bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Langue de publication et performance en recherche
Authors: Imbeau Louis M. , Ouimet Mathieu
Published: April 2013

La science politique mondiale se communique principalement en anglais, alors qu’elle se pratique dans une multitude de langues. Dans le contexte où l’une d’elles domine dans les communications, il est pertinent de se questionner sur l’articulation entre une langue locale et la langue de communication internationale dans la pratique de la science politique. Nous avons voulu explorer l’impact de la langue de publication des travaux savants des chercheurs francophones de France et du Québec sur leur performance en recherche telle qu’elle est mesurée par Publish or Perish sur la base des travaux répertoriés par Google Scholar. Nous nous sommes demandé si le fait de publier en français diminuait la possibilité de reconnaissance d’un chercheur par ses pairs lorsque cette reconnaissance était fondée sur de tels indices. Nous rapportons ici les résultats de notre enquête. Nous montrons que la langue de publication semble avoir un impact systématique sur les mesures de performance des chercheurs. Ceux qui publient surtout en français publient moins et sont moins cités que les autres. D’autres facteurs sont reliés à la performance : le genre, l’expérience et le milieu.
Opening up new fronts in the fight against cholesterol
Authors: DeBose-Boyd Russell A , Horton Jay D
Published: April 2013

An unexpected connection between a secretory protein called PCSK9 and Sec24A, a well known protein-transport protein, could lead to the development of novel treatments for patients with high levels of low-density lipoproteins in their blood.
Real‐Time Microscopy of Reorientation Driven Nucleation and Growth in Pentacene Thin Films on Silicon Dioxide
Authors: Al‐Mahboob Abdullah , Fujikawa Yasunori , Sakurai Toshio , Sadowski Jerzy T.
Published: April 2013

The role of molecular reorientation processes in the self‐assembly of anisotropic molecules, such as pentacene (Pn) is studied utilizing a unique capability of low‐energy electron microscopy (LEEM) for the real‐time investigation of the film growth. In Pn film on SiO2, a layer‐by‐layer growth is observed, albeit different from the expected Volmer–Weber growth mode typical for the systems with lower adhesion (weak interfacial interaction). The observed growth mechanism is also different than conventional concept of layer‐by‐layer, or Frank van der Merwe growth. In the Pn/SiO2 system the nucleation density decreases in each consecutive layer, at least up to four monolayers. This growth mechanism is hereafter named inverse Stranski‐Krastanov growth. Furthermore, in this growth system the second layer islands nucleate preferentially at the domain boundaries formed by the interconnections of the bottom (first layer) domains. The top layer overgrows bottom layer with its own, initial in‐plane crystal orientation, regardless of the in‐plane orientations in underlying Pn domains. The dark‐field LEEM imaging allows us to distinguish between Pn domains having different azimuthal direction of molecular tilt. LEEM intensity versus start voltage (LEEM I–V) curves taken in the vicinity of mirror potential from the first and second layer Pn islands show that the surface potential of the second layer is higher by about 0.05 eV than that of the first layer, while the surface potentials for the epitaxial and non‐epitaxial parts of the second layer island are identical.
Hindering the Oxidation of Silicene with Non‐Reactive Encapsulation
Authors: Molle Alessandro , Grazianetti Carlo , Chiappe Daniele , Cinquanta Eugenio , Cianci Elena , Tallarida Grazia , Fanciulli Marco
Published: April 2013

The chemical stability of buckled silicene, i.e., the silicon counterpart of graphene, is investigated then resulting in a low reactivity with O2 when dosing up to 1000 L and in a progressive oxidation under ambient conditions. The latter drawback is addressed by engineering ad hoc Al‐ and Al2O3‐based encapsulations of the silicene layer. This encapsulation design can be generally applied to any silicene configuration, irrespective of the support substrate, and it leads to the fabrication of atomically sharp and chemically intact Al/silicene and Al2O3/silicene interfaces that can be functionally used for ex situ characterization as well as for gated device fabrication.
Tuning of the Photovoltaic Parameters of Molecular Donors by Covalent Bridging
Authors: Demeter Dora , Jeux Victorien , Leriche Philippe , Blanchard Philippe , Olivier Yoann , Cornil Jérôme , Po Riccardo , Roncali Jean
Published: April 2013

The synthesis of donor‐acceptor molecules involving triarylamines and dicyanovinyl blocks is described. Optical and electrochemical results show that rigidification of the acceptor part of the molecule by a covalent bridge leads to a ca. 0.20 eV increase of the band gap due to a parallel increase of the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital level. A preliminary evaluation of these compounds as donor materials in organic solar cells shows that although this structural modification reduces the light‐harvesting properties of the donor molecule, it nevertheless induces an increase of the efficiency of the resulting solar cells due to a simultaneous improvement of the open‐circuit voltage and fill factor.
Tetragermacyclobutadiene: Energetically Disfavored with Respect to Its Structural Isomers
Authors: Mullinax J. Wayne , Hollman David S. , Schaefer Henry F.
Published: April 2013

Germanium has been a central feature in the renaissance of main‐group inorganic chemistry. Herein, we present the stationary‐point geometries of tetragermacyclobutadiene and its related isomers on the singlet potential energy surface at the CCSD(T)/cc‐pVTZ level of theory. Three of these 12 structures are reported for the first time and one of them is predicted to lie only 0.4 kcal mol−1 above the previously reported global minimum. Focal‐point analyses has provided electronic energies at the CCSD(T) level of theory, which are extrapolated to the complete basis‐set limit and demonstrate the convergence behavior of the electronic energies with improving levels of theory and increasing basis‐set size. The lowest‐energy structure is the bicyclic structure, which lies 35 kcal mol−1 below the “all‐Ge” cyclobutadiene structure. The reaction energies for the association of known Ge hydrides (e.g., digermene) to form Ge4H4 indicate that Ge4H4 could be observed experimentally. We investigate the bonding patterns by examining the frontier molecular orbitals. Our results demonstrate that: 1) the cyclic isomers of (GeH)4 distort to maximize the mixing of the p orbitals that are involved in the π system of tetragermacyclobutadiene and 2) the lowest‐energy isomers exhibit unusual bonding arrangements (e.g., bridging H bonds) that maximize the nonbonding electron density at the Ge centers.
Bridging Ligand Length Controls AT Selectivity and Enantioselectivity of Binuclear Ruthenium Threading Intercalators
Authors: Johansson Johan R. , Wang Yubo , Eng Mattias P. , Kann Nina , Lincoln Per , Andersson Johanna
Published: April 2013

The slow dissociation of DNA threading intercalators makes them interesting as model compounds in the search for new DNA targeting drugs, as there appears to be a correlation between slow dissociation and biological activity. Thus, it would be of great value to understand the mechanisms controlling threading intercalation, and for this purpose we have investigated how the length of the bridging ligand of binuclear ruthenium threading intercalators affects their DNA binding properties. We have synthesised a new binuclear ruthenium threading intercalator with slower dissociation kinetics from ct‐DNA than has ever been observed for any ruthenium complex with any type of DNA, a property that we attribute to the increased distance between the ruthenium centres of the new complex. By comparison with previously studied ruthenium complexes, we further conclude that elongation of the bridging ligand reduces the sensitivity of the threading interaction to DNA flexibility, resulting in a decreased AT selectivity for the new complex. We also find that the length of the bridging ligand affects the enantioselectivity with increasing preference for the ΔΔ enantiomer as the bridging ligand becomes longer.
Design and Synthesis of a Class of Twin‐Chain Amphiphiles for Self‐Assembled Monolayer‐Based Electrochemical Biosensor Applications
Authors: Fisher Thomas J. , Cañete Socrates Jose P. , Lai Rebecca Y. , Dussault Patrick H.
Published: April 2013

A new class of twin‐chain hydroxyalkylthiols (mercaptoalkanols) is described that features a nearly constant cross section and the potential for modification at one or both termini. These compounds are regioselectively available through Pd‐mediated couplings of benzene diiododitriflate, and their syntheses include an example of a previously unreported coupling reaction to generate an ortho‐substituted arene bis(acetic acid). In an electrochemical sensor system, the self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) that were prepared from the new amphiphiles demonstrate an improved stability in comparison to the monolayers prepared from analogous single‐chain thiols.
One‐Pot, Regioselective Consecutive Multihalogenation of 2,2′‐Bithiophene
Authors: Kim Bo Ram , Kim Eun Jung , Sung Gi Hyeon , Kim Jeum‐Jong , Shin Dong‐Soo , Lee Sang‐Gyeong , Yoon Yong‐Jin
Published: April 2013

The one‐pot regioselective consecutive multihalogenation of 2,2′‐bithiophene (1) was demonstrated. Compound 1 was consecutively halogenated with lithium halides such as lithium bromide, chloride, and/or iodide in the presence of lead tetraacetate in chloroform at room temperature or under reflux conditions to give 5‐bromo(or chloro)‐5′‐iodo(or chloro)‐, 3‐bromo(or chloro)‐5,5′‐dibromo(or dichloro, diiodo)‐, 3,3′‐dibromo‐(or dichloro)‐5,5′‐diiodo(or dibromo, dichloro)‐, and 3,3′,5‐tribromo(or trichloro)‐5′‐iodo(or bromo)‐2,2′‐bithiophenes. Notably, this process offers a regioselective method for consecutive multihalogenation in one pot, and the yields and selectivity are also higher than those obtained in the step‐by‐step and concurrent halogenation methods.
SAHKE geophysical transect reveals crustal and subduction zone structure at the southern Hikurangi margin, New Zealand
Authors: Henrys S. , Wech A. , Sutherland R. , Stern T. , Savage M. , Sato H. , Mochizuki K. , Iwasaki T. , Okaya D. , Seward A. , Tozer B. , Townend J. , Kurashimo E. , Iidaka T. , Ishiyama T.
Published: April 2013

The Seismic Array Hikurangi Experiment (SAHKE) investigated the structure of the forearc and subduction plate boundary beneath the southern North Island along a 350 km transect. Tomographic inversion of first‐arrival travel times was used to derive a well‐resolved 15–20 km deep P wave image of the crust. The refracted phases and migrated reflection events image subducting slab geometry and crustal structure. In the west, Australian Plate Moho depth decreases westward across the Taranaki Fault system from 35 to ∼28–30 km. In the east, subducted Pacific Plate oceanic crust is recognized to have a positive velocity gradient, but becomes less distinct beneath the Tararua Ranges, where the interface increases in dip at about 15 km depth from <5° to >15°. This bend in the subducted plate is associated with vertical clusters in seismicity, splay fault branching, and low‐velocity high‐attenuation material that we interpret to be an underplated subduction sedimentary channel. We infer that a step down in the decollément transfers slip on the plate interface at the top of a subduction channel to the oceanic crust and drives local uplift of the Tararua Ranges. Reflections from the Wairarapa Fault show that it is listric and soles into the top of underplated sediments, which in turn abut the Moho of the overriding plate at ∼32 km depth, near the downdip end of the strongly locked zone. The change in dip of the Hikurangi subduction interface is spatially correlated with the transition from geodetically determined locked to unlocked areas of the plate interface.
Experimental studies of injectivity reduction due to carbonate mineralization
Authors: Yoo Seung‐Youl , Ueda Akira , Toshifumi Matsuoka
Published: April 2013

The geological sequestration of carbon dioxide (CO2) has been proposed to be one of the most effective and advanced technologies for reducing CO2 emissions. Geochemical trapping is regarded as an alternative process for CO2 sequestration. Carbonate mineralization takes advantage of permeability reduction to seal formations, decreasing the risk of CO2 leakage and increasing storage safety. Because precipitation rates tend to be faster and the solubility product shows a lower value at higher temperatures, the interaction of calcite and kaolinite‐rich rock with CO2‐water is expected to form a scale in geothermal reservoirs. The Ca2+ released from rocks can be removed as carbonate minerals during CO2 injection into aquifer rocks. However, the effects of the amount, timing, and location of carbonate precipitation on the permeability of reservoirs are not clear. In order to predict the time and space of clogging by carbonate precipitation, column flow experiments were performed under various conditions.

Supersaturated carbonate fluids were obtained from the Ogachi, Matsushiro, and Namikata field sites. These were introduced in flow experiments over a wide range of temperatures (20∼185 °C), pH (6∼11), and concentrations of reactants ([Ca] = 18∼850 mg/l) to vary the growth rate of carbonate minerals. The reduction of injectivity shows that fluid flow velocity controls the distribution and amount of carbonate deposition. The product of CO2 concentration and S.I., defined as the logarithm of the ion activity product per the solubility product, might be the index for predicting the time required for clogging to be observed. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Deconstructing the default: Cortical subdivision of the default mode/intrinsic system during self‐related processing
Authors: Salomon Roy , Levy Dana Rubi , Malach Rafael
Published: April 2013

Recent brain imaging research has highlighted a new global system of areas termed the Default Mode network (DM), which appears to specialize in intrinsically oriented functions. However, it is still unresolved to what extent this system contains functional subsystems as in the better known sensory and motor cortices. Here, we report that functional subdivisions can be revealed within individual nodes of the DM, such as the Inferior Parietal Lobule (IPL), through the use of different categories of self‐oriented tasks. Subjects underwent BOLD fMRI scans during which they were asked to recall self‐related positive and negative information in the categories of people and food. These tasks elicited distinct regions of activation within the DM. Importantly, the observed activations were above the activity level in the baseline, no‐task condition for these regions. The main subdivision within the DM was observed in the inferior and posterior parietal cortex. Analysis of coherent resting state fluctuations (functional connectivity analysis) revealed that these regions of activation were part of a distinct network of regions within the DM. These results argue against viewing the DM as a unitary system, and are compatible with the notion that, similar to the rest of the cerebral cortex, the DM consists of distinct, functionally specialized subregions. Hum Brain Mapp 35:1491–1502, 2014. © 2013 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evaluation of uneven water resource and relation between anthropogenic water withdrawal and ecosystem degradation in Changjiang and Yellow River basins
Authors: Nakayama Tadanobu , Shankman David
Published: April 2013

The diverse hydro‐climate between northern and southern China causes serious complications related to increasing food demand, declining water availability, and increasing flood risk in Changjiang and Yellow River basins. The huge projects of Three Gorges Dam (TGD) for diminishing flood and South‐to‐North Water Transfer Project (SNWTP) for driving water from Changjiang to Yellow and Hai Rivers to compensate for an imbalance of environmental resources will not necessarily solve all of the problems that they were originally intended to address. A sophisticated eco‐hydrological model is required to evaluate the optimum amount of transferred water associated with these projects, together with socio‐economic and environmental consequences. For this purpose, the process‐based National Integrated Catchment‐based Eco‐hydrology (NICE) model was modified to couple with complex sub‐systems in irrigation, stream junction, reservoir operation, and water transfer, to develop coupled human and natural systems and evaluate cause and effect of uneven water resources. The model clarified the impact of irrigation on eco‐hydrological processes and predicted hydrologic change after TGD and SNWTP to estimate whether dilemmas between water stress, crop productivity, and ecosystem degradation would diminish. The result also showed the missing role of surface water – groundwater interactions and lateral subsurface flow, usually not considered important by assuming stationarity in previous researches of continental scales. A heterogeneous pattern of Time‐Integrated Normalized Difference Vegetation Index gradient in agricultural fields helped to estimate uneven crop yield and its relation to water availability. This integrated approach will have some roles not only to re‐consider this complex process from the view point of hydrologic and biogeochemical cycles, but also to clarify how the substantial pressures of complicated problems can be overcome by effective trans‐boundary solutions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular phylogenetic analyses of albuminoids reveal the molecular evolution of allosteric properties
Authors: Ascenzi Paolo , di Masi Alessandra , Leboffe Loris , Alberio Tiziana , Fanali Gabriella , Fasano Mauro
Published: April 2013

Serum albumin, α‐fetoprotein, afamin (also named α‐albumin and vitamin E binding protein), and vitamin D binding protein are members of the albuminoid superfamily. Albuminoids are plasma proteins characterized by a marked ability for ligand binding and transport. Here, a focused phylogenetic analysis of sequence evolution by maximum likelihood of fatty acid binding sites FA1–FA7 of mammalian albuminoids reveals that the FA1, FA2, and FA3+FA4 sites in serum albumins have evolved from the most recent common ancestor through an intermediate that has originated the α‐fetoprotein and afamin clades. The same topology has been observed for the whole protein sequences, for the sequences of all the fatty acid binding sites (FA1–FA7) taken together, and for the allosteric core corresponding to residues 1–303 of human serum albumin. The quantitative divergence analysis indicates that the ligand binding cleft corresponding to the FA2 site could be the main determinant of allosteric properties of serum albumins only. In fact, this binding cleft is structurally not effective in vitamin D binding proteins, whereas key residues that serve to allocate the allosteric effectors are not present in afamins and α‐fetoproteins. © 2013 IUBMB Life, 65(6):544–549, 2013
Progressively increasing fracture risk with advancing age after initial incident fragility fracture: The Tromsø Study
Authors: Ahmed Luai Awad , Center Jacqueline R , Bjørnerem Åshild , Bluic Dana , Joakimsen Ragnar M , Jørgensen Lone , Meyer Haakon E , Nguyen Nguyen D , Nguyen Tuan V , Omsland Tone K , Størmer Jan , Tell Grethe S , van Geel Tineke ACM , Eisman John A , Emaus Nina
Published: April 2013

The risk of subsequent fracture is increased after initial fractures; however, proper understanding of its magnitude is lacking. This population-based study examines the subsequent fracture risk in women and men by age and type of initial incident fracture. All incident nonvertebral fractures between 1994 and 2009 were registered in 27,158 participants in the Tromsø Study, Norway. The analysis included 3108 subjects with an initial incident fracture after the age of 49 years. Subsequent fracture (n = 664) risk was expressed as rate ratios (RR) and absolute proportions irrespective of death. The rates of both initial and subsequent fractures increased with age, the latter with the steepest curve. Compared with initial incident fracture rate of 30.8 per 1000 in women and 12.9 per 1000 in men, the overall age-adjusted RR of subsequent fracture was 1.3 (95% CI, 1.2–1.5) in women, and 2.0 (95% CI, 1.6–2.4) in men. Although the RRs decreased with age, the absolute proportions of those with initial fracture who suffered a subsequent fracture increased with age; from 9% to 30% in women and from 10% to 26% in men, between the age groups 50–59 to 80+ years. The type of subsequent fracture varied by age from mostly minor fractures in the youngest to hip or other major fractures in the oldest age groups, irrespective of type and severity of initial fracture. In women and men, 45% and 38% of the subsequent hip or other major fractures, respectively, were preceded by initial minor fractures. The risk of subsequent fracture is high in all age groups. At older age, severe subsequent fracture types follow both clinically severe and minor initial incident fractures. Any fragility fracture in the elderly reflects the need for specific osteoporosis management to reduce further fracture risk. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Differences in skeletal microarchitecture and strength in African-American and white women
Authors: Putman Melissa S , Yu Elaine W , Lee Hang , Neer Robert M , Schindler Elizabeth , Taylor Alexander P , Cheston Emily , Bouxsein Mary L , Finkelstein Joel S
Published: April 2013

African-American women have a lower risk of fracture than white women, and this difference is only partially explained by differences in dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) areal bone mineral density (aBMD). Little is known about racial differences in skeletal microarchitecture and the consequences for bone strength. To evaluate potential factors underlying this racial difference in fracture rates, we used high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) to assess cortical and trabecular bone microarchitecture and estimate bone strength using micro–finite element analysis (µFEA) in African-American (n = 100) and white (n = 173) women participating in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN). African-American women had larger and denser bones than whites, with greater total area, aBMD, and total volumetric BMD (vBMD) at the radius and tibia metaphysis (p < 0.05 for all). African-Americans had greater trabecular vBMD at the radius, but higher cortical vBMD at the tibia. Cortical microarchitecture tended to show the most pronounced racial differences, with higher cortical area, thickness, and volumes in African-Americans at both skeletal sites (p < 0.05 for all), and lower cortical porosity in African-Americans at the tibia (p < 0.05). African-American women also had greater estimated bone stiffness and failure load at both the radius and tibia. Differences in skeletal microarchitecture and estimated stiffness and failure load persisted even after adjustment for DXA aBMD. The densitometric and microarchitectural predictors of failure load at the radius and tibia were the same in African-American and white women. In conclusion, differences in bone microarchitecture and density contribute to greater estimated bone strength in African-Americans and probably explain, at least in part, the lower fracture risk of African-American women. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Highly sensitive analysis of catecholamines by counter‐flow electrokinetic supercharging in the constant voltage mode
Authors: Kwon Joon Yub , Chang Seo Bong , Jang Yong Oh , Dawod Mohamed , Chung Doo Soo
Published: April 2013

Electrokinetic supercharging is one of the most powerful sample‐stacking methods that combines field amplified sample injection and transient ITP. In counter‐flow electrokinetic supercharging, a constant counter pressure is applied during sample injection in order to counterbalance the movement of the injected sample zone. As a result, there will be a pronounced increase in the amount of sample injected and the portion of the capillary available for electrophoresis. In this report, counter‐flow electrokinetic supercharging optimization factors such as the electric field application in the constant voltage and constant current modes, the magnitude of counter pressure, and the terminating electrolyte concentrations were investigated. The enrichments obtained with a 30 min injection of 10 nM catecholamines in 5 mM terminating electrolyte solution in the constant voltage mode applying a counter pressure of 1.3 psi were 41000‐fold for dopamine, 50 000‐fold for norepinephrine, and 32 000‐fold for epinephrine, yielding detection limits of 1.3, 1.4, and 1.2 nM, respectively, with absorbance detection at 200 nm.
Enantioseparation of chiral aromatic acids by multiple dual mode counter‐current chromatography using hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin as chiral selector
Authors: Tong Shengqiang , Zheng Ye , Yan Jizhong
Published: April 2013

This work concentrates on extending the utilization of multiple dual mode (MDM) counter‐current chromatography in chiral separations. Two aromatic acids, 2‐(6‐methoxy‐2‐naphthyl)propionic acid (NAP) and 2‐phenylpropionic acid (2‐PPA), were enantioseparated by MDM counter‐current chromatography using hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (HP‐β‐CD) as chiral selector. The two‐phase solvent systems consisting of n‐hexane/ethyl acetate 0.1 mol/L phosphate buffer pH 2.67 containing 0.1 mol/L HP‐β‐CD (7.5:2.5:10 for NAP and 7:3:10 for 2‐PPA, v/v/v) were used. Conventional MDM and modified MDM were compared according to peak resolution under current separation mechanism. The influence of elution time after the first‐phase inversion and number of cycles for MDM were investigated. Peak resolution of NAP and 2‐PPA increased from 0.62 to 1.05 and 0.72 to 0.84, respectively, using optimized MDM conditions. Being an alternative elution method for counter‐current chromatography, MDM elution greatly improved peak resolution in chiral separations.
Evaluating bacterial community structures in oil collected from the sea surface and sediment in the northern Gulf of Mexico after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill
Authors: Liu Zhanfei , Liu Jiqing
Published: April 2013

Bacterial community structures were evaluated in oil samples using culture‐independent pyrosequencing, including oil mousses collected on sea surface and salt marshes during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, and oil deposited in sediments adjacent to the wellhead 1 year after the spill. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that Erythrobacter, Rhodovulum, Stappia, and Thalassospira of Alphaproteobacteria were the prevailing groups in the oil mousses, which may relate to high temperatures and strong irradiance in surface Gulf waters. In the mousse collected from the leaves of Spartina alterniflora, Vibrio of Gammaproteobacteria represented 57% of the total operational taxonomic units, suggesting that this indigenous genus is particularly responsive to the oil contamination in salt marshes. The bacterial communities in oil‐contaminated sediments were highly diversified. The relatively high abundance of the Methylococcus, Methylobacter, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Chlorofexi bacteria resembles those found in certain cold‐seep sediments with gas hydrates. Bacterial communities in the overlying water of the oil‐contaminated sediment were dominated by Ralstonia of Betaproteobacteria, which can degrade small aromatics, and Saccharophagus degradans of Gammaproteobacteria, a cellulose degrader, suggesting that overlying water was affected by the oil‐contaminated sediments, possibly due to the dissolution of small aromatics and biosurfactants produced during biodegradation. Overall, these results provided key information needed to evaluate oil degradation in the region and develop future bioremediation strategies.
The free triple chimeric dorsalis pedis flaps for repair of multifinger soft tissue defects: A report of two cases
Authors: Xie Guangzhong , Hu Zhengbo , Miao Cunliang , Chen Wenxiong , Mei Linjun
Published: April 2013

The reconstruction of complex hand injury such as multifinger soft tissue defect remains a challenging problem. Two cases of repair of multifinger injury with exposed bones using the free chimeric flaps based on the dorsalis pedis vessels are presented. Two male patients, 46 years old and 36 years old, suffered from a thermocompression injury to the dorsum of fingers resulting in soft tissue defects of multiple fingers. The chimeric free flap was designed and applied to cover the defects. The donor sites were covered by skin grafts. The postoperative courses were uneventful. Both patients were followed up for 10–12 months. The maximal flexion angle of the distal interphalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and metacarpophalangeal joints were 40°–85° at the end of the follow‐up. The protective sensation was achieved on the dorsal fingers. The report suggests that the free chimeric flaps based on the dorsalis pedis artery may be an alternative for the reconstruction of the multifinger dorsal soft tissue defects. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:660–666, 2013.
Clinical factors associated with postoperative complications and the functional outcome in mandibular reconstruction
Authors: Tsuchiya Sunao , Nakatsuka Takashi , Sakuraba Minoru , Kimata Yoshihiro , Sakurai Hiroyuki , Nakagawa Masahiro , Takushima Akihiko
Published: April 2013

Background

Few studies have performed a multiple factor analysis to assess the factors associated with successful mandibular reconstructions in a large number of subjects. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the functional outcome in mandibular reconstruction by means logistic regression analysis.

Methods

Since April 2005 to September 2009, 126 patients underwent segmental resection of the mandible for cancer ablation and mandibular reconstruction with free flaps at 6 Japanese institutions. The patients' charts were reviewed retrospectively. Twelve patients were excluded for the reconstruction was with double flaps, or they went under secondary reconstruction. With logistic regression analysis in 114 subjects, we assessed multiple factors influencing postoperative speech intelligibility, feeding ability, and postoperative complications of mandibular reconstruction.

Results

The use of a reconstruction plate with a soft‐tissue free flap only was showed to have a deleterious effect on postoperative feeding. The strong association in the level of statistical significance between the use of a reconstruction plate with soft‐tissue free flaps only and the occurrences of major complications was indicated. It was also statistically revealed that the postoperative presence of opposing teeth contributed to both speech intelligibility and oral intake.

Conclusions

In our research, osteocutaneous flaps were superior to reconstruction plates with soft‐tissue free flaps regard to the postoperative feeding ability and major complication rate. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:337–341, 2013.
Techniques and materials for enhancement of peripheral nerve regeneration: A literature review
Authors: Siemionow Maria , Uygur Safak , Ozturk Can , Siemionow Kris
Published: April 2013

Peripheral nerve surgery performed under unfavorable conditions results in increased scar formation and suboptimal clinical outcomes. Providing the operated nerve with a protective barrier, reduces fibrosis and adhesion formation and may lead to improved outcomes. The ideal coverage material should prevent scar and adhesion formation, and maintain nerve gliding during motion. Nerve protection using autologous tissues has shown good results, but shortcomings include donor site morbidity and limited availability. Various types of methods and materials have been used to protect nerves. There are both advantages and disadvantages associated with the various materials and techniques. In this report we summarize currently used protective materials applied for nerve coverage under various surgical conditions. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2013.
Development of metabolic syndrome components in adults with a healthy obese phenotype: A 3‐year follow‐up
Authors: Engelsen C. den , Gorter K.J. , Salomé P.L. , Rutten G.E.
Published: April 2013

Objective:

There is a lack of data on the progression from a healthy obese phenotype toward an unhealthy obese phenotype and the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Our aim was to assess the development of MetS 3 years after screening in centrally obese individuals with a healthy obese phenotype and to evaluate the usefulness of repeated screening.

Design and Methods:

Eighty‐eight individuals (mean age 47 years, 88% female) with central obesity as their only MetS component (ATP III criteria) at baseline screening were re‐evaluated for MetS status after 3 years.

Results:

At follow‐up, the cardiometabolic risk profile in centrally obese individuals with a healthy phenotype showed a tendency toward deterioration. Thirty‐two percent developed at least one additional MetS component, 7% had developed MetS. Nobody had developed type 2 diabetes. An increased triglyceride level (n = 16) and an increased blood pressure (n = 18) were the components most often present at follow‐up. The people developing additional MetS components had a lower education level compared with the group that preserved the healthy centrally obese phenotype (80 vs. 71% lower educated, P = 0.35). They also had slightly worse baseline levels of the risk factors.

Conclusion:

The number of centrally obese individuals developing an unhealthy phenotype in this relatively short follow‐up period emphasizes the need for a regular surveillance of cardiometabolic parameters in centrally obese individuals. However, it is questionable whether a repeated screening for type 2 diabetes every 3 years, as recommended by the American Diabetes Association, in this category of patients is appropriate.
Clay‐containing block copolymer nanocomposites with aligned morphology prepared by extrusion
Authors: Carastan Danilo J. , Amurin Leice G. , Craievich Aldo F. , Gonçalves Maria do Carmo , Demarquette Nicole R.
Published: April 2013

Clay‐containing nanocomposites of polystyrene‐b‐poly(ethylene‐co‐butylene)‐b‐polystyrene (SEBS) copolymers having cylindrical domains were obtained by melt extrusion using a tape die. One type of sample (SEBS‐MA) had maleic anhydride attached to the middle block. Two types of organoclays were added, namely Cloisite20Aand Cloisite30B. Small angle X‐ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses showed that the addition of20Aclay toSEBSandSEBS‐MAresulted in nanocomposites with intercalated and partially exfoliated structures, respectively. The addition of30Bclay toSEBSandSEBS‐MApromoted the formation of composites containing relatively large micron‐sized and partially exfoliated clay particles, respectively. OurTEManalysis revealed that clay particles embedded inSEBSare preferably in contact with the polystyrene cylindrical domains, while inSEBS‐MAthey are in contact with the maleated matrix. The extrusion processing promoted alignment of the axes of the polystyrene cylinders along the extrusion direction in all samples, and the basal planes of the clay particles were mostly parallel to the main external surfaces of the extruded tapes. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
1.37 Å Crystal structure of pathogenic factor pectate lyase from Acidovorax citrulli
Authors: Tang Qun , Liu Yan‐Ping , Ren Zheng‐Guang , Yan Xiao‐Xue , Zhang Li‐Qun
Published: April 2013

Pectates lyase (Pel) plays an important role in bacteria pathogenicity. The crystal structure of Pel from Acidovorax citrulli (AcPel) has been solved to 1.37 Å resolution. AcPel belongs to the polysaccharide lyase family 1 (PL1), which has a characteristic right‐handed β‐helix fold. AcPel is similar with other Pels in the PL1 family, but also shows some differences at the substrate binding site. Proteins 2013; 81:1485–1490. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Edge‐Selectively Functionalized Graphene Nanoplatelets
Authors: Chang Dong Wook , Choi Hyun‐Jung , Jeon In‐Yup , Baek Jong‐Beom
Published: April 2013

Graphene, as a single layer of graphite, is currently the focal point of research into condensed matter owing to its promising properties, such as exceptional mechanical strength, high thermal conductivity, large specific surface area, and ultrahigh electron‐transport properties. Therefore, various physical and chemical synthetic procedures to prepare graphene and/or graphene nanoplatelets have been rapidly developed. Specifically, the synthesis of edge‐selectively functionalized graphene (EFG) has been recently reported by using simple and scalable approaches, such as “direct” Friedel‐Crafts acylation reactions in a mild acidic medium and a mechanochemical ball‐milling process. In these approaches, chemical functionalization predominantly take place at the edges of the graphitic layers via the covalent attachment of targeted organic “molecular wedges”. In addition, the distortion of the crystalline structures in the basal plane, which is beneficial for preserving the unique properties of the graphitic framework, can be minimized. In addition, the efficient exfoliation of graphene can be achieved, owing to the strong repulsive forces from the covalently linked wedges and strong shear forces during the reaction. Furthermore, EFG shows promising potential in many useful applications, such as highly conductive large‐area films, metal‐free electrocatalysts for the oxygen‐reduction reaction (ORR), and as additives in composite materials with enhanced properties. Herein, we summarize the recent progress and general aspects of EFG, including synthesis, reaction mechanism, properties, and applications.
Banking regulation in the European union: Some issues and concerns
Authors: Hall Maximilian J.B.
Published: April 2013

Banking regulation and supervision in the EU today has to be conducted in accordance with the Single Market legislation promulgated by the European Commission. The creation of a European Single Market in financial services, which was provided for in the Treaty of Rome of 1957 and in the Single European Act of July 1987 which revised it, was originally planned for completion by the end of 1992, although the final pieces of the jigsaw were not in place until the beginning of 1996. This article explains what the European Single Market in financial services represents, the rationale for it, and the measures, including the use of legally binding Directives, adopted to deliver it on the banking front. It concludes with a discussion and analysis of some of the issues and concerns which implementation of the Single Market program for banking services has given rise to, with special emphasis being placed on the evolution of minimum capital standards for banks.
A review of discriminant analysis in high dimensions
Authors: Mai Qing
Published: April 2013

Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) is among the most classical classification techniques, while it continues to be a popular and important classifier in practice. However, the advancement of science and technology brings the new challenge of high‐dimensional datasets, where the dimension can be in thousands. In such datasets, LDA is inapplicable. Recently, statisticians have devoted many efforts to creating high‐dimensional LDA methods. These methods typically perform variable selection via regularization techniques. Various theoretical results, algorithms, and empirical results support the application of these methods. In this review, we provide a brief description of difficulties in extending LDA and present some successful proposals.WIREs Comput Stat2013, 5:190–197. doi: 10.1002/wics.1257

This article is categorized under:

Statistical Learning and Exploratory Methods of the Data Sciences > Clustering and Classification
Osmium‐Nitrosyl Complexes with Glycine, Picolinic Acid, ­L‐Proline and D‐Proline: Synthesis, Structures and Antiproliferative Activity
Authors: Gavriluta Anatolie , Novak Maria , Tommasino Jean Bernard , Meier Samuel M. , Jakupec Michael A. , Luneau Dominique , Arion Vladimir B.
Published: April 2013

The reactions of [Os(NO)Cl5]2– with glycine (GlyH), picolinic acid (PicoH), L‐proline (L‐ProH) and D‐proline (D‐ProH) afforded four novel complexes of the general formula [Os(NO)Cl3(AA)]–, where AA = Gly, Pico, L‐Pro and D‐Pro, respectively. X‐ray diffraction studies have revealed that in all cases the same isomer type from three theoretically possible, has been isolated, namely mer(Cl), trans(NO, O)‐[Os(NO)Cl3(AA)]–. Spectroscopic and electrochemical properties, behavior in aqueous solution and antiproliferative activity in three human cancer cell lines are also reported.
Platinum(IV) Complexes Featuring Axial (1, 4–13C2)Succinato Ligands – Synthesis, Characterization, and Preliminary ­Investigations in Cancer Cell Lysates
Authors: Banfic Jelena , Adib‐Razavi Mahsa S. , Galanski Mathea Sophia , Keppler Bernhard K.
Published: April 2013

The chemistry of cytotoxic platinum(II) complexes is more or less restricted to ligand exchange reactions, derivatization of coordinated ligands is cumbersome, and subsequent purification in many cases impossible. Consequently, kinetically more inert platinum(IV) complexes found their way into the development of novel, promising anticancer drugs. Research has focused more and more during the last years on the use of platinum(IV) complexes featuring one or two axial succinato ligands in which one carboxylic acid moiety is available for further derivatization. In order to gain a deeper insight into the mechanism of action, isotopically labeled platinum(IV) complexes with axial (1, 4–13C2)succinato ligands were synthesized and fully characterized by multinuclear (1H, 13C, 15N, and 195Pt) 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR spectroscopy. Especially of note in this context is a long range 1H,13C shift correlation signal detected between the equatorial ammine protons and the axially coordinated carboxylato moiety. Furthermore, their behavior in extracts of SW480 cancer cells was investigated. Preliminary results demonstrate that cisplatin analogs are reduced significantly faster in comparison to carboplatin analogs.
Thiomethyl Substituted Dicopper Complexes: Attempts to Reproduce the Asymmetry of the Active Site from Type 3 Copper Enzymes
Authors: Rammal Wassim , Selmeczi Katalin , Philouze Christian , Saint‐Aman Eric , Pierre Jean‐Louis , Belle Catherine
Published: April 2013

Two new dinucleating phenol‐based ligands (m‐HLSMe and p‐HLSMe) bearing pyridine‐containing pendant arms with a SMe group on one pyridine (meta or para position relative to the pyridine nitrogen atom) have been synthesized. After coordination by two copper(II) ions, the corresponding μ‐phenoxido, μ‐hydroxido dicopper(II) complexes were isolated and characterized by UV/Vis, EPR spectroscopy, single‐crystal X‐ray analysis (for the complex with the SMe substituent at the meta position) and electrochemistry. The presented compounds mimic the active site of type 3 copper enzymes and in particular the distinct environments of the copper ions.Both complexes are active as catalysts for the oxidation of 3, 5‐di‐tert‐butylcatechol to the respective quinone. The catalytic properties of the complexes depend on substrate binding, as reflected by the KM values determined for the complexes in presence of 3, 5‐dtbc and are not correlated directly with the redox properties of the dicopper center.
Chelating Agents as Tools for the Treatment of Metal Overload
Authors: Gumienna‐Kontecka Elzbieta , Nurchi Valeria M. , Szebesczyk Agnieszka , Bilska Paulina , Krzywoszynska Karolina , Kozlowski Henryk
Published: April 2013

Metal ions poisoning can result from environmental factors, intentional action, or disruption of homeostasis. Although the origin of toxicity may be different, the treatment is similar. Chelation therapy aims to remove the excess of metal ions from tissues to stop further damage of cells. For almost every metal ion, molecules that are able to bind it and remove from the human body are known. Over the years some new chelating agents were discovered and introduced into clinical treatment. In this paper we have focused on typical chelators for metal ions, both essential and toxic for humans. The treatment of poisoning caused by essential metal ions is hard due to the risk of removing them from the biologically relevant molecules (e.g. enzymes). Acute metal ions poisoning is rather rare, so the development of chelators for such cases are historical, but prolonged toxicity of, especially, essential metal ions is extensively studied.
Impact of Preoperative Organ Failures on Survival in Intensive Care Unit Patients with Colectomy
Authors: Sipola Seija , Syrjälä Hannu , Koivukangas Vesa , Laurila Jouko J. , Ohtonen Pasi , Saarnio Juha , Ala‐Kokko Tero I.
Published: April 2013

Background

The present study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of preoperative changes in sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, daily norepinephrine (NE) dose, lactate, C‐reactive protein, and white blood cell count among patients with colectomy in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 77 colectomized patients (30 female, 47 male) who were treated in a single tertiary‐level mixed ICU during 2000–2009.

Results

The underlying conditions leading to colectomy included sepsis (31 patients), cardiovascular operations (21 patients), and fulminant Clostridium difficile colitis (25 patients). The 28‐day mortality was 53.3 % (41/77). Nonsurvivors had significantly higher median values than survivors (p < 0.05) for the following parameters: admission SOFA [10.0 (25th–75th percentile 8.0–13.0) vs. 9.0 (6.5–10.0)], highest SOFA [14.0 (12.0–16.0) vs. 12.5 (9.5–14.5)], operative day lactate level (6.3 vs. 2.2 mmol/L), and NE dose (16.8 vs. 9.3 total mg/day). During the last three preoperative days, significant increases were observed in total SOFA score (p < 0.001) and in cardiovascular (p < 0.001), coagulation (p = 0.017), renal (p < 0.01), and respiratory (p < 0.001) SOFA subscores, without statistically significant differences between nonsurvivors and survivors. Increasing Glasgow Coma Scale score, preoperative lactate level, and NE dose were significantly associated with mortality.

Conclusions

It should be prospectively studied whether preoperatively increasing lactate level and NE dose are surrogate markers for early laparotomy among ICU patents with colitis.
Laparoscopic Kasai portoenterostomy for biliary atresia
Authors: Yamataka Atsuyuki
Published: April 2013

Minimally invasive surgery requires mastery of complex skills and exhaustive knowledge of anatomic variations but the patient benefits from excellent cosmesis, less requirement for analgesia and respiratory support, and a reduced incidence of postoperative morbidity, such as bowel adhesions and incisional hernias. Laparoscopic portoenterostomy is being performed with encouraging results after the open extended portoenterostomy procedure currently performed was revised to more closely resemble the original procedure developed by Kasai in the 1950s. Thus, the risk for damage to micro bile ducts around the porta hepatis is minimized because deep suturing and extensive dissection are eliminated.