bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do planktonic rotifers rely on terrestrial organic matter as a food source in reservoir ecosystems?
Authors: Wilk‐Woźniak Elżbieta , Pociecha Agnieszka , Amirowicz Antoni , Gąsiorowski Michał , Gadzinowska Joanna
Published: March 2014

We studied the effect of input of allochthonous organic matter on rotifers in a medium‐sized (9.8 km2) reservoir correlating rotifer abundance to values of δ13C in a sestonic fraction of ≥10 µm. Total density of rotifers during the study period was significantly correlated with tributary inflow during the time preceding the sampling date, with a delay of about 10–13 days. Concomitant with elevated tributary inflow, the δ13C value in the sestonic fraction of plankton samples decreased approaching a level typical of terrestrial material. Thus, the response in rotifer production might be due to the input of energy in the form of dissolved and/or particulate allochthonous organic matter that becomes available to the rotifers through the microbial food web.
Development of monetite–nanosilica bone cement: A preliminary study
Authors: Zhou Huan , Luchini Timothy J. F. , Agarwal Anand K. , Goel Vijay K. , Bhaduri Sarit B.
Published: March 2014

In this paper, we reported the results of our efforts in developing DCPA/nanosilica composite orthopedic cement. It is motivated by the significances of DCPA and silicon in bone physiological activities. More specifically, this paper examined the effects of various experimental parameters on the properties of such composite cements. In this work, DCPA cement powders were synthesized using a microwave synthesis technique. Mixing colloidal nanosilica directly with synthesized DCPA cement powders can significantly reduce the washout resistance of DCPA cement. In contrast, a DCPA–nanosilica cement powder prepared by reacting Ca(OH)2, H3PO4 and nanosilica together showed good washout resistance. The incorporation of nanosilica in DCPA can improve compressive strength, accelerate cement solidification, and intensify surface bioactivity. In addition, it was observed that by controlling the content of NaHCO3 during cement preparation, the resulting composite cement properties could be modified. Allowing for the development of different setting times, mechanical performance and crystal features. It is suggested that DCPA–nanosilica composite cement can be a potential candidate for bone healing applications. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B, 102B: 1620–1626, 2014.
Chemically crosslinked alginate porous microcarriers modified with bioactive molecule for expansion of human hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Li Chunge , Zhao Shuang , Zhao Yanyan , Qian Yufeng , Li Junjie , Yin Yuji
Published: March 2014

Microcarrier is an essential matrix for the large‐scale culture of anchorage‐dependent cells. In this study, chemical cross‐linked alginate porous microcarriers (AMC) were prepared using microemulsion and freeze‐drying technology. Moreover, chitosan was coated on the surface of microcarriers (AMC‐CS) via electrostatic interactions to improve the mechanical strength. The size of AMC can be modulated through adjusting the concentration of alginate, amount of dispersant and stirring rate. The surface chemical characteristics and morphology of AMC‐CS were evaluated by Fourier transformed infrared, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscope. Fibronectin (Fn) or heparin/basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) was then immobilized on the surface of microcarriers via layer‐by‐layer technology to improve the cytocompatibility. Our data suggested that the size of AMC can be accurately modulated from 90 μm to 900 μm with a narrow size distribution. Micropore structures of AMC‐CS were relatively disordered and the pore size ranged between 20 μm and 100 μm. Using AMC after modified with Fn or bFGF as the cell expansion microcarriers, we showed that the proliferation rates of HepG2 cells increased significantly, reaching to more than 30‐fold of cell expansion after 10 days of culture, with minor cellular damage caused by the microcarriers. Moreover, the AMC microcarriers modified with Fn or bFGF can increase albumin secretion of HepG2. We suggest that our new modified AMC‐based microcarriers will be an attractive candidate for the large‐scale cell culture of therapeutic cells. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B, 102B: 1648–1658, 2014.
Evolution of vertebrate viviparity and specializations for fetal nutrition: A quantitative and qualitative analysis
Authors: Blackburn Daniel G.
Published: March 2014

Phylogenetic analyses indicate that viviparity (live‐bearing reproduction) has originated independently in more than 150 vertebrate lineages, including a minimum of 115 clades of extant squamate reptiles. Other evolutionary origins of viviparity include 13 origins among bony fishes, nine among chondrichthyans, eight in amphibians, one in Paleozoic placoderms, six among extinct reptiles, and one in mammals. The origins of viviparity range geologically from the mid‐Paleozoic through the Mesozoic to the Pleistocene. Substantial matrotrophy (maternal provision of nutrients to embryos during pregnancy) has arisen at least 33 times in these viviparous clades, with most (26) of these origins having occurred among fishes and amphibians. Convergent evolution in patterns of matrotrophy is widespread, as reflected by multiple independent origins of placentotrophy, histotrophy, oophagy, and embryophagy. Specializations for nutrient transfer to embryos are discontinuously distributed, reflecting the roles of phylogenetic inertia, exaptation (preadaptation), and constraint. Ancestral features that function in gas exchange and nutrition repeatedly and convergently have been co‐opted for nutrient transfer, often through minor modification of their components and changes in the timing of their expression (heterochrony). Studies on functional and evolutionary morphology continue to play a central role in our attempts to understand viviparity and mechanisms of fetal nutrition. J. Morphol. 276:961–990, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interstitial amino acid concentrations in rodent brain tissue during chemical ischemia
Authors: Wölfer Johannes , Gorji A. , Speckmann Erwin‐Josef , Wassmann Hansdetlef
Published: March 2014

The significance of electrophysiological phenomena is well validated in brain ischemia research. A close link with interstitial amino acid levels has not been proved convincingly but is generally assumed. This has given widespread rise to the clinical method of amino acid, especially glutamate, microdialysis. We combined microdialytic and electrophysiological techniques in an in vitro ischemia model to test for such a correlation. Rodent hippocampal brain slices were subjected to various patterns of ischemic simulation by depletion of glucose and oxygen and to K+ superfusion, which is often used as an alternative stressor. Our data do not strengthen the significance of clinically standardized glutamate measurements, insofar as ischemia‐induced damage was demonstrated by electrophysiology and histology before being clearly mirrored by interstitial glutamate levels. Taurine would be a more promising candidate. K+ is not an adequate substitute for ischemic simulation, because biochemical and electrophysiological reactions of the tissue are clearly different. In vitro microdialysis during ischemic simulation is feasible and might provide a tool to inquire into glial functions during ischemic stress. It is probably not able to elucidate processes within the synaptic cleft. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Applying parallel factor analysis and Tucker‐3 methods on sensory and instrumental data to establish preference maps: case study on sweet corn varieties
Authors: Gere Attila , Losó Viktor , Györey Annamária , Kovács Sándor , Huzsvai László , Nábrádi András , Kókai Zoltán , Sipos László
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

Traditional internal and external preference mapping methods are based on principal component analysis (PCA). However, parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) and Tucker‐3 methods could be a better choice. To evaluate the methods, preference maps of sweet corn varieties will be introduced.

RESULTS

A preference map of eight sweet corn varieties was established using PARAFAC and Tucker‐3 methods. Instrumental data were also integrated into the maps. The triplot created by the PARAFAC model explains better how odour is separated from texture or appearance, and how some varieties are separated from others.

CONCLUSION

Internal and external preference maps were created using parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) and Tucker‐3 models employing both sensory (trained panel and consumers) and instrumental parameters simultaneously. Triplots of the applied three‐way models have a competitive advantage compared to the traditional biplots of the PCA‐based external preference maps. The solution of PARAFAC and Tucker‐3 is very similar regarding the interpretation of the first and third factors. The main difference is due to the second factor as it differentiated the attributes better. Consumers who prefer ‘super sweet’ varieties (they place great emphasis especially on taste) are much younger and have significantly higher incomes, and buy sweet corn products rarely (once a month). Consumers who consume sweet corn products mainly because of their texture and appearance are significantly older and include a higher ratio of men. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Etiology and management of hepatic artery thrombosis after adult liver transplantation
Authors: Mourad Moustafa Mabrouk , Liossis Christos , Gunson Bridget K. , Mergental Hynek , Isaac John , Muiesan Paolo , Mirza Darius F. , Perera Thamara M. P. R. , Bramhall Simon R.
Published: March 2014

Hepatic artery thrombosis (HAT) represents a major cause of graft loss and mortality after liver transplantation. It occurs in up to 9% of adult recipients. The early diagnosis of HAT decreases septic complications, multiorgan failure, and graft loss, and there are better outcomes after treatment. In this study, we reviewed 102 episodes of HAT, which were classified as early hepatic artery thrombosis (E-HAT) when they were diagnosed within the first 21 days after transplantation. The overall incidence of HAT was 7%: 31 episodes (30.4%) were identified as E-HAT, and 71 episodes (69.6%) were identified as late hepatic artery thrombosis (L-HAT). Graft dysfunction was the commonest presentation (30 cases or 29%). Most E-HAT cases were managed with retransplantation (74%), whereas early revascularization was carried out for only 13% with a 75% success rate. The incidence of retransplantation for L-HAT was only 41%, whereas 32% were too ill for relisting and eventually died. Successful conservative management was noted for 13 of the 102 patients (13%) with collateralization and good hepatic perfusion, with biliary complications encountered in 7 cases (54%) subsequently. A multivariate analysis showed that previous episodes of HAT, the number of arterial anastomoses, and a low donor weight were independent risk factors for E-HAT, whereas a history of upper abdominal operations (non-HAT), a previous history of HAT, a low donor weight, and a recipient age < 50 years were independent risk factors for L-HAT. The graft survival rates for HAT patients were 52%, 36.6%, and 27.4% at 1, 3, and 5 years, whereas the corresponding rates were 81.4%, 81.2%, and 76.4% for non-HAT patients. In conclusion, prompt revascularization for E-HAT patients decreases the incidence of serious, irreversible septic complications and graft loss and improves overall outcomes. A significant number of L-HAT patients do not require further intervention despite the high incidence of ischemic cholangiopathy. Liver Transpl 20:713-723, 2014. © 2014 AASLD.
Synthesis of polythiophene/graphene oxide composites by interfacial polymerization and evaluation of their electrical and electrochemical properties
Authors: Bora Chandramika , Pegu Rupa , Saikia Bhaskar J , Dolui Swapan K
Published: March 2014

We report a new method for the synthesis of polythiophene (PTh)/graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposites by interfacial polymerization. Polymerization occurred at the interface of two immiscible solvents, i.e. n‐hexane containing thiophene and nitromethane containing GO and an initiator. Characterizations were done using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and electrochemical and electrical conductivity measurements. Spectroscopic analyses showed successful incorporation of GO in the PTh matrix. Morphological analysis revealed good dispersion of GO sheets in the polymer matrix. The PTh/GO composites showed marked improvements in thermal stability and electrical conductivity (2.7 × 10−4 S cm−1) compared to pure PTh. The composites exhibited excellent electrochemical reversibility compared to pure PTh at a scan rate of 0.1 V s−1. The composites were stable even up to 100 electrochemical cycles, indicating good cycle performance. The specific capacitance of the composites was calculated using cyclic voltammetry and was found to be 99 F g−1. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Domino free radical photopolymerization based on phototriggered base proliferation reaction and redox initiation
Authors: He Minghui , Jiang Shun , Xu Ruixin , Yang Jianwen , Zeng Zhaohua , Chen Guangxue
Published: March 2014

A detailed evaluation of the kinetics of domino free radical photopolymerization (DFRP) based on phototriggered base proliferation reaction and redox initiation was described in the condition of eliminating the heat of polymerization via reacting in the thin polymer films. First, domino photoinitiating system made a substantial breakthrough in the photoefficiency of amine generation in contrast to photocaged base system, exhibiting marked improvement in the photosensitivity. Second, both the structural feature of base amplifier (BA) and reaction temperature as two important factors impacting the proliferation rate have been detailed. Third, different domino photoinitiating components, such as BAs, peroxides, and acrylates, were investigated in the thin polymer films. It is shown that both primary and secondary BAs are efficient catalysts for DFRP. Furthermore, polymerization rate shows a consistent dependence on the pKa value of the proliferated amine. Finally, remarkable post conversion after irradiation was achieved in DFRP. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 1560–1569
Low thermodynamic but high kinetic stability of an antifreeze protein from Rhagium mordax
Authors: Friis Dennis S. , Johnsen Johannes L. , Kristiansen Erlend , Westh Peter , Ramløv Hans
Published: March 2014

The equilibrium heat stability and the kinetic heat tolerance of a recombinant antifreeze protein (AFP) from the beetle Rhagium mordax (RmAFP1) are studied through differential scanning calorimetry and circular dichroism spectroscopy. In contrast to other insect AFPs studied with this respect, the RmAFP1 has only one disulfide bridge. The melting temperature, Tm, of the protein is determined to be 28.5°C (pH 7.4), which is much lower than most of those reported for AFPs or globular proteins in general. Despite its low melting temperature, both biophysical and activity measurements show that the protein almost completely refolds into the native state after repeated exposure of 70°C. RmAFP1 thus appears to be kinetically stable even far above its melting temperature. Thermodynamically, the insect AFPs seem to be dividable in three groups, relating to their content of disulfide bridges and widths of the ice binding motifs; high melting temperature AFPs (high disulfide content, TxT motifs), low melting temperature but high refolding capability AFPs (one disulfide bridge, TxTxTxT motifs) and irreversibly unfolded AFPs at low temperatures (no disulfide bridges, TxTxTxTxT motifs). The property of being able to cope with high temperature exposures may appear peculiar for proteins which strictly have their effect at subzero temperatures. Different aspects of this are discussed.
Membrane protein stability can be compromised by detergent interactions with the extramembranous soluble domains
Authors: Yang Zhengrong , Wang Chi , Zhou Qingxian , An Jianli , Hildebrandt Ellen , Aleksandrov Luba A. , Kappes John C. , DeLucas Lawrence J. , Riordan John R. , Urbatsch Ina L. , Hunt John F. , Brouillette Christie G.
Published: March 2014

Detergent interaction with extramembranous soluble domains (ESDs) is not commonly considered an important determinant of integral membrane protein (IMP) behavior during purification and crystallization, even though ESDs contribute to the stability of many IMPs. Here we demonstrate that some generally nondenaturing detergents critically destabilize a model ESD, the first nucleotide‐binding domain (NBD1) from the human cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), a model IMP. Notably, the detergents show equivalent trends in their influence on the stability of isolated NBD1 and full‐length CFTR. We used differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy to monitor changes in NBD1 stability and secondary structure, respectively, during titration with a series of detergents. Their effective harshness in these assays mirrors that widely accepted for their interaction with IMPs, i.e., anionic > zwitterionic > nonionic. It is noteworthy that including lipids or nonionic detergents is shown to mitigate detergent harshness, as will limiting contact time. We infer three thermodynamic mechanisms from the observed thermal destabilization by monomer or micelle: (i) binding to the unfolded state with no change in the native structure (all detergent classes); (ii) native state binding that alters thermodynamic properties and perhaps conformation (nonionic detergents); and (iii) detergent binding that directly leads to denaturation of the native state (anionic and zwitterionic). These results demonstrate that the accepted model for the harshness of detergents applies to their interaction with an ESD. It is concluded that destabilization of extramembranous soluble domains by specific detergents will influence the stability of some IMPs during purification.
Interplay of Rashba/Dresselhaus spin splittings probed by photogalvanic spectroscopy –A review
Authors: Ganichev Sergey D. , Golub Leonid E.
Published: March 2014

The paper reviews the interplay of Rashba/Dresselhaus spin splittings in various two‐dimensional systems made of zinc‐blende III–V, wurtzite, and SiGe semiconductors. We discuss the symmetry aspects of the linear and cubic in electron wavevector spin splitting in heterostructures prepared on (001)‐, (110)‐, (111)‐, (113)‐, (112)‐, and (013)‐ oriented substrates and address the requirements for suppression of spin relaxation and realization of the persistent spin helix state. In experimental part of the paper, we overview experimental results on the interplay of Rashba/Dresselhaus spin splittings probed by photogalvanic spectroscopy: The method based on the phenomenological equivalence of the linear‐in‐wavevector spin splitting and several photogalvanic phenomena.
Scenarios for Restoring Floodplain Ecology Given Changes to River Flows Under Climate Change: Case from the San Joaquin River, California
Authors: Matella M. K. , Merenlender A. M.
Published: March 2014

Freshwater ecosystem health has been increasingly linked to floodplain connectivity, and some river restoration efforts now overtly target reconnecting floodplain habitats for species recovery. The dynamic nature of floodplain habitats is not typically accounted for in efforts to plan and evaluate potential floodplain reconnection projects. This study describes a novel approach for integrating streamflow dynamics with floodplain area to quantify species‐specific habitat availability using hydraulic modelling, spatial analysis and statistical measures of flow regime. We used this hydro‐ecological modelling approach to examine the potential habitat for splittail (Pogonichthys macrolepidotus), Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and their food resources under two restoration treatments and two climate change flow scenarios for a study site on San Joaquin River in California. Even with the addition of new floodplain through restoration efforts, the modelling results reveal only 13 streamflow events in the past 80 years had the magnitude and duration required for splittail spawning and rearing, and 14 events had flows long enough for salmon rearing benefits. Under climate change, modelled results suggest only 4–17% of the years in the rest of this century are likely to produce required flow‐related habitat conditions for splittail and salmon rearing along the study reach. Lastly, we demonstrate by simulating augmented reservoir releases that restoration of fish habitat will require a more natural flow regime to make use of restored floodplain and achieve the desired hydrologic habitat connectivity. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A lightweight trust management based on Bayesian and Entropy for wireless sensor networks
Authors: Che Shenyun , Feng Renjian , Liang Xuan , Wang Xiao
Published: March 2014

With the rapid development of wireless sensor networks, the issue of designing a reasonable trust management has attracted more and more research attention. Based on Bayesian and Entropy, this paper proposes a lightweight trust management for wireless sensor networks. First, the evaluated node's direct trust value is calculated by Bayesian and periodically updated according to the combination of effective history records and adaptive decay factor. We use effective history records rather than all the records to save nodes’ memory, and the adaptive decay factor enhances the algorithm's accuracy and dynamic. Then, according to the confidence level of the direct trust value, we decide whether the direct trust is credible enough to be the integrated trust. This can reduce the energy computation and make the algorithm lightweight. Last, if the direct trust is not credible enough, the overall indirect trust value will be calculated. The Entropy Theory is adopted to distribute weights to different trust values, which can improve the problems caused by distributing weights subjectively and also enhance adaptability of the model. Simulation experiments are provided to assess the performance of the proposed trust management in terms of attack–defeat ability and energy consumption. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Realization of a user‐centric, privacy preserving permission framework for Android
Authors: Nauman Mohammad , Khan Sohail , Othman Abu Talib , Musa Shahrulniza
Published: March 2014

Android has been steadily gaining market share, and the number of available applications is increasing at a healthy pace. Because of the myriad of third‐party applications, privacy concerns are starting to surface in the community. Application developers usually request access to more system resources than are strictly required for their apps. However, the stock Android permission model does not allow users to selectively grant permissions. This is a well‐known issue, but existing solutions to this problem are either too abstract or require detailed changes to the core model—making it difficult for both developers and users to accept them. In this paper, we present a fine‐grained, user‐centric permission model for Android that allows users to selectively grant permissions to applications that they install. Our model allows specification of permissions based on application and system attributes as well as simple yes or no policies. The model is kept as simple as possible, and its open source implementation is highly usable for the average end user. It requires minimal backward compatible changes to the core permission model and is shown to be highly efficient in terms of performance overhead. We present our model and point interested readers to our freely available changeset to help them use, evaluate, and improve our permission model. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Private set intersection via public key encryption with keywords search
Authors: Shao Zhi‐Yi , Yang Bo
Published: March 2014

We introduce the public key encryption with keywords search into the problem of secure two‐party computation and obtain a novel approach to accomplish private set intersection (PSI), which uses the public key encryption with keywords search as the basic tool. The public key encryption with keywords search scheme we adopt does not need the expensive MapToPoint operation, thus the computation complexity can be reduced significantly compared with other PSI schemes, which also obtain linear computation complexity. We aim to achieve PSI in computationally asymmetric settings, which can be instantiated by cloud computing. Our protocol satisfies the privacy with respect to semi‐honest behavior, and the client only needs to compute m multiplications, m hashes, and one modular exponentiation to obtain the intersection, where m denotes the cardinality of the client's input set. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Privacy preserving revocable predicate encryption revisited
Authors: Lee Kwangsu , Kim Intae , Hwang Seong Oun
Published: March 2014

Predicate encryption (PE) that provides both the access control of ciphertexts and the privacy of ciphertexts is a new paradigm of public‐key encryption. An important application of PE is a searchable encryption system in cloud storage, where it enables a client to securely outsource the search of a keyword on encrypted data without revealing the keyword to the cloud server. One practical issue of PE is to devise an efficient revocation method to revoke a user when the secret key of the user is compromised. Privacy preserving revocable PE (RPE) can provide not only revocation but also the privacy of revoked users. In this paper, we first define two new security models of privacy preserving RPE: the strongly full‐hiding (FH) security and the weakly FH security. Next, we propose a general RPE construction from any PE scheme and prove its security in the weakly FH security model. Our generic RPE scheme is efficient because the number of ciphertext elements is not proportional to the number of users in a receiver set. Additionally, our RPE scheme can support polynomial‐size circuits if a recently proposed functional encryption scheme for polynomial‐size circuits is used as an underlying PE scheme. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Large universe decentralized key‐policy attribute‐based encryption
Authors: Li Qi , Ma Jianfeng , Li Rui , Xiong Jinbo , Liu Ximeng
Published: March 2014

In multi‐authority attribute‐based encryption (ABE) systems, each authority manages a different attribute universe and issues the private keys to users. However, the previous multi‐authority ABE schemes are subject to such restrictions during initializing the systems: either the attribute universe is polynomially sized and the attributes have to be enumerated or the attribute universe can be exponentially large, but the size of the set of attributes, which will be used in encryption, is not more than a predefined fixed value. These restrictions prevent multi‐authority ABE schemes from being deployed in dynamic practice applications. In this paper, we present a large universe decentralized key‐policy ABE scheme without such additional limitation. In our scheme, there is no requirement of any central authority. Each attribute authority executes independently from the others and can join or depart the system allodiality. Our system supports any monotone access policy. The proposed scheme is constructed on prime order groups and proved selectively secure in the standard model. To the best of our knowledge, our scheme is the first large universe decentralized key‐policy ABE system in the standard model. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of the adhesion promoter in a model water‐borne primer
Authors: Adhami S. , Abel M‐L. , Lowe C. , Watts J. F.
Published: March 2014

In the search for improvements in the environmental credentials of the organic coatings industry, several different aspects are currently being addressed, including the reduction of volatile organic compounds, development of UV curable coatings and the reduction of potentially hazardous components in coating formulations. The performance of a novel water‐based primer system, applied to alkali cleaned hot dipped galvanized steel, was investigated previously. It was shown that the level of adhesion promoter has a clear effect on durability and performance to the panels painted with the candidate primer and topcoat. Two concentrations of adhesion promoter were used, and the formulation with the higher concentration exhibited better coating longevity. The aim of this work is to understand the role of adhesion promoter in the primer formulation, particularly the manner in which it interacts with the substrate and the topcoat. This paper will describe the distribution of the adhesion promoter across the primer layer considering the possible opportunities of such a component enhancing the primer interaction at either interface. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface analysis and corrosion resistance of new nickel base thin film alloys
Authors: Popescu Ana Maria , Neacşu Elena Ionela , Yanushkevich Kazimir , Constantin Virgil
Published: March 2014

Electroless Zn–Ni–P thin films were deposited on low carbon steel from an alkaline non‐cyanide aqueous electrolyte. The newly developed ternary alloys structure and microstructure investigations were carried out via X‐ray diffraction and SEM. Chemical composition of the coatings was investigated via energy dispersive spectroscopy. Polarization tests were used to study the corrosion properties of the coatings in a 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. The results confirmed the high corrosion resistance of Zn–Ni–P alloy plated steel sheet. The surface analysis of the thin film samples before and after corrosion was performed by XPS. The incorporation of Zn in Ni–P thin film is proven for all initial samples to be as a mixture of zinc and zinc oxide, while nickel exists in +2 and +3 oxidized states. A passive film of a mixture of oxide and hydroxide of zinc and nickel forms on the surface and prevents the Zn–Ni–P thin films from corrosion. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative analysis for CIGS thin films by surface analytical techniques
Authors: Kim Seon Hee , Jang Yun Jung , Yoon Jung Hyeon , Jeong Jeung‐hyun , Lee Yeonhee
Published: March 2014

The compound semiconductor Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) is well known as the next‐generation solar cell material because of its high absorption coefficient for solar radiation, suitable band gap, ability to be deposited on flexible substrate materials, and producing highly flexible and lightweight solar panels. In order to improve the performance of solar cells, a quantitative and depth‐resolved elemental analysis of photovoltaic thin films is strongly required. In this study, we determined the average concentration of the major elements, Cu, In, Ga, and Se in fabricated CIGS thin films, using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry, X‐ray fluorescence, and electron probe microanalysis. Depth profiling results for CIGS samples using AES, XPS, magnetic sector SIMS, and time of flight SIMS were also obtained to compare their atomic concentration results. In the SIMS technique, detection of MCs+ clusters reduced possible matrix effects because of the variant concentrations of In and Ga. The reproducibility and accuracy of quantitative analysis were investigated as a function of ion sputtering energy. The compositional distributions of CIGS absorber layers as measured by MCs+–SIMS showed good agreement with those of AES and XPS. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SIMS analysis of high‐performance accelerator niobium
Authors: Maheshwari P. , Stevie F. A. , Myneni G. R. , Ciovati G. , Rigsbee J. M. , Dhakal P. , Griffis D. P.
Published: March 2014

Niobium is used to fabricate superconducting radio frequency accelerator modules because of its high critical temperature, high critical magnetic field, and easy formability. Recent experiments have shown a very significant improvement in performance (over 100%) after a high‐temperature bake at 1400 °C for 3 h. SIMS analysis of this material showed the oxygen profile was significantly deeper than the native oxide with a shape that is indicative of diffusion. Positive secondary ion mass spectra showed the presence of Ti with a depth profile similar to that of O. It is suspected that Ti is associated with the performance improvement. The source of Ti contamination in the anneal furnace has been identified, and a new furnace was constructed without Ti. Initial results from the new furnace do not show the yield improvement. Further analyses should determine the relationship of Ti to cavity performance. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Methodic aspects of XPS depth profiling for investigations of fuel cell components
Authors: Gazdzicki P. , Biswas I. , Schulze M.
Published: March 2014

The focus of this work is to obtain detailed information about the physical composition of the individual fuel cell components in order to optimize them and increase cell durability. An approach for the ex‐situ characterization of fuel cell components, such as gas diffusion media or catalyst layers is by using XPS. In this work, we address methodic aspects of depth profiling of direct methanol fuel cell components (microporous layers and catalyst layers) using adhesive tape peel‐off with subsequent XPS analysis. By using this approach, we have successfully demonstrated cross‐over of Ru ions and possibly Pt ions from the anodic catalyst to the cathodic catalyst layer and even to the microporous layer. Moreover, our experimental results allow determining where the dissolved catalyst ions redeposit within the membrane electrode assembly. Finally, our findings suggest that cross‐over of Pt and Ru ions, observed under different operation conditions, are uncoupled. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On responder analyses in the framework of within subject comparisons – considerations and two case studies
Authors: Kunz Michael
Published: March 2014

A responder analysis is a common tool when clinical data are reported. In this paper, we extend the definition of responders to within subject comparisons and present a rigorous definition of the corresponding statistical functional. Via simulation studies, we get further insights under which conditions these analyses can even result in a higher power compared with an analysis based on the arithmetic mean. We report two case studies where these analyses contributed to a better understanding of the clinical data especially as some large observations were present that had a notable impact on the observed standard deviation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genome tailoring powered production of isobutanol in continuous CO2/H2 blend fermentation using engineered acetogen biocatalyst
Authors: Gak Eugene , Tyurin Michael , Kiriukhin Michael
Published: March 2014

The cell energy fraction that powered maintenance and expression of genes encoding pro-phage elements, pta-ack cluster, early sporulation, sugar ABC transporter periplasmic proteins, 6-phosphofructokinase, pyruvate kinase, and fructose-1,6-disphosphatase in acetogen Clostridium sp. MT871 was re-directed to power synthetic operon encoding isobutanol biosynthesis at the expense of these genes achieved via their elimination. Genome tailoring decreased cell duplication time by 7.0 ± 0.1 min (p < 0.05) compared to the parental strain, with intact genome and cell duplication time of 68 ± 1 min (p < 0.05). Clostridium sp. MT871 with tailored genome was UVC-mutated to withstand 6.1 % isobutanol in fermentation broth to prevent product inhibition in an engineered commercial biocatalyst producing 5 % (674.5 mM) isobutanol during two-step continuous fermentation of CO2/H2 gas blend. Biocatalyst Clostridium sp. MT871RG11IBR6 was engineered to express six copies of synthetic operon comprising optimized synthetic format dehydrogenase, pyruvate formate lyase, acetolactate synthase, acetohydroxyacid reductoisomerase, 2,3-dihydroxy-isovalerate dehydratase, branched-chain alpha-ketoacid decarboxylase gene, aldehyde dehydrogenase, and alcohol dehydrogenase, regaining cell duplication time of 68 ± 1 min (p < 0.05) for the parental strain. This is the first report on isobutanol production by an engineered acetogen biocatalyst suitable for commercial manufacturing of this chemical/fuel using continuous fermentation of CO2/H2 blend thus contributing to the reversal of global warming.
Does Neighborhood Social Capital Buffer the Effects of Maternal Depression on Adolescent Behavior Problems?
Authors: Delany-Brumsey Ayesha , Mays Vickie M. , Cochran Susan D.
Published: March 2014

Neighborhood characteristics have been shown to impact child well‐being. However, it remains unclear how these factors combine with family characteristics to influence child development. The current study helps develop that understanding by investigating how neighborhoods directly impact child and adolescent behavior problems as well as moderate the influence of family characteristics on behavior. Using multilevel linear models, we examined the relationship among neighborhood conditions (poverty and social capital) and maternal depression on child and adolescent behavior problems. The sample included 741 children, age 5–11, and 564 adolescents, age 12–17. Outcomes were internalizing (e.g. anxious/depressed) and externalizing (e.g. aggressive/hyperactive) behavior problems. Neighborhood poverty and maternal depression were both positively associated with behavior problems for children and adolescents. However, while neighborhood social capital was not directly associated with behavior problems, the interaction of social capital and maternal depression was significantly related to behavior problems for adolescents. This interaction showed that living in neighborhoods with higher levels of social capital attenuated the relationship between maternal depression and adolescent behavior problems and confirmed the expectation that raising healthy well‐adjusted children depends not only on the family, but also the context in which the family lives.
An Early Shoulder Repositioning Program in Birth-Related Brachial Plexus Injury: A Pilot Study of the Sup-ER Protocol
Authors: Verchere Cynthia , Durlacher Kim , Bellows Doria , Pike Jeffrey , Bucevska Marija
Published: March 2014

Background

Birth-related brachial plexus injury (BRBPI) occurs in 1.2/1,000 births in British Columbia. Even in children with “good” recovery, external rotation (ER) and supination (Sup) are often weaker, and permanent skeletal imbalance ensues. A preventive early infant shoulder passive repositioning program was created using primarily a novel custom splint holding the affected arm in full ER and Sup: the Sup-ER splint. The details of the splint and the shoulder repositioning program evolved with experience over several years. This study reviews the first 4 years.

Methods

A retrospective review of BCCH patients managed with the Sup-ER protocol from 2008 to 2011 compared their recovery scores to matched historical controls selected from our database by two independent reviewers.

Results

The protocol was initiated in 18 children during the study period. Six were excluded due to the following: insufficient data points, non-compliance, late splint initiation, and loss to follow-up. Of the 12 matches, the Sup-ER group final score at 2 years was better than controls by 1.18 active movement scale (AMS) points ( p=0.036) in Sup and 0.96 AMS points in ER (but not statistically significant ( p=0.13)). Unexpectedly, but importantly, during the study period, zero subjects were assessed to have the active functional criteria to indicate brachial plexus reconstruction, where previously we operated on 13 %.

Conclusions

Early application of passive shoulder repositioning into Sup and ER may improve outcomes in function of the arm in infants with BRBPI. A North American multi-site randomized control trial has been approved and has started recruitment.
Intimate Partner Violence and Women’s Economic and Non-Economic Activities in Minya, Egypt
Authors: Yount Kathryn M. , Zureick-Brown Sarah , Salem Rania
Published: March 2014

Intimate partner violence (IPV) against women is widespread, but its implications for their economic and non-economic activities are understudied. Leveraging new data from 564 ever-married women aged 22–65 in rural Minya, Egypt, we estimated logistic regressions and zero-inflated negative binomial regressions to test spillover, compensation, and patriarchal bargaining theories about the influences of women’s exposure to IPV on their engagement in and time spent on market, subsistence, domestic, and care work. Supporting compensation theory, exposures to lifetime, recent, and chronic physical or sexual IPV were associated with higher adjusted odds of performing market work in the prior month, and exposures to recent and chronic IPV were associated with higher adjusted odds of performing subsistence work in this period. Supporting compensation and patriarchal bargaining theories, exposures to recent and chronic IPV were associated with more time spent on domestic work in the prior day. Supporting spillover and patriarchal bargaining theories, exposures to lifetime IPV of all forms were associated with lower adjusted odds of performing mostly nonspousal care work in the prior day, and this association was partially mediated by women’s generalized anxiety. Women in rural Minya who are exposed to IPV may escalate their housework to fulfill local norms of feminine domesticity while substituting economic activities for nonspousal care work to enhance their economic independence from violent partners.
StRemorin1.3 hampers Potato virus X TGBp1 ability to increase plasmodesmata permeability, but does not interfere with its silencing suppressor activity
Authors: Perraki Artemis , Binaghi Maria , Mecchia Martin A. , Gronnier Julien , German-Retana Sylvie , Mongrand Sébastien , Bayer Emmanuelle , Zelada Alicia M. , Germain Véronique
Published: March 2014

The Triple Gene Block 1 (TGBp1) protein encoded by the Potato virus X is a multifunctional protein that acts as a suppressor of RNA silencing or facilitates the passage of virus from cell to cell by promoting the plasmodesmata opening. We previously showed that the membrane raft protein StRemorin1.3 is able to impair PVX infection. Here, we show that overexpressed StRemorin1.3 does not impair the silencing suppressor activity of TGBp1, but affects its ability to increase plasmodesmata permeability. A similar effect on plasmodesmata permeability was observed with other movement proteins, suggesting that REM is a general regulator of plasmodesmal size exclusion limit. These results add to our knowledge of the mechanisms underlying the StREM1.3 role in virus infection.
Microbial and dietary factors modulating intestinal regulatory T cell homeostasis
Authors: Kinoshita Makoto , Takeda Kiyoshi
Published: March 2014

To maintain a quiescent gut microenvironment, proper regulation of immune responses initiated by pro‐inflammatory immune subsets is required. Several types of regulatory T cells are reported to exert pivotal roles in achieving this. Among various types of regulatory T cells, the crucial role of Foxp3+ Treg cells has been well documented. Furthermore, accumulating evidence demonstrates that both microbial and dietary factors influence the induction and suppressor functions of intestinal Foxp3+ Treg cells. Foxp3+ Treg cells are a highly activated T cell subset which responds rapidly to environmental and nutritional stimuli. Thus, sufficient nutrient supply is required to fuel the high energetic status of Foxp3+ Treg cells for the regulation of intestinal immunity.
The role of Cysteine 227 in subcellular localization, water permeability, and multimerization of aquaporin‐11
Authors: Takahashi Saki , Muta Kanako , Sonoda Hiroko , Kato Ayaka , Abdeen Ahmed , Ikeda Masahiro
Published: March 2014

Aquaporin‐11 (AQP11) is the latest member of the mammalian water channel protein family to be described. Recent in vivo studies have shown that mutation at Cys227 causes renal failure. However the importance of Cys227 for the molecular function of AQP11 is largely unknown. In this study, we examined the subcellular localization, water permeability, and multimerization of AQP11 with a mutation at Cys227. Interestingly, cells expressing the mutants had significantly higher osmotic water permeability. In contrast, the mutation lowered the cell surface expression and multimerization levels. Our observations suggest that Cys227 is crucial for the proper molecular function of AQP11.
Can a novel computerized cognitive screening test provide additional information for early detection of Alzheimer's disease?
Authors: Tarnanas Ioannis , Tsolaki Magda , Nef Tobias , M. Müri René , Mosimann Urs P.
Published: March 2014

Background

Virtual reality testing of everyday activities is a novel type of computerized assessment that measures cognitive, executive, and motor performance as a screening tool for early dementia. This study used a virtual reality day‐out task (VR‐DOT) environment to evaluate its predictive value in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods

One hundred thirty‐four patients with MCI were selected and compared with 75 healthy control subjects. Participants received an initial assessment that included VR‐DOT, a neuropsychological evaluation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, and event‐related potentials (ERPs). After 12 months, participants were assessed again with MRI, ERP, VR‐DOT, and neuropsychological tests.

Results

At the end of the study, we differentiated two subgroups of patients with MCI according to their clinical evolution from baseline to follow‐up: 56 MCI progressors and 78 MCI nonprogressors. VR‐DOT performance profiles correlated strongly with existing predictive biomarkers, especially the ERP and MRI biomarkers of cortical thickness.

Conclusions

Compared with ERP, MRI, or neuropsychological tests alone, the VR‐DOT could provide additional predictive information in a low‐cost, computerized, and noninvasive way.
Changes over time in echocardiographic variables and atrial electromechanical intervals after ablation for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Mano Hiroaki , Okumura Yasuo , Watanabe Ichiro , Ohta Masakatsu , Kogawa Rikitake , Sasaki Naoko , Nakai Toshiko , Ohkubo Kimie , Kofune Masayoshi , Nagashima Koichi , Sonoda Kazumasa , Haruta Hironori , Hirayama Atsushi
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Acute and mid‐term effects of ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) on left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) function and the atrial electromechanical interval are controversial.

Methods

Echocardiographic variables and the PA‐TDI interval (time from ECG lead II P‐wave onset to lateral a′ wave on tissue Doppler tracings, indicating the total atrial conduction time [TACT]) were evaluated in 33 paroxysmal AF patients before, 1 day, and 3, 6, and 12 months after ablation.

Results

During a 12‐month follow‐up, 10 (30.3%) patients had recurrent AF, associated with a greater baseline LA volume (LAV) (48.4±19.3 mm3 vs. 38.7±11.4 mm3, P=0.0811) and PA‐TDI interval (163.9±11.0 ms vs. 151.1±14.6 ms, P=0.0189) than in patients without AF recurrence. By 6 months after ablation, LAV had decreased progressively in the non‐recurrence group (27.9±8.1 mm3, P<0.0001 vs. baseline), but the decrease was modestly significant in the recurrence group (36.3±7.5 cm3, P=0.0380). LV ejection fraction (LVEF) modestly increased 1 day after ablation in both groups and remained unchanged in the non‐recurrence group (67.9±8.1% at baseline to 70.5±5.9% at 12 months, P=0.1711), whereas it decreased gradually below the baseline value in the recurrence group (68.2±11.3% to 60.9±13.6%, P=0.1025). The PA‐TDI interval did not change during follow‐up in either group, but remained longer in the recurrence group.

Conclusions

The PA‐TDI interval may be useful for predicting post‐ablation AF recurrences. The patterns of time‐course changes in LAV, LVEF, and TACT differ, but the effects of ablation were better in patients without AF recurrence after ablation.