bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of energy transfer in disc and fibre laser
Authors: Lee S. H. , Mazumder J.
Published: November 2013

Characteristics of energy transfer of two laser systems, fibre and disc lasers, are studied in this paper. Laser induced plasma is characterised by estimating the electron temperature and the electron density in both laser systems. Based on the electron temperature and electron density, the coefficients of inverse Bremsstrahlung absorption are estimated to investigate the energy absorption by the plasma in both systems. The electron temperature is evaluated from the observed Fe I emission lines using Boltzmann plot, whereas the electron number density is determined from the broadened line of Fe I 381·58 nm. The penetration characteristics in both systems are examined to study the role of the attenuated beam by the plasma absorption. Based on the observed features, the performance of the disc and fibre lasers, in terms of energy transfer, are comparable. However, in high power densities, the disc laser has slightly deeper penetration.
Fusion of the C-terminal triskaidecapeptide of hirudin variant 3 to alpha1-proteinase inhibitor M358R increases the serpin-mediated rate of thrombin inhibition
Authors: Roddick Leigh Ann , Bhakta Varsha , Sheffield William P
Published: November 2013

Background

Alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor (API) is a plasma serpin superfamily member that inhibits neutrophil elastase; variant API M358R inhibits thrombin and activated protein C (APC). Fusing residues 1-75 of another serpin, heparin cofactor II (HCII), to API M358R (in HAPI M358R) was previously shown to accelerate thrombin inhibition over API M358R by conferring thrombin exosite 1 binding properties. We hypothesized that replacing HCII 1-75 region with the 13 C-terminal residues (triskaidecapeptide) of hirudin variant 3 (HV354-66) would further enhance the inhibitory potency of API M358R fusion proteins. We therefore expressed HV3API M358R (HV354-66 fused to API M358R) and HV3API RCL5 (HV354-66 fused to API F352A/L353V/E354V/A355I/I356A/I460L/M358R) API M358R) as N-terminally hexahistidine-tagged polypeptides in E. coli.

Results

HV3API M358R inhibited thrombin 3.3-fold more rapidly than API M358R; for HV3API RCL5 the rate enhancement was 1.9-fold versus API RCL5; neither protein inhibited thrombin as rapidly as HAPI M358R. While the thrombin/Activated Protein C rate constant ratio was 77-fold higher for HV3API RCL5 than for HV3API M358R, most of the increased specificity derived from the API F352A/L353V/E354V/A355I/I356A/I460L API RCL 5 mutations, since API RCL5 remained 3-fold more specific than HV3API RCL5. An HV3 54-66 peptide doubled the Thrombin Clotting Time (TCT) and halved the binding of thrombin to immobilized HCII 1-75 at lower concentrations than free HCII 1-75. HV3API RCL5 bound active site-inhibited FPR-chloromethyl ketone-thrombin more effectively than HAPI RCL5. Transferring the position of the fused HV3 triskaidecapeptide to the C-terminus of API M358R decreased the rate of thrombin inhibition relative to that mediated by HV3API M358R by 11-to 14-fold.

Conclusions

Fusing the C-terminal triskaidecapeptide of HV3 to API M358R-containing serpins significantly increased their effectiveness as thrombin inhibitors, but the enhancement was less than that seen in HCII 1-75–API M358R fusion proteins. HCII 1-75 was a superior fusion partner, in spite of the greater affinity of the HV3 triskaidecapeptide, manifested both in isolated and API-fused form, for thrombin exosite 1. Our results suggest that HCII 1-75 binds thrombin exosite 1 and orients the attached serpin scaffold for more efficient interaction with the active site of thrombin than the HV3 triskaidecapeptide.
Urinary proteomic and non-prefractionation quantitative phosphoproteomic analysis during pregnancy and non-pregnancy
Authors: Zheng Jianhua , Liu Liguo , Wang Jin , Jin Qi
Published: November 2013

Background

Progress in the fields of protein separation and identification technologies has accelerated research into biofluids proteomics for protein biomarker discovery. Urine has become an ideal and rich source of biomarkers in clinical proteomics. Here we performed a proteomic analysis of urine samples from pregnant and non-pregnant patients using gel electrophoresis and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Furthermore, we also apply a non-prefractionation quantitative phosphoproteomic approach using mTRAQ labeling to evaluate the expression of specific phosphoproteins during pregnancy comparison with non-pregnancy.

Results

In total, 2579 proteins (10429 unique peptides) were identified, including 1408 from the urine of pregnant volunteers and 1985 from the urine of non-pregnant volunteers. One thousand and twenty-three proteins were not reported in previous studies at the proteome level and were unique to our study. Furthermore, we obtained 237 phosphopeptides, representing 105 phosphoproteins. Among these phosphoproteins, 16 of them were found to be significantly differentially expressed, of which 14 were up-regulated and two were down-regulated in urine samples from women just before vaginal delivery.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results offer a comprehensive urinary proteomic profile of healthy women during before and after vaginal delivery and novel information on the phosphoproteins that are differentially regulated during the maintenance of normal pregnancy. Our results may provide a better understanding of the mechanisms of pregnancy maintenance, potentially leading to the development of biomarker-based sensitive assays for understanding pregnancy.
High pericardial and peri-aortic adipose tissue burden in pre-diabetic and diabetic subjects
Authors: Yang Fei-Shih , Yun Chun-Ho , Wu Tung-Hsin , Hsieh Ya-Ching , Bezerra Hiram G , Liu Chuan-Chuan , Wu Yih-Jer , Kuo Jen-Yuan , Hung Chung-Lieh , Hou Charles Jia-Yin , Yeh Hung-I , Lee Jason Jeun-Shenn , Bulwer Bernard E , Cury Ricardo C
Published: November 2013

Background

Central obesity in relation to insulin resistance is strongly linked to the development of type 2 diabetes. However, data regarding the association between pericardial and peri-aortic adiposity, a potential estimate of visceral adipose tissue burden, and pre-diabetes status remains unclear.

The aim of this study was to examine whether the degree of pericardial and thoracic peri-aortic adipose tissue, when quantified by multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT), differs significantly in a normal, pre-diabetic, and overtly diabetic population.

Methods

We studied 562 consecutive subjects including 357 healthy, 155 pre-diabetic, and 50 diabetic patients selected from participants who underwent annual health surveys in Taiwan. Pre-diabetes status was defined by impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose intolerance according to American Diabetes Association guidelines. Pericardial (PCF) and thoracic peri-aortic (TAT) adipose tissue burden was assessed using a non-contrast 16-slice multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) dataset with off-line measurement (Aquarius 3D Workstation, TeraRecon, San Mateo, CA, USA). Body fat composition, serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) level and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were also assessed.

Results

Patients with diabetes and pre-diabetes had greater volume of PCF (89 ± 24.6, 85.3 ± 28.7 & 67.6 ± 26.7 ml, p < 0.001) as well as larger TAT (9.6 ± 3.1 ml vs 8.8 ± 4.2 & 6.6 ± 3.5 ml, respectively, p < 0.001) when compared to the normal group, although there were no significant differences in adiposity between the diabetic and pre-diabetic groups. For those without established diabetes in our study, increasing TAT burden, but not PCF, appear to correlate with insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and hs-CRP in the multivariable models.

Conclusions

Pre-diabetic and diabetic subjects, compared to normoglycemia, were associated with significantly higher pericardial and peri-aortic adipose tissue burden. In addition, visceral fat accumulation adjacent to the thoracic aorta seemed to exert a significant impact on insulin resistance and systemic inflammation.
Sturge-Weber syndrome coexisting with episodes of rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Zhu Min , Li Xiaobin , Zhou Meihong , Wan Hui , Wu Yuchen , Hong Daojun
Published: November 2013

Background

Sturge-Weber syndrome is a congenital neurocutaneous disorder characterized by facial port-wine stain, leptomeningeal angioma, and neurological disorders. Sturge-Weber syndrome can coexist with other disorders in a few patients; however, muscular abnormalities have not been reported in patients with Sturge-Weber syndrome.

Case presentation

A Chinese girl presented with extensive port-wine stains, congenital bilateral glaucoma, and leptomeningeal angiomatosis. The neurocutaneous symptoms were consistent with the diagnostic criteria of Sturge-Weber syndrome. Meanwhile, episodes of rhabdomyolysis were supported by the recurrent symptoms as follows: exercise intolerance, hyperCKmia, elevated serum myoglobin, and renal failure. Myopathological features and high level of blood long-chain acyl-carnitine indicated that episodes of rhabdomyolysis might be caused by lipid metabolic myopathy. Causative mutations were not found in the CPT2, ACADVL, and GNAQ gene.

Conclusions

We report the first case that Sturge-Weber syndrome coexists with episodes of rhabdomyolysis associated with lipid metabolic myopathy.
Survey of calcium supplementation to prevent preeclampsia: the gap between evidence and practice in Brazil
Authors: Camargo Erika Barbosa , Moraes Luci Fabiane Scheffer , Souza Celsa Moura , Akutsu Rita , Barreto Jorge Maia , da Silva Edina Mariko Koga , Betrán Ana Pilar , Torloni Maria Regina
Published: November 2013

Background

Preeclampsia is a major cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide and especially in Latin America. High quality evidence indicates that calcium supplementation during pregnancy significantly reduces the incidence of preeclampsia and its consequences, including severe maternal morbidity and death. Few studies have assessed the implementation of this intervention in clinical practice. The study aimed to assess the proportion of pregnant women who received calcium supplements in Brazilian public antenatal care clinics.

Methods

This cross-sectional study interviewed women waiting for antenatal care visits in 9 public clinics in 4 Brazilian cities in 2010-2012. Trained interviewers used a standardized anonymous questionnaire to collect socio demographic and obstetric data, information on ingestion of dairy products and on prescriptions received during current pregnancy.

Results

A total of 788 valid questionnaires were analyzed. Participants were young (mean age 25.9), mostly multiparous (71.3%) and in the 2ndor 3rdtrimesters of pregnancy at the time of interview (87.6%). Only 5.1% (40/788) had received a prescription for calcium supplements. Based on their reported ingestion of dairy products, the mean daily dietary calcium intake of the participants was 210 (+ 265) mg/day and over 90% consumed less than 1 g of calcium/day.

Conclusions

Despite good quality evidence indicating the benefits of this practice especially for women with low calcium diets, less than 6% of a sample of women receiving antenatal care in Brazilian public clinics received a prescription for calcium supplements. There is an urgent need to upscale the implementation of this life-saving intervention.
Proteinase-activated receptors (PARs) – focus on receptor-receptor-interactions and their physiological and pathophysiological impact
Authors: Gieseler Frank , Ungefroren Hendrik , Settmacher Utz , Hollenberg Morley D , Kaufmann Roland
Published: November 2013

Proteinase-activated receptors (PARs) are a subfamily of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) with four members, PAR1, PAR2, PAR3and PAR4, playing critical functions in hemostasis, thrombosis, embryonic development, wound healing, inflammation and cancer progression. PARs are characterized by a unique activation mechanism involving receptor cleavage by different proteinases at specific sites within the extracellular amino-terminus and the exposure of amino-terminal “tethered ligand“ domains that bind to and activate the cleaved receptors. After activation, the PAR family members are able to stimulate complex intracellular signalling networks via classical G protein-mediated pathways and beta-arrestin signalling. In addition, different receptor crosstalk mechanisms critically contribute to a high diversity of PAR signal transduction and receptor-trafficking processes that result in multiple physiological effects.

In this review, we summarize current information about PAR-initiated physical and functional receptor interactions and their physiological and pathological roles. We focus especially on PAR homo- and heterodimerization, transactivation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and receptor serine/threonine kinases (RSTKs), communication with other GPCRs, toll-like receptors and NOD-like receptors, ion channel receptors, and on PAR association with cargo receptors. In addition, we discuss the suitability of these receptor interaction mechanisms as targets for modulating PAR signalling in disease.
Common fixed points of a family of strictly pseudocontractive mappings
Authors: Qin Xiaolong , Shang Meijuan , Qing Yuan
Published: November 2013

In this article, fixed point problems of a family of strictly pseudocontractive mappings are investigated based on a viscosity iterative process. Strong convergence theorems are established in a real q-uniformly Banach space.

MSC:47H09, 47J05, 47J25.
Acupuncture for patients with mild hypertension: study protocol of an open-label multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Juan , Zheng Hui , Zhao Ling , Li Ying , Zhang Yan , Chang Xiao-rong , Wang Rui-hui , Shi Jing , Cui Jin , Huang Yin-lan , Li Xiang , Chen Jie , Li De-hua , Liang Fan-rong
Published: November 2013

Background

Several studies using acupuncture to treat essential hypertension have been carried out. However, whether acupuncture is efficacious for hypertension is still controversial. Therefore, this trial aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for patients with mild hypertension.

Methods/Design

This is a large scale, open-label, multicenter, randomized controlled clinical trial with four parallel arms. We will recruit 428 hypertensive patients with systolic blood pressure (SBP) between 140 and 159 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure (DBP) between 90 and 99 mmHg. The participants will be randomly assigned to four different groups (three acupuncture groups and one waiting list group) (1).The affected meridian acupuncture group (n = 107) is treated with acupoints on the affected meridians (2).The non-affected meridian acupuncture group (n = 107) is treated with acupoints on the non-affected meridians (3).The invasive sham acupuncture group (n = 107) is provided with sham acupoints treatment (4).The waiting-list group (n = 107) is not offered any intervention until they complete the trial. Each patient allocated to acupuncture groups will receive 18 sessions of acupuncture treatment over 6 weeks. This trial will be conducted in 11 hospitals in China. The primary endpoint is the change in average 24-hSBP before and 6 weeks after randomization. The secondary endpoints are average SBP and average DBP during the daytime and night-time, and 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36), and so on.

Discussion

This is the first large scale, multicenter, randomized, sham controlled trial of acupuncture for essential hypertension in China. It may clarify the efficacy of acupuncture as a treatment for mild hypertension.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01701726
Bovine-associated CNS species resist phagocytosis differently
Authors: Åvall-Jääskeläinen Silja , Koort Joanna , Simojoki Heli , Taponen Suvi
Published: November 2013

Background

Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) cause usually subclinical or mild clinical bovine mastitis, which often remains persistent. Symptoms are usually mild, mostly only comprising slight changes in the appearance of milk and possibly slight swelling. However, clinical mastitis with severe signs has also been reported. The reasons for the differences in clinical expression are largely unknown. Macrophages play an important role in the innate immunity of the udder. This study examined phagocytosis and killing by mouse macrophage cells of three CNS species: Staphylococcus chromogenes (15 isolates), Staphylococcus agnetis (6 isolates) and Staphylococcus simulans (15 isolates). Staphylococcus aureus (7 isolates) was also included as a control.

Results

All the studied CNS species were phagocytosed by macrophages, but S. simulans resisted phagocytosis more effectively than the other CNS species. Only S. chromogenes was substantially killed by macrophages. Significant variations between isolates were seen in both phagocytosis and killing by macrophages and were more common in the killing assays. Significant differences between single CNS species and S. aureus were observed in both assays.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that differences in the phagocytosis and killing of mastitis-causing staphylococci by macrophages exist at both the species and isolate level.
Delayed drainage versus autotransfusion drainage and routine drainage after total knee arthroplasty: a comparative study
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Li Zhi-jun , Zheng Yong-fa , Feng Shi-qing , Li Hui
Published: November 2013

Background

The purpose of this research is to compare the clinical results of different drainage methods in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

This retrospective comparative study included 55 patients who accepted primary unilateral TKA between October 2010 and November 2012. The patients were classified according to the drainage method used: 25 patients in the autotransfusion drainage group, 12 patients in the delayed drainage group, and 18 patients in the routine drainage group. Otherwise, the same operative procedures and postoperative care were applied to all patients. The variables recorded included total amount of postoperative drainage (including intraoperative blood loss); cases of allogenic blood transfusion; body temperatures on postoperative days 1, 3, and 7; and pre- and postoperative hemoglobin level. Some other elements such as postoperative swelling, range of motion, and wound healing were also compared.

Results

Patients who underwent autotransfusion were found to have an amount of drainage (799.2 ± 196.7 mL) significantly greater than that in the routine drainage group (666.1 ± 155.0 mL), which in turn was significantly greater than that in the delayed drainage group (381.7 ± 129.2 mL). The postoperative hemoglobin level in the delayed drainage group (91.5 ± 7.9 g/L) was similar to that in the autotransfusion group (92.0 ± 9.6 g/L), while that in the routine drainage group (81.3 ± 9.9 g/L) was significantly lower. The patients in the autotransfusion group were observed to have higher body temperatures than those in the other two groups. In the routine drainage group, eight cases accepted allogenic blood transfusion, and the percentage (44.4%) was significantly higher than that in the other two groups. There were no significant between-group differences in swelling, healing qualities, and range of motion.

Conclusions

Delayed postoperative drainage may reduce blood loss and the chance of allogenic blood transfusion compared with routine drainage and may also reduce the chance of postoperative fever and extra costs compared with autotransfusion.
Repair of giant subcostal hernia using porcine acellular dermal matrix (Strattice™) with bone anchors and pedicled omental flap coverage: a case report
Authors: King Jonathan , Hayes J David , Richmond Bryan
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Giant abdominal wall hernias represent a major challenge to the hernia surgeon in practice today. Of the common abdominal wall hernias, those located in the subcostal region are among the most difficult to repair, and have historically been plagued by higher recurrence rates than other locations, such as the midline. No technique has been identified as the clearly superior choice for hernias of this type.

Case presentation

We report a successful repair of a giant, multiply recurrent subcostal hernia with loss of domain in a 45-year-old obese Caucasian man. This was accomplished in a novel fashion, using a porcine acellular dermal matrix (Strattice™) as the floor of the repair, which was fixed to the costal margin using orthopedic bone anchors (Mitek™), then covered with a pedicled omental flap to eliminate dead space and facilitate a more rapid revascularization of the porcine acellular dermal matrix implant.

Conclusions

This case emphasizes the need for a thorough understanding of the challenges of the specific type of hernia defect encountered, as well as knowledge of any available techniques that may be adjunctively employed to enhance the chances of achieving a successful result.
The association between statin therapy during intensive care unit stay and the incidence of venous thromboembolism: a propensity score-adjusted analysis
Authors: Al Harbi Shmeylan A , Khedr Mohammad , Al-Dorzi Hasan M , Tlayjeh Haytham M , Rishu Asgar H , Arabi Yaseen M
Published: November 2013

Background

Studies have shown that statins have pleiotropic effects on inflammation and coagulation; which may affect the risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE). The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between statin therapy during intensive care unit (ICU) stay and the incidence of VTE in critically ill patients.

Methods

This was a post-hoc analysis of a prospective observational cohort study of patients admitted to the intensive care unit between July 2006 and January 2008 at a tertiary care medical center. The primary endpoint was the incidence of VTE during ICU stay up to 30 days. Secondary endpoint was overall 30-day hospital mortality. Propensity score was used to adjust for clinically and statistically relevant variables.

Results

Of the 798 patients included in the original study, 123 patients (15.4%) received statins during their ICU stay. Survival analysis for VTE risk showed that statin therapy was not associated with a reduction of VTE incidence (crude hazard ratio (HR) 0.66, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.28-1.54, P = 0.33 and adjusted HR 0.63, 95% CI 0.25-1.57, P = 0.33). Furthermore, survival analysis for hospital mortality showed that statin therapy was not associated with a reduction in hospital mortality (crude HR 1.26, 95% CI 0.95-1.68, P = 0.10 and adjusted HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.72-1.36, P = 0.94).

Conclusion

Our study showed no statistically significant association between statin therapy and VTE risk in critically ill patients. This question needs to be further studied in randomized control trials.
Self-assembly, Physicochemical, and Field-effect Transistor Properties of Solution-crystallized Organic Semiconductors Based on π-Extended Dithieno[3,2-b:2′,3′-d]thiophenes
Authors: Mieno Hiroyuki , Yasuda Takuma , Yang Yu Seok , Adachi Chihaya
Published: November 2013

Thienoacene-based π-conjugated oligomers, DTT-NP8 and DTT-BT8, were designed and synthesized. Their strong intermolecular interactions originating from S···S contacts enable the fabrication of single-crystal microribbons via solution processing. Organic single-crystal transistors exhibited field-effect mobilities as high as 0.54 cm2 V−1 s−1 and on/off current ratio of ca. 106.
Direct Pathway for Water–Gas Shift Reaction in Gas Phase
Authors: Harabuchi Yu , Maeda Satoshi , Taketsugu Tetsuya , Ohno Koichi
Published: November 2013

A direct reaction pathway for water–gas shift reaction (WGSR) in gas phase, H2O + CO → H2 + CO2, was discovered by using anharmonic downward distortion following method. The direct WGSR is accompanied by a roaming-like mechanism. To examine the initial conditions of the direct WGSR, we carried out ab initio molecular dynamics simulations and showed that cooperative excitations of OH-stretching vibrational modes and the orientational control of reactants are required for the direct WGSR.
Acidic Proton Modulation of a Stilbene-based Zwitterionic Sulfonic Acid in the Solid State: Mimicking a Biological Device
Authors: Chen Chien-Chih , Sasaki Toshiyuki , Yamamoto Atsushi , Liu Jui-Hsiang , Hisaki Ichiro , Miyata Mikiji , Tohnai Norimitsu
Published: November 2013

Acidic proton modulation of a stilbene-based zwitterionic sulfonic acid in the crystalline state was studied using three amines with different pKa values. The three organic crystal structures prepared from the intermolecular interactions of the acid with the amines and water were solved by single-crystal X-ray crystallography. These crystals included an ammonium salt and two hydrate crystals. Furthermore, the three generated crystals could mimic three distinct biological systems: a water/proton blockade, a protonated water array, and a one-dimensional water channel.
Facile Synthesis of AEI Zeolites by Hydrothermal Conversion of FAU Zeolites in the Presence of Tetraethylphosphonium Cations
Authors: Maruo Toshihiro , Yamanaka Naoki , Tsunoji Nao , Sadakane Masahiro , Sano Tsuneji
Published: November 2013

Highly crystalline and pure high-silica AEI zeolites with Si/Al ratios of ca. 10–15 were successfully obtained by a one-day hydrothermal conversion of FAU zeolites at 150 °C in tetraethylphosphonium hydroxide media.
Root Protein Profiles of Two Citrus Rootstocks Grown under Iron Sufficiency/Deficiency Conditions
Authors: Muccilli Vera , Licciardello Concetta , Fontanini Debora , Cunsolo Vincenzo , Capocchi Antonella , Saletti Rosaria , Torrisi Biagio , Foti Salvatore
Published: November 2013

Two citrus rootstocks, one sensitive to iron deficiency [Swingle Citrumelo (SC)] and the other tolerant [Carrizo Citrange, (CC)], were studied to characterize variation in their root protein profile induced by iron-deficient conditions. Plants of both rootstocks were grown in two different soils, one volcanic (v) and the other calcareous (c), containing 0% and 10% active lime, respectively. To evaluate the effects of the calcareous soil on the protein accumulation of both rootstocks, the root protein profiles (SCc vs SCv and CCc vs CCv) were characterized by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, thus obtaining, for the first time, a reference map of this previously uncharacterized proteome. A total of 219 spots, significantly changed in abundance, were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography nano electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. The identified proteins were classified according to their putative function and known biosynthetic pathways. Principal component analysis, comparing the four sets of data, indicated that each group clustered together with low variance and that CCv and CCc data sets were well differentiated, whereas SCv and SCc were similar.
Gas-Phase and Solution Studies of Three Resorcin[4]Arene Derivatives Using Electrospray Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Reynolds James C. , Chew Mei Q. , Martin Helen J. , Stubbs Emma C. , Waters Marguerite A. , Crotty Sarah C. , Silvestre-Gonzalez Vanessa , Chan Yohan , Thomas C.L. Paul , Page Philip C. Bulman , Creaser Colin S. , Heaney Harry
Published: November 2013

Electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) has been used to study the relative gas-phase proton and alkali metal (Li, Na, K and Cs) binding affinities of three different resorcin[4]arenes using the kinetic method. Collision-induced dissociation (CID) was used to study the fragmentation of resorcin[4]arene heterodimer sandwich complexes, allowing the relative binding affinity order to be established. All the alkali metal cations have the same gas-phase binding affinity order with the resorcin[4]arene host molecules. At collision energies of ≥ 13 eV, one of the [resorcin[4]arene + Metal]+, (Metal = Li, Na, K) ions fragmented through break-up of the resorcin[4]arene, whilst the other host resorcin[4]arene remained intact, causing an apparent change in binding affinity at high collision energy. This effect was not observed with caesium, since all complex ions dissociated readily under CID by displacement of the caesium cation. The binding affinity for the protonated resorcin[4]arenes was found to be different from the alkali metal cation binding affinity because of the higher proton affinity of the nitrogen-containing resorcin[4]arenes. It is shown that resorcin[4]arenes containing an oxazine ring can be converted into a ring-opened derivative via an Eschweiler–Clarke reaction in the presence of formic acid. A second ring-opening process also occurs, including a hydrolysis reaction that results in apparent losses of 12 mass units from the intact resorcin[4]arene. Both these reactions occur in solution before mass spectrometric investigation and cannot be achieved by CID. This observation was confirmed by inducing the Eschweiler–Clarke reaction in a model benzoxazine compound.
Identification of Ti Clusters during Nucleation and Growth of Sol—Gel-Derived TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Simonsen Morten Enggrob , Søgaard Erik Gydesen
Published: November 2013

In the present work, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) was used to investigate the titanium clusters present during nucleation and growth of sol–gel derived TiO2 nanoparticles. Depending on the alkoxide precursor used, Ti clusters of different sizes were identified [titanium isopropoxide (TTIP) ∼ 11–12 Ti atoms, titanium butoxide (TTB) ∼ 10–11 Ti atoms and titanium tetraethoxide (TTE) ∼ 5–7 Ti atoms]. The Ti–O–Ti backbone/core of the titanium clusters were found to be quite stable after formation and do not easily break up into smaller clusters. The results of this investigation suggest that these clusters are used as building blocks in the growth during the induction period. The h-ratio ( nH2O/ nalcoxide) and the pH were not found to influence the identity of the Ti clusters present during nucleation of the growth of sol–gel derived TiO2 nano-particles, although the induction period was greatly influenced. The reactivity of the alkoxy group are OEt > OPri > OBu. The difference in reactivity of the alkoxides is generally believed to be due to the increasing size of the alkoxy group which causes sterical hindrance during the nucleophilic substitution reaction.
Characterization of the Species Formed during the Extraction of Thorium Employing Tri-n-Butyl Phosphate and N,N-Dihexyl Octanamide as Extractants by Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Verma P.K. , Pathak P.N. , Jayasekharan T. , Vatsa R.K. , Mohapatra P.K.
Published: November 2013

Laser desorption/ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LDI-ToF-MS) has been applied to identify and characterize the organic phase species formed during the extraction of thorium nitrate by 1.1 M tri- n-butyl phosphate (TBP) and N,N-dihexyl octanamide (DHOA) solutions in n-dodecane. The aqueous phase thorium concentrations (at 4 M HNO3) have been suitably chosen to get loaded organic phases with/without third-phase. The extracted species have been characterized for the first time using LDI-ToF-MS. The results show feasibility of the use of this technique for understanding the extraction mechanisms and third-phase formation behavior of different extractants. The different chemical species observed using this technique are consistent with those observed by small-angle neutron scattering (SANS).
Account: On the Features, Successes and Challenges of Selected Ion Flow Tube Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Španěl Patrik , Smith David
Published: November 2013

The major features of the selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT-MS) analytical method that was conceived and designed for the analysis, in real time, of air obviating sample collections into bags or extraction by pre-concentration of trace compounds onto surfaces are reviewed. The unique analytical capabilities of SIFT-MS for ambient analysis are stressed that allow quantification of volatile organic and inorganic compounds directly from the measurement of physical parameters without the need for regular instrumental calibration using internal or external standards. Then, emphasis is placed on the challenging real-time accurate analysis of single exhalations of humid breath, which is now achieved and readily facilitates wider applications of SIFT-MS in other fields where trace gas analysis has value. The quality of the data obtained by SIFT-MS is illustrated by the quantification of some exhaled breath metabolites that are of immediate relevance to physiology and medicine, including that of hydrogen cyanide in the breath of patients with cystic fibrosis. The current status of SIFT-MS is revealed by a form of a strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis intended to present an objective view of this analytical technique and the likely way forward towards its further development and application.
Origins and development of New Zealand English
Authors: Warren Paul
Published: November 2013

This paper provides an overview of the chief characteristics of a relatively new variety of English, New Zealand English. After a brief historical sketch of the development of English in New Zealand, the paper highlights some of the grammatical patterns of the variety, before looking in more detail at the lexical features and characteristic pronunciations that make it a distinct variety. One of the significant infl uences on the development of New Zealand English has been contact with the Maori language and with Maori cultural traditions. This is refl ected in the presence of a large number of Maori words in common use in New Zealand English, as well as in the development of Maori English as an ethnic variety in New Zealand. Finally, the paper considers other sources of variation within New Zealand English, including early signs of regional diff erentiation as well as age- and gender-linked variation that have emerged in the patterns of change in progress that typify this new variety.
The story of South African English:A brief linguistic overview
Authors: Bekker Ian
Published: November 2013

This article provides a linguistic overview of the history and current status of South African English (SAfE). With respect to the history of this variety it deals with its colonial origins, subsequent development as well as diversifi cation into a number of sub-varieties, both L1 and L2 in nature. Next, the article provides a brief synchronic overview of the dialect-specifi c features of this variety, focusing mainly on phonetics and phonology, but also dealing with morphology, lexis and grammar where pertinent. The last section of the article focuses on recent developments, both in terms of the variety itself and research in the field.
English in Tanzania: A linguistic cultural perspective
Authors: Bwenge Charles
Published: November 2013

Talking about ‘English in Tanzania’ or what Schneider (2007) has in general categorized as postcolonial English for that matter instantaneously evokes notions pertaining to language contact as well as the fi eld of contact linguistics. It was the British colonization of East African territories in the fi rst half of the 20th century that brought English into the region and consequently set off the contact process with indigenous local languages that would subsequently shape and defi ne the dynamics of linguistic culture as still observed today. Of particular interest is the contact and subsequent coexistence between English and Swahili especially in Tanzania. There is no any country in sub-Saharan Africa other than Tanzania that provides a perfect illustration of the dynamics of language contact in the 20th century and beyond between a European language and an indigenous African language in the African setting – to the extent that a story of ‘English in Tanzania’ would blatantly appear incomplete without bringing in a story of ‘Swahili in Tanzania’ and vice versa. This is exactly what this paper has assigned itself to do – examining a linguistic culture that has evolved in a particular time and space with English and Swahili occupying the center. Nevertheless, the literature on the topic abounds; only that its linguistic cultural dimension has not been privileged enough. Linguistic culture encompasses dynamics related to language contact phenomena such as lexical and grammatical borrowings, code-mixing, bilingualism, language shift, development of pidgins and creoles, attitudes toward languages, linguistic stereotypes and prejudices, and the like. Contact linguistics as an analytical tool pertaining to the structural aspects of bilingual language production is not marginalized in linguistic cultural approach but rather it is highlighted in order to provide concrete evidence on the cultural dimension. In this regard, ‘English in Tanzania’ is explored by contextualizing it within the parameters of the dynamics of Tanzanian linguistic cultural landscape. Specifi cally the paper outlines the dynamics of Tanzanian linguistic culture evolving around the English language, of course, alongside Swahili in terms of distinct political periods between the British colonial era and today’s era of globalization; second, it concentrates on actual language use and related public discourse as observed in public space; third, it demonstrates communicative creativity arising from the coexistence between English and Swahili and, fi nally, it concludes with recapitulation regarding the signifi cance of linguistic cultural approach to sociolinguistics explorations.
Functional characterization of Candida albicans Hos2 histone deacetylase
Authors: Karthikeyan G , Paul-Satyaseela Maneesh , Dhatchana Moorthy Nachiappan , Gopalaswamy Radha , Narayanan Shridhar
Published: November 2013

Candida albicansis a mucosal commensal organism in normal individuals, but is a major pathogen causing systemic and mucosal infections in immunocompromised individuals. Azoles have been very effective anti-fungal agents and the mainstay in treating opportunistic mold and yeast infections. Azole resistant strains have emerged compromising the utility of this class of drugs. It has been shown that azole resistance can be reversed by the co-administration of a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, suggesting that resistance is mediated by epigenetic mechanisms possibly involving Hos2, a fungal deacetylase. We report here the cloning and functional characterization ofHOS2 (HighOsmolaritySensitive),a gene coding for fungal histone deacetylase fromC. albicans. Inhibition studies showed that Hos2 is susceptible to pan inhibitors such as trichostatin A (TSA) and suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), but is not inhibited by class I inhibitors such MS-275. Purified Hos2 protein consistently deacetylated tubulins, rather than histones from TSA-treated cells. Thisinvitroenzymatic assay, which is amenable to high throughput could be used for screening potent fungal Hos2 inhibitors that could be a potential anti-fungal adjuvant. Hos2 has been reported to be a putative NAD+ dependent histone deacetylase, a feature of sirtuins. We assayed for sirtuin activation with resveratrol and purified Hos2 protein and did not find any sirtuin activity.
IT-Enabled Coordination for Ambidextrous Interorganizational Relationships
Authors: Im Ghiyoung , Rai Arun
Published: November 2013

Contextual ambidexterity of an interorganizational relationship (IOR) is the ability of its management system to align partners' activities and resources for short-term goals and adapt partners' cognitions and actions for long-term viability. It is an alternative to structural ambidexterity in which separate units of the IOR pursue short- and long-term goals. We theorize that when utilized to coordinate the IOR, information technology (IT)-enabled operations and sensemaking, along with interdependent decision making, promote the IOR's contextual ambidexterity. We test our hypotheses on both sides of a customer-vendor relationship using data collected from (1) the account executives of one of the world's largest supply chain vendors (n = 76) and (2) its customers (n = 238). We find commonalities and differences in the influence coordination mechanisms have on contextual ambidexterity from the vendor's and the customer's perspectives. For both customers and vendors, contextual ambidexterity improves the quality and performance of the relationship, and decision interdependence promotes contextual ambidexterity. For customers, using operations support systems (OSSs) and interpretation support systems (ISSs) enhances contextual ambidexterity. For vendors, the impact of both OSS use and ISS use on contextual ambidexterity depends on the duration of the relationship. Our study shows that IT-enabled operations and sensemaking are key enablers of IOR ambidexterity and that vendors should combine these IT capabilities with relationship-specific knowledge that accumulates with relationship duration.
La participación en redes sociales y su incidencia sobre el comportamiento y satisfacción de los consumidores del turismo. Un estudio comparativo en diferentes recursos de turismo industrial en Cataluña, Alsacia y Escocia.
Authors: Prat Forga Josep Maria , Cànoves Valiente Gemma
Published: November 2013

Las redes sociales son un creciente fenómeno social que está motivando grandes cambios en el comportamiento del consumidor en general y del turista en particular. Centrándonos en el turismo industrial, en este trabajo se analizan algunos de los principales elementos precursores de la intención de seguir el consejo obtenido en una red social de este tipo de turismo. Los resultados del análisis realizado en diferentes destinos europeos (en Cataluña, Escocia y Alsacia), a partir de un cuestionario, confirman que la satisfacción obtenida en el consumo de este turismo tiene una relación directa con la participación en las redes sociales; y ésta, a su vez, con la intención de seguir los consejos allí presentados, poniéndose de manifiesto la importancia de la actitud hacia el consejo, la confianza en la red social y la utilidad percibida de dicha información, en la intención de seguir dicho consejo.
Turismo Cultural. Entre la experiencia y el ritual.
Authors: Pérez Winter Cecilia
Published: November 2013

Se presenta la reseña del libro Turismo Cultural, escrita por José Antonio Donaire examinando los principales puntos propuestos en cada capítulo.
Maternal mortality due to pandemic influenza A H1N1 2009 virus in Colombia
Authors: Rojas-Suarez José , Paternina-Caicedo Angel , Cuevas Liliana , Angulo Sofía , Cifuentes Ricardo , Parra Edgar , Fino Elena , Daza José , Castillo Orlando , Pacheco Adriana , Rey Gloria , García Sara , Peña Isabel , Levinson Andrew , Bourjeily Ghada
Published: November 2013

Aims: The 2009 H1N1 pandemic illustrated the higher morbidity and mortality from viral infections in peripartum women. We describe clinical features of women who recently died of H1N1 in Colombia.

Methods: This is a case series study that was gathered through a retrospective record review of all maternal H1N1 deaths in the country. The national mortality database of confirmed mortality from H1N1 in pregnancy and up to 42 days after delivery was reviewed during the H1N1 season in 2009. Women with H1N1 infections were confirmed by the laboratory of virology. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were reviewed. Statistical analyses were performed and median values of non-parametric data were reported with inter-quartile range (IQR).

Results: A total of 23 H1N1 maternal deaths were identified. Eighty-three percent occurred in the third trimester. None of the mothers who died had received influenza vaccination. The median time from symptom onset to the initiation of antiviral treatment was 8.8 days (IQR 5.8–9.8). Five fatalities did not receive any anti-viral therapy. Median PaO2/FiO2 on day 1 was 80 (IQR, 60–98.5). All patients required inotropic support and mechanical ventilation with barotrauma-related complications of mechanical ventilation occurring in 35% of patients.

Conclusion: In Colombia, none of the women suffering H1N1-related maternal deaths had received vaccination against the disease and most had delayed or had no anti-viral therapy. Given the lack of evidence-based clinical predictors to identify women who are prone to die from H1N1 in pregnancy, following international guidelines for vaccination and initiation of antiviral therapy in suspected cases would likely improve outcomes in developing countries.
Tactile Pressure Sensors in Centrifuge Testing
Authors: Ganainy Hesham El , Tessari Anthony , Abdoun Tarek , Sasanakul Inthuorn
Published: November 2013

Assessing vertical and lateral earth pressure is important in geotechnical and foundation engineering. Vertical stresses are easy to calculate assuming a geostatic stress condition. However, characterizing the lateral earth pressure is primarily based on judgment and empirical correlations that assume a lateral earth pressure coefficient based on the shear strength parameters of the soil. Effects of factors such as overconsolidation, geologic age, and pre-shaking on the lateral earth pressure magnitude and distribution are difficult to assess using only the empirical correlations found in literature. Direct measurements of the lateral earth pressure in the field, full-scale, and centrifuge models are required to fully characterize these factors. This paper discusses the use of grid-based tactile pressure sensors in centrifuge models to study the effects of overconsolidation and pre-shaking on the lateral earth pressure. A new preparation and calibration procedure for the tactile sensors is discussed in detail. A series of five centrifuge tests were performed using dry and saturated sand in normally consolidated, overconsolidated, and pre-shaken deposits. The measured lateral earth pressure distributions are plotted and evaluated. Precautions and recommendations for the use of tactile sensors in centrifuge experiments are given.
An Experimental Setup for Simultaneous Physical, Geotechnical, and Biochemical Characterization of Municipal Solid Waste Undergoing Biodegradation in the Laboratory
Authors: Fei Xunchang , Zekkos Dimitrios , Raskin Lutgarde
Published: November 2013

Municipal solid waste (MSW) is biodegradable in landfills under anaerobic conditions. The biodegradation of MSW consists of physical and biochemical processes that affect the geotechnical characteristics of the waste. Laboratory landfill simulators that enable simultaneous characterization of these processes are presented. The simulator configuration, testing procedure, sampling methods, and measurement methods are described. The temporal phases of MSW biodegradation were studied using the experimental setup. Good repeatability of the measurements was demonstrated between duplicate simulators. In addition to data on biogas and leachate samples, a solid waste core sampling technique for retrieving disturbed solid waste samples for chemical and microbial analyses is presented. It was demonstrated that core sampling did not significantly affect simulator operation and measurements. The simulators and sampling methods presented in this study can be used to generate data that will be useful in the development and calibration of comprehensive models for MSW biodegradation in landfills.