bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Different Growth Regulators on the Rooting of Hardwood Cuttings of Bougainvillea glabra var. “Mohan”
Authors: Roy Tirtharaj , Mandal Tapas , Chowdhuri Tapas Kumar , Maiti Puja , Mandal Somava , Rahaman Alauddin , Ahmed Mahasina , Roy Bapi , Venkatesh C. , Rathour T.P.
Published: August 2024

The Bougainvillaea plant is a common climber and shrub, and one of the most difficult tasks for its growers is cutting roots. The present study employed three different kinds of auxin to root the cuttings. Bougainvillaea, a popular decorative plant, is generally propagated by cuttings and tissue culture. However, large-scale cultivation of Bougainvillaea is sometimes problematic due to roots concerns. An experiment about the effect of different growth regulators on the rooting of hardwood cuttings of Bougainvillea glabra var. 'Mohan'" was conducted during the year 2020-21 at the Faculty of Horticulture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Vidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal, India. The study employed a completely randomized design with ten treatments (T1: IAA @500ppm, T2: IAA @1000ppm, T3: IAA @1500ppm, T4; IBA @500ppm, T5: IBA @1000ppm, T6: IBA @1500ppm, T7: NAA @500ppm, T8: NAA @1000ppm, T9: NAA: 1500ppm & T10: control), 210 hardwood cuttings of Bougainvillaea var. "Mohan" were made, and fungicide was applied before planting. Black polythene was placed beneath the bed for quicker roots. IAA, IBA, and NAA solutions were created using distilled water. Cuttings were treated with growth regulator and planted in beds., each replicated three times. The findings of this investigation revealed that among the various concentrations of IAA- Indole acetic acid, IBA- Indole-3-butyric acid, and NAA- Naphthalene acetic acid, hardwood cuttings treated with IAA at 1500 ppm exhibited the earliest bud initiation (7 days). The best result for the first root initiation (7 days) was observed with IAA at 1000 ppm. IBA at 1500 ppm resulted in the highest number of leaves per cutting (25), while IBA at 1000 ppm produced the highest number of buds per cutting (4). Furthermore, the highest number of roots (9.2) and the greatest average root length (8.7 cm) were achieved with IBA at 1500 ppm. From the foregoing discussion and summary, it can be concluded that efficient management of IBA in higher concentration i.e. 1500 ppm gave the best result in rooting of Hardwood cuttings of Bougainvillea var. “Mohan” for better rooting.
Influence of Mating Systems on Trait Associations in Segregating Populations of Maize (Zea mays L.) Double Cross
Authors: Priya P. Bindu , Pradeep T. , Sumalini K. , Reddy D. Vishnuvardhan
Published: August 2024

In the present challenging scenario of climate change, it is essential to breed maize cultivars that withstand stress especially abiotic stresses in a broader sense. Diversification of existing germplasm is invariable to harness the actual potential of maize hybrids which are bred for specific agroecosystems. Double crosses interact less with environment compared to single crosses and their broad parentage enables better performance under varied situations of cultivation. In the present study, impact of mating systems ie., self pollination, sib mating and open pollination was studied in a high yielding double cross of maize so as to identify robust and diverse recombinants. The double cross, (BML-32 x BML-6) x (BML-10 x BML-7) was imposed with the three types of mating systems for three consecutive seasons and the resultant S3 (F4) populations were evaluated for trait interrelationssips. It was observed that sib mating established stronger and highest number of positive correlations with seven and twelve additional positive correlations than self and open pollinations respectively among the yield and its attributing traits in its progenies. Therefore deploying sib mating cycles during line development may result in more effective selection processes. Results of path analysis, however, did not significantly vary with the mating type though sib mating showed lowest residual effect.
Expert Perspectives on the Prescription Practice and Management Strategies for Dry Eye Disease in Indian Settings
Authors: S Manjula , M Krishna Kumar
Published: August 2024

Background: Artificial tears have been recognized as the first-line treatment for dry eye disease (DED), however, the clinician’s opinion regarding the management of dry eye remains uncertain. This study evaluated the Ophthalmologist’s perspectives on the treatment for DED, with a special focus on polyethylene glycol + propylene glycol (PEG + PG) and Lifitegrast in Indian settings.
Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted using a multiple-response questionnaire distributed electronically to clinicians. It included 30 questions on prevalence, demographics, diagnostic practices, treatment strategies, patient education, treatment adherence pertaining to DED, and the perceived benefits of newer treatments like PEG + PG and Lifitegrast. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics.
Results: This study involved 350 clinicians and revealed that 57.43% preferred PEG + PG eye drops as the first-line treatment for lipid-deficient dry eyes. Approximately 44% recommended PEG + PG thrice daily for mild cases and 53% reported switching to PEG + PG for patients unresponsive to carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) 0.5%. Additionally, 65% preferred using PEG + PG for moderate symptoms. Lifitegrast was considered effective by 79.43% for targeting LFA-1/ICAM-1 and reducing ocular inflammation. About 61% believed that Lifitegrast provides significant benefits due to its inhibition of T cell adhesion, with noticeable effects within two weeks. According to 80% of the survey participants, compared to traditional lubricants, Lifitegrast offers longer-lasting relief, targeted action, and reduced application frequency. Furthermore, 78% noted the advantages of Lifitegrast over cyclosporine, such as faster relief, no burning sensation, no refrigeration, fewer side effects, and no drug interactions.
Conclusion: The survey highlighted PEG + PG combination eye drops as the preferred primary treatment for lipid-deficient dry eyes. Lifitegrast effectively targets LFA-1/ICAM-1, offering rapid relief with minimal side effects, and outperforms traditional lubricants and cyclosporine. These findings underscore Lifitegrast as a key therapeutic option for managing DED.
Women's Participation as Tourism Workers is A Form of Recognition of Gender Equality in The Implementation of Patriarchal Culture in Bali
Authors: Adnyani Ni Ketut Sari , Purnamawati I Gusti Ayu
Published: August 2024

By Decree MUDP X/2010 which legitimizes women to be involved and play an active role like men in the public and domestic spheres. Socio-legal research, data in the form of legal documents, and the results of in-depth interviews are then analyzed using various approaches (legal, theoretical, and historical approaches) using inductive-deductive methods. The research results show that Bali Provincial Regulation 5 of 2020 accommodates the role of Indigenous communities, including Indigenous women, in managing Balinese cultural tourism, therefore Law Number 10 of 2009 is the only reference in managing Balinese cultural tourism. Meanwhile, for Balinese traditional communities, it is known that participation is not only regulated in Bali Provincial Regulation Number 4 of 2019 concerning traditional villages and awig-awig but also in unwritten forms such as pararem pemahcah awig and perarem, ngele. The existence of Indigenous women as public sector workers, namely in tourist villages, is not only found in actual texts, but in general, they live their lives based on customary law which contains applicable values, principles, and norms. Therefore, it is necessary to formulate tourism policies that accommodate the rights of women indigenous workers in the substance of more specific customary law as a source of gender responsiveness. The implication of this study is that Balinese women play a very important role in efforts to maintain family economic resilience. They become solutions to family economic problems through activities such as receptionists, waitresses, gardeners, housekeepers, bartenders and kitchens, and tour guides to meet the family's economic needs. Activities in the public sphere are carried out without leaving their obligations in the domestic sphere. This condition makes Balinese women play a dual role, namely as tourism workers and housewives, which actually supports women to be able to play a dual role.
A Fiji multi‐coral δ18O composite approach to obtaining a more accurate reconstruction of the last two‐centuries of the ocean‐climate variability in the South Pacific Convergence Zone region
Authors: Dassié Emilie P. , Linsley Braddock K. , Corrège Thierry , Wu Henry C. , Lemley Gavin M. , Howe Steve , Cabioch Guy
Published: October 2014

The limited availability of oceanographic data in the tropical Pacific Ocean prior to the satellite era makes coral‐based climate reconstructions a key tool for extending the instrumental record back in time, thereby providing a much needed test for climate models and projections. We have generated a unique regional network consisting of five Porites coral δ18O time series from different locations in the Fijian archipelago. Our results indicate that using a minimum of three Porites coral δ18O records from Fiji is statistically sufficient to obtain a reliable signal for climate reconstruction, and that application of an approach used in tree ring studies is a suitable tool to determine this number. The coral δ18O composite indicates that while sea surface temperature (SST) variability is the primary driver of seasonal δ18O variability in these Fiji corals, annual average coral δ18O is more closely correlated to sea surface salinity (SSS) as previously reported. Our results highlight the importance of water mass advection in controlling Fiji coral δ18O and salinity variability at interannual and decadal time scales despite being located in the heavy rainfall region of the South Pacific Convergence Zone (SPCZ). The Fiji δ18O composite presents a secular freshening and warming trend since the 1850s coupled with changes in both interannual (IA) and decadal/interdecadal (D/I) variance. The changes in IA and D/I variance suggest a re‐organization of climatic variability in the SPCZ region beginning in the late 1800s to period of a more dominant interannual variability, which could correspond to a southeast expansion of the SPCZ.
Sensitivity of fluvial sediment source apportionment to mixing model assumptions: A Bayesian model comparison
Authors: Cooper Richard J. , Krueger Tobias , Hiscock Kevin M. , Rawlins Barry G.
Published: October 2014

Mixing models have become increasingly common tools for apportioning fluvial sediment load to various sediment sources across catchments using a wide variety of Bayesian and frequentist modeling approaches. In this study, we demonstrate how different model setups can impact upon resulting source apportionment estimates in a Bayesian framework via a one‐factor‐at‐a‐time (OFAT) sensitivity analysis. We formulate 13 versions of a mixing model, each with different error assumptions and model structural choices, and apply them to sediment geochemistry data from the River Blackwater, Norfolk, UK, to apportion suspended particulate matter (SPM) contributions from three sources (arable topsoils, road verges, and subsurface material) under base flow conditions between August 2012 and August 2013. Whilst all 13 models estimate subsurface sources to be the largest contributor of SPM (median ∼76%), comparison of apportionment estimates reveal varying degrees of sensitivity to changing priors, inclusion of covariance terms, incorporation of time‐variant distributions, and methods of proportion characterization. We also demonstrate differences in apportionment results between a full and an empirical Bayesian setup, and between a Bayesian and a frequentist optimization approach. This OFAT sensitivity analysis reveals that mixing model structural choices and error assumptions can significantly impact upon sediment source apportionment results, with estimated median contributions in this study varying by up to 21% between model versions. Users of mixing models are therefore strongly advised to carefully consider and justify their choice of model structure prior to conducting sediment source apportionment investigations.
Forensic analysis of degraded polypropylene hollow fibers utilized in microfiltration
Authors: Lu Xiaoyun , Shah Parag , Maruf Sajjad , Ortiz Sean , Hoffard Theresa , Pellegrino John
Published: October 2014

Numerous polypropylene hollow fiber microfiltration membrane modules were severely degraded after utilization as pretreatment in a military water purification system. To determine the plausible causes of degradation, thermal, chemical, and mechanical material properties were initially evaluated by using differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, 13C solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance, attenuated total reflectance infrared spectroscopy, and a tensile strength material testing system. The evaluation implied oxidation during the usage or storage of the samples. Protocols using more specialized techniques, micro‐Raman spectroscopy along with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and an atomic force microscope‐based nano‐thermal analysis, were developed to examine the chemical and thermal properties along the cross‐section of the samples at the micron and submicron‐scale. These results indicated that the degradation mainly took place at the outer and inner boundaries of the samples. Pristine samples exposed to several plausibly harsh environments did not evidence the same level of mechanical failure, but a few circumstances had similar test responses, leading to a hypothesis of high oxidative stress as the main failure etiology versus a slowly evolving one. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41553.
Preparation and characterization of epoxidized soybean oil‐based paper composite as potential water‐resistant materials
Authors: Miao Shida , Liu Kai , Wang Ping , Su Zhiguo , Zhang Songping
Published: October 2014

Epoxidized soybean oil‐based paper composites (ESOPCs) were prepared by fabricating poly epoxidized soybean oil (PESO) with paper. With boron trifluride diethyl etherate as catalyst, epoxidized soybean oil was in situ polymerized on the surface of the paper and within the interspaces of the paper cellulose fibers. Fourier transform infrared analysis confirmed the polymerization of epoxidized soybean oil. Scanning electron microscopic analysis showed that ESOPCs had nanostructured wrinkle morphology on the surfaces and the PESO combined tightly with the paper cellulose fibers. The tensile strength of ESOPCs was 17.3–24.8 MPa, which was higher than that of most vegetable oil‐based neat polymers. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that ESOPCs were thermally stable up to 360°C in a nitrogen atmosphere. Water vapor permeability (WVP) tests revealed that the WVP of ESOPCs was 3.52–4.45 × 10−12 g/m/s/Pa, significantly lower than many of other biobased polymeric materials, which would promote the application of vegetable‐based polymers as potential water‐resistant materials. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41575.
Lauric acid coated fly ash as a reinforcement in recycled polymer matrix composites
Authors: Sengupta Shubhalakshmi , Ray Dipa , Mukhopadhyay Aniruddha , Sengupta Suparna , Kar Tanusree
Published: October 2014

Sustainable composites were developed from fly ash (FA) and recycled polypropylene (R) with lauric acid (LA) as the coupling agent. The FA particles were surface‐coated with 1, 2, 3, and 5 wt % LA, and the coating on the FA particles was verified by transmission electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. R and LA‐coated FA particles were melt‐mixed in a 1:1 weight ratio to achieve a high‐filler‐loaded composite. The flexural, impact, nanoindentation, and fracture surface analyses were carried out to examine the properties of the composites. The flexural strength and modulus values increased in the 2 wt % LA‐coated FA/R composites by 6 and 50%, respectively, compared to the values of the uncoated FA/R composites, whereas the impact strength increased considerably by 119% in the 1 wt % LA‐coated composites. Nanoindentation tests also showed an increase in the mechanical properties in the case of the 1 and 2 wt % LA‐coated composites in comparison to the uncoated ones. Fracture surface studies done by scanning electron microscopy revealed improved interfacial interactions between the filler and matrix in the presence of the LA coupling agent. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) studies indicated reorientations of the polymer chains in the presence of different concentrations of the LA coupling agent; this resulted into different crystallinities and crystallite sizes. Differential scanning calorimetry showed a significant difference in the crystalline peaks of the composites, and this corroborated well with the XRD observations. LA, thus, significantly influenced the structural properties of the composites, and this, in turn, influenced their mechanical and thermal properties. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41586.
Pulsed electromagnetic field may accelerate in vitro endochondral ossification
Authors: Wang Jue , Tang Na , Xiao Qiang , Zhang Li , Li Yu , Li Juan , Wang Jun , Zhao Zhihe , Tan Lijun
Published: October 2014

Recapitulation of embryonic endochondral bone formation is a promising alternative approach to bone tissue engineering. However, the time‐consuming process is one of the reasons the approach is unpractical. Here, we aimed at accelerating the in vitro endochondral ossification process of tissue engineering by using a pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF). The rat bone marrow‐derived stem cells were chondrogenic or hypertrophic differentiated in a three‐dimensional pellet culture system, and treated with different intensities of PEMF (1, 2, and 5 mT with modulation frequency 750 Hz, carrier frequency 75 Hz and a duty ratio of 0.8, 3 h/day for 4 weeks). The effects of PEMF on hypertrophy and endochondral ossification were assessed by safranin O staining, immunohistochemistry, and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The results suggest that PEMF at 1, 2, and 5 mT may inhibit the maintenance of the cartilaginous phenotype and increase cartilage‐specific extracellular matrix degradation in the late stage of chondrogenic differentiation. In addition, among the three different intensities, only PEMF at 1 mT directed the differentiation of chondrogenic‐induced stem cell pellets to the hypertrophic stage and promoted osteogenic differentiation. Our findings provide the feasibility to optimize the process of in vitro endochondral ossification with PEMF stimulation. Bioelectromagnetics. 35:35–44, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ABCA1 and nascent HDL biogenesis
Authors: Wang Shuhui , Smith Jonathan D.
Published: October 2014

ABCA1 mediates the secretion of cellular free cholesterol and phospholipids to an extracellular acceptor, apolipoprotein AI, to form nascent high‐density lipoprotein (HDL). Thus, ABCA1 is a key molecule in cholesterol homeostasis. Functional studies of certain Tangier disease mutations demonstrate that ABCA1 has multiple activities, including plasma membrane remodeling and apoAI binding to cell surface, which participate in nascent HDL biogenesis. Recent advances in our understanding of ABCA1 have demonstrated that ABCA1also mediates unfolding the N terminus of apoAI on the cell surface, followed by lipidation of apoAI and release of nascent HDL. Although ABCA1‐mediated cholesterol efflux to apoAI can occur on the plasma membrane, the role of apoAI retroendocytosis during cholesterol efflux may play a role in macrophage foam cells that store cholesterol esters in cytoplasmic lipid droplets. © 2014 BioFactors, 40(6):547–554, 2014
Evaluation of the immediate vascular stability of lipoprotein lipase‐generated 2‐monoacylglycerol in mice
Authors: Kleberg Karen , Nielsen Louise Lundeman , Stuhr‐Hansen Nicolai , Nielsen John , Hansen Harald Severin
Published: October 2014

2‐Monoacylglycerols are gaining increasing interest as signaling lipids, beyond endocannabinoids, for example, as ligands for the receptor GPR119 and as mediators of insulin secretion. In the vascular system, they are formed by the action of lipoprotein lipase (LPL); however, their further disposition is unclear. Assuming similar affinity for uptake and incorporation into tissues of 2‐oleoylglycerol and 2‐oleylglyceryl ether, we have synthesized a 3H‐labeled 2‐ether analog of triolein (labeled in alkyl group) and compared its disposition with 14C‐labeled triolein (labeled in glycerol) 20 min after intravenous coadministration in a ratio of 1:1 to mice. We found that peripheral tissues and the liver in particular are able to take up 2‐monoacylglycerols as seen from 3H uptake. In muscle and adipose tissue, 2‐monoacylglycerols are probably further hydrolyzed as seen by an increased 3H/14C ratio, whereas in the liver and the heart, data suggest that they are also subjected to re‐esterification to triacylglycerol, as seen by an unchanged 3H/14C ratio in the lipid fraction of the tissues. Our findings suggest that LPL‐generated 2‐monoacylglycerol is likely to be stable in the vascular system and thus have a potential to circulate or at least exert effects in tissues where it may be locally produced. © 2014 BioFactors, 40(6):596–602, 2014
Meta-analysis of high- versus low-chloride content in perioperative and critical care fluid resuscitation
Authors: Krajewski M L , Raghunathan K , Paluszkiewicz S M , Schermer C R , Shaw A D
Published: October 2014

Background

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the relationship between the chloride content of intravenous resuscitation fluids and patient outcomes in the perioperative or intensive care setting.

Methods

Systematic searches were performed of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library (CENTRAL) databases in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Randomized clinical trials, controlled clinical trials and observational studies were included if they compared outcomes in acutely ill or surgical patients receiving either high-chloride (ion concentration greater than 111 mmol/l up to and including 154 mmol/l) or lower-chloride (concentration 111 mmol/l or less) crystalloids for resuscitation. Endpoints examined were mortality, measures of kidney function, serum chloride, hyperchloraemia/metabolic acidosis, blood transfusion volume, mechanical ventilation time, and length of hospital and intensive care unit stay. Risk ratios (RRs), mean differences (MDs) or standardized mean differences (SMDs) and confidence intervals were calculated using fixed-effect modelling.

Results

The search identified 21 studies involving 6253 patients. High-chloride fluids did not affect mortality but were associated with a significantly higher risk of acute kidney injury (RR 1·64, 95 per cent c.i. 1·27 to 2·13; P < 0·001) and hyperchloraemia/metabolic acidosis (RR 2·87, 1·95 to 4·21; P < 0·001). High-chloride fluids were also associated with greater serum chloride (MD 3·70 (95 per cent c.i. 3·36 to 4·04) mmol/l; P < 0·001), blood transfusion volume (SMD 0·35, 0·07 to 0·63; P = 0·014) and mechanical ventilation time (SMD 0·15, 0·08 to 0·23; P < 0·001). Sensitivity analyses excluding heavily weighted studies resulted in non-statistically significant effects for acute kidney injury and mechanical ventilation time.

Conclusion

A weak but significant association between higher chloride content fluids and unfavourable outcomes was found, but mortality was unaffected by chloride content.
Combined derivatization and high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence and ultraviolet detection for simultaneous analysis of octreotide and gabexate mesylate metabolite in human pancreatic juice samples
Authors: Carlucci Giuseppe , Selvaggi Federico , Sulpizio Sara , Bassi Claudio , Carlucci Maura , Cotellese Roberto , Ferrone Vincenzo , Innocenti Paolo , Locatelli Marcello
Published: October 2014

A simple and sensitive method based on the combination of derivatization and high‐performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet and fluorimetric detection was developed for the simultaneous determination of octreotide and gabexate mesylate metabolite in human pancreatic juice samples. Parameters of the derivatization procedure affecting extraction efficiency were optimized. The developed method was validated according to the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines. The calibration curves were linear over a range of 0.1–15 µg/mL for octreotide and 0.20‐15 µg/mL for gabexate mesylate metabolite. Derivatized products of octreotide and gabexate mesylate metabolite were separated on a Luna C18 column (4.6 × 250 mm; 5 µm particle size) using a gradient with a run time of 36 min, without further purification. The limits of detection were 0.025 and 0.05, respectively, for octreotide and gabexate mesylate metabolite. This paper reports the validation of a quantitative high performance liquid chromatography–photodiode array–fluorescence (HPLC‐PDA‐FL) method for the simultaneous analysis of octreotide and gabexate mesylate metabolite in pancreatic juice by protein precipitation using zinc sulfate–methanol–acetonitrile containing the derivatizing reagent, 4‐fluoro‐7‐nitro‐[2,1,3]‐benzoxadiazole (NBD‐F). Derivatized products of octreotide and gabexate mesylate metabolite were separated on a Luna C18 column (4.6 × 250 mm; 5 µm particle size) using a gradient with a run time of 36 min, without further purification. The method was validated over the concentration ranges 0.1–15 and 0.2–15 µg/mL for octreotide and gabexate mesylate metabolite, respectively, in human pancreatic juice. Biphalin and methyl‐p‐hydroxybenzoate were used as the internal standards. This method was successfully utilized to support clinical studies in humans. The results from assay validations show that the method is selective, sensitive and robust. The limit of quantification of the method was 0.1 µg/mL for octreotide and 0.2 µg/mL for gabexate mesylate metabolite, and matrix matched standard curves showed a good linearity up to 15 µg/mL. In the entire analytical range the intra‐ and inter‐day precision (RSD%) values were respectively ≤5.9% and ≤3.1% for octreotide and ≤2.0% and ≤3.9% for gabexate mesylate metabolite. For both analytes the intra‐ and inter‐day accuracy (bias) values ranged respectively from −6.8 to –2.5% and from −4.6 to −5.7%. This method utilizes derivatization with NBD‐F and provides adequate sensitivity for both drugs. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Establishment of new predictive markers for distant recurrence of colorectal cancer using lectin microarray analysis
Authors: Nakajima Kentaro , Inomata Masafumi , Iha Hidekatsu , Hiratsuka Takahiro , Etoh Tsuyoshi , Shiraishi Norio , Kashima Kenji , Kitano Seigo
Published: October 2014

We evaluated the clinical benefits of novel predictive markers for distant recurrence with colorectal cancer using lectin microarray analysis of cell surface glycan modifications. Glycoproteins were extracted from formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tumor specimens and normal epithelium from 53 consecutive curatively resected stage I–III colorectal cancer cases and then subjected to lectin microarray to obtain lectin–glycan interaction (LGI) values. In addition, clinicopathological factors associated with distant recurrence were identified. LGI values that were associated with distant recurrence were validated with an additional 55 curatively resected stage II colorectal cancer cases. LGI values for Agaricus bisporus (ABA) lectin, prominent in cancer tissues, were statistically associated with distant recurrence. ABA lectin staining exhibited strikingly intense signals in the cytoplasm and apical surfaces of cancer cells, while weak staining was observed in the supranuclear regions of normal epithelium. This ABA tumor/normal LGI ratio may be a new predictive biomarker for distant recurrence of curatively resected colorectal cancer.
Shrunken centroids regularized discriminant analysis as a promising strategy for metabolomics data exploration
Authors: Chen Chen , Zhang Zhi‐Min , Ouyang Mei‐Lan , Liu Xinbo , Yi Lunzhao , Liang Yi‐Zeng , Zhang Chao‐Ping
Published: October 2014

Metabolomics datasets generated by modern analytical instruments tend to be increasingly complex. In this study, a recent method named shrunken centroids regularized discriminant analysis (SCRDA) has been introduced and applied in the exploration of metabolomics dataset. It is a supervised method for variable selection, discriminant analysis and biomarker screening. By regularizing the estimate of the within‐class covariance matrix, SCRDA can deal with the singularity issue of linear discriminant analysis. Then a shrinkage estimator is applied to perform variable selection. The method presented is illustrated through the simulated datasets and three complex metabolomics datasets. Commonly used orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis and two other similar statistical methods, penalized linear discriminant analysis and nearest shrunken centroids, are used for comparisons. The results illustrate that SCRDA has some desirable abilities in variable selection, classification and prediction. Moreover, the biomarkers identified by SCRDA are further demonstrated to be in accordance with the biochemical research. It has been proved that SCRDA can be applied as a promising strategy in metabolomics. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental and Computational Studies of the Molybdenum‐Flanking Arene Interaction in Quadruply Bonded Dimolybdenum Complexes with Terphenyl Ligands
Authors: Carrasco Mario , Mendoza Irene , Álvarez Eleuterio , Grirrane Abdessamad , Maya Celia , Peloso Riccardo , Rodríguez Amor , Falceto Andrés , Álvarez Santiago , Carmona Ernesto
Published: October 2014

To clarify the nature of the MoCarene interaction in terphenyl complexes with quadruple MoMo bonds, ether adducts of composition [Mo2(Ar′)(I)(O2CR)2(OEt2)] have been prepared and characterized (Ar′=ArXyl2, R=Me; Ar′=ArMes2, R=Me; Ar′=ArXyl2, R=CF3) (Mes=mesityl; Xyl=2,6‐Me2C6H3, from now on xylyl) and their reactivity toward different neutral Lewis bases investigated. PMe3, P(OMe)3 and PiPr3 were chosen as P‐donors and the reactivity studies complemented with the use of the C‐donors CNXyl and CN2C2Me4 (1,3,4,5‐tetramethylimidazol‐2‐ylidene). New compounds of general formula [Mo2(Ar′)(I)(O2CR)2(L)] were obtained, except for the imidazol‐2‐ylidene ligand that yielded a salt‐like compound of composition [Mo2(ArXyl2)(O2CMe)2(CN2C2Me4)2]I. The MoCarene interaction in these complexes has been analyzed with the aid of X‐ray data and computational studies. This interaction compensates the coordinative and electronic unsaturation of one of the Mo atoms in the above complexes, but it seems to be weak in terms of sharing of electron density between the Mo and Carene atoms and appears to have no appreciable effect in the length of the MoMo, MoX, and MoL bonds present in these molecules.
Stable and Low‐Cost Mesoscopic CH3NH3PbI2Br Perovskite Solar Cells by using a Thin Poly(3‐hexylthiophene) Layer as a Hole Transporter
Authors: Zhang Meng , Lyu Miaoqiang , Yu Hua , Yun Jung‐Ho , Wang Qiong , Wang Lianzhou
Published: October 2014

Mesoscopic perovskite solar cells using stable CH3NH3PbI2Br as a light absorber and low‐cost poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) as hole‐transporting layer were fabricated, and a power conversion efficiency of 6.64 % was achieved. The partial substitution of iodine with bromine in the perovskite led to remarkably prolonged charge carrier lifetime. Meanwhile, the replacement of conventional thick spiro‐MeOTAD layer with a thin P3HT layer has significantly reduced the fabrication cost. The solar cells retained their photovoltaic performance well when they were exposed to air without any encapsulation, presenting a favorable stability. The combination of CH3NH3PbI2Br and P3HT may render a practical and cost‐effective solid‐state photovoltaic system. The superior stability of CH3NH3PbI2Br is also promising for other photoconversion applications.
Electronic Properties of Mono‐Substituted Tetraferrocenyl Porphyrins in Solution and on a Gold Surface: Assessment of the Influencing Factors for Photoelectrochemical Applications
Authors: Vecchi Andrea , Erickson Nathan R. , Sabin Jared R. , Floris Barbara , Conte Valeria , Venanzi Mariano , Galloni Pierluca , Nemykin Victor N.
Published: October 2014

Two unsymmetric meso‐tetraferrocenyl‐containing porphyrins of general formula Fc3(FcCOR)Por (Fc=ferrocenyl, R=CH3 or (CH2)5Br, Por=porphyrin) were prepared and characterized by a variety of spectroscopic methods, whereas their redox properties were investigated using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) approaches. The mixed‐valence [Fc3(FcCOR)Por]n+ (n=1,3) were investigated using spectroelectrochemical as well as chemical oxidation methods and corroborated with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Inter‐valence charge‐transfer (IVCT) transitions in [Fc3(FcCOR)Por]+ were analyzed, and the resulting data matched closely previously reported complexes and were assigned as Robin–Day class II mixed‐valence compounds. Self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) of a thioacetyl derivative (Fc3(FcCO(CH2)5SCOCH3)Por) were also prepared and characterized. Photoelectrochemical properties of SAMs in different electrolyte systems were investigated by electrochemical techniques and photocurrent generation experiments, showing that the choice of electrolyte is critical for efficiency of redox‐active SAMs.
Novel Composite Plastics Containing Silver(I) Acylpyrazolonato Additives Display Potent Antimicrobial Activity by Contact
Authors: Marchetti Fabio , Palmucci Jessica , Pettinari Claudio , Pettinari Riccardo , Condello Francesca , Ferraro Stefano , Marangoni Mirko , Crispini Alessandra , Scuri Stefania , Grappasonni Iolanda , Cocchioni Mario , Nabissi Massimo , Chierotti Michele R. , Gobetto Roberto
Published: October 2014

New silver(I) acylpyrazolonato derivatives displaying a mononuclear, polynuclear, or ionic nature, as a function of the ancillary azole ligands used in the synthesis, have been fully characterized by thermal analysis, solution NMR spectroscopy, solid‐state IR and NMR spectroscopies, and X‐ray diffraction techniques. These derivatives have been embedded in polyethylene (PE) matrix, and the antimicrobial activity of the composite materials has been tested against three bacterial strains (E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus): Most of the composites show antimicrobial action comparable to PE embedded with AgNO3. Tests by contact and release tests for specific migration of silver from PE composites clearly indicate that, at least in the case of the PE, for composites containing polynuclear silver(I) additives, the antimicrobial action is exerted by contact, without release of silver ions. Moreover, PE composites can be re‐used several times, displaying the same antimicrobial activity. Membrane permeabilization studies and induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation tests confirm the disorganization of bacterial cell membranes. The cytotoxic effect, evaluated in CD34+ cells by MTT (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazole‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazoliumbromide) and CFU (colony forming units) assays, indicates that the PE composites do not induce cytotoxicity in human cells. Studies of ecotoxicity, based on the test of Daphnia magna, confirm tolerability of the PE composites by higher organisms and exclude the release of Ag+ ions in sufficient amounts to affect water environment.
A Multi‐Addressable Switch Based on the Dimethyldihydropyrene Photochrome with Remarkable Proton‐Triggered Photo‐opening Efficiency
Authors: Roldan Diego , Cobo Saioa , Lafolet Frédéric , Vilà Neus , Bochot Constance , Bucher Christophe , Saint‐Aman Eric , Boggio‐Pasqua Martial , Garavelli Marco , Royal Guy
Published: October 2014

A series of photochromic derivatives based on the trans‐10b,10c‐dimethyl‐10b,10c‐dihydropyrene (DHP, “closed form”) skeleton has been synthesized and their photoisomerization leading to the corresponding cyclophanediene (CPD, “open form”) isomers has been investigated by UV/Vis and 1H NMR spectroscopies. Substitution of the DHP core with electron‐withdrawing pyridinium groups was found to have major effects on the photoisomerization efficiency, the most remarkable examples being to enhance the quantum yield of the opening reaction and to allow fast and quantitative conversions at much lower radiant energies. This effect was rationalized by theoretical calculations. We also show that the reverse reaction, that is, going from the open form to the closed form, can be electrochemically triggered by oxidation of the CPD unit and that the photo‐opening properties of pyridine‐substituted DHPs can be efficiently tuned by protonation, the system behaving as a multi‐addressable molecular switch. These multi‐addressable photochromes show promise for the development of responsive materials.
Self‐Assembly of N‐Heterocyclic Derivatives of Divalent Germanium, Tin, and Lead
Authors: Zabula Alexander V. , Rogachev Andrey Yu. , West Robert
Published: October 2014

A new class of exceptionally stable asymmetric N‐heterocyclic germylenes, stannylenes, and plumbylenes has been successfully isolated and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis and multinuclear NMR spectroscopy. Their stability results from tetrameric supramolecular aggregation through strong intermolecular Npy→EII (E=Ge, Sn, Pb) interactions involving the nitrogen atom of a neighboring pyridine moiety. The electronic structures and stabilities of the prepared divalent derivatives of Ge, Sn, and Pb in monomeric and aggregated forms are discussed based on theoretical investigations.
Deuterium MAS NMR Studies of Dynamics on Multiple Timescales: Histidine and Oxalic Acid
Authors: Chan‐Huot Monique , Wimperis Stephen , Gervais Christel , Bodenhausen Geoffrey , Duma Luminita
Published: October 2014

Deuterium (2H) magic‐angle spinning (MAS) nuclear magnetic resonance is applied to monitor the dynamics of the exchanging labile deuterons of polycrystalline L‐histidine hydrochloride monohydrate‐d7 and α‐oxalic acid dihydrate‐d6. Direct experimental evidence of fast dynamics is obtained from T1Z and T1Q measurements. Further motional information is extracted from two‐dimensional single‐quantum (SQ) and double‐quantum (DQ) MAS spectra. Differences between the SQ and DQ linewidths clearly indicate the presence of motions on intermediate timescales for the carboxylic moiety and the D2O in α‐oxalic acid dihydrate, and for the amine group and the D2O in L‐histidine hydrochloride monohydrate. Comparison of the relaxation rate constants of Zeeman and quadrupolar order with the relaxation rate constants of the DQ coherences suggests the co‐existence of fast and slow motional processes.
Anticorrelation between Surface and Subsurface Point Defects and the Impact on the Redox Chemistry of TiO2(110)
Authors: Yoon Yeohoon , Du Yingge , Garcia Juan C. , Zhu Zihua , Wang Zhi‐Tao , Petrik Nikolay G. , Kimmel Gregory A. , Dohnalek Zdenek , Henderson Michael A. , Rousseau Roger , Deskins N. Aaron , Lyubinetsky Igor
Published: October 2014

By using a combination of scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), density functional theory (DFT), and secondary‐ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS), we explored the interplay and relative impact of surface versus subsurface defects on the surface chemistry of rutile TiO2. STM results show that surface O vacancies (VO) are virtually absent in the vicinity of positively charged subsurface point defects. This observation is consistent with DFT calculations of the impact of subsurface defect proximity on VO formation energy. To monitor the influence of such lateral anticorrelation on surface redox chemistry, a test reaction of the dissociative adsorption of O2 was employed and was observed to be suppressed around them. DFT results attribute this to a perceived absence of intrinsic (Ti), and likely extrinsic interstitials in the nearest subsurface layer beneath inhibited areas. We also postulate that the entire nearest subsurface region could be devoid of any charged point defects, whereas prevalent surface defects (VO) are largely responsible for mediation of the redox chemistry at the reduced TiO2(110).
Coexistence in exotic scenarios of a modifiedAbrams–Strogatz model
Authors: Colucci Renato , Mira Jorge , Nieto Juan J. , Otero‐Espinar M. Victoria
Published: October 2014

We work on a model that has succeeded in describing real cases of coexistence of two languages within a closed community of speakers, taking into account bilingualism and incorporating a parameter to measure the distance between languages. The dynamics of this model depend on a characteristic exponent, which weighs the power of the size of a group of speakers to attract new members. So far, this model had been solved only when this characteristic exponent is greater than 1. In this article, we have managed to solve the nature of the stability of all the possible situations for this characteristic exponent, that is, when it is less or equal than 1 and covering also the situations produced when it is 0 or negative. We interpret these new situations and find that, even in such exotic scenarios, there are configurations of the resulting societies where all the languages coexist. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 86–93, 2016
Spur reduction in frequency synthesizer with an array of switched capacitors
Authors: Mandal Debashis , Mandal Pradip , Bhattacharyya Tarun Kanti
Published: October 2014

This paper proposes a new spur reducing architecture of phase‐locked loop‐based frequency synthesizer. With an array of switched capacitors and a delay locked loop, the charge coming from its charge pump is evenly transferred to its loop filter at a fixed number of equi‐spaced time intervals. It results in the reduction of fundamental and higher‐order harmonics of the reference spur. The proposed architecture has been designed and fabricated in 180 nm CMOS technology. Randomization scheme has also been incorporated in the proposed architecture to reduce the effect of implementation mismatch on the output spur. Measured result shows about 5.47 dB reduction of fundamental spur compared to that of the conventional architecture with almost no degradation of noise performance. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A fast‐corrected all‐digital DCC with synchronous input clock
Authors: Kao Shao‐Ku , Hsueh Sheng‐Hung
Published: October 2014

This paper presents a fast‐corrected all‐digital duty‐cycle corrector (DCC) with synchronous input clock. The proposed DCC has many features, including fast locking in 4 cycles, wide range correction, and synchronous 50% duty‐cycle clock with an input clock. The circuit can operate from 500 to 900 MHz and corrects a wide range of input duty cycle ranging from 25 to 75%. The duty‐cycle error of the output clock is between −2.4 and 2.7%. The largest static phase error between the input and output clock is −44 ps at 900 MHz. The RMS and peak‐to‐peak jitters are 1.9 and 14.7 ps at 900 MHz, respectively. The proposed DCC is implemented in a 0.18‐µm complementary metal oxide semiconductor process. The proposed DCC occupies an area of 0.05 mm2 and dissipates 23 mW with 1.8‐V supply voltage at 900 MHz. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selective social buffering of behavioral and endocrine responses and Fos induction in the prelimbic cortex of infants exposed to a novel environment
Authors: Hennessy Michael B. , Schiml Patricia A. , Willen Regina , Watanasriyakul Withayapon , Johnson Joshua , Garrett Teresa
Published: October 2014

In mammals, the presence of the mother can reduce or “buffer” stress responses of her young in threatening conditions. We compared the effect of the mother, a familiar littermate, and an unfamiliar adult male on three classes of response shown by guinea pig pups in a novel environment: short latency active behaviors, particularly vocalizing; slower developing passive behaviors that appear mediated by inflammatory mechanisms; and hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal activity. We also examined Fos induction in the prelimbic cortex, a region hypothesized to mediate buffering effects. Only the mother significantly suppressed all classes of behavior. The greatest selectivity was observed for passive behavioral responses. Contrary to expectations, the adult male reduced plasma cortisol levels of pups as effectively as did the mother. The presence of the male also resulted in increased Fos induction in the prelimbic cortex and high levels of social interaction. Maternal buffering was not associated with prelimbic activity. These results confirm the ability of the mother to reduce active behavioral and HPA responses and suggest a specific maternal buffering effect on the later developing passive behavioral responses. The findings also demonstrate an unexpected ability of adult males to reduce HPA responses and raise the possibility that different social partners buffer HPA activity through different underlying processes. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 57: 50–62, 2015.
O–S Bond Activation in Structures Isoelectronic with Ferric Peroxide Species Known in O–O‐Activating Enzymes: Relevance for Sulfide Activation and Sulfite Reductases
Authors: Surducan Mihai , Makarov Sergei V. , Silaghi‐Dumitrescu Radu
Published: October 2014

The interactions of H2S with FeIVO porphyrin radical‐cation structures and of peroxide‐like H2OS systems with ferric heme have been investigated by DFT. The data are relevant for the formation of sulfheme in globins and for the catalytic cycle of sulfite reductases. Heme FeOS systems (and their protonated versions) feature relatively accessible potential energy surfaces for O–S bond formation and cleavage, and for the insertion of S at the meso position of the heme; O–S bond cleavage is thermodynamically favorable only in diprotonated versions of the FeOS unit, FeIVO + H2S, or the ferric–HOSH isomer. The insertion at the meso position is reminiscent of heme oxygenase meso‐hydroxylation via a ferric–hydroperoxo intermediate. Although axial imidazole and methylthiolate yield similar reaction profiles in all themodels studied, the FeIVO + H2S reaction is another case of our previously advocated “thiolate obstruction”, in which thiolate hinders rather than favors reactions at the heme center.