bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of higher severity fire areas by female Pacific fishers on the Kern Plateau, Sierra Nevada, California, USA
Authors: Hanson Chad T.
Published: August 2015

The Pacific fisher (Pekania pennanti) is a rare and imperiled forest carnivore, with a genetically distinct and isolated population living in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains of California, USA. Female fishers are of special interest and concern, given their very small numbers and their disproportionately important role in the potential recovery of the population. Using fisher scat detection to assess patterns of habitat use, I conducted analyses regarding use by fishers of unlogged higher severity fire areas at 10–11 years postfire in the 2002 McNally fire area. Contrary to the prevailing current hypothesis regarding fisher postfire habitat use, fishers did not use higher severity fire areas less than low–moderate‐severity areas or unburned forest (n = 77 scats), and female fishers used the large, intense McNally fire area significantly more than unburned forest (n = 12 scats). Female fishers were detected at multiple locations >250 m into the interior of a very large (>5,000 ha), unlogged higher severity fire patch. These results indicate unlogged higher severity fire areas are suitable habitat for fishers, especially female fishers, and suggest a need to revisit current management direction, which emphasizes extensive commercial thinning and postfire logging to reduce fuels and control fire. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.
Habitat‐specific responses of shoot growth and distribution of alpine dwarf‐pine (Pinus pumila) to climate variation
Authors: Amagai Yukihiro , Kaneko Masami , Kudo Gaku
Published: August 2015

Alpine dwarf‐pine (Pinus pumila) in dominant in the alpine regions of Japan, and often forms the krummholz zone of stunted alpine forest. The distribution of P. pumila is strongly related to the distribution of snow, and shoot growth is also sensitive to weather conditions. Changes in temperature and snowmelt regimes may well affect the distribution patterns of the krummholz zone. P. pumila usually occupies the habitat between the fellfield and snowbed communities, and responses to climate change may differ depending on whether plants are close to the fellfield or the snowbed. We compared the distribution and shoot growth patterns of P. pumila close to both surrounding ecosystems in the Taisetsu Mountains, northern Japan. P. pumila has expanded its distribution area by 14 % toward both edges over the last 32 years. Annual shoot growth was positively affected by summer temperature and sunshine duration, but negatively related to spring temperature toward the fellfield side. Shoot growth was greater at the southeastern edge of patches, where snowdrifts were formed. The results indicated that shoot growth and distribution area increased in warm summers. However, warm springs might have a negative influence on shoot growth, probably because the earlier reduction in cold‐resistance enhances the risk of frost damage in spring close to the fellfield side. This study suggests the importance of understanding the site‐specific responses of shrubs to predict the impacts of climate change on alpine ecosystems.
The Political Attitudes and Activities of Missouri Synod Lutheran (LCMS) Clergy in 2001 and 2009: A Research Note
Authors: Walz Jeff , Montreal Steve
Published: August 2015

Research has explored Lutheran clergy and politics at various time points, though few studies have focused longitudinally on this significant religious tradition. Using Cooperative Clergy Survey data, this research note examines the theological and the political attitudes, beliefs, and activities of pastors in one branch of American Lutheranism, the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS), in 2001 and 2009. The results suggest that LCMS clergy became more conservative, both theologically and politically, during this time. Moreover, LCMS clergy indicated higher levels of approval for a variety of political actions in 2009 than in 2001, as well as reporting higher levels of actual political involvement in 2008 than in 2000. A new breed of LCMS clergy may be emerging that is more comfortable engaging with the public square.
Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography: A Guide for the General Radiologist
Authors: Beadsmoore Clare , Newman David , MacIver Duncan , Pawaroo Davina
Published: August 2015

Cancer remains a leading cause of death in Canada and worldwide. Whilst advances in anatomical imaging to detect and monitor malignant disease have continued over the last few decades, limitations remain. Functional imaging, such as positron emission tomography (PET), has improved the sensitivity and specificity in detecting malignant disease.

In combination with computed tomography (CT), PET is now commonly used in the oncology setting and is an integral part of many cancer patients’ pathways. Although initially the CT component of the study was purely for attenuation of the PET imaging and to provide anatomical coregistration, many centers now combine the PET study with a diagnostic quality contrast enhanced CT to provide one stop staging, thus refining the patient's pathway.

The commonest tracer used in everyday practice is FDG (F18-fluorodeoxyglucose). There are many more tracers in routine clinical practice and those with emerging roles, such as 11C-choline, useful in the imaging of prostate cancer; 11C-methionine, useful in imaging brain tumours; C11-acetate, used in imaging hepatocellular carcinomas; 18F-FLT, which can be used as a marker of cellular proliferation in various malignancies; and F18-DOPA and various 68Ga-somatostatin analogues, used in patients with neuroendocrine tumours. In this article we concentrate on FDG PETCT as this is the most commonly available and widely utilised tracer now used to routinely stage a number of cancers.

PETCT alters the stage in approximately one-third of patients compared to anatomical imaging alone. Increasingly, PETCT is being used to assess early metabolic response to treatment. Metabolic response can be seen much earlier than a change in the size/volume of the disease which is measured by standard CT imaging. This can aid treatment decisions in both in terms of modifying therapy and in addition to providing important prognostic information. Furthermore, it is helpful in patients with distorted anatomy from surgery or radiotherapy when there is suspicion of recurrent or residual disease.

FDG PETCT is not specific for malignancy and can also be used for diagnosing and monitoring a number of inflammatory and infectious conditions that can be difficult to diagnose on anatomical imaging, some of which carry significant morbidity. FDG PETCT is increasingly used in patients with pyrexia of unknown origin and in patients with metastatic malignancies of unidentified primary on conventional imaging. This article reviews the uses of PETCT including an overview of the more common incidental lesions and conditions. It also provides guidance of how to approach a PETCT as a nonradionuclide radiologist and how to interpret a study in the multidisciplinary team setting.
Analysis of parageneses of metapelite gneisses of the Okhotsk granulite complex by minimization of Gibbs thermodynamic potential
Authors: Avchenko O.V. , Chudnenko K.V. , Badredinov Z.G. , Sharova O.I.
Published: August 2015

The problem of modeling of real parageneses has been solved by minimization of Gibbs thermodynamic potential for metapelites of the Okhotsk granulite complex. Model mineral assemblages completely reproduce the composition of minerals and their modal contents in the studied rocks. This fundamental fact directly verifies the solution of the problem, proving the validity of the principle of local equilibrium in the studied assemblages and the agreement of all thermodynamic data accepted on the modeling. The pressure and temperature during the metamorphism of granulites of the Okhotsk complex, estimated by modeling, are 5.2–7.0 kbar and 620–770 °C, which corresponds to the near-boundary conditions of the amphibolitic and granulitic facies. Model mineral assemblages similar to real parageneses in the composition of minerals and their modes can be successfully obtained with the Selektor software under conditions of both inert and moving water. The composition of the external metamorphic fluid and the approximate weight ratio of fluid to rock have been determined. The oxidation potential of this fluid is similar to the potential of oxygen at the buffer C–CO–CO2 if the fluid/rock ratio is 0.03–0.30 and the low partial pressure of water varies from 1.80 to 0.35 kbar. The Okhotsk metamorphic complex is not an analog of the granulites of the southern Aldan Shield, because considerably higher pressure and temperature are typical of the latter.
Comparative analysis of megaflood deposits and alluvium of the Chuya and Katun’ river valleys (Gorny Altai)
Authors: Zolnikov I.D. , Deev E.V. , Nazarov D.V. , Kotler S.A.
Published: August 2015

Sedimentary indicators of catastrophic glacial megafloods—plane-bedded angular gravel, cobbles, and boulders—are described in several sections of the high terraces of the Chuya River valley. The principal difference of these sediments from typical alluvium of this area is demonstrated. The clast roundness, grain size of clasts, and sedimentary structures of the high-terrace deposits of the Chuya and Katun’ valleys indicate the same facies originated through megaflood deposition. These results are at odds with ideas of alluvial, glacial, or glaciofluvial genesis of the high-terrace deposits of the Chuya River.
NIVISON AND THE PHILOSOPHICAL STUDY OF CONFUCIAN THOUGHT: IN MEMORY OF DAVID S. NIVISON (1923–2014)
Authors: Shun Kwong-loi
Published: August 2015

One of David S. Nivison's (1923–2014) most important contributions is his work in bridging philological studies and philosophical inquiry. His methodological approach resonates in spirit with an approach to the study of Chinese thought advocated by Confucian thinkers such as Zhu Xi and Tang Junyi, who both emphasize jing toward early thinkers. He pays careful attention to textual details, is respectful of cultural context, and seeks to preserve the distinctive features of Chinese traditions of thought and avoid imposing on them western philosophical conceptions. In doing so, he exemplifies the spirit of jing, a serious and cautious attitude dedicated to a proper understanding of early thinkers in their cultural context.
Muscle fatigue resistance in the rat hindlimbin vivofrom low dietary intakes of tuna fish oil that selectively increase phospholipidn-3 docosahexaenoic acid according to muscle fibre type
Authors: Henry R. , Peoples G. E. , McLennan P. L.
Published: August 2015

Dietary fish oil (FO) modulates muscle O2consumption and contractile function, predictive of effects on muscle fatigue. High doses unattainable through human diet and muscle stimulation parameters used engender uncertainty in their physiological relevance. We tested the hypothesis that nutritionally relevant FO doses can modulate membrane fatty acid composition and muscle fatigue. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomised to control (10 % olive oil (OO) by weight) or low or moderate FO diet (LowFO and ModFO) (HiDHA tuna fish oil) for 15 weeks (LowFO: 0·3 % FO, 9·7 % OO, 0·25 % energy as EPA+DHA; ModFO: 1·25 % FO, 8·75 % OO, 1·0 % energy as EPA+DHA). Hindlimb muscle function was assessed under anaesthesiain vivousing repetitive 5 s burst sciatic nerve stimulation (0·05 ms, 7–12 V, 5 Hz, 10 s duty cycle, 300 s). There were no dietary differences in maximum developed muscle force. Repetitive peak developed force fell to 50 % within 62 (sem10) s in controls and took longer to decline in FO-fed rats (LowFO 110 (sem15) s; ModFO 117 (sem14) s) (P<0·05). Force within bursts was better sustained with FO and maximum rates of force development and relaxation declined more slowly. The FO-fed rats incorporated higher muscle phospholipid DHA-relative percentages than controls (P<0·001). Incorporation of DHA was greater in the fast-twitch gastrocnemius (Control 9·3 (sem0·8) %, LowFO 19·9 (sem0·4), ModFO 24·3 (sem1·0)) than in the slow-twitch soleus muscle (Control 5·1 (sem0·2), LowFO 14·3 (sem0·7), ModFO 18·0 (sem1·4)) (P<0·001), which was comparable with the myocardium, in line with muscle fibre characteristics. The LowFO and ModFO diets, emulating human dietary and therapeutic supplement intake, respectively, both elicited muscle membrane DHA enrichment and fatigue resistance, providing a foundation for translating these physiological effects to humans.
Sensory dysfunction and quality of life after great auricular nerve sacrifice during parotidectomy: our experience
Authors: Galli J , Pandolfini M , Rigante M , Schinaia L , Guidi M L , Almadori G , Paludetti G
Published: August 2015

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the impact on patients' quality of life of great auricular nerve sacrifice during parotidectomy.

Methods:

A retrospective review was conducted of 191 consecutive patients who underwent parotidectomy with great auricular nerve sacrifice between 2006 and 2011. Residual sensory dysfunction and its impact on quality of life was analysed using an eight-item quality of life survey.

Results:

In all, 139 out of 191 patients (72.8 per cent) experienced one or more abnormal sensations in the ear or neck region after surgery. There was a moderate inverse correlation between the number of abnormal sensations and time elapsed since surgery. Moreover, the degree of discomfort correlated significantly with the frequency of symptom occurrence (p< 0.001), duration of the abnormal sensation (p< 0.001) and size of the affected area (p< 0.001).

Conclusion:

Sacrifice of the great auricular nerve has only a small impact on patient quality of life; their daily activities are not significantly affected.
Innovation and Change in English Language Teaching: Theory and Practice
Authors: Ou Chen
Published: August 2015

The book is an edited collection of 18 chapters written by a total of 21 authors from around the world. Chapter 1, which serves as an introduction, outlines the book's structure and scope. The editors, Ken Hyland and Lillian L. C. Wong, define the book's purpose as ‘to offer readers a range of different ways of thinking about innovation in English language education, and different methods of investigating the impact of innovation’ (p. 2). The remaining 17 chapters, which are divided into four sections, discuss a range of topics including theoretical frameworks for education, teacher training, curriculum development, and teaching practice.
Crystal structure of lacosamide form I, C13H18N2O3
Authors: Kaduk James A. , Zhong Kai , Gindhart Amy M. , Blanton Thomas N.
Published: August 2015

The crystal structure of lacosamide form I has been solved and refined using synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction data, and optimized using density functional techniques (density functional theory). Lacosamide form I crystallizes in space groupP21(#4) witha= 10.677 73(5),b= 4.799 68(2),c= 13.639 16(9) Å,β= 91.6331(10)̊,V= 698.719(6) Å3, andZ= 2. Van der Waals interactions are important in the crystal structure. Two N–H···O hydrogen bonds form C1,1(4) chains along theb-axis. Several weaker C–H···O hydrogen bonds to the ketone oxygens also contribute to the packing energy. These C–H···O extend both along theb-axis and in theac-plane, and help link the molecules in three dimensions. The powder pattern has been submitted to International Centre for Diffraction Data for inclusion in the Powder Diffraction File™.
Prevalent emm types and superantigen gene patterns of group A Streptococcus in Thailand
Authors: PAVEENKITTIPORN W. , NOZAWA T. , DEJSIRILERT S. , NAKAGAWA I. , HAMADA S.
Published: August 2015

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) are globally distributed bacterial pathogens. We examined the emm genotypes, which are important indicators of virulence, of 349 clinical GAS isolates collected using two surveillance systems, i.e. Invasive Bacterial Infection Surveillance (IBIS) from 2010 to 2011 (234 isolates) and routine surveillance of clinically isolated bacteria from various hospitals during 1996–2011 (115 isolates) in Thailand. The major emm genotypes in IBIS samples were emm44 (12·0%), emm104 (6·8%), emm22 (5·6%), and emm81 (5·6%), whereas only one isolate (0·4%) had the emm1 genotype, which is significantly more common in invasive cases in the Western world. In samples collected during routine surveillance, emm238 (10·4%), emm44 (8·7%), and emm165 (7·0%) were dominant. The major superantigen gene profiles were similar between the groups, and 30·1% of isolates did not possess the phage-encoded superantigens (speA, speC, speH, speI, speK, speL, speM, ssa). Although most isolates exhibited limited gene profiles, emm44 isolates had highly variable gene profiles (15 patterns). We conclude that emm44 is the predominant GAS genotype in Thailand, and isolates varied in superantigen gene profiles.
Reasons for measles cases not being vaccinated with MMR: investigation into parents' and carers' views following a large measles outbreak
Authors: McHALE P. , KEENAN A. , GHEBREHEWET S.
Published: August 2015

Uptake rates for the combined measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine have been below the required 95% in the UK since a retracted and discredited article linking the MMR vaccine with autism and inflammatory bowel disease was released in 1998. This study undertook semi-structured telephone interviews among parents or carers of 47 unvaccinated measles cases who were aged between 13 months and 9 years, during a large measles outbreak in Merseyside. Results showed that concerns over the specific links with autism remain an important cause of refusal to vaccinate, with over half of respondents stating this as a reason. A quarter stated child illness during scheduled vaccination time, while other reasons included general safety concerns and access issues. Over half of respondents felt that more information or a discussion with a health professional would help the decision-making process, while a third stated improved access. There was clear support for vaccination among respondents when asked about current opinions regarding MMR vaccine. The findings support the hypothesis that safety concerns remain a major barrier to MMR vaccination, and also support previous evidence that experience of measles is an important determinant in the decision to vaccinate.
READING DURKHEIM THROUGH OTTOMAN LENSES: INTERPRETATIONS OF CUSTOMARY LAW, RELIGION, AND SOCIETY BY THE SCHOOL OF GÖKALP
Authors: ÖZERVARLI M. SAİT
Published: August 2015

This article focuses on how late Ottoman intellectuals selectively read the sociologist Emile Durkheim and used his thoughts to rediscover and reform their own classical, normative Islamic and social theories. Emile Durkheim, a late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century French thinker who combined philosophy with social and political issues, powerfully inspired one of the late Ottoman intellectual circles that aimed to provide theoretical underpinnings for a significant transformation of Turkish society. The article takes a closer look at the school of Ziya Gökalp, the acknowledged pioneer of social thought in Turkey, highlighting also lesser-known works of some of his followers, and how they perceived—in distinct ways—Durkheim's views in a Gökalpian manner, seeking a new synthesis with Islamic legal and religious interpretations to modernize their society in connection with the past. It thus explores some creative Ottoman appropriations of Durkheimian methodology for a different cultural environment.
Cover crop and tillage intensities alter ground-dwelling arthropod communities during the transition to organic production
Authors: Jabbour Randa , Pisani-Gareau Tara , Smith Richard G. , Mullen Christina , Barbercheck Mary
Published: August 2015

We conducted a cropping systems experiment in central Pennsylvania, USA, to determine the effects of initial cover crop species and soil management on the abundance and composition of the ground-dwelling arthropod community. We hypothesized that we would detect legacy effects of the cover crops planted in year 1 of a 3-yr crop sequence on the arthropod community in the subsequent 2 yrs, and that these effects would be influenced by the intensity of tillage. We compared four systems in a factorial combination of perennial sod and legumes or annual cereal grain and legume as initial cover crops and moldboard or chisel plow tillage implemented in soybeans followed by maize in the subsequent 2 yrs. The entire experiment was initiated twice in adjacent locations, starting in 2003 (Start 1) and 2004 (Start 2). We quantified soil arthropod activity-density and community composition and identified all arthropods to order or family, and the ground and tiger beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) to species. In Start 1, but not Start 2, arthropod activity-density increased with each year following implementation of organic management. We observed few legacy effects of cover crop or tillage intensity on arthropod activity-density. The composition of the soil arthropod community was primarily defined by the initial cover crop in the first year, and by the interaction between cover crop and tillage intensity in the second and third year. A legacy effect associated with a yr-1 cover crop of cereal rye was observed for Scarabaeidae beetles and Formicidae (ants) in yr 2 and Carabidae beetles in yr 3 of Start 1, but not Start 2. Weed indicators contributed significantly to the variation in the soil arthropod community that was explained by the environment in yr 2 in Start 1, and in yr 3 in both Starts. Our observations support the concept that both immediate and legacy effects of management shape arthropod communities during the organic transition period, suggesting that transitioning systems could be managed in ways that conserve or enhance natural enemy populations.
MR Derived Volumetric Flow Rate Waveforms of Internal Carotid Artery in Patients Treated for Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms by Flow Diversion Technique
Authors: Eker Omer F , Boudjeltia Karim Zouaoui , Jerez Ricardo A Corredor , Le Bars Emmanuelle , Sanchez Mathieu , Bonafé Alain , Costalat Vincent , Courbebaisse Guy
Published: August 2015

Little is known about the hemodynamic disturbances induced by the cerebral aneurysms in the parent artery and the effect of flow diverter stents (FDS) on these latter. A better understanding of the aneurysm-parent vessel complex relationship may aid our understanding of this disease and to optimize its treatment. The ability of volumetric flow rate (VFR) waveform to reflect the arterial compliance modifications is well known. By analyzing the VFR waveform and the pulsatility in the parent vessel, this study aimed to test the hypotheses that (1) intracranial aneurysms might disrupt the blood flow of the parent vessel and (2) the treatment by FDS might have measurable corrective effect on these changes. Ten patients followed for unruptured intracranial aneurysms treated by FDS and ten healthy volunteers as control group were included in this study. Two-dimensional quantitative phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed on each patient on the ICA artery upstream and downstream to the aneurysm, and on each volunteer at similar locations. The aneurysms altered significantly the parent vessel pulsatility and this effect was correlated to their volume. The aneurysms treatment by FDS allowed for the restoration of a normally modulated flow and pulsatility correction in the parent vessel.
Flow-enhanced solution printing of all-polymer solar cells
Authors: Diao Ying , Zhou Yan , Kurosawa Tadanori , Shaw Leo , Wang Cheng , Park Steve , Guo Yikun , Reinspach Julia A. , Gu Kevin , Gu Xiaodan , Tee Benjamin C. K. , Pang Changhyun , Yan Hongping , Zhao Dahui , Toney Michael F. , Mannsfeld Stefan C. B. , Bao Zhenan
Published: August 2015

Morphology control of solution coated solar cell materials presents a key challenge limiting their device performance and commercial viability. Here we present a new concept for controlling phase separation during solution printing using an all-polymer bulk heterojunction solar cell as a model system. The key aspect of our method lies in the design of fluid flow using a microstructured printing blade, on the basis of the hypothesis of flow-induced polymer crystallization. Our flow design resulted in a ∼90% increase in the donor thin film crystallinity and reduced microphase separated donor and acceptor domain sizes. The improved morphology enhanced all metrics of solar cell device performance across various printing conditions, specifically leading to higher short-circuit current, fill factor, open circuit voltage and significantly reduced device-to-device variation. We expect our design concept to have broad applications beyond all-polymer solar cells because of its simplicity and versatility.
Monitoring microbial metabolites using an inductively coupled resonance circuit
Authors: Karnaushenko Daniil , Baraban Larysa , Ye Dan , Uguz Ilke , Mendes Rafael G. , Rümmeli Mark H. , de Visser J. Arjan G. M. , Schmidt Oliver G. , Cuniberti Gianaurelio , Makarov Denys
Published: August 2015

We present a new approach to monitor microbial population dynamics in emulsion droplets via changes in metabolite composition, using an inductively coupled LC resonance circuit. The signal measured by such resonance detector provides information on the magnetic field interaction with the bacterial culture, which is complementary to the information accessible by other detection means, based on electric field interaction, i.e. capacitive or resistive, as well as optical techniques. Several charge-related factors, including pH and ammonia concentrations, were identified as possible contributors to the characteristic of resonance detector profile. The setup enables probing the ionic byproducts of microbial metabolic activity at later stages of cell growth, where conventional optical detection methods have no discriminating power.
Combination of Universal Mechanical Testing Machine with Atomic Force Microscope for Materials Research
Authors: Zhong Jian , He Dannong
Published: August 2015

Surface deformation and fracture processes of materials under external force are important for understanding and developing materials. Here, a combined horizontal universal mechanical testing machine (HUMTM)-atomic force microscope (AFM) system is developed by modifying UMTM to combine with AFM and designing a height-adjustable stabilizing apparatus. Then the combined HUMTM-AFM system is evaluated. Finally, as initial demonstrations, it is applied to analyze the relationship among macroscopic mechanical properties, surface nanomorphological changes under external force and fracture processes of two kinds of representative large scale thin film materials: polymer material with high strain rate (Parafilm) and metal material with low strain rate (aluminum foil). All the results demonstrate the combined HUMTM-AFM system overcomes several disadvantages of current AFM-combined tensile/compression devices including small load force, incapability for large scale specimens, disability for materials with high strain rate and etc. Therefore, the combined HUMTM-AFM system is a promising tool for materials research in the future.
Serum matrix metalloproteinase-9 in colorectal cancer family-risk population screening
Authors: Otero-Estévez Olalla , Chiara Loretta De , Rodríguez-Girondo Mar , Rodríguez-Berrocal Francisco Javier , Cubiella Joaquín , Castro Inés , Hernández Vicent , Martínez-Zorzano Vicenta Soledad
Published: August 2015

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is related to tumour development and progression in colorectal cancer (CRC) and its utility as biomarker has been suggested. The aim of our study was to measure serum MMP-9 in asymptomatic first-degree relatives of CRC patients and to analyse its diagnostic accuracy for the detection of advanced neoplasia (AN: advanced adenomas and CRC). Additionally, we compared its diagnostic capability with the most used non-invasive faecal immunochemical test (FIT). Serum MMP-9 was quantified by ELISA in 516 asymptomatic individuals that underwent a colonoscopy and a FIT. MMP-9 levels were significantly related to age and gender and therefore the concentration was corrected by these confounders. Corrected MMP-9 (cMMP-9) levels were higher in individuals with advanced adenomas (AA; p-value = 0.029) and AN (p-value = 0.056) compared to individuals with no neoplasia. Moreover, elevated cMMP-9 concentration was associated with more severe characteristics of adenomas (number of lesions, size and histology). Nevertheless, the diagnostic accuracy of cMMP-9 was considerably lower than that of FIT for identifying AA (22.64% vs. 47.17% sensitivity, 90% specificity) or AN (19.30% vs. 52.63% sensitivity, 90% specificity). According to our results, serum MMP-9 cannot be considered of utility for the diagnosis of AN in CRC family-risk population screening.
Effects of ECM protein micropatterns on the migration and differentiation of adult neural stem cells
Authors: Joo Sunghoon , Yeon Kim Joo , Lee Eunsoo , Hong Nari , Sun Woong , Nam Yoonkey
Published: August 2015

The migration and differentiation of adult neural stem cells (aNSCs) are believed to be strongly influenced by the spatial distribution of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in the stem cell niche. In vitro culture platform, which involves the specific spatial distribution of ECM protein, could offer novel tools for better understanding of aNSC behavior in the spatial pattern of ECM proteins. In this work, we applied soft-lithographic technique to design simple and reproducible laminin (LN)-polylysine cell culture substrates and investigated how aNSCs respond to the various spatial distribution of laminin, one of ECM proteins enriched in the aNSC niche. We found that aNSC preferred to migrate and attach to LN stripes and aNSC-derived neurons and astrocytes showed significant difference in motility towards LN stripes. By changing the spacing of LN stripes, we were able to control the alignment of neurons and astrocytes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time to investigate the differential cellular responses of aNSCs on ECM protein (LN) and cell adhesive synthetic polymer (PDL) using surface micropatterns. Our findings would provide a deeper understanding in astrocyte-neuron interactions as well as ECM-stem cell interactions.
Robustness and period sensitivity analysis of minimal models for biochemical oscillators
Authors: Caicedo-Casso Angélica , Kang Hye-Won , Lim Sookkyung , Hong Christian I.
Published: August 2015

Biological systems exhibit numerous oscillatory behaviors from calcium oscillations to circadian rhythms that recur daily. These autonomous oscillators contain complex feedbacks with nonlinear dynamics that enable spontaneous oscillations. The detailed nonlinear dynamics of such systems remains largely unknown. In this paper, we investigate robustness and dynamical differences of five minimal systems that may underlie fundamental molecular processes in biological oscillatory systems. Bifurcation analyses of these five models demonstrate an increase of oscillatory domains with a positive feedback mechanism that incorporates a reversible reaction and dramatic changes in dynamics with small modifications in the wiring. Furthermore, our parameter sensitivity analysis and stochastic simulations reveal different rankings of hierarchy of period robustness that are determined by the number of sensitive parameters or network topology. In addition, systems with autocatalytic positive feedback loop are shown to be more robust than those with positive feedback via inhibitory degradation regardless of noise type. We demonstrate that robustness has to be comprehensively assessed with both parameter sensitivity analysis and stochastic simulations.
Modulating the analytical performance of an electrochemical biosensor through varying, at the working electrode, the surface area ratio between that covered by the enzyme and the enzyme-free one
Authors: Rodríguez-Sevilla E. , Palomar-Pardavé M. , Romero-Romo M. , Ramírez-Silva M. T.
Published: August 2015

It is shown that the analytical features of an electrochemical biosensor depends on the transductor’s area ratio, between that covered with the enzyme and the enzyme-free one.
Single-cell analysis based on lab on a chip fluidic system
Authors: Valizadeh Alireza , Khosroushahi Ahmad Yari
Published: August 2015

The combination of nano/microfabrication-based technologies with cell biology has laid the foundation for facilitating the spatiotemporal analysis of single cells under well-defined physiologically relevant conditions.
Smart branched polymer drug conjugates as nano-sized drug delivery systems
Authors: Duro-Castano A. , Movellan J. , Vicent M. J.
Published: August 2015

Branched polymers own special properties derived from their intrinsic characteristics. These properties make them ideal candidates to be used as carriers for an improved generation of polymer-drug conjugates.
A red emitting mitochondria-targeted AIE probe as an indicator for membrane potential and mouse sperm activity
Authors: Zhao Na , Chen Sijie , Hong Yuning , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2015

In this work, a red emission AIE active mitochondrial probe is developed. It is the first non-self-quenching mitochondria specific probe with membrane potential sensitivity. Its application in sensing the membrane potential differences in mouse sperm cells is demonstrated.
Rational design of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) for the efficient hydrolysis of organophosphates
Authors: Le Quang Anh Tuan , Chang Rakwoo , Kim Yong Hwan
Published: August 2015

Discovered paraoxonase 1 mutants through rational design exhibited dramatically improved catalytic efficiency for the hydrolysis of toxic organophosphates (diethyl-paraoxons and dimethyl-paraoxons).
Palladium-catalyzed highly regioselective 6-exo-dig cyclization and alkenylation of ortho-ethynylanilides: the synthesis of polyene-substituted benzo[d][1,3]oxazines
Authors: Cai Zhong-Jian , Yang Chao , Wang Shun-Yi , Ji Shun-Jun
Published: August 2015

A Pd-catalyzed highly regioselective 6-exo-dig cyclization/alkenylation reaction of ortho-ethynylanilides has been developed.
Crystallization of triple- and quadruple-stranded dinuclear bis-β-diketonate-Dy(iii) helicates: single molecule magnetic behavior
Authors: Chen Peng , Li Hongfeng , Sun Wenbin , Tang Jinkui , Zhang Lei , Yan Pengfei
Published: August 2015

Quadruple-stranded Dy-helicates are crystallographically locked through deliberate design on the bis-β-diketonate ligand. The triple-stranded helicates could be tuned by the incorporation of phenanthroline, which contributes to strengthening the anisotropy barrier as well.
The atmospheric oxidation mechanism of 2-methylnaphthalene
Authors: Wu Runrun , Li Yun , Pan Shanshan , Wang Sainan , Wang Liming
Published: August 2015

The fate of α- and β-adducts between OH and naphthalene is different in the atmosphere.
Combined pressure and cosolvent effects on enzyme activity – a high-pressure stopped-flow kinetic study on α-chymotrypsin
Authors: Luong Trung Quan , Winter Roland
Published: August 2015

Pressure enhances the hydrolysis of peptides catalysed by α-CT, which is efficiently and differently modulated by chaotropic and kosmotropic cosolvents.
The conjugates of ferrocene-1,1′-diamine and amino acids. A novel synthetic approach and conformational analysis
Authors: Kovačević Monika , Kodrin Ivan , Cetina Mario , Kmetič Ivana , Murati Teuta , Semenčić Mojca Čakić , Roca Sunčica , Barišić Lidija
Published: August 2015

The first example of an orthogonally protected ferrocene-1,1′-diamine based peptidomimetic with a stable intramolecular hydrogen bond pattern comprised of two β-turns is reported.
Size- and morphology-controllable synthesis of MIL-96 (Al) by hydrolysis and coordination modulation of dual aluminium source and ligand systems
Authors: Liu Dandan , Liu Yunqi , Dai Fangna , Zhao Jinchong , Yang Kang , Liu Chenguang
Published: August 2015

A dual reactant strategy was used to control the size and morphology of Al-MOFs.
The role of π-bonding on the high temperature structure of the double perovskites Ba2CaUO6and BaSrCaUO6
Authors: Reynolds Emily , Thorogood Gordon J. , Avdeev Maxim , Brand Helen E. A. , Gu Qinfen , Kennedy Brendan J.
Published: August 2015

High temperature synchrotron X-ray and neutron diffraction powder diffraction studies of the uranium perovskites Ba2CaUO6and BaSrCaUO6reveal unusual phase transition behavior associated with the progressive loss of cooperative octahedral tilting.
MIL-101 promotes the efficient aerobic oxidative desulfurization of dibenzothiophenes
Authors: Gómez-Paricio Adrián , Santiago-Portillo Andrea , Navalón Sergio , Concepción Patricia , Alvaro Mercedes , Garcia Hermenegildo
Published: August 2015

MIL-101(Cr) promotes the oxidative desulfurization of dibenzothiophenes by air.
I−/TBHP catalyzed Csp3–N/Csp2–N bond formation via oxidative coupling with benzophenone imine in water
Authors: Huang Huang , Chen Wenhua , Xu Yong , Li Jian
Published: August 2015

An I−/TBHP catalyzed oxidative amination with benzophenone imine under environmentally benign conditions was developed to afford primary amines and amides.
Multi-scale modeling of cell survival and death mediated by the p53 network: a systems pharmacology framework
Authors: Wang Yuan , Guo Zihu , Chen Xuetong , Zhang Wenjuan , Lu Aiping , Wang Yonghua
Published: August 2015

The determination of cell fate is a key regulatory process for the development of complex organisms that are controlled by distinct genes in mammalian cells.
Correction: Application of QM/MM and QM methods to investigate histone deacetylase 8
Authors: Gleeson Duangkamol , Gleeson M. Paul
Published: August 2015

Correction for ‘Application of QM/MM and QM methods to investigate histone deacetylase 8’ by Duangkamol Gleeson et al., Med. Chem. Commun., 2015, 6, 477–485.
Palladium-catalyzed oxidative annulation of in situ generated enones to pyrroles: a concise route to functionalized indoles
Authors: Guo Tenglong , Jiang Quanbin , Yu Zhengkun
Published: August 2015

Pd(ii)-catalyzed, Cu(ii)-mediated indole synthesis from pyrroles and 3-chloropropiophenones has been efficiently achieved. In-situ generated enones were employed for the establishment of a benzene ring onto a pyrrole backbone via dehydrochlorination/C–H olefination/cycloaddition/dehydrogenative aromatization.
Simultaneous nitrification and denitrification using a polypyrrole/microbial cellulose electrode in a membraneless bio-electrochemical system
Authors: Hossini Hooshyar , Rezaee Abbas , Ayati Bita , Mahvi Amir Hossein
Published: August 2015

In this study, the feasibility of ammonium and total nitrogen removal from aqueous solution using a simultaneous nitrification and denitrification process was studied in a membraneless bio-electrochemical system with a novel electrode.
Novel one-pot pseudo four component reaction: expeditious synthesis of functionalized imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines
Authors: Sanaeishoar Haleh , Nazarpour Roya , Mohave Fouad
Published: August 2015

A new and efficient one-pot synthesis of imidazo[1,2-a] pyridines is described. A C-3 imine substituent was installed on the imidazopyridine framework under mild conditions to form the corresponding products in good to excellent yields.
Capturing hepatocellular carcinoma cells using lactobionic acid-functionalized electrospun polyvinyl alcohol/polyethyleneimine nanofibers
Authors: Zhao Yili , Fan Zhangyu , Shen Mingwu , Shi Xiangyang
Published: August 2015

Crosslinked PVA/PEI nanofibers can be functionalized with lactobionic acid via a PEG spacer for specific capture of hepatocellular carcinoma cells.
Formation mechanism and optical characterization of polymorphic silicon nanostructures by DC arc-discharge
Authors: Yu Jieyi , Gao Jian , Xue Fanghong , Yu Xiuhong , Yu Hongtao , Dong Xinglong , Huang Hao , Ding Ang , Quan Xie , Cao Guozhong
Published: August 2015

Polymorphic Si nanostructures (particle, sheet, ribbon) are generated through isotropic, anisotropic, and coalescence growth using a DC arc-discharge plasma method.
Phase-selective synthesis and formation mechanism of CZTS nanocrystals
Authors: Zhou Bin , Xia Donglin , Wang Youfa
Published: August 2015

In this paper, we present a simple and feasible phase-selective synthetic approach to kesterite-phase and wurtzite-phase CZTS nanocrystals by controlling the concentration of sulfur and DDT.
Competing mechanisms for the reaction of dichloropropynylborane with 2-tert-butylbutadiene. Diels–Alder reaction versus alkynylboration
Authors: Vallejos Margarita M. , Pellegrinet Silvina C.
Published: August 2015

Density functional theory and the quantum theory of atoms in molecules approach were used to study two competing process: the Diels–Alder reaction and the 1,4-alkynylboration.
Controllable self-assemblies of sodium benzoate in different solvent environments
Authors: Ma Mingfang , Gu Jinge , Yang Minmin , Li Zhaolou , Lu Zhuoqun , Zhang Yimeng , Xing Pengyao , Li Shangyang , Chu Xiaoxiao , Wang Yajie , Li Qi , Lin Minyan , Hao Aiyou
Published: August 2015

Sodium benzoate is an important and widely used food additive, however, it's self-assembly properties in diverse solvents have been rarely studied. Here, we systematically report its various self-assemblies in different solvents environments.
Band edge movement in dye sensitized Sm-doped TiO2 solar cells: a study by variable temperature spectroelectrochemistry
Authors: Wei Liguo , Yang Yulin , Xia Xue , Fan Ruiqing , Su Ting , Shi Yan , Yu Jia , Li Liang , Jiang Yanxia
Published: August 2015

Pure TiO2 and 8 at% Sm-doped TiO2 nanoparticles are prepared via a novel hydrolysis followed by a hydrothermal process at 473 K for 24 h and successfully used in the photoanode of dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs).
Iridium-catalyzed methylation of indoles and pyrroles using methanol as feedstock
Authors: Chen Shu-Jie , Lu Guo-Ping , Cai Chun
Published: August 2015

A [Cp*IrCl2]2-catalyzed method for the direct methylation of indoles and pyrroles using the abundant and bio-renewable methanol as C1 feedstock.
Thermally-responsive, nonflammable phosphonium ionic liquid electrolytes for lithium metal batteries: operating at 100 degrees celsius
Authors: Lin X. , Kavian R. , Lu Y. , Hu Q. , Shao-Horn Y. , Grinstaff M. W.
Published: August 2015

Lithium metal battery cycling at 100 °C is enabled by thermally-responsive, nonflammable phosphonium ionic liquid electrolytes.
Liquid-crystalline calcium carbonate: biomimetic synthesis and alignment of nanorod calcite
Authors: Nakayama Masanari , Kajiyama Satoshi , Nishimura Tatsuya , Kato Takashi
Published: August 2015

Liquid-crystalline CaCO3crystals were obtained by bio-inspired crystallization through amorphous CaCO3. These calcite nanorods were macroscopically aligned by applying mechanical force to the liquid-crystalline phase.
Harvesting broadband absorption of the solar spectrum for enhanced photocatalytic H2 generation
Authors: Peh Connor Kang Nuo , Gao Minmin , Ho Ghim Wei
Published: August 2015

The broadband solar spectrum harvested as heat increased H2 generation from pure TiO2 nanoparticles by 40-fold, and when coupled with CuO nanoparticles gave an apparent quantum yield of 66.9% at 365 nm.
Electrodeposition and pyrolysis of Mn/polypyrrole nanocomposites: a study based on soft X-ray absorption, fluorescence and photoelectron microspectroscopies
Authors: Bozzini Benedetto , Bocchetta Patrizia , Alemán Belén , Amati Matteo , Gianoncelli Alessandra , Gregoratti Luca , Sezen Hikmet , Taurino Antonietta , Kiskinova Maya
Published: August 2015

Co-electrodeposition of Mn/polypyrrole yields core–shell microparticles that, after pyrolysis, transform to MnOxnanoparticles with the desirable Mn/N/C ORR electroactive sites.
Oligoproline-derived nanocarrier for dual stimuli-responsive gene delivery
Authors: Gupta Mukesh K. , Lee Sue Hyun , Crowder Spencer W. , Wang Xintong , Hofmeister Lucas H. , Nelson Christopher E. , Bellan Leon M. , Duvall Craig L. , Sung Hak-Joon
Published: August 2015

Illustration of extracellular ROS mediated dePEGylation of polyplexes and delivery of pDNA triggered by endosomal pH (5.0).
Synchronisation of weak microgrid with bulk power system
Authors: Hong Ying‐Yi , Tsai Yi‐Ting , Yeh Yu‐Ting , Chang Yung‐Ruei , Lee Yih‐Der , Liu Pang‐Wei
Published: August 2015

A microgrid including distributed generation sources (DGSs) is generally connected to a bulk power system to provide power to its local loads. The point of common coupling between the bulk power system and microgrid should meet relevant standards. The microgrid becomes a weak system with unbalanced and distorted voltages after it is disconnected from the bulk power system. A synchronisation controller for the DGS considering imbalanced three‐phase voltages and harmonic voltages is presented. The proposed method can be implemented without altering the traditional phase‐locked loop circuit. No filters and compensators are needed in the proposed method. Simulation results reveal that the proposed method is applicable.
Blind adaptive algorithm for sparse channel equalisation using projections onto ℓp‐ball
Authors: Khalid S.S. , Abrar S.
Published: August 2015

A fractional‐norm constrained blind adaptive algorithm is presented for sparse channel equalisation. In essence, the algorithm improves on the minimisation of the constant modulus criteria by adding a sparsity‐inducing ℓp‐norm penalty (0 < p ≤ 1). The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed equaliser exploits the inherent channel sparsity effectively and exhibits faster convergence compared with its counterparts.
Role of driver assistance experience, system functionality, gender, age and sensation seeking in attitudes towards the safety of driver assistance systems
Authors: Haupt Juliane , Kahvežić‐Seljubac Amila , Risser Ralf
Published: August 2015

A questionnaire study was conducted that probed driver safety‐related attitudes towards driver assistance systems (DAS). 211 drivers participated in the questionnaire survey. The participant DAS experience ranged from almost none to a high level of experience. Drivers were asked about their risk‐related safety‐related attitudes towards 29 different systems that are currently available on the market. Potential influencing variables that were expected to affect driver safety‐related attitudes towards DAS – gender, age, level of driver sensation seeking and driver DAS use experience – were considered: results show that, in terms of safety, there is great variation in how drivers evaluate the 29 systems. Consequently, systems functionality and the time when the system was launched are discussed. No general effects were found for gender and level of sensation seeking on safety‐related attitudes towards DAS. Driver age correlated positively with indirect safety‐related attitudes towards 26 of the 29 systems. Controlling the variable ‘DAS use experience’, 22 relations between age and attitudes towards DAS were found. Results reveal that the more experience drivers have in using DAS, the higher they judge DAS in terms of safety. On the basis of the study results, research issues for future research on traffic safety related to DAS were identified.
Tri‐polarised antenna – a virtual rotatable dual‐polarised antenna used in polarised beampattern synthesis
Authors: Hu Wanqiu , Li Yongzhen , Li Mianquan , Chen Siwei , Wang Xuesong , Xiao Shunping
Published: August 2015

Tri‐polarised antennas are exploited to synthesise the optimal polarised beampattern in this study. First, the characteristics of a single tri‐polarised antenna are studied with an infinite current sheet model. Using the cross‐product algorithm, the authors find that three co‐located orthogonal current sheets are equivalent to a pair of orthogonal current sheets in a particular orientation. It implies that the tri‐polarised antenna is just virtually equivalent to a rotatable dual‐polarised antenna. Then by formulating the problem in a convex form, they adopt the convex optimisation algorithm to synthesise optimal polarised beampattern of the tri‐polarised array. The simulation results show that due to the increased orientation degree of freedom, the sidelobe and cross‐polarisation level of tri‐polarised array are significantly lower than the dual‐polarised array.