bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual Lewis Base Functionalization of Ionic Liquids for Highly Efficient and Selective Capture of H2S
Authors: Huang Kuan , Cai Da‐Niu , Chen Yong‐Le , Wu You‐Ting , Hu Xing‐Bang , Zhang Zhi‐Bing
Published: December 2013

Three dual Lewis base functionalized ionic liquids (DLB‐ILs) tethered with both carboxyl and tertiary amine groups on their anions were designed for highly efficient and selective absorption of H2S. It was found that the DLB‐ILs could reversibly absorb 0.39–0.84 mol of H2S per mole of IL at 1 bar and 60 °C, which is significantly higher than that of other ILs. On the contrary, the CO2 absorption in this class of DLB‐ILs was shown to be quite limited relative to H2S owing to the coupling effect of the two Lewis base groups. It is the dual Lewis base functionalization that enables the significantly high values calculated for the ideal absorption selectivity for H2S/CO2, that is, 13–26 at 1 bar and 29–70 at 0.1 bar (60 °C). The selectivity even goes up to >100 at low pressures and high temperatures. It was further illustrated from DFT calculations and spectroscopy studies that the cooperation interaction of carboxyl⋅⋅⋅H2S⋅⋅⋅amine and the reduced binding with CO2 were the major contributions to the high H2S absorption capacity and H2S/CO2 selectivity.
Energy Losses Due to Radiation Reaction for Electrons Accelerated by Interfering Intense Laser Pulses with Tilted Amplitude Fronts
Authors: Galkin A. L. , Trofimov V. A.
Published: December 2013

The dynamics of an electron accelerated by laser radiation with the help of a scheme based on the interference of three relativistically intense electromagnetic pulses with titled amplitude fronts is analyzed. It is shown that, starting at the center of the interference pattern, the electron moves along a spiral trajectory with the axis perpendicular to the wave vectors of the laser beams, gaining considerable kinetic energy in the process. The impact of radiation reaction under the arrangement is simulated numerically in the framework of various approaches intended to take into account the energy loss resulting from the effect. The energy loss by the electron is shown to depend strongly on its initial energy and on whether the electron and the laser pulse initially travel in the same or opposite directions. The relation between small energy losses due to radiation reaction and the electron capture by the optical field is established. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Task scheduling scheme based on resource clustering in desktop grids
Authors: Gil Joon‐Min , Kim Sungsuk , Lee JongHyuk
Published: December 2013

Desktop grids are platforms for grid computing that incorporate desktop resources into a grid infrastructure. The purpose of this computing paradigm is to process a massive computational tasks by exploiting the donated resources connected over the Internet. In desktop grids, it is important to guarantee fast turnaround time in the presence of dynamic properties, such as volatility and heterogeneity. To achieve this objective, we propose a task scheduling scheme based on resource clustering that can selectively allocate tasks to those resources that are most suitable for the current situation of a desktop grid environment. As a classifier of resources, the k‐means clustering algorithm is introduced to classify resources according to their own task execution availability and result‐return probability. The experimental results show that our scheduling scheme is more efficient than existing scheduling schemes with respect to reducing both the turnaround time and the quantity of resources consumed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling inorganic nitrogen leaching in nested mesoscale catchments in central Germany
Authors: Jiang Sanyuan , Jomaa Seifeddine , Rode Michael
Published: December 2013

Water quality models are increasingly used to predict nutrient losses from anthropogenically impacted catchments, but comprehensive model calibration and transfer of model parameters are often difficult. The objectives of this study are (i) to assess the Hydrological Predictions for the Environment (HYPE) model for simulating runoff and inorganic nitrogen (IN) leaching in nested and spatially heterogeneous mesoscale catchments in central Germany and (ii) to investigate the temporal and spatial variations of IN leaching. A multi‐site and multi‐objective calibration approach using the parameter estimation tool PEST was employed. Results showed that parameters related to evapotranspiration were most sensitive for runoff simulation. The nitrogen balance was controlled by plant uptake and denitrification. Runoff was well reproduced for both calibration (1994–1999) and validation (1999–2004) periods at all three gauging stations, with the lowest Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) of 0·86 and bias (PBIAS) of less than 15%. In addition, the model was tested successfully to predict the dynamics of soil water storage during extreme climatological events. IN concentrations showed increase in magnitude and decrease in dynamics from upstream to downstream of the catchment, reflecting the combined effects of nutrient inputs and IN in‐stream retention. The dynamics of monthly IN loads were well represented by the model during the whole simulation period, with the lowest NSE and PBIAS of 0·69 and 33%, respectively. Results revealed seasonal dynamics of IN leaching due to the combined effects of hydrological and biogeochemical processes, which is consistent with runoff dynamics. This indicates the controlling role of hydrology on nitrogen transport processes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Single‐Ion Magnetism in a Luminescent Er3+ β‐Diketonato Complex with Multiple Relaxation Mechanisms
Authors: Martín‐Ramos Pablo , Ramos Silva Manuela , Coutinho Joana T. , Pereira Laura C. J. , Chamorro‐Posada Pedro , Martín‐Gil Jesús
Published: December 2013

In the crystal structure of tris(2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐3,5‐heptanedionato)mono(bathophenanthroline)erbium(III), C57H73ErN2O6, the Er3+ ion is in an antiprismatic environment, surrounded by two N atoms and six O atoms. The β‐diketonato ligands show structural disorder. The ac susceptibility studies conducted at frequencies from 33 to 9995 Hz and at temperatures from 1.7 to 10 K revealed that the application of a static magnetic field induces a slow magnetic relaxation. Two relaxation modes (fast relaxation = FR; slow relaxation = SR) could be distinguished with energy barriers UFR/kB = 15.6 K and USR/kB = 22.4 K and relaxation times of 10–6 and 10–4 s, respectively. The Er3+ compound is luminescent in the solid state, emitting in the near IR region.
Affinity probe capillary electrophoresis of insulin using a fluorescence‐labeled recombinant Fab as an affinity probe
Authors: Shimura Kiyohito , Kasai Ken‐Ichi
Published: December 2013

Affinity probe CE (APCE) separates and detects a target molecule as a complex using a fluorescence‐labeled affinity probe (AP) by CE. The electrophoretic separation of the complex ensures accurate identification of a specific signal among nonspecific ones, which often compromises the credibility of immunoassays. APCE of insulin using a recombinant Fab (rFab) as an AP was demonstrated as a model system in this report. Anti‐insulin rFab was expressed in Escherichia coli and labeled at a cysteine residue in the hinge region with a thiol‐reactive rhodamine dye. Electrophoretically pure labeled rFab was recovered from a focused band in slab‐gel IEF and used as an AP. A mixture of standard insulin and the AP with carrier ampholyte was introduced into a neutral‐polymer coated fused silica capillary (50 μm id, 120 mm long). IEF was carried out at 500 V/cm, and the capillary was scanned for laser‐induced fluorescence under focusing conditions. The insulin‐AP complex focused at pH 6.6 within 6 min along with the free AP at pH 7.6. The complex peak decayed according to the first‐order reaction kinetics with a half life of 3.8 min. A linear calibration line was obtained for standard insulin at a concentration range of 20 pM to 5 nM using the AP at 50 nM. These results demonstrate that rFab is useful for the preparation of an AP for APCE.
CE with chemiluminescence detection for the determination of thyroxine in human serum
Authors: Mu Xiaomei , Li Shuting , Lu Xin , Zhao Shulin
Published: December 2013

A sensitive and rapid approach to perform thyroxine (T4) assay by CE with chemiluminescence (CL) detection was developed. The sensitive detection was based on the enhancement effect of T4 on the CL reaction between luminol and potassium permanganate (KMnO4) in alkaline solution. A laboratory‐built reaction flow cell and a photon counter were deployed for the CL detection. Experimental conditions for CL detection were studied in detail to achieve maximum assay sensitivity. Optimal conditions were found to be 5.0 × 10−4 M luminol added to the CE running buffer and 9.2 × 10−5 M KMnO4 in 0.072 M NaOH solution introduced postcolumn. In the optimized experimental conditions, the linear range for T4 detection was 6.0 × 10−8–6.0 × 10−6 M, with the detection limit of 2.0 × 10−8 M (S/N = 3). Six human serum samples from healthy subjects, hyperthyroid patients and hypothyroid patients were analyzed by the presented method. The serum level of T4 in healthy subjects was found be 9.0 × 10−8 M, whereas the T4 level was found to be 15.6 × 10−8 M in hyperthyroid patients and 1.3 × 10−8 M in hypothyroid patients. The results suggested a potential application of the proposed assay in rapid primary diagnosis of diseases such as hyperthyroid and hypothyroid.
Analysis, structural characterization, and bioactivity of oligosaccharides derived from lactose
Authors: Moreno F. Javier , Montilla Antonia , Villamiel Mar , Corzo Nieves , Olano Agustín
Published: December 2013

The increasing interest for prebiotic carbohydrates as functional food ingredients has promoted the synthesis of galactooligosaccharides and new lactose derivatives. This review provides a comprehensive overview on the chromatographic analysis, structural characterization, and bioactivity studies of lactose‐derived oligosaccharides. The most common chromatographic techniques used for the separation and structural characterization of this type of oligosaccharides, including GC and HPLC in different operational modes, coupled to various detectors are discussed. Insights on oligosaccharide MS fragmentation patterns, using different ionization sources and mass analyzers, as well as data on structural analysis by NMR spectroscopy are also described. Finally, this article deals with the bioactive effects of galacto oligosaccharides and oligosaccharides derived from lactulose on the gastrointestinal and immune systems, which support their consumption to provide significant health benefits.
Imidacloprid perturbs feeding of Gammarus pulex at environmentally relevant concentrations
Authors: Agatz Annika , Ashauer Roman , Brown Colin D.
Published: December 2013

Changes in food uptake by detritivorous macroinvertebrates could disrupt the ecosystem service of leaf litter breakdown, necessitating the study of shredding under anthropogenic influences. The impact of the neonicotinoid insecticide imidacloprid on the feeding rate of individual Gammarus pulex was measured at a daily resolution both during and after a 4-d exposure period. The authors found that imidacloprid inhibits feeding of G. pulex during exposure at concentrations ≥30 µg/L and that there was no recovery in feeding on transfer into clean media for 3 d. Exposure to imidacloprid at concentrations ≥0.81 µg/L and ≤9.0 µg/L resulted in increased feeding after exposure even though there was no significant effect on feeding during the exposure itself. Comparison with the literature shows that concentrations found to influence feeding lie within the range of estimated and measured environmental concentrations. Additionally, effects on feeding rate were observed at concentrations 2 orders of magnitude lower than those causing mortality. The lethal concentration for 50% of test organisms after 4 d of exposure (270 µg/L, literature data) and the effect concentration for a reduction in feeding by 50% (5.34 µg/L) were used for this comparison. The present study discusses the potential that effects on feeding may evoke effects at the population level or disturb leaf litter breakdown in the environment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:648–653. © 2013 SETAC
Human mercury exposure and effects in Europe
Authors: Višnjevec Ana Miklavčič , Kocman David , Horvat Milena
Published: December 2013

The effects of human exposure to mercury (Hg) and its compounds in Europe have been the focus of numerous studies that differed in their design, including recruiting different population groups at different levels of exposure and using different protocols and recruitment strategies. The objective of the present study was to review current studies of Hg exposure in Europe, taking into account the potential routes of Hg exposure, actual Hg exposure levels assessed by different biomarkers, and the effects of Hg to Europeans. All published studies from 2000 onward were reviewed, and exposure and effects studies were compared with known Hg levels in environmental compartments by mapping the various population groups studied and taking into account known sources of Hg. A study of the spatial distribution trends confirmed that the highest exposure levels to Hg, mostly as methylmercury (MeHg), are found in coastal populations, which consume more fish than inland populations. Fewer studies addressed exposure to elemental Hg through inhalation of Hg in air and inorganic Hg in food, particularly in highly contaminated areas. Overall, at the currently low exposure levels of Hg prevalently found in Europe, further studies are needed to confirm the risk to European populations, taking into consideration exposure to various Hg compounds and mixtures of stressors with similar end-points, nutritional status, and a detailed understanding of Hg in fish present in European markets. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:1259–1270. © 2013 SETAC
Spatial organization of NG2 glial cells and astrocytes in rat hippocampal CA1 region
Authors: Xu Guangjin , Wang Wei , Zhou Min
Published: December 2013

Similar to astrocytes, NG2 glial cells are uniformly distributed in the central nervous system (CNS). However, little is known about the interspatial relationship, nor the functional interactions between these two star‐shaped glial subtypes. Confocal morphometric analysis showed that NG2 immunostained cells are spatially organized as domains in rat hippocampal CA1 region and that each NG2 glial domain occupies a spatial volume of ∼178, 364 μm3. The processes of NG2 glia and astrocytes overlap extensively; each NG2 glial domain interlaces with the processes deriving from 5.8 ± 0.4 neighboring astrocytes, while each astrocytic domain accommodates processes stemming from 4.5 ± 0.3 abutting NG2 glia. In CA1 stratum radiatum, the cell bodies of morphologically identified glial cells often appear to make direct somatic‐somata contact, termed as doublets. We used dual patch recording and postrecording NG2/GFAP double staining to determine the glial identities of these doublets. We show that among 44 doublets, 50% were NG2 glia–astrocyte pairs, while another 38.6% and 11.4% were astrocyte–astrocyte and NG2 glia–NG2 glia pairs, respectively. In dual patch recording, neither electrical coupling nor intercellular biocytin transfer was detected in astrocyte–NG2 glia or NG2 glia–NG2 glia doublets. Altogether, although NG2 glia and astrocytes are not gap junction coupled, their cell bodies and processes are interwoven extensively. The anatomical and physiological relationships revealed in this study should facilitate future studies to understand the metabolic coupling and functional communication between NG2 glia and astrocytes. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transitory FGF Treatment Results in the Long‐Lasting Suppression of the Proliferative Response to Repeated FGF Stimulation
Authors: Poole Ashleigh , Knowland Nicholas , Cooper Emily , Cole Rebecca , Wang Hongchuan , Booth Lucas , Kacer Doreen , Tarantini Francesca , Friesel Robert , Prudovsky Igor
Published: December 2013

FGF applied as a single growth factor to quiescent mouse fibroblasts induces a round of DNA replication, however continuous stimulation results in arrest in the G1 phase of the next cell cycle. We hypothesized that FGF stimulation induces the establishment of cell memory, which prevents the proliferative response to repeated or continuous FGF application. When a 2–5 days quiescence period was introduced between primary and repeated FGF treatments, fibroblasts failed to efficiently replicate in response to secondary FGF application. The establishment of “FGF memory” during the first FGF stimulation did not require DNA synthesis, but was dependent on the activity of FGF receptors, MEK, p38 MAPK and NFκB signaling, and protein synthesis. While secondary stimulation resulted in strongly decreased replication rate, we did not observe any attenuation of morphological changes, Erk1/2 phosphorylation and cyclin D1 induction. However, secondary FGF stimulation failed to induce the expression of cyclin A, which is critical for the progression from G1 to S phase. Treatment of cells with a broad range histone deacetylase inhibitor during the primary FGF stimulation rescued the proliferative response to the secondary FGF treatment suggesting that the establishment of “FGF memory” may be based on epigenetic changes. We suggest that “FGF memory” can prevent the hyperplastic response to cell damage and inflammation, which are associated with an enhanced FGF production and secretion. “FGF memory” may present a natural obstacle to the efficient application of recombinant FGFs for the treatment of ulcers, ischemias, and wounds. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 874–888, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
P(n‐Bu)3Catalyzed Reactions of Salicyl N‐Thiophosphinyl Imines with Allenylphosphonates: Synthesis of Phosphono‐Chromans
Authors: Rama Suresh R. , Prasad Tulichala R. N. , Kotikalapudi Ramesh , Kumara Swamy K. C.
Published: December 2013

A phosphine [P(n‐Bu)3]‐catalyzed reaction for the synthesis of phosphono‐chromans from allenylphosphonates and salicyl N‐thiophosphinyl imines has been described and compared with reactions for phosphorus‐free allenes. The products are (β,γ)‐cyclized and are obtained in good yields (57–83%). A key product is characterized by X‐ray crystallography.
The purification of edible oils and fats
Authors: Dijkstra Albert J.
Published: December 2013

Originally, oils were not refined but with the introduction of solvent extraction, refining became necessary. Crude cottonseed oil was refined by treating the oil with caustic soda and the same process was used for all other oils that needed refining. The subsequent introduction of centrifugal separators converted the original batch process into a continuous process. Degumming was introduced to obtain lecithin but limited to soya bean oil. Physical refining was introduced for high acidity oils like palm oil after the oil had been degummed to low residual phosphorus levels in the dry degumming process, in which the oil is first of all treated with an acid and then with bleaching earth. In Europe, further degumming processes were developed that allowed seed oil to be physically refined and later phospholipase enzymes were introduced to reduce oil retention by the gums and improve oil yield. Given these various oil purification processes, the refiner must decide which process to use for which oil in which circumstances. The paper provides a survey of what to do and when. It also discusses several topics that require further investigation and development.
Synthesis and properties of high corrosion resistant Ni–cerium oxide nano‐composite coating
Authors: Hasannejad H. , Shahrabi T. , Jafarian M.
Published: December 2013

The effect of cerium ion on the formation, morphology, composition, and corrosion behavior of Ni–cerium oxide coatings was investigated by SEM, FESEM, XRD, EDS, XPS, EIS, and potentiodynamic polarization. The extremely highest corrosion resistant coating was obtained when the cerium ion concentration in the plating bath was 16 mM. It has been observed that the presence of cerium ion in the plating bath led to changes in the morphology of the coating from pyramid nodular structure to coaxial structure. By adding cerium ion to the plating bath, a considerable grain refinement in the nanometer region was observed.
Novel zinc‐rich epoxy paint coatings with hydrated alumina and carbon nanotubes supported polypyrrole for corrosion protection of low carbon steel: Part I: Inhibitor particles and their dispersions
Authors: Gergely A. , Pászti Z. , Bertóti I. , Török T. , Pfeifer É. , Kálmán E.
Published: December 2013

In part 1 of this work, preparation, structure, spectroscopic, and electrochemical characteristics of the polypyrrole (PPy) deposited alumina/multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) inhibitor particles (PDAMIPs) are presented. TEM observations evidenced uniform deposition of thin PPy film on the functionalized nanotubes, whereas co‐deposition of PPy and polystyrene sulfonic acid (PSS) lead to thick polymer coverage on hydrated alumina. Modification with polymer complexes resulted in moderately dispersed PDAMIPs, which is due to the various degrees of aggregation and coalescence. FTIR revealed compact and dense PPy structure on the functionalized MWCNTs while it was not the case on alumina and the PSS modified nanotubes. Closer interaction of PPy with the MWCNTs resulted in enhanced charge mobility, whereas greater electroactivity and reversibility of PPy were noted to samples containing functionalized nanotubes and low amount of PSS. Rheological study verified moderate micron‐scale dispersity and the modification caused various degrees of aggregations of the PDAMIPs. These were recognized to be valid in the suspensions at a solid phase concentration with component contents similar to the corrosion tested hybrid coatings. Rheological percolation of the nanotubes (with anisotropic factor of ∼100) was confirmed at volume fractions of 3.30 × 10−3 and 6.0 × 10−4 which were under the dilute/semi‐dilute boundary type theoretical and experimental thresholds. This is related to the extensive interconnection of the nanotube‐supported filaments. Thus, overlapping of the nanotubes should contribute to the electrical percolation thereby galvanic corrosion prevention function of the zinc‐rich hybrid coatings, which is discussed in the 2nd part.
Clinical, electrophysiologic, and imaging features of zoster‐associated limb paresis
Authors: Jones Lyell K. , Haatem Reda , Watson James C.
Published: December 2013

Introduction: Paresis is a long‐recognized complication of herpes zoster, but there has been comparatively little study of zoster‐associated limb paresis (ZALP). Methods: In this study we reviewed 49 Mayo Clinic patients with ZALP. Results: The mean age of onset was 71 years, 67% were men, and the lower limb was affected in 55%. The mean weakness score was 2.0 (0 = normal strength, 4 = plegia). Most patients developed postherpetic neuralgia (PHN, 92% at 1 month and 65% at 3 months), and the average minimum duration of weakness was 193 days. ZALP was caused by radiculopathy (37%), plexopathy (41%), mononeuropathy (14%), and radiculoplexus neuropathy (8%). MRI demonstrated nerve enlargement, T2 signal prolongation, or enhancement in a majority (64%) of affected plexi and peripheral nerves. Conclusions: ZALP is associated with considerable weakness. It typically lasts at least several months, localizes to plexus or peripheral nerve in 63%, and is associated with high rates of PHN. Muscle Nerve 50:177–185, 2014
Direct free fatty acid storage in different sized adipocytes from the same depot
Authors: Rajjo Tamim I. , Harteneck Debra A. , Jensen Michael D.
Published: December 2013

Objective

Human adipocytes take up free fatty acids (FFA) directly from the circulation, even at times of high lipolytic activity. Whether these processes occurs simultaneously within the same cells or are partitioned between different cells, for example large and small cells, is unknown.

Methods

The direct FFA storage in subcutaneous fat in 13 adults were measured using a continuous infusion of [U‐13C]palmitate and a bolus of [1‐14C]palmitate followed 30 min later by abdominal and femoral adipose biopsies. The adipocytes were isolated by digestion procedures and separated into small, medium and large populations by differential floatation.

Results

Populations of adipocytes were isolated that were statistically and clinically (∼3 fold different) in size. Adipocyte lipid SA was not different between small, medium and large cells, therefore, FFA storage per unit lipid was not different. However, FFA storage rates were significantly (two to four times) greater per cell in large than small cells (P < 0.005). In summary, relative to lipid content, FFA storage rates are not different in large and small adipocytes, however, large cells have greater storage rates per cell.

Conclusions

This suggests that the processes of FFA release and storage are taking place simultaneously in adipocytes.
Improving diagnosis and management of dementia in primary care
Authors: Rasmussen Jill
Published: December 2013

Our series of Commentaries from the Primary Care Neurology Society (P‐CNS) provide a primary care perspective on neurology articles featured in Progress in Neurology and Psychiatry. Here, Dr Jill Rasmussen discusses ‘Closing the diagnosis gap and improving care: the primary care memory clinic’ (see page 27).
Use of asenapine in a case of treatment‐resistant bipolar disorder
Authors: Kohli Sarabjeet , Singh Vinod
Published: December 2013

Effective management of acute bipolar mania can be challenging, particularly in patients with comorbid substance use. Here, the authors describe the case of an acutely manic 37‐year‐old man with treatment‐resistant bipolar affective disorder and comorbid cannabis dependency, who responded well to treatment with asenapine, enabling him to be discharged back to the community psychiatric team.
Closing the diagnosis gap and improving care: the primary care memory clinic
Authors: Benbow Susan Mary , Jolley David , Greaves Ian Charles , Walker Elaine
Published: December 2013

Early diagnosis of dementia is vital for optimum care but diagnosis rates remain patchy across the UK. Dr Benbow and colleagues describe their innovative primary care memory clinic model in Gnosall, Staffordshire, and the benefits it has brought in terms of increasing diagnosis, improved patient care and cost savings.
Core–Shell Structured Nanocomposites for Photocatalytic Selective Organic Transformations
Authors: Liu Siqi , Zhang Nan , Xu Yi‐Jun
Published: December 2013

Core–shell structured nanocomposites, a type of talented functional materials with unique microstructure and properties, have shown great promise as photocatalysts for various applications, including photocatalytic degradation of pollutants, water splitting for hydrogen production, and selective organic transformations. The synthesis and utilization of efficient core–shell nanoarchitectured photocatalysts for selective organic synthesis are at the center of our research efforts and the focus of this minireview. Specifically, semiconductor‐based core–shell nanocomposites, including metal–semiconductor, semiconductor–semiconductor, semiconductor–shell (graphene and SiO2) as photocatalysts/cocatalysts for selective oxidation of alcohols, reduction of nitro organics and carbon dioxide for synthesis of fine chemicals, and redox‐combined selective synthesis of pipecolinic acid are summarized. It is hoped that this minireview can make a contribution to catalyzing the development of smart core–shell nanostructures in the field of photocatalytic selective organic transformations for solar energy conversion.
Mechanisms of resistance to paraquat in plants
Authors: Hawkes Timothy R
Published: December 2013

The aim of this brief review is to draw information from studies of the mechanism of evolved resistance in weeds, together with information from laboratory studies of paraquat tolerance in model plants. Plants having mutations that limit paraquat uptake into cytoplasm, that confer various stress tolerances or that have transgenes that co‐express two or more of the chloroplast Halliwell–Asada cycle enzymes can all exhibit enhanced tolerance to paraquat. However, none of these mechanisms correspond to the high‐level resistances that have evolved naturally in weeds. Most, but not all, of the evidence from studies of paraquat‐resistant biotypes of weeds can reasonably be reconciled with the proposal of a single major gene mechanism that sequesters paraquat away from chloroplasts and into the vacuole. However, the molecular details of this putative mechanism remain ill‐defined. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Interfacial intermixing in SrRuO3/Pr0.7Ca0.3MnO3 epitaxial superlattices: A HAADF‐STEM study
Authors: Hillebrand Reinald , Pippel Eckhard , Vrejoiu Ionela , Hesse Dietrich
Published: December 2013

We quantitatively interpret HAADF‐STEM images of SrRuO3/Pr0.7Ca0.3MnO3 (SRO/PCMO) superlattices. The images were taken in a probe‐corrected (cs = 0) FEI microscope at 300 kV. The specimen thickness is estimated by comparing experimental and simulated Z‐contrast ratios. The intermixing at the interfaces is different for the growth of SRO on PCMO and that of PCMO on SRO. In addition, the thermal stability of SRO/PCMO superlattices is studied by HAADF‐STEM, based on a series of annealing experiments.

Colored HAADF‐STEM image (V = 300 kV, cs = 0 mm) of part of a SrRuO3/Pr0.7Ca0.3MnO3 epitaxial superlattice.
Temperature‐dependent interlayer coupling in Fe3Si/FeSi2 artificial lattices
Authors: Sakai Ken‐ichiro , Noda Yuta , Tsumagari Daiki , Deguchi Hiroyuki , Takeda Kaoru , Yoshitake Tsuyoshi
Published: December 2013

Fe3Si/FeSi2 artificial lattices, wherein ferromagnetic (F)/antiferromagnetic (AF) interlayer coupling between the Fe3Si layers were induced by controlling the thickness of FeSi2 layers, were prepared on Si(111) substrates by facing targets direct‐current sputtering. The interlayer couplings were investigated at different temperatures by measuring the magnetization curves. The AF coupling at room temperature was gradually weakened with a decrease in the temperature, and it finally became ferromagnetic or noncoupled at temperatures lower than 77 K. We consider that the FeSi2 layers act as semiconductors and their change in the electric state for the temperature induces the interlayer coupling switching.
Developing caring relationships in schools: a review of the research on caring and nurturing pedagogies
Authors: Velasquez Andrea , West Richard , Graham Charles , Osguthorpe Richard
Published: December 2013

Education has been criticized for a disproportionate focus on the technical aspects of teaching with less focus on its ‘human’ aspects. Consequently, many researchers and theorists have expressed a need to answer what role care plays in education. Our purpose in this review is to examine the definition of caring pedagogies and synthesize relevant research helpful to understanding its application. We briefly consider moral development and ethical care theories pertinent to teaching and learning and synthesize the research findings related to defining and measuring caring pedagogy; as well as developing caring characteristics in teachers and students, caring classroom communities, and caring in unique and challenging contexts. Finally, we argue for more research on developing valid instruments for measuring caring pedagogy and examining under‐explored contexts such as higher education and technology‐mediated learning. We conclude that caring pedagogy provides a powerful means to student learning improvement, one meriting the greatest attention by educators and education researchers.
Context and Implications Document for: Developing caring relationships in schools: a review of the research on caring and nurturing pedagogies
Authors: Velasquez Andrea , West Richard E. , Graham Charles , Osguthorpe Richard
Published: December 2013

This guide accompanies the following article: Andrea Velasquez, Richard E. West, Charles Graham and Richard Osguthorpe, Developing caring relationships in schools: a review of the research on caring and nurturing pedagogies, Review of Education, 10.1002/rev3.3014
The paradox of resource vulnerability: Considerations for organizational curatorship
Authors: Le Breton‐Miller Isabelle , Miller Danny
Published: December 2013

Resource‐based scholars have focused on the properties of resources and the isolating mechanisms that sustain their rents in the face of competition. Unfortunately, they have devoted far less attention to the sources of vulnerability of many of these resources. We argue that, paradoxically, sources of rent such as isolating mechanisms often have a dark side that renders resources more vulnerable. We highlight three categories of challenges to managing resource vulnerability—protecting them from erosion, coping with their ambiguity, and preserving their required alignment—and identify sources of vulnerability within each. We address these via three primary functions of curatorship: preservation, connoisseurship, and orchestration, respectively. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Growth Behavior of Intragranular Ferrite Idiomorphs in an Fe–0.09%C–1.48%Mn–0.2Si Steels
Authors: Cheng Lin , Wu Kaiming , Wan Xiangliang
Published: December 2013

Three‐dimensional morphology and growth behavior of intragranular ferrite idiomorph in an Fe–0.09%C–1.48%Mn–0.2Si alloy were studied by serial sectioning and computer‐aided three‐dimensional reconstruction technique in conjunction with electron back‐scattering diffraction technology. Intragranular ferrite idiomorph can be formed at both low undercooling and high undercooling. However, at high undercooling, intragranular ferrite gradually lost its equiaxed morphology and transformed to a plate or a lath‐like morphology with increase in holding time. Intragranular ferrite idiomorph consisted of one grain or several sub‐grains. These sub‐grains were characterized by low and/or large angle grain boundaries among them. The growth kinetics of intragranular ferrite idiomorph was similar to grain boundary face‐nucleated ferrite and fell between paraequilibrium and local equilibrium prediction limits.
Influence of Formation and Coarsening of the Laves Phase on the Mechanical Properties of Heat‐Resistant Ferritic Steels
Authors: Klein Simon , Nabiran Nilofar , Weber Sebastian , Theisen Werner
Published: December 2013

Three newly designed heat‐resistant ferritic alloys containing the intermetallic Laves phase were investigated with respect to an annealing dwell time of up to 1440 h at 900°C and were compared with commercially available steels. A detailed characterization of the microstructure evolution in dependence of the annealing dwell time was performed. In order to estimate the influence of Laves phase formation and coarsening on the strength, ductility and toughness, the results of the microstructural analysis were correlated with tensile tests at room temperature and with Charpy‐V impact tests. Precipitates of the Laves phase were observed in the recrystallized state with a mean particle diameter about 0.25 μm. The Laves phase in all investigated alloys showed rapid growth and coarsening with increasing annealing time. In spite of this behavior, the strength and ductility of the newly designed alloys were conserved, even after annealing for 1440 h. However, the toughness decreased with coarsening of the Laves phase, which is expressed by a shift of the ductile‐to‐brittle transition temperature to a higher temperature. Overall, it was shown that the influence of grain growth on the mechanical properties is more significant than the presence of the Laves phase. Precipitation of Laves phase lowers the mobility of the grain boundaries so that grain growth can be avoided.
Expression of Chimeric Receptor CD4ζby Natural Killer Cells Derived from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells Improves In Vitro Activity but Does Not Enhance Suppression of HIV Infection In Vivo
Authors: Ni Zhenya , Knorr David A. , Bendzick Laura , Allred Jeremy , Kaufman Dan S.
Published: December 2013

Cell-based immunotherapy has been gaining interest as an improved means to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS. Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) could become a potential resource. Our previous studies have shown hESC and iPSC-derived natural killer (NK) cells can inhibit HIV-infected targets in vitro. Here, we advance those studies by expressing a HIV chimeric receptor combining the extracellular portion of CD4 to the CD3ζ intracellular signaling chain. We hypothesized that expression of this CD4ζ receptor would more efficiently direct hESC- and iPSC-derived NK cells to target HIV-infected cells. In vitro studies showed the CD4ζ expressing hESC- and iPSC-NK cells inhibited HIV replication in CD4+ T-cells more efficiently than their unmodified counterparts. We then evaluated CD4ζ expressing hESC (CD4ζ-hESC)- and iPSC-NK cells in vivo anti-HIV activity using a humanized mouse model. We demonstrated significant suppression of HIV replication in mice treated with both CD4ζ-modified and -unmodified hESC-/iPSC-NK cells compared with control mice. However, we did not observe significantly increased efficacy of CD4ζ expression in suppression of HIV infection. These studies indicate that hESC/iPSC-based immunotherapy can be used as a unique resource to target HIV/AIDS. Stem Cells  2014;32:1021–1031
Putting on a green carnival: Youth taking educated action on socioscientific issues
Authors: Birmingham Daniel , Calabrese Barton Angela
Published: December 2013

Socioscientific issues in connection to energy production, use or influence on climate change continue to be at the forefront of local, national, and global debates. The pressing nature of these issues requires citizens not only to understand relevant disciplinary knowledge but also to have the ability to use that knowledge to take action. This paper investigates the work of youth in an after school science program designed to examine socioscientific issues as they took educated action in science by putting on a “green carnival” for their peers and community members in relation to green energy issues. We approached this study as a critical ethnography working with youth as they planned and implemented a community event. In particular, we were interested in examining what taking educated action in and for one's community looks like and how youth leveraged community‐based and scientific expertise to engage in this work. Our findings indicate that the intersection of place‐based and science expertise provided an impetus for youth to take educated action in and for their community. They also indicate that merging place‐based understandings with core science ideas resulted in youth creating a space to open dialog and alter the relationship between science and their community. We discuss the implications for science educators to consider the role of educated action in both informal and formal science learning spaces in order to foster civic action using scientific expertise. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 51: 286–314, 2014
Feasibility of Laparoscopic Re‐resection for Patients with Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chan Albert C. Y. , Poon Ronnie T. P. , Chok Kenneth S. H. , Cheung Tan To , Chan See Ching , Lo Chung Mau
Published: December 2013

Background

Repeated resection via an open approach is an effective treatment for post‐operative recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there are limited data on the application of laparoscopic approach for recurrent HCC in patients with prior liver resections. The aim of this study was to review our experience of laparoscopic re‐resection in patients with postoperative tumor recurrence.

Materials and methods

A total of 11 patients received laparoscopic re‐resections for postoperative tumor recurrence in our center. Data were reviewed for demographics, tumor characteristics, and perioperative outcomes. Case‐match analysis with the open approach was performed in a 1:2 ratio.

Results

Six patients had their first liver resection carried out via the open approach and the remaining five patients received the laparoscopic approach. The recurrent tumor size was 20 mm (12–50 mm) and ten patients had a solitary recurrence. Two patients had laparoscopic left lateral sectionectomy and the remaining nine patients had sub‐segmentectomies. There was no significant difference in patient characteristics, preoperative liver function, and tumor features between the laparoscopic and open groups. Perioperative blood loss was significantly reduced in the laparoscopic group (100 vs. 314 mL; p = 0.014) but the morbidity rate (18.2 vs. 4.5 %; p = 0.199) and length of hospitalization were comparable (6 vs. 5 days; p = 0.831). The 3‐year overall survival rates for the laparoscopic and open groups were 60.0 and 89.3 %, respectively (p = 0.279).

Conclusion

Our study showed that laparoscopic re‐resection for recurrent HCC was feasible with satisfactory postoperative and oncological outcomes, even in patients with previous major liver resections.
Neoadjuvant Therapy and Vascular Resection During Pancreaticoduodenectomy: Shifting the Survival Curve for Patients with Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Epelboym Irene , DiNorcia J. , Winner M. , Lee M. K. , Lee J. A. , Schrope B. A. , Chabot J. A. , Allendorf J. D.
Published: December 2013

Background

Neoadjuvant therapy and vascular resection may offer patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer potential cure.

Methods

We reviewed medical records of patients with ductal adenocarcinoma who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) from 1992 through 2011. We identified patients who received neoadjuvant therapy (NA+) or required vascular resection (VR+) for locally advanced disease and compared outcomes to those who did not.

Results

Of the 643 patients who were initially explored, 506 (143 NA+ and 363 NA− patients) ultimately underwent PD. There were no significant differences in R0 resection or morbidity. Mortality was higher in the NA+ versus NA− group (7.0 vs 3.0 %, p = 0.04). More NA+ patients underwent PD VR+ (p < 0.001). Among VR+ patients, neoadjuvant therapy resulted in significantly lower R1 resection. Among resected patients, survival of NA+ patients was significantly longer than both NA− patients (27.3 vs 19.7 months, p < 0.05) and patients abandoned because of locally advanced disease. Age, tumor grade, lymph node ratio, and R1 resection were independent predictors of poor survival.

Conclusions

Neoadjuvant therapy and vascular resection offer patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer the chance for cure with acceptable morbidity and mortality. These patients have improved survival over patients deemed locally inoperable by traditional criteria.
Consistent Partial Least Squares for Nonlinear Structural Equation Models
Authors: Dijkstra Theo K. , Schermelleh-Engel Karin
Published: December 2013

Partial Least Squares as applied to models with latent variables, measured indirectly by indicators, is well-known to be inconsistent. The linear compounds of indicators that PLS substitutes for the latent variables do not obey the equations that the latter satisfy. We propose simple, non-iterative corrections leading to consistent and asymptotically normal (CAN)-estimators for the loadings and for the correlations between the latent variables. Moreover, we show how to obtain CAN-estimators for the parameters of structural recursive systems of equations, containing linear and interaction terms, without the need to specify a particular joint distribution. If quadratic and higher order terms are included, the approach will produce CAN-estimators as well when predictor variables and error terms are jointly normal. We compare the adjusted PLS, denoted by PLSc, with Latent Moderated Structural Equations (LMS), using Monte Carlo studies and an empirical application.
Robotic-assisted tubal anastomosis with one-stitch technique
Authors: Kavoussi Shahryar K. , Kavoussi K. M. , Lebovic Dan I.
Published: December 2013

The da Vinci® robotic surgical system has been used more often in recent years for tubal anastomosis (TA) and has been reported to have an increased operative time. A one-stitch technique has been used for the reanastomosis step in laparoscopic TA. To date, publications on robotically-assisted TA (RATA) describe an anastomotic step with multiple (usually four) sutures placed. This retrospective case series reports tubal patency data on patients who underwent RATA with the one-stitch technique; tubal patency was the outcome measure. Eighteen women (ages 27–39) underwent RATA with the one-stitch anastomotic technique in tertiary care medical centers between February 2009 and May 2012. Tubal patency was demonstrated in 16/17 patients (94.1 %), as evidenced by postoperative hysterosalpingogram (HSG) and/or subsequent pregnancies. We report the first case series which shows that RATA with a single stitch for the reanastomotic step is effective in achieving tubal patency as evidenced by postoperative HSG and/or pregnancies.
A standardized online clinical education and assessment tool for neurology
clerkship students assigned to multiple sites
Authors: Holland Neil R. , Grinberg Ilya , Tabby David
Published: December 2013

The Drexel neurology clerkship experience can vary from large groups at a
university hospital inpatient unit to smaller groups at private physician offices.
Evaluations are based on the site director’s subjective assessment and performance on
the National Board of Medical Examiners neurology shelf examination. We are developing a
standardized online clinical neurology course and quiz for the whole clerkship. We
piloted the course and quiz at a single site for one academic year and compared their
test scores with a control group of students at other clerkship sites who took the
online quiz without viewing the course. Students at the pilot site achieved higher
scores both on the neurology shelf examination and the clinical quiz and also reported
higher teaching satisfaction scores than students at all other sites. There was a 97 %
participation rate in the online quiz from the other sites. Use of this online course
and quiz provides effective standardized clinical neurology teaching and evaluation that
can be applied to students across multiple sites.
EL CRECIMIENTO ECONÓMICO DE VENEZUELA, DESDE LA OLIGARQUÍA CONSERVADORA HASTA LA REVOLUCIÓN BOLIVARIANA: 1830-2012. UNA VISIÓN CUANTITATIVA
Authors: De Corso Giuseppe
Published: December 2013

The aim of this paper is to present a historical series of Venezuelan GDP from 1830 to 2012. For that purpose we have employed an expenditure approach to reconstruct the GDP of Venezuela, which could be applied with advantages for others Latin America countries. We were able to identify three long economic phases for Venezuela: The first one from 1830-1924 which we refer as “agrarian economy”; the second one of oil driven development, characterize by a high velocity growth from 1924 to 1977, and the last phase portrayed as one of stagnation and decline from 1977 to 2012.