bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Does Peripheral Functionalization of Ruthenium(II)–Terpyridine Complexes Affect Spatial Charge Redistribution after Photoexcitation at the Franck–Condon Point?
Authors: Preiß Julia , Jäger Michael , Rau Sven , Dietzek Benjamin , Popp Jürgen , Martínez Todd , Presselt Martin
Published: April 2015

Ruthenium polypyridine‐type complexes are extensively used sensitizers to convert solar energy into chemical and/or electrical energy, and they can be tailored through their metal‐to‐ligand charge‐transfer (MLCT) properties. Much work has been directed at harnessing the triplet MLCT state in photoinduced processes, from sophisticated molecular architectures to dye‐sensitized solar cells. In dye‐sensitized solar cells, strong coupling to the semiconductor exploits the high reactivity of the (hot) singlet/triplet MLCT state. In this work, we explore the nature of the 1MLCT states of remotely substituted RuII model complexes by both experimental and theoretical techniques. Two model complexes with electron‐withdrawing (i.e. NO2) and electron‐donating (i.e. NH2) groups were synthesized; these complexes contained a phenylene spacer to serve as a spectroscopic handle and to confirm the contribution of the remote substituent to the 1MLCT transition. [Ru(tpy)2]2+‐based complexes (tpy=2,2′:6′,2′′‐terpyridine) were further desymmetrized by tert‐butyl groups to yield unidirectional 1MLCTs with large transition dipole moments, which are beneficial for related directional charge‐transfer processes. Detailed comparison of experimental spectra (deconvoluted UV/Vis and resonance Raman spectroscopy data) with theoretical calculations based on density functional theory (including vibronic broadening) revealed different properties of the optically active bright 1MLCT states already at the Franck–Condon point.
Stability and Hopf bifurcation analysis of novel hyperchaotic system with delayed feedback control
Authors: Prakash Mani , Balasubramaniam Pagavathigounder
Published: April 2015

In this article, a novel four dimensional autonomous nonlinear systezm called hyperchaotic Rikitake system is proposed. Basic properties of the new system are investigated and the complex dynamical behaviors, such as time series, bifurcation diagram, and Lyapunov exponents are analyzed by dynamic analysis approaches. To control the new hyperchaotic system, the delayed feedback control is introduced. Regarding the time delay as a bifurcation parameter, stability and bifurcations with respect to time delay are investigated. Conditions assuring the existence of Hopf bifurcation and the distribution of roots to the associated characteristic equation are investigated by utilizing the polynomial theorem. Besides, the Hopf bifurcation is proved to occur when the bifurcation parameter (time delay) crosses through derived critical value. Finally, numerical simulations are provided to prove the consistence with the derived theoretical results. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 180–193, 2016
A novel of fuzzy PSS based on new objective function in multimachine power system
Authors: Akbarimajd Adel , Yousefi Nasser
Published: April 2015

This article proposed a new control strategy based on Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy model for deceasing the power system oscillation. This controller is based on the parallel distributed compensation structure, the stability of the whole closed‐loop model is provided using a general Lyapunov‐Krasovski functional. Also, in this article, a new objective function has been considered to test the proposed Fuzzy Power System Stabilizer in different load conditions which increase the system damping after the system undergoes a disturbance. So, for testing the effectiveness of the proposed controller, the damping factor, damping ratio, and a combination of the damping factor and damping ratio were analyzed and compared with the proposed objective function. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy has been used over 16 machine 68 bus power system. The eigenvalue analysis and nonlinear time domain simulation results proof the effectiveness of the proposed method. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 288–298, 2016
Synthetic Approaches to Anti‐Inflammatory Macrolactones of the Oxacyclododecindione Type
Authors: Tauber Johannes , Rudolph Kristina , Rohr Markus , Erkel Gerhard , Opatz Till
Published: April 2015

Various synthetic approaches to the oxacyclododecindione‐type macrolactones, known for their potent anti‐inflammatory activity, are presented. These include an attempted carbonylative ring closure, a hydroacylation route, and an approach by ring‐closing metathesis and double bond isomerization, as well as a strategy including ring‐closing metathesis/unsaturation. The last route allowed the preparation of a bioactive analogue of the recently described 14‐deoxyoxacyclododecindione.
Highly Selective Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Sensor for Indium Detection Based on Recognition of In‐Alizarin Complexes
Authors: Zhang Lianming , Li Jianping , Zeng Ying , Meng Linghao , Fu Cong
Published: April 2015

A highly selective molecularly imprinted polymer electrochemical sensor for In3+ detection was proposed. In3+ ion was chelated with alizarin red S to form a complex In‐ARS. The complex was used as the template molecule to prepare a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) based sensor. The selectivity of the sensor was improved significantly due to the three‐dimensional specific structure of the complex, and the selective complexation of ligands for metal ions. Moreover, the sensitivity of the proposed sensor was improved by recording the reductive current of ligand in complex. This technique was highly sensitive for quantitative analysis of In3+ in the concentrations ranged from 1×10−8 mol/L to 2.5×10−7 mol/L with a detection limit of 4.7×10−9 mol/L. The proposed sensor has been successfully used in detecting In3+ in real samples.
An Amperometric Biological Toxic Hydrazine Sensor Based on Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes and Iron Tetrasulfonated Phthalocyanine Composite Modified Electrode
Authors: Devasenathipathy Rajkumar , Palanisamy Selvakumar , Chen Shen‐Ming , Karuppiah Chelladurai , Mani Veerappan , Ramaraj Sayee Kannan , Ajmal Ali M. , Al‐Hemaid Fahad M. A.
Published: April 2015

Hydrazines are well‐known for their diverse biological properties but especially for their toxicity. An amperometric hydrazine sensor was developed at multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and iron tetrasulfonated phthalocyanine (FeTsPc) composite modified electrode for the first time. The TEM and UV‐Vis spectroscopy results revealed the successful formation of MWCNT/FeTsPc composite. Compared with the response of MWCNT and FeTsPc modified electrodes, the MWCNT/FeTsPc composite showed enhanced oxidation current response with lower overpotential for hydrazine. Under optimum conditions, the amperometric i–t response of hydrazine was linear in the concentration range from 100 nM L−1 to 3 μM L−1 with the detection limit of 7.6 nM L−1. The response time of hydrazine was found as 6 s with a high sensitivity of 7.615 μA/μM L−1 cm−2.
Waterborne exposure to microcystin-LR causes thyroid hormone metabolism disturbances in juvenile Chinese rare minnow (Gobiocypris rarus)
Authors: Liu Zidong , Li Dapeng , Wang Ying , Guo Wei , Gao Yu , Tang Rong
Published: April 2015

Microcystin-LR (MC-LR) has the potential to disturb thyroid hormone homeostasis, but little is known about the underlying mechanisms of MC-LR in fish. In the present study, juvenile Chinese rare minnows (Gobiocypris rarus) were exposed to various concentrations of MC-LR (0 µg/L, 50 µg/L, 100 µg/L, and 500 µg/L) for 7 d. The whole-body thyroid hormone content, the histology of thyroid follicle epithelial cells, the activities of hepatic iodothyronine deiodinases, and the transcription of selected genes associated with thyroid hormone synthesis, transport, and metabolism were analyzed. Following exposure to MC-LR, whole-body concentrations of both thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) were significantly decreased. The levels of messenger RNA for sodium/iodide symporter, transthyretin, thyroid hormone receptor-α, iodothyronine deiodinase2, and iodothyronine deiodinase3 were significantly down-regulated after exposure to 500 µg/L MC-LR. A significant decrease in ID2 activity was also observed in the 500-µg/L MC-LR exposure group. Moreover, hypertrophy of thyroid follicle epithelial cells was observed after exposure to MC-LR. The results indicate that acute MC-LR exposure has the potential to disturb the homeostasis of thyroid hormone metabolism, leading to a hypothyroidism state in the juvenile Chinese rare minnow. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:2033–2040. © 2015 SETAC
High-throughput concentration–response analysis for omics datasets
Authors: Smetanová Soňa , Riedl Janet , Zitzkat Dimitar , Altenburger Rolf , Busch Wibke
Published: April 2015

Omics-based methods are increasingly used in current ecotoxicology. Therefore, a large number of observations for various toxic substances and organisms are available and may be used for identifying modes of action, adverse outcome pathways, or novel biomarkers. For these purposes, good statistical analysis of toxicogenomic data is vital. In contrast to established ecotoxicological techniques, concentration–response modeling is rarely used for large datasets. Instead, statistical hypothesis testing is prevalent, which provides only a limited scope for inference. The present study therefore applied automated concentration–response modeling for 3 different ecotoxicotranscriptomic and ecotoxicometabolomic datasets. The modeling process was performed by simultaneously applying 9 different regression models, representing distinct mechanistic, toxicological, and statistical ideas that result in different curve shapes. The best-fitting models were selected by using Akaike's information criterion. The linear and exponential models represented the best data description for more than 50% of responses. Models generating U-shaped curves were frequently selected for transcriptomic signals (30%), and sigmoid models were identified as best fit for many metabolomic signals (21%). Thus, selecting the models from an array of different types seems appropriate, because concentration–response functions may vary because of the observed response type, and they also depend on the compound, the organism, and the investigated concentration and exposure duration range. The application of concentration–response models can help to further tap the potential of omics data and is a necessary step for quantitative mixture effect assessment at the molecular response level. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:2167–2180. © 2015 SETAC
In vitro study of biocompatibility of a graphene composite with gold nanoparticles and hydroxyapatite on human osteoblasts
Authors: Crisan Liana , Crisan Bogdan , Soritau Olga , Baciut Mihaela , Biris Alexandru Radu , Baciut Grigore , Lucaciu Ondine
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of some composites consisting of different proportions of graphene in combination with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and nanostructured hydroxyapatite (HA) on osteoblast viability, proliferation and differentiation. Au/HA@graphene composites synthesized by the catalytic chemical vapor deposition induction heating method with acetylene as the carbon source and over an Au/HA catalyst, were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and Raman spectroscopy and showed that the few‐layer graphene was grown over the Au/HA catalyst. The cytocompatibility study was performed using the fluorescein diacetate assay for assessment of the viability and proliferation of osteoblasts cultivated in the presence of HA, Au/HA and Au/HA@graphene composites as colloidal suspensions or as substrates. The most favorable composites for cell adhesion and proliferation were HA, Au/HA and Au/HA composites with 1.6% and 3.15% concentration of graphenes. Immunocytochemical staining performed after 19 days of osteoblasts cultivation on substrates showed that the graphene composites induced low expression of alkaline phosphatase compared to the control group and HA and Au/HA substrates. The presence of graphene in the substrate composition also induced an increased level of intracellular osteopontin and cytoskeleton reorganization (actin‐F) depending on graphene concentration, suggesting cell activation, increased cellular adhesion and acquisition of a mechanosensorial osteocyte phenotype. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vitro neurotoxicity evaluation of piperazine designer drugs in differentiated human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cells
Authors: Arbo M. D. , Silva R. , Barbosa D. J. , da Silva D. Dias , Silva S. P. , Teixeira J. P. , Bastos M. L. , Carmo H.
Published: April 2015

Abuse of synthetic drugs is widespread worldwide. Studies indicate that piperazine designer drugs act as substrates at dopaminergic and serotonergic receptors and/or transporters in the brain. This work aimed to investigate the cytotoxicity of N‐benzylpiperazine, 1‐(3‐trifluoromethylphenyl)piperazine, 1‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)piperazine and 1‐(3,4‐methylenedioxybenzyl)piperazine in the differentiated human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cell line. Cytotoxicity was evaluated after 24 h incubations through the MTT reduction and neutral red uptake assays. Oxidative stress (reactive oxygen and nitrogen species production and glutathione content) and energetic (ATP content) parameters, as well as intracellular Ca2+, mitochondrial membrane potential, DNA damage (comet assay) and cell death mode were also evaluated. Complete cytotoxicity curves were obtained after 24 h incubations with each drug. A significant decrease in intracellular total glutathione content was noted for all the tested drugs. All drugs caused a significant increase of intracellular free Ca2+ levels, accompanied by mitochondrial hyperpolarization. However, ATP levels remained unchanged. The investigation of cell death mode revealed a predominance of early apoptotic cells. No genotoxicity was found in the comet assay. Among the tested drugs, 1‐(3‐trifluoromethylphenyl)piperazine was the most cytotoxic. Overall, piperazine designer drugs are potentially neurotoxic, supporting concerns on risks associated with the abuse of these drugs. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Piperine From Black Pepper Inhibits Activation‐Induced Proliferation and Effector Function of T Lymphocytes
Authors: Doucette Carolyn D. , Rodgers Gemma , Liwski Robert S. , Hoskin David W.
Published: April 2015

Piperine is a major alkaloid component of black pepper (Piper nigrum Linn), which is a widely consumed spice. Here, we investigated the effect of piperine on mouse T lymphocyte activation. Piperine inhibited polyclonal and antigen‐specific T lymphocyte proliferation without affecting cell viability. Piperine also suppressed T lymphocyte entry into the S and G2/M phases of the cell cycle, and decreased expression of G1‐associated cyclin D3, CDK4, and CDK6. In addition, piperine inhibited CD25 expression, synthesis of interferon‐γ, interleukin (IL)‐2, IL‐4, and IL‐17A, and the generation of cytotoxic effector cells. The inhibitory effect of piperine on T lymphocytes was associated with hypophosphorylation of Akt, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase, and inhibitor of κBα, but not ZAP‐70. The ability of piperine to inhibit several key signaling pathways involved in T lymphocyte activation and the acquisition of effector function suggests that piperine might be useful in the management of T lymphocyte‐mediated autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disorders. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2577–2588, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reusable Ce‐V Loaded Alumina Catalyst for Multicomponent Synthesis of Substituted Pyridines in Green Media
Authors: Maddila Suresh , Maddila Surya N. , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha B. , Lavanya Palakondu
Published: April 2015

Ce‐V/Al2O3 as an effective heterogeneous catalyst is synthesized by a simple technique. The catalyst was identified by powder X‐ray diffraction, SEM, TEM, and BET surface area analysis. The catalyst is fully recyclable and reusable for several runs preserving its high activity. The catalytic activity of Ce‐V/Al2O3 is described by synthesis of a series of multisubstituted pyridines in good to excellent yields via a facile one‐pot multicomponent reaction within shorter reaction time.
Exploration on tribological behaviours of perrhenates as potential lubricating oil additive during a wide temperature range
Authors: Wang Junhai , Liu Yang , Duan Deli , Li Shu
Published: April 2015

The perrhenates of calcium, copper and lead used as oil additive were synthesised by using the aqueous solution method. The tribological properties of these perrhenates were examined by using a ball‐on‐disc tribotester during a wide temperature range and a four‐ball testing machine at room temperature. The four‐ball test results showed that all synthesised perrhenates presented good extreme pressure property to a certain degree and demonstrated satisfactory wear resistance at room temperature. The ball‐on‐disc experiment results showed that the base oil with perrhenate additives significantly decreased friction and wear compared with pure base oil at elevated temperatures. An antifriction and low‐shear layer was verified to form on sample surface after testing under high temperature. This layer effectively prevented the direct contact of sliding surfaces and decreased the friction coefficient. The antifriction behaviour of perrhenates implied that they could be developed as the candidate of oil additives for a hybrid lubricating mode. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of MoS2morphology on wear and friction under spectrum loading conditions
Authors: Bagi Sujay D. , Aswath Pranesh B.
Published: April 2015

One of the ways by which grease is evaluated is by using a four‐ball wear test using ASTM D2266. However, actual applications may require bearings to be subjected to spectrum loading conditions. This study focuses on using ball milling to mitigate the wear from sharp edges in the MoS2particles. Two different blends of greases were formulated using MoS2in the as‐received state (unmilled) and milled MoS2; they were tested under spectrum loading conditions where the load and frequency of the tests were treated as variables. It was found that ball milling of the MoS2significantly reduces the wear under spectrum loading condition both for ramp‐up and ramp‐down conditions. It was also shown that shortening the time step for both the ramp‐up and ramp‐down cycles resulted in larger wear for unmilled MoS2particles in comparison with milled MoS2particles in grease. The milling process did not play a significant role when frequency of the test was either ramped up or down. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
So Close Yet So Far Away: The Moderating Effect of Regulatory Focus Orientation on Health Behavioral Intentions
Authors: Bui My , Krishen Anjala S.
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this study is to further understand ideal self‐goals and regulatory focus orientation within the context of consumer health decisions. To do so, the present research examines the intersection of ideal weight goal progress and regulatory orientation on consumer health‐related decisions. Across two experimental studies, findings suggest that those far away from their ideal weight goals are more inclined to participate in adaptive health behaviors. The first study shows that individuals are calibrated in terms of their health goals. Specifically, when they are far away from their ideal weight, they want to eat healthier and exercise. However, their health goals are not calibrated appropriately in the presence of regulatory incongruence of individual regulatory orientation and promotion type. Specifically, prevention‐oriented individuals do not report the appropriate outcome expectation of the goal pursuit; instead, the present study finds that they do not want to increase exercise even when they are far from their health goal. Implications are provided for consumers and promotional marketing managers.
The Obesogenic Household: Factors Influencing Dietary Gatekeeper Satisfaction with Family Diet
Authors: Reid Mike , Worsley Anthony , Mavondo Felix
Published: April 2015

The rise in obesity and its co‐morbidities has focused the attention of researchers on factors that influence the consumption of a healthy diet. Obesogenic (obesity‐promoting) environments are an important area of investigation and a significant opportunity for health interventions. In this research, we identify the home as just such an environment and argue that the dietary gatekeeper within the home has a significant influence on what a family eats and subsequently the health status of family members. We propose a model that relates dietary gatekeeper cognitions and food‐related capabilities to food acquisition and transformation practices and subsequent diet outcomes. An online survey was completed by 326 US and 323 Australian dietary gatekeepers to test the relationships in the model. Our results suggest improving dietary gatekeepers’ capabilities, including their cooking confidence and nutritional confidence, and their food acquisition and food transformation practices can have positive health benefits for gatekeepers and their families. Implications for health policymakers and food marketers are presented.
The role of ATP13A2 in Parkinson's disease: Clinical phenotypes and molecular mechanisms
Authors: Park Jin‐Sung , Blair Nicholas F. , Sue Carolyn M.
Published: April 2015

The importance of ATP13A2 (PARK9) in Parkinson's disease (PD) has emerged with the discovery that mutations in this gene cause Kufor‐Rakeb syndrome, an autosomal recessive, juvenile‐onset form of parkinsonism associated with the additional clinical triad of spasticity, supranuclear gaze palsy, and dementia. Eleven independent kindreds with homozygous or compound heterozygous ATP13A2 mutations have been identified. These reports make it clear that the condition exhibits considerable clinical heterogeneity, with a spectrum of disease even among family members carrying the same mutation. The relevance of the protein in sporadic PD is demonstrated by the presence of single heterozygous ATP13A2 mutations in this group of patients and altered expression of the gene in the substantia nigra from patients with the disease. The involvement of ATP13A2 in Zn2+ homeostasis has recently been demonstrated, with the molecular consequences of this disturbance causing lysosomal impairment, α‐synuclein accumulation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. These discoveries provide a new understanding of the role that ATP13A2 plays in the development of PD and identify a therapeutic target that may ameliorate α‐synuclein accumulation and lysosomal and mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson's disease. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
A severe congenital myasthenic syndrome with “dropped head” caused by novel MUSK mutations
Authors: Giarrana Miriam L. , Joset Pascal , Sticht Heinrich , Robb Stephanie , Steindl Katharina , Rauch Anita , Klein Andrea
Published: April 2015

Introduction: Congenital myasthenic syndromes are rare. Mutations in MUSK were first described in 2004. Thirteen patients have been reported to date, mostly with a relatively mild course. The molecular diagnosis has implications for choice of treatment and genetic counseling. Methods: Clinical course and electrophysiological, pathological, and genetic findings were assessed. Results: We describe the case of a boy with prenatal onset and severe respiratory symptoms with a persisting need for ventilation. The patient had severe bulbar symptoms, marked axial weakness causing a “dropped head,” and some facial and proximal weakness. Ophthalmoparesis developed during the first year of life. Salbutamol led to improvement, 3,4‐diaminopyridine had a modest effect, but pyridostigmine produced deterioration. Two novel mutations in MUSK were found by whole exome sequencing. Conclusions: We expand the phenotype of congenital myasthenic syndromes with MUSK mutations, describing a more severe clinical course with prenatal onset. Predominant bulbar and respiratory weakness with facial and axial weakness and ophthalmoparesis are diagnostic clues. Muscle Nerve 52: 668–673, 2015
Pre‐morbid type 2 diabetes mellitus is not a prognostic factor in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Paganoni Sabrina , Hyman Theodore , Shui Amy , Allred Peggy , Harms Matthew , Liu Jingxia , Maragakis Nicholas , Schoenfeld David , Yu Hong , Atassi Nazem , Cudkowicz Merit , Miller Timothy M.
Published: April 2015

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine whether a history of pre‐morbid type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) is a prognostic factor in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Methods: The relationship between DM2 and survival was analyzed in a study population consisting of 1,322 participants from 6 clinical trials. Results: Survival did not differ by diabetes status (log‐rank test, P = 0.98), but did differ by body mass index (BMI) (log‐rank test, P = 0.008). In multivariate analysis, there was no significant association between diabetes and survival (P = 0.18), but the risk of reaching a survival endpoint decreased by 4% for each unit increase in baseline BMI (HR 0.96, 95% CI 0.94–0.99, P = 0.001). DM2 was less prevalent among ALS clinical trial participants than predicted. Conclusions: A history of pre‐morbid DM2 is not an independent prognostic factor in ALS clinical trial databases. The low DM2 prevalence rate should be examined in a large, prospective study to determine whether DM2 affects ALS risk. Muscle Nerve 52:339–343, 2015
Enhancing the quantification of tissue sodium content by MRI: time‐efficient sodium B1 mapping at clinical field strengths
Authors: Lommen Jonathan , Konstandin Simon , Krämer Philipp , Schad Lothar R.
Published: April 2015

Tissue sodium content (TSC) is a sensitive measure of pathological changes and can be detected non‐invasively by MRI. For the absolute quantification of TSC, B1 inhomogeneities must be corrected, which is not well established beyond research applications. An in‐depth analysis of B1 mapping methods which are suitable for application in TSC quantification is presented. On the basis of these results, a method for simultaneous B1 mapping and imaging is proposed in order to enhance accuracy and to reduce measurement time at clinical field strengths. The B1 mapping techniques used were phase‐sensitive (PS), Bloch‐Siegert shift (BSS), double‐angle (DAM) and actual flip–angle imaging (AFI) methods. Experimental and theoretical comparisons demonstrated that the PS technique yields the most accurate field profiles and exhibits the highest signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR). Simultaneous B1 mapping and imaging was performed for the PS method, employing both degrees of freedom of the MR signal: the B1 field is encoded into signal phase and the amplitude provides the concentration information. In comparison with the more established DAM, a 13% higher SNR was obtained and field effects could be corrected more accurately without the need for additional measurement time. The protocol developed was applied to measure TSC in the healthy human head at an isotropic resolution of 4 mm. TSC was determined to be 35 ± 1 mM in white matter and 134 ± 3 mM in vitreous humor. By employing the proposed simultaneous characterization of the B1 field and acquisition of the spin density‐weighted sodium signal, the accuracy of the non‐invasive measurement of TSC is enhanced and the measurement time is reduced. This should allow 23Na MRI to be better incorporated into clinical studies and routine. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of primary service and servicescape on customer satisfaction in a leisure service setting: an empirical investigation among theatregoers
Authors: Jobst Johanna , Boerner Sabine
Published: April 2015

This paper investigates the effects of perceived primary service and perceived servicescape on customer satisfaction in theatres. According to a questionnaire study, among n = 2897 theatregoers in 12 German‐speaking theatres, factors pertaining to the perceived primary service are most influential on customer satisfaction (in particular, the perceived artistic quality, followed by visitors' emotional and cognitive response to the performance). Contrariwise, factors pertaining to the perceived servicescape (i.e. seating and view; other customers' behaviour) are only of minor relevance for customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the influence of both perceived primary service quality and perceived servicescape quality on customer satisfaction is subject to moderating individual factors, such as visitors' theatrical competence and their motivation for attending a theatre performance.

Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and antibacterial activities of novel tyrocidine A glycosylated derivatives towards multidrug‐resistant pathogens
Authors: Zou Yan , Zhao Qingjie , Zhang Chunmei , Wang Liang , Li Wenjuan , Li Xiang , Wu Qiuye , Hu Honggang
Published: April 2015

Glycosylation can have a multifaceted impact on the properties and functions of peptides and plays a critical role in interacting with or binding to the target molecules. Herein, based on the previously reported method for macrocyclic glycopeptide synthesis, two series of tyrocidine A glycosylated derivatives (1a–f and 2a–f) were synthesized and evaluated for their antibacterial activities to further study the structure and activity relationships (SAR). Biological studies showed that the synthetic glycosylated derivatives had good antibacterial activities towards methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus. SAR studies based on various glycans and linkages were used to enhance the biochemical profile, resulting in the identification of several potent antibiotics, such as 1f, with a great improved therapeutic index than tyrocidine A. Copyright © 2015 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reimagining Transnational Relations: the Embodied Politics of Visiting Friends and Relatives Mobilities
Authors: Humbracht Michael
Published: April 2015

Migrant populations are often viewed in terms of alterity despite being settled members of communities. The image of migrants in many western contexts is one of being poor or ethnically and religiously different. This image in turn often frames migrants as being non‐local. However, in reality, the local is not perceived and constructed through predetermined or essentialist subjectivity but through processes of constructing and negotiating borders of identity and place that incite people to shift between subject positions of local/visitor, host/guest, or tourist/migrant. This paper problematises the rigidity of social positions that underpin images of migrant populations as the other by examining the visiting friends and relatives (or VFR) practices of migrant residents in Malmö, Sweden. Whereas many studies of VFR build on a tourism‐migration dialectic and focus on migrants, this study uses mobility politics as an analytical lens to examine both migrant residents and their friends and family. This focus sheds light on how family and friend's mobility politics are connected to the perception and construction of the local, local selves, and others. The research findings demonstrate that migrant residents are not the other but are an embedded part of the city regularly attracting visitors to the area. Furthermore, during visits, lines between host and guest, migrant and tourist, and visitor and local are blurred. Residents and visitors, guided by the rules of hospitality, attribute new embodied meanings to tourist and migrant mobilities that strengthen and bound the imaginations of residents and visitors to transnational networks. The conclusions from the study also help shed light on migrant integration and potential avenues for working with integration in the future. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Beyond Methodological Nationalism and Epistemological Behaviouralism: Drawing Illustrations from Migrations within and from China
Authors: Xiang Biao
Published: April 2015

Methodological nationalism takes the nation‐state as a pre‐given container of social life, and thereby treats internal and international migrations as separate matters. Epistemological behaviouralism redresses this by removing the conceptual divide between internal and international but is problematic in regarding migration as a human behaviour distinct in itself. In explaining why and how these two pitfalls need to be addressed in tandem, I first trace how these contrasting viewpoints are historically deeply intertwined. I then draw on examples from China to demonstrate that migrations should be understood as composites of actions carried out by multiple actors and institutions, which in their turn lead to and become part of other social processes. Internal and international migrations are interlinked as constituted and constitutive assemblages. In the case of China, the nation‐state is a central link between the two, and is at the same time itself reconfigured by mobilities. Instead of promoting migration as a subject matter in its own right and migration studies as a distinct field, this article seeks to turn migration into an analytical perspective to examine broad social changes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of the sulfurization process of Cu2SnS3 thin films and estimation of band offsets of Cu2SnS3‐related solar cell structure
Authors: Sato Soichi , Sumi Hiroki , Shi Guannan , Sugiyama Mutsumi
Published: April 2015

The morphological and structural transition of Cu2SnS3 (CTS) thin films during sulfurization was investigated. The surface morphology and re‐evaporation of CTS films strongly depend on the sulfurization temperature. Low temperature sulfurization enables the films to be sulfurized and form CTS without re‐evaporation. Subsequently, the high‐temperature annealing improves the grain size of the CTS film. In addition, the energy band diagrams of the CTS‐related solar cell structures that use various n‐ type oxide semiconductors, such as CdS, ZnO:In2O3(IZO), ZnO, SnO2, and ZnO:SnO2(ZTO) were examined by photoelectron yield spectroscopy. The band diagrams of IZO/CTS, ZnO/CTS, SnO2/CTS, and ZTO/CTS have a TYPE‐I heterostructure known as a “spike” conduction band offset structure, essential for high‐efficiency solar cells. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The Mechanism of Memory Enhancement of Acteoside (Verbascoside) in the Senescent Mouse Model Induced by a Combination of d‐gal and AlCl3
Authors: Peng Xiao‐Ming , Gao Li , Huo Shi‐Xia , Liu Xin‐Min , Yan Ming
Published: April 2015

Acteoside (verbsacoside), one of the main active phenylethanoid glycosides from Cistanche deserticola, is known to have antioxidant and neuroprotective activity, and herbs containing it are used to enhance memory. However, there is relatively little direct experimental evidence to support the use of acteoside in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effects of acteoside in improving learning and memory, using a mouse model of senescence induced by a combination of d‐galactose and AlCl3, and investigate its potential mechanisms compared with the positive controls vitamin E and piracetam. Acteoside was administered intragastrically at doses of 30, 60 and 120 mg/kg/day for 30 days after AD was induced. Memory function was evaluated using a step‐down test. The number of neuron was analysed by haematoxylin and eosin staining and the number of Nissl bodies by Nissl staining. The expression of caspase‐3 protein in hippocampus was detected by immunohistochemistry and western blot. Nitric oxide and total nitric oxide synthase level in hippocampus were also assessed. Our results showed that the latency of step down was shortened in AD model mice and the number of errors decreased after treatment with all doses of acteoside. Neurons and Nissl bodies in the hippocampus were increased significantly with higher doses (60 and 120 mg/kg/day) of acteoside. The content of nitric oxide, the activity of nitric oxide synthase and the expression of caspase‐3 protein were decreased by 120 mg/kg/day acteoside compared with that of the AD model group. Our results support the results obtained previously using the Morris maze test in the same mouse model of senescence, and the use of traditional medicinal herbs containing acteoside for neuroprotection and memory loss. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Digital Revolution
Authors: Dubrau Claudia
Published: April 2015

Convergence requires a total rethink from the entire media industry
The visual rhetoric of climate change
Authors: Walsh Lynda
Published: April 2015

A unique perspective on climate‐change graphics is provided by the discipline of rhetoric, which treats these images as arguments that configure polities in specific debates over climate change. Rhetorical approaches remind us that all climate‐change arguments are political and that their effects are contingent on the time and place of their presentation. While the research in this area is new and diverse, nevertheless, some common findings emerge: that habitual ways of visualizing climate change work against, not for, effective political action; that rhetorical choices do and should underpin technical climate graphics at fundamental levels; but ironically that nonexperts, and even some experts, perpetuate the myth that climate graphics are transparent, untransformed views of nature. Rhetorical scholarship to date suggests a few paths forward through these problems toward more just, equitable, and effective public deliberation over climate‐change policy.WIREs Clim Change2015, 6:361–368. doi: 10.1002/wcc.342

This article is categorized under:

Perceptions, Behavior, and Communication of Climate Change > Communication

Social Status of Climate Change Knowledge > Knowledge and Practice

Trans‐Disciplinary Perspectives > Humanities and the Creative Arts
Bringing computational models of bone regeneration to the clinic
Authors: Carlier Aurélie , Geris Liesbet , Lammens Johan , Van Oosterwyck Hans
Published: April 2015

Although the field of bone regeneration has experienced great advancements in the last decades, integrating all the relevant, patient‐specific information into a personalized diagnosis and optimal treatment remains a challenging task due to the large number of variables that affect bone regeneration. Computational models have the potential to cope with this complexity and to improve the fundamental understanding of the bone regeneration processes as well as to predict and optimize the patient‐specific treatment strategies. However, the current use of computational models in daily orthopedic practice is very limited or inexistent. We have identified three key hurdles that limit the translation of computational models of bone regeneration from bench to bed side. First, there exists a clear mismatch between the scope of the existing and the clinically required models. Second, most computational models are confronted with limited quantitative information of insufficient quality thereby hampering the determination of patient‐specific parameter values. Third, current computational models are only corroborated with animal models, whereas a thorough (retrospective and prospective) assessment of the computational model will be crucial to convince the health care providers of the capabilities thereof. These challenges must be addressed so that computational models of bone regeneration can reach their true potential, resulting in the advancement of individualized care and reduction of the associated health care costs. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2015, 7:183–194. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1299

This article is categorized under:

Analytical and Computational Methods > Computational Methods

Models of Systems Properties and Processes > Organ, Tissue, and Physiological Models
Naso‐enteric Tube Placement: A Review of Methods to Confirm Tip Location, Global Applicability and Requirements
Authors: Milsom S. A. , Sweeting J. A. , Sheahan H. , Haemmerle E. , Windsor J. A.
Published: April 2015

Background

The insertion of a tube through the nose and into the stomach or beyond is a common clinical procedure for feeding and decompression. The safety, accuracy and reliability of tube insertion and methods used to confirm the location of the naso‐enteric tube (NET) tip have not been systematically reviewed. The aim of this study is to review and compare these methods and determine their global applicability by end‐user engagement.

Methods

A systematic literature review of four major databases was performed to identify all relevant studies. The methods for NET tip localization were then compared for their accuracy with reference to a gold standard method (radiography or endoscopy). The global applicability of the different methods was analysed using a house of quality matrix.

Results

After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 76 articles were selected. Limitations were found to be associated with the 20 different methods described for NET tip localization. The method with the best combined sensitivity and specificity (where n > 1) was ultrasound/sonography, followed by external magnetic guidance, electromagnetic methods and then capnography/capnometry. The top three performance criteria that were considered most important for global applicability were cost per tube/disposable, success rate and cost for non‐disposable components.

Conclusion

There is no ideal method for confirming NET tip localisation. While radiography (the gold standard used for comparison) and ultrasound were the most accurate methods, they are costly and not universally available. There remains the need to develop a low‐cost, easy‐use, accurate and reliable method for NET tip localization.
Bovine Brain Region‐Specific Stearoyl‐CoA Desaturase Expression and Fatty Acid Composition
Authors: Lengi A. J. , Corl B. A.
Published: April 2015

In this study, we sought to determine the relationship between stearoyl‐CoA desaturase (SCD) gene isoform expression in the bovine brain and the accumulation of 18:1n‐9. Two SCD gene isoforms are found in cows—SCD1 and SCD5. Samples of six brain regions (cerebellum, frontal cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, midbrain, and pons) were collected from animals at four different ages (neonates, weanlings, yearlings, and adults) for mRNA isolation and fatty acid analysis. Expression of SCD1 and SCD5 mRNA was compared across age groups to determine its developmental regulation. Fatty acid composition and SCD isoform mRNA expression were compared to examine the correlation of SCD1 and SCD5 with 18:1n‐9 content in different brain regions. We found statistically significant correlations between SCD1 and SCD5 mRNA expression and the ratio of 18:1n‐9 to 18:0 across age groups, with stronger correlations observed for SCD5. Similarly, there was a significant correlation between the ratio of 18:1n‐9 to 18:0 and SCD5 mRNA expression across brain regions. SCD1 mRNA and the 18:1n‐9 to 18:0 ratio were negatively correlated in the hippocampus. There was no trend of increasing 18:1n‐9 content or SCD expression with age. Correlations indicated a stronger relationship between SCD5 mRNA expression and the 18:1n‐9 to 18:0 ratio, potentially indicating a strong contribution of the SCD5 isoform to brain 18:1n‐9 content. This is the first study examining a potential role for SCD5 in providing 18:1n‐9 for brain lipids.
Maternal High‐Fat‐Diet Programs Rat Offspring Liver Fatty Acid Metabolism
Authors: Seet Emily L. , Yee Jennifer K. , Jellyman Juanita K. , Han Guang , Ross Michael G. , Desai Mina
Published: April 2015

In offspring exposed in utero to a maternal diet high in fat (HF), we have previously demonstrated that despite similar birth weights, HF adult offspring at 6 months of age had significantly higher body weights, greater adiposity, and increased triacylglycerol (TAG) levels as compared to controls. We hypothesized that a maternal HF diet predisposes to offspring adiposity via a programmed increase in the synthesis of monounsaturated fatty acids in the liver and hence increased substrate availability for liver TAG synthesis. We further hypothesized that programmed changes in offspring liver fatty acid metabolism are associated with increased liver expression of the lipogenic enzyme stearoyl‐CoA desaturase‐1 (SCD‐1). Female rats were maintained on a HF diet rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) prior to and throughout pregnancy and lactation. After birth, newborns were nursed by the same dam, and all offspring were weaned to control diet. Plasma and liver fatty acid compositions were determined using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Fatty acid C16 desaturation indices of palmitoleic/palmitic and (vaccenic + palmitoleic)/palmitic and the C18 desaturation index of oleic/stearic were calculated. Liver protein abundance of SCD‐1 was analyzed in newborns and adult offspring. Plasma and liver C16 desaturation indices were decreased in HF newborns, but increased in the adult offspring. Liver SCD‐1 expression was increased in the HF adult offspring. These data show that the maternal HF diet during pregnancy and lactation increases offspring liver SCD‐1 protein abundance and alters the liver C16 desaturase pathway.
Adverse effect of urease on salt stress during seed germination in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Bu Yuanyuan , Kou Jing , Sun Bo , Takano Testuo , Liu Shenkui
Published: April 2015

Seed germination is a critical stage in the development of crops that grow in saline soils. We noticed that seeds of an Arabidopsis urease mutant have significantly increased salt stress tolerance. To understand why, we treated the wild type (WT) with a urease inhibitor and found that its salt stress tolerance was also improved. We hypothesized that urease acting on urea generates NH4
+, which probably exacerbates salt stress. As expected, the urease inhibitor significantly decreased the NH4
+ level in WT seeds. These findings suggest that blocking urease activity improves salt tolerance during seed germination by lowering the concentration of NH4
+.
TRIM35 negatively regulates TLR7‐ and TLR9‐mediated type I interferon production by targeting IRF7
Authors: Wang Yanming , Yan Shanshan , Yang Bo , Wang Yan , Zhou Haiyan , Lian Qiaoshi , Sun Bing
Published: April 2015

Toll‐like receptor 7 (TLR7) and TLR9 sense viral nucleic acids and induce type I IFN production, which must be properly controlled to avoid autoimmune diseases. Here, we report the negative regulation of TLR7/9‐mediated type I IFN production by TRIM35. TRIM35 expression is induced by TLR7/9 stimulation and then interacts with IRF7, which is the master regulator of type I IFN response. Furthermore, TRIM35 promotes the K48‐linked ubiquitination of IRF7 and induces its degradation via a proteasome‐dependent pathway. Therefore, TRIM35 is a negative feedback regulator of TLR7/9‐mediated type I IFN production due to its ability to suppress the stability of IRF7.
CSF biomarkers for the differential diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease: A large‐scale international multicenter study
Authors: Ewers Michael , Mattsson Niklas , Minthon Lennart , Molinuevo José L. , Antonell Anna , Popp Julius , Jessen Frank , Herukka Sanna‐Kaisa , Soininen Hilka , Maetzler Walter , Leyhe Thomas , Bürger Katharina , Taniguchi Miyako , Urakami Katsuya , Lista Simone , Dubois Bruno , Blennow Kaj , Hampel Harald
Published: April 2015

Introduction

The aim of this study was to test the diagnostic value of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) beta‐amyloid (Aβ1–42), phosphorylated tau, and total tau (tau) to discriminate Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia from other forms of dementia.

Methods

A total of 675 CSF samples collected at eight memory clinics were obtained from healthy controls, AD dementia, subjective memory impairment, mild cognitive impairment, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia (LBD), fronto‐temporal dementia (FTD), depression, or other neurological diseases.

Results

CSF Aβ1–42 showed the best diagnostic accuracy among the CSF biomarkers. At a sensitivity of 85%, the specificity to differentiate AD dementia against other diagnoses ranged from 42% (for LBD, 95% confidence interval or CI = 32–62) to 77% (for FTD, 95% CI = 62–90).

Discussion

CSF Aβ1–42 discriminates AD dementia from FTD, but shows significant overlap with other non‐AD forms of dementia, possibly reflecting the underlying mixed pathologies.