bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forced, coerced and voluntary recruitment into rebel and militia groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Richards Joanne
Published: April 2014

Why do non-state armed groups forcibly recruit civilians? To address this question I develop a conceptual framework distinguishing voluntary, coerced and forced recruitment. I then compare the recruitment tactics employed by ‘Mai-Mai’ militias and the RCD-Goma rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in order to inductively develop a theory explaining why groups with different initial economic and social endowments resort to force. This comparison draws on interviews with 41 former militia members and 11 former members of RCD-Goma. The theory suggests that forced recruitment is most likely to occur when non-state armed groups experience manpower deficits and when accountability (to local communities, government sponsors and/or the international community) is low. High levels of popular support will not necessarily prevent recourse to force under these conditions, but may mean that force is less necessary because voluntary and coerced recruits come forward to fill manpower gaps.
‘Can someone get me outta this middle class zone?!’ Pressures on middle class Kikuyu in Kenya's 2013 election
Authors: Burbidge Dominic
Published: April 2014

Whilst the middle class are often heralded as forerunners for consolidating democracy, the experiences of Kikuyu in Kenya's 2013 election reveal how under-problematised the socio-economic group is for understanding the pressures faced in voting. The article presents evidence from diary entries of young middle class Kikuyu residing in Nairobi who recorded their feelings and impressions across a period of one month surrounding the country's elections. The diary writers describe the key moments at which they felt the need to switch from supporting third-placed presidential hopefuls to supporting one of the two favourites. Topics felt to pressure voters most keenly were ethnicity, social media, debate surrounding the International Criminal Court and the lack of confidence in others of the middle class. Unlike election analyses which assume static preferences and voting blocks, this methodology allows exploration of the ongoing negotiations and deliberations that influence voting intentions over time. The tensions felt by middle class Kikuyu during the election period made them wish they were members of either of the two other classes, who were in turn viewed as able to influence politics through money or popular power. These feelings of disempowerment ensured voting attitudes fell closely in line with ethnic affiliations, despite members of the middle class remaining wholly dissatisfied with ethnic labelling throughout. It is argued that the economic autonomy of middle class voters did not help disengage them from political tribalism in assessing how to vote.
Are we really mapping psychosis risk? Neuroanatomical signature of affective disorders in subjects at ultra high risk
Authors: Modinos G. , Allen P. , Frascarelli M. , Tognin S. , Valmaggia L. , Xenaki L. , Keedwell P. , Broome M. , Valli I. , Woolley J. , Stone J. M. , Mechelli A. , Phillips M. L. , McGuire P. , Fusar-Poli P.
Published: April 2014

Background.

The majority of people at ultra high risk (UHR) of psychosis also present with co-morbid affective disorders such as depression or anxiety. The neuroanatomical and clinical impact of UHR co-morbidity is unknown.

Method.

We investigated group differences in grey matter volume using baseline magnetic resonance images from 121 participants in four groups: UHR with depressive or anxiety co-morbidity; UHR alone; major depressive disorder; and healthy controls. The impact of grey matter volume on baseline and longitudinal clinical/functional data was assessed with regression analyses.

Results.

The UHR-co-morbidity group had lower grey matter volume in the anterior cingulate cortex than the UHR-alone group, with an intermediate effect between controls and patients with major depressive disorder. In the UHR-co-morbidity group, baseline anterior cingulate volume was negatively correlated with baseline suicidality/self-harm and obsessive–compulsive disorder symptoms.

Conclusions.

Co-morbid depression and anxiety disorders contributed distinctive grey matter volume reductions of the anterior cingulate cortex in people at UHR of psychosis. These volumetric deficits were correlated with baseline measures of depression and anxiety, suggesting that co-morbid depressive and anxiety diagnoses should be carefully considered in future clinical and imaging studies of the psychosis high-risk state.
A reciprocating twin-channel model for ABC transporters
Authors: Jones Peter M. , George Anthony M.
Published: April 2014

ABC transporters comprise a large, diverse, and ubiquitous superfamily of membrane active transporters. Their core architecture is a dimer of dimers, comprising two transmembrane (TM) domains that bind substrate, and two ATP-binding cassettes, which use the cell's energy currency to couple substrate translocation to ATP hydrolysis. Despite the availability of over a dozen resolved structures and a wealth of biochemical and biophysical data, this field is bedeviled by controversy and long-standing mechanistic questions remain unresolved. The prevailing paradigm for the ABC transport mechanism is the Switch Model, in which the ATP-binding cassettes dimerize upon binding two ATP molecules, and thence dissociate upon sequential ATP hydrolysis. This cycle of nucleotide-binding domain (NBD) dimerization and dissociation is coupled to a switch between inward- or outward facing conformations of a single TM channel; this alternating access enables substrate binding on one face of the membrane and its release at the other. Notwithstanding widespread acceptance of the Switch Model, there is substantial evidence that the NBDs do not separate very much, if at all, and thus physical separation of the ATP cassettes observed in crystallographic structures may be an artefact. An alternative Constant Contact Model has been proposed, in which ATP hydrolysis occurs alternately at the two ATP-binding sites, with one of the sites remaining closed and containing occluded nucleotide at all times. In this model, the cassettes remain in contact and the active sites swing open in an alternately seesawing motion. Whilst the concept of NBD association/dissociation in the Switch Model is naturally compatible with a single alternating-access channel, the asymmetric functioning proposed by the Constant Contact model suggests an alternating or reciprocating function in the TMDs. Here, a new model for the function of ABC transporters is proposed in which the sequence of ATP binding, hydrolysis, and product release in each active site is directly coupled to the analogous sequence of substrate binding, translocation and release in one of two functionally separate substrate translocation pathways. Each translocation pathway functions 180° out of phase. A wide and diverse selection of data for both ABC importers and exporters is examined, and the ability of the Switch and Reciprocating Models to explain the data is compared and contrasted. This analysis shows that not only can the Reciprocating Model readily explain the data; it also suggests straightforward explanations for the function of a number of atypical ABC transporters. This study represents the most coherent and complete attempt at an all-encompassing scheme to explain how these important proteins work, one that is consistent with sound biochemical and biophysical evidence.
Remobilization of seed phosphorus reserves and their role in attaining phosphorus autotrophy in maize (Zea maysL.) seedlings
Authors: Nadeem Muhammad , Mollier Alain , Morel Christian , Prud'homme Loïc , Vives Alain , Pellerin Sylvain
Published: April 2014

Successful remobilization of seed reserves is the driving force behind seedling establishment for maximum final crop outcomes. The remobilization of stored maize seed phosphorus (P), and its allocation towards growing seedlings is critical for P-autotrophy during early ontogeny. We aimed to (1) evaluate the time frame of the origin of P utilized by maize seedlings, including the heterotrophic, transitional and autotrophic phases; and (2) compare P and carbon (C) dynamics in both seed and seedling compartments during the same phases. Using isotopic signatures (32P), we identified different P fluxes (P-heterotrophy, P-transition and P-autotrophy) and determined the proportion of P fluxes from heterotrophic seed P and external P uptake during 23 d of early ontogeny. The P-heterotrophic growth phase lasted from the first to the fourth day after sowing, when seedlings were entirely made up of heterotrophic P originating from remobilized seed P pool. In our experimental conditions, the P-transitional phase, when growing seedlings were supported by both heterotrophic and autotrophic P, lasted from the fifth to the fifteenth day after sowing. Thereafter, seed P reserves were exhausted and seedlings depended entirely on external P uptake, indicating the P-autotrophic stage. Although seed P reserves were remobilized earlier than C reserves, the length of the three growth phases for P and C was similar in the maize seedlings.
Prediction of preschool functional abilities after early complex cardiac surgery
Authors: Alton Gwen Y. , Taghados Soreh , Joffe Ari R. , Robertson Charlene M. T. , Dinu Irina ,   the Western Canadian Pediatric Therapies Follow-Up Group
Published: April 2014

Background:It is important to identify early predictors of functional limitations in children after congenital heart surgery to optimise their independence as they prepare for school. The purpose of this study is to determine potentially modifiable predictor variables of functional abilities in pre-school children who underwent complex cardiac surgery at 6 weeks of age or earlier.Methods:This prospective inception cohort study comprised a sample of 165 survivors (63% boys) who had complex cardiac surgery (75% biventricular repairs) at Stollery Children’s Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta. We excluded children with chromosomal abnormalities. When children were 4–5 years of age, the parents completed the Adaptive Behavioral Assessment System II. Regression analysis was used to assess the association between multiple risk factors and each of the four continuous composite scores.Results:The mean scores for the practical domain and general adaptive composite score of the Adaptive Behavioural Assessment System were lower than the conceptual and social domains, with 13.3% of the children having a delay in the practical domain. There was a significant association between the general adaptive (p=0.003; 0.012), conceptual (p=0.0004; 0.042), social (p=0.0007; 0.028), and the practical (p=0.046; 0.003) domain composite scores with the mother’s education and preoperative plasma lactate, respectively.Conclusion:Maternal education may be a marker for the social context of children, and warrants societal attention to improve functional outcomes. Preoperative lactate as a potentially modifiable variable may warrant increased attention to early diagnosis and aggressive resuscitation of young infants with congenital heart disease.
When and Why Health Care Personnel Respond to a Disaster: The State of the Science
Authors: Connor Susan B.
Published: May 2014

Objective

Emergency response relies on the assumption that essential health care services will continue to operate and be available to provide quality patient care during and after a patient surge. The observed successes and failures of health care systems during recent mass-casualty events and the concern that these assumptions are not evidence based prompted this review.

Method

The aims of this systematic review were to explore the factors associated with the intention of health care personnel (HCP) to respond to uncommon events, such as a natural disaster or pandemic, determine the state of the science, and bolster evidence-based measures that have been shown to facilitate staff response.

Results

Authors of the 70 studies (five mixed-methods, 49 quantitative, 16 qualitative) that met inclusion criteria reported a variety of variables that influenced the intent of HCP to respond. Current evidence suggests that four primary factors emerged as either facilitating or hindering the willingness of HCP to respond to an event: (1) the nature of the event; (2) competing obligations; (3) the work environment and climate; and (4) the relationship between knowledge and perceptions of efficacy.

Conclusions

Findings of this study could influence and strengthen policy making by emergency response planners, staffing coordinators, health educators, and health system administrators.

ConnorSB.When and why health care personnel respond to a disaster: the state of the science.Prehosp Disaster Med.2014;29(3):1-5.
STRUCTURE THEOREM FOR -OPERATORS
Authors: RAMESH G.
Published: April 2014

In this paper we prove a structure theorem for the class of $\mathcal{AN}$-operators between separable, complex Hilbert spaces which is similar to that of the singular value decomposition of a compact operator. Apart from this, we show that a bounded operator is $\mathcal{AN}$ if and only if it is either compact or a sum of a compact operator and scalar multiple of an isometry satisfying some condition. We obtain characterizations of these operators as a consequence of this structure theorem and deduce several properties which are similar to those of compact operators.
The effect of acupressure application on chemotherapy-induced nausea, vomiting, and anxiety in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Genç Fatma , Tan Mehtap
Published: April 2014

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of acupressure applied to the pericardium 6 (P6 or neiguan) acupuncture point on chemotherapy-induced nausea, vomiting, and anxiety in patients with breast cancer.

Method:

The study was conducted using a quasi-experimental model with a control group. It included a total of 64 patients with stages 1–3 breast cancer who received cycle two and more advanced chemotherapy in an ambulatory chemotherapy unit. There were 32 patients in the experimental group and 32 patients in the control group. Acupressure was applied to the P6 acupuncture point of patients in the experimental group with the help of a wristband. A Patient Information Form, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the Index of Nausea, Vomiting and Retching were employed to collect the data.

Results:

It was determined that the mean nausea, vomiting, and retching scores, the total (experience, occurrence, and distress) scores, and the mean anxiety scores for patients to whom acupressure was applied at the P6 acupuncture point were statistically significantly lower compared with the scores of patients in the control group.

Significance of Results:

The efficacy of applying acupressure was demonstrated. We determined that applying acupressure at the P6 point is effective in decreasing chemotherapy-induced nausea, vomiting, and anxiety in patients with breast cancer. Further research with more subjects is needed.
Variation in the number of capitate glandular trichomes in wild and cultivated sunflower germplasm and its potential for use in host plant resistance
Authors: Prasifka Jarrad R.
Published: April 2014

The capitate glandular trichomes of wild sunflowers (Helianthus spp.) are considered to be effective defence components that act against some herbivorous insects, but cultivated sunflowers are reportedly deficient in glandular trichomes. To investigate whether glandular trichomes have a role in the protection of cultivated sunflowers against insects, in the present study, Helianthus annuus L. accessions were grown to quantify glandular trichome density in wild and cultivated germplasm types and assess potential anti-insect effects of terpenoids in the glandular trichomes of cultivated sunflowers. Evaluation revealed that capitate glandular trichomes are often abundant in cultivated sunflowers; relative to wild H. annuus, inbred maintainer (HA) lines have similar numbers of glandular trichomes per floret, while commercial hybrids have only ≈ 20% fewer trichomes when compared with wild sunflowers. In the laboratory assay, it was found that glandular trichome extracts increased the mortality rates of sunflower moth, Homoeosoma electellum (Hulst), larvae exposed from the neonatal stage to 9 d. In the surviving larvae, the extracts significantly reduced larval mass and head capsule width. Though there are limitations to the value of glandular trichomes for host plant resistance, the feeding deterrent or toxic effects of sesquiterpene lactones and diterpenes in sunflower glandular trichomes are not limited to sunflower moth larvae, suggesting a potential for resistance to other sunflower insect pests. Additional research is required to understand the inheritance and value of glandular trichomes in commercial sunflower germplasm and how the composition of terpenoids in the glandular trichomes of wild H. annuus may differ from that in cultivated material.
The Size of Blood–Brain Barrier Opening Induced by Focused Ultrasound is Dictated by the Acoustic Pressure
Authors: Chen Hong , Konofagou Elisa E
Published: April 2014

Focused ultrasound (FUS) in combination with microbubbles (MBs) has been successfully used in the delivery of various-size therapeutic agents across the blood–brain barrier (BBB). This study revealed that FUS-induced BBB opening size, defined by the size of the largest molecule that can permeate through the BBB, can be controlled by the acoustic pressure as dictated by cavitational mechanisms. Focused ultrasound was applied onto the mouse hippocampus in the presence of systemically administered MBs for trans-BBB delivery of fluorescently labeled dextrans with molecular weights 3 to 2,000 kDa (hydrodynamic diameter: 2.3 to 54.4 nm). The dextran delivery outcomes were evaluated using ex vivo fluorescence imaging. Cavitation detection was employed to monitor the MB cavitation activity associated with the delivery of these agents. It was found that the BBB opening size was smaller than 3 kDa (2.3 nm) at 0.31 MPa, up to 70 kDa (10.2 nm) at 0.51 MPa, and up to 2,000 kDa (54.4 nm) at 0.84 MPa. Relatively smaller opening size (up to 70 kDa) was achieved with stable cavitation only; however, inertial cavitation was associated with relatively larger BBB opening size (above 500 kDa). These findings indicate that the BBB opening size can be controlled by the acoustic pressure and predicted using cavitation detection.
Lipocalin-2 Deficiency Attenuates Neuroinflammation and Brain Injury after Transient Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion in Mice
Authors: Jin Myungwon , Kim Jong-Heon , Jang Eunha , Lee Young Mi , Han Hyung Soo , Woo Dong Kyun , Park Dong Ho , Kook Hyun , Suk Kyoungho
Published: April 2014

Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) is a secreted protein of the lipocalin family, but little is known about the expression or the role of LCN2 in the central nervous system. Here, we investigated the role of LCN2 in ischemic stroke using a rodent model of transient cerebral ischemia. Lipocalin-2 expression was highly induced in the ischemic brain and peaked at 24 hours after reperfusion. After transient middle cerebral artery occlusion, LCN2 was predominantly expressed in astrocytes and endothelial cells, whereas its receptor (24p3R) was mainly detected in neurons, astrocytes, and endothelial cells. Brain infarct volumes, neurologic scores, blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeabilities, glial activation, and inflammatory mediator expression were significantly lower in LCN2-defkient mice than in wild-type animals. Lipocalin-2 deficiency also attenuated glial neurotoxicity in astrocyte/neuron cocultures after oxygen-glucose deprivation. Our results indicate LCN2 has a critical role in brain injury after ischemia/reperfusion, and that LCN2 may contribute to neuronal cell death in the ischemic brain by promoting neurotoxic glial activation, neuroinflammation, and BBB disruption.
The junctional epithelium originates from the odontogenic epithelium of an erupted tooth
Authors: Yajima-Himuro Sara , Oshima Masamitsu , Yamamoto Gou , Ogawa Miho , Furuya Madoka , Tanaka Junichi , Nishii Kousuke , Mishima Kenji , Tachikawa Tetsuhiko , Tsuji Takashi , Yamamoto Matsuo
Published: May 2014

The junctional epithelium (JE) is an epithelial component that is directly attached to the tooth surface and has a protective function against periodontal diseases. In this study, we determined the origin of the JE using a bioengineered tooth technique. We transplanted the bioengineered tooth germ into the alveolar bone with an epithelial component that expressed green fluorescence protein. The reduced enamel epithelium from the bioengineered tooth fused with the oral epithelium and the JE was apparently formed around the bioengineered tooth 50 days after transplantation. Importantly, the JE exhibited green fluorescence for at least 140 days after transplantation, suggesting that the JE was not replaced by oral epithelium. Therefore, our results demonstrated that the origin of the JE was the odontogenic epithelium and odontogenic epithelium-derived JE was maintained for a relatively long period.
Effects of Cu2+ and pH on the binding of alizarin red S to bovine serum albumin based on the analysis of protein conformation
Authors: Wu Hai , Fan Suhua , Chen Hong , Shen Jie , Geng Yanyan , Peng Li , Du Haolai
Published: April 2014

Effects of Cu2+ and pH on the interaction between alizarin red S and bovine serum albumin based on conformational analysis.
Enhancement of adsorption selectivity for MOFs under mild activation and regeneration conditions
Authors: Niu Zheng , Fang Sheng , Ma Jian-Gong , Zhang Xiao-Ping , Cheng Peng
Published: April 2014

A new concept has been formulated to utilize given coordinated molecules in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) to separate homologues with different coordination abilities towards metal centres under soft activation and regeneration conditions.
Charge state-dependent catalytic activity of [Au25(SC12H25)18] nanoclusters for the two-electron reduction of dioxygen to hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Lu Yizhong , Jiang Yuanyuan , Gao Xiaohui , Chen Wei
Published: April 2014

The electrocatalytic activity of [Au25(SC12H25)18] clusters for H2O2 production from O2 is dependent on the charge state (−1, 0 and +1), and the maximum H2O2 production (∼90%) is from the negative one.
The role of C–H⋯π interactions in modulating the breathing amplitude of a 2D square lattice net: alcohol sorption studies
Authors: Mehlana Gift , Ramon Gaëlle , Bourne Susan A
Published: April 2014

Higher uptake of longer chain alcohol vapours by a flexible 2D Zn-framework1is attributed to C–H⋯π interactions with hydrophobic channel walls.
The angular overlap model extended for two-open-shell f and d electrons
Authors: Ramanantoanina Harry , Urland Werner , Cimpoesu Fanica , Daul Claude
Published: May 2014

The angular overlap model is revisited to account for two-open-shell 4f and 5d electrons, important in the interpretation and understanding of the f–d transitions in lanthanide phosphors.
Electrochemical CO2 reduction on Cu2O-derived copper nanoparticles: controlling the catalytic selectivity of hydrocarbons
Authors: Kas Recep , Kortlever Ruud , Milbrat Alexander , Koper Marc T. M. , Mul Guido , Baltrusaitis Jonas
Published: April 2014

The selectivity difference towards hydrocarbon production during the electrochemical CO2 reduction on nanoparticulate copper surfaces is presented and discussed.
One step C–N bond formation from alkylbenzene and ammonia over Cu-modified TS-1 zeolite catalyst
Authors: Xia Sheng , Yu Tianhua , Liu Huihui , Li Guiying , Hu Changwei
Published: April 2014

The formation of C–N bonds from toluene and ammonia, both on the ring and the side chain, was realized on a Cu-modified TS-1 catalyst, and the ring products had an ortho-orientation advantage.
Fluorescent detection of TNT and 4-nitrophenol by BSA Au nanoclusters
Authors: Yang Xin , Wang Junhai , Su Dongyue , Xia Qingdong , Chai Fang , Wang Chungang , Qu Fengyu
Published: May 2014

Rapid and sensitive detection of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) has attracted considerable attention due to their wide applications as nitroaromatic explosive materials.
A benzimidazole functionalised DO3A chelator showing pH switchable coordination modes with lanthanide ions
Authors: Fisher Christopher M. , Fuller Euan , Burke Benjamin P. , Mogilireddy Vijetha , Pope Simon J. A. , Sparke Amanda E. , Déchamps-Olivier Isabelle , Cadiou Cyril , Chuburu Françoise , Faulkner Stephen , Archibald Stephen J.
Published: May 2014

Lanthanide(iii) complexes have been studied using potentiometric, NMR and photophysical measurements.
Probing the charging mechanisms of carbon nanomaterial polyelectrolytes
Authors: Hodge Stephen A. , Tay Hui Huang , Anthony David B. , Menzel Robert , Buckley David J. , Cullen Patrick L. , Skipper Neal T. , Howard Christopher A. , Shaffer Milo S. P.
Published: April 2014

Chemical charging of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and graphenes to generate soluble salts shows great promise as a processing route for electronic applications, but raises fundamental questions. The reduction potentials of highly-charged nanocarbon polyelectrolyte ions were investigated by considering their chemical reactivity towards metal salts/complexes in forming metal nanoparticles. The redox activity, degree of functionalisation and charge utilisation were quantified via the relative metal nanoparticle content, established using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The fundamental relationship between the intrinsic nanocarbon electronic density of states and Coulombic effects during charging is highlighted as an important area for future research.
Analysis of a measurement scheme for ultrafast hole dynamics by few femtosecond resolution X-ray pump–probe Auger spectroscopy
Authors: Cooper Bridgette , Kolorenč Přemysl , Frasinski Leszek J. , Averbukh Vitali , Marangos Jon P.
Published: April 2014

Ultrafast hole dynamics created in molecular systems as a result of sudden ionisation is the focus of much attention in the field of attosecond science. Using the molecule glycine we show throughab initiosimulations that the dynamics of a hole, arising from ionisation in the inner valence region, evolves with a timescale appropriate to be measured using X-ray pulses from the current generation of SASE free electron lasers. The examined pump–probe scheme uses X-rays with photon energy below the K edge of carbon (275–280 eV) that will ionise from the inner valence region. A second probe X-ray at the same energy can excite an electron from the core to fill the vacancy in the inner-valence region. The dynamics of the inner valence hole can be tracked by measuring the Auger electrons produced by the subsequent refilling of the core hole as a function of pump–probe delay. We consider the feasibility of the experiment and include numerical simulation to support this analysis. We discuss the potential for all X-ray pump-X-ray probe Auger spectroscopy measurements for tracking hole migration.
Rapid size characterization of silver nanoparticles by single particle ICP-MS and isotope dilution
Authors: Telgmann L. , Metcalfe C. D. , Hintelmann H.
Published: April 2014

The increasing application of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) in consumer products and their potential release into the environment call for intensive investigation of their toxicity, stability, and fate.
Quantitative bioimaging by LA-ICP-MS: a methodological study on the distribution of Pt and Ru in viscera originating from cisplatin- and KP1339-treated mice
Authors: Egger Alexander E. , Theiner Sarah , Kornauth Christoph , Heffeter Petra , Berger Walter , Keppler Bernhard K. , Hartinger Christian G.
Published: April 2014

In a methodological study, quantitative LA-ICP-MS was used to compare the distribution of Pt and Ru in viscera from cisplatin- and KP1339-treated mice.
Nanoparticles for photothermal therapies
Authors: Jaque D. , Martínez Maestro L. , del Rosal B. , Haro-Gonzalez P. , Benayas A. , Plaza J. L. , Martín Rodríguez E. , García Solé J.
Published: April 2014

The state of the art regarding the use of nanoparticles for photothermal therapies is reviewed in detail.
Biotin-decorated silica coated PbS nanocrystals emitting in the second biological near infrared window for bioimaging
Authors: Corricelli M. , Depalo N. , Di Carlo E. , Fanizza E. , Laquintana V. , Denora N. , Agostiano A. , Striccoli M. , Curri M. L.
Published: April 2014

Biotin-decorated silica coated PbS nanocrystals emitting in the ‘second near infrared biological window’ of the electromagnetic spectrum as robust and attractive receptor-targeted NIR fluorescent probes forin vivotumour imaging.
Multivalent agents containing 1-substituted 2,3,4-trihydroxyphenyl moieties as novel synthetic polyphenols directed against HIV-1
Authors: Flores Aida , Camarasa María José , Pérez-Pérez María Jesús , San-Félix Ana , Balzarini Jan , Quesada Ernesto
Published: April 2014

A series of synthetic polyphenols inspired by the multivalent architecture of naturally-occurring hydrolysable tannins exhibited selective inhibitory activity against HIV-1.
PEGylated meso-arylporpholactone metal complexes as optical cyanide sensors in water
Authors: Worlinsky Jill L. , Halepas Steven , Brückner Christian
Published: May 2014

A number of water-soluble metal complexes of PEGylatedmeso-fluorophenylporpholactones display a specific optical response upon addition of cyanide.
Bottom-up nanoarchitectonics of two-dimensional freestanding metal doped carbon nanosheet
Authors: Hamoudi Hicham
Published: April 2014

Fabrication of freestanding carbon–metal-sulfide nanosheet from a self-assembled monolayer.
Mg doping in nanosheet-based spherical structured ZnO photoanode for quasi-solid dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Guo Xudong , Dong Haopeng , Niu Guangda , Qiu Yong , Wang Liduo
Published: April 2014

Mg doping is utilized in the synthesis of nanosheet-based spherical structured ZnO photoanode, resulting in the increased specific area, conduction band position and overall efficiency.
A novel and highly sensitive gaseous n-hexane sensor based on thermal desorption/cataluminescence
Authors: Zheng Jianzhong , Zhang Wuxiang , Cao Jing , Su Xuehong , Li Shaofang , Hu Shirong , Li Shunxing , Rao Zhiming
Published: April 2014

A novel and highly sensitive sensor for gaseous n-hexane utilizing the sensing material Y2O3–Al2O3 has been developed based on thermal desorption/cataluminescence (TD/CTL) combined with response surface methodology (RSM).
Strong effect of weak charging in suspensions of anisotropic colloids
Authors: Dorosz Sven , Shegokar Nikhilesh , Schilling Tanja , Oettel Martin
Published: April 2014

We show by computer simulation and theory that weak surface charges drastically change the phase behaviour of suspensions of hard ellipsoids
Mesostructured alumina as powders and thin films
Authors: Voss Georg J. B. , Chavez Panduro Elvia A. , Midttveit Anette , Fløystad Jostein B. , Høydalsvik Kristin , Gibaud Alain , Breiby Dag W. , Rønning Magnus
Published: May 2014

Synthesis and characterisation of tailored mesostructured alumina as thin films and powders with a narrow pore size distribution.
General acid and base bifunctional graphene oxide for cooperative catalysis
Authors: Zhang Wenfeng , Gu Hanying , Li Zhen , Zhu Yuanzhi , Li Yang , Zhang Guoliang , Zhang Fengbao , Fan Xiaobin
Published: April 2014

General acid and base bifunctional graphene oxide was prepared by silylanization for cooperative catalysis.
Two-photon excited fluorescence of BF2complexes of curcumin analogues: toward NIR-to-NIR fluorescent organic nanoparticles
Authors: D'Aléo Anthony , Felouat Abdellah , Heresanu Vasile , Ranguis Alain , Chaudanson Damien , Karapetyan Artak , Giorgi Michel , Fages Frédéric
Published: April 2014

Two-photon excitation of curcuminoid borondifluoride nanoparticles in water results in rather efficient luminescence in the near infrared region due to a high two-photon cross-section.
Aβ dimers differ from monomers in structural propensity, aggregation paths and population of synaptotoxic assemblies
Authors: O’Malley Tiernan T. , Oktaviani Nur Alia , Zhang Dainan , Lomakin Aleksey , O’Nuallain Brian , Linse Sara , Benedek George B. , Rowan Michael J. , Mulder Frans A. A. , Walsh Dominic M.
Published: May 2014

Dimers of Aβ (amyloid β-protein) are believed to play an important role in Alzheimer's disease. In the absence of sufficient brain-derived dimers, we studied one of the only possible dimers that could be produced in vivo, [Aβ]DiY (dityrosine cross-linked Aβ). For comparison, we used the Aβ monomer and a design dimer cross-linked by replacement of Ser26 with cystine [AβS26C]2. We showed that similar to monomers, unaggregated dimers lack appreciable structure and fail to alter long-term potentiation. Importantly, dimers exhibit subtly different structural propensities from monomers and each other, and can self-associate to form larger assemblies. Although [Aβ]DiY and [AβS26C]2 have distinct aggregation pathways, they both populate bioactive soluble assemblies for longer durations than Aβ monomers. Our results indicate that the link between Aβ dimers and Alzheimer's disease results from the ability of dimers to further assemble and form synaptotoxic assemblies that persist for long periods of time.
Improving Clinical Practices for Children With Language and Learning Disorders
Authors: Kamhi Alan G.
Published: April 2014

Purpose

This lead article of the Clinical Forum addresses some of the gaps that exist between clinical practice and current knowledge about instructional factors that influence learning and language development.

Method

Topics reviewed and discussed include principles of learning, generalization, treatment intensity, processing interventions, components of language therapy, grammar goals, and goal prioritization for students with language and learning difficulties.

Conclusion

The gaps that exist between current knowledge about learning, language development, and clinical practice often do not receive as much attention as the gaps in the evidence base that addresses the efficacy and effectiveness of language intervention practices and service delivery models. Fortunately, clinicians do not have to wait for future intervention studies to apply their knowledge of learning and language development to clinical practices.
Clinical Scientists Improving Clinical Practices: In Thoughts and Actions
Authors: Apel Kenn
Published: April 2014

Purpose

In this article, the author comments on aspects of Kamhi's (2014) article, which caused the author to think more deeply about definitions of language, theories of learning, and how these two core components of intervention prepare clinical scientists as they search the literature for new knowledge. Interprofessional collaborative practice as a model for team-based intervention in school settings is also discussed.

Method

The article addresses aspects of Kamhi's article that aligned or did not align with the author's definition of language and theory of learning and explains why considering these alignments is important for clinical scientists. Two challenges to staying current with the research base are also described, and suggestions are offered for addressing these challenges. Finally, the article provides an overview of interprofessional collaborative practice.

Conclusion

Clinical scientists should continue to strive to use their knowledge of what language is and how it is learned, combined with the best available scientific information, to best serve their clients. Combining their thoughts and actions, they undoubtedly will continuously improve their clinical practices.
One Size Does Not Fit All: Improving Clinical Practice in Older Children and Adolescents With Language and Learning Disorders
Authors: Scott Cheryl M.
Published: April 2014

Purpose

In the lead article for this clinical forum, Kamhi (2014) suggests ways that current knowledge on instructional practices in learning and language can be applied to clinical practice in language disorders. I propose that Kamhi's suggestions are in need of fine-tuning for older children and adolescents with language disorders. A one-size-fits-all approach to language intervention across a broad age range is untenable due to unique needs and capabilities of this older population.

Method

Three intervention goal priorities for older students are presented with supporting research: complex (multiclausal) sentences, verb structure, and expository text. Methodologies for teaching complex sentences are discussed next, including topics of content/form balance and treatment intensity. These goals and methods are designed to assist students with language disorders in the comprehension and production of complex language they encounter in school.

Conclusion

Guidance for high-priority language intervention goals with older students comes from a consideration of language needs in academic settings and language weaknesses that persist in this population. Although current research offers support for these goals, less is known about methodological variables such as treatment intensity.
Approaching Early Grammatical Intervention From a Sentence-Focused Framework
Authors: Hadley Pamela A.
Published: April 2014

Purpose

In this response to Kamhi (2014), a sentence-focused framework is presented to help clinicians select treatment targets as part of a comprehensive approach to early grammatical intervention.

Method

The literature on the relationship between lexical verbs, sentence structure, and tense/agreement morphemes is reviewed, and developmental expectations are summarized for each.

Conclusion

Given that the sentence is the basic unit of grammar, the author concludes that early grammatical intervention should promote sentence development for young children at risk for language disorders. Recommendations for selecting and facilitating grammatical objectives in early childhood are provided.
What Works in Therapy: Further Thoughts on Improving Clinical Practice for Children With Language Disorders
Authors: Eisenberg Sarita
Published: April 2014

Purpose

In this response to Kamhi (2014), the author reviewed research about what does and does not help children with language impairment (LI) to learn grammatical features and considered how that research might inform clinical practice.

Method

The author reviewed studies about therapy dose (the number of learning episodes per session) and dose frequency (how learning episodes are spaced over time) and also reviewed studies about dose form, including input characteristics and therapy strategies.

Conclusion

Although the research is limited, it offers implications for how clinicians do therapy. Children with LI need many learning episodes clustered together within sessions but spread out over time across sessions. Input must be grammatical and consistent while providing varied exemplars of the target features. Learning episodes should actively engage children in producing utterances with the target form, but only after they have had the chance to hear some utterances with that feature. The author suggests a session plan that starts with a structured activity and then incorporates the target form into an embedded activity such as storytelling.
Using Our Knowledge of Typical Language Development
Authors: Nippold Marilyn A.
Published: April 2014

Purpose

In this column, the editor introduces the articles in the April issue of
LSHSS
(Volume 45, Issue 2). All are part of a Clinical Forum, with a thought-provoking lead article by Alan Kamhi and several response articles by Kamhi's colleagues. In this introduction to the April issue, Marilyn A. Nippold summarizes Kamhi's main points, directs readers to the various perspectives presented by authors of the other articles in this Clinical Forum, and speaks to the importance of the ideas presented—and their potential relevance to clinicians. Nippold reminds readers that this Clinical Forum provides a stimulating platform for discussion and debate among clinicians and researchers.
Modelling and fault tolerant control for near space vehicles with vertical tail loss
Authors: Zhao Jing , Jiang Bin , He Zhen , Mao Zehui
Published: April 2014

This work focuses on modelling and fault tolerant algorithm design of a damaged near space vehicle. A novel radial basis function (RBF) neural network backstepping fault‐tolerant control methodology is developed for attitude control system with damage, which can make system stable and accurately track the desired signals in the presence of vertical tail loss. First, the changing aerodynamic parameters caused by vertical tail loss are used to model damaged attitude dynamics. Second, in view of the established damaged model, a nominal backstepping controller is designed. Then a RBF neural network technology is designed to update the related parameters, which can compensate effects caused by damage and make the system still stable and track the desired signals. Finally, simulation results are provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed RBF neural network backstepping fault‐tolerant control scheme.
Prediction of wind power based on evolutionary optimised local general regression neural network
Authors: Elattar Ehab Elsayed
Published: May 2014

Wind power is considered one of the most rapidly growing sources of electricity generation all over the world. This study proposes a new approach for wind power prediction. The proposed method is derived by integrating the kernel principal component analysis (KPCA) method with the evolutionary optimised general regression neural network (GRNN) and local prediction framework. Local prediction uses only a set of K nearest neighbours in the reconstructed embedded space with considering the more relevant historical instances. In the evolutionary optimised local GRNN (EOLGRNN), the kernel bandwidth (smooth parameter) that controls the smoothness of the approximation is coded in a chromosome and determined by the optimisation using evolutionary algorithm. In the proposed method, KPCA is used in the first stage to extract features and obtain kernel principal components which used to construct the phase space of the time series of input. Then, EOLGRNN is employed in the second stage to solve the wind power prediction problem. The proposed method is evaluated using real world dataset. The results show that the proposed method provides a much better prediction performance in comparison with other published methods employing the same data.
Differentiation filter‐based technique for robust estimation of single‐phase grid voltage frequency under distorted conditions
Authors: Reza Md. Shamim , Ciobotaru Mihai , Agelidis Vassilios G.
Published: May 2014

This study proposes a robust estimation technique for the single‐phase grid voltage fundamental frequency under grid disturbances. The technique relies on a demodulation method and a finite‐impulse‐response‐based differentiation filter (DF). A frequency domain analysis for designing the DF is presented and is used to estimate the time‐varying fundamental frequency from the instantaneous phase angle obtained by the demodulation method. The technique can reject the negative effects caused by the presence of DC offset and harmonics. The proposed DF shows less sensitivity to the presence of oscillations caused by the demodulation method when compared to a similar finite‐impulse‐response‐based DF. Simulation and experimental results are provided to verify the performance of the proposed technique.
Role of low‐voltage/NH fuselinks rated voltage in distribution network losses. An evaluation based on the Hellenic low‐voltage distribution network
Authors: Psomopoulos Constantinos S. , Ioannidis George Ch. , Karras Yannis
Published: May 2014

Protection of low‐voltage power lines is fuses’ main application. In every distribution network, hundreds of thousands fuses are operating continuously. These components, because of their operating characteristics, present power losses widely known as ‘power dissipation’, which are increased as their rated voltage is increased. In this work, the potential reduction of power losses in the Hellenic low‐voltage distribution network by selecting fuses with voltage equal to the networks nominal (400 V), instead of 500 V or even 690 V, is examined. The presented analysis and results clearly show that the NH‐fuses’ rated voltage should be equal to the networks nominal and not higher, which will result in reduced power losses and increased low‐voltage distribution network capacity, less thermal stress of the equipment, reduction of the primary energy needs and CO2 emissions. Furthermore, the proposed replacement leads to slightly less spare parts cost and could be implemented gradually during scheduled maintenance resulting zero implementation cost. Since Greece is not the only case of a country in which electrical distribution network operator applies the previous mentioned practice, it is rather obvious that the resultant conclusions could be very helpful for other countries which use similar regulation to reconsider and revise it.
Systematic design method of a mobile multiple antenna system using the theory of characteristic modes
Authors: Martens Robert , Manteuffel Dirk
Published: April 2014

In this study, the authors present a systematic design method of a three‐port multiple‐input–multiple‐output antenna system for small terminals, such as smart phones based on the selective excitation of orthogonal chassis modes. The underlying idea is based on the theory of characteristic modes (TCM). Selective excitation of these modes is realised by sets of non‐resonant inductive coupling elements integrated at predefined positions into the printed circuit board (PCB) layout. Stripline feed networks also integrated within the multi‐layer PCB layout care for a good impedance match to 50 Ω. The design method of this antenna system is a straight forward application of the TCM and is therefore of general interest for the design of small terminal antennas. Furthermore, owing to the electrically small couplers that require only limited area at the outer edge of the PCB the method represents an interesting solution with the clear potential to be extended to more ports. The realised prototype resembles the predicted performance very well and therefore proves the applicability of the proposed method.
Double modulation control scheme for a DC/DC converter applied to a battery charger
Authors: Hamed Belloumi , Férid Kourda
Published: April 2014

In this study, a novel control scheme for controlling a self‐oscillating half‐bridge series resonant converter for DC source and secondary battery interface is proposed. This new control scheme is used to control and regulate the DC output current of the converter. The proposed control scheme has the advantages of not only wide power regulation range, but also ease of output current control. In addition, it can achieve a stable and efficient zero‐voltage‐switching (ZVS) in a whole load range. The control principles of the proposed method are described in detail and its validity is verified through simulated and experimental results based on a 24 V 125 Ah battery charger. The maximum charging efficiency of the proposed topology during the overall charging period exceeds 90%.
Survey on underwater delay/disruption tolerant wireless sensor network routing
Authors: Cho Hsin‐Hung , Chen Chi‐Yuan , Shih Timothy K. , Chao Han‐Chieh
Published: April 2014

Underwater wireless sensor networks (UWSNs) have recently received a significant amount of attention. Since they have delay/disruption‐tolerant networks (DTNs) characteristics, the design of any UWSN scheme must take DTN influences into account, especially in routing protocols. Many researchers have proposed various DTN routing techniques for different types of DTN routing schemes in UWSNs. The authors survey state‐of‐the‐art DTN routing protocols, and use the definition of DTN to classify these proposals into scheduled contact, opportunistic contact and predicted contact. Furthermore, the authors analyse the detailed information in order to draw up a comparison table and also expect to inspire more research into this topic in the future.