrzynowska‐Teodorczyk Kinga , Majda Jacek , von Haehling Stephan , Doehner Wolfram , Banasiak Waldemar , Anker Stefan D. , Ponikowski Piotr
Published: September 2014

Background

Male ageing is characterized by diminished circulating androgens with several adverse psychosomatic consequences and can be aggravated by concomitant chronic diseases. According to the European Male Aging Study (EMAS) Group, late‐onset hypogonadism (LOH) refers to testosterone deficiency accompanied by sexual complaints.

Aim

We investigated the prevalence of LOH in men with systolic heart failure (HF), and its clinical determinants and prognostic consequences.

Methods

Among 201 men with systolic HF (age: 60 ± 11 years), serum total testosterone (TT) was assessed using an immunoassay, and estimated free testosterone (eFT) was calculated using Vermeulen's formula. LOH was diagnosed when TT < 3.2 ng/mL and eFT < 64 pg/mL were accompanied by three sexual symptoms (decrease in the number of morning erections, reduced potency, and low libido) of at least moderate severity assessed using the Aging Males' Symptoms Scale.

Results

Decreased frequency of morning erections, reduced potency, and low libido were experienced by 56%, 62%, and 55% of men with HF, respectively; whereas 67%, 61%, and 44% of subjects complained of at least one, two, and three symptoms, respectively. Hypogonadal TT and eFT were observed in 34% and 47% of patients, respectively; and in 33% subjects, both TT and eFT were reduced. Finally, 30 men with HF (15%) were diagnosed with LOH as compared with 2% in a European male population (EMAS). In a multivariable model, older age and higher serum uric acid were independently associated with greater LOH prevalence (both P < 0.05). Among men aged ≤60 years (but not in those aged >60 years), LOH increased 5‐year all‐cause mortality in the univariable model; however, when adjusted for HF severity, the association lost its statistical significance.

Conclusions

Men with systolic HF commonly report sexual complaints. LOH—the combination of sexual dysfunction and testosterone deficiency—occurs more frequently than in a general male population. LOH does not affect long‐term mortality, when adjusted for HF severity.
The late sodium current in heart failure: pathophysiology and clinical relevance
Authors: Horvath Balazs , Bers Donald M.
Published: September 2014

Large and growing body of data suggest that an increased late sodium current (INa,late) can have a significant pathophysiological role in heart failure and other heart diseases. The first goal of this article is to describe how INa,late functions under physiological circumstances. The second goal is to show the wide range of cellular mechanisms that can increase INa,late in cardiac disease, and also to describe how the up‐regulated INa,late contributes to the pathophysiology of heart failure. The final section of the article discusses the possible use of INa,late‐modifying drugs in heart failure, on the basis of experimental and preclinical data.
Rationale and design of the CONFIRM‐HF study: a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study to assess the effects of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose on functional capacity in patients with chronic heart failure and iron deficiency
Authors: Ponikowski Piotr , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Comin‐Colet Josep , Ertl Georg , Komajda Michel , Mareev Viacheslav , McDonagh Theresa A. , Parkhomenko Alexander , Tavazzi Luigi , Levesque Victoria , Mori Claudio , Roubert Bernard , Filippatos Gerasimos , Ruschitzka Frank , Anker Stefan D.
Published: September 2014

Background

Iron deficiency (ID) is a common co‐morbidity associated with chronic heart failure (CHF), which has unfavourable clinical and prognostic consequences. In Ferinject Assessment in Patients with IRon Deficiency and Chronic Heart Failure (FAIR‐HF), the treatment with i.v. ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) improved symptoms and quality of life over a 24 week period. Ferric CarboxymaltOse evaluatioN on perFormance in patients with IRon deficiency in coMbination with chronic Heart Failure (CONFIRM‐HF) was designed to test a simplifieddosage scheme of FCM during a longer follow‐up period.

Methods

CONFIRM‐HF, a double‐blind, multi‐centre, prospective, randomized, two‐arm study, enrolled ambulatory patients with symptomatic CHF [New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II/III] with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤45%, BNP >100 pg/mL, or NT‐proBNP >400 pg/mL, presence of ID [defined as ferritin <100 ng/mL, or ferritin 100–300 ng/mL if transferrin saturation (TSAT) <20%], and haemoglobin (Hb) <15 g/dL. Patients were randomized 1:1 to treatment with FCM or placebo for 52 weeks. Primary endpoint is change in 6‐minute walk test (6MWT) distance from baseline to Week 24. Secondary endpoints are: change in 6MWT from baseline to Weeks 6, 12, 36, and 52; Patient Global Assessment score at Weeks 6, 12, 24, 36, and 52; and change from baseline to Weeks 6, 12, 24, 36, and 52 in NYHA class, fatigue score, and quality of life. Safety endpoints include overall safety over the treatment period of 52 weeks.

Study medication was administered in single doses as undiluted bolus injection of up to 1000 mg of iron or normal saline at Day 0 and Week 6 up to iron repletion. Further doses of study medication could be administered at Weeks 12, 24, and 36 if a patient still had ID.

Results

Overall, 304 patients were recruited in 41 centres in nine countries.

Conclusion

This study will provide further information on the efficacy and safety of iron therapy with i.v. FCM in CHF patients with ID over a 1 year period using a simplified dosing scheme.
Effects of long‐term endurance and resistance training on diastolic function, exercise capacity, and quality of life in asymptomatic diastolic dysfunction vs. heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Nolte Kathleen , Schwarz Silja , Gelbrich Götz , Mensching Steffen , Siegmund Friederike , Wachter Rolf , Hasenfuss Gerd , Düngen Hans‐Dirk , Herrmann‐Lingen Christoph , Halle Martin , Pieske Burkert , Edelmann Frank
Published: September 2014

Background

The long‐term effects of exercise training (ET) in diastolic dysfunction (DD) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) are unknown. The present study compared the long‐term effects of ET on exercise capacity, diastolic function, and quality of life (QoL) in patients with DD vs. HFpEF.

Methods

A total of n = 43 patients with asymptomatic DD (n = 19) or HFpEF [DD and New York Heart Association (NYHA) ≥II, n = 24] and left ventricular ejection fraction ≥50% performed a combined endurance/resistance training over 6 months (2–3/week) on top of usual care. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing, echocardiography, and QoL were obtained at baseline and follow‐up.

Results

Patients were 62 ± 8 years old (37% female). In the HFpEF group, 67% of patients were in NYHA class II (33% in NYHA III). Exercise capacity (peak oxygen consumption, peak VO2) differed at baseline (DD 29.2 ± 8.7 mL/min/kg vs. HFpEF 17.8 ± 4.6 mL/min/kg; P = 0.004). After 6 months, peak VO2 increased significantly (P < 0.044) to 19.7 ± 5.8 mL/min/kg in the HFpEF group and also in the DD group (to 32.8 ± 8.5 mL/min/kg; P < 0.002) with no overall difference between the groups (P = 0.217). E/e′ ratio (left ventricular filling index) decreased from 12.2 ± 3.5 to 10.1 ± 3.0 (P < 0.002) in patients with HFpEF and also in patients with DD (10.7 ± 3.1 vs. 9.5 ± 2.3; P = 0.03; difference between groups P = 0.210). In contrast, left atrial volume index decreased in the HFpEF group (P < 0.001) but remained stable within the DD group (difference between groups P = 0.015). After 6 months, physical QoL (Minnesota living with heart failure Questionnaire, 36‐item short form health survey), general health perception, and 9‐item patient health questionnaire score only improved in HFpEF (P < 0.05). In contrast, vitality improved in both groups (difference between groups P = 0.708).

Conclusion

A structured 6 months ET programme effectively improves exercise capacity and diastolic function in patients with DD and overt HFpEF. Therefore, controlled lifestyle modification with physical activity is effective both in DD and HFpEF.