bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Competing Model of Event Marketing Activities
Authors: Wu Shwu-Ing
Published: July 2016

Event marketing is the important strategy for the regional tourism development. It is worthwhile to be discussed that the cooperation between regional image and physical environment can shape the regional features and intensify tourists’ attitudes and tourist willingness towards regions. This study took the regular event marketing activities (Xinshe Sea of Flowers events in Taichung; Sakura Festival in Formosa Aboriginal Culture Village in Sun Moon Lake) held in two regions in Taiwan as the examples to discuss the effect of event marketing activities in different regions, regional image and physical environment on tourists’ experiential value, satisfaction, trust and commitment, so as to establish the competing model, compare the intensity difference in each path relationship and deeply analyze the effect of different event marketing activities.After the analysis of 500 valid questionnaires, it can be found that: (1) the event marketing activities and physical environment in two regions both have the significantly positive effect on tourists’ experiential value; (2) The tourists’ experiential value has the significantly positive effect on satisfaction and trust; (3) The tourists’ trust has the significantly positive effect on commitment; (4) However, the regional image has no significant effect on tourists’ experiential value. Besides, there is significant difference in the influencing intensity of the two paths: (1) The tourists’ satisfaction for Xinshe Sea of Flowers events in Taichung has the significantly positive effect on trust, while there is no significantly positive effect in the other region; (2) The influencing intensity of tourists’ experiential value for Sakura Festival in Formosa Aboriginal Culture Village in Sun Moon Lake on trust is significantly greater than that in the other region. It can be seen that the event marketing in different regions can generate the impact with different intensity. Therefore, each region should cooperate with its physical environment to plan the characteristic event marketing strategies.
La comprensión simbólica temprana de una imagen digital como medio de comunicación y fuente de información
Authors: Jauck Daniela , Peralta Olga
Published: July 2016

Graphs, photographs, digital images, are very much present in children´s lives from very early, accomplishing a variety of functions. In this research we explore the symbolic comprehension of a digital image provided by a Tablet as a mean of communication and as a source of information by 24-month-old children. We used two tasks. In the first, children had to indicate in the image the localization where they have observed the experimenter hid the toy in a small room. In the second, children had to search for an object in the room guided by the image in which the experimenter indicated the location where the object was hidden. We found that children utilized the image as a source of information to guide their search, but not as a mean of communication to inform the localization to someone else. However, after a brief experience in the utilization of the image as a source of information, children successfully used it as a mean of communication. The results show that for young children using the image of the Tablet as a source of information not only is simpler but also has facilitating effects in its use as a mean of communication.
Perfilando los consumidores de cannabis que autocultivan a pequeña escala
Authors: Isorna Manuel , G. Amado Bárbara , Cajal Berta , Seijo Dolores
Published: July 2016

Cannabis is the most widely used worldwide drug with prevalence between 2.8 and 5.0% of the adult population. Increasing use of cannabis has carried out to an escalation in home growing for self-consumption. As a consequence, a field study to contrast if the domestic cannabis growers exhibited a different sociodemographic profile, a consumption pattern, a problematic use risk, dependence level, as well as on the clinical symptoms and related disorders, was designed. As for this, 761 cannabis users, 480 males and 281 females, of whom 251 were homegrowers for personal use (182 males and 69 females), with ages ranging from 18 to 60 years (M = 26.36, SD = 5.68), answered to a sociodemohgraphic and consumption pattern questionnaire, and to cannabis problematic use, cannabis dependence, cannabis abuse, and nicotine and alcohol dependence scales. The results showed that homegrowers are mostly males, with low academic training and working. Moreover, homegrowers have a higher cannabis consumption rates, are more implied in cannabis selling, polysubstance use, and with more psychosocial problem driven from cannabis use. Finally, homegrowers inform of higher problematic cannabis use and a higher level of cannabis dependence. The implications of the results for prevention police, and treatment of the cannabis use disorder are discussed.
La Influencia del Número de Objetos y las Claves Verbales en la Distinción Temprana del Plural
Authors: Pérez-Paz Verónica Isabel , Arias-Trejo Natalia , Alva Elda Alicia
Published: July 2016

The linguistic distinction of plurals in early developmental stages is dependent on the verbal cues provided and on the number of members in a set. More than two objects in a set facilitate plural production. Also, multiple verbal cues help understand plurals in contrast to single verbal cues such as the noun morphology alone. It remains unknown whether in a comprehension task a set with only 2 objects is associated to a plural frame, and whether the verbal cues provided play a fundamental role on the aforesaid association.

Two preferential looking experiments were carried out with 24-month-old toddlers. Their ability to associate multiple plural verbal cues (E1) and morphology noun alone to a set of 2 objects (E2) was evaluated.

Toddlers associated a set of 2 objects to verbal frames containing multiple cues of plurality, but not to the noun morphology alone. These findings show that, as in production, there is a certain difficulty in linguistically distinguishing a set with few objects as a representation of plural during early childhood. Nonetheless, this difficulty is diminished when multiple verbal cues are provided. This demonstrates toddlers’ ability to retrieve information from enriched syntactical frames. 
Tilt measurement and compensation algorithm for holographic data storage with optimized quadratic windows
Authors: Son Kyungchan , Lim Sung-Yong , Lee Jae-seong , Jeong Wooyoung , Yang Hyunseok
Published: July 2016

In holographic data storage, tilt is one of the critical disturbances. There are two types of tilt: tangential and radial. In real systems, tangential and radial tilt occur simultaneously. Thus, it is difficult to measure and compensate for tilt. In this study, using a quadratic window, which compares the intensity of a certain area, a tilt error signal was generated and compensated for with the proposed algorithm. The compensated image obtained satisfied a 0.3 dB tolerance.
Engineering a light-controlled F1ATPase using structure-based protein design
Authors: Hoersch Daniel
Published: July 2016

The F1sub-complex of ATP synthase is a biological nanomotor that converts the free energy of ATP hydrolysis into mechanical work with an astonishing efficiency of up to 100% (Kinosita et al., 2000). To probe the principal mechanics of the machine, I re-engineered the active site ofE.coliF1ATPase with a structure-based protein design approach: by incorporation of a site-specific, photoswitchable crosslinker, whose end-to-end distance can be modulated by illumination with light of two different wavelengths, a dynamic constraint was imposed on the inter-atomic distances of the α and β subunits. Crosslinking reduced the ATP hydrolysis activity of four designs tested in vitro and in one case created a synthetic ATPase whose activity can be reversibly modulated by subsequent illumination with near UV and blue light. The work is a first step into the direction of the long-term goal to design nanoscaled machines based on biological parts that can be precisely controlled by light.
Vocal correlates of individual sooty mangabey travel speed and direction
Authors: Neumann Christof , Zuberbühler Klaus
Published: July 2016

Many group-living animals coordinate movements with acoustic signals, but so far most studies have focused on how group movements are initiated. In this study, we investigated movement patterns of wild sooty mangabeys (Cercocebus atys), a mostly terrestrial, forest-dwelling primate. We provide quantitative results showing that vocalization rates of mangabey subgroups, but not of focal individuals, correlated with focal individuals’ current movement patterns. More interestingly, vocal behaviour predicted whether individuals changed future speed, and possibly future travel direction. The role of vocalizations as a potential mechanism for the regulation of group movement was further highlighted by interaction effects that include subgroup size and the quality of poly-specific associations. Collectively, our results suggest that primate vocal behaviour can function beyond travel initiation in coordination and regulation of group movements.
Doppler Sonography of Blood Flow Velocity in the Vertebral Arteries of Preterm and Term Neonates
Authors: Windschall Daniel , Hoekstra Katrin , Haase Roland
Published: July 2016

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate normal blood flow in the vertebral arteries and the basilar artery of preterm and term neonates by Doppler sonography.

Methods

Blood flow in both vertebral arteries and the basilar artery was examined in 102 neonates between the biological ages of 28 and 41 weeks. Fifty‐one boys and 51 girls underwent Doppler sonography. Measurements were usually undertaken at 6 days old. Systolic and diastolic flow velocities, including the resistive index, were measured and analyzed, taking into consideration biological age, weight, and sex. Anatomic aberrations of the vertebral arteries were recorded.

Results

Mean blood flow values ± SD in the basilar artery were 35.2 ± 7.4 cm/s (systolic velocity) and 10.9 ± 3.5 cm/s (diastolic velocity). Mean blood flow values in the right vertebral artery were 26.8 ± 9.3 cm/s (systolic velocity) and 8.0 ± 3.7 cm/s (diastolic velocity). Mean blood flow values in the left vertebral artery were 28.6 ± 8.3 cm/s (systolic velocity) and 8.7 ± 3.3 cm/s (diastolic velocity). Systolic and diastolic blood flow in both vertebral arteries was significantly higher from 38 to 41 weeks compared with 28 to 32 and 33 to 37 weeks (P < .05). Regression analysis of systolic and diastolic blood flow velocities in the vertebral arteries versus biological age yielded significant results (P < .05).

Conclusions

Sonography is an excellent tool for examining blood flow in the basilar and vertebral arteries of premature and term neonates. Mean systolic and diastolic blood flow velocities in the vertebral arteries increase significantly with age.
Inhibition of cyclophilin A suppresses H2O2‐enhanced replication of HCMV through the p38 MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Xiao Jun , Song Xin , Deng Jiang , Lv Liping , Ma Ping , Gao Bo , Zhou Xipeng , Zhang Yanyu , Xu Jinbo
Published: July 2016

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection can be accelerated by intracellular and extracellular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) stimulation, mediated by the activation of the p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. However, it remains unknown whether host gene expression is involved in H2O2‐upregulated HCMV replication. Here, we show that the expression of the host gene, cyclophilin A (CyPA), could be facilitated by treatment with H2O2 in a dose‐dependent manner. Experiments with CyPA‐specific siRNA, or with cyclosporine A, an inhibitor of CyPA, confirmed that H2O2‐mediated upregulation of HCMV replication is specifically mediated by upregulation of CyPA expression. Furthermore, depletion or inhibition of CyPA reduced H2O2‐induced p38 activation, consistent with that of H2O2‐upregulated HCMV lytic replication. These results show that H2O2 is capable of activating ROS‐CyPA–p38 MAPK interactions to enhance HCMV replication.
A Mesoporous Superlattice Consisting of Alternately Stacking Interstitial Nanospace within Binary Silica Colloidal Crystals
Authors: Kuroda Yoshiyuki , Shimbo Yosuke , Sakamoto Yasuhiro , Wada Hiroaki , Kuroda Kazuyuki
Published: July 2016

A novel class of nonclassical structures of mesoporous silica, namely a binary nanoparticle mesoporous superlattice (BNMS), is obtained by the assembly of silica nanospheres of different sizes into a binary colloidal crystal. The colloidal crystal has a CrB‐type structure and consists of alternate stacks of unary fcc and binary AlB2‐type structures along the b axis and has four types of interstitial mesopores. The BNMS can be deposited on a substrate by dip coating to form an oriented thin film in which the direction of the superstructure (b axis) is perpendicular to the substrate.
An α‐Helix‐Mimicking 12,13‐Helix: Designed α/β/γ‐Foldamers as Selective Inhibitors of Protein–Protein Interactions
Authors: Grison Claire M. , Miles Jennifer A. , Robin Sylvie , Wilson Andrew J. , Aitken David J.
Published: July 2016

A major current challenge in bioorganic chemistry is the identification of effective mimics of protein secondary structures that act as inhibitors of protein–protein interactions (PPIs). In this work, trans‐2‐aminocyclobutanecarboxylic acid (tACBC) was used as the key β‐amino acid component in the design of α/β/γ‐peptides to structurally mimic a native α‐helix. Suitably functionalized α/β/γ‐peptides assume an α‐helix‐mimicking 12,13‐helix conformation in solution, exhibit enhanced proteolytic stability in comparison to the wild‐type α‐peptide parent sequence from which they are derived, and act as selective inhibitors of the p53/hDM2 interaction.
Hierarchical Self‐Assembly of 3D‐Printed Lock‐and‐Key Colloids through Shape Recognition
Authors: Tigges Thomas , Walther Andreas
Published: July 2016

Progress in colloid self‐assembly crucially depends on finding preparation methods for anisotropic particles with recognition motifs to facilitate the formation of superstructures. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that direct 3D laser writing can be used to fabricate uniform populations of anisotropic cone‐shaped particles that are suitable for self‐assembly through shape recognition. The driving force for the self‐assembly of the colloidal particles into linear supracolloidal polymers are depletion forces. The resulting supracolloidal fibrils undergo hierarchical ordering and form nematic liquid‐crystalline domains. Such a behavior could so far not be observed in the absence of an electric field. The study opens possibilities for using direct laser writing to prepare designed colloids on demand, and to study their self‐assembly.
Directed Evolution of Scanning Unnatural‐Protease‐Resistant (SUPR) Peptides for in Vivo Applications
Authors: Fiacco Stephen V. , Kelderhouse Lindsay E. , Hardy Amanda , Peleg Yonatan , Hu Biliang , Ornelas Argentina , Yang Peiying , Gammon Seth T. , Howell Shannon M. , Wang Pin , Takahashi Terry T. , Millward Steven W. , Roberts Richard W.
Published: July 2016

Peptides typically have poor biostabilities, and natural sequences cannot easily be converted into drug‐like molecules without extensive medicinal chemistry. We have adapted mRNA display to drive the evolution of highly stable cyclic peptides while preserving target affinity. To do this, we incorporated an unnatural amino acid in an mRNA display library that was subjected to proteolysis prior to selection for function. The resulting “SUPR (scanning unnatural protease resistant) peptide” showed ≈500‐fold improvement in serum stability (t
=160 h) and up to 3700‐fold improvement in protease resistance versus the parent sequence. We extended this approach by carrying out SUPR peptide selections against Her2‐positive cells in culture. The resulting SUPR4 peptide showed low‐nanomolar affinity toward Her2, excellent specificity, and selective tumor uptake in vivo. These results argue that this is a general method to design potent and stable peptides for in vivo imaging and therapy.
Effect of Methyl, Hydroxyl, and Chloro Substituents in Position 3 of 3′,4′,7‐Trihydroxyflavylium: Stability, Kinetics, and Thermodynamics
Authors: Alejo‐Armijo Alfonso , Salido Sofía , Altarejos Joaquín , Parola A. Jorge , Gago Sandra , Basílio Nuno , Cabrita Luis , Pina Fernando
Published: July 2016

The effect of methyl, hydroxyl, and chloride substituents in position 3 of the 3′,4′,7‐trihydroxyflavylium core structure was studied. The stability, relative energy of each of chemical species (thermodynamics), and their rates of interconversion (kinetics) are very dependent on these substituents. By comparing the mole fraction distribution at equilibrium of the three multistate systems with the parent 3′,4′,7‐trihydroxyflavylium, introduction of a methyl substituent in position 3 increases the mole fraction of hemiketal at the expense of the trans‐chalcone and increases the hydration rate very significantly; a hydroxyl substituent in position 3 gives rise to a degradation process, as observed in anthocyanidins. In the case of 3‐chloro‐3′,4′,7‐trihydroxyflavylium, a dramatic increase of the flavylium cation acidity was observed and a photochromic system can be operated upon irradiation of the respective trans‐chalcone in 1 m HCl. According to the photochromic response of 3,3′,4′,7‐tetrahydroxyflavylium and 3′,4′,7‐trihydroxyflavylium, some requirements for a good photochromic performance are discussed.
Slow Relaxation of Magnetization in an Isostructural Series of Zinc–Lanthanide Complexes: An Integrated EPR and AC Susceptibility Study
Authors: Amjad Asma , Madalan Augustin M. , Andruh Marius , Caneschi Andrea , Sorace Lorenzo
Published: July 2016

We report the synthesis, structure, and spectroscopic and dynamic magnetic properties of a series of heterodinuclear complexes, [ZnLn(LH4)2](NO3)3⋅6 H2O (Ln=Nd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, and Yb), with the singly deprotonated form of a new compartmentalized Schiff‐base ligand, LH5. The LnIII ions in these systems show a distorted square‐antiprism geometry with an LnO8 coordination sphere. EPR spectroscopy and DC magnetic studies have shown that the anisotropic nature of the complexes is far more complicated than predicted on the basis of a simple electrostatic model. Among the investigated systems, only the DyIII derivative showed single‐ion magnet behavior, in zero and an applied magnetic field, both in pure polycrystalline samples and in a series of polycrystalline samples with different degrees of dilution at the single‐crystal level in the isostructural YIII derivative. The rich dynamics observed as functions of frequency, field, and temperature reveals that multiple relaxation mechanisms are at play, resulting in a barrier of 189 cm−1, which is among the highest reported for a dinuclear Zn–Dy system. Analysis of the dynamic behavior as a function of dilution degree further evidenced the persistence of non‐negligible intermolecular interactions, even at the lowest concentration of 1 %.
Communication between Discrete Nanostructures Triggered by Fine Tuning of an External Stimulus
Authors: Schilirò Matteo , Contino Annalinda , Millesi Salvatrice , Maccarrone Giuseppe , Gulino Antonino
Published: July 2016

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Antonino Gulino at the University of Catania and I.N.S.T.M. UdR of Catania. The image depicts two discrete surface‐confined nanostructures that exchange mass from one to another. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201602262.
The Tetracyanopyridinide Dimer Dianion, σ‐[TCNPy]22−
Authors: Hao Jingjun , Rheingold Arnold L. , Kavand Marzieh , van Schooten Kipp J. , Boehme Christoph , Capdevila‐Cortada Marçal , Novoa Juan J. , Wöss Eva , Knör Günther , Miller Joel S.
Published: July 2016

The reaction of 2,3,5,6‐tetracyanopyridine (TCNPy) and Cr(C6H6)2 forms diamagnetic σ‐[TCNPy]22− possessing a 1.572(3) Å intrafragment sp3–sp3 bond. This is in contrast to the structurally related 1,2,4,5‐tetracyanobenzene and 1,2,4,5‐tetracyanopyrazine that form π‐dimer dianions possessing long, multicenter bonds.
Race and Sex Differences in Management and Outcomes of Patients After ST‐Elevation and Non–ST‐Elevation Myocardial Infarct: Results From the NCDR
Authors: Anstey D.E. , Li Shuang , Thomas Laine , Wang Tracy Y. , Wiviott Stephen D.
Published: July 2016

Background

Race and sex have been shown to affect management of myocardial infarction (MI); however, it is unclear if such disparities exist in contemporary care of ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non‐ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

Hypothesis

Disparities in care will be less prevalent in more heavily protocol‐driven management of STEMI than the less algorithmic care of NSTEMI.

Methods

Data were collected from the ACTION Registry‐GWTG database to assess care differences related to race and sex of patients presenting with NSTEMI or STEMI. For key treatments and outcomes, adjustments were made including patient demographics, baseline comorbidities, and markers of socioeconomic status.

Results

Key demographic variables demonstrate significant differences in baseline comorbidities; black patients had higher incidences of hypertension and diabetes, and women more frequently had diabetes. With few exceptions, rates of acute and discharge medical therapy were similar by race in any sex category in both STEMI and NSTEMI populations. Rates of catheterization were similar by race for STEMI but not for NSTEMI, where both black men and women had lower rates of invasive therapy. Rates of revascularization were significantly lower for black patients in both the STEMI and NSTEMI groups regardless of sex. Rates of adverse events differed by sex, with disparities for death and major bleeding; after adjustment, rates were similar by race within sex comparisons.

Conclusions

In this contemporary cohort, although there are differences by race in presentation and management of MI, heavily protocol‐driven processes seem to show fewer racial disparities.
Virtual Screening of Small Drug‐Like Compounds Stimulating the Enzymatic Activity of Kallikrein‐Related Peptidase 3 (KLK3)
Authors: Ylikangas Henna , Mattsson Johanna M. , Stenman Ulf‐Håkan , Koistinen Hannu , Poso Antti , Lahtela‐Kakkonen Maija
Published: July 2016

Kallikrein‐related peptidase 3 (KLK3) is a prostatic serine protease shown to possess antiangiogenic properties which are exerted via its proteolytic activity. The antiangiogenic effect indicates that KLK3 may slow down the growth of prostate cancer; this makes it an interesting target for new therapies for prostate cancer. In this work, new drug‐like compounds were discovered that stimulate the proteolytic activity of KLK3. The compounds were identified using 2D similarity search and 3D pharmacophore‐based virtual screening, and their ability to stimulate KLK3 was verified by enzymatic activity assays. The effect of the molecules alone was modest, but in synergy with a cyclic peptide the most potent molecule was found to stimulate KLK3 activity significantly: up to 351 % of the activity of KLK3. This demonstrates that small drug‐like compounds can be beneficial tools in studying the antiangiogenic properties of KLK3.
BODIPY‐Appended 2‐(2‐Pyridyl)benzimidazole Platinum(II) Catecholates for Mitochondria‐Targeted Photocytotoxicity
Authors: Mitra Koushambi , Gautam Srishti , Kondaiah Paturu , Chakravarty Akhil R.
Published: July 2016

Platinum(II) complexes of the type [Pt(L)(cat)] (1 and 2), in which H2cat is catechol and L represents two 2‐(2‐pyridyl)benzimidazole ligands with 4,4‐difluoro‐4‐bora‐3a,4a‐diaza‐s‐indacene (BODIPY) pendants, were synthesized to achieve mitochondria‐targeted photocytotoxicity. The complexes showed strong absorptions in the range λ=510–540 nm. Complex 1 exhibited intense emission at λ=525 nm in 1 % DMSO/water solution (fluorescence quantum yield of 0.06). Nanosecond transient absorption spectral features indicated an enhanced population of the triplet excited state in di‐iodinated complex 2. The generation of singlet oxygen by complex 2 upon exposure to visible light, as evidenced from experiments with 1,3‐diphenylisobenzofuran, is suitable for photodynamic therapy because of the remarkable photosensitizing ability. The complexes resulted in excellent photocytotoxicity in HaCaT cells (half maximal inhibitory concentration IC50≈3 μm, λ=400–700 nm, light dose=10 J cm−2), but they remained non‐toxic in the dark (IC50>100 μm). Confocal microscopy images of 1 and Pt estimation from isolated mitochondria showed colocalization of the complexes in the mitochondria. Complex 2 displayed generation of reactive oxygen species induced by visible light, disruption of the mitochondrial membrane potential, and apoptosis.
Determination of 21 drugs in oral fluid using fully automated supported liquid extraction and UHPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Valen Anja , Leere Øiestad Åse Marit , Strand Dag Helge , Skari Ragnhild , Berg Thomas
Published: July 2016

Collection of oral fluid (OF) is easy and non‐invasive compared to the collection of urine and blood, and interest in OF for drug screening and diagnostic purposes is increasing. A high‐throughput ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method for determination of 21 drugs in OF using fully automated 96‐well plate supported liquid extraction for sample preparation is presented. The method contains a selection of classic drugs of abuse, including amphetamines, cocaine, cannabis, opioids, and benzodiazepines. The method was fully validated for 200 μL OF/buffer mix using an Intercept OF sampling kit; validation included linearity, sensitivity, precision, accuracy, extraction recovery, matrix effects, stability, and carry‐over. Inter‐assay precision (RSD) and accuracy (relative error) were <15% and 13 to 5%, respectively, for all compounds at concentrations equal to or higher than the lower limit of quantification. Extraction recoveries were between 58 and 76% (RSD < 8%), except for tetrahydrocannabinol and three 7‐amino benzodiazepine metabolites with recoveries between 23 and 33% (RSD between 51 and 52 % and 11 and 25%, respectively). Ion enhancement or ion suppression effects were observed for a few compounds; however, to a large degree they were compensated for by the internal standards used. Deuterium‐labelled and 13C‐labelled internal standards were used for 8 and 11 of the compounds, respectively. In a comparison between Intercept and Quantisal OF kits, better recoveries and fewer matrix effects were observed for some compounds using Quantisal. The method is sensitive and robust for its purposes and has been used successfully since February 2015 for analysis of Intercept OF samples from 2600 cases in a 12‐month period. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Macroinvertebrate responses to flow and stream temperature variability across regulated and non‐regulated rivers
Authors: White James C. , Hannah David M. , House Andy , Beatson Shawn J. V. , Martin Alexander , Wood Paul J.
Published: July 2016

Flow regulation via impoundments threatens lotic ecosystems and the services they provide globally. Impoundments drastically alter flow and stream temperature variability within fluvial environments, but efforts to quantify ecohydrological and ecothermal responses to flow regulation in conjunction have been sparsely explored to date. This study examined macroinvertebrate community responses to antecedent flow (discharge) and stream temperature variability across paired regulated and non‐regulated systems associated with three reservoirs located in adjacent catchments. Community abundances, functional traits, and biomonitoring indices were examined, and ecological differences between non‐regulated and regulated sites were quantified, with the most sensitive faunal response being correlated against a suite of flow and thermal indices. Regulated sites exhibited reduced low‐flow variability and rapid increases in discharge during peak flows that regularly exceeded those conveyed by non‐regulated sites, while stream temperature variability was highly congruent between sites. Macroinvertebrate functional traits were particularly sensitive to flow regulation, and incorporating biomonitoring indices marginally improved the ecological discrimination between regulated and non‐regulated sites. Unlike community abundances, functional traits did not vary spatially between catchments, highlighting that such information could guide the implementation of regional environmental flows. Macroinvertebrate communities responded significantly to various hydrological parameters, particularly those associated with the timing of extreme flows, but were less sensitive to thermal controls. Future research should explore ecological responses to antecedent hydrological and stream temperature variability associated with flow regulation to provide a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms driving biotic alterations, which could guide future environmental flow methodologies.
Foliar bacteria and soil fertility mediate seedling performance: a new and cryptic dimension of niche differentiation
Authors: Griffin Eric A. , Traw M. Brian , Morin Peter J. , Pruitt Jonathan N. , Wright S. Joseph , Carson Walter P.
Published: July 2016

The phyllosphere (comprising the leaf surface and interior) is one of the world's largest microbial habitats and is host to an abundant and diverse array of bacteria. Nonetheless, the degree to which bacterial communities are benign, harmful, or beneficial to plants in situ is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that the net effect of reducing bacterial abundance and diversity would vary substantially among host species (from harmful to beneficial) and this would be strongly mediated by soil resource availability. To test this, we monitored tree seedling growth responses to commercial antibiotics among replicated resource supply treatments (N, P, K) in a tropical forest in Panama for 29 months. We applied either antibiotics or control water to replicated seedlings of five common tree species (Alseis blackiana, Desmopsis panamensis, Heisteria concinna, Sorocea affinis, and Tetragastris panamensis). These antibiotic treatments significantly reduced both the abundance and diversity of bacteria epiphytically as well as endophytically. Overall, the effect of antibiotics on performance was highly host specific. Applying antibiotics increased growth for three species by as much as 49% (Alseis, Heisteria, and Tetragastris), decreased growth for a fourth species by nearly 20% (Sorocea), and had no impact on a fifth species (Desmopsis). Perhaps more importantly, the degree to which foliar bacteria were harmful or not varied with soil resource supply. Specifically, applying antibiotics had no effect when potassium was added but increased growth rate by almost 40% in the absence of potassium. Alternatively, phosphorus enrichment caused the effect of bacteria to switch from being primarily beneficial to harmful or vice versa, but this depended entirely on the presence or absence of nitrogen enrichment (i.e., important and significant interactions). Our results are the first to demonstrate that the net effect of reducing the abundance and diversity of bacteria can have very strong positive and negative effects on seedling performance. Moreover, these effects were clearly mediated by soil resource availability. Though speculative, we suggest that foliar bacteria may interact with soil fertility to comprise an important, yet cryptic dimension of niche differentiation, which can have important implications for species coexistence.
Trophic interactions may reverse the demographic consequences of inbreeding
Authors: Bompard Anaïs , Amat Isabelle , Fauvergue Xavier , Spataro Thierry
Published: July 2016

Extinctions have no simple determinism, but rather result from complex interplays between environmental factors and demographic‐genetic feedback that occur at small population size. Inbreeding depression has been assumed to be a major trigger of extinction vortices, yet very few models have studied its consequences in dynamic populations with realistic population structure. Here we investigate the impact of Complementary Sex Determination (CSD) on extinction in parasitoid wasps and other insects of the order Hymenoptera. CSD is believed to induce enough inbreeding depression to doom simple small populations to extinction, but we suggest that in parasitoids CSD may have the opposite effect. Using a theoretical model combining the genetics of CSD and the population dynamics of host‐parasitoid systems, we show that CSD can reduce the risk of parasitoid extinction by reducing fluctuations in population size. Our result suggests that inbreeding depression is not always a threat to population survival, and that considering trophic interactions may reverse some pervasive hypotheses on its demographic impact.
Experimental and Theoretical Observations on the Intramolecular Nucleophilic Addition of α‐Amino Carbanions to Arynes: Synthesis of 1‐Aryl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroisoquinolines
Authors: Kaur Manjot , Sharma Esha , Singh Amritpal , Singh Paramjit , Singh Kamal Nain
Published: July 2016

1‐Aryl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroisoquinolines (THIQ) are key intermediates and products in the pharmaceutical industry. A new method involving intramolecular nucleophilic addition of α‐amino carbanions to in‐situ‐generated arynes in N‐Boc‐protected (Boc = tert‐butoxycarbonyl) amine substrates is presented for the synthesis of these compounds. Surprisingly, a similar reaction in Lewis‐acid‐complexed tertiary amines failed. These results have been analysed using quantum chemical calculations on the intermediates involved in the reactions.
Development of a new Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Approach for Monitoring the Solid Electrolyte Interphase Formation
Authors: Heins Tom P. , Harms Nina , Schramm Linda‐Susann , Schröder Uwe
Published: July 2016

The formation of surface films on lithium ion electrodes is a crucial factor for the performance and durability of the respective battery. Especially the formation of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on the anodes of these cells widely determines the stability and functionality of the electrode. Therefore, a precise insight into the formation process of this layer is required. Based on temperature‐dependent electrochemical impedance spectroscopy a new approach to monitor the formation of the SEI was developed. This way the kinetics of the interphase could be described using its activation energy. Comparison of these values with the respective resistances regarding the charge turnover during the initial charging of the cell provided additional information about the course of the SEI formation. It could be shown that these findings are in good agreement with the descriptions of the mechanism of the SEI formation provided by the literature.
Impairment of a parieto‐premotor network specialized for handwriting in writer's cramp
Authors: Gallea Cecile , Horovitz Silvina G. , 'Ali Najee‐Ullah Muslimah , Hallett Mark
Published: July 2016

Handwriting with the dominant hand is a highly skilled task singularly acquired in humans. This skill is the isolated deficit in patients with writer's cramp (WC), a form of dystonia with maladaptive plasticity, acquired through intensive and repetitive motor practice. When a skill is highly trained, a motor program is created in the brain to execute the same movement kinematics regardless of the effector used for the task. The task‐ and effector‐specific symptoms in WC suggest that a problem particularly occurs in the brain when the writing motor program is carried out by the dominant hand. In this MRI study involving 12 WC patients (with symptoms only affecting the right dominant hand during writing) and 15 age matched unaffected controls we showed that: (1) the writing program recruited the same network regardless of the effector used to write in both groups; (2) dominant handwriting recruited a segregated parieto‐premotor network only in the control group; (3) local structural alteration of the premotor area, the motor component of this network, predicted functional connectivity deficits during dominant handwriting and symptom duration in the patient group. Dysfunctions and structural abnormalities of a segregated parieto‐premotor network in WC patients suggest that network specialization in focal brain areas is crucial for well‐learned motor skill.Hum Brain Mapp 37:4363–4375, 2016. ©2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Deubiquitinases as Anticancer Targets of Gold Complexes
Authors: Zou Taotao , Zhang Jing‐Jing , Cao Bei , Tong Ka‐Chung , Lok Chun‐Nam , Che Chi‐Ming
Published: July 2016

Metal‐based anticancer agents with non‐DNA targets are anticipated for overcoming cisplatin resistance problems. Gold complexes are generally known to undergo ligand exchange or redox reactions with thiols, and hence, are potentially useful agents that could target thiol‐containing enzymes, but not DNA. Recent studies have shown that deubiquitinases (DUBs), key enzymes regulating proteasome‐related protein homeostasis, are potential anticancer targets of both gold(I) and gold(III) complexes. In this review, the current status of gold complexes as DUB inhibitors is discussed. In particular, auranofin and cyclometalated gold(III) complexes containing dithiocarbamate ligands (e.g., [(AuIII(C N)(DEDT)]+, HC N=2‐phenylpyridine, DEDT=diethyldithiocarbamate) are highlighted as examples of DUB inhibitors. The mechanisms of their anticancer action, together with in vitro and/or in vivo antitumor potencies, are also explored.
Unusual way of feeding by the deutonymph of Neottialges evansi (Actinotrichida, Astigmata, Hypoderatidae), a subcutaneous parasite of cormorants, revealed by fine structural analyses
Authors: Alberti Gerd , Kanarek Gerard , Dabert Jacek
Published: July 2016

The parasitic deutonymphs of hypoderatid mites live within the subcutaneous layer of their avian hosts, where they become greatly engorged despite not having functional mouthparts. The method by which they take up nutrients has been mysterious up to now. Here, we report on the morphology of hypoderatid deutonymphs using scanning and transmission electron microscopy and describe structures that may resolve the mystery. The deutonymph of Neottialges evansi (Hypoderatidae) from the cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo is a simply organized stage lacking both mouthparts and a functional foregut. The structure of midgut and hindgut indicate that they are not capable of processing food. The midgut consists of highly branching flat cells and rarely shows a lumen. Almost the entire space between integument, gut remnants and other organs (synganglion, developing gonads) is filled by huge cells containing protein and glycogen granules and numerous lipid inclusions. The anal opening is minute. The structure of the cuticle and epidermis suggests that nutrients are not absorbed through the general integument. Thus the two main existing hypotheses about feeding modes in hypoderatid deutonymphs, anal vs. integumentary food absorbtion, are not supported. We suggest instead that two pairs of genital papillae showing peculiar microanatomical features are actively involved in movement of liquid materials between host and mite and most probably are the nutrient‐intake organs. J. Morphol. 277:1368–1389, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of physicochemical and functional properties of duck feet and bovine gelatins
Authors: Kuan Yau‐Hoong , Nafchi Abdorreza Mohammadi , Huda Nurul , Ariffin Fazilah , Karim Alias A
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have indicated that duck feet are a rich source of gelatin extractable from avian sources. In this study, the physicochemical and functional properties of avian gelatin extracted from duck feet (DFG) with acetic acid were compared with those of commercial bovine gelatin (BG).

RESULTS

The yield of DFG obtained in this study was 7.01 ± 0.31%. High‐performance liquid chromatography analysis indicated that the imino acid content was slightly lower for DFG compared with BG (P < 0.05). Differences in molecular size and amino acids between DFG and BG were also observed. The isoelectric points of DFG and BG were at pH 8 and 5 respectively, and the overall protein solubility of BG was higher than that of DFG. Gels prepared from BG exhibited higher bloom strength, viscosity and clarity and were darker in colour compared with DFG gels (P < 0.05). The gelling and melting points of BG were 21.8 and 29.47 °C respectively, while those of DFG were 20.5 and 27.8 °C respectively. BG exhibited slightly better emulsifying and foaming properties compared with DFG.

CONCLUSION

Although some differences between DFG and BG were observed, the disparities were small, which indicates that DFG could be exploited commercially as an alternative source of gelatin. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Desktop NMR Spectroscopy for Quality Control of Raw Rubber
Authors: Singh Kawarpal , Blümich Bernhard
Published: July 2016

Only in very recent times, desktop NMR spectrometers have become available as tools for research and education. We have investigated in how far1H and13C NMR spectra acquired at 1 T with a compact NMR spectrometer are suitable for quality control of solutions from raw rubber in the rubber manufacturing industry. NMR spectra of samples drawn from oil‐extended styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR), solution polymerized SBR, emulsion polymerized SBR, and SBR from different lots and the same lots are reported. Differences are observed not only between SBR samples polymerized in different ways but also between the same type of SBR from the same and from different lots from the same manufacturer.
Thermal Properties and Intermolecular Interaction of Blends of Poly(ethylene oxide) and Poly(methyl acrylate)
Authors: Halim Suhaila Idayu Abdul , Chan Chin Han , Sim Lai Har
Published: July 2016

Polymer blends of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly(methyl acrylate) (PMA) were prepared by solution casting method. Thermal stability of the binary PEO/PMA blends was examined by termogravimetric analysis (TGA). Decomposition temperatures of the binary blends were estimated from the onsets of the weight loss curves of TGA thermograms. The decomposition temperatures of the blends increase when the content of PEO elevates. Hence, PEO has a better thermal stability as compared to PMA. The activation energy of thermal decomposition of each sample was calculated from the initial stage of the decomposition. Quantities of EA increase when content of PEO increases in the blends. Differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) was used to investigate the thermal properties of binary PEO/PMA blends. An existence of a single and composition‐dependent glass transition temperature (Tg) for the blends indicates the miscibility of the PEO/PMA blends. The Tgs of PEO/PMA blends increase when PMA content increases. Furthermore, when PMA is blended with PEO, the crystallinity (X*) and melting temperature (Tm) of PEO in PEO/PMA blends are depressed. Thus, the miscibility of the blends in the molten state is in agreement with Tg results. Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to study the intermolecular interaction of between PEO and PMA in the blends. The characteristic absorbance bands of ether and carbonyl groups of PEO and PMA were examined by FTIR. PEO and PMA only display weak van der Waals interactions in blends. Hence the miscibility of PEO and PMA in the blends may be more towards the entropic effect instead of the enthalpic effect.
Experimental Investigation of Dynamic Fracture Behaviors of Polymethyl Methacrylate
Authors: Gao Guiyun , Zhou Jie , Li Zheng
Published: July 2016

Dynamic fracture of polymers plays a vital role in engineering applications. Dynamic fracture behaviors of polymethyl methacrylate were studied using the optical method of caustics. Semi‐circular bending specimens were chosen for mixed‐mode fracture and crack interaction analysis. The crack initiation, crack propagation, stress intensity factor, and fracture toughness were obtained by analyzing the specke patterns captured during dynamic loading by high‐speed imaging techniques. The crack interactions of two symmetric and asymmetric cracks and the influence of damage, including the presence of holes and microcracks on or near the crack path, are discussed. The results show that two cracks on a specimen compete and interact with each other, and lead to the final fracture mode of the specimens. Holes and microcracks on or near the crack path influence the crack path and the crack propagation velocity. The results obtained in this paper could be extended to brittle fracture analysis of materials with multiple cracks or inclusions.
Sensitivity and Detonation Characteristics of Selected Nitramines Bonded by Sylgard Binder
Authors: Elbeih Ahmed , Mokhtar Mohamed Mohamed , Wafy Tamer
Published: July 2016

Four plastic explosives based on cyclic nitramines and polymeric matrix were prepared and studied. The nitramines were RDX (1,3,5‐trinitro‐1,3,5‐triazinane), HMX (1,3,5,7‐tetranitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetrazocane), BCHMX (cis‐1,3,4,6‐tetranitro‐octahydroimidazo‐[4,5‐d]imidazole), and ϵ‐CL20 (ϵ‐2,4,6,8,10,12‐hexanitro‐2,4,6,8,10,12‐hexaazaisowurtzitane, ϵ‐HNIW). Sylgard 184 was used in the all PBXs prepared samples as a binder. The sensitivities to different mechanical stimuli were determined. The detonation velocities were experimentally measured. Detonation characteristics were calculated by EXPLO5 thermodynamic code. For comparison, standard plastic explosives, Composition C4, Semtex 10, and EPX‐1 were studied. Results showed that the experimental detonation velocities as well as the calculated detonation parameters decrease in the following order: CL20‐sylgard>HMX‐sylgard≥BCHMX‐sylgard>RDX‐sylgard. Calculations by EXPLO5 computer program resulted in detonation velocities close to the experimental ones with 3.1 % maximum difference. Urizar coefficient for the Sylgard binder was calculated from experimental data. An inverse linear relationship between friction sensitivity and heat of detonation of the studied samples was observed. Sylgard binder significantly decreased the sensitivity of all the studied nitramines. Among these prepared samples, the properties of BCHMX‐sylgard are similar to other ordinary plastic explosives.
Sensitiveness of Porous Silicon‐Based Nano‐Energetic Films
Authors: Plummer Andrew , Kuznetsov Valerian A. , Gascooke Jason , Shapter Joe , Voelcker Nicolas H.
Published: July 2016

Nanoporous silicon (pSi) films on a silicon wafer were loaded with sodium perchlorate and perfluoropolyether (PFPE) oxidizing agents. Sensitiveness to impact, friction and electrostatic discharge (ESD) of the resulting energetic thin films were investigated. It was observed that pSi loaded with perchlorate was sensitive at the lowest limit of detection for the available equipment (<4.9 J impact energy, <5 N friction force, and <45 mJ ESD spark energy). When loaded with PFPE the material was very sensitive to impact (<4.9 J), moderately sensitive to ESD (between 45 and 100 mJ) and insensitive to friction (>360 N). pSi loaded with either perchlorate or PFPE displayed behavior during sensitiveness testing similar to other primary explosive materials.