bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Firm Global Supply Chains and Foreign Currency Undervaluations on US Trade Disputes
Authors: Jensen J. Bradford , Quinn Dennis P. , Weymouth Stephen
Published: July 2015

We apply insights from “new, new” trade theory to explain a puzzling decline in US firm antidumping (AD) filings in an era of persistent foreign currency undervaluations and increasing import competition. Firms exhibit heterogeneity both within and across industries regarding foreign direct investment (FDI). We propose that firms making vertical or resource-seeking investments abroad will be less likely to file AD petitions, and firms are likely to undertake vertical FDI in the context of currency undervaluation. Hence, we argue, the increasing vertical FDI of US firms makes trade disputes far less likely. We use firm-level data to examine the universe of US manufacturing firms and find that AD filers generally conduct no intrafirm trade with filed-against countries. We also find that persistent currency undervaluation is associated over time with increased vertical FDI and intrafirm trade by US multinational corporations (MNCs) in the undervaluing country. Among larger US MNCs, the likelihood of an AD filing is negatively associated with increases in intrafirm trade. In the context of currency undervaluation, we confirm the existing finding that undervaluation is associated with more AD filings. We also find, however, that high levels of intrafirm imports from countries with undervalued currencies significantly decrease the likelihood of AD filings. Our study highlights the centrality of firm heterogeneity in international trade and investment in understanding political mobilization over international economic policy.
Anarchism and the British Warfare State: The Prosecution of theWar CommentaryAnarchists, 1945
Authors: Honeywell Carissa
Published: July 2015

The arrest and prosecution in 1945 of a small group of London anarchists associated with the radical anti-militarist and anti-war publicationWar Commentaryat first appears to be a surprising and anomalous set of events, given that this group was hitherto considered to be too marginal and lacking in influence to raise official concern. This article argues that in the closing months of World War II the British government decided to suppressWar Commentarybecause officials feared that its polemic might foment political turmoil and thwart postwar policy agendas as military personnel began to demobilize and reassert their civilian identities. For a short period of time, in an international context of “demobilization crisis”, anarchist anti-militarist polemic became a focus of both state fears of unrest and a public sphere fearing ongoing military regulation of public affairs. Analysing the positions taken by the anarchists and government in the course of the events leading to the prosecution of the editors ofWar Commentary, the article will draw on “warfare-state” revisions to the traditional “welfare-state” historiography of the period for a more comprehensive view of the context of these events.
The World of European Labour on the Northern Rhodesian Copperbelt, 1940–1945
Authors: Money Duncan
Published: July 2015

This article explores the experiences of white workers on the Copperbelt in Northern Rhodesia during World War II. Much of the existing literature on the region focuses on African labour, yet the boom that began in the copper-mining industry also attracted thousands of mobile, transient European workers. These workers were part of a primarily English-speaking labour diaspora with a global reach that linked mining centres around the world. The experience of this workforce generated seemingly contradictory trends of labour militancy, political radicalism, and racial exclusivity. A focus on two significant events during this period will seek to examine how these trends shaped events on the Copperbelt: the 1940 wildcat strikes and the 1942 arrest and deportation of white mineworkers’ union leaders. These events shed light on the international world of European labour and illustrate how the Copperbelt was linked to other mining centres around the world.
The Supererogatory and How Not To Accommodate It: A Reply to Dorsey
Authors: ARCHER ALFRED
Published: July 2015

It is plausible to think that there exist acts of supererogation (acts that are morally optional and morally better than the minimum that morality demands). It also seems plausible that there is a close connection between what we are morally required to do and what it would be morally good to do. Despite being independently plausible these two claims are hard to reconcile. My aim in this article will be to respond to a recent solution to this puzzle proposed by Dale Dorsey. Dorsey's solution to this problem is to posit a new account of supererogation. I will argue that Dorsey's account fails to succeed in achieving what an account of supererogation is supposed to achieve.
Child personality facets and overreactive parenting as predictors of aggression and rule-breaking trajectories from childhood to adolescence
Authors: Becht Andrik I. , Prinzie Peter , Deković Maja , van den Akker Alithe L. , Shiner Rebecca L.
Published: July 2015

This study examined trajectories of aggression and rule breaking during the transition from childhood to adolescence (ages 9–15), and determined whether these trajectories were predicted by lower order personality facets, overreactive parenting, and their interaction. At three time points separated by 2-year intervals, mothers and fathers reported on their children's aggression and rule breaking (N = 290, M age = 8.8 years at Time 1). At Time 1, parents reported on their children's personality traits and their own overreactivity. Growth mixture modeling identified three aggression trajectories (low decreasing, high decreasing, and high increasing) and two rule-breaking trajectories (low and high). Lower optimism and compliance and higher energy predicted trajectories for both aggression and rule breaking, whereas higher expressiveness and irritability and lower orderliness and perseverance were unique risk factors for increasing aggression into adolescence. Lower concentration was a unique risk factor for increasing rule breaking. Parental overreactivity predicted higher trajectories of aggression but not rule breaking. Only two Trait × Overreactivity interactions were found. Our results indicate that personality facets could differentiate children at risk for different developmental trajectories of aggression and rule breaking.
Initial development of Prochilodus hartii (Pisces: Prochilodontidae) submitted to induced reproduction
Authors: Abdo Tiago Figueiredo , Perrotti Paulo Brant , Meireles Wesley Antunes , Bazzoli Nilo
Published: July 2015

The Prochilodontidae prepare for reproduction in captivity, but neither ovulation nor spawning occurs, thus requiring induced reproduction for breeding and restocking. This study analyzed for the first time the embryogenesis and larval ontogeny of P. hartii submitted to induced reproduction by hypophysation with crude common carp pituitary extract. The extrusion of oocytes and sperm was performed manually and fertilization was done using the dry method. After fertilization, the eggs were kept in incubators at 23°C. A stereomicroscope was used to measure egg diameter and to monitor embryo development. Samples of larvae were collected daily for 7 days for histological and biometric analyses. The recently extruded oocytes, non-hydrated, are spherical, grey, and non-adhesive with a diameter of 1480 ± 39 μm and after hydration, have a diameter of 2860 ± 120 μm. The positive response to hypophysation was 100% for females and 80% for males. Spawning occurred 7 h after the third hormonal dosage. The fertilization rate was 77% at 23°C. Blastopore closure occurred at 6 h 45 min and embryonic development was completed 36 h 10 min after fertilization. After 204 h post fertilization (hpf) the larvae reached a standard length of 6.56 ± 0.14 mm with the yolk sac completely resorbed. In P. hartii, the oral cavity opening occurred 132 hpf. The results of this study provide knowledge to better understand induced reproduction, breeding, and management of P. hartii, a species with a high potential for pisciculture, and which is commercially important in the Jequitinhonha River basin.
Revisiting the ontologising of semantic relation arguments in wordnet synsets
Authors: GONÇALO OLIVEIRA HUGO , GOMES PAULO
Published: July 2015

Ontologising is the task of associating terms, in text, with an ontological representation of their meaning, in an ontology. In this article, we revisit algorithms that have previously been used to ontologise the arguments of semantic relations in a relationless thesaurus, resulting in a wordnet. For increased flexibility, the algorithms do not use the extraction context when selecting the most adequate synsets for each term argument. Instead, they exploit a term-based lexical network which can be established by knowledge extracted automatically, or obtained from the resource the relations are being ontologised to. On the latter idea, we made several experiments to conclude that the algorithms can be used both for wordnet creation and for their enrichment. Besides describing the algorithms with some detail, the aforementioned experiments, which target both English and Portuguese, and their results are reported and discussed.
High-dose-rate brachytherapy planning in palliative management of hilar cholangiocarcinoma: a case study
Authors: Anbumani Surega , Bilimagga Ramesh S. , Anchineyen Pichandi , Jayaraman Punitha , Palled Siddanna R.
Published: July 2015

Introduction:

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) or klatskin’s tumour involves malignant tumours at the liver hilum’s biliary confluence. Incidence of CCA results in unresectable tumours that require appropriate therapy to improve quality of life. The liver is considered as the most frequent site of tumour recurrence. Promising results of long-term survival have been established with computed tomography-guided high-dose-rate brachytherapy.

Materials and methods:

Intraluminal brachytherapy (ILBT) is performed through the percutaneous transhapatic bile duct drain tube (PTBD). The passage of the brachytherapy guide tube through the bile duct is more complex compared with oesophageal/endobronchial application.

Results/discussion:

It results in a recoiled view of the tube in the abdominal region of the computed tomography (CT) scan. Owing to inherent artefacts induced by metal stents in CT scans, intersected view is possible between the ILBT guide tube and the intra-hepatic drain tube. It would mislead the planner to track wrong passage that could result in fatal error.

Conclusion:

In this case study, we contoured the ILBT guide tube by cross-verifying its position with a digitally reconstructed radiograph (DRR) before catheter tracking. Thus, it ensures precise simulation of source dwell positions, thereby avoiding high-dose delivery to nearby vital organs such as intestines, liver hilum and blood vessels.
ANTI-CORRUPTION IN AMERICAN HISTORY
Authors: McCormick Richard L.
Published: July 2015

What will it take to get Americans to do something about political corruption? I mean the deep corruption of politics and policy now caused by massive campaign contributions, by lobbyists who bundle those contributions for political candidates and then influence the policy decisions of elected officials, by the revolving door between public office and lucrative private employment, and—through all these instruments and more—by the influence of wealthy individuals and interests over the agencies and institutions of government. Some people say this is just American politics as usual: money is inevitable in public life, and anyway it's all perfectly legal. Sadly, those who say this are, at this moment, winning the argument. Writing for the Supreme Court majority in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (2010), Justice Anthony Kennedy opined, “It is well understood that a substantial and legitimate reason, if not the only reason, to cast a vote for, or to make a contribution to, one candidate over another is that the candidate will respond by producing those political outcomes the supporter favors. Democracy is premised on responsiveness.” Cementing the case, says the Court, is the First Amendment, which protects political speech and political dollars.
Cathepsin L Acutely Alters Microvessel Integrity within the Neurovascular Unit during Focal Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Gu Yu-Huan , Kanazawa Masato , Hung Stephanie Y , Wang Xiaoyun , Fukuda Shunichi , Koziol James A , Zoppo Gregory J del
Published: July 2015

During focal cerebral ischemia, the degradation of microvessel basal lamina matrix occurs acutely and is associated with edema formation and microhemorrhage. These events have been attributed to matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). However, both known protease generation and ligand specificities suggest other participants. Using cerebral tissues from a non-human primate focal ischemia model and primary murine brain endothelial cells, astrocytes, and microglia in culture, the effects of active cathepsin L have been defined. Within 2 hours of ischemia onset cathepsin L, but not cathepsin B, activity appears in the ischemic core, around microvessels, within regions of neuron injury and cathepsin L expression. In in vitro studies, cathepsin L activity is generated during experimental ischemia in microglia, but not astrocytes or endothelial cells. In the acidic ischemic core, cathepsin L release is significantly increased with time. A novel ex vivo assay showed that cathepsin L released from microglia during ischemia degrades microvessel matrix, and interacts with MMP activity. Hence, the loss of microvessel matrix during ischemia is explained by microglial cathepsin L release in the acidic core during injury evolution. The roles of cathepsin L and its interactions with specific MMP activities during ischemia are relevant to strategies to reduce microvessel injury and hemorrhage.
STAT3 regulated ARF expression suppresses prostate cancer metastasis
Authors: Pencik Jan , Schlederer Michaela , Gruber Wolfgang , Unger Christine , Walker Steven M. , Chalaris Athena , Marié Isabelle J. , Hassler Melanie R. , Javaheri Tahereh , Aksoy Osman , Blayney Jaine K. , Prutsch Nicole , Skucha Anna , Herac Merima , Krämer Oliver H. , Mazal Peter , Grebien Florian , Egger Gerda , Poli Valeria , Mikulits Wolfgang , Eferl Robert , Esterbauer Harald , Kennedy Richard , Fend Falko , Scharpf Marcus , Braun Martin , Perner Sven , Levy David E. , Malcolm Tim , Turner Suzanne D. , Haitel Andrea , Susani Martin , Moazzami Ali , Rose-John Stefan , Aberger Fritz , Merkel Olaf , Moriggl Richard , Culig Zoran , Dolznig Helmut , Kenner Lukas
Published: July 2015

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most prevalent cancer in men. Hyperactive STAT3 is thought to be oncogenic in PCa. However, targeting of the IL-6/STAT3 axis in PCa patients has failed to provide therapeutic benefit. Here we show that genetic inactivation of Stat3 or IL-6 signalling in a Pten-deficient PCa mouse model accelerates cancer progression leading to metastasis. Mechanistically, we identify p19ARF as a direct Stat3 target. Loss of Stat3 signalling disrupts the ARF–Mdm2–p53 tumour suppressor axis bypassing senescence. Strikingly, we also identify STAT3 and CDKN2A mutations in primary human PCa. STAT3 and CDKN2A deletions co-occurred with high frequency in PCa metastases. In accordance, loss of STAT3 and p14ARF expression in patient tumours correlates with increased risk of disease recurrence and metastatic PCa. Thus, STAT3 and ARF may be prognostic markers to stratify high from low risk PCa patients. Our findings challenge the current discussion on therapeutic benefit or risk of IL-6/STAT3 inhibition.
Observation of vibrational overtones by single-molecule resonant photodissociation
Authors: Khanyile Ncamiso B. , Shu Gang , Brown Kenneth R.
Published: July 2015

Molecular ions can be held in a chain of laser-cooled atomic ions by sympathetic cooling. This system is ideal for performing high-precision molecular spectroscopy with applications in astrochemistry and fundamental physics. Here we show that this same system can be coupled with a broadband laser to discover new molecular transitions. We use three-ion chains of Ca+ and CaH+ to observe vibrational transitions via resonance-enhanced multiphoton dissociation detected by Ca+ fluorescence. On the basis of theoretical calculations, we assign the observed peaks to the transition from the ground vibrational state, ν=0 to ν=9 and 10. Our method allows us to track single-molecular events, and it can be extended to work with any molecule by using normal mode frequency shifts to detect the dissociation. This survey spectroscopy serves as a bridge to the precision spectroscopy required for molecular ion control.
Assembly-driven activation of the AIM2 foreign-dsDNA sensor provides a polymerization template for downstream ASC
Authors: Morrone Seamus R. , Matyszewski Mariusz , Yu Xiong , Delannoy Michael , Egelman Edward H. , Sohn Jungsan
Published: July 2015

AIM2 recognizes foreign dsDNA and assembles into the inflammasome, a filamentous supramolecular signalling platform required to launch innate immune responses. We show here that the pyrin domain of AIM2 (AIM2PYD) drives both filament formation and dsDNA binding. In addition, the dsDNA-binding domain of AIM2 also oligomerizes and assists in filament formation. The ability to oligomerize is critical for binding dsDNA, and in turn permits the size of dsDNA to regulate the assembly of the AIM2 polymers. The AIM2PYD oligomers define the filamentous structure, and the helical symmetry of the AIM2PYD filament is consistent with the filament assembled by the PYD of the downstream adaptor ASC. Our results suggest that the role of AIM2PYD is not autoinhibitory, but generating a structural template by coupling ligand binding and oligomerization is a key signal transduction mechanism in the AIM2 inflammasome.
Dominant oceanic bacteria secure phosphate using a large extracellular buffer
Authors: Zubkov Mikhail V. , Martin Adrian P. , Hartmann Manuela , Grob Carolina , Scanlan David J.
Published: July 2015

The ubiquitous SAR11 and Prochlorococcus bacteria manage to maintain a sufficient supply of phosphate in phosphate-poor surface waters of the North Atlantic subtropical gyre. Furthermore, it seems that their phosphate uptake may counter-intuitively be lower in more productive tropical waters, as if their cellular demand for phosphate decreases there. By flow sorting 33P-phosphate-pulsed 32P-phosphate-chased cells, we demonstrate that both Prochlorococcus and SAR11 cells exploit an extracellular buffer of labile phosphate up to 5–40 times larger than the amount of phosphate required to replicate their chromosomes. Mathematical modelling is shown to support this conclusion. The fuller the buffer the slower the cellular uptake of phosphate, to the point that in phosphate-replete tropical waters, cells can saturate their buffer and their phosphate uptake becomes marginal. Hence, buffer stocking is a generic, growth-securing adaptation for SAR11 and Prochlorococcus bacteria, which lack internal reserves to reduce their dependency on bioavailable ambient phosphate.
Novel function of a putative MOC1 ortholog associated with spikelet number per spike in common wheat
Authors: Zhang Bin , Liu Xia , Xu Weina , Chang Jianzhong , Li Ang , Mao Xinguo , Zhang Xueyong , Jing Ruilian
Published: July 2015

Axillary meristems play an important role in determining final plant architecture and floral structures. TomatoLs, ArabidopsisLASand riceMOC1are orthologous genes regulating axillary meristem initiation and outgrowth. Their functions are generally conserved but the functional specificities are divergent among species. Obvious differences between rice panicles and wheat spikes suggest the divergent functions ofMOC1and its wheat ortholog. We show thatTaMOC1might be involved in wheat spikelet development. TaMOC1 is a typical nucleus localized protein with transcriptional activation abilities. The variable N-termini of TaMOC1 protein is necessary for transcriptional activation.TaMOC1is highly expressed in ears with length of 2, 3 and 6 cm. Significant associations between theTaMOC1-7Ahaplotype and spikelet number per spike were observed in ten environments over 3 years and 2 sites.TaMOC1-7A HapH, a favored haplotype acquired during wheat polyploidization, may make a positive contribution to spikelet number per spike. Based on evolutionary analysis, geographic distribution and frequency changes,TaMOC1-7A HapH might be associated with wheat domestication and Chinese wheat breeding history. The pyramiding favorable alleles ofTaMOC1-7A HapH andTaSnRK2.10(C, associated with higher TGW) can improve both spikelet number per spike and TGW simultaneously.
CILAIR-Based Secretome Analysis of Obese Visceral and Subcutaneous Adipose Tissues Reveals Distinctive ECM Remodeling and Inflammation Mediators
Authors: Roca-Rivada Arturo , Belen Bravo Susana , Pérez-Sotelo Diego , Alonso Jana , Isabel Castro Ana , Baamonde Iván , Baltar Javier , Casanueva Felipe F. , Pardo María
Published: July 2015

In the context of obesity, strong evidences support a distinctive pathological contribution of adipose tissue depending on its anatomical site of accumulation. Therefore, subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) has been lately considered metabolically benign compared to visceral fat (VAT), whose location is associated to the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance and other associated comorbidities. Under the above situation, the chronic local inflammation that characterizes obese adipose tissue, has acquired a major role on the pathogenesis of obesity. In this work, we have analyzed for the first time human obese VAT and SAT secretomes using an improved quantitative proteomic approach for the study of tissue secretomes, Comparison of Isotope-Labeled Amino acid Incorporation Rates (CILAIR). The use of double isotope-labeling-CILAIR approach to analyze VAT and SAT secretomes allowed the identification of location-specific secreted proteins and its differential secretion. Additionally to the very high percentage of identified proteins previously implicated in obesity or in its comorbidities, this approach was revealed as a useful tool for the study of the obese adipose tissue microenvironment including extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and inflammatory status. The results herein presented reinforce the fact that VAT and SAT depots have distinct features and contribute differentially to metabolic disease.
Flower-like Palladium Nanoclusters Decorated Graphene Electrodes for Ultrasensitive and Flexible Hydrogen Gas Sensing
Authors: Shin Dong Hoon , Lee Jun Seop , Jun Jaemoon , An Ji Hyun , Kim Sung Gun , Cho Kyung Hee , Jang Jyongsik
Published: July 2015

Flower-like palladium nanoclusters (FPNCs) are electrodeposited onto graphene electrode that are prepared by chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The CVD graphene layer is transferred onto a poly(ethylene naphthalate) (PEN) film to provide a mechanical stability and flexibility. The surface of the CVD graphene is functionalized with diaminonaphthalene (DAN) to form flower shapes. Palladium nanoparticles act as templates to mediate the formation of FPNCs, which increase in size with reaction time. The population of FPNCs can be controlled by adjusting the DAN concentration as functionalization solution. These FPNCs_CG electrodes are sensitive to hydrogen gas at room temperature. The sensitivity and response time as a function of the FPNCs population are investigated, resulted in improved performance with increasing population. Furthermore, the minimum detectable level (MDL) of hydrogen is 0.1 ppm, which is at least 2 orders of magnitude lower than that of chemical sensors based on other Pd-based hybrid materials.
Asymmetry in Time Evolution of Magnetization in Magnetic Nanostructures
Authors: Tóbik Jaroslav , Cambel Vladimir , Karapetrov Goran
Published: July 2015

Strong interest in nanomagnetism stems from the promise of high storage densities of information through control of ever smaller and smaller ensembles of spins. There is a broad consensus that the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert equation reliably describes the magnetization dynamics on classical phenomenological level. On the other hand, it is not so evident that the magnetization dynamics governed by this equation contains built-in asymmetry in the case of broad topology sets of symmetric total energy functional surfaces. The magnetization dynamics in such cases shows preference for one particular state from many energetically equivalent available minima. We demonstrate this behavior on a simple one-spin model which can be treated analytically. Depending on the ferromagnet geometry and material parameters, this asymmetric behavior can be robust enough to survive even at high temperatures opening simplified venues for controlling magnetic states of nanodevices in practical applications. Using micromagnetic simulations we demonstrate the asymmetry in magnetization dynamics in a real system with reduced symmetry such as Pacman-like nanodot. Exploiting the built-in asymmetry in the dynamics could lead to practical methods of preparing desired spin configurations on nanoscale.
PRC2 inhibition counteracts the culture-associated loss of engraftment potential of human cord blood-derived hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells
Authors: Varagnolo Linda , Lin Qiong , Obier Nadine , Plass Christoph , Dietl Johannes , Zenke Martin , Claus Rainer , Müller Albrecht M.
Published: July 2015

Cord blood hematopoietic stem cells (CB-HSCs) are an outstanding source for transplantation approaches. However, the amount of cells per donor is limited and culture expansion of CB-HSCs is accompanied by a loss of engraftment potential. In order to analyze the molecular mechanisms leading to this impaired potential we profiled global and local epigenotypes during the expansion of human CB hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HPSCs). Human CB-derived CD34+ cells were cultured in serum-free medium together with SCF, TPO, FGF, with or without Igfbp2 and Angptl5 (STF/STFIA cocktails). As compared to the STF cocktail, the STFIA cocktail maintains in vivo repopulation capacity of cultured CD34+ cells. Upon expansion, CD34+ cells genome-wide remodel their epigenotype and depending on the cytokine cocktail, cells show different H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 levels. Expanding cells without Igfbp2 and Angptl5 leads to higher global H3K27me3 levels. ChIPseq analyses reveal a cytokine cocktail-dependent redistribution of H3K27me3 profiles. Inhibition of the PRC2 component EZH2 counteracts the culture-associated loss of NOD scid gamma (NSG) engraftment potential. Collectively, our data reveal chromatin dynamics that underlie the culture-associated loss of engraftment potential. We identify PRC2 component EZH2 as being involved in the loss of engraftment potential during the in vitro expansion of HPSCs.
S-acylation of the Insulin-Responsive Aminopeptidase (IRAP): Quantitative analysis and Identification of Modified Cysteines
Authors: Werno Martin W. , Chamberlain Luke H.
Published: July 2015

The insulin-responsive aminopeptidase (IRAP) was recently identified as an S-acylated protein in adipocytes and other tissues. However, there is currently no information on the extent of S-acylation of this protein, the residues that are modified, or the effects of S-acylation on IRAP localisation. In this study, we employ a semi-quantitative acyl-RAC technique to show that approximately 60% of IRAP is S-acylated in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. In contrast, S-acylation of GLUT4, a glucose transporter that extensively co-localises with IRAP, was approximately five-fold lower. Site-directed mutagenesis was employed to map the sites of S-acylation on IRAP to two cysteine residues, one of which is predicted to lie in the cytoplasmic side of the single transmembrane domain and the other which is just upstream of this transmembrane domain; our results suggest that these cysteines may be modified in a mutually-exclusive manner. Although S-acylation regulates the intracellular trafficking of several transmembrane proteins, we did not detect any effects of mutating the modified cysteines on the plasma membrane localisation of IRAP in HEK293T cells, suggesting that S-acylation is not essential for the movement of IRAP through the secretory pathway.
Visualization of film-forming polymer particles with a liquid cell technique in a transmission electron microscope
Authors: Liu Lili , Liu Yi , Wu Wenjun , Miller Christopher. M. , Dickey Elizabeth C.
Published: July 2015

Liquid cell transmission electron microscopy technique provides the opportunity to image room-temperature film-forming polymer particles in solution. Together with staining technique, it can also be used as a tool to characterize the internal structure of polymer particles in situ.
Hyperspectral imaging in tandem with multivariate analysis and image processing for non-invasive detection and visualization of pork adulteration in minced beef
Authors: Kamruzzaman Mohammed , Makino Yoshio , Oshita Seiichi
Published: July 2015

Pork adulteration in minced beef was detected for the first time using a hyperspectral imaging (HIS) technique.
A colorimetric and near-infrared fluorescent turn-on probe for in vitro and in vivo detection of thiophenols
Authors: Yu Dehuan , Zhai Qisong , Yang Shengjun , Feng Guoqiang
Published: July 2015

A colorimetric and NIR fluorescent turn-on probe was reported for rapid detection of thiophenols.
Simultaneous solvent screening and reaction optimization in microliter slugs
Authors: Reizman Brandon J. , Jensen Klavs F.
Published: July 2015

An automated microfluidic system rapidly discovers optimal and scalable reaction conditions for alkylation while teasing-out integrated discrete and continuous variable relationships.
Establishing template-induced polymorphic domains for API crystallisation: the case of carbamazepine
Authors: Parambil Jose V. , Poornachary Sendhil K. , Hinder Steven J. , Tan Reginald B. H. , Heng Jerry Y. Y.
Published: July 2015

Template-induced nucleation of the model compound, Carbamazepine (CBZ), on substrates with different surface chemistries was studied.
Specific ion effects on the hydrophobic interaction of benzene self-assembled monolayers
Authors: Dobberschütz S. , Rimmen M. , Hassenkam T. , Andersson M. P. , Stipp S. L. S.
Published: July 2015

The ions, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+ and K+, decrease the hydrophobic attraction (in this order) between benzene-terminated self assembled monolayers by affecting the creation of bridging capillaries and by charging the surfaces.
Direct observation of vinyl hydroperoxide
Authors: Liu Fang , Fang Yi , Kumar Manoj , Thompson Ward H. , Lester Marsha I.
Published: July 2015

A doubly hydrogen-bonded interaction between the Criegee intermediate and a deuterated carboxylic acid facilitates efficient H/D transfer to yield a partially deuterated vinyl hydroperoxide.
Thermodynamics of Fe3O4–Co3O4and Fe3O4–Mn3O4spinel solid solutions at the bulk and nanoscale
Authors: Sahu Sulata K. , Huang Baiyu , Lilova Kristina , Woodfield Brian F. , Navrotsky Alexandra
Published: July 2015

Enthalpy of mixing (ΔmixH) of (1 −x)Fe3O4–xMn3O4spinel solid solutions with cubic Fe3O4and tetragonal Mn3O4end members.
The water-catalyzed mechanism of the ring-opening reaction of glucose
Authors: Plazinski Wojciech , Plazinska Anita , Drach Mateusz
Published: July 2015

The transition path sampling simulations of the water-assisted ring-opening reaction of α- and β-glucose anomers allow us to elucidate the molecular details of the process.
Sustainable nanotechnology
Authors: Hyeon Taeghwan , Manna Liberato , Wong Stanislaus S.
Published: July 2015

Guest editors Taeghwan Hyeon, Liberato Manna and Stanislaus S. Wong introduce the Sustainable Nanotechnology issue of Chemical Society Reviews
AgPO2F2and Ag9(PO2F2)14: the first Ag(i) and Ag(i)/Ag(ii) difluorophosphates with complex crystal structures
Authors: Malinowski Przemysław J. , Kurzydłowski Dominik , Grochala Wojciech
Published: July 2015

Detailed characterization is presented of novel AgPO2F2and AgI4AgII5(PO2F2)14salts including their complex crystal structures and thermal decomposition.
3D printed microfluidics for biological applications
Authors: Ho Chee Meng Benjamin , Ng Sum Huan , Li King Ho Holden , Yoon Yong-Jin
Published: July 2015

In this paper, a review is carried out of how 3D printing helps to improve the fabrication of microfluidic devices, the 3D printing technologies currently used for fabrication and the future of 3D printing in the field of microfluidics.
A seed-mediated approach to the general and mild synthesis of non-noble metal nanoparticles stabilized by a metal–organic framework for highly efficient catalysis
Authors: Chen Yu-Zhen , Liang Linfeng , Yang Qihao , Hong Maochun , Xu Qiang , Yu Shu-Hong , Jiang Hai-Long
Published: July 2015

A novel noble metal-seed-mediated approach to reduce non-noble metals under mild conditions to afford non-noble metal NPs with superior catalytic performance.
Rare earth 3-(4′-hydroxyphenyl)propionate complexes
Authors: Deacon Glen B. , Junk Peter C. , Lee Winnie W. , Forsyth Maria , Wang Jun
Published: July 2015

Structural variation of lanthanoid 3-(4′-hydroxyphenyl)propionates and investigation of the anti-corrosion properties of lanthanum 3-(4′-hydroxyphenyl)propionate are presented, highlighting lanthanoid contraction and the importance of the –CHCH− structural unit of 4-hydroxycinnamates in corrosion mitigation.
Rattle-type NiCo2O4–carbon composite microspheres as electrode materials for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Ma Yongchao , Jiang Haiyan , Liu Qingzhi , Kang Wukui , Shi Jinsheng
Published: July 2015

Rattle-type NiCo2O4–carbon composite microspheres with a self-assembled shell were synthesized by a template method, which exhibited superior capacitive performances.
Synthesis of multicompartment nanoparticles of a triblock terpolymer by seeded RAFT polymerization
Authors: He Xin , Qu Yaqing , Gao Chengqiang , Zhang Wangqing
Published: July 2015

Seeded RAFT polymerization based on AB diblock copolymer nanoparticles is performed, and multicompartment nanoparticles of ABC triblock terpolymer are prepared.
A nano Ag5 cluster tip probing the vertical transfer of CO(ads) adsorbed on Ag(110) with simulated inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy
Authors: Lu Shao-Yu , Lin Jyh-Shing
Published: July 2015

A nano Ag5 tip probing the transfer of CO(ads) on Ag(110) surface is investigated with simulated inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy generated by combining DFT-based MD simulations with a FT-ACF of the derivative of local density of states.
Production of a non-cytotoxic bioflocculant by a bacterium utilizing a petroleum hydrocarbon source and its application in heavy metal removal
Authors: Pathak M. , Devi A. , Bhattacharyya K. G. , Sarma H. K. , Subudhi S. , Lal B.
Published: July 2015

A bacterium isolated from the activated sludge of an oil refinery of Assam, India retained efficient bioflocculating activity through production of the bioflocculant when it was grown on a crude oil amended medium void of any other carbon source.
Facile fabrication of a mpg-C3N4/TiO2heterojunction photocatalyst with enhanced visible light photoactivity toward organic pollutant degradation
Authors: Ma Shuaishuai , Xue Jinjuan , Zhou Yuming , Zhang Zewu , Cai Zhilan , Zhu Daibao , Liang Shuang
Published: July 2015

A facile hard template approach has been developed to prepare mpg-C3N4/TiO2composites using SiO2nanoparticles as a hard template and cyanamide as a precursor.
Synthesis and properties of tunable thermoresponsive aliphatic polycarbonate copolymers with oligo ethylene glycol containing thioether and/or sulphone groups
Authors: Yu Lin , Zheng Zhen , Liu Yuan , Li Zhao , Wang Xinling
Published: July 2015

Tunable thermoresponsive aliphatic polycarbonates with oligo ethylene glycol containing thioether and/or sulphone groups.
Influence of the bimodal pore structure on the CO hydrogenation activity and selectivity of cobalt catalysts
Authors: Wang Jungang , Li Hansheng , Li Debao , den Breejen Johan P. , Hou Bo
Published: July 2015

The bimodal catalysts with larger second pore showed higher activity, methane selectivity and lower heavy hydrocarbon selectivity than that with smaller ones, under condition of the same first pore size.
pH and temperature responsive redox behavior of biologically important aniline derivatives
Authors: Subhan Hanif , Lashin Aref , Rana Usman Ali , Al-Arifi Nassir , Ahmad Khurshid , Hussain Hidayat , Qureshi Rumana , Ali Saqib , Zia Muhammad Abid , Kraatz Heinz-Bernhard , Shah Afzal
Published: July 2015

The electrochemical oxidation of anilines resulted in azodye formation which was evidenced by the appearance of a new peak in the UV-visible spectra (A) and colour change of the solution (B).
Heteropolyacid generated on the surface of iron phosphate nanotubes: structure and catalytic activity studies
Authors: Al-Mutairi Ebtesam , Narasimharao Katabathini , Mokhtar Mohamed
Published: July 2015

Structural and catalytic properties of a Mo based heteropolyacid generated after impregnation of MoOx on the surface of porous iron phosphate nanotubes (FeP) were studied.
Synthesis of half-titanocenes containing 1,3-imidazolidin-2-iminato ligands of type, Cp*TiCl2[1,3-R2(CH2N)2CN]: highly active catalyst precursors in ethylene (co)polymerisation
Authors: Nomura Kotohiro , Patamma Srisuda , Matsuda Hideshi , Katao Shohei , Tsutsumi Ken , Fukuda Hiroya
Published: July 2015

Cp*TiCl2[1,3-(2,6-Me2C6H3)2(CH2N)2CN] showed remarkable catalytic activities for ethylene/1-hexene copolymerisation with efficient comonomer incorporation (ex. activity 1 750 000 kg-polymer per mol-Ti per h).
First investigation of polyoxoniobate and polyoxotantalate aqueous speciation by capillary zone electrophoresis
Authors: Deblonde Gauthier J.-P. , Delaunay Nathalie , Lee Dahye , Chagnes Alexandre , Cote Gérard , Gareil Pierre
Published: July 2015

Aqueous solutions of hexaniobate (HxNb6O19x−8, 0 ≤ x ≤ 3) and hexatantalate ions (HxTa6O19x−8, 0 ≤ x ≤ 3) have been probed by capillary zone electrophoresis (CE) for the first time.
Design and synthesis of conformationally homogeneous pseudo cyclic peptides through amino acid insertion: investigations on their self assembly
Authors: Kulsi Goutam , Ghorai Abhijit , Achari Basudeb , Chattopadhyay Partha
Published: July 2015

Macrocyclic C2 symmetric peptides have been synthesized that contain bis furanoid triazole amino acids linked to a d-α-amino acid or a β-amino acid in each half. Only the former undergoes parallel homo-stacking in solution.
Remarkable enhancement of ambient-air electrical conductivity of the perylenediimide π-stacks isolated in the flexible films of a hydrogen-bonded polymer
Authors: Supur Mustafa , Yurtsever Ayhan , Akbey Ümit
Published: July 2015

N,N′-di(2-(trimethylammoniumiodide)ethylene) perylenediimide (TAIPDI), forming extensive π-stacks through the strong π–π interactions of large π-planes, was isolated in the hydrogen-bonding milieu of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) from aqueous solutions.
Assessing changes in high school students' conceptual understanding through concept maps before and after the computer-based predict–observe–explain (CB-POE) tasks on acid–base chemistry at the secondary level
Authors: Yaman Fatma , Ayas Alipaşa
Published: July 2015

Although concept maps have been used as alternative assessment methods in education, there has been an ongoing debate on how to evaluate students' concept maps. This study discusses how to evaluate students' concept maps as an assessment tool before and after 15 computer-based Predict–Observe–Explain (CB-POE) tasks related to acid–base chemistry. 12 high school students participated in this study. Students' concept maps were evaluated taking into account three parts: qualitative, quantitative and representational level. The results gathered from the quantitative analysis of the pre and post concept maps were analyzed using SPSS 17.0. The results showed that there is a significant difference between students' pre and post concept map scores (z= 3.05;p< 0.05). From the qualitative analysis of the concept maps, the majority of the students constructed their pre and post concept maps non-hierarchically; while they drew more interconnected concept maps after the CB-POE tasks. Regarding their representational level, the students used the macroscopic level more often than microscopic and symbolic levels in both their pre and post concept maps. Nonetheless, they increased the number of macroscopic, microscopic and symbolic level representations in their post concept maps. The paper concludes with suggestions and implications for educators and researchers to improve the quality of concept map evaluation.
Fluoride responsive single nanochannel: click fabrication and highly selective sensing in aqueous solution
Authors: Nie Guanrong , Sun Yue , Zhang Fan , Song Miaomiao , Tian Demei , Jiang Lei , Li Haibing
Published: July 2015

A F− responsive nanochannel based on hydrogen-bonding interactions was designed to accomplish highly selective sensing in aqueous solution.
Ultrathin Au nanowires supported on rGO/TiO2 as an efficient photoelectrocatalyst
Authors: Leelavathi A. , Madras Giridhar , Ravishankar N.
Published: July 2015

A method to grow ultrathin Au nanowires and metal oxide on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) to produce a hybrid that exhibits good activity for ethanol oxidation.
Quantitative relation between photocatalytic activity and degree of 〈001〉 orientation for anatase TiO2 thin films
Authors: Stefanov Bozhidar I. , Niklasson Gunnar A. , Granqvist Claes G. , Österlund Lars
Published: July 2015

We demonstrate a quantitative relationship between exposed (001) crystal surfaces and photocatalytic activity of nanocrystalline films prepared by DC magnetron sputtering that follow a square dependence.
Novel dendritic derivatives of unsaturated fatty acids as promising transdermal permeation enhancers for tenofovir
Authors: Rambharose Sanjeev , Kalhapure Rahul S. , Akamanchi Krishnacharya G. , Govender Thirumala
Published: July 2015

Novel dendritic ester derivatives of unsaturated fatty acids as potential transdermal permeation enhancers.
The Effect of Chronological Age on the Acceptance of Internet-Based Hearing Health Care
Authors: Moore Ashley N. , Rothpletz Ann M. , Preminger Jill E.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to offer design considerations in developing Internet-based hearing health care for older adults by analyzing and discussing the relationship between chronological age, computer skills, and the acceptance of Internet-based hearing health care.

Method

This article reports baseline data from a training study measuring the acceptance of Internet-based hearing health care. Participants (
n
= 26; 20 men, 6 women) were aged 55–95 years. All passed a cognitive screen and failed a hearing screen. Participants completed the Patient-Technology Acceptance questionnaire (Or, 2008). Computer literacy was measured using the Northstar Digital Literacy Assessment (Cytron-Hysom, Hadley, Vanek, Graif, & Asp, 2012).

Results

Computer literacy was negatively correlated with increasing age. Additional negative relationships were seen between computer literacy and computer anxiety and between computer literacy and computer self-efficacy. Finally, there was a negative relationship between computer self-efficacy and computer anxiety.

Conclusion

These results suggest computer literacy is lower in adults of advanced age than in those who are a few years younger. Indirect relationships were observed between age and computer self-efficacy and between age and computer anxiety. Consideration should be given to addressing discrepancies in self-efficacy and computer literacy in older adults to increase the likelihood of acceptance of Internet-based hearing health care.
The Application of Intervention Coding Methodology to Describe the Tinnitus E-Programme, an Internet-Delivered Self-Help Intervention for Tinnitus
Authors: Greenwell Kate , Featherstone Debbie , Hoare Derek J.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

This article describes the Tinnitus E-Programme, a previously untested Internet-delivered self-help intervention for tinnitus.

Method

Intervention coding methodology was applied to describe the intervention components, techniques, and mode of delivery.

Results

The intervention consists of 5 self-management intervention components, 5 behavior change techniques, and 3 modes of Internet delivery, which aim to promote relaxation behavior and reduce tinnitus distress.

Conclusions

The intervention coding provided a reliable method for reporting Internet-delivered self-help interventions. It will be used to facilitate our understanding of the intervention's potential mechanisms of change and will guide future evaluation work.
Can a Remotely Delivered Auditory Training Program Improve Speech-in-Noise Understanding?
Authors: Abrams Harvey B. , Bock Kirsten , Irey Ryan L.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

The aims of this study were to determine if a remotely delivered, Internet-based auditory training (AT) program improved speech-in-noise understanding and if the number of hours spent engaged in the program influenced postintervention speech-in-noise understanding.

Method

Twenty-nine first-time hearing aid users were randomized into an AT group (hearing aids + 3 week remotely delivered, Internet-based auditory training program) or a control group (hearing aids alone). The Hearing in Noise Test (Nilsson, Soli, & Sullivan, 1994) and the Words-in-Noise test (Wilson, 2003) were administered to both groups at baseline + 1 week and immediately at the completion of the 3 weeks of auditory training.

Results

Speech-in-noise understanding improved for both groups at the completion of the study; however, there was not a statistically significant difference in postintervention improvement between the AT and control groups. Although the number of hours the participants engaged in the AT program was far fewer than prescribed, time on task influenced the postintervention Words-in-Noise but not Hearing in Noise Test scores.

Conclusion

Although remotely delivered, Internet-based AT programs represent an attractive alternative to resource-intensive, clinic-based interventions, their demonstrated efficacy continues to remain a challenge due in part to issues associated with compliance.
Bridging the Gap Between Hearing Screening and Successful Rehabilitation: Research Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Trial of Motivational Interviewing via Internet
Authors: Mikaela Weineland Sandra , Andersson Gerhard , Lunner Thomas , Carlbring Per , Hesser Hugo , Ingo Elisabeth , Molander Peter , Nordqvist Peter , Laplante-Lévesque Ariane
Published: July 2015

Purpose

Studies point to low help-seeking after a failed hearing screening. This research forum article presents the research protocol for a randomized controlled trial of motivational interviewing via the Internet to promote help-seeking in people who have failed an online hearing screening.

Method

Adults who fail a Swedish online hearing screening, including a speech-in-noise recognition test, will be randomized to either an intervention group (participating in motivational interviewing) or an active control group (reading a book on history of hearing aids). Both of the conditions will be delivered via the Internet. The primary outcome is experience with seeking health care and using hearing aids 9 months after the intervention. Secondary outcomes are changes in before and after measures of self-reported hearing difficulties, anxiety, depression, and quality of life. Stages of change and self-efficacy in hearing help-seeking are measured immediately after intervention and at a 9-month follow-up for the purpose of mediation analysis.

Results

The results of this randomized controlled trial may help bridge the gap between hearing screening and successful hearing rehabilitation.

Conclusion

Although no large instantaneous benefits are expected, a slow change toward healthy behaviors—seeking health care and using hearing aids—would shed light on how to use the Internet to assist people with hearing impairment.