bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct observation of intermediate states in model membrane fusion
Authors: Keidel Andrea , Bartsch Tobias F. , Florin Ernst-Ludwig
Published: March 2016

We introduce a novel assay for membrane fusion of solid supported membranes on silica beads and on coverslips. Fusion of the lipid bilayers is induced by bringing an optically trapped bead in contact with the coverslip surface while observing the bead’s thermal motion with microsecond temporal and nanometer spatial resolution using a three-dimensional position detector. The probability of fusion is controlled by the membrane tension on the particle. We show that the progression of fusion can be monitored by changes in the three-dimensional position histograms of the bead and in its rate of diffusion. We were able to observe all fusion intermediates including transient fusion, formation of a stalk, hemifusion and the completion of a fusion pore. Fusion intermediates are characterized by axial but not lateral confinement of the motion of the bead and independently by the change of its rate of diffusion due to the additional drag from the stalk-like connection between the two membranes. The detailed information provided by this assay makes it ideally suited for studies of early events in pure lipid bilayer fusion or fusion assisted by fusogenic molecules.
A novel ammonia-oxidizing archaeon from wastewater treatment plant: Its enrichment, physiological and genomic characteristics
Authors: Li Yuyang , Ding Kun , Wen Xianghua , Zhang Bing , Shen Bo , Yang Yunfeng
Published: March 2016

Ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) are recently found to participate in the ammonia removal processes in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), similar to their bacterial counterparts. However, due to lack of cultivated AOA strains from WWTPs, their functions and contributions in these systems remain unclear. Here we report a novel AOA strain SAT1 enriched from activated sludge, with its physiological and genomic characteristics investigated. The maximal 16S rRNA gene similarity between SAT1 and other reported AOA strain is 96% (with “Ca. Nitrosotenuis chungbukensis”), and it is affiliated with Wastewater Cluster B (WWC-B) based on amoA gene phylogeny, a cluster within group I.1a and specific for activated sludge. Our strain is autotrophic, mesophilic (25 °C–33 °C) and neutrophilic (pH 5.0–7.0). Its genome size is 1.62 Mb, with a large fragment inversion (accounted for 68% genomic size) inside. The strain could not utilize urea due to truncation of the urea transporter gene. The lack of the pathways to synthesize usual compatible solutes makes it intolerant to high salinity (>0.03%), but could adapt to low salinity (0.005%) environments. This adaptation, together with possibly enhanced cell-biofilm attachment ability, makes it suitable for WWTPs environment. We propose the name “Candidatus Nitrosotenuis cloacae” for the strain SAT1.
A computational simulation of the effect of hybrid treatment for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm on the hemodynamics of abdominal aorta
Authors: Wen Jun , Yuan Ding , Wang Qingyuan , Hu Yao , Zhao Jichun , Zheng Tinghui , Fan Yubo
Published: March 2016

Hybrid visceral-renal debranching procedures with endovascular repair have been proposed as an appealing technique to treat conventional thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA). This approach, however, still remained controversial because of the non-physiological blood flow direction of its retrograde visceral revascularization (RVR) which is generally constructed from the aortic bifurcation or common iliac artery. The current study carried out the numerical simulation to investigate the effect of RVR on the hemodynamics of abdominal aorta. The results indicated that the inflow sites for the RVR have great impact on the hemodynamic performance. When RVR was from the distal aorta, the perfusion to visceral organs were adequate but the flow flux to the iliac artery significantly decreased and a complex disturbed flow field developed at the distal aorta, which endangered the aorta at high risk of aneurysm development. When RVR was from the right iliac artery, the abdominal aorta was not troubled with low WSS or disturbed flow, but the inadequate perfusion to the visceral organs reached up to 40% and low WSS and flow velocity predominated appeared at the right iliac artery and the grafts, which may result in the stenosis in grafts and aneurysm growth on the host iliac artery.
Progranulin promotes the retinal precursor cell proliferation and the photoreceptor differentiation in the mouse retina
Authors: Kuse Yoshiki , Tsuruma Kazuhiro , Sugitani Sou , Izawa Hiroshi , Ohno Yuta , Shimazawa Masamitsu , Hara Hideaki
Published: March 2016

Progranulin (PGRN) is a secreted growth factor associated with embryo development, tissue repair and inflammation. In a previous study, we showed that adipose-derived stem cell-conditioned medium (ASC-CM) is rich in PGRN. In the present study, we investigated whether PGRN is associated with retinal regeneration in the mammalian retina. We evaluated the effect of ASC-CM using the N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-induced retinal damage model in mice. ASC-CM promoted the differentiation of photoreceptor cells following retinal damage. PGRN increased the number of BrdU+ cells in the outer nuclear layer following retinal damage some of which were Rx (retinal precursor cell marker) positive. PGRN also increased the number of rhodopsin+ photoreceptor cells in primary retinal cell cultures. SU11274, a hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor inhibitor, attenuated the increase. These findings suggest that PGRN may affect the differentiation of retinal precursor cells to photoreceptor cells through the HGF receptor signaling pathway.
Transition-Metal Doped Ceria Microspheres with Nanoporous Structures for CO Oxidation
Authors: Zhou Lin , Li Xiaoxiao , Yao Ze , Chen Zhuwen , Hong Mei , Zhu Rongshu , Liang Yongye , Zhao Jing
Published: March 2016

Catalytic oxidation of carbon monoxide (CO) is of great importance in many different fields of industry. Until now it still remains challenging to use non-noble metal based catalysts to oxidize CO at low temperature. Herein, we report a new class of nanoporous, uniform and transition metal-doped cerium (IV) oxide (ceria, CeO2) microsphere for CO oxidation catalysis. The porous and uniform microsphere is generated by sacrificed polymer template. Transition-metals, like Cu, Co, Ni, Mn and Fe, were doped into CeO2 microspheres. The combination of hierarchical structure and metal doping afford superior catalytic activities of the doped ceria microspheres, which could pave a new way to advanced non-precious metal based catalysts for CO oxidation.
Two mutations G335D and Q343R within the amyloidogenic core region of TDP-43 influence its aggregation and inclusion formation
Authors: Jiang Lei-Lei , Zhao Jian , Yin Xiao-Fang , He Wen-Tian , Yang Hui , Che Mei-Xia , Hu Hong-Yu
Published: March 2016

TDP-43 is a DNA/RNA binding protein associated with TDP-43 proteinopathies. Many mutations have been identified in the flexible C-terminal region, which is implicated in the disease pathology. We investigated four point mutations in the amyloidogenic core region (residues 311–360) of TDP-43 by biochemical and spectroscopic methods. We found that the G335D mutation enhances the aggregation and inclusion formation of TDP-43 and this mutant in TDP-35 (the C-terminal fragment of 35 kDa) exaggerates the antagonist effect on RNA processing by endogenous TDP-43; whereas Q343R gives an opposite effect. As a comparison, M337V and Q331K have very little impact on the aggregation and inclusion formation of TDP-43 or TDP-35. NMR structural analysis showed that the G335D mutant in the core region forms a loop linker between the two α-helices and promotes α-to-β transition, but Q343R loses the second helix and consequently the structural transformation. Thus, the propensity of structural transformation in the amyloidogenic core of TDP-43 determines its aggregation and inclusion formation. This study may provide a molecular mechanism of the TDP-43 proteinopathies caused by genetic mutations.
Transformation of zinc hydroxide chloride monohydrate to crystalline zinc oxide
Authors: Moezzi Amir , Cortie Michael , McDonagh Andrew
Published: March 2016

Thermal decomposition of layered zinc hydroxide double salts provides an interesting alternative synthesis for particles of zinc oxide.
Real-time fingerprinting of structural isomers using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy
Authors: Myakalwar Ashwin Kumar , Anubham Siva Kumar , Paidi Santosh Kumar , Barman Ishan , Gundawar Manoj Kumar
Published: March 2016

Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy provides a novel route for the rapid identification of structural isomers.
A study on the holistic efficacy of different Radix Aconiti Preparata for treating rheumatic arthritis in rats based on the urinary metabonomic method using UPLC-Q-TOF-HDMS
Authors: Jia Fei , Xu Tengfei , Qi Yao , Liu Shu , Pi Zifeng , Song Fengrui , Liu Zhiqiang
Published: March 2016

15 potential biomarkers related to the efficacy of RadixAconiti Preparatain adjuvant-induced arthritis rats had been identified by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS in urine, and they are mainly involved in four metabolic pathways.
Radical perfluoroalkylation – easy access to 2-perfluoroalkylindol-3-imines via electron catalysis
Authors: Leifert Dirk , Artiukhin Denis G. , Neugebauer Johannes , Galstyan Anzhela , Strassert Cristian Alejandro , Studer Armido
Published: March 2016

Arylisonitriles react with alkyl and perfluoroalkyl radicals to form 2-alkylated indole-3-iminesviatwo sequential additions to the isonitrile moiety followed by homolytic aromatic substitution.
Energy-resolved collision-induced dissociation of non-covalent ions: charge- and guest-dependence of decomplexation reaction efficiencies
Authors: Carroy Glenn , Lemaur Vincent , De Winter Julien , Isaacs Lyle , De Pauw Edwin , Cornil Jérôme , Gerbaux Pascal
Published: March 2016

The influence of the charge state on the CID reactions undergone by host–guest complexes is monitored by mass spectrometry and described by computational chemistry.
Regeneration of surface acid sites via mild oxidation on dehydration catalysts
Authors: Agirrezabal-Telleria I. , Miletić N. , Arias P. L.
Published: March 2016

This work reports novel experimental evidence for the use of mild oxidation conditions to remove humin deposits on active xylose dehydration catalysts that showed deactivation.
Mechanism of the rhodium(iii)-catalyzed alkenylation reaction of N-phenoxyacetamide with styrene or N-tosylhydrazone: a computational study
Authors: Qiu Zhiping , Deng Jiaojiao , Zhang Zhongchao , Wu Caihong , Li Juan , Liao Xiaojian
Published: March 2016

A systematic density functional theory study has been conducted to examine the mechanisms involved in the rhodium(iii)-catalyzed alkenylation ofN-phenoxyacetamide with two different substrates (i.e., styrene andN-tosylhydrazone).
Luminescent osmium(ii) bi-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl complexes: photophysical characterisation and application in light-emitting electrochemical cells
Authors: Ross Daniel A. W. , Scattergood Paul A. , Babaei Azin , Pertegás Antonio , Bolink Henk J. , Elliott Paul I. P.
Published: March 2016

The series of osmium(ii) complexes [Os(bpy)3−n(btz)n][PF6]2(bpy = 2,2′-bipyridyl, btz = 1,1′-dibenzyl-4,4′-bi-1,2,3-triazolyl,1n= 0,2n= 1,3n= 2,4n= 3), have been prepared, characterised and used as phosphors within light-emitting electrochemical cells.
Conformational diversity and enantioconvergence in potato epoxide hydrolase 1
Authors: Bauer P. , Carlsson Å. Janfalk , Amrein B. A. , Dobritzsch D. , Widersten M. , Kamerlin S. C. L.
Published: March 2016

Computational studies highlight the importance of conformational diversity in the enantioconvergent hydrolysis of styrene oxide by potato epoxide hydrolase 1.
Synthesis of benzofuranyl and indolyl methyl azides by tandem silver-catalyzed cyclization and azidation
Authors: Ranjith Kumar Gadi , Kiran Kumar Yalla , Kant Ruchir , Sridhar Reddy Maddi
Published: March 2016

A tandem Ag-catalyzed 5-exo-dig cyclization and catalyst free γ-azidation for benzofuranyl/indolyl methyl azides is presented. The adducts are further transformed to useful triazole-, tetrazole-, amide-, amine-, and pyrido-derivatives.
Synthesis of chiral lactams via asymmetric hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated nitriles
Authors: Kong Duanyang , Li Meina , Zi Guofu , Hou Guohua
Published: March 2016

A highly efficient Rh-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated nitriles containing ester/amide groups is reported affording chiral nitriles with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 99.7% ee) and high activity (TON up to 10 000).
Intramolecular addition of diarylmethanols to imines promoted by KOt-Bu/DMF: a new synthetic approach to indole derivatives
Authors: Chen Jia-hua , Chen Zi-cong , Zhao Hong , Zhang Ting , Wang Wei-juan , Zou Yong , Zhang Xue-jing , Yan Ming
Published: March 2016

KOt-Bu/DMF promoted intramolecular addition of diarylmethanols to imines was developed.
Enhanced dielectric breakdown strength and energy storage density in lead-free relaxor ferroelectric ceramics prepared using transition liquid phase sintering
Authors: Qu Bingyue , Du Hongliang , Yang Zetian , Liu Qinghui , Liu Tonghao
Published: March 2016

Lead-free relaxor ferroelectric ceramics have been widely explored for high power energy storage applications because of their high polarization saturation and low remnant polarization.
Evolution of morphologies of a PE-b-PEO block copolymer in an epoxy solvent induced by polymerization followed by crystallization-driven self-assembly of PE blocks during cooling
Authors: Puig Julieta , Zucchi Ileana A. , Ceolín Marcelo , Schroeder Walter F. , Williams Roberto J. J.
Published: March 2016

This work reports how to generate complex nanostructures in an epoxy network by combining polymerization-induced nanostructuration with crystallization-driven self-assembly of a semicrystalline block copolymer.
A particle–carbon matrix architecture for long-term cycle stability of ZnFe2O4 anode
Authors: Wang Qiuxian , Yue Hongyun , Du Ting , Zhang Wanli , Qiao Yun , Dong Hongyu , Yin Yanhong , Yang Shuting
Published: March 2016

A particle–carbon matrix architecture of ZnFe2O4 exhibited good electrochemical performance as an anode in lithium-ion cells.
Hydrogen generation from reactions of hydrides with hydrated solids in the solid state
Authors: Chen Jun , Wang Cong , Wu Yong , Fu He , Zheng Jie , Li Xingguo
Published: March 2016

Using hydrated solids instead of water, the hydrolysis reaction of hydrides can occur in the solid state, providing a temperature activated and controlled approach for onsite hydrogen generation. Gravimetric hydrogen capacity is higher than 2.7%.
Biomimetic tumor-induced angiogenesis and anti-angiogenic therapy in a microfluidic model
Authors: Liu Lilu , Xie Zhaorong , Zhang Wenyuan , Fang Shimeng , Kong Jing , Jin Dong , Li Jiao , Li Xiaojie , Yang Xuesong , Luo Yong , Lin Bingcheng , Liu Tingjiao
Published: March 2016

Mimickingin vivoangiogenesis on a microfluidic model and application on testing drug potential to inhibit angiogenesis.
LC-MS/MS signal enhancement for estrogenic hormones in water samples using experimental design
Authors: Karapinar Ilgi , Ertaş F. Nil , Şahintürk Binnaz , Aftafa Can , Kiliç Ela
Published: March 2016

Present paper describes the optimization of LC-MS/MS conditions by using experimental design for selective and sensitive determination of estrogenic hormones namely estradiol (E2), estrone (E1), estriol (E3) and ethinyl estradiol (EE2).
Iron-chelating agent desferrioxamine stimulates formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in human blood-derived neutrophils
Authors: Völlger Lena , Akong-Moore Kathryn , Cox Linda , Goldmann Oliver , Wang Yanming , Schäfer Simon T. , Naim Hassan Y. , Nizet Victor , von Köckritz-Blickwede Maren
Published: March 2016

Neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation is a significant innate immune defense mechanism against microbial infection that complements other neutrophil functions including phagocytosis and degranulation of antimicrobial peptides. NETs are decondensed chromatin structures in which antimicrobial components (histones, antimicrobial peptides and proteases) are deployed and mediate immobilization of microbes. Here we describe an effect of iron chelation on the phenotype of NET formation. Iron-chelating agent desferrioxamine (DFO) showed a modest but significant induction of NETs by freshly isolated human neutrophils as visualized and quantified by immunocytochemistry against histone–DNA complexes. Further analyses revealed that NET induction by iron chelation required NADPH-dependent production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as protease and peptidyl-arginine-deiminase 4 (PAD4) activities, three key mechanistic pathways previously linked to NET formation. Our results demonstrate that iron chelation by DFO contributes to the formation of NETs and suggest a target for pharmacological manipulation of NET activity.
Cow's Milk Protein Allergy and Pediatric Dysphagia: A Case Study
Authors: Melkonian Angela , DiMattia Michelle
Published: March 2016

Children with food allergies are challenging, particularly as the impact of allergy on the aerodigestive tract can affect swallowing and willingness to feed. The purpose of this article is to highlight the role of the speech-language pathologist (SLP) working with medically involved children in early stages of food allergy diagnosis, with comorbidities that complicate the process of diagnosing and managing dysphagia. Patients are often referred to the SLP at the onset of various feeding and swallowing problems. The SLP should be able to recognize the manifestations of allergy on the aerodigestive tract as it relates to dysphagia, assess for risk factors for allergy, understand the findings and limitations of allergy testing, and identify children who are appropriate for referral to other members of the pediatric interdisciplinary team, including allergists, gastroenterologists, pulmonologists, otolaryngologists, and nutritionists.
The Neural Control of Oropharyngeal Somatosensation and Taste: A Review for Clinicians
Authors: Rajappa Akila , Malandraki Georgia A.
Published: March 2016

Sensory input mechanisms are important in facilitating and modulating swallowing responses through a complex neural network including both peripheral and central pathways. Adequate knowledge of this network is essential for clinicians assessing and treating sensory impairments in adult and pediatric patients with swallowing disorders. This article provides a brief but comprehensive overview on oropharyngeal somatosensation and taste, and their neural underpinnings, in order to increase clinicians' understanding of this control and how it can be therapeutically modulated.
160 dB dynamic range pixel with charge compensation for CMOS image sensor
Authors: Li Zhaohan , Wang Xinyang , Li Bing , Chang Yuchun
Published: March 2016

A 160 dB high dynamic range pixel architecture with charge compensation technique for CMOS image sensor (CIS) is presented. Employing a built‐in charge compensation photodiode, the operation mode of the proposed pixel can switch between linear mode and logarithmic mode automatically according to the incident light intensity. The measured result shows a CIS with the proposed pixel architecture has a dynamic range up to 160.9 dB with an output swing of 1.9 V. Moreover, this scheme does not require complex control circuits and complicated timing sequence.
Two‐dimensional spatiochromatic signal processing using concept of phasors in sequency domain
Authors: Jabeen D. , Monir G.
Published: March 2016

Spatiochromatic information of colour images is analysed in sequency domain using CIE La*b* colour space. RGB image is processed in transform domain using spatiochromatic‐conjugate symmetric sequency ordered complex Hadamard transform (SC‐CS‐SCHT). Spatiochromatic vectors (a*, b* and a*b*) are considered as real, imaginary and complex inputs to the SC‐CS‐SCHT. This transform has symmetry properties that are similar to the discrete Fourier transform. Resultant phasor paths are observed with respect to different input signals along the unit complex plane. In sequency domain opponent colour paths are discussed and applied on two‐dimensional signals. Peak signal‐to‐noise ratio is measured for ideal lowpass filter.
Low‐power bottom‐plate sampling capacitor‐splitting DAC for SAR ADCs
Authors: Yazdani B. , Khorami A. , Sharifkhani M.
Published: March 2016

A highly energy‐efficient switching method for capacitor‐splitting digital‐to‐analogue converter (DAC) in successive approximation register (SAR) analogue‐to‐digital converters (ADCs) is presented. In the proposed DAC, a bottom‐plate sampling method is introduced which requires only one reference voltage (Vcm = 1/2Vref) during the entire DAC switching steps. Therefore, in addition to the switching energy reduction, the precision of the DAC is increased since only one reference voltage is used. The DAC average switching energy and the area are reduced by 98.44% and 50% compared with the conventional binary weighted DAC.
High frequency inverter topologies integrated with the coupled inductor bridge arm
Authors: Hu Yihua , Ji Bing , Finney Stephen , Xiao Weidong , Cao Wengping
Published: March 2016

A new topology of the high frequency alternating current (HFAC) inverter bridge arm is proposed which comprises a coupled inductor, a switching device and an active clamp circuit. Based on it, new single‐phase and three‐phase inverters are proposed and their operating states are analysed along with the traditional H‐bridge inverter. Multi‐phase and multi‐level isolated inverters are also developed using the HFAC bridge arm. Furthermore, based on the proposed HFAC, a front‐end DC–DC converter is also developed for photovoltaic systems to demonstrate the application of the proposed HFAC converter. Simulation and experimental results from prototype converters are carried out to validate the proposed topologies which can be utilised widely in high frequency power conversion applications such as induction heating and wireless power transfer.
Generalized theoretical method for the interaction between arbitrary nonuniform electric field and molecular vibrations: Toward near-field infrared spectroscopy and microscopy
Authors: Iwasa Takeshi , Takenaka Masato , Taketsugu Tetsuya
Published: March 2016

A theoretical method to compute infrared absorption spectra when a molecule is interacting with an arbitrary nonuniform electric field such as near-fields is developed and numerically applied to simple model systems. The method is based on the multipolar Hamiltonian where the light-matter interaction is described by a spatial integral of the inner product of the molecular polarization and applied electric field. The computation scheme is developed under the harmonic approximation for the molecular vibrations and the framework of modern electronic structure calculations such as the density functional theory. Infrared reflection absorption and near-field infrared absorption are considered as model systems. The obtained IR spectra successfully reflect the spatial structure of the applied electric field and corresponding vibrational modes, demonstrating applicability of the present method to analyze modern nanovibrational spectroscopy using near-fields. The present method can use arbitral electric fields and thus can integrate two fields such as computational chemistry and electromagnetics.
Geothermal heat pump application for CO2 reduction using Clean Development Mechanism
Authors: Nakomcic-Smaragdakis Branka , Dragutinovic Natasa
Published: March 2016

Geothermal heat pumps have several advantages over conventional heating and cooling systems. They can operate in both winter and summer, have high efficiencies, and do not directly emit any greenhouse gases during operation. Investors (in developing countries) can use Clean Development Mechanism as a source of financing for new or existing renewable energy facilities by selling Certified Emission Reductions credits (CERs), which represent the amount of CO2 emission (1 CER = 1 tCO2eq) that is avoided using renewable energy. The aim of this paper is to analyze the possibility of CO2 reduction by using geothermal heat pumps for fossil fuel displacement with applying Clean Development Mechanism. Results have shown that by using geothermal heat pumps during a 7-year crediting period, the estimated emission reduction would be 79.45 tCO2 (equal to 80 CERs), enabling the investor to achieve profit from selling 80 CERs and thus helping to fund the proposed project activity. Three main factors which influence the amount of CO2 reduction have been identified: carbon-dioxide emission factor for electricity source, efficiency of technology used for baseline scenario, and coefficient of performance (COP) of heat pumps.
Fighting fire in the heat of the day: an analysis of operational and environmental conditions of use for large airtankers in United States fire suppression
Authors: Stonesifer Crystal S. , Calkin David E. , Thompson Matthew P. , Stockmann Keith D.
Published: March 2016

Large airtanker use is widespread in wildfire suppression in the United States. The current approach to nationally dispatching the fleet of federal contract airtankers relies on filling requests for airtankers to achieve suppression objectives identified by fire managers at the incident level. In general, demand is met if resources are available, and the dispatch model assumes that this use is both necessary and effective. However, proof of effectiveness under specific conditions of use in complex environments has not been empirically established. We geospatially intersected historical drop data from the federal contract large airtanker fleet with operational and environmental factors to provide a post hoc assessment of conditions of use for the 2010–12 fire seasons in the conterminous United States. Our findings confirm previous results demonstrating extensive use in extended attack. Additionally, we show that use is generally within guidelines for operational application (aircraft speed and height above ground level) and often outside of environmental guidelines suggestive of conditions conducive for most effective use, including drop timing with respect to response phase (initial attack v. extended attack), terrain, fuels and time of day. Finally, our results suggest that proximity to human populations plays a role in whether airtankers are dispatched, suggesting that prioritisation of community protection is an important consideration. This work advances efforts to understand the economic effectiveness of aviation use in federal fire suppression.
Comprehensive mutagenesis of thefimSpromoter regulatory switch reveals novel regulation of type 1 pili in uropathogenicEscherichia coli
Authors: Zhang Huibin , Susanto Teodorus T. , Wan Yue , Chen Swaine L.
Published: March 2016

Significance

Urinary tract infections are common infections caused mostly by uropathogenicEscherichia coli(UPEC). Type 1 pili (T1P) are important UPEC virulence factors and thus are attractive therapeutic targets. T1P expression is highly regulated and phase variable, resulting in piliated and nonpiliated bacteria in an otherwise clonal population. Regulation converges at the invertiblefimS(fimswitch) regulatory sequence. We performed the first (to our knowledge) comprehensive analysis offimSmutations affecting phase variation in vivo in a clinical UPEC strain. We identified a previously unknown regulatory element that affects T1P expression and coordinates the expression of other pili, processes that facilitate infection by UPEC. This method may enable comprehensive studies of phase variation in other pathogens and other regulated DNA dynamics in general.
Predation by American White Pelicans and Double-Crested Cormorants on Catchable-Sized Hatchery Rainbow Trout in Select Idaho Lentic Waters
Authors: Meyer Kevin A. , Sullivan Christopher L. , Kennedy Patrick , Schill Daniel J. , Teuscher David M. , Brimmer Arnie F. , King D. Tommy
Published: March 2016

In southern Idaho, population growth of American white pelicans Pelecanus erythorhynchos at the Blackfoot Reservoir and Lake Walcott colonies since the early 1990s has generated concerns about whether pelican predation is impacting angler catch of hatchery trout stocked in Idaho waters. To evaluate this concern, we estimated rates of pelican predation (i.e., the proportion of fish consumed by pelicans) and angler catch (i.e., the proportion of fish caught by anglers) for 19 unique springtime fish stocking events over 3 years across 12 study waters; where feasible we also estimated double-crested cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus predation. Stocked Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss averaged 247 mm in length and were internally PIT-tagged (to monitor bird predation) and externally anchor-tagged (to monitor angler catch) before stocking. Additional hatchery trout were PIT-tagged, euthanized, and fed directly to pelicans to estimate PIT tag deposition rates at the colonies; feeding was unsuccessful for cormorants. After the juvenile pelicans and cormorants fledged in the fall, we recovered PIT tags from stocked and fed fish that were deposited at the two colonies. Deposition rates for pelican-consumed tags averaged 21% and declined exponentially as distance increased from the colonies. Pelican predation on hatchery trout averaged 18% and ranged from 0 to 48%, whereas angler catch averaged 21% and ranged from 0 to 82%. Mean angler catch was nearly four times higher when pelican predation was low (i.e., <25%) than when pelican predation was high (≥25%). Cormorant predation estimates (available for seven stocking events) were minimum estimates only (i.e., they assumed 100% of tags consumed by cormorants were recovered) and averaged 14% (range, 2–38%). Our results suggest that predation by American white pelicans and double-crested cormorants on catchable-sized hatchery Rainbow Trout stocked in southern Idaho waters often exceeds the total catch of those fish by anglers who compete directly with avian predators for use of stocked trout.

Received June 23, 2015; accepted November 8, 2015 Published online March 30, 2016
Sherds of Paradise: Domestic Archaeology and Ceramic Artefacts from a Protestant Mission in the South Pacific
Authors: Flexner James L. , Ball Andrew C.
Published: March 2016

Postmedieval protestant missionaries working in exotic locations used objects both as a marker of their own ‘civilisation’ in contrast to that of the local populations and as a means of engaging these communities with Christianity. European things were displayed and conspicuously used to encourage a consumer mindset and interest in capitalism, thought to be crucial steps on the path to full conversion. Excavations at a Presbyterian mission house on Tanna Island, Vanuatu, recovered a remarkable assemblage of nineteenth-century British-made transfer-printed ceramics for such a remote location. These objects reflect multiple, complex meanings including performance of a ‘civilised’ British identity, romanticized ideals of pastoral landscapes, and conceptions of death and rebirth in the afterlife. These meanings were complicated by the context of cross-cultural interactions that were necessary to the missionary project.
Psychomotor Therapy as an Additive Intervention for Violent Forensic Psychiatric Inpatients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Zwets Almar J. , Hornsveld Ruud H. J. , Muris Peter , Kanters Thijs , Langstraat Egbert , van Marle Hjalmar J. C.
Published: March 2016

The first results of psychomotor therapy (PMT) as an additional component to Aggression Replacement Training (ART) were explored in a group of forensic psychiatric inpatients ( N = 37). Patients were divided into two groups: ART+PMT (experimental group) and ART+Sports (control group). Primary outcome measures of aggression, anger, and social behavior, and secondary outcome measures of coping behavior and bodily awareness during anger were administered on three occasions: pretreatment, posttreatment (after 35 sessions), and follow-up (15 weeks after the final session). The combined group (experimental and control group) showed clinically significant improvements on observed social behavior, observed aggressive behavior, and self-reported anger, but there were no differences in treatment effects between the experimental group and the control group on these primary outcome measures. However, on secondary outcome measures of bodily awareness during anger and coping behavior, the experimental group displayed somewhat more improvement than the control group. Altogether, the results of this pilot study indicate that the addition of PMT to a treatment program for violent forensic inpatients may indeed result in improvements on specific treatment goals of PMT, whereas its effects on aggressive behavior needs further examination.
Age of acquisition ratings score better on criterion validity than frequency trajectory or ratings “corrected” for frequency
Authors: Brysbaert Marc
Published: March 2016

From the very first studies on the effect of age of acquisition (AoA) on word processing, researchers have validated their AoA ratings by correlating them with other, more objective indices of the age at which children know words. Still, the ratings have been questioned, and alternative measures have been proposed. Two of these are differences in word frequency between language directed at young children and language directed at older children (frequency trajectory) and AoA ratings corrected for word frequency. Surprisingly, the criterion validity of these alternative measures has never been established, partly because one of the validation criteria (the age at which children are able to name pictures) has been questioned. In the present study, four databases are used that aimed to establish the order of English word acquisition, going from the very first words learned to words taught in secondary education. The criteria for word knowledge included word production, multiple-choice questions about the meaning of the words, and teacher judgments about when words should be taught in the school curriculum. For all databases, the frequency trajectory correlated substantially less with the criterion than AoA ratings. For all but one, the same was true for AoA ratings “corrected” for other variables. On the basis of these findings, researchers should be cautious interpreting null effects with the “improved” variables as evidence against a genuine AoA effect.
Dynamic crystal rotation resolved by high-speed synchrotron X-ray Laue diffraction
Authors: Huang J. W. , E J. C. , Huang J. Y. , Sun T. , Fezzaa K. , Luo S. N.
Published: March 2016

Dynamic compression experiments are performed on single-crystal Si under split Hopkinson pressure bar loading, together with simultaneous high-speed (250–350 ns resolution) synchrotron X-ray Laue diffraction and phase-contrast imaging. A methodology is presented which determines crystal rotation parameters,i.e.instantaneous rotation axes and angles, from two unindexed Laue diffraction spots. Two-dimensional translation is obtained from dynamic imaging by a single camera. High-speed motion of crystals, including translation and rotation, can be tracked in real timeviasimultaneous imaging and diffraction.
Crystal structure of a tetranuclear CuIIcomplex with anO,N,N′-donor Schiff base ligand: hexa-μ2-acetato-bis(2-{[(2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-4-yl)imino]methyl}phenolato-κ3O,N,N′)tetracopper(II)
Authors: Huang Guohui , Liu Xiaoxuan
Published: March 2016

The title compound, [Cu4(CH3COO)6(C16H23N2O)2], lies across a twofold rotation axis. The asymmetric unit contains two independent CuIIions. The symmetry-unique terminal CuIIion isO,N,N′-coordinated by a 2-{[(2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-4-yl)imino]methyl}phenolate ligand and an O atom from an acetate group in a slightly distorted square-planar coordination environment. The symmetry-unique central CuIIion is coordinated by a different O atom from the same acetate group and by four bridging acetate ligands, which connect the asymmetric unit into a dimeric complex and form a distorted square-pyramidal coordination environment. Within the complex there are two symmetry-equivalent intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bonds. In the crystal, weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds link the complex molecules, forming a three-dimensional network.
Crystal structures of threeN-(arylsulfonyl)-4-fluorobenzamides
Authors: Suchetan P. A. , Naveen S. , Lokanath N. K. , Srivishnu K. S. , Supriya G. M. , Lakshmikantha H. N.
Published: March 2016

The crystal structures of threeN-arylsulfonyl-4-fluorobenzamides, namely 4-fluoro-N-(2-methylphenylsulfonyl)benzamide, C14H12FNO3S, (I),N-(2-chlorophenylsulfonyl)-4-fluorobenzamide, C13H9ClFNO3S, (II), andN-(4-chlorophenylsulfonyl)-4-fluorobenzamide monohydrate, C13H9ClFNO3S·H2O, (III), are described and compared with related structures. The asymmetric unit of (I) contains two independent molecules (AandB), while that of (II) contains just one molecule, and that of (III) contains a molecule of water in addition to one main molecule. The dihedral angle between the benzene rings is 82.83 (11)° in moleculeAand 85.01 (10)° in moleculeBof (I), compared to 89.91 (10)° in (II) and 81.82 (11)° in (III). The crystal structure of (I) features strong N—H...O hydrogen bonds between theAandBmolecules, resulting in anR44(16) tetrameric unit. These tetrameric units are connected into sheets in thebcplane by various C—H...O interactions, and adjacent sheets are further interlinkedviaC—H...πarylinteractions, forming a three-dimensional architecture. The crystal structure is further stabilized by πaryl–πaryland S=O...πarylinteractions. In the crystal of (II), molecules are connected intoR22(8) andR22(14) dimersviaN—H...O hydrogen bonds and C—H...O interactions, respectively; the dimers are further interconnectedviaa weak C=O...πarylinteraction, leading to the formation of chains along [1-10]. In the crystal of (III), N—H...O and O—H...O hydrogen bonds involving both the main molecule and the solvent water molecule results in the formation of sheets parallel to thebcplane. The sheets are further connected by C—H...O interactions and weak C—Cl...πaryl, C—F...πaryland S=O...πarylinteractions, forming a three-dimensional architecture.
n-Culturals: modeling the multicultural identity
Authors: Pekerti Andre Anugerah , Thomas David Clinton
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to extend current conceptualizations of multicultural individuals by mapping the underlying elements of knowledge, identification, commitment and internalization as components of multicultural identity. It aims to extend discussions of how multicultural individuals manage their multiculturality.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper draws primarily on extant works on multicultural individuals and identity. The paper reviews a number of concepts relevant to multicultural identity to introduce the existence of a population calledn-Culturals who represent a complex type that exists on one extreme of a continuum of multicultural identity. The paper derives a theory ofn-Culturalism which represents a more nuanced theory of the multicultural identity.

Findings

–n-Culturals recognizes that elements of multicultural identity exist within individuals to a greater or lesser extent and that their combination results in a comprehensive understanding of the entire range of multicultural identities.n-Culturalism extends current views that multicultural individuals maintain multiple saliences of their identities rather than switching modes to manage their multiculturality.

Research limitations/implications

– The conceptual nature of the paper implies that there are no existing empirical data apart from anecdotal examples; at the same time this fact provides ample opportunities to test the theory.

Practical implications

– First, the findings provides an understanding of multiple cultural influences on acculturative stress and on performance across a range of domains as well as measuring multicultural identity. Second, by understanding the way in whichn-Culturals develop the authors may gain valuable insights in modeling this process.

Originality/value

– The paper develops a new theory of approaching the challenges faced by multicultural individuals, that is, how to manage their multiculturality. The theory goes beyond current views of switching modes or suppression, and suggests maintaining and balancing multiple identities.
Cost-optimization modelling for fresh food quality and transportation
Authors: Nakandala Dilupa , Lau Henry , Zhang Jingjing
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– All along the length of the supply chain, fresh food firms face the challenge of managing both product quality, due to the perishable nature of the products, and product cost. The purpose of this paper to develop a method to assist logistics managers upstream in the fresh food supply chain in making cost optimized decisions regarding transportation, with the objective of minimizing the total cost while maintaining the quality of food products above acceptable levels.

Design/methodology/approach

– Considering the case of multiple fresh food products collected from multiple farms being transported to a warehouse or a retailer, this study develops a total cost model that includes various costs incurred during transportation. The practical application of the model is illustrated by using several computational intelligence approaches including genetic algorithms (GA), fuzzy genetic algorithms (FGA) as well as an improved simulated annealing (SA) procedure applied with a repair mechanism for efficiency benchmarking. The authors demonstrate the practical viability of these approaches by using a simulation study based on pertinent data and evaluate the simulation outcomes.

Findings

– The application of the proposed total cost model was demonstrated using three approaches of GA, FGA and SA with a repair mechanism. All three approaches are adoptable; however, based on the performance evaluation, it was evident that the FGA is more likely to produce a better performance than the other two approaches of GA and SA.

Practical implications

– This study provides a pragmatic approach for supporting logistics and supply chain practitioners in fresh food industry in making important decisions on the arrangements and procedures related to the transportation of multiple fresh food products to a warehouse from multiple farms in a cost-effective way without compromising product quality.

Originality/value

– This study extends the literature on cold supply chain management by investigating cost and quality optimization in a multi-product scenario from farms to a retailer and, minimizing cost by managing the quality above expected quality levels at delivery. The scalability of the proposed generic function enables the application to alternative situations in practice such as different storage environments and transportation conditions, etc.
Determinants of continuance intention to use the smartphone banking services
Authors: Susanto Aries , Chang Younghoon , Ha Youngwook
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– Existing research in the electronic banking area has not deeply investigated the determinants of continuance intention to use smartphone banking services. The purpose of this paper is to attempt to do so by investigating continuance use intention at the post-consumption phase.

Design/methodology/approach

– It developed and validated an extended framework based on the expectation-confirmation model (ECM). A total of 301 smartphone users who subscribed to online banking services participated in the study.

Findings

– The results revealed that users’ confirmation after the initial use of smartphone banking services has significant impact on perceived security, perceived usefulness, trust, and user satisfaction. Perceived security significantly influences trust while perceived usefulness significantly influences trust, user satisfaction, and continuance use intention. Both user satisfaction and self-efficacy also significantly influence continuance use intention. Trust exerts significant impact on user satisfaction. The findings have implications for banks in planning their strategies to increase consumers’ continuance intention to use smartphone banking services.

Originality/value

– Most studies have focussed only technology adoption and have paid little attention on use continuance in the context of electronic or smartphone banking. This manuscript fills the gap by focussing on the post-consumption phase. In special, the manuscript develops an extended framework based on the ECM to address IS use continuance. In addition, the topic is timely as mobile internet has been flourishing in the world.
Postponement and logistics flexibility in retailing: a multiple case study from Sweden
Authors: Jafari Hamid , Nyberg Anna , Hilletofth Per
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore how postponement is applied in retailing and how such application is connected to logistics flexibility.

Design/methodology/approach

– An overview of the established typological classifications of postponement and logistics flexibility is presented followed by empirical results from three case studies of retailers of electronics, furniture, and grocery in Sweden. The study relies on primary qualitative data gathered on the retailers as well as secondary material on some suppliers including logistics providers for further insight.

Findings

– The results of the study show that retailers have different practices when it comes to postponement and speculation; however, there is a growing tendency toward postponement among retailers by exploring new means of applying postponement. The results reveal that retailers that have higher application of postponement seem to be more flexible in their logistics operations.

Research limitations/implications

– The paper provides direction for further empirical research of the topic, by indicating the application of postponement is not constrained to the point of purchase and could be extended by involving consumers as well as capitalizing on suppliers’ competences and capabilities. Especially, sales services, software, and upgrades could provide opportunity for further expanding the concept.

Originality/value

– The paper contributes to the existing literature on logistics practices of postponement and speculation, as well as logistics flexibility by focussing on retail firms in Sweden. Most of the prior scholarly work on postponement and flexibility is on the manufacturing context.