bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regiodivergent Cyclobutanone Cleavage: Switching Selectivity with Different Lewis Acids
Authors: Souillart Laetitia , Cramer Nicolai
Published: December 2014

The exploitation of strain release in small rings as driving force to enable complex transformations is a powerful synthetic tool. Among them, cyclobutanones are particularly versatile substrates that can be elaborated in a wide variety of structurally diverse building blocks. Herein, Lewis acid catalyzed rearrangement reactions are presented that provide selective access to two structurally distinct polycyclic scaffolds, that is, indenylacetic acid derivatives and benzoxabicyclo[3.2.1]octan‐3‐ones. The choice of the Lewis acid fully controls the reaction pathway and the regioselectivity of the cyclobutanone CC bond cleavage site.
Gas Phase Structures of Peroxides: Experiments and Computational Problems
Authors: Oberhammer Heinz
Published: December 2014

Gas‐phase structures of several organic and inorganic peroxides X‐O‐O‐X and X‐O‐O‐X′, which have been determined experimentally by gas electron diffraction and/or microwave spectroscopy, are discussed. The OO bond length in these peroxides varies from 1.481(8) Å in Me3SiOOSiMe3 to 1.214(2) Å in FOOF and the dihedral angle ϕ(XO‐OX) between 0° in HC(O)O‐OH and near 180° in ButO‐OBut. Some of the peroxides cause problems for quantum chemistry, since several computational methods fail to reproduce the experimental structures. Extreme examples are MeO‐OMe and FO‐OF. In the case of MeO‐OMe only about half of the more than 100 computational methods reported in the literature reproduce the experimentally determined double‐minimum shape of the torsional potential around the OO bond correctly. For FO‐OF only a small number of close to 200 computational methods reproduce the OO and OF bond lengths better than ±0.02 Å.
A Nanostructured PLGA System for Cell Delivery of a Tetrathiahelicene as a Model for Helical DNA Intercalators
Authors: Cauteruccio Silvia , Bartoli Cristina , Carrara Claudio , Dova Davide , Errico Cesare , Ciampi Giulia , Dinucci Dinuccio , Licandro Emanuela , Chiellini Federica
Published: December 2014

A novel nanoconstruct based on poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) nanoparticles loaded with a tetrathiahelicene molecule conjugated to a fluorescent rhodamine probe was prepared and characterized. Because helicenes are known to be very promising DNA intercalators, the tetrathiahelicene was selected for this study as a model therapeutic cytotoxic molecule. The ability of the nanoconstruct to internalize the tetrathiahelicene and deliver it intracellularly in a safe manner has been investigated by means of cytotoxicity and cell uptake tests on Balb/3T3 clone A31 fibroblasts. The outcomes of this study suggest the suitability of the developed nanoconstruct to act as a vector for the intracellular delivery of hydrophobic small molecules, such as helicenes, thus contributing to their possible future exploitation as novel therapeutics.
Carbazolo[2,1‐a]carbazole Diimide: A Building Block for Organic Electronic Materials
Authors: Zhao Zheng , Wang Zhongli , Zhang Xu , Gao Simin , Yang Xiaodi , Duan Zhiming , Gao Xike
Published: December 2014

A new class of carbazolo[2,1‐a]carbazole diimide compounds (CBZCBZ‐DI, 3) are designed and synthesized. The synthesis, X‐ray crystal structure, absorption spectra, and electrochemical properties of 3 as well as the charge transport properties are investigated. Theoretical calculation is also carried out based on the X‐ray crystal structure of 3 a to understand the relationship between the structure and the charge transport properties. Single‐crystal X‐ray analysis revealed that the molecules of 3 a adopt a slipped face‐to‐face π‐stacking mode with a large intermolecular π‐overlap and an interplanar distance of 3.4 Å. Crystalline transistors of 3 a display high hole mobility of 0.5 cm2 V−1 s−1, which is among the highest reported mobility values for carbazole‐based N‐heteroacenes. Two useful brominated derivatives (4, 5) are also prepared for synthesizing more new π‐functional materials.
State of Knowledge: Community Mediation at a Crossroads
Authors: Charkoudian Lorig , Bilick Michal
Published: December 2014

This article reviews the experience of community mediation centers over the last ten years, including a review of the literature and national surveys of centers and volunteers. From this literature review, a new survey was created to examine how effectively community mediation centers are meeting the social change vision and the needs of their communities. The results show success and creativity in some areas and struggles in others. The article concludes with a discussion of community mediation values and emerging areas of practice, as well as a recommendation for a research agenda.
Rhenium‐Catalyzed Deoxydehydration of Diols and Polyols
Authors: Dethlefsen Johannes R. , Fristrup Peter
Published: December 2014

The substitution of platform chemicals of fossil origin by biomass‐derived analogues requires the development of chemical transformations capable of reducing the very high oxygen content of biomass. One such reaction, which has received increasing attention within the past five years, is the rhenium‐catalyzed deoxydehydration (DODH) of a vicinal diol into an alkene; this is a model system for abundant polyols like glycerol and sugar alcohols. The present contribution includes a review of early investigations of stoichiometric reactions involving rhenium, diols, and alkenes followed by a discussion of the various catalytic systems that have been developed with emphasis on the nature of the reductant, the substrate scope, and mechanistic investigations.
Functionalized Fe3O4@Silica Core–Shell Nanoparticles as Microalgae Harvester and Catalyst for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Chiang Ya‐Dong , Dutta Saikat , Chen Ching‐Tien , Huang Yu‐Tzu , Lin Kuen‐Song , Wu Jeffrey C. S. , Suzuki Norihiro , Yamauchi Yusuke , Wu Kevin C.‐W.
Published: December 2014

Core–shell Fe3O4@silica magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with a strong base, triazabicyclodecene (TBD), were successfully synthesized for harvesting microalgae and for one‐pot microalgae‐to‐fatty acid methyl ester (FAME, or so‐called biodiesel) conversion. Three types of algae oil sources (i.e., dried algae, algae oil, and algae concentrate) were used and the reaction conditions were optimized to achieve the maximum biodiesel yield. The results obtained in this study show that our TBD‐functionalized Fe3O4@silica nanoparticles could effectively convert algae oil to biodiesel with a maximum yield of 97.1 %. Additionally, TBD‐Fe3O4@silica nanoparticles act as an efficient algae harvester because of their adsorption and magnetic properties. The method presented in this study demonstrates the wide scope for the use of covalently functionalized core–shell nanoparticles for the production of liquid transportation fuels from algal biomass.
Biomass measurement by flow cytometry during solid‐state fermentation of basidiomycetes
Authors: Steudler Susanne , Böhmer Ulrike , Weber Jost , Bley Thomas
Published: December 2014

Solid‐state fermentation (SSF) is a robust process that is well suited to the on‐site cultivation of basidiomycetes that produce enzymes for the treatment of lignocellulosics. Reliable methods for biomass quantification are essential for the analysis of fungal growth kinetics. However, direct biomass determination is not possible during SSF because the fungi grow into the substrate and use it as a nutrient source. This necessitates the use of indirect methods that are either very laborious and time consuming or can only provide biomass measurements during certain growth periods. Here, we describe the development and optimization of a new rapid method for fungal biomass determination during SSF that is based on counting fungal nuclei by flow cytometry. Fungal biomass was grown on an organic substrate and its concentration was measured by isolating the nuclei from the fungal hyphae after cell disruption, staining them with SYTOX® Green, and then counting them using a flow cytometer. A calibration curve relating the dry biomass of the samples to their concentrations of nuclei was established. Multiple buffers and disruption methods were tested. The results obtained were compared with values determined using the method of ergosterol determination, a classical technique for fungal biomass measurement during SSF. Our new approach can be used to measure fungal biomass on a range of different scales, from 15 mL cultures to a laboratory reactor with a working volume of 10 L (developed by the Research Center for Medical Technology and Biotechnology (fzmb GmbH)). © 2014 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Predicting fine‐scale distributions of peripheral aquatic species in headwater streams
Authors: DeRolph Christopher R. , Nelson Stacy A. C. , Kwak Thomas J. , Hain Ernie F.
Published: December 2014

Headwater species and peripheral populations that occupy habitat at the edge of a species range may hold an increased conservation value to managers due to their potential to maximize intraspecies diversity and species' adaptive capabilities in the context of rapid environmental change. The southern Appalachian Mountains are the southern extent of the geographic range of nativeSalvelinus fontinalisand naturalizedOncorhynchus mykissandSalmo truttain eastern North America. We predicted distributions of these peripheral, headwater wild trout populations at a fine scale to serve as a planning and management tool for resource managers to maximize resistance and resilience of these populations in the face of anthropogenic stressors. We developed correlative logistic regression models to predict occurrence of brook trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout for every interconfluence stream reach in the study area. A stream network was generated to capture a more consistent representation of headwater streams. Each of the final models had four significant metrics in common: stream order, fragmentation, precipitation, and land cover. Strahler stream order was found to be the most influential variable in two of the three final models and the second most influential variable in the other model. Greater than 70% presence accuracy was achieved for all three models. The underrepresentation of headwater streams in commonly used hydrography datasets is an important consideration that warrants close examination when forecasting headwater species distributions and range estimates. Additionally, it appears that a relative watershed position metric (e.g., stream order) is an important surrogate variable (even when elevation is included) for biotic interactions across the landscape in areas where headwater species distributions are influenced by topographical gradients.
Use of a Bioelectronic Tongue for the Monitoring of the Photodegradation of Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Cetó Xavier , González‐Calabuig Andreu , del Valle Manel
Published: December 2014

The application of a voltammetric bioelectronic tongue for the simultaneous monitoring of catechol, m‐cresol and guaiacol in wastewater is reported. Voltammetric responses obtained from an array of bulk modified (bio)sensors, containing enzymes such as tyrosinase and laccase, were combined with chemometric tools such as artificial neural networks (ANNs) for building the quantitative prediction model. To this end, the chemometric model was first built employing a factorial design, validated employing an external test set of samples (n=14; total NRMSE of 0.076), and afterwards applied to the monitoring of the mineralization of the three phenol pollutants during a photo‐Fenton advanced oxidation process.
A New Amperometric Benzaldhyde Biosensor Based on Aldehyde Oxidase Immobilized on Fe3O4‐GrapheneOxide/Polyvinylpyrrolidone/Polyaniline Nanocomposite
Authors: Sadeghi Susan , Fooladi Ebrahim , Malekaneh Mohammad
Published: December 2014

A new biosensor for determination of benzaldehyde based on carbon past electrode (CPE) modified with a Fe3O4‐graphen oxide/polyvinyl pyrrolidone/polyaniline (Fe3O4/GO/PVP/PANI) nanocomposite was developed. The nanocomposite was electrodeposited on the surface of CPE using cyclic voltammetry technique. The crude extract aldehyde (AOX) oxidase enzyme isolated from rat liver was immobilized on the Fe3O4/GO/PVP/PANI nanocomposite and the prepared biosensor was employed for benzaldehyde oxidation to H2O2. The benzaldhyde measured amperometrically based on reduction of produced H2O2 at −0.25 V(vs. Ag/AgCl). The cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies of the modified electrode indicated that Fe3O4/GO has an excellent electrocatalytic activity and can be used as an electron mediator for H2O2 reduction. The presence of PVP in the nanocomposite could substantially improve the dispersibility of GO, leading to enhanced sensitivity of the biosensor. Under optimum conditions, the biosensor exhibited a fast response time to benzaldhyde within 10 s. The sensor showed a linear response to benzaldehyde concentration in the range of 0.5–50 µM with a limit of detection of 0.4 µM(S/N=3) and sensitivity of 4.173 µA µM−1 cm−2. The biosensor revealed a preference for benzldehyde than studied aliphatic aldehydes. The new biosensor showed good performance to analysis of benzaldhyde in drugs injection formulations.
Macroporous Bismuth Film Screen‐Printed Carbon Electrode for Simultaneous Determination of Ni(II) and Co(II)
Authors: Dal Borgo Sebastiano , Sopha Hanna , Smarzewska Sylwia , Hočevar Samo B. , Švancara Ivan , Metelka Radovan
Published: December 2014

Macroporous bismuth film screen‐printed carbon electrode (mpBiF‐SPCE) was used for simultaneous measurement of Ni(II) and Co(II) at their trace concentration level by means of adsorptive cathodic stripping voltammetry with dimethylglyoxime as a complexing agent. The mpBiF‐SPCE was prepared on a screen printed carbon electrode by colloidal crystal templating using aqueous suspension of polystyrene microspheres which were self‐assembled onto the electrode by slow evaporation of solvent. Following the electrochemical deposition of bismuth film, the microspheres were dissolved with toluene providing the macroporous bismuth film structure. The mpBiF‐SPCE offered good electroanalytical performance with estimated limits of detection of 27 and 94 ng L−1 for Ni(II) and Co(II), respectively, in combination with an accumulation time of 180 s, and relative standard deviations of 3.3 % for Ni(II) and 5.2 % for Co(II). The effect of potentially interfering ions and the surface‐active compounds was also investigated. Both Ni(II) and Co(II) were assayed in the sample of sewer water with satisfactory recovery.
Carbon‐Supported Cu‐Doped Mn–Co Spinel‐Type Oxides Used as Cathodic Catalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Dual‐Chambered Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Hu Dengping , Wang Haijun , Wang Juan , Zhong Qin
Published: December 2014

In this study, carbon‐black‐supported Cu‐doped Mn–Co spinel‐type oxides (MnxCu1−xCo2O4/C, x=0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 1) were synthesized by using a hydrothermal method. Firstly, the morphology characterization shows that the as‐prepared MnxCu1−xCo2O4 nanoparticles with the crystalline spinel structure are uniformly dispersed on the carbon black and the MnxCu1−xCo2O4/C samples possess high specific surface area. The neutral oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performance of MnxCu1−xCo2O4/C evaluated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) shows that all catalysts can catalyze the ORR. Mn0.6Cu0.4Co2O4/C exhibited the highest catalytic activity, which might be due to its highest surface area. Finally, the MnxCu1−xCo2O4/C samples were used for microbial fuel cells (MFCs) as cathodic catalysts. The polarization curves demonstrate that Mn0.6Cu0.4Co2O4/C owns the best power output, close to 20 wt % Pt/C. This study suggests that using Mn0.6Cu0.4Co2O4/C instead of Pt/C could potentially improve the feasibility of scaling up MFCs for real applications by lowering the production cost.
Geochemical Characterization of Bolivian Formative Earthen Architecture by Wavelength‐Dispersive X‐ray Fluorescence
Authors: Goodman‐Elgar Melissa A. , Bettencourt Nichole S. , Conrey Richard
Published: December 2014

In this study, we employ wavelength‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (WDXRF) to characterize construction materials from Formative civic architecture (1000 B.C.E.–C.E. 400), ethnographic mudbricks, and off‐site controls from the Taraco Peninsula, Bolivia. The preparation of earthen construction materials for civic buildings can shed light on aspects of community development such as labor organization, resource management, and architectural technologies. We apply geochemical results to reconstructing how public buildings were made as communities moved toward socio‐political complexity in this region. However, there are few geochemical studies in the Andes, and little prior scientific analysis of earthen architecture. We therefore tested the efficacy of WDXRF for this region, and developed control materials. Our archaeological samples were selected from two Formative villages, Chiripa and Kala Uyuni. In this study, we performed WDXRF analyses on 63 archaeological and control samples including archaeological floors, walling, plasters, and mortars, as well as contemporary ethnographic walling and topsoils. Elemental signatures for 28 elements clearly distinguished the archaeological flooring, walling, plaster, and mortars from ethnographic and off‐site controls. More subtle variations were detected that distinguish study sites and the different material types. Laboratory‐calibrated multi‐element XRF effectively supports efforts to reconstruct the pathways to social complexity in the Titicaca Basin.
The hemostatic system as a regulator of inflammation in atherosclerosis
Authors: Koch Miriam , Zernecke Alma
Published: December 2014

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial vessel wall. As part of a tightly connected cross‐talk between inflammation and coagulation, there is growing evidence that the coagulation system plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. We here discuss the presence of coagulation factors in atherosclerotic lesions and the overall effects of hypercoagulability and hypocoagulability on atherosclerotic lesion formation. Moreover, we focus on the unifying common pathway of coagulation, which can be initiated by the intrinsic and extrinsic pathway of coagulation, and discuss the functions of the coagulation factors FX, thrombin, and FXIII as regulators of inflammation in atherosclerosis. In particular, we review the non‐hemostatic and immune‐modulatory functions of these factors in endothelial and smooth muscle cells, as well as monocytes/macrophages, but also other cells, such as dendritic cells and T cells, that may control the inflammatory process of atherosclerosis. Their multiple roles in coagulation, but also their non‐hemostatic functions in different cell types in inflammation and immunity, may harbor great potential for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for treating cardiovascular disease. © 2014 IUBMB Life, 66(11):735–744, 2014
Prognostic significance of VEGF‐C, semaphorin 3F, and neuropilin‐2 expression in oral squamous cell carcinomas and their relationship with lymphangiogenesis
Authors: Zhang Bing , Gao Zhongxiuzi , Sun Miao , Li Haixia , Fan Haixia , Chen Dong , Zheng Jinhua
Published: December 2014

Background

Neuropilin‐2 (NRP2), a receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF‐C) and semaphorin 3 F (SEMA3F), is a possible regulator of tumor progression and angiogenesis. However, little evidence of a correlation between NRP2 expression and lymphangiogenesis has been reported. SEMA3F might suppress lymphangiogenesis by competing with VEGF‐C for binding to NRP2.

Methods

We evaluated lymphatic vessel density (LVD), lymphatic vessel invasion (LVI), the expression levels of VEGF‐C, SEMA3F, and NRP2 by immunohistochemistry in 80 cases of oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs).

Results

In these tumors, the expression of NRP2 was positively associated with T stage classification, lymph node metastasis, LVD, LVI, and the expression of VEGF‐C. In contrast, low expression of SEMA3F was significantly related to poor differentiation and higher incidence of lymph node metastasis. Patients expressing high levels of VEGF‐C or NRP2, or low levels of SEMA3F had a higher risk of recurrence and shorter overall survival. Multivariate analysis showed that VEGF‐C and NRP2 were independent prognostic markers for overall survival.

Conclusions

Results indicate SEMA3F is an inhibitor of tumor progression and provide evidence for an association between NRP2 and VEGF‐C, lymphangiogenesis, lymph node metastasis. This suggests the prognostic significance and potential therapeutic value of the VEGF‐C/SEMA3F/NRP2 axis for OSCCs.J. Surg. Oncol. 2015 111:382–388. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
CONSTRUCT VALIDITY EVIDENCE FOR BRACKEN SCHOOL READINESS ASSESSMENT, THIRD EDITION, SPANISH FORM SCORES
Authors: Ortiz Arlene , Clinton Amanda , Schaefer Barbara A.
Published: December 2014

Convergent and discriminant validity evidence was examined for scores on the Spanish Record Form of the Bracken School Readiness Assessment, Third Edition (BSRA‐3). Participants included a sample of 68 Hispanic, Spanish‐speaking children ages 4 to 5 years enrolled in preschool programs in Puerto Rico. Scores obtained from the BSRA‐3 Spanish Record Form were compared with scores from the Nonverbal Index of the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children, Second Edition, and the Preschool and Kindergarten Behavior Scales, Second Edition. As expected, the correlation between school readiness scores and nonverbal intelligence was significant and moderate in the positive direction and the correlations between school readiness scores and behaviors were low. Discriminant validity evidence for BSRA‐3 scores was demonstrated using Steiger's Z test to compare correlations of similar and dissimilar constructs. As hypothesized, significant results emerged.
Current approaches and challenges in targeted absolute quantification of membrane proteins
Authors: Trötschel Christian , Poetsch Ansgar
Published: December 2014

Experimental determination of absolute protein amounts is becoming increasingly important for the establishment and validation of biomarkers, and systems biology approaches aimed at a quantitative description of a biological process. Residing at compartmental or cellular barriers, and acting as prominent drug targets, integral membranes proteins, being completely embedded in the lipid bilayer, possess characteristic physicochemical properties and are often in low abundance. These features challenge the quantification with targeted MS and the ability to accurately determine the amount of membrane proteins with high sensitivity. This review summarizes the current status of targeted membrane protein quantification with emphasis on sample preparation beforehand MS. From the beginning to the end of a usual sample preparation workflow, consisting essentially of reference point selection, cell lysis, digestion, and addition of suitable isotope‐labeled standards, general and particular challenges for membrane proteins will be discussed step by step. Based on the presentation of current achievements, possible measures to better address these challenges and future avenues of targeted membrane proteomics are presented.
Predicting Blast Waves from the Axial Direction of a Cylindrical Charge
Authors: Knock Clare , Davies Nigel , Reeves Thomas
Published: December 2014

Bare, cylindrical, explosive charges produce secondary shock waves in the direction of least presented area. Whilst the source of these shock waves was explored in the 1940’s, no attempt was made to predict them. This paper describes the detonation of bare, cylindrical charges of PE4 (RDX binder 88/12 %), mass 0.2 to 0.46 kg and with a length to diameter ratio of 4 to 1. High speed camera footage showed (i) the formation of the separate, primary, shock waves from the sides and ends of the charge, (ii) Mach reflection of these separate shock waves, giving rise to reflected, secondary shock waves, and (iii) the secondary shock waves catching and merging with the primary shock wave. In the axial direction, the secondary shock wave’s peak overpressure and impulse exceeded that of the primary shock wave for scaled distances, Z=R/M1/3≥3.9 m kg−1/3, whereMis the mass in kg andRthe distance from the charge in m. It was found possible to predict the primary peak overpressure,P, at all distances in the axial direction, for a constant length to diameter ratio, usingP=3075 Z−3−1732 Z−2+305 Z−1. Close in the primary peak overpressure is proportional toM/R3in the axial direction. It was not possible to predict the secondary peak overpressure with the data obtained. The total impulse from both shock waves,I, in the axial direction can be predicted usingI=746(M2/3/R)3−708(M2/3/R)2+306(M2/3/R).
Study of Some Low Temperature Gas‐Generating Compositions
Authors: Mei Xinliang , Yang Hongtao , Li Xiangyu , Li Yanchun , Cheng Yi
Published: December 2014

Some low temperature gas‐generating compositions, comprised of guanidine nitrate (GN), basic cupric nitrate (BCN), and ferric oxide (Fe2O3), were studied herein. The thermal decomposition properties and burning characteristics of GN/BCN/Fe2O3 mixtures were investigated by thermogravimetry/differential scanning calorimetry (TG/DSC), burning temperature measurements, automatic calorimetry, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). This study showed that the maximum burning temperature of GN/BCN/Fe2O3 mixture (613 °C) was 31 % lower than that of GN/BCN mixture and the corresponding heat of combustion (2647 J g−1) decreased by 15 %. When the GN/BCN/Fe2O3 mixtures were burning, Fe2O3 did not directly react with GN but with Cu (or CuO), which was produced by reaction between GN and BCN. The combustion process of GN/BCN/Fe2O3 grains could be divided into four stages: pre‐heated, condensed, combustion, and cooling.
Dimensional approach to symptom factors of major depressive disorder in Koreans, using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale: The Clinical Research Center for Depression of South Korea Study
Authors: Park Seon‐Cheol , Jang Eun Young , Kim Daeho , Jun Tae‐Youn , Lee Min‐Soo , Kim Jae‐Min , Kim Jung‐Bum , Jo Sun‐Jin , Park Yong Chon
Published: December 2014

Although major depressive disorder (MDD) has a variety of symptoms beyond the affective dimensions, the factor structure and contents of comprehensive psychiatric symptoms of this disorder have rarely been explored using the 18‐item Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS). We aimed to identify the factor structure of the 18‐item BPRS in Korean MDD patients. A total of 258 MDD patients were recruited from a multicenter sample of the Clinical Research Center for Depression of South Korea study. Psychometric scales were used to assess overall psychiatric symptoms (BPRS), depression (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale), anxiety (Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale), global severity (Clinical Global Impression of Severity Scale), suicidal ideation (Scale for Suicide Ideation), functioning (Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale), and quality of life (World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment‐abbreviated version). Common factor analysis with oblique rotation was used to yield factor structure. A four‐factor structure was designed and interpreted by the symptom dimensions to reflect mood disturbance, positive symptoms/apathy, bipolarity, and thought distortion/mannerism. These individual factors were also significantly correlated with clinical variables. The findings of this study support the view that the BPRS may be a promising measuring tool for the initial assessment of MDD patients. In addition, the four‐factor structure of the BPRS may be useful in understanding the mood and psychotic characteristics of these patients.
On Semi-Primary Self-Injective Rings and Faith's Quasi-Frobenius Conjecture
Authors: Iovanov M. C.
Published: December 2014

A long-standing conjecture of Faith in ring theory states that a left self-injective semi-primary ring A is necessarily a quasi-Frobenius ring. We propose a new method for approaching this conjecture, and prove it under some mild conditions; we show that if the simple A-modules are at most countably generated over a subring of the centre of A, then the conjecture holds. Also, the conjecture holds for algebras A over sufficiently large fields, i.e. if the cardinality of is larger than the dimension of the simple A-modules (or of A/Jac(A)). This effectively proves the conjecture in many situations, and we obtain several previously known results on this problem as a consequence.
Cannabinoids in Experimental Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: England Timothy J , Hind William H , Rasid Nadiah A , O'Sullivan Saoirse E
Published: December 2014

Cannabinoids (CBs) show promise as neuroprotectants with some agents already licensed in humans for other conditions. We systematically reviewed CBs in preclinical stroke to guide further experimental protocols. We selected controlled studies assessing acute administration of CBs for experimental stroke, identified through systematic searches. Data were extracted on lesion volume, outcome and quality, and analyzed using random effect models. Results are expressed as standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). In all, 144 experiments (34 publications) assessed CBs on infarct volume in 1,473 animals. Cannabinoids reduced infarct volume in transient (SMD −1.41 (95% CI −1.71), −1.11) P<0.00001) and permanent (−1.67 (−2.08, −1.27), P<0.00001) ischemia and in all subclasses: endocannabinoids (−1.72 (−2.62, −0.82), P=0.0002), CB1/CB2 ligands (−1.75 (−2.19, −1.31), P<0.00001), CB2 ligands (−1.65 (−2.09, −1.22), P<0.00001), cannabidiol (−1.20 (−1.63, −0.77), P<0.00001), Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (−1.43 (−2.01, −0.86), P<0.00001), and HU-211 (−2.90 (−4.24, −1.56), P<0.0001). Early and late neuroscores significantly improved with CB use (−1.27 (−1.58, −0.95), P<0.00001; −1.63 (−2.64, −0.62), P<0.002 respectively) and there was no effect on survival. Statistical heterogeneity and publication bias was present, median study quality was 4 (range 1 to 6/8). Overall, CBs significantly reduced infarct volume and improve functional outcome in experimental stroke. Further studies in aged, female and larger animals, with other co-morbidities are required.
Marker-free automated histopathological annotation of lung tumour subtypes by FTIR imaging
Authors: Großerueschkamp Frederik , Kallenbach-Thieltges Angela , Behrens Thomas , Brüning Thomas , Altmayer Matthias , Stamatis Georgios , Theegarten Dirk , Gerwert Klaus
Published: December 2014

Automated detection of lung cancer adenocarcinoma subtypes by FTIR imaging is presented in this study for the first time.
Hierarchically porous and nitrogen, sulfur-codoped graphene-like microspheres as a high capacity anode for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Sun Dongfei , Yang Juan , Yan Xingbin
Published: December 2014

The novel hierarchically porous and nitrogen, sulfur-codoped graphene-like microspheres are constructed as the anode material for lithium ion batteries. High surface area and efficient heteroatom doping provide high capacity and enhanced cycling stability.
A sensitive detection of T4 polynucleotide kinase activity based on β-cyclodextrin polymer enhanced fluorescence combined with an exonuclease reaction
Authors: Song Chunxia , Yang Xiaohai , Wang Kemin , Wang Qing , Liu Jianbo , Huang Jin , He Leiliang , Liu Pei , Qing Zhihe , Liu Wei
Published: December 2014

A strategy for performing a polynucleotide kinase activity assay has been developed based on β-cyclodextrin polymer enhanced fluorescence combined with an exonuclease reaction.
The best of both worlds: active enzymes by grafting-to followed by grafting-from a protein
Authors: Falatach Rebecca , McGlone Cameron , Al-Abdul-Wahid M. Sameer , Averick Saadyah , Page Richard C. , Berberich Jason A. , Konkolewicz Dominik
Published: December 2014

Hydrophilic polymers were attached to lysozyme by a combination of grafting-to and grafting-from approaches using RAFT polymerization.
E- or Z-Selective synthesis of 4-fluorovinyl-1,2,3-triazoles with fluorinated second-generation Julia–Kocienski reagents
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Singh Govindra , Todaro Louis J. , Yang Lijia , Zajc Barbara
Published: December 2014

Second-generation Julia–Kocienski reagents from CuAAC reactions of α-fluoropropargyl benzothiazole sulfone with azides, react with aldehydes and ketones to give N-substituted 4-(1-fluorovinyl)triazoles. Reactions of aldehydes can be tuned towards E or Z-alkenes selectively.
Assembly of gold nanoparticles on graphene film via electroless deposition: spontaneous reduction of Au3+ ions by graphene film
Authors: Raj M. Amal , John S. Abraham
Published: December 2014

Electrochemically reduced graphene oxide film catalyzed electroless deposition of gold nanoparticles.
Atomic structure and bonding of the interfacial bilayer between Au nanoparticles and epitaxially regrown MgAl2O4 substrates
Authors: Zhu Guo-zhen , Majdi Tahereh , Shao Yang , Bugnet Matthieu , Preston John S. , Botton Gianluigi A.
Published: December 2014

A unique metal/oxide interfacial bilayer formed between Au nanoparticles and MgAl2O4 substrates following thermal treatment is reported. Associated with the formation of the bilayer was the onset of an abnormal epitaxial growth of the substrate under the nanoparticle. According to the redistribution of atoms and the changes of their electronic structure probed across the interface by a transmission electron microscopy, we suggest two possible atomic models of the interfacial bilayer.
Divertor impurity injection using high voltage arcs for impurity transport studies on the Mega Amp Spherical Tokamak
Authors: Leggate H. J. , Lisgo S. W. , Harrison J. R. , Elmore S. , Allan S. Y. , Gaffka R. C. , Stephen R. C. , Turner M. M.
Published: December 2014

The operation of next-generation fusion reactors will be significantly affected by impurity transport in the scrape-off layer (SOL). Current modelling efforts are restricted by a lack of detailed data on impurity transport in the SOL. In order to address this, a carbon injector has been designed and installed on the Mega Amp Spherical Tokamak (MAST). The injector creates short lived carbon plumes originating at the MAST divertor lasting less than 50 μs. High voltage capacitor banks are used to create a discharge across concentric carbon electrodes located in a probe mounted on the Divertor Science Facility in the MAST lower divertor. This results in a very short plume duration allowing observation of the evolution of the plume and precise localisation of the plume relative to the X-point on MAST. The emission from the carbon plume was imaged using fast visible cameras filtered in order to isolate the carbon II and carbon III emission lines centered around 514 nm and 465 nm.
The local crystallization in nanoscale diamond-like carbon films during annealing
Authors: Kolpakov A. Ya. , Poplavsky A. I. , Galkina M. E. , Manokhin S. S. , Gerus J. V.
Published: December 2014

The local crystallization during annealing at 600 °C in nanoscale diamond-like carbon coatings films grown by pulsed vacuum-arc deposition method was observed using modern techniques of high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The crystallites formed by annealing have a face-centred cubic crystal structure and grow in the direction [01¯1¯] as a normal to the film surface. The number and size of the crystallites depend on the initial values of the intrinsic stresses before annealing, which in turn depend on the conditions of film growth. The sizes of crystallites are 10 nm for films with initial compressive stresses of 3 GPa and 17 nm for films with initial compressive stresses of 12 GPa. Areas of local crystallization arising during annealing have a structure different from the graphite. Additionally, the investigation results of the structure of nanoscale diamond-like carbon coatings films using Raman spectroscopy method are presented, which are consistent with the transmission electron microscopy research results.
Elastic response of (1 − x)Ba(Ti0.8Zr0.2)O3 – x(Ba0.7Ca0.3)TiO3 (x = 0.45–0.55) and the role of the intermediate orthorhombic phase in enhancing the piezoelectric coupling
Authors: Cordero F. , Craciun F. , Dinescu M. , Scarisoreanu N. , Galassi C. , Schranz W. , Soprunyuk V.
Published: December 2014

The elastic response of (Ba,Ca)(Ti,Zr)O3 at compositions where the piezoelectric effect is maximized has been measured by different methods between 1 Hz and 250 kHz and compared with that of PZT at the middle of its morphotropic phase boundary. In all cases, the compliance is peaked at the border between the tetragonal (T) and the orthorhombic (O) phases, intermediate between the T and the low-temperature rhombohedral phase. The anomalies do not exhibit dependence on frequency and their relative amplitude is 200–300 times larger than the losses, demonstrating that they are intrinsic rather than due to the domain wall motion. This also demonstrates the role of an intermediate O or monoclinic phase in enhancing the transverse instability and piezoelectric coupling at a (morphotropic) phase boundary between R and T phases.
Generalization of the Child-Langmuir law to the alternate extraction of positive and negative ions
Authors: Lafleur T. , Aanesland A.
Published: December 2014

Using a combined analytical and simulation approach, we investigate positive and negative ion extraction between two electrodes from an ion-ion plasma source. With a square voltage waveform applied to the electrodes, we obtain approximate analytical solutions for the time-averaged extracted current densities, which are given simply by: Jpac=[α−fLMpqpV0]Jpdc, and Jnac=[(1−α)−fLMnqnV0]Jndc, where Jac is the time-averaged current density, α is the square waveform duty cycle, f is the frequency, L is the electrode gap length, M is the ion mass, q is the ion charge, V0 is the applied voltage amplitude, Jdc is the dc extracted current density, and the subscripts p and n refer to positive and negative ions, respectively. In particular, if Jdc is the dc space-charge limited current density, then these equations describe the square waveform generalization of the Child-Langmuir law.
Gallium nitride L3 photonic crystal cavities with an average quality factor of 16 900 in the near infrared
Authors: Vico Triviño Noelia , Minkov Momchil , Urbinati Giulia , Galli Matteo , Carlin Jean-François , Butté Raphaël , Savona Vincenzo , Grandjean Nicolas
Published: December 2014

Photonic crystal point-defect cavities were fabricated in a GaN free-standing photonic crystal slab. The cavities are based on the popular L3 design, which was optimized using an automated process based on a genetic algorithm, in order to maximize the quality factor. Optical characterization of several individual cavity replicas resulted in an average unloaded quality factor Q = 16 900 at the resonant wavelength λ∼1.3 μm, with a maximal measured Q value of 22 500. The statistics of both the quality factor and the resonant wavelength are well explained by first-principles simulations including fabrication disorder and background optical absorption.
Evaporation-free inverted organic photovoltaics using a mixture of silver nanoparticle ink formulations for solution-processed top electrodes
Authors: Georgiou Efthymios , Savva Achilleas , Neophytou Marios , Hermerschmidt Felix , Demosthenous Tasos , Choulis Stelios A.
Published: December 2014

We report an investigation of inkjet-printed silver (Ag) nanoparticle inks combined with a poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) formulation for solution-processed top electrodes in inverted organic photovoltaics (OPVs) employing the poly(3-hexylthiopehene):phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester material system. We propose a suitable mixture of Ag nanoparticle inks to control the printability and electrical conductivity of the solution-processed top electrode. Based on the proposed solution-processed hole-selective contact, a power conversion efficiency in the range of 3% is reported for evaporation-free inverted OPVs.
A new population of the critically endangered central rock-rat (Zyzomys pedunculatus) discovered in the Northern Territory
Authors: McDonald Peter J. , Brittingham Richie , Nano Catherine , Paltridge Rachel
Published: December 2014

We surveyed for the critically endangered central rock-rat (Zyzomys pedunculatus) near Mt Edward, 70 km west of the nearest known extant population in the Northern Territory. We successfully recorded the species in rugged mountain habitat using baited camera traps and from remains recovered from cat scats collected in the area.
Nitrogen-Containing Ionic Liquids: Biodegradation Studies and Utility in Base-Mediated Reactions
Authors: Ford Leigh , Ylijoki Kai E. O. , Garcia M. Teresa , Singer Robert D. , Scammells Peter J.
Published: December 2014

Several ionic liquids (ILs) were prepared in order to study the susceptibility of various cores and substituents to biodegradability using the ‘CO2 headspace’ test (ISO 14593). Several of the ILs contained tertiary amine substituents and were tested as solvents and reagents for several base mediated processes including Suzuki–Miyaura, Sonogashira, Knoevenagel, and Morita–Baylis–Hilman reactions. It was found that although these ILs contain basic functionality, they do not promote base mediated reactions. Density functional theory molecular calculations confirmed that the protonation of these ILs is energetically unfavourable.
Active travel to work in NSW: trends over time and the effect of social advantage
Authors: Zander Alexis , Rissel Chris , Rogers Kris , Bauman Adrian
Published: December 2014

Issues addressed

Active travel can increase population levels of physical activity, but should be promoted equitably. Socioeconomic advantage, housing location and/or car ownership influence walking and cycling (active travel) for transport. We examined active commuting over time in the Sydney Greater Metropolitan Region, and associations between active commuting and socioeconomic advantage, urban/rural location and car ownership at a Local Government Area (LGA) level across New South Wales (NSW).

Methods

Journey to work data from the 2001, 2006 and 2011 Australian Census were examined. Associations between levels of active commuting in each LGA in NSW and the Socio‐Economic Index for Areas (SEIFA), Accessibility/Remoteness Index of Australia (ARIA) and car ownership were examined using negative binomial regression modelling.

Results

Between 2001 and 2011, active commuting increased in inner Sydney (relative increase of 24%), decreased slightly in outer Sydney (declined 5.1%) and declined in the Greater Metropolitan Region (down 15%). Overall, active commuting increased slightly (6.8% relative increase). After adjusting for the LGA age and sex profile and all other LGA variables, people living in NSW LGAs with high socioeconomic status, more rural areas and low car ownership were more likely to cycle or walk to work.

Conclusions

More needs to be done in NSW to increase levels of active commuting consistently across regions and sociodemographic groups.

So what?

Despite small increases in active travel in the Sydney region, active travel patterns are not evenly distributed across locations or populations.
Emergence of antibiotic resistance from multinucleated bacterial filaments
Authors: Bos Julia , Zhang Qiucen , Vyawahare Saurabh , Rogers Elizabeth , Rosenberg Susan M. , Austin Robert H.
Published: December 2014

Significance

Understanding how bacteria rapidly evolve under antibiotic selective pressure is crucial to controlling the development of resistant organisms. We show that initial resistance emerges from successful segregation of mutant chromosomes at the tips of filaments followed by budding of resistant progeny. We propose that the first stages of emergence of resistance occur via the generation of multiple chromosomes within the filament and are achieved by mutation and possibly recombination between the chromosomes.
Correspondence between Scale Morphometrics and Scale and Otolith Chemistry for Interpreting Juvenile Salmon Life Histories
Authors: Campbell Lance A. , Bottom Daniel L. , Volk Eric C. , Fleming Ian A.
Published: December 2014

Fish scales have long been used to reconstruct fine‐scale habitat transitions such as the movement of juvenile fish from freshwater, estuary, and ocean environments. Despite the importance of life history information to fisheries management and conservation, few studies have validated that scale morphology accurately describes fish movement between these habitats. Therefore, we tested the accuracy of using scale morphometric criteria to identify the movement of juvenile Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha from freshwater to marine portions of the Columbia River estuary by comparing scale morphometric classification, scale chemistry, and otolith chemistry. Nearly one‐half of all fish collected in the saline portion of the estuary and approximately one‐quarter in the freshwater portion exhibited morphometric patterns (i.e., scale checks and intermediate growth) often associated with periods of estuary rearing. Depending upon the criteria used to define scale checks, otolith chemical results indicated that 33–53% of fish would have been misclassified as estuary residents based solely on their scale patterns. Moreover, many individuals who had resided in strontium‐rich estuary water did not form a visible check (37%) on their scales to coincide with estuary entry. We estimated from otolith chemistry that these fish had either entered at or near the size at which scale formation occurs (35–42 mm) or had recently migrated to the saline portion of the estuary (<30 d) before new scale material could be formed and calcified. Scale chemistry alone was a good indicator of entrance into the saline portion of the estuary. Scale chemistry responded to the strontium‐enriched salt water, and explained 86% of the variation found in otolith chemistry. Scale morphometric classification did not provide the fine‐scale resolution that scale and, even more so, otolith chemistry provided for describing the proportion of juvenile Chinook salmon using the saline portion of the Columbia River estuary.

Received December 26, 2013; accepted August 28, 2014
Diverse galactooligosaccharides consumption by bifidobacteria: implications of β-galactosidase—LacS operon
Authors: Akiyama Takuya , Kimura Kazumasa , Hatano Hiroshi
Published: December 2014

Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) possess prebiotic properties that specifically increase the number of bifidobacteria in the human intestine, thus giving health benefits to the host. Although the bifidogenic effect of GOS has been demonstrated in numerous studies, the utilization of GOS by specific bifidobacteria remains unclear. The goal of our study was to elucidate GOS consumption by specific bifidobacteria and gain insights into the mechanism. First, we examined GOS consumption by 14 bifidobacterial strains belonging to seven different species by comparing growth rate, carbohydrate consumption, and acid production. We then performed a transcription analysis in the case of one strong GOS consumer, Bifidobacterium adolescentis YIT 4011T, to predict the operon contributing to GOS use. The study indicated the contribution of an operon consisted of LacS symporter and β-galactosidase to bifidobacterial GOS consumption.