bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fungal soil communities in a young transgenic poplar plantation form a rich reservoir for fungal root communities
Authors: Danielsen L. , Thürmer A. , Meinicke P. , Buée M. , Morin E. , Martin F. , Pilate G. , Daniel R. , Polle A. , Reich M.
Published: July 2012

Fungal communities play a key role in ecosystem functioning. However, only little is known about their composition in plant roots and the soil of biomass plantations. The goal of this study was to analyze fungal biodiversity in their belowground habitats and to gain information on the strategies by which ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi form colonies. In a 2‐year‐old plantation, fungal communities in the soil and roots of three different poplar genotypes (Populus × canescens, wildtype and two transgenic lines with suppressed cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase activity) were analyzed by 454 pyrosequencing targeting the rDNA internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS) region. The results were compared with the dynamics of the root‐associated ECM community studied by morphotyping/Sanger sequencing in two subsequent years. Fungal species and family richness in the soil were surprisingly high in this simple plantation ecosystem, with 5944 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and 186 described fungal families. These findings indicate the importance that fungal species are already available for colonization of plant roots (2399 OTUs and 115 families). The transgenic modification of poplar plants had no influence on fungal root or soil communities. Fungal families and OTUs were more evenly distributed in the soil than in roots, probably as a result of soil plowing before the establishment of the plantation. Saprophytic, pathogenic, and endophytic fungi were the dominating groups in soil, whereas ECMs were dominant in roots (87%). Arbuscular mycorrhizal diversity was higher in soil than in roots. Species richness of the root‐associated ECM community, which was low compared with ECM fungi detected by 454 analyses, increased after 1 year. This increase was mainly caused by ECM fungal species already traced in the preceding year in roots. This result supports the priority concept that ECMs present on roots have a competitive advantage over soil‐localized ECM fungi.
From where did the Western honeybee (Apis mellifera) originate?
Authors: Han Fan , Wallberg Andreas , Webster Matthew T.
Published: July 2012

The native range of the honeybee Apis mellifera encompasses Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, whereas the nine other species of Apis are found exclusively in Asia. It is therefore commonly assumed that A. mellifera arose in Asia and expanded into Europe and Africa. However, other hypotheses for the origin of A. mellifera have also been proposed based on phylogenetic trees constructed from genetic markers. In particular, an analysis based on >1000 single‐nucleotide polymorphism markers placed the root of the tree of A. mellifera subspecies among samples from Africa, suggestive of an out‐of‐Africa expansion. Here, we re‐evaluate the evidence for this and other hypotheses by testing the robustness of the tree topology to different tree‐building methods and by removing specimens with a potentially hybrid background. These analyses do not unequivocally place the root of the tree of A. mellifera subspecies within Africa, and are potentially consistent with a variety of hypotheses for honeybee evolution, including an expansion out of Asia. Our analyses also support high divergence between western and eastern European populations of A. mellifera, suggesting they are likely derived from two distinct colonization routes, although the sources of these expansions are still unclear.
Nine‐Year Follow‐up of girls with Anorexia Nervosa and their Siblings: Retrospective Perceptions of Parental Bonding and the Influence of Illness on their Everyday Life
Authors: Halvorsen Inger , Rø Øyvind , Heyerdahl Sonja
Published: July 2012

Background

Few previous anorexia nervosa (AN) studies include siblings.

Objective

To investigate if adolescents with AN retrospectively perceived their parents as less caring and more controlling than their siblings, whether perceived parenting was related to psychological problems, and how AN had influenced their everyday lives.

Method

Forty‐six former patients (mean age 23.1 years) and 21 siblings participated in the study by completing the Parental Bonding Inventory (PBI) and a questionnaire on the influence of AN during the acute phase.

Results

Former patients and their siblings had similar PBI results. Better adaptive functioning and lower levels of internalising psychological problems were correlated with higher ratings of parental care in both patients and siblings. Both patients and siblings reported that the illness had created conflict and caused concern, but had also provided valuable experiences.

Conclusion

Perceived parenting was associated with psychological problems in young adulthood but not with eating disorders. Our PBI results for both former patients and siblings were quite similar to non‐clinical control groups. Health personnel treating adolescent AN should be aware of siblings' perspectives and needs. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Experiment studies on the effect of altitude on Jet A's flash point
Authors: Tang Yanfei , Niu Yi , Yin Lei , Zhou Dechuang , Wang Jian
Published: July 2012

This paper is to investigate the effect of altitude on Jet A's flash point using the experimental method. Firstly, the vapor pressure of four fuels is measured by saturated steam pressure tester with ND‐1 pressure sensor in the low‐pressure environment under nine different temperatures, and the results show that the Clausius–Clapeyron relationship between vapor pressure and temperature is applicable to the multicomponent mixture. Secondly, the BS‐1 closed bomb apparatus is used to measure the oil samples, and the hypobaric chamber is applied to change the environment pressure from 55to 101.3 kPa. The flash point is found to decrease nonlinearly with the altitude increasing on the basis of the notion of a critical value of fuel–air mass ratio equals to 0.065 at the minimum flammability limit. Only when the atmospheric pressure approximates normal atmosphere does the flash point decrease linearly with the increase in altitude. This discovery agrees well with J.E. Shepherd's research. Thence, the experiment results provide scientific data for the safety of aircraft tank and benefit fire protection, such as inflammable liquid transport, storage, and so on, in oil pipeline management. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Water use indicators at farm scale: methodology and case study
Authors: Prochnow Annette , Drastig Katrin , Klauss Hilde , Berg Werner
Published: July 2012

Indicators for water use at farm scale can assist farmers in understanding the water flows on their farms and in optimizing water use by adapting agronomic measures and farm management. The objective of this work is to develop a methodology to estimate water flows at the farm scale, to derive indicators for farm water use, and to apply them in a first case study. After the spatial and temporal boundaries of the farm system and the water flows are defined, three indicators to assess water use at the farm scale are developed: farm water productivity, degree of water utilization, and specific inflow of technical water. Farm water productivity describes the ratio of farm output to water input, where the water input is the total of those water inflows into the farm system that can be assigned to the generation of farm output. Farm output is expressed on a mass basis, food energy basis, and monetary basis. The degree of water utilization characterizes the relationship between productive water to the total water inflow into the farm system, where productive water comprises those water flows that directly contribute to biomass generation via plant and animal metabolism. The specific technical water inflow quantifies the water inflow into the system by technical means relative to the farm area. The application of the methodology in a first case study for a mixed crop‐livestock farm with 2869 ha in Germany results in a farm water productivity of 2.30 kg fresh mass per , 1.03 kg dry mass per , 5.96 GJ , and 0.25 € . The degree of water utilization is 0.56. The specific technical water inflow is 36.5 m3 ha−1 year−1. Factors that mainly effect these indicators and general approaches to optimize water use in farms are discussed as well as the further research required for practical implementation.
The relationship between functional status and judgment/problem solving among individuals with dementia
Authors: Mayo Ann M. , Wallhagen Margaret , Cooper Bruce A. , Mehta Kala , Ross Leslie , Miller Bruce
Published: July 2012

Objective

To determine the relationship between functional status (independent activities of daily living) and judgment/problem solving and the extent to which select demographic characteristics such as dementia subtype and cognitive measures may moderate that relationship in older adult individuals with dementia.

Methods

The National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center Universal Data Set was accessed for a study sample of 3,855 individuals diagnosed with dementia. Primary variables included functional status, judgment/problem solving, and cognition.

Results

Functional status was related to judgment/problem solving (r = 0.66; p < 0.0005). Functional status and cognition jointly predicted 56% of the variance in judgment/problem solving (R2 = 0.56, p < 0.0005). As cognition decreases, the prediction of poorer judgment/problem solving by functional status became stronger.

Conclusions

Among individuals with a diagnosis of dementia, declining functional status as well as declining cognition should raise concerns about judgment/problem solving. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reversal of pathology in CHMP2B‐mediated frontotemporal dementia patient cells using RNA interference
Authors: Nielsen Troels Tolstrup , Mizielinska Sarah , Hasholt Lis , Isaacs Adrian M. , Nielsen Jørgen E. ,   the FReJA Consortium
Published: July 2012

Background

Frontotemporal dementia is the second most common form of young‐onset dementia after Alzheimer's disease, and several genetic forms of frontotemporal dementia are known. A rare genetic variant is caused by a point mutation in the CHMP2B gene. CHMP2B is a component of the ESCRT‐III complex, which is involved in endosomal trafficking of proteins targeted for degradation in lysosomes. Mutations in CHMP2B result in abnormal endosomal structures in patient fibroblasts and patient brains, probably through a gain‐of‐function mechanism, suggesting that the endosomal pathway plays a central role in the pathogenesis of the disease.

Methods

In the present study, we used lentiviral vectors to efficiently knockdown CHMP2B by delivering microRNA embedded small hairpin RNAs.

Results

We show that CHMP2B can be efficiently knocked down in patient fibroblasts using an RNA interference approach and that the knockdown causes reversal of the abnormal endosomal phenotype observed in patient fibroblasts.

Conclusions

This is the first description of a treatment that reverses the cellular pathology caused by mutant CHMP2B and suggests that RNA interference might be a feasible therapeutic strategy. Furthermore, it provides the first proof of a direct link between the disease‐causing mutation and the cellular phenotype in cells originating from CHMP2B mutation patients. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectroscopy assisted with XRF and chemical simulation to assess the synergic impacts of guardrails and traffic pollutants on urban soils
Authors: Carrero Jose Antonio , Goienaga Naiara , Olivares Maitane , Martinez‐Arkarazo Irantzu , Arana Gorka , Madariaga Juan Manuel
Published: July 2012

Urban soils are potential reservoirs of toxic metals as a consequence of traffic emissions. Sources like brake linings, tyres, road pavement, exhaust fumes, guardrail, traffic signals and other galvanised steel structures are used in a large variety of external constructions in the modern urban areas. Their beneficial properties from a corrosion and oxidation perspective are well‐known but less is known about their contribution to the environmental fate of corrosion‐induced released zinc. In this work, the impact of guardrails and other traffic pollutants on urban soils has been studied by means of Raman spectroscopy (molecular speciation) and thermodynamic speciation to understand the mechanisms of metal release and uptake by the soils. Hydrozincite, Zn5(CO3)2(OH)6, was identified by means of Raman spectroscopy as the degradation compound of the galvanised zinc layer from guardrails which leads to the formation of soluble zinc, by acidic attack of the urban atmosphere, that drops and accumulate (zinc nitrate was identified) in soils. This fact shows the environmental risk of zinc release from the guardrails because zinc nitrate can be easily mobilised by water runoff, affecting the surrounding areas or groundwater. Other traffic pollutant that reaches guardrail and soil by atmospheric deposition, such as barium, was also identified in soil as well as in the guardrail in its carbonate form, BaCO3. Because of its low solubility, barium will accumulate in urban soils. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface‐enhanced Raman spectra of individual multiwalled carbon nanotubes with small innermost diameters
Authors: Hou Xiaoning , Sheng Leimei , Yu Liming , An Kang , Ando Yoshinori , Zhao Xinluo
Published: July 2012

The Raman spectra of individual multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with the innermost diameters of 0.6–0.9 nm are studied by surface‐enhanced Raman scattering. The influences of small innermost diameters to Raman features are investigated. A clear and relatively sharp Raman peak appears at 1510 cm−1 when the innermost diameter is close to 0.6 nm. Lorentzian fits of G band indicate that its splitting is affected by the small innermost diameter of MWCNT. Moreover, the splitting of 2iTO mode is also observed at 2800–3000 cm−1. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman analyses of co‐phasing and hysteresis behaviors in V2O3thin film
Authors: Chen Xiang‐Bai , Shin Jun‐Hwan , Kim Hyun‐Tak , Lim Yong‐Sik
Published: July 2012

We present the studies of the phase transition behaviors of V2O3thin film using temperature‐dependent Raman scattering spectroscopy. Our results show that in both the cooling and heating processes of V2O3thin film, the phase transition occurs gradually but not suddenly, contrary to that in single crystal. The coexistence of both the metal and insulator phases with co‐phasing ΔTclarger than 30 K is observed in both the cooling and heating processes. We discuss that this large co‐phasing ΔTcshould be distinguished with the large hysteresis ΔThreported in nanostructures. In addition, our discussions indicate that co‐phasing ΔTcand hysteresis ΔThwould be mainly correlated with stress and defect states in sample, respectively. Furthermore, our Raman analyses suggest that stress would also induce phase transitions in V2O3, and the stress (pressure)‐induced phase transitions would behave differently comparing with the temperature‐induced transitions under normal pressure. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aggregation processes in micellar solutions: a Raman study
Authors: Cazzolli G. , Caponi S. , Defant A. , Gambi C. M. C. , Marchetti S. , Mattarelli M. , Montagna M. , Rossi B. , Rossi F. , Viliani G.
Published: July 2012

Ionic surfactants such as sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) belong to the amphiphile family: they possess a long hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain and a polar hydrophilic headgroup. In a polar solvent and over the critical micellar concentration these molecules join to form micelles. The micellar solutions, in turn, if doped with various ligands tend to aggregate.

Solid SDS, micelles of SDS in water and micelles of SDS doped with two types of macrocyclic ligands, Kryptofix 2.2.2 (K222) and crown ether 18‐Crown‐6 (18C6), at different concentrations are studied by Raman scattering, that represents a new approach to such systems.

The experimental Raman spectrum, obtained on crystalline powders of SDS, is compared with the ab initio computed spectrum in order to assign the vibrational bands. After discriminating sensitive peaks by comparing the crystalline powders of the single components and their water solutions, the aggregation process and the action of the ligands are analyzed following the evolution of the intensity and wavenumber of these characteristic Raman peaks. This shows that Raman spectroscopy is sensitive to the aggregation dynamics and to the effects induced by the hydration layer on the molecules in solutions. A saturation effect in the aggregation process with the increase of the ligand concentration is observed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A potential commercial surface‐enhanced Raman scattering–active substrate: stability and usability
Authors: Ji Nan , Ruan Weidong , Li Zhishi , Wang Chunxu , Yang Zhe , Zhao Bing
Published: July 2012

In this article, a surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)–active substrate with great stability and usability is reported. It is composited with a two‐dimensional ordered array of Ag spherical caps and an aluminum coating. The ordered aluminum template formed during the synthesis of anodic aluminum oxide film was used as the patterned matrix. After sputtering a Ag layer and then peeling off the aluminum template, the patterned structure was replicated on Ag layer. The aluminum template could serve as a coating that protected Ag from being oxidized. Ultraviolet‐visible reflection measurement was performed to monitor the adsorption process of probing molecules. Taking 4‐mercaptopyridine as probing molecules, SERS spectra were investigated. Comparing with the ordinary Ag film, the patterned Ag layer exhibited better SERS activity. The convenience for preparing, storing, and using makes it a promising candidate for SERS application in the fast field analysis. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural modifications of GaN after cerium implantation
Authors: Majid Abdul , Zhu Jianjun , al Hassan Najam , Shakoor Abdul
Published: July 2012

Among the family of rare earth (RE) dopants, the doping of first member Ce into GaN is the least studied system. This article reports structure properties of Ce‐doped GaN realized by technique of ion implantation. Ce ions were implanted into metal organic chemical vapor deposition grown n‐ and p‐GaN/sapphire thin films at doses 3 × 1014 and 2 × 1015 cm−2. X‐ray diffraction scans and Raman scattering measurements exhibited expansion of lattice in the implanted portion of the samples. First order Raman scattering spectra show appearance of several disorder‐activated Raman scattering modes in addition to typical GaN features. A dose‐dependent decrease in intensity of E2 mode was observed in Raman the spectra of the implanted samples. Ultraviolet Raman spectra of implanted samples show complete quenching of photoluminescence emission and appearance of multiple A1(LO) phonon scattering modes up to fifth order. Moreover, a decrease in intensity and an increase in line width of LO modes as a function of wavenumber were observed for implanted samples. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Copolymer Composition Determined by LC‐MALDI‐TOF MS Coupling and “MassChrom2D” Data Analysis
Authors: Weidner Steffen M. , Falkenhagen Jana , Bressler Ingo
Published: July 2012

The MALDI‐TOF MS analysis of copolymers very often results in complex spectra. A chromatographic separation/fractionation prior to the MALDI investigation can be advantageous since the MALDI mass spectra of fractions very often reveal well‐resolved peaks of distinguishable copolymer series. For this purpose, different modes of chromatography have been applied. Chromatographic runs were transferred to MALDI targets utilizing a combined air/electrospray deposition device. Using the new MassChrom2D software, fraction‐dependent 2D copolymer compositions plots were obtained providing additional information on the chromatographic mode, and enabling fast modification of conditions to increase separation.
Flavin‐Functionalized Amphiphilic Block Copolymer Gels
Authors: Fitzpatrick Brian , Creran Brian , Cooke Graeme , Rotello Vincent M.
Published: July 2012

The synthesis of flavin‐containing amphiphilic block copolymers using atom transfer radical polymerisation (ATRP) is described. In these systems, a flavin moiety is engineered into the ATRP initiator unit as an environmental probe and is subsequently used to produce three block copolymers featuring a hydrophobic methacrylate block and a DMAEM block. The dimethylamino unit of the latter is converted to a trimethylammonium unit to afford three amphiphilic block copolymers. Rheological measurements show that these materials form gels in dilute aqueous solution that can be disrupted upon irradiation with ultrasound. The disruption of the gel can be conveniently monitored by exploiting the solvatochromic nature of the S0–S2 absorption in the UV‐vis spectrum in response to its changing environment.
Preparation of Fluorescent Organometallic Porphyrin Complex Nanogels of Controlled Molecular Structure via Reverse‐Emulsion Click Chemistry
Authors: Fu Guo‐Dong , Jiang Hua , Yao Fang , Xu Li‐Qun , Ling Jun , Kang En‐Tang
Published: July 2012

Here, we are the first to report a novel approach to preparing well‐defined poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) fluorescent nanogels, with well‐defined molecular structures and desired functionalities via reverse (mini)emulsion copper(I)‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition (REM‐CuAAC). Nanogels with hydroxyl groups and Ga‐porphyrin complex (Ga‐porphyrin‐OH nanogels), as well as with Ga‐porphyrin complex and folate functional groups (Ga‐porphyrin‐FA), are successfully prepared. Nanogels of 30 and 120 nm in diameter are obtained and they exhibit an emission maxima within the wavelength range 700–800 nm. The nanogels could find uses in near infrared (NIR) imaging attributable to their fluorescence and their functionality for cell affinity.
Amine‐Reactive Polymers Synthesized by RAFT Polymerization Using an Azlactone Functional Trithiocarbonate RAFT Agent
Authors: Ho Hien The , Leroux Flavien , Pascual Sagrario , Montembault Véronique , Fontaine Laurent
Published: July 2012

A new azlactone‐derived trithiocarbonate is prepared and used as a chain‐transfer agent to mediate the reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization of styrene, ethyl acrylate, and N‐isopropyl acrylamide. Well‐defined polymers with controlled molecular weights (Mn = 1000–7000 g mol−1) and narrow molecular weight distributions (PDI = 1.05–1.10) are thus obtained that retain the azlactone functionality at the chain end. The ability of the resulting end‐functionalized polymers to react quantitatively at room temperature with a stoichiometric amount of amino groups with retention of the thiocarbonylthio moiety is ascertained by using 4‐fluorobenzylamine and allylamine.
Molecular Weight Determination and Correlation Analysis of Dalbergia sissoo Polysaccharide with Constituent Oligosaccharides
Authors: Kumar Vineet , Rana Vikas , Soni P. L.
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Mucilaginous polysaccharide extracted from Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. leaves has a number of medicinal applications. Molecular weight studies and correlation analysis of the structure of polysaccharide with oligosaccharides can be helpful for further utilisation, modification and structure–activity relationship for biological applications.

Objective

To determine molecular weight of medicinally important polysaccharide. To establish an unequivocal correlation of the polysaccharide monosugars with constituting oligosaccharides and glucuronic acid content based on gas–liquid chromatography (GLC) with the spectrophotometric method.

Methodology

Complete and partial hydrolytic studies of pure polysaccharide yielded constituting monosugars and oligosaccharides. The ratio of sugars in polysaccharide and oligosaccharides was studied by preparation of alditol acetates and analysed using GLC. The uronic acid content was studied by GLC analysis and spectrophotometry. Molecular weight of the polysaccharide was determined using the viscometric method.

Results

Dalbergia sissoo leaves yielded 14.0% pure polysaccharide, containing 15.7% of glucuronic acid. Complete hydrolysis and GLC analysis of alditol acetate derivatives of reduced and unreduced monosugars indicated the presence of l‐rhamnose, d‐glucuronic acid, d‐galactose and d‐glucose in 1.00:1.00:2.00:2.33 molar ratios. Partial hydrolysis followed by monosugar analysis of oligosaccharides established the monosugar ratio in complete agreement with polysaccharide, thereby corroborating the sugar ratio. Similar uronic acid content was obtained by GLC and spectrophotometry. The polysaccharide had an average molecular weight of 1.5 × 105 Da.

Conclusion

The study has established an obvious correlation of the structure of polysaccharide with oligosaccharides, leading to unambiguous identification of monosaccharides, which normally is not studied conclusively while reporting the polysaccharide structure. The molecular weight of the polysaccharide was determined. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simple and Reliable Methods for the Determination of Three Steroidal Glycosides in the Eight Species of Solanum by Reversed‐phase HPLC Coupled with Diode Array Detection
Authors: Maurya Anupam , Manika N. , Verma Ram Kishore , Singh Subhash C. , Srivastava Santosh Kumar
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Solanum species are important ingredients of many traditional Indian medicines and thus the quality control of their herbal formulations is of paramount concern.

Objective

To establish a simple and effective high‐performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method to evaluate the quality of Solanum species and their herbal formulations.

Methodology

A rapid, simple, sensitive, robust and reproducible HPLC method was developed for the determination of three steroidal glycosides (SG); indioside D, solamargine and α‐solanine in eight species of the genus Solanum. The analytes were separated on a monolithic performance RP‐18e column (100 mm × 4.6 mm i.d.) using a gradient elution of acetonitile–water containing 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) as the mobile phase with a flow rate 0.4 mL/min and UV detection at λ 210 nm.

Results

The method was linear over the range 3–15 µg/mL (r > 9994). Accuracy, precision and repeatability were all within the required limits. The mean recoveries measured at the three concentrations were higher than 98.8% with RSD < 2% for the targets.

Conclusion

The established method is simple and can be used as a tool for quality control of plant material or herbal formulation containing SG. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cu(II)‐catalyzed oxidation of thiols by superoxide ligated to CoIII2
Authors: Mishra Ritu , Banerjee Rupendranath , Mukhopadhyay Subrata
Published: July 2012

Copper(II) dramatically catalyzes the oxidation of thiols by a superoxide bridging two CoIIIions. The catalyzed path overwhelmingly dominates over the uncatalysed path and is first order in the superoxo complex concentration. The first‐order rate constants show a first‐order dependence in [Cu2+], a second‐order dependence in [thiol] and linearly varies with [H+]−3. On the basis of observed kinetics reported here, it is proposed that Cu(II) reacts with two thiol molecules to form a CuII(thiol)2complex, an electron is transferred from one ligated thiol to the CuIIcenter to form CuI(thiol) and a thiyl radical. The copper(I)‐thiol complex is oxidized by the conjugate base of the title complex to regenerate CuII(thiol). A CuII/Icatalytic cycle is thus believed to be responsible for the observed catalysis. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exercise Prescription Patterns in Patients Treated with Vestibular Rehabilitation After Concussion
Authors: Alsalaheen Bara A. , Whitney Susan L. , Mucha Anne , Morris Laura O. , Furman Joseph M. , Sparto Patrick J.
Published: July 2012

Background and Purpose

Individuals with concussion often complain of persistent dizziness and imbalance, and these problems have been treated with vestibular rehabilitation exercises. The purpose of this study is to describe the vestibular rehabilitation exercise prescriptions provided to individuals after concussion.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of vestibular rehabilitation home exercise programmes prescribed by physical therapists for 104 participants who were diagnosed with concussion was conducted. Each of the exercises was classified by exercise type, duration and frequency. Frequency counts of the most common exercise types were recorded. Exercise progression patterns were examined by determining how exercise types were modified from visit to visit.

Results

Eye–head coordination exercises were the most commonly prescribed exercise type (in 95% of participants), followed by standing static balance exercises (in 88% of participants), and ambulation exercises (in 76% of participants).

Conclusions

Understanding the prescription patterns of expert clinicians may elucidate the vestibular‐related impairments of individuals after concussion and may provide a resource for therapists who may be starting vestibular rehabilitation programmes for management of individuals with concussion. To improve quality of care, future research should be directed to relate outcomes to the exercise prescription patterns. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TAPP analogs containing β3‐homo‐amino acids: synthesis and receptor binding
Authors: Podwysocka D. , Kosson P. , Lipkowski A. W. , Olma A.
Published: July 2012

β‐Amino acids containing α,β‐hybrid peptides show great potential as peptidomimetics. In this paper, we describe the synthesis and affinity to μ‐opioid and δ‐opioid receptors of α,β‐hybrids, analogs of the tetrapeptide Tyr‐ d‐Ala‐Phe‐Phe‐NH2 (TAPP). Each amino acid was replaced with an l‐ or d‐β3‐h‐amino acid. All α,β‐hybrids of TAPP analogs were synthesized in solution and tested for affinity to μ‐opioid and δ‐opioid receptors. The analog Tyr‐β3h‐ d‐Ala‐Phe‐PheNH2 was found to be as active as the native tetrapeptide. Copyright © 2012 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, biological activity and conformational analysis of head‐to‐tail cyclic analogues of LL37 and histatin 5
Authors: Kamysz Elżbieta , Sikorska Emilia , Karafova Anna , Dawgul Małgorzata
Published: July 2012

LL37 and histatin 5 are antimicrobial peptides. LL37 exhibits killing activity against a broad spectrum of pathogens, whereas histatin 5 is primarily an antifungal agent. Head‐to‐tail cyclization of histatin 5 did not affect its antimicrobial and haemolytic activity. The cyclic LL37 exhibits identical antifungal and haemolytic activity as does LL37. Its antimicrobial activity varied in one dilution depending on the kind of bacteria. The structure of cyclic peptides was studied by circular dichroism spectroscopy. Both peptides undergo a conformational change leading to stabilisation of theirα‐helical structure in the presence of negatively charged sodium dodecyl sulfate micelles. However, with cyclic histatin 5, the presence of Zn2+ions is also necessary to fuse the peptide to the micelle. The specific action of the Zn2+ions is attributed to the presence of a zinc‐binding motif, His‐Glu‐X‐X‐His. It has been speculated that this zinc complexing may be related to the well‐established anticandidal activity. In the case of cyclic LL37, also the presence of a zwitterionic dodecylphosphocholine micelle induces formation of the helical structure. A microwave‐assisted procedure for the cleavage of a peptide from the 2‐chlorotrityl chloride resin was, for the first time, successfully used to obtain protected peptide fragments that can be applied to the preparation of head‐to‐tail cyclopeptides or to condensation of peptidic fragments. Copyright © 2012 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Density‐functional‐theory study of α‐cyclodextrin inclusion complexes
Authors: Santillán‐Vargas Hilda , Ramírez José‐Zeferino , Garza Jorge , Vargas Rubicelia
Published: July 2012

We apply the density functional theory on the description of the α‐cyclodextrin (α‐CD) and the analysis of the molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) for complexes of this system with Na+, F−, CO, and N,N‐dimethyl formamide, as substrates. Four exchange‐correlation functionals were considered: one of the local density approximation, two of the generalized gradient approximation (BLYP and PBE), and one of the hybrid family. These exchange‐correlation functionals were coupled with the DZVP/A1, DZVP, and TZVP basis set functions. All complexes were fully optimized by all methods. The experimental molecular structure of the α‐CD compares better with that described by the PBE exchange‐correlation functional. The MEP analysis shows that the electrostatic is quite relevant on the intermolecular interaction for the α‐CD complexes in gas phase. Some of our results are in disagreement with those published previously with the PM3 semiempirical method and the B3LYP//PM3 method. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
DFT in a nutshell
Authors: Burke Kieron , Wagner Lucas O.
Published: July 2012

The purpose of this short essay is to introduce students and other newcomers to the basic ideas and uses of modern electronic density functional theory, including what kinds of approximations are in current use, and how well they work (or not). The complete newcomer should find it orients them well, while even longtime users and aficionados might find something new outside their area. Important questions varying in difficulty and effort are posed in the text, and are answered in the Supporting Information. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Theoretical study of inclusion of a dinuclear platinum(II) complex in α, β, and γ‐cyclodextrins
Authors: Paixão Nathália Magalhães , Esteves Lucas Fagundes , Anconi Cleber Paulo Andrada , Nascimento Clebio Soares , Almeida Wagner Batista De , Santos Hélio Ferreira Dos , Costa Luiz Antônio Sodré
Published: July 2012

This study has focus on inclusion compounds formed by native cyclodextrins (CD) and dinuclear platinum(II) complex (bisPt), investigated by density functional theory and hybrid our own N‐layered integrated molecular orbital and molecular mechanics (ONIOM) approaches. The main goal here is to get insights on the molecular features governing the stability of bisPt@CD inclusion complexes, accounting for cavity size, host–guest orientation, and stoichiometry. The results indicate that the β‐CD is the most attractive host to form inclusion complex with bisPt, with ΔG found negative for the six orientations tested (A–F), ranging from −3.69 to −20.08 kcal mol−1 (ONIOM values). Besides the favorable size/shape relationship for bisPt@β‐CD complex, the higher stability is also due the hydrogen bonds between the bisPt amine groups and the β‐CD oxygen atoms. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quadrupole moment of the hydrogen fluoride using the multireference Hartree–Fock CI method
Authors: Malbouisson Luiz A. C. , de Andrade Micael D. , de C. Sobrinho Antonio M.
Published: July 2012

In this work, the multireference Hartree–Fock configuration interaction method (MRHFCI) was applied to calculate the permanent electrical quadrupole moment of the hydrogen fluoride molecule, using the atomic bases STO‐6G and CFG‐6G. We have obtained MRHFCI functions, with energies comparable to the full CI ones, providing dipole and quadrupole moments in close agreement with the experimental values and with reduced MRHF basis, that is, with significant lower numbers of configurations. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Theoretical prediction for the structures of gas phase lithium oxide clusters: (Li2O)n (n = 1–8)
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Cheng Longjiu
Published: July 2012

We apply genetic algorithm combining directly with density functional method to search the potential energy surface of lithium‐oxide clusters (Li2O)n up to n = 8. In (Li2O)n (n = 1–8) clusters, the planar structures are found to be global minimum up to n = 2, and the global minimum structures are all three‐dimensional at n ≥ 3. At n ≥ 4, the tetrahedral unit (TU) is found in most of the stable structures. In the TU, the central Li is bonded with four O atoms in sp3 interactions, which leads to unusual charge transformation, and the probability of the central Li participating in the bonding is higher by adaptive natural density partitioning analysis, so the central Li is in particularly low positive charge. At large cluster size, distortion of structures is viewed, which breaks the symmetry and may make energy higher. The global minimum structures of (Li2O)2, (Li2O)6, and (Li2O)7 clusters are the most stable magic numbers, where the first one is planar and the later both have stable structural units of tetrahedral and C4v. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Is a MH (M = Be and Mg) radical a better electron donor in halogen‐hydride interaction?: A theoretical comparison with HMH
Authors: Bai Xiangbin , Li Qingzhong , Li Ran , Cheng Jianbo , Li Wenzuo
Published: July 2012

Quantum chemical calculations have been performed to investigate the complexes of HMHXCCH, HMHXCF3, MHXCCH, and MHXCF3(M = Be and Mg; X = Cl, Br, and I) at the MP2/aug‐cc‐pVTZ level. The geometrical, energetic, and spectroscopic parameters were analyzed for these complexes. The results show that the MH is a better electron donor in the halogen‐hydride interaction than HMH. The enhancement of halogen‐hydride interaction increases in the order of Cl < Br < I, Be < Mg, and XCCH < XCF3. The halogen‐hydride interaction was understood with natural bond orbital, atoms in molecules, and electrostatic potentials. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Solid luminescent CdSe‐thiolated porous phosphate heterostructures. Application in fingermark detection in different surfaces
Authors: Algarra M. , Jiménez‐Jiménez J. , Miranda M. S. , Campos B. B. , Moreno‐Tost R. , Rodriguez‐Castellón E. , Esteves da Silva J. C. G.
Published: July 2012

A fluorescent hybrid material (PPH‐S‐CdSe), which comprises cadmium selenide sulphide nanoparticles assembled onto thiol functionalised porous phosphate heterostructures (PPH‐SH), was synthesised in aqueous media. This material presents a high stability towards photo‐degradation. The obtained nanocomposite was characterised by various techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy. This fluorescent material showed a red emission at 576 nm combined with other at 473 nm, explained as different CdS0.42Se0.58 nanoparticles size, supported by TEM images. It was suitable for latent fingermark analysis in a wide range of surfaces. Because of its sensitivity and low cost, it is an actual alternative to conventional powdering materials. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Image‐guided hepatopancreatobiliary surgery using near‐infrared fluorescent light
Authors: Verbeek Floris P. R. , van der Vorst Joost R. , Schaafsma Boudewijn E. , Hutteman Merlijn , Bonsing Bert A. , van Leeuwen Fijs W. B. , Frangioni John V. , van de Velde Cornelis J. H. , Swijnenburg Rutger‐Jan , Vahrmeijer Alexander L.
Published: July 2012

Background

Improved imaging methods and surgical techniques have created a new era in hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgery. Despite these developments, visual inspection, palpation, and intraoperative ultrasound remain the most utilized tools during surgery today. This is problematic, though, especially in laparoscopic HPB surgery, where palpation is not possible. Optical imaging using near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescence can be used for the real‐time assessment of both anatomy (e.g., sensitive detection and demarcation of tumours and vital structures) and function (e.g., assessment of luminal flow and tissue perfusion) during both open and minimally invasive surgeries.

Methods

This article reviews the published literature related to preclinical development and clinical applications of NIR fluorescence imaging during HPB surgery.

Results

NIR fluorescence imaging combines the use of otherwise invisible NIR fluorescent contrast agents and specially designed camera systems, which are capable of detecting these contrast agents during surgery. Unlike visible light, NIR fluorescent light can penetrate several millimetres through blood and living tissue, thus providing improved detectability. Applications of this technique during HPB surgery include tumour imaging in liver and pancreas, and real‐time imaging of the biliary tree.

Conclusions

NIR fluorescence imaging is a promising new technique that may someday improve surgical accuracy and lower complications.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Nonionic Polymeric Surfactants Based on Acrylated Polyethylene Glycol
Authors: El Monem Eissa Abd , El Hefnawy Manal , Allah Mohamed Deef
Published: July 2012

A novel series of six nonionic polymeric surfactants were prepared by polymerization of acrylated poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG, molecular weight MW = 400, 600 and 2,000) and allyl ester of long chain fatty acid chloride (decanoyl and lauroyl chloride). The unique structural features of these surfactants were confirmed by different spectroscopic tools (IR and 1H NMR). The surface properties of these compounds such as surface tension, interfacial tension, emulsion stability, wetting power, foam height, solubilization and dispersant properties in disperse dye systems were determined and evaluated. A comparison study was done between the chemical structures and surface properties of such compounds. Biodegradability and stability to hydrolysis in acidic and alkaline media were also determined and evaluated.
Sesamin Modulates Gene Expression Without Corresponding Effects on Fatty acids in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar L.)
Authors: Schiller Vestergren A. , Wagner L. , Pickova J. , Rosenlund G. , Kamal‐Eldin A. , Trattner S.
Published: July 2012

This study examined the effects of sesamin inclusion in vegetable oil‐based diets fed to Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.). The diets used differed in n‐6/n‐3 fatty acid (FA) ratio (0.5 and 1) and sesamin content (high 5.8 g/kg, low 1.16 g/kg and no sesamin). The oils used in the feeds were a mixture of rapeseed, linseed and palm oil. Fish were fed for 4 months. Fatty acids and expression of hepatic genes involved in transcription, lipid uptake, desaturation, elongation and β‐oxidation were measured. No major effects on the percentage of DHA in white muscle, liver triacylglycerol and phospholipid fraction were detected. Genes involved in β‐oxidation, elongation and desaturation were affected by sesamin addition. Limited effects were seen on any of the transcription factors tested and no effect was seen on the expression of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPAR). Expression of both SREBP‐1 and SREBP‐2 increased with sesamin addition. It was concluded that supplementation of fish feed with a high level of sesamin had a negative effect on the growth rate and live weight and did not alter the proportions of DHA in tissues even though gene expression was affected. Thus, more studies are needed to formulate a diet that would increase the percentage of DHA in fish without negative effects on fish growth.
Sozialepidemiologie
Authors: Spallek Jacob , Kuntz Benjamin , Schott Thomas
Published: July 2012

Einleitung

Sozialepidemiologie untersucht, ob und in welchem Maße gesellschaftlich benachteiligte Bevölkerungsgruppen auch gesundheitlich benachteiligt sind. Soziale Ungleichheit, definiert anhand vertikaler (SES) und horizontaler (z.B. Geschlecht, Migrationsstatus) Indikatoren, hat über Selektionseffekte, materielle und strukturelle Faktoren und unterschiedliche Verhaltensweisen einen Einfluss auf die Gesundheit. Neben der Untersuchung sozialer Determinanten gesundheitlicher Ungleichheit stehen zunehmend auch die Erforschung salutogener sozialer Faktoren und die Einbeziehung einer Lebenslaufperspektive im Fokus sozialepidemiologischer Forschung.
Existence and properties of ageostrophic modons and coherent tripoles in the two-layer rotating shallow water model on the -plane
Authors: Lahaye Noé , Zeitlin Vladimir
Published: July 2012

We study formation and properties of new coherent structures: ageostrophic modons in the two-layer rotating shallow water model. The ageostrophic modons are obtained by ‘ageostrophic adjustment’ of the exact modon solutions of the two-layer quasi-geostrophic equations with the free surface, which are used to initialize the full two-layer shallow water model. Numerical simulations are performed using a well-balanced high-resolution finite volume numerical scheme. For large enough Rossby numbers, the initial configurations undergo ageostrophic adjustment towards asymmetric ageostrophic quasi-stationary coherent dipoles. This process is accompanied by substantial emission of inertia–gravity waves. The resulting dipole is shown to be robust and survives frontal collisions. It contains captured inertia–gravity waves and, for higher Rossby numbers and weak stratification, carries a (baroclinic) hydraulic jump at its axis. For stronger stratifications and high enough Rossby numbers, ‘rider’ coherent structures appear as a result of adjustment, with a monopole in one layer and a dipole in another. Other ageostrophic coherent structures, such as two-layer tripoles and two-layer modons with nonlinear scatter plot, result from the collisions of ageostrophic modons. They are shown to be long-living and robust, and to capture waves.
Modelling of turbulence modulation in particle- or droplet-laden flows
Authors: Meyer Daniel W.
Published: July 2012

Addition of particles or droplets to turbulent liquid flows or addition of droplets to turbulent gas flows can lead to modulation of turbulence characteristics. Corresponding observations have been reported for very small particle or droplet volume loadings ${\Phi }_{v} $ and therefore may be important when simulating such flows. In this work, a modelling framework that accounts for preferential concentration and reproduces isotropic and anisotropic turbulence attenuation effects is presented. The framework is outlined for both Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) and joint probability density function (p.d.f.) methods. Validations are performed involving a range of particle and flow-field parameters and are based on the direct numerical simulation (DNS) study of Boivin, Simonin & Squires (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 375, 1998, pp. 235–263) dealing with heavy particles suspended in homogeneous isotropic turbulence (Stokes number $\mathit{St}= O(1{\unicode{x2013}} 10)$, particle/fluid density ratio ${\rho }_{p} / \rho = 2000$, ${\Phi }_{v} = O(1{0}^{- 4} )$) and the experimental investigation of Poelma, Westerweel & Ooms (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 589, 2007, pp. 315–351) involving light particles ($\mathit{St}= O(0. 1)$, ${\rho }_{p} / \rho \gtrsim 1$, ${\Phi }_{v} = O(1{0}^{- 3} )$) settling in grid turbulence. The development in this work is restricted to volume loadings where particle or droplet collisions are negligible.