bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between pain and Quality of Life—Findings from the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care—Blekinge study
Authors: Wranker Lena Sandin , Rennemark Mikael , Berglund Johan , Elmståhl Sölve
Published: June 2014

Background and aims

The influence of pain as well as Quality of Life (QoL) varies in accordance with biological, social, psychological and existential factors. This study investigates the influence of such factors on the relationship between pain and QoL among older adults from a gender perspective.

Methods

The Swedish National Study on Aging and Care (SNAC-Blekinge) baseline sample comprised 1402 individuals aged 60–96 years, of whom 769 (55%) reported pain. The participants were invited by a letter to take part in the study, which was carried out by research staff in two sessions of three hour each. Participants gave informed consent and completed a questionnaire between the two sessions. The reason for non-participation was registered among subjects who declined the invitation. Pain and insomnia were self-reported. Data on age, gender and if living alone or not were collected from the questionnaire. Co-morbidity was obtained from electronic patients records for a period of up to two years prior to participating in the SNAC study. SoC was measured by a translated short form from the original twenty-nine question instrument. QoL, was estimated using the HRQL Medical Outcome Study-Short Form (SF 12). In a model, pain, age, sex, insomnia, co-morbidity, living alone, sense of coherence (SOC), household economy, education and QoL were calculated through multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Among women, pain was found to have the highest OR (odds ratio) for low QoL [OR 2.27 (CI 1.36–3.78)], followed by low economic status [OR 1.75 (CI 1.08–2.84)], co-morbidity [OR 1.24 (CI 1.05–1.46)], low SOC [OR 1.08 (CI 1.06–1.10)] and lower age [OR 1.05 (CI 1.02–1.08)]. In men, insomnia was found to be the main contributor to low QoL [OR 1.86 (CI 1.04–3.33)], followed by low SOC [OR 1.08 (CI 1.05–1.11)] and lower age [OR 1.04 (CI 1.01–1.07)].

Conclusions

Pain has a strong relationship with low QoL among elderly women. Insomnia is associated with low QoL among men who suffer less from pain. Thus the main result is a striking gender difference: Elderly women suffer from pain, elderly men suffer from insomnia.

Implications

It is importanttotake accountof sex, age, sleep problems, co-morbidity, SOC and economic status in order to understand the relationship between pain and QoL among older adults.
CHOW GROUPS, CHOW COHOMOLOGY, AND LINEAR VARIETIES
Authors: TOTARO BURT
Published: June 2014

We compute the Chow groups and the Fulton–MacPherson operational Chow cohomology ring for a class of singular rational varieties including toric varieties. The computation is closely related to the weight filtration on the ordinary cohomology of these varieties. We use the computation to answer one of the open problems about operational Chow cohomology: it does not have a natural map to ordinary cohomology.
Stability transitions and turbulence in horizontal convection
Authors: Gayen Bishakhdatta , Griffiths Ross W. , Hughes Graham O.
Published: June 2014

Recent results have shown that convection forced by a temperature gradient along one horizontal boundary of a rectangular domain at a large Rayleigh number can be turbulent in parts of the flow field. However, the conditions for onset of turbulence, the dependence of flow and heat transport on Rayleigh number, and the roles of large and small scales in the flow, have not been established. We use three-dimensional direct numerical simulation (DNS) and large-eddy simulation (LES) over a wide range of Rayleigh numbers,$\def \xmlpi #1{}\def \mathsfbi #1{\boldsymbol {\mathsf {#1}}}\let \le =\leqslant \let \leq =\leqslant \let \ge =\geqslant \let \geq =\geqslant \def \Pr {\mathit {Pr}}\def \Fr {\mathit {Fr}}\def \Rey {\mathit {Re}}Ra\sim 10^8\mbox{--}10^{15}$, for Prandtl number$Pr=5$and a small aspect ratio, and show that a sequence of several stability transitions at$Ra \sim 10^{10}\mbox{--} 10^{11}$defines a change from laminar to turbulent flow. The Prandtl number dependence too is examined at$Ra = 5.86 \times 10^{11}$. At the smallest$Ra$considered the thermal boundary layer is characterized by a balance of viscous stress and buoyancy, whereas inertia and buoyancy dominate in the large-$Ra$regime. The change in the momentum balance is accompanied by turbulent enhancement of the overall heat transfer, although both laminar and turbulent regimes give$Nu\sim Ra^{1/5}$. The results support both viscous and inviscid theoretical scaling models from previous work. The mechanical energy budget for an intermediate range of Rayleigh numbers above onset of instability ($10^{10}<Ra<10^{13}$) reveals that the small scales of motion are produced predominantly by thermal convection, whereas at$Ra \ge 10^{14}$shear instability of the large-scale flow begins to play a dominant role in sustaining the small-scale turbulence. Extrapolation to ocean conditions requires knowledge of the inertial regime identified here, but the simulations show that the corresponding asymptotic balance has not been fully realized by$Ra \sim 10^{15}$.
THE TREE PROPERTY UP TO אω+1
Authors: NEEMAN ITAY
Published: June 2014

Assuming ω supercompact cardinals we force to obtain a model where the tree property holds both at אω+1, and at אn for all 2 ≤ n < ω. A model with the former was obtained by Magidor–Shelah from a large cardinal assumption above a huge cardinal, and recently by Sinapova from ω supercompact cardinals. A model with the latter was obtained by Cummings–Foreman from ω supercompact cardinals. Our model, where the two hold simultaneously, is another step toward the goal of obtaining the tree property on increasingly large intervals of successor cardinals.
COMPLEXITY OF COMPLEXITY AND STRINGS WITH MAXIMAL PLAIN AND PREFIX
KOLMOGOROV COMPLEXITY
Authors: BAUWENS B. , SHEN A.
Published: June 2014

Péter Gács showed (Gács 1974) that for every
n there exists a bit string x of length
n whose plain complexity
C(x) has almost maximal conditional complexity
relative to x, i.e., $C\left( {C\left( x \right)|x} \right) \ge {\rm{log}}n - {\rm{log}}^{\left( 2 \right)} n - O\left( 1 \right)$ (Here ${\rm{log}}^{\left( 2 \right)} i = {\rm{loglog}}i$.) Following Elena Kalinina (Kalinina 2011), we provide a simple
game-based proof of this result; modifying her argument, we get a better (and
tight) bound ${\rm{log}}n - O\left( 1 \right)$ We also show the same bound for prefix-free complexity.

Robert Solovay showed (Solovay 1975) that infinitely many strings
x have maximal plain complexity but not maximal prefix
complexity (among the strings of the same length): for some c
there exist infinitely many x such that $|x| - C\left( x \right) \le c$ and $|x| + K\left( {|x|} \right) - K\left( x \right) \ge {\rm{log}}^{\left( 2 \right)} |x| - c{\rm{log}}^{\left( 3 \right)} |x|$ In fact, the results of Solovay and Gács are closely
related. Using the result above, we provide a short proof for
Solovay’s result. We also generalize it by showing that for some
c and for all n there are strings
x of length n with $n - C\left( x \right) \le c$ and $n + K\left( n \right) - K\left( x \right) \ge K\left( {K\left( n \right)|n} \right) - 3K\left( {K\left( {K\left( n \right)|n} \right)|n} \right) - c.$ We also prove a close upper bound $K\left( {K\left( n \right)|n} \right) + O\left( 1 \right)$

Finally, we provide a direct game proof for Joseph Miller’s
generalization (Miller 2006) of the same Solovay’s theorem: if a
co-enumerable set (a set with c.e. complement) contains for every length a
string of this length, then it contains infinitely many strings
x such that$|x| + K\left( {|x|} \right) - K\left( x \right) \ge {\rm{log}}^{\left( 2 \right)} |x| - O\left( {{\rm{log}}^{\left( 3 \right)} |x|} \right).$
Electrostatic nonlinear supersolitons in dusty plasmas
Authors: Verheest Frank
Published: June 2014

Using the Sagdeev pseudopotential method, the properties of negative dust-acoustic supersolitons are investigated in a plasma comprising cold negative dust and Boltzmann and Cairns non-thermal positive ions. Supersolitons have electric field profiles with additional wiggles on traditional bipolar structures, and their existence requires pseudopotentials having two sub-wells before a root is reached. Once the existence ranges are determined in parameter space, typical pseudopotential, supersoliton and electric field profiles can be easily generated. Their characteristics are very robust and yield dust and dust-ion-acoustic supersolitons in a wide range of compositional models and parameter ranges.
The Ambulatory Aesthetics of Yvonne Rainer's Trio A
Authors: Platt Ryan
Published: June 2014

This essay argues that Trio A suspends dramatic form and develops an autonomous aesthetic process, called ambulatory performance. To explain this concept, it turns to Michel de Certeau, who claims that walking eludes formal unity and makes “spaces” for phenomena excluded from representation: everyday life, which is composed of ceaselessly moving singular “footsteps.” In this way, ambulatory performance emulates cinema, whose successive motion also relays quotidian experience. In order to identify a common theoretical basis for dance and media, the essay then relates this successive motion to the concept of automatisms, which film scholars have used to challenge medium specificity in response to the rise of digital cinema.
Le Ballet de l'Opéra: Trois Siècles de Suprématie Depuis Louis XIV
Authors: Delattre-Destemberg Emmanuelle , Glon Marie , Olivesi Vannina
Published: June 2014

As authors who contributed to an edited volume, we were startled to learn that editors added a subtitle that broadly declared French balletic supremacy. This text, entitled The Opera Ballet: Three Centuries of Supremacy Beginning with Louis XIV [Le Ballet de l'Opéra: Trois siècles de suprématie depuis Louis XIV] (Auclair and Ghristi 2013), presents the notion of “supremacy” as a seductive value, and it is disturbing, to say the least. It is first and foremost a false assertion. The editors cannot seriously suppose that the Paris Opera Ballet, during the course of three centuries, occupied a position of dominance; and such a notion requires, in any case, detailed discussion establishing the criteria that are considered to define and delimit said domination. Such a title participates in a type of competition better identified with nation states, capitals, or European theaters after the seventeenth century. To suggest that the Paris Opera Ballet has always existed as a place of cultural “supremacy” is first of all to ignore the question of métissage, and to overlook how the institution adopted exogenous knowledge and savoir-faire; it is a rejection of dance history that occurred elsewhere, entirely separate or sometimes in opposition to the productions of this single cultural institution. Most disturbing of all is the highlighting of the notion of “supremacy,” or a superiority and power over others. By valuing the notion of domination, the editors encourage readers to envision dance and the broader world in terms of inferiority and superiority (between classes, genders, nations, and cultures). The Paris Opera Ballet may have acted in the service of such an ideology in the past, and may do so again in the future; however, the role of a scholarly publication should be to analyze discourses of propaganda, not to reproduce them.
Identification ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection in symptomatic patients in Surabaya, Indonesia, using five diagnostic tests
Authors: MIFTAHUSSURUR M. , SHIOTA S. , SUZUKI R. , MATSUDA M. , UCHIDA T. , KIDO Y. , KAWAMOTO F. , MAIMUNAH U. , ADI P. , REZKITHA Y. , NASRONUDIN  , NUSI I. , YAMAOKA Y.
Published: June 2014

The prevalence ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection in Indonesia is controversial. We examined theH. pyloriinfection rate in 78 patients in a hospital in Surabaya using five different tests, including culture, histology, immunohistochemistry, rapid urease test, and urine antibody test. Furthermore, we analysed virulence factors inH. pyloristrains from Indonesia. TheH. pyloriinfection rate was only 11·5% in all patients studied, and 2·3% of Javanese patients and 18·0% of Chinese patients were infected (P = 0·01). Although severe gastritis was not observed, activity and inflammation were significantly higher in patients positive forH. pylorithan in patients negative forH. pylori. Among genotypes identified from five isolated strains,cagAwas found in four; two werevacAs1m1. AllcagA-positive strains wereoipA‘on’ andiceA1positive. We confirmed both a lowH. pyloriinfection rate and a low prevalence of precancerous lesions in dyspeptic patients in a Surabaya hospital, which may contribute to the low incidence of gastric cancer in Indonesia.
The influence of diurnal temperature range on the incidence of respiratory syncytial virus in Japan
Authors: ONOZUKA D.
Published: June 2014

The incidence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has been reported to exhibit seasonal variation. However, the impact of diurnal temperature range (DTR) on RSV has not been investigated. After acquiring data related to cases of RSV and weather parameters of DTR in Fukuoka, Japan, between 2006 and 2012, we used negative binomial generalized linear models and distributed lag nonlinear models to assess the possible relationship between DTR and RSV cases, adjusting for confounding factors. Our analysis revealed that the weekly number of RSV cases increased with a relative risk of 3·30 (95% confidence interval 1·65–6·60) for every 1°C increase in DTR. Our study provides quantitative evidence that the number of RSV cases increased significantly with increasing DTR. We suggest that preventive measures for limiting the spread of RSV should be considered during extended periods of high DTR.
Role of arachidonic acid cascade in Rhinella arenarum oocyte maturation
Authors: Ortiz Maria Eugenia , Arias-Torres Ana Josefina , Zelarayán Liliana Isabel
Published: June 2014

There are no studies that document the production of prostaglandins (PGs) or their role in Rhinella arenarum oocyte maturation. In this study, we analysed the effect of arachidonic acid (AA) and prostaglandins (PGs) on maturation, activation and pronuclear formation in R. arenarum oocytes. Our results demonstrated that AA was capable of inducing maturation in time-dependent and dose-dependent manner. Arachidonic acid-induced maturation was inhibited by indomethacin. PGs from AA hydrolysis, such as prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) and, to a lesser extent, PGE2, induced meiosis resumption. Oocyte maturation in response to PGF2α was similar to that produced by progesterone (P4). Oocyte response to PGE1 was scarce. Rhinella arenarum oocyte PGF2α-induced maturation showed seasonal variation. From February to June, oocytes presented low sensitivity to PGF2α. In following periods, this response increased until a maximum was reached during October to January, a close temporal correlation with oocyte response to P4 being observed. The effect of PGF2α on maturation was verified by analysing the capacity of oocytes to activate and form pronuclei after being injected with homologous sperm. The cytological analysis of activated oocytes demonstrated the absence of cortical granules in oocytes, suggesting that PGF2α induces germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and meiosis resumption up to metaphase II. In turn, oocytes matured by the action of PGF2α were able to form pronuclei after fertilization in a similar way to oocyte maturated by P4. In microinjection of mature cytoplasm experiments, the transformation of pre-maturation promoting factor (pre-MPF) to MPF was observed when oocytes were treated with PGF2α. In summary, our results illustrated the participation of the AA cascade and its metabolites in maturation, activation and pronuclei formation in R. arenarum.
Bilingual perceptual benefits of experience with a heritage language
Authors: CHANG CHARLES B.
Published: June 2014

Research on the linguistic knowledge of heritage speakers has been concerned primarily with the advantages conferred by heritage language experience in production, perception, and (re)learning of the heritage language. Meanwhile, second-language speech research has begun to investigate potential benefits of first-language transfer in second-language performance. Bridging these two bodies of work, the current study examined the perceptual benefits of heritage language experience for heritage speakers of Korean in both the heritage language (Korean) and the dominant language (American English). It was hypothesized that, due to their early bilingual experience and the different nature of unreleased stops in Korean and American English, heritage speakers of Korean would show not only native-like perception of Korean unreleased stops, but also better-than-native perception of American English unreleased stops. Results of three perception experiments were consistent with this hypothesis, suggesting that benefits of early heritage language experience can extend well beyond the heritage language.
Associations between low consumption of fruits and vegetables and nutritional deficiencies in Brazilian schoolchildren
Authors: Augusto Rosangela Aparecida , Cobayashi Fernanda , Cardoso Marly Augusto
Published: June 2014

Objective

We examined associations between the frequency of fruit and vegetable (F&V) consumption and nutritional deficiencies among Brazilian schoolchildren.

Design

A cross-sectional, population-based study was performed. A short FFQ was used to assess consumption of fruits and vegetables (F&V) over the past month. The prevalence ratios (PR) and 95 % confidence intervals for stunting, obesity, anaemia, vitamin A and folate deficiencies, vitamin E and vitamin D insufficiencies were estimated for low F&V consumption frequency (vegetables ≤3 times/month and fruits ≤3 times/week) and compared with children with usual F&V consumption frequency (vegetables ≥1 time/week and fruits ≥4 times/week).

Setting

Acrelândia, Western Brazilian Amazon.

Subjects

A total of 702 children aged 4–10 years.

Results

Only 5 % of children consumed F&V ≥5 times/d. Prevalence of deficiency was 31 %, 15 %, 9 % and 2 % for vitamins D, A, E and folate, respectively. Overall, 6·3 % of children were anaemic, 3·3 % were stunted, 2·7 % were obese and 33 % had multiple nutritional deficiencies. Low frequency of F&V consumption was associated with lower plasma concentrations of carotenoids and vitamin E. Nutritional deficiencies were higher among non-consumers of F&V when compared with usual consumers: anaemia (PR=1·9; 95 % CI 1·0, 3·7), vitamin E insufficiency (PR=2·5; 95 % CI 1·5, 4·2), vitamin D insufficiency (PR=1·5; 95 % CI 1·1, 1·9) and stunting (PR=2·6; 95 % CI 1·1, 6·1).

Conclusions

In our study, the occurrence of nutritional deficiencies in children with low F&V consumption was twice as high as in children with usual F&V consumption, reinforcing the importance of effective actions to promote the consumption of F&V.
Evaluation of 4β‐Hydroxycholesterol as a Clinical Biomarker of CYP3A4 Drug Interactions Using a Bayesian Mechanism–Based Pharmacometric Model
Authors: Leil TA , Kasichayanula S , Boulton DW , LaCreta F
Published: June 2014

A Bayesian mechanism–based pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) activity was developed based on a clinical study of the effects of ketoconazole and rifampin on midazolam exposure and plasma 4β‐hydroxycholesterol (4βHC) concentrations. Simulations from the model demonstrated that the dynamic range of 4βHC as a biomarker of CYP3A4 induction or inhibition was narrower than that of midazolam; an inhibitor that increases midazolam area under the curve by 20‐fold may only result in a 20% decrease in 4βHC after 14 days of dosing. Likewise, an inducer that elevates CYP3A4 activity by 1.2‐fold would reduce the area under the curve of midazolam by 50% but would only increase 4βHC levels by 20% after 14 days of dosing. Elevation in 4βHC could be reliably detected with a twofold induction in CYP3A4 activity with study sample sizes (N ~ 6–20) typically used in early clinical development. Only a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor (e.g., ketoconazole) could be detected with similar sample sizes.

CPT Pharmacometrics Syst. Pharmacol. (2014) 3, e120; doi:10.1038/psp.2014.18; published online 25 June 2014
Single and double bosonic stimulation of THz emission in polaritonic systems
Authors: Kaliteevski M. A. , Ivanov K. A. , Pozina G. , Gallant A. J.
Published: June 2014

The influence of the surrounding cavity on the efficiency of different types of polaritonic emitters of THz radiation has been analysed. It is demonstrated that THz lasing threshold in realistic structures cannot be achieved without a THz cavity, due to destruction of polaritons via excitonic Mott transition. Even modest values of cavity quality factor (not exceeding 50) provide significant quantum efficiency.
A label-free activatable aptamer probe for colorimetric detection of cancer cells based on binding-triggered in situ catalysis of split DNAzyme
Authors: Shi Hui , Li Duo , Xu Fengzhou , He Xiaoxiao , Wang Kemin , Ye Xiaosheng , Tang Jinlu , He Chunmei
Published: June 2014

A label-free activatable aptamer probe was developed for cancer cell detection through recognition-switched split DNAzyme activity on a living cell surface.
A novel biosensor array with a wheel-like pattern for glucose, lactate and choline based on electrochemiluminescence imaging
Authors: Zhou Zhenyu , Xu Linru , Wu Suozhu , Su Bin
Published: June 2014

An ECL imaging biosensor was fabricated for detecting glucose, lactate and choline, as well as for simultaneous multicomponent assay.
Towards the potential use of1H NMR spectroscopy in urine samples for prostate cancer detection
Authors: Zaragozá Patricia , Ruiz-Cerdá Jose Luis , Quintás Guillermo , Gil Salvador , Costero Ana M. , León Zacarías , Vivancos José-Luis , Martínez-Máñez Ramón
Published: June 2014

An multivariate approach based on1H NMR spectra profiles of urine samples to detect patients with prostate cancer.
Identification and discrimination of binding sites of an organoruthenium anticancer complex to single-stranded oligonucleotides by mass spectrometry
Authors: Liu Suyan , Wu Kui , Zheng Wei , Zhao Yao , Luo Qun , Xiong Shaoxiang , Wang Fuyi
Published: June 2014

Top-down MS analysis provided sequential and complementary fragments, which is more efficient than ladder-sequencing MS in discriminating binding sites of a ruthenium anticancer complex bearing a bulky ligand to oligonucleotides.
Synthesis and characterization of a new Keggin anion: [BeW12O40]6−
Authors: Anyushin Alexander V. , Smolentsev Anton I. , Mainichev Dmitry A. , Vicent Cristian , Gushchin Artem L. , Sokolov Maxim N. , Fedin Vladimir P.
Published: June 2014

The first berillododecatungstate [BeW12O40]6− has been synthesized and characterized by X-ray analysis, cyclic voltammetry, ESI-mass spectrometry, and 9Be and 183W NMR.
Tailored lysozyme–ZnO nanoparticle conjugates as nanoantibiotics
Authors: Tripathy Nirmalya , Ahmad Rafiq , Bang Seung Hyuck , Min Jiho , Hahn Yoon-Bong
Published: June 2014

Covalently attached lysozyme–ZnO nanoparticle conjugates exhibit pronounced antibacterial features against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
A switch from classic crystallization to non-classic crystallization by controlling the diffusion of chemicals
Authors: Yang Yang , Wang Han , Ji Zhen , Han Yongsheng , Li Jinghai
Published: June 2014

Here we report a study on controlling the shape of particles by regulating the diffusion of chemicals.
Low-temperature and high-pressure polymorphs of isopropyl alcohol
Authors: Ridout Joe , Probert Michael R.
Published: June 2014

Single-crystal X-ray diffraction has been used to elucidate the structure of two polymorphs of isopropyl alcohol, one grown throughin situcryo-crystallisation, the other through high-pressure crystallisation.
Bimetallic alloys in action: dynamic atomistic motifs for electrochemistry and catalysis
Authors: Mueller Jonathan E. , Krtil Petr , Kibler Ludwig A. , Jacob Timo
Published: June 2014

Multifarious structural motifs, dynamic surface morphologies and novel reaction mechanisms are essential aspects of bimetallic alloys, making them promising candidates for diverse applications in electrochemistry and heterogeneous catalysis.
Aqueous citrato-oxovanadate(iv) precursor solutions for VO2: synthesis, spectroscopic investigation and thermal analysis
Authors: Peys Nick , Adriaensens Peter , Van Doorslaer Sabine , Gielis Sven , Peeters Ellen , De Dobbelaere Christopher , De Gendt Stefan , Hardy An , Van Bael Marlies K.
Published: June 2014

An aqueous precursor solution, containing citrato-VO2+ complexes, is synthesized for the formation of monoclinic VO2.
In vitro selection of a peptide aptamer that potentiates inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinase 2 by purvalanol
Authors: Wang Wei , Hirano Yoshinori , Uzawa Takanori , Liu Mingzhe , Taiji Makoto , Ito Yoshihiro
Published: June 2014

To increase the inhibitory activity of purvalanol against cyclin-dependent kinase 2, we increased the extent of interaction between the inhibitor and the target by coupling a peptide aptamer to purvalanol.
Mechanism of forming trimer, self-assembling nano-particle and inhibiting tumor growth of small molecule CIPPCT
Authors: Du Fengxiang , Zhang Xiaoyi , Li Shan , Wang Yaonan , Zheng Meiqing , Wang Yuji , Zhao Shurui , Wu Jianhui , Gui Lin , Zhao Ming , Peng Shiqi
Published: June 2014

The mechanism whereby CIPPCT forms nanoparticles capable of delivery in circulation and adhering on cancer cells is presented.
Size tailoring of aqueous germanium nanoparticle dispersions
Authors: Kim Seongbeom , Walker Bright , Park Song Yi , Choi Hyosung , Ko Seo-Jin , Jeong Jaeki , Yun Myoung Hee , Lee Jeong Chul , Kim Dong Suk , Kim Jin Young
Published: June 2014

Facile and precise tailoring of the size (∼19–65 nm) of germanium nanoparticles synthesized by laser pyrolysis of GeH4 is demonstrated using a dilute hydrogen peroxide solution.
A metal–dielectric–graphene sandwich for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Yu Xuechao , Tao Jin , Shen Youde , Liang Guozhen , Liu Tao , Zhang Yongzhe , Wang Qi Jie
Published: June 2014

The Raman intensity of Rhodamine B (RhB) is enhanced by inserting a thin high κ dielectric layer which reduces the surface plasmon damping at the gold–graphene interface. The results indicate that the Raman intensity increases sharply by plasmonic resonance enhancement while maintaining efficient fluorescence quenching with optimized dielectric layer thickness.
Folic acid-functionalized up-conversion nanoparticles: toxicity studies in vivo and in vitro and targeted imaging applications
Authors: Sun Lining , Wei Zuwu , Chen Haige , Liu Jinliang , Guo Jianjian , Cao Ming , Wen Tieqiao , Shi Liyi
Published: June 2014

Three kinds of folate-targeted up-conversion nanoparticle imaging agents were prepared. These nanoparticles show good biocompatibility and up-conversion luminescence emission in water, and low cytotoxicity in vivo and in vitro. They were successfully applied to the targeted imaging of HeLa cells.
Azide–alkyne cycloaddition for universal post-synthetic modifications of nucleic acids and effective synthesis of bioactive nucleic acid conjugates
Authors: Su Yu-Chih , Lo Yu-Lun , Hwang Chi-Ching , Wang Li-Fang , Wu Min Hui , Wang Eng-Chi , Wang Yun-Ming , Wang Tzu-Pin
Published: June 2014

We have developed a universal approach for post-synthetic modifications of DNA/RNA by harnessing versatile phosphoramidation and powerful azide–alkyne cycloaddition reactions.
Comparisons of high titer ethanol production and lignosulfonate properties by SPORL pretreatment of lodgepole pine at two temperatures
Authors: Zhou Haifeng , Leu Shao-Yuan , Wu Xiaolei , Zhu J. Y. , Gleisner Roland , Yang Dongjie , Qiu Xueqing , Horn Eric
Published: June 2014

Mountain pine beetle killed lodgepole pine wood chips were pretreated by SPORL at 180 °C for 25 min and 165 °C for 75 min using the same chemical loadings, which represent the same pretreatment severity.
Reversible photocontrolled disintegration of a dimeric tetraurea-calix[4]pyrrole capsule with all-trans appended azobenzene units
Authors: Osorio-Planes Laura , Espelt Mónica , Pericàs Miquel A. , Ballester Pablo
Published: June 2014

The light-induced trans-to-cis-isomerization of a single azobenzene moiety triggers the disintegration of a dimeric tetraurea calix[4]pyrrole capsule.
Immobilization of a N-substituted azaphosphatrane in nanopores of SBA-15 silica for the production of cyclic carbonates
Authors: Chatelet Bastien , Joucla Lionel , Dutasta Jean-Pierre , Martinez Alexandre , Dufaud Véronique
Published: June 2014

The first example of silica modified N-substituted azaphosphatrane for the production of cyclic carbonates using CO2 as a raw reagent.
Effective passivation of a high-voltage positive electrode by 5-hydroxy-1H-indazole additives
Authors: Kang Yoon-Sok , Yoon Taeho , Mun Junyoung , Park Min Sik , Song In-Yong , Benayad Anass , Oh Seung M.
Published: June 2014

5-Hydroxy-1H-indazole (HI) is investigated as an effective film-forming additive for an over-lithiated layered oxide (OLO) positive electrode.
Sandwich-structured PVdF/PMIA/PVdF nanofibrous separators with robust mechanical strength and thermal stability for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Zhai Yunyun , Wang Na , Mao Xue , Si Yang , Yu Jianyong , Al-Deyab Salem S. , El-Newehy Mohamed , Ding Bin
Published: June 2014

Novel, sandwich-structured PVdF/PMIA/PVdF nanofibrous battery separators with robust mechanical strength and thermal stability are fabricated via a sequential electrospinnning technique.
Facile synthesis of ZnCo2O4nanowire cluster arrays on Ni foam for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Guan Bingkun , Guo Di , Hu Lingling , Zhang Guanhua , Fu Tao , Ren Weiji , Li Jidong , Li Qiuhong
Published: June 2014

ZnCo2O4NWCAs on Ni foam as electrodes for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitors.
Effective strategies for improving the electrochemical properties of highly porous Si foam anodes in lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Bok Taesoo , Choi Sinho , Lee Jeongchan , Park Soojin
Published: June 2014

We synthesize Si foam particles via magnesiothermic reduction of silica foam. Three effective strategies, like control of the calcination conditions of silica foam, introduction of a heat scavenger and doping of electrically conductive layers, lead to significant improvement of the electrochemical properties of the Si foam anodes.
Mesocrystal Co9S8 hollow sphere anodes for high performance lithium ion batteries
Authors: Jin Rencheng , Zhou Junhao , Guan Yanshuai , Liu Hong , Chen Gang
Published: June 2014

Mesocrystal Co9S8 hollow spheres are reported through a convenient preparation route, and exhibit good performance for Li-ion batteries.
Water sensitivity of layered P2/P3-NaxNi0.22Co0.11Mn0.66O2 cathode material
Authors: Buchholz Daniel , Chagas Luciana Gomes , Vaalma Christoph , Wu Liming , Passerini Stefano
Published: June 2014

The interlayer distance calculated with the Bragg equation identifies the sodium content below which the spontaneous hydration of P2/P3-NaxNi0.22Co0.11Mn0.66O2 occurs.
Preparation of a novel magnetic cellulose nanocrystal and its efficient use for enzyme immobilization
Authors: Cao Shi-Lin , Li Xue-Hui , Lou Wen-Yong , Zong Min-Hua
Published: June 2014

Preparation of a novel magnetic cellulose nanocrystal via a simple co-precipitation-electrostatic-self-assembly technique and its efficient use for enzyme immobilization.
Facile non-hydrothermal synthesis of oligosaccharide coated sub-5 nm magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles with dual MRI contrast enhancement effects
Authors: Huang Jing , Wang Liya , Zhong Xiaodong , Li Yuancheng , Yang Lily , Mao Hui
Published: June 2014

A simple non-hydrothermal method was developed for synthesizing sugar coated 3 nm magnetic nanoparticles with dual T1–T2 MRI contrast enhancement and fast clearance.
Joint detection–decoding of majority‐logic decodable non‐binary low‐density parity‐check coded modulation systems: an iterative noise reduction algorithm
Authors: Zhao Shancheng , Wang Xuepeng , Wang Teng , Bai Baoming , Ma Xiao
Published: June 2014

In this study, the authors present a low‐complexity iterative joint detection–decoding algorithm for majority‐logic decodable non‐binary low‐density parity‐check (LDPC) coded modulation systems. In the proposed algorithm, a hard‐in–hard‐out decoder is combined with a hard‐decision signal detector in an iterative manner. Each iteration consists of five phases. Firstly, the detector makes hard decisions based on the iteratively updated ‘received’ signals; secondly, these hard decisions are distributed via variable nodes to check nodes; thirdly, check nodes compute hard extrinsic messages; fourthly, each variable node counts hard extrinsic messages from its adjacent check nodes and feeds back to the detection node the symbol with the most votes as well as the difference between the most votes and the second most votes; finally, these feedbacks are used to shift each ‘received’ signal point along an estimated direction to possibly reduce noise. The proposed algorithm requires only integer operations and finite field operations and consequently can be implemented with simple combinational logic circuits in practical systems. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm performs well and hence serves as an attractive candidate for trading off performance against complexity for majority‐logic decodable non‐binary LDPC codes.
Effects of atmospheric turbulence and misalignment fading on performance of serial‐relaying M‐ary pulse‐position modulation free‐space optical systems with partially coherent Gaussian beam
Authors: Pham Hien T.T. , Dang Ngoc T. , Pham Anh T.
Published: June 2014

A novel method is presented to analyse the effects of atmospheric turbulence and misalignment fading (or pointing error) on performance of serial‐relaying M‐ary pulse‐position modulation (PPM) free‐space optical (FSO) systems. This study is more comprehensive than previous ones, since the effect of beam size variation due to turbulence by using the partially coherent Gaussian beam model is taken into account. In addition, a closed‐form expression is formulated for bit error rate of serial‐relaying M‐ary PPM FSO systems over Gamma–Gamma atmospheric turbulence channel, taking into account the effects of atmospheric attenuation, extinction ratio and signal‐dependent noise. The authors find that the laser source's coherent parameter, which governs the beam size at the receiver, plays an important role in the system design. If this parameter is not chosen properly, the system impairment will be either dominated by pointing error or geometric spreading loss. Thanks to the use of serial‐relaying and M‐ary PPM, the effects of atmospheric turbulence and misalignment fading is mitigated; hence the ability of combating atmospheric turbulence and the transmission distance of FSO systems are significantly improved. In addition, useful information for system design, such as the required number of relays for a specific turbulence strength and transmission distance, could be obtained from the numerical results.
Signal detection assisted from channel weight prediction for delay‐sensitive orthogonal frequency‐division multiplexing communications
Authors: Lv Changwei , Lin Jia‐Chin , Hou Shujuan , Mei Wenbo
Published: June 2014

In signal coherent detection, data‐aided (DA) method has high detection accuracy, but unavoidably suffers from a large processing delay. Meanwhile, a decision‐directed (DD) method incurs no processing delay, but suffers from error propagation problem. Motivated by the above problems of DA and DD methods, the authors present a novel signal detection algorithm for delay‐sensitive applications employing orthogonal frequency‐division multiplexing systems. The proposed detection method provides similar detection accuracy to the DA method and incurs no processing delay. This method employs channel estimation followed by linear prediction and interpolation to obtain the channel‐state information for symbol detection. To achieve a better prediction performance, they perform the linear prediction on the channel taps in the time domain, and conduct the interpolation using a raised cosine filter. Simulations on physical channel models verify the improvements of the proposed method.
Impact of simulated heat stress on growth, physiological adaptability, blood metabolites and endocrine responses in Malpura ewes under semiarid tropical environment
Authors: Indu S. , Sejian V. , Naqvi S. M. K.
Published: June 2014

The study was conducted to develop a simulated heat stress model for sheep depicting natural environmental conditions and to observe its impact on growth, reproductive performance, physiological adaptability, blood metabolites and endocrine responses in Malpura ewes. The experiment was conducted on 16 adult Malpura ewes for a period of 35 days. The animals were randomly divided into two groups of eight animals each (GI – control, GII – heat stress). The GII ewes were exposed to different temperature at different hours of the day i.e. 38°C at 1000–1100 hours; 40°C at 1100–1200 hours; 42°C at 1200–1300 hours; 43°C at 1300–1400 hours; 44°C at 1400–1500 hours and 42°C at 1500–1600 hours in a climatic chamber. Feed intake (P < 0.01), bodyweight (P < 0.05) and body condition score (P < 0.01) reduced significantly in GII as compared with GI ewes while water intake increased significantly (P < 0.01). All physiological responses also showed significant variation between the groups for treatment. In addition, all endocrine parameters showed highly significant (P < 0.01) variation for the treatment. Plasma cortisol increased significantly (P < 0.01) while T3 (P < 0.01) and T4 (P < 0.01) decreased significantly in GII as compared with GI ewes. Further, plasma oestradiol decreased significantly (P < 0.01) while plasma progesterone increased significantly (P < 0.01) in GII as compared with GI. Among the biochemical parameters, hemoglobin, packed cell volume, plasma glucose, total cholesterol, urea and blood urea nitrogen differed significantly between the groups. In addition, oestrus duration also significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in GII as compared with GI. Based on the results obtained from the study it can be concluded that simulated heat stress influenced the adaptive behaviour of sheep in terms of changes in physiological, blood biochemical and endocrine responses. Ultimately, their growth and reproductive performance are compromised during the process of adaptation to the simulated heat stress.
Thermal Spin Crossover Behaviour of Two-Dimensional Hofmann-Type Coordination Polymers Incorporating Photoactive Ligands
Authors: Ragon Florence , Yaksi Korcan , Sciortino Natasha F. , Chastanet Guillaume , Létard Jean-François , D’Alessandro Deanna M. , Kepert Cameron J. , Neville Suzanne M.
Published: June 2014

Two spin crossover (SCO)-active 2D Hofmann-type framework materials, [Fe(3-PAP)2Pd(CN)4] (A) and [Fe(4-PAP)2Pd(CN)4] (B) containing the photoactive azo-benzene-type ligands 3-phenylazo-pyridine (3-PAP) and 4-phenylazo-pyridine (4-PAP) were prepared. These materials form non-porous Hofmann-type structures whereby 2D [FeIIPd(CN)4] grids are separated by 3- or 4-PAP ligands. The iron(ii) sites of both materials (A and B) undergo abrupt and hysteretic spin transitions with characteristic transition temperatures T1/2↓,↑: 178, 190 K (ΔT: 12 K) and T1/2↓,↑: 233, 250 K (ΔT: 17 K), respectively. Photo-magnetic characterisations reveal light-induced excited spin state trapping (LIESST) activity in both A and B with characteristic T(LIESST) values of 45 and 40 K. Although both free ligands show trans- to-cis isomerisation in solution under UV-irradiation, as evidenced via absorption spectroscopy, such photo-activity was not observed in the ligands or complexes A and B in the solid state. Structural analysis of a further non-SCO active isomer to B, [Fe(4-PAP)2Pd(CN)4]·1/2(4-PAP) (B·(4-PAP)), which contains free ligand in the pore space is reported.
Functional interaction with filamin A and intracellular Ca
2+
enhance the surface membrane expression of a small-conductance Ca
2+
-activated K
+
(SK2) channel
Authors: Rafizadeh Sassan , Zhang Zheng , Woltz Ryan L. , Kim Hyo Jeong , Myers Richard E. , Lu Ling , Tuteja Dipika , Singapuri Anil , Bigdeli Amir Ali Ziaei , Harchache Sana Ben , Knowlton Anne A. , Yarov-Yarovoy Vladimir , Yamoah Ebenezer N. , Chiamvimonvat Nipavan
Published: June 2014

Significance

The precise subcellular localization of ion channel proteins is necessary for the proper function of excitable cells. The trafficking of several ion channels is dependent on the interaction of the ion channel proteins with cytoskeletal proteins, underpinned by a number of diseases in which the defect lies with the interacting proteins. Here, we demonstrate the role of filamin A, a cytoskeletal protein, in augmenting the membrane expression of small-conductance, Ca
2+
-activated K
+
channels (K
Ca
2.2 or SK2) in atrial myocytes. We further demonstrate that SK2 channel trafficking is Ca
2+
-dependent in the presence of another cytoskeletal protein, α-actinin2, thereby establishing the role of filamin A, α-actinin2, and intracellular Ca
2+
in trafficking of SK2 channels. The findings may have implications in other excitable cells.
Use of Mini-Fyke Nets for Sampling Shallow-Water Fish Communities in Florida Lakes
Authors: Bonvechio K. I. , Sawyers R. E. , Bitz R. , Crawford S.
Published: June 2014

We evaluated mini-fyke nets for sampling shore-based (SB; <1 m deep) fish communities in Florida lakes. Specifically, we wanted to determine the most effective deployment method and sample size required for adequately characterizing fish communities in these habitats. Shallow SB (0.15–0.6 m) net sets, in which nets were not completely submersed, collected significantly more individuals and a larger proportion of poeciliids. However, deep SB (0.6–1.0 m) net sets, in which nets were completely submersed, collected a larger proportion of centrarchids, cyprinids, and cyprinidontids. Net placement also significantly affected the overall catch and composition of samples. Nets placed in locations away from the lake boundary tended to collect actively schooling fishes such as Threadfin Shad Dorosoma petenense and cyprinids. Nets placed next to the lake boundary tended to collect species associated with shallow, vegetated habitats, particularly poeciliids, at greater frequencies. In some cases, the collection of these fishes was unique to a particular deployment method. Our results suggest that in long-term monitoring of Florida's shore-based lentic fish communities, nets should be placed in SB waters with the lead extending to the lake boundary. Although long-term sampling objectives may vary, we determined that a sampling target of 30 net sets was sufficient for characterizing the fish community in terms of percentage composition, species richness, and species diversity. Furthermore, we recommend the continued use of additional gears to fully characterize littoral fish communities.

Received December 19, 2013; accepted March 1, 2014
Graev metrics on free products and HNN extensions
Authors: Slutsky Konstantin
Published: June 2014

We give a construction of two-sided invariant metrics on free products (possibly with amalgamation) of groups with two-sided invariant metrics and, under certain conditions, on HNN extensions of such groups. Our approach is similar to the Graev’s construction of metrics on free groups over pointed metric spaces.
Weyl group multiple Dirichlet series for symmetrizable Kac-Moody root systems
Authors: Lee Kyu-Hwan , Zhang Yichao
Published: June 2014

Weyl group multiple Dirichlet series, introduced by Brubaker, Bump, Chinta, Friedberg and Hoffstein, are expected to be Whittaker coefficients of Eisenstein series on metaplectic groups. Chinta and Gunnells constructed these multiple Dirichlet series for all the finite root systems using the method of averaging a Weyl group action on the field of rational functions. In this paper, we generalize Chinta and Gunnells’ work and construct Weyl group multiple Dirichlet series for the root systems associated with symmetrizable Kac-Moody algebras, and establish their functional equations and meromorphic continuation.
Multi-time systems of conservation laws
Authors: Bazan Aldo , Loreti Paola , Neves Wladimir
Published: June 2014

Motivated by the work of P. L. Lions and J.-C. Rochet (1986) concerning multi-time Hamilton-Jacobi equations, we introduce the theory of multi-time systems of conservation laws. We show the existence and uniqueness of solution to the Cauchy problem for a system of multi-time conservation laws with two independent time variables in one space dimension. Our proof relies on a suitable generalization of the Lax-Oleinik formula.
Estimated Prevalence of Tuberculosis Infection Among a New York City Clinic Population Using Interferon-gamma Release Assays
Authors: Stennis Natalie L. , Trieu Lisa , Ahuja Shama D. , Harris Tiffany G.
Published: June 2014

Background.  Elimination of tuberculosis (TB) in the United States requires treating not only persons with active disease but also those infected with TB. Achieving this goal requires understanding local TB infection prevalence and identifying subgroups at increased risk for infection and disease.

Methods.  The study population included all patients tested with an interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) test at New York City (NYC) public TB clinics from October 1, 2006 to December 31, 2011. Patients who were not a case or contact at testing (general clinic patients) and who had a positive QuantiFERON-Gold In-Tube (QFT-GIT) test result were compared with those with indeterminate or negative results to identify characteristics associated with positive results. New York City TB surveillance data were used to identify clinic patients later diagnosed with active TB disease.

Results.  A total of 69 273 IGRA tests were conducted. Among 20 066 patients tested with QFT-GIT, 16% tested positive, 83% tested negative, and <1% were indeterminate. Of 18 481 general clinic patients, 14% had a positive QFT-GIT result. Nine percent of United States-born patients compared with 19% of foreign-born patients had a positive result. Increasing age and birth in a high-incidence country were associated with a higher likelihood of having a positive result. One patient with a negative QFT-GIT result was identified as a TB case 2 years later.

Conclusions.  Using QFT-GIT data, the background prevalence of TB infection in NYC was estimated. Patient characteristics associated with a positive QFT-GIT result were consistent with known TB risk factors. Results suggest that IGRAs are reliable tests for TB infection.
Addition of Glucose Oxidase for the Improvement of Refrigerated Dough Quality
Authors: Whitney Kristin , Ohm Jae‐Bom , Simsek Senay
Published: June 2014

Refrigerated dough encompasses a wide range of products and is a popular choice for consumers. Two of the largest problems that occur during refrigerated dough storage are dough syruping and loss of dough strength. The goal of this study was to evaluate glucose oxidase as an additive to refrigerated dough with the purpose of maintaining dough strength and retarding dough syruping. Refrigerated dough was evaluated for the degree of dough syruping (DDS), dough strength, rheological characteristics, baking quality, and protein quality. The addition of glucose oxidase at 10 mg/kg was able to significantly (P < 0.05) reduce dough syruping and maintain the strength of the dough. Addition of glucose oxidase at 5 and 25 mg/kg was not able to reduce the level of dough syruping at a satisfactory level. Degradation of protein was found to occur during storage of refrigerated dough. DDS had a negative correlation (r = –0.60 to –0.94) to the level of polymeric proteins and a positive correlation (r = 0.60 to 0.98) to the low‐molecular‐weight proteins. Overall, glucose oxidase at 10 mg/kg can improve refrigerated dough quality by reducing dough syruping and maintaining dough strength.