bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variability of water mass properties in the Strait of Sicily in summer period of 1998–2013
Authors: Bonanno A. , Placenti F. , Basilone G. , Mifsud R. , Genovese S. , Patti B. , Di Bitetto M. , Aronica S. , Barra M. , Giacalone G. , Ferreri R. , Fontana I. , Buscaino G. , Tranchida G. , Quinci E. , Mazzola S.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. The Strait of Sicily plays a crucial role in determining the water-mass exchanges and related properties between the western and eastern Mediterranean. Hydrographic measurements carried out from 1998 to 2013 allowed the identification of the main water masses present in the Strait of Sicily: a surface layer composed of Atlantic water (AW) flowing eastward, intermediate and deep layers mainly composed of Levantine intermediate water (LIW), and transitional eastern Mediterranean deep water (tEMDW) flowing in the opposite direction. Furthermore, for the first time, the signature of intermittent presence of western intermediate water (WIW) is also highlighted in the northwestern part of the study area (12.235° E, 37.705° N). The excellent area coverage allowed to highlight the high horizontal and vertical inter-annual variability affecting the study area and also to recognize the permanent character of the main mesoscale phenomena present in the surface water layer. Moreover, strong temperature-salinity correlations in the intermediate layer, for specific time intervals, seem to be linked to the reversal of surface circulation in the central Ionian Sea. The analysis of CTD data in deeper water layer indicates the presence of a large volume of tEMDW in the Strait of Sicily during the summers of 2006 and 2009.
Variations of the crustal thickness in Nepal Himalayas based on tomographic inversion of regional earthquake data
Authors: Koulakov I. , Maksotova G. , Mukhopadhyay S. , Raoof J. , Kayal J. R. , Jakovlev A. , Vasilevsky A.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. We estimate variations of the crustal thickness beneath the Nepal Himalayas based on tomographic inversion of regional earthquake data. We have obtained a low-velocity anomaly in the upper part of the model down to depths of 40 to 80 km and proposed that the lower limit of this anomaly represents variations of the Moho depth. This statement was supported by results of synthetic modeling. The obtained variations of crustal thickness match fairly well with the free-air gravity anomalies: thinner crust patterns correspond to lower gravity values and vice versa. There is also some correlation with magnetic field: higher magnetic values correspond to the major areas of thicker crust. We propose that elevated magnetic values can be associated with more rigid segments of the incoming Indian crust which cause more compression in the thrust zone and leads to stronger crustal thickening.
Fault evolution in the Potiguar rift termination, Equatorial margin of Brazil
Authors: de Castro D. L. , Bezerra F. H. R.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. The transform shearing between South American and African plates in the Cretaceous generated a series of sedimentary basins on both plate margins. In this study, we use gravity, aeromagnetic, and resistivity surveys to identify fault architecture and to analyse the evolution of the eastern Equatorial margin of Brazil. Our study area is the southern onshore termination of the Potiguar rift, which is an aborted NE-trending rift arm developed during the breakup of Pangea. The Potiguar rift is a Neocomian structure located in the intersection of the Equatorial and western South Atlantic and is composed of a series of NE-trending horsts and grabens. This study reveals new grabens in the Potiguar rift and indicates that stretching in the southern rift termination created a WNW-trending, 10 km wide and ~40 km long right-lateral strike-slip fault zone. This zone encompasses at least eight depocenters, which are bounded by a left-stepping, en-echelon system of NW- to EW-striking normal faults. These depocenters form grabens up to 1200 m deep with a rhomb-shaped geometry, which are filled with rift sedimentary units and capped by post-rift sedimentary sequences. The evolution of the rift termination is consistent with the right-lateral shearing of the Equatorial margin in the Cretaceous and occurs not only at the rift termination, but also as isolated structures away from the main rift.
Learning to Sing Again: A Gay Widower’s Journey
Authors: Taylor Donald
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this article was to report the author’s journey through grief and healing via a gay men’s chorus following the death of his husband from congestive heart failure. Research questions in this study were: In what ways did joining a gay men’s chorus affect the author’s grieving process? and How did singing with a gay men’s chorus affect the author’s sense of identity? Data drawn from field notes, reflections on Facebook postings, and program archives were collected from January to August 2012, representing the time the author joined the chorus until the ensemble’s performance at the 2012 GALA Festival in Denver, Colorado, which hosted over 6,000 singers from 130 LGBTQ choruses. Findings emerged into three themes: vulnerability, awakening, and healing. Implications are provided for music educators directing community ensembles.
Mimetizar elementos do sistema das artes para discuti-lo?
Authors:   Instituto de Artes da Universidade Estadual Paulista, Nunes Fabio Oliveira
Published: October 2014

Artistas contemporâneos, com o intuito de lançar provocações, jogam com regimes de ambiguidade e alteridade em suas produções para discutir elementos do próprio sistema das artes visuais – a figura do artista, o museu, o jornalismo cultural etc. Em diálogo, consideram-se os projetos de artistas como Yuri Firmeza (com seu “artista inventado” Souzousareta Geijutsuka) e Bruno Moreschi (com seu projeto ART BOOK, onde cria uma enciclopédia de arte com 50 artistas ficcionais concebidos por ele). Neste contexto, a pesquisa envolve o desenvolvimento prático da persona de um “artista tecnológico” – um robô de conversação que se passa por artista atuando ininterruptamente em uma “teleperformance” via Internet – supostamente instaurando uma relação “direta” entre artista e público.
Arte-ciência-tecnologia e sistemas da arte na era da cultura digital: contexto Brasil
Authors:   Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Gasparetto Débora Aita
Published: October 2014

Este artigo propõe abordar a temática da arte-ciência-tecnologia na era da cultura digital a partir das suas relações com o sistema da arte vigente. Para isto nos baseamos em entrevistas disponibilizadas na publicação Arte-ciência-tecnologia: o sistema da arte em perspectiva (2014), a qual aponta caminhos para a pesquisa de doutorado da autora. Nesta oportunidade analisamos o contexto brasileiro em termos de produção-distribuição-consumo-preservação, a fim de constatar a inserção ou não da produção, também denominada arte digital, no sistema da arte contemporânea. A partir desta análise propomos uma reflexão sobre os sistemas da arte na contemporaneidade e a possibilidade de existência de um sistema particular para a arte-ciência-tecnologia em diálogo com o sistema da arte contemporânea, mas, sobretudo com a cultura do início do século XXI.
Tecnofobia: mudanças tecnológicas e transformações na percepção humana
Authors: Born Rodrigo
Published: October 2014

Arendt classifica o fazer humano em três diferentes categorias: Trabalho, obra e ação. Neste artigo se buscou relacionar estas categorizações com o conceito de tecnologia de diversos autores, tais como Cupani, Dias e Epstein, que indicam que o objeto tecnológico é mais abrangente do que aponta o senso comum. Sendo o objeto tecnológico intimamente relacionado com os conceitos de produção de Arendt, evidenciou-se a importância das tecnologias na condição humana, já que para a autora, esta depende principalmente da capacidade do homem produzir. Neste contexto, se buscou fazer uma relação entre homem e máquina, e as outras relações subjetivas proposta pelo objeto artístico da arte e tecnologia. O artigo analisa o quadro em que o homem se relaciona com a máquina em seu ambiente, construindo através destas relações e influências que permeiam toda a cultura.
Engineering Efficient Retinal Pigment Epithelium Differentiation From Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Lane Amelia , Philip Lissa Rachel , Ruban Ludmila , Fynes Kate , Smart Matthew , Carr Amanda , Mason Chris , Coffey Pete
Published: October 2014

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are a promising source of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells: cells that can be used for the treatment of common and incurable forms of blindness, such as age-related macular degeneration. Although most hESC lines will produce a number of clusters of pigmented RPE cells within 30–50 days when allowed to spontaneously differentiate, the timing and efficiency of differentiation is highly variable. This could prove problematic in the design of robust processes for the large scale production of RPE cells for cell therapy. In this study we sought to identify, quantify, and reduce the sources of variability in hESC-RPE differentiation. By monitoring the emergence of pigmented cells over time, we show how the cell line, passaging method, passage number, and seeding density have a significant and reproducible effect on the RPE yield. To counter this variability, we describe the production of RPE cells from two cell lines in feeder-free, density controlled conditions using single cell dissociation and seeding that is more amenable to scaled up production. The efficacy of small molecules in directing differentiation toward the RPE lineage was tested in two hESC lines with divergent RPE differentiation capacities. Neural induction by treatment with a bone morphogenetic protein inhibitor, dorsomorphin, significantly enhanced the RPE yield in one cell line but significantly reduce it in another, generating instead a Chx10 positive neural progenitor phenotype. This result underlines the necessity to tailor differentiation protocols to suit the innate properties of different cell lines.
Effects of Shock-Absorbing Insoles During Transition from Natural Grass to Artificial Turf in Young Soccer Players
Authors: Kaalund Søren , Madeleine Pascal
Published: October 2014

Background

Playing soccer on artificial turf can provoke pain in young players. Using shock-absorbing insoles (SAIs) can result in decreased pain perception. We sought to investigate the pain and comfort intensity experienced during the switch from natural grass to third-generation artificial turf and with the use of SAIs on artificial turf during training in young soccer players.

Methods

In a prospective randomized controlled study, 75 players were included from the youth teams of U15, U17, and U19. Pain intensity and comfort were assessed after training on only grass turf for 3 months. Randomization stratified by team level and age was performed; the intervention group received SAIs, and the control group used their own insoles. Assessments were repeated after 3 weeks on artificial turf (baseline) and 3 more weeks (follow-up) on artificial turf with SAIs/usual insoles.

Results

Pain intensity increased and comfort decreased significantly after 3 weeks of training on artificial grass compared with natural grass (P < .05). The addition of SAIs resulted in significantly reduced pain intensity compared with the usual insoles (P < .05).

Conclusions

The switch to artificial turf is associated with less comfort and more pain during training in young soccer players. The use of SAIs led to lower pain intensity, highlighting a protective role of the insoles after 6 weeks of training on artificial turf.
Description of Total Population Hospital Admissions for Morton's Metatarsalgia in Australia
Authors: Naraghi Reza , Bryant Alan , Slack-Smith Linda
Published: October 2014

Background

Morton's metatarsalgia is a painful perineural fibroma of a plantar nerve, most commonly of the second or third intermetatarsal spaces of the forefoot. The aim of this study was to investigate hospital admissions with a diagnosis of Morton's metatarsalgia in the Australian population from 1998 to 2008.

Methods

Data regarding admissions with a diagnosis code of ICD-10 G57.6 were extracted from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare databases of hospital morbidity from 1998 to 2008. The event of interest was an admission with ICD-10 G57.6 (Morton's metatarsalgia). The explanatory variables included sex and age group. Rates were calculated using the estimated resident population counts to determine denominators.

Results

Morton's metatarsalgia admissions were almost three-fold higher for women in the population compared to men. The rate of admissions for Morton's metatarsalgia was the highest for the total population in the 55- to 59-year-old age group. Among women admitted for Morton's metatarsalgia, the highest rate was in the 50- to 54-year-old age group; among men, the highest rate was in the slightly older 55- to 59-year-old age category.

Conclusions

Population-level information on admissions for Morton's metatarsalgia show that admissions were three times higher among women compared to men. The highest admission rate was in the 50- to 55-year-old age group.
The Enemy of the Feet
Authors: Scheer Bernd Volker , Reljic Dejan , Murray Andrew , Costa Ricardo Jose Soures
Published: October 2014

Background

Blisters are the most common dermatologic problem in ultraendurance runners. Their incidence, localization, pain scores, and risk factors in field conditions are poorly understood.

Methods

We conducted an observational field-based cohort study during the 5-day multistage 2010 and 2011 Al Andalus Ultimate Trail (219 km). Daily postrace data on blister frequency, localization, severity, and preventive measures from 50 ultramarathon runners were collected through the direct interview technique.

Results

After 4 days of running (182 km), blisters occurred in 76% of the participants (P < .001 versus stage 1) compared with 34% after day 1, 54% after day 2, and 72% after day 3 (P < .001 versus stage 1). Most of the blisters formed on the toes (65%) (P < .001), followed by blisters on other locations of the foot: the ball of the foot (16%), heel (14%), and sole (5%). Blisters were more painful toward the end of the race, and those on the sole and heel tended to be the most painful, although this did not reach statistical significance. Prophylactic measures studied (type and fabric of socks; application of antiperspirants, talcum powder, or lubricant to feet; and prophylactic taping) did not show any reduction in blister rates. The only predictive marker for reduced blister incidence was previous ultramarathon experience in men (r = −0.44, P < .05).

Conclusions

Blisters are extremely common in multistage ultramarathon races. Race experience in male ultramarathon runners is associated with reduced blister rates.
Subungual Syringoid Eccrine Carcinoma of the Great Toe Nail Complex
Authors: Grady John F. , Boumendjel Yelena , Tahniyath Maliha S.
Published: October 2014

Syringoid eccrine carcinoma is a very rare skin cancer. We present a case of a 22-year-old woman with a presentation of syringoid eccrine carcinoma in the subungual region of the hallux. This clinical case demonstrates our work-up that led to a proper diagnosis and management of this pathology. We discuss our surgical procedure of choice and the outcome. This report adds valuable information to a limited database of knowledge available on the diagnosis and management of syringoid eccrine carcinomas.
Transplantation with Allograft for Rupture of the Flexor Hallucis Longus Tendon with Subsequent Longitudinal Tear of the Flexor Digitorum Longus Tendon at the Master Knot of Henry
Authors: Grady John F. , Boumendjel Yelena , Nguyen Ngan T. , Caldwell Autumn
Published: October 2014

A rare case of closed complete rupture of the flexor hallucis longus tendon with subsequent longitudinal tear of the flexor digitorum longus tendon is reported in a marathon runner. This is also a first case report of flexor hallucis longus transplant with cadaveric posterior tibial tendon allograft. Two minimal incisions distal and proximal to the malleolus allowed for tunneling with urethral dilators to open the tendon sheath for transplantation, avoiding the need for a large incision. Postoperatively, the patient regained active flexion at the interphalangeal joint of the left hallux. Four months after surgery, full range of motion was observed and dynamometric exam revealed 68% of the strength of the contralateral side. The patient was able to resume competitive running after the surgery and performed well in her age bracket.
Fibrolipomatous Hamartoma of Nerve in the Great Toe
Authors: Mam Praya , Lewis Ebony B. , Song Tex , Bakotic Bradley W.
Published: October 2014

Fibrolipomatous hamartoma is a rare benign tumor characterized by infiltration of fibrous and adipose tissue found within the epineurium and perineurium of the distal peripheral nerves. Most commonly seen in the upper extremities and median nerve, it is rarely involved in the foot and ankle. We report a rare case of fibrolipomatous hamartoma found in the great toe of a 25-year-old patient. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a heterogeneous mass, confirming the mass was solid rather than a fluid collection. Surgical excision revealed a fatty, fibrous, well-demarcated, encapsulated, solid soft-tissue mass. A surgical excision was performed and a pathologic diagnosis of fibrolipomatous hamartoma was made.
Dansgaard‐Oeschger oscillations predicted in a comprehensive model of glacial climate: A “kicked” salt oscillator in the Atlantic
Authors: Peltier W. Richard , Vettoretti Guido
Published: October 2014

During the period from 60,000 to 35,000 years ago, Summit‐Greenland ice core records of the oxygen isotopic ratio 18O/16O exhibit intense millennium time scale oscillations. These Dansgaard‐Oeschger oscillations have been interpreted to represent the variations in North Atlantic air temperature caused by correlative changes in the strength of North Atlantic Deep Water production. We apply a comprehensive model of glacial climate to unambiguously identify the mechanism responsible for this phenomenon. This is shown to involve a salt oscillation of relaxation oscillator form. This nonlinear oscillation does not require the existence of feedback due to freshwater release from grounded ice on the continents during the warm phase of the cycle.
Influence of the Madden‐Julian oscillation on the Indian Ocean cross‐equatorial heat transport
Authors: Guan Bin , Waliser Duane E. , Lee Tong , Halkides Daria J.
Published: October 2014

The Indian Ocean cross‐equatorial heat transport (CEHT) anomalies associated with the Madden‐Julian oscillation (MJO) are analyzed using the National Centers for Environmental Prediction Climate Forecast System Reanalysis for the period 1979–2010. The magnitude of MJO‐related CEHT anomalies, seasonal dependence, and interannual modulations are examined. The magnitude of composite MJO CEHT anomalies is ~30% (~15%) of the amplitude of the seasonal climatology in winter (summer). Interannual modulation on average accounts for only ~10% of the total magnitude of intraseasonal variability of a given year. MJO CEHT is largely contributed by temperature flux anomalies in the upper ~140 m, with notable compensation between two characteristic layers. The significance of MJO CEHT anomalies, the nonnegligible magnitude of residual CEHT accumulated from intraseasonal anomalies during specific years, and the vertical compensation of temperature flux anomalies that give rise to the CEHT, have implications to the potential importance of upper ocean thermodynamics in MJO evolution and regional climate.
Transition between viscous dipolar and inertial multipolar dynamos
Authors: Oruba Ludivine , Dormy Emmanuel
Published: October 2014

We investigate the transition from steady dipolar to reversing multipolar dynamos. The Earth has been argued to lie close to this transition, which could offer a scenario for geomagnetic reversals. We show that the transition between dipolar and multipolar dynamos is characterized by a three terms balance (as opposed to the usually assumed two terms balance), which involves the nongradient parts of inertial, viscous and Coriolis forces. We introduce from this equilibrium the sole parameter RoE−1/3≡ReE2/3, which accurately describes the transition for a wide database of 132 fully three‐dimensional direct numerical simulations of spherical rotating dynamos (courtesy of U. Christensen). This resolves earlier contradictions in the literature on the relevant two terms balance at the transition. Considering only a two terms balance between the nongradient part of the Coriolis force and of inertial forces provides the classical Ro/ℓu. This transition can be equivalently described by , which corresponds to the two terms balance between the nongradient part of inertial forces and viscous forces.
Interchange motion as a transport mechanism for formation of cold‐dense plasma sheet
Authors: Wang Chih‐Ping , Gkioulidou Matina , Lyons Larry R. , Xing Xiaoyan , Wolf Richard A.
Published: October 2014

To evaluate whether interchange motion can provide the transport for the formation of the cold‐dense plasma sheet in the near‐Earth region, we present an event of cold‐dense plasma sheet observed by five THEMIS probes after the interplanetary magnetic field turned northward, as well as their comparisons with the simulation results from the Rice Convection Model (RCM) combined with a modified Dungey force‐balanced magnetic field solver. The observations of cold‐dense plasma at different locations show quite different characteristics: (1) closer to the flank, the appearance is more periodic and exhibits larger fluctuations in plasma moments and magnetic field; (2) further away from the flank, the cold plasma appears later; (3) in the mixture with the cold plasma, the decrease in high‐energy particle fluxes becomes less significant further away from the flank; (4) there is energy‐dispersion in the cold particles at some locations; and (5) near the magnetopause, the fluctuations have the characteristics of the Kelvin‐Helmholtz (K‐H) vortices and the colder‐denser plasma is likely to have lower entropy. In the RCM simulations, lower entropy plasma consisting of colder‐denser ions and electrons was periodically released locally at the outer boundary to represent the plasma created within a K‐H vortex. This lower entropy perturbation is interchange unstable and the resulting interchange motion through the magnetosphere‐ionosphere coupling pushes the colder‐denser plasma radially inward. The simulated particle energy spectrums at different locations qualitatively reproduce the observations, strongly suggesting that the seemingly different characteristics of cold‐dense plasma observed by different probes are all a result of the same interchange‐related transport mechanism.
Effect of spatial density variation and O+ concentration on the growth and evolution of electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves
Authors: Denton R. E. , Jordanova V. K. , Fraser B. J.
Published: October 2014

We simulate electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) wave growth and evolution within three regions, the plasmasphere (or plasmaspheric plume), the plasmapause, and the low‐density plasmatrough outside the plasmapause. First, we use a ring current simulation with a plasmasphere model to model the particle populations that give rise to the instability for conditions observed on 9 June 2001. Then, using two different models for the cold ion composition, we do a full‐scale hybrid code simulation in dipole coordinates of the EMIC waves on a meridional plane at magnetic local time = 18 and at 1900 UT within a range of L shell from L=4.9 to 6.7. EMIC waves were observed during 9 June 2001 by Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) spacecraft. While an exact comparison between observed and simulated spectra is not possible here, we do find significant similarities between the two, at least at one location within the region of largest wave growth. We find that the plasmapause is not a preferred region for EMIC wave growth, though waves can grow in that region. The density gradient within the plasmapause does, however, affect the orientation of wavefronts and wave vector both within the plasmapause and in adjacent regions. There is a preference for EMIC waves to be driven in the He+ band (frequencies between the O+ and He+ gyrofrequencies) within the plasmasphere, although they can also grow in the plasmatrough. If present, H+ band waves are more likely to grow in the plasmatrough. This fact, plus L dependence of the frequency and possible time evolution toward lower frequency waves, can be explained by a simple model. Large O+ concentration limits the frequency range of or even totally quenches EMIC waves. This is more likely to occur in the plasmatrough at solar maximum. Such large O+ concentration significantly affects the H+ cutoff frequency and hence the width in frequency of the stop band above the He+ gyrofrequency. EMIC wave surfaces predicted by cold plasma theory are altered by the finite temperature of the ring current H+.
Power spectra for screening parkinsonian patients for mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Bousleiman Habib , Zimmermann Ronan , Ahmed Shaheen , Hardmeier Martin , Hatz Florian , Schindler Christian , Roth Volker , Gschwandtner Ute , Fuhr Peter
Published: October 2014

Objective

Mild cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease (PD‐MCI) is diagnosed based on the results of a standardized set of cognitive tests. We investigate whether quantitative EEG (qEEG) measures could identify differences between cognitively normal PD (PD‐CogNL) and PD‐MCI patients.

Methods

High‐resolution EEG was recorded in 53 patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Relative power in five frequency bands was calculated globally and for ten regions. Peak and median frequencies were determined. qEEG results were compared between groups. Effect sizes of all variables were calculated. The best separating variable was used to demonstrate subject‐wise classification.

Results

Lower mean values were observed in global alpha1 power and alpha1 power in five brain regions (left hemisphere: frontal, central, temporal, occipital; right hemisphere: temporal, P < 0.05), differentiating between PD‐CogNL and PD‐MCI groups. Effect sizes were high, ranging from 0.79 to 0.87. Median frequency was 8.56 ± 0.74 Hz and was not different between the groups. The variable with the best subject‐wise classification was the power in the alpha1 band in the right temporal region. The area under the corresponding receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was 0.72. The optimal classification threshold yielded a sensitivity of 65.9% and a specificity of 66.7%. The positive and negative predictive values were 87.1% and 36.4%, respectively.

Interpretation

Reduction in alpha1 band power in nondemented PD patients, particularly in the right temporal region, is highly indicative of MCI in PD patients. The results might be used to assist in time‐efficient diagnosis of PD‐MCI and avoid the drawbacks of test–retest effect in repeated neuropsychological testing.
Photosystem I‐based Biophotovoltaics on Nanostructured Hematite
Authors: Ocakoglu Kasim , Krupnik Tomasz , van den Bosch Bart , Harputlu Ersan , Gullo Maria Pia , Olmos Julian David Janna , Yildirimcan Saadet , Gupta Ram K. , Yakuphanoglu Fahrettin , Barbieri Andrea , Reek Joost N. H. , Kargul Joanna
Published: October 2014

The electronic coupling between a robust red algal photosystem I (PSI) associated with its light harvesting antenna (LHCI) and nanocrystalline n‐type semiconductors, TiO2 and hematite (α‐Fe2O3) is utilized for fabrication of the biohybrid dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSC). PSI‐LHCI is immobilized as a structured multilayer over both semiconductors organized as highly ordered nanocrystalline arrays, as evidenced by FE‐SEM and XRD spectroscopy. Of all the biohybrid DSSCs examined, α‐Fe2O3/PSI‐LHCI biophotoanode operates at a highest quantum efficiency and generates the largest open circuit photo­current compared to the tandem system based on TiO2/PSI‐LHCI material. This is accomplished by immobilization of the PSI‐LHCI complex with its reducing side towards the hematite surface and nanostructuring of the PSI‐LHCI multilayer in which the subsequent layers of this complex are organized in the head‐to‐tail orientation. The biohybrid PSI‐LHCI‐DSSC is capable of sustained photoelectrochemical H2 production upon illumination with visible light above 590 nm. Although the solar conversion efficiency of the PSI‐LHCI/hematite DSSC is currently below a practical use, the system provides a blueprint for a genuinely green solar cell that can be used for molecular hydrogen production at a rate of 744 μmoles H2 mg Chl−1 h−1, placing it amongst the best performing biohybrid solar‐to‐fuel nanodevices.
Understanding the Role of Underlayers and Overlayers in Thin Film Hematite Photoanodes
Authors: Steier Ludmilla , Herraiz‐Cardona Isaac , Gimenez Sixto , Fabregat‐Santiago Francisco , Bisquert Juan , Tilley S. David , Grätzel Michael
Published: October 2014

Recent research on photoanodes for photoelectrochemical water splitting has introduced the concept of under‐ and overlayers for the activation of ultrathin hematite films. Their effects on the photocatalytic behavior were clearly shown; however, the mechanism is thus far not fully understood. Herein, the contribution of each layer is analyzed by means of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, with the aim of obtaining a general understanding of surface and interface modifications and their influence on the hematite photoanode performance. This study shows that doping of the hematite from the underlayer and surface passivation from annealing treatments and an overlayer are key parameters to consider for the design of more efficient iron oxide electrodes. Understanding the contribution of these layers, a new design for ultrathin hematite films employing a combination of a gallium oxide overlayer with thin niobium oxide and silicon oxide underlayers is shown to achieve a photocurrent onset potential for the photoelectrochemical oxidation of water more negative than 750 mV versus the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) at pH 13.6, utilizing Co‐Pi as a water oxidation catalyst. It is demonstrated that multilayer hematite thin film photoanodes are a strategy to reduce the overpotential for this material, thereby facilitating more efficient tandem cells.
A Direct CH Arylation of Unactivated Arenes Promoted by Mixed Potassium Alkoxides
Authors: Wu Yinuo , Choy Pui Ying , Kwong Fuk Yee
Published: October 2014

An intermolecular CH arylation of unactivated arenes with aryl iodides is made viable through a transition‐metal‐free approach. This simple and efficient process obviates the common use of diamines or diols as the promoters. With the aid of only mixed potassium alkoxides, a number of unactivated arene CH bonds can be directly arylated through a homolytic aromatic substitution (HAS) pathway.
The significance of response shift in sinus surgery outcomes
Authors: Liu Jack J. , Davis Greg E.
Published: October 2014

Background

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) aims to improve quality‐of‐life (QOL). Perception of QOL can change according to one's current medical or emotional state. This is known as response shift. It can be measured by the “then‐test,” which asks patients to report pretreatment symptoms after receiving treatment. Patients often do not understand their disease burden until their symptoms are improved. This study aims to assess the significance of response shift in FESS outcomes.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study that included chronic rhinosinusitis patients from 2010 to 2012 who completed a preoperative 20‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐20). Two SNOT‐20 forms were mailed approximately 6 months after surgery. Patients completed 1 SNOT‐20 according to their preoperative symptoms in light of their current state of health (“then‐test”) and the other based on postoperative symptoms. The preoperative and postoperative SNOT‐20 difference represented the treatment effect and the preoperative SNOT‐20 and then‐test difference represented the response shift.

Results

Thirty‐two completed responses were obtained. Using a 0 to 5 scale, mean treatment effect was −0.96 (p < 0.01), which signifies a QOL improvement. Mean response shift was +0.42 (p = 0.01). This positive value signifies that patients felt they were worse off preoperatively, likely due to a positive change in health status. The actual treatment effect is the sum of the measured treatment effect and response shift, which was −1.38.

Conclusion

Response shift exists and can be quantified. The actual treatment effect was more profound when response shift was included. Therefore, future studies should account for this often unmeasured, potential change in QOL.
Sinus culture poorly predicts resident microbiota
Authors: Hauser Leah J. , Feazel Leah M. , Ir Diana , Fang Rui , Wagner Brandie D. , Robertson Charles E. , Frank Daniel N. , Ramakrishnan Vijay R.
Published: October 2014

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is an inflammatory disorder of the paranasal sinuses in which bacteria are implicated. Culture‐based assays are commonly used in clinical and research practice; however, culture conditions may not accurately detect the full range of microorganisms present in a sample. The objective of this study was to determine the accuracy of clinical culture of CRS specimens compared with DNA‐based molecular techniques.

Methods

Ethmoid samples from 54 CRS patients collected during endoscopic sinus surgery were analyzed by both clinical culture and 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing. The association between 16S relative abundance and detection by culture was determined using logistic regression.

Results

Each subject had an average of 3 isolates identified by bacterial culture and 21.5 ± 12.5 species identified by 16S sequencing. On average, 1.6 dominant taxa (>10% abundance) per subject were identified using molecular techniques, but only 47.7% of these taxa were identified by culture. Low abundance taxa (abundance <1%) were detected in only 4.5% of cultures. The odds that any organism would be detected by culture were 2.3 times higher with each 10% increase in relative abundance (p < 0.01). Conversely, only 29.5% of isolates identified by culture represented the dominant species, whereas 40% accounted for species with 1% to 10% abundance. Interestingly, 12% of isolates detected by culture were not identified by 16S pyrosequencing.

Conclusion

Standard clinical culture is a poor representation of resident microbiota. The incorporation of modern culture‐independent techniques into clinical and research practices provides additional information that may be relevant for CRS.
Straightforward access to chiral diol bidentate ligands: their efficient enantioselective induction in the addition of diethylzinc to aromatic aldehydes
Authors: Gök Yaşar , Küloğlu Soner , Gök Halil Zeki , Kekeç Levent
Published: October 2014

Enantiopure C2‐symmetric diol bidentate ligands have been synthesized in a straightforward manner through a three‐step reaction with good yields. The synthesized C2‐symmetric diol bidentate ligands were used in the addition of diethylzinc to various aromatic aldehydes, a general catalytic benchmark reaction, in order to assess their enantioselective induction properties. The enantioselective addition of diethylzinc to 1‐naphthaldehyde and 3‐chlorobenzaldehyde was achieved with an enantiomeric excess (ee) of up to 98%. All synthesized ligands were also evaluated in the addition of diethyzinc to aromatic aldehydes including an extra metal such as Ti(IV) (up to 99% ee). Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Translation and Usability of Autism Screening and Diagnostic Tools for Autism Spectrum Conditions in India
Authors: Rudra Alokananda , Banerjee Saoni , Singhal Nidhi , Barua Merry , Mukerji Shaneel , Chakrabarti Bhismadev
Published: October 2014

There is a critical need for screening and diagnostic tools (SDT) for autism spectrum conditions (ASC) in regional languages in South Asia. To address this, we translated four widely used SDT (Social Communication Disorder Checklist, Autism Spectrum Quotient, Social Communication Questionnaire, and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) into Bengali and Hindi, two main regional languages (∼ 360 million speakers), and tested their usability in children with and without ASC. We found a significant difference in scores between children with ASC (n = 45 in Bengali, n = 40 in Hindi) and typically developing children (n = 43 in Bengali, n = 42 in Hindi) on all SDTs. These results demonstrate that these SDTs are usable in South Asia, and constitute an important resource for epidemiology research and clinical diagnosis in the region. Autism Res 2014, 7: 598–607. © 2014 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Research on protein thermal condensation detection based on phase modulation SPR imaging
Authors: He Peng , Kang Zi‐Yang , Wan Xiao‐Qing , Fang Han‐Xiong
Published: October 2014

This article presents a novel SPR imaging biomolecular interaction detection method based on time domain phase modulation. An experimental apparatus of SPR imaging biomolecular interaction detection based on TDPM is established to detect biomolecular interaction. During the experimental pretreatment process, we prepared the 2×2 lysozyme array chip and detected lysozyme thermal condensation state with the experimental apparatus. Using the Stoilov algorithm, we were able to extract the changed phase information as well as obtain the interactive SPR curves and calculate kinetic parameters. This method can sensitively acquire real‐time phase change caused by biomolecular interaction based on interference imaging and resolve the related bioinformation, which is a potential tool for proteomics research.
Preparation of volatile fatty acid (VFA) calcium salts by anaerobic digestion of glucose
Authors: Li Xiaofen , Swan Janis E. , Nair Giridhar R. , Langdon Alan G.
Published: October 2014

Many potentially useful intermediates such as hydrogen and volatile fatty acids (VFAs) are formed during the complex anaerobic digestion processes that produce methane from biomass. This study recovers VFAs from an anaerobic digester by a combination of gas stripping and absorption with calcium carbonate slurry. Glucose was used as the model substrate because it is readily available, inexpensive, and easily digested. Sludge from a meatworks anaerobic digester produced methane and carbon dioxide (and sometimes a small amount of hydrogen) when batch‐fed with glucose. Conditioning the neutral anaerobic sludge to an acidic pH (below 4.8) was achieved using repeated 1 g L−1 doses of glucose. After conditioning, mainly VFAs and hydrogen were produced. The intermediate VFAs could be stripped using headspace gas. In subsequent fed‐batch digestion/stripping cycles, the pH decreased when glucose was added and then increased when the VFA was gas stripped. The predominant acids formed at low pH values were lactic, butyric, and acetic acids. Lactic acid was converted to VFAs during stripping. The VFA calcium salts recovered were 80% butyrate and 20% acetate with minor quantities of propionate and valerate.
Role of three‐dimensional matrix stiffness in regulating the chemoresistance of hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Liu Chang , Liu Yang , Xie Hong‐guo , Zhao Shan , Xu Xiao‐xi , Fan Li‐xin , Guo Xin , Lu Ting , Sun Guang‐Wei , Ma Xiao‐jun
Published: October 2014

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was the most common primary liver cancer, and its resistance to anti‐tumor drugs often caused the death of patients suffering with HCC. Matrix stiffness was reported to be closely related to tumor chemoresistance; however, the relationship between HCC drug resistance and three‐dimensional (3D) matrix stiffness is still unclear at present. In this study, alginate gel (ALG) beads with controllable matrix stiffness were used to mimic tumor tissue rigidity, and the role of 3D matrix stiffness in regulating the chemoresistance of HCC cells was investigated by using these ALG beads. It was found that HCC cells in ALG beads with 105 kPa stiffness had highest resistance to paclitaxel, 5‐FU, and cisplatin. Although the mechanism was still uncovered, ABC transporters and endoplasmic reticulum stress‐related molecules were highly expressed in ALG bead‐encapsulated HCC cells compared with two‐dimensional‐cultured cells, which suggested a very complex mechanism underlying HCC drug resistance in 3D culture conditions. In addition, to mimic the specific stiffness of HCC tumor tissue, or other tumor tissues in vivo, response surface methodology (RSM) was used to build up a prediction mathematical model so that ALG beads with desired matrix stiffness could be prepared by simply changing three factors: molecular weight, G content, and alginate concentration.
Novel lipase purification methods – a review of the latest developments
Authors: Tan Chung Hong , Show Pau Loke , Ooi Chien Wei , Ng Eng‐Poh , Lan John Chi‐Wei , Ling Tau Chuan
Published: October 2014

Microbial lipases are popular biocatalysts due to their ability to catalyse diverse reactions such as hydrolysis, esterification, and acidolysis. Lipases function efficiently on various substrates in aqueous and non‐aqueous media. Lipases are chemo‐, regio‐, and enantio‐specific, and are useful in various industries, including those manufacturing food, detergents, and pharmaceuticals. A large number of lipases from fungal and bacterial sources have been isolated and purified to homogeneity. This success is attributed to the development of both conventional and novel purification techniques. This review highlights the use of these techniques in lipase purification, including conventional techniques such as: (i) ammonium sulphate fractionation; (ii) ion‐exchange; (iii) gel filtration and affinity chromatography; as well as novel techniques such as (iv) reverse micellar system; (v) membrane processes; (vi) immunopurification; (vi) aqueous two‐phase system; and (vii) aqueous two‐phase floatation. A summary of the purification schemes for various bacterial and fungal lipases are also provided.
Synthesis of the Ag/AgCl/g‐C3N4 Composite with High Photocatalytic Activity under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Yao Xiaxi , Liu Xiaoheng , Hu Xiuli
Published: October 2014

Novel Ag/AgCl/g‐C3N4 composite photocatalysts were synthesized through precipitation in geothermal water at room temperature, in which geothermal water was used as the chlorine source. The results suggested that Ag/AgCl nanoparticles were deposited on the surface of g‐C3N4 sheets with high dispersion and that Ag/AgCl/g‐C3N4 composites show strong absorption in the visible light region. The 50 wt % Ag/AgCl/g‐C3N4 composite demonstrated increased photocatalytic activity for the degradation of organic dyes under visible light irradiation than did pure g‐C3N4 (one component), Ag/AgCl (two component), and the mixture of Ag/AgCl and g‐C3N4. The trapping experiments confirmed that holes and ⋅O2− were the main active species responsible for the photocatalytic process. Finally, a possible photocatalytic mechanism of the charge transfer in Ag/AgCl/g‐C3N4 composites was proposed. This work could provide new insights into the application of cheap geothermal water resources and extend the design of new plasmon‐based photocatalysts.
CN Bond Formation Using Highly Effective and Reusable Nickel Ferrite Nanoparticles in Water
Authors: Moghaddam Firouz Matloubi , Tavakoli Ghazal , Moafi Atiyeh , Saberi Vahid , Rezvani Hamid Reza
Published: October 2014

Nickel ferrite nanoparticles were used as a catalyst system for CN bond formation in water under conventional heating conditions. These nanoparticles were synthesized by using the coprecipitation method and were analyzed by using TEM, SEM, XRD, X‐ray fluorescence, and FTIR techniques. The magnetization behavior of nanoparticles was also investigated by measuring the hysteresis curve of the sample, which confirmed the superparamagnetic nature of the catalyst. By using this catalyst system, various types of amines and amides, including primary and secondary ones, can react with different types of aryl halides. In addition, it is a recyclable and reusable catalyst system with high turnover efficiency. The reactions proceed in water as a green solvent, which result in good to excellent yields in short times.
Robust Au/Ce0.4Zr0.6O2 Catalyst for Dynamic Shutdown/Startup of the Water–Gas Shift Reaction in Realistic Reformate with <1 % O2
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Xu Ke , Fan Yiqiu , Pei Yan , Fan Kangnian , Xie Zaiku , Qiao Minghua
Published: October 2014

Development of a water–gas shift (WGS) catalyst durable in dynamic shutdown/startup operation is essential to enable residential applications of H2‐powered fuel‐cell systems but remains a conundrum for heterogeneous catalysis. We demonstrate herein that by isomorphic substitution of Zr in the lattice of CeO2 to increase the acid density of the catalyst, complemented by dosing a small amount of O2 to realistic reformate to improve the oxidizing potential, the formation of the notorious site‐blocking carbonate species on the Au catalyst can be efficiently retarded. This allows the formation of a highly robust Au/Ce0.4Zr0.6O2 WGS catalyst suitable for the challenging shutdown/startup operation in realistic reformate.
ChemInform Abstract: Crystal Growth and Structure of Three New Neodymium Containing Silicates: Na0.50Nd4.50(SiO4)3O, Na0.63Nd4.37 (SiO4)3O0.74F0.26 and Na4.74Nd4.26(O0.52F0.48) [SiO4]4.
Authors: Latshaw Allison M. , Smith Mark D. , zur Loye Hans‐Conrad
Published: October 2014

Single crystals of the title compounds are simultaneously obtained from mixtures of Nd2O3 and SiO2 in the molar ratio 1:0.75 using a eutectic mixture of NaF and KF as a flux (covered Ag crucible, 850 °C, 24 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Ca3Na4LiBe4B10O24F: A New Beryllium Borate with a Unique Beryl Borate ∞2 [Be8B16O40F2] Layer Intrabridged by [B12O24] Groups.
Authors: Luo Siyang , Yao Wenjiao , Gong Pifu , Yao Jiyong , Lin Zheshuai , Chen Chuangtian
Published: October 2014

Single crystals of the new title compound are prepared by melting mixtures of Na2CO3, CaCO3, LiF, BeO, and B2O3 with a molar ratio of 0.9:0.5:0.4:1:2 (Pt crucible, 900 °C).
ChemInform Abstract: Ca3Si2O4N2:Ce3+,Li + Phosphor for the Generation of White‐Light‐Emitting Diodes with Excellent Color Rendering Index Values.
Authors: Huang Chien‐Hao , Chiu Yi‐Chen , Liu Wei‐Ren
Published: October 2014

The blue‐emitting phosphor (Ca0.94Ce0.03Li0.03) 3Si2O4N2 is synthesized by solid state reaction of a stoichiometric mixture of CaCO3, α‐Si3N4, SiO2, Li2CO3, and CeO2 (15%H2/85%N2, 1400 °C, 8 h).
ChemInform Abstract: AgNb7O18: An Ergodic Relaxor Ferroelectric.
Authors: Woodward David I. , Beanland Richard
Published: October 2014

The title relaxor ferroelectric compound is prepared by solid state reaction of a stoichiometric mixture of Ag2O and Nb2O5 (1050 °C for 10 h and 1250 °C for 2 h) and characterized by powder XRD, TEM, and dielectric measurements.
ChemInform Abstract: Nonstoichiometric Perovskite CaMnO3‐δ for Oxygen Electrocatalysis with High Activity.
Authors: Du Jing , Zhang Tianran , Cheng Fangyi , Chu Wangsheng , Wu Ziyu , Chen Jun
Published: October 2014

Nonstoichiometric CaMnO3‐δ (0 < δ ≤ 0.5) is prepared by thermal reduction of pristine perovskite microspheres and nanoparticles, obtained by thermal decomposition of carbonate precursors and the Pechini route, respectively.
ChemInform Abstract: Novel One‐, Two‐, and Three‐Dimensional Selenidostannates Templated by Iron(II) Complex Cation.
Authors: Tang Chunying , Wang Fang , Lu Jialin , Jia Dingxian , Jiang Wenqing , Zhang Yong
Published: October 2014

The new selenidostannates (IV) and (V) are hydrothermally synthesized in the presence or absence of KSCN, respectively.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Optical Properties of a New Lead Barium Borate, PbBa2(B3O6)2.
Authors: Li Hongyi , Dong Lingyun , Lu Yi , Pan Shilie , Lu Xiaoquan , Yu Hongwei , Wu Hongping , Su Xin , Yang Zhihua
Published: October 2014

The title compound is prepared by solid state reaction of a stoichiometric mixture of PbO, Ba(NO3)2, and H3BO3 (400 °C for 10 h and 655 °C for 48 h).