bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One-step synthesis of graphene/polyaniline hybrids by in situ intercalation polymerization and their electromagnetic properties
Authors: Chen Xiangnan , Meng Fanchen , Zhou Zuowan , Tian Xin , Shan Liming , Zhu Shibu , Xu Xiaoling , Jiang Man , Wang Li , Hui David , Wang Yong , Lu Jun , Gou Jihua
Published: May 2014

A new approach has been put forward to efficiently synthesize graphene/PANi hybrids with significantly enhanced microwave absorption.
Switchable supramolecular assemblies on graphene
Authors: Zhou Qiaoyu , Li Yibao , Li Qiang , Wang Yibing , Yang Yanlian , Fang Ying , Wang Chen
Published: May 2014

Self-assembled supramolecular networks on graphene can be rationally designed by balancing between intermolecular and molecule–graphene interactions.
Manipulating the charge transfer at CuPc/graphene interface by O2plasma treatments
Authors: Mao Hongying , Hu Fang , Ye Quan-Lin , Xu Yifeng , Yang Xuxin , Lu Bin
Published: May 2014

The manipulation of charge transfer at CuPc/graphene interface has been demonstrated by treating pristine graphene with O2plasma.
WO3 and Ag nanoparticle co-sensitized TiO2 nanowires: preparation and the enhancement of photocatalytic activity
Authors: Li Yang , Wu Wenjian , Dai Peng , Zhang Lili , Sun Zhaoqi , Li Guang , Wu Mingzai , Chen Xiaoshuang , Chen Changle
Published: May 2014

TiO2 nanowires decorated with Ag and WO3 nanoparticles and the schematic diagram of charge carriers' separation in Ag–WO3/TiO2 photcatalyst.
Brønsted acidic ionic liquid catalyzed tandem reaction of 4-hydroxy-1-methyl-2-quinolone with chalcone: regioselective synthesis of pyrano[3,2-c]quinolin-2-ones
Authors: Bagdi Avik Kumar , Hajra Alakananda
Published: May 2014

Task specific ionic liquid [1-methyl-3-(4-sulfobutyl)imidazolium-4-methylbenzenesulfonate] is an excellent catalyst for the synthesis of pyrano[3,2-c]quinolin-2-one derivatives.
The Baylis–Hillman acetates in organic synthesis: Unprecedented sodium nitrite induced intramolecular Friedel–Crafts cyclization of secondary nitro compounds
Authors: Basavaiah Deevi , Reddy Daggula Mallikarjuna
Published: May 2014

Unprecedented sodium nitrite mediated intramolecular Friedel–Crafts cyclization of alkyl (E)-2-arylidene-4-nitroalkanoates and (E)-3-arylidene-5-nitroalkan-2-ones derived from Baylis–Hillman acetates has been described.
Transition metal-free asymmetric and diastereoselective allylic alkylation using Grignard reagents: construction of vicinal stereogenic centers via kinetic resolution
Authors: Grassi David , Alexakis Alexandre
Published: May 2014

The first transition metal-free catalyzed diastereoselective and enantioselective asymmetric allylic alkylation (AAA) has been disclosed leading to the construction of vicinal tertiary/quaternary centers via a kinetic resolution protocol starting from readily available starting materials.
Hierarchical CNT@NiCo2O4core–shell hybrid nanostructure for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Cai Feng , Kang Yiran , Chen Hongyuan , Chen Minghai , Li Qingwen
Published: May 2014

Ultrathin NiCo2O4nanosheets directly grown on one-dimensional CNTs, as high-performance electrode materials for supercapacitors, were synthesized through a facile chemical co-deposition process combined with post-calcination in air.
Molecular dynamics simulation of strong interaction mechanisms at wet interfaces in clay–polysaccharide nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Yan , Wohlert Jakob , Berglund Lars A. , Tu Yaoquan , Ågren Hans
Published: May 2014

The thermodynamics of xyloglucan adsorption to montmorillonite clay in water was studied with molecular dynamics simulations.
Adaptive multi‐task compressive sensing for localisation in wireless local area networks
Authors: Li Rongpeng , Zhao Zhifeng , Zhang Yuan , Palicot Jacques , Zhang Honggang
Published: May 2014

The spatially distributed sparsity of the mobile devices (MDs) in indoor wireless local area networks (WLANs) makes compressive sensing (CS) based localisation algorithms feasible and desirable. In this Letter, the authors exploit the most recent developments in CS to efficiently perform localisation in WLANs and design an accurate indoor localisation scheme by taking advantage of the theory of multi‐task Bayesian CS (MBCS). The proposed scheme assembles the strength measurements of signals from the MDs to distinct access points (APs) and jointly utilises them at a central unit or a specific AP to achieve localisation, thus being able to alleviate the burden of MDs while simultaneously giving a precise estimation of the locations. Afterwards, they give a deeper insight into the localisation problem in more practical scenarios with varying number of MDs and investigate two different adaptive algorithms to meet the satisfactory localisation error requirement. Compared with the conventional MBCS algorithms, simulation results validate that both adaptive algorithms could provide superior localisation accuracy and exhibit stronger resilience to the changes in the number of MDs.
Synthesis of Heterocyclic-fused Imidazoles by Pyrolysis of N-Heterocyclic Isoxazol-5(2H)-ones
Authors: Abel Steven-Alan G. , Eglinton Mathew O. , Howard James K. , Hunt Dylan J. , Prager Rolf H. , Smith Jason A.
Published: May 2014

The synthesis of heterocyclic-fused imidazoles was achieved by flash vacuum pyrolysis (FVP) of N-heterocyclic isoxazol-5(2H)-ones via an iminocarbene intermediate. Unlike iminocarbenes generated from triazoles, no structural rearrangements were observed during the current synthesis method. We also demonstrated that less volatile isoxazol-5(2H)-one derivatives yield the corresponding imidazoles by condensed phase pyrolysis.
The dentition of the narrownose smooth-hound shark, Mustelus schmitti
Authors: Belleggia Mauro , Figueroa Daniel E. , Bremec Claudia
Published: May 2014

The present study provides a quantitative and qualitative analysis on the dentition of Mustelus schmitti, and estimates the tooth-replacement rate. In total, 47 males and 56 females of M. schmitti were collected on scientific trawl surveys conducted by the National Institute of Fisheries Research and Development (INIDEP) in Argentina during the months of November 2007, November 2008 and December 2008. The dental laminas were extracted from the jaw cartilage and attached to onionskin paper for dehydration treatment, maintaining the original jaw position. Tooth replacement rate was estimated following established methods used for fossil sharks, instead of the established technique of clipping teeth, based on the premise that tooth length within each row decreases from the lingual to the labial side of the jaw as a consequence of wear. The length difference between consecutive teeth in four representative rows should be proportional to the tooth-replacement rate. Mustelus schmitti exhibited homodont dentition, where teeth were similar in shape or design, and are arranged in a semi-pavement-like dentition. The dental formula was 47-63/50-63 for juveniles and 50-77/50-69 for adult specimens. The estimated mean replacement rate was 4 days series–1.
Resilience of the macroinvertebrate community of a small mountain river (Mau River, Portugal) subject to multiple stresses
Authors: Vidal Tânia , Santos Joana I. , Marques Catarina R. , Pereira Joana L. , Claro Maria Teresa , Pereira Ruth , Castro Bruno B. , Soares Amadeu , Gonçalves Fernando
Published: May 2014

Freshwaters commonly face human pressure, which produces multiple stressor scenarios that may threaten their ecological status. Biotic community assessments are useful tools to monitor such changes, and the European Water Framework Directive (WFD) has brought this into the legislative framework. The present study focused on a small mountain river facing multiple stresses, with the purpose of (1) evaluating the sensitivity of the macroinvertebrate community to the stresses, (2) assessing whether the ecological status was impaired in different years and (3) comparing the WFD approach with more refined community analyses. The river was generally in a very good ecological state. Despite seasonal and inter-annual fluctuations, no evident stressor-related effects were detected. We hypothesise that the observed resilience was the result of (1) the current dormant state of the abandoned mining areas (the most relevant potential source of contamination) and (2) the naturalness and strong current of the river, which buffered the impacts of contamination. Such a pattern may be generally valid for small mountain rivers, making them therefore more resilient to stresses. Nevertheless, small changes in community structure in the lowest reach of the river – undetected by the WFD assessment scheme – suggest that some disturbance was present, signalling the need for intervention by managers.
A rapid survey method for estimating population density of European rabbits living in native vegetation
Authors: Mutze Greg , Cooke Brian , Lethbridge Mark , Jennings Scott
Published: May 2014

European rabbits are severe environmental pests in Australia but reporting of density-damage relationships has been hindered by a lack of simple methods to estimate the density of rabbit populations in native vegetation. A methodology for quantifying rabbit densities suitable for use in sparse populations of rabbits in conjunction with surveys of the condition of native vegetation is proposed. Dung pellets were counted in 11 629 regularly-spaced quadrats of 0.1 m2 in semiarid, coastal and cool-temperate areas of southern Australia. Mean pellet counts in latrines and the relationship between dung counts outside of latrines and the proportion of quadrats falling on latrines were quantified. This allowed density of dung pellets to be estimated by using a correction factor for latrines instead of attempting to count all pellets within quadrats that included parts of latrines. Rabbit density was calculated from pellet density based on mean pellet size, pellet breakdown rate and estimates of rabbits’ dry matter intake and digestive efficiency. Results were validated against estimates of rabbit density from long-term studies using a combination of spotlight transect counts and burrow entrance counts. The proposed methodology allows estimates of rabbit density in native vegetation to be obtained from just a few hours work and can be used in conjunction with surveys of the condition of native vegetation to quantify rabbit impacts. This methodology is seen as particularly useful in providing a tool to allow rabbit densities to be estimated and then compared with the thresholds, determined separately, at which damage occurs for given ecosystems.
The oral microbiome.
Authors: Zaura E. , Koopman J. E. , y Mostajo M. F. , Crielaard W.
Published: May 2014

This chapter provides an overview on the diversity and composition of the oral microbiome of healthy individuals, including relevant species of bacteria, Archaea, fungi and viruses.
Models of the human microbiota and microbiome in vitro.
Authors: Marzorati M. , Abbeele P. van den , Grootaert C. , Weirdt R. de , Carcavilla A. M. , Vermeiren J. , Wiele T. van de
Published: May 2014

This chapter describes in vitro models of the gastrointestinal tract currently used in static and dynamic simulation studies of host-microbial interactions in the digestive tract.
The HCR-20 Version 3: A Case Study in Risk Formulation
Authors: Logan Caroline
Published: May 2014

The third edition of the HCR-20 (HCR-20V3, Douglas, Hart, Webster, et al., 2013) consolidates essential recent thinking about risk assessment and management using the structured professional judgement approach. As with the preceding Risk for Sexual Violence Protocol (Hart, Kropp, Laws et al., 2003), risk factors for violence are now assessed for their relevance as well as presence, scenario planning has a central place in anticipating the nature, severity, imminence and likelihood of future harm, and risk management strategies must incorporate a combination of treatment, supervision, monitoring and victim safety planning interventions and recommendations. However, the key process now proposed for linking the assessment and overall management of risk is risk formulation—the act of understanding the underlying mechanism of an individual's harm potential in order to develop sensitive and proportionate hypotheses to facilitate change (embodied within the risk management plan). In this paper, the process of risk formulation is described and illustrated with a case study—Paul. A brief report of the risk assessment, formulation and management recommendations for Paul illustrate the key features of what is recommended in the new version of this internationally renowned violence risk guide. However, empirical research into risk formulation remains outstanding.
Predicting Post-Discharge Community Violence in England and Wales Using the HCR-20V3
Authors: Doyle Michael , Power Laura Archer , Coid Jeremy , Kallis Constantinos , Ullrich Simone , Shaw Jenny
Published: May 2014

Structured guidelines are fundamental for risk assessment, formulation and decision-making in medium secure forensic psychiatric services in the UK. The most commonly used guideline for violence risk assessment in the UK is the HCR-20, so it is important that the new version of the HCR-20 (HCR-20V3) is validated in UK samples. The aims of this study were to investigate if the HCR-20V3 has satisfactory interrater reliability and predictive validity for community violence. A prospective confidential inquiry design was used. The HCR-20V3 demonstrated very good inter-rater reliability and significantly predicted community violence at six and twelve months post-discharge, with ROC AUCs of .73 and .70 respectively. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
The Use of the HCR-20V3 in Dutch Forensic Psychiatric Practice
Authors: de Vogel Vivienne , van den Broek Ellen , de Vries Robbé Michiel
Published: May 2014

In this article, the applicability of the recently published HCR-20V3 for violence risk assessment in forensic psychiatric practice is discussed. This revision of the HCR-20 is the result of a multi-year development process based on worldwide empirical research, clinical expertise and consultation. Recently, the HCR-20V3 was implemented in Dutch forensic psychiatric practice by a research team that was also involved in beta-testing and pilot research into the interrater reliability and predictive validity of the first HCR-20V3 Draft version. This paper presents results of this beta-testing and the pilot study, as well as results from a recently conducted survey into the clinical value and applicability of the Dutch HCR-20V3. Overall, the results demonstrate that the HCR-20V3 is a promising revision with sound psychometric properties and improvements compared to the prior version of the HCR-20 for violence risk assessment and management. Furthermore, the first impressions of 192 workshop participants about the HCR-20V3 were positive. To illustrate the applicability of the HCR-20V3 for risk assessment and management in forensic clinical practice, a detailed forensic case study is presented.
Mainstreaming Failure or a Small Measure of Success? Observations from a Large-scale Pcia in Post-war Sri Lanka
Authors: Achitei Simona
Published: May 2014

In May 2009, controversies emerged over Sri Lanka's human rights record in the last stages of the 27-year civil war between the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). At the same time, a complex post-war environment characterised by the shifting of government and foreign donor priorities, accelerated economic development and profound socio-political transformations created a difficult context for humanitarian and development interventions. The following is an evaluation of the successes and failures of Peace and Conflict Impact Assessment (PCIA) processes, not only with reference to their original intent, but also by considering their intrinsic relationship with the political and politicised context where they have taken place. This article argues that donor-driven PCIA processes are most effective as intelligence-gathering exercises that can adequately inform decision-making mechanisms at the macro-level while promoting principles of community empowerment at the micro-level. As showcased in Sri Lanka, PCIA has the added potential to breach the narrow confines of its mandate by enabling local communities to make a public claim for justice and accountability.
Peace and Conflict Impact Assessment in Somalia: Opportunities for Empowerment of Ethnic Minorities
Authors: Barasa-Mang'eni Edwin
Published: May 2014

Peace and conflict impact assessment (PCIA) has gained popularity within contexts that experience instability and armed conflict. This paper examines the Somali context, notably where attempts have been made by international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) and United Nations (UN) agencies to apply PCIA in facilitating sustainable development. Exploring the linkage between sustainable development and peace, this discussion examines the plight of minority ethnic groups in Somalia, the related power dynamics within the local socio-political environment, and how this effects wider trends of participation in development. The article argues that with improved application PCIA can be an effective tool for empowering the marginalised and creating opportunities for them to define their own paths towards peace and sustainable development.
Localizing Transformation: Addressing Clan Feuds in Mindanao through Pcia
Authors: Macabuac-Ferolin Maria Cecilia , Constantino Norma V.
Published: May 2014

A Peace and Conflict Impact Assessment (PCIA) was instrumental in advancing peace and development in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) communities of the Philippines. It is a region beset with organised violence due to long-running family and clan feuds known as ridos. This violence has not only caused suffering to the local population in terms of loss of life but has also greatly impacted on its social, economic and cultural life. The PCIA provided a process whereby the community, especially the feuding families, assumed responsibility for rido-related acts and committed themselves to settling the conflict. In the process, PCIA has facilitated not only ‘community-building’ but also the ‘capacity-building’ of local people wherey they have assumed full responsibility for their peace and development. Moreover, through the PCIA process, women's role, despite being ‘invisible’ in this deeply patriarchal society, proved to be an essential component of community peacebuilding.
Some participants may be better than others: Sustained attention and motivation are higher early in semester
Authors: Nicholls Michael E. R. , Loveless Kellie M. , Thomas Nicole A. , Loetscher Tobias , Churches Owen
Published: May 2014

Many studies use multiexperiment designs where experiments are carried out at different times of semester. When comparing between experiments, the data may be confounded by between-participants effects related to motivation. Research indicates that course-credit participants who engage in research early in semester have different personality and performance characteristics compared to those tested late in semester. This study examined whether the semester effect is caused by internal (inherent motivation of the participant) or external (looming exams, essays) factors. To do this, sustained attention and intrinsic/extrinsic motivation was measured in groups of course-credit ( n = 40) and paid ( n = 40) participants early and late in semester. While there was no difference in sustained attention between the groups early in semester, the course-credit group performed significantly worse late in semester. The course-credit group also showed a significant decrease in intrinsic motivation with time whereas the paid participants showed no change. Because changes were not seen for both groups, the semester difference cannot be due to external factors. Instead, the data demonstrate that course-credit participants who engage early have high sustained attention and intrinsic motivation compared to their late counterparts, who leave their participation to the last minute. Researchers who use multiexperimental designs across semester need to control for these effects—perhaps by using paid participants who do not vary across semester.
Australia's lost children at play: the films of Baz Luhrmann
Authors: Waddell Terrie
Published: May 2014

This article examines the body of locally and internationally produced cinema by Australian director Baz Luhrmann. A filmmaker who in the past has struggled to achieve critical credibility in the mainstream press, Luhrmann is consistently supported by multinationals like 20th Century Fox for his mass domestic and global appeal. Of interest in this analysis is the way in which each film plays with the dominant Australian cultural complex of the ‘lost child’. Rather than repeating the themes of helplessness and abandonment central to much Australian storytelling, Luhrmann invites us to play with the concept of being ‘lost’ – exploring it with childlike wonder and awe. His work has the promise of opening up a (Winnicottian)potential spaceof exploration, where we are invited to embrace being lost as way of entering into self and cultural discovery. It is likely that thisreturnto play and creativity, in the extreme style that has become synonymous with Luhrmann, is the source of his audience loyalty.
Do Brains Have an Arrow of Time?
Authors: Smith Ryan
Published: May 2014

There is a persisting tension that exists between the block universe conception of time in modern physics and philosophy and the conception of time that stems naturally from experience, and entropic asymmetries have been proposed to explain this tension. This article argues that as biochemical processes in the brain depend upon spontaneous entropy increases in the forward-time direction, this should provide an entropic basis for the unidirectionality of psychological processes. As this view does not depend on considerations of abstract information processing or a past hypothesis, it provides advantages over previous entropy-based proposals attempting to explain asymmetries in temporal experience.
The Practical Value of Biological Information for Research
Authors: Sterner Beckett
Published: May 2014

Many philosophers are skeptical about the scientific value of the concept of biological information. However, several have recently proposed a more positive view of ascribing information as an exercise in scientific modeling. I argue for an alternative role: guiding empirical data collection for the sake of theorizing about the evolution of semantics. I clarify and expand on Bergstrom and Rosvall’s suggestion of taking a “diagnostic” approach that defines biological information operationally as a procedure for collecting empirical cases. The more recent modeling-based accounts still perpetuate a theory-centric view of scientific concepts, which motivated philosophers’ misplaced skepticism in the first place.
The Geometry of Conventionality
Authors: Weatherall James Owen , Manchak John Byron
Published: May 2014

There is a venerable position in the philosophy of space and time that holds that the geometry of spacetime is conventional, provided one is willing to postulate a “universal force field.” Here we ask a more focused question, inspired by this literature: in the context of our best classical theories of space and time, if one understands “force” in the standard way, can one accommodate different geometries by postulating a new force field? We argue that the answer depends on one’s theory. In Newtonian gravitation the answer is yes; in relativity theory, it is no.
On the Jeffreys-Lindley Paradox
Authors: Robert Christian P.
Published: May 2014

This article discusses the dual interpretation of the Jeffreys-Lindley paradox associated with Bayesian posterior probabilities and Bayes factors, both as a differentiation between frequentist and Bayesian statistics and as a pointer to the difficulty of using improper priors while testing. I stress the considerable impact of this paradox on the foundations of both classical and Bayesian statistics. While assessing existing resolutions of the paradox, I focus on a critical viewpoint of the paradox discussed by Spanos inPhilosophy of Science.
On a directionally reinforced random walk
Authors: Ghosh Arka , Rastegar Reza , Roitershtein Alexander
Published: May 2014

We consider a generalized version of a directionally reinforced random walk, which was originally introduced by Mauldin, Monticino, and von Weizsäcker. Our main result is a stable limit theorem for the position of the random walk in higher dimensions. This extends a result of Horváth and Shao that was previously obtained in dimension one only (however, in a more stringent functional form).
Uniform bounds for preperiodic points in families of twists
Authors: Levy Alon , Manes Michelle , Thompson Bianca
Published: May 2014

Let

ϕ
\phi

be a morphism of

P

N

\mathbb {P}^N

defined over a number field

K
.

K.

We prove that there is a bound

B
B

depending only on

ϕ
\phi

such that every twist of

ϕ
\phi

has no more than

B
B

K
K

-rational preperiodic points. (This result is analogous to a result of Silverman for abelian varieties.) For two specific families of quadratic rational maps over

Q

\mathbb {Q}

, we find the bound

B
B

explicitly.
A dwindling filter line search method for unconstrained optimization
Authors: Chen Yannan , Sun Wenyu
Published: May 2014

A dwindling multidimensional filter is proposed and applied to a second-order line search framework for unconstrained optimization. Usually, the multidimensional filter is built up with a fixed envelope, which is not well-suited to line search frameworks. In this paper, we propose the dwindling multidimensional filter, whose envelope is dwindling as the step-length of line search decreasing. Combining the dwindling multidimensional filter and a second-order line search, the new algorithm globally converges to a second-order critical point, when the negative curvature direction is exploited. Detailed numerical results on small and large CUTE test problems indicate that the new algorithm is more competitive than some classical line search methods.
Geology, tectonics and topography underlined by L'Aquila earthquake TIR precursors
Authors: Piroddi Luca , Ranieri Gaetano , Freund Friedemann , Trogu Antonio
Published: May 2014

Anomalous thermal infrared (TIR) emissions have widely been detected by satellite sensors before the major earthquakes. A recent processing technique for geostationary thermal data, developed for the case of the 2009 April 6, magnitude 6.3 L'Aquila earthquake, makes it possible to identify areas of enhanced TIR emissions around the epicentral region at a mean distance of less than 50 km but inside a radius of about 100 km. The index, called Night Thermal Gradient (NTG), derived from 4-D time-series data (two spatial and two temporal coordinates), identifies TIR anomalies by following the temperature trend during night, when the surface of the Earth is expected to cool. Leading up to the L'Aquila earthquake, an anomalous warming trend was observed. In this study, the anomalous NTG pattern is compared to the expected normal trend, taking into account the seismogenic faults, the overall tectonic setting, lithological spatial features, the orography and world stress map near the epicentral region. Main results are that a certain lithological selectivity can be recognized and that the known main stress field and seismogenic faults seem to be less important than certain tectonic lineaments, which are classified as non-seismogenic. The strong correlation between the topography and the TIR anomalies is in agreement with proposed physical mechanism for the generation of TIR anomalies. This relation is, in turn, present mainly in correspondence to two tectonic lineaments which in particular are thrusts: therefore, strong compressive states seem to be a positive condition for the generation of TIR anomalies. The temporary modification of these stress fields have triggered the Paganica Fault to its normal rupture mechanism. It is important to note that the distances, over which the TIR anomalies occurred, are an order of magnitude larger than the estimated length of the main fault rupture. Pixel-by-pixel time-series comparisons between the maximum TIR anomaly area and the epicentre of the main shock show that the increase in radiative emission occurred in the areas of maximum TIR anomalies and did not start by spreading outward from the epicentral region.
Costly sexual dimorphism in Cyclommatus metallifer stag beetles
Authors: Goyens Jana , Dirckx Joris , Aerts Peter
Published: May 2014

In many animal species, male armature has evolved through sexual selection. This male weaponry can increase reproductive success, but only if the owner overcomes the associated costs.

Male stag beetles bear one of the most extreme examples of male weaponry: their mandibles can be almost as long as their own body. We question whether the armature of male Cyclommatus metallifer negatively affects terrestrial locomotion (stability and cost). If so, we investigate whether these effects are potentially compensated by morphological and/or behavioural features, as seen in other specialized insect species. Conspecific females are used to represent the non‐dimorphed condition.

The presence of the huge male mandibular apparatus shifts the body centre of mass (bCOM) anteriorly. Concomitantly, the male fore limbs are 28% longer and are systematically positioned in a more anterior angular sector than in females. Thus, the rostral border of the support area of the leg tripod also moves forward. This suggests a stability enhancing mechanism. However, in contrast to load‐carrying ants, the anteriorly placed bCOM still creates two pronounced statically instable periods each locomotor cycle.

Due to the static instability, males must adjust their locomotor behaviour: they walk at higher cycle frequencies when compared to females of the same size, to ensure they proceed to the next stance before bumping to the ground with their heavy heads.

Contrary to other specialized load‐carrying insect species, the (muscle) mass specific mechanical cost of transport of males exceeds that of females by 40%.

Since neither stability nor cost of transport benefit from the male forelimb size and positioning, their role in guaranteeing adequate terrestrial locomotion while carrying an enlarged mandibular apparatus seems doubtful. Instead, the long limbs are themselves functional in fights, by pitching the body upwards in order to throw opponents backwards.

The oversized male stag beetle armature comes at high ecological costs: locomotion economics as well as stability clearly suffer from the large mandibles. The observed limb length dimorphism does not prevent this, but should probably be considered part of sexual selection, rather than a compensation for its consequences.
The Class Characteristic Mark of the H&M Mul‐T‐Lock Picking Tool in Toolmarks Examination
Authors: Volkov Nikolai , Finkelstein Nir , Novoselsky Yehuda , Tsach Tsadok
Published: May 2014

Mul‐T‐Lock is a high security lock cylinder distinguished by the use of a telescoping “pin‐in‐pin”—tumbler design. Picking the Mul‐T‐Lock cylinder with a traditional picking tool is highly complicated because it can get stuck between the inner and outer pins. The H&M Mul‐T‐Lock picking tool was designed to overcome this problem and facilitate the picking of the “pin‐in‐pin” cylinder. The purpose of this research is to determine whether H&M Mul‐T‐Lock picking tool leaves class characteristic mark and whether it can be distinguished from traditional picking tools marks and from regular key marks. It also describes and determines the class characteristic mark left on telescopic pins, its origin, recurrence, and its benefit to the toolmarks examiner. When receiving a Mul‐T‐Lock from a crime scene, a toolmarks examiner can quickly determine whether or not it was picked by an H&M Mul‐T‐Lock picking tool by noticing the class characteristic mark which this typical tool leaves.
Proposed diagnostic algorithm for patients with suspected mastocytosis: a proposal of the European Competence Network on Mastocytosis
Authors: Valent P. , Escribano L. , Broesby‐Olsen S. , Hartmann K. , Grattan C. , Brockow K. , Niedoszytko M. , Nedoszytko B. , Oude Elberink J. N. G. , Kristensen T. , Butterfield J. H. , Triggiani M. , Alvarez‐Twose I. , Reiter A. , Sperr W. R. , Sotlar K. , Yavuz S. , Kluin‐Nelemans H. C. , Hermine O. , Radia D. , van Doormaal J. J. , Gotlib J. , Orfao A. , Siebenhaar F. , Schwartz L. B. , Castells M. , Maurer M. , Horny H.‐P. , Akin C. , Metcalfe D. D. , Arock M.
Published: May 2014

Mastocytosis is an emerging differential diagnosis in patients with more or less specific mediator‐related symptoms. In some of these patients, typical skin lesions are found and the diagnosis of mastocytosis can be established. In other cases, however, skin lesions are absent, which represents a diagnostic challenge. In the light of this unmet need, we developed a diagnostic algorithm for patients with suspected mastocytosis. In adult patients with typical lesions of mastocytosis in the skin, a bone marrow (BM) biopsy should be considered, regardless of the basal serum tryptase concentration. In adults without skin lesions who suffer from mediator‐related or other typical symptoms, the basal tryptase level is an important parameter. In those with a slightly increased tryptase level, additional investigations, including a sensitive KIT mutation analysis of blood leucocytes or measurement of urinary histamine metabolites, may be helpful. In adult patients in whom (i) KIT D816V is detected and/or (ii) the basal serum tryptase level is clearly increased (>25–30 ng/ml) and/or (iii) other clinical or laboratory features suggest the presence of ‘occult’ mastocytosis or another haematologic neoplasm, a BM investigation is recommended. In the absence of KIT D816V and other signs or symptoms of mastocytosis or another haematopoietic disease, no BM investigation is required, but the clinical course and tryptase levels are monitored in the follow‐up. In paediatric patients, a BM investigation is usually not required, even if the tryptase level is increased. Although validation is required, it can be expected that the algorithm proposed herein will facilitate the management of patients with suspected mastocytosis and help avoid unnecessary referrals and investigations.
The impact of a history of childhood nocturnal enuresis on adult nocturia and urgency
Authors: Akashi Shunji , Tomita Kazue
Published: May 2014

Aim

This study examined the association between a childhood history of nocturnal enuresis and nocturia and urgency as an adult.

Methods

A questionnaire was completed by 3649 parents and grandparents of children with nocturnal enuresis. The age range of the respondents was 30–89, and 54% were female. The questionnaire included the respondent's age, underlying disease, the age at which nocturnal enuresis was resolved and any current nocturia and urgency.

Results

The responses enabled us to analyse the risk factors for nocturia and urgency for the total sample, the history of nocturnal eneurisis for 2555 adults aged from 30 to 79 years and the age when nocturnal enuresis resolved for 1300 adults aged from 30 to 49 years. Respondents were significantly more likely to have nocturia and urgency as adults if they had a history of nocturnal enuresis and were aged ≥12 years when their nocturnal enuresis resolved.

Conclusions

A childhood history of nocturnal enuresis, particularly nocturnal enuresis that resolved at ≥12 years old, was associated with an increased frequency of adult nocturia and urgency. The impact of previous nocturnal enuresis on adult nocturia and urgency presents a risk that is comparable to ageing and prostatic disease.
Arctigenin Promotes Apoptosis in Ovarian Cancer Cells via the iNOS/NO/STAT3/Survivin Signalling
Authors: Huang Ke , Li Li‐an , Meng Yuan‐guang , You Yan‐qin , Fu Xiao‐yu , Song Lei
Published: May 2014

Arctigenin is a biologically active lignan extracted from the seeds of Arctium lappa and shows anticancer activity against a variety of human cancers. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of arctigenin on ovarian cancer cell proliferation and survival and associated molecular mechanisms. Human ovarian cancer OVCAR3 and SKOV3 cells were treated with arctigenin, and cell proliferation and apoptosis were assessed. Western blot analysis was used to examine signal transducer and activator of transcription‐3 (STAT3) phosphorylation and survivin and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression. The involvement of STAT3/survivin/iNOS/NO signalling in arctigenin action was checked. Arctigenin treatment resulted in a significant and dose‐dependent inhibition of cell proliferation. Arctigenin‐treated cells showed a 4–6 times increase in the percentage of apoptosis, compared with control cells. Pre‐treatment with Ac‐DEVD‐CHO, a specific inhibitor of caspase‐3, counteracted the induction of apoptosis by arctigenin. Arctigenin treatment significantly inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation and survivin and iNOS expression. Arctigenin‐induced apoptosis was impaired by pre‐transfection with survivin‐expressing plasmid or addition of chemical nitric oxide (NO) donors. Additionally, exogenous NO prevented the suppression of STAT3 phosphorylation and survivin expression by arctigenin. Arctigenin treatment inhibits the proliferation and induces caspase‐3‐dependent apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells. Suppression of iNOS/NO/STAT3/survivin signalling is causally linked to the anticancer activity of arctigenin. Therefore, arctigenin may be applicable to anticancer therapy for ovarian cancer.
Time now toTORCtheTORC? New developments in mTORpathway inhibition in lymphoid malignancies
Authors: Eyre Toby A. , Collins Graham P. , Goldstone Anthony H. , Cwynarski Kate
Published: May 2014

Since the discovery of rapamycin in Easter Island soil in 1975, more has been learnt about the relevance and importance of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in cell signalling, proliferation and ultimately tumourigenesis. Rapamycin targets the mTORC1 complex alone. Despite initial excitement, rapamycin and its analogues, everolimus and temsirolimus, have displayed limited efficacy in the treatment of lymphoid malignancies. This review highlights the important and well‐described aspects of the critical phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate 3‐kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mTORpathway and discusses the mechanisms of action of rapamycin, its clinical efficacy in lymphoid malignancies, and the mechanisms of resistance. Renewed interest in targeting the pathway has evolved through the discovery of mTORC2, a protein complex associated with a key mechanism of resistance to first generation mTOR inhibitors. As such, novel dual inhibitors of mTORC1 andmTORC2 have been developed, along with other dual inhibitors of the mTORpathway. The evolution in the development of dual inhibitors is described herein, along with the burgeoningin vitro, pre‐clinical data and the early phase clinical data available. Although historically mTORinhibitors have been used extensively in haematopoietic and solid organ transplant prophylaxis, this review will focus on developments of their use in lymphoid malignancies.
Combined injection of three different lineages of early‐differentiating human amniotic fluid‐derived cells restores urethral sphincter function in urinary incontinence
Authors: Chun So Young , Kwon Joon Beom , Chae Seon Yeong , Lee Jong Kil , Bae Jae‐sung , Kim Bum Soo , Kim Hyun Tae , Yoo Eun Sang , Lim Jeong Ok , Yoo James J , Kim Wun‐Jae , Kim Bup Wan , Kwon Tae Gyun
Published: May 2014

Objective

To investigate whether a triple combination of early‐differentiated cells derived from human amniotic fluid stem cells (hAFSCs) would show synergistic effects in urethral sphincter regeneration.

Materials and Methods

We early‐differentiated hAFSCs into muscle, neuron and endothelial progenitor cells and then injected them into the urethral sphincter region of pudendal neurectomized ICR mice, as single‐cell, double‐cell or triple‐cell combinations. Urodynamic studies and histological, immunohistochemical and molecular analyses were performed.

Results

Urodynamic study showed significantly improved leak point pressure in the triple‐cell‐combination group compared with the single‐cell‐ or double‐cell‐combination groups. These functional results were confirmed by histological and immunohistochemical analyses, as evidenced by the formation of new striated muscle fibres and neuromuscular junctions at the cell injection site. Molecular analysis showed higher target marker expression in the retrieved urethral tissue of the triple‐cell‐combination group. The injection of early‐differentiated hAFSCs suppressed in vivo host CD8 lymphocyte aggregations and did not form teratoma. The nanoparticle‐labelled early‐differentiated hAFSCs could be tracked in vivo with optical imaging for up to 14 days after injection.

Conclusion

Our novel concept of triple‐combined early‐differentiated cell therapy for the damaged sphincter may provide a viable option for incontinence treatment.
Inhibitory role of phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate on TMEM16A‐encoded calcium‐activated chloride channels in rat pulmonary artery
Authors: Pritchard H A T , Leblanc N , Albert A P , Greenwood I A
Published: May 2014

Background and Purpose

Calcium‐activated chloride channels (CaCCs) are key depolarizing mechanisms that have an important role in vascular smooth muscle contraction. Here, we investigated whether these channels are regulated by phosphatidylinositol (4,5) bisphosphate [P(4,5)P2], a known regulator of various ion channels.

Experimental Approach

Calcium‐activated Cl− currents (IClCa) were recorded by patch clamp electrophysiology of rat isolated pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells. TMEM16A protein‐phosphoinositide interaction was studied by co‐immunoprecipitation and phosphoinositide binding arrays on protein lysates from whole pulmonary arteries and HEK293 cells overexpressing TMEM16A, the molecular correlate.

Key Results

PI(4,5)P2 and other phospholipids were shown to bind directly to TMEM16A isolated from whole pulmonary artery (PA) and TMEM16A‐eGFP expressed in HEK293 cells. Agents that reduced PI(4,5)P2 levels through different routes [PLC activation, PI4K inhibition, PI(4,5)P2 scavenging and absorption] all increased IClCa evoked by solutions containing clamped‐free [Ca2+], whereas enrichment of activating solutions with PI(4,5)P2 inhibited IClca in PA smooth muscle cells with approximately 50% reduction at 1 μM.

Conclusions and Implications

These data are the first to show a negative regulation of TMEM16A‐encoded CaCCs by PI(4,5)P2 and propose that control of PI(4,5)P2 levels is a key determinant of arterial physiology.
Preclinical antitumor activity of S‐222611, an oral reversible tyrosine kinase inhibitor of epidermal growth factor receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2
Authors: Tanaka Hidekazu , Hirata Michinari , Shinonome Satomi , Wada Toru , Iguchi Motofumi , Dohi Keiji , Inoue Makiko , Ishioka Yukichi , Hojo Kanji , Yamada Tomomi , Sugimoto Tatsuya , Masuno Koichi , Nezasa Ken‐ichi , Sato Norihito , Matsuo Kenji , Yonezawa Shuji , Frenkel Eugene P. , Shichijo Michitaka
Published: May 2014

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) are validated molecular targets in cancer therapy. Dual blockade has been explored and one such agent, lapatinib, is in clinical practice but with modest activity. Through chemical screening, we discovered a novel EGFR and HER2 inhibitor, S‐222611, that selectively inhibited both kinases with IC50s below 10 nmol/L. S‐222611 also inhibited intracellular kinase activity and the growth of EGFR‐expressing and HER2‐expressing cancer cells. In addition, S‐222611 showed potent antitumor activity over lapatinib in a variety of xenograft models. In evaluations with two patient‐oriented models, the intrafemoral implantation model and the intracranial implantation model, S‐222611 exhibited excellent activity and could be effective against bone and brain metastasis. Compared to neratinib and afatinib, irreversible EGFR/HER2 inhibitors, S‐222611 showed equivalent or slightly weaker antitumor activity but a safer profile. These results indicated that S‐222611 is a potent EGFR and HER2 inhibitor with substantially better antitumor activity than lapatinib at clinically relevant doses. Considering the safer profile than for irreversible inhibitors, S‐222611 could be an important option in future cancer therapy.
Enhanced anti‐angiogenic effect of E7820 in combination with erlotinib in epidermal growth factor receptor–tyrosine kinase inhibitor‐resistant non‐small‐cell lung cancer xenograft models
Authors: Ito Ken , Semba Taro , Uenaka Toshimitsu , Wakabayashi Toshiaki , Asada Makoto , Funahashi Yasuhiro
Published: May 2014

Most non‐small‐cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) harboring activating mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are initially responsive to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR‐TKIs); however, they invariably develop resistance to these drugs. E7820 is an angiogenesis inhibitor that decreases integrin‐α2 expression and is currently undergoing clinical trials. We investigated whether E7820 in combination with erlotinib, an EGFR‐TKI, could overcome EGFR‐TKI‐resistance in the NSCLC cell lines A549 (KRAS; G12S), H1975 (EGFR; L858R/T790M), and H1650 (PTEN; loss, EGFR; exon 19 deletion), which are resistant to erlotinib. Immunohistochemical analysis was carried out in xenografted tumors to investigate anti‐angiogenesis activity and endothelial cell apoptosis levels by endothelial cell marker CD31 and TUNEL staining, respectively. Treatment with E7820 (50 mg/kg) with erlotinib (60 mg/kg) showed a synergistic antitumor effect in three xenograft models. Immunohistochemical analysis indicated that combined treatment with E7820 and erlotinib significantly decreased microvessel density and increased apoptosis of tumor‐associated endothelial cells compared with use of only one of the agents. This combination increased apoptosis in HUVECs through activation of both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways in vitro. The combination of E7820 with erlotinib is an alternative strategy to overcome erlotinib resistance in NSCLC by enhancement of the anti‐angiogenic activity of E7820.
Identifying subgroups of obesity using the product of triglycerides and glucose: the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2008–2010
Authors: Lee Seung‐Hwan , Han Kyungdo , Yang Hae Kyung , Kim Mee Kyoung , Yoon Kun‐Ho , Kwon Hyuk‐Sang , Park Yong‐Moon
Published: May 2014

Objective

To determine whether the TyG index, a product of the levels of triglycerides and glucose, may be a valuable marker for identifying metabolically obese but normal weight (MONW) or metabolically healthy but obese (MHO) individuals.

Design and subjects

A total of 17 029 nondiabetic subjects (7185 men and 9844 women) were selected from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted in 2008–2010. Individuals with a normal body mass index (BMI) (≥18·5 and <23 kg/m2) and the highest quartile of the homoeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) were classified as MONW. Individuals with obesity (BMI ≥25 kg/m2) and the lowest quartile of HOMA‐IR were classified as MHO.

Measurements

The TyG index was calculated as ln[fasting triglycerides (mg/dl) × fasting glucose (mg/dl)/2].

Results

The levels of the TyG index paralleled with various metabolic risk parameters. The index was significantly higher in the MONW group and lower in the MHO group when compared with the non‐MONW group and the non‐MHO group, respectively. The odds ratios (ORs) of being categorized into the MONW group were approximately fourfold higher in the highest vs lowest quartiles of the TyG index (3·999: 95% CI, 2·508–6·376 in men; 4·737: 95% CI, 3·418–6·565 in women) among normal weight subjects. Conversely, there was a stepwise decrease in the OR of being categorized into the MHO group across the TyG index quartiles among obese subjects.

Conclusions

These data highlight the value of the TyG index in discriminating those subjects with higher risks of metabolic diseases.