bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Study of Relationship between Serum Magnesium and Glycated Hemoglobin in Clinically Uncomplicated Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients
Authors: Sushma S , Devi MS Kusuma , Naveen S
Published: July 2016

Background

Studies have shown that low serum magnesium levels and microalbuminuria are associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus patients, which are the known predictors of risk for cardiovascular disease. The chief objective of this study is to evaluate the relationship between serum magnesium level with glycated hemoglobin and urine albumin levels in clinically uncomplicated type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

Methodology

During this study, 35 were type 2 diabetes mellitus patients and 20 normal healthy subjects were age and sex matched, were evaluated for serum magnesium, urine albumin, glycated hemoglobin, fasting blood sugar, blood urea and serum creatinine levels.

Results

In 37% of the diabetic patients, magnesium concentrations were below the normal reference value. Micro albuminuria was seen in 60% of the diabetic cases. Serum magnesium level was correlated with glycemic control, as measured by HbA1c.

Conclusion

The findings of this study indicate that lower serum magnesium concentrations and microalbuminuria are common in type 2 diabetics. Low serum magnesium level was attributed to poor glycemic control in diabetics. Serum magnesium levels did not correlate with microalbuminuria among diabetics.

How to cite this article

Sushma S, Devi MSK, Naveen S. The Study of Relationship between Serum Magnesium and Glycated Hemoglobin in Clinically Uncomplicated Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients. J Health Sci Res 2015;6(1):14.
Application of the Rorschach test in psychological diagnosis of personality disorders
Authors: Izydorczyk Bernadetta , Gąska Agnieszka
Published: July 2016

Background

The paper presents the authors’ own research, which points to the possibility of applying the Rorschach test in the clinical diagnosis of personality disorders.

Participants and procedure

The clinical research was conducted in the years 2010-2013 in the Neurosis Treatment Center and in the Mental Health Outpatient Clinic. The study population comprised individuals with a medical diagnosis of neurotic personality organization as well as patients with more severely disorganized personality structure. The research participants had never undergone psychological evaluation for personality disorders (for instance, they had never taken the Rorschach test), and therefore it seemed rather difficult to verify the accuracy of the medical diagnoses which they had received, concerning the level of personality destabilization. Eighty Polish individuals participated in the research. The study population comprised 38 males (47.50%) and 42 females (52.50%). The mean age of women was 30.40 (SD = 7.67). The men’s mean age was 35.10 (SD = 8.73). The examined females were somewhat younger than the male subjects. Methods: Rorschach test, clinical interview.

Results

The statistical procedures applied in the present study allowed us to conduct empirical examination of the indicators of the investigated variables constituting the major psychological criteria for describing psychological functioning of personality, and thus to identify the main characteristics of neurotic as well as borderline level of personality organization. Analysis of the data obtained as a result of this research allowed us to distinguish two significantly different clusters in the group of 80 examined individuals.

Conclusions

The results of the present investigation indicate that despite the fact that the examined individuals displayed symptoms of different medical diagnoses (F40 and F60), the subjects comprising cluster 1 exhibited a higher level of personality structure compared with the study participants belonging to cluster 2.
Incremental validity of positive orientation: predictive efficiency beyond the five-factor model
Authors: Miciuk Łukasz Roland , Jankowski Tomasz , Oleś Piotr
Published: July 2016

Background

The relation of positive orientation (a basic predisposition to think positively of oneself, one’s life and one’s future) and personality traits is still disputable. The purpose of the described research was to verify the hypothesis that positive orientation has predictive efficiency beyond the five-factor model.

Participants and procedure

One hundred and thirty participants (at the mean age M = 24.84) completed the following questionnaires: the Self-Esteem Scale (SES), the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), the Life Orientation Test-Revised (LOT-R), the Positivity Scale (P-SCALE), the NEO Five Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI), the Self-Concept Clarity Scale (SCC), the Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) and the Life Engagement Test (LET).

Results

The introduction of positive orientation as an additional predictor in the second step of regression analyses led to better prediction of the following variables: purpose in life, self-concept clarity and generalized self-efficacy. This effect was the strongest for predicting purpose in life (i.e. 14% increment of the explained variance).

Conclusions

The results confirmed our hypothesis that positive orientation can be characterized by incremental validity – its inclusion in the regression model (in addition to the five main factors of personality) increases the amount of explained variance. These findings may provide further evidence for the legitimacy of measuring positive orientation and personality traits separately.
Capillaroscopy – a role in modern rheumatology
Authors: Chojnowski Marek M. , Felis-Giemza Anna , Olesińska Marzena
Published: July 2016

Capillaroscopy is a non-invasive, easy and safe diagnostic technique designed to evaluate small vessels of the microcirculation in the nailfold. It can reveal both the general architecture of capillary rows and fine details of particular vessels. The most important indications for performing capillaroscopy include differential diagnosis of primary and secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon, as well as assessment of scleroderma spectrum disorders. In systemic sclerosis capillary abnormalities appear and evolve in a clearly defined sequence called the scleroderma pattern, which correlates with internal organ involvement. Capillaroscopy is also listed as a systemic sclerosis classification criterion recognized by the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR). With digitized equipment, capillaroscopy allows for precise qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the microcirculation and is a valuable tool in the rheumatologists’ daily practice.
Erythema nodosum – review of the literature
Authors: Chowaniec Małgorzata , Starba Aleksandra , Wiland Piotr
Published: July 2016

Erythema nodosum is the most common form of panniculitis. It may have many aetiological factors. Erythema nodosum occurs three to five times more often in female patients. It appears as erythematous painful rounded nodules, located most often on the anterior surface of the lower extremities, and may be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever, malaise and arthralgia. During diagnosis, oncological vigilance should be maintained, because erythema nodosum may be a paraneoplastic symptom. It requires an interdisciplinary approach and exclusion of many underlying causes.
Rivaroxaban – a safe therapeutic option in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome? Our experience in 23 cases
Authors: Haładyj Ewa , Olesińska Marzena
Published: July 2016

In the therapeutic approach to patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) with thrombotic manifestations, oral vitamin K antagonists (VKA) remain the standard of care. However, the use of VKA is very often associated with inability to achieve a therapeutic dose even in patients maintaining nutritional and therapeutic restrictions. The non-vitamin-K oral anticoagulants (NOAC) have a lot of advantages, but their efficacy and safety in APS have not been proven. We present 23 patients with APS treated with rivaroxaban in our department. Recurrence of thrombosis was observed only in 1 patient. No major or minor bleeding occurred. It proves the efficacy of treatment with rivaroxaban, but our observations require further prospective, randomized studies.
Space based observation of volcanic iodine monoxide
Authors: Schönhardt Anja , Richter Andreas , Theys Nicolas , Burrows John P.
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Volcanic eruptions inject substantial amounts of halogens into the atmosphere. Chlorine and bromine oxides have frequently been observed in volcanic plumes from different instrumental platforms, from ground, aircraft as well as from satellite. The present study is the first observational evidence that iodine oxides are also emitted into the atmosphere during volcanic eruptions. Large column amounts of iodine monoxide, IO, have been observed in satellite measurements following the major eruption of the Kasatochi volcano, Alaska, in 2008. The IO signal is detected in measurements made both by SCIAMACHY on ENVISAT and GOME-2 on MetOp-A. Following the eruption on August 07, 2008, strongly elevated levels of IO slant columns of more than 4 × 1013 molec/cm2 are retrieved along the volcanic plume trajectories for several days. The retrieved IO columns from the different instruments are consistent and the spatial distribution of the IO plume is similar to that of BrO. Details in the spatial distribution, however, differ between IO, BrO and sulphur dioxide, SO2. The columns of IO are approximately one order of magnitude smaller than those of BrO. Using the GOME-2A observations, the total mass of IO in the volcanic plume injected into the atmosphere from the eruption of Kasatochi on August 07, 2008, is determined to be on the order of 10 Mg.
Vertical profiles of aerosol optical properties and the solar heating rate
estimated by combining sky radiometer and lidar measurements
Authors: Kudo Rei , Nishizawa Tomoaki , Aoyagi Toshinori
Published: July 2016

Abstract. The SKYLIDAR algorithm was developed to estimate vertical profiles of aerosol optical properties from sky radiometer (SKYNET) and lidar (AD-Net) measurements. The solar heating rate was also estimated from the SKYLIDAR retrievals. The algorithm consists of two retrieval steps: (1) columnar properties are retrieved from the sky radiometer measurements and the vertically mean depolarization ratio obtained from the lidar measurements and (2) vertical profiles are retrieved from the lidar measurements and the results of the first step. The derived parameters are the vertical profiles of the size distribution, refractive index (real and imaginary parts), extinction coefficient, single-scattering albedo, and asymmetry factor. Sensitivity tests were conducted by applying the SKYLIDAR algorithm to the simulated sky radiometer and lidar data for vertical profiles of three different aerosols, continental average, transported dust, and pollution aerosols. The vertical profiles of the size distribution, extinction coefficient, and asymmetry factor were well estimated in all cases. The vertical profiles of the refractive index and single-scattering albedo of transported dust, but not those of transported pollution aerosol, were well estimated. To demonstrate the performance and validity of the SKYLIDAR algorithm, we applied the SKYLIDAR algorithm to the actual measurements at Tsukuba, Japan. The detailed vertical structures of the aerosol optical properties and solar heating rate of transported dust and smoke were investigated. Examination of the relationship between the solar heating rate and the aerosol optical properties showed that the vertical profile of the asymmetry factor played an important role in creating vertical variation in the solar heating rate. We then compared the columnar optical properties retrieved with the SKYLIDAR algorithm to those produced with the more established scheme SKYRAD.PACK, and the surface solar irradiance calculated from the SKYLIDAR retrievals was compared with pyranometer measurement. The results showed good agreements: the columnar values of the SKYLIDAR retrievals agreed with reliable SKYRAD.PACK retrievals, and the SKYLIDAR retrievals were sufficiently accurate to evaluate the surface solar irradiance.
Quantitative evaluation of numerical integration schemes for Lagrangian particle
dispersion models
Authors: Ramli Huda Mohd. , Esler J. Gavin
Published: July 2016

Abstract. A rigorous methodology for the evaluation of integration schemes for Lagrangian particle dispersion models (LPDMs) is presented. A series of one-dimensional test problems are introduced, for which the Fokker–Planck equation is solved numerically using a finite-difference discretisation in physical space and a Hermite function expansion in velocity space. Numerical convergence errors in the Fokker–Planck equation solutions are shown to be much less than the statistical error associated with a practical-sized ensemble (N = 106) of LPDM solutions; hence, the former can be used to validate the latter. The test problems are then used to evaluate commonly used LPDM integration schemes. The results allow for optimal time-step selection for each scheme, given a required level of accuracy. The following recommendations are made for use in operational models. First, if computational constraints require the use of moderate to long time steps, it is more accurate to solve the random displacement model approximation to the LPDM rather than use existing schemes designed for long time steps. Second, useful gains in numerical accuracy can be obtained, at moderate additional computational cost, by using the relatively simple “small-noise” scheme of Honeycutt.
Snowpack modelling in the Pyrenees driven by kilometric-resolution meteorological forecasts
Authors: Quéno Louis , Vionnet Vincent , Dombrowski-Etchevers Ingrid , Lafaysse Matthieu , Dumont Marie , Karbou Fatima
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Distributed snowpack simulations in the French and Spanish Pyrenees are carried out using the detailed snowpack model Crocus driven by the numerical weather prediction system AROME at 2.5 km grid spacing, during four consecutive winters from 2010 to 2014. The aim of this study is to assess the benefits of a kilometric-resolution atmospheric forcing to a snowpack model for describing the spatial variability of the seasonal snow cover over a mountain range. The evaluation is performed by comparisons to ground-based measurements of the snow depth, the snow water equivalent and precipitations, to satellite snow cover images and to snowpack simulations driven by the SAFRAN analysis system. Snow depths simulated by AROME–Crocus exhibit an overall positive bias, particularly marked over the first summits near the Atlantic Ocean. The simulation of mesoscale orographic effects by AROME gives a realistic regional snowpack variability, unlike SAFRAN–Crocus. The categorical study of daily snow depth variations gives a differentiated perspective of accumulation and ablation processes. Both models underestimate strong snow accumulations and strong snow depth decreases, which is mainly due to the non-simulated wind-induced erosion, the underestimation of strong melting and an insufficient settling after snowfalls. The problematic assimilation of precipitation gauge measurements is also emphasized, which raises the issue of a need for a dedicated analysis to complement the benefits of AROME kilometric resolution and dynamical behaviour in mountainous terrain.
Radiocarbon dating of glacier ice
Authors: Uglietti Chiara , Zapf Alexander , Jenk Theo M. , Szidat Sönke , Salazar Gary , Schwikowski Margit
Published: July 2016

Abstract. High altitude glaciers and ice caps from mid-latitudes and tropical regions contain valuable signals of past climatic and environmental conditions as well as human activities, but for a meaningful interpretation this information needs to be placed in a precise chronological context. For dating the upper part of ice cores from such sites several relatively precise methods exist, but they fail in the older and deeper part, where plastic deformation of the ice results in strong annual layer thinning and a non-linear age-depth relationship. If sufficient organic matter such as plant, wood or insect fragments were found, radiocarbon (14C) analysis had thus been the only option for a direct and absolute dating of deeper ice core sections. However such fragments are rarely found and even then very likely not at the depths and in the resolution desired. About 10 years ago, a new, complementary dating tool was therefore introduced by our group. It is based on extracting the μg-amounts of the water-insoluble organic carbon (WIOC) fraction of carbonaceous aerosols embedded in the ice matrix for subsequent 14C dating. Meanwhile this new approach was improved considerably, thereby reducing the measurement time and improving the overall precision. Samples with ~ 10 μg WIOC mass can now be dated with reasonable uncertainty of around 10–20 % (variable depending on sample age). This requires about 100 to 500 g of ice considering the WIOC concentrations typically found in mid- and low-latitude glacier ice. Dating polar ice with satisfactory age precision is still not possible since WIOC concentrations are around one order of magnitude lower. The accuracy of the 14C WIOC method was validated by applying it to independently dated ice. With this method the deepest parts of the ice cores from Colle Gnifetti and Mt. Ortles glacier in the European Alps, Illimani glacier in the Bolivian Andes, Tsambagarav ice cap in the Mongolian Altai, and Belukha glacier in the Siberian Altai have been dated. In all cases a strong annual layer thinning towards bedrock was observed and the oldest ages obtained were in the range of 10 000 yrs. 14C WIOC-dating was not only crucial for interpretation of the embedded environmental and climatic histories, but additionally gave a better insight into glacier flow dynamics close to bedrock and past glacier coverage. For this the availability of multiple dating points in the deepest parts was essential, which is the strength of the presented WIOC 14C-dating method, allowing determination of absolute ages from principally every piece of ice.
EFFECTS OF VARIOUS TREATMENTS ON SILICONE RUBBER SURFACE
Authors: Maher B. M. , Rezaali J. , Jalili K. , Abbasi F.
Published: July 2016

Hydroxy groups were generated on a poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) surface using different methods. Attempts were made to prepare a homogeneous film on the PDMS surface and eliminate microwrinkles from the surface. Because the hydroxylation process changes the chemical composition of the PDMS surface, resulting in a cracked surface, selecting the best method for surface treatment with minimized surface microwrinkles and cracks was attempted. The results obtained from scanning electron microscopy showed that using the pulsed ultraviolet-ozone (UVO) radiation method with a controlled duration time, ozone treatment, continuous UVO treatment using a glass filter, and water media in UVO treatment was more effective than other methods evaluated in this study to prevent microwrinkles. The results obtained from contact angle measurements and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that the UVO treatment in the presence of a water medium created more hydroxy groups compared with other methods.
Looking at the Nature paper in the rearview mirror
Authors: Sundet Jon Martin
Published: July 2016

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Improving estimation in genetic models using prior information
Authors: Eilertsen Espen Moen
Published: July 2016

Statistical models used to investigate research questions in behavioral genetics often require large amountsof data. This paper introduces some key concepts of Bayesian analysis and illustrates how these methodscan aid model estimation when the data does not provide enough information to reliably answer researchquestions. The use of informative prior distributions is discussed as a method of incorporating informationfrom other sources than the data at hand. The procedure is illustrated with an ACE model decomposition ofthe variance of antisocial personality disorder. The data originates from the Norwegian Twin Registry, andincludes adult twins assessed with the Structured Interview for DSM Personality (SIDP-IV). Inclusion ofprior information lead to a shift with respect to conclusions about the presence of shared environmentaleffects compared to a traditional analysis. Small and medium sized studies should consider use of priorinformation to aid estimation of population parameters.
The Scandinavian Small-for-Gestational Age (SGA) pregnancy and birth cohort – A source to continual insight into fetal growth restriction and long term physical and neurodevelopmental health in mother and offspring
Authors: Kjøbli Eli , Bach Ragnhild , Skogseth Haakon , Jacobsen Geir W.
Published: July 2016

Human in utero growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with an increased risk for perinatal mortality and morbidityamong newborns and infants. To pursue this challenge, a Request For Proposals (RFP) was issued in 1983by The U.S. Epidemiology and Biometry Research Program at the National Institute of Child Health and HumanDevelopment (NICHD). A consortium was set up at the universities and university hospitals in Trondheim,Bergen (Norway) and Uppsala (Sweden) and was funded by the NICHD to conduct the Scandinavian SuccessiveSmall-for-Gestational Age (SGA) pregnancy and birth outcome study. The study design included a comprehensivebiobank with maternal and cord serum samples, placental tissue, and a multitude of data collected frominterviews, questionnaires, and clinical examinations. The SGA cohort study involved 6,354 Caucasian pregnant women in the three study sites who expected theirsecond or third child from 1986-88. The study women were screened in early second trimester and mothers whohad an increased risk to deliver a smaller than expected newborn were followed in detail through the second halfof pregnancy and at birth. Selected children were screened several times through their first and up to five yearsof age. Moreover, a highly selected subgroup in Trondheim has been followed at 14, 19, and 26 years’ age. Almost thirty years later, we have searched the body of scientific publications that originated from this cohortstudy in an attempt to assess if and to what extent the main aims and objectives were achieved and to summarizethe overall outcomes. The SGA cohort has resulted in close to 100 published papers in peer reviewed journalsand some 40 graduate and undergraduate degrees. Risk factors of SGA, like maternal smoking, low prepregnancyweight and education attainment, and a previous SGA birth outcome were confirmed. Conversely, nototally new and unknown risk factors were identified. Serial ultrasound measures have enabled a distinctionbetween SGA with restricted and normal intrauterine growth, and has further indicated that being born SGA ismainly a problem in combination with IUGR. Further, the consequences of IUGR are more pronounced atadolescence and young adulthood than at five years of age. An increased understanding of the pathogenesis of different categories of growth restriction is essential torecognize and diagnose IUGR properly, and to reduce the perinatal mortality and morbidity from SGA. Moreover,SGA is a significant predictor at follow-up of the child. An up to date biobank has ensured the quality of dataand biological samples, and has been crucial for the outcome of the entire SGA study. It continues to be avaluable resource in future research.
Vocoid-driven processes: Palatalization and glide hardening in Greek and its dialects
Authors: Baltazani Mary , Kainada Evia , Revithiadou Anthi , Topintzi Nina
Published: July 2016

The point of departure of this article is the processes that front vocoids induce as triggers in language. We start with a description of palatalization, using Standard Modern Greek and other Greek dialects as an empirical basis. We then introduce a new, so far undescribed type of palatalization, dubbed strengthened palatalization. Despite its similarity to secondary palatalization, we argue that it is a different process because it is triggered by an unrealized high front /i/, unlike secondary palatalization, where the high vocoid is alongside the preceding consonant as a secondary gesture. Furthermore, the output of strengthened palatalization is different because it lacks the primary cue of secondary palatalization, that is, F2 raising in VC sequences. Next, we examine glide hardening, a process complementary to palatalization because it is also triggered by a high front vocoid. However, in glide hardening the glide is maintained as a separate segment and is strengthened into a palatal fricative (or even a stop). By focusing on the triggers – rather than the outputs, we attain a unified account of both palatalization and glide hardening as enhancement processes that aim at strengthening the phonetic cues of their targets for reasons of perceptual salience.
Exploring the Potential Factors Influencing the Adoption of M-Government Services in Saudi Arabia: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Alotaibi Raed , Houghton Luke , Sandhu Kuldeep
Published: July 2016

In Saudi Arabia, Mobile government (m-government) is in its infancy. This study aims to explore potential factors influencing adoption of m-government services in Saudi Arabia to improve future implementation. The review of the relevant literature revealed a lack of research regarding the factors that may potentially influence the adoption m-government services in Saudi Arabia by using TAM model based on the perspective of experts in Yesser. To examine relationships between external factors and behavioural intention to use (BIU) in the TAM model, a qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with five experts from Yesser. Analysis demonstrated that the factors of trustworthiness, usage experience, awareness and security might influence the adoption of m-government services in Saudi Arabia. The results of the qualitative study also demonstrated that enjoyment does not influence the adoption of m-government services in Saudi Arabia. These findings may help decision makers in Saudi government to improve future implementation of m-government services.
Cameratoezicht op de werkvloer: hoelang mag het begluren van werknemers op de Caribische eilanden nog voortduren?
Authors: van der Neut N.M.Q.
Published: July 2016

Cameratoezicht op de werkvloer: hoelang mag het begluren van werknemers op de Caribische eilanden nog voortduren?

Per 1 januari 2016 is de Wet bescherming persoonsgegevens, de Wbp, in Nederland gewijzigd. Dit doet de vraag rijzen of de (Caribische) Landsverordening bescherming persoonsgegevens, de Lbp, ook aangepast dient te worden. De wijzigingen worden geëvalueerd aan de hand van de rechtmatigheid en toelaatbaarheid van (heimelijk) cameratoezicht op de werkvloer. De belangrijkste wijziging houdt in dat direct een boete kan worden opgelegd indien in strijd met de Wbp wordt gehandeld ingeval sprake is van een opzettelijk gepleegde overtreding of ernstig verwijtbare nalatigheid. Dit brengt een afschrikkend effect mee, hetgeen reden is om ook de Lbp te wijzigen.
Initial alignment method for free space optics laser beam
Authors: Shimada Yuta , Tashiro Yuki , Izumi Kiyotaka , Yoshida Koichi , Tsujimura Takeshi
Published: July 2016

The authors have newly proposed and constructed an active free space optics transmission system. It is equipped with a motor driven laser emitting mechanism and positioning photodiodes, and it transmits a collimated thin laser beam and accurately steers the laser beam direction. It is necessary to introduce the laser beam within sensible range of the receiver in advance of laser beam tracking control. This paper studies an estimation method of laser reaching point for initial laser beam alignment. Distributed photodiodes detect laser luminescence at respective position, and the optical axis of laser beam is analytically presumed based on the Gaussian beam optics. Computer simulation evaluates the accuracy of the proposed estimation methods, and results disclose that the methods help us to guide the laser beam to a distant receiver.
Light propagation characteristics in photonic crystal fibers with α-power profiles of air hole diameter distributions and their application to fiber collimator
Authors: Yokota Hirohisa , Higuchi Keiichi , Imai Yoh
Published: July 2016

Light propagation characteristics in photonic crystal fibers (PCFs) with α-power profiles of air hole diameter distributions were theoretically investigated. It was clarified that the intensity peak of the beam propagating in the PCF with Gaussian beam excitation varied periodically with little power attenuation. It was found that the envelope of the periodic intensity variation depended on α. We theoretically demonstrated that the PCF with the α-power profile of the air hole diameter distribution could be applied to a collimator for a conventional PCF with uniform air holes in Gaussian beam excitation to reduce coupling loss, where a PCF of appropriate length with the α-power air hole diameter distribution was spliced to a conventional PCF. It was also found that the coupling efficiency was higher for a larger α.
γ‐Glutamyl kinase is involved in selective autophagy of ribosomes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Tatehashi Yuki , Watanabe Daisuke , Takagi Hiroshi
Published: July 2016

γ‐Glutamyl kinase (GK; the PRO1 gene product) is a key enzyme in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae proline biosynthesis pathway. Δpro1 cells are more sensitive to various stresses than wild‐type cells, suggesting that GK has an alternative function independent of proline biosynthesis. We show that PRO1 genetically interacts with UBP3, which encodes ubiquitin‐specific protease, and is required for selective autophagy of ribosomes (ribophagy). Interestingly, yeast cells with PRO1 deletion or expressing inactive GK display a defect for ribophagy but not for nonselective autophagy, indicating that GK activity is indispensable for ribophagy. Gene disruption analysis suggests that ribophagy is important for cell survival during nitrogen starvation.
The Impact of Size and Loading Direction on the Strength of Architected Lattice Materials
Authors: Bauer Jens , Schroer Almut , Schwaiger Ruth , Kraft Oliver
Published: July 2016

Lattice materials are strong yet light. Miniaturizing the pattern size to the micro‐scale allows exploiting mechanical size effects. So far, the impact of the lattice size on the strength has not been studied systematically and mechanical characterization has been focused on compression tests only. Here, the strength of polymer–alumina core–shell composite microlattices with different pattern sizes is investigated in compression and tension. The compressive strength increases by a factor of two when the lattice size is scaled down by 50%. With tensile strengths of up to 27 MPa at 0.37 gcm−3, the microlattices outperform all technical foams and most monolithic ceramics. Isotropic strength under tension and compression is found when thickness‐dependent notch effects in the alumina shells are considered.
The magnitude of changes in linear growth within Taiwanese families: intrinsic sex‐associated biology, socially mediated behaviors, or both?
Authors: Floyd Bruce
Published: July 2016

Objective

This study evaluates competing hypotheses about implications of greater female growth canalization for differences in male and female growth as developmental settings improve.

Participants and Methods

Intergenerational declines in gender bias and rapid economic growth in Taiwan permit assessment of the two hypotheses using anthropometric and background information from 107 Taiwanese parents and their young adult offspring. Differences in parents' values were first evaluated across grandfathers' occupational status categories reflecting good to relatively poor early circumstances in the parental generation. The extent of intergenerational change in heights or knee heights within 56 father–son pairs were then compared with those in 51 statistically independent mother–daughter pairs across the same occupational categories using repeated measures analyses.

Results

Change in mean heights and knee heights across grandfathers' occupational categories were noticeably greater for fathers than mothers. Overall, intergenerational gains within families in height and knee height were statistically significant (p < 0.0005) in father–son (3.89 cm; 1.85 cm) and mother–daughter pairs (4.14 cm; 1.67 cm). However, among families where grandfather's occupations were “privileged,” father–son pairs are similar in average height (Δ = −0.36 cm) and knee height (Δ = 0.53 cm) while mothers were significantly shorter (Δ = 3.88 cm) with shorter knee heights (Δ = 1.74 cm) than their daughters.

Discussion

The hypothesis that females are inherently less capable of responding to growth promoting characteristics of early environments is not supported. Intergenerational declines in male preference combined with rapid but equitable economic growth better account for intergenerational changes reported.
Highly Chemo‐, Regio‐, and Stereoselective Cobalt‐Catalyzed Markovnikov Hydrosilylation of Alkynes
Authors: Guo Jun , Lu Zhan
Published: July 2016

A highly chemo‐, regio‐ and stereoselective cobalt‐catalyzed Markovnikov hydrosilylation of alkynes was developed. Various functionalized groups, such as halides, free alcohols, free aniline, ketones, esters, amides, and nitriles are tolerated, which may lead to further applications and late‐stage derivatizations. To date, this is the most efficient cobalt catalytic system (TOF=65 520 h−1; TOF=turnover frequency) for hydrosilylation of alkynes. The Hiyama–Denmark cross‐coupling reactions of vinylsilanes with aryl iodides underwent smoothly to afford 1,1‐diarylethenes. A unique regioselectivity‐controllable hydrosilylation/hydroboration reaction of alkynes was also described.
A Modular Method for the High‐Yield Synthesis of Site‐Specific Protein–Polymer Therapeutics
Authors: Pang Yan , Liu Jinyao , Qi Yizhi , Li Xinghai , Chilkoti Ashutosh
Published: July 2016

A versatile method is described to engineer precisely defined protein/peptide–polymer therapeutics by a modular approach that consists of three steps: 1) fusion of a protein/peptide of interest with an elastin‐like polypeptide that enables facile purification and high yields; 2) installation of a clickable group at the C terminus of the recombinant protein/peptide with almost complete conversion by enzyme‐mediated ligation; and 3) attachment of a polymer by a click reaction with near‐quantitative conversion. We demonstrate that this modular approach is applicable to various protein/peptide drugs and used it to conjugate them to structurally diverse water‐soluble polymers that prolong the plasma circulation duration of these proteins. The protein/peptide–polymer conjugates exhibited significantly improved pharmacokinetics and therapeutic effects over the native protein/peptide upon administration to mice. The studies reported here provide a facile method for the synthesis of protein/peptide–polymer conjugates for therapeutic use and other applications.
Stabilized electrospinning of heat stimuli/in situ crosslinkable nanofibers and their self‐same nanocomposites
Authors: Bilge Kaan , Ürkmez Ayça , Şimşek Eren , Papila Melih
Published: July 2016

We present a strategy for stabilizing the morphological integrity of electrospun polymeric nanofibers by heat stimuli in situ crosslinking. Amorphous polymer nanofibers, such as polystyrene (PS) and its co‐polymers tend to lose their fiber morphology during processing at temperatures above their glass transition temperature (Tg) typically bound to happen in nanocomposite/structural composite applications. As an answer to this problem, incorporation of the crosslinking agents, phthalic anhydride (PA) and tributylamine (TBA), into the electrospinning polymer solution functionalized by glycidylmethacrylate (GMA) copolymerization, namely P(St‐co‐GMA), is demonstrated. Despite the presence of the crosslinker molecules, the electrospinning polymer solution is stable and its viscosity remains unaffected below 60 °C. Crosslinking reaction stands‐by and can be thermally stimulated during post‐processing of the electrospun P(St‐co‐GMA)/PA‐TBA fiber mat at intermediate temperatures (below the Tg). This strategy enables the preservation of the nanofiber morphology during subsequent high temperature processing. The crosslinking event leads to an increase in Tg of the base polymer by 30 °C depending on degree of crosslinking. Crosslinked nanofibers are able to maintain their nanofibrous morphology above the Tg and upon exposure to organic solvents. In situ crosslinking in epoxy matrix is also reported as an example of high temperature demanding application/processing. Finally, a self‐same fibrous nanocomposite is demonstrated by dual electrospinning of P(St‐co‐GMA) and stabilized P(St‐co‐GMA)/PA‐TBA, forming an intermingled nanofibrous mat, followed by a heating cycle. The product is a composite of crosslinked P(St‐co‐GMA)/PA‐TBA fibers fused by P(St‐co‐GMA) matrix. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 44090.
Biodiesel and poly‐unsaturated fatty acids production from algae and crop plants – a rapid and comprehensive workflow for lipid analysis
Authors: Furuhashi Takeshi , Nakamura Takemichi , Fragner Lena , Roustan Valentin , Schön Verena , Weckwerth Wolfram
Published: July 2016

Fatty acid methyl ester analysis (FAME) by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) is a widely used technique in biodiesel/bioproduct (e.g. poly‐unsaturated fatty acids, PUFA) research but typically does not allow distinguishing between bound and free fatty acids. To understand and optimize biosynthetic pathways, however, the origin of the fatty acid is an important information. Furthermore the annotation of PUFAs is compromised in classical GC‐EI‐MS because the precursor molecular ion is missing. In the present protocol an alkaline methyl esterification step with TMS derivatization enabling the simultaneous analysis of bound and free fatty acids but also further lipids such as sterols in one GC‐MS chromatogram is combined. This protocol is applied to different lipid extracts from single cell algae to higher plants: Chlorella vulgaris, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, Coffea arabica, Pisum sativum and Cuscuta japonica. Further, field ionization (GC‐FI‐MS) is introduced for a better annotation of fatty acids and exact determination of the number of double bonds in PUFAs. The proposed workflow provides a convenient strategy to analyze algae and other plant crop systems with respect to their capacity for third generation biodiesel and high‐quality bioproducts for nutrition such as PUFAs.
Sulfoxide‐Chelated Ruthenium Benzylidene Catalyst: a Synthetic Study on the Utility of Olefin Metathesis
Authors: Żukowska Karolina , Pączek Łukasz , Grela Karol
Published: July 2016

We provide an experimental summary of selected advances in olefin metathesis methodology that were reported over the past decades. A stable and universal sulfoxide‐chelated ruthenium olefin metathesis catalyst [RuCl2(SIMes)(=CH−C6H4−S(O)Ph)], SIMes=1,3‐bis(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)‐4,5‐dihydroimidazol‐2‐ylidene, was introduced and its application profile was studied in detail. A range of model substrates of natural origin was developed and successfully metathesized with variants of the reaction, such as ene–yne, cross, or ring‐closing metathesis. All reported reactions were performed in non‐pretreated solvents and in air to demonstrate the user‐friendliness of the system. Besides the great functional group tolerance exhibited by the reported complex, its compatibility with multiple solvents was determined along with its air and moisture stability. Additionally, an interesting effect increasing the reaction efficiency was observed, if reactions were performed at temperatures around the solvent boiling point.
Singlet Oxygen Attack on Guanine: Reactivity and Structural Signature within the B‐DNA Helix
Authors: Dumont Elise , Grüber Raymond , Bignon Emmanuelle , Morell Christophe , Aranda Juan , Ravanat Jean‐Luc , Tuñón Iñaki
Published: July 2016

Oxidatively generated DNA lesions are numerous and versatile, and have been the subject of intensive research since the discovery of 8‐oxoguanine in 1984. Even for this prototypical lesion, the precise mechanism of formation remains elusive due to the inherent difficulties in characterizing high‐energy intermediates. We have probed the stability of the guanine endoperoxide in B‐DNA as a key intermediate and determined a unique activation free energy of around 6 kcal mol−1 for the formation of the first C−O covalent bond upon the attack of singlet molecular oxygen (1O2) on the central guanine of a solvated 13 base‐pair poly(dG‐dC), described by means of quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) simulations. The B‐helix remains stable upon oxidation in spite of the bulky character of the guanine endoperoxide. Our modeling study has revealed the nature of the versatile 1O2 attack in terms of free energy and shows a sensitivity to electrostatics and solvation as it involves a charge‐separated intermediate.
Deterministic and Stochastic Chiral Symmetry Breaking Exhibited by Racemic Aminomethylenehelicene Oligomers
Authors: Kushida Yo , Sawato Tsukasa , Shigeno Masanori , Saito Nozomi , Yamaguchi Masahiko
Published: July 2016

Racemic mixtures of aminomethylenehelicene (P)‐ and (M)‐pentamers exhibited deterministic and stochastic chiral symmetry breaking during hetero‐double‐helix formation and self‐assembly in solution. Heating a 50:50 mixture of (P)‐ and (M)‐pentamers at 90 °C, and then cooling the mixture to 70 °C resulted in hetero‐double‐helix formation; a Cotton effect with negative Δε at λ=315 nm appeared. Chiral self‐assembly occurred when the mixture was cooled to 25 °C. A strong tendency of deterministic chiral symmetry breaking appeared at the molecular and self‐assembled levels, which was indicated by the negative Δε at λ=315 nm that appeared in most cases in repeated experiments. Mixtures containing 60:40 and 40:60 (P)‐/(M)‐pentamers also self‐assembled with the same chirality. When a homo‐double‐helix (P)‐/(M)‐pentamer and a random coil (M)‐/(P)‐pentamer were mixed, the chiral self‐assembly formed stochastically, and heating and cooling resulted in deterministic chiral symmetry breaking.
Synthesis of Albicidin Derivatives: Assessing the Role of N‐terminal Acylation on the Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Kerwat Dennis , Grätz Stefan , Kretz Julian , Seidel Maria , Kunert Maria , Weston John B. , Süssmuth Roderich D.
Published: July 2016

The peptide antibiotic albicidin, which is synthesized by the plant pathogenic bacterium, Xanthomonas albilineans, represents the most prominent member of a new class of antibacterial gyrase inhibitors. It shows remarkable antibacterial activities against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative microorganisms. Its unique structure potentially represents a new lead structure for the development of an antibacterial drug. Here we report the synthesis of 14 albicidin derivatives with structural variations at the N‐terminus, primarily investigating the effects of variation of cinnamoyl, phenylpropanoyl, and benzoyl residues. Gyrase inhibition in vitro and determination of minimal inhibitory concentrations were assessed in parallel. Activities in a nanomolar range and the importance of N‐acylation were demonstrated.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Chemically Reacting Mixtures and Their Kinetics: Example of a Mixture of Three Isomers
Authors: Pekař Miloslav
Published: July 2016

Thermodynamics provides consequences of and restrictions on chemically reacting mixtures, particularly their kinetics, which have not been fully explored. Herein, a comprehensive thermodynamic analysis is illustrated for a reacting mixture of three isomers. The rate equation is first derived on the basis of the results of nonequilibrium continuum thermodynamics of linear fluids, and is then subjected to the requirement of consistency with entropic inequality (the second law). This consistency test involves the correct representation of the reaction rate as a function of affinities. It is shown that entropic inequality restricts the signs or values of coefficients in the constitutive equations for reaction rates/rate constants. The use of reverse rate constants and the identification of thermodynamic and kinetic equilibrium constants are not necessary in this approach. Although the presented thermodynamic analysis works only for independent reactions, the rates of dependent reactions are not excluded from having effects on kinetics. It is shown that the rates of dependent reactions are combined from the rates of independent reactions differently than dependent reactions are combined from independent reactions. The results are compared to the classical mass‐action rate equations, and new restrictions on the values of the classical rate constants are derived.
Luminescent Silver–Purine Double Helicate: Synthesis, Self‐Assembly and Antibacterial Action
Authors: Venkatesh V. , Kumaran M. D. Bala , Saravanan R. Kamal , Kalaichelvan P. T. , Verma Sandeep
Published: July 2016

The synthesis, self‐assembly and antibacterial activity of a luminescent silver–purine double helicate is reported. The structure of the newly synthesized silver‐supported helicate [C36H24N16O4Cl5Ag1] was unambiguously characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography. It exhibited a bright bluish‐green emission (λmax=460 nm), when excited with 380 nm light. Microscopic investigations showed that the complex has a propensity to self‐assemble into nanospheres. The antibacterial activity of this silver‐containing helicate was studied against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. MIC (minimal inhibitory concentration) values showed that the complex is very active against Gram‐negative bacteria. Further internalization of the silver complex into E. coli bacteria was mapped with the help of microscopic techniques. These results are significant as silver was recently found to enhance antibiotic action against Gram‐negative bacteria, raising hope in countering severe bacterial infections.
Predators suppress herbivore outbreaks and enhance plant recovery following hurricanes
Authors: Spiller David A. , Schoener Thomas W. , Piovia‐Scott Jonah
Published: July 2016

Understanding processes that may stabilize ecological systems confronted with rapidly changing environmental conditions is a key issue in ecology. We studied a system of highly fluctuating populations, the moth Achyra rantalis feeding on the plant Sesuvium portulacastrum in a group of small subtropical islands of the Bahamas. The plant is a prostrate inhabitant of shorelines, and consequently moths are highly vulnerable to being consumed by the ground‐foraging lizard Anolis sagrei. We measured the percent ground cover of Sesuvium and abundance of Achyra on 11 islands with lizards present and 21 islands without lizards annually for 10 consecutive years. Overall abundance of Achyra was 4.6 times higher on no‐lizard islands than on lizard islands. The percent cover of Sesuvium exhibited lower temporal variability on lizard islands when the study site was undisturbed by hurricanes, and higher recovery rate on lizard islands following hurricanes. We suggest that both of these stabilizing phenomena are linked to a trophic cascade in which predatory lizards control herbivore populations, thereby suppressing outbreaks and enhancing plant recovery following physical disturbance.
Continuous UV‐Flow Microsystem for Efficient Radical Generation from Organotrifluoroborates by Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: El Achi Nassim , Penhoat Maël , Bakkour Youssef , Rolando Christian , Chausset‐Boissarie Laëtitia
Published: July 2016

An efficient continuous‐flow protocol for C–O and C–C bond formation from organoborates by photoredox catalysis under UV irradiation was explored. The combination of a cyclometalated iridium photocatalyst, high‐power UV light‐emitting diode irradiation, and microreactor technology resulted in very efficient radical generation. The flow device enabled determination of highly accurate kinetic data that allowed the observation of good correlations with the standard Hammett σ (–0.26 to 0.227) values for a wide variety of substituents on the benzyl moiety (ϱ = –4.70, R2 = 0.98). Good to excellent yields were obtained for a variety of substrates by applying significantly short residence times.